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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)  

ý

Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2008

or

o

Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the Transition Period from                             to                              .

Commission file number 001-10716

TRIMAS CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
  38-2687639
(IRS Employer Identification No.)


39400 Woodward Avenue, Suite 130
Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48304
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

(248) 631-5450
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

         Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý    No o.

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer o   Accelerated filer o   Non-accelerated filer ý
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
  Smaller reporting company o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No ý

         As of May 7, 2008, the number of outstanding shares of the Registrant's common stock, $.01 par value, was 33,409,500 shares.





TriMas Corporation

Index

Part I.   Financial Information    

 

 

 

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

2

 

 

Item 1.

 

Consolidated Financial Statements

 

4

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet—March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007

 

4

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statement of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 and 2007

 

5

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 and 2007

 

6

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008

 

7

 

 

 

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

 

8

 

 

Item 2.

 

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

31

 

 

Item 3.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

 

49

 

 

Item 4.

 

Controls and Procedures

 

49

Part II.

 

Other Information and Signatures

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

50

 

 

Item 1A.

 

Risk Factors

 

51

 

 

Item 2.

 

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

51

 

 

Item 3.

 

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

51

 

 

Item 4.

 

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

51

 

 

Item 5.

 

Other Information

 

51

 

 

Item 6

 

Exhibits

 

52

 

 

Signature

 

56

1


Forward-Looking Statements

        This report contains forward-looking statements (as that term is defined by the federal securities laws) about our financial condition, results of operations and business. You can find many of these statements by looking for words such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate" and similar words used in this report.

        These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Because the statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on the statements, which speak only as of the date of this report.

        The cautionary statements set forth above should be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that we or persons acting on our behalf may issue. We do not undertake any obligation to review or confirm analysts' expectations or estimates or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

        Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements included in this report include general economic conditions in the markets in which we operate and industry-related and other factors such as:

2



        We disclose important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our expectations under Item 2. "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and elsewhere in this report. These cautionary statements qualify all forward-looking statements attributed to us or persons acting on our behalf. When we indicate that an event, condition or circumstance could or would have an adverse effect on us, we mean to include effects upon our business, financial and other condition, results of operations, prospects and ability to service our debt.

3



PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.    Financial Statements


TriMas Corporation

Consolidated Balance Sheet

(Unaudited—dollars in thousands)

 
  March 31,
2008

  December 31,
2007

 
Assets              
Current assets:              
  Cash and cash equivalents   $ 5,510   $ 4,800  
  Receivables, net     106,390     89,370  
  Inventories, net     192,940     190,590  
  Deferred income taxes     18,860     18,860  
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets     6,970     7,010  
  Assets of discontinued operations held for sale     2,990     3,330  
   
 
 
    Total current assets     333,660     313,960  
Property and equipment, net     197,220     195,120  
Goodwill     379,910     377,340  
Other intangibles, net     212,930     214,290  
Other assets     25,720     27,280  
   
 
 
    Total assets   $ 1,149,440   $ 1,127,990  
   
 
 

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Current maturities, long-term debt   $ 9,160   $ 8,390  
  Accounts payable     134,940     121,860  
  Accrued liabilities     66,040     71,830  
  Liabilities of discontinued operations     1,360     1,450  
   
 
 
    Total current liabilities     211,500     203,530  
Long-term debt     607,290     607,600  
Deferred income taxes     73,900     73,280  
Other long-term liabilities     35,170     35,090  
   
 
 
    Total liabilities     927,860     919,500  
   
 
 
Preferred stock $0.01 par: Authorized 100,000,000 shares;              
  Issued and outstanding: None          
Common stock, $0.01 par: Authorized 400,000,000 shares;              
  Issued and outstanding: 33,409,500 shares at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively     330     330  
Paid-in capital     526,250     525,960  
Accumulated deficit     (366,100 )   (373,970 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income     61,100     56,170  
   
 
 
    Total shareholders' equity     221,580     208,490  
   
 
 
    Total liabilities and shareholders' equity   $ 1,149,440   $ 1,127,990  
   
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

4



TriMas Corporation

Consolidated Statement of Operations

(Unaudited—dollars in thousands, except for share amounts)

 
  Three months ended
March 31,

 
 
  2008
  2007
 
Net sales   $ 279,560   $ 284,440  
Cost of sales     (206,220 )   (206,440 )
   
 
 
  Gross profit     73,340     78,000  
Selling, general and administrative expenses     (45,120 )   (45,540 )
Loss on dispositions of property and equipment     (110 )   (170 )
   
 
 
  Operating profit     28,110     32,290  
   
 
 
Other expense, net:              
  Interest expense     (14,710 )   (18,860 )
  Other, net     (1,190 )   (1,160 )
   
 
 
    Other expense, net     (15,900 )   (20,020 )
   
 
 

Income from continuing operations before income tax expense

 

 

12,210

 

 

12,270

 
Income tax expense     (4,420 )   (4,520 )
   
 
 
Income from continuing operations     7,790     7,750  
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit (expense)     80     (700 )
   
 
 
Net income   $ 7,870   $ 7,050  
   
 
 

Earnings (loss) per share—basic:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    Continuing operations   $ 0.23   $ 0.37  
    Discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit (expense)         (0.03 )
   
 
 
    Net income per share   $ 0.23   $ 0.34  
   
 
 
Weighted average common shares—basic     33,409,500     20,759,500  
   
 
 

Earnings (loss) per share—diluted:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    Continuing operations   $ 0.23   $ 0.37  
    Discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit (expense)         (0.03 )
   
 
 
    Net income per share   $ 0.23   $ 0.34  
   
 
 
Weighted average common shares—diluted     33,551,645     20,759,500  
   
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

5



TriMas Corporation

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

(Unaudited—dollars in thousands)

 
  Three months ended
March 31,

 
 
  2008
  2007
 
Net income   $ 7,870   $ 7,050  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities, net of acquisition impact:              
  Loss on dispositions of property and equipment     110     380  
  Depreciation     6,850     5,930  
  Amortization of intangible assets     3,900     3,910  
  Amortization of debt issue costs     600     730  
  Deferred income taxes         660  
  Non-cash compensation expense     290     70  
  Net proceeds from sale of receivables and receivables securitization     18,830     28,750  
  Increase in receivables     (34,920 )   (51,930 )
  Increase in inventories     (1,790 )   (5,700 )
  Decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets     1,670     1,910  
  Increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities     6,400     35,910  
  Other, net     (120 )   (730 )
   
 
 
    Net cash provided by operating activities, net of acquisition impact     9,690     26,940  
   
 
 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Capital expenditures     (6,190 )   (6,580 )
  Acquisition of leased assets         (12,900 )
  Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired     (2,400 )    
  Net proceeds from disposition of businesses and other assets         4,000  
   
 
 
    Net cash used for investing activities     (8,590 )   (15,480 )
   
 
 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Repayments of borrowings on term loan facilities     (2,080 )   (860 )
  Proceeds from borrowings on revolving credit facilities     156,580     144,150  
  Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities     (154,890 )   (154,450 )
   
 
 
    Net cash used for financing activities     (390 )   (11,160 )
   
 
 

Cash and Cash Equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Increase for the period     710     300  
    At beginning of period     4,800     3,600  
   
 
 
    At end of period   $ 5,510   $ 3,900  
   
 
 
  Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:              
    Cash paid for interest   $ 5,930   $ 6,630  
   
 
 
    Cash paid for taxes   $ 2,390   $ 2,260  
   
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

6



TriMas Corporation

Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity

Three Months Ended March 31, 2008

(Unaudited—dollars in thousands)

 
  Common
Stock

  Paid-in
Capital

  Accumulated
Deficit

  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income

  Total
Balances, December 31, 2007   $ 330   $ 525,960   $ (373,970 ) $ 56,170   $ 208,490
Comprehensive income:                              
  Net income             7,870         7,870
  Amortization of defined benefit plan deferred losses (net of tax of $0.03 million) (Note 16)                 60     60
  Foreign currency translation                 4,870     4,870
                           
    Total comprehensive income                             12,800
Non-cash compensation expense         290             290
   
 
 
 
 
Balances, March 31, 2008   $ 330   $ 526,250   $ (366,100 ) $ 61,100   $ 221,580
   
 
 
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

7



TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

1. Basis of Presentation

        TriMas Corporation ("TriMas" or the "Company"), and its consolidated subsidiaries, is a global manufacturer of products for commercial, industrial and consumer markets. The Company is principally engaged in five business segments with diverse products and market channels. Packaging Systems is a manufacturer and distributor of steel and plastic closure caps, drum enclosures, rings and levers, dispensing systems for industrial and consumer markets, as well as specialty laminates, jacketings and insulation tapes used with fiberglass insulation as vapor barriers in commercial and industrial construction applications. Energy Products is a manufacturer and distributor of a variety of engines, engine replacement parts and other well site products for the oil and gas industry as well as metallic and non-metallic industrial gaskets and fasteners for the petroleum refining, petrochemical and other industrial markets. Industrial Specialties designs and manufactures a diverse range of industrial products for use in niche markets within the aerospace, industrial, automotive, defense, and medical equipment markets. These products include highly engineered specialty fasteners for the aerospace industry, high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders for the transportation, storage and dispensing of compressed gasses, spinal and trauma implant products for the medical industry, specialty fasteners for the automotive industry, specialty precision tools such as center drills, cutters, end mills, reamers, master gears, punches, and specialty ordnance components. RV & Trailer Products is a manufacturer and distributor of custom-engineered trailer products, brake control solutions, lighting accessories and roof racks for the recreational vehicle, agricultural/industrial, marine, automotive and commercial trailer markets. Recreational Accessories manufactures towing products, functional vehicle accessories and cargo management solutions including vehicle hitches and receivers, sway controls, weight distribution and fifth-wheel hitches, hitch-mounted accessories, and other accessory components which are distributed through independent installers and retail outlets.

        During the fourth quarter of 2007, the Company committed to a plan to sell its rocket launcher and property management lines of business, both of which were part of the Industrial Specialties operating segment. The Company sold the rocket launcher business in December 2007. During the fourth quarter of 2005, the Company committed to a plan to sell its industrial fastening business. The industrial fastening business consisted of three locations: Wood Dale, Illinois, Frankfort, Indiana and Lakewood, Ohio. The Company sold the Wood Dale and Lakewood operating locations in December 2006 and the Frankfort operating location in February 2007. The results of operations for all of the aforementioned discontinued businesses are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented and as assets held for sale in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. See Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale."

        The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries and in the opinion of management, contain all adjustments, including adjustments of a normal and recurring nature, necessary for a fair presentation of financial position and results of operations. Results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for the full year. The accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes thereto should be read in conjunction with the Company's 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

2. Initial Public Offering

        During the second quarter of 2007, the Company completed the sale of 12,650,000 shares of common stock to the public pursuant to an effective registration statement at a price of $11.00 per

8


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

2. Initial Public Offering (Continued)


share. Gross proceeds from the common stock offering were $139.2 million. Net proceeds from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions of $9.7 million and offering expenses of $3.0 million, totaled approximately $126.5 million. The net proceeds of $126.5 million, together with approximately $10.1 million of cash on hand and revolving credit borrowings, were utilized to retire $100.0 million of senior subordinated notes, to early terminate $21.7 million of operating leases, to terminate the Company's advisory services agreement with Heartland Industrial Partners ("Heartland") for $10.0 million and for the call premium of $4.9 million associated with the retirement of the senior subordinated notes.

3. Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale

        During the fourth quarter of 2007, the Company committed to a plan to sell its rocket launcher and property management lines of business, both of which were part of the Industrial Specialties operating segment. The Company sold the assets of the rocket launcher business in December 2007.

        In February 2007, the Company sold the Frankfort operating location of its industrial fastening business, which was discontinued in the fourth quarter of 2005.

        The results of the Frankfort operating location, the rocket launcher business and the property management business are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

        Results of discontinued operations are summarized as follows:

 
  Three months ended
March 31,

 
 
  2008
  2007
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)

 
Net sales   $ 930   $ 8,800  
   
 
 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income tax expense   $ 140   $ (240 )
Income tax expense     (60 )   (460 )
   
 
 
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense   $ 80   $ (700 )
   
 
 

9


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

3. Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale (Continued)

        Assets and liabilities of the discontinued operations held for sale are summarized as follows:

 
  March 31,
2008

  December 31,
2007

 
  (dollars in thousands)

Receivables, net   $ 610   $ 940
Inventories, net         60
Property and equipment, net     2,380     2,330
   
 
  Total assets   $ 2,990   $ 3,330
   
 

Accounts payable

 

$

160

 

$

60
Accrued liabilities and other     1,200     1,390
   
 
  Total liabilities   $ 1,360   $ 1,450
   
 

4. Huntsville Plant Closure

        In October 2007, the Company announced plans to close its manufacturing facility in Huntsville, Ontario, Canada and consolidate its operations into the Company's Goshen, Indiana manufacturing facility. These actions were substantially complete as of December 31, 2007. As a result of these actions, the Company recorded a pre-tax charge within its Recreational Accessories segment of approximately $9.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2007, of which approximately $5.6 million related to cash costs incurred as a part of the closure as determined under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities," primarily relating to severance benefits to approximately 160 employees terminated as a part of the closure. The remaining $3.4 million of the pre-tax charge related to impairment of assets recorded in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets," to reduce the book value of the building and building improvements and certain machinery and equipment assets that the Company will no longer utilize to management's estimate of net realizable value. As of March 31, 2008, the Company has paid approximately $4.9 million of the cash costs of the facility closure, with the remaining $0.7 million expected to be paid during 2008.

        In addition, the Company expects to incur approximately $0.7 million in estimated costs and expenses in 2008 resulting from completion of the consolidation into the Goshen facility and recording severance and other benefits for approximately 10 key employees remaining with the Company until the closure is finalized. The Company recorded approximately $0.5 million of such charges during the three months ended March 31, 2008.

5. Acquisitions

        In January 2008, the Company acquired Parkside Towbars, Pty. Ltd. ("Parkside"), located in Western Australia, strengthening the Company's position in international markets and expanding the Company's towing and truck accessory product offering. Parkside is included in the Company's RV & Trailer Products segment.

10


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

5. Acquisitions (Continued)

        During the third quarter of 2007, the Company completed two acquisitions. On July 12, 2007, the Company acquired certain assets from Quest Technologies LLC, expanding the Company's fifth-wheel product offerings in its Recreational Accessories segment. In addition, on August 1, 2007, the Company acquired all of the capital stock of DEW Technologies, Inc., a manufacturer of specialty, high-precision spinal and trauma implant products serving the orthopedic device industry. DEW Technologies is included in the Company's Industrial Specialties segment and broadens the Company's product offerings in the medical device industry.

        The allocation of purchase price for each of these acquisitions is subject to refinement of management estimates and finalization of working capital adjustments. The purchase price of each of these acquisitions is also subject to adjustments resulting from earn-out clauses based on future operating results, which extend up to five years.

        The results of operations of the aforementioned acquisitions are not significant compared to the overall results of operations of the Company.

6. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

        Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended March 31, 2008 are summarized as follows:

 
  Packaging
Systems

  Energy
Products

  Industrial
Specialties

  RV &
Trailer
Products

  Recreational
Accessories

  Total
 
  (dollars in thousands)

Balance, December 31, 2007   $ 190,690   $ 46,050   $ 64,950   $ 42,190   $ 33,460   $ 377,340
  Goodwill from acquisitions                 140     40     180
  Foreign currency translation and other     2,860     (190 )       90     (370 )   2,390
   
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, March 31, 2008   $ 193,550   $ 45,860   $ 64,950   $ 42,420   $ 33,130   $ 379,910
   
 
 
 
 
 

11


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

6. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Continued)

        The gross carrying amounts and accumulated amortization of the Company's other intangibles as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 are summarized below. The Company amortizes these assets over periods ranging from 1 to 30 years.

 
  As of March 31, 2008
  As of December 31, 2007
 
Intangible Category by Useful Life
  Gross Carrying
Amount

  Accumulated
Amortization

  Gross Carrying
Amount

  Accumulated
Amortization

 
 
  (dollars in thousands)

 
Customer relationships:                          
  6–12 years   $ 29,910   $ (18,480 ) $ 27,980   $ (17,910 )
  15–25 years     169,190     (51,500 )   169,190     (49,190 )
   
 
 
 
 
Total customer relationships     199,100     (69,980 )   197,170     (67,100 )
   
 
 
 
 
Technology and other:                          
  1–15 years     26,660     (18,780 )   26,630     (18,190 )
  17–30 years     41,010     (13,170 )   40,830     (12,690 )
   
 
 
 
 
Total technology and other     67,670     (31,950 )   67,460     (30,880 )
   
 
 
 
 
Trademark/Trade names (indefinite life)     52,420     (4,330 )   51,990     (4,350 )
   
 
 
 
 
    $ 319,190   $ (106,260 ) $ 316,620   $ (102,330 )
   
 
 
 
 

        Amortization expense related to technology and other intangibles was approximately $1.0 million for each of the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. These amounts are included in cost of sales in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations. Amortization expense related to customer intangibles was approximately $2.9 million and $2.8 million, respectively, for each of the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. These amounts are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

7. Accounts Receivable Securitization

        TriMas is party to a receivables securitization facility through TSPC, Inc. (TSPC), a wholly-owned subsidiary, to sell trade accounts receivable of substantially all of the Company's domestic business operations. The Company renewed this facility in February 2008, with the most significant changes being reducing the committed funding from $125.0 million to $90.0 million and reducing the usage fee from 1.35% to 1.05%. Renewal costs approximated $0.3 million.

        TSPC from time to time may sell an undivided fractional ownership interest in the pool of receivables up to approximately $90.0 million to a third party multi-seller receivables funding company. The net proceeds of sales are less than the face amount of accounts receivable sold by an amount that approximates the purchaser's financing costs, which amounted to a total of $0.7 million and $0.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Such amounts are included in other, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations. As of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, the Company's funding under the facility was approximately $56.3 million and $41.5 million, respectively, with an additional $4.3 million and $5.0 million, respectively, available but not utilized. When the Company sells receivables under this arrangement, the Company retains a subordinated interest in the receivables sold. The retained interest in receivables sold is included in receivables in the

12


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

7. Accounts Receivable Securitization (Continued)


accompanying balance sheet and approximated $51.0 million and $34.1 million at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. The usage fee under the facility is 1.05%. In addition, the Company is required to pay a fee of 0.5% on the unused portion of the facility. The facility expires on February 20, 2009.

        The financing costs are determined by calculating the estimated present value of the receivables sold compared to their carrying amount. The estimated present value factor is based on historical collection experience and a discount rate representing a spread over a commercial paper-based rate as prescribed under the terms of the securitization agreement. As of March 31, 2008 and 2007, the financing costs were based on an average liquidation period of the portfolio of approximately 1.3 months and 1.2 months, respectively, and an average discount rate of 2.3% and 3.2%, at March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

        In the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company sold an undivided interest in approximately $4.0 million and $3.9 million, respectively, of accounts receivable under a factoring arrangement at three of its European subsidiaries. These transactions were accounted for as a sale and the receivables were sold at a discount from face value approximating 2.0% and 1.6%, at March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Costs associated with these transactions were approximately $0.08 million and $0.06 million, respectively, and are included in other, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

8. Inventories

        Inventories consist of the following:

 
  March 31,
2008

  December 31,
2007

 
  (dollars in thousands)
Finished goods   $ 115,380   $ 117,680
Work in process     30,510     28,310
Raw materials     47,050     44,600
   
 
  Total inventories   $ 192,940   $ 190,590
   
 

9. Property and Equipment, Net

        Property and equipment consists of the following:

 
  March 31,
2008

  December 31,
2007

 
  (dollars in thousands)
Land and land improvements   $ 5,760   $ 5,430
Buildings     46,820     45,430
Machinery and equipment     282,500     273,410
   
 
      335,080     324,270
Less: Accumulated depreciation     137,860     129,150
   
 
  Property and equipment, net   $ 197,220   $ 195,120
   
 

        Depreciation expense was $6.8 million and $5.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

13


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

10. Long-term Debt

        The Company's long-term debt consists of the following:

 
  March 31,
2008

  December 31,
2007

 
  (dollars in thousands)
U.S. bank debt   $ 256,150   $ 257,410
Non-U.S. bank debt and other     23,300     21,610
97/8% senior subordinated notes, due June 2012     337,000     336,970
   
 
      616,450     615,990
Less: Current maturities, long-term debt     9,160     8,390
   
 
  Long-term debt   $ 607,290   $ 607,600
   
 

        The Company is a party to a credit facility consisting of a $90.0 million revolving credit facility, a $60.0 million deposit-linked supplemental revolving credit facility and a $260.0 million term loan facility (collectively, the "Credit Facility"). Under the Credit Facility, the revolving credit facilities mature on August 2, 2011, while the term loan matures on August 2, 2013 (or February 28, 2012 if the Company's existing senior subordinated notes are still outstanding as of that date). Under the Credit Facility, the Company is also able to issue letters of credit, not to exceed $65.0 million in aggregate, against its revolving credit facility commitments. At March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, the Company had letters of credit of approximately $32.4 million and $35.5 million, respectively, issued and outstanding. The weighted average interest rate on borrowings under the Credit Facility was 6.06% and 7.84% at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.

        At March 31, 2008, the Company had $0.05 million outstanding under its revolving credit facility and had an additional $117.6 million potentially available after giving effect to the $32.4 million letters of credit issued and outstanding. However, including availability under its accounts receivable facility and after consideration of leverage restrictions contained in the Credit Facility, the Company had approximately $121.9 million of capacity available to it under its revolving credit facility and receivables securitization for general corporate purposes.

        The bank debt is an obligation of the Company and its subsidiaries. Although the terms of the Credit Facility do not restrict the Company's subsidiaries from making distributions to it in respect of its 97/8% senior subordinated notes, it does contain certain other limitations on the distribution of funds from TriMas Company LLC, the principal subsidiary, to the Company. The restricted net assets of the guarantor subsidiaries, of approximately $558.9 million and $528.4 million at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, are presented in the financial information in Note 19, "Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information." The Credit Facility also contains various negative and affirmative covenants and other requirements affecting the Company and its subsidiaries, including: restrictions on incurrence of debt, except for permitted acquisitions and subordinated indebtedness, liens, mergers, investments, loans, advances, guarantee obligations, acquisitions, asset dispositions, sale-leaseback transactions greater than $90.0 million if sold at fair market value, hedging agreements, dividends and other restricted junior payments, stock repurchases, transactions with affiliates, restrictive agreements and amendments to charters, by-laws, and other material documents.

14


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

10. Long-term Debt (Continued)


The Credit Facility also requires the Company and its subsidiaries to meet certain restrictive financial covenants and ratios computed quarterly, including a leverage ratio (total consolidated indebtedness plus outstanding amounts under the accounts receivable securitization facility over consolidated EBITDA, as defined), interest expense ratio (consolidated EBITDA, as defined, over cash interest expense, as defined) and a capital expenditures covenant. The Company was in compliance with its covenants at March 31, 2008.

        Principal payments required on the Credit Facility term loan are: $0.7 million due each calendar quarter through June 30, 2013, with $242.5 million due on August 2, 2013 (which may be changed to February 2012 if the Company's senior subordinated notes are still outstanding at that time).

        In the United Kingdom, the Company's subsidiary is party to a revolving debt agreement which is secured by a letter of credit under the Credit Facility. At March 31, 2008, the balance outstanding under this arrangement was $0.7 million at an interest rate of 6.45%. At December 31, 2007, there was no balance outstanding under this agreement.

        In Italy, the Company's subsidiary is party to a loan agreement for a term of seven years, at a rate 0.75% above EURIBOR (Euro Interbank Offered Rate), and is secured by land and buildings of the subsidiary. At March 31, 2008, the balance outstanding under this agreement was $2.9 million at an interest rate of 5.43%. At December 31, 2007, the balance outstanding under this agreement was approximately $4.0 million at an interest rate of 5.5%.

        In Australia, the Company's subsidiary is party to a debt agreement which matures December 31, 2010 and is secured by substantially all the assets of the subsidiary. At March 31, 2008, the balance outstanding under this agreement was $19.7 million at a weighted average interest rate of 7.38%. At December 31, 2007, the balance outstanding under this agreement was approximately $17.5 million at an interest rate of approximately $7.1%.

        During the second quarter of 2007, the Company utilized approximately $104.9 million of the proceeds from its initial public offering of common stock to retire $100.0 million of face value 97/8% senior subordinated notes due 2012 (Notes), paying a $4.9 million call premium to effect the retirement.

        The Notes indenture contains negative and affirmative covenants and other requirements that are comparable to those contained in the Credit Facility. At March 31, 2008, the Company was in compliance with all such covenant requirements.

11. Commitments and Contingencies

        A civil suit was filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California in December 1988 by the United States of America and the State of California against more than 180 defendants, including us, for alleged release into the environment of hazardous substances disposed of at the Operating Industries, Inc. site in California. This site served for many years as a depository for

15


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

11. Commitments and Contingencies (Continued)


municipal and industrial waste. The plaintiffs have requested, among other things, that the defendants clean up the contamination at that site. Consent decrees have been entered into by the plaintiffs and a group of the defendants, including us, providing that the consenting parties perform certain remedial work at the site and reimburse the plaintiffs for certain past costs incurred by the plaintiffs at the site. We estimate that our share of the clean-up costs will not exceed $500,000, for which we have insurance proceeds. Plaintiffs had sought other relief such as damages arising out of claims for negligence, trespass, public and private nuisance, and other causes of action, but the consent decree governs the remedy. Based upon our present knowledge and subject to future legal and factual developments, we do not believe that this matter will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        As of March 31, 2008, we were a party to approximately 1,725 pending cases involving an aggregate of approximately 9,394 claimants alleging personal injury from exposure to asbestos containing materials formerly used in gaskets (both encapsulated and otherwise) manufactured or distributed by certain of our subsidiaries for use primarily in the petrochemical refining and exploration industries. The following chart summarizes the number of claimants, number of claims filed, number of claims dismissed, number of claims settled, the average settlement amount per claim and the total defense costs, exclusive of amounts reimbursed under our primary insurance, at the applicable date and for the applicable periods:

 
  Claims
pending at
beginning
of period

  Claims
filed
during
period

  Claims
dismissed
during
period

  Claims
setttled
during
period

  Average
settlement
amount per
claim during
period

  Total defense
costs during
period

Fiscal year ended December 31, 2007   10,551   619   1,484   142   $ 9,243   $ 4,982,000
Three months ended March 31, 2008   9,544   173   299   24   $ 3,979   $ 1,052,000

        In addition, we acquired various companies to distribute our products that had distributed gaskets of other manufacturers prior to acquisition. We believe that many of our pending cases relate to locations at which none of our gaskets were distributed or used.

        We may be subjected to significant additional asbestos-related claims in the future, the cost of settling cases in which product identification can be made may increase, and we may be subjected to further claims in respect of the former activities of our acquired gasket distributors. We note that we are unable to make a meaningful statement concerning the monetary claims made in the asbestos cases given that, among other things, claims may be initially made in some jurisdictions without specifying the amount sought or by simply stating the requisite or maximum permissible monetary relief, and may be amended to alter the amount sought. The large majority of claims do not specify the amount sought. Of the 9,394 claims pending at March 31, 2008, 166 set forth specific amounts of damages (other than those stating the statutory minimum or maximum). 141 of the 166 claims sought between $1.0 million and $5.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages) and 25 sought between $5.0 million and $10.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages). Solely with respect to compensatory damages, 145 of the 166 claims sought between $50,000 and $600,000 and 21 sought between $1.0 million and $5.0 million. Solely with respect to punitive damages, 141 of the 166 claims sought between $1.0 million and $2.5 million and 25 sought

16


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

11. Commitments and Contingencies (Continued)


$5.0 million. In addition, relatively few of the claims have reached the discovery stage and even fewer claims have gone past the discovery stage.

        Total settlement costs (exclusive of defense costs) for all such cases, some of which were filed over 20 years ago, have been approximately $5.2 million. All relief sought in the asbestos cases is monetary in nature. To date, approximately 50% of our costs related to settlement and defense of asbestos litigation have been covered by our primary insurance. Effective February 14, 2006, we entered into a coverage-in-place agreement with our first level excess carriers regarding the coverage to be provided to us for asbestos-related claims when the primary insurance is exhausted. The coverage-in-place agreement makes coverage available to us that might otherwise be disputed by the carriers and provides a methodology for the administration of asbestos litigation defense and indemnity payments. The coverage in place agreement allocates payment responsibility among the primary carrier, excess carriers and the Company's subsidiary.

        Based on the settlements made to date and the number of claims dismissed or withdrawn for lack of product identification, we believe that the relief sought (when specified) does not bear a reasonable relationship to our potential liability. Based upon our experience to date and other available information (including the availability of excess insurance), we do not believe that these cases will have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations or cash flows.

        We are subject to other claims and litigation in the ordinary course of our business, but do not believe that any such claim or litigation will have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations or cash flows.

12. Related Parties

        On January 11, 2007, Metaldyne merged into a subsidiary of Asahi Tec Corporation ("Asahi") whereby Metaldyne became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Asahi. In connection with the consummation of the merger, Metaldyne dividended the 4,825,587 shares of the Company's common stock that it owned on a pro rata basis to the holders of Metaldyne's common stock at the time of such dividend. As a result of the merger, Metaldyne and the Company are no longer related parties. The remaining contractual obligations to Metaldyne, which previously were classified as "Due to Metaldyne" in the Company's balance sheet are now classified as accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and were approximately $6.1 million and $6.0 million at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.

        In connection with the Company's initial public offering of common stock in the second quarter of 2007, the Company paid Heartland $10.0 million to terminate its existing advisory services agreement. The advisory services had been provided for an annual fee of $4.0 million plus expenses. Heartland was paid $0 and $1.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, in fees and expenses for advisory services provided under this agreement. Such amounts are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

17


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

13. Segment Information

        TriMas' reportable operating segments are business units that provide unique products and services. Each operating segment is separately managed, requires different technology and marketing strategies and has separate financial information evaluated regularly by the Company's chief operating decision maker in determining resource allocation and assessing performance. TriMas has five operating segments involved in the manufacture and sale of products described below. Within these operating segments, there are no individual products or product families for which reported revenues accounted for more than 10% of the Company's consolidated revenues.

        Packaging Systems—Steel and plastic closure caps, drum enclosures, rings and levers, and dispensing systems for industrial and consumer markets, as well as flame-retardant facings, jacketings and insulation tapes used with fiberglass insulation as vapor barriers in commercial, industrial, and residential construction applications.

        Energy Products—Engines, engine replacement parts and other well site products for the oil and gas industry as well as metallic and non-metallic industrial gaskets and fasteners for the petroleum refining, petrochemical and other industrial markets.

        Industrial Specialties—A diverse range of industrial products for use in niche markets within the aerospace, industrial, automotive, defense, and medical equipment markets. Its products include highly engineered specialty fasteners for the aerospace industry, high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders for the transportation, storage and dispensing of compressed gases, specialty fasteners for the automotive industry, spinal and trauma implant products for the medical industry, specialty precision tools such as center drills, cutters, end mills, reamers, master gears, punches, and specialty ordnance components.

        RV & Trailer Products—Custom-engineered trailer products including trailer couplers, winches, jacks, trailer brakes and brake control solutions, lighting accessories and roof racks for the recreational vehicle, agricultural/utility, marine, automotive and commercial trailer markets.

        Recreational Accessories—Towing products, functional vehicle accessories and cargo management solutions including vehicle hitches and receivers, sway controls, weight distribution and fifth-wheel hitches, hitch-mounted accessories, and other accessory components.

        The Company's management uses Adjusted Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA") as a primary indicator of financial operating performance and as a measure of cash generating capability. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change, interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, non-cash asset and goodwill impairment write-offs and non-cash losses on sale-leaseback of property and equipment.

18


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

13. Segment Information (Continued)

        Segment activity is as follows:

 
  Three months ended
March 31,

 
 
  2008
  2007
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 
Net Sales              
Packaging Systems   $ 54,570   $ 53,750  
Energy Products     48,800     41,580  
Industrial Specialties     53,470     50,590  
RV & Trailer Products     50,670     53,410  
Recreational Accessories     72,050     85,110  
   
 
 
  Total   $ 279,560   $ 284,440  
   
 
 

Operating Profit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Packaging Systems   $ 8,880   $ 9,000  
Energy Products     7,910     6,410  
Industrial Specialties     11,160     11,220  
RV & Trailer Products     2,750     6,460  
Recreational Accessories     2,630     5,140  
Corporate expenses and management fees     (5,220 )   (5,940 )
   
 
 
  Total   $ 28,110   $ 32,290  
   
 
 

Adjusted EBITDA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Packaging Systems   $ 12,890   $ 12,290  
Energy Products     8,630     7,100  
Industrial Specialties     12,640     12,150  
RV & Trailer Products     4,530     8,520  
Recreational Accessories     5,050     7,740  
Corporate expenses and management fees     (6,120 )   (6,880 )
   
 
 
  Subtotal from continuing operations     37,620     40,920  
   
 
 
Discontinued operations     240     (190 )
   
 
 
  Total company   $ 37,860   $ 40,730  
   
 
 

19


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

13. Segment Information (Continued)

        The following is a reconciliation of the Company's net income to Adjusted EBITDA:

 
  Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
  2008
  2007
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)

 
Net income   $ 7,870   $ 7,050  
  Income tax expense     4,480     4,980  
  Interest expense     14,760     18,860  
  Depreciation and amortization     10,750     9,840  
   
 
 
Adjusted EBITDA, total company   $ 37,860   $ 40,730  
  Adjusted EBITDA, discontinued operations     240     (190 )
   
 
 
Adjusted EBITDA, continuing operations   $ 37,620   $ 40,920  
   
 
 

14. Equity Awards

        The TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan (the "2006 Plan") provides for the issuance of equity-based incentives in various forms for up to an aggregate of 1,200,000 shares of the Company's common stock, of which up to 500,000 shares may be granted as incentive stock options. In general, stock options and stock appreciation rights have a fungible ratio of one-to-one (one granted option/appreciation right counts as one share against the aggregate available to issue), while other forms of equity grants, including restricted shares of common stock, have a fungible ratio of two-to-one. No shares issued under the 2006 Plan were excercisable as of December 31, 2007.

        In September 2007, the Company granted 390,610 restricted shares of its common stock to certain employees, which vest ratably over three years from date of grant but were contingent upon certain service and performance conditions. Of the 390,610 restricted shares granted, 145,750 shares were subject to a service provision, where the only condition to the share vesting was that the employee remained with the Company for the vesting period. The remaining 244,860 shares granted were subject to both a service provision (same as above) and a performance provision, where these shares would vest in the same manner as the service provision-only grants if the Company attained and/or exceeded a certain EBITDA target for the year ended December 31, 2007, or would otherwise be cancelled. The Company did not meet or exceed this EBITDA target, resulting in the cancelation of 244,860 restricted shares of its common stock. The Company recognized approximately $0.3 million of stock-based compensation expense related to the 2006 Plan during the three months ended March 31, 2008.

20


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

14. Equity Awards (Continued)

        Information related to restricted shares at March 31, 3008 is as follows:

 
  Number of Unvested Restricted Shares
  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
  Average Remaining Vesting Period (Years)
  Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at January 1, 2008   142,145   $ 12.26          
  Granted                
  Exercised                
  Cancelled                
   
 
 
 
Outstanding at March 31, 2008   142,145   $ 12.26   1.4   $ 749,104
   
 
 
 

        As of March 31, 2008, there was approximately $1.1 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted shares.

        The TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan (the "2002 Plan"), provides for the issuance of equity-based incentives in various forms, of which a total of 2,022,000 stock options have been approved for issuance under the Plan. As of March 31, 2008, the Company has 1,779,873 stock options outstanding, each of which may be used to purchase one share of the Company's common stock. The options have a 10-year life and the exercise prices range from $20 to $23. Eighty percent of the options vest ratably over three years from the date of grant, while the remaining twenty percent vest after seven years from the date of grant or on an accelerated basis over three years based upon achievement of specified performance targets, as defined in the Plan. The options become exercisable upon the later of: (1) the normal vesting schedule as described above, or (2) upon the occurrence of a qualified public equity offering as defined in the Plan, one half of the vested options become exercisable 180 days following such public equity offering (November 14, 2007), and the other one half of vested options become exercisable on the first anniversary following consummation of such public offering (May 14, 2008). As of March 31, 2008, 871,695 stock options were exercisable under the 2002 Plan.

        The Company accounts for these stock options under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123R (SFAS No. 123R), "Share-Based Payment," using the Modified Prospective Application ("MPA") method, which requires all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, to be recognized in the financial statements based on their fair values.

        The Company recognized stock-based compensation expense of $0.03 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The stock-based compensation expense is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statements of operations. The fair value of options which vested during each of the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 was $0.3 million. As of March 31, 2008, the Company had $0.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options that is expected to be recorded over a weighted average period of 1.5 years.

        There were no options issued by the Company during the first three months of 2008 or 2007.

21


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

14. Equity Awards (Continued)

        Information related to stock options at March 31, 2008, is as follows:

 
  Number of Options
  Weighted Average Option Price
  Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)
  Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at January 1, 2008   2,000,481   $ 20.89          
  Granted                
  Exercised                
  Cancelled   (220,608 )   20.13          
   
 
 
 
Outstanding at March 31, 2008   1,779,873   $ 20.98   5.4   $
   
 
 
 

15. Earnings per Share

        The Company reports earnings per share in accordance with Statement of Financial Standards No. 128, "Earnings per Share." Basic and diluted earnings per share amounts were computed using weighted average shares outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Options to purchase approximately 1,779,873 and 2,007,268 shares of common stock were outstanding at March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, but were excluded from the computation of net income per share because to do so would have been anti-dilutive for the periods presented.

16. Defined Benefit Plans

        Net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs for TriMas' defined benefit pension plans and postretirement benefit plans, covering foreign employees, union hourly employees and certain salaried employees include the following components for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007:

 
  Pension Benefit
  Postretirement Benefit
 
  Three months ended March 31,
 
  2008
  2007
  2008
  2007
 
  (dollars in thousands)

Service costs   $ 140   $ 140   $ 20   $ 20
Interest costs     420     410     100     110
Expected return on plan assets     (460 )   (490 )      
Amortization of net loss     80     110     10     20
   
 
 
 
Net periodic benefit cost   $ 180   $ 170   $ 130   $ 150
   
 
 
 

        The Company contributed approximately $0.5 million to its defined benefit pension plans during the three months ended March 31, 2008. The Company expects to contribute approximately $1.9 million to its defined benefit pension plans for the full year 2008.

22


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

17. New Accounting Pronouncements

        In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 141(R), "Business Combinations," which revises the current accounting practices for business combinations. Significant changes as a result of issuance of SFAS No. 141(R) include a revised definition of a business, expensing of acquisition-related transaction costs, and a change in how acquirers measure consideration, identifiable assets, liabilities assumed and goodwill acquired in a business combination. SFAS No. 141(R) is effective for business combinations occurring in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and may not be retroactively applied. There is no impact on the Company's current consolidated financial statements as a result of this pronouncement.

        In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements," which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. For financial assets and liabilities, this statement is effective for fiscal periods beginning after November 15, 2007 and does not require new fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB released Staff Position No. 157-2, which delayed the effective date of SFAS No. 157 to fiscal years ending after November 15, 2008 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the Company's financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually), which was effective for the Company effective January 1, 2008. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.

        In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115," which permits entities to choose to measure certain financial instruments and other items at fair value. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, including interim periods within that fiscal year. The Company did not elect the fair value option for any of its existing financial instruments as of March 31, 2008 and the Company has made no determination whether or not it will elect this option for financial instruments it may acquire in the future.

        In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements," which establishes requirements for identification, presentation and disclosure of noncontrolling interests, to and to account for such non-controlling interests as a separate component of stockholder's equity. SFAS No. 160 is effective prospectively for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2008. However, the presentation and disclosure requirements are required to be retrospectively applied to comparative financial statements. There is no impact on the Company's current consolidated financial statements as a result of this pronouncement.

        In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, "Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133" ("SFAS No. 161"). SFAS No. 161 amends and expands the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 133 to provide users of financial statements with an enhanced understanding of derivative instruments, how they are accounted for and their impact on a company's financial position and performance. SFAS No. 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early application encouraged. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the adoption of SFAS No. 161 on its consolidated financial statements.

23


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

18. Subsequent Events

        The Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement effective in April 2008 with a bank to fix the LIBOR-based variable portion of its interest rate on $125.0 million notional amount of its term loan facility at 2.73%. The swap extends through October 2009. The Company expects this cash flow hedge to be "effective" as defined in SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities."

        On April 2, 2008, the Company granted 348,000 restricted shares of its common stock to certain employees, which vest ratably over three years from date of grant but are contingent upon certain service and performance conditions. Of the 348,000 restricted shares granted, 99,500 shares are subject to a service provision, where the only condition to the share vesting is that the employee remains with the Company for the vesting period. The remaining 248,500 shares granted are subject to both a service provision (same as above) and a performance provision. These shares vest in the same manner as the service provision grants only if the Company attains and/or exceeds a certain EBITDA target for the year ended December 31, 2008.

19. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information

        Under an indenture dated September 6, 2002, TriMas Corporation ("Parent"), issued 97/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2012 in a total principal amount of $437.8 million (face value). These Notes are guaranteed by substantially all of the Company's domestic subsidiaries ("Guarantor Subsidiaries"). All of the Guarantor Subsidiaries are 100% owned by the Parent and their guarantee is full, unconditional, joint and several. The Company's non-domestic subsidiaries and TSPC, Inc. have not guaranteed the Notes ("Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries"). The Guarantor Subsidiaries have also guaranteed amounts outstanding under the Company's Credit Facility.

        The accompanying supplemental guarantor condensed, consolidating financial information is presented using the equity method of accounting for all periods presented. Under this method, investments in subsidiaries are recorded at cost and adjusted for the Company's share in the subsidiaries' cumulative results of operations, capital contributions and distributions and other changes in equity. Elimination entries relate primarily to the elimination of investments in subsidiaries and associated intercompany balances and transactions.

24


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

19. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Continued)

Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidating Balance Sheet
(dollars in thousands)

 
  March 31, 2008
 
  Parent
  Guarantor
  Non-
Guarantor

  Eliminations
  Consolidated Total
Assets                              
Current assets:                              
  Cash and cash equivalents   $   $ 330   $ 5,180   $   $ 5,510
  Trade receivables, net         75,800     30,590         106,390
  Receivables, intercompany         4,080         (4,080 )  
  Inventories, net         163,100     29,840         192,940
  Deferred income taxes         18,040     820         18,860
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets         5,560     1,410         6,970
  Assets of discontinued operations held for sale         2,990             2,990
   
 
 
 
 
    Total current assets         269,900     67,840     (4,080 )   333,660
Investments in subsidiaries     558,910     154,070         (712,980 )  
Property and equipment, net         139,670     57,550         197,220
Goodwill         292,040     87,870         379,910
Intangibles and other assets     9,400     225,920     6,400     (3,070 )   238,650
   
 
 
 
 
    Total assets   $ 568,310   $ 1,081,600   $ 219,660   $ (720,130 ) $ 1,149,440
   
 
 
 
 

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Current liabilities:                              
  Current maturities, long-term debt   $   $ 2,680   $ 6,480   $   $ 9,160
  Accounts payable, trade         115,790     19,150         134,940
  Accounts payable, intercompany             4,080     (4,080 )  
  Accrued liabilities     9,730     46,940     9,370         66,040
  Liabilities of discontinued operations         1,360             1,360
   
 
 
 
 
    Total current liabilities     9,730     166,770     39,080     (4,080 )   211,500
Long-term debt     337,000     253,550     16,740         607,290
Deferred income taxes         68,800     8,170     (3,070 )   73,900
Other long-term liabilities         33,570     1,600         35,170
   
 
 
 
 
    Total liabilities     346,730     522,690     65,590     (7,150 )   927,860
   
 
 
 
 
    Total shareholders' equity     221,580     558,910     154,070     (712,980 )   221,580
   
 
 
 
 
    Total liabilities and shareholders' equity   $ 568,310   $ 1,081,600   $ 219,660   $ (720,130 ) $ 1,149,440
   
 
 
 
 

25


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

19. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Continued)

Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidating Balance Sheet
(dollars in thousands)

 
  December 31, 2007
 
  Parent
  Guarantor
  Non-
Guarantor

  Eliminations
  Consolidated Total
Assets                              
Current assets:                              
  Cash and cash equivalents   $   $ 550   $ 4,250   $   $ 4,800
  Trade receivables, net         69,760     19,610         89,370
  Receivables, intercompany             1,700     (1,700 )  
  Inventories, net         162,800     27,790         190,590
  Deferred income taxes         17,960     900         18,860
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets         5,870     1,140         7,010
  Assets of discontinued operations held for sale         3,330             3,330
   
 
 
 
 
    Total current assets         260,270     55,390     (1,700 )   313,960
Investments in subsidiaries     528,420     139,880         (668,300 )  
Property and equipment, net         139,580     55,540         195,120
Goodwill         291,990     85,350         377,340
Intangibles and other assets     18,430     230,430     4,430     (11,720 )   241,570
   
 
 
 
 
    Total assets   $ 546,850   $ 1,062,150   $ 200,710   $ (681,720 ) $ 1,127,990
   
 
 
 
 

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Current liabilities:                              
  Current maturities, long-term debt   $   $ 3,300   $ 5,090   $   $ 8,390
  Accounts payable, trade         102,920     18,940         121,860
  Accounts payable, intercompany         1,700         (1,700 )  
  Accrued liabilities     1,390     58,820     11,620         71,830
  Liabilities of discontinued operations         1,450             1,450
   
 
 
 
 
    Total current liabilities     1,390     168,190     35,650     (1,700 )   203,530
Long-term debt     336,970     254,210     16,420         607,600
Deferred income taxes         77,890     7,110     (11,720 )   73,280
Other long-term liabilities         33,440     1,650         35,090
   
 
 
 
 
    Total liabilities     338,360     533,730     60,830     (13,420 )   919,500
   
 
 
 
 
    Total shareholders' equity     208,490     528,420     139,880     (668,300 )   208,490
   
 
 
 
 
    Total liabilities and shareholders' equity   $ 546,850   $ 1,062,150   $ 200,710   $ (681,720 ) $ 1,127,990
   
 
 
 
 

26


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

19. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Continued)

Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidating Statement of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

 
  Three Months Ended March 31, 2008
 
 
  Parent
  Guarantor
  Non-
Guarantor

  Eliminations
  Total
 
Net sales   $   $ 231,690   $ 59,890   $ (12,020 ) $ 279,560  
Cost of sales         (172,020 )   (46,220 )   12,020     (206,220 )
   
 
 
 
 
 
  Gross profit         59,670     13,670         73,340  
Selling, general and administrative expenses         (39,030 )   (6,090 )       (45,120 )
Gain (loss) on dispositions of property and equipment         (170 )   60         (110 )
   
 
 
 
 
 
    Operating profit         20,470     7,640         28,110  
Other income (expense), net:                                
  Interest expense     (8,750 )   (5,520 )   (440 )       (14,710 )
  Other, net         630     (1,820 )       (1,190 )
   
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before income tax (expense) benefit and equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries     (8,750 )   15,580     5,380         12,210  
Income tax (expense) benefit     3,070     (5,770 )   (1,720 )       (4,420 )
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries     13,550     3,660         (17,210 )    
   
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations     7,870     13,470     3,660     (17,210 )   7,790  
Income from discontinued operations         80             80  
   
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)   $ 7,870   $ 13,550   $ 3,660   $ (17,210 ) $ 7,870  
   
 
 
 
 
 

27


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

19. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Continued)

Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidating Statement of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

 
  Three Months Ended March 31, 2007
 
 
  Parent
  Guarantor
  Non-
Guarantor

  Eliminations
  Total
 
Net sales   $   $ 239,850   $ 60,700   $ (16,110 ) $ 284,440  
Cost of sales         (172,530 )   (50,020 )   16,110     (206,440 )
   
 
 
 
 
 
  Gross profit         67,320     10,680         78,000  
Selling, general and administrative expenses         (40,100 )   (5,440 )       (45,540 )
Loss on dispositions of property and equipment         (140 )   (30 )       (170 )
   
 
 
 
 
 
    Operating profit         27,080     5,210         32,290  
Other income (expense), net:                                
  Interest expense     (10,890 )   (7,120 )   (850 )       (18,860 )
  Other, net     4,320     (5,480 )           (1,160 )
   
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before income tax (expense) benefit and equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries     (6,570 )   14,480     4,360         12,270  
Income tax (expense) benefit     1,800     (5,010 )   (1,310 )       (4,520 )
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries     11,820     3,050         (14,870 )    
   
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations     7,050     12,520     3,050     (14,870 )   7,750  
Loss from discontinued operations         (700 )           (700 )
   
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)   $ 7,050   $ 11,820   $ 3,050   $ (14,870 ) $ 7,050  
   
 
 
 
 
 

28


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

19. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Continued)

Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
(dollars in thousands)

 
  Three Months Ended March 31, 2008
 
 
  Parent
  Guarantor
  Non-
Guarantor

  Eliminations
  Total
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:                                
    Net cash provided by operating activities   $   $ 8,020   $ 1,670   $   $ 9,690  
   
 
 
 
 
 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Capital expenditures         (4,780 )   (1,410 )       (6,190 )
  Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired             (2,400 )       (2,400 )
   
 
 
 
 
 
      Net cash used for investing
activities
        (4,780 )   (3,810 )       (8,590 )
   
 
 
 
 
 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Repayments of borrowings on senior credit facilities         (650 )   (1,430 )       (2,080 )
  Proceeds from borrowings on revolving credit facilities         152,980     3,600         156,580  
  Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities         (153,600 )   (1,290 )       (154,890 )
  Intercompany transfers (to) from subsidiaries         (2,190 )   2,190          
   
 
 
 
 
 
      Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities         (3,460 )   3,070         (390 )
   
 
 
 
 
 

Cash and Cash Equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Increase (decrease) for the period         (220 )   930         710  
    At beginning of period         550     4,250         4,800  
   
 
 
 
 
 
    At end of period   $   $ 330   $ 5,180   $   $ 5,510  
   
 
 
 
 
 

29


TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

19. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Continued)

Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
(dollars in thousands)

 
  Three Months Ended March 31, 2007
 
 
  Parent
  Guarantor
  Non-
Guarantor

  Eliminations
  Total
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:                                
  Net cash provided by operating activites   $   $ 24,430   $ 2,510   $   $ 26,940  
   
 
 
 
 
 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Capital expenditures         (4,000 )   (2,580 )       (6,580 )
  Acquisition of leased assets         (12,900 )           (12,900 )
  Net proceeds from disposition of businesses and other assets         4,000             4,000  
   
 
 
 
 
 
      Net cash used for investing
activities
        (12,900 )   (2,580 )       (15,480 )
   
 
 
 
 
 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Repayments of borrowings on senior credit facilities         (650 )   (210 )       (860 )
  Proceeds from borrowings on revolving credit facilities         142,230     1,920         144,150  
  Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities         (151,300 )   (3,150 )       (154,450 )
  Intercompany transfers (to) from subsidiaries         (1,890 )   1,890          
   
 
 
 
 
 
      Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities         (11,610 )   450         (11,160 )
   
 
 
 
 
 

Cash and Cash Equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Increase (decrease) for the period         (80 )   380         300  
    At beginning of period         460     3,140         3,600  
   
 
 
 
 
 
    At end of period   $   $ 380   $ 3,520   $   $ 3,900  
   
 
 
 
 
 

30


Item 2.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

        The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition contains forward-looking statements regarding industry outlook and our expectations regarding the performance of our business. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties described under the heading "Forward Looking Statements," at the beginning of this report. Our actual results may differ materially from those contained in or implied by any forward-looking statements. You should read the following discussion together with the Company's reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Introduction

        We are an industrial manufacturer of highly engineered products serving niche markets in a diverse range of commercial, industrial and consumer applications. We currently have five operating segments: Packaging Systems, Energy Products, Industrial Specialties, RV & Trailer Products and Recreational Accessories. In reviewing our financial results, consideration should be given to certain critical events, particularly our initial public offering ("IPO") in May 2007 and expenses related thereto, and previous consolidation, integration and restructuring efforts in several of our business operations.

        Key Factors and Risks Affecting our Reported Results.    Critical factors affecting our ability to succeed include: our ability to successfully pursue organic growth through product development, cross-selling and extending product-line offerings, our ability to quickly and cost-effectively introduce new products; our ability to acquire and integrate companies or products that will supplement existing product lines, add new distribution channels, expand our geographic coverage or enable us to better absorb overhead costs; our ability to manage our cost structure more efficiently through improved supply base management, internal sourcing and/or purchasing of materials, selective outsourcing and/or purchasing of support functions, working capital management, and greater leverage of our administrative and overhead functions. If we are unable to do any of the foregoing successfully, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted.

        Our businesses and results of operations depend upon general economic conditions and we serve some customers in highly cyclical industries that are highly competitive and themselves adversely impacted by unfavorable economic conditions. There is some seasonality in the business of our Recreational Accessories and RV & Trailer Products operating segments as well. Sales of towing and trailering products within these operating segments are generally stronger in the second and third quarters, as trailer original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), distributors and retailers acquire product for the spring and summer selling seasons. No other operating segment experiences significant seasonal fluctuation in its business. We do not consider sales order backlog to be a material factor in our business. A growing portion of our sales may be derived from international sources, which exposes us to certain risks, including currency risks. The demand for some of our products, particularly in the Recreational Accessories and RV & Trailer Products segments, is influenced by consumer confidence, which could be negatively impacted by increased costs to consumers as a result of an uncertain credit market and interest rate environment and energy costs, among other things.

        We are sensitive to price movements in our raw materials supply base. Our largest material purchases are for steel, copper, aluminum, polyethylene and other resins and energy. Historically, we have experienced increasing costs of steel and resin and have worked with our suppliers to manage cost pressures and disruptions in supply. We have also initiated pricing programs to pass increased steel, copper, aluminum and resin costs to customers. Although we may experience delays in our ability to implement price increases, we generally are able to recover such increased costs. Although there have been no significant disruptions in the supply of steel since 2005, we may experience disruptions in supply in the future and we may not be able to pass along higher costs associated with such disruptions to our customers in the form of price increases. We will continue to take actions as necessary to

31



manage risks associated with increasing steel or other raw material costs. However, such increased costs may adversely impact our earnings.

        We report shipping and handling expenses associated with Recreational Accessories' sales distribution network as an element of selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statement of operations. As such, gross margins for the Recreational Accessories segment may not be comparable to other companies which include all costs related to their distribution network in cost of sales.

        We have substantial debt, interest and lease payment requirements that may restrict our future operations and impair our ability to meet our obligations and, in a rising interest rate environment, our performance may be adversely affected by our degree of leverage.

        Key Indicators of Performance.    In evaluating our business, our management considers Adjusted EBITDA as a key indicator of financial operating performance and as a measure of cash generating capability. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change, interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, non-cash asset and goodwill impairment charges and write-offs and non-cash losses on sale-leaseback of property and equipment. In evaluating Adjusted EBITDA, our management deems it important to consider the quality of our underlying earnings by separately identifying certain costs undertaken to improve our results, such as costs related to consolidating facilities and businesses in an effort to eliminate duplicative costs or achieve efficiencies, costs related to integrating acquisitions and restructuring costs related to expense reduction efforts. Although we may undertake new consolidation, restructuring and integration efforts in the future as a result of our acquisition activity, our management separately considers these costs in evaluating underlying business performance. Caution must be exercised in considering these items as they include substantially (but not necessarily entirely) cash costs and there can be no assurance that we will ultimately realize the benefits of these efforts. Moreover, even if the anticipated benefits are realized, they may be offset by other business performance or general economic issues.

        Management believes that consideration of Adjusted EBITDA together with a careful review of our results reported under GAAP is the best way to analyze our ability to service and/or incur indebtedness, as we are a highly leveraged company. We use Adjusted EBITDA as a key performance measure because we believe it facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period and company to company by excluding potential differences caused by variations in capital structures (affecting interest expense), tax positions (such as the impact on periods or companies of changes in effective tax rates or net operating losses), and the impact of purchase accounting and FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 (SFAS No. 142), "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" (affecting depreciation and amortization expense). Because Adjusted EBITDA facilitates internal comparisons of our historical operating performance on a more consistent basis, we also use Adjusted EBITDA for business planning purposes, to incent and compensate our management personnel, in measuring our performance relative to that of our competitors and in evaluating acquisition opportunities.

        In addition, we believe Adjusted EBITDA and similar measures are widely used by investors, securities analysts, ratings agencies and other interested parties as a measure of financial performance and debt-service capabilities. Our use of Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. Some of these limitations are:

32


        Because of these limitations, Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as a measure of discretionary cash available to us to invest in the growth of our Company. We compensate for these limitations by relying primarily on our GAAP results and using Adjusted EBITDA only supplementally. We carefully review our operating profit margins (operating profit as a percentage of net sales) at a segment level, which are discussed in detail in our year-to-year comparison of operating results.

        The following is a reconciliation of our net income to Adjusted EBITDA and cash flows from operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007:

 
  Three months ended
March 31,

 
 
  2008
  2007
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)

 
Net income   $ 7,870   $ 7,050  
  Income tax expense     4,480     4,980  
  Interest expense     14,760     18,860  
  Depreciation and amortization     10,750     9,840  
   
 
 
Adjusted EBITDA, total company   $ 37,860   $ 40,730  
  Interest paid     (5,930 )   (6,630 )
  Taxes paid     (2,390 )   (2,260 )
  Loss on dispositions of property and equipment     110     380  
  Receivables sales and securitization, net     18,830     28,750  
  Net change in working capital     (38,790 )   (34,030 )
   
 
 
Cash flows provided by operating activities   $ 9,690   $ 26,940  
   
 
 

        The following details certain items relating to our consolidation, restructuring and integration efforts that are included in the determination of net income under GAAP and are not added back to net income in determining Adjusted EBITDA, but that we would consider in evaluating the quality of our Adjusted EBITDA:

 
  Three months ended March 31,
 
  2008
  2007
 
  (dollars in thousands)

Facility and business consolidation costs(a)   $ 720   $ 110

33


Segment Information and Supplemental Analysis

        The following table summarizes financial information for our five current operating segments for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007:

 
  Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
  2008
  As a Percentage
of Net Sales

  2007
  As a Percentage
of Net Sales

 
 
  (dollars in thousands)

 
Net Sales:                      
Packaging Systems   $ 54,570   19.5 % $ 53,750   18.9 %
Energy Products     48,800   17.5 %   41,580   14.6 %
Industrial Specialties     53,470   19.1 %   50,590   17.8 %
RV & Trailer Products     50,670   18.1 %   53,410   18.8 %
Recreational Accessories     72,050   25.8 %   85,110   29.9 %
   
 
 
 
 
  Total   $ 279,560   100.0 % $ 284,440   100.0 %
   
 
 
 
 

Gross Profit:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Packaging Systems   $ 15,930   29.2 % $ 16,240   30.2 %
Energy Products     14,530   29.8 %   12,620   30.4 %
Industrial Specialties     15,840   29.6 %   15,450   30.5 %
RV & Trailer Products     9,070   17.9 %   12,510   23.4 %
Recreational Accessories     17,970   24.9 %   21,180   24.9 %
   
 
 
 
 
  Total   $ 73,340   26.2 % $ 78,000   27.4 %
   
 
 
 
 

Selling, General and Administrative:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Packaging Systems   $ 7,080   13.0 % $ 7,120   13.2 %
Energy Products     6,610   13.5 %   6,200   14.9 %
Industrial Specialties     4,670   8.7 %   4,220   8.3 %
RV & Trailer Products     6,300   12.4 %   6,000   11.2 %
Recreational Accessories     15,240   21.2 %   16,060   18.9 %
Corporate expenses and management fees     5,220   N/A     5,940   N/A  
   
 
 
 
 
  Total   $ 45,120   16.1 % $ 45,540   16.0 %
   
 
 
 
 

Operating Profit:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Packaging Systems   $ 8,880   16.3 % $ 9,000   16.7 %
Energy Products     7,910   16.2 %   6,410   15.4 %
Industrial Specialties     11,160   20.9 %   11,220   22.2 %
RV & Trailer Products     2,750   5.4 %   6,460   12.1 %
Recreational Accessories     2,630   3.7 %   5,140   6.0 %
Corporate expenses and management fees     (5,220 ) N/A     (5,940 ) N/A  
   
 
 
 
 
  Total   $ 28,110   10.1 % $ 32,290   11.4 %
   
 
 
 
 

Adjusted EBITDA:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Packaging Systems   $ 12,890   23.6 % $ 12,290   22.9 %
Energy Products     8,630   17.7 %   7,100   17.1 %
Industrial Specialties     12,640   23.6 %   12,150   24.0 %
RV & Trailer Products     4,530   8.9 %   8,520   16.0 %
Recreational Accessories     5,050   7.0 %   7,740   9.1 %
Corporate expenses and management fees     (6,120 ) N/A     (6,880 ) N/A  
   
 
 
 
 
  Subtotal from continuing operations     37,620   13.5 %   40,920   14.4 %
   
 
 
 
 
Discontinued operations     240   N/A     (190 ) N/A  
   
 
 
 
 
  Total company   $ 37,860   13.5 % $ 40,730   14.3 %
   
 
 
 
 

34


        The principal factors impacting us during the three months ended March 31, 2008 compared with the three months ended March 31, 2007, were:


Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 Compared with Three Months Ended March 31, 2007

        Overall, net sales decreased $4.9 million, or approximately 1.7%, for the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared with the three months ended March 31, 2007. Net sales were favorably impacted by approximately $5.6 million as a result of currency exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were positively impacted by stronger foreign currencies. Packaging Systems' net sales increased $0.8 million, or approximately 1.5%, primarily as a result of favorable currency exchange and increases in sales of our ring, lever and closure products, which were offset by lower sales of our specialty tapes, laminates and insulation products. Net sales within Energy Products increased $7.2 million, or 17.4%, as our specialty gasket business benefited from continued high levels of activity at petroleum refineries and petrochemical facilities and our engine business benefitted from higher natural gas prices and increased engine demand. Net sales within Industrial Specialties increased $2.9 million, or approximately 5.7%, due to continued strong demand in our aerospace fastener business and the impact of our recently acquired medical device business. Net sales within RV & Trailer Products decreased $2.7 million, or approximately 5.1%, as this segment experienced reduced sales across all market channels, due to declining end market demand and higher customer inventory levels. Recreational Accessories' net sales decreased $13.1 million, or approximately $15.3%, primarily as a result of continued soft demand in our installer and distributor customer groups and significant new programs in the first quarter of 2007 for which there were no similar new program introductions in the first quarter of 2008.

        Gross profit margin (gross profit as a percentage of sales) approximated 26.2% and 27.4% for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Packaging Systems' gross profit margin decreased to 29.2% for the three months ended March 31, 2008, from 30.2% for the three months ended March 31, 2007, as this segment experienced a less favorable product sales mix. Energy Products' gross profit margin decreased to 29.8% for the three months ended March 31, 2008, from 30.4% for the three months ended March 31, 2007, due to increased facility costs associated with the move of a branch location within the specialty gasket business. Gross profit margin within Industrial Specialties decreased to 29.6% for the three months ended March 31, 2008, from 30.5% in the three months ended March 31, 2007, due principally increased operating costs and lower absorption of fixed costs as a result of lower production in certain businesses within this segment. RV & Trailer Products' gross

35



profit margin decreased to 17.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2008, from 23.4% for the three months ended March 31, 2007, due to a less favorable product sales mix and lower absorption of fixed costs. Recreational Accessories' gross profit margin remained flat at 24.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, as this segment was able to hold margins despite the loss of sales volumes due to cost savings as a result of the closure of the Huntsville, Ontario, Canada facility and more favorably negotiated commodity pricing as compared with the prior year.

        Operating profit margin (operating profit as a percentage of sales) approximated 10.1% and 11.4% for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Operating profit decreased $4.2 million, or 12.9%, to $28.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008, from $32.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007. Packaging Systems' operating profit margin was 16.3% and 16.7% in the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Operating profit decreased $0.1 million, or approximately 1.3%, for the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared with the three months ended March 31, 2007, as the favorable impact of currency exchange was more than offset by lower sales volumes and a less favorable product sales mix. Energy Products' operating profit margin was 16.2% and 15.4% for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Operating profit increased $1.5 million, or approximately 23.4%, for the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared with the three months ended March 31, 2007, due primarily to higher sales levels in our both our specialty gasket and engine businesses. Industrial Specialties' operating profit margin was 20.9% and 22.2% for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Operating profit was approximately flat in the three months ended March 31, 2008 as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007, as the higher sales levels between years were essentially offset by lower absorption of fixed costs, primarily in our specialty fittings business, and increased sales investments in our aerospace fastener business. RV & Trailer Products' operating profit margin declined to 5.4% for the quarter ended March 31, 2008, from 12.1% for the quarter ended March 31, 2007. Operating profit decreased $3.7 million in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared with the three months ended March 31, 2007, due primarily to lower sales volumes, a less favorable product sales mix and lower absorption of fixed costs. Recreational Accessories' operating profit margin was 3.7% and 6.0% in the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Operating profit increased $2.5 million in the three months ended March 31, 2008, compared with the three months ended March 31, 2007, primarily due to the lower sales volumes and lower absorption of fixed costs, which were partially offset by cost savings projects and the savings realized from the close of the Huntsville, Ontario facility.

        Adjusted EBITDA margin (Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of sales) approximated 13.5% and 14.4% for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Adjusted EBITDA decreased $3.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007. After consideration of approximately $0.9 million of increased depreciation expense primarily as the result of the acquisition of previously leased assets with the use of proceeds from our initial public offering in May 2007, the change in Adjusted EBITDA is consistent with the change in operating profit between years.

        Packaging Systems.    Net sales increased $0.8 million, or approximately 1.5%, to $54.6 million in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $53.8 million in the three months ended March 31, 2007. Overall, sales increased approximately $1.5 million due to currency exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were positively impacted as a result of stronger foreign currencies. In addition, sales of our specialty dispensing products and new product introductions increased by approximately $0.7 million in the three months ended March 31, 2008 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007. Sales of our industrial closures, rings and levers increased by approximately $0.1 million in the three months ended March 31, 2008 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007.These increases in sales were partially offset by decreases in sales of our laminates and

36



insulation products of approximately $1.5 million as a result of declining levels of commercial construction activity.

        Packaging Systems' gross profit decreased approximately $0.3 million to $15.9 million, or 29.2% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $16.2 million, or 30.2% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. The decrease in gross profit between years is primarily attributed to lower sales volumes in our laminates and insulation products and a less favorable product sales mix, partially offset by favorable currency exchange.

        Packaging Systems' selling, general and administrative expenses remained flat at $7.1 million for each of the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, and approximated 13.0% of sales in the three months ended March 31, 2008, and 13.2% of sales in the three months ended March 31, 2007.

        Packaging Systems' operating profit decreased $0.1 million to $8.9 million, or 16.3% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $9.0 million, or 16.7% of sales, in three months ended March 31, 2007, as the favorable impact of currency exchange was more than offset by the lower sales volumes in our laminates and insulation products and a less favorable product sales mix.

        Packaging Systems' Adjusted EBITDA increased $0.6 million to $12.9 million, or 23.6% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $12.3 million, or 22.9% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. After consideration of approximately $0.6 million of increased depreciation expense primarily as the result of the acquisition of previously leased assets with the use of proceeds from our initial public offering in May 2007, the change in Adjusted EBITDA is consistent with the change in operating profit between years.

        Energy Products.    Net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2008 increased $7.2 million, or 17.4%, to $48.8 million, as compared to $41.6 million in the three months ended March 31, 2007. Sales of specialty gaskets and related fastening hardware increased approximately $4.1 million as a result of increased demand from existing customers due to continued high levels of turn-around activity at petrochemical refineries and increased demand for replacement parts as refineries continue to operate at capacity. Sales of slow speed and compressor engines and related products increased approximately $3.1 million, primarily due to increased engine demand in the Canadian market, driven by completion of previously drilled wells and replenishment of engine inventory levels in the distribution channel. While current engine demand has increased, natural gas drilling activity in Canada continues to lag behind the levels in the first three months of 2007.

        Gross profit within Energy Products increased $1.9 million to $14.5 million, or 29.8% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $12.6 million, or 30.4% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. Gross profit increased approximately $2.2 million as a result of the increase in sales levels between years. This volume-related increase is partially offset by increased facility costs associated with the move to a new location for one of our specialty gasket branches and costs related thereto.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses within Energy Products increased $0.4 million to $6.6 million, or 13.5% of net sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $6.2 million, or 14.9% of net sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. This increase was due to increased compensation and commission expenses in support of our sales growth. Energy Products achieved higher sales levels with only a modest increase in selling expenses due to the relatively fixed cost nature of this segment's existing distribution network.

        Overall, operating profit within Energy Products increased $1.5 million to $7.9 million, or 16.2% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $6.4 million, or 15.4% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007, due principally to higher sales volumes, which were partially offset by the impact of investments made in infrastructure in 2007 in support of our growth initiatives.

37


        Energy Products' Adjusted EBITDA increased $1.5 million to $8.6 million, or 17.7% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $7.1 million, or 17.1% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007, consistent with the improvement in operating profit between years.

        Industrial Specialties.    Net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2008 increased $2.9 million, or 5.7%, to $53.5 million, as compared to $50.6 million in the three months ended March 31, 2007. Net sales increased 13.4% in our aerospace fastener business, as we continued to benefit from market share gains as well as strong overall market demand. Sales in our industrial cylinder and precision cutting tools businesses improved slightly by 0.9% and 1.5%, respectively, as sales volumes continued at consistent rates even though demand in these businesses' industrial end markets was somewhat softer than the prior year. Sales within our specialty fittings business declined approximately 9.8% in the first three months of 2008 as compared to the first three months of 2007 due to weak domestic automotive market demand. Net sales decreased 41.0% in our defense business, due primarily to a large inventory build of cartridge cases by our customers in the first three months of 2007 that did not recur in the first three months of 2008. Finally, this segment benefited from approximately $2.9 million of sales from our medical device business, which was acquired in the third quarter of 2007.

        Gross profit within Industrial Specialties increased $0.4 million to $15.8 million, or 29.6% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, from $15.4 million, or 30.5% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. Gross profit increased approximately $0.9 million as a result of the increase in sales levels between years. This increase in gross profit was partially offset by increased operating costs in our precision cutting tool and specialty fittings businesses, due primarily to lower absorption of fixed costs as a result of lower production and/or sales levels.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $0.5 million to $4.7 million, or 8.7% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $4.2 million, or 8.3% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007, as this segment increased investment in sales resources and product development, primarily in the aerospace fastener business.

        Operating profit was flat at $11.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, as the benefit of higher sales levels between years was offset by lower absorption of fixed costs, primarily in our precision cutting tool and specialty fittings businesses and our increased investment in sales resources and product development in our aerospace fastener business.

        Industrial Specialties' Adjusted EBITDA increased $0.5 million to $12.6 million, or 23.6% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $12.1 million, or 24.0% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. After consideration of approximately $0.5 million of increased depreciation expense primarily as the result of the acquisition of previously leased assets with the use of proceeds from our initial public offering in May 2007, the change in Adjusted EBITDA is consistent with the increase in operating profit between years.

        RV & Trailer Products.    Net sales decreased $2.7 million to $50.7 million in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $53.4 million in the three months ended March 31, 2007. Net sales were favorably impacted by approximately $2.2 million of currency exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were positively impacted as a result of a stronger Australian dollar. This segment also benefited from increased sales in our Australian legacy business and sales from Parkside Towbars, which was acquired in the January 2008. However, these increases were more than offset by a decline in North American sales of approximately $8 million as a result of continued soft demand in certain end markets due to the current uncertain economic conditions and higher customer inventory levels across the majority of the U.S. market channels.

        RV & Trailer Products' gross profit decreased $3.4 million to $9.1 million, or 17.9% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, from approximately $12.5 million, or 23.4% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. Of the decline in gross profit between years, approximately $0.6 million

38



is attributed to the decline in sales between periods. The remaining decrease in gross profit is due to an unfavorable product sales mix, with our higher-margin electrical products representing a lower percentage of total sales, and as a result of lower absorption of fixed costs given lower production and sales levels in our U.S. operations.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $0.3 million to $6.3 million, or 12.4% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $6.0 million, or 11.2% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007, due primarily to increased spending in our Australian operations in support of current sales growth and future sales initiatives.

        RV & Trailer Products' operating profit declined $3.7 million, to approximately $2.8 million, or 5.4% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, from $6.5 million, or 12.1% of net sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. The decline in operating profit between years is primarily due to lower sales, an unfavorable product sales mix and lower absorption of fixed costs.

        RV & Trailer Products' Adjusted EBITDA decreased $4.0 million to $4.5 million, or 8.9% of sales, for the three months ended March 31, 2008, from $8.5 million, or 16.0% of sales, for the three months ended March 31, 2007. In the three months ended March 31, 2008, RV & Trailer Products recognized approximately $0.2 million of losses on transactions denominated in foreign currencies, while in the three months ended March 31, 2007, RV & Trailer Products recognized approximately $0.1 million of gains on transactions denominated in foreign currencies. After consideration of these changes in foreign currency gains and losses, the change in Adjusted EBITDA is consistent with the decline in operating profit between years.

        Recreational Accessories.    Net sales decreased $13.1 million to $72.0 million in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $85.1 million in the three months ended March 31, 2007. Net sales were favorably impacted by approximately $1.3 million of currency exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were positively impacted as a result of a stronger Canadian dollar. However, these increases were more than offset by an approximate $4 million decline in sales in certain end-markets and higher customer inventory levels across the majority of the U.S. market channels, most notably in the recreational vehicle wholesale/distributor channel. In addition, this segment benefitted from a one-time inventory pipeline fill for a significant customer, resulting in approximately $6 million of sales in the first quarter of 2007, which did not recur in the first quarter of 2008.

        Recreational Accessories' gross profit margin remained flat at 24.9% for each of the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, while gross profit decreased by $3.2 million, from $21.2 million in the first three months of 2007 to $18.0 million in the first three months of 2008. This decline in gross profit was the result of the decrease in sales levels between years. This segment was able to sustain its gross profit margin by realizing cost savings as a result of the closure of the Huntsville, Ontario, Canada facility, which was closed in the fourth quarter of 2007, and negotiating favorable commodity pricing, which substantially offset the lower absorption of fixed costs as a result of lower production and sales levels.

        Recreational Accessories' selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $0.8 million to $15.2 million, or 21.2% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $16.0 million, or 18.9% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses is due to further reductions in selling and distribution expenses in our towing business in the first quarter of 2008, cost savings as a result of the Huntsville facility closure and continued lower discretionary spending corresponding with the decline in sales.

        Recreational Accessories' operating profit decreased $2.5 million to approximately $2.6 million, or 3.7% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2008, from $5.1 million, or 6.0% of sales, in the three months ended March 31, 2007. The decrease in operating profit between years is primarily the

39



result of the lower sales volumes and lower absorption of fixed costs, which were partially offset by cost savings realized from the closure of the Huntsville facility and other initiatives.

        Recreational Accessories' Adjusted EBITDA decreased $2.7 million to $5.0 million, or 7.0% of sales, for the three months ended March 31, 2008, from $7.7 million, or 9.1% of sales, for the three months ended March 31, 2007, consistent with the decrease in operating profit between years.

        Corporate Expenses and Management Fees.    Corporate expenses and management fees included in operating profit and Adjusted EBITDA consist of the following:

 
  Three months ended
March 31,

 
  2008
  2007
 
  (in millions)

Corporate operating expenses   $ 2.9   $ 2.6
Employee costs and related benefits     2.3     2.3
Management fees and expenses         1.0
   
 
  Corporate expenses and management fees—operating profit   $ 5.2   $ 5.9
Receivables sales and securitization expenses     1.0     1.0
Other, net     (0.1 )  
   
 
  Corporate expenses and management fees—Adjusted EBITDA   $ 6.1   $ 6.9
   
 

        Corporate expenses and management fees decreased approximately $0.7 million to $5.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008, from $5.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007. The decrease between years is primarily attributed to the termination of our advisory services agreement with Heartland in connection with the completion of our IPO in May 2007. This decrease was partially offset by modestly higher corporate operating costs as a result of complying with the requirements of Sarbanes-Oxley and increased costs for directors and officers insurance as a result of completing our IPO.

        Interest Expense.    Interest expense decreased approximately $4.2 million, to $14.7 million, for the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to $18.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007. Of this decrease, approximately $2.5 million resulted from the retirement of $100.0 million senior subordinated notes in June 2007 in connection with the use of IPO proceeds. The remainder of the decrease is primarily the result of a decrease in our weighted average interest rate on variable rate U.S. borrowings to approximately 6.1% during the first quarter 2008, from approximately 8.2% during the first quarter of 2007, while weighted-average U.S. borrowings remained relatively flat at approximately $310 million.

        Other Expense, Net.    Other expense, net remained flat at approximately $1.2 million for each of the three month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. In the first quarter of 2008, we incurred approximately $0.7 million of expenses in connection with the use of our receivables securitization facility and sales of receivables to fund working capital needs and incurred approximately $0.3 million in connection with the renewal of the facility. In the first quarter of 2007, we incurred approximately $0.8 million of expenses in connection with the use of our receivables securitization facility and sales of receivables to fund working capital needs. There were no other individually significant amounts incurred or changes in amounts incurred in either of the three month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007.

        Income Taxes.    The effective income tax rates for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 were 36% and 37%, respectively.

40


        Discontinued Operations.    The results of discontinued operations consist of our industrial fastening business through February 2007, when the sale of the business was completed, our N.I. Industries rocket launcher line of business through December 2007, when the sale of the business was completed, and our N.I. Industries property management line of business through March 31, 2008. The results of operations also include certain non-operating charges related to our industrial fastening businesses post-sale. Income from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense, was $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008, as compared to a loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense, of $0.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007. See Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale," to our consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this report on Form 10-Q.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

        Cash provided by operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2008 was approximately $9.7 million, as compared to $26.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007. The change between years is primarily the result of significantly higher levels of accounts payable and accrued liabilities at March 31, 2007 over December 31, 2006, as compared to the change from December 31, 2007 to March 31, 2008, due to increased management of working capital during 2007 over 2006, which has extended into 2008.

        Net cash used for investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2008 was approximately $8.6 million, as compared to $15.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007. During the first three months of 2008, we incurred approximately $6.2 million of costs related to capital expenditure projects and paid approximately $2.4 million for the acquisition of Parkside Towbars, net of cash acquired. During the first three months of 2007, we incurred approximately $6.6 million of costs related to capital expenditure projects, paid approximately $12.9 million to acquire equipment subject to an operating lease in connection with the disposition of our Frankfort, Indiana discontinued industrial fastening business, which were partially offset by generation of cash proceeds of $4.0 million associated with the sale of the Frankfort, Indiana industrial fastening business in February 2007.

        Net cash used for financing activities was $0.4 million and $11.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The amounts in both periods represent repayment of borrowings under our existing credit facilities.

        Our credit facility is comprised of a $90.0 million revolving credit facility, a $60.0 million deposit-linked supplemental revolving credit facility and a $260.0 million term loan facility, of which $256.1 million was outstanding at March 31, 2008. Under the credit facility, up to $90.0 million in the aggregate of our revolving credit facility is available to be used for one or more permitted acquisitions subject to certain conditions and other outstanding borrowings and issued letters of credit. Our credit facility also provides for an uncommitted $100.0 million incremental term loan facility that, subject to certain conditions, is available to fund one or more permitted acquisitions or to repay a portion of our senior subordinated notes.

        Amounts drawn under our revolving credit facilities fluctuate daily based upon our working capital and other ordinary course needs. Availability under our revolving credit facilities depends upon, among other things, compliance with our credit agreement's financial covenants. Our credit facilities contain negative and affirmative covenants and other requirements affecting us and our subsidiaries, including among others: restrictions on incurrence of debt (except for permitted acquisitions and subordinated indebtedness), liens, mergers, investments, loans, advances, guarantee obligations, acquisitions, asset dispositions, sale-leaseback transactions, hedging agreements, dividends and other restricted junior

41



payments, stock repurchases, transactions with affiliates, restrictive agreements and amendments to charters, by-laws, and other material documents. The terms of our credit agreement require us and our subsidiaries to meet certain restrictive financial covenants and ratios computed quarterly, including a leverage ratio (total consolidated indebtedness plus outstanding amounts under the accounts receivable securitization facility over consolidated EBITDA, as defined), interest expense ratio (consolidated EBITDA, as defined, over cash interest expense, as defined) and a capital expenditures covenant. The most restrictive of these financial covenants and ratios is the leverage ratio. Our permitted leverage ratio under our amended and restated credit agreement is 5.25 to 1.00 for October 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008, 5.00 to 1.00 for July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009, 4.75 to 1.00 for July 1, 2009 to September 30, 2009, 4.50 to 1.00 for October 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010, 4.25 to 1.00 for July 1, 2010 to September 30, 2011 and 4.00 to 1.00 from October 1, 2011 and thereafter. Our actual leverage ratio was 4.30 to 1.00 at March 31, 2008 and we were in compliance with our covenants as of that date.

        The following is the reconciliation of net income, which is a GAAP measure of our operating results, to Consolidated Bank EBITDA, as defined in our credit agreement as in effect on March 31, 2008, for the twelve month period ended March 31, 2008.

 
  Year Ended
December 31,
2007

  Less:
Three Months
Ended March 31,
2007

  Add:
Three Months
Ended March 30,
2008

  Twelve Months
Ended March 31,
2008

 
 
  (dollars in thousands)

 
Net income (loss), as reported   $ (158,430 ) $ 7,050   $ 7,870   $ (157,610 )
Bank stipulated adjustments:                          
  Interest expense, net (as defined)     68,310     18,860     14,760     64,210  
  Income tax expense (benefit)(1)     (10,410 )   4,950     4,480     (10,880 )
  Depreciation and amortization     41,350     9,840     10,750     42,260  
  Extraordinary non-cash charges(2)     178,450             178,450  
  Heartland monitoring fee and expenses(3)     12,000     1,000         11,000  
  Interest equivalent costs(4)     4,230     910     740     4,060  
  Non-cash expenses related to                          
  stock option grants(5)     570     60     290     800  
  Other non-cash expenses or losses     4,450     1,010     600     4,040  
  Losses on early termination of operating leases from net proceeds of an IPO     4,230             4,230  
  Non-recurring expenses or costs for cost savings projects(6)     6,630     110     720     7,240  
  Permitted dispositions(7)     240     830     50     (540 )
  Permitted acquisitions(8)     2,550     870     40     1,720  
  Debt extinguishment costs(9)     7,440             7,440  
   
 
 
 
 
  Consolidated Bank EBITDA, as defined   $ 161,610   $ 45,490   $ 40,300   $ 156,420  
   
 
 
 
 

42


 
 
  March 31, 2008
 
  (dollars in thousands)
  Total long-term debt   $ 616,450
    Aggregate funding under the receivables securitization facility     56,350
   
    Total Consolidated Indebtedness, as defined   $ 672,800
   
    Consolidated Bank EBITDA, as defined   $ 156,420
  Actual leverage ratio     4.30x
   
Covenant requirement     5.25x
   

(1)
Amount includes tax benefits associated with discontinued operations and cumulative effect of accounting change.

(2)
Non-cash charges associated with tangible and intangible asset impairments, including goodwill.

(3)
Represents management fees and expenses paid pursuant to Heartland pursuant to the former Advisory Services Agreement and Advisory Services Agreement termination.

(4)
Interest-equivalent costs associated with the Company's receivables securitization facility.

(5)
Non-cash expenses resulting from the grant of restricted shares of common stock and common stock options.

(6)
Non-recurring costs and expenses relating to cost savings projects, including restructuring and severance expenses, not to exceed $50,000,000 in the aggregate.

(7)
EBITDA from permitted dispositions, as defined.

(8)
EBITDA from permitted acquisitions, as defined.

(9)
Includes approximately $4.9 million call premium, $2.3 million write-off of debt issue costs and $0.3 million accretion of net discount, all incurred in connection with the retirement of $100.0 million face value of our senior subordinated notes in the second quarter of 2007.

        Three of our international businesses are also parties to loan agreements with banks, denominated in their local currencies. In the United Kingdom, we are party to a revolving debt agreement with a bank which is secured by a letter of credit under our credit facilities. At March 31, 2008, approximately $0.7 million was outstanding under this agreement. In Italy, we are party to a €5.0 million note agreement with a bank (approximately $2.9 million outstanding at March 31, 2008) with a term of seven years, which expires December 12, 2012 and is secured by land and buildings of our local business unit. In Australia, we are party to a debt agreement with a bank in the amount of $25 million Australian dollars (approximately $19.7 million outstanding at March 31, 2008) for a term of five years which expires December 31, 2010. Borrowings under this arrangement are secured by substantially all the assets of the local business which is also subject to financial ratio and reporting covenants. Financial ratio covenants include: capital adequacy ratio (tangible net worth over total tangible assets), interest coverage ratio (EBIT over gross interest cost). In addition to the financial ratio covenants there are other financial restrictions such as restrictions on dividend payments, U.S. parent loan repayments, negative pledge and undertakings with respect to related entities. As of March 31, 2008, total borrowings in the amount of $23.3 million were outstanding under these arrangements.

        Another important source of liquidity is our $90.0 million accounts receivable securitization facility, under which we have the ability to sell eligible accounts receivable to a third-party multi-seller receivables funding company. At March 31, 2008, we had $56.3 million utilized under our accounts receivable facility and $4.3 million of available funding based on eligible receivables and after consideration of leverage restrictions. At March 31, 2008, we also had $0.05 million outstanding under

43



our revolving credit facility and had an additional $117.6 million potentially available after giving effect to approximately $32.4 million of letters of credit issued to support our ordinary course needs and after consideration of leverage restrictions. At March 31, 2008, we had aggregate available funding under our accounts receivable facility and our revolving credit facility of $121.9 million after consideration of the aforementioned leverage restrictions. The letters of credit are used for a variety of purposes, including to support certain operating lease agreements, vendor payment terms and other subsidiary operating activities, and to meet various states' requirements to self-insure workers' compensation claims, including incurred but not reported claims.

        We also have $337.8 million (face value) 97/8% senior subordinated notes which are due in 2012.

        Principal payments required under our amended and restated credit facility term loan are: $0.7 million due each calendar quarter through June 30, 2013, and $242.5 million due on August 2, 2013 (or February 28, 2012 if the Company's existing senior subordinated notes are still outstanding as of that date).

        Our credit facility is guaranteed on a senior secured basis by us and all of our domestic subsidiaries, other than our special purpose receivables subsidiary, on a joint and several basis. In addition, our obligations and the guarantees thereof are secured by substantially all the assets of us and the guarantors.

        Our exposure to interest rate risk results from the variable rates under our credit facility. Borrowings under the credit facility bear interest, at various rates, as more fully described in Note 10, "Long-term Debt," to the accompanying consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2008. Based on amounts outstanding at March 31, 2008, a 1% increase or decrease in the per annum interest rate for borrowings under our revolving credit facilities would change our interest expense by approximately $2.8 million annually.

        We have other cash commitments related to leases. We account for these lease transactions as operating leases and annual rent expense related thereto approximates $15.4 million. We expect to continue to utilize leasing as a financing strategy in the future to meet capital expenditure needs and to reduce debt levels.

        We conduct business in several locations throughout the world and are subject to market risk due to changes in the value of foreign currencies. We do not currently use derivative financial instruments to manage these risks. The functional currencies of our foreign subsidiaries are the local currency in the country of domicile. We manage these operating activities at the local level and revenues and costs are generally denominated in local currencies; however, results of operations and assets and liabilities reported in U.S. dollars will fluctuate with changes in exchange rates between such local currencies and the U.S. dollar.

        As a result of our credit facility and senior subordinated notes, we are highly leveraged. In addition to normal capital expenditures, we may incur significant amounts of additional debt and further burden cash flow in pursuit of our internal growth and acquisition strategies.

        We believe that our liquidity and capital resources, including anticipated cash flows from operations, will be sufficient to meet our debt service, capital expenditure and other short-term and long-term obligation needs for the foreseeable future, but we are subject to unforeseeable events and risks.

44


        We and certain of our outstanding debt obligations are rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's. As of June 30, 2006, Standard & Poor's assigned our credit facilities, corporate credit and senior subordinated notes ratings of B+, B and CCC+ respectively, each with a stable outlook. These ratings remain in place as of March 31, 2008. As of June 30, 2006, Moody's assigned our credit facilities, corporate credit and senior subordinated notes ratings of B1, B2 and Caa1 respectively, each with a stable outlook. On September 27, 2006, Moody's upgraded the ratings on our credit facilities and senior subordinated notes from B1 to Ba2 and Caa1 to B3, respectively. These ratings remain in place as of March 31, 2008. This upgrade occurred in connection with Moody's changing the ratings on a number of high yield issues in the industrials and aerospace/defense sectors, as a result of the introduction of new rating methodology. If our credit ratings were to decline, our ability to access certain financial markets may become limited, the perception of us in the view of our customers, suppliers and security holders may worsen and as a result, we may be adversely affected. If, in connection with the consummation of any offering of our equity securities and the use of proceeds therefrom, the ratings assigned to our credit facilities by Standard & Poor's remains at B+ (stable) or better and the ratings assigned to our credit facilities by Moody's remains at B1 (stable) or better, the applicable margin on all loans under our amended and restated credit agreement will be reduced by 0.5% per annum.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

        We are party to an agreement to sell, on an ongoing basis, the trade accounts receivable of certain business operations to a wholly-owned, bankruptcy-remote, special purpose subsidiary, TSPC, Inc. ("TSPC"). TSPC, subject to certain conditions, may from time to time sell an undivided fractional ownership interest in the pool of domestic receivables, up to approximately $90.0 million, to a third party multi-seller receivables funding company, or conduit. The proceeds of the sale are less than the face amount of accounts receivable sold by an amount that approximates the purchaser's financing costs. Upon sale of receivables, our subsidiaries that originated the receivables retain a subordinated interest. Under the terms of the agreement, new receivables can be added to the pool as collections reduce receivables previously sold. The facility is an important source of liquidity. At March 31, 2008, we had $56.3 million utilized and $4.3 million available under this facility based on eligible receivables and after consideration of leverage restrictions.

        The facility is subject to customary termination events, including, but not limited to, breach of representations or warranties, the existence of any event that materially adversely affects the collectability of receivables or performance by a seller and certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency. The facility expires on February 20, 2009. In future periods, if we are unable to renew or replace this facility, it could materially and adversely affect our available liquidity capacity.

Impact of New Accounting Standards

        In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 141(R), "Business Combinations," which revises the current accounting practices for business combinations. Significant changes as a result of issuance of SFAS No. 141(R) include a revised definition of a business, expensing of acquisition-related transaction costs, and a change in how acquirers measure consideration, identifiable assets, liabilities assumed and goodwill acquired in a business combination. SFAS No. 141(R) is effective for business combinations occurring in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and may not be retroactively applied. There is no impact on our current consolidated financial statements as a result of this pronouncement.

        In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements," which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. For financial assets and liabilities,

45



this statement is effective for fiscal periods beginning after November 15, 2007 and does not require new fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB released Staff Position No. 157-2, which delayed the effective date of SFAS No. 157 to fiscal years ending after November 15, 2008 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in our financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually), which was effective for us effective January 1, 2008. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

        In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115," which permits entities to choose to measure certain financial instruments and other items at fair value. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, including interim periods within that fiscal year. We did not elect the fair value option for any of its existing financial instruments as of March 31, 2008 and we have made no determination whether or not we will elect this option for financial instruments we may acquire in the future.

        In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements," which establishes requirements for identification, presentation and disclosure of noncontrolling interests, and to account for such non-controlling interests as a separate component of stockholder's equity. SFAS No. 160 is effective prospectively for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2008. However, the presentation and disclosure requirements are required to be retrospectively applied to comparative financial statements. There is no impact on our current consolidated financial statements as a result of this pronouncement.

        In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, "Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133" ("SFAS No. 161"). SFAS No. 161 amends and expands the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 133 to provide users of financial statements with an enhanced understanding of derivative instruments, how they are accounted for and their impact on a company's financial position and performance. SFAS No. 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early application encouraged. We are currently assessing the impact of the adoption of SFAS No. 161 on our consolidated financial statements.

Critical Accounting Policies

        The following discussion of accounting policies is intended to supplement the accounting policies presented in Note 3 to our 2007 audited financial statements included in our annual report filed on Form 10-K. Certain of our accounting policies require the application of significant judgment by management in selecting the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. These judgments are based on our historical experience, our evaluation of business and macroeconomic trends, and information from other outside sources, as appropriate.

        Accounting Basis for Transactions.    Prior to June 6, 2002, we were owned by Metaldyne. On November 28, 2000, Metaldyne was acquired by an investor group led by Heartland. On June 6, 2002, Metaldyne issued approximately 66% of our fully diluted common stock to an investor group led by Heartland. As a result of the transactions, we did not establish a new basis of accounting as Heartland was the controlling shareholder for both us and Metaldyne at the time and the transactions were accounted for as a reorganization of entities under common control.

        Receivables.    Receivables are presented net of allowances for doubtful accounts of approximately $5.3 million at March 31, 2008. We monitor our exposure for credit losses and maintain adequate allowances for doubtful accounts. We determine these allowances based on historical write-off experience and/or specific customer circumstances and provide such allowances when amounts are

46



reasonably estimable and it is probable a loss has been incurred. We do not have concentrations of accounts receivable with a single customer or group of customers and do not believe that significant credit risk exists due to our diverse customer base. Trade accounts receivable of substantially all domestic business operations may be sold, on an ongoing basis, to TSPC.

        Depreciation and Amortization.    Depreciation is computed principally using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Annual depreciation rates are as follows: buildings and buildings/land improvements, 10 to 40 years, and machinery and equipment, 3 to 15 years. Capitalized debt issuance costs are amortized over the underlying terms of the related debt securities. Customer relationship intangibles are amortized over periods ranging from 6 to 25 years, while technology and other intangibles are amortized over periods ranging from 1 to 30 years. See further discussion under "Goodwill and Other Intangibles" below.

        Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets.    In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, (SFAS No. 144), "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets," the Company reviews, on a quarterly basis, the financial performance of each business unit for indicators of impairment. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying value of an asset group exceeds the future net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by that asset group. The impairment loss recognized is the amount by which the carrying value of the asset group exceeds its fair value.

        In connection with our review of other long-lived assets, we review definite-lived intangible assets on a quarterly basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. The factors considered by management in performing these assessments include current operating results, business prospects, customer retention, market trends, potential product obsolescence, competitive activities and other economic factors. Effective January 1, 2006, we reduced the estimated useful lives assigned to certain customer relationship intangibles as follows: 40 years to 25 or 20 years, 25 years to 20 years, and 15 years to 12 years. We determined that a reduction in estimated useful lives assigned to certain customer relationship intangibles was warranted as of that date to reflect our updated evaluation of the period of expected future benefit derived from these customer relationship intangibles. Customer relationship intangibles are amortized over periods ranging from 6 to 25 years, while technology and other intangibles are amortized over periods ranging from 1 to 30 years. The effect of this change increased amortization expense approximately $2.4 million annually.

        Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangibles.    We test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis as required by Statement of Accounting Standards No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" (SFAS No. 142), by comparing the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units to their respective carrying values on our balance sheet. More frequent evaluations could become required under SFAS No. 142 if we experience changes in our business conditions. In assessing the recoverability of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, we estimate the fair value of each of our reporting units by calculating the present value of their expected future cash flows and other valuation measures. We then compare the estimates of fair value with the reporting unit's net asset carrying value on our balance sheet. If carrying value exceeds fair value, then a possible impairment of goodwill exists and further evaluation is performed. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment annually as of December 31 using management's operating budget and internal five-year forecast to estimate expected future cash flows. Discounting future cash flows requires us to make significant estimates regarding future revenues and expenses, projected capital expenditures, changes in working capital and the appropriate discount rate. The projections also take into account several factors including current and estimated economic trends and outlook, costs of raw materials, consideration of our market capitalization in comparison to the estimated fair values of our reporting units determined using discounted cash flow analyses and other factors which are beyond our control. At December 31,

47



2007, fair values of our reporting units were determined based upon the expected future cash flows discounted at weighted average costs of capital ranging from 11%–17% and estimated residual growth rates ranging from 1% to 4%.

        Future declines in sales and/or operating profit, declines in the Company's stock price, or other changes in our business or the markets for our products could result in further reductions in remaining useful lives for customer relationship intangibles or in impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets.

        Pension and Postretirement Benefits Other than Pensions.    We account for pension benefits and postretirement benefits other than pensions in accordance with the requirements of FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 87 (SFAS No. 87), "Employer's Accounting for Pensions," No. 88 (SFAS No. 88), "Employer's Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined Benefit Plans and for Terminated Benefits," No. 106 (SFAS No. 106), "Employer's Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pension," No. 132 (SFAS No. 132), "Employer's Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits—an amendment of FASB Statements Nos. 87, 88, and 106" and No. 158, "Employers' Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans—An Amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132(R)." Annual net periodic expense and accrued benefit obligations recorded with respect to our defined benefit plans are determined on an actuarial basis. We, together with our third-party actuaries, determine assumptions used in the actuarial calculations which impact reported plan obligations and expense. Annually, we and our actuaries review the actual experience compared to the most significant assumptions used and make adjustments to the assumptions, if warranted. The healthcare trend rates are reviewed with the actuaries based upon the results of their review of claims experience. Discount rates are based upon an expected benefit payments duration analysis and the equivalent average yield rate for high-quality fixed-income investments. Pension benefits are funded through deposits with trustees and the expected long-term rate of return on fund assets is based upon actual historical returns modified for known changes in the market and any expected change in investment policy. Postretirement benefits are not funded and our policy is to pay these benefits as they become due. Certain accounting guidance, including the guidance applicable to pensions, does not require immediate recognition of the effects of a deviation between actual and assumed experience or the revision of an estimate. This approach allows the favorable and unfavorable effects that fall within an acceptable range to be netted.

        Income Taxes.    Income taxes are accounted for using the provisions of FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, (SFAS No. 109), "Accounting for Income Taxes," and FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes." Deferred income taxes are provided at currently enacted income tax rates for the difference between the financial statement and income tax basis of assets and liabilities and carry- forward items. The effective tax rate and the tax bases of assets and liabilities reflect management's estimates based on then-current facts. On an ongoing basis, we review the need for and adequacy of valuation allowances if it is more likely than not that the benefit from a deferred tax asset will not be realized. We believe the current assumptions and other considerations used to estimate the current year effective tax rate and deferred tax positions are appropriate. However, actual outcomes may differ from our current estimates and assumptions.

        Other Loss Reserves.    We have other loss exposures related to environmental claims, asbestos claims and litigation. Establishing loss reserves for these matters requires the use of estimates and judgment in regard to risk exposure and ultimate liability. We are generally self-insured for losses and liabilities related principally to workers' compensation, health and welfare claims and comprehensive general, product and vehicle liability. Generally, we are responsible for up to $0.5 million per occurrence under our retention program for workers' compensation, between $0.3 million and $2.0 million per occurrence under our retention programs for comprehensive general, product and vehicle liability, and have a $0.3 million per occurrence stop-loss limit with respect to our self-insured

48



group medical plan. We accrue loss reserves up to our retention amounts based upon our estimates of the ultimate liability for claims incurred, including an estimate of related litigation defense costs, and an estimate of claims incurred but not reported using actuarial assumptions about future events. We accrue for such items in accordance with FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 5, (SFAS No. 5), "Accounting for Contingencies" when such amounts are reasonably estimable and probable. We utilize known facts and historical trends, as well as actuarial valuations in determining estimated required reserves. Changes in assumptions for factors such as medical costs and actual experience could cause these estimates to change significantly.

Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

        In the normal course of business, we are exposed to market risk associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. We are also subject to interest risk as it relates to long-term debt. See Item 2, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" for details about our primary market risks, and the objectives and strategies used to manage these risks. Also see Note 10, "Long-term Debt," in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Item 4.    Controls and Procedures

        The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act") is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

        As of March 31, 2008, an evaluation was carried out by management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, (the "Exchange Act")) pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Exchange Act. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed only to provide reasonable assurance that they will meet their objectives. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that as of March 31, 2008, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that they would meet their objectives.

        There have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 31, 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

49



PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

TRIMAS CORPORATION

Item 1.    Legal Proceedings

        A civil suit was filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California in December 1988 by the United States of America and the State of California against more than 180 defendants, including us, for alleged release into the environment of hazardous substances disposed of at the Operating Industries, Inc. site in California. This site served for many years as a depository for municipal and industrial waste. The plaintiffs have requested, among other things, that the defendants clean up the contamination at that site. Consent decrees have been entered into by the plaintiffs and a group of the defendants, including us, providing that the consenting parties perform certain remedial work at the site and reimburse the plaintiffs for certain past costs incurred by the plaintiffs at the site. We estimate that our share of the clean-up costs will not exceed $500,000, for which we have insurance proceeds. Plaintiffs had sought other relief such as damages arising out of claims for negligence, trespass, public and private nuisance, and other causes of action, but the consent decree governs the remedy. Based upon our present knowledge and subject to future legal and factual developments, we do not believe that this matter will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        As of March 31, 2008, we were a party to approximately 1,752 pending cases involving an aggregate of approximately 9,394 claimants alleging personal injury from exposure to asbestos containing materials formerly used in gaskets (both encapsulated and otherwise) manufactured or distributed by certain of our subsidiaries for use primarily in the petrochemical refining and exploration industries. The following chart summarizes the number of claimants, number of claims filed, number of claims dismissed, number of claims settled, the average settlement amount per claim and the total defense costs, exclusive of amounts reimbursed under our primary insurance, at the applicable date and for the applicable period:

 
  Claims pending at beginning of period
  Claims filed during period
  Claims dismissed during period
  Claims settled during period
  Average settlement amount per claim during period
  Total defense costs during period
Fiscal year ended December 31, 2007   10,551   619   1,484   142   $ 9,243   $ 4,982,000
Three months ended March 31, 2008   9,544   173   299   24   $ 3,979   $ 1,052,000

        In addition, we acquired various companies to distribute our products that had distributed gaskets of other manufacturers prior to acquisition. We believe that many of our pending cases relate to locations at which none of our gaskets were distributed or used.

        We may be subjected to significant additional asbestos-related claims in the future, the cost of settling cases in which product identification can be made may increase, and we may be subjected to further claims in respect of the former activities of our acquired gasket distributors. We note that we are unable to make a meaningful statement concerning the monetary claims made in the asbestos cases given that, among other things, claims may be initially made in some jurisdictions without specifying the amount sought or by simply stating the requisite or maximum permissible monetary relief, and may be amended to alter the amount sought. The large majority of claims do not specify the amount sought. Of the 9,394 claims pending at March 31, 2008, 166 set forth specific amounts of damages (other than those stating the statutory minimum or maximum). 141 of the 166 claims sought between $1.0 million and $5.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages) and 25 sought between $5.0 million and $10.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages). Solely with respect to compensatory damages, 145 of the 166 claims sought between $50,000 and $600,000 and 21 sought between $1.0 million and $5.0 million. Solely with respect to punitive

50



damages, 141 of the 166 claims sought between $1.0 million and $2.5 million and 25 sought $5.0 million. In addition, relatively few of the claims have reached the discovery stage and even fewer claims have gone past the discovery stage.

        Total settlement costs (exclusive of defense costs) for all such cases, some of which were filed over 20 years ago, have been approximately $5.2 million. All relief sought in the asbestos cases is monetary in nature. To date, approximately 50% of our costs related to settlement and defense of asbestos litigation have been covered by our primary insurance. Effective February 14, 2006, we entered into a coverage-in-place agreement with our first level excess carriers regarding the coverage to be provided to us for asbestos-related claims when the primary insurance is exhausted. The coverage-in-place agreement makes coverage available to us that might otherwise be disputed by the carriers and provides a methodology for the administration of asbestos litigation defense and indemnity payments. The coverage in place agreement allocates payment responsibility among the primary carrier, excess carriers and the Company's subsidiary.

        Based on the settlements made to date and the number of claims dismissed or withdrawn for lack of product identification, we believe that the relief sought (when specified) does not bear a reasonable relationship to our potential liability. Based upon our experience to date and other available information (including the availability of excess insurance), we do not believe that these cases will have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations or cash flows.

        We are subject to other claims and litigation in the ordinary course of our business, but do not believe that any such claim or litigation will have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.    Risk Factors

        In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results. The risks described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K are not the only risks facing our Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deemed to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations or cash flows.

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

        None of our securities have been issued or sold by us during the period covered by this report.

Item 3.    Defaults Upon Senior Securities

        Not applicable.

Item 4.    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

        Not applicable.

Item 5.    Other Information

        Not applicable.

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Item 6.    Exhibits.

Exhibits Index:

  3.1(b)***   Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of TriMas Corporation.

  3.2(b)***

 

Second Amended and Restated By-laws of TriMas Corporation.

  4.1(b)

 

Indenture relating to the 97/8% senior subordinated notes, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TriMas Corporation, each of the Guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York as trustee.

  4.2(b)

 

Form of note (included in Exhibit 4.1(b)).

  4.3(b)

 

Registration Rights Agreement relating to the 97/8% senior subordinated notes issued June 6, 2002 dated as of June 6, 2002 by and among TriMas Corporation and the parties named therein.

  4.4(b)*

 

Registration Rights Agreement relating to the 97/8% senior subordinated notes issued December 10, 2002 dated as of December 10, 2002 by and among TriMas Corporation and the parties named therein.

  4.5(d)

 

Supplemental Indenture dated as of March 4, 2003.

  4.6(e)

 

Supplemental Indenture No. 2 dated as of May 9, 2003.

  4.7(f)

 

Supplemental Indenture No. 3 dated as of August 6, 2003.

  4.8(u)

 

Supplemental Indenture No. 4 dated as of February 28, 2008.

10.1(b)

 

Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of May 17, 2002 by and among Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P., TriMas Corporation and Metaldyne Company LLC.

10.2(b)

 

Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement, dated as of July 19, 2002 by and among TriMas Corporation and Metaldyne Corporation.

10.3(o)

 

Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement dated as of August 31, 2006.

10.4(m)

 

Credit Agreement dated as of June 6, 2002, as amended and restated as of August 2, 2006 among TriMas Corporation, TriMas Company LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, and Comerica Bank, as Syndication Agent.

10.5(b)

 

Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TriMas Corporation, the Sellers party thereto and TSPC, Inc., as Purchaser.

10.6(b)

 

Receivables Transfer Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TSPC, Inc., as Transferor, TriMas Corporation, individually, as Collection Agent, TriMas Company LLC, individually as Guarantor, the CP Conduit Purchasers, Committed Purchasers and Funding Agents party thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank as Administrative Agent.

10.7(p)

 

Amendment dated as of June 3, 2005, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.

10.8(j)

 

Amendment dated as of July 5, 2005, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.

10.9(r)

 

Amendment dated as of December 31, 2007, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.

10.10(s)

 

Amendment dated as of February 22, 2008, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.

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10.11(j)

 

TriMas Receivables Facility Amended and Restated Fee Letter dated July 1, 2005.

10.12(u)

 

TriMas Receivables Facility Amended and Restated Fee Letter dated February 22, 2008.

10.13(b)

 

Lease Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated as of June 21, 2002, by and among Heartland Industrial Group, L.L.C., TriMas Company LLC and the Guarantors named therein.

10.14(b)

 

TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.

10.15(b)**

 

Stock Purchase Agreement by and among 2000 Riverside Capital Appreciation Fund, L.P., the other Stockholders of HammerBlow Acquisition Corp. listed on Exhibit A thereto and TriMas Company LLC dated as of January 27, 2003.

10.16(c)

 

Stock Purchase Agreement by and Among TriMas Company LLC and The Shareholders and Option Holders of Highland Group Corporation and FNL Management Corp. dated February 21, 2003.

10.17(e)

 

Asset Purchase Agreement among TriMas Corporation, Metaldyne Corporation and Metaldyne Company LLC dated May 9, 2003.

10.18(e)

 

Form of Sublease Agreement (included as Exhibit A in Exhibit 10.17 above).

10.19(g)

 

Form of Stock Option Agreement.

10.20(l)

 

Annual Value Creation Program.

10.21(l)*

 

Form of Indemnification Agreement.

10.22(n)

 

Separation and Consulting Agreement dated as of May 20, 2005.

10.23(o)

 

Amendment No. 1 to Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2006 by and among Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P., TriMas Corporation and Metaldyne Corporation.

10.24(o)

 

Advisory Agreement, dated June 6, 2002 between Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P. and TriMas Corporation.

10.25(p)

 

First Amendment to Advisory Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2006 between Heartland Industrial Group, L.L.C. and TriMas Corporation.

10.26(p)

 

Second Amendment to Advisory Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2006 between Heartland Industrial Group, L.L.C. and TriMas Corporation.

10.27(p)

 

Management Rights Agreement.

10.28(k)

 

Executive Severance/Change of Control Policy

10.29(q)

 

TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan

10.30(q)

 

First Amendment to TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan

10.31(q)

 

Second Amendment to TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.

10.32(t)

 

Separation Agreement dated April 10, 2008.

31.1

 

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

 

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

53



32.1

 

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2

 

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

(a)   Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 10-Q Quarterly Report, filed on May 14, 2003.

(b)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed on October 4, 2002 (File No. 333-100351).

(b)*

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 2 to our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed on January 28, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).

(b)**

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 3 to our Registration Statement or Form S-4, filed on January 29, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).

(b)***

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 10-Q Quarterly Report, filed on August 3, 2007 (File No. 333-100351).

(c)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on February 25, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).

(d)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 31, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).

(e)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed June 9, 2003 (File No. 333-105950).

(f)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 10-Q filed on August 14, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).

(g)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 10-Q filed on November 12, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).

(h)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on December 27, 2004 (File No. 333-100351).

(i)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on October 3, 2005 (File No. 333-100351).

(j)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on July 6, 2005 (File No. 333-100351).

(k)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on November 22, 2006 (File No. 333-100351).

(l)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed on March 25, 2004 (File No. 333-113917).

(l)*

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 3 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed on June 29, 2004 (File No. 333-113917).

(m)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on August 3, 2006 (File No. 333-100351).

(n)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 10-Q filed on August 15, 2005 (File No. 333-100351).

54



(o)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 1 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed on September 19, 2006 (File No. 333-136263).

(p)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 3 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed on January 18, 2007 (File No. 333-136263).

(q)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed on August 31, 2007 (File No. 333-145815).

(r)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on January 4, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).

(s)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on February 26, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).

(t)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on April 10, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).

(u)

 

Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 13, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).

55



Signature

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

    TRIMAS CORPORATION (Registrant)

Date: May 7, 2008

 

By:

/s/  
ROBERT J. ZALUPSKI      
Robert J. Zalupski
Principal Financial Officer

56




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39400 Woodward Avenue, Suite 130 Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48304 (Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(248) 631-5450 (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
TriMas Corporation Index
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
TriMas Corporation Consolidated Balance Sheet (Unaudited—dollars in thousands)
TriMas Corporation Consolidated Statement of Operations (Unaudited—dollars in thousands, except for share amounts)
TriMas Corporation Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (Unaudited—dollars in thousands)
TriMas Corporation Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 (Unaudited—dollars in thousands)
TRIMAS CORPORATION NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION TRIMAS CORPORATION
Signature

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Exhibit 31.1


Certification
Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
(Chapter 63, Title 18 U.S.C. Section 1350(A) and (B))

I, Grant H. Beard, certify that:

1.
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of TriMas Corporation;

2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I am responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:  

a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; and

b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.  

5.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):  

a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date: May 7, 2008

  /s/  GRANT H. BEARD      
Grant H. Beard
Chief Executive Officer



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Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Chapter 63, Title 18 U.S.C. Section 1350(A) and (B))

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Exhibit 31.2


Certification
Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
(Chapter 63, Title 18 U.S.C. Section 1350(A) and (B))

I, Robert J. Zalupski, certify that:

1.
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of TriMas Corporation;

2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I am responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:  

a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; and

b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.  

5.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):  

a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date: May 7, 2008

  /s/  ROBERT J. ZALUPSKI      
Robert J. Zalupski
Principal Financial Officer



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Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Chapter 63, Title 18 U.S.C. Section 1350(A) and (B))

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Exhibit 32.1


Certification Pursuant to
18 U.S.C. Section 1350,
As Adopted Pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

        In connection with the Quarterly Report of TriMas Corporation (the "Company") on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2008 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Grant H. Beard, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:

Date: May 7, 2008


 

/s/  
GRANT H. BEARD      
Grant H. Beard
Chief Executive Officer



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Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

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Exhibit 32.2


Certification Pursuant to
18 U.S.C. Section 1350,
As Adopted Pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

        In connection with the Quarterly Report of TriMas Corporation (the "Company") on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2008 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Robert J. Zalupski, Principal Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:

Date: May 7, 2008


 

/s/  
ROBERT J. ZALUPSKI      
Robert J. Zalupski
Principal Financial Officer



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Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002