ANNUAL REPORT / 2014
TO OUR
FELLOW
SHAREHOLDERS,
AS WE LOOK BACK ON 2014, WE ARE PROUD OF OUR
ACCOMPLISHMENTS. WE CONTINUED TO FOCUS ON
OUR LONG -TERM STRATEGY, WHILE WE ADAPTED TO
A DYNAMIC MARKET WHERE TRANSPORTATION AND
LOGISTICS EXECUTION WAS VERY CHALLENGING.
WE ACHIEVED DOUBLE DIGIT EARNINGS PER SHARE
GROWTH, WHICH IS IN LINE WITH OUR LONG-TERM
GROWTH TARGETS. THE INVESTMENTS WE MADE
TO DELIVER EXCELLENT SERVICE HELPED OUR
CUSTOMERS ACCELERATE THEIR ADVANTAGE IN
THEIR BUSINESSES.
(CONTINUED)
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
2014 2013
$13,470,067
$2,007,652
$748,418
TOTAL REVENUES
5.6 %
NET REVENUES(1)
9.3 %
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
%9.6
$12,752,076
$1,836,095
$682,650
$449,711
NET INCOME
$415,904
$1.43
$3.06
$3.05
%
8.1
BASIC NET INCOME
PER SHARE
%
15.5
DILUTED NET INCOME PER SHARE
15.1 %
$2.65
45.0%
$2.65
147,542
DIVIDENDS PER SHARE
2.1 %
RETURN ON AVERAGE
STOCKHOLDERS INVESTMENT
38.9 %
DILUTED WEIGHTED AVERAGE
NUMBER OF COMMON
SHARES OUTSTANDING
(6.1) %
$1.40
32.4%
157,080
46,000
11,521
$391,653
NUMBER OF CUSTOMERS
END OF YEAR
0.0 %
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
END OF YEAR
(1.3) %
TOTAL AMOUNT RETURNED
TO SHAREHOLDERS(2)
(61.9) %
46,000
11,676
$1,027,202
(1) Our net revenues are our total revenues less purchased transportation and related services,
including motor carrier, rail, ocean, air, and other costs, and the purchase price and services
related to the products we source. Our net revenues are the primary indicator of our ability
to source, add value, and sell services and products that are provided by third parties, and
we consider them to be our primary performance measurement.
(2) 2013 includes $500M of Accelerated Share Repurchase program.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
LETTER TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS
(CONTINUED)
We increased our annual earnings with 15.1 percent
earnings per share growth. Our total revenues
increased 5.6 percent, our net revenues grew 9.3
percent, and our income from operations was up 9.6
percent. Many of our key sales and productivity metrics
realized strong performance in 2014. Our total customer
count was 46,000, and we expanded our carrier
relationships to 66,000. The net revenue per employee
increased to $172,800 in 2014, and we finished the
year with 11,521 employees around the world.
We have long stated that our value proposition performs
best in vibrant and challenging environments. Our North
American surface transportation network generated
strong results by delivering excellent customer service,
improving productivity metrics, and developing the
industry’s most talented team of logistics professionals.
The year 2014 started with a severe winter season
that significantly disrupted supply chains, and the
challenging market conditions continued throughout the
year. Leveraging our network of offices and portfolio
of services paid dividends as we worked closely with
customers and suppliers to execute, adapt, and innovate.
North American truckload net revenues increased 11.8
percent, and less than truckload net revenues increased
8.1 percent in 2014.
Our Global Forwarding business flourished with the
successful integration of our 2012 acquisition, the
former Phoenix International, to produce a trusted
service for customers’ increasingly global supply chains.
Global Forwarding net revenues, consisting of ocean, air,
and customs services, increased 10.7 percent in 2014.
In Sourcing, we achieved the successful launch of our
Robinson Fresh® brand to raise the visibility of our
expertise in fresh produce and create a clear identity
in the industry. The services we provide to retail,
foodservice, and wholesale customers require complex
and innovative solutions in high-turn, just in time supply
chains.
Our Future
Our strong 2014 performance positions us well to
pursue the opportunities before us in 2015 and beyond.
Our investment in our global network and services sets
us apart, and there are many growth drivers we are
targeting in our long-term plan.
One of the pillars in our long-term growth strategy is
cross-selling. As our sales and account management
teams draw from an extensive service portfolio, they
create unique solutions that enable customers to
manage their transportation spend, minimize risk,
increase efficiency, and achieve their desired business
outcomes. The number of services per customer
continues to grow, year over year. We expect this trend
to continue as we increase our market share with new
and existing customers.
Although we are one of the largest third party logistics
providers (3PLs) in the world, tremendous opportunity
remains for continued global growth. With the
integration of Phoenix behind us, the combined Global
Forwarding organization is well positioned with strong
leadership, consistent operational processes, and a
focus on growth. In the ocean and air service lines, we
are expanding our business into more lanes, such as
Europe to North America, Asia to Europe, and North
America to Asia. We continue to optimize our network
to gain scale from density so that we can offer more
value to our customers.
Our Collaborative Outsourcing® solution is one of
the fastest growing parts of our business. We have
been innovating in supply chain outsources for
over 20 years. Outsource customers rely on us to
manage significant parts of their supply chain. Our
Managed Services solution delivers a complete freight
management system, including the people, technology,
and logistics management processes customers need
for their businesses. We expect demand will continue
to grow for these services, since supply chain talent
is constrained and customer needs are increasingly
complex and global.
In Europe, the economic environment continues to
be challenging and uncertain. While we know that
developing our business in Europe will take time, we
have grown and continue to invest in our network
and infrastructure on the continent. Our customer
portfolio is well balanced, and our competencies are
strong across multiple verticals. The European surface
transportation market is as large as the North American
market, and the potential is great for Europe to be a
much larger part of our business in the future.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
(CONTINUED)
(CONTINUED)
(CONTINUED)
GROWING WITH ALL TYPES OF CUSTOMERS
IMPROVING CUSTOMER OUTCOMES
ESTABLISHING OUR GLOBAL PRESENCE
COLLABORATING FOR INNOVATION AND PRODUCTIVITY
We’re satisfying the growing needs of shippers and receivers, who seek a provider to coordinate multiple modes of transportation worldwide. We
can engage customers of all sizes and industries when and where they want to buy, thanks to our diverse portfolio of services and the capabilities
of our collective brands.
Solving complex transportation challenges around the world is what we do. When our customers are successful, so are we.
With focused efforts in unique industries, we are able to create value for customers, differentiate our organization, and
expand our portfolio.
8
CORE
SERVICES
1.6%
MARKET SHARE AIR & OCEAN
MARKET
13,216
CUSTOMERS
2.2%
MARKET SHARE TRUCKLOAD
MARKET
33,692
CUSTOMERS
2.3%
MARKET SHARE
27,306
CUSTOMERS
LESS THAN
TRUCKLOAD
MARKET
1.7%
MARKET SHARE
4,323
CUSTOMERS
INTERMODAL
MARKET
FOOD & BEVERAGE:
43,844 ITEMS
IN THE AVERAGE SUPERMARKET
50%
ARE PERISHABLES
Source: Food Marketing Institute. “Supermarket Facts.” Accessed January 28, 2015.
CUSTOMS
9,248
CUSTOMERS
3.6%
MARKET SHARE
2,738
CUSTOMERS
MANAGED
SERVICES
MARKET
3.4%
MARKET SHARE
1,317
CUSTOMERS
SOURCING
MARKET
Source: Market information drawn from reports by Armstrong & Associates, Inc., CSCMP (Council for Supply Chain Management Professionals),
FTR Transportation Intelligence, and the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
46,000 ACTIVE CUSTOMERS
SMALL TO LARGE
TRANSACTIONAL TO STRATEGIC
TOP 500 CUSTOMERS
ACCOUNT FOR APPROXIMATELY
50% OF NET REVENUE
LARGEST CUSTOMER IS LESS THAN
2% OF TOTAL NET REVENUE
POWERFUL BRANDS
4
KEY OUTCOMES
FOR OUR CUSTOMERS’ BUSINESS
1 MANAGE SPEND
RETAIL:
WORLDWIDE RETAIL SALES COULD RISE TO
$28 TRILLION
BY 2018
2 IMPROVE EFFICIENCY
Source: eMarketer. “Retail Sales Worldwide Will Top $22 Trillion This Year.” December 23, 2014.
CHEMSOLUTIONS:
AN ESTIMATED
70,000 & PRODUCTS
STANDALONE ITEMS
PLAY ESSENTIAL ROLES IN OTHER INDUSTRIES
AROUND THE WORLD
Source: Independent estimate of the size of market conducted in 2012.
3 MANAGE RISK
4 MANAGE CHANGE
INVESTING IN OUR TALENT
PROVING OUR NETWORK STRENGTH
CONNECTING SUPPLY CHAINS WITH NAVISPHERE®
HONING OUR PROCESS
Through performance-driven, innovative teamwork, our people create our success. Every person is integral to the growth of our company.
Built on a foundation of empowerment and expertise, we give our people the tools they need to expand their skills and improve our customers’
supply chains.
Our global network allows us to work together and execute solutions for customers of all sizes. We combine local
logistics knowledge with international sales and service expertise to deliver a quality customer experience that is unique
to C.H. Robinson.
When it comes to global transportation management systems (TMS), our proprietary Navisphere technology provides clear visibility
across all types of transportation. Our single platform allows customers to connect all aspects of their supply chains with a system that
With proven solutions and practical experience, we have achieved a position as a market leader. Customers can leverage our
capabilities globally, developing and applying consistent processes across their supply chains. As they gain greater efficiencies
Our reputation as an industry leader extends beyond North America. Yet we’ve only reached a fraction of our potential market
opportunity, both domestically and abroad. We aspire to become the largest truckload transportation provider in Europe. Future
investments there, along with strategic ocean, air, and customs service expansion in traditional and new trade lanes, will position our
global network for growth.
EXPANDING GLOBAL TRADE LANES:
EUROPE TRANSPORTATION:
CUSTOMERS
CARRIERS
2,433
13,847
20.8%
9.2%
5-YEAR TRUCKLOAD VOLUME CAGR
5-YEAR NET REVENUE CAGR
Approximate 2014 modal business activity
EUROPE NORTH AMERICA
ASIA EUROPE
NORTH AMERICA ASIA
450,000 TEUs OCEAN FREIGHT WORLDWIDE
350,000 CBMs LCL OCEAN FREIGHT
INCREASING FOCUS ON AIR:
100,000 MTs AIR FREIGHT WORLDWIDE
CHICAGO
SÃO PAULO
With a shortage of available supply chain professionals, many companies turn to outsourcing. This is only one reason why
outsourcing—at over 10% of our net revenue—is one of our fastest-growing services. The way we approach outsourcing differentiates
our business. Using a Collaborative Outsourcing® approach across all of our logistics outsourcing offerings, we enable companies to add
their preferred level of technology, proven processes, and skilled people. Managed TMS® from TMC, a division of C.H. Robinson, offers
a holistic outsourcing relationship for transportation management without adding headcount.
C O L L A BORATION
S
E
EST PRACTIC
B
C
H
A
N
G
E
INNOVATION
AND CONTINUOUS
IMPROVEMENT
M
A
N
AGEMENT
B U S I N
EX
P
E
R
T
I
S
E
E
C
N
E
E S S INTELLIG
ALIGNM E N T
THE TALENT GAP
6 JOB OPENINGS FOR
FOR EVERY
SUPPLY CHAIN PROFESSIONALS
SUPPLY CHAIN CANDIDATE
Source: Bowman, Robert. “Bridging the Talent Gap in Supply-Chain Management.” SupplyChainBrain, September 30, 2013.
COLLABORATIVE OUTSOURCING® IS OVER
10% OF OUR TOTAL NET REVENUE
AMSTERDAM
WROCLAW
MUMBAI
SHANGHAI
38 COUNTRIES
281 BRANCHES
11,521 EMPLOYEES
3
6
19
10
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
184
6
52
39
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
8,763
157
1,114
1,487
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
Source: Navisphere® Master Data
scales to fit their changing needs.
5
STRATEGIC WAYS
NAVISPHERE® IMPACTS
GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS
1 GLOBAL VISIBILITY
2 COMPREHENSIVE OPTIMIZATION
3 ACTIONABLE INTELLIGENCE
4 BROAD CONNECTIVITY
5 TRUSTED PERFORMANCE
MORE THAN
100,000 COMPANIES AROUND THE WORLD
CONNECT TO OUR GLOBAL NETWORK
Source: Navisphere® Master Data
and savings, we enable global growth.
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
PROACTIVE SOLUTIONS
PROVEN PROCESSES
16 YEARS OUR GENERAL MANAGERS
6 YEARS OUR PEOPLE
AVERAGE TENURE OF
AVERAGE TENURE OF
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
(CONTINUED)
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
(CONTINUED)
(CONTINUED)
GROWING WITH ALL TYPES OF CUSTOMERS
IMPROVING CUSTOMER OUTCOMES
ESTABLISHING OUR GLOBAL PRESENCE
COLLABORATING FOR INNOVATION AND PRODUCTIVITY
We’re satisfying the growing needs of shippers and receivers, who seek a provider to coordinate multiple modes of transportation worldwide. We
can engage customers of all sizes and industries when and where they want to buy, thanks to our diverse portfolio of services and the capabilities
Solving complex transportation challenges around the world is what we do. When our customers are successful, so are we.
With focused efforts in unique industries, we are able to create value for customers, differentiate our organization, and
expand our portfolio.
FOOD & BEVERAGE:
43,844 ITEMS
IN THE AVERAGE SUPERMARKET
50%
ARE PERISHABLES
Source: Food Marketing Institute. “Supermarket Facts.” Accessed January 28, 2015.
4
KEY OUTCOMES
FOR OUR CUSTOMERS’ BUSINESS
RETAIL:
WORLDWIDE RETAIL SALES COULD RISE TO
$28 TRILLION
BY 2018
Source: eMarketer. “Retail Sales Worldwide Will Top $22 Trillion This Year.” December 23, 2014.
CHEMSOLUTIONS:
AN ESTIMATED
70,000 & PRODUCTS
STANDALONE ITEMS
PLAY ESSENTIAL ROLES IN OTHER INDUSTRIES
AROUND THE WORLD
1 MANAGE SPEND
2 IMPROVE EFFICIENCY
3 MANAGE RISK
4 MANAGE CHANGE
Source: Independent estimate of the size of market conducted in 2012.
INVESTING IN OUR TALENT
supply chains.
Through performance-driven, innovative teamwork, our people create our success. Every person is integral to the growth of our company.
Built on a foundation of empowerment and expertise, we give our people the tools they need to expand their skills and improve our customers’
Our global network allows us to work together and execute solutions for customers of all sizes. We combine local
logistics knowledge with international sales and service expertise to deliver a quality customer experience that is unique
to C.H. Robinson.
When it comes to global transportation management systems (TMS), our proprietary Navisphere technology provides clear visibility
across all types of transportation. Our single platform allows customers to connect all aspects of their supply chains with a system that
With proven solutions and practical experience, we have achieved a position as a market leader. Customers can leverage our
capabilities globally, developing and applying consistent processes across their supply chains. As they gain greater efficiencies
PROVING OUR NETWORK STRENGTH
CONNECTING SUPPLY CHAINS WITH NAVISPHERE®
HONING OUR PROCESS
38 COUNTRIES
3
6
19
10
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
281 BRANCHES
184
6
52
39
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
11,521 EMPLOYEES
8,763
157
1,114
1,487
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
Source: Navisphere® Master Data
Our reputation as an industry leader extends beyond North America. Yet we’ve only reached a fraction of our potential market
opportunity, both domestically and abroad. We aspire to become the largest truckload transportation provider in Europe. Future
investments there, along with strategic ocean, air, and customs service expansion in traditional and new trade lanes, will position our
global network for growth.
EXPANDING GLOBAL TRADE LANES:
EUROPE TRANSPORTATION:
CUSTOMERS
CARRIERS
2,433
13,847
20.8%
9.2%
5-YEAR TRUCKLOAD VOLUME CAGR
5-YEAR NET REVENUE CAGR
Approximate 2014 modal business activity
EUROPE NORTH AMERICA
ASIA EUROPE
NORTH AMERICA ASIA
450,000 TEUs OCEAN FREIGHT WORLDWIDE
350,000 CBMs LCL OCEAN FREIGHT
INCREASING FOCUS ON AIR:
100,000 MTs AIR FREIGHT WORLDWIDE
CHICAGO
SÃO PAULO
With a shortage of available supply chain professionals, many companies turn to outsourcing. This is only one reason why
outsourcing—at over 10% of our net revenue—is one of our fastest-growing services. The way we approach outsourcing differentiates
our business. Using a Collaborative Outsourcing® approach across all of our logistics outsourcing offerings, we enable companies to add
their preferred level of technology, proven processes, and skilled people. Managed TMS® from TMC, a division of C.H. Robinson, offers
a holistic outsourcing relationship for transportation management without adding headcount.
C O L L A BORATION
S
E
EST PRACTIC
B
C
H
A
N
G
E
INNOVATION
AND CONTINUOUS
IMPROVEMENT
M
A
N
AGEMENT
B U S I N
EX
P
E
R
T
I
S
E
E
C
N
E
E S S INTELLIG
ALIGNM E N T
THE TALENT GAP
6 JOB OPENINGS FOR
FOR EVERY
SUPPLY CHAIN PROFESSIONALS
SUPPLY CHAIN CANDIDATE
Source: Bowman, Robert. “Bridging the Talent Gap in Supply-Chain Management.” SupplyChainBrain, September 30, 2013.
COLLABORATIVE OUTSOURCING® IS OVER
10% OF OUR TOTAL NET REVENUE
AMSTERDAM
WROCLAW
MUMBAI
SHANGHAI
scales to fit their changing needs.
5
STRATEGIC WAYS
NAVISPHERE® IMPACTS
GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS
1 GLOBAL VISIBILITY
2 COMPREHENSIVE OPTIMIZATION
3 ACTIONABLE INTELLIGENCE
4 BROAD CONNECTIVITY
5 TRUSTED PERFORMANCE
MORE THAN
100,000 COMPANIES AROUND THE WORLD
CONNECT TO OUR GLOBAL NETWORK
Source: Navisphere® Master Data
and savings, we enable global growth.
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
PROACTIVE SOLUTIONS
PROVEN PROCESSES
of our collective brands.
8
CORE
SERVICES
1.6%
MARKET SHARE AIR & OCEAN
MARKET
13,216
CUSTOMERS
2.2%
MARKET SHARE TRUCKLOAD
MARKET
33,692
CUSTOMERS
2.3%
MARKET SHARE
27,306
CUSTOMERS
LESS THAN
TRUCKLOAD
MARKET
1.7%
MARKET SHARE
4,323
CUSTOMERS
INTERMODAL
MARKET
CUSTOMS
9,248
CUSTOMERS
3.6%
MARKET SHARE
2,738
CUSTOMERS
MANAGED
SERVICES
MARKET
3.4%
MARKET SHARE
1,317
CUSTOMERS
SOURCING
MARKET
Source: Market information drawn from reports by Armstrong & Associates, Inc., CSCMP (Council for Supply Chain Management Professionals),
FTR Transportation Intelligence, and the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
46,000 ACTIVE CUSTOMERS
SMALL TO LARGE
TRANSACTIONAL TO STRATEGIC
TOP 500 CUSTOMERS
ACCOUNT FOR APPROXIMATELY
50% OF NET REVENUE
LARGEST CUSTOMER IS LESS THAN
2% OF TOTAL NET REVENUE
POWERFUL BRANDS
16 YEARS OUR GENERAL MANAGERS
AVERAGE TENURE OF
6 YEARS OUR PEOPLE
AVERAGE TENURE OF
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
(CONTINUED)
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
(CONTINUED)
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
(CONTINUED)
We’re satisfying the growing needs of shippers and receivers, who seek a provider to coordinate multiple modes of transportation worldwide. We
can engage customers of all sizes and industries when and where they want to buy, thanks to our diverse portfolio of services and the capabilities
Solving complex transportation challenges around the world is what we do. When our customers are successful, so are we.
With focused efforts in unique industries, we are able to create value for customers, differentiate our organization, and
ESTABLISHING OUR GLOBAL PRESENCE
COLLABORATING FOR INNOVATION AND PRODUCTIVITY
Our reputation as an industry leader extends beyond North America. Yet we’ve only reached a fraction of our potential market
opportunity, both domestically and abroad. We aspire to become the largest truckload transportation provider in Europe. Future
investments there, along with strategic ocean, air, and customs service expansion in traditional and new trade lanes, will position our
global network for growth.
With a shortage of available supply chain professionals, many companies turn to outsourcing. This is only one reason why
outsourcing—at over 10% of our net revenue—is one of our fastest-growing services. The way we approach outsourcing differentiates
our business. Using a Collaborative Outsourcing® approach across all of our logistics outsourcing offerings, we enable companies to add
their preferred level of technology, proven processes, and skilled people. Managed TMS® from TMC, a division of C.H. Robinson, offers
a holistic outsourcing relationship for transportation management without adding headcount.
EXPANDING GLOBAL TRADE LANES:
EUROPE NORTH AMERICA
ASIA EUROPE
NORTH AMERICA ASIA
450,000 TEUs OCEAN FREIGHT WORLDWIDE
350,000 CBMs LCL OCEAN FREIGHT
INCREASING FOCUS ON AIR:
100,000 MTs AIR FREIGHT WORLDWIDE
CHICAGO
SÃO PAULO
EUROPE TRANSPORTATION:
2,433
13,847
20.8%
9.2%
CUSTOMERS
CARRIERS
5-YEAR TRUCKLOAD VOLUME CAGR
5-YEAR NET REVENUE CAGR
Approximate 2014 modal business activity
C O L L A BORATION
S
E
EST PRACTIC
B
C
H
A
N
G
E
INNOVATION
AND CONTINUOUS
IMPROVEMENT
M
A
N
AGEMENT
B U S I N
EX
P
E
R
T
I
S
E
E
C
N
E
E S S INTELLIG
ALIGNM E N T
THE TALENT GAP
6 JOB OPENINGS FOR
FOR EVERY
SUPPLY CHAIN PROFESSIONALS
SUPPLY CHAIN CANDIDATE
Source: Bowman, Robert. “Bridging the Talent Gap in Supply-Chain Management.” SupplyChainBrain, September 30, 2013.
COLLABORATIVE OUTSOURCING® IS OVER
10% OF OUR TOTAL NET REVENUE
AMSTERDAM
WROCLAW
MUMBAI
SHANGHAI
GROWING WITH ALL TYPES OF CUSTOMERS
of our collective brands.
8
CORE
SERVICES
1.6%
MARKET SHARE AIR & OCEAN
MARKET
13,216
CUSTOMERS
2.2%
MARKET SHARE TRUCKLOAD
MARKET
33,692
CUSTOMERS
2.3%
MARKET SHARE
27,306
CUSTOMERS
LESS THAN
TRUCKLOAD
MARKET
1.7%
MARKET SHARE
4,323
CUSTOMERS
INTERMODAL
MARKET
CUSTOMS
9,248
CUSTOMERS
3.6%
MARKET SHARE
2,738
CUSTOMERS
MANAGED
SERVICES
MARKET
3.4%
MARKET SHARE
1,317
CUSTOMERS
SOURCING
MARKET
Source: Market information drawn from reports by Armstrong & Associates, Inc., CSCMP (Council for Supply Chain Management Professionals),
FTR Transportation Intelligence, and the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
46,000 ACTIVE CUSTOMERS
SMALL TO LARGE
TRANSACTIONAL TO STRATEGIC
TOP 500 CUSTOMERS
ACCOUNT FOR APPROXIMATELY
50% OF NET REVENUE
LARGEST CUSTOMER IS LESS THAN
2% OF TOTAL NET REVENUE
POWERFUL BRANDS
IMPROVING CUSTOMER OUTCOMES
expand our portfolio.
FOOD & BEVERAGE:
43,844 ITEMS
IN THE AVERAGE SUPERMARKET
50%
ARE PERISHABLES
Source: Food Marketing Institute. “Supermarket Facts.” Accessed January 28, 2015.
4
KEY OUTCOMES
FOR OUR CUSTOMERS’ BUSINESS
1 MANAGE SPEND
RETAIL:
WORLDWIDE RETAIL SALES COULD RISE TO
$28 TRILLION
BY 2018
2 IMPROVE EFFICIENCY
Source: eMarketer. “Retail Sales Worldwide Will Top $22 Trillion This Year.” December 23, 2014.
CHEMSOLUTIONS:
AN ESTIMATED
70,000 & PRODUCTS
STANDALONE ITEMS
PLAY ESSENTIAL ROLES IN OTHER INDUSTRIES
AROUND THE WORLD
Source: Independent estimate of the size of market conducted in 2012.
3 MANAGE RISK
4 MANAGE CHANGE
INVESTING IN OUR TALENT
supply chains.
Through performance-driven, innovative teamwork, our people create our success. Every person is integral to the growth of our company.
Built on a foundation of empowerment and expertise, we give our people the tools they need to expand their skills and improve our customers’
Our global network allows us to work together and execute solutions for customers of all sizes. We combine local
logistics knowledge with international sales and service expertise to deliver a quality customer experience that is unique
16 YEARS OUR GENERAL MANAGERS
AVERAGE TENURE OF
6 YEARS OUR PEOPLE
AVERAGE TENURE OF
PROVING OUR NETWORK STRENGTH
to C.H. Robinson.
38 COUNTRIES
281 BRANCHES
11,521 EMPLOYEES
3
6
19
10
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
184
6
52
39
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
8,763
157
1,114
1,487
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
Source: Navisphere® Master Data
CONNECTING SUPPLY CHAINS WITH NAVISPHERE®
HONING OUR PROCESS
When it comes to global transportation management systems (TMS), our proprietary Navisphere technology provides clear visibility
across all types of transportation. Our single platform allows customers to connect all aspects of their supply chains with a system that
scales to fit their changing needs.
5
STRATEGIC WAYS
NAVISPHERE® IMPACTS
GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS
1 GLOBAL VISIBILITY
2 COMPREHENSIVE OPTIMIZATION
3 ACTIONABLE INTELLIGENCE
4 BROAD CONNECTIVITY
5 TRUSTED PERFORMANCE
MORE THAN
100,000 COMPANIES AROUND THE WORLD
CONNECT TO OUR GLOBAL NETWORK
Source: Navisphere® Master Data
and savings, we enable global growth.
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
PROACTIVE SOLUTIONS
PROVEN PROCESSES
With proven solutions and practical experience, we have achieved a position as a market leader. Customers can leverage our
capabilities globally, developing and applying consistent processes across their supply chains. As they gain greater efficiencies
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
(CONTINUED)
(CONTINUED)
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH
Efficient supply chains help companies respond more quickly to changing market conditions and deliver a reliable experience to their customers, while decreasing expenses and risk.
We enable companies to optimize their supply chains, knowing that when our customers win, we achieve our desired goal of delivering exceptional value.
(CONTINUED)
GROWING WITH ALL TYPES OF CUSTOMERS
ESTABLISHING OUR GLOBAL PRESENCE
COLLABORATING FOR INNOVATION AND PRODUCTIVITY
We’re satisfying the growing needs of shippers and receivers, who seek a provider to coordinate multiple modes of transportation worldwide. We
can engage customers of all sizes and industries when and where they want to buy, thanks to our diverse portfolio of services and the capabilities
Solving complex transportation challenges around the world is what we do. When our customers are successful, so are we.
With focused efforts in unique industries, we are able to create value for customers, differentiate our organization, and
Our reputation as an industry leader extends beyond North America. Yet we’ve only reached a fraction of our potential market
opportunity, both domestically and abroad. We aspire to become the largest truckload transportation provider in Europe. Future
investments there, along with strategic ocean, air, and customs service expansion in traditional and new trade lanes, will position our
global network for growth.
EXPANDING GLOBAL TRADE LANES:
EUROPE TRANSPORTATION:
With a shortage of available supply chain professionals, many companies turn to outsourcing. This is only one reason why
outsourcing—at over 10% of our net revenue—is one of our fastest-growing services. The way we approach outsourcing differentiates
our business. Using a Collaborative Outsourcing® approach across all of our logistics outsourcing offerings, we enable companies to add
their preferred level of technology, proven processes, and skilled people. Managed TMS® from TMC, a division of C.H. Robinson, offers
a holistic outsourcing relationship for transportation management without adding headcount.
C O L L A BORATION
THE TALENT GAP
of our collective brands.
8
CORE
SERVICES
1.6%
MARKET SHARE AIR & OCEAN
MARKET
13,216
CUSTOMERS
2.2%
MARKET SHARE TRUCKLOAD
MARKET
33,692
CUSTOMERS
2.3%
MARKET SHARE
27,306
CUSTOMERS
LESS THAN
TRUCKLOAD
MARKET
1.7%
MARKET SHARE
4,323
CUSTOMERS
INTERMODAL
MARKET
CUSTOMS
9,248
CUSTOMERS
3.6%
MARKET SHARE
2,738
CUSTOMERS
MANAGED
SERVICES
MARKET
3.4%
MARKET SHARE
1,317
CUSTOMERS
SOURCING
MARKET
Source: Market information drawn from reports by Armstrong & Associates, Inc., CSCMP (Council for Supply Chain Management Professionals),
FTR Transportation Intelligence, and the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
46,000 ACTIVE CUSTOMERS
SMALL TO LARGE
TRANSACTIONAL TO STRATEGIC
TOP 500 CUSTOMERS
ACCOUNT FOR APPROXIMATELY
50% OF NET REVENUE
LARGEST CUSTOMER IS LESS THAN
2% OF TOTAL NET REVENUE
POWERFUL BRANDS
IMPROVING CUSTOMER OUTCOMES
expand our portfolio.
FOOD & BEVERAGE:
43,844 ITEMS
IN THE AVERAGE SUPERMARKET
50%
ARE PERISHABLES
Source: Food Marketing Institute. “Supermarket Facts.” Accessed January 28, 2015.
4
KEY OUTCOMES
FOR OUR CUSTOMERS’ BUSINESS
1 MANAGE SPEND
RETAIL:
WORLDWIDE RETAIL SALES COULD RISE TO
$28 TRILLION
BY 2018
2 IMPROVE EFFICIENCY
Source: eMarketer. “Retail Sales Worldwide Will Top $22 Trillion This Year.” December 23, 2014.
CHEMSOLUTIONS:
AN ESTIMATED
70,000 & PRODUCTS
STANDALONE ITEMS
PLAY ESSENTIAL ROLES IN OTHER INDUSTRIES
AROUND THE WORLD
Source: Independent estimate of the size of market conducted in 2012.
3 MANAGE RISK
4 MANAGE CHANGE
16 YEARS OUR GENERAL MANAGERS
AVERAGE TENURE OF
6 YEARS OUR PEOPLE
AVERAGE TENURE OF
PROVING OUR NETWORK STRENGTH
to C.H. Robinson.
38 COUNTRIES
281 BRANCHES
11,521 EMPLOYEES
3
6
19
10
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
184
6
52
39
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
8,763
157
1,114
1,487
NORTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
EUROPE
ASIA
Source: Navisphere® Master Data
CUSTOMERS
CARRIERS
2,433
13,847
20.8%
9.2%
5-YEAR TRUCKLOAD VOLUME CAGR
5-YEAR NET REVENUE CAGR
Approximate 2014 modal business activity
EUROPE NORTH AMERICA
ASIA EUROPE
NORTH AMERICA ASIA
450,000 TEUs OCEAN FREIGHT WORLDWIDE
350,000 CBMs LCL OCEAN FREIGHT
INCREASING FOCUS ON AIR:
100,000 MTs AIR FREIGHT WORLDWIDE
CHICAGO
SÃO PAULO
INVESTING IN OUR TALENT
supply chains.
Through performance-driven, innovative teamwork, our people create our success. Every person is integral to the growth of our company.
Built on a foundation of empowerment and expertise, we give our people the tools they need to expand their skills and improve our customers’
Our global network allows us to work together and execute solutions for customers of all sizes. We combine local
logistics knowledge with international sales and service expertise to deliver a quality customer experience that is unique
CONNECTING SUPPLY CHAINS WITH NAVISPHERE®
HONING OUR PROCESS
When it comes to global transportation management systems (TMS), our proprietary Navisphere technology provides clear visibility
across all types of transportation. Our single platform allows customers to connect all aspects of their supply chains with a system that
scales to fit their changing needs.
With proven solutions and practical experience, we have achieved a position as a market leader. Customers can leverage our
capabilities globally, developing and applying consistent processes across their supply chains. As they gain greater efficiencies
and savings, we enable global growth.
5
STRATEGIC WAYS
NAVISPHERE® IMPACTS
GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS
1 GLOBAL VISIBILITY
2 COMPREHENSIVE OPTIMIZATION
3 ACTIONABLE INTELLIGENCE
4 BROAD CONNECTIVITY
5 TRUSTED PERFORMANCE
MORE THAN
100,000 COMPANIES AROUND THE WORLD
CONNECT TO OUR GLOBAL NETWORK
Source: Navisphere® Master Data
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
PROACTIVE SOLUTIONS
PROVEN PROCESSES
ALIGNM E N T
COLLABORATIVE OUTSOURCING® IS OVER
10% OF OUR TOTAL NET REVENUE
AMSTERDAM
WROCLAW
MUMBAI
SHANGHAI
6 JOB OPENINGS FOR
SUPPLY CHAIN PROFESSIONALS
FOR EVERY
SUPPLY CHAIN CANDIDATE
Source: Bowman, Robert. “Bridging the Talent Gap in Supply-Chain Management.” SupplyChainBrain, September 30, 2013.
INNOVATION
AND CONTINUOUS
IMPROVEMENT
S
E
EST PRACTIC
B
E S S INTELLIG
C
H
A
N
G
E
M
AGEMENT
B U S I N
E
C
N
E
EX
P
T
I
E
N
A
R
S
E
global technology platform, is continually enhanced,
adapted, and improved to add functionality to benefit
our customers. This system allows the network to
collaborate and communicate with over 100,000
companies. Navisphere also provides the functionality
to execute the increasingly complex transactions in
our business. We are excited to add the e-commerce
platform of the Freightquote technology, which enables
smaller customers to facilitate all aspects of their
freight transactions online.
Our future is bright, and we know we must be diligent
in pursuing our ambitious goals. Our key initiatives
targeting growth, increased efficiency, and talent
development keep us centered in our day to day
endeavors. A special thank you to our employees, who
worked incredibly hard to make our success possible
in 2014. To our valued shareholders, we thank you
for the continued trust in us as we focus on creating
shareholder value and serving all of our various
stakeholders.
Thank you,
John P. Wiehoff
Chief Executive Officer and
Chairman of the Board
In North America, the truckload, less than truckload,
and intermodal services performed well last year
under difficult circumstances. We expect the industry
will continue to face challenges as regulatory changes,
driver shortages, and economic growth impact the
transportation industry. In 2014, we leveraged the
talent investments of prior years to execute the
business. Looking ahead, we plan to add talent to
drive and support growth initiatives. The acquisition
of Freightquote increases our business with small
companies and strengthens our value proposition to
pursue this large market segment. We are focused
on driving growth with customers of all sizes and
industries. We have developed refined processes in
several industry verticals where we are well positioned
to accelerate growth. The ability to quickly and flexibly
transition between modes is increasingly important
to our customers, and we will continue to offer the
best solution to effectively manage costs and service
requirements.
We have a strategy to win in an increasingly
competitive industry. Our best opportunities can
only be realized through continued investment in
talent and innovation. Our people have always set
us apart. We carefully acquire new talent, develop
individuals, and build teams to lead our business
forward. Innovation contributes to our success and is
a key attribute of our brand. Technology leads in our
innovation investments. Navisphere®, our proprietary
PROVEN TRACK RECORD
We have had consistent, long-term growth that shows
steady, strong performance.
KEY (IN MILLIONS OF DOLLARS)
NET REVENUE 14.4% 20-YEAR CAGR(1)
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS 15.7% 20-YEAR CAGR
(1) COMPOUNDED ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR).
6
.
5
3
1
5
.
0
4
4
9
9
1
9
9
9
1
4
0
0
2
9
0
0
2
7
.
7
0
0
2
4
.
8
4
7
4
1
0
2
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014
Commission File Number: 000-23189
C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
14701 Charlson Road, Eden Prairie, Minnesota
(Address of principal executive offices)
41-1883630
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
55347-5088
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 952-937-8500
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Common Stock, par value $.10 per share
Preferred Share Purchase Rights
Name of each exchange on which registered
The NASDAQ National Market
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes
No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes
No
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
No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Date
File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months
(or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes
No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be
contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this
Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.
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
Non-accelerated filer
Accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes
No
The aggregate market value of voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2014 was approximately $9,309,100,899
(based upon the closing price of $63.79 per common share on that date as quoted on The NASDAQ Global Select Market).
As of February 24, 2015, the number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Common Stock, par value $.10 per share, was 146,328,737.
Portions of the Registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held May 7, 2015 (the “Proxy Statement”),
are incorporated by reference in Part III.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE, INC.
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
For the year ended December 31, 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A.
Item 9B.
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13.
Item 14.
Item 15.
PART I
Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unresolved Staff Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mine Safety Disclosures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PART II
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases
of Equity Securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selected Financial Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. . . . .
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure . . . .
Controls and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PART III
Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Executive Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder
Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Principal Accounting Fees and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PART IV
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Signatures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
3
13
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18
19
20
22
24
32
33
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57
57
57
57
58
59
2
ITEM 1.
BUSINESS
Overview
PART I
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (“C.H. Robinson,” “the company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is one of the largest third party
logistics companies in the world with 2014 consolidated total revenues of $13.5 billion. We are a service company. We provide
freight transportation services and logistics solutions to companies of all sizes, in a wide variety of industries. During 2014, we
handled approximately 14.3 million shipments and worked with more than 46,000 active customers. We operate through a
network of 281 offices in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. We have developed global transportation and
distribution networks to provide transportation and supply chain services worldwide. As a result, we have the capability of
facilitating most aspects of the supply chain on behalf of our customers.
As a third party logistics provider, we enter into contractual relationships with a wide variety of transportation companies, and
utilize those relationships to efficiently and cost-effectively transport our customers’ freight. We have contractual relationships
with approximately 66,000 transportation companies, including motor carriers, railroads (primarily intermodal service
providers), and air freight and ocean carriers. Depending on the needs of our customer and their supply chain requirements, we
select and hire the appropriate transportation for each shipment. Our model enables us to be flexible, provide solutions that
optimize service for our customers, and minimize our asset utilization risk. As an integral part of our transportation services, we
provide a wide range of value-added logistics services, such as freight consolidation, supply chain consulting and analysis,
optimization, and reporting.
In addition to transportation, we provide sourcing services (“Sourcing”) through Robinson Fresh ("Robinson Fresh"). Our
Sourcing business is primarily the buying, selling, and marketing of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other perishable items. It was
our original business when we were founded in 1905. The foundation for much of our logistics expertise can be traced to our
significant experience in handling produce and temperature controlled commodities. We supply fresh produce through our
network of independent produce growers and suppliers. Our customers include grocery retailers and restaurants, produce
wholesalers, and foodservice distributors. In many cases, we also arrange the logistics and transportation of the products we sell
and provide related supply chain services, such as replenishment, category management, and merchandising. We have
developed proprietary brands of produce and have exclusive licensing agreements to distribute fresh produce under recognized
consumer brand names. The produce for these brands is sourced through our preferred grower network and packed to order
through contract packing agreements. We have instituted quality assurance and monitoring procedures with each of these
preferred growers.
Historically, we provided fee-based payment services ("Payment Services") primarily through our subsidiary, T-Chek Systems,
Inc., ("T-Chek"). T-Chek provided a variety of payment management and business intelligence services primarily to motor
carrier companies and to fuel distributors. Those services included funds transfer, fuel purchasing, and online expense
management. For most of these services, T-Chek charged a fee per transaction. On October 16, 2012, we sold substantially all
of the assets and transferred certain liabilities of T-Chek to Electronic Funds Source, LLC ("EFS"). We continue to generate
Payment Services revenues from the cash advance option we offer our contracted carriers through continued agreements with
EFS.
Our flexible business model has been the main driver of our historical results and has positioned us for continued growth. One
of our competitive advantages is our network of 281 offices. Our employees are in close proximity to both customers and
transportation providers, which gives them broad knowledge of their local markets and enables them to respond quickly to
customers’ and transportation providers’ changing needs. Employees act as a team in their sales efforts, customer service, and
operations. A significant portion of most employees’ compensation is performance-oriented, based on the profitability and their
contributions to the success of the company. We believe this makes our employees more service-oriented and focused on
driving growth and maximizing office productivity.
Our offices work together to complete transactions and collectively meet the needs of our customers. For large, multi-location
customers, we often coordinate our efforts in one office and rely on multiple locations to deliver specific geographic or modal
needs. As an example, approximately 48 percent of our truckload shipments are shared transactions between offices. Our
methodology of providing services is very similar across all locations. The majority of our global network operates on a
common technology platform that is used to match customer needs with supplier capabilities, to collaborate with other offices,
and to utilize centralized support resources to complete all facets of the transaction.
3
Historically, we have grown primarily through internal growth, by increasing market share through the addition of new
customers and expanding relationships with our current customers, adding new services, expanding our market presence and
operations globally, and hiring additional employees. We have augmented our growth through selective acquisitions. In January
2015, we completed our acquisition of Freightquote.com, Inc. ("Freightquote"), a privately held freight broker based in Kansas
City, Missouri. Freightquote provides services throughout North America. The acquisition enhances and brings synergies to our
less-than-truckload and truckload businesses, and expands our e-commerce capabilities.
Our net revenues are our total revenues less purchased transportation and related services, including contracted motor carrier,
rail, ocean, air, and other costs, and the purchase price and services related to the products we sell. Our net revenues are the
primary indicator of our ability to source, add value, and sell services and products that are provided by third parties, and we
consider them to be our primary performance measurement. Accordingly, the discussion of our results of operations focuses on
the changes in our net revenues.
Transportation and Logistics Services
C.H. Robinson provides freight transportation and related logistics and supply chain services. Our services range from
commitments on a specific shipment to much more comprehensive and integrated relationships. We execute these service
commitments by hiring and training people, developing proprietary systems and technology processes, and utilizing our
network of contracted transportation providers, including, but not limited to, contract motor carriers, railroads, air freight
carriers, and ocean carriers. We make a profit on the difference between what we charge to our customers for the totality of
services provided to them and what we pay to the transportation providers to handle or transport the freight. While industry
definitions vary, given our extensive contracting to create a flexible network of solutions, we are generally referred to in the
industry as a third party logistics company.
We provide all of the following transportation and logistics services:
• Truckload-Through our contracts with motor carriers, we have access to dry vans, temperature controlled vans,
flatbeds, and bulk capacity. We also offer time-definite and expedited truck transportation.
• Less Than Truckload (“LTL”)-LTL transportation involves the shipment of single or multiple pallets of freight.
We focus on shipments of a single pallet or larger, although we handle any size shipment. Through our contracts
with motor carriers and our operating system, we consolidate freight and freight information to provide our
customers with a single source of information on their freight. In many instances, we will consolidate partial
shipments for several customers into full truckloads.
•
Intermodal-Our intermodal transportation service is the shipment of freight in trailers or containers by a
combination of truck and rail. We have intermodal marketing agreements with container owners and all Class 1
railroads in North America, and we arrange local pickup and delivery (known as drayage) through local
contracted motor carriers. In addition, we own approximately 1,000 intermodal containers.
• Ocean-As a non-vessel ocean common carrier ("NVOCC") or freight forwarder, we consolidate shipments,
determine routing, select ocean carriers, contract for ocean shipments, and provide for local pickup and delivery
of shipments.
• Air-As a certified indirect air carrier ("Indirect Air Carrier") or freight forwarder, we organize air shipments and
provide door-to-door service.
• Customs-Our customs brokers are licensed and regulated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to assist
importers and exporters in meeting federal requirements governing imports and exports.
• Other Logistics Services-We provide fee-based managed services, warehousing services, small parcel, and other
services.
Customers communicate their freight needs, typically on a shipment-by-shipment basis, to the C.H. Robinson team responsible
for their account. The team ensures that all appropriate information about each shipment is available in our proprietary
operating system. This information is entered by our employees, by the customer through our web tools, or received
electronically from the customers' systems. With the help of information provided by our operating system, the salesperson then
selects a contracted carrier or carriers, based upon his or her knowledge of the carrier’s service capability, equipment
availability, freight rates, and other relevant factors. Based on the information he or she has about the market and rates, the
salesperson may either determine an appropriate price at that point or wait to communicate with a contracted carrier directly
4
before setting a price. In many cases, employees from different offices collaborate to hire the appropriate contracted carrier for
our customers’ freight, and the offices agree to an internal profit split.
Once the contracted carrier is selected, the salesperson communicates with the contract carrier to agree on the cost for the
transportation and the contract carrier’s commitment to provide the transportation. We are in contact with the contract carrier
through numerous means of communication to meet our customers’ requirements as well as track the status of the shipment
from origin to delivery.
For most of our transportation and logistics services, we are a service provider. By accepting the customer’s order, we accept
certain responsibilities for transportation of the shipment from origin to destination. The carrier’s contract is with us, not the
customer, and we are responsible for prompt payment of freight charges. In the cases where we have agreed (either
contractually or otherwise) to pay for claims for damage to freight while in transit, we pursue reimbursement from the
contracted carrier for the claims. In our managed services business, we are acting as the shipper’s agent. In those cases, the
carrier’s contract is typically with the customer, and we collect a fee for our services.
As a result of our logistics capabilities, some of our customers have us handle all, or a substantial portion, of their freight
transportation requirements. Our employees price our services to provide a profit to us for the totality of services performed for
the customer. In some cases, our services to the customer are priced on a spot market, or transactional, basis. In a number of
instances, we have contracts with the customer in which we agree to handle an estimated number of shipments, usually to
specified destinations, such as from the customer’s plant to a distribution center. Our commitments to handle the shipments are
usually at pre-determined rates. Most of our rate commitments are for one year or less and allow for renegotiation. As is typical
in the transportation industry, most of these contracts do not include specific volume commitments. When we enter into
prearranged rate agreements for truckload services with our customers, we usually have fuel surcharge agreements, in addition
to the underlying line-haul portion of the rate.
We purchase the majority of our truckload services from our contract truckload carriers on a spot market or transactional basis,
even when we are working with the customer on a contractual basis. When we enter into spot transactions with contract motor
carriers, we generally negotiate a mutually agreed-upon total market rate that includes all costs, including any applicable fuel
expense. However, if requested by the contract carrier, we will estimate and report fuel separately. In a small number of cases,
we may get advance commitments from one or more contract carriers to transport contracted shipments for the length of our
customer contract. In those cases, where we have prearranged rates with contract carriers, there is a calculated fuel surcharge
based on a mutually agreed-upon formula.
In the course of providing day-to-day transportation services, our employees often identify opportunities for additional logistics
services as they become more familiar with our customers’ daily operations and the nuances of our customers’ supply chains.
We offer a wide range of logistics services on a worldwide basis that reduce or eliminate supply chain inefficiencies. We will
analyze the customers’ current transportation rate structures, modes of shipping, and carrier selection. We can identify
opportunities to consolidate shipments for cost savings. We will suggest ways to improve operating and shipping procedures
and manage claims. We can help customers minimize storage through crossdocking and other flow-through operations. We may
also examine the customers’ warehousing and dock procedures. Many of these services are bundled with underlying
transportation services and are not typically priced separately. They are usually included as a part of the cost of transportation
services provided by us, based on the nature of the customer relationship. In addition to these transportation services, we may
provide additional logistics services, such as contract warehousing, consulting, transportation management, and other services,
for which we are usually paid separately.
As we have emphasized integrated logistics solutions, our relationships with many customers have broadened, and we have
become a key provider to them by managing a greater portion of their supply chains. We may serve our customers through
specially created teams and through several locations. Our transportation services are provided to numerous international
customers through our worldwide network. See Note 1 to our 2014 consolidated financial statements included in Part II, Item 8
of this report for an allocation of our total revenues from domestic and foreign customers for the years ended December 31,
2014, 2013, and 2012 and our long-lived assets as of December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 in the United States and in foreign
locations.
5
The table below shows our net revenues by transportation mode for the periods indicated:
Transportation Net Revenues
Year Ended December 31,
2014
(in thousands)
Truckload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,177,990
258,884
LTL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
40,631
Intermodal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
208,422
Ocean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
79,125
Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41,575
Customs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other Logistics Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
73,097
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,879,724
2013
$ 1,054,565
239,477
39,084
187,671
73,089
36,578
67,931
$ 1,698,395
2012
$ 1,060,120
224,160
38,815
84,924
44,444
18,225
57,449
$ 1,528,137
2011
$ 1,037,876
198,735
41,189
66,873
39,371
13,100
46,772
$ 1,443,916
$
2010
919,787
156,460
36,550
60,763
42,315
11,866
45,388
$ 1,273,129
Transportation services accounted for approximately 94 percent of our net revenues in 2014, 93 percent in 2013, and 89 percent
of our net revenues in 2012. The increases in ocean, air, and customs revenues in 2012 and 2013 are primarily related to our
acquisition of Phoenix International Freight Services, Ltd., ("Phoenix"), on November 1, 2012.
Sourcing
Since we were founded in 1905, we have been in the business of sourcing fresh produce. Much of our logistics expertise can be
traced to our significant experience in handling produce and other perishable commodities. Because of its perishable nature,
produce must be rapidly packaged, carefully transported within tight timetables, usually in temperature controlled equipment,
and quickly distributed to replenish high-turnover inventories maintained by retailers, wholesalers, foodservice companies, and
restaurants. In many instances, we consolidate individual customers’ produce orders into truckload quantities at the point of
origin and arrange for transportation of the truckloads, often to multiple destinations.
Our Sourcing customer base includes grocery retailers and restaurants, produce wholesalers, and foodservice distributors.
Our Sourcing services have expanded to include forecasting and replenishment, brand management, and category development
services. We have various national and regional branded produce programs, including both proprietary brands and national
licensed brands. These programs contain a wide variety of fresh bulk and value added fruits and vegetables that are high in
quality. These brands have expanded our market presence and relationships with many of our retail customers. We have also
instituted quality assurance and monitoring programs as part of our branded and preferred grower programs.
Sourcing accounted for approximately six percent of our net revenues in 2014, seven percent of our net revenues in 2013, and
eight percent of our net revenues in 2012.
Payment Services
On October 16, 2012, we sold substantially all of the operations of T-Chek, which represented a majority of our Payment
Services. However, we still earn Payment Services revenues when we advance money to our contract carriers.
Payment Services accounted for less than one percent of our net revenues in 2014 and 2013, and three percent of our net
revenues in 2012.
6
Organization
Branch Office Network. To keep us close to our customers and markets, we operate through a network of offices. We currently
have 281 branches in the following areas of the world:
Region
North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
South America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Number of
Branches
184
52
39
6
Each is responsible for its own growth and profitability. Our employees are responsible for developing new business,
negotiating and pricing services, receiving and processing service requests from customers, and negotiating with carriers to
provide the transportation requested. In addition to routine transportation, employees are often called upon to handle customers’
unusual, seasonal, and emergency needs. Shipments to be transported by truck are priced at the local level, and locations
cooperate with each other to hire contract carriers to provide transportation. Employees may rely on expertise in other offices
when contracting LTL, intermodal, ocean, and air shipments. Multiple offices may also work together to service larger, national
accounts where the expertise and resources of more than one office are required to meet the customer’s needs. Their efforts are
usually coordinated by one “lead” office on the account.
Employees both sell to and service their customers. Sales opportunities are identified through our internal database, referrals
from current customers, leads generated by people through knowledge of their local and regional markets, and company
marketing efforts. Employees are also responsible for recruiting new over the road contract carriers, who are referred to our
centralized carrier services group to confirm they are properly licensed and insured and have acceptable Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Administration ("FMCSA") issued safety ratings.
Network Employees. Each office is responsible for its hiring and headcount decisions, based on the needs of their office and to
balance personnel resources with business requirements. Because the quality of our employees is essential to our success, we
are highly selective in our recruiting and hiring. To support our hiring processes, we have a corporate recruiting group that
develops a pipeline of qualified candidates that managers can draw from. Our applicants typically have college degrees, and
some have business experience, although not necessarily within the transportation industry.
Early in their tenure, most newly-hired employees go through centralized training that emphasizes development of the skills
necessary to become productive members of a team, including technology training on our proprietary systems and our customer
service philosophy. Centralized training is followed by ongoing, on-the-job training. We expect most new employees to start
contributing in a matter of weeks.
Employees operate and are compensated in large part on a team basis. The team structure is motivated by our performance-
based compensation system, in which a significant portion of the cash compensation of most branch managers and employees
is dependent on the profitability of their particular branch. They are paid a performance-based bonus, which is a portion of the
branch’s earnings for that calendar year. The percentage they can potentially earn is predetermined in an annual bonus contract
and is based on their productivity and contributions to the overall success of the office. Within our 401(k) plan, employees can
also receive profit sharing contributions that depend on our overall profitability and other factors. In some special
circumstances, such as opening new branches, we may guarantee a level of compensation to the manager and key employees
for a short period of time.
All of our managers and certain other employees who have significant responsibilities are eligible to receive equity awards
because we believe these awards are an effective tool for creating long-term ownership and alignment between employees and
our shareholders. Generally, these awards are eligible to vest over five-year periods and also include financial performance-
based requirements for management employees.
Employees benefit both through the growth and profitability of individual offices and by achieving individual goals. They are
motivated by the opportunity to advance in a variety of career paths, including management, corporate sales, and customer and
carrier account management. We have a “promote from within” philosophy and fill nearly all management positions with
current employees.
Shared Services. Our offices are supported by our shared and centralized services. Approximately ten percent of our employees
provide shared services in centralized centers. Approximately 45 percent of these shared services employees are information
technology personnel who develop and maintain our proprietary operating system software and our wide area network.
7
Executive Officers
The Board of Directors designates the executive officers annually. Below are the names, ages, and positions of the executive
officers:
Name
John P. Wiehoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ben G. Campbell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bryan D. Foe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Angela K. Freeman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jordan Kass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
James P. Lemke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chad M. Lindbloom . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Christopher J. O'Brien . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stéphane D. Rambaud . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scott A. Satterlee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Age
53
49
47
47
42
47
50
47
50
46
Position
Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chairman of the Board
Chief Legal Officer and Secretary
President of C.H. Robinson Europe
Chief Human Resources Officer
President of Managed Services
President of Robinson Fresh
Chief Information Officer and Chief Financial Officer
Chief Commercial Officer
President of Global Freight Forwarding
President of North American Surface Transportation
John P. Wiehoff has been chief executive officer of C.H. Robinson since May 2002, president of the company since December
1999, a director since 2001, and became the chairman in January 2007. Previous positions with the company include senior
vice president from October 1998, chief financial officer from July 1998 to December 1999, treasurer from August 1997 to
June 1998, and corporate controller from 1992 to June 1998. Prior to that, John was employed by Arthur Andersen LLP. John
also serves on the Boards of Directors of Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII), a provider of off-road vehicles, snowmobiles,
motorcycles and on-road electric/hybrid powered vehicles, and Donaldson Company, Inc. (NYSE: DCI), a provider of filtration
systems. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from St. John’s University.
Ben G. Campbell was named chief legal officer and secretary in January 2015. Previous positions with the company include
vice president, general counsel and secretary from January 2009 to December 2014 and assistant general counsel from
February 2004 to December 2008. Ben joined C.H. Robinson in 2004. Before coming to C.H. Robinson, Ben was a partner at
Rider Bennett, LLP, in Minneapolis, MN. Ben holds a Bachelor of Science degree from St. John's University and a Juris Doctor
from William Mitchell College of Law.
Bryan D. Foe was named president of C.H. Robinson Europe in July 2012. He has served as a vice president since 2005.
Additional positions with C.H. Robinson include president of T-Chek Systems, Inc., and manager of the Valley Forge, PA, and
Grand Rapids, MI, offices. Bryan joined the company in 1990. He also served as a Research Advisory Committee Member for
the American Transportation Research Institute and past treasurer of the Detroit Intermodal Association. He attended the
Detroit College of Business.
Angela K. Freeman was named chief human resources officer in January 2015. Prior to that, she served as vice president of
human resources from August 2012 to December 2014. Additional positions with C.H. Robinson include vice president of
investor relations and public affairs from January 2009 to August 2012 and director of investor relations and director of
marketing communications. She also serves as the president of the C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation. Prior to joining
C.H. Robinson in 1998, Angela was with McDermott/O’Neill & Associates, a Boston-based public affairs firm. She holds a
Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Dakota, and a Master of Science from
the London School of Economics. Angela also serves on the Board of Directors of Community Health Charities of Minnesota
and of the non-profit organization LeadersUp.
Jordan Kass was named president of managed services in January 2015. He previously served as vice president of management
services. Additional positions with C.H. Robinson include director of TMC. Jordan began his career in 1994 at American
Backhaulers and subsequently joined C.H. Robinson in 2000 following our acquisition of American Backhaulers. Jordan holds
a Bachelor of Arts degree from Indiana University.
James P. Lemke was named president of Robinson Fresh in January 2015. Prior to that, he served as senior vice president from
December 2007 to December 2014, having previously served as vice president, Sourcing since 2003. Prior to that time, he
served as the vice president and manager of C.H. Robinson's corporate procurement and distribution services. Jim joined the
company in 1989. Jim holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations from the University of Minnesota. Jim also
serves on the Foundation Board of the United Fresh Produce Association. He also serves as a director for the Children’s Theatre
Company.
8
Chad M. Lindbloom was named chief information officer in January 2015. He was named chief financial officer in 1999 and
will continue to serve as CFO until his successor is identified and appointed. From June 1998 until December 1999, he served
as corporate controller. Chad joined the company in 1990. Chad holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a Masters of Business
Administration from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota.
Christopher J. O'Brien was named chief commercial officer in January 2015. Prior to that, he served as a senior vice president
from May 2012 to December 2014. He has served as a vice president since May 2003. Additional positions with C.H. Robinson
include president of the company’s European division and manager of the Raleigh, NC, office. Christopher joined the company
in 1993. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Alma College in Michigan. Christopher also serves on the Board of Trustees
of the University of Minnesota’s Landscape Arboretum.
Stéphane Rambaud was named president of global freight forwarding in January 2015. Prior to that, he served as senior vice
president of C.H. Robinson from November 2012 to December 2014 and as chief executive officer for Phoenix International, a
privately-held international freight forwarder, which was acquired by C.H. Robinson in November 2012. Stéphane joined
Phoenix International in 1985 and prior to becoming chief executive officer in 2007, he served as president from 2003 to 2007
and chief operating officer from 2000 to 2003. Stéphane completed his education at International Commerce at Académie
Commerciale Internationale in Paris, France.
Scott A. Satterlee was named president of North American Surface Transportation in January 2015. Prior to that, he served as
senior vice president from December 2007 to December 2014. He has served as an executive and officer of C.H. Robinson
since February 2002. Additional positions with C.H. Robinson include director of operations and manager of the Salt Lake City
office. Scott joined the company in 1991. Scott holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of St. Thomas. Scott also
serves on the Board of Directors of Fastenal (NASDAQ: FAST), a large fastener distributor.
Employees
As of December 31, 2014, we had a total of 11,521 employees, 10,300 of whom were located in our branch offices. Services
such as finance, information technology, legal, marketing, and human resource support are supported centrally.
Customer Relationships
We work to establish long-term relationships with our customers and to increase the amount of business done with each
customer by providing them with a full range of logistics services. During 2014, we served over 46,000 active customers
worldwide, ranging from Fortune 100 companies to small businesses in a wide variety of industries.
During 2014, our largest customer accounted for approximately two percent of total revenues and approximately one percent of
net revenues. In recent years, we have grown by adding new customers and by increasing our volumes with, and providing
more services to, our existing customers.
We seek additional business from existing customers and pursue new customers based on our knowledge of the marketplace
and the range of logistics services that we can provide. We believe that our account management disciplines and decentralized
structure enable our employees to better serve our customers by combining a broad knowledge of logistics and market
conditions with a deep understanding of the specific supply chain issues facing individual customers and certain vertical
industries. With the guidance of our executive and shared services teams, offices are given significant latitude to pursue
opportunities and to commit our resources to serve our customers.
In 2014, we continued to expand our corporate sales, account management, and marketing support to enhance sales capabilities.
The network also calls on our executives and our corporate sales staff to support them in the pursuit of new business with
companies that have more complex logistics requirements.
Relationships with Transportation Providers
We continually work on establishing contractual relationships with qualified transportation providers that also meet our service
requirements to provide dependable services, favorable pricing, and contract carrier availability during periods when demand
for transportation equipment is greater than the supply. Because we own very little transportation equipment and do not employ
the people directly involved with the delivery of our customers’ freight, these relationships are critical to our success.
9
In 2014, we worked with approximately 66,000 transportation providers worldwide, of which the vast majority are contracted
motor carriers. To strengthen and maintain our relationships with motor carriers, our employees regularly communicate with
carriers and try to assist them by increasing their equipment utilization, reducing their empty miles, and repositioning their
equipment. To make it easier for contract carriers to work with us, we have a policy of payment upon receipt of proof of
delivery. For those contract carriers who would like a faster payment, we also offer payment within 48 hours of receipt of proof
of delivery in exchange for a discount, along with offering in-trip cash advances.
Contracted motor carriers provide access to dry vans, temperature controlled vans, and flatbeds. These contract carriers are of
all sizes, including owner-operators of a single truck, small and mid-size fleets, private fleets, and the largest national trucking
companies. Consequently, we are not dependent on any one contract carrier. Our largest truck transportation provider was
approximately two percent of our total cost of transportation in 2014. Motor carriers that had fewer than 100 tractors
transported approximately 83 percent of our truckload shipments in 2014. Every motor carrier with which we do business is
required to execute a contract that establishes that the carrier is acting as an independent contractor. At the time the contract is
executed, and daily, through subscriptions with a third party service, we confirm that each motor carrier is properly licensed
and insured, has the necessary federally-issued authority to provide transportation services, and has the ability to provide the
necessary level of service on a dependable basis. Our motor carrier contracts require that the motor carrier issue invoices only
to and accept payment solely from us for the shipments that they transport under their contract with us, and allow us to
withhold payment to satisfy previous claims or shortages. Our standard contracts do not include volume commitments, and the
initial contract rate is modified each time we confirm an individual shipment with a carrier.
We also have intermodal marketing agreements with container owners and all Class 1 railroads in North America, giving us
access to additional trailers and containers. Our contracts with railroads specify the transportation services and payment terms
by which our intermodal shipments are transported by rail. Intermodal transportation rates are typically negotiated between us
and the railroad on a customer-specific basis. We own approximately 1,000 53-foot containers. We believe that these containers
have helped us better serve our customers, and we will continue to analyze the strategy of controlling containers.
In our NVOCC ocean transportation business, we have contracts with most of the major ocean carriers which support a variety
of service and rate needs for our customers. We negotiate annual contracts that establish the predetermined rates we agree to
pay the ocean carriers. The rates are negotiated based on expected volumes from our customers in specific trade lanes. These
contracts are often amended throughout the year to reflect changes in market conditions for our business, such as additional
trade lanes.
We operate both as a consolidator and as a transactional Indirect Air Carrier ("IAC") internationally and in North America. We
select air carriers and provide for local pickup and delivery of shipments. We execute our air freight services through our
relationships with air carriers, through charter services, block space agreements, capacity space agreements, and transactional
spot market negotiations. Through charter services, we contract part or all of an airplane to meet customer requirements. Our
block space agreements and capacity space agreements are contracts for a defined time period. The contracts include fixed
allocations for predetermined flights at agreed upon rates that are reviewed periodically throughout the year. The transactional
negotiations afford us the ability to capture excess capacity at prevailing market rates for a specific shipment.
Competition
The transportation services industry is highly competitive and fragmented. We compete against a large number of logistics
companies, trucking companies, property freight brokers, carriers offering logistics services, NVOCCs, IACs, and freight
forwarders. We also buy from and sell transportation services to companies that compete with us.
In our Sourcing business, we compete with produce brokers, produce growers, produce marketing companies, produce
wholesalers, and foodservice buying groups. We also buy from and sell produce to companies that compete with us.
We often compete with respect to price, scope of services, or a combination thereof, but believe that our most significant
competitive advantages are:
•
•
People-Smart, dedicated, empowered people are an extension of our customers’ teams to innovate and execute their
supply chain strategies;
Process-Proven processes and solutions combine strategy with practical experience for customized action plans that
succeed in the real world;
• Technology-A significant investment in our Navisphere® proprietary technology gives flexibility, global visibility,
customized solutions, easy integration, broad connectivity, and advanced security;
10
• Network-Our customers gain local presence, regional expertise, and multiple global logistics options from one of the
world’s largest providers of logistics services;
• Relationships-A large number of unique, strong relationships provide global connections and valuable market
knowledge;
•
•
•
Portfolio of Services-A wide selection of services and products help provide our customers with consistent capacity
and service levels;
Scale-Our customers leverage our industry-leading capacity, broad procurement options, and substantial shipment
volumes for better efficiency, service, and marketplace advantages; and
Stability-Our financial strength, discipline, and consistent track record of success for strategic support of our
customers’ supply chains.
Seasonality
Historically, our operating results have been subject to seasonal trends. In recent years, including 2014, operating income and
earnings have been lower in the first quarter than in the other three quarters. However, this was not our experience in 2013 or
2012. 2012 would have followed this pattern, but our fourth quarter results were impacted by certain significant event-specific
charges and credits related to our acquisitions and divestitures. We believe this pattern has been the result of, or influenced by,
numerous factors, including national holidays, weather patterns, consumer demand, economic conditions, and other similar and
subtle forces. Although seasonal changes in the transportation industry have not had a significant impact on our cash flow or
results of operations, we expect this trend to continue and we cannot guarantee that it will not adversely impact us in the future.
Proprietary Information Technology and Intellectual Property
Our information systems are essential to efficiently communicate, service our customers and contracted carriers, and manage
our business. In 2014, we executed approximately 14.3 million shipments for more than 46,000 active customers and 66,000
contract carriers.
We rely on a combination of trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and nondisclosure and non-competition agreements to
establish and protect our intellectual property and proprietary technology. Additionally, we have numerous registered
trademarks, trade names, and logos in the United States and international locations.
In October 2012, we launched Navisphere®, a single platform that allows customers to communicate worldwide with every
party in their supply chain across languages, currencies, and continents. Navisphere® offers sophisticated business analytics to
help improve supply chain performance and meet increasing customer demands.
The CHRWTrucks® web-based platform provides contracted carriers additional access to our systems. Contract carriers can
access available freight, perform online check calls, keep track of receivables, and upload scanned documentation. Many of our
carriers' favorite features from CHRWTrucks® are also available through our CHRWTrucks® mobile application available for
Android and IOS mobile operating systems.
Our systems help our employees service customer orders, select the optimal mode of transportation, build and consolidate
shipments, and identify appropriate carriers, all based on customer-specific service parameters. Our systems provide our vast
organization the necessary business intelligence to allow for real time scorecards and necessary decision support in all areas of
our business.
Government Regulation
Our operations may be regulated and licensed by various federal, state, and local transportation agencies in the United States
and similar governmental agencies in foreign countries in which we operate.
11
We are subject to licensing and regulation as a property freight broker and are licensed by the U.S. Department of
Transportation (“DOT”) to arrange for the transportation of property by motor vehicle. The DOT prescribes qualifications for
acting in this capacity, including certain surety bonding requirements. We are also subject to regulation by the Federal Maritime
Commission as an ocean freight forwarder and an NVOCC and we maintain separate bonds and licenses for each. We operate
as a Department of Homeland Security certified Indirect Air Carrier, providing air freight services, subject to commercial
standards set forth by the International Air Transport Association and federal regulations issued by the Transportation Security
Administration. We provide customs brokerage services as a customs broker under a license issued by the Bureau of U.S.
Customs and Border Protection. We also have and maintain other licenses as required by law.
Although Congress enacted legislation in 1994 that substantially preempts the authority of states to exercise economic
regulation of motor carriers and brokers of freight, some intrastate shipments for which we arrange transportation may be
subject to additional licensing, registration, or permit requirements. We generally contractually require and/or rely on the carrier
transporting the shipment to ensure compliance with these types of requirements. We, along with the contracted carriers that we
rely on in arranging transportation services for our customers, are also subject to a variety of federal and state safety and
environmental regulations. Although compliance with the regulations governing licensees in these areas has not had a
materially adverse effect on our operations or financial condition in the past, there can be no assurance that such regulations or
changes thereto will not adversely impact our operations in the future. Violation of these regulations could also subject us to
fines, as well as increased claims liability.
We buy and sell fresh produce under licenses issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as required by the Perishable
Agricultural Commodities Act (“PACA”). Other sourcing and distribution activities may be subject to various federal and state
food and drug statutes and regulations.
We are subject to a variety of other U.S. and foreign laws and regulations including, but not limited to, the Foreign Corrupt
Practices Act and other similar anti-bribery and anti-corruption statutes.
Risk Management and Insurance
We contractually require all motor carriers we work with to carry at least $750,000 in automobile liability insurance and
$25,000 in cargo insurance. We also require all motor carriers to maintain workers compensation and other insurance coverage
as required by law. Many carriers have insurance exceeding these minimum requirements. Railroads, which are generally self-
insured, provide limited common carrier liability protection, generally up to $250,000 per shipment.
As a property freight broker, we are not legally liable for damage to our customers’ cargo. In our customer contracts, we may
agree to assume cargo liability up to a stated maximum. We typically do not assume cargo liability to our customers above
minimum industry standards in our international freight forwarding, ocean transportation, air freight businesses on international
shipments, and domestic air shipments. We do offer our customers the option to purchase shippers interest coverage to insure
goods in transit. When we agree to store goods for our customers for longer terms, we provide limited warehouseman’s
coverage to our customers and contract for warehousing services from companies that provide us the same degree of coverage.
We maintain a broad cargo liability insurance policy to help protect us against catastrophic losses that may not be recovered
from the responsible contracted carrier. We also carry various liability insurance policies, including automobile and general
liability, with a $200 million umbrella. Our contingent automobile liability coverage has a retention of $5 million per incident.
As a seller of produce, we may, under certain circumstances, have legal responsibility arising from produce sales. We carry
product liability coverage under our general liability and umbrella policies to cover tort claims. The deductible on our general
liability coverage is $250,000 per incident. In addition, in the event of a recall, we may be required to bear the costs of
repurchasing, transporting, and destroying any allegedly contaminated product, as well as potential consequential damages
which were generally not insured. Beginning in 2012, we carry product recall insurance coverage of $50 million. This policy
has a retention of $5 million per incident.
Investor Information
We were reincorporated in Delaware in 1997 as the successor to a business existing, in various legal forms, since 1905. Our
corporate office is located at 14701 Charlson Road, Eden Prairie, Minnesota, 55347-5088, and our telephone number is
(952) 937-8500. Copies of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K,
and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
are available free of charge through our website (www.chrobinson.com) as soon as reasonably practicable after we
electronically file the material with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
12
Cautionary Statement Relevant to Forward-Looking Information
This Annual Report on Form 10-K, including our financial statements, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations” in Item 7 of Part II of this report, and other documents incorporated by reference, contain
certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and
Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. When used in this Form 10-K and in our other filings with
the Securities and Exchange Commission, in our press releases, presentations to securities analysts or investors, in oral
statements made by or with the approval of any of our executive officers, the words or phrases “believes,” “may,” “could,”
“will,” “expects,” “should,” “continue,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “will likely result,” “estimates,” “projects,” or similar
expressions and variations thereof are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.
Except for the historical information contained in this Form 10-K, the matters set forth in this document may be deemed to be
forward-looking statements that represent our expectations, beliefs, intentions, or strategies concerning future events. These
forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from
our historical experience or our present expectations, including, but not limited to, such factors such as changes in economic
conditions, including uncertain consumer demand; changes in market demand and pressures on the pricing for our services;
competition and growth rates within the third party logistics industry; freight levels and increasing costs and availability of
truck capacity or alternative means of transporting freight; changes in relationships with existing contracted truck, rail, ocean,
and air carriers; changes in our customer base due to possible consolidation among our customers; our ability to successfully
integrate the operations of acquired companies with our historic operations; risks associated with litigation, including
contingent auto liability and insurance coverage; risks associated with operations outside of the U.S.; risks associated with the
potential impacts of changes in government regulations; risks associated with the produce industry, including food safety and
contamination issues; fuel price increases or shortages; the impact of war on the economy; changes to our capital structure, and
other risks and uncertainties, including those described below. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are
made. We undertake no obligation to update these statements in light of subsequent events or developments.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
The following are important factors that could affect our financial performance and could cause actual results for future periods
to differ materially from our anticipated results or other expectations, including those expressed in any forward-looking
statements made in this 10-K. We may also refer to this disclosure to identify factors that may cause actual results to differ from
those expressed in other forward-looking statements, including those made in oral presentations such as telephone conferences
and webcasts open to the public.
Economic recessions could have a significant, adverse impact on our business. The transportation industry historically has
experienced cyclical fluctuations in financial results due to economic recession, downturns in business cycles of our customers,
interest rate fluctuations, and other economic factors beyond our control. Deterioration in the economic environment subjects
our business to various risks, which may have a material and adverse impact on our operating results and cause us to not reach
our long-term growth goals:
• Decrease in volumes-A reduction in overall freight volumes in the marketplace reduces our opportunities for growth. A
significant portion of our freight is transactional or “spot” market opportunities. The transactional market may be more
impacted than the freight market by overall economic conditions. In addition, if a downturn in our customers’ business
cycles causes a reduction in the volume of freight shipped by those customers, particularly among certain national
retailers or in the food, beverage, retail, manufacturing, paper, or printing industries, our operating results could be
adversely affected.
• Credit risk and working capital-Some of our customers may face economic difficulties and may not be able to pay us,
and some may go out of business. In addition, some customers may not pay us as quickly as they have in the past,
causing our working capital needs to increase.
• Transportation provider failures-A significant number of our transportation providers may go out of business and we
may be unable to secure sufficient equipment or other transportation services to meet our commitments to our
customers.
• Expense management-We may not be able to appropriately adjust our expenses to changing market demands.
Personnel expenses are our largest expense. In order to maintain high variability in our business model, it is necessary
to adjust staffing levels to changing market demands. In periods of rapid change, it is more difficult to match our
staffing levels to our business needs. In addition, we have other expenses that are fixed for a period of time, and we
may not be able to adequately adjust them in a period of rapid change in market demand.
13
Higher carrier prices may result in decreased net revenue margin. Carriers can be expected to charge higher prices if
market conditions warrant, or to cover higher operating expenses. Our net revenues and income from operations may decrease
if we are unable to increase our pricing to our customers. Increased demand for truckload services and pending changes in
regulations may reduce available capacity and increase carrier pricing.
Changing fuel costs and interruptions of fuel supplies may have an impact on our net revenue margins. In our truckload
transportation business, which is the largest source of our net revenues, fluctuating fuel prices may result in decreased net
revenue margin. While our different pricing arrangements with customers and contracted carriers make it very difficult to
measure the precise impact, we believe that fuel costs essentially act as a pass-through cost to our truckload business. In times
of fluctuating fuel prices, our net revenue margin declines.
Our dependence on third parties to provide equipment and services may impact the delivery and quality of our
transportation and logistics services. We do not employ the people directly involved in delivering our customers’ freight. We
depend on independent third parties to provide truck, rail, ocean, and air services and to report certain events to us, including
delivery information and freight claims. These independent third parties may not fulfill their obligations to us, preventing us
from meeting our commitments to our customers. This reliance also could cause delays in reporting certain events, including
recognizing revenue and claims. In addition, if we are unable to secure sufficient equipment or other transportation services
from third parties to meet our commitments to our customers, our operating results could be materially and adversely affected,
and our customers could switch to our competitors temporarily or permanently. Many of these risks are beyond our control
including:
•
•
•
•
•
equipment shortages in the transportation industry, particularly among contracted truckload carriers;
changes in regulations impacting transportation;
disruption in the supply or cost of fuel;
reduction or deterioration in rail service; and
unanticipated changes in transportation rates.
We are subject to negative impacts of changes in political and governmental conditions. Our operations are subject to the
influences of significant political, governmental, and similar changes and our ability to respond to them, including:
•
•
changes in political conditions and in governmental policies;
changes in and compliance with international and domestic laws and regulations; and
• wars, civil unrest, acts of terrorism, and other conflicts.
We may be subject to negative impacts of catastrophic events. A disruption or failure of our systems or operations in the
event of a major earthquake, weather event, cyber-attack, heightened security measures, actual or threatened, terrorist attack,
strike, civil unrest, pandemic or other catastrophic event could cause delays in providing services or performing other critical
functions. A catastrophic event that results in the destruction or disruption of any of our critical business or information systems
could harm our ability to conduct normal business operations and adversely impact our operating results.
Our international operations subject us to operational and financial risks. We provide services within and between foreign
countries on an increasing basis. Our business outside of the United States is subject to various risks, including:
•
•
•
•
•
changes in tariffs, trade restrictions, trade agreements, and taxations;
difficulties in managing or overseeing foreign operations and agents;
limitations on the repatriation of funds because of foreign exchange controls;
different liability standards; and
intellectual property laws of countries which do not protect our rights in our intellectual property, including, but not
limited to, our proprietary information systems, to the same extent as the laws of the United States.
The occurrence or consequences of any of these factors may restrict our ability to operate in the affected region and/or decrease
the profitability of our operations in that region.
14
As we continue to expand our business internationally, we expose the company to increased risk of loss from foreign currency
fluctuations and exchange controls, as well as longer accounts receivable payment cycles. Foreign currency fluctuations could
result in currency translation exchange gains or losses or could affect the book value of our assets and liabilities. Furthermore,
we may experience unanticipated changes to our income tax liabilities resulting from changes in geographical income mix and
changing international tax legislation. We have limited control over these risks, and if we do not correctly anticipate changes in
international economic and political conditions, we may not alter our business practices in time to avoid adverse effects.
Our ability to appropriately staff and retain employees is important to our variable cost model. Our continued success
depends upon our ability to attract and retain a large group of motivated salespeople and other logistics professionals. In order
to maintain high variability in our business model, it is necessary to adjust staffing levels to changing market demands. In
periods of rapid change, it is more difficult to match our staffing level to our business needs. We cannot guarantee that we will
be able to continue to hire and retain a sufficient number of qualified personnel. Because of our comprehensive employee
training program, our employees are attractive targets for new and existing competitors. Continued success depends in large
part on our ability to develop successful employees into managers.
We face substantial industry competition. Competition in the transportation services industry is intense and broad-based. We
compete against logistics companies, as well as transportation providers that own equipment, third party freight brokers,
internet matching services, internet freight brokers, and carriers offering logistics services. We also compete against carriers’
internal sales forces. In addition, customers can bring in-house some of the services we provide to them. We often buy and sell
transportation services from and to many of our competitors. Increased competition could reduce our market opportunity and
create downward pressure on freight rates, and continued rate pressure may adversely affect our net revenue and income from
operations.
We rely on technology to operate our business. We have internally developed the majority of our operating systems. Our
continued success is dependent on our systems continuing to operate and to meet the changing needs of our customers and
users. We rely on our technology staff and vendors to successfully implement changes to and maintain our operating systems in
an efficient manner. If we fail to maintain and enhance our operating systems, we may be at a competitive disadvantage and
lose customers.
As demonstrated by recent material and high-profile data security breaches, computer malware, viruses, and computer hacking
and phishing attacks have become more prevalent, have occurred on our systems in the past, and may occur on our systems in
the future. Previous attacks on our systems have not had a material financial impact on our operations, but we cannot guarantee
that future attacks will have little to no impact on our business. Furthermore, given the interconnected nature of the supply
chain and our significant presence in the industry, we believe that we may be an attractive target for such attacks.
Though it is difficult to determine what, if any, harm may directly result from any specific interruption or attack, a significant
impact on the performance, reliability, security, and availability of our systems and technical infrastructure to the satisfaction of
our users may harm our reputation, impair our ability to retain existing customers or attract new customers, and expose us to
legal claims and government action, each of which could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition, results of
operations, and growth prospects.
Because we manage our business on a decentralized basis, our operations may be materially adversely affected by
inconsistent management practices. We manage our business on a decentralized basis through a network of offices
throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and South America, supported by executives and shared and centralized services,
with local management responsible for day-to-day operations, profitability, personnel decisions, the growth of the business, and
adherence to applicable local laws. Our decentralized operating strategy can make it difficult for us to implement strategic
decisions and coordinated procedures throughout our global operations. In addition, some of our offices operate with
management, sales, and support personnel that may be insufficient to support growth in their respective location without
significant central oversight and coordination. Our decentralized operating strategy could result in inconsistent management
practices and materially and adversely affect our overall profitability and expose us to litigation.
Our earnings may be affected by seasonal changes in the transportation industry. Results of operations for our industry
generally show a seasonal pattern as customers reduce shipments during and after the winter holiday season. In recent years,
including 2014, our operating income and earnings have been lower in the first quarter than in the other three quarters.
However, this was not our experience in 2013 or 2012. 2012 would have followed this pattern, but our fourth quarter results
were impacted by certain significant event-specific charges and credits related to our acquisitions and divestitures. Although
seasonal changes in the transportation industry have not had a significant impact on our cash flow or results of operations, we
expect this trend to continue, and we cannot guarantee that it will not adversely impact us in the future.
15
We are subject to claims arising from our transportation operations. We use the services of thousands of transportation
companies in connection with our transportation operations. From time to time, the drivers employed and engaged by the
carriers we contract with are involved in accidents which may result in serious personal injuries. The resulting types and/or
amounts of damages may be excluded by or exceed the amount of insurance coverage maintained by the contracted carrier.
Although these drivers are not our employees and all of these drivers are employees, owner-operators, or independent
contractors working for carriers, from time to time, claims may be asserted against us for their actions, or for our actions in
retaining them. Claims against us may exceed the amount of our insurance coverage, or may not be covered by insurance at all.
In addition, our automobile liability policy has a retention of $5 million per incident. A material increase in the frequency or
severity of accidents, liability claims or workers’ compensation claims, or unfavorable resolutions of claims could materially
and adversely affect our operating results. In addition, significant increases in insurance costs or the inability to purchase
insurance as a result of these claims could reduce our profitability. Our involvement in the transportation of certain goods,
including but not limited to hazardous materials, could also increase our exposure in the event one of our contracted carriers is
involved in an accident resulting in injuries or contamination.
Our Sourcing business is dependent upon the supply and price of fresh produce. The supply and price of fresh produce is
affected by weather and growing conditions (such as drought, insects, and disease) and other conditions over which we have no
control. Commodity prices can be affected by shortages or overproduction and are often highly volatile. If we are unable to
secure fresh produce to meet our commitments to our customers, our operating results could be materially and adversely
affected, and our customers could switch to our competitors temporarily or permanently. To assure access to certain
commodities, we occasionally make advances to growers to finance their operations. Repayment of these advances is
dependent upon the growers' ability to grow and harvest marketable crops.
Buying and reselling fresh produce exposes us to possible product liability. Agricultural chemicals used on fresh produce
are subject to various approvals, and the commodities themselves are subject to regulations on cleanliness and contamination.
Product recalls in the produce industry have been caused by concern about particular chemicals and alleged contamination,
often leading to lawsuits brought by consumers of allegedly affected produce. Because we sell produce, we may face claims for
a variety of damages arising from the sale, which may include potentially uninsured consequential damages. While we are
insured for up to $201 million for product liability claims, settlement of class action claims, subject to a $250,000 deductible, is
often costly, and we cannot guarantee that our liability coverage will be adequate and will continue to be available. If we have
to recall produce, we may be required to bear the cost of repurchasing, transporting, and destroying any allegedly contaminated
product, as well as consequential damages, which our insurance did not cover prior to 2012. Since 2012, we have carried
product recall insurance coverage of $50 million. This policy has a retention of $5 million per incident. Any recall or allegation
of contamination could affect our reputation, particularly of our proprietary and/or licensed branded produce programs. Loss
due to spoilage (including the need for disposal) is also a routine part of the sourcing business.
Our business depends upon compliance with numerous government regulations. Our operations may be regulated and
licensed by various federal, state, and local transportation agencies in the United States and similar governmental agencies in
foreign countries in which we operate.
We are subject to licensing and regulation as a property freight broker and are licensed by the U.S. Department of
Transportation (“DOT”) to arrange for the transportation of property by motor vehicle. The DOT prescribes qualifications for
acting in this capacity, including certain surety bonding requirements. We are also subject to regulation by the Federal Maritime
Commission as an ocean freight forwarder and an NVOCC, and we maintain separate bonds and licenses for each. We operate
as a Department of Homeland Security certified Indirect Air Carrier, providing air freight services, subject to commercial
standards set forth by the International Air Transport Association and federal regulations issued by the Transportation Security
Administration. We provide customs brokerage services as a customs broker under a license issued by the Bureau of U.S.
Customs and Border Protection. We also have and maintain other licenses as required by law.
We source fresh produce under a license issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We are also subject to various
regulations and requirements promulgated by other international, domestic, state, and local agencies and port authorities. Our
failure to comply with the laws and regulations applicable to entities holding these licenses could materially and adversely
affect our results of operations or financial condition.
Legislative or regulatory changes can affect the economics of the transportation industry by requiring changes in operating
practices or influencing the demand for, and the cost of providing, transportation services. As part of our logistics services, we
operate leased warehouse facilities. Our operations at these facilities include both warehousing and distribution services, and
we are subject to various federal, state, and international environmental, work safety, and hazardous materials regulations. We
may experience an increase in operating costs, such as security costs, as a result of governmental regulations that have been and
will be adopted in response to terrorist activities and potential terrorist activities. No assurances can be given that we will be
16
able to pass these increased costs on to our customers in the form of rate increases or surcharges, and our operations and
profitability may suffer as a result.
Department of Homeland Security regulations applicable to our customers who import goods into the United States and our
contracted ocean carriers can impact our ability to provide and/or receive services with and from these parties. Enforcement
measures related to violations of these regulations can slow and or prevent the delivery of shipments, which may negatively
impact our operations.
We cannot predict what impact future regulations may have on our business. Our failure to maintain required permits or
licenses, or to comply with applicable regulations, could result in substantial fines or revocation of our operating permits and
licenses.
Our freight carriers are subject to increasingly stringent laws protecting the environment, including those relating to
climate change, which could directly or indirectly have a material adverse effect on our business. Future and existing
environmental regulatory requirements in the U.S. and abroad could adversely affect operations and increase operating
expenses, which in turn could increase our purchased transportation costs. If we are unable to pass such costs along to our
customers, our business could be materially and adversely affected. Even without any new legislation or regulation, increased
public concern regarding greenhouse gases emitted by transportation carriers could harm the reputations of companies
operating in the transportation logistics industries and shift consumer demand toward more locally sourced products and away
from our services.
We derive a significant portion of our total revenues and net revenues from our largest customers. Our top 100 customers
comprise approximately 37 percent of our consolidated total revenues and 26 percent of consolidated net revenues. Our largest
customer comprises approximately two percent of our consolidated total revenues and approximately one percent of our
consolidated net revenues. The sudden loss of many of our major clients could materially and adversely affect our operating
results.
We may be unable to identify or complete suitable acquisitions and investments. We may acquire or make investments in
complementary businesses, products, services, or technologies. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to identify suitable
acquisitions or investment candidates. Even if we identify suitable candidates, we cannot guarantee that we will make
acquisitions or investments on commercially acceptable terms, if at all. The timing and number of acquisitions we pursue may
also cause volatility in our financial results. In addition, we may incur debt or be required to issue equity securities to pay for
future acquisitions or investments. The issuance of any equity securities could be dilutive to our stockholders.
We may have difficulties integrating acquired companies. For acquisitions, success depends upon efficiently integrating the
acquired business into our existing operations. These risks could be heightened if we complete a large acquisition or multiple
acquisitions within a short period of time. We are required to integrate these businesses into our internal control environment,
which may present challenges that are different than those presented by organic growth and that may be difficult to manage. If
we are unable to successfully integrate and grow these acquisitions and to realize contemplated revenue synergies and cost
savings, our business, prospects, results of operations, financial position, and cash flows could be materially and adversely
affected.
Our growth and profitability may not continue, which may result in a decrease in our stock price. Our long-term growth
objective is to grow earnings per share by 10 percent. There can be no assurance that our long-term growth objective will be
achieved or that we will be able to effectively adapt our management, administrative, and operational systems to respond to any
future growth. Future changes in and expansion of our business, or changes in economic or political conditions, could adversely
affect our operating margins. Slower or less profitable growth or losses could adversely affect our stock price.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
17
ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES
Our corporate headquarters is in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The total square footage of our four buildings in Eden Prairie is
357,000. This total includes approximately 221,000 square feet used for our corporate and shared services, our data center of
approximately 18,000 square feet, and 118,000 square feet used for branch operations.
Most of our offices are leased from third parties under leases with initial terms ranging from three to fifteen years. Our office
locations range in space from 1,000 to 153,000 square feet. The following table lists our office locations of greater than 20,000
square feet:
Location
Eden Prairie, MN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eden Prairie, MN(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eden Prairie, MN(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chicago, IL(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wood Dale, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chicago, IL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Atlanta, GA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Elk Grove Village, IL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Woodridge, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chicago, IL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
____________________________
(1) These properties are owned. All other properties in the table above are leased from third parties.
Approximate
Square Feet
153,000
105,000
81,000
80,000
72,000
46,000
27,000
25,000
22,000
21,000
We also own or lease warehouses totaling approximately 1.6 million square feet of space in over 40 cities around the world.
The following table lists our warehouses over 50,000 square feet:
Location
Long Beach, CA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Laredo, TX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Elk Grove Village, IL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wroclaw, Poland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bethlehem, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vancouver, WA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Miramar, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Atlanta, GA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plant City, FL(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Doral, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cobden, IL(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
____________________________
(1) These properties are owned. All other properties in the table above are leased from third parties.
Approximate
Square Feet
228,000
148,000
107,000
104,000
85,000
79,000
75,000
70,000
65,000
59,000
52,000
We consider our current office spaces and warehouse facilities adequate for our current level of operations. We have not had
difficulty in obtaining sufficient office space and believe we can renew existing leases or relocate to new offices as leases
expire.
18
ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are not subject to any pending or threatened litigation other than routine litigation arising in the ordinary course of our
business operations. For such legal proceedings, we have accrued an amount that reflects the aggregate liability deemed
probable and estimable, but this amount is not material to our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash
flows. Because of the preliminary nature of many of these proceedings, the difficulty in ascertaining the applicable facts
relating to many of these proceedings, the inconsistent treatment of claims made in many of these proceedings, and the
difficulty of predicting the settlement value of many of these proceedings, we are not able to estimate an amount or range of
any reasonably possible additional losses. However, based upon our historical experience, the resolution of these proceedings is
not expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
19
PART II
ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS, AND
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our Common Stock began trading on The NASDAQ National Market under the symbol “CHRW” on October 15, 1997, and
currently trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market.
Quarterly market information can be found in Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 13.
On February 24, 2015, the closing sales price per share of our Common Stock as quoted on the NASDAQ Global Select Market
was $73.98 per share. On February 24, 2015, there were approximately 158 holders of record and approximately 123,777
beneficial owners of our Common Stock.
We declared quarterly dividends during 2013 for an aggregate of $1.40 per share and quarterly dividends during 2014 for an
aggregate of $1.43 per share. We have declared a quarterly dividend of $0.38 per share payable to shareholders of record as of
March 6, 2015, payable on March 31, 2015. Our declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors.
Any determination as to the payment of dividends will depend upon our results of operations, capital requirements and
financial condition, and such other factors as the Board of Directors may deem relevant. Accordingly, there can be no assurance
that the Board of Directors will declare or continue to pay dividends on the shares of Common Stock in the future.
The following table provides information about company purchases of Common Stock during the quarter ended December 31,
2014:
October 1, 2014-October 31, 2014 . . . . . .
November 1, 2014-November 30, 2014 . .
December 1, 2014-December 31, 2014. . .
Fourth quarter 2014. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
________________________________
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased (a)
Average Price
Paid Per
Share
341,673
180,563
7,464
529,700
$
$
67.67
72.34
74.43
69.36
Total Number of
Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs (a)
337,900
179,200
—
517,100
Maximum Number of
Shares That May Yet Be
Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs (b)
10,485,542
10,306,342
10,306,342
10,306,342
(a) The total number of shares purchased includes: (i) 517,100 shares of common stock purchased under the authorization
described below; and (ii) 12,600 shares of common stock surrendered to satisfy minimum statutory tax obligations under our
stock incentive plans.
(b) In August 2013, the Board of Directors increased the number of shares authorized to be repurchased by 15,000,000 shares.
As of December 31, 2014, there were 10,306,342 shares remaining for future repurchases. Purchases can be made in the open
market or in privately negotiated transactions, including Rule 10b5-1 plans and accelerated share repurchase programs.
20
The graph below compares the cumulative 5-year total return of holders of C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.’s Common Stock
with the cumulative total returns of the S&P 500 index, the NASDAQ Transportation index, and the S&P Midcap 400 index.
The graph tracks the performance of a $100 investment in our Common Stock and in each index (with the reinvestment of all
dividends) from December 31, 2009 to December 31, 2014.
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. . . . . . . . $
S&P 500. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
S&P Midcap 400. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
NASDAQ Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2009
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
2010
138.81
115.06
126.64
128.91
December 31,
2011
122.83
117.49
124.45
111.44
2012
113.77
136.30
146.69
122.10
2013
107.61
180.44
195.84
161.38
2014
141.34
205.14
214.97
229.56
The stock price performance included in this graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.
21
ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
This table includes selected financial data for the last five years (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts and operating
data for branches and employees). This financial data should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and
related notes, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and other financial
data appearing elsewhere in this report.
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA
Year Ended December 31,
Total revenues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 13,470,067
2,007,652
Net revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
748,418
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
449,711
Net income per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2014
2013
$ 12,752,076
1,836,095
682,650
415,904
2012 (1)
$ 11,359,113
1,717,571
675,320
593,804
2011
$ 10,336,346
1,632,658
692,730
431,612
2010
$ 9,274,305
1,467,978
622,860
387,026
Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
3.06
3.05
$
$
2.65
2.65
$
$
3.68
3.67
$
$
2.63
2.62
$
$
2.35
2.33
Weighted average number of shares outstanding
(in thousands)
Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
147,202
147,542
1.43
BALANCE SHEET DATA
As of December 31,
Working capital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current portion of debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term notes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stockholders’ investment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
529,599
3,214,338
605,000
500,000
1,047,015
$
$
$
$
156,915
157,080
1.40
394,504
2,802,818
375,000
500,000
939,724
161,557
161,946
1.34
440,073
2,804,225
253,646
—
1,504,372
$
$
164,114
164,741
1.20
734,911
2,138,041
—
—
1,248,474
$
$
164,909
165,972
1.04
710,161
1,995,699
—
—
1,204,068
OPERATING DATA
As of December 31,
Branches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
281
11,521
285
11,676
276
10,929
235
8,353
231
7,628
_________________________
(1) The company's results for 2012 were effected by certain significant event-specific charges or credits related to our acquisitions and divestitures. See
"Reported to Adjusted Statements of Operations Data" on the following page and Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations in Item 7 of Part II of this report.
22
Non-GAAP Data Reconciliation
To assist readers in understanding our financial performance and the impact of certain significant charges or credits related to
our acquisitions and divestitures in 2012, we supplement the financial results that are generated in accordance with the
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or GAAP, with non-GAAP financial measures. These measures
include non-GAAP income from operations, non-GAAP net income, and non-GAAP basic and diluted net income per share.
We believe that these non-GAAP measures provide meaningful insight into our operating performance excluding certain event-
specific charges, and provide an alternative perspective of our results of operations. We use non-GAAP measures, including
those set forth in the table below, to assess our operating performance for the year. Management believes that these non-GAAP
financial measures reflect an additional way of analyzing aspects of our ongoing operations that, when viewed with our GAAP
results, provides a more complete understanding of the factors and trends affecting our business. A reconciliation of adjusted
results reflecting the exclusion of certain non-recurring transaction impacts to our GAAP results is set forth below.
Reported to Adjusted Statements of Operations Data (in thousands, except per share amounts)
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Income from Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 748,418
Adjustments to Income from Operations (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
—
Income from Operations-Adjusted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 748,418
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
$ 682,650
$ 675,320
$ 692,730
$ 622,860
—
45,196
—
—
$ 682,650
$ 720,516
$ 692,730
$ 622,860
Interest and other (expense) income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ (24,987) $
Adjustments to Interest and other (expense) income (2) . . . . . .
Interest and other (expense) income -Adjusted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ (24,987) $
—
(9,289) $ 283,142
— (281,551)
1,591
(9,289) $
$
$
1,974
—
1,974
$
$
1,242
—
1,242
Income before Income Taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 723,431
—
Adjustments to Income before Income Taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income before Income Taxes-Adjusted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 723,431
Net Income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 449,711
—
Adjustments to Net Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net Income-Adjusted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 449,711
$ 673,361
$ 673,361
$ 958,462
— (236,355)
$ 722,107
$ 415,904
$ 415,904
$ 593,804
— (146,797)
$ 447,007
$ 694,704
$ 624,102
—
—
$ 694,704
$ 624,102
$ 431,612
$ 387,026
—
—
$ 431,612
$ 387,026
Net Income per Share (basic)-Adjusted. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net Income per Share (diluted)-Adjusted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
3.06
3.05
$
$
2.65
2.65
$
$
2.77
2.76
$
$
2.63
2.62
$
$
2.35
2.33
_________________________
(1) The adjustment to income from operations includes $34.6 million of personnel expense and $10.6 million of other selling, general, and administrative
expenses. Adjustments to personnel expense include $33.0 million in incremental vesting expense of our equity awards triggered by the gain on the
divestiture of T-Chek and $1.4 million of transaction-related bonuses. Adjustments to other selling, general, and administrative expenses include amounts
paid to third parties for investment banking, legal, and accounting fees related to acquisitions and divestitures.
(2) The adjustment to interest and other (expense) income reflects the gain from the divestiture of T-Chek.
23
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table summarizes our total revenues by service line (dollars in thousands):
For the years ended December 31,
Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 11,921,974
1,533,555
Sourcing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14,538
Payment Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 13,470,067
2014
2013
$ 11,069,710
1,669,134
13,232
$ 12,752,076
Change
2012
Change
7.7% $ 9,685,415
(8.1)
1,620,183
53,515
9.9
5.6% $ 11,359,113
14.3%
3.0
(75.3)
12.3%
The following table illustrates our net revenue margins by services and products:
For the years ended December 31,
Transportation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sourcing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payment Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The following table summarizes our net revenues by service line (dollars in thousands):
2013
2014
15.8% 15.3%
7.5
85.2
14.9% 14.4%
7.6
81.2
2012
15.8%
8.4
99.0
15.1%
For the years ended December 31,
Net revenues:
Transportation
2014
2013
Change
2012
Change
Truckload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,177,990
LTL (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
258,884
40,631
Intermodal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
208,422
Ocean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
79,125
Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41,575
Customs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
73,097
Other Logistics Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1,879,724
Total Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
115,546
Sourcing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12,382
Payment Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,007,652
$ 1,054,565
239,477
39,084
187,671
73,089
36,578
67,931
1,698,395
126,950
10,750
$ 1,836,095
11.7% $ 1,060,120
224,160
38,815
84,924
44,444
18,225
57,449
1,528,137
136,438
52,996
9.3% $ 1,717,571
8.1
4.0
11.1
8.3
13.7
7.6
10.7
(9.0)
15.2
(0.5)%
6.8
0.7
121.0
64.5
100.7
18.2
11.1
(7.0)
(79.7)
6.9 %
(1) Less-than-truckload ("LTL")
24
The following table represents certain statements of operations data, shown as percentages of our net revenues:
For the years ended December 31,
Net revenues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating expenses:
Personnel expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other selling, general, and administrative expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total operating expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and other (expense) income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income before provision for income taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for income taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2014
100.0%
2013
100.0%
2012
100.0%
46.8
15.9
62.7
37.3
(1.2)
36.0
13.6
22.4%
45.0
17.8
62.8
37.2
(0.5)
36.7
14.0
22.7%
44.6
16.1
60.7
39.3
16.5
55.8
21.2
34.6%
OVERVIEW
Our company. We are a global provider of transportation services and logistics solutions, operating through a network of
offices in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. As a third party logistics provider, we enter into contractual
relationships with a wide variety of transportation companies, and utilize those relationships to efficiently and cost effectively
transport our customers’ freight. We have contractual relationships with approximately 66,000 transportation companies,
including motor carriers, railroads (primarily intermodal service providers), air freight, and ocean carriers. Depending on the
needs of our customer and their supply chain requirements, we select and hire the appropriate transportation for each shipment.
Our model enables us to be flexible, provide solutions that optimize service for our customers, and minimize our asset
utilization risk.
In addition to transportation and logistics services, we also buy and sell fresh produce and offer fee-based payment services.
Our Sourcing business is the buying, selling, and marketing of fresh produce. We purchase fresh produce through our network
of produce suppliers and sell it to retail grocers and restaurant chains, produce wholesalers, and foodservice providers. In some
cases, we also arrange the transportation of the produce we sell through our relationships with specialized transportation
companies. Those revenues are reported as Transportation revenues. Historically, our Payment Services business consisted
primarily of our former subsidiary, T-Chek Systems, Inc. ("T-Chek"). On October 16, 2012, we sold substantially all of our
Payment Services business to Electronic Funds Source. We continue to generate Payment Services revenues from the cash
advance options we offer our contracted carriers.
Our business model. We are primarily a service company. We add value and expertise in the procurement and execution of
transportation and logistics, including sourcing of produce products for our customers. Our total revenues represent the total
dollar value of services and goods we sell to our customers. Our net revenues are our total revenues less purchased
transportation and related services, including contracted motor carrier, rail, ocean, air, and other costs, and the purchase price
and services related to the products we source. Our net revenues are the primary indicator of our ability to source, add value,
and sell services and products that are provided by third parties, and we consider them to be our primary performance
measurement. Accordingly, the discussion of our results of operations below focuses on the changes in our net revenues.
We keep our business model as variable as possible to allow us to be flexible and adapt to changing economic and industry
conditions. We sell transportation services and produce to our customers with varied pricing arrangements. Some prices are
committed to for a period of time, subject to certain terms and conditions, and some prices are set on a spot market basis. We
buy most of our truckload transportation capacity and produce on a spot market basis. Because of this, our net revenue per
transaction tends to increase in times when there is excess supply and decrease in times when demand is strong relative to
supply.
In 2014, changing market conditions impacted our results. There were capacity constraints in nearly all of our transportation
services. Additionally, we experienced a decrease in the length of haul in our North American truckload business in 2014
compared to 2013, which contributed to increased net revenue margin in our truckload transportation business. In general, a
shorter length of haul can result in higher customer rates and transportation costs per mile.
We keep our personnel and other operating expenses as variable as possible. Compensation is performance-oriented and, for
most employees in the office network, based on the profitability of their individual office. In 2014, we were able to leverage
our past investments of talent and adapt to changing market conditions and drive efficiencies in our network. We experienced
25
record North American truckload productivity levels in 2014, as measured by volumes per person. In 2015, we expect to grow
our headcount to support our future volume growth.
Our personnel decisions are decentralized. Our branch managers determine the appropriate number of employees for their
offices, within productivity guidelines, based on their volume of business. This helps keep our personnel expense as variable as
possible with the business.
Our branch office network. Our office network is a competitive advantage. Building local customer and contract carrier
relationships has been an important part of our success, and our worldwide network of offices supports our core strategy of
serving customers locally, nationally, and globally. Our offices help us penetrate local markets, provide face-to-face service
when needed, and recruit contract carriers. Our network also gives us knowledge of local market conditions, which is important
in the transportation industry because it is market driven and very dynamic.
In January 2015, we completed our acquisition of Freightquote.com, Inc. ("Freightquote"), a privately held freight broker based
in Kansas City, Missouri. Freightquote provides services throughout North America. The acquisition enhances and brings
synergies to our LTL and truckload businesses, and expands our e-commerce capabilities.
Our October 2012 acquisition of Apreo Logistics S.A. ("Apreo"), a leading freight forwarder based in Warsaw, Poland,
enhanced our truckload capabilities in Europe. Our November 2012 acquisition of Phoenix, an international freight forwarder
based in Chicago, Illinois, expanded our global forwarding network.
Our people. Because we are a service company, our continued success is dependent on our ability to continue to hire and retain
talented, productive people, and to properly align our headcount and personnel expense with our business. Our headcount
decreased by 155 employees during 2014. Employees act as a team in their sales efforts, customer service, and operations. A
significant portion of many of our employees’ compensation is performance-oriented, based on individual performance and the
profitability of their office. We believe this makes our employees more service-oriented and focused on driving growth and
maximizing office productivity. All of our managers and certain other employees who have significant responsibilities are
eligible to receive equity awards because we believe these awards are an effective tool for creating long-term ownership and
alignment between employees and our shareholders.
Our customers. In 2014, we worked with more than 46,000 active customers. We work with a wide variety of companies,
ranging in size from Fortune 100 companies to small family businesses, in many different industries. Our customer base is very
diverse and unconcentrated. Our top 100 customers represented approximately 37 percent of our total revenues and
approximately 26 percent of our net revenues. Our largest customer was approximately two percent of our total revenues and
approximately one percent of our total net revenues.
Our contracted carriers. Our contracted carrier base includes motor carriers, railroads (primarily intermodal service
providers), air freight, and ocean carriers. In 2014, our carrier base was approximately 66,000, up from approximately 63,000
in 2013. Motor carriers that had fewer than 100 tractors transported approximately 83 percent of our truckload shipments in
2014. In our Transportation business, no single contracted carrier represents more than approximately two percent of our
contracted carrier capacity.
2014 COMPARED TO 2013
Total revenues and direct costs. Our consolidated total revenues increased 5.6 percent in 2014 compared to 2013. Total
Transportation revenues increased 7.7 percent to $11.9 billion in 2014 from $11.1 billion in 2013. This increase in
Transportation revenues was driven by higher volumes in nearly all of our transportation modes and increased pricing to our
customers. Total purchased transportation and related services increased 7.2 percent in 2014 to $10.0 billion from $9.4 billion
in 2013. This increase was due to higher volumes in nearly all of our transportation modes and higher transportation costs. Our
Sourcing revenue decreased 8.1 percent to $1.5 billion in 2014 from $1.7 billion in 2013. Purchased products sourced for resale
decreased 8.1 percent in 2014 to $1.4 billion from $1.5 billion in 2013. These decreases were primarily due to decreased case
volumes and a change in customer, product, and service mix. Our Payment Services revenue increased 9.9 percent to $14.5
million in 2014 from $13.2 million in 2013.
Net revenues. Total Transportation net revenues increased 10.7 percent to $1.9 billion in 2014 from $1.7 billion in 2013. Our
Transportation net revenue margin increased to 15.8 percent in 2014 from 15.3 percent in 2013, largely driven by an increase in
transportation rates charged to our customers, partially offset by higher transportation costs.
26
Our truckload net revenues increased 11.7 percent to $1.2 billion in 2014 from $1.1 billion in 2013. Truckload volumes
increased approximately 3 percent in 2014. Truckload net revenue margin increased in 2014 due to increased rates charged to
our customers, partially offset by increased cost of capacity. Excluding the estimated impact of the change in fuel, on average,
our truckload rates increased approximately 11 percent in 2014. Our truckload transportation costs increased approximately 10
percent, excluding the estimated impacts of the change in fuel.
LTL net revenues increased 8.1 percent to $258.9 million in 2014 from $239.5 million in 2013. The increase in net revenues
was driven by an increase in total shipments of approximately seven percent and increased customer pricing, partially offset by
decreased net revenue margin.
Our intermodal net revenue increase of 4.0 percent to $40.6 million in 2014 from $39.1 million in 2013 was driven largely by a
change in the mix of business and improved customer pricing, partially offset by volume declines.
Our ocean transportation net revenues increased 11.1 percent to $208.4 million in 2014 from $187.7 million in 2013. The
increase in net revenues was primarily due to increased volumes and net revenue margin.
Our air transportation net revenues increased 8.3 percent to $79.1 million in 2014 from $73.1 million in 2013. The increase was
primarily due to increased net revenue margin and volumes.
Our customs net revenues increased 13.7 percent to $41.6 million in 2014 from $36.6 million in 2013. The increase was due to
increased transaction volumes.
Other logistics services net revenues, which include managed services, warehousing, and small parcel, increased 7.6 percent to
$73.1 million in 2014 from $67.9 million in 2013. The increase in 2014 was primarily due to growth in managed services as a
result of adding new customers.
Sourcing net revenues decreased 9.0 percent to $115.5 million in 2014 from $127.0 million in 2013. This decrease was
primarily due to a change in customer, product, and service mix. Our net revenue margin decreased to 7.5 percent in 2014
compared to 7.6 percent in 2013.
Payment Services net revenues increased 15.2 percent to $12.4 million in 2014 from $10.8 million in 2013. This was primarily
due to a rate increase on our cash advance option in July 2014.
Operating expenses. Operating expenses increased 9.2 percent to $1.3 billion in 2014 from $1.2 billion in 2013. This was due
to an increase of 13.6 percent in personnel expenses and an decrease of 2.0 percent in other selling, general, and administrative
expenses. As a percentage of net revenues, operating expenses decreased to 62.7 percent in 2014 from 62.8 percent in 2013.
Our personnel expenses are driven by headcount and earnings growth. In 2014, personnel expenses increased to $939.0 million
from $826.7 million in 2013. Our personnel expenses as a percentage of net revenue increased in 2014 to 46.8 percent from
45.0 percent in 2013. The increase in personnel expense was due primarily to an increase in expenses related to incentive plans
that are designed to keep expenses variable with changes in net revenues and profitability, in addition to average headcount
growth of 2.7 percent in 2014.
Other selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased 2.0 percent to $320.2 million in 2014 from $326.8 million in
2013. The decrease in our selling, general, and administrative expenses is primarily related to decreases in claims and travel
expenses.
Income from operations. Income from operations increased 9.6 percent to $748.4 million in 2014 from $682.7 million in
2013. Income from operations as a percentage of net revenues increased to 37.3 percent in 2014 from 37.2 percent in 2013.
This increase was due to our net revenues growing more than our operating expenses.
Interest and other (expense) income. Interest and other expense was $25.0 million in 2014 compared to $9.3 million in 2013.
The increase was due primarily to the interest expense related the long-term notes issued during the third quarter of 2013.
Provision for income taxes. Our effective income tax rate was 37.8 percent for 2014 and 38.2 percent for 2013. The effective
income tax rate for both periods is greater than the statutory federal income tax rate, primarily due to state income taxes, net of
federal benefit.
Net income. Net income increased 8.1 percent to $449.7 million in 2014 from $415.9 million in 2013. Basic net income per
share increased 15.5 percent to $3.06. Diluted net income per share increased 15.1 percent to $3.05. Our weighted average
basic and diluted shares outstanding decreased 6.2 percent and 6.1 percent respectively in 2014 compared to 2013, primarily
due to the 8.5 million shares repurchased as part of accelerated share ("ASR") repurchase program initiated in 2013.
27
2013 COMPARED TO 2012
Total revenues and direct costs. Our consolidated total revenues increased 12.3 percent in 2013 compared to 2012. Total
Transportation revenues increased 14.3 percent to $11.1 billion in 2013 from $9.7 billion in 2012. This increase was driven by
higher volumes in nearly all of our transportation modes, the Phoenix acquisition, and increased pricing to our customers,
including the impacts of higher fuel costs. Total purchased transportation and related services increased 14.9 percent in 2013 to
$9.4 billion from $8.2 billion in 2012. This increase was due to higher volumes in nearly all of our transportation modes, the
Phoenix acquisition, and higher transportation costs. Our Sourcing revenue increased 3.0 percent to $1.7 billion in 2013 from
$1.6 billion in 2012. This increase was primarily due to higher case volumes. Purchased products sourced for resale increased
3.9 percent in 2013 to $1.54 billion from $1.48 billion in 2012. This increase was primarily due to higher case volumes and
higher cost per case. Our Payment Services revenue decreased 75.3 percent to $13.2 million in 2013 from $53.5 million in
2012. The decrease was due to the sale of substantially all of our Payment Services business, T-Chek, to EFS on October 16,
2012.
Net revenues. Total Transportation net revenues increased 11.1 percent to $1.70 billion in 2013 from $1.53 billion in 2012. Our
Transportation net revenue margin decreased to 15.3 percent in 2013 from 15.8 percent in 2012 largely driven by higher
transportation costs, partially offset by an increase in transportation rates charged to our customers.
Our truckload net revenues decreased 0.5 percent to $1.05 billion in 2013 from $1.06 billion in 2012. Truckload volumes
increased approximately ten percent in 2013. Truckload net revenue margin decreased in 2013 due to increased cost of capacity,
partially offset by increased rates charged to our customers. Excluding the estimated impact of the change in fuel, on average,
our truckload rates increased approximately two percent in 2013. Our truckload transportation costs increased approximately
three percent, excluding the estimated impacts of the change in fuel.
LTL net revenues increased 6.8 percent to $239.5 million in 2013 from $224.2 million in 2012. The increase in net revenues
was driven by an increase in total shipments of seven percent, partially offset by decreased net revenue margin. Our LTL
transportation costs are increasing, while customer pricing has not kept up with increases in carrier costs.
Our intermodal net revenue increase of 0.7 percent to $39.1 million in 2013 from $38.8 million in 2012 was driven largely by a
change in the mix of business and improved customer pricing, partially offset by volume declines.
Our ocean transportation net revenues increased 121.0 percent to $187.7 million in 2013 from $84.9 million in 2012. Our air
transportation net revenues increased 64.5 percent to $73.1 million in 2013 from $44.4 million in 2012. Our customs net
revenues increased 100.7 percent to $36.6 million in 2013 from $18.2 million in 2012. These increases were primarily driven
by our acquisition of Phoenix.
Other logistics services net revenues, which include transportation management services, warehousing, and small parcel,
increased 18.2 percent to $67.9 million in 2013 from $57.4 million in 2012. This increase was primarily due to an increase in
warehouse services.
Sourcing net revenues decreased 7.0 percent to $127.0 million in 2013 from $136.4 million in 2012. This decrease was
primarily due to a reduction in business with a large customer and a decrease in net revenue per case, partially offset by
increased volumes. Our net revenue margin decreased to 7.6 percent in 2013 compared to 8.4 percent in 2012.
Historically, Payment Services was comprised primarily of revenue related to our former subsidiary, T-Chek. Payment Services
net revenues decreased 79.7 percent to $10.8 million in 2013 from $53.0 million in 2012. The decrease was due to the T-Chek
divestiture on October 16, 2012. We continue to generate Payment Services revenues from the cash advance options we offer
our contracted carriers.
Operating expenses. Operating expenses increased 10.7 percent to $1.2 billion in 2013 from $1.0 billion in 2012. This was due
to an increase of 7.9 percent in personnel expenses and an increase of 18.3 percent in other selling, general, and administrative
expenses. As a percentage of net revenues, operating expenses increased to 62.8 percent in 2013 from 60.7 percent in 2012.
This increase was primarily due to increased personnel and other selling, general, and administrative expenses as a result of our
acquisitions in 2012.
Our personnel expenses are driven by headcount and earnings growth. In 2013, personnel expenses increased to $826.7 million
from $766.0 million in 2012. Our personnel expenses as a percentage of net revenue increased in 2013 to 45.0 percent from
44.6 percent in 2012. In 2013, our average headcount increased approximately 25 percent, related primarily to the acquisitions
of Apreo and Phoenix. The increase in personnel expense from headcount growth was partially offset by declines in expenses
related to incentive plans that are designed to keep expenses variable with changes in net revenues and profitability.
28
Other selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 18.3 percent to $326.8 million in 2013 from $276.2 million in
2012. The increase in our selling, general, and administrative expenses is primarily related to an increase in amortization of
intangible assets acquired, occupancy, and travel, partially offset by a reduction in purchased professional services.
Income from operations. Income from operations increased 1.1 percent to $682.7 million in 2013 from $675.3 million in
2012. Income from operations as a percentage of net revenues decreased to 37.2 percent in 2013 from 39.3 percent in 2012.
This decrease was due to our expenses growing faster than our net revenues. Additionally, Phoenix has a higher operating
expense to net revenue ratio than C.H. Robinson has historically experienced.
Interest and other (expense) income. Interest and other expense was $9.3 million in 2013 compared to income of $283.1
million in 2012. In 2013, we recorded interest expense on borrowings of $11.1 million. In 2012, we recorded a gain of $281.6
million on the divestiture of substantially all of our T-Chek business.
Provision for income taxes. Our effective income tax rate was 38.2 percent for 2013 and 38.0 percent for 2012. The effective
income tax rate for both periods is greater than the statutory federal income tax rate, primarily due to state income taxes, net of
federal benefit.
Net income. Net income decreased 30.0 percent to $415.9 million in 2013 from $593.8 million in 2012. Basic net income per
share decreased 28.0 percent to $2.65. Diluted net income per share decreased 27.8 percent to $2.65.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We have historically generated substantial cash from operations, which has enabled us to fund our growth while paying cash
dividends and repurchasing stock. In 2012, we entered into a senior unsecured revolving credit facility to partially fund the
acquisition of Phoenix. In December 2014, we amended the revolving credit facility to increase the amount available from
$500 million to $900 million and to extend the expiration date from October 2017 to December 2019. In 2013, we entered into
a Note Purchase Agreement to fund the accelerated share repurchase agreements to repurchase $500 million worth of our
common stock. The Note Purchase Agreement was amended in February 2015 to conform its financial covenants to be
consistent with the amended revolving credit facility. We also expect to use the revolving credit facility, and potentially other
indebtedness incurred in the future, to assist us in continuing to fund working capital, capital expenditures, possible
acquisitions, dividends, and share repurchases. Cash and cash equivalents totaled $128.9 million and $162.0 million as of
December 31, 2014 and 2013. Cash and cash equivalents held outside the United States totaled $80.6 million and $80.2 million
as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. Working capital at December 31, 2014 was $529.6 million, which included $359.4 million
of restricted cash. Working capital at December 31, 2013 was $394.5 million.
We prioritize our investments to grow the business, as we require some working capital and a relatively small amount of capital
expenditures to grow. We are continually looking for acquisitions, but those acquisitions must fit our culture and enhance our
growth opportunities.
Cash flow from operating activities. We generated $513.4 million, $347.8 million, and $460.3 million of cash flow from
operations in 2014, 2013, and 2012. The increase of $165.6 million in cash flow from operations in 2014 is primarily the result
of a $101.5 million decrease in accrued income taxes, and increases in stock-based compensation, and accrued compensation
and profit-sharing. During the first quarter of 2013, we used $111.8 million to fund the payment of income taxes, primarily
related to the gain recognized on the divestiture of T-Chek.
Cash used for investing activities. We used $388.9 million of cash in 2014, $28.9 million of cash in 2013, and $359.1 million
of cash in 2012 for investing activities. Our investing activities consist primarily of capital expenditures and cash paid for
acquisitions. On December 31, 2014, we funded $359.4 million of the purchase price for the acquisition of Freightquote, into
escrow accounts pursuant to the purchase agreement and completion of the acquisition in January 2015. In 2012, cash received
for the divestiture of T-Chek, net of the cash we sold, was $274.8 million.
We used $29.5 million, $48.2 million, and $50.7 million of cash for capital expenditures in 2014, 2013, and 2012. We spent
$24.0 million, $35.9 million, and $42.0 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012 primarily for annual investments in information
technology equipment to support our operating systems, including the purchase and development of software. These
information technology investments are intended to improve efficiencies and help grow the business. Additionally, we built a
new office building on our corporate campus in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. This building was completed in the first quarter of
2014 and it replaced space we previously leased in Eden Prairie. The cost of the building was approximately $18.5 million, and
the majority was funded in 2013.
29
In 2012, we purchased 500 intermodal containers for $5.2 million and funded the balance of the 2011 container purchases of
approximately $2.5 million.
We anticipate capital expenditures in 2015 to be approximately $50 million to $55 million.
During the second quarter of 2013, we received $19.1 million in cash from the settlement of post-closing and working capital
adjustments, in accordance with the Phoenix purchase agreement. We used cash of $583.6 million for acquisitions in 2012. On
October 1, 2012, we acquired Apreo for $22.8 million, net of cash acquired. On November 1, 2012, we paid $560.8 million in
cash for Phoenix, net of cash acquired.
Cash used for financing activities. We used $143.6 million, $364.9 million, and $264.3 million of cash flow for financing
activities in 2014, 2013, and 2012.
In 2014 and 2013, we had net short-term borrowings of $230.0 million and $121.4 million, respectively. On October 29, 2012,
we entered into a senior unsecured revolving credit facility for up to $500 million with a $500 million accordion feature. In
December of 2014, we amended this facility to increase the amount available from $500 million to $900 million and extended
the expiration of the facility from October 2017 to December 2019. This facility had $605.0 million outstanding as of
December 31, 2014. The original purpose of this facility was to partially fund the acquisition of Phoenix and will assist us in
continuing to fund working capital, capital expenditures, possible acquisitions, dividends, and share repurchases. Advances
under the facility carry an interest rate based on our total funded debt to total capitalization, as measured at the end of each
quarter, and are based on a spread over LIBOR for outstanding balances. In addition, there is a commitment fee on the average
daily undrawn stated amount under each letter of credit issued under the facility. The credit agreement contains certain financial
covenants that require us to maintain a minimum fixed leverage ratio and minimum liquidity. We were in compliance with all
of the credit facility's debt covenants as of December 31, 2014.
On August 23, 2013, we entered into a Note Purchase Agreement for $500.0 million, of which the entire balance was
outstanding as of December 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013. The primary purpose of this agreement was to fund the ASR
agreements that were entered into on August 24, 2013. The agreement contains certain financial covenants that require us to
maintain a minimum leverage ratio, an interest coverage ratio, and minimum liquidity. We were in compliance with all the
covenants in the Notes as of December 31, 2014. The Note Purchase Agreement was amended in February 2015 to conform its
financial covenants to be consistent with the amended revolving credit facility.
We used $215.0 million, $220.3 million, and $275.4 million to pay cash dividends in 2014, 2013, and 2012. The decrease in
2014 was due to a decrease in the number of shares outstanding compared to 2013. The decrease in 2013 was due to a fifth
quarterly dividend paid in 2012 and a lower number of shares outstanding in 2013, partially offset by an increase in the
dividend rate in 2013 to $0.35 per share from $0.33 per share in 2012.
We also used $164.0 million, $757.3 million, and $245.1 million on share repurchases in 2014, 2013, and 2012. The increase in
2013 was due to the $500.0 million of shares repurchased as part of the ASR agreements entered into during the third quarter of
2013. We received 6.1 million shares of common stock with a fair value of $350.0 million during the third quarter of 2013,
which represented approximately 70 percent of the total shares expected to be repurchased under the agreements. In December
2013, one of the banks terminated their ASR agreement and delivered 1.2 million shares. In February 2014, the remaining ASR
agreement was terminated. Approximately 1.2 million shares were delivered as final settlement of the remaining agreement. In
August 2013, the Board of Directors increased the number of shares authorized to be repurchased by 15,000,000 shares. As of
December 31, 2014, there were 10,306,342 shares remaining for future repurchases. The number of shares we repurchase, if
any, during future periods will vary based on our cash position, potential uses of our cash, and market conditions.
Assuming no change in our current business plan, management believes that our available cash, together with expected future
cash generated from operations, the amount available under our credit facility, and credit available in the market, will be
sufficient to satisfy our anticipated needs for working capital, capital expenditures, and cash dividends in future periods. We
also believe we could obtain funds under lines of credit or other forms of indebtedness on short notice, if needed.
30
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Our consolidated financial statements include accounts of the company and all majority-owned subsidiaries. The preparation of
financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to
make estimates and assumptions. In certain circumstances, those estimates and assumptions can affect amounts reported in the
accompanying consolidated financial statements and related footnotes. In preparing our financial statements, we have made our
best estimates and judgments of certain amounts included in the financial statements, giving due consideration to materiality.
We do not believe there is a great likelihood that materially different amounts would be reported related to the accounting
policies described below. However, application of these accounting policies involves the exercise of judgment and use of
assumptions as to future uncertainties and, as a result, actual results could differ from these estimates. Note 1 of the Notes to
consolidated financial statements includes a summary of the significant accounting policies and methods used in the
preparation of our consolidated financial statements. The following is a brief discussion of our critical accounting policies and
estimates.
Revenue recognition. Total revenues consist of the total dollar value of goods and services purchased from us by customers.
Net revenues are total revenues less the direct costs of transportation, products, and handling. We act principally as the service
provider for these transactions and recognize revenue as these services are rendered or goods are delivered. At that time, our
obligations to the transactions are completed and collection of receivables is reasonably assured. Most transactions in our
Transportation and Sourcing businesses are recorded at the gross amount we charge our customers for the service we provide
and goods we sell. In these transactions, we are the primary obligor, we have credit risk, we have discretion to select the
supplier, and we have latitude in pricing decisions.
Additionally, in our Sourcing business, we take loss of inventory risk during shipment and have general inventory risk. Certain
transactions in customs brokerage, transportation management, and sourcing are recorded at the net amount we charge our
customers for the service we provide because many of the factors stated above are not present.
Valuations for accounts receivable. Our allowance for doubtful accounts is calculated based upon the aging of our
receivables, our historical experience of uncollectible accounts, and any specific customer collection issues that we have
identified. The allowance of $41.1 million as of December 31, 2014, increased compared to the allowance of $39.3 million as
of December 31, 2013. This increase was primarily due to growth in our accounts receivable balance. We believe that the
recorded allowance is sufficient and appropriate based on our customer aging trends, the exposures we have identified, and our
historical loss experience.
Goodwill. We manage and report our operations as one operating segment. Our branches represent a series of components that
are aggregated for the purpose of evaluating goodwill for impairment on an enterprise-wide basis. The fair value of the
enterprise-wide reporting unit substantially exceeds the book value; therefore we have determined that there is no goodwill
impairment as of December 31, 2014.
Stock-based compensation. We issue stock awards, including stock options, performance shares, and restricted stock units, to
key employees and outside directors. In general, the awards vest over five years, either based on the company's earnings growth
or the passage of time. The fair value of each share-based payment award is established on the date of grant. For grants of
restricted shares and restricted units, the fair value is established based on the market price on the date of the grant, discounted
for post-vesting holding restrictions. The discounts on outstanding grants vary from 17 percent to 22 percent and are calculated
using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Changes in the measured stock price volatility and interest rates are the primary
reason for changes in the discount. For grants of options, we use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair
value of the awards. The determination of the fair value is affected by our stock price and a number of assumptions, including
expected volatility, expected life, risk-free interest rate, and expected dividends.
31
DISCLOSURES ABOUT CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMERCIAL CONTINGENCIES
The following table aggregates all contractual commitments and commercial obligations, due by period, that affect our
financial condition and liquidity position as of December 31, 2014 (dollars in thousands):
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Thereafter
Total
$ 605,000
Borrowings under credit agreements
Long-term notes payable(1) . . . . . . . . .
Operating Leases(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase Obligations(3) . . . . . . . . . . . .
62,515
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 732,806
43,903
21,388
$
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $ 605,000
21,388
35,419
5,062
21,388
28,295
1,242
21,388
18,794
363
21,388
13,559
363
698,000
9,807
—
804,940
149,777
69,545
$ 61,869
$ 50,925
$ 40,545
$ 35,310
$ 707,807
$ 1,629,262
_______________________
(1) Amounts payable relate to the semi-annual interest due on the long-term notes and the principal amount at maturity.
(2) We have certain facilities and equipment under operating leases.
(3) Purchase obligations include agreements for services that are enforceable and legally binding and that specify all significant terms. As of December 31,
2014, such obligations include ocean and air freight capacity, telecommunications services, and maintenance contracts.
We have no capital lease obligations. Long-term liabilities consist of noncurrent income taxes payable, long-term notes
payable, and the obligation under our non-qualified deferred compensation plan. Due to the uncertainty with respect to the
timing of future cash flows associated with our unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2014, we are unable to make
reasonably reliable estimates of the period of cash settlement with the respective taxing authority. Therefore, $24.0 million of
unrecognized tax benefits have been excluded from the contractual obligations table above. See Note 5 to the consolidated
financial statements for a discussion on income taxes. The obligation under our non-qualified deferred compensation plan has
also been excluded from the above table as the timing of cash payment is uncertain. As of December 31, 2014, we did not have
any off-balance sheet arrangements as defined in Item 303 (a)(4)(ii) of SEC Regulation S-K.
ITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We had $128.9 million of cash and investments on December 31, 2014, consisting entirely of cash and cash equivalents.
Although these investments are subject to the credit risk of the issuer, we manage our investment portfolio to limit our exposure
to any one issuer. Substantially all of the cash equivalents are money market securities from treasury and tax exempt money
issuers. Because of the credit risk criteria of our investment policies and practices, the primary market risks associated with
these investments are interest rate and liquidity risks.
We are a party to a credit agreement with various lenders consisting of a $900 million revolving loan facility. Interest accrues
on the revolving loan at variable rates based on LIBOR or "prime" plus the applicable add-on percentage as defined. At
December 31, 2014, there was $605.0 million outstanding on the revolving loan.
We are a party to the Note Purchase Agreement, as amended, with various institutional investors with fixed rates consisting of:
(i) $175,000,000 of the company’s 3.97 percent Senior Notes, Series A, due August 27, 2023, (ii) $150,000,000 of the
company’s 4.26 percent Senior Notes, Series B, due August 27, 2028, and (iii) $175,000,000 of the company’s 4.60 percent
Senior Notes, Series C, due August 27, 2033. At December 31, 2014, there was $500.0 million outstanding on the notes.
A hypothetical 100-basis-point change in the interest rate would not have a material effect on our earnings. We do not use
derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risk or to speculate on future changes in interest rates. A rise in interest
rates could negatively affect the fair value of our investments. Market risk arising from changes in foreign currency exchange
rates are not material due to the size of our international operations.
32
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
Eden Prairie, MN
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. and subsidiaries (the
"Company") as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive
income, stockholders' investment, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014. Our audits
also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement
schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial
statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the results of their operations and their
cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in
relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information
set forth therein.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States),
the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal
Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission
and our report dated March 2, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial
reporting.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 2, 2015
33
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
Eden Prairie, MN
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. and subsidiaries (the
"Company") as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued
by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company's management is responsible for
maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over
financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal
control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of
internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and
operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered
necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's
principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's
board of directors, management, and other personnel 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. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the
maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of
the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial
statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are
being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that
could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or
improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a
timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future
periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States),
the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014 of the
Company and our report dated March 2, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial
statement schedule.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 2, 2015
34
C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except per share data)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Restricted cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $41,051 and $39,292 . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax asset. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net property and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $36,917 and $33,325 . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ INVESTMENT
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Outstanding checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued expenses–
Compensation and profit-sharing contribution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other accrued liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current portion of debt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term debt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncurrent income taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other long term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
December 31,
2014
2013
$
$
$
128,940
359,388
1,571,591
7,746
37,794
2,105,459
313,688
(161,217)
152,471
825,038
98,330
33,040
3,214,338
716,654
78,601
125,624
4,616
45,365
605,000
1,575,860
500,000
24,279
66,961
223
2,167,323
162,047
—
1,449,581
8,286
44,571
1,664,485
300,795
(140,092)
160,703
829,073
117,467
31,090
2,802,818
685,890
69,117
85,247
11,681
43,046
375,000
1,269,981
500,000
21,584
70,618
911
1,863,094
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ investment:
Preferred stock, $ .10 par value, 20,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or
outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Common stock, $ .10 par value, 480,000 shares authorized; 178,621 and 179,030 shares
issued, 146,458 and 150,197 outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional paid-in capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retained earnings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated other comprehensive loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury stock at cost (32,163 and 28,833 shares) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total stockholders’ investment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total liabilities and stockholders’ investment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
—
—
14,646
321,968
2,648,539
(28,610)
(1,909,528)
1,047,015
3,214,338
$
15,020
217,894
2,413,833
(10,620)
(1,696,403)
939,724
2,802,818
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
35
C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In thousands, except per share data)
Revenues:
For the years ended December 31,
2014
2013
2012
Transportation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 11,921,974
Sourcing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1,533,555
$ 11,069,710
$ 9,685,415
1,669,134
1,620,183
Payment Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14,538
13,232
53,515
13,470,067
12,752,076
11,359,113
Costs and expenses:
Purchased transportation and related services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchased products sourced for resale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchased payment services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Personnel expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other selling, general, and administrative expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total costs and expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and other (expense) income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income before provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for income taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
10,042,250
1,418,009
2,156
939,021
320,213
12,721,649
748,418
(24,987)
723,431
273,720
449,711
(17,990)
431,721
Basic net income per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Diluted net income per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
3.06
3.05
9,371,315
1,542,184
2,482
826,661
326,784
12,069,426
682,650
(9,289)
673,361
257,457
415,904
(1,275)
414,629
2.65
2.65
$
$
$
8,157,278
1,483,745
519
766,006
276,245
10,683,793
675,320
283,142
958,462
364,658
593,804
(230)
593,574
3.68
3.67
$
$
$
Basic weighted average shares outstanding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
147,202
156,915
161,557
340
165
389
147,542
157,080
161,946
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
36
593,804
(230)
(220,607)
60,152
8,086
—
59,463
12,294
40,450
1,647
C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ INVESTMENT
(In thousands, except per share data)
Common
Shares
Outstanding
Amount
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Treasury
Stock
Total
Stockholders’
Investment
Balance December 31, 2011 . . . . . . . .
163,441
$ 16,344
$
205,794
$ 1,845,032
$
(9,115) $
(809,581) $
1,248,474
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation
adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends declared, $1.34 per share . .
593,804
(220,607)
(230)
Stock issued for acquisition . . . . . . . . .
1,108
111
60,041
Stock issued for employee benefit
plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Issuance of restricted stock. . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation expense . . .
Excess tax benefit on deferred
compensation and employee stock
plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchase of common stock. . . . . . . .
712
276
28
71
28
3
(32,435)
(28)
57,813
12,294
(4,238)
(424)
(256,640)
(257,064)
Balance December 31, 2012 . . . . . . . .
161,327
16,133
303,479
2,218,229
(9,345)
(1,024,124)
1,504,372
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation
adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends declared, $1.40 per share . .
Stock issued for employee benefit
plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Issuance of restricted stock. . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation expense . . .
Excess tax benefit on deferred
compensation and employee stock
plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
263
335
30
26
34
3
Repurchase of common stock. . . . . . . .
(11,758)
(1,176)
(45,106)
(34)
7,346
27,209
(75,000)
415,904
(220,300)
(1,275)
415,904
(1,275)
(220,300)
10,102
(34,978)
1,747
—
9,096
27,209
(684,128)
(760,304)
Balance December 31, 2013 . . . . . . . .
150,197
15,020
217,894
2,413,833
(10,620)
(1,696,403)
939,724
449,711
(17,990)
431,721
(215,005)
(667)
—
47,721
7,558
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation
adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends declared, $1.43 per share . .
Stock issued for employee benefit
plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Issuance of restricted stock. . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation expense . . .
Excess tax benefit on deferred
compensation and employee stock
plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
405
(410)
30
40
(41)
3
Repurchase of common stock. . . . . . . .
(3,764)
(376)
(24,644)
41
46,119
7,558
75,000
449,711
(215,005)
(17,990)
23,937
1,599
(238,661)
(164,037)
Balance December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . .
146,458
$ 14,646
$
321,968
$ 2,648,539
$
(28,610) $ (1,909,528) $
1,047,015
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
37
C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the year ended December 31,
2014
2013
2012
(In thousands)
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
449,711
$
415,904
$
593,804
Depreciation and amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for doubtful accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on divestiture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss on sale/disposal of assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other long-term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes in operating elements, net of effects of acquisitions:
Receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts payable and outstanding checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued compensation and profit-sharing contribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other accrued liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchases of property and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchases and development of software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash received for divestiture, net of cash sold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restricted cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
57,009
15,092
47,861
(1,848)
(3,117)
710
—
(137,102)
6,294
380
40,251
40,236
(4,370)
2,319
513,426
(22,364)
(7,138)
—
—
(359,388)
(6)
56,882
15,587
9,094
—
25,226
314
5
(87,316)
(5,254)
—
47,488
(15,097)
(105,857)
(9,199)
347,777
(40,354)
(7,852)
—
19,126
—
221
38,090
10,459
59,381
(281,551)
(14,442)
3,208
513
(88,107)
5,260
—
61,732
(19,064)
104,542
(13,483)
460,342
(36,096)
(14,560)
274,802
(583,631)
—
419
Net cash used for investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(388,896)
(28,859)
(359,066)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from stock issued for employee benefit plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock tendered for payment of withholding taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payment of contingent purchase price . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchase of common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Excess tax benefit on stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11,942
(12,604)
—
(164,041)
(215,008)
7,558
15,166
(50,144)
(927)
(757,305)
(220,257)
27,209
Proceeds from short-term borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4,823,000
4,165,023
Payments on short-term borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(4,593,000)
(4,043,669)
Debt issuance costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from long-term borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash used for financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of exchange rates on cash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net change in cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(1,484)
—
(143,637)
(14,000)
(33,107)
162,047
—
500,000
(364,904)
(1,986)
(47,972)
210,019
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
128,940
$
162,047
$
Stock issued for acquisition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash paid for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash paid for interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
— $
271,979
27,066
$
$
— $
313,799
3,875
$
$
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
18,868
(10,782)
(12,661)
(245,067)
(275,353)
12,294
324,051
(75,688)
—
—
(264,338)
(588)
(163,650)
373,669
210,019
60,152
257,580
518
38
C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
BASIS OF PRESENTATION. C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. and our subsidiaries (“the company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) are
a global provider of transportation services and logistics solutions through a network of 281 offices operating in North
America, Europe, Asia, and South America. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of C.H. Robinson
Worldwide, Inc. and our majority owned and controlled subsidiaries. Our minority interests in subsidiaries are not significant.
All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in the consolidated financial statements.
USE OF ESTIMATES. The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted
in the United States, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities. We are also required to disclose contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the
reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Our ultimate results could differ from those estimates.
REVENUE RECOGNITION. Total revenues consist of the total dollar value of goods and services purchased from us by
customers. Our net revenues are our total revenues less purchased transportation and related services, including contracted
motor carrier, rail, ocean, air, and other costs, and the purchase price and services related to the products we source. We act
principally as the service provider for these transactions and recognize revenue as these services are rendered or goods are
delivered. At that time, our obligations to the transactions are completed and collection of receivables is reasonably assured.
Most transactions in our Transportation and Sourcing businesses are recorded at the gross amount we charge our customers for
the service we provide and goods we sell. In these transactions, we are the primary obligor, we have credit risk, we have
discretion to select the supplier, and we have latitude in pricing decisions. Additionally, in our Sourcing business, we take loss
of inventory risk during shipment and have general inventory risk. Certain transactions in customs brokerage, transportation
management services, and sourcing are recorded at the net amount we charge our customers for the service we provide because
many of the factors stated above are not present.
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS. Accounts receivable are reduced by an allowance for amounts that may
become uncollectible in the future. We continuously monitor payments from our customers and maintain a provision for
uncollectible accounts based upon our customer aging trends, historical loss experience, and any specific customer collection
issues that we have identified.
FOREIGN CURRENCY. Most balance sheet accounts of foreign subsidiaries are translated or remeasured at the current
exchange rate as of the end of the year. Statement of operations items are translated at average exchange rates during the year.
The resulting translation adjustment is recorded as a separate component of comprehensive income in our statement of
operations and comprehensive income.
SEGMENT REPORTING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION. We operate in the transportation and logistics industry.
We provide a wide range of products and services to our customers and contract carriers, including transportation services,
produce sourcing, freight consolidation, contract warehousing, and information services. Each of these is a significant
component to optimizing logistics solutions for our customers.
These services are performed throughout our offices, as an integrated offering for which our customers are typically provided a
single invoice. Our offices work together to complete transactions and collectively meet the needs of our customers. For large
multi-location customers, we often coordinate our efforts in one location and rely on multiple locations to deliver specific
geographic or modal needs. As an example, approximately 48 percent of our truckload transactions are shared transactions
between offices. In addition, our methodology of providing services is very similar across all locations. The majority of our
global network operates on a common technology platform that is used to match customer needs with supplier capabilities, to
collaborate with other locations, and to utilize centralized support resources to complete all facets of the transaction.
Accordingly, our chief operating decision maker analyzes our business as a single segment, relying on net revenues and
operating income across our network of offices as the primary performance measures.
39
The following table presents our total revenues (based on location of the customer) and long-lived assets (including intangible
and other assets) by geographic regions (in thousands):
Total revenues
United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 11,800,140
Other locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1,669,927
Total revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 13,470,067
$ 11,140,163
1,611,913
$ 12,752,076
$ 10,183,596
1,175,517
$ 11,359,113
For the year ended December 31,
2014
2013
2012
Long-lived assets
United States. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Other locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total long-lived assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
257,587
26,254
283,841
$
$
284,693
24,567
309,260
$
$
281,729
27,991
309,720
December 31,
2014
2013
2012
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS. Cash and cash equivalents consist of bank deposits.
RESTRICTED CASH. On December 31, 2014, we funded $359.4 million of the purchase price for the acquisition of
Freightquote, into an escrow account pursuant to the purchase agreement, pending the effective date of closing of the
acquisition in January 2015. Funds were released on January 2, 2015.
PREPAID EXPENSES AND OTHER. Prepaid expenses and other include such items as prepaid rent, software maintenance
contracts, insurance premiums, other prepaid operating expenses, and inventories, consisting primarily of produce and related
products held for resale.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT. Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Maintenance and repair expenditures are
charged to expense as incurred. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated lives of the assets
of 3 to 30 years. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful
lives of the improvements.
We recognized the following depreciation expense (in thousands):
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29,340
27,757
24,254
A summary of our property and equipment as of December 31 is as follows (in thousands):
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate aircraft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leasehold improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction in progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Less accumulated depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net property and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2014
180,233
79,981
11,334
25,545
14,983
1,612
(161,217)
152,471
$
$
2013
168,354
64,639
11,334
24,489
15,008
16,971
(140,092)
160,703
40
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS. Goodwill is the difference between the purchase price of a company
and the fair market value of the acquired company’s net identifiable assets. Other intangible assets include customer lists,
contract carrier lists, and non-competition agreements. These intangible assets are being amortized using the straight-line
method over their estimated lives, ranging from 3 to 8 years. Goodwill is not amortized, but is tested for impairment using a
fair value approach. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events warrant. Intangible assets are
evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be
recoverable. See Note 2.
OTHER ASSETS. Other assets include such items as purchased and internally developed software, and the investments
related to our nonqualified deferred compensation plan. We amortize software using the straight-line method over 3 years. We
recognized the following amortization expense of purchased and internally developed software (in thousands):
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8,921
8,759
7,528
A summary of our purchased and internally developed software as of December 31 is as follows (in thousands):
Purchased software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Internally developed software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Less accumulated amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2014
2013
21,872
27,429
(35,369)
13,932
$
$
20,433
24,358
(29,802)
14,989
INCOME TAXES. Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets
and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and tax
bases of assets and liabilities using enacted rates.
Annual tax provisions include amounts considered sufficient to pay assessments that may result from examination of prior year
tax returns; however, the amount ultimately paid upon resolution of issues raised may differ from the amounts accrued.
The financial statement benefits of an uncertain income tax position are recognized when more likely than not, based on the
technical merits, the position will be sustained upon examination. Unrecognized tax benefits are, more likely than not, owed to
a taxing authority, and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated. Uncertain income tax positions are included
in “Noncurrent income taxes payable” in the consolidated balance sheets.
Provisions are made for U.S. taxes on undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries and related companies.
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME. Comprehensive income includes any changes in the equity of an enterprise from transactions
and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. Our only component of other comprehensive income is foreign
currency translation adjustment. It is presented on our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income.
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION. We issue stock awards, including stock options, performance shares, and restricted
stock units, to key employees and outside directors. In general, the awards vest over five years, either based on the company's
earnings growth or the passage of time. The fair value of each share-based payment award is established on the date of grant.
For grants of performance shares and restricted stock units, the fair value is established based on the market price on the date of
the grant, discounted for post-vesting holding restrictions. The discounts on outstanding grants vary from 17 percent to 22
percent and are calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Changes in measured stock volatility and interest
rates are the primary reason for changes in the discount.
For grants of options, we use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of share-based payment awards.
The determination of the fair value of share-based awards is affected by our stock price and a number of assumptions, including
expected volatility, expected life, risk-free interest rate, and expected dividends.
41
NOTE 2: GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The change in the carrying amount of goodwill is as follows (in thousands):
Balance, beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Acquisitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance, end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2014
829,073
—
(4,035)
825,038
$
$
2013
822,215
5,331
1,527
829,073
We complete an impairment test on goodwill annually. This impairment test did not result in any impairment losses. There is no
aggregate goodwill impairment for any of the periods presented.
A summary of our other intangible assets, with finite lives, which include primarily customer relationships and non-competition
agreements, as of December 31 is as follows (in thousands):
Gross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accumulated amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2014
133,372
(36,917)
96,455
$
$
2013
148,917
(33,325)
115,592
Other intangible assets, with indefinite lives, as of December 31, is as follows (in thousands):
Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
1,875
$
1,875
2014
2013
Amortization expense for other intangible assets was (in thousands):
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18,748
20,128
6,308
Intangible assets at December 31, 2014, will be amortized over the next seven years, and that expense is as follows (in
thousands):
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
16,939
16,922
16,623
16,225
16,225
13,521
96,455
42
NOTE 3: FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
Accounting guidance on fair value measurements for certain financial assets and liabilities requires that assets and liabilities
carried at fair value be classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories:
• Level 1-Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
• Level 2-Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
• Level 3-Unobservable inputs reflecting the reporting entity’s own assumptions or external inputs from inactive
markets.
A financial asset or liability’s classification within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level of input that is
significant to the fair value measurement.
The following table presents information as of December 31, 2012, about our financial assets and liabilities that are measured
at fair value on a recurring basis, according to the valuation techniques we used to determine their fair values (in thousands).
Contingent purchase price related to acquisitions . . . . . . . . $
Total liabilities at fair value. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
— $
— $
— $
— $
922
922
$
$
922
922
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total Fair
Value
In measuring the fair value of the contingent payment liability, we used an income approach that considers the expected future
earnings of the acquired businesses and the resulting contingent payments, discounted at a risk-adjusted rate.
The table below sets forth a reconciliation of our beginning and ending Level 3 financial liability balance (in thousands). We
had no Level 3 liabilities as of December 31, 2014.
Balance, beginning of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Payments of contingent purchase price. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total unrealized losses included in earnings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance, end of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
— $
—
—
— $
$
922
(927)
5
— $
13,070
(12,661)
513
922
2014
2013
2012
NOTE 4. FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
On October 29, 2012, we entered into a senior unsecured revolving credit facility for up to $500 million with a $500 million
accordion feature (the "Credit Agreement"), with a syndicate of financial institutions led by U.S. Bank. The purpose of this
facility was to partially fund the acquisition of Phoenix and to allow us to continue to fund working capital, capital
expenditures, dividends, and share repurchases. In December 2014, we amended the credit facility to increase the amount
available from $500 million to $900 million and to extend the expiration date from October 2017 to December 2019.
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had $605.0 million and $375.0 million in borrowings outstanding under the Credit
Agreement, which is classified as a current liability on the consolidated balance sheets. The recorded amount of borrowings
outstanding approximates fair value because of the short maturity period of the debt; therefore, we consider these borrowings to
be a Level 2 financial liability.
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement generally bear interest at a variable rate determined by a pricing schedule or the base
rate (which is the highest of (a) the administrative agent's prime rate, (b) the federal funds rate plus 0.50 percent, or (c) the sum
of one-month LIBOR plus a specified margin). As of December 31, 2014, the variable rate equaled LIBOR plus 1.50 percent.
In addition, there is a commitment fee on the average daily undrawn stated amount under each letter of credit issued under the
facility. The weighted average interest rate incurred on borrowings during 2014 was approximately 1.7 percent and at
December 31, 2014, was approximately 1.3 percent. The weighted average interest rate incurred on borrowings during 2013
was approximately 1.2 percent and at December 31, 2013, was approximately 1.7 percent.
43
The Credit Agreement contains various restrictions and covenants. Among other requirements, we may not permit our leverage
ratio, as of the end of each of our fiscal quarters, of (i) Consolidated Funded Indebtedness to (ii) Consolidated Total
Capitalization to be greater than 0.65 to 1.00. We were in compliance with the financial debt covenants as of December 31,
2014. As a result of amending the Note Purchase Agreement in February, 2015, the ratio of (i) Consolidated Funded
Indebtedness to (ii) EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), as of the end of each of our fiscal
quarters, may not exceed 3.00 to 1.00.
The Credit Agreement also contains customary events of default. If an event of default under the Credit Agreement occurs and
is continuing, then the administrative agent may declare any outstanding obligations under the Credit Agreement to be
immediately due and payable. In addition, if we become the subject of voluntary or involuntary proceedings under any
bankruptcy, insolvency, or similar law, then any outstanding obligations under the Credit Agreement will automatically become
immediately due and payable.
On August 23, 2013, we entered into a Note Purchase Agreement with certain institutional investors (the “Purchasers”) named
therein (the “Note Purchase Agreement”). Pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement, the Purchasers purchased, on August 27,
2013, (i) $175,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the company’s 3.97 percent Senior Notes, Series A, due August 27, 2023
(the “Series A Notes”), (ii) $150,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the company’s 4.26 percent Senior Notes, Series B, due
August 27, 2028 (the “Series B Notes”), and (iii) $175,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the company’s 4.60 percent
Senior Notes, Series C, due August 27, 2033 (the “Series C Notes” and, together with the Series A Notes and the Series B
Notes, the “Notes”). Interest on the fixed-rate Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. We applied the proceeds of the sale of
the Notes for share repurchases. See Note 9.
The Note Purchase Agreement contains customary provisions for transactions of this type, including representations and
warranties regarding the company and its subsidiaries and various covenants, including covenants that require us to maintain
specified financial ratios. The Note Purchase Agreement includes the following financial covenants: we will not permit our
leverage ratio, as of the end of each of our fiscal quarters, of (i) Consolidated Funded Indebtedness to (ii) Consolidated Total
Capitalization to be greater than 0.65 to 1.00; we will not permit the interest coverage ratio, as of the end of each of our fiscal
quarters and for the twelve-month period ending, of (i) Consolidated EBIT (earnings before income taxes) to (ii) Consolidated
Interest Expense to be less than 2.00 to 1.00; we will not permit, as of the end of each of our fiscal quarters, Consolidated
Priority Debt to exceed 15% of Consolidated Total Assets. We were in compliance with all of the financial debt covenants as of
December 31, 2014. The Note Purchase Agreement was amended in February 2015 to conform its financial covenants to be
consistent with the amended revolving credit facility. As a result of amending the Note Purchase Agreement in February 2015,
the ratio of (i) Consolidated Funded Indebtedness to (ii) EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization), as of the end of each of our fiscal quarters, may not exceed 3.00 to 1.00.
The Note Purchase Agreement provides for customary events of default, generally with corresponding grace periods, including,
without limitation, payment defaults with respect to the Notes, covenant defaults, cross-defaults to other agreements evidencing
indebtedness of the company or its subsidiaries, certain judgments against the company or its subsidiaries, and events of
bankruptcy involving the company or its material subsidiaries. The occurrence of an event of default would permit certain
Purchasers to declare certain Notes then outstanding to be immediately due and payable.
Under the terms of the Note Purchase Agreement, the Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at 100% of the principal
amount being redeemed together with a “make-whole amount,” and accrued and unpaid interest (as defined in the Note
Purchase Agreement) with respect to each Note. The obligations of the company under the Note Purchase Agreement and the
Notes are guaranteed by C.H. Robinson Company, a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company, and
by C.H. Robinson Company, Inc., a Minnesota corporation and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the company.
The Notes were issued by the company to such initial Purchasers in a private placement in reliance on Section 4(2) of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Notes will not be or have not been registered under the Securities Act and may not be
offered or sold in the United States, absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.
The fair value of long-term debt approximated carrying value of $516.3 million at December 31, 2014, and $500.0 million at
December 31, 2013, based on observable market-based inputs. If our long-term debt was recorded at fair value, it would be
classified as Level 2.
44
NOTE 5: INCOME TAXES
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. and its 80 percent (or more) owned U.S. subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax
return. We file unitary or separate state returns based on state filing requirements. With few exceptions, we are no longer
subject to audits of U.S. federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax returns before 2008.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, is as
follows (in thousands):
Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions for tax positions of prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reductions for tax positions of prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lapse in statute of limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrecognized tax benefits, end of the period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
16,897
2,002
839
(183)
(1,281)
—
18,274
$
$
16,788
1,572
1,105
(1,464)
(238)
(866)
16,897
$
$
7,668
4,172
6,911
(1,061)
(286)
(616)
16,788
2014
2013
2012
As of December 31, 2014, we had $24.0 million of unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties, all of which
would affect our effective tax rate if recognized. We are not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that
the total amount of unrecognized tax benefit will significantly increase or decrease in the next 12 months.
Income tax expense considers amounts which may be needed to cover exposures for open tax years. We do not expect any
material impact related to open tax years; however, actual settlements may differ from amounts accrued.
We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in the provision for income taxes. During the years ended
December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, we recognized approximately $1.5 million, $1.2 million, and $0.8 million in interest and
penalties. We had approximately $5.7 million and $4.6 million for the payment of interest and penalties accrued within
noncurrent taxes payable as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. These amounts are not included in the reconciliation above.
The components of the provision for income taxes consist of the following for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
Tax provision:
Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred provision (benefit):
Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2014
2013
2012
224,468
32,110
20,259
276,837
(5,302)
(755)
2,940
(3,117)
273,720
$
$
180,351
26,351
25,529
232,231
24,877
3,623
(3,274)
25,226
257,457
$
$
326,708
38,931
13,461
379,100
(11,674)
(1,334)
(1,434)
(14,442)
364,658
A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes using the statutory federal income tax rate to our effective income tax rate for
the years ended December 31 is as follows:
Federal statutory rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State income taxes, net of federal benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2014
2013
2012
35.0%
2.8
—
37.8%
35.0%
2.9
0.3
38.2%
35.0%
2.7
0.3
38.0%
45
Deferred tax assets (liabilities) are comprised of the following at December 31 (in thousands):
2014
2013
Deferred tax assets:
Compensation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Receivables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
78,516
13,397
8,103
71,751
11,780
8,541
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-lived assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
(115,761)
(10,808)
(19,018)
(13,616)
(28)
(59,215) $
(113,518)
(9,948)
(20,310)
(10,600)
(28)
(62,332)
We had foreign net operating loss carryforwards with a tax effect of $8.3 million as of December 31, 2014 and $7.8 million as
of December 31, 2013. A full valuation allowance has been established for these net operating loss carryforwards due to the
uncertainty of the use of the tax benefit in future periods.
NOTE 6: CAPITAL STOCK AND STOCK AWARD PLANS
PREFERRED STOCK. Our Certificate of Incorporation authorizes the issuance of 20,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par
value $0.10 per share. There are no shares of Preferred Stock outstanding. The Preferred Stock may be issued by resolution of
our Board of Directors at any time without any action of the stockholders. The Board of Directors may issue the Preferred
Stock in one or more series and fix the designation and relative powers. These include voting powers, preferences, rights,
qualifications, limitations, and restrictions of each series. The issuance of any such series may have an adverse effect on the
rights of holders of Common Stock and may impede the completion of a merger, tender offer, or other takeover attempt.
COMMON STOCK. Our Certificate of Incorporation authorizes 480,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par value $.10 per
share. Subject to the rights of Preferred Stock which may from time to time be outstanding, holders of Common Stock are
entitled to receive dividends out of funds legally available, when and if declared by the Board of Directors, and to receive their
share of the net assets of the company legally available for distribution upon liquidation or dissolution.
For each share of Common Stock held, stockholders are entitled to one vote on each matter to be voted on by the stockholders,
including the election of directors. Holders of Common Stock are not entitled to cumulative voting. The stockholders do not
have preemptive rights. All outstanding shares of Common Stock are fully paid and nonassessable.
STOCK AWARD PLANS. Stock-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the value of the award and is
recognized as expense as it vests. A summary of our total compensation expense recognized in our consolidated statements of
operations and comprehensive income for stock-based compensation is as follows (in thousands):
Stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
9,243
$
Stock awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Company expense on ESPP discount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
36,510
2,108
5
$
6,808
2,281
Total stock-based compensation expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
47,861
$
9,094
$
3,585
53,481
2,315
59,381
2014
2013
2012
On May 9, 2013, our shareholders approved our 2013 Equity Incentive Plan, which allows us to grant certain stock awards,
including stock options at fair market value and performance shares and restricted stock units, to our key employees and
outside directors. A maximum of 3,400,000 shares, plus the shares remaining available for future grants under the 1997 Plan as
of May 9, 2013, can be granted under this plan. Approximately 3,048,819 shares were available for stock awards as of
December 31, 2014. Shares subject to awards that expire or are canceled without delivery of shares or that are settled in cash,
generally become available again for issuance under the plan.
46
We have awarded performance-based stock options to certain key employees. These options are subject to certain vesting
requirements over a five-year period, based on the company’s earnings growth. Any options remaining unvested at the end of
the five year vesting period are forfeited to the company. Although participants can exercise options via a stock swap exercise,
we do not issue reloads (restoration options) on the grants made after 2003.
The fair value of these options is established based on the market price on the date of grant, discounted for post-vesting holding
restrictions, calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Changes in measured stock price volatility and interest
rates are the primary reasons for changes in the discount. These grants are being expensed based on the terms of the awards. As
of December 31, 2014, unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options was $51.0 million. The amount of future
expense to be recognized will be based on the company’s earnings growth and certain other conditions.
The following schedule summarizes stock option activity in the plan. All outstanding unvested options as of December 31,
2014, relate to the performance-based grants from 2011 through 2014.
Outstanding at December 31, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Terminated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outstanding at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Options
3,497,544
1,215,018
(787)
(7,155)
4,704,620
Vested at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercisable at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
926,218
926,218
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(in thousands)
Average
Remaining
Life
(years)
$
$
$
$
62.21
74.55
68.81
58.25
65.40
63.28
63.28
$
$
$
44,644
10,751
10,751
8.6
7.9
7.9
Additional potential dilutive stock options totaling 218,932 for 2013 and 127,323 for 2012 have been excluded from our diluted
net income per share calculations because these securities’ exercise prices were anti-dilutive (e.g., greater than the average
market price of our common stock).
Information on the intrinsic value of options exercised is as follows (in thousands):
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
7,640
15,516
The following table summarizes performance-based options by year of grant:
First vesting date
Year of grant
2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2012 December 31, 2016
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2013 December 31, 2017
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2014 December 31, 2018
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2015 December 31, 2019
Last vesting date
Options
granted, net of
forfeitures
Weighted
average grant
date fair value
911,430
$
1,155,285
1,424,531
1,213,374
4,704,620
$
15.72
13.15
11.83
14.23
13.53
Unvested
options
537,744
957,394
1,070,145
1,213,374
3,778,657
Determining Fair Value
We estimated the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. We estimate the fair value
of restricted shares and units using the Black-Scholes option pricing model-protective put method. A description of significant
assumptions used to estimate the expected volatility, risk-free interest rate, and expected terms is as follows:
Expected Volatility-Expected volatility was determined based on implied volatility of our traded options and historical
volatility of our stock price.
47
Risk-Free Interest Rate-The risk-free interest rate was based on the implied yield available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon
issues at the date of grant with a term equal to the expected term.
Expected Term-Expected term represents the period that our stock-based awards are expected to be outstanding and was
determined based on historical experience and anticipated future exercise patterns, giving consideration to the contractual terms
of unexercised stock-based awards.
The fair value per option was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividend per share (quarterly amounts) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected volatility factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected option term . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weighted average fair value per option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2014 Grants
1.93-1.96%
$0.35-0.38
22.0-25.0%
6.3 years
14.23
2013 Grants
2012 Grants
.18-1.94%
$0.35
25.0-27.5%
.01-6.3 years
11.73
$
.18-.89%
$0.33-0.35
26.0-27.5%
.01-6 years
13.61
$
FULL VALUE AWARDS. We have awarded performance shares and restricted stock units to certain key employees and non-
employee directors. These awards are subject to certain vesting requirements over a five-year period, based on the company’s
earnings growth. The awards also contain restrictions on the awardees’ ability to sell or transfer vested awards for a specified
period of time. The fair value of these awards is established based on the market price on the date of grant, discounted for post-
vesting holding restrictions. The discounts on outstanding grants vary from 17 percent to 22 percent and are calculated using
the Black-Scholes option pricing model-protective put method. Changes in measured stock price volatility and interest rates are
the primary reasons for changes in the discount. These grants are being expensed based on the terms of the awards.
The following table summarizes our unvested performance shares and restricted stock unit grants as of December 31, 2014:
Unvested at December 31, 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeitures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unvested at December 31, 2014. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Number of Performance
Shares and Restricted
Stock Units
2,028,669
321,995
(516,165)
(298,345)
1,536,154
Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair Value
51.55
$
60.70
51.26
45.88
54.67
$
The following table summarizes performance shares and restricted stock units by year of grant:
First vesting date
Year of grant
2010. . . . . . . . . December 31, 2011
2011. . . . . . . . . December 31, 2012
2012. . . . . . . . . December 31, 2013
2013. . . . . . . . . December 31, 2014
2014. . . . . . . . . December 31, 2015
Last vesting date
December 31, 2015
December 31, 2016
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2018
December 31, 2019
________________________
Performance
shares and stock units
granted, net of
forfeitures
Weighted
average grant
date fair value (1)
Unvested
performance
shares and restricted
stock units
686,919
596,676
333,881
396,735
320,738
2,334,949
$
63.28
53.72
48.65
46.45
60.74
55.54
288,506
352,037
277,121
297,552
320,938
1,536,154
(1) Amount shown is the weighted average grant date fair value of performance shares and restricted stock units granted, net of forfeitures.
48
We have also awarded restricted shares and restricted stock units to certain key employees that vest primarily based on their
continued employment. The value of these awards is established by the market price on the date of the grant and is being
expensed over the vesting period of the award. The following table summarizes these unvested restricted share and restricted
stock unit grants as of December 31, 2014:
Unvested at December 31, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeitures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unvested at December 31, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Number of Restricted
Shares and Stock Units
851,485
355,878
(187,049)
(66,190)
954,124
Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair Value
45.68
$
61.96
43.15
47.60
52.12
$
We have also issued to certain key employees and non-employee directors restricted stock units which are fully vested upon
issuance. These units contain restrictions on the awardees’ ability to sell or transfer vested units for a specified period of time.
The fair value of these units is established using the same method discussed above. These grants have been expensed during the
year they were earned.
A summary of the fair value of full value awards vested (in thousands):
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
36,510
6,808
53,562
As of December 31, 2014, there was unrecognized compensation expense of $134.2 million related to previously granted full
value awards. The amount of future expense to be recognized will be based on the company’s earnings growth and certain other
conditions.
EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN. Our 1997 Employee Stock Purchase Plan allows our employees to contribute up
to $10,000 of their annual cash compensation to purchase company stock. Purchase price is determined using the closing price
on the last day of the quarter discounted by 15 percent. Shares are vested immediately. The following is a summary of the
employee stock purchase plan activity (dollar amounts in thousands):
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
231,564
259,730
248,405
$
11,943
12,928
13,116
2,108
2,281
2,315
Shares purchased
by employees
Aggregate cost
to employees
Expense recognized
by the company
SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAMS. During 2009 and 2012, our Board of Directors authorized stock repurchase programs
that allow management to repurchase 10,000,000 shares under each authorization. The activity under those programs for each
of the periods reported is as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):
2009 Program
2010 Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2011 Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2013 Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
1,394,831
3,540,171
4,237,555
827,443
90,500
246,935
257,064
48,048
Shares repurchased
Total value of shares
repurchased
2012 Program
2013 Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10,000,000
$
579,853
Shares repurchased
Total value of shares
repurchased
49
As of December 31, 2014, there were no shares remaining for repurchase under the 2009 or 2012 authorization. During 2013,
our Board of Directors increased the number of shares authorized to be repurchased by 15,000,000 shares. The activity under
this authorization is as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):
2013 Program
2013 Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2014 Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
930,075
$
3,763,583
57,689
239,037
Shares repurchased
Total value of shares
repurchased
As of December 31, 2014, there were 10,306,342 shares remaining for repurchase under the 2013 authorization.
NOTE 7: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS. We offer a defined contribution plan, which qualifies under section 401(k) of the Internal
Revenue Code and covers all eligible U.S. employees. Annual profit-sharing contributions are determined by us, in accordance
with the provisions of the plan. We can also elect to make matching contributions to the plan. Defined contribution plan
expense, including matching contributions, was approximately (in thousands):
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30,112
19,907
24,769
We have committed to a defined contribution match of four percent of eligible compensation in 2015.
NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN. The Robinson Companies Nonqualified Deferred
Compensation Plan provided certain employees the opportunity to defer a specified percentage or dollar amount of their cash
and stock compensation. Participants could elect to defer up to 100 percent of their cash compensation. The accumulated
benefit obligation was $0.2 million as of December 31, 2014, and $0.9 million as of December 31, 2013. We have purchased
investments to fund the future liability. The investments had an aggregate market value of $0.2 million as of December 31,
2014, and $0.9 million as of December 31, 2013, and are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. In
addition, all restricted shares vested but not yet delivered, as well as a deferred share award granted to our CEO and vesting
ratably over 15 years, are held within this plan.
LEASE COMMITMENTS. We lease certain facilities and equipment under operating leases. Information regarding our lease
expense is as follows (in thousands):
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
56,871
54,753
41,689
Minimum future lease commitments under noncancelable lease agreements in excess of one year as of December 31, 2014, are
as follows (in thousands):
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
43,903
35,419
28,295
18,794
13,559
9,807
149,777
50
In addition to minimum lease payments, we are typically responsible under our lease agreements to pay our pro rata share of
maintenance expenses, common charges, and real estate taxes of the buildings in which we lease space.
LITIGATION. We are not subject to any pending or threatened litigation other than routine litigation arising in the ordinary
course of our business operations, including 20 contingent auto liability cases as of December 31, 2014. For such legal
proceedings, we have accrued an amount that reflects the aggregate liability deemed probable and estimable, but this amount is
not material to our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. Because of the preliminary nature of
many of these proceedings, the difficulty in ascertaining the applicable facts relating to many of these proceedings, the
inconsistent treatment of claims made in many of these proceedings, and the difficulty of predicting the settlement value of
many of these proceedings, we are not able to estimate an amount or range of any reasonably possible additional losses.
However, based upon our historical experience, the resolution of these proceedings is not expected to have a material effect on
our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
NOTE 8: ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES
On November 1, 2012, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of Phoenix International Freight Services, Ltd. (“Phoenix”) for
the purpose of expanding our current market presence and service offerings in international freight forwarding. Total purchase
consideration was $677.3 million, net of post-closing cash and working capital adjustments, in accordance with the purchase
agreement. The acquisition price was financed with $60.2 million in newly-issued common stock (representing 1.1 million
shares), borrowings under the revolving credit facility of approximately $173.0 million discussed in Note 4, and the remainder
with cash on hand. The following is a summary of the allocation of purchase consideration to the estimated fair value of net
assets for the acquisition of Phoenix (in thousands):
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Identifiable intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other noncurrent assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accrued expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Estimated net assets acquired. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
75,372
125,595
7,209
12,160
130,000
453,208
13,542
817,086
(45,367)
(14,340)
(80,106)
677,273
Identifiable intangible assets and estimated useful lives are as follows (dollars in thousands):
Customer relationships. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncompete agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total identifiable intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Estimated Life
(years)
8
5
$
$
129,800
200
130,000
The Phoenix goodwill is a result of acquiring and retaining the Phoenix existing workforce and expected synergies from
integrating their business into C.H. Robinson. The goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
51
The measurement period adjustments during the year ended December 31, 2013, to the previously recorded opening balances
related primarily to changes in the allocation of purchase consideration to certain accounts, based on resolution of certain
working capital adjustments with the selling shareholders. The adjustments during 2013 resulted in a $1.5 million increase in
receivables, a $5.3 million increase in goodwill, a $1.7 million decrease in current deferred taxes, a $2.1 million decrease in
non-current deferred assets, a $3.0 million decrease in taxes payable, and a $10.6 million increase in other assets. The other
asset recorded is an indemnification asset that approximates the estimated contingencies related to uncertain tax positions. Any
subsequent changes in the indemnification asset will be recorded in interest and other (expense) income in our consolidated
statement of operations and comprehensive income. The offset to these adjustments was a reduction in the estimated receivable
amount from the selling shareholders. The measurement period adjustments were recorded prospectively, as they are not
considered material to the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013.
On October 16, 2012, we sold substantially all of the operations of our subsidiary, T-Chek Systems, Inc. ("T-Chek"), which
represented a majority of our Payment Services business, to Electronic Funds Source, LLC ("EFS") for $302.5 million in cash.
EFS acquired the assets and assumed certain liabilities of T-Chek. We recorded a gain on the sale of the assets and liabilities of
approximately $281.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2012.
On an unaudited pro forma basis, assuming the T-Chek divestiture and the Phoenix acquisition had closed on January 1, 2012,
the results of C.H. Robinson excluding T-Chek and including Phoenix would have resulted in the following (in thousands):
December 31, 2012
C.H. Robinson
As Reported
T-Chek
Operations
Phoenix
Operations
Combined Pro
Forma
Total revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 11,359,113
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
675,320
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
593,804
$
(41,623) $
(20,578)
(12,804)
692,836
$ 12,010,326
24,131
11,976
678,873
592,976
Phoenix pro forma financial information includes the following adjustments for the twelve months ended December 31 (in
thousands):
Eliminate personnel costs from purchased transportation and related services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Eliminate personnel costs from selling, general, and administrative services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reclassify costs to personnel expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contractual changes in compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional amortization expense on identifiable intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rent expense for new lease agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation on acquired building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Incremental interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional bonus paid by sellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Third party advisory fees paid by sellers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Elimination of variable interest entities not acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax effect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2012
(24,422)
(50,065)
74,487
(5,080)
13,555
280
123
(2,127)
(1,400)
(582)
215
(1,487)
The pro forma consolidated financial information was prepared for comparative purposes only and includes certain
adjustments, as noted above. The adjustments are estimates based on currently available information and actual amounts may
have differed materially from these estimates. They do not reflect the effect of costs or synergies that would have been expected
to result from the integration of the acquisition. The pro forma information does not purport to be indicative of the results of
operations that actually would have resulted had the acquisition occurred at the beginning of each period presented or of future
results of the consolidated entity.
52
On October 1, 2012, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of the operating subsidiaries of Apreo Logistics S.A. ("Apreo"), a
leading freight forwarder based in Warsaw, Poland, for the purpose of expanding our current market presence and service
offerings in Europe. The total purchase price of Apreo was approximately $26.5 million, which was paid in cash. We recorded
$17.4 million of goodwill and other intangible assets related to this acquisition. The goodwill will not be deductible for tax
purposes. The results of our operations for 2012 were not materially impacted by this acquisition.
The results of operations and financial condition of these acquisitions have been included in our consolidated financial
statements since their acquisition dates.
NOTE 9: ACCELERATED SHARE REPURCHASE
On August 24, 2013, we entered into two letter agreements with unrelated third party financial institutions to repurchase an
aggregate of $500.0 million of our outstanding common stock (the "ASR agreements"). The total aggregate number of shares
repurchased pursuant to these agreements was determined based on the volume-weighted average price of our common stock
during the purchase period, less a fixed discount of 0.94%. Under the ASR agreements, we paid $500.0 million to the financial
institutions and received 6.1 million shares of common stock with a fair value of $350.0 million during the third quarter of
2013, which represented approximately 70 percent of the total shares expected to be repurchased under the agreements. One of
the two financial institutions terminated their ASR agreement and delivered 1.2 million shares on December 13, 2013. We
recorded this transaction as an increase in treasury stock of $425.0 million, and recorded the remaining $75.0 million as a
decrease to additional paid in capital on our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2013. In accordance with the terms
of the other ASR agreement, we had the option to settle our delivery obligation, if any, in cash or shares and we may be
required to settle in cash in very limited circumstances. We accounted for the variable component of shares to be delivered
under the ASR agreements as a forward contract indexed to our common stock, which met all of the applicable criteria for
equity classification, and therefore, was not accounted for as a derivative instrument, but instead was also accounted for as a
component of equity. The remaining ASR agreement continued to meet those requirements for equity classification as of
December 31, 2013. In February 2014, the remaining ASR agreement was terminated. Approximately 1.2 million shares were
delivered as final settlement of the remaining agreement. We reclassified the $75.0 million recorded in additional paid in capital
to treasury stock during the first quarter of 2014.
The delivery of 7.3 million shares of our common stock reduced our outstanding shares used to determine our weighted
average shares outstanding for purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share for the 12 months ended
December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. These shares, along with the 1.2 million shares received in February 2014,
reduced our outstanding shares used to determine our weighted average shares outstanding for the purposes of calculating basic
and diluted earnings per share for the 12 months ended December 31, 2014. We evaluated the ASR agreement for the potential
dilutive effects of any shares remaining to be received upon settlement and determined that the additional shares would be anti-
dilutive, and therefore were not included in our EPS calculation for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2013.
NOTE 10: CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
Accumulated other comprehensive loss is included in the Stockholders' investment on our consolidated balance sheet. The
recorded balance, at December 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013, was $28.6 million and $10.6 million, respectively.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss is comprised solely of foreign currency translation adjustment at December 31, 2014
and 2013.
NOTE 11: SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On January 2, 2015, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of Freightquote.com, Inc. ("Freightquote"), a privately-held
freight broker which provides services throughout North America. For the year ended December 31, 2014, Freightquote had
gross revenues of approximately $623 million and net revenues of approximately $124 million. The total purchase price of
Freightquote was approximately $365 million, which was paid in cash and is subject to post-closing adjustments.
The Note Purchase Agreement was amended in February 2015 to conform its financial covenants to be consistent with the
amended revolving credit facility.
53
NOTE 12: RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued a final standard on revenue recognition from contracts with
customers. The new standard sets forth a single comprehensive model for recognizing and reporting revenue. The new standard
is effective for the company in 2017, and it permits the use of either a retrospective or a cumulative effect transition method.
We are evaluating the effect of the new standard on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures, and have not
yet selected a transition method or determined the impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.
NOTE 13: SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (UNAUDITED)
Our unaudited results of operations for each of the quarters in the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are summarized
below (in thousands, except per share data).
2014
Revenues:
March 31
June 30
September 30
December 31
Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sourcing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payment Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total revenues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
Costs and expenses:
Purchased transportation and related services. . . . . . . . .
Purchased products sourced for resale . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchased payment services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Personnel expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other selling, general, and administrative expenses . . . .
Total costs and expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic net income per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted net income per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding. . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
2,803,704
335,808
3,073
3,142,585
2,375,825
308,962
563
220,297
79,967
2,985,614
156,971
93,187
0.63
0.63
148,517
491
149,008
$
$
$
$
3,038,923
460,816
3,179
3,502,918
2,555,371
425,922
588
238,986
81,669
3,302,536
200,382
118,596
0.80
0.80
147,826
148
147,974
3,069,056
393,980
4,326
3,467,362
2,575,069
364,179
550
244,621
79,606
3,264,025
203,337
124,981
0.85
0.85
146,646
210
146,856
$
$
$
$
3,010,291
342,951
3,960
3,357,202
2,535,985
318,946
455
235,117
78,971
3,169,474
187,728
112,947
0.77
0.77
145,856
794
146,650
Market price range of common stock:
High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
$
60.31
50.21
$
$
64.09
51.10
$
$
69.50
63.09
$
$
77.49
63.42
54
2013
Revenues:
March 31
June 30
September 30
December 31
Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sourcing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payment Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total revenues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
Costs and expenses:
Purchased transportation and related services. . . . . . . . .
Purchased products sourced for resale . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchased payment services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Personnel expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other selling, general, and administrative expenses . . . .
Total costs and expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic net income per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted net income per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic weighted average shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding. . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
2,603,182
387,852
3,233
2,994,267
2,181,930
356,006
609
212,645
74,371
2,825,561
168,706
103,343
0.64
0.64
160,637
53
160,690
$
$
$
$
2,818,077
466,811
3,374
3,288,262
2,386,932
428,059
669
206,009
84,117
3,105,786
182,476
111,872
0.70
0.70
159,818
99
159,917
2,880,901
432,373
3,391
3,316,665
2,450,923
401,820
616
204,388
82,563
3,140,310
176,355
107,737
0.69
0.69
156,924
120
157,044
$
$
$
$
2,767,550
382,098
3,234
3,152,882
2,351,530
356,299
588
203,619
85,733
2,997,769
155,113
92,952
0.62
0.62
150,856
274
151,130
Market price range of common stock:
High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
$
67.93
55.81
$
$
61.91
53.74
$
$
62.46
55.26
$
$
61.94
55.92
55
ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial
Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, our disclosure
controls and procedures were effective.
Management’s Report on Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term
is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent
limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to
financial statement preparation and presentation.
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial
Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework
in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission. Based on our evaluation under the framework in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013), our
management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2014.
The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, has been audited by Deloitte &
Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report, which is included in Item 8.
Changes in Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting
There have not been any changes to the company’s internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter, to which
this report relates, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control
over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Information with respect to our Board of Directors contained under the heading “Proposal One: Election of Directors,” and
information contained under the heading “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the Proxy Statement,
are incorporated in this Form 10-K by reference. Information with respect to our executive officers is provided in Part I, Item 1
of this Form 10-K.
We have adopted a code of ethics that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting
officer, directors, and all other company employees performing similar functions. This code of ethics, which is part of our
corporate compliance program, is posted on the Investors page of our website at www.chrobinson.com under the caption “Code
of Ethics.”
56
We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirement under Item 10 of Form 8-K regarding an amendment to, or waiver from, a
provision of this code of ethics by posting such information on our website, at the web address specified above.
ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information contained under the heading “Named Executive Compensation” in the Proxy Statement (except for the
information set forth under the subcaption “Compensation Committee Report on Executive Compensation”) is incorporated in
this Form 10-K by reference.
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
(a) Equity Compensation Plans
The following table summarizes share and exercise price information about our equity compensation plans as of December 31,
2014:
Plan Category
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders (1) . .
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
______________________
Number of securities
to be issued upon
exercise of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
Weighted average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
8,591,709
—
8,591,709
$
$
65.40
—
65.40
Number of securities
remaining available
for future issuance
under equity
compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in the first
column)
3,048,819
—
3,048,819
(1)
Includes stock available for issuance under our Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as well as options, restricted stock granted and shares that may become
subject to future awards under our 2013 Equity Incentive Plan. Specifically, 3,887,089 shares remain available under our Employee Stock Purchase Plan,
and 4,704,620 options remain outstanding for future exercise. Under our 2013 Equity Incentive Plan, 3,048,819 shares may become subject to future
awards in the form of stock option grants or the issuance of restricted stock.
(b) Security Ownership
The information contained under the heading “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in the
Proxy Statement is incorporated in this Form 10-K by reference.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information contained under the heading “Related Party Transactions” in the Proxy Statement is incorporated in this Form
10-K by reference.
ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANTING FEES AND SERVICES
The information contained under the heading “Proposal Four: Ratification of Independent Auditors” in the Proxy Statement is
incorporated in this Form 10-K by reference.
57
ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
PART IV
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report:
(1) The company’s 2014 Consolidated Financial Statements and the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting
Firm are included in Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
(2) Financial Statement Schedules-The following Financial Statement Schedule should be read in conjunction with the
Consolidated Financial Statements and Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm included in Part II, Item 8 of
this Annual report on Form 10-K:
Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedules other than the one listed above are omitted due to the absence of conditions under which they are required or
because the information called for is included in Consolidated Financial Statements or the Notes to the Consolidated Financial
Statements.
(b) Index to Exhibits-See Exhibit Index on page 60 for a description of the documents that are filed as Exhibits to this report
on Form 10-K or incorporated by reference herein. Any document incorporated by reference is identified by a parenthetical
referencing the SEC filing which included the document. We will furnish a copy of any Exhibit at no cost to a security holder
upon request.
SCHEDULE II. VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
The transactions in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31 were as follows (in thousands):
Balance, beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Write-offs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance, end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
39,292
15,092
(13,333)
41,051
$
$
34,560
15,587
(10,855)
39,292
$
$
31,328
10,459
(7,227)
34,560
2014
2013
2012
58
Pursuant to the requirements of the Section 13 or 15(d) 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, in the City of Eden Prairie, State of
Minnesota, on March 2, 2015.
SIGNATURES
C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE, INC.
By:
/s/ BEN G. CAMPBELL
Ben G. Campbell
Chief Legal Officer and Secretary
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following
persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on March 2, 2015.
Signature
/s/ JOHN P. WIEHOFF
John P. Wiehoff
/s/ CHAD M. LINDBLOOM
Chad M. Lindbloom
Title
Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chairman of the
Board (Principal Executive Officer)
Chief Information Officer and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
*
Scott P. Anderson
*
Robert Ezrilov
*
Wayne M. Fortun
*
Mary J. Steele Guilfoile
*
Jodee Kozlak
*
David W. MacLennan
*
ReBecca Koenig Roloff
*
Brian P. Short
*
James B. Stake
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
*By:
59
/s/ BEN G. CAMPBELL
Ben G. Campbell
Attorney-in-Fact
Number
2.1
2.2
2.3
3.1
3.2
3.3
4.1
4.2
†10.1
†10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
*10.8
†10.9
†10.10
†10.11
†10.12
†10.13
†10.14
Description
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
Asset Purchase Agreement by and among C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., T-Chek Systems, Inc., and Electronic Funds
Source LLC, dated as of October 16, 2012 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K filed
on October 17, 2012)
Purchase Agreement dated as of September 24, 2012, among Phoenix International Freight Services, Ltd., the Selling
Shareholders thereto, James William McInerney and Emil Sanchez, solely in their respective capacities as Selling
Shareholder Representatives, and C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the
Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on November 1, 2012)
Agreement and Plan of Merger dated December 1, 2014 among C.H. Robinson Company Inc., Jayhawk Merger
Subsidiary, Inc., Freightquote.com, Inc., and the Stockholders' Representative named therein (Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 2, 2014)
Certificate of Incorporation of the Company (as amended on May 19, 2012 and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1
to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed May 15, 2012)
Bylaws of the Company (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1
filed on August 15, 1997, Registration No. 333-33731)
Certificate of Designation of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock of the Company (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 3.3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on October 9, 1997, Registration No.
333-33731)
Form of Certificate for Common Stock (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Registration
Statement on Form S-1 filed on October 9, 1997, Registration No. 333-33731, file no. 000-23189)
Amended and Restated Rights Agreement between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated September 10, 2007)
1997 Omnibus Stock Plan (as amended May 18, 2006) (Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy Statement
on Form DEF 14A, filed on April 6, 2006, file no. 000-23189)
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 14, 2013)
Credit Agreement dated as of October 29, 2012, among C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., the lenders party thereto, and
U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent for the Lenders, as Swing Line Lender and as LC Issuer
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed November 1, 2012)
Omnibus Amendment dated December 31, 2014 among C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., the guarantors and lenders party
thereto and U.S. Bank National Association, as LC Issuer, Swing Line Lender and Administrative Agent for the lenders,
to that certain Credit Agreement dated, as of October 29, 2012, by and among the C.H. Robinson Company, Inc., the
lenders, and U.S. Bank National Association, as LC Issuer Sing Line Lender and Administrative Agent for the Lenders
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 6, 2015)
Letter Agreement dated as of August 24, 2013, by and between C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. and J.P. Morgan
Securities LLC, as agent for JP Morgan Chase Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 26, 2013)
Letter Agreement dated as of August 24, 2013, by and between C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. and Morgan Stanley &
Co. LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 26,
2013)
Note Purchase Agreement dated as of August 23, 2013, by and among the Company and the Purchasers (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 26, 2013)
First Amendment to Note Purchase Agreement dated February 20, 2015, by and among the Company and the Purchasers
Form of Management-Employee Agreement (Key Employee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the
Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, file no. 000-23189)
Form of Management Confidentiality and Noncompetition Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the
Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, file no. 000-23189)
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. 2010 Non-Equity Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy
Statement on Form DEF 14A, filed on March 26, 2010)
Robinson Companies Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the
Registrant's Annual Report on 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012)
Award of Deferred Shares into the Robinson Companies Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan, dated December 21,
2000, by and between C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. and John P. Wiehoff (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22
to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000, file no. 000-23189)
Form of Restricted Stock Award for U.S. Managerial Employees (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the
Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, file no. 000-23189)
60
Number
Description
†10.15
†10.16
†10.17
†10.18
†10.19
*†10.20
*†10.21
Form of Restricted Unit Award for U.S. Managerial Employees (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the
Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, file no. 000-23189)
2012 Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011)
2012 Form of Restricted Stock Award for U.S. Managerial Employees (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the
Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011)
2012 Form of Restricted Stock Award for Officers (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011)
2012 Form of Time-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Registrant's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012)
Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement
Form of Performance Share Award for Officers
*†10.22
Form of Performance Share Award for U.S. Managerