ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC (ETD)
SIC breadcrumb: Manufacturing > SIC Major Group 25 > SIC 2511 Wood Household Furniture, (No Upholstered)
SEC company page: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=896156. Latest filing source: 0001437749-25-027594.
Informational only - descriptive public-record data, not investment advice.
Business
Read ETD's verbatim Item 1 Business section from its latest 10-K: Business.
Risk Factors
Read ETD's verbatim Item 1A Risk Factors from its latest 10-K: Risk Factors.
Selected Fundamentals
| Metric | Value | Unit | FY | Filed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 614,649,000 | USD | 2025 | 2025-08-22 |
| Net income | 51,596,000 | USD | 2025 | 2025-08-22 |
| Assets | 737,099,000 | USD | 2025 | 2025-08-22 |
Financials
Annual standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2025-08-22. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0000896156.json. Derived margins, ratios, and free cash flow are computed from the extracted annual SEC facts.
| Metric | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 763,385,000 | 766,784,000 | 746,684,000 | 589,837,000 | 685,169,000 | 817,762,000 | 791,382,000 | 646,221,000 | 614,649,000 | ||||
| Net income | -44,316,000 | 29,250,000 | 49,619,000 | 105,807,000 | 63,816,000 | 51,596,000 | |||||||
| Operating income | 89,179,000 | 57,950,000 | 48,867,000 | 33,947,000 | 14,644,000 | 77,285,000 | 138,250,000 | 137,196,000 | 77,991,000 | 61,988,000 | |||
| Gross profit | 442,236,000 | 419,723,000 | 415,964,000 | 409,491,000 | 323,132,000 | 393,107,000 | 484,706,000 | 480,370,000 | 393,062,000 | 372,121,000 | |||
| Diluted EPS | 2.00 | 1.29 | 1.32 | 0.96 | 0.34 | 2.37 | 4.05 | 4.13 | 2.49 | 2.01 | |||
| Operating cash flow | 58,369,000 | 78,633,000 | 42,497,000 | 55,247,000 | 52,696,000 | 129,912,000 | 69,356,000 | 100,664,000 | 80,195,000 | 61,696,000 | |||
| Capital expenditures | 23,132,000 | 17,645,000 | 12,486,000 | 9,120,000 | 15,709,000 | 12,029,000 | 13,387,000 | 13,885,000 | 9,606,000 | 11,268,000 | |||
| Dividends paid | 16,646,000 | 20,031,000 | 29,509,000 | 46,990,000 | 21,469,000 | 43,290,000 | 48,257,000 | 46,357,000 | 50,269,000 | 50,084,000 | |||
| Assets | 577,409,000 | 568,222,000 | 530,433,000 | 510,351,000 | 622,789,000 | 683,245,000 | 719,895,000 | 745,453,000 | 744,917,000 | 737,099,000 | |||
| Liabilities | 185,207,000 | 167,326,000 | 146,563,000 | 146,422,000 | 294,725,000 | 331,827,000 | 312,572,000 | 274,447,000 | 262,001,000 | 254,830,000 | |||
| Stockholders' equity | 391,998,000 | 400,706,000 | 383,731,000 | 363,866,000 | 328,065,000 | 351,443,000 | 407,349,000 | 471,028,000 | 482,980,000 | 482,355,000 | |||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 52,659,000 | 57,701,000 | 22,363,000 | 20,824,000 | 72,276,000 | 104,596,000 | 109,919,000 | 62,130,000 | 69,710,000 | 76,178,000 | |||
| Free cash flow | 35,237,000 | 60,988,000 | 30,011,000 | 46,127,000 | 36,987,000 | 117,883,000 | 55,969,000 | 86,779,000 | 70,589,000 | 50,428,000 |
Ratios
| Metric | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net margin | 13.37% | 9.88% | 8.39% | ||||||||||
| Operating margin | 7.59% | 6.37% | 4.55% | 2.48% | 11.28% | 16.91% | 17.34% | 12.07% | 10.09% | ||||
| Return on equity | 22.46% | 13.21% | 10.70% | ||||||||||
| Return on assets | 14.19% | 8.57% | 7.00% | ||||||||||
| Liabilities / equity | 0.47 | 0.42 | 0.38 | 0.40 | 0.90 | 0.94 | 0.77 | 0.58 | 0.54 | 0.53 | |||
| Current ratio | 2.01 | 1.92 | 1.77 | 1.76 | 1.65 | 1.32 | 1.61 | 2.20 | 2.16 | 2.03 |
Industry Peer Context
Net margin peer context
Operating margin peer context
ROE peer context
ROA peer context
Financial Bridges
Income statement bridge from reported figures
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts FY 2025. Revenue: accession 0001437749-25-027594; concept RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax; source concepts us-gaap:RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax | Gross profit: accession 0001437749-25-027594; concept GrossProfit; source concepts us-gaap:GrossProfit | Operating income: accession 0001437749-25-027594; concept OperatingIncomeLoss; source concepts us-gaap:OperatingIncomeLoss | Net income: accession 0001437749-25-027594; concept ProfitLoss; source concepts us-gaap:ProfitLoss
Free cash flow = operating cash flow - capital expenditures
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts FY 2025. Operating cash flow: accession 0001437749-25-027594; concept NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; source concepts us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities | Capital expenditures: accession 0001437749-25-027594; concept PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment; source concepts us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment | Free cash flow: accession 0001437749-25-027594; concept NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities - PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment; source concepts us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
Financial Charts
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax. Source concepts: us-gaap:RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: ProfitLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:ProfitLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: OperatingIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:OperatingIncomeLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: GrossProfit. Source concepts: us-gaap:GrossProfit.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: EarningsPerShareDiluted. Source concepts: us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment. Source concepts: us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: PaymentsOfDividends. Source concepts: us-gaap:PaymentsOfDividends.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: Assets. Source concepts: us-gaap:Assets.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: Liabilities. Source concepts: us-gaap:Liabilities.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: StockholdersEquity. Source concepts: us-gaap:StockholdersEquity.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue. Source concepts: us-gaap:CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-06-30; accession 0001437749-25-027594; filed 2025-08-22. Concept: NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities - PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment.
Quarterly
Quarterly standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-04-29. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0000896156.json.
| Quarter | End Date | Revenue | Net Income | Diluted EPS | Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-Q4 | 2012-06-30 | 7,293,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | ||
| 2022-Q3 | 2022-03-31 | 0.97 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2023-Q1 | 2022-09-30 | 1.17 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2023-Q2 | 2022-12-31 | 1.10 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2023-Q3 | 2023-03-31 | 186,316,000 | 0.87 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2023-Q4 | 2023-06-30 | 187,375,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | ||
| 2024-Q1 | 2023-09-30 | 163,892,000 | 0.58 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2024-Q3 | 2024-03-31 | 146,421,000 | 0.50 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2024-Q4 | 2024-06-30 | 168,632,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | ||
| 2025-Q1 | 2024-09-30 | 154,337,000 | 0.57 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2024-Q2 | 2024-12-31 | 157,260,000 | 0.59 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2025-Q3 | 2025-03-31 | 142,695,000 | 0.37 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2025-Q4 | 2025-06-30 | 160,357,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | ||
| 2026-Q1 | 2025-09-30 | 146,984,000 | 10,451,000 | 0.41 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2026-Q2 | 2025-09-30 | 10,451,000 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2026-Q2 | 2025-12-31 | 149,916,000 | 0.46 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2026-Q3 | 2025-12-31 | 11,744,000 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2026-Q3 | 2026-03-31 | 135,835,000 | 0.23 | reported discrete quarter |
Quarterly Charts
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2026 ended 2026-03-31; accession 0001437749-26-013892; filed 2026-04-29. Concept: RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax. Source concepts: us-gaap:RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2026 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001437749-26-013892; filed 2026-04-29. Concept: ProfitLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:ProfitLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2026 ended 2026-03-31; accession 0001437749-26-013892; filed 2026-04-29. Concept: EarningsPerShareDiluted. Source concepts: us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted.
Macro Cross-References
- CPIAUCSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items in U.S. City Average
- UNRATE - Unemployment Rate
- FEDFUNDS - Federal Funds Effective Rate
- CES0500000003 - Average Hourly Earnings of All Employees, Total Private
- DFEDTARU - Federal Funds Target Range - Upper Limit
- DFEDTARL - Federal Funds Target Range - Lower Limit
- DGS3MO - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 3-Month Constant Maturity
- DGS2 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 2-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS10 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 10-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS30 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 30-Year Constant Maturity
- T10Y2Y - 10-Year Treasury Constant Maturity Minus 2-Year Treasury Constant Maturity
- CPILFESL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items Less Food and Energy
- CPIUFDSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food
- CPIENGSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Energy
- CUSR0000SAH1 - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Shelter
- PCEPI - Personal Consumption Expenditures: Chain-type Price Index
- PCEPILFE - Personal Consumption Expenditures Excluding Food and Energy: Chain-type Price Index
- PPIACO - Producer Price Index by Commodity: All Commodities
- T10YIE - 10-Year Breakeven Inflation Rate
- U6RATE - Total Unemployed, Plus All Marginally Attached Workers Plus Total Employed Part Time for Economic Reasons
- PAYEMS - All Employees, Total Nonfarm
- CIVPART - Labor Force Participation Rate
- EMRATIO - Employment-Population Ratio
- UNEMPLOY - Unemployed
- CE16OV - Employment Level
- ICSA - Initial Claims
- JTSJOL - Job Openings: Total Nonfarm
- JTSQUR - Quits: Total Nonfarm
- GDPC1 - Real Gross Domestic Product
- A191RL1Q225SBEA - Real Gross Domestic Product: Percent Change from Preceding Period
- INDPRO - Industrial Production: Total Index
- TCU - Capacity Utilization: Total Index
- HOUST - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Started: Total Units
- PERMIT - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Authorized in Permit-Issuing Places: Total Units
- RSAFS - Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
- PCE - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- DSPIC96 - Real Disposable Personal Income
- PSAVERT - Personal Saving Rate
- M2SL - M2
- BOPGSTB - U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services: Balance
- MSPUS - Median Sales Price of Houses Sold for the United States
- HSN1F - New One Family Houses Sold: United States
- RHORUSQ156N - Homeownership Rate in the United States
- TTLCONS - Total Construction Spending: Total Construction in the United States
- RRVRUSQ156N - Rental Vacancy Rate in the United States
- TOTALSL - Total Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- REVOLSL - Revolving Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- DRCCLACBS - Delinquency Rate on Credit Card Loans, All Commercial Banks
- GDP - Gross Domestic Product
- GPDI - Gross Private Domestic Investment
- GCE - Government Consumption Expenditures and Gross Investment
- PCEC - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- NETEXP - Net Exports of Goods and Services
- GFDEBTN - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt
- GFDEGDQ188S - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
- FYFSD - Federal Surplus or Deficit
- FGRECPT - Federal Government Current Receipts
- FGEXPND - Federal Government: Current Expenditures
- MANEMP - All Employees, Manufacturing
- USCONS - All Employees, Construction
- USTRADE - All Employees, Retail Trade
- USFIRE - All Employees, Financial Activities
- USGOVT - All Employees, Government
- AWHAETP - Average Weekly Hours of All Employees, Total Private
- DGORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Durable Goods
- NEWORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Nondefense Capital Goods Excluding Aircraft
- BUSINV - Total Business Inventories
- EXPGS - Exports of Goods and Services
- IMPGS - Imports of Goods and Services
- IR - Import Price Index (End Use): All Commodities
- PPIFIS - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Final Demand
Latest quarter (10-Q)
Latest 10-Q source: 0001437749-26-013892.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (the “MD&A”) is designed to provide a reader of our consolidated financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of our management on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and certain other factors that may affect our future results.
The MD&A is based upon, and should be read in conjunction with, our 2025 Annual Report on Form 10-K, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), and the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
The MD&A is presented in the following sections:
| - | Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements | |
|---|---|---|
| - | Executive Overview | |
| - | Key Operating Metrics | |
| - | Results of Operations | |
| - | Regulation G Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures | |
| - | Liquidity | |
| - | Capital Resources, including Material Cash Requirements | |
| - | Off-Balance Sheet and Other Arrangements | |
| - | Significant Accounting Policies | |
| - | Critical Accounting Estimates | |
| - | Recent Accounting Pronouncements |
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including the MD&A, contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Generally, forward-looking statements represent management’s beliefs and assumptions concerning current expectations, projections or trends relating to results of operations, financial results, financial condition, strategic objectives and plans, expenses, dividends, share repurchases, liquidity, use of cash and cash requirements, borrowing capacity, investments, future economic performance, and our business and industry. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These forward-looking statements may include words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “plan,” “intend,” “believe,” “continue,” “may,” “will,” “short-term,” “target,” “outlook,” “forecast,” “future,” “strategy,” “opportunity,” “would,” “guidance,” “non-recurring,” “one-time,” “unusual,” “should,” “likely,” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. We derive many of our forward-looking statements from operating budgets and forecasts, which are based upon many detailed assumptions. While the Company believes that its assumptions are reasonable, we caution that it is very difficult to predict the impact of known factors and it is impossible for the Company to anticipate all factors that could affect actual results and matters that are identified as “short term,” “non-recurring,” “unusual,” “one-time,” or other words and terms of similar meaning may in fact recur in one or more future financial reporting periods.
Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those that are expected. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to a number of risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to the risks and uncertainties disclosed in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, in our 2025 Annual Report on Form 10-K, and elsewhere here in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company, or persons acting on its behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements, as well as other cautionary statements. A reader should evaluate all forward-looking statements made in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q in the context of these risks and uncertainties. Given the risks and uncertainties surrounding forward-looking statements, you should not place undue reliance on these statements. Many of these factors are beyond our ability to control or predict. The forward-looking statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are made only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.
20
ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Executive Overview
Who We Are. Founded in 1932, Ethan Allen is a leading interior design company, manufacturer and retailer in the home furnishings marketplace. We are a global luxury home fashion brand that is vertically integrated from product design through home delivery, which offers clients stylish product offerings, artisanal quality and personalized service. We are known for the quality and craftsmanship of our products as well as for the exceptional personal service from design to delivery. Our strong network of entrepreneurial leaders and interior designers provide complimentary interior design service to our clients and sell a full range of home furnishing products through a retail network of design centers located throughout the U.S. and internationally, as well as online at ethanallen.com.
Ethan Allen design centers represent a mix of locations operated by independent licensees and Company-operated locations. At March 31, 2026, the Company operates 142 retail design centers, 137 located in the U.S. and 5 in Canada. We also have 44 independently owned and operated Ethan Allen design centers located in the U.S., Asia, the Middle East and Europe. We manufacture approximately 75% of our furniture in our North American manufacturing plants and have been recognized for product quality and craftsmanship since 1932. At March 31, 2026, we own and operate 11 manufacturing facilities, including four manufacturing plants, one sawmill, one rough mill and a kiln dry lumberyard in the U.S., three manufacturing plants in Mexico and one manufacturing plant in Honduras. We also partner with suppliers located in Europe, Asia, and other countries to produce and import various products that support the business.
Business Model. Our vertical integration is a competitive advantage for us. Our North American manufacturing and logistics operations are an integral part of an overall strategy to maximize production efficiencies and maintain this competitive advantage. Our business model is to maintain continued focus on: (i) providing relevant product offerings, (ii) capitalizing on the professional and personal service offered to our customers by our interior design professionals, (iii) leveraging the benefits of our vertical integration including a manufacturing presence in North America, (iv) investing in new technologies across key aspects of our vertically integrated business, (v) maintaining a strong logistics network, (vi) communicating our messages with strong marketing campaigns, and (vii) utilizing our website, ethanallen.com, as a key marketing tool to drive traffic to our retail design centers. We aim to position Ethan Allen as a premier interior design destination and a preferred brand offering products of superior style, quality, and value to customers with a comprehensive, one-stop shopping solution for their home furnishing and interior design needs. We seek to constantly reinvent our projection and product offerings through a broad selection of products, designed to complement one another, reflecting current fashion trends in home furnishing.
Talent. At March 31, 2026, our employee count totaled 3,105, with 2,158 within our wholesale segment and 947 in our retail segment. Our headcount is down 5.7% compared with a year ago and 39.4% less than at March 31, 2019.
Fiscal 2026 Third Quarter in Review (1). Our fiscal 2026 third quarter results were impacted by a reduction in business with the U.S. State Department, lower international sales and sluggish demand from a challenging environment for home furnishings, which included weather disruptions and macroeconomic uncertainty. Consolidated net sales were $135.8 million, a 4.8% decrease from the prior year quarter primarily due to fewer contract sales, lower delivered unit volume, reduced available backlog and inclement weather partially offset by higher average ticket price, incremental designer floor sample sales and fewer sales returns. Retail segment written orders were flat to last year while our wholesale segment written orders declined 7.6% primarily due to macroeconomic challenges, reduced government activity and a slowdown in our international business. We maintained a strong consolidated gross margin of 59.4% due to a change in sales mix, selective price increases and lower headcount partially offset by incremental tariffs, delivering written orders that had higher promotional discounts and increased designer floor sample sales. Our operating margin was 4.8% compared to 7.7% a year ago while diluted EPS was $0.23 compared with $0.37 a year ago. Adjusted operating margin in the current year third quarter was 5.0% while adjusted diluted EPS was $0.24. Lower operating margin was driven by fewer contract sales, lower unit volumes, increased tariffs, elevated designer floor sample sales and increased occupancy costs partially offset by change in sales mix, reduced freight, lower headcount, disciplined spending and a higher retail average ticket price. We also continued our history of paying dividends to shareholders by paying a regular quarterly cash dividend of $10.0 million. Cash, cash equivalents and investments totaled $180.9 million at March 31, 2026 and we had no outstanding debt. We ended the quarter with 142 Company-operated and 44 independently owned and operated locations with new design centers to be opened in vibrant markets such as Rancho Cucamonga, California and Aventura, Florida later this year.
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within the MD&A for the reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted key financial metrics. |
21
ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Key Operating Metrics
A summary of our key operating metrics is presented in the following table (in millions, except per share data):
[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","","Three months ended March 31,","","","Nine months ended March 31,"],["","","2026","","","% of Sales","","","2025","","","% of Sales","","","% Chg","","","2026","","","% of Sales","","","2025","","","% of Sales","","","% Chg"],["Net sales","","$","135.8","","","","","","","$","142.7","","","","","","","","(4.8%",")","","$","432.7","","","","","","","$","454.3","","","","","","","","(4.7%",")"],["Gross profit","","$","80.7","","","","59.4","%","","$","87.4","","","","61.2","%","","","(7.6%",")","","$","262.2","","","","60.6","%","","$","276.1","","","","60.8","%","","","(5.0%",")"],["Operating income","","$","6.5","","","","4.8","%","","$","11.0","","","","7.7","%","","","(41.1%",")","","$","30.7","","","","7.1","%","","$","46.7","","","","10.3","%","","","(34.4%",")"],["Adjusted operating income(1)","","$","6.8","","","","5.0","%","","$","11.3","","","","8.0","%","","","(39.8%",")","","$","30.9","","","","7.1","%","","$","47.3","","","","10.4","%","","","(34.7%",")"],["Net income","","$","5.9","","","","4.4","%","","$","9.6","","","","6.7","%","","","(38.2%",")","","$","28.1","","","","6.5","%","","$","39.3","","","","8.7","%","","","(28.5%",")"],["Adjusted net income(1)","","$","6.2","","","","4.6","%","","$","9.9","","","","6.9","%","","","(37.1%",")","","$","28.3","","","","6.5","%","","$","39.8","","","","8.8","%","","","(28.9%",")"],["Diluted EPS",""
[Excerpt truncated for page length; source filing is linked above.]
Latest 10-K MD&A
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is designed to provide a reader of our financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of our management on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and certain other factors that may affect our future results.
The MD&A is based upon, and should be read in conjunction with Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risks and our Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Executive Overview
Who We Are. Founded in 1932, Ethan Allen is a leading interior design company, manufacturer and retailer in the home furnishings marketplace. We are a global luxury home fashion brand that is vertically integrated from product design through home delivery, which offers clients stylish product offerings, artisanal quality and personalized service. We are known for the quality and craftsmanship of our products as well as for the exceptional personal service from design to delivery. We provide complimentary interior design service to our clients and sell a full range of home furnishings through a retail network of design centers located throughout the U.S. and internationally as well as online at ethanallen.com.
Ethan Allen design centers represent a mix of locations operated by independent licensees and Company-operated locations. At June 30, 2025, the Company operates 142 retail design centers, 137 located in the U.S. and five in Canada. Our independently operated design centers are located in the U.S., Asia, the Middle East and Europe. During fiscal 2025, we opened four new design centers in Middleton, WI, Toronto, Canada, Peoria, AZ and Watchung, NJ that showcase our unique vision of American style while combining complimentary interior design services with technology.
We also own and operate eleven manufacturing facilities, including four manufacturing plants, one sawmill, one rough mill and a kiln dry lumberyard in the U.S., three upholstery manufacturing plants in Mexico and one case goods manufacturing plant in Honduras. Approximately 75% of our furniture is manufactured in our North American plants. In addition, we contract with various suppliers located in Europe, Asia and other various countries to import products that support our business.
We executed well throughout the fiscal year as the Company remained focused on five key areas: talent, service, marketing, technology and social responsibility. These areas of focus along with our interior design professionals combining personal service with technology contributed to Ethan Allen recently being named America’s #1 Premium Retailer by Newsweek, for the third year in a row. Our strategic initiatives to further strengthen our talent, introduce new products, run strong marketing campaigns, invest in our North American manufacturing, and maintain our logistics network throughout North America has positioned us well.
Business Model. Our vertical integration is a competitive advantage for us. Our North American manufacturing and logistics operations are an integral part of an overall strategy to maximize production efficiencies and maintain this competitive advantage. Our business model is to maintain continued focus on (i) providing relevant product offerings, (ii) capitalizing on the professional and personal service offered to our customers by our interior design professionals, (iii) leveraging the benefits of our vertical integration including a manufacturing presence in North America, (iv) investing in new technologies across key aspects of our vertically integrated business, (v) maintaining a strong logistics network, (vi) communicating our messages with strong marketing campaigns, and (vii) utilizing our website, ethanallen.com, as a key marketing tool to drive traffic to our retail design centers. We aim to position Ethan Allen as a premier interior design destination and a preferred brand offering products of superior style, quality, and value to customers with a comprehensive, one-stop shopping solution for their home furnishing and interior design needs. We seek to constantly reinvent our projection and product offerings through a broad selection of products, designed to complement one another, reflecting current fashion trends in home furnishing.
Talent. At June 30, 2025, our employee count totaled 3,211, with 2,239 employees in our wholesale segment and 972 in our retail segment. Our employee count decreased 5.7% or 193 associates during fiscal 2025, with 56 fewer employees in retail and 137 fewer employees in wholesale. We were pleased to strengthen our teams during fiscal 2025 while at the same time reducing headcount through operational efficiencies.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Fiscal 2025 Financial Year in Review (1). Our financial performance during fiscal 2025 was highlighted by strong margins, positive operating cash flow and a robust balance sheet despite operating in a challenging environment. We generated strong operating cash flow of $61.7 million, which helped us grow our cash, cash equivalents and investments total to $196.2 million at June 30, 2025. We continued our history of returning capital to shareholders by paying four regular cash dividends of $0.39 and declared a special cash dividend of $0.40 per share, bringing the total amount of dividends paid to $50.1 million during fiscal 2025. Consolidated net sales of $614.6 million were down 4.9% compared to the prior year due to lower delivered unit volume, reduced available backlog, less design center traffic and fewer contract sales partially offset by higher average ticket prices. We ended the fiscal year with wholesale backlog of $48.9 million, down 8.7% from a year ago due to lower contract volume and improved customer lead times. Our consolidated gross margin of 60.5% was comparable to 60.8% in the prior year as benefits from a change in sales mix, lower input costs, reduced headcount, fewer designer floor sample sales and selective price increases were offset by lower unit volume sales, increased promotional activity and higher financing costs. Our adjusted operating margin was 10.2% compared to 12.1% in the prior year primarily due to deleveraging from lower unit sales partially offset by disciplined cost management and gross margin preservation. Adjusted diluted earnings per share of $2.04 was down from $2.49 in the prior year.
The home furnishings industry has been challenged by lower consumer confidence, a weak housing market and uncertainty surrounding global trade policies including tariffs. Despite these challenges, our robust balance sheet and financial stability provide a solid foundation. We are confident in the strength of our vertically integrated business model as we have successfully navigated challenging times over the course of Ethan Allen’s 93-year history and we will continue to serve our clients and deliver value to our shareholders.
Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within this MD&A for the reconciliation of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to adjusted key financial metrics.
Key Operating Metrics
A summary of our key operating metrics is presented in the following table (in millions, except per share data).
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2024 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2023 | % of Sales | % Chg | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 614.6 | 100.0 | % | (4.9% | ) | $ | 646.2 | 100.0 | % | (18.3% | ) | $ | 791.4 | 100.0 | % | (3.2% | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Gross profit | $ | 372.1 | 60.5 | % | (5.3% | ) | $ | 393.1 | 60.8 | % | (18.2% | ) | $ | 480.4 | 60.7 | % | (0.9% | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 62.0 | 10.1 | % | (20.5% | ) | $ | 78.0 | 12.1 | % | (43.2% | ) | $ | 137.2 | 17.3 | % | (0.8% | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted operating income(1) | $ | 62.9 | 10.2 | % | (19.3% | ) | $ | 77.9 | 12.1 | % | (41.6% | ) | $ | 133.5 | 16.9 | % | (0.5% | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 51.6 | 8.4 | % | (19.1% | ) | $ | 63.8 | 9.9 | % | (39.7% | ) | $ | 105.8 | 13.4 | % | 2.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted net income(1) | $ | 52.3 | 8.5 | % | (18.0% | ) | $ | 63.8 | 9.9 | % | (38.1% | ) | $ | 103.1 | 13.0 | % | 2.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 2.01 | (19.3% | ) | $ | 2.49 | (39.7% | ) | $ | 4.13 | 2.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS(1) | $ | 2.04 | (18.1% | ) | $ | 2.49 | (38.2% | ) | $ | 4.03 | 2.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash flow from operating activities | $ | 61.7 | (23.1% | ) | $ | 80.2 | (20.3% | ) | $ | 100.7 | 45.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Return on equity | 10.8 | % | 13.4 | % | 23.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wholesale written orders | (3.2% | ) | (10.9% | ) | (9.0% | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retail written orders | (1.5% | ) | (8.4% | ) | (12.3% | ) |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within this MD&A for the reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted key financial metrics. |
Results of Operations
For an understanding of the significant factors that influenced our financial performance in fiscal 2025 compared with fiscal 2024, the following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes presented under Item 8 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Refer to Results of Operations under Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, contained in Part II of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, filed with the SEC on August 23, 2024, for an analysis of the fiscal 2024 results as compared to fiscal 2023.
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated net sales | $ | 614,649 | $ | 646,221 | (4.9% | ) | ||||||
| Wholesale net sales | $ | 359,057 | $ | 371,087 | (3.2% | ) | ||||||
| Retail net sales | $ | 523,142 | $ | 540,550 | (3.2% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated gross profit | $ | 372,121 | $ | 393,062 | (5.3% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated gross margin | 60.5 | % | 60.8 | % |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Net Sales
Consolidated net sales in fiscal 2025 decreased $31.6 million or 4.9% compared to the prior year due to lower delivered unit volume, reduced available backlog, less design center traffic and fewer contract sales partially offset by higher average ticket prices. A stagnant housing market, inflationary pressure and cautious consumer spending due to economic uncertainty contributed to lower demand levels and related sales. A higher average ticket price was driven by fewer designer floor sample sales and selective price increases.
Wholesale net sales in fiscal 2025 decreased 3.2% compared to the prior year primarily due to a decline in contract sales partially offset by an increase in intersegment sales to our Company-operated design centers. Excluding intersegment sales to our retail segment, wholesale net sales decreased $14.2 million or 13.4% compared to the prior year period. Our contract sales, including shipments to the GSA, decreased 23.7% due to less incoming orders as a result of the slowdown in government spending, which led to lower available backlog. Our international sales, which represented 1.4% of total wholesale net sales in fiscal 2025, decreased 27.6% from lower net sales to China.
Wholesale written orders, which represent orders booked through all of our channels, were down 3.2% in fiscal 2025 compared to the prior year driven primarily from the decline in our contract business. Contract orders were down 25.4% while our international retailers decreased 17.9%. However, orders from intersegment Company-operated design centers and our independent U.S. retail network were relatively flat compared to prior year as demand patterns began to show signs of improvement during the just completed fourth quarter. Wholesale backlog was $48.9 million at June 30, 2025, down 8.7% from a year ago due to lower contract volume and improved customer lead times. The number of weeks of wholesale backlog at June 30, 2025 was 7.0 weeks, down from 7.3 weeks a year ago.
Retail net sales from Company-operated design centers decreased 3.2% during fiscal 2025 compared to the prior year primarily from reduced delivered unit volumes, lower written orders, less available backlog, lower designer floor sample sales and decreased premier home delivery revenue partially offset by an increase in average ticket price. Sales in the U.S. were down 2.7% while sales from our Canadian design centers decreased 20.8%.
Retail written orders declined 1.5% year over year due to lower consumer confidence, a weak housing market and uncertainty about trade tariffs. However, during the just completed fourth quarter, Retail written orders rose by 1.6%, driven by the strength of new product introductions, increased promotional activity, elevated clearance and improved consumer sentiment from the pause of additional tariffs. At June 30, 2025, there were 142 Company-operated design centers with new design centers in Middleton, WI, Toronto, Canada, Watchung, NJ and Peoria, AZ.
Gross Profit and Margin
Consolidated gross profit in fiscal 2025 decreased $20.9 million or 5.3% compared with the prior year due primarily from the 4.9% decline in consolidated net sales, increased promotional levels and higher financing costs from increased usage of our Ethan Allen private label platinum card. These declines were partially offset by lower input costs, including raw material and freight, an increase in average ticket price, lower designer floor sample sales and reduced headcount which helped keep our consolidated gross margin comparable with last year. Wholesale gross profit decreased 1.2% due to the 3.2% decline in sales partially offset by a 70-basis point gross margin improvement. Retail gross profit decreased 3.8% due to the 3.2% decrease in net shipments combined with a 30-basis point reduction in gross margin.
Consolidated gross margin was 60.5%, a 30-basis point decline over the prior year due to lower unit volume sales and higher financing costs partially offset by a change in sales mix, lower raw material and freight input costs, reduced headcount, fewer designer floor sample sales and selective price increases which contributed to a higher average ticket price. Retail sales, when expressed as a percentage of total consolidated net sales, were 85.1% in fiscal 2025, up from 83.6% in the prior year period, which had a positive impact on our consolidated gross margin. Wholesale gross margin was up 70 basis points over the prior year due to lower raw material and fuel input costs, reduced headcount and investments in technology, which helped streamline production workflows. These benefits were partially offset by reduced production volumes from lower incoming written orders, which led to increased plant inefficiencies and higher manufacturing variances. Our retail gross margin decreased 30 basis points compared to the prior year due to higher financing costs and increased promotional levels partially offset by higher average ticket price and a decline in sales of designer floor samples.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Selling, General & Administrative (“SG&A”) Expenses
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||||||
| SG&A expenses | $ | 309,790 | $ | 315,148 | (1.7% | ) | ||||||
| Restructuring and other impairment charges, net of gains | $ | 343 | $ | (77 | ) | (545.5% | ) | |||||
| Consolidated operating income | $ | 61,988 | $ | 77,991 | (20.5% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated operating margin | 10.1 | % | 12.1 | % | ||||||||
| Consolidated adjusted operating income | $ | 62,895 | $ | 77,914 | (19.3% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated adjusted operating margin | 10.2 | % | 12.1 | % | ||||||||
| Wholesale operating income | $ | 46,989 | $ | 48,707 | (3.5% | ) | ||||||
| Retail operating income | $ | 19,781 | $ | 24,704 | (19.9% | ) |
SG&A expenses for fiscal 2025 decreased $5.4 million or 1.7% compared to the prior year. When expressed as a percentage of sales, SG&A expenses were 50.4%, an increase from 48.8% in the prior year primarily due to fixed cost deleveraging from lower delivered sales. SG&A expenses were down 1.7% while consolidated sales decreased 4.9%, which led to a decrease in operating leverage.
Consolidated selling expenses were down 3.6% during fiscal 2025. Wholesale selling expenses, which include our logistics operation, decreased 0.1% from a 9.8% decline in wholesale units shipped, lower freight costs including fuel, and less outgoing distribution costs combined with reduced headcount partially offset by an increase in advertising expenses and digital and web-technology spend. Retail selling expenses were down 4.8% due to reduced delivery costs from lower delivered revenue, less headcount and lower designer variable compensation from lower retail sales. Consolidated advertising expenses were equal to 2.9% of net sales, up from 2.5% in the prior year due to increased digital media spend, including paid social campaigns and a higher volume of digital magazine mailings.
Consolidated general and administrative (“G&A”) expenses increased 1.0% during fiscal 2025. Wholesale G&A rose 7.1% due to higher employee benefit costs, incremental incentive compensation and additional investments in corporate technology. Retail G&A expenses were down 0.9% due to reduced headcount and elevated prior year design center refresh costs.
Restructuring and Other Charges, Net of Gains
Restructuring and other charges, net of gains for fiscal 2025 was a charge of $0.3 million and related primarily to severance and other charges. Included within other charges was $0.1 million from a recent fire within our Vermont sawmill. The temporary disruption caused by the June 2025 fire did not have a material impact on our operations as the facility resumed operations by early July. Losses incurred were from the disposal of damaged inventory, inoperable equipment from fire damage, facility cleanup and restoration and we are working through insurance to recover a portion of our losses incurred. The prior year gain of $0.1 million related to a $2.6 million gain related to the amortization of the deferred liability generated from the sale-leaseback transaction completed on August 1, 2022 partially offset by $2.2 million in net losses from the July 2023 Vermont flood and $0.4 million in severance and other charges.
Consolidated Operating Income
Consolidated operating income for fiscal 2025 decreased $16.0 million or 20.5%. Adjusted operating income was $62.9 million, or 10.2% of net sales compared with $77.9 million, or 12.1% of net sales in the prior year. The primary driver of reduced operating income was lower consolidated net sales partially offset by lower SG&A expenses. We remain focused on a disciplined approach to cost savings and expense control in a challenging environment, which helped mitigate the impact of reduced consolidated net sales.
Wholesale operating income for fiscal 2025 was $47.0 million or 13.1% of net sales, compared to $48.7 million or 13.1% in the prior year. The decrease in wholesale operating income was driven by the $12.0 million decline in wholesale net sales partially offset by a 70-basis point increase in gross margin combined with higher restructuring charges in the prior year related to the Vermont flood.
Retail operating income for fiscal 2025 was $19.8 million or 3.8% of retail net sales, compared to $24.7 million or 4.6% in the prior year. The decrease in operating income was driven primarily by the $17.4 million reduction in retail net sales combined with a 30-basis point drop in gross margin partially offset by a decline in SG&A expenses.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Other Income (Expense)
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Interest and other income, net | $ | 7,275 | $ | 7,700 | (5.5% | ) | ||||||
| Interest and other financing costs | $ | 243 | $ | 245 | (0.8% | ) |
Interest and other income, net includes interest income on investments, foreign currency gains or losses and other income (expense) incurred outside our normal course of business. Interest and other income, net decreased 5.5% to $7.3 million during fiscal 2025 due to foreign currency losses reflecting greater volatility in exchange rates, including a weaker U.S. dollar partially offset by an additional $0.1 million in interest income on our investments.
Income Taxes, Net Income and Diluted Earnings per Share (“EPS”)
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Income tax expense | $ | 17,424 | $ | 21,630 | (19.4% | ) | ||||||
| Effective tax rate | 25.2 | % | 25.3 | % | ||||||||
| Net income | $ | 51,596 | $ | 63,816 | (19.1% | ) | ||||||
| Adjusted net income | $ | 52,271 | $ | 63,758 | (18.0% | ) | ||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 2.01 | $ | 2.49 | (19.3% | ) | ||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS | $ | 2.04 | $ | 2.49 | (18.1% | ) |
Income Tax Expense
Income tax expense for fiscal 2025 decreased $4.2 million or 19.4% compared with the prior year due to the $16.4 million decrease in income before income taxes. Our effective tax rate was 25.2% compared with 25.3% in the prior year. Our effective tax rate of 25.2% varies from the 21% federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes.
Net Income and Diluted EPS
Net income for fiscal 2025 was $51.6 million compared with $63.8 million in the prior year period. Adjusted net income was $52.3 million, a decrease of 18.0% compared with $63.8 million in the prior year period. The decrease in net income was driven by the $31.6 million reduction in consolidated net sales partially offset by lower SG&A expenses.
Diluted EPS for fiscal 2025 was $2.01 compared to $2.49 per diluted share in the prior year period. Adjusted diluted EPS was $2.04, down 18.1% compared with the prior year period. The decrease in diluted EPS was primarily due to lower consolidated net sales partially offset by lower SG&A expenses.
Regulation G Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To supplement the financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, we use non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted EPS. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are shown in the tables below.
These non-GAAP measures are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. We believe these non-GAAP measures provide a meaningful comparison of our results to others in our industry and our prior year results. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, our financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, these non-GAAP financial measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all the items associated with the operations of the business as determined in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures differently than we do, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes. Despite the limitations of these non-GAAP financial measures, we believe these adjusted financial measures and the information they provide are useful in viewing our performance using the same tools that management uses to assess progress in achieving our goals. Adjusted measures may also facilitate comparisons to our historical performance.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
The following tables below show a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures used in this filing to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.
| (in thousands, except per share amounts) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Operating Income / Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Operating income | $ | 61,988 | $ | 77,991 | (20.5% | ) | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | 907 | (77 | ) | |||||||||
| Adjusted operating income * | $ | 62,895 | $ | 77,914 | (19.3% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated Net sales | $ | 614,649 | $ | 646,221 | (4.9% | ) | ||||||
| GAAP Operating margin | 10.1 | % | 12.1 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted operating margin * | 10.2 | % | 12.1 | % | ||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Net Income / Adjusted Diluted EPS | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Net income | $ | 51,596 | $ | 63,816 | (19.1% | ) | ||||||
| Adjustments, net of tax * | 675 | (58 | ) | |||||||||
| Adjusted net income | $ | 52,271 | $ | 63,758 | (18.0% | ) | ||||||
| Diluted weighted average common shares | 25,634 | 25,644 | ||||||||||
| GAAP Diluted EPS | $ | 2.01 | $ | 2.49 | (19.3% | ) | ||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS * | $ | 2.04 | $ | 2.49 | (18.1% | ) |
* Adjustments to reported GAAP financial measures including operating income and margin, net income, and diluted EPS have been adjusted by the following:
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||||
| Gain on sale-leaseback transaction(1) | $ | (218 | ) | $ | (2,620 | ) | ||
| Orleans, Vermont flood(1) | 92 | 2,243 | ||||||
| Severance and other charges(1) | 469 | 300 | ||||||
| Other non-restructuring charges | 564 | - | ||||||
| Adjustments to operating income | 907 | (77 | ) | |||||
| Related income tax effects on non-recurring items(2) | (232 | ) | 19 | |||||
| Adjustments to net income | $ | 675 | $ | (58 | ) |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Refer to Note 11, Restructuring and Other Charges, Net of Gains, of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information regarding these adjustments. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (2) | Calculated using the marginal tax rate for each period presented. |
Liquidity
Our sources of liquidity include cash and cash equivalents, short-term and long-term investments, cash generated from operations and amounts available under our credit facility. We believe these sources remain adequate to meet our short-term requirements and contractual obligations and fulfill other cash requirements for day-to-day operations for at least the next twelve months, as well as to meet long-term liquidity requirements and contractual obligations, finance our long-term growth plans and invest in capital expenditures for the foreseeable future. We are committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and monitoring our liquidity closely.
The following table illustrates the main components of our available liquidity (in thousands).
| June 30, | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 76,178 | $ | 69,710 | |||
| Investments, short-term | 59,955 | 91,319 | |||||
| Investments, long-term (1) | 60,030 | 34,772 | |||||
| Availability under existing credit facility | 120,952 | 120,952 | |||||
| Total available liquidity | $ | 317,115 | $ | 316,753 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Our long-term investments in U.S. Treasury notes are classified as non-current as they have stated maturities greater than one year. |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
At June 30, 2025, we had working capital of $157.1 million compared with $179.0 million at June 30, 2024 and a current ratio of 2.03 at June 30, 2025, comparable to 2.16 a year ago. Our non-U.S. subsidiaries held $3.6 million in cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2025, which we have determined to be permanently reinvested.
Summary of Cash Flows
At June 30, 2025, we held cash and cash equivalents of $76.2 million compared with $69.7 million at June 30, 2024. Cash and cash equivalents aggregated to 10.3% of our total assets at June 30, 2025, compared with 9.4% a year ago. In addition to cash and cash equivalents of $76.2 million, we had aggregated investments of $120.0 million at June 30, 2025 compared with $126.1 million at June 30, 2024. Our investments at June 30, 2025 are within U.S. Treasury bills and notes, which we expect will further enhance our returns on excess cash. Our U.S. Treasury bills with maturities of less than one year totaled $60.0 million while our U.S. Treasury notes with maturities ranging between one and two years totaled $60.0 million. We believe our cash, cash equivalents and investments are available to meet short-term liquidity needs.
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows during each of the last three fiscal years.
| (in millions) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||
| Operating activities | |||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 51.6 | $ | 63.8 | $ | 105.8 | |||||||
| Non-cash operating lease cost | 32.7 | 32.0 | 30.2 | ||||||||||
| Restructuring and other charges, net of gains | 0.3 | (0.1 | ) | (3.7 | ) | ||||||||
| Payments on restructuring and other charges, net of proceeds | (0.6 | ) | (1.0 | ) | (1.0 | ) | |||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 15.5 | 16.0 | 15.6 | ||||||||||
| Deferred income taxes and other non-cash items | 1.6 | 1.2 | 0.6 | ||||||||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities | (39.4 | ) | (31.7 | ) | (46.8 | ) | |||||||
| Total provided by operating activities | $ | 61.7 | $ | 80.2 | $ | 100.7 | |||||||
| Investing activities | |||||||||||||
| Capital expenditures | $ | (11.3 | ) | $ | (9.6 | ) | $ | (13.9 | ) | ||||
| Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment | - | - | 9.9 | ||||||||||
| Proceeds from sales of investments, net of purchases | 8.9 | (10.4 | ) | (97.5 | ) | ||||||||
| Total used in investing activities | $ | (2.4 | ) | $ | (20.0 | ) | $ | (101.5 | ) | ||||
| Financing activities | |||||||||||||
| Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards | $ | (2.2 | ) | $ | (2.1 | ) | $ | (0.8 | ) | ||||
| Dividend payments | (50.1 | ) | (50.3 | ) | (46.4 | ) | |||||||
| Proceeds from employee stock plans | - | 0.5 | 0.1 | ||||||||||
| Payments on financing leases and other | (0.3 | ) | (0.4 | ) | (0.5 | ) | |||||||
| Total used in financing activities | $ | (52.6 | ) | $ | (52.3 | ) | $ | (47.6 | ) |
Our cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash increased $6.7 million or 9.6% during fiscal 2025 due to $61.7 million in net cash provided by operating activities and $8.9 million of proceeds from sales of investments, net of purchases, partially offset by $50.1 million in cash dividends paid, capital expenditures of $11.3 million and $2.2 million in taxes paid related to net share settlement of vested equity awards.
Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2025 was primarily attributable to net income, adjusted for non-cash items, partially offset by changes in working capital. We generated $61.7 million in cash from operating activities during fiscal 2025 compared with $80.2 million in the prior year. This decrease was due to lower net income and changes in working capital. Changes in working capital reflect an increase in prepaid expenses and a decline in accounts payable, primarily due to timing of payments. Restructuring payments made during fiscal 2025 of $0.6 million related primarily to severance while payments of $1.0 million in the prior year included $0.6 million related to the Vermont flood restoration efforts.
Cash Used in Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities was $2.4 million during fiscal 2025, compared with $20.0 million in the prior year. During fiscal 2025, we had $8.9 million of proceeds from sales of investments, net of purchases, which represented $94.1 million of U.S. Treasuries that matured during the fiscal year of which $85.2 million was reinvested. The prior year included an outgoing $10.4 million of net purchases of investments, which related to $124.5 million of U.S. treasuries that matured during the year and were subsequently reinvested at a higher amount of $134.9 million. Capital expenditures during fiscal 2025 were $11.3 million compared with $9.6 million in the prior year as we further expanded our manufacturing facilities in Mexico, remodeled our hotel, built-out new retail design centers and continued to invest in new manufacturing equipment and technology.
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Cash Used in Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $52.6 million during fiscal 2025 compared with $52.3 million in the prior year. Total dividends paid were $50.1 million, a decrease of 0.4% from a year ago due to a reduction in the special cash dividend paid, which went from $0.50 per share last year to $0.40 in the current year. The decrease in our special cash dividend was offset by an 8.3% increase in our regular quarterly dividend, which rose from $0.36 to $0.39 per share, effective May 2024. In addition, during fiscal 2025, a total of 70,495 shares valued at $2.2 million were repurchased from employees to satisfy their withholding tax obligations upon vesting of equity awards. This compared to $2.1 million repurchased for similar withholding tax obligations in the prior year period.
Restricted Cash
We present restricted cash as a component of total cash and cash equivalents on our consolidated statements of cash flows and within Other assets on our consolidated balance sheets. At June 30, 2025 we held $0.8 million of restricted cash related to the Ethan Allen insurance captive compared to $0.5 million in the prior year.
Exchange Rate Changes
Due to changes in exchange rates, our cash and cash equivalents were impacted by less than $0.1 million during fiscal 2025 compared with $0.3 million in the prior year period. These changes had an immaterial impact on our cash balances held in Canada, Mexico and Honduras.
Capital Resources, including Material Cash Requirements
Sources of Liquidity
Capital Needs. On January 26, 2022, we entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and syndication agent and Capital One, National Association, as documentation agent. The Credit Agreement amended and restated the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2018, as amended. The Credit Agreement provides for a $125 million revolving credit facility (the “Facility”), subject to borrowing base availability, with a maturity date of January 26, 2027. The Credit Agreement also provides us with an option to increase the size of the Facility up to an additional amount of $60 million. Availability under the Facility fluctuates according to a borrowing base calculated on eligible accounts receivable and inventory, net of customer deposits and reserves. The Facility includes covenants that apply under certain circumstances, including a fixed-charge coverage ratio requirement that applies when excess availability under the credit line is less than certain thresholds. As of June 30, 2025, we were not subject to the fixed-charge coverage ratio requirement, had no borrowings outstanding under the Facility, were in compliance with all other covenants, and had borrowing availability of $121.0 million of the $125.0 million credit commitment. See Note 12, Credit Agreement, to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for a further description of the Credit Agreement.
Letters of Credit. At both June 30, 2025 and 2024 there were $4.0 million of standby letters of credit outstanding under the Facility.
Uses of Liquidity
Capital Expenditures. Capital expenditures during fiscal 2025 totaled $11.3 million compared with $9.6 million in the prior year. Current year capital expenditures related primarily to the further expansion of our manufacturing facilities in Mexico, new retail design centers, investments in technology, and remodeling costs associated with our hotel. During fiscal 2025, we further strengthened our vertically integrated enterprise through the purchase of property, plant and equipment for $1.6 million, which increased our manufacturing operations in Silao, Mexico. New design centers in Middleton, WI, Toronto, Canada, Watchung, NJ, and Peoria, AZ were opened during fiscal 2025 that showcase our unique style while combining complimentary interior design services with technology.
We have no material contractual commitments outstanding for future capital expenditures and anticipate that cash from operations will be sufficient to fund future capital expenditures at least for the next twelve months and foreseeable future.
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Dividends. Our Board has the sole authority to determine if and when we will declare future dividends and on what terms. We have a strong history of returning capital to shareholders and continued this practice during fiscal 2025 as the following actions were taken pertaining to dividends.
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On July 30, 2024, our Board declared a $0.40 per share special cash dividend in addition to our regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.39 per share, both paid on August 29, 2024 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On October 29, 2024, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.39 per share, which was paid on November 27, 2024 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On January 28, 2025, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.39 per share, which was paid on February 26, 2025 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On May 5, 2025, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.39 per share, which was paid on May 29, 2025 |
During fiscal 2025 we paid a total of $1.96 per share in cash dividends for an aggregate total of $50.1 million. This included the special dividend paid on August 29, 2024 totaling $10.2 million. In the prior year period, total dividends paid were $50.3 million. With our dividends, we have returned $721.3 million to shareholders since our initial public offering in 1993.
We have paid a special cash dividend each of the past five years and paid an annual cash dividend every year since 1996. Although we expect to continue to declare and pay quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, the payment of future cash dividends is within the discretion of our Board and will depend on our earnings, operations, financial condition, capital requirements and general business outlook, among other factors. Our credit agreement also includes covenants with certain limitations on our ability to pay dividends.
Share Repurchase Program. There were no share repurchases under our existing multi-year share repurchase program during fiscal 2025 or 2024. At June 30, 2025, we had a remaining Board authorization to repurchase 2,007,364 shares of our common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program. The timing and amount of any future share repurchases in the open market and through privately negotiated transactions will be determined by the Company’s officers at their discretion and based on a number of factors, including an evaluation of market and economic conditions while also maintaining financial flexibility.
Material Cash Requirements from Contractual Obligations
Fluctuations in our operating results, levels of inventory on hand, operating lease commitments, the degree of success of our accounts receivable collection efforts, the timing of tax and other material payments, the rate of written orders and net sales, levels of customer deposits on hand, as well as capital expenditures will impact our liquidity and cash flows in future periods. The effect of our contractual obligations on our liquidity and capital resources in future periods should be considered in conjunction with the factors mentioned here. At June 30, 2025, we had total contractual obligations of $182.8 million, down from $197.9 million a year ago primarily due to lower retail design center lease obligations and timing of purchase orders for the procurement of finished goods and raw materials.
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Our material cash requirements for our contractual obligations at June 30, 2025 were as follows:
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Lease Obligations. We lease real estate for both retail design centers and home delivery centers and also have equipment leases for certain equipment. At June 30, 2025, we had operating and finance lease obligations of $146.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively, with $33.9 million and $0.4 million payable within the next 12 months, respectively. For more information, see Note 6, Leases, in the notes to consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Open Purchase Orders. We had purchase obligations, defined as agreements that are enforceable and legally binding that specify all significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, of $21.0 million at June 30, 2025, comparable to $30.7 million in the prior year period. Our purchase obligations at June 30, 2025, all payable within 12 months, related to purchase orders for the procurement of selected finished goods sourced from third-party suppliers, lumber, fabric, leather and other raw materials used in our manufacturing. The decline in open purchase orders during fiscal 2025 was driven by timing of purchase requisitions, payments and a reduction in available backlog. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Long-term Debt. We had no outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility at June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively. For more information, see Note 12, Credit Agreement, in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Other Purchase Obligations. Other purchase commitments for services such as telecommunication, software, web development, financial and accounting services, insurance and other maintenance contracts was $14.8 million at June 30, 2025 compared with $14.9 million in the prior year period. |
For a discussion of our liquidity and capital resources and our cash flow activities for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, see Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, filed with the SEC on August 23, 2024.
Other Arrangements
We do not utilize or employ any other arrangements in operating our business. As such, we do not maintain any retained or contingent interests, derivative instruments or variable interests which could serve as a source of potential risk to our future liquidity, capital resources and results of operations.
Product Warranties. At both June 30, 2025 and 2024, our product warranty liability totaled $1.0 million. Our products, including case goods, upholstery and home accents, generally carry explicit product warranties and are provided based on terms that are generally accepted in the industry. All our domestic independent retailers are required to enter into and perform in accordance with the terms and conditions of a warranty service agreement. We record provisions for estimated warranty and other related costs at time of sale based on historical warranty loss experience and make periodic adjustments to those provisions to reflect actual experience.
Contingencies
We are involved in various claims and litigation as well as environmental matters, which arise in the normal course of business. Although the final outcome of these legal and environmental matters cannot be determined, based on the facts presently known, it is our opinion that the final resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or future results of operations.
Critical Accounting Estimates
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. In some cases, these principles require management to make difficult and subjective judgments regarding uncertainties and, as a result, such estimates and assumptions may significantly impact our financial results and disclosures. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if: (i) the accounting estimate requires us to make assumptions about matters that were highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate was made, and (ii) changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, or use of different estimates that we reasonably could have used in the current period, would have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. We base our estimates on currently known facts and circumstances, prior experience and other assumptions we believe to be reasonable. We use our best judgment in valuing these estimates and may, as warranted, use external advice. Actual results could differ from these estimates, assumptions, and judgments and these differences could be significant. We make frequent comparisons throughout the year of actual experience to our assumptions to reduce the likelihood of significant adjustments and will record adjustments when differences are known.
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The following critical accounting estimates affect our consolidated financial statements.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
The recoverability of long-lived assets, including those held by our retail design centers, is evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that we may not be able to recover the carrying amount of an asset or asset group. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, change in the intended use of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. If the sum of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows over the remaining life of the primary asset is less than the carrying value, we recognize a loss equal to the difference between the carrying value and the fair value, usually determined by the estimated discounted cash flow analysis or independent third-party appraisal of the asset or asset group. While determining fair value requires a variety of input assumptions and judgment, we believe our estimates of fair value are reasonable. The asset group is defined as the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are available and largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets, which for our retail segment is the individual design center. For retail design center long-lived assets, expected cash flows are determined based on our estimate of future net sales, margin rates and expenses over the remaining expected terms of the leases.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
We review the carrying value of our goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives at least annually, during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change, for possible impairment. Both goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are assigned to our wholesale reporting unit which is principally involved in the development of the Ethan Allen brand and encompasses all aspects of design, manufacturing, sourcing, marketing, sale and distribution of our home furnishings and accents.
Goodwill. We may elect to evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment.
A quantitative impairment test involves estimating the fair value of each reporting unit and indefinite lived intangible asset and comparing these estimated fair values with the respective reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized in an amount equal to such excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. If the carrying value of an individual indefinite lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, such individual indefinite lived intangible asset is written down by an amount equal to such excess. Estimating the fair value of reporting units and indefinite lived intangible assets involves the use of significant assumptions, estimates and judgments with respect to a number of factors, including sales, gross margin, general and administrative expenses, capital expenditures, operating income and cash flows, the selection of an appropriate discount rate, as well as market values and multiples of earnings and revenue of comparable public companies.
To evaluate goodwill in a quantitative impairment test, the fair value of the reporting units is estimated using a combination of Market and Income approaches. The Market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities (including a business). In the Market approach, the method focuses on comparing the Company’s risk profile and growth prospects to reasonably similar publicly traded companies. Key assumptions used include multiples for revenues, operating income and operating cash flows, as well as consideration of control premiums. The selected multiples are determined based on public companies within our peer group, and if appropriate, recent comparable transactions are also considered. Control premiums are determined using recent comparable transactions in the open market. Under the Income approach, a discounted cash flow method is used, which includes a terminal value, and is based on management’s forecasts and budgets. The long-term terminal growth rate assumptions reflect our current long-term view of the market in which we compete. Discount rates use the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our wholesale reporting unit was greater than its respective carrying value and no impairment charge was required. In performing the qualitative assessment, we considered such factors as macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions in which we operate, including the competitive environment and any significant changes in demand. We also considered our stock price both in absolute terms and in relation to peer companies.
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Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. We also annually evaluate whether our trade name continues to have an indefinite life. Our trade name is reviewed for impairment annually in the fourth quarter and may be reviewed more frequently if indicators of impairment are present. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. Factors used in the valuation of intangible assets with indefinite lives include, but are not limited to, management’s plans for future operations, recent results of operations and projected future cash flows.
Similar to goodwill, we may elect to perform a qualitative assessment. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of our trade name was less than its carrying value, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for our indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment. To evaluate our trade name using a quantitative analysis, its fair value is calculated using the relief-from-royalty method. Significant factors used in the trade name valuation are rates for royalties, future revenue growth and a discount factor. Royalty rates are determined using an average of recent comparable values, review of the operating margins and consideration of the specific characteristics of the trade name. Future growth rates are based on the Company’s perception of the long-term values in the market in which we compete, and the discount rate is determined using the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
We performed our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our trade name was greater than its carrying value and no impairment charge was required. Qualitative factors reviewed included a review for significant adverse changes in client demand or business climate that could affect the value of the asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator.
Inventories
Inventories (finished goods, work in process and raw materials) are stated at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis, and net realizable value. Cost is determined based solely on those charges incurred in the acquisition and production of the related inventory (i.e. material, labor and manufacturing overhead costs). At June 30, 2025 our inventory reserves totaled $1.5 million, which we estimate for excess quantities and obsolete items based on specific identification and historical write-downs, taking into account future demand and market conditions. Our inventory reserves contain uncertainties that require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment regarding a number of factors, including market conditions, the selling environment, historical results and current inventory trends. We adjust our inventory reserves for net realizable value and obsolescence based on trends, aging reports, specific identification and estimates of future retail sales prices. If actual demand or market conditions change from our prior estimates, we adjust our inventory reserves accordingly throughout the period. We have not made any material changes to our assumptions included in the calculations of the lower of cost or net realizable value reserves during the periods presented. Our inventory reserves of $1.5 million at June 30, 2025 were down from $1.8 million a year ago primarily due to a decline in our inventory carrying levels combined with fewer returns and obsolete items.
Income Taxes
We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and other foreign jurisdictions. Our effective tax rate for fiscal 2025 was 25.2% compared with 25.3% in the prior year. Our tax provision is an estimate based on our understanding of laws in Federal, state and foreign tax jurisdictions. These laws can be complicated and are difficult to apply to any business, including ours. The tax laws also require us to allocate our taxable income to many jurisdictions based on subjective allocation methodologies and information collection processes. Our effective tax rate varies from the 21% federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes.
We use the asset and liability method to account for income taxes. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective+ tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which we expect to recover or settle those temporary differences. When we record deferred tax assets, we are required to estimate, based on forecasts of taxable earnings in the relevant tax jurisdiction, whether we are more likely than not to recover them. In making judgments about realizing the value of our deferred tax assets, we consider historic and projected future operating results, the eligible carry-forward period, tax law changes and other relevant considerations.
The Company evaluates, on a quarterly basis, uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken on tax returns for recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure in its financial statements. If an income tax position exceeds a 50% probability of success upon tax audit, based solely on the technical merits of the position, the Company recognizes an income tax benefit in its financial statements. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The liability associated with an unrecognized tax benefit is classified as a long-term liability except for the amount for which a cash payment is expected to be made or tax positions settled within one year. As of June 30, 2025, we had gross unrecognized tax benefits totaling $3.9 million, consistent with the year ago period.
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Business Insurance Reserves
We have insurance programs in place for workers’ compensation and healthcare under certain employee benefit plans provided by the Company. The programs, which are funded through self-insured retention, are subject to stop-loss limitations. We accrue estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on historical loss experience. At June 30, 2025, we recorded a liability of $1.5 million for incurred but not reported healthcare claims and $4.5 million related to workers’ compensation claims. These business insurance reserves are recorded within Accrued compensation and benefits on our consolidated balance sheets. Although we believe that the reserves are adequate, the estimates are based on historical experience, which may not be indicative of current and future losses. In addition, the actuarial calculations used to estimate reserves are based on numerous assumptions, some of which are subjective. We adjust insurance reserves, as needed, in the event that future loss experience differs from historical loss patterns.
Significant Accounting Policies
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of our significant accounting policies.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements, including the expected dates of adoption.
MD&A history
Prior-year 10-K MD&A spans are extracted from SEC filings with the same bounded parser used for the latest filing. The latest 10-K appears above; prior years are below.
FY 2024 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0001437749-24-027664.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is designed to provide a reader of our financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of our management on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and certain other factors that may affect our future results.
The MD&A is based upon, and should be read in conjunction with, our Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Executive Overview
Who We Are. Founded in 1932, Ethan Allen is a leading interior design company, manufacturer and retailer in the home furnishings marketplace. We are a global luxury home fashion brand that is vertically integrated from product design through home delivery, which offers clients stylish product offerings, artisanal quality and personalized service. We are known for the quality and craftsmanship of our products as well as for the exceptional personal service from design to delivery. We provide complimentary interior design service to our clients and sell a full range of home furnishings through a retail network of design centers located throughout the United States and internationally as well as online at ethanallen.com.
Ethan Allen design centers represent a mix of locations operated by independent licensees and Company-operated locations. At June 30, 2024, the Company operates 142 retail design centers, 138 located in the United States and four in Canada. Our independently operated design centers are located in the United States, Asia, the Middle East and Europe. We also own and operate ten manufacturing facilities, including four manufacturing plants, one sawmill, one rough mill and a kiln dry lumberyard in the United States, two upholstery manufacturing plants in Mexico and one case goods manufacturing plant in Honduras. Approximately 75% of our furniture is manufactured in our North American plants. We also contract with various suppliers located in Europe, Asia and other various countries to import products that support our business.
We recently launched the important initiative as a leading Interior Design Destination, which involved major enhancements to elevate a consistent level of presentation across our retail design center network. New state-of-the-art design centers in The Villages, FL, Avon, OH, New York, NY, Albuquerque, NM and Louisville, KY were also opened during fiscal 2024 and showcase our unique vision of American style while combining complimentary interior design services with technology. We continued to strengthen our talent, introduce new products, have strong marketing campaigns, invest in our North American manufacturing, which make about 75% of our furniture, and maintain our logistics network providing white glove delivery service to our clients at one cost throughout North America. These areas of focus along with our interior design professionals combining personal service with technology contributed to Ethan Allen being named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers 2024, for the second year in a row.
Business Model. Ethan Allen has a distinct vision of American style, rooted in the kind of substance that we believe differentiates us from our competitors. Our business model is to maintain continued focus on (i) providing relevant product offerings, (ii) capitalizing on the professional and personal service offered to our customers by our interior design professionals, (iii) leveraging the benefits of our vertical integration including a manufacturing presence in North America, (iv) investing in new technologies across key aspects of our vertically integrated business, (v) maintaining a strong logistics network, (vi) communicating our messages with strong marketing campaigns, and (vii) utilizing our website, ethanallen.com, as a key marketing tool to drive traffic to our retail design centers.
We aim to position Ethan Allen as a premier interior design destination and a preferred brand offering products of superior style, quality, and value to customers with a comprehensive, one-stop shopping solution for their home furnishing and interior design needs. We seek to constantly reinvent our projection and product offerings through a broad selection of products, designed to complement one another, reflecting current fashion trends in home furnishing. Our vertical integration is a competitive advantage for us. Our North American manufacturing and logistics operations are an integral part of an overall strategy to maximize production efficiencies and maintain this competitive advantage.
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Talent. At June 30, 2024, our employee count totaled 3,404, with 2,376 employees in our wholesale segment and 1,028 in our retail segment. We are pleased with the continued strengthening of our teams and the performance of our employees during fiscal 2024 while at the same time being able to reduce headcount through operational efficiencies. Our employee count decreased 9.2% during fiscal 2024, with 46 fewer employees in retail and 298 fewer employees in wholesale.
Fiscal 2024 Financial Year in Review (1). Our vertically integrated business delivered positive operating results during a period marked by industry-wide softer demand and challenging headwinds. Our financial results were highlighted by double-digit operating margins, disciplined expense management, strong operating cash flow and a robust balance sheet. We ended the fiscal 2024 year with a strong balance sheet, including cash, cash equivalents and investments of $195.8 million, no outstanding debt, and $80.2 million of cash generated from operating activities. Our Board increased our regular quarterly cash dividend by 8.3% to $0.39 per share and declared a special cash dividend of $0.50 per share, bringing the total amount of dividends paid to $50.3 million during the fiscal year. Consolidated net sales of $646.2 million were down 18.3% compared to the prior year due to lower delivered unit volumes, reduced manufacturing from lower backlogs, softening demand and a strong prior year comparable. Our consolidated gross margin of 60.8% was comparable to the prior year as benefits from lower raw material input costs, reduced headcount, and disciplined promotional activity were offset by lower delivered unit volume. Adjusted operating margin of 12.1% remained above pre-pandemic levels primarily due to strong gross margins and lower operating expenses from disciplined cost control initiatives. Adjusted diluted earnings per share was $2.49. We ended the fiscal year with wholesale backlog of $53.5 million, down 27.7% from a year ago. However, backlog is now more reflective of historical norms and near pre-pandemic levels.
We achieved these financial results and generated strong cash flows while protecting our margin gains through disciplined investments and solid execution. We are building a fundamentally stronger company, protecting our profitability and enhancing our operational efficiency. As we move into fiscal 2025, we will continue to carefully manage our expense structure while investing in growth initiatives that we believe will further our business. While we understand the challenges of a slower economy and the reduction of consumer focus on the home, we remain cautiously optimistic that our current business model, strategy, and balance sheet has us well positioned.
Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within this MD&A for the reconciliation of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to adjusted key financial metrics.
Key Operating Metrics
A summary of our key operating metrics is presented in the following table (in millions, except per share data).
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2023 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2022 | % of Sales | % Chg | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 646.2 | 100.0 | % | (18.3 | %) | $ | 791.4 | 100.0 | % | (3.2 | %) | $ | 817.8 | 100.0 | % | 19.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Gross profit | $ | 393.1 | 60.8 | % | (18.2 | %) | $ | 480.4 | 60.7 | % | (0.9 | %) | $ | 484.7 | 59.3 | % | 23.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 78.0 | 12.1 | % | (43.2 | %) | $ | 137.2 | 17.3 | % | (0.8 | %) | $ | 138.3 | 16.9 | % | 78.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted operating income(1) | $ | 77.9 | 12.1 | % | (41.6 | %) | $ | 133.5 | 16.9 | % | (0.5 | %) | $ | 134.2 | 16.4 | % | 67.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 63.8 | 9.9 | % | (39.7 | %) | $ | 105.8 | 13.4 | % | 2.4 | % | $ | 103.3 | 12.6 | % | 72.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted net income(1) | $ | 63.8 | 9.9 | % | (38.1 | %) | $ | 103.1 | 13.0 | % | 2.8 | % | $ | 100.3 | 12.3 | % | 67.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 2.49 | (39.7 | %) | $ | 4.13 | 2.0 | % | $ | 4.05 | 70.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS(1) | $ | 2.49 | (38.2 | %) | $ | 4.03 | 2.5 | % | $ | 3.93 | 65.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash flow from operating activities | $ | 80.2 | (20.3 | %) | $ | 100.7 | 45.1 | % | $ | 69.4 | (46.6 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Return on equity | 13.4 | % | 23.5 | % | 26.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wholesale written orders | (10.9 | %) | (9.0 | %) | (0.5 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retail written orders | (8.4 | %) | (12.3 | %) | (4.6 | %) |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within this MD&A for the reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted key financial metrics. |
Results of Operations
For an understanding of the significant factors that influenced our financial performance in fiscal 2024 compared with fiscal 2023, the following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes presented under Item 8 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Refer to Results of Operations under Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, contained in Part II of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023, filed with the SEC on August 24, 2023, for an analysis of the fiscal 2023 results as compared to fiscal 2022.
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated net sales | $ | 646,221 | $ | 791,382 | (18.3% | ) | ||||||
| Wholesale net sales | $ | 371,087 | $ | 449,591 | (17.5% | ) | ||||||
| Retail net sales | $ | 540,550 | $ | 662,555 | (18.4% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated gross profit | $ | 393,062 | $ | 480,370 | (18.2% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated gross margin | 60.8 | % | 60.7 | % |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Net Sales
Consolidated net sales in fiscal 2024 decreased $145.2 million or 18.3% compared to the prior year period due to an 18.4% reduction in retail sales through our Company-operated design centers and a decline of 17.5% in wholesale net sales. Our consolidated net sales were impacted by a decline in delivered unit volume, a challenging consumer environment for home furnishings that led to lower incoming written orders, a relatively difficult prior year comparative period and reduced available backlog partially offset by selective price increases to maintain competitiveness. Consolidated net sales in the prior year were higher than historical norms as we benefited from delivery of significant backlog driven by heightened demand in prior periods.
Wholesale net sales in fiscal 2024 decreased $78.5 million or 17.5% compared to the prior year primarily due to decreases in intersegment sales to our Company-operated design centers, sales to our independent dealers and contract sales. Lower sales primarily reflect lower incoming written orders, a decline in delivered unit volume and backlog returning to near pre-pandemic levels. Excluding intersegment sales to our retail segment, wholesale net sales decreased $23.2 million or 18.0% compared to the prior year period. Our contract sales, including shipments to the United States government General Services Administration (“GSA”), decreased due to lower backlog, timing of purchases and a slowdown in government spending. Our international sales, which represent 1.9% of total wholesale net sales, decreased primarily from lower net sales to our international retailers in Southeast Asia and the Middle East partially offset by improving sales to China.
Wholesale written orders, which represent orders booked through all of our channels, were down 10.9% in fiscal 2024 compared to the prior year period as a result of the softening in the home furnishings market, ongoing inflationary pressures, high interest rates, a slow housing market and a slower contract business. Orders from our independent U.S. retail network decreased 10.4% while our international retailers decreased 1.7%. Orders from our intersegment Company-operated design centers were down 9.5% and our contract orders were down 23.1%.
Wholesale backlog was $53.5 million at June 30, 2024, down 27.7% from a year ago; however, it is more reflective of pre-pandemic levels. The number of weeks of wholesale backlog at June 30, 2024 was fewer than last year as we improved our delivery times with notable improvements seen across each product category. As we head into fiscal 2025, we expect incoming order trends to approximate outgoing delivered sales.
Retail net sales from Company-operated design centers decreased $122.0 million or 18.4% during fiscal 2024 compared to the prior year period. There was an 18.6% decrease in net sales in the United States, while sales from our Canadian design centers decreased 9.1%. The decline in retail net sales was primarily from a decline in delivered unit volume as a result of lower manufacturing levels, combined with lower written orders, reduced backlog and decreased premier home delivery revenue partially offset by higher designer floor sample sales and selective price increases.
Retail written orders declined 8.4% year over year due to weaker traffic, softening of consumer interest in home furnishings, ongoing inflationary pressures and elevated interest rates. To help drive traffic and related business to our retail design centers, we hosted grand reopening celebrations throughout fiscal 2024 to unveil the repositioning of our retail network as the Interior Design Destination, offering guests a chance to view new products, meet each location’s interior designers and experience the refreshed design centers. We also utilized extended financing terms over select promotional periods, which helped drive traffic around these periods. At June 30, 2024, there were 142 Company-operated design centers compared to 139 a year ago, with new locations in The Villages, FL, Avon, OH and Albuquerque, NM, in addition to relocations of our New York, NY and Louisville, KY design centers.
Gross Profit and Margin
Consolidated gross profit in fiscal 2024 decreased $87.3 million or 18.2% compared with the prior year period due to sales declines within both our wholesale and retail segments, including lower delivered unit volume. Wholesale gross profit decreased 19.2% due to the 17.5% decline in sales and a 70-basis point reduction in gross margin. Retail gross profit decreased 18.8% due to the 18.4% decrease in net shipments combined with a 30-basis point reduction in gross margin.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated gross margin was 60.8%, a 10-basis point improvement over the prior year period due to reduced headcount, disciplined promotional activity, lower manufacturing raw material input costs and favorable intercompany inventory profit eliminations partially offset by deleveraging from lower delivered sales and increased designer floor sample sales. Our sales mix was comparable to the prior year. Retail sales, when expressed as a percentage of total consolidated net sales, was 83.6% in fiscal 2024, comparable to 83.7% in the prior year period, which had a neutral effect on our consolidated gross margin.
Wholesale gross margin was down 70 basis points over the prior year period due to reduced production volumes which led to increased plant inefficiencies and related manufacturing variances, inflationary pressure on labor and rising fuel costs partially offset by lower raw material input costs, reduced headcount and investments in technology, which helped streamline production workflows. Lower raw material input costs were led by reduced commodity prices and improved sourcing.
Retail gross margin decreased 30 basis points compared to the prior year due to incremental designer floor sample sales partially offset by selective price increases, improved premier home delivery margin and lower financing costs from reduced special financing.
Selling, General & Administrative (“SG&A”) Expenses
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||
| SG&A expenses | $ | 315,148 | $ | 346,894 | (9.2% | ) | ||||||
| Restructuring and other impairment charges, net of gains | $ | (77 | ) | $ | (3,720 | ) | (97.9% | ) | ||||
| Consolidated operating income | $ | 77,991 | $ | 137,196 | (43.2% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated operating margin | 12.1 | % | 17.3 | % | ||||||||
| Wholesale operating income | $ | 48,707 | $ | 68,792 | (29.2% | ) | ||||||
| Retail operating income | $ | 24,704 | $ | 67,256 | (63.3% | ) |
SG&A expenses for fiscal 2024 decreased $31.7 million or 9.2% compared to the prior year period due to lower selling expenses from less delivered net sales and a reduction in general and administrative costs. When expressed as a percentage of sales, SG&A expenses were 48.8% compared to 43.8% in the prior year period, an increase of 500 basis points due to fixed cost deleveraging from lower delivered sales partially offset by lower headcount and a disciplined approach to cost savings. SG&A expenses were down 9.2% while consolidated sales decreased 18.3%, which led to a decrease in operating leverage.
Consolidated selling expenses were down 14.4% during fiscal 2024. Wholesale selling expenses, which include our logistics operation, decreased 16.8% primarily from a 17.1% decline in wholesale units shipped, lower freight costs including fuel, and less outgoing distribution costs combined with reduced headcount partially offset by an increase in technology spend. Retail selling expenses were down 13.6% due to lower designer variable compensation and reduced delivery costs from the 18.4% decrease in retail net sales partially offset by increased occupancy expenses and costs associated with our design center refreshes completed during fiscal 2024. Our consolidated advertising expenses were equal to 2.5% of net sales, up from 2.2% in the prior year period as we increased our direct mail campaigns focusing on being the premier interior design destination with new product introductions.
General and administrative expenses decreased 0.8% during fiscal 2024 as Wholesale expenses declined 9.2% while Retail expenses grew 2.1%. Wholesale general and administrative expenses were lower due to less employee compensation, favorable employee benefit costs and lower professional fees. Retail general and administrative expenses rose due to costs incurred for the design center refreshes and higher occupancy expenses from the addition of three net new design centers in the last twelve months. As part of our fiscal 2024 design center refresh initiative as the Interior Design Destination, we incurred expenditures for new product swatches, samples, floor displays, painting, lighting and flooring.
Compared to a year ago, our consolidated headcount is down 9.2% or 344 associates (298 wholesale and 46 retail) as we continue to identify operational efficiencies and leverage the use of technology to streamline workflows to help reduce our human capital costs throughout our vertically-integrated enterprise.
Restructuring and Other Charges, Net of Gains
Restructuring and other charges, net of gains for fiscal 2024 was a gain of $0.1 million compared to a gain of $3.7 million in the prior year period. The fiscal 2024 restructuring credit was due to a $2.6 million gain related to the amortization of the deferred liability generated from the August 1, 2022 sale-leaseback transaction partially offset by a $2.2 million net loss incurred from the damage sustained in the July 2023 Vermont flooding and severance costs of $0.4 million. Vermont flood losses incurred from the disposal of damaged inventory, inoperable machinery equipment from water damage, facility cleanup, and restoration, were $2.2 million, net of insurance recoveries and grant proceeds. In the prior year period, we recognized a gain of $4.2 million on the sale-leaseback transaction as well as a gain of $0.3 million on the sale of a property partially offset by severance costs of $0.7 million.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Operating Income
Consolidated operating income for fiscal 2024 decreased $59.2 million or 43.2%. Adjusted operating income, which excludes restructuring and other charges, net of gains, was $77.9 million, or 12.1% of net sales compared with $133.5 million, or 16.9% of net sales in the prior year period. The decrease in operating income was driven by lower consolidated net sales partially offset by lower SG&A expenses. We remain focused on a disciplined approach to cost savings and expense control in a declining net sales environment, which helped mitigate the impact of the reduction in consolidated net sales.
Wholesale operating income for fiscal 2024 was $48.7 million or 13.1% of net sales, compared to $68.8 million or 15.3% in the prior year period. Adjusted wholesale operating income, which excludes restructuring and other charges, net of gains, was $51.1 million, or 13.8% of net sales compared with $69.0 million, or 15.3% of net sales in the prior year period. The decrease in adjusted wholesale operating income was driven primarily by the 17.5% decline in wholesale net sales partially offset by the 13.8% reduction in wholesale SG&A expenses.
Retail operating income for fiscal 2024 was $24.7 million or 4.6% of retail net sales, compared to $67.3 million or 10.2% in the prior year period. Adjusted retail operating income, which excludes restructuring and other charges, net of gains, was $22.2 million, or 4.1% of net sales compared with $63.4 million, or 9.6% of net sales in the prior year period. The decrease in adjusted retail operating income is driven primarily by the 18.4% decrease in retail net sales partially offset by the 7.6% reduction in retail SG&A expenses.
Non-Operating Income (Expense)
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Interest and other income, net | $ | 7,700 | $ | 4,042 | 90.5 | % | ||||||
| Interest and other financing costs | $ | 245 | $ | 213 | 15.0 | % |
Interest and other income, net includes interest income on investments, foreign currency gains or losses and other income or expense incurred outside our normal course of business. Interest and other income, net increased 90.5% to $7.7 million during fiscal 2024 due to incremental interest income driven by higher investment balances.
Income Taxes, Net Income and Diluted Earnings per Share (“EPS”)
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Income tax expense | $ | 21,630 | $ | 35,218 | (38.6% | ) | ||||||
| Effective tax rate | 25.3 | % | 25.0 | % | ||||||||
| Net income | $ | 63,816 | $ | 105,807 | (39.7% | ) | ||||||
| Adjusted net income | $ | 63,758 | $ | 103,057 | (38.1% | ) | ||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 2.49 | $ | 4.13 | (39.7% | ) | ||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS | $ | 2.49 | $ | 4.03 | (38.2% | ) |
Income Tax Expense
Income tax expense was $21.6 million compared with $35.2 million in the prior year due to the $55.6 million decrease in income before income taxes as our consolidated effective tax rate was 25.3% compared with 25.0% in the prior year. Our effective tax rate of 25.3% varies from the 21% federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes.
Net Income and Diluted EPS
Net income for fiscal 2024 was $63.8 million compared with $105.8 million in the prior year period. Adjusted net income, which removes the after-tax impact of restructuring and other charges, net of gains, was $63.8 million, a decrease of 38.1% compared to $103.1 million in the prior year period. The decrease in net income and adjusted net income was driven by the $145.2 million reduction in consolidated net sales partially offset by lower operating expenses.
Diluted EPS for fiscal 2024 was $2.49 compared to $4.13 per diluted share in the prior year period. Adjusted diluted EPS was $2.49, down 38.2% compared with the prior year period. The decrease in diluted EPS was primarily due to lower consolidated net sales partially offset by lower operating expenses.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Regulation G Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To supplement the financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, we use non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted wholesale operating income and margin, adjusted retail operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted EPS. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are shown in the tables below.
These non-GAAP measures are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. We believe these non-GAAP measures provide a meaningful comparison of our results to others in our industry and our prior year results. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, our financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, these non-GAAP financial measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all the items associated with the operations of the business as determined in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures differently than we do, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes. Despite the limitations of these non-GAAP financial measures, we believe these adjusted financial measures and the information they provide are useful in viewing our performance using the same tools that management uses to assess progress in achieving our goals. Adjusted measures may also facilitate comparisons to our historical performance.
The following tables below show a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures used in this filing to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.
| (in thousands, except per share amounts) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Operating Income / Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Operating income | $ | 77,991 | $ | 137,196 | (43.2% | ) | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | (77 | ) | (3,682 | ) | ||||||||
| Adjusted operating income * | $ | 77,914 | $ | 133,514 | (41.6% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated Net sales | $ | 646,221 | $ | 791,382 | (18.3% | ) | ||||||
| GAAP Operating margin | 12.1 | % | 17.3 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted operating margin * | 12.1 | % | 16.9 | % | ||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Net Income / Adjusted Diluted EPS | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Net income | $ | 63,816 | $ | 105,807 | (39.7% | ) | ||||||
| Adjustments, net of tax * | (58 | ) | (2,750 | ) | ||||||||
| Adjusted net income | $ | 63,758 | $ | 103,057 | (38.1% | ) | ||||||
| Diluted weighted average common shares | 25,644 | 25,604 | ||||||||||
| GAAP Diluted EPS | $ | 2.49 | $ | 4.13 | (39.7% | ) | ||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS * | $ | 2.49 | $ | 4.03 | (38.2% | ) | ||||||
| Wholesale Adjusted Operating Income / Adjusted Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| Wholesale GAAP operating income | $ | 48,707 | $ | 68,792 | (29.2% | ) | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | 2,385 | 190 | ||||||||||
| Adjusted wholesale operating income * | $ | 51,092 | $ | 68,982 | (25.9% | ) | ||||||
| Wholesale net sales | $ | 371,087 | $ | 449,591 | (17.5% | ) | ||||||
| Wholesale GAAP operating margin | 13.1 | % | 15.3 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted wholesale operating margin * | 13.8 | % | 15.3 | % | ||||||||
| Retail Adjusted Operating Income / Adjusted Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| Retail GAAP operating income | $ | 24,704 | $ | 67,256 | (63.3% | ) | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | (2,462 | ) | (3,872 | ) | ||||||||
| Adjusted retail operating income * | $ | 22,242 | $ | 63,384 | (64.9% | ) | ||||||
| Retail net sales | $ | 540,550 | $ | 662,555 | (18.4% | ) | ||||||
| Retail GAAP operating margin | 4.6 | % | 10.2 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted retail operating margin * | 4.1 | % | 9.6 | % |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
* Adjustments to reported GAAP financial measures including operating income and margin, net income, and diluted EPS have been adjusted by the following:
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
| Gain on sale-leaseback transaction (retail) | $ | (2,620 | ) | $ | (4,222 | ) | ||
| Orleans, VT flood (wholesale) | 2,243 | - | ||||||
| Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (retail) | - | (311 | ) | |||||
| Severance and other charges (wholesale) | 141 | 169 | ||||||
| Severance and other charges (retail) | 159 | 644 | ||||||
| Disposal of long-lived assets and lease exit costs (retail) | - | 38 | ||||||
| Adjustments to operating income | (77 | ) | (3,682 | ) | ||||
| Related income tax effects on non-recurring items(1) | 19 | 932 | ||||||
| Adjustments to net income | $ | (58 | ) | $ | (2,750 | ) |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Calculated using the marginal tax rate for each period presented |
Liquidity
Our sources of liquidity include cash and cash equivalents, short-term and long-term investments, cash generated from operations and amounts available under our credit facility. We believe these sources remain adequate to meet our short-term and long-term liquidity requirements, finance our long-term growth plans, invest in capital expenditures and fulfill other cash requirements for day-to-day operations and contractual obligations. We are committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and monitoring our liquidity closely.
As of June 30, 2024, the Company had available liquidity of $316.8 million as summarized below (in thousands).
| June 30, | June 30, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | ||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 69,710 | $ | 62,130 | |||
| Investments, short-term | 91,319 | 110,577 | |||||
| Investments, long-term (1) | 34,772 | - | |||||
| Availability under existing credit facility | 120,952 | 120,952 | |||||
| Total Available Liquidity | $ | 316,753 | $ | 293,659 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Our long-term investments in U.S. Treasury notes are classified as non-current as they have stated maturities greater than one year. |
At June 30, 2024, we had working capital of $179.0 million compared with $196.4 million at June 30, 2023 and a current ratio of 2.16 at June 30, 2024, comparable to 2.20 a year ago. Our non-U.S. subsidiaries held $4.3 million in cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2024, which we have determined to be permanently reinvested.
Summary of Cash Flows
At June 30, 2024, we held cash and cash equivalents of $69.7 million compared with $62.1 million at June 30, 2023. Cash and cash equivalents aggregated to 9.4% of our total assets at June 30, 2024, compared with 8.3% a year ago. In addition to cash and cash equivalents of $69.7 million, we had aggregated investments of $126.1 million at June 30, 2024 compared with $110.6 million at June 30, 2023. Our investments at June 30, 2024 are within U.S. Treasury bills and notes, which we expect will further enhance our returns on excess cash. Our U.S. Treasury bills totaled $91.3 million with maturities of less than one year while our U.S. Treasury notes totaled $34.8 million with maturities ranging between one and two years. We believe our cash, cash equivalents and investments are available to meet short-term liquidity needs.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows for each of the last three fiscal years.
| (in millions) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||||||||
| Operating activities | ||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 63.8 | $ | 105.8 | $ | 103.3 | ||||||
| Non-cash operating lease cost | 32.0 | 30.2 | 30.3 | |||||||||
| Restructuring and other charges, net of gains | (0.1 | ) | (3.7 | ) | (4.4 | ) | ||||||
| Payments on restructuring and other charges, net of proceeds | (1.0 | ) | (1.0 | ) | (1.6 | ) | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization and other non-cash items | 17.4 | 17.4 | 17.3 | |||||||||
| Deferred income taxes | (0.2 | ) | (1.2 | ) | (0.4 | ) | ||||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities | (31.7 | ) | (46.8 | ) | (75.1 | ) | ||||||
| Total provided by operating activities | $ | 80.2 | $ | 100.7 | $ | 69.4 | ||||||
| Investing activities | ||||||||||||
| Capital expenditures | $ | (9.6 | ) | $ | (13.9 | ) | $ | (13.4 | ) | |||
| Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment | - | 9.9 | 10.6 | |||||||||
| Purchases of investments, net of sales | (10.4 | ) | (97.5 | ) | (11.2 | ) | ||||||
| Total used in investing activities | $ | (20.0 | ) | $ | (101.5 | ) | $ | (14.0 | ) | |||
| Financing activities | ||||||||||||
| Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards | $ | (2.1 | ) | $ | (0.8 | ) | $ | (0.8 | ) | |||
| Dividend payments | (50.3 | ) | (46.4 | ) | (48.3 | ) | ||||||
| Proceeds from employee stock plans | 0.5 | 0.1 | 1.1 | |||||||||
| Payments for debt issuance costs | - | - | (0.5 | ) | ||||||||
| Payments on financing leases and other | (0.4 | ) | (0.5 | ) | (0.5 | ) | ||||||
| Total used in financing activities | $ | (52.3 | ) | $ | (47.6 | ) | $ | (49.0 | ) |
Our cash and cash equivalents increased $7.6 million or 12.2% during fiscal 2024 due to net cash provided by operating activities of $80.2 million partially offset by $50.3 million in cash dividends paid, capital expenditures of $9.6 million, $10.4 million in net purchases of investments and $2.1 million in taxes paid related to net share settlement of vested RSUs and PSUs.
Cash Provided by Operating Activities
During fiscal 2024 we generated $80.2 million in cash from operating activities, a decrease from $100.7 million in the prior year period due to lower net income partially offset by improvements in net working capital. Restructuring payments made during fiscal 2024 of $1.0 million related primarily to the Orleans flood restoration. Net working capital improved due to lower inventory carrying levels combined with a decrease in accounts receivable from strong cash collections and lower contract sales. Our inventory balances continue to decline as we adjust our operating inventory amounts to reflect lower backlog while also ensuring appropriate levels are maintained to service customer orders. These improvements were partially offset by a reduction in customer deposits, reflecting lower backlog and incoming orders.
Cash Used in Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities was $20.0 million during fiscal 2024, compared with cash used of $101.5 million in the prior year period. During fiscal 2024, we had $10.4 million of net purchases of investments, which represent $124.5 million of U.S. Treasuries that matured during the year and were subsequently reinvested at a higher amount totaling $134.9 million. The prior year period included $97.5 million of net purchases of investments to further enhance our returns on our cash as well as to fund future obligations. In addition, the prior year included $8.1 million in proceeds received from the sale-leaseback transaction completed in August 2022 as well as the sale of a property for $1.8 million in April 2023. Capital expenditures during fiscal 2024 were $9.6 million compared with $13.9 million in the prior year period. Fiscal 2024 capital expenditures primarily related to design center openings, relocations and improvements, replacement of machinery and equipment used within our manufacturing and distribution facilities, and investments in technology. Capital expenditures a year ago were higher as we made significant safety and efficiency upgrades within our manufacturing plants.
Cash Used in Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $52.3 million during fiscal 2024, an increase from $47.6 million in the prior year period primarily due to the $3.9 million increase in dividends paid. Effective May 2024, the regular quarterly dividend increased 8.3%, from $0.36 to $0.39 per share. A special cash dividend of $0.50 per share was also paid in both the current and prior year periods. In addition, during fiscal 2024 a total of 67,824 shares valued at $2.1 million were repurchased from employees to satisfy their withholding tax obligations upon vesting of RSUs and PSUs. This compared to $0.8 million repurchased for tax obligations upon vesting of RSUs and PSUs in the prior year period. There were no share repurchases under our existing multi-year share repurchase program during fiscal 2024 or 2023.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Restricted Cash
We present restricted cash as a component of total cash and cash equivalents on our consolidated statements of cash flows and within Other assets on our consolidated balance sheets. At both June 30, 2024 and 2023, we held $0.5 million of restricted cash related to the Ethan Allen insurance captive.
Exchange Rate Changes
Due to changes in exchange rates, our cash and cash equivalents were negatively impacted by $0.3 million during fiscal 2024 compared with a $0.2 million positive impact in the prior year period. These changes had an immaterial impact on our cash balances held in Canada, Mexico and Honduras.
Capital Resources, including Material Cash Requirements
Sources of Liquidity
Capital Needs. On January 26, 2022, we entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and syndication agent and Capital One, National Association, as documentation agent. The Credit Agreement amended and restated the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2018, as amended. The Credit Agreement provides for a $125 million revolving credit facility (the “Facility”), subject to borrowing base availability, with a maturity date of January 26, 2027. The Credit Agreement also provides us with an option to increase the size of the Facility up to an additional amount of $60 million. Availability under the Facility fluctuates according to a borrowing base calculated on eligible accounts receivable and inventory, net of customer deposits and reserves. The Facility includes covenants that apply under certain circumstances, including a fixed-charge coverage ratio requirement that applies when excess availability under the credit line is less than certain thresholds. As of June 30, 2024, we were not subject to the fixed-charge coverage ratio requirement, had no borrowings outstanding under the Facility, were in compliance with all other covenants, and had borrowing availability of $121.0 million of the $125.0 million credit commitment. We incurred financing costs of $0.5 million during fiscal 2022, which are being amortized as interest expense over the remaining life of the Facility using the effective interest method. See Note 12, Credit Agreement, to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for a further description of the Credit Agreement.
Letters of Credit. At both June 30, 2024 and 2023 there were $4.0 million of standby letters of credit outstanding under the Facility.
Uses of Liquidity
Capital Expenditures. Capital expenditures during fiscal 2024 totaled $9.6 million compared with $13.9 million in the prior year period. Current year capital expenditures included $5.4 million for retail design center openings, relocations and renovations and $4.2 million to further improve our manufacturing facilities, including replacing equipment damaged in the Orleans, Vermont flood.
We have no material contractual commitments outstanding for future capital expenditures and anticipate that cash from operations will be sufficient to fund future capital expenditures.
Dividends. Our Board has the sole authority to determine if and when we will declare future dividends and on what terms. We have a strong history of returning capital to shareholders and continued this practice during fiscal 2024 as the following actions were taken pertaining to dividends.
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On August 1, 2023, our Board declared a $0.50 per share special cash dividend in addition to our regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, both paid on August 31, 2023 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On October 24, 2023, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, which was paid on November 22, 2023 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On January 23, 2024, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, which was paid on February 22, 2024 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On April 22, 2024, our Board increased our regular quarterly cash dividend by 8.3% to $0.39 per share, which was paid on May 23, 2024 |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
During fiscal 2024 we paid a total of $1.97 per share in cash dividends for an aggregate total of $50.3 million. This included the special dividend paid in August 2023 totaling $12.7 million. In the prior year period, total dividends paid were $46.4 million. With our dividends, we have returned $671.2 million to shareholders since our initial public offering in 1993.
We have paid a special cash dividend each of the past four years and paid an annual cash dividend every year since 1996. Although we expect to continue to declare and pay quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, the payment of future cash dividends is within the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on our earnings, operations, financial condition, capital requirements and general business outlook, among other factors. Our credit agreement also includes covenants that include limitations on our ability to pay dividends.
Share Repurchase Program. There were no share repurchases under our existing multi-year share repurchase program during fiscal 2024 or 2023. At June 30, 2024, we had a remaining Board authorization to repurchase 2,007,364 shares of our common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program. The timing and amount of any future share repurchases in the open market and through privately negotiated transactions will be determined by the Company’s officers at their discretion and based on a number of factors, including an evaluation of market and economic conditions while also maintaining financial flexibility.
Material Cash Requirements from Contractual Obligations
Fluctuations in our operating results, levels of inventory on hand, operating lease commitments, the degree of success of our accounts receivable collection efforts, the timing of tax and other material payments, the rate of written orders and net sales, levels of customer deposits on hand, as well as capital expenditures will impact our liquidity and cash flows in future periods. The effect of our contractual obligations on our liquidity and capital resources in future periods should be considered in conjunction with the factors mentioned here. At June 30, 2024, we had total contractual obligations of $197.9 million, comparable to $199.1 million a year ago as there were no material changes during fiscal 2024.
Our material cash requirements for our contractual obligations at June 30, 2024 were as follows:
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Lease Obligations. We lease real estate for retail stores, distribution centers and office space and also have equipment leases for IT and office equipment. At June 30, 2024, we had operating and finance lease obligations of $151.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively, with $33.9 million and $0.4 million payable within 12 months, respectively. For more information, see Note 6, Leases, in the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Open Purchase Orders. We had purchase obligations, defined as agreements that are enforceable and legally binding that specify all significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, of $30.7 million at June 30, 2024, comparable to $29.2 million in the prior year period. Our purchase obligations at June 30, 2024, all payable within 12 months, related to purchase orders for the procurement of selected finished goods sourced from third-party suppliers, lumber, fabric, leather and other raw materials used in our manufacturing. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Long-term Debt. We had no outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility at June 30, 2024. Further discussion of our contractual obligations associated with long-term debt can be found in Note 12, Credit Agreement, to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Other Purchase Obligations. Other purchase commitments for services such as telecommunication, computer-related software, web development, financial and accounting software services, insurance and other maintenance contracts was $14.9 million at June 30, 2024, down from $16.9 million in the prior year period primarily due to timing of contract signing and extensions combined with use of other more-cost effective services. |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
For a discussion of our liquidity and capital resources and our cash flow activities for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023, see Item 7,Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023, filed with the SEC on August 24, 2023.
Other Arrangements
We do not utilize or employ any other arrangements in operating our business. As such, we do not maintain any retained or contingent interests, derivative instruments or variable interests which could serve as a source of potential risk to our future liquidity, capital resources and results of operations.
Product Warranties. At June 30, 2024 and 2023, our product warranty liability totaled $1.0 million and $1.3 million, respectively. Our products, including our case goods, upholstery and home accents, generally carry explicit product warranties and are provided based on terms that are generally accepted in the industry. All our domestic independent retailers are required to enter into and perform in accordance with the terms and conditions of a warranty service agreement. We record provisions for estimated warranty and other related costs at time of sale based on historical warranty loss experience and make periodic adjustments to those provisions to reflect actual experience.
Government Contracts
Other than standard provisions contained in our contracts with the United States government, we do not believe that any significant portion of our business is subject to material renegotiation of profits or termination of contracts or subcontracts at the election of government entities. Ethan Allen sells to the United States government both through GSA Multiple Award Schedule Contracts and through competitive bids. The GSA Multiple Award Schedule Contract pricing is principally based upon our commercial price list in effect when the contract is initiated. We are required to receive GSA approval to apply list price increases during the term of the Multiple Award Schedule Contract period.
Contingencies
We are involved in various claims and litigation as well as environmental matters, which arise in the normal course of business. Although the final outcome of these legal and environmental matters cannot be determined, based on the facts presently known, it is our opinion that the final resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or future results of operations.
Critical Accounting Estimates
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. In some cases, these principles require management to make difficult and subjective judgments regarding uncertainties and, as a result, such estimates and assumptions may significantly impact our financial results and disclosures. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if: (i) the accounting estimate requires us to make assumptions about matters that were highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate was made, and (ii) changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, or use of different estimates that we reasonably could have used in the current period, would have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. We base our estimates on currently known facts and circumstances, prior experience and other assumptions we believe to be reasonable. We use our best judgment in valuing these estimates and may, as warranted, use external advice. Actual results could differ from these estimates, assumptions, and judgments and these differences could be significant. We make frequent comparisons throughout the year of actual experience to our assumptions to reduce the likelihood of significant adjustments and will record adjustments when differences are known.
The following critical accounting estimates affect our consolidated financial statements.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
The recoverability of long-lived assets, including those held by our retail design centers, is evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that we may not be able to recover the carrying amount of an asset or asset group. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, change in the intended use of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. If the sum of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows over the remaining life of the primary asset is less than the carrying value, we recognize a loss equal to the difference between the carrying value and the fair value, usually determined by the estimated discounted cash flow analysis or independent third-party appraisal of the asset or asset group. While determining fair value requires a variety of input assumptions and judgment, we believe our estimates of fair value are reasonable. The asset group is defined as the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are available and largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets, which for our retail segment is the individual design center. For retail design center level long-lived assets, expected cash flows are determined based on our estimate of future net sales, margin rates and expenses over the remaining expected terms of the leases.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
We review the carrying value of our goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives at least annually, during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change, for possible impairment. Both goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are assigned to our wholesale reporting unit which is principally involved in the development of the Ethan Allen brand and encompasses all aspects of design, manufacturing, sourcing, marketing, sale and distribution of the Company’s broad range of home furnishings and accents.
Goodwill. We may elect to evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment.
A quantitative impairment test involves estimating the fair value of each reporting unit and indefinite lived intangible asset and comparing these estimated fair values with the respective reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized in an amount equal to such excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. If the carrying value of an individual indefinite lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, such individual indefinite lived intangible asset is written down by an amount equal to such excess. Estimating the fair value of reporting units and indefinite lived intangible assets involves the use of significant assumptions, estimates and judgments with respect to a number of factors, including sales, gross margin, general and administrative expenses, capital expenditures, operating income and cash flows, the selection of an appropriate discount rate, as well as market values and multiples of earnings and revenue of comparable public companies.
To evaluate goodwill in a quantitative impairment test, the fair value of the reporting units is estimated using a combination of Market and Income approaches. The Market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities (including a business). In the Market approach, the method focuses on comparing the Company’s risk profile and growth prospects to reasonably similar publicly traded companies. Key assumptions used include multiples for revenues, operating income and operating cash flows, as well as consideration of control premiums. The selected multiples are determined based on public companies within our peer group, and if appropriate, recent comparable transactions are also considered. Control premiums are determined using recent comparable transactions in the open market. Under the Income approach, a discounted cash flow method is used, which includes a terminal value, and is based on management’s forecasts and budgets. The long-term terminal growth rate assumptions reflect our current long-term view of the market in which we compete. Discount rates use the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our wholesale reporting unit was greater than its respective carrying value and no impairment charge was required. In performing the qualitative assessment, we considered such factors as macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions in which we operate including the competitive environment and any significant changes in demand. We also considered our stock price both in absolute terms and in relation to peer companies.
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. We also annually evaluate whether our trade name continues to have an indefinite life. Our trade name is reviewed for impairment annually in the fourth quarter and may be reviewed more frequently if indicators of impairment are present. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. Factors used in the valuation of intangible assets with indefinite lives include, but are not limited to, management’s plans for future operations, recent results of operations and projected future cash flows.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Similar to goodwill, we may elect to perform a qualitative assessment. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of our trade name was less than its carrying value, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for our indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment. To evaluate our trade name using a quantitative analysis, its fair value is calculated using the relief-from-royalty method. Significant factors used in the trade name valuation are rates for royalties, future revenue growth and a discount factor. Royalty rates are determined using an average of recent comparable values, review of the operating margins and consideration of the specific characteristics of the trade name. Future growth rates are based on the Company’s perception of the long-term values in the market in which we compete, and the discount rate is determined using the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
We performed our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our trade name was greater than its carrying value and no impairment charge was required. Qualitative factors reviewed included a review for significant adverse changes in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of the asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator.
Inventories
Inventories (finished goods, work in process and raw materials) are stated at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis, and net realizable value. Cost is determined based solely on those charges incurred in the acquisition and production of the related inventory (i.e. material, labor and manufacturing overhead costs). At June 30, 2024 our inventory reserves totaled $1.8 million, which we estimate for excess quantities and obsolete items based on specific identification and historical write-downs, taking into account future demand and market conditions. Our inventory reserves contain uncertainties that require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment regarding a number of factors, including market conditions, the selling environment, historical results and current inventory trends. We adjust our inventory reserves for net realizable value and obsolescence based on trends, aging reports, specific identification and estimates of future retail sales prices. If actual demand or market conditions change from our prior estimates, we adjust our inventory reserves accordingly throughout the period. We have not made any material changes to our assumptions included in the calculations of the lower of cost or net realizable value reserves during the periods presented.
Income Taxes
We are subject to income taxes in the United States and other foreign jurisdictions. Our tax provision is an estimate based on our understanding of laws in Federal, state and foreign tax jurisdictions. These laws can be complicated and are difficult to apply to any business, including ours. The tax laws also require us to allocate our taxable income to many jurisdictions based on subjective allocation methodologies and information collection processes.
We use the asset and liability method to account for income taxes. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which we expect to recover or settle those temporary differences. When we record deferred tax assets, we are required to estimate, based on forecasts of taxable earnings in the relevant tax jurisdiction, whether we are more likely than not to recover them. In making judgments about realizing the value of our deferred tax assets, we consider historic and projected future operating results, the eligible carry-forward period, tax law changes and other relevant considerations.
The Company evaluates, on a quarterly basis, uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken on tax returns for recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure in its financial statements. If an income tax position exceeds a 50% probability of success upon tax audit, based solely on the technical merits of the position, the Company recognizes an income tax benefit in its financial statements. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The liability associated with an unrecognized tax benefit is classified as a long-term liability except for the amount for which a cash payment is expected to be made or tax positions settled within one year.
Business Insurance Reserves
We have insurance programs in place for workers’ compensation and healthcare under certain employee benefit plans provided by the Company. The programs, which are funded through self-insured retention, are subject to stop-loss limitations. We accrue estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on historical loss experience. At June 30, 2024, we recorded a liability of $1.5 million for incurred but not reported healthcare claims and $3.9 million related to workers’ compensation claims. These business insurance reserves are recorded within Accrued compensation and benefits on our consolidated balance sheets. Although we believe that the reserves are adequate, the estimates are based on historical experience, which may not be indicative of current and future losses. In addition, the actuarial calculations used to estimate reserves are based on numerous assumptions, some of which are subjective. We adjust insurance reserves, as needed, in the event that future loss experience differs from historical loss patterns.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Significant Accounting Policies
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of our significant accounting policies.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements, including the expected dates of adoption.
FY 2023 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0001437749-23-024609.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is designed to provide a reader of our financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of our management on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and certain other factors that may affect our future results.
The MD&A is based upon, and should be read in conjunction with, our Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Executive Overview
Who We Are. Founded in 1932, Ethan Allen is a leading interior design company, manufacturer and retailer in the home furnishings marketplace. We are a global luxury home fashion brand that is vertically integrated from product design through home delivery, which offers our customers stylish product offerings, artisanal quality and personalized service. We are known for the quality and craftsmanship of our products as well as for the exceptional personal service from design to delivery. We provide complimentary interior design service to our clients and sell a full range of home furnishings through a retail network of design centers located throughout the United States and abroad as well as online at ethanallen.com.
Ethan Allen design centers represent a mix of locations operated by independent licensees and Company-operated locations. As of June 30, 2023, the Company operates 139 retail design centers, 135 located in the United States and four in Canada. Our independently operated design centers are located in the United States, Asia, the Middle East and Europe. We also own and operate ten manufacturing facilities, including four manufacturing plants, one sawmill, one rough mill and a kiln dry lumberyard in the United States, two upholstery manufacturing plants in Mexico and one case goods manufacturing plant in Honduras. Approximately 75% of our products are manufactured or assembled in the North American plants. We also contract with various suppliers located in Europe, Asia and other various countries to produce products that support our business.
During fiscal 2023, we reaffirmed our commitment to maintain and grow our North American workshops, strengthened our product offerings under the umbrella of Classics with a Modern Perspective, maintained our unique and efficient logistics system, invested in technology to both engage and enhance client experience, and enhanced our interior designers with development and training. We strategically relocated two design centers with a more bright, open, modern layout showcasing our best and most current interior design concepts. Our focus on constant reinvention and maintaining an entrepreneurial attitude combined with our great quality, service, and vertically integrated business, with 75% of our products made in our North American manufacturing workshops, has us well positioned as a premier interior design destination.
Business Model. Ethan Allen has a distinct vision of American style, rooted in the kind of substance that we believe differentiates us from our competitors. Our business model is to maintain continued focus on (i) providing relevant product offerings, (ii) capitalizing on the professional and personal service offered to our customers by our interior design professionals, (iii) leveraging the benefits of our vertical integration including a strong manufacturing presence in North America, (iv) regularly investing in new technologies across key aspects of our vertically integrated business, (v) maintaining a strong logistics network, (vi) communicating our messages with strong advertising and marketing campaigns, and (vii) utilizing our website, ethanallen.com, as a key marketing tool to drive traffic to our retail design centers.
We aim to position Ethan Allen as a premier interior design destination and a preferred brand offering products of superior style, quality, and value to customers with a comprehensive, one-stop shopping solution for their home furnishing and interior design needs. We seek to constantly reinvent our projection and product offerings through a broad selection of products, designed to complement one another, reflecting current fashion trends in home furnishing. Our vertical integration is a competitive advantage for us. Our North American manufacturing and logistics operations are an integral part of an overall strategy to maximize production efficiencies and maintain this competitive advantage.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Talent. As of June 30, 2023, our employee count totaled 3,748, with 2,674 employees in our wholesale segment and 1,074 in our retail segment. We are pleased with the continued strengthening of our teams and the performance of our employee base during fiscal 2023 while at the same time being able to reduce headcount through operational efficiencies. Our employee count decreased 11.6% during fiscal 2023, with 126 fewer employees in retail and 365 fewer in wholesale.
Fiscal 2023 Financial Year in Review (1). Our financial results for fiscal year 2023 are highlighted by strong gross and operating margins, improving lead times from decreasing backlog, disciplined cost and expense controls, strong operating cash flow, increased cash dividends and a robust balance sheet. Our consolidated net sales of $791.4 million declined 3.2% compared to the prior year due to lower delivered unit volumes from softening incoming order demand and reduced manufacturing production from lower backlogs. Sales in the prior year set a near record pace which led to a difficult prior year comparison as we had built up a significant backlog as a result of the heightened demand driven by the impact of COVID-19. While our retail segment written orders were down 12.3% compared to fiscal 2022, retail orders were up 0.8% compared to fiscal 2019 which was prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and more reflective of historical levels. Wholesale segment written orders were lower by 9.0% compared to last year, and down 2.1% when compared to fiscal 2019. We ended the fiscal 2023 year with wholesale backlog of $74.0 million, down 27.7% from a year ago as we were able to reduce the number of weeks of backlog. Consolidated gross margin was 60.7% compared to 59.3% due to favorable sales mix, disciplined promotional activity and lower input costs partially offset by lower delivered unit volume. Adjusted operating margin was 16.9% compared to 16.4% as we carefully managed expenses in a declining net sales environment. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) increased 2.5% to $4.03.
We ended fiscal 2023 with a strong balance sheet, including cash, cash equivalents and investments of $172.7 million and no outstanding debt. We generated $100.7 million of cash from operating activities, a 45.1% increase over the prior year driven by strong profit performance and a reduction in inventory carrying levels and accounts receivable partially offset by a decline in customer deposits. Our inventory levels decreased $27.3 million during fiscal 2023 as we restore our operating inventory levels to more historical levels as backlog decreases while also ensuring appropriate amounts of inventory are on hand to service our customers. Our Board increased our regular quarterly cash dividend by 12.5% and declared a special cash dividend of $0.50 per share, bringing the total amount of dividends paid to $46.4 million during fiscal 2023. As of June 30, 2023, our employee count was 3,748, down 11.6% in the past 12 months, as we continue to identify additional operational efficiencies and leverage the use of technology to streamline workflows.
Fiscal 2024 and Beyond. Ethan Allen was recently named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers 2023. This prestigious award is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., a leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The final assessment and rankings were the result of an independent survey of more than 9,000 customers who have shopped at retail stores in person in the past three years and based on the likelihood of recommendation and the evaluation of products, customer service, atmosphere, accessibility and store layout. We are pleased to be recognized as one of America’s Best Retailers 2023, including as the #1 retailer of Premium Furniture. This award is a reflection of our associates, who continue each day to uphold the Ethan Allen reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and exemplary service.
As we enter the post COVID-19 era, our focus will be to continue to strengthen the various areas of our vertically integrated structure, including developing a strong team which is entrepreneurial and disciplined, enhancing our product offerings under the umbrella of Classics with a Modern Perspective, repositioning our retail network as an interior design destination, finalizing each design center projection refresh and ongoing investments in technology to further enhance our marketing, our North American manufacturing and our logistics. While we understand the challenges of a slower economy and the reduction of consumer focus on the home, we remain cautiously optimistic that our current business model, strategy, and balance sheet will enable us to fulfill our many initiatives over the next fiscal year.
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within this MD&A for the reconciliation of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to adjusted key financial metrics. |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Key Operating Metrics
A summary of our key operating metrics is presented in the following table (in millions, except per share data).
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2022 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2021 | % of Sales | % Chg | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 791.4 | 100.0 | % | (3.2 | %) | $ | 817.8 | 100.0 | % | 19.4 | % | $ | 685.2 | 100.0 | % | 16.2 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Gross profit | $ | 480.4 | 60.7 | % | (0.9 | %) | $ | 484.7 | 59.3 | % | 23.3 | % | $ | 393.1 | 57.4 | % | 21.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 137.2 | 17.3 | % | (0.8 | %) | $ | 138.3 | 16.9 | % | 78.9 | % | $ | 77.3 | 11.3 | % | 427.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted operating income(1) | $ | 133.5 | 16.9 | % | (0.5 | %) | $ | 134.2 | 16.4 | % | 67.1 | % | $ | 80.3 | 11.7 | % | 370.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 105.8 | 13.4 | % | 2.4 | % | $ | 103.3 | 12.6 | % | 72.1 | % | $ | 60.0 | 8.8 | % | 574.2 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted net income(1) | $ | 103.1 | 13.0 | % | 2.8 | % | $ | 100.3 | 12.3 | % | 67.0 | % | $ | 60.1 | 8.8 | % | 344.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 4.13 | 2.0 | % | $ | 4.05 | 70.9 | % | $ | 2.37 | 597.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS(1) | $ | 4.03 | 2.5 | % | $ | 3.93 | 65.8 | % | $ | 2.37 | 355.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash flow from operating activities | $ | 100.7 | 45.1 | % | $ | 69.4 | (46.6 | %) | $ | 129.9 | 146.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Return on equity | 23.5 | % | 26.4 | % | 17.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wholesale written orders | (9.0 | %) | (0.5 | %) | 31.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retail written orders | (12.3 | %) | (4.6 | %) | 47.7 | % |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within this MD&A for the reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted key financial metrics. |
Results of Operations
For an understanding of the significant factors that influenced our financial performance in fiscal 2023 compared with fiscal 2022, the following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes presented under Item 8 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Refer to Results of Operations under Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, contained in Part II of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, filed with the SEC on August 29, 2022, for an analysis of the fiscal year 2022 results as compared to fiscal year 2021.
Impact of COVID-19 on our Business
We experienced significant changes in our business resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in fiscal 2020. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we implemented certain business continuity plans to ensure the ongoing availability of our products and services, while prioritizing health and safety of our associates and customers, including enhanced cleaning and hygiene protocols. In addition, we temporarily closed our retail and manufacturing locations due to state and local restrictions. When our retail and manufacturing locations reopened during fiscal 2021, we experienced strong demand for our products as customers allocated greater amounts of discretionary spending to home furnishings than at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, our backlog increased to record levels due to the strong pace of incoming written orders outpacing production combined with logistical challenges, due to supply chain disruptions, which created additional delays in order fulfillment and increased order backlogs. We took several actions to increase our manufacturing capacity including adding headcount as well as second and weekend production shifts to our North American plants and as a result our fiscal 2022 sales set new records, with each quarter exceeding the comparable prior period quarter. During fiscal 2023 sales demand trends have slowed relative to those experienced during the peak of the pandemic but remain comparable to pre-pandemic levels as we work through our high backlog. Our backlog still remains higher than pre-pandemic levels, but we are effectively managing the business to work through this order backlog and to service our customers.
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 30, | ||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated net sales | $ | 791,382 | $ | 817,762 | (3.2% | ) | ||||||
| Wholesale net sales | $ | 449,591 | $ | 483,842 | (7.1% | ) | ||||||
| Retail net sales | $ | 662,555 | $ | 689,884 | (4.0% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated gross profit | $ | 480,370 | $ | 484,706 | (0.9% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated gross margin | 60.7 | % | 59.3 | % |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Net Sales
Consolidated net sales in fiscal 2023 decreased $26.4 million or 3.2% compared to the prior year period due to lower wholesale net sales of 7.1% and lower retail net sales of 4.0%. While the pace of demand has slowed compared to last year, we experienced a strong first half of the year as production levels were increased to deliver the significant backlog generated as a result of the heightened demand driven by the impact of COVID-19. Prior year constraints, including COVID-related delays, labor disruptions, supply chain challenges, extended shipping lead times and raw material availability, have eased, which reduced the time to convert written orders to delivered shipments. For the second half of fiscal 2023, we experienced lower delivered unit volumes from softening demand, which led to reduced manufacturing production. Sales in fiscal 2022 set a near record pace whereby each quarter consistently exceeded prior year comparable quarters leading to near historically high quarterly results for net sales. This growth led to more adverse prior year comparisons during fiscal 2023.
Wholesale Net Sales
Wholesale net sales in fiscal 2023 decreased $34.3 million or 7.1% compared to the prior year primarily due to a reduction in intersegment sales to our Company-operated design centers and lower shipments to domestic and international dealers, which was partially offset by higher contract sales. Reduced sales were primarily from lower incoming written orders combined with a decline in delivered volume as our level of backlog comes down. Excluding intersegment sales to our retail segment, wholesale net sales increased $0.9 million or 0.7% compared to the prior year period from higher contract sales offset by lower shipments to domestic and international dealers. Our international net sales were down 38.4% compared to the prior year period due to a reduction in net sales to China. Sales to international independent retailers represented 1.8% of total wholesale net sales compared to 2.6% in the prior year period.
We track and disclose wholesale written orders, which represent orders booked through all of our channels. Written orders help show the current pace or trend of customer transactions. Written orders are intended only as supplemental information and are not a substitute for net sales presented in accordance with GAAP. Wholesale written orders were down 9.0% in fiscal 2023 compared to the prior year period. As a result of the strong prior year comparison and a reduction of consumer focus on the home, orders from our Company-operated design centers were down 6.0%, contract orders declined 19.2%, independent North American retail network orders were down 13.3% and international orders, including orders from China, declined 33.8%. We experienced a significant increase in demand for our products as customers allocated greater amounts of discretionary spending to home furnishings at the onset of COVID-19 pandemic and that demand was still relatively high during fiscal 2022 which led to a strong, but difficult prior year comparison. When compared to fiscal 2019, which is pre-pandemic and more reflective of historical levels, written orders decreased 2.1% primarily due to challenging economic factors, such as high inflation, elevated interest rates, and uncertainties in the global financial markets. Wholesale backlog was $74.0 million as of June 30, 2023, down 27.7% from a year ago as we were able to reduce the number of weeks of backlog. Manufacturing productivity and related shipments outpaced incoming written orders which helped reduce backlog and improve our delivery times during fiscal 2023. However, our wholesale backlog remains approximately 60% higher than pre-pandemic levels and our strategy remains focused on servicing our customers on a timely basis.
Retail Net Sales
Retail net sales from Company-operated design centers decreased $27.3 million or 4.0% during fiscal 2023 compared to the prior year period. There was a 3.5% decrease in net sales in the United States, while sales from our Canadian design centers decreased 20.2%. The decline in retail net sales was primarily from declining written orders and lower manufacturing production levels partially offset by pricing actions taken, increased premier home delivery revenue and additional clearance sales. Canadian retail net sales were negatively impacted by one less design center in Canada combined with temporary disruptions within the local service center that impacted delivery timing during the first quarter. The disruptions were temporary and the local Canadian service center resumed full operations by the second quarter of fiscal 2023. Retail written orders declined 12.3% year over year primarily due to a strong prior year comparable and a reduction of consumer focus on the home which led to lower in-store traffic partially offset by an increase in average selling price and closure rate. When compared to fiscal 2019, retail written orders increased 0.8%. We remain focused on providing exceptional personal service through our strong network of entrepreneurial leaders and interior designers as we continue to strengthen our product offerings under the umbrella of classics with a modern perspective. As of June 30, 2023, there were 139 Company-operated design centers compared to 141 last year. Our strategic initiatives include the repositioning of our retail network as an interior design destination and we plan on completing this design center refresh project during the first half of fiscal 2024, which we believe will increase traffic.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Gross Profit and Margin
Consolidated gross profit in fiscal 2023 decreased $4.3 million or 0.9% compared with the prior year period due to sales declines within both our wholesale and retail segments, a change in the sales mix with a shift to more wholesale sales which carries lower margins, retail gross margin decline, and lower delivered unit volume. These decreases were partially offset by wholesale margin expansion from lower input costs including declining inbound freight, product pricing actions taken, disciplined promotional activity, manufacturing efficiencies, a favorable product mix, and an increase in average ticket price. Wholesale gross profit increased 320 basis points primarily due to gross margin expansion from product pricing actions taken combined with declining input costs (inbound freight and materials) partially offset by a 7.1% reduction in net sales. While production capacity remains strong, we have reduced our production levels to reflect lower weeks of backlog and the decline in incoming written orders. Retail gross profit decreased 480 basis points primarily due to the 4.0% decrease in net shipments, increased designer floor sample sales, and increased fees to offer our customers interest free financing partially offset by higher premier home delivery revenue and an increase in average ticket sale.
Consolidated gross margin was 60.7% compared with 59.3% in the prior year period due to favorable product mix and lower input costs including reduced inbound freight and raw material costs partially offset by a change in sales mix and lower delivered unit volume. The just completed fourth quarter of fiscal 2023 reported a consolidated gross margin of 61.5%, our 9th consecutive quarter that consolidated gross margin exceeded 58%. Wholesale gross margin increased 340 basis points over the prior year period due to product pricing actions that were taken during fiscal 2022 to offset inflationary pressures. These pricing actions combined with manufacturing efficiencies, raw material and freight cost stabilization in the second half of fiscal 2023, and increased contracts sales, contributed to the growth in our wholesale gross margin. Retail sales, when expressed as a percentage of total consolidated sales, decreased to 83.7% in fiscal 2023, down from 84.4% in the prior year period, which negatively affected consolidated gross margin. Retail gross margin decreased 40 basis points compared to the prior year due to change in product mix, increased designer floor sample sales and rising consumer financing fees partially offset by higher premier home delivery revenue and an increase in average ticket sale.
SG&A Expenses
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses | $ | 346,894 | $ | 350,917 | (1.1 | %) | ||||||
| Restructuring and other impairment charges, net of gains | $ | (3,720 | ) | $ | (4,461 | ) | (16.6 | %) | ||||
| Consolidated operating income | $ | 137,196 | $ | 138,250 | (0.8 | %) | ||||||
| Consolidated operating margin | 17.3 | % | 16.9 | % | ||||||||
| Wholesale operating income | $ | 68,792 | $ | 63,930 | 7.6 | % | ||||||
| Retail operating income | $ | 67,256 | $ | 80,496 | (16.4 | %) |
SG&A expenses for fiscal 2023 decreased $4.0 million or 1.1% compared to the prior year period due to decreased selling expenses of 1.0% combined with a 1.4% decrease in general and administrative expenses. When expressed as a percentage of sales, SG&A expenses were 43.8% of net sales, a 90-basis point increase compared with the prior year, primarily due to decreased operating leverage driven by the lower sales volume relative to fixed costs. The 1.0% decrease in selling expenses was from lower selling costs associated with the 3.2% decrease in sales volume. Retail selling expenses rose 1.1% as delivery contract rates and fuel surcharges increased compared to fiscal 2022 combined with higher direct mail marketing spend partially offset by the 4.0% decrease in Retail net sales, which drove a decrease in our variable costs including delivery and designer commissions. Wholesale selling costs, which includes our logistics operation, were down 6.8% primarily from declining freight rates and a 7.1% reduction in sales volume, which led to lower variable distribution and freight costs. Our consolidated advertising spend was equal to 2.2% of net sales, up from 1.9% in the prior year period as we increased our direct mail campaigns focusing on being the premier interior design destination with new product introductions. General and administrative expenses decreased 1.4% during fiscal 2023 primarily due to lower employee compensation from reduced headcount and reduced retail occupancy costs from a smaller retail footprint partially offset by unfavorable employee benefit costs, including higher group insurance, and new product display, merchandising and sample costs incurred in connection with the refresh of our design centers.
Restructuring and Other Impairment Charges, Net of Gains
Restructuring and other impairment charges, net of gains for fiscal 2023 was a gain of $3.7 million compared to a gain of $4.5 million in the prior year. The current year gain of $3.7 million included $4.2 million from the sale-leaseback transaction completed in August 2022 as well as a gain of $0.3 million on the sale of a property partially offset by $0.7 million of severance and other lease exit costs. The prior year gain of $4.5 million primarily related to the sale of three properties for a pre-tax gain of $5.4 million partially offset by $0.9 million in severance and other lease exit costs.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Operating Income
Consolidated operating income for fiscal 2023 decreased $1.1 million or 0.8% and when expressed as a percentage of net sales was 17.3%, up from 16.9% in the prior year period. Adjusted operating income, which excludes restructuring and other charges, net of gains, was $133.5 million, or 16.9% of net sales compared with $134.2 million, or 16.4% of net sales in the prior year period. The 50-basis point improvement was driven by consolidated gross margin expansion and our ability to maintain a disciplined approach to cost savings and expense control in a declining net sales environment. Specific drivers of consolidated operating income growth were consolidated gross margin expansion, strong cost containment measures, reduced employee compensation from lower headcount, and lower retail occupancy costs primarily offset by a 3.2% decrease in consolidated net sales, higher retail delivery costs, increased marketing spend, and higher benefit costs. Compared to a year ago, our headcount is down 491 associates (365 wholesale and 126 retail) or 11.6% as we continue to identify additional operational efficiencies and leverage the use of technology to streamline workflows. Our ability to operate the business more efficiently with less headcount has helped improve our operating margin. Restructuring and other charges, net of gains, increased operating income by $3.7 million during fiscal 2023 compared to a $4.5 million increase in the prior year period.
Wholesale Operating Income
Wholesale operating income for fiscal 2023 increased $4.9 million or 7.6% and as a percentage of wholesale net sales was 15.3%, compared to 13.2% in the prior year period. Adjusted wholesale operating income was $69.0 million, or 15.3% of wholesale net sales compared with $60.7 million, or 12.6% of wholesale net sales in the prior year period. The increase is due to a significant improvement in wholesale gross margin, declining freight and raw material input costs, and lower compensation from reduced headcount partially offset by reduced fixed cost leverage from lower net sales of $34.3 million or 7.1%. When expressed as a percentage of sales, wholesale SG&A expenses were 19.4% of wholesale net sales, a 70-basis point increase, due to lower operating leverage from decreased sales relative to our fixed costs partially offset by lower expenses. Wholesale SG&A expenses were down 3.8% while wholesale net sales declined at a faster rate of 7.1%, which led to decreased operating leverage. Restructuring and other charges, net of gains, increased wholesale operating income in the prior year by $3.2 million which included a $2.0 million gain from the sale of the Atoka, Oklahoma distribution center.
Retail Operating Income
Retail operating income for fiscal 2023 decreased $13.2 million or 16.4% and as a percentage of retail net sales was 10.2%, compared to 11.7% in the prior year period. Adjusted retail operating income, which excludes restructuring and other charges, net of gains, was $63.4 million, or 9.6% of net sales compared with $79.7 million, or 11.5% of net sales in the prior year period. The decrease in retail operating income was driven by the $27.3 million or 4.0% decrease in net sales, a 40-basis point reduction in retail gross margin, higher delivery costs, increased marketing spend, higher benefit expenses and new product display, merchandising and sample costs partially offset by a decrease in incremental delivery costs and reduced designer variable compensation from lower sales, lower compensation from reduced headcount, and lower occupancy expenses. Restructuring and other charges, net of gains, increased retail operating income by $3.9 million during fiscal 2023 compared to a $1.3 million increase in the prior year period.
Income Tax Expense
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Income tax expense | $ | 35,218 | $ | 34,841 | 1.1 | % | ||||||
| Effective tax rate | 25.0 | % | 25.2 | % | ||||||||
| Net income | $ | 105,807 | $ | 103,280 | 2.4 | % | ||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 4.13 | $ | 4.05 | 2.0 | % |
Income tax expense for fiscal 2023 was $35.2 million compared with $34.8 million in the prior year period. Our consolidated effective tax rate was 25.0% compared with 25.2% in the prior year. Our effective tax rate of 25.0% varies from the 21% federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes.
Net Income
Net income for fiscal 2023 increased by $2.5 million or 2.4% compared with the prior year period. Adjusted net income, which removes the after-tax impact of restructuring and other charges, net of gains, was $103.1 million an increase of 2.8% compared to $100.3 million in the prior year period due to an improved consolidated gross margin and our ability to reduce SG&A expenses through cost containment measures partially offset by the decrease in net sales.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Diluted EPS
Diluted EPS for fiscal 2023 was $4.13 compared to $4.05 per diluted share in the prior year period. Adjusted diluted EPS was $4.03, up 2.5% compared to $3.93 in the prior year period. The increase in diluted EPS was driven by an improved consolidated gross margin and our ability to reduce SG&A expenses through cost containment measures partially offset by the decrease in net sales.
Regulation G Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To supplement the financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, we use non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted wholesale operating income and margin, adjusted retail operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are shown in the tables below.
These non-GAAP measures are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. We believe these non-GAAP measures provide a meaningful comparison of our results to others in our industry and our prior year results. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, our financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, these non-GAAP financial measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all the items associated with the operations of the business as determined in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures differently than we do, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes. Despite the limitations of these non-GAAP financial measures, we believe these adjusted financial measures and the information they provide are useful in viewing our performance using the same tools that management uses to assess progress in achieving our goals. Adjusted measures may also facilitate comparisons to our historical performance.
The following tables below show a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures used in this filing to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.
| (in thousands, except per share amounts) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Operating Income / Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Operating income | $ | 137,196 | $ | 138,250 | (0.8% | ) | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | (3,682 | ) | (4,010 | ) | ||||||||
| Adjusted operating income * | $ | 133,514 | $ | 134,240 | (0.5% | ) | ||||||
| Consolidated Net sales | $ | 791,382 | $ | 817,762 | (3.2% | ) | ||||||
| GAAP Operating margin | 17.3 | % | 16.91 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted operating margin * | 16.9 | % | 16.42 | % | ||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Net Income / Adjusted Diluted EPS | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Net income | $ | 105,807 | $ | 103,280 | 2.4 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments, net of tax * | (2,750 | ) | (3,003 | ) | ||||||||
| Adjusted net income | $ | 103,057 | $ | 100,277 | 2.8 | % | ||||||
| Diluted weighted average common shares | 25,604 | 25,522 | ||||||||||
| GAAP Diluted EPS | $ | 4.13 | $ | 4.05 | 2.0 | % | ||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS * | $ | 4.03 | $ | 3.93 | 2.5 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale Adjusted Operating Income / Adjusted Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| Wholesale GAAP operating income | $ | 68,792 | $ | 63,930 | 7.6 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | 190 | (3,183 | ) | |||||||||
| Adjusted wholesale operating income * | $ | 68,982 | $ | 60,747 | 13.6 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale net sales | $ | 449,591 | $ | 483,842 | (7.1% | ) | ||||||
| Wholesale GAAP operating margin | 15.3 | % | 13.2 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted wholesale operating margin * | 15.3 | % | 12.6 | % | ||||||||
| Retail Adjusted Operating Income / Adjusted Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| Retail GAAP operating income | $ | 67,256 | $ | 80,496 | (16.4% | ) | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | (3,872 | ) | (827 | ) | ||||||||
| Adjusted retail operating income * | $ | 63,384 | $ | 79,669 | (20.4% | ) | ||||||
| Retail net sales | $ | 662,555 | $ | 689,884 | (4.0% | ) | ||||||
| Retail GAAP operating margin | 10.2 | % | 11.7 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted retail operating margin * | 9.6 | % | 11.5 | % |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
* Adjustments to reported GAAP financial measures including operating income and margin, net income, and diluted EPS have been adjusted by the following:
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Gain on sale-leaseback transaction (retail) | $ | (4,222 | ) | $ | - | |||
| Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (wholesale) | - | (3,913 | ) | |||||
| Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (retail) | (311 | ) | (1,518 | ) | ||||
| Severance and other charges (wholesale) | 169 | 727 | ||||||
| Severance and other charges (retail) | 644 | 243 | ||||||
| Disposal of long-lived assets and lease exit costs (retail) | 38 | 451 | ||||||
| Adjustments to operating income | $ | (3,682 | ) | $ | (4,010 | ) | ||
| Related income tax effects on non-recurring items(1) | 932 | 1,007 | ||||||
| Adjustments to net income | $ | (2,750 | ) | $ | (3,003 | ) |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Calculated using a rate of 25.3% in current year and 25.1% in prior year. |
Liquidity
We are committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet in order to weather difficult industry conditions, take advantage of short and long-term opportunities and execute our strategic initiatives. Our sources of liquidity include cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, cash generated from operations and amounts available under our credit facility. We believe these sources remain adequate to meet our short-term and long-term liquidity requirements, finance our long-term growth plans, invest in capital expenditures and fulfill other cash requirements for day-to-day operations and contractual obligations. We continue to monitor our liquidity closely during this continued period of economic uncertainty and volatility.
As of June 30, 2023, the Company had available liquidity of $293.7 million as summarized below (in thousands).
| June 30, | June 30, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | ||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 62,130 | $ | 109,919 | |||
| Short-term investments | 110,577 | 11,199 | |||||
| Availability under existing credit facility | 120,952 | 120,952 | |||||
| Total Available Liquidity | $ | 293,659 | $ | 242,070 |
As of June 30, 2023, we had working capital of $196.4 million and a current ratio of 2.20 compared with $131.1 million and 1.61 a year ago. Our non-U.S. subsidiaries held $3.7 million in cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2023, which we have determined to be indefinitely reinvested. A year ago, our non-U.S. subsidiaries held $8.1 million in cash and cash equivalents, a higher amount than as of June 30, 2023 due to significant capital expenditures incurred during fiscal 2023.
Summary of Cash Flows
At June 30, 2023, we held cash and cash equivalents of $62.1 million compared with $109.9 million at June 30, 2022. Cash and cash equivalents aggregated to 8.3% of our total assets at June 30, 2023, compared with 15.3% a year ago. In addition to cash and cash equivalents of $62.1 million, we had short-term investments of $110.6 million at June 30, 2023, compared with $11.2 million a year ago. Our short-term investments at June 30, 2023 are within United States Treasury Bills with maturities of less than one year, and to which we expect will further enhance our returns on excess cash.
Our cash and cash equivalents decreased $47.8 million or 43.5% during fiscal 2023 due to $97.5 million in net purchases of short-term investments, $46.4 million in cash dividends paid, and capital expenditures of $13.9 million partially offset by net cash provided by operating activities of $100.7 million, $8.1 million in proceeds received from the sale-leaseback transaction completed in August 2022 and $1.8 million in proceeds received from the sale of a property in April 2023.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows for each of the last three fiscal years.
| (in millions) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | ||||||||||
| Operating activities | ||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 105.8 | $ | 103.3 | $ | 60.0 | ||||||
| Non-cash operating lease cost | 30.2 | 30.3 | 29.9 | |||||||||
| Restructuring and other impairment charges, net of gains | (3.7 | ) | (4.4 | ) | 3.1 | |||||||
| Restructuring payments | (1.0 | ) | (1.6 | ) | (2.8 | ) | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization and other non-cash items | 16.2 | 16.9 | 20.6 | |||||||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities | (46.8 | ) | (75.1 | ) | 19.1 | |||||||
| Total provided by operating activities | $ | 100.7 | $ | 69.4 | $ | 129.9 | ||||||
| Investing activities | ||||||||||||
| Capital expenditures | $ | (13.9 | ) | $ | (13.4 | ) | $ | (12.0 | ) | |||
| Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment | 9.9 | 10.6 | 4.9 | |||||||||
| Purchases of investments, net of sales | (97.5 | ) | (11.2 | ) | - | |||||||
| Total used in investing activities | $ | (101.5 | ) | $ | (14.0 | ) | $ | (7.1 | ) | |||
| Financing activities | ||||||||||||
| Payments on borrowings | $ | - | $ | - | $ | (50.0 | ) | |||||
| Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards | (0.8 | ) | (0.8 | ) | (0.1 | ) | ||||||
| Dividend payments | (46.4 | ) | (48.3 | ) | (43.3 | ) | ||||||
| Proceeds from employee stock plans | 0.1 | 1.1 | 3.0 | |||||||||
| Payments for debt issuance costs | - | (0.5 | ) | - | ||||||||
| Payments on financing leases and other | (0.5 | ) | (0.5 | ) | (0.6 | ) | ||||||
| Total used in financing activities | $ | (47.6 | ) | $ | (49.0 | ) | $ | (91.0 | ) |
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities.
We generated $100.7 million in cash from operating activities, an increase from $69.4 million in the prior year period primarily due to a reduction in inventory carrying levels and accounts receivable combined with higher net income partially offset by a decline in customer deposits. Our inventory decreased $27.3 million since June 30, 2022 as we restore our operating inventory levels to more historical levels as backlog declines. Inventory balances continue to decrease as we seek to reduce our inventory while also ensuring appropriate levels are maintained to service our customer base. These benefits were partially offset by a decrease in customer deposits as net shipments outpaced incoming written orders, which also helped reduce backlog, and a decrease in accounts payable. Restructuring payments made during fiscal 2023 were $1.0 million compared to $1.6 million in the prior year and related primarily to severance and lease exit costs paid.
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities.
Cash used in investing activities was $101.5 million during fiscal 2023, an increase from $14.0 million in the prior year period due to $97.5 million of net purchases of investments (net of proceeds from sales of investments) and capital expenditures of $13.9 million, partially offset by $8.1 in proceeds received from the sale-leaseback transaction completed in August 2022 as well as the sale of a property for $1.8 million in April 2023. During fiscal 2023, we purchased $219.5 million in short-term United States Treasury Bills, with maturities ranging from 90 days to a maximum of one year, of which $109.5 million matured during fiscal 2023 for a net investment of $110.6 million as of June 30, 2023. We also liquidated our previously held investments in municipal bonds, commercial paper and certificates of deposit during the first quarter of fiscal 2023, which had totaled $11.2 million as of June 30, 2022. Our short-term investments are reported within Investments in our consolidated balance sheets as of June 30, 2023 and 2022. Capital expenditures of $13.9 million during fiscal 2023 primarily related to efficiency and safety upgrades to our manufacturing plants, spending on design center relocations and improvements and investments in technology upgrades and infrastructure.
Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities.
Cash used in financing activities was $47.6 million during fiscal 2023, a decrease from $49.0 million in the prior year period primarily from a lower special dividend paid, which was $0.50 per share in fiscal 2023 compared with $0.75 a year ago. This decrease was partially offset by a 12.5% increase to the regular quarterly cash dividend. The Board increased the regular quarterly cash dividend to $0.36 per share on April 25, 2023, which was paid on May 25, 2023. There were no repurchases of common stock under our existing share repurchase program during fiscal 2023 or 2022.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Restricted Cash
We present restricted cash as a component of total cash and cash equivalents on our consolidated statements of cash flows and within Other Assets on our consolidated balance sheets. At June 30, 2023 and 2022, we held $0.5 million and $1.0 million, respectively, of restricted cash related to the Ethan Allen insurance captive.
Exchange Rate Changes
Due to changes in exchange rates, our cash and cash equivalents were positively impacted by $0.2 million during fiscal 2023 compared with a $0.1 million negative impact in the prior year period. These changes had an immaterial impact on our cash balances held in Canada, Mexico, and Honduras.
Capital Resources, including Material Cash Requirements
Sources of Liquidity
Capital Needs. On January 26, 2022, we entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and syndication agent and Capital One, National Association, as documentation agent. The Credit Agreement amended and restated the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2018, as amended. The Credit Agreement provides for a $125 million revolving credit facility (the “Facility”), subject to borrowing base availability, with a maturity date of January 26, 2027. The Credit Agreement also provides us with an option to increase the size of the Facility up to an additional amount of $60 million. Availability under the Facility fluctuates according to a borrowing base calculated on eligible accounts receivable and inventory, net of customer deposits and reserves. The Facility includes covenants that apply under certain circumstances, including a fixed-charge coverage ratio requirement that applies when excess availability under the credit line is less than certain thresholds. As of June 30, 2023, we were not subject to the fixed-charge coverage ratio requirement, had no borrowings outstanding under the Facility, were in compliance with all other covenants, and had borrowing availability of $121.0 million of the $125.0 million credit commitment. We incurred financing costs of $0.5 million during fiscal 2022, which are being amortized as interest expense over the remaining life of the Facility using the effective interest method. See Note 11, Credit Agreement, to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for a further description of the Credit Agreement.
Letters of Credit. At both June 30, 2023 and 2022 there were $4.0 million of standby letters of credit outstanding under the Facility.
Uses of Liquidity
Capital Expenditures. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2023 totaled $13.9 million compared with $13.4 million in the prior year period. The increase is primarily related to $6.2 million of spending within our Upholstery and Case Goods manufacturing facilities to further improve their capacity, safety, equipment and efficiency. The remaining spend of $7.7 million was primarily for retail design center openings, relocations and floor projection changes, as well as additional investments in technology used throughout each design center and within our corporate support services.
We have no material contractual commitments outstanding for future capital expenditures and anticipate that cash from operations will be sufficient to fund future capital expenditures. We expect our fiscal 2024 capital expenditures to be slightly above fiscal 2023 levels as we refresh the majority of our design center projections, further invest in technology, and open new or relocate multiple design centers.
Dividends. Our Board of Directors has sole authority to determine if and when we will declare future dividends and on what terms. We have a strong history of returning capital to shareholders and continued this practice during fiscal 2023 as the following actions were taken pertaining to dividends.
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On August 3, 2022, our Board declared a $0.50 per share special cash dividend in addition to our regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.32 per share, which was paid to shareholders on August 30, 2022 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On November 9, 2022, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.32 per share, which was paid on January 4, 2023 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On January 24, 2023, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.32 per share, which was paid on February 7, 2023 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On April 26, 2023, our Board increased our regular quarterly cash dividend by 12.5% to $0.36 per share, which was paid on May 25, 2023 |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
During fiscal 2023 we paid a total of $1.82 per share in cash dividends for an aggregate total of $46.4 million. This included the special dividend paid in August 2022 totaling $12.7 million. In the prior year period, total dividends paid were $48.3 million. With our dividends, we have returned $206.4 million to shareholders over the past five years and $620.9 million since our initial public offering in 1993.
Ethan Allen has a long history of returning capital to shareholders and is pleased to pay a special cash dividend, which highlights the Company’s strong balance sheet and operating results. We have paid a special cash dividend each of the past three years and paid an annual cash dividend every year since 1996. Although we expect to continue to declare and pay comparable quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, the payment of future cash dividends is within the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on our earnings, operations, financial condition, capital requirements and general business outlook, among other factors. Our credit agreement also includes covenants that includes limitations on our ability to pay dividends.
Share Repurchase Program. There were no share repurchases under our existing multi-year share repurchase program during fiscal 2023 or 2022. At June 30, 2023, we had a remaining Board authorization to repurchase 2,007,364 shares of our common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program. The timing and amount of any future share repurchases in the open market and through privately negotiated transactions will be determined by the Company’s officers at their discretion and based on a number of factors, including an evaluation of market and economic conditions while also maintaining financial flexibility.
Material Cash Requirements from Contractual Obligations
Fluctuations in our operating results, levels of inventory on hand, operating lease commitments, the degree of success of our accounts receivable collection efforts, the timing of tax and other payments, the rate of written orders and net sales, levels of customer deposits on hand, as well as necessary capital expenditures to support growth of our operations will impact our liquidity and cash flows in future periods. The effect of our contractual obligations on our liquidity and capital resources in future periods should be considered in conjunction with the factors mentioned here. As of June 30, 2023, we had total contractual obligations of $199.1 million, an increase from $193.2 million a year ago due to $40.2 million in operating lease liabilities from new leases and modifications to existing leases entered into throughout fiscal 2023 partially offset by operating lease payments of $31.0 million during fiscal 2023. Except for operating leases, there were no other material changes, outside of the ordinary course of business, in our contractual obligations during the fiscal year.
Our material cash requirements for our contractual obligations as of June 30, 2023 were as follows:
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Operating Leases. Our undiscounted future minimum operating lease payments as of June 30, 2023 was $152.4 million, an increase from $131.6 million in the prior year period due to new leases and modifications to existing leases entered into throughout the fiscal 2023 year partially offset by monthly lease payments made to landlords and the exiting of certain retail leased spaces in the past 12 months. We enter into operating leases in the normal course of business and most provide us with the option to renew the lease at defined terms. During fiscal 2023, we entered into four new leases and modified 22 other existing operating leases in the form of a renewal or extension to the existing leased space. For more information on our operating leases, see Note 6, Leases, in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Financing Leases. Our remaining financing lease payments as of June 30, 2023 was $0.6 million, a decrease from $1.2 million in the prior year period due to $0.5 million of payments made on existing leases during fiscal 2023. For more information on our financing leases, see Note 6, Leases, in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Open Purchase Orders. We had purchase obligations, defined as agreements that are enforceable and legally binding that specify all significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, of $29.2 million as of June 30, 2023, down from $40.8 million in the prior year period. We do, in the normal course of business, regularly initiate purchase orders for the procurement of selected finished goods sourced from third-party suppliers, lumber, fabric, leather and other raw materials used in our manufacturing production, and certain outsourced services. All purchase orders are based on current needs and are fulfilled by suppliers within short time periods. At June 30, 2023, our open purchase orders with respect to such goods and services of $29.2 million are expected to be paid in less than one year. The decrease in purchase orders was primarily due to lower open import vendor purchase orders as lead times have decreased from improved import product receipts combined with the stabilization of inventory levels and the slowing of written order trends, which has caused us to reduce our purchase order quantities to prevent excess inventory. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Long-term Debt. We had no outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility at June 30, 2023 or 2022. Further discussion of our contractual obligations associated with long-term debt can be found in Note 11, Credit Agreement, to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Other Purchase Obligations. Other purchase commitments for services such as telecommunication, computer-related software, web development, financial and accounting software services, insurance and other maintenance contracts was $16.9 million as of June 30, 2023, down from $19.7 million in the prior year period, primarily due to timing of contract signing and extensions combined with use of other more-cost effective services. Significant multi-year contracts were extended in fiscal 2022 and include telecommunication services for our retail design centers, Microsoft Office® software, our retail accounting and order entry system, web and e-commerce marketing tool software and technology used to create our 3D room planner and augmented reality. |
For a discussion of our liquidity and capital resources and our cash flow activities for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, see Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, filed with the SEC on August 29, 2022.
Other Arrangements
We do not utilize or employ any other arrangements in operating our business. As such, we do not maintain any retained or contingent interests, derivative instruments or variable interests which could serve as a source of potential risk to our future liquidity, capital resources and results of operations.
Product Warranties. As of June 30, 2023 and 2022, our product warranty liability totaled $1.3 million and $1.2 million, respectively. Our products, including our case goods, upholstery and home accents, generally carry explicit product warranties and are provided based on terms that are generally accepted in the industry. All our domestic independent retailers are required to enter into and perform in accordance with the terms and conditions of a warranty service agreement. We record provisions for estimated warranty and other related costs at time of sale based on historical warranty loss experience and make periodic adjustments to those provisions to reflect actual experience. On rare occasions, certain warranty and other related claims involve matters of dispute that ultimately are resolved by negotiation, arbitration or litigation. We provide for such warranty issues as they become known and are deemed to be both probable and estimable.
Government Contracts
Other than standard provisions contained in our contracts with the United States government, we do not believe that any significant portion of our business is subject to material renegotiation of profits or termination of contracts or subcontracts at the election of government entities. The Company sells to the United States government both through General Services Administration (“GSA”) Multiple Award Schedule Contracts and through competitive bids. The GSA Multiple Award Schedule Contract pricing is principally based upon our commercial price list in effect when the contract is initiated. We are required to receive GSA approval to apply list price increases during the term of the Multiple Award Schedule Contract period.
Contingencies
We are involved in various claims and litigation as well as environmental matters, which arise in the normal course of business. Although the final outcome of these legal and environmental matters cannot be determined, based on the facts presently known, it is our opinion that the final resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or future results of operations.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Critical Accounting Estimates
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. In some cases, these principles require management to make difficult and subjective judgments regarding uncertainties and, as a result, such estimates and assumptions may significantly impact our financial results and disclosures. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if: (i) the accounting estimate requires us to make assumptions about matters that were highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate was made, and (ii) changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, or use of different estimates that we reasonably could have used in the current period, would have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. We base our estimates on currently known facts and circumstances, prior experience and other assumptions we believe to be reasonable. We use our best judgment in valuing these estimates and may, as warranted, use external advice. Actual results could differ from these estimates, assumptions, and judgments and these differences could be significant. We make frequent comparisons throughout the year of actual experience to our assumptions to reduce the likelihood of significant adjustments and will record adjustments when differences are known.
The following critical accounting estimates affect our consolidated financial statements.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, including the Assessment of the Carrying Value of Retail Design Center Long-lived Assets
The recoverability of our retail design centers’ long-lived assets is evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that we may not be able to recover the carrying amount of an asset or asset group. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, change in the intended use of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. If the sum of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows over the remaining life of the primary asset is less than the carrying value, we recognize a loss equal to the difference between the carrying value and the fair value, usually determined by the estimated discounted cash flow analysis or independent third-party appraisal of the asset or asset group. While determining fair value requires a variety of input assumptions and judgment, we believe our estimates of fair value are reasonable. The asset group is defined as the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are available and largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets, which for our retail segment is the individual design center. For retail design center level long-lived assets, expected cash flows are determined based on our estimate of future net sales, margin rates and expenses over the remaining expected terms of the leases.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
We review the carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives at least annually, during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change, for possible impairment. Both goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are assigned to our wholesale reporting unit which is principally involved in the development of the Ethan Allen brand and encompasses all aspects of design, manufacturing, sourcing, marketing, sale and distribution of the Company’s broad range of home furnishings and accents.
Goodwill. We may elect to evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment.
A quantitative impairment test involves estimating the fair value of each reporting unit and indefinite lived intangible asset and comparing these estimated fair values with the respective reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized in an amount equal to such excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. If the carrying value of an individual indefinite lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, such individual indefinite lived intangible asset is written down by an amount equal to such excess. Estimating the fair value of reporting units and indefinite lived intangible assets involves the use of significant assumptions, estimates and judgments with respect to a number of factors, including sales, gross margin, general and administrative expenses, capital expenditures, EBITDA and cash flows, the selection of an appropriate discount rate, as well as market values and multiples of earnings and revenue of comparable public companies.
To evaluate goodwill in a quantitative impairment test, the fair value of the reporting units is estimated using a combination of Market and Income approaches. The Market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities (including a business). In the Market approach, the method focuses on comparing the Company’s risk profile and growth prospects to reasonably similar publicly traded companies. Key assumptions used include multiples for revenues, EBITDA and operating cash flows, as well as consideration of control premiums. The selected multiples are determined based on public companies within our peer group, and if appropriate, recent comparable transactions are also considered. Control premiums are determined using recent comparable transactions in the open market. Under the Income approach, a discounted cash flow method is used, which includes a terminal value, and is based on management’s forecasts and budgets. The long-term terminal growth rate assumptions reflect our current long-term view of the market in which we compete. Discount rates use the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our wholesale reporting unit was greater than its respective carrying value and no impairment charge was required. In performing the qualitative assessment, we considered such factors as macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions in which we operate including the competitive environment and any significant changes in demand. We also considered our stock price both in absolute terms and in relation to peer companies.
Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. We also annually evaluate whether our trade name continues to have an indefinite life. Our trade name is reviewed for impairment annually in the fourth quarter and may be reviewed more frequently if indicators of impairment are present. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. Factors used in the valuation of intangible assets with indefinite lives include, but are not limited to, management’s plans for future operations, recent results of operations and projected future cash flows.
Similar to goodwill, we may elect to perform a qualitative assessment. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of our trade name was less than its carrying value, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for our indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment. To evaluate our trade name using a quantitative analysis, its fair value is calculated using the relief-from-royalty method. Significant factors used in the trade name valuation are rates for royalties, future revenue growth and a discount factor. Royalty rates are determined using an average of recent comparable values, review of the operating margins and consideration of the specific characteristics of the trade name. Future growth rates are based on the Company’s perception of the long-term values in the market in which we compete, and the discount rate is determined using the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
We performed our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our trade name was greater than its carrying value and no impairment charge was required. Qualitative factors reviewed included a review for significant adverse changes in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of the asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator.
Inventories
Inventories (finished goods, work in process and raw materials) are stated at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis, and net realizable value. Cost is determined based solely on those charges incurred in the acquisition and production of the related inventory (i.e. material, labor and manufacturing overhead costs). We estimate an inventory reserve for excess quantities and obsolete items based on specific identification and historical write-downs, taking into account future demand and market conditions. Our inventory reserves contain uncertainties that require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment regarding a number of factors, including market conditions, the selling environment, historical results and current inventory trends. We adjust our inventory reserves for net realizable value and obsolescence based on trends, aging reports, specific identification and estimates of future retail sales prices. If actual demand or market conditions change from our prior estimates, we adjust our inventory reserves accordingly throughout the period. We have not made any material changes to our assumptions included in the calculations of the lower of cost or net realizable value reserves during the periods presented. At June 30, 2023 and 2022, our inventory reserves totaled $1.9 million and $2.1 million, respectively.
Income Taxes
We are subject to income taxes in the United States and other foreign jurisdictions. Our tax provision is an estimate based on our understanding of laws in Federal, state and foreign tax jurisdictions. These laws can be complicated and are difficult to apply to any business, including ours. The tax laws also require us to allocate our taxable income to many jurisdictions based on subjective allocation methodologies and information collection processes.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
We use the asset and liability method to account for income taxes. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which we expect to recover or settle those temporary differences. When we record deferred tax assets, we are required to estimate, based on forecasts of taxable earnings in the relevant tax jurisdiction, whether we are more likely than not to recover them. In making judgments about realizing the value of our deferred tax assets, we consider historic and projected future operating results, the eligible carry-forward period, tax law changes and other relevant considerations.
The Company evaluates, on a quarterly basis, uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken on tax returns for recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure in its consolidated financial statements. If an income tax position exceeds a 50% probability of success upon tax audit, based solely on the technical merits of the position, the Company recognizes an income tax benefit in its financial statements. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The liability associated with an unrecognized tax benefit is classified as a long-term liability except for the amount for which a cash payment is expected to be made or tax positions settled within one year.
Business Insurance Reserves
We have insurance programs in place for workers’ compensation and health care under certain employee benefit plans provided by the Company. The insurance programs, which are funded through self-insured retention, are subject to various stop-loss limitations. We accrue estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on historical loss experience. As of June 30, 2023, we had a liability of $2.4 million related to health care coverage compared to $2.0 million in the prior year period. We also carry workers’ compensation insurance subject to a deductible amount for which the Company is responsible on each claim. As of June 30, 2023, we had accrued liabilities of $4.2 million related to workers’ compensation claims, primarily for claims that do not meet the per-incident deductible, compared to $3.8 million in the prior year period. These business insurance reserves are recorded within Accrued compensation and benefits on our consolidated balance sheets.
Although we believe that the insurance reserves are adequate, the reserve estimates are based on historical experience, which may not be indicative of current and future losses. In addition, the actuarial calculations used to estimate insurance reserves are based on numerous assumptions, some of which are subjective. We adjust insurance reserves, as needed, in the event that future loss experience differs from historical loss patterns.
Significant Accounting Policies
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of our significant accounting policies.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements, including the expected dates of adoption.
FY 2022 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0001437749-22-021450.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is designed to provide a reader of our financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of our management on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and certain other factors that may affect our future results.
The MD&A is based upon, and should be read in conjunction with, our Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Impact of COVID-19 on our Business
For a discussion of how COVID-19 has impacted and may continue to impact our business and financial condition, please refer to the discussion under the heading Impact of COVID-19 on our Business in Part I, Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In addition, refer to Item 1A. Risk Factors of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion of the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business.
Executive Overview
Who We Are. Founded in 1932 and incorporated in Delaware in 1989, Ethan Allen is a leading interior design company, manufacturer and retailer in the home furnishings marketplace. We are a global luxury home fashion brand that is vertically integrated from product design through home delivery, which offers our customers stylish product offerings, artisanal quality and personalized service. We provide complimentary interior design service to our clients and sell a full range of home furnishing products through a retail network of design centers located throughout the United States and abroad as well as online at ethanallen.com. Ethan Allen design centers represent a mix of locations operated by independent licensees and Company-operated locations. As of June 30, 2022, the Company operates 141 retail design centers; 137 located in the United States and four in Canada. Our independently operated design centers are located in the United States, Asia, the Middle East and Europe. We also own and operate ten manufacturing facilities, including four manufacturing plants, one sawmill, one rough mill and a kiln dry lumberyard in the United States, two upholstery manufacturing plants in Mexico and one case goods manufacturing plant in Honduras. Approximately 75% of our products are manufactured or assembled in the North American plants. We also contract with various suppliers located in Europe, Asia and other various countries to produce products that support our business.
Business Model. Ethan Allen has a distinct vision of American style, rooted in the kind of substance that we believe differentiates us from our competitors. Our business model is to maintain continued focus on (i) providing relevant product offerings, (ii) capitalizing on the professional and personal service offered to our customers by our interior design professionals, (iii) leveraging the benefits of our vertical integration including a strong manufacturing presence in North America, (iv) regularly investing in new technologies across key aspects of our vertically integrated business, (v) maintaining a strong logistics network, (vi) communicating our messages with strong advertising and marketing campaigns, and (vii) utilizing our website, ethanallen.com, as a key marketing tool to drive traffic to our retail design centers.
Our competitive advantages arise from:
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | offering a wide array of custom made-to-order products across upholstery, case goods, and accent product categories; |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | complimentary design service of our interior design professionals combined with technology; |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | our North American manufacturing workshops providing customization capabilities and high-quality products of the finest craftsmanship; |
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| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | our strong retail network, both of Company-operated locations and independent licensees; |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | our logistics network of national distribution centers and retail home delivery centers providing white-glove home delivery service; and |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | our continued ability to leverage our vertically integrated structure. |
Our strategy emphasizes the aim to position Ethan Allen as a preferred brand offering complimentary design service together with products of superior style, quality and value to provide customers with a comprehensive, one-stop shopping solution for their home furnishing and interior design needs. In carrying out our strategy, we continue to expand our reach to a broader consumer base through a diverse selection of attractively priced products, designed to complement one another, reflecting current fashion trends in home decorating. We continuously monitor changes in home fashion trends through industry events and fashion shows, internal market research, and regular communication with our retailers and design center design professionals who provide valuable input on consumer trends.
Product Offering Introductions. New product offerings continue to evolve and transform to meet the changing demands and tastes of our customers. Our offerings are focused on the three key lifestyles of Timeless & Refined, Carefree & Relaxed and Livable Modern. The majority of the products we sell are built by artisans in our North American plants using best-in-class construction techniques, which we believe positions Ethan Allen as a quality and fashion leader in the home furnishing industry. We design and build the majority of the products we sell, which is an important facet of our vertically integrated business as it enables us to control the design specifications and establish consistent levels of quality across all our product programs. During fiscal 2022, we introduced several new products in upholstery, home office, lighting, outdoor living, decorative accents and a new flooring program. A year ago we strengthened our living and dining room categories along with new bedding and mattress offerings, by introducing new products and styles. In addition, our outdoor product category offerings continue to be enhanced. To facilitate a strong projection of our product offerings, the interior of our design centers are organized, both in room settings that project the category lifestyle, and by product grouping to facilitate comparisons of the styles and tastes of our customers. To further enhance the experience, we use technology to expand the range of products viewed by including content from our website and 3D digital images in applications used on large touch-screen flat panel displays.
Fiscal 2022 Financial Year in Review. As we celebrate our ninth decade as innovative interior designers, manufacturers and retailers, we remain focused on constant reinvention and maintaining an entrepreneurial attitude. We believe our vertically integrated business is key to our success and continues to produce positive results and position us for future growth. In what was a dynamic and volatile fiscal year marked by rising costs and global supply chain challenges, we delivered strong sales growth and record earnings for the full fiscal 2022 year. We continue to develop relevant product offerings, of which about 75% are made in our North American manufacturing workshops.
During fiscal 2022, we executed on several key initiatives, including: introduced new product offerings in many areas including upholstery, home office, lighting, outdoor living, decorative accents and a new flooring program; expanded our upholstery manufacturing in North Carolina; opened multiple new design centers that project our unique vision of American style while combining complimentary interior design services with technology; celebrated our 90 years of innovation by holding a virtual convention under the theme of “Vertical Integration: the Key to Our Service”; launched the state-of-the-art immersive 3D Virtual Design Center which showcases our vast product portfolio while fostering collaboration between interior designers and clients; reaffirmed our commitment to maintain and grow our North American manufacturing including wage increases and the creation of new jobs; increased our regular quarterly cash dividend by 16% in November 2021 and then another 10% in April 2022; and paid a special cash dividend of $0.75 per share in August 2021.
During fiscal 2022 year we continued to benefit from consumer focus on the home since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic created strong demand for our product offerings and interior design services. Through the collective efforts of our associates, the Company was able to execute on many initiatives that helped lead to strong full year fiscal 2022 results. Many of the changes implemented in recent years, such as manufacturing and optimization initiatives, reductions in employee headcount, increased use and leverage of technology and the elimination of non-essential spending, have allowed us to control expenses and improve our operating leverage. We expanded manufacturing production capacity during fiscal 2022, which is now above pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels, and helped us significantly improve delivery lead-time and reduce our high backlogs. Our custom upholstery products, made in our North American workshops, ship in about 6 weeks, as compared to 14 weeks a year ago. Our wood products, made in our North American workshops, now average about 14 weeks as compared to 16 weeks a year ago. This helped reduce our wholesale backlog to $102.4 million as of June 30, 2022, down 14.7% from a year ago. We continue to work through our existing order backlog, but are unable to reasonably predict the timing and size of reductions to our backlog.
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For the full fiscal 2022 year, we delivered consolidated net sales growth of 19.4%, an operating margin of 16.9%, diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) of $4.05, cash from operations of $69.4 million and returned $48.3 million to shareholders through cash dividends. While our retail segment written orders were down 4.6% compared to a strong fiscal 2021, retail orders were up 14.9% compared to fiscal 2019 (prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic). Wholesale segment written orders were lower by 0.5% compared to fiscal year 2021, but up 7.6% compared with fiscal 2019. The positive net sales growth within both our wholesale and retail segments combined with our ability to operate more efficiently through the use of technology and reduced headcount (when compared to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels) helped us expand consolidated gross margin, operating margin and diluted earnings per share. We ended the fiscal 2022 year with a strong balance sheet, including cash and investments of $121.1 million as of June 30, 2022 compared to $104.6 million as of June 30, 2021. Our ending inventory balance of $176.5 million was up 22.6% over last year in order to further support higher levels of production and help protect against future supply chain disruptions and price increases. Customer deposits from written orders totaled $121.1 million at June 30, 2022 a decrease of $9.6 million compared to fiscal 2021 due to increased manufacturing capacity and related deliveries combined with the pace of written orders slowing. Our Board increased our regular quarterly cash dividend twice during the fiscal year and paid a special cash dividend, bringing the total amount of dividends paid to $48.3 million in fiscal 2022. As of June 30, 2022, our employee count was 4,239, up 1.2% in the past 12 months, as we further strengthen our manufacturing and retail teams.
Vertical Integration. Our vertical integration is a competitive advantage for us. Our North American manufacturing and logistics operations are an integral part of an overall strategy to maximize production efficiencies and maintain this competitive advantage. In recent years, we have executed on key initiatives to further optimize our manufacturing and logistics, including converting our Old Fort, North Carolina case goods manufacturing operations into a national distribution center, expanding our existing Maiden, North Carolina manufacturing campus and most recently consolidating our Atoka, Oklahoma distribution center operations into our Old Fort, North Carolina facility.
Ukraine/Russia Conflict. We are closely monitoring the current and potential impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on our business, our employees and our customers. We have taken all necessary steps to ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory restrictions on international trade and financial transactions. We have no offices in Russia or Ukraine, but are monitoring the regional and global ramifications of the unfolding events in the area. At this time, we have not had and do not anticipate a significant impact to our future results of operations.
Fiscal 2023 and Beyond. As we celebrate 90 years of innovation, we remain focused on constant reinvention and maintaining an entrepreneurial attitude. In the near-term, we remain focused on managing the business to work through higher backlog at the end of our fiscal year and to service our customers. We believe we are well-positioned to maximize our opportunities during fiscal 2023 with our relevant product offerings, our advantage of vertical integration, our North American manufacturing plants, our interior design focused retail network, a strong logistics network and a healthy balance sheet, while recognizing the impact of a slower economy and continued inflation.
Key Operating Metrics
A summary of our key operating metrics is presented in the following table (in millions, except per share data).
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2021 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2020 | % of Sales | % Chg | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 817.8 | 100.0 | % | 19.4 | % | $ | 685.2 | 100.0 | % | 16.2 | % | $ | 589.8 | 100.0 | % | (21.0 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Gross profit | $ | 484.7 | 59.3 | % | 23.3 | % | $ | 393.1 | 57.4 | % | 21.7 | % | $ | 323.1 | 54.8 | % | (21.1 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted gross profit(1) | $ | 484.7 | 59.3 | % | 23.1 | % | $ | 393.7 | 57.5 | % | 19.8 | % | $ | 328.6 | 55.7 | % | (20.2 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 138.3 | 16.9 | % | 78.9 | % | $ | 77.3 | 11.3 | % | 427.8 | % | $ | 14.6 | 2.5 | % | (56.9 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted operating income(1) | $ | 134.2 | 16.4 | % | 67.1 | % | $ | 80.3 | 11.7 | % | 370.6 | % | $ | 17.1 | 2.9 | % | (69.0 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 103.3 | 12.6 | % | 72.1 | % | $ | 60.0 | 8.8 | % | 574.2 | % | $ | 8.9 | 1.5 | % | (65.4 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted net income(1) | $ | 100.3 | 12.3 | % | 67.0 | % | $ | 60.1 | 8.8 | % | 344.5 | % | $ | 13.5 | 2.3 | % | (67.5 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 4.05 | 70.9 | % | $ | 2.37 | 597.1 | % | $ | 0.34 | (64.6 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS(1) | $ | 3.93 | 65.8 | % | $ | 2.37 | 355.8 | % | $ | 0.52 | (66.7 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash flow from operating activities | $ | 69.4 | (46.6 | %) | $ | 129.9 | 146.5 | % | $ | 52.7 | (4.6 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Return on equity | 26.4 | % | 17.7 | % | 3.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wholesale written orders | (0.5 | %) | 31.7 | % | (17.9 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retail written orders | (4.6 | %) | 47.7 | % | (18.4 | %) |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| (1) | Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within this MD&A for the reconciliation of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to adjusted key financial metrics. |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
The following table shows selected design center location information.
| Fiscal 2022 | Fiscal 2021 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Independent | Company- | Independent | Company- | |||||||||||||||||||||
| retailers | operated | Total | retailers | operated | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
| Retail Design Center activity: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at July 1 | 161 | 141 | 302 | 160 | 144 | 304 | ||||||||||||||||||
| New locations | 7 | 2 | 9 | 18 | 3 | 21 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Closures | (13 | ) | (2 | ) | (15 | ) | (17 | ) | (6 | ) | (23 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Transfers | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at June 30 | 155 | 141 | 296 | 161 | 141 | 302 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Relocations (in new and closures) | - | 1 | 1 | - | 2 | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Retail Design Center Geographic locations: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| United States | 33 | 137 | 170 | 34 | 136 | 170 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Canada | - | 4 | 4 | - | 5 | 5 | ||||||||||||||||||
| China | 105 | - | 105 | 109 | - | 109 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Other Asia | 11 | - | 11 | 11 | - | 11 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Europe | 1 | - | 1 | 1 | - | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Middle East | 5 | - | 5 | 6 | - | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total | 155 | 141 | 296 | 161 | 141 | 302 |
Results of Operations
For an understanding of the significant factors that influenced our financial performance in fiscal 2022 compared with fiscal 2021, the following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes presented under Item 8 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Refer to Results of Operations under Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, contained in Part II of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021, filed with the SEC on August 19, 2021, for an analysis of the fiscal year 2021 results as compared to fiscal year 2020.
Fiscal 2022 Compared to Fiscal 2021
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 30, | ||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated net sales | $ | 817,762 | $ | 685,169 | 19.4 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale net sales | $ | 483,842 | $ | 413,076 | 17.1 | % | ||||||
| Retail net sales | $ | 689,884 | $ | 554,971 | 24.3 | % | ||||||
| Consolidated gross profit | $ | 484,706 | $ | 393,107 | 23.3 | % | ||||||
| Consolidated gross margin | 59.3 | % | 57.4 | % |
Consolidated net sales were $817.8 million, an increase of 19.4% compared to the prior year period. Net sales increased by 17.1% within our wholesale segment and by 24.3% in the retail segment. While the pace of demand has slowed compared to last year, we experienced strong demand for our products in fiscal 2022, and although wholesale written orders declined 0.5% compared to fiscal 2021, they are above pre-pandemic levels. Throughout fiscal 2022, we increased manufacturing production and inventory levels as well as took pricing actions to counteract rising material and freight costs. These efforts along with increasing receipt of offshore products and a strong backlog led to higher deliveries and when combined with the prior year impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, which negatively impacted our ability to deliver product to customers in 2021, helped grow consolidated net sales in 2022 by 19.4%. However, supply and labor constraints continued to create challenges, especially during the first two quarters of our fiscal 2022 year. In addition, we experienced an increase in our manufacturing productivity in 2022, as well as an increase in imported products and raw materials from a higher volume of shipping container receipts, which supported our sales growth in 2022, including a 28.8% sales growth in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 compared to fourth quarter 2021.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Wholesale net sales increased 17.1% to $483.8 million primarily due to a 25.8% increase in intersegment sales to our Company-operated design centers combined with 16.5% increase in contract sales partially offset by lower sales to independent licensees. Excluding intersegment sales to our retail segment, wholesale net sales decreased due to lower independent licensee sales. The 16.5% increase in our contract business sales was primarily from the General Services Administration (“GSA”), an independent agency of the United States government. During fiscal 2022, we have seen strong order growth from the GSA and when combined with high backlog and increased production, led to an increase in net sales during the period. Written orders from our GSA contract increased 50.4% during fiscal 2022 compared with a year prior. Our international net sales were down 28.3% primarily due to a reduction in net sales to China while our net sales to our independent North American retail network were down 6.9% primarily from a reduction in the number of licensee locations and economic uncertainty. Our sales to international independent licensees represented 2.6% of total wholesale net sales in 2022 compared to 4.3% in the prior year period.
We track and disclose wholesale written orders, which represent orders booked through all of our channels. Written orders help show the current pace or trend of customer transactions. The lag time between customers placing orders and delivery grew in fiscal 2021 due to demand outpacing shipments. However in fiscal 2022, primarily due to our increase in manufacturing productivity, net shipments outpaced customer demand, which led to a decrease in wholesale backlog. Written orders are intended only as supplemental information and is not a substitute for net sales presented in accordance with GAAP.
Wholesale orders were down 0.5% in fiscal 2022 compared with fiscal year 2021, but up 7.6% compared to fiscal 2019. When compared to fiscal 2021, wholesale orders during fiscal 2022 from our Company-operated design centers decreased 3.6%, our independent North American retail network decreased 8.8% and our international dealers decreased 40.3%. After the reopening of all our retail design centers in early fiscal 2021, we experienced a significant increase in demand leading to a strong, but difficult fiscal 2021 prior year comparison. International orders were impacted by a 55.8% reduction in orders received from China during fiscal 2022, mainly from prolonged COVID-19 related lockdowns, the imposition of tariffs by China and the economic uncertainty surrounding the international trade disputes. Partially offsetting these decreases was a 63.2% increase in orders received during fiscal 2022 from our contract business, including from the GSA. When compared to fiscal 2019 (pre-pandemic levels), written orders from our Company-operated design centers were up 12.1% and our contract business orders were 48.2% higher while our independent North American retail network decreased by 5.3% and international retailers were down 57.6%. Existing wholesale order backlog decreased in the last 12 months, which we attribute to the higher level of manufacturing productivity and related shipments of product. We ended the fiscal 2022 year with wholesale backlog of $102.4 million, down 14.7% from fiscal 2021 but still up $56.0 million or 120.8% from June 30, 2019. The number of weeks of wholesale backlog as of June 30, 2022 was down 33% compared to last year, with the most notable improvements seen within upholstery and case goods as production continues to ramp up and recently exceeded pre-COVID-19 levels. In the near-term, our teams are effectively managing the business to work through the higher order backlog and to service our customers.
Retail net sales from Company-operated design centers increased 24.3% to $689.9 million compared with the prior year period. There was a 24.6% increase in net sales in the United States, while sales from our Canadian design centers increased 14.7%. The growth in retail net sales of 24.3% was primarily due to the higher volume of deliveries from increased manufacturing production, product price increases enacted over the past 12 months, increased premier home delivery revenue, strong backlog and the prior year being negatively impacted by production delays as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As noted earlier, after the reopening of all our retail design centers in early fiscal 2021, we experienced a significant increase in demand that moderated in fiscal 2022. As a result, retail written orders declined 4.6% year over year, however they increased 14.9% compared to fiscal 2019. Partially offsetting the strong retail net sales was lower e-commerce business, down 38.1% year over year, continuing the shift back to traffic within the design centers. We remain focused on growing our same-store sales through improved execution at the design center level as well as opening new design centers, primarily in markets that can be serviced through our regional distribution centers, where we see opportunity for growth. As of June 30, 2022, there were 141 Company-operated design centers, the same as last year. We plan to open multiple new design centers during fiscal 2023.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated gross profit increased 23.3% to $484.7 million compared with the prior year period due to sales growth within both our wholesale and retail segments, a change in the sales mix, recent product pricing actions taken, higher manufacturing production, benefits realized from the ongoing manufacturing and logistics optimization project and a favorable product mix partially offset by higher input costs. Wholesale gross profit increased 10.4% due to a 17.1% increase in wholesale net shipments, efficiencies gained from higher manufacturing production levels, product pricing actions taken, and benefits being realized from the previously executed optimization of manufacturing and logistics initiatives. While each product category within wholesale (upholstery, case goods and home accents) expanded gross profit during fiscal 2022, wholesale gross margin declined due to the higher raw material and freight costs. Our inability to keep pace with inflationary pressures negatively impacted our wholesale gross profit during the first half of fiscal 2022 as we saw significant raw material and freight cost increases. In particular, the price of raw materials involved with upholstery manufacturing, including plywood, foam, frames and fabric, continued to escalate in price over the past twelve months. To help minimize impacts from increasing costs, we believe we have taken necessary pricing actions to align our invoice price more closely with our production costs. These pricing actions combined with raw material and freight cost stabilization in the second half of fiscal 2022 helped grow gross profit for the full fiscal 2022 year. Retail gross profit was up due to a 24.3% increase in net shipments combined with a 240-basis point improvement in gross margin from a favorable change in product mix, higher premier home delivery revenue, an increase in average ticket sale, product pricing actions taken and less clearance sales partially offset by promotional fees from financing promotions.
Consolidated gross margin was 59.3% compared with 57.4% a year ago due to a change in the sales mix, a favorable product mix, product pricing actions and higher manufacturing productivity partially offset by higher wholesale input costs. Benefits realized from increased productivity from the ongoing manufacturing and logistics optimization helped to minimize margin pressure from rising freight and raw material costs. Retail sales, as a percentage of total consolidated sales, were 84.4% in the current year, up from 81.0% in the prior year period, which positively affected consolidated gross margin. We expect this higher percentage of retail sales to consolidated sales to moderate towards normalized historical levels as we increase delivery of the high wholesale order backlog, including a high contract business backlog. We expect our margins to moderate and range between 56.0% to 58.0% due to rising inflation and a return of our sales mix to more historical norms.
| (in thousands) | Fiscal year Ended | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 30, | ||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Selling, General & Administrative (“SG&A”) expenses | $ | 350,917 | $ | 313,411 | 12.0 | % | ||||||
| Restructuring and other impairment charges, net of gains | $ | (4,461 | ) | $ | 2,411 | n/a | ||||||
| Consolidated operating income | $ | 138,250 | $ | 77,285 | 78.9 | % | ||||||
| Consolidated operating margin | 16.9 | % | 11.3 | % | ||||||||
| Wholesale operating income | $ | 63,930 | $ | 52,281 | 22.3 | % | ||||||
| Retail operating income | $ | 80,496 | $ | 28,824 | 179.3 | % |
SG&A expenses increased to $350.9 million, or 42.9% of net sales, compared with $313.4 million, or 45.7% of net sales in the prior year period. SG&A expenses, when expressed as a percentage of sales, decreased 280 basis points in fiscal 2022, compared with the prior year, primarily due to higher sales volume relative to fixed costs. SG&A expenses were up 12.0% while consolidated net sales grew at a much faster rate of 19.4%, which led to improved operating leverage at both the retail and wholesale segment. The 12.0% increase in SG&A expenses was primarily driven by higher selling costs of 17.9% and a 3.6% increase in general and administrative expenses. Retail selling expenses were up 20.5% due to the 24.3% increase in net sales, which drove higher delivery costs as well as increased variable compensation. Wholesale selling costs, which includes logistics, grew by 11.4% as fuel and freight costs increased from higher sales volumes and rising commodity prices. These selling costs were partially offset by a reduction in marketing spend. During fiscal 2022, we reduced our advertising in various mediums including national television and regional radio markets, thereby reducing our overall advertising spend compared to the prior year. However, through our digital campaigns, we have substantially increased our digital marketing outreach, which helped us reach more households through the publication of digital magazines. General and administrative expenses increased 3.6% during fiscal 2022 primarily due to higher compensation from additional headcount, increased occupancy and maintenance costs, additional office expenses from higher headcount within our manufacturing plants and higher retail merchandising and display costs in our design centers from new product introductions.
Restructuring and other impairment charges, net of gains was a gain of $4.5 million compared to a charge of $2.4 million in the prior year. The current year gain of $4.5 million primarily related to the sale of three properties for a pre-tax gain of $5.4 million partially offset by severance and other lease exit costs. The prior year charge of $2.4 million related primarily to lease exit costs within the retail segment as a result of an early termination of a lease, the closing and subsequent exiting of a retail design center and the payment to assign a lease to an independent third-party in addition to the impairment of long-lived assets held at a retail design center location.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Operating income was $138.3 million compared with $77.3 million in the prior year. Adjusted operating income, which excludes restructuring and other charges, was $134.2 million, or 16.4% of net sales in fiscal 2022, up from $80.3 million, or 11.7% of net sales in the prior year. The significant increase in operating income was driven by the $132.6 million increase in consolidated net sales, retail gross margin expansion, reduced marketing spend and strong cost containment measures partially offset by wholesale gross margin contraction and a 12.0% increase in SG&A expenses, including higher delivery and freight costs. Our ability to maintain disciplined cost and expense controls, including cost containment measures and expense management during fiscal 2022 was a key to operating income growth. Compared to a year ago, our headcount is up 51 associates or 1.2%. However, compared to June 30, 2019, our headcount is down 497 associates. Our ability to operate the business with global headcount down 10.5% from 2019 has contributed to consolidated operating income and margin expansion. The majority of these headcount reductions since 2019 were within our retail segment, which is down 33.9% from 2019 while wholesale is up 4.1% from 2019 due to our ramping up of manufacturing capacity.
Wholesale operating income totaled $63.9 million, or 13.2% of net sales, compared to $52.3 million at 12.7% of net sales in the prior year. The current year wholesale operating income included $3.9 million gain on the sale of two properties. Adjusted wholesale operating income was up $7.9 million or 15.0% due to wholesale net sales growth of 17.1%, reduced marketing spend, cost containment measures, prudent hiring throughout the year and manufacturing production levels that have now exceeded pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. These benefits were partially offset by wholesale gross margin contraction from higher raw material costs, increased distribution costs from incremental volume and price and increased headcount within merchandising. Wholesale SG&A expenses, when expressed as a percentage of sales, decreased 180 basis points in fiscal 2022, compared with the prior year, primarily due to higher sales volume relative to fixed costs. SG&A expenses were up 6.8% while net sales grew at a much faster rate of 17.1%, which led to improved operating leverage.
Retail operating income was $80.5 million, or 11.7% of sales, compared to $28.8 million, or 5.2% of sales a year ago. The increase was primarily due to a $134.9 million increase in net sales, a 240-basis point expansion in retail gross margin, a pre-tax gain of $1.5 million from the sale of a previously closed retail location and our management of operating expenses, which grew at a lower rate than net sales. While selling, delivery and variable compensation expenses were up due to the growth in sales volume, total retail operating expenses including restructuring and impairment charges, when expressed as a percentage of net sales, decreased 410 basis points. This decrease was due to our leverage of fixed costs, cost control measures implemented at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced marketing spend while having strong net delivered sales from a high order backlog and prudent hiring, including adding 48 net new associates for 4.2% headcount growth, with most being added as designers and operational support staff. Retail restructuring and impairment charges increased retail operating income by $1.3 million during fiscal 2022 compared to a reduction of $2.5 million a year ago.
| (in thousands, except per share data) | Fiscal Year Ended | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 30, | ||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Income tax expense | $ | 34,841 | $ | 16,406 | 112.4 | % | ||||||
| Effective tax rate | 25.2 | % | 21.5 | % | ||||||||
| Net income | $ | 103,280 | $ | 60,005 | 72.1 | % | ||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 4.05 | $ | 2.37 | 70.9 | % |
Income tax expense was $34.8 million compared with $16.4 million in the prior year primarily due to the $61.7 million increase in income before income taxes and the prior year reversal of a valuation allowance. Our consolidated effective tax rate was 25.2% compared with 21.5% in the prior year. Our effective tax rate of 25.2% varies from the 21% federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes. The increase in the effective tax rate compared with the prior year was primarily due to a reduction in our valuation allowance on retail state and local deferred tax assets in the prior year period.
Net income was $103.3 million compared with $60.0 million in the prior year. Adjusted net income, which removes the after-tax impact of restructuring and other impairment charges, was $100.3 million, up 67.0% from the prior year period due to stronger net sales, improved retail and consolidated gross margins, cost containment measures resulting in minimizing operating expense growth and improving manufacturing production and delivery of products to customers partially offset by higher raw material and freight costs.
Diluted EPS was $4.05 compared to $2.37 per diluted share in the prior year. Adjusted diluted EPS was $3.93, up 65.8%. Our operating margin expansion, combined with double-digit delivered sales growth, helped generate record profits for the full fiscal 2022 year.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Regulation G Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To supplement the financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, we use non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted gross profit and margin, adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted wholesale operating income and margin, adjusted retail operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are shown in the tables below.
These non-GAAP measures are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. We believe these non-GAAP measures provide a meaningful comparison of our results to others in our industry and our prior year results. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, our financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, these non-GAAP financial measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all the items associated with the operations of the business as determined in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures differently than we do, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes.
Despite the limitations of these non-GAAP financial measures, we believe these adjusted financial measures and the information they provide are useful in viewing our performance using the same tools that management uses to assess progress in achieving our goals. Adjusted measures may also facilitate comparisons to our historical performance.
The following tables below show a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures used in this filing to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.
| (in thousands, except per share data) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Gross Profit / Gross Margin | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Gross profit | $ | 484,706 | $ | 393,107 | 23.3 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | - | 639 | ||||||||||
| Adjusted gross profit * | $ | 484,706 | $ | 393,746 | 23.1 | % | ||||||
| Adjusted gross margin * | 59.3 | % | 57.5 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted Operating Income / Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Operating income | $ | 138,250 | $ | 77,285 | 78.9 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | (4,010 | ) | 3,050 | |||||||||
| Adjusted operating income * | $ | 134,240 | $ | 80,335 | 67.1 | % | ||||||
| Consolidated Net sales | $ | 817,762 | $ | 685,169 | 19.4 | % | ||||||
| GAAP Operating margin | 16.9 | % | 11.3 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted operating margin * | 16.4 | % | 11.7 | % | ||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Net Income / Adjusted Diluted EPS | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Net income | $ | 103,280 | $ | 60,005 | 72.1 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments, net of tax * | (3,003 | ) | 54 | |||||||||
| Adjusted net income | $ | 100,277 | $ | 60,059 | 67.0 | % | ||||||
| Diluted weighted average common shares | 25,522 | 25,352 | ||||||||||
| GAAP Diluted EPS | $ | 4.05 | $ | 2.37 | 70.9 | % | ||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS * | $ | 3.93 | $ | 2.37 | 65.8 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale Adjusted Operating Income / Adjusted Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| Wholesale GAAP operating income | $ | 63,930 | $ | 52,281 | 22.3 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | (3,183 | ) | 552 | |||||||||
| Adjusted wholesale operating income * | $ | 60,747 | $ | 52,833 | 15.0 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale net sales | $ | 483,842 | $ | 413,076 | 17.1 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale GAAP operating margin | 13.2 | % | 12.7 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted wholesale operating margin * | 12.6 | % | 12.8 | % | ||||||||
| Retail Adjusted Operating Income / Adjusted Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| Retail GAAP operating income | $ | 80,496 | $ | 28,824 | 179.3 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | (827 | ) | 2,498 | |||||||||
| Adjusted retail operating income * | $ | 79,669 | $ | 31,322 | 154.4 | % | ||||||
| Retail net sales | $ | 689,884 | $ | 554,971 | 24.3 | % | ||||||
| Retail GAAP operating margin | 11.7 | % | 5.2 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted retail operating margin * | 11.5 | % | 5.6 | % |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
* Adjustments to reported GAAP financial measures including gross profit and margin, operating income and margin, net income, and diluted EPS have been adjusted by the following:
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
| Inventory reserves and write-downs (wholesale) | $ | - | $ | 585 | ||||
| Optimization of manufacturing and logistics (wholesale) | - | 54 | ||||||
| Adjustments to gross profit | $ | - | $ | 639 | ||||
| Inventory reserves and write-downs (wholesale) | $ | - | $ | 585 | ||||
| Optimization of manufacturing and logistics (wholesale) | - | 356 | ||||||
| Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (wholesale) | (3,913 | ) | - | |||||
| Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (retail) | (1,518 | ) | (473 | ) | ||||
| Severance and other charges (wholesale) | 727 | (389 | ) | |||||
| Severance and other charges (retail) | 243 | 811 | ||||||
| Impairment of long-lived assets and lease exit costs (retail) | 451 | 2,160 | ||||||
| Adjustments to operating income | $ | (4,010 | ) | $ | 3,050 | |||
| Adjustments to income before income taxes | $ | (4,010 | ) | $ | 3,050 | |||
| Related income tax effects on non-recurring items(1) | 1,007 | (747 | ) | |||||
| Income tax benefit from valuation allowance change | - | (2,249 | ) | |||||
| Adjustments to net income | $ | (3,003 | ) | $ | 54 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| (1) | Calculated using a tax rate of 25.1% in current fiscal year and 24.5% in prior fiscal year |
Liquidity
We are committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet in order to weather difficult industry conditions, to allow us to take advantage of opportunities and to execute our long-term strategic initiatives. Our sources of liquidity include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, cash from operations and amounts available under our credit facility. We believe these sources remain adequate to meet our short-term and long-term liquidity requirements, finance our long-term growth plans, invest in capital expenditures and fulfill other cash requirements for day-to-day operations, including fiscal 2023 contractual obligations. We continue to monitor our liquidity closely during this continued period of uncertainty and volatility globally, as well as within our industry, related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
We believe our liquidity (cash and cash equivalents on hand of $109.9 million, short-term investments of $11.2 million, cash flow from operating activities of $69.4 million and amounts available under our credit facility of $121.0 million), will be sufficient to fund our operations, including changes in working capital, anticipated capital expenditures, fiscal 2022 contractual obligations of $83.1 million and other financing activities, as they occur, for at least the next 12 months.
As of June 30, 2022, we had working capital of $131.1 million compared to $71.4 million at June 30, 2021 and a current ratio of 1.61 at June 30, 2022 compared to 1.32 a year ago. During this continued period of uncertainty and volatility, we will continue to monitor our liquidity. Included in our cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2022, is $8.1 million held by foreign subsidiaries, a portion of which we have determined to be indefinitely reinvested.
Summary of Cash Flows
At June 30, 2022, we held cash and cash equivalents of $109.9 million compared with $104.6 million a year ago. Cash and cash equivalents aggregated to 15.3% of our total assets at both June 30, 2022 and 2021. In addition, we had short-term investments of $11.2 million to further enhance our returns on cash at June 30, 2022, compared with none at June 30, 2021. Our short-term investment portfolio contains various holdings, types and maturities. We classify our investments as short-term investments based on their nature and their availability for use in current operations. We believe the overall credit quality of our portfolio is strong, with our cash equivalents and our available-for-sale securities portfolio consisting primarily of high-quality investment-grade securities.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Our cash and cash equivalents increased $5.3 million during fiscal 2022 due to net cash provided by operating activities of $69.4 million and $10.6 million in proceeds received from sales of property, plant and equipment partially offset by $48.3 million in cash dividends paid, including a special dividend of $19.0 million, capital expenditures of $13.4 million and net purchases of investments of $11.2 million.
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows for each of the last three fiscal years (in millions):
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
| Operating activities | ||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 103.3 | $ | 60.0 | $ | 8.9 | ||||||
| Non-cash operating lease cost | 30.3 | 29.9 | 32.0 | |||||||||
| Other non-cash items, including depreciation and amortization | 12.4 | 23.6 | 22.6 | |||||||||
| Restructuring payments | (1.6 | ) | (2.8 | ) | (9.1 | ) | ||||||
| Changes in working capital | (75.0 | ) | 19.2 | (1.7 | ) | |||||||
| Total provided by operating activities | $ | 69.4 | $ | 129.9 | $ | 52.7 | ||||||
| Investing activities | ||||||||||||
| Capital expenditures | $ | (13.4 | ) | $ | (12.0 | ) | $ | (15.7 | ) | |||
| Acquisitions, net of cash acquired and other | - | - | (1.3 | ) | ||||||||
| Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment | 10.6 | 4.9 | 12.4 | |||||||||
| Purchases of investments, net of sales | (11.2 | ) | - | - | ||||||||
| Total used in investing activities | $ | (14.0 | ) | $ | (7.1 | ) | $ | (4.6 | ) | |||
| Financing activities | ||||||||||||
| Borrowings from revolving credit facility | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 100.0 | ||||||
| Payments on borrowings | - | (50.0 | ) | (50.0 | ) | |||||||
| Repurchases of common stock | - | - | (24.3 | ) | ||||||||
| Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards | (0.8 | ) | (0.1 | ) | - | |||||||
| Dividend payments | (48.3 | ) | (43.3 | ) | (21.5 | ) | ||||||
| Proceeds from employee stock plans | 1.1 | 3.0 | 0.1 | |||||||||
| Payments for debt issuance costs | (0.5 | ) | - | - | ||||||||
| Payments on financing leases | (0.5 | ) | (0.6 | ) | (0.6 | ) | ||||||
| Total (used in) provided by financing activities | $ | (49.0 | ) | $ | (91.0 | ) | $ | 3.7 |
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities. Fiscal 2022 cash generated from operations totaled $69.4 million, a decrease from $129.9 million in the prior year primarily due to an increase in working capital partially offset by higher net income generated during the period. The increase in working capital was primarily from a reduction in customer deposits as net shipments outpaced written orders, higher inventory to increase material availability to support expanded manufacturing and distribution capacity to service the strong backlog and increased accounts receivable arising from strong sales in the Company’s wholesale segment, especially from higher contract business sales. Restructuring payments of $1.6 million in fiscal 2022 included $0.8 million in severance and $0.5 million in lease exit costs.
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities. Fiscal 2022 cash used in investing activities was $14.0 million, an increase from $7.1 million last year due to $11.2 million of net purchases of investments (net of proceeds from sales of investments) combined with a $1.4 million increase in capital expenditures partially offset by proceeds received from the sale of properties. During fiscal 2022, we invested a net $11.2 million in municipal bonds, commercial paper and certificates of deposit with maturities of one year or less. These short-term investments are reported within Investments in our consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2022. Capital expenditures of $13.4 million during fiscal 2022 related to further expansion of our manufacturing in North Carolina, manufacturing plant upgrades, including additional machinery and equipment to further increase capacity, safety and efficiency, construction of new retail design centers, updating the projection of many existing design centers and investments in technology upgrades and infrastructure. We completed the sale of three properties to independent third parties during fiscal 2022 for total cash proceeds of $10.6 million.
Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities. Fiscal 2022 cash used in financing activities was $49.0 million compared with cash used of $91.0 million in the prior year. The significant decrease in cash used in financing activities was due to the repayment of $50.0 million in outstanding borrowings during fiscal 2021 partially offset by a $5.0 million increase in cash dividends paid. During March 2020, we borrowed a total of $100.0 million under the credit facility and repaid $50.0 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020 with the remaining $50.0 million repaid in fiscal 2021.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Total cash dividends paid during fiscal 2022 were $48.3 million, including a $0.75 per share special dividend paid in August 2021 totaling $19.0 million. The year ago first quarter did not have any cash dividends paid as the Board had previously suspended the cash dividend due to the COVID-19 impact. However, on August 4, 2020, our Board reinstated the regular quarterly cash dividend and declared a cash dividend, which was paid on October 22, 2020. The regular quarterly dividend was increased by 16% to $0.29 per share on November 30, 2021, and paid on January 5, 2022. Subsequently, the regular quarterly dividend was increased for a second time, this time by 10% to $0.32 per share and paid on May 25, 2022. There were no repurchases of common stock in either fiscal 2022 or 2021.
Restricted Cash. We present restricted cash as a component of total cash and cash equivalents as presented on our consolidated statement of cash flows and within Other Assets on our consolidated balance sheet. As of June 30, 2022, we held $1.0 million of restricted cash related to an Ethan Allen insurance captive. We did not hold any restricted cash as of June 30, 2021.
Exchange Rate Changes. Due to changes in exchange rates, our cash and cash equivalents decreased by $0.1 million during 2022. These changes had an immaterial impact on our cash balances held in Canada, Mexico, and Honduras.
Capital Resources, including Material Cash Requirements
Sources of Liquidity
Capital Needs. On January 26, 2022, we entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and syndication agent and Capital One, National Association, as documentation agent. The Credit Agreement amended and restated the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2018, as amended. The Credit Agreement provides for a $125 million revolving credit facility (the “Facility”), subject to borrowing base availability, with a maturity date of January 26, 2027. The Credit Agreement also provides us with an option to increase the size of the Facility up to an additional amount of $60 million. Availability under the Facility fluctuates according to a borrowing base calculated on eligible accounts receivable and inventory, net of customer deposits and reserves. The Facility includes covenants that apply under certain circumstances, including a fixed-charge coverage ratio requirement that applies when excess availability under the credit line is less than certain thresholds. As of June 30, 2022, we were not subject to the fixed-charge coverage ratio requirement, had no borrowings outstanding under the Facility, were in compliance with all other covenants and had borrowing availability of $121.0 million of the $125.0 million credit commitment. We incurred financing costs of $0.5 million during fiscal 2022, which are being amortized as interest expense over the remaining life of the Facility using the effective interest method. See Note 11, Credit Agreement, to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for a further description of the Credit Agreement.
Letters of Credit. At June 30, 2022 and 2021, there was $4.0 million and $5.0 million, respectively, of standby letters of credit outstanding under the Facility.
Uses of Liquidity
Capital Expenditures. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2022 totaled $13.4 million, up $1.4 million compared with the prior year period. The increase over the prior year related primarily to our upholstery manufacturing expansion in North Carolina, case goods plant upgrades and improvements, including investments in technology, and the purchase of additional manufacturing equipment to further increase capacity at our manufacturing locations. In fiscal 2022, 53% of our total capital expenditures were for manufacturing capital projects while 39% related to retail design center development, expansion and renovation as well as installing additional technology within each design center, such as new designer workstations, tablets and enhanced security firewalls. The remaining 8% was for Corporate infrastructure, operations and IT system development to further enhance existing workflows.
We have no material contractual commitments outstanding for future capital expenditures and anticipate that cash from operations will be sufficient to fund future capital expenditures. We expect our fiscal 2023 capital expenditures to be moderately above fiscal 2022 levels as we further invest in technology, increase manufacturing capacity and open new or relocate multiple design centers while also continuing to improve all our design center projections.
Acquisitions. From time to time, we acquire design centers from our independent retailers in arm’s length transactions. There were no independent retailer acquisitions in fiscal 2022 or fiscal 2021.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Focus on Shareholder Returns.
Dividends. Our Board of Directors has sole authority to determine if and when we will declare future dividends and on what terms. We have a strong history of returning capital to shareholders and continued this practice during fiscal 2022 as the following actions were taken pertaining to dividends.
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On August 3, 2021, our Board declared a $0.75 per share special cash dividend in addition to our regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share, which was paid to shareholders on August 31, 2021 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On November 30, 2021, our Board increased our regular quarterly cash dividend by 16% to $0.29 per share; the dividend was paid on January 5, 2022 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On January 25, 2022, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.29 per share, which was paid on February 8, 2022 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On April 26, 2022, our Board increased our regular quarterly cash dividend by 10% to $0.32 per share; the dividend was paid on May 25, 2022 |
For the full fiscal 2022 year, we paid a total of $1.90 per share in cash dividends for an aggregate total of $48.3 million. This included the special dividend paid in August 2021 totaling $19.0 million. In the prior year, total dividends paid were $43.3 million. With our dividends, we have returned $189.5 million to shareholders over the past five years and $574.6 million since our initial public offering in 1993.
Although we expect to continue to declare and pay comparable quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, the payment of future cash dividends is within the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on our earnings, operations, financial condition, capital requirements and general business outlook, among other factors. Our credit agreement also includes covenants that includes limitations on our ability to pay dividends.
Share Repurchase Program. There were no share repurchases under our existing multi-year share repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”) during fiscal 2022 or 2021. At June 30, 2022, we had a remaining Board authorization to repurchase 2,007,364 shares of our common stock pursuant to our Share Repurchase Program. The timing and amount of any future share repurchases in the open market and through privately negotiated transactions will be determined by the Company’s officers at their discretion and based on a number of factors, including an evaluation of market and economic conditions while also maintaining financial flexibility.
Material Cash Requirements from Contractual Obligations. Fluctuations in our operating results, levels of inventory on hand, operating lease commitments, the degree of success of our accounts receivable collection efforts, the timing of tax and other payments, the rate of written orders and net sales, levels of customer deposits on hand, as well as necessary capital expenditures to support growth of our operations will impact our liquidity and cash flows in future periods. The effect of our contractual obligations on our liquidity and capital resources in future periods should be considered in conjunction with the factors mentioned here. As of June 30, 2022, we had total contractual obligations of $193.2 million, a decrease from $203.9 million a year ago due to operating lease payments of $33.6 million during fiscal 2022 partially offset by $18.7 million in operating lease liabilities from new leases and modifications to existing leases entered into throughout fiscal 2022. Except for operating leases, there were no other material changes, outside of the ordinary course of business, in our contractual obligations during the fiscal year.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Our material cash requirements for our contractual obligations as of June 30, 2022 were as follows:
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Operating Leases. Our operating lease obligations decreased from $143.6 million last year to $131.6 million at June 30, 2022 due to monthly lease payments made to landlords and the exiting of certain retail leased spaces in the past 12 months partially offset by new leases and modifications to existing leases entered into throughout the fiscal 2022 year. We enter into operating leases in the normal course of business. Most lease arrangements provide us with the option to renew the leases at defined terms. During fiscal 2022, we entered into four new leases and modified 21 other leases in the form of a renewal or extension to the existing leased space. For more information on our operating leases, see Note 6, Leases, in the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Open Purchase Orders. We had purchase obligations, defined as agreements that are enforceable and legally binding that specify all significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, of $40.8 million at June 30, 2022, down from $50.2 million a year ago. We do, in the normal course of business, regularly initiate purchase orders for the procurement of (i) selected finished goods sourced from third-party suppliers, (ii) lumber, fabric, leather and other raw materials used in production, and (iii) certain outsourced services. All purchase orders are based on current needs and are fulfilled by suppliers within short time periods. At June 30, 2022, our open purchase orders with respect to such goods and services totaled $40.8 million and are to be paid in less than one year. The decrease in purchase orders was primarily due to lower open import vendor purchase orders as lead times have decreased from improved import product receipts combined with a reduction in upholstery purchase orders due to timing of inventory receipts, the stabilization of inventory levels and the slowing of written order trends, which has caused us to reduce our purchase order quantities to prevent excess inventory. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Long-term Debt. We had no outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility at June 30, 2022 or June 30, 2021, as we repaid $50.0 million in September 2020. Further discussion of our contractual obligations associated with long-term debt can be found in Note 11, Credit Agreement, in the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Other Purchase Obligations. Other purchase commitments for services such as telecommunication, computer-related software, royalties, web development, insurance and other maintenance contracts was $19.7 million as of June 30, 2022, up from $8.8 million, primarily due to timing of contract signing and extensions. Significant multi-year contracts were extended in fiscal 2022 and include telecom services for our retail design centers, Microsoft Office software, our retail accounting and order entry system, web and e-commerce marketing tool software and technology used to create our 3D room planner and augmented reality. |
For a discussion of our liquidity and capital resources as of and our cash flow activities for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, see Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021, filed with the SEC on August 19, 2021.
Other Arrangements
We do not utilize or employ any other arrangements in operating our business. As such, we do not maintain any (i) retained or contingent interests, (ii) derivative instruments or (iii) variable interests which could serve as a source of potential risk to our future liquidity, capital resources and results of operations. We may, from time to time in the ordinary course of business, provide guarantees on behalf of selected affiliated entities or become contractually obligated to perform in accordance with the terms and conditions of certain business agreements. The nature and extent of these guarantees and obligations may vary based on our underlying relationship with the benefiting party and the business purpose for which the guarantee or obligation is being provided.
Product Warranties. As of June 30, 2022 and 2021, our product warranty liability totaled $1.2 million and $1.1 million, respectively. Our products, including our case goods, upholstery and home accents, generally carry explicit product warranties and are provided based on terms that are generally accepted in the industry. All our domestic independent retailers are required to enter into and perform in accordance with the terms and conditions of a warranty service agreement. We record provisions for estimated warranty and other related costs at time of sale based on historical warranty loss experience and make periodic adjustments to those provisions to reflect actual experience. On rare occasion, certain warranty and other related claims involve matters of dispute that ultimately are resolved by negotiation, arbitration or litigation. In certain cases, a material warranty issue may arise which is beyond the scope of our historical experience. We provide for such warranty issues as they become known and are deemed to be both probable and estimable. It is reasonably possible that, from time to time, additional warranty and other related claims could arise from disputes or other matters beyond the scope of our historical experience.
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Contingencies
We are involved in various claims and litigation as well as environmental matters, which arise in the normal course of business. Although the final outcome of these legal and environmental matters cannot be determined, based on the facts presently known, it is our opinion that the final resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or future results of operations.
Critical Accounting Estimates
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. In some cases, these principles require management to make difficult and subjective judgments regarding uncertainties and, as a result, such estimates and assumptions may significantly impact our financial results and disclosures. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if: (i) the accounting estimate requires us to make assumptions about matters that were highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate was made, and (ii) changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, or use of different estimates that we reasonably could have used in the current period, would have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. We base our estimates on currently known facts and circumstances, prior experience and other assumptions we believe to be reasonable. We use our best judgment in valuing these estimates and may, as warranted, use external advice. Actual results could differ from these estimates, assumptions, and judgments and these differences could be significant. We make frequent comparisons throughout the year of actual experience to our assumptions to reduce the likelihood of significant adjustments and will record adjustments when differences are known.
The following critical accounting estimates affect our consolidated financial statements.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, including the Assessment of the Carrying Value of Retail Design Center Long-lived Assets. The recoverability of our retail design centers’ long-lived assets is evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that we may not be able to recover the carrying amount of an asset or asset group. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, change in the intended use of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. If the sum of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows over the remaining life of the primary asset is less than the carrying value, we recognize a loss equal to the difference between the carrying value and the fair value, usually determined by the estimated discounted cash flow analysis or independent third-party appraisal of the asset or asset group. While determining fair value requires a variety of input assumptions and judgment, we believe our estimates of fair value are reasonable. The asset group is defined as the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are available and largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets, which for our retail segment is the individual design center. For retail design center level long-lived assets, expected cash flows are determined based on our estimate of future net sales, margin rates and expenses over the remaining expected terms of the leases.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. We review the carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives at least annually, during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change, for possible impairment.
Goodwill. For impairment testing, goodwill has been assigned to our wholesale reporting unit. We may elect to evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment.
A quantitative impairment test involves estimating the fair value of each reporting unit and indefinite lived intangible asset and comparing these estimated fair values with the respective reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized in an amount equal to such excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. If the carrying value of an individual indefinite lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, such individual indefinite lived intangible asset is written down by an amount equal to such excess. Estimating the fair value of reporting units and indefinite lived intangible assets involves the use of significant assumptions, estimates and judgments with respect to a number of factors, including sales, gross margin, general and administrative expenses, capital expenditures, EBITDA and cash flows, the selection of an appropriate discount rate, as well as market values and multiples of earnings and revenue of comparable public companies.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
To evaluate goodwill in a quantitative impairment test, the fair value of the reporting units is estimated using a combination of Market and Income approaches. The Market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities (including a business). In the Market approach, the “Guideline Company” method is used, which focuses on comparing the Company’s risk profile and growth prospects to reasonably similar publicly traded companies. Key assumptions used for the Guideline Company method include multiples for revenues, EBITDA and operating cash flows, as well as consideration of control premiums. The selected multiples are determined based on public companies within our peer group, and if appropriate, recent comparable transactions are also considered. Control premiums are determined using recent comparable transactions in the open market. Under the Income approach, a discounted cash flow method is used, which includes a terminal value, and is based on management’s forecasts and budgets. The long-term terminal growth rate assumptions reflect our current long-term view of the market in which we compete. Discount rates use the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our wholesale reporting unit was greater than its respective carrying value and no impairment charge was required. In performing the qualitative assessment, we considered such factors as macro-economic conditions, industry and market conditions in which we operate including the competitive environment and any significant changes in demand. We also considered our stock price both in absolute terms and in relation to peer companies.
Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. We also annually evaluate whether our trade name continues to have an indefinite life. Our trade name is reviewed for impairment annually in the fourth quarter and may be reviewed more frequently if indicators of impairment are present. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. Factors used in the valuation of intangible assets with indefinite lives include, but are not limited to, management’s plans for future operations, recent results of operations and projected future cash flows.
Similar to goodwill, we may elect to perform a qualitative assessment. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of our trade name was less than its carrying value, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for our indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment. To evaluate our trade name using a quantitative analysis, its fair value is calculated using the relief-from-royalty method. Significant factors used in the trade name valuation are rates for royalties, future revenue growth and a discount factor. Royalty rates are determined using an average of recent comparable values, review of the operating margins and consideration of the specific characteristics of the trade name. Future growth rates are based on the Company’s perception of the long-term values in the market in which we compete, and the discount rate is determined using the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
We performed our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our trade name was greater than its carrying value and no impairment charge was required. Qualitative factors reviewed included a review for significant adverse changes in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of the asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator.
Inventories. Inventories (finished goods, work in process and raw materials) are stated at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis, and net realizable value. Cost is determined based solely on those charges incurred in the acquisition and production of the related inventory (i.e. material, labor and manufacturing overhead costs). We estimate an inventory reserve for excess quantities and obsolete items based on specific identification and historical write-downs, taking into account future demand and market conditions. Our inventory reserves contain uncertainties that require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment regarding a number of factors, including market conditions, the selling environment, historical results and current inventory trends. We adjust our inventory reserves for net realizable value and obsolescence based on trends, aging reports, specific identification and estimates of future retail sales prices. If actual demand or market conditions change from our prior estimates, we adjust our inventory reserves accordingly throughout the period. We have not made any material changes to our assumptions included in the calculations of the lower of cost or net realizable value reserves during the periods presented.
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At June 30, 2022 and 2021, our inventory reserves totaled $2.1 million and $2.8 million, respectively. The decrease in our inventory reserve during fiscal 2022 was the result of improved manufacturing production combined with reduced obsolescence risk based on an improving rate of sale trends. In addition, during fiscal 2021, we recorded a non-cash charge of $0.6 million related to certain slow moving and discontinued inventory items, which was due to actual demand and forecasted market conditions for these inventory items being less favorable than originally estimated. When this inventory was subsequently disposed of during fiscal 2022, it was written-off against the inventory reserve, thus lowering it during the year.
Income Taxes. We are subject to income taxes in the United States and other foreign jurisdictions. Our tax provision is an estimate based on our understanding of laws in Federal, state and foreign tax jurisdictions. These laws can be complicated and are difficult to apply to any business, including ours. The tax laws also require us to allocate our taxable income to many jurisdictions based on subjective allocation methodologies and information collection processes.
We use the asset and liability method to account for income taxes. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which we expect to recover or settle those temporary differences. When we record deferred tax assets, we are required to estimate, based on forecasts of taxable earnings in the relevant tax jurisdiction, whether we are more likely than not to recover them. In making judgments about realizing the value of our deferred tax assets, we consider historic and projected future operating results, the eligible carry-forward period, tax law changes and other relevant considerations.
The Company evaluates, on a quarterly basis, uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken on tax returns for recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure in its financial statements. If an income tax position exceeds a 50% probability of success upon tax audit, based solely on the technical merits of the position, the Company recognizes an income tax benefit in its financial statements. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The liability associated with an unrecognized tax benefit is classified as a long-term liability except for the amount for which a cash payment is expected to be made or tax positions settled within one year.
Business Insurance Reserves. We have insurance programs in place to cover workers’ compensation and health care benefits under certain employee benefit plans provided by the Company. The insurance programs, which are funded through self-insured retention, are subject to various stop-loss limitations. We accrue estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on historical loss experience. As of June 30, 2022 and 2021, we had liabilities of $2.0 million related to health care coverage. We also carry workers’ compensation insurance subject to a deductible amount for which the Company is responsible on each claim. We had accrued liabilities of $3.8 million and $4.5 million related to workers’ compensation claims, primarily for claims that do not meet the per-incident deductible, as of June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively. These business insurance reserves are recorded within Accrued compensation and benefits on our consolidated balance sheets.
Although we believe that the insurance reserves are adequate, the reserve estimates are based on historical experience, which may not be indicative of current and future losses. In addition, the actuarial calculations used to estimate insurance reserves are based on numerous assumptions, some of which are subjective. We adjust insurance reserves, as needed, in the event that future loss experience differs from historical loss patterns.
Significant Accounting Policies
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of our significant accounting policies.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements, including the expected dates of adoption, which we include here by reference.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
FY 2021 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0001437749-21-020534.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is designed to provide a reader of our financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of our management on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and certain other factors that may affect our future results.
The MD&A is based upon, and should be read in conjunction with, our Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Executive Overview
Who We Are. Founded in 1932 and incorporated in Delaware in 1989, Ethan Allen is a leading interior design company, manufacturer and retailer in the home furnishings marketplace. We are a global luxury home fashion brand that is vertically integrated from product design through home delivery, which offers our customers stylish product offerings, artisanal quality and personalized service. We provide complimentary interior design service to our clients and sell a full range of home furnishing products through a retail network of approximately 300 design centers in the United States and abroad as well as online at ethanallen.com. Ethan Allen design centers represent a mix of locations operated by independent licensees and Company-operated locations. As of June 30, 2021, the Company operates 141 retail design centers; 136 located in the United States and five in Canada. Our 161 independently operated design centers are located in the United States, Asia, the Middle East and Europe. We also own and operate nine manufacturing facilities, including three manufacturing plants, one sawmill, one rough mill and a lumberyard in the United States and two manufacturing plants in Mexico and one manufacturing plant in Honduras. Approximately 75% of our products are made in our North American plants while we also partner with various suppliers located in Europe, Asia, and other various countries to produce products that support our business.
Business Model. Ethan Allen has a distinct vision of American style, rooted in the kind of substance that we believe differentiates us from our competitors. Our business model is to maintain continued focus on (i) capitalizing on the professional service offered to our customers by our interior design professionals in our retail design centers, (ii) investing in new technologies across key aspects of our vertically integrated business, (iii) utilizing ethanallen.com as a key marketing tool to drive traffic to our design centers, (iv) communicating our messages with strong advertising and marketing campaigns, and (v) leveraging the benefits of our vertical integration by maintaining a strong manufacturing capacity in North America.
Our competitive advantages arise from:
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | our North American manufacturing workshops providing high-quality products of the finest craftsmanship; |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | offering complimentary design service through our interior design professionals; |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | the use of technology combined with the personal service of our interior design professionals; |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | offering a wide array of custom made-to-order products across our upholstery, case goods, and accent product categories; |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | having built a strong retail network, both of independent licensees and Company-operated locations; |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | maintaining a logistics network of national distribution centers and retail home delivery centers providing white-glove home delivery service; and |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | leveraging our vertically integrated structure. |
Our strategy emphasizes the ability to position Ethan Allen as a preferred brand offering complimentary design service together with products of superior style, quality and value to provide customers with a comprehensive, one-stop shopping solution for their home furnishing and interior design needs. In carrying out our strategy, we continue to expand our reach to a broader consumer base through a diverse selection of attractively priced products, designed to complement one another, reflecting current fashion trends in home decorating. We continuously monitor changes in home fashion trends through industry events and fashion shows, internal market research, and regular communication with our retailers and design center design professionals who provide valuable input on consumer trends. We believe that the observations and input gathered enable us to incorporate appropriate style details into our products to react quickly to changing customer tastes.
Product Offering Introductions. Our product offerings continue to evolve and transform to meet the changing demands and tastes of our customers. We refreshed many of our product lines over the past several years. During fiscal 2021, we strengthened our bedding and mattresses offerings by introducing new products and styles. With an increased focus on the home, we also prioritized home office and making the customers home a haven. New offerings within home office, bedroom, living and dining room were launched. In addition, our outdoor product category offerings were enhanced during fiscal 2021. Prior to that, during fiscal 2020, we launched new products including Lucy, a mid-century modern inspired upholstery collection that launched very successfully, and Farmhouse, a country cottage inspired collection that has received strong reviews. In fiscal 2019, we introduced our Relaxed Modern product line, a casual, livable, inspired by nature, transitional design made of mixed materials as well as expanded our Outdoor collection.
Impact of COVID-19 on our Business. For a discussion of how COVID-19 has impacted and may continue to impact our business and financial condition, please refer to the discussion under the heading Impact of COVID-19 on our Business in Part I, Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In addition, refer to Item 1A. Risk Factors of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion of the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business.
Fiscal 2021 Financial Year in Review. Despite many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our business performed well during fiscal 2021 as the increased consumer focus on the home created strong demand for our product offerings and interior design services. We recently passed the anniversary of the reopening of our design centers and manufacturing facilities and through the collective efforts of our associates, the Company was able to report strong results. Many of the changes we implemented a year ago, such as the previously announced manufacturing and optimization initiatives, certain reductions in employee headcount, increased use and leverage of technology, streamlined certain workflows and the elimination of non-essential spending, have allowed us to control expenses and improve our operating leverage. Our strong cash position provided us flexibility to pay down 100% of our outstanding debt as well as take advantage of opportunities and advance our strategic goals. Additionally, we strengthened our business by expanding production capacity, enhanced our use of technology and brought back many associates to further our talent. For the full fiscal 2021 year, we delivered consolidated net sales growth of 16.2%, operating margin of 11.3%, diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) of $2.37, cash from operations of $129.9 million, and returned $43.3 million to shareholders through cash dividends. Both our wholesale and retail segments experienced record demand, with written orders increasing 31.7% at wholesale and 47.7% at retail. Demand further accelerated during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021, with retail written orders up 105.0% and wholesale written orders up 82.3%. This demand has led to record backlog as of June 30, 2021 as written orders outpaced net sales, which we expect to service and reduce during fiscal 2022. Our merchandising and supply-chain teams effectively managed raw material shortages, price increases, manufacturing delays and shipping container increases as we were able to achieve a gross profit margin of 57.4% for fiscal 2021 despite these challenges. As of June 30, 2021, our employee count was 4,188, up 24.3% in the past 12 months, as we ramped back up staffing to further strengthen our manufacturing and retail teams. Our Board reinstated our regular quarterly cash dividend in August 2020 and subsequently increased the regular quarterly cash dividend by 19% in November 2020. We also paid a special cash dividend of $0.75 per share in May 2021. Other notable events during fiscal 2021 included the opening of several new design centers including Oxnard, California; Towson, Maryland; Alpharetta, Georgia; and Portland, Oregon as well as holding our first-ever virtual celebration to congratulate associates for their exceptional interior design work.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Optimization of Manufacturing and Logistics. Our vertical integration is a competitive advantage for us. Our North American manufacturing and logistics operations are an integral part of an overall strategy to maximize production efficiencies and maintain this competitive advantage. Over the past three years, we have executed on key initiatives to further optimize our manufacturing and logistics, including closing our Passaic, New Jersey property, converting our Old Fort, North Carolina case goods manufacturing operations into a national distribution center, expanding our existing Maiden, North Carolina manufacturing campus and most recently, closing our Atoka, Oklahoma distribution center and consolidating its workflow into our Old Fort, North Carolina facility. In connection with these initiatives, we recorded pre-tax restructuring and other exit charges totaling $0.4 million during fiscal 2021 compared with $2.1 million during fiscal 2020. The prior year charges consisted of $1.3 million in abnormal manufacturing variances associated with the Passaic and Old Fort facilities, $0.8 million in employee severance and other payroll and benefit costs and $0.7 million in other exit costs partially offset by $0.7 million in gains from the sale of property, plant and equipment held at our Old Fort facility. We also completed the sale of our Passaic property in September 2019 to an independent third party and received $12.4 million in cash less certain adjustments, including $0.9 million in selling and other closing costs. As a result of the sale, we recognized a pre-tax gain of $11.5 million in fiscal 2020.
Retail Segment Restructuring and Impairment Charges. During fiscal 2021 we recorded $2.5 million of restructuring and impairment charges within the retail segment. Of this total, approximately $0.6 million was a non-cash impairment charge for long-lived assets held at a retail design center, $1.5 million in remaining contractual obligations under leased space that was exited during fiscal 2021 and $0.8 million in severance and other charges. These charges were partially offset by the sale of two previously owned retail design centers, which together, resulted in a pre-tax gain of $0.5 million.
Inventory Write-downs. During fiscal 2021 we recorded a non-cash charge of $0.6 million related to the write-down and disposal of certain slow moving and discontinued inventory items, which was due to actual demand and forecasted market conditions for these inventory items being less favorable than originally estimated. Of the total inventory write-down, $0.4 million related to slow moving finished goods with the remaining $0.2 million consisting of raw materials that were disposed.
CARES Act. In taking advantage of the stimulus measures under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”), during fiscal 2020, we recorded employee retention credits of $1.2 million representing eligible wages paid to employees affected by the cessation of our operations. No additional credits were taken during fiscal 2021. We also elected to defer the employer-paid part of social security taxes beginning with pay dates on and after March 12, 2020. At June 30, 2021, we deferred a total of $3.9 million in employer-paid social security taxes, of which 50% was recorded on our consolidated balance sheet within Accounts payable and accrued expenses with the remaining balance in Other long-term liabilities because we are not required to pay any part of the deferred amount until December 31, 2021, at which time 50% is due, with the remaining amount due December 31, 2022.
Fiscal 2022 and Beyond. Demand trends remain strong across the business with backlog at record levels. As we head into the fiscal 2022 year, we are focused on continuing to increase capacity and deliver product while making investments in technology solutions across the Company, all to enhance the customer experience, drive future growth and emerge stronger in a post-pandemic environment. We believe we have an opportunity to continue our growth in sales and profitability due to our retail network, the personal service of our interior design professionals increasingly combined with technology, our unique vertical integration whereby 75% of products are made in our North American manufacturing workshops, and our logistics network of national distribution centers and retail home delivery centers delivering product with white glove service to our clients’ homes.
Key Operating Metrics
A summary of our key operating metrics is presented in the following table (in millions, except per share amounts).
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2020 | % of Sales | % Chg | 2019 | % of Sales | % Chg | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 685.2 | 100.0 | % | 16.2 | % | $ | 589.8 | 100.0 | % | (21.0 | %) | $ | 746.7 | 100.0 | % | (2.6 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Gross profit | $ | 393.1 | 57.4 | % | 21.7 | % | $ | 323.1 | 54.8 | % | (21.1 | %) | $ | 409.5 | 54.8 | % | (1.6 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted gross profit(1) | $ | 393.7 | 57.5 | % | 19.8 | % | $ | 328.6 | 55.7 | % | (20.2 | %) | $ | 411.5 | 55.1 | % | (1.1 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 77.3 | 11.3 | % | 427.8 | % | $ | 14.6 | 2.5 | % | (56.9 | %) | $ | 33.9 | 4.5 | % | (30.5 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted operating income(1) | $ | 80.3 | 11.7 | % | 370.6 | % | $ | 17.1 | 2.9 | % | (69.0 | %) | $ | 55.1 | 7.4 | % | 9.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 60.0 | 8.8 | % | 574.2 | % | $ | 8.9 | 1.5 | % | (65.4 | %) | $ | 25.7 | 3.4 | % | (29.3 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted net income(1) | $ | 60.1 | 8.8 | % | 344.5 | % | $ | 13.5 | 2.3 | % | (67.5 | %) | $ | 41.6 | 5.6 | % | 11.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted EPS | $ | 2.37 | 597.1 | % | $ | 0.34 | (64.6 | %) | $ | 0.96 | (27.3 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS(1) | $ | 2.37 | 355.8 | % | $ | 0.52 | (66.7 | %) | $ | 1.56 | 15.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash flow from operating activities | $ | 129.9 | 146.5 | % | $ | 52.7 | (4.6 | %) | $ | 55.2 | 30.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wholesale written orders | 31.7 | % | (17.9 | %) | (10.8 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retail written orders | 47.7 | % | (18.4 | %) | (1.4 | %) |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Refer to the Regulation G Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within this MD&A for the reconciliation of generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) to adjusted key financial metrics. |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
The components of consolidated net sales and operating income (loss) by business segment are presented in the following table (in millions):
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||
| Net sales | ||||||||||||
| Wholesale segment | $ | 413.1 | $ | 337.9 | $ | 441.6 | ||||||
| Less: intersegment sales | (282.9 | ) | (210.9 | ) | (284.7 | ) | ||||||
| Wholesale sales to external customers | 130.2 | 127.0 | 156.9 | |||||||||
| Retail segment | 555.0 | 462.8 | 589.8 | |||||||||
| Consolidated net sales | $ | 685.2 | $ | 589.8 | $ | 746.7 | ||||||
| Operating income (loss) | ||||||||||||
| Wholesale segment | $ | 52.3 | $ | 33.1 | $ | 42.4 | ||||||
| Retail segment | 28.8 | (21.4 | ) | (10.5 | ) | |||||||
| Elimination of intercompany profit(1) | (3.8 | ) | 2.9 | 2.0 | ||||||||
| Consolidated operating income | $ | 77.3 | $ | 14.6 | $ | 33.9 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Represents the change in wholesale profit contained in the retail segment inventory existing at the end of the period. |
A summary of segment changes from the applicable prior fiscal year is presented in the following table:
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||
| Wholesale segment: | ||||||||||||
| Net sales | 22.2 | % | (23.5 | %) | (7.2 | %) | ||||||
| Operating income | 57.9 | % | (22.1 | %) | (12.4 | %) | ||||||
| Wholesale orders | 31.7 | % | (17.9 | %) | (10.8 | %) | ||||||
| Retail segment: | ||||||||||||
| Net sales | 19.9 | % | (21.5 | %) | 0.4 | % | ||||||
| Operating income | 234.6 | % | (103.4 | %) | (505.8 | %) | ||||||
| Retail orders | 47.7 | % | (18.4 | %) | (1.4 | %) |
The following table shows selected design center location information.
| Fiscal 2021 | Fiscal 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Independent | Company- | Independent | Company- | |||||||||||||||||||||
| retailers | operated | Total | retailers | operated | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
| Retail Design Center activity: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at July 1 | 160 | 144 | 304 | 158 | 144 | 302 | ||||||||||||||||||
| New locations | 18 | 3 | 21 | 13 | 9 | 22 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Closures | (17 | ) | (6 | ) | (23 | ) | (10 | ) | (10 | ) | (20 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Transfers | - | - | - | (1 | ) | 1 | - | |||||||||||||||||
| Balance at June 30 | 161 | 141 | 302 | 160 | 144 | 304 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Relocations (in new and closures) | - | 2 | 2 | 1 | 7 | 8 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Retail Design Center Geographic locations: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| United States | 34 | 136 | 170 | 35 | 138 | 173 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Canada | - | 5 | 5 | - | 6 | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||
| China | 109 | - | 109 | 107 | - | 107 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Other Asia | 11 | - | 11 | 11 | - | 11 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Europe | 1 | - | 1 | 1 | - | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Middle East | 6 | - | 6 | 6 | - | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total | 161 | 141 | 302 | 160 | 144 | 304 |
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Results of Operations
For an understanding of the significant factors that influenced our financial performance in fiscal 2021 compared with fiscal 2020, the following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes presented under Item 8 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Fiscal 2021 Compared to Fiscal 2020
Consolidated net sales for fiscal 2021 were $685.2 million, an increase of 16.2% compared with the same prior year period. Net sales increased by 22.2% within the wholesale segment and by 19.9% in the retail segment. Consolidated net sales were 16.2% higher primarily due to a strong pace of written orders during the year combined with our manufacturing facilities ramping up production to meet this demand after the temporary plant closures in our first quarter of fiscal 2021. While our written orders have outpaced current production, we continue to improve capacity and work through existing backlog. Our production cycle from written order to delivery has been extended due to the impact of COVID-19 and its effects on manufacturing productivity, raw materials and our supply chain. As a result, we believe it will take the next couple quarters for manufacturing to catch up to the increase in customer demand. Partially offsetting these sales increases was a decline in contract sales, which fell 23.7%. The year over year decrease in contract sales was attributable to a decline in sales from the GSA contract, which was negatively impacted by COVID-19 related economic disruptions and delays. While we continue to work through raw material shortages and managing the increased cost of shipping, there is an opportunity to continue positive growth in delivered net sales based on the size of our order backlog and continued written order growth.
Wholesale net sales increased 22.2% to $413.1 million primarily due to a 34.1% increase in intersegment sales to our Company-operated design centers combined with an increase in sales to U.S. independent dealers partially offset by lower contract and international sales, including shipments to China. Excluding intersegment sales to our retail segment, wholesale net sales were up 2.5% year over year. Net sales growth of 32.2% to our U.S. independent dealers was partially offset by a 23.7% decrease in contract sales and a 6.9% decline in international sales. The decline in our contract business sales was primarily due to lower GSA sales from delayed purchase commitments combined with a slow-down in the hospitality sector. Our international net sales were negatively impacted by an 8.1% reduction in net shipments to China during fiscal 2021. Our international sales to independent retailers represented 4.3% of total wholesale net sales compared to 5.7% last year.
Wholesale orders booked, which represents orders booked through all of our channels, were up 31.7% in fiscal 2021 compared with fiscal year 2020. Wholesale orders from our Company-operated design centers increased 44.3% while our independent North American retail network increased 49.4%. Partially offsetting the growth was a 28.3% decrease in our contract business and a 6.5% decrease in international retailer orders from China, mainly due to COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, the imposition of tariffs by China and the economic uncertainty surrounding the international trade disputes. While the full fiscal 2021 year wholesale orders growth was 31.7%, the Company accelerated its order growth during its fiscal 2021 fourth quarter. Wholesale orders during the just completed fourth quarter were up 82.3% year over year, demonstrating the strength of the brand in the marketplace combined with heightened demand for product offerings and design services. In addition, the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021 marked the first period during fiscal 2021 whereby our contract orders increased in volume, as orders were up 49.1% over the year ago fourth quarter and up 5.4% from 2019. Our wholesale backlog increased 88.1% compared to the prior year as written orders significantly outpaced net delivered. The number of weeks of backlog was comparable to June last year despite the 31.7% increase in fiscal 2021 orders as production continues to ramp up to pre-COVID-19 levels. We remain focused on our short-term ability to increase wholesale production and shipping to the levels that are necessary to properly service our customers and reduce our backlog during fiscal 2022.
Retail net sales from Company-operated design centers increased 19.9% to $555.0 million. There was a 20.0% increase in net sales in the United States, while sales from our Canadian design centers increased 17.2%. Retail written orders grew 47.7% year over year, reflecting the strength of our product offerings and interior design professionals increasingly combining technology with their personal service and continued consumer interest in the home. Net sales and order growth comparisons for the current year were also aided by the temporary closing of our North American design centers for almost three months during fiscal 2020. Since all our design centers have re-opened, we have continued to experience strong order trends with written orders up 105.0% in the just completed fourth quarter compared with a year ago, driven by increased demand for products in the home furnishings category. In addition, our e-commerce business was a strong contributor to retail net sales, up 87.5% year over year, as our online traffic continues to be strong. As of June 30, 2021, there were 141 Company-operated design centers compared with 144 last year.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Gross profit increased 21.7% to $393.1 million compared with the prior year period due to sales growth within both the wholesale and retail segments, a change in the sales mix and higher wholesale manufacturing production levels. Wholesale gross profit was positively impacted by higher sales volumes and manufacturing production levels partially offset by higher shipping container and raw material costs. Each product category within wholesale (upholstery, case goods and home accents) expanded gross margin during fiscal 2021, which combined with increased net sales, drove higher gross profit within the wholesale segment. Retail gross profit was up due to a 19.9% increase in net shipments partially offset by a 20 basis point decrease in retail gross margin from lower premier home delivery revenue and increased promotional fees from financing promotions.
Gross margin was 57.4% compared with 54.8% a year ago. Restructuring charges negatively impacted the fiscal 2021 consolidated gross margin by 10 basis points compared with 90 basis points a year ago. The increase in consolidated gross margin was also due to higher productivity in our wholesale manufacturing and a change in the sales mix. Retail sales, as a percentage of total consolidated sales, were 81.0% in the current year, up from 78.5% in the prior year, which change in the sales mix positively affected consolidated gross margin. Benefits being realized due to increased productivity from the prior year manufacturing and logistics optimization project also expanded the wholesale gross margin.
Operating expenses increased to $315.8 million compared with $308.5 million in the prior year period. The 2.4% increase was from higher selling costs and a prior year gain of $11.5 million from the sale of a wholesale property partially offset by lower general and administrative expenses. Retail selling expenses were up 7.8% due to the 19.9% increase in net sales, which drove higher delivery costs as well as increased variable compensation. Wholesale selling costs grew by 0.5% as fuel and freight costs increased during the year from higher sales volumes, which were partially offset by a reduction in marketing spend. General and administrative expenses decreased due to lower compensation costs from reduced headcount coupled with lower occupancy costs, reduced travel expenses and regional management charges. These decreases were partially offset by higher bonus and share-based compensation expense. Restructuring and impairment charges incurred during fiscal 2021 was an expense of $2.4 million compared to a benefit of $3.0 million last year, which included an $11.5 million gain on sale of a wholesale property.
Operating income was $77.3 million compared with $14.6 million in the prior year. Adjusted operating income, which excludes restructuring and other charges, was $80.3 million in fiscal 2021, up from $17.1 million last year. The significant increase in operating income was driven by the $95.3 increase in consolidated net sales and gross margin expansion partially offset by a 2.4% increase in operating expenses. Our ability to maintain disciplined cost and expense controls, including strong cost containment measures and expense management during fiscal 2021 was a key to operating income growth. Compared to two years ago, our headcount is down 548 associates. Our ability to operate the business with global headcount down 11.6% from two years ago has contributed to consolidated operating income and margin expansion.
Wholesale operating income totaled $52.3 million, or 12.7% of net sales, compared to $33.1 million at 9.8% of net sales in the prior year. Prior year wholesale operating income included an $11.5 million gain on the sale of a wholesale property partially offset by $5.7 million in inventory write-downs, optimization costs and other. Adjusted wholesale operating income was up $25.5 million or 93.4% due to the 22.2% increase in wholesale net sales, gross margin expansion and strong cost containment measures, including improved expense management and prudent hiring throughout the year, partially offset by higher freight costs from increased shipping volumes and increased raw material pricing.
Retail operating income was $28.8 million, or 5.2% of sales, compared to a loss of $21.4 million, or 4.6% of sales a year ago. Retail operating margin improved to 5.2% due to the $92.2 million increase in net sales as well as a 3.3% decrease in operating expenses from administrative, occupancy, advertising, and regional management costs, partially offset by a 20 basis point decline in gross margin and higher selling and delivery expenses. Total retail operating expenses contracted 3.3% compared to sales growth of 19.9% and represented 41.6% of net sales compared to 51.6% a year ago. The decreases within retail operating expenses were due to reduced administrative headcount and strong cost control measures implemented during the fourth quarter a year ago. Retail restructuring and impairment charges lowered retail operating income by $2.5 million during fiscal 2021 compared to $7.7 million a year ago.
Income tax expense was $16.4 million for fiscal 2021 compared with $5.3 million a year ago. The effective tax rate for fiscal 2021 includes a provision for income taxes on the current year’s income including federal, state, foreign and local income taxes, tax and interest expense on various uncertain tax positions, and tax expense on the maintenance of a valuation allowance on non-U.S. retail deferred tax assets, partially offset by the reversal of valuation allowance on state and local retail deferred tax assets and the reversal of various uncertain tax positions. The effective tax rate in fiscal 2020 includes a provision for income taxes on the current year’s income including federal, state, foreign and local income taxes, tax and interest expense on various uncertain tax positions, and tax expense on the establishment and maintenance of a valuation allowance on retail deferred tax assets, partially offset by the reversal of various uncertain tax positions. Income tax expense was $11.1 million higher in fiscal 2021 compared with a year ago due to the $62.2 million increase in income before income taxes combined with a valuation allowance reversal during fiscal 2021. The current year effective rate decreased to 21.5% compared with 37.3% in the prior year primarily due to the reversal of a valuation allowance on retail state and local deferred tax assets combined with the recording of a valuation allowance in the year ago fourth quarter on certain deferred tax assets.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Net income was $60.0 million compared with $8.9 million in the prior year, which resulted in $2.37 per diluted share compared with $0.34 in the prior year period. Fiscal 2020 was negatively impacted by restructuring and impairment charges combined with other corporate actions of $4.6 million (net of tax), which lowered diluted EPS by $0.18. Significant net income and diluted EPS growth in fiscal 2021 was primarily due to net sales growth of 16.2%, an expanded wholesale gross margin from optimization efficiencies, strong cost containment measures resulting in keeping operating expense growth minimal and improving production and delivery of products to customers. In addition, fiscal 2020 was negatively impacted from the COVID-19 pandemic, including the temporarily closing of our design centers and manufacturing facilities during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020.
Fiscal 2020 Compared to Fiscal 2019
For a comparison of our results of operations for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2020 and 2019, see Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, filed with the SEC on August 27, 2020.
Regulation G Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To supplement the financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, we use non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted gross profit and margin, adjusted operating income, adjusted wholesale operating income and margin, adjusted retail operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are shown in tables below.
These non-GAAP measures are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. We believe these non-GAAP measures provide a meaningful comparison of our results to others in our industry and our prior year results. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, our financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, these non-GAAP financial measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all the items associated with the operations of the business as determined in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures differently than we do, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes.
Despite the limitations of these non-GAAP financial measures, we believe these adjusted financial measures and the information they provide are useful in viewing our performance using the same tools that management uses to assess progress in achieving our goals. Adjusted measures may also facilitate comparisons to our historical performance.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
The following tables below show a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures used in this filing to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.
| (in thousands, except per share data) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2020 | % Change | ||||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Gross Profit / Gross Margin | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Gross profit | $ | 393,107 | $ | 323,132 | 21.7 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | 639 | 5,423 | ||||||||||
| Adjusted gross profit * | $ | 393,746 | $ | 328,555 | 19.8 | % | ||||||
| Adjusted gross margin * | 57.5 | % | 55.7 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted Operating Income / Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Operating income | $ | 77,285 | $ | 14,644 | 427.8 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | 3,050 | 2,428 | ||||||||||
| Adjusted operating income * | $ | 80,335 | $ | 17,072 | 370.6 | % | ||||||
| Consolidated Net sales | $ | 685,169 | $ | 589,837 | 16.2 | % | ||||||
| GAAP Operating margin | 11.3 | % | 2.5 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted operating margin * | 11.7 | % | 2.9 | % | ||||||||
| Consolidated Adjusted Net Income / Adjusted Diluted EPS | ||||||||||||
| GAAP Net income | $ | 60,005 | $ | 8,900 | 574.2 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments, net of tax * | 54 | 4,612 | ||||||||||
| Adjusted net income | $ | 60,059 | $ | 13,512 | 344.5 | % | ||||||
| Diluted weighted average common shares | 25,352 | 26,069 | ||||||||||
| GAAP Diluted EPS | $ | 2.37 | $ | 0.34 | 597.1 | % | ||||||
| Adjusted diluted EPS * | $ | 2.37 | $ | 0.52 | 355.8 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale Adjusted Operating Income / Adjusted Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| Wholesale GAAP operating income | $ | 52,281 | $ | 33,106 | 57.9 | % | ||||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | 552 | (5,794 | ) | |||||||||
| Adjusted wholesale operating income * | $ | 52,833 | $ | 27,312 | 93.4 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale net sales | $ | 413,076 | $ | 337,948 | 22.2 | % | ||||||
| Wholesale GAAP operating margin | 12.7 | % | 9.8 | % | ||||||||
| Adjusted wholesale operating margin * | 12.8 | % | 8.1 | % | ||||||||
| Retail Adjusted Operating Income / Adjusted Operating Margin | ||||||||||||
| Retail GAAP operating income (loss) | $ | 28,824 | $ | (21,414 | ) | 234.6 | % | |||||
| Adjustments (pre-tax) * | 2,498 | 8,222 | ||||||||||
| Adjusted retail operating income (loss) * | $ | 31,322 | $ | (13,192 | ) | 337.4 | % | |||||
| Retail net sales | $ | 554,971 | $ | 462,800 | 19.9 | % | ||||||
| Retail GAAP operating margin | 5.2 | % | (4.6% | ) | ||||||||
| Adjusted retail operating margin * | 5.6 | % | (2.9% | ) |
* Adjustments to reported GAAP financial measures including gross profit and margin, operating income and margin, net income, and diluted EPS have been adjusted by the following:
| (in thousands) | Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Inventory write-downs and additional reserves (wholesale) | $ | 585 | $ | 4,107 | ||||
| Optimization of manufacturing and logistics (wholesale) | 54 | 1,316 | ||||||
| Adjustments to gross profit | $ | 639 | $ | 5,423 | ||||
| Inventory write-downs and additional reserves (wholesale) | $ | 585 | $ | 4,107 | ||||
| Optimization of manufacturing and logistics (wholesale) | 356 | 2,147 | ||||||
| Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (wholesale) | - | (11,497 | ) | |||||
| Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (retail) | (473 | ) | - | |||||
| Employee retention credit (wholesale) | - | (1,177 | ) | |||||
| Severance and other charges (wholesale) | (389 | ) | 626 | |||||
| Severance and other charges (retail) | 811 | 562 | ||||||
| Impairment of long-lived assets and lease exit costs (retail) | 2,160 | 7,660 | ||||||
| Adjustments to operating income | $ | 3,050 | $ | 2,428 | ||||
| Adjustments to income before income taxes | $ | 3,050 | $ | 2,752 | ||||
| Related income tax effects on non-recurring items(1) | (747 | ) | (674 | ) | ||||
| Income tax expense (benefit) from valuation allowance change | (2,249 | ) | 2,534 | |||||
| Adjustments to net income | $ | 54 | $ | 4,612 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| (1) | Calculated using a tax rate of 24.5% in all periods presented |
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Liquidity
We are committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet in order to weather difficult industry conditions, to allow us to take advantage of opportunities as market conditions improve, and to execute our long-term strategic initiatives. Our sources of liquidity include cash and cash equivalents, cash flow from operations and amounts available under our credit facility. We believe these sources remain adequate to meet our short-term and long-term liquidity requirements, finance our long-term growth plans, and fulfill other cash requirements for day-to-day operations and capital expenditures.
As further described under Item 1, Business, on April 1, 2020 we announced our action plan whereby we instituted several cost-saving measures at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, in part to maintain our liquidity. We have since seen a significant improvement in business conditions, which has increased our profitability and generated strong positive cash flow.
We believe our liquidity (cash on hand of $104.6 million, cash flow from operating activities of $129.9 million and amounts available under our credit facility of $75.7 million), will be sufficient to fund our operations, including changes in working capital, anticipated capital expenditures, fiscal 2022 contractual obligations of $91.1 million and other financing activities, as they occur, for at least the next 12 months. As of June 30, 2021, we had working capital of $71.4 million compared to $91.0 million at June 30, 2020 and a current ratio of 1.32 at June 30, 2021 compared to 1.65 a year ago. During this continued period of uncertainty and volatility related to the COVID-19 pandemic, we will continue to monitor our liquidity. Included in our cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2021, is $5.3 million held by foreign subsidiaries, a portion of which we have determined to be indefinitely reinvested.
Summary of Cash Flows
At June 30, 2021, we held cash and equivalents of $104.6 million compared with $72.3 million a year ago. Cash and cash equivalents aggregated to 15.3% of our total assets at June 30, 2021, compared with 11.6% last year. Our cash and cash equivalents increased $32.3 million during fiscal 2021 due to net cash provided by operating activities of $129.9 million and net proceeds of $4.9 million from the sale of property, plant, and equipment, partially offset by the repayment of 100% or $50.0 million of outstanding borrowings, $43.3 million in cash dividends paid and capital expenditures of $12.0 million.
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows for each of the last three fiscal years (in millions):
| Fiscal Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||
| Operating activities | ||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 60.0 | $ | 8.9 | $ | 25.7 | ||||||
| Non-cash operating lease cost | 29.9 | 32.0 | - | |||||||||
| Other non-cash items, including depreciation and amortization | 23.6 | 22.6 | 37.0 | |||||||||
| Restructuring payments | (2.8 | ) | (9.1 | ) | (2.5 | ) | ||||||
| Changes in working capital | 19.2 | (1.7 | ) | (5.0 | ) | |||||||
| Total provided by operating activities | $ | 129.9 | $ | 52.7 | $ | 55.2 | ||||||
| Investing activities | ||||||||||||
| Capital expenditures | $ | (12.0 | ) | $ | (15.7 | ) | $ | (9.1 | ) | |||
| Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | - | (1.4 | ) | (0.5 | ) | |||||||
| Proceeds from the disposal of property, plant and equipment | 4.9 | 12.4 | - | |||||||||
| Other investing activities | - | 0.1 | 0.1 | |||||||||
| Total (used in) investing activities | $ | (7.1 | ) | $ | (4.6 | ) | $ | (9.5 | ) | |||
| Financing activities | ||||||||||||
| Borrowings from revolving credit facility | $ | - | $ | 100.0 | $ | 16.0 | ||||||
| Payments on borrowings | (50.0 | ) | (50.0 | ) | (16.0 | ) | ||||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (0.1 | ) | (24.3 | ) | - | |||||||
| Payment of cash dividends | (43.3 | ) | (21.5 | ) | (47.0 | ) | ||||||
| Proceeds from employee stock plans | 3.0 | 0.1 | 0.8 | |||||||||
| Payments on financing leases and other | (0.6 | ) | (0.6 | ) | (1.1 | ) | ||||||
| Total (used in) provided by financing activities | $ | (91.0 | ) | $ | 3.7 | $ | (47.3 | ) |
Cash Provided By (Used in) Operating Activities. Fiscal 2021 cash generated from operations totaled $129.9 million, an increase of $77.2 million from the prior year primarily due to an increase in net income and improved working capital driven by higher retail customer deposits and timing of vendor payables partially offset by increased inventory levels to support manufacturing production growth. Customer deposits from written orders for the Company’s retail segment more than doubled during fiscal 2021 and totaled $130.6 million at June 30, 2021. Strong written retail order growth of 47.7% outpaced net delivered sales growth of 19.9% and led to high customer deposits and backlog at June 30, 2021. Restructuring payments in fiscal 2021 included $1.8 million in lease exit costs and $0.9 million in severance. As a result of fiscal 2020 adoption of the new leasing standard, we report non-cash operating lease costs as a non-cash adjustment to reconcile to net income while our monthly lease payments are reported as a reduction to operating lease liabilities within working capital.
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Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities. Fiscal 2021 cash used in investing activities was $7.1 million, an increase from $4.6 million last year due to cash proceeds of $12.4 million received last year from the sale of property, plant and equipment partially offset by lower capital expenditures, fiscal 2021 proceeds received from the sale of property, plant and equipment and no design center acquisitions in the current year. Cash paid to acquire design centers from our independent retailers in arm’s length transactions totaled $1.4 million during fiscal 2020 while there were no such acquisitions this year. We completed the sale of two retail properties to independent third parties for total fiscal 2021 cash proceeds of $4.9 million from the sale of property, plant and equipment. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2021 were $12.0 million, down $3.7 million compared with the prior year. As part of our initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic beginning in March 2020, we delayed investments and capital expenditures, which led to a reduction in capital spending. Partially offsetting the decreases was our investment in the expansion of our existing Maiden, North Carolina manufacturing campus, which we believe will help increase overall capacity beginning in fiscal 2022. We expect capital expenditures to reaccelerate in fiscal 2022 and should range between $16 million and $18 million as we further invest in technology, increase manufacturing capacity and open new or relocate design centers while also continuing to improve all our design centers projection.
Cash Provided By (Used in) Financing Activities. Fiscal 2021 total cash used in financing activities was $91.0 million compared with cash provided of $3.7 million in the prior year. The significant change in cash used in financing activities was due to $100.0 million in borrowings on our revolving credit facility in the prior year and a $21.8 million increase in cash dividends paid partially offset by a $24.2 million reduction in share repurchases and $2.9 million in proceeds from employee stock option exercises. During March 2020, we borrowed a total of $100.0 million under the credit facility and repaid $50.0 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020 with the remaining $50.0 million repaid in fiscal 2021. Cash dividends paid in the current year totaled $43.3 million compared with $21.5 million last year due to a $0.75 per share special cash dividend paid in May 2021 totaling $19.0 million. On April 28, 2020, we had suspended our regular quarterly cash dividend due to the COVID-19 impact. However, on August 4, 2020, our Board of Directors reinstated the regular quarterly cash dividend. Our policy is to issue quarterly dividends, and we expect to continue to declare and pay comparable quarterly dividends for the foreseeable future, business conditions permitting. These changes in cash flow outflow were partially offset by the decrease in repurchases of common stock in the current year. In the prior year we repurchased 1,538,363 shares under our existing share repurchase program at an average price of $15.81 per share for a total cash outflow of $24.3 million, while in fiscal 2021 there were no repurchases.
Exchange Rate Changes. Due to changes in exchange rates, our cash and cash equivalents increased by $0.8 million from the end of fiscal year 2020 to the end of fiscal 2021. These changes impacted our cash balances held in Canada, Mexico, and Honduras.
Capital Resources including Material Cash Requirements
Sources of Liquidity
Capital Needs. During December 2018 we entered into a five-year, $165 million senior secured revolving credit facility, which amended and restated the previously existing facility. During March 2020, we borrowed a total of $100 million under the credit facility, repaid $50 million in June 2020 and the remaining $50 million in September 2020 from available cash. Prior to March 2020, there were no borrowings outstanding under the credit facility. We had elected to draw down on the credit facility in March 2020 to increase our cash position as a precautionary measure and to preserve financial flexibility in consideration of the disruption and uncertainty surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Strong cash flow generation allowed us to repay 100% of our borrowings and still end the fiscal 2021 year with a cash on hand balance of $104.6 million. The previously outstanding borrowings carried a weighted average interest rate of 1.7%, which was equal to the one-month LIBOR rate plus a spread using a debt leverage pricing grid. The outstanding borrowings of $50 million at June 30, 2020 are reported as Long-term debt within the consolidated balance sheet. Total availability under the revolving credit facility was $75.7 million at June 30, 2021 and $58.9 million at June 30, 2020. At both June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively, we were in compliance with all the covenants under the revolving credit facility. For a detailed discussion of revolving credit facility, our debt obligations and timing of our related cash payments see Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Letters of Credit. At June 30, 2021 and 2020, there was $5.0 million and $5.8 million, respectively, of standby letters of credit outstanding under the revolving credit facility.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Uses of Liquidity
Capital Expenditures. As part of our initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic begging in early 2020, we delayed investments and capital expenditures, which led to a reduction in capital spending. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2021 were $12.0 million, down $3.7 million compared with the prior year period. The decrease of $3.7 million from the prior year related primarily to reduced spending of $1.8 million on retail design center improvements and $1.6 million less in manufacturing. In fiscal 2021, 53% of our total capital expenditures related to opening new and relocating design centers in desirable locations, updating existing design center projections and floor plans, opening new home delivery centers and installing additional technology within each design center, including new designer workstations and tablets. The remaining 47% was capital expenditures incurred in connection with the expansion of our existing Maiden, North Carolina manufacturing facility, investments in additional technology to improve existing workflows and infrastructure enhancements. In fiscal 2020, approximately 53% of our total capital expenditures were within the retail segment. We have no material contractual commitments outstanding for future capital expenditures. We anticipate that cash from operations will be sufficient to fund future capital expenditures.
Acquisitions. From time to time, we acquire design centers from our independent retailers in arm’s length transactions. There were no dealer acquisitions in fiscal 2021 compared with $1.4 million during fiscal 2020.
Focus on Shareholder Returns.
Dividends. Our Board of Directors has sole authority to determine if and when we will declare future dividends and on what terms. Over the past year, the following actions were taken pertaining to dividends.
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | At the quarterly Board of Directors meeting held on April 28, 2020, our Board temporarily suspended the Company’s regular quarterly cash dividend due to the COVID-19 impact to preserve near-term financial flexibility |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On August 4, 2020, our Board reinstated the regular quarterly cash dividend and declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share, which was payable to shareholders of record as of October 8, 2020 and paid on October 22, 2020 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On November 12, 2020, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share, an increase of $0.04 per share or 19%; the dividend was paid on January 21, 2021 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On January 25, 2021, our Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share, which was paid on April 8, 2021 |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| ● | On April 27, 2021, our Board declared a $0.75 per share special cash dividend in addition to its regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share; both dividends were paid on May 25, 2021 |
For the full fiscal 2021 year, we paid a total of $1.71 per share in cash dividends for an aggregate total of $43.3 million. This included the special dividend paid in May 2021 totaling $19.0 million. In the prior year, total dividends paid were $21.5 million. With our dividends, we have returned $161.3 million to shareholders over the past five years and $526.3 million since 1993.
We will continue to monitor the pace of business as it relates to future dividends and any future cash dividends will depend on our earnings, capital requirements, financial condition and other factors considered relevant by us, subject to final determination by our Board of Directors.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Share Repurchase Program. There were no share repurchases under our existing multi-year share repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”) during fiscal 2021. We repurchased 1,538,363 shares under the program during fiscal 2020 at an average price of $15.81 per share. On January 13, 2020, our Board of Directors authorized an increase in the aggregate share repurchase authorization to 3,000,000 shares. At June 30, 2021, we had a remaining Board authorization to repurchase 2,007,364 shares of our common stock pursuant to our program. The timing and amount of any future share repurchases in the open market and through privately negotiated transactions will be determined by the Company’s officers at their discretion and based on a number of factors, including an evaluation of market and economic conditions while also maintaining financial flexibility in consideration of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Material Cash Requirements from Contractual Obligations. As of June 30, 2021, we had total contractual obligations of $203.9 million, a decrease from $233.4 million a year ago due to the $50.0 million debt repayment in fiscal 2021. Our material cash requirements for our contractual obligations as of June 30, 2021 were as follows:
| ● | Operating Leases. Our operating lease obligations decreased from $149.7 million last year to $143.6 million at June 30, 2021 due to monthly lease payments made to landlords and the exiting of certain retail leased spaces in the past 12 months partially offset by new leases and modifications entered into throughout the fiscal 2021 year. We enter into operating leases in the normal course of business. Most lease arrangements provide us with the option to renew the leases at defined terms. For more information on our operating leases, see Note 6, Leases, in the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. | |
|---|---|---|
| ● | Open Purchase Orders. We had purchase obligations, defined as agreements that are enforceable and legally binding that specify all significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, of $50.2 million at June 30, 2021, up from $20.1 million a year ago. We do, in the normal course of business, regularly initiate purchase orders for the procurement of (i) selected finished goods sourced from third-party suppliers, (ii) lumber, fabric, leather and other raw materials used in production, and (iii) certain outsourced services. All purchase orders are based on current needs and are fulfilled by suppliers within short time periods. At June 30, 2021, our open purchase orders with respect to such goods and services totaled $50.2 million and are to be paid in less than one year. The significant increase in purchase order obligations was primarily due to the growth in the business over the past 12 months and manufacturing production continuing to increase. | |
| ● | Long-term Debt. We had no outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility at June 30, 2021 compared with $50.0 million at June 30, 2020, as we repaid $50.0 million in September 2020. Further discussion of our contractual obligations associated with long-term debt can be found in Note 11, Debt, in the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. | |
| ● | Other Purchase Obligations. Other purchase commitments for services such as telecommunication, computer-related software, royalties, web development, insurance and other maintenance contracts was $8.8 million as of June 30, 2021, down from $12.8 million, primarily due to timing of payments and contract signing. |
For a discussion of our liquidity and capital resources as of and our cash flow activities for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020 and 2019, see Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, filed with the SEC on August 27, 2020.
Other Arrangements
We do not utilize or employ any other arrangements, including special-purpose entities, in operating our business. As such, we do not maintain any (i) retained or contingent interests, (ii) derivative instruments or (iii) variable interests which could serve as a source of potential risk to our future liquidity, capital resources and results of operations. We may, from time to time in the ordinary course of business, provide guarantees on behalf of selected affiliated entities or become contractually obligated to perform in accordance with the terms and conditions of certain business agreements. The nature and extent of these guarantees and obligations may vary based on our underlying relationship with the benefiting party and the business purpose for which the guarantee or obligation is being provided.
Product Warranties. Our products, including our case goods, upholstery and home accents, generally carry explicit product warranties and are provided based on terms that are generally accepted in the industry. All our domestic independent retailers are required to enter into and perform in accordance with the terms and conditions of a warranty service agreement. We record provisions for estimated warranty and other related costs at time of sale based on historical warranty loss experience and make periodic adjustments to those provisions to reflect actual experience. On rare occasion, certain warranty and other related claims involve matters of dispute that ultimately are resolved by negotiation, arbitration or litigation. In certain cases, a material warranty issue may arise which is beyond the scope of our historical experience. We provide for such warranty issues as they become known and are deemed to be both probable and estimable. It is reasonably possible that, from time to time, additional warranty and other related claims could arise from disputes or other matters beyond the scope of our historical experience. As of June 30, 2021 and 2020, our product warranty liability totaled $1.1 million and $0.9 million, respectively.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Contingencies
We are involved in various claims and litigation as well as environmental matters, which arise in the normal course of business. Although the final outcome of these legal and environmental matters cannot be determined, based on the facts presently known, it is our opinion that the final resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or future results of operations.
Critical Accounting Estimates
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. In some cases, these principles require management to make difficult and subjective judgments regarding uncertainties and, as a result, such estimates and assumptions may significantly impact our financial results and disclosures. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if: (i) the accounting estimate requires us to make assumptions about matters that were highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate was made, and (ii) changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, or use of different estimates that we reasonably could have used in the current period, would have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. We base our estimates on currently known facts and circumstances, prior experience and other assumptions we believe to be reasonable. We use our best judgment in valuing these estimates and may, as warranted, use external advice. Actual results could differ from these estimates, assumptions, and judgments and these differences could be significant. We make frequent comparisons throughout the year of actual experience to our assumptions to reduce the likelihood of significant adjustments and will record adjustments when differences are known.
The following critical accounting estimates affect our consolidated financial statements.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, including the Assessment of the Carrying Value of Retail Design Center Long-lived Assets. The recoverability of our retail design centers’ long-lived assets is evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that we may not be able to recover the carrying amount of an asset or asset group. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, change in the intended use of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. If the sum of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows over the remaining life of the primary asset is less than the carrying value, we recognize a loss equal to the difference between the carrying value and the fair value, usually determined by the estimated discounted cash flow analysis or independent third-party appraisal of the asset or asset group. While determining fair value requires a variety of input assumptions and judgment, we believe our estimates of fair value are reasonable. The asset group is defined as the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are available and largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets, which for our retail segment is the individual design center. For retail design center level long-lived assets, expected cash flows are determined based on our estimate of future net sales, margin rates and expenses over the remaining expected terms of the leases.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. We review the carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives at least annually, during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change, for possible impairment.
Goodwill. For impairment testing, goodwill has been assigned to our wholesale reporting unit. We may elect to evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment.
A quantitative impairment test involves estimating the fair value of each reporting unit and indefinite lived intangible asset and comparing these estimated fair values with the respective reporting unit or indefinite lived intangible asset carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized in an amount equal to such excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. If the carrying value of an individual indefinite lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, such individual indefinite lived intangible asset is written down by an amount equal to such excess. Estimating the fair value of reporting units and indefinite lived intangible assets involves the use of significant assumptions, estimates and judgments with respect to a number of factors, including sales, gross margin, general and administrative expenses, capital expenditures, EBITDA and cash flows, the selection of an appropriate discount rate, as well as market values and multiples of earnings and revenue of comparable public companies.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
To evaluate goodwill in a quantitative impairment test, the fair value of the reporting units is estimated using a combination of Market and Income approaches. The Market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities (including a business). In the Market approach, the “Guideline Company” method is used, which focuses on comparing the Company’s risk profile and growth prospects to reasonably similar publicly traded companies. Key assumptions used for the Guideline Company method include multiples for revenues, EBITDA and operating cash flows, as well as consideration of control premiums. The selected multiples are determined based on public companies within our peer group, and if appropriate, recent comparable transactions are also considered. Control premiums are determined using recent comparable transactions in the open market. Under the Income approach, a discounted cash flow method is used, which includes a terminal value, and is based on management’s forecasts and budgets. The long-term terminal growth rate assumptions reflect our current long-term view of the market in which we compete. Discount rates use the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our wholesale reporting unit was greater than its respective carrying value and no impairment charge was required. In performing the qualitative assessment, we considered such factors as macro-economic conditions, industry and market conditions in which we operate including the competitive environment and any significant changes in demand. We also considered our stock price both in absolute terms and in relation to peer companies.
Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. We also annually evaluate whether our trade name continues to have an indefinite life. Our trade name is reviewed for impairment annually in the fourth quarter and may be reviewed more frequently if indicators of impairment are present. Conditions that may indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of an asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. Factors used in the valuation of intangible assets with indefinite lives include, but are not limited to, management’s plans for future operations, recent results of operations and projected future cash flows.
Similar to goodwill, we may elect to perform a qualitative assessment. If the qualitative evaluation indicates that it is more likely than not the fair value of our trade name was greater than its carrying value, a quantitative impairment test is required. Alternatively, we may bypass the qualitative assessment for our indefinite lived intangible asset and directly perform a quantitative assessment. To evaluate our trade name using a quantitative analysis, its fair value is calculated using the relief-from-royalty method. Significant factors used in the trade name valuation are rates for royalties, future revenue growth and a discount factor. Royalty rates are determined using an average of recent comparable values, review of the operating margins and consideration of the specific characteristics of the trade name. Future growth rates are based on the Company’s perception of the long-term values in the market in which we compete, and the discount rate is determined using the weighted average cost of capital for companies within our peer group, adjusted for specific company risk premium factors.
We performed our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021 utilizing a qualitative analysis and concluded it was more likely than not the fair value of our trade name was greater than its carrying value and no impairment charge was required. Qualitative factors reviewed included a review for significant adverse changes in customer demand or business climate that could affect the value of the asset, a product recall or an adverse action or assessment by a regulator.
Inventories. Inventories (finished goods, work in process and raw materials) are stated at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis, and net realizable value. Cost is determined based solely on those charges incurred in the acquisition and production of the related inventory (i.e. material, labor and manufacturing overhead costs). We estimate an inventory reserve for excess quantities and obsolete items based on specific identification and historical write-downs, taking into account future demand and market conditions. Our inventory reserves contain uncertainties that require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment regarding a number of factors, including market conditions, the selling environment, historical results and current inventory trends. We adjust our inventory reserves for net realizable value and obsolescence based on trends, aging reports, specific identification and estimates of future retail sales prices. If actual demand or market conditions change from our prior estimates, we adjust our inventory reserves accordingly throughout the period. We have not made any material changes to our assumptions included in the calculations of the lower of cost or net realizable value reserves during the periods presented.
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ETHAN ALLEN INTERIORS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Income Taxes. We are subject to income taxes in the United States and other foreign jurisdictions. Our tax provision is an estimate based on our understanding of laws in Federal, state and foreign tax jurisdictions. These laws can be complicated and are difficult to apply to any business, including ours. The tax laws also require us to allocate our taxable income to many jurisdictions based on subjective allocation methodologies and information collection processes.
We use the asset and liability method to account for income taxes. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which we expect to recover or settle those temporary differences. When we record deferred tax assets, we are required to estimate, based on forecasts of taxable earnings in the relevant tax jurisdiction, whether we are more likely than not to recover them. In making judgments about realizing the value of our deferred tax assets, we consider historic and projected future operating results, the eligible carry-forward period, tax law changes and other relevant considerations.
The Company evaluates, on a quarterly basis, uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken on tax returns for recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure in its financial statements. If an income tax position exceeds a 50% probability of success upon tax audit, based solely on the technical merits of the position, the Company recognizes an income tax benefit in its financial statements. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The liability associated with an unrecognized tax benefit is classified as a long-term liability except for the amount for which a cash payment is expected to be made or tax positions settled within one year.
Business Insurance Reserves. We have insurance programs in place to cover workers’ compensation and health care benefits under certain employee benefit plans provided by the Company. The insurance programs, which are funded through self-insured retention, are subject to various stop-loss limitations. We accrue estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on historical loss experience. Although we believe that the insurance reserves are adequate, the reserve estimates are based on historical experience, which may not be indicative of current and future losses. In addition, the actuarial calculations used to estimate insurance reserves are based on numerous assumptions, some of which are subjective. We adjust insurance reserves, as needed, in the event that future loss experience differs from historical loss patterns.
Significant Accounting Policies
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of our significant accounting policies.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 3, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included under Part II, Item 8, for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements, including the expected dates of adoption, which we include here by reference.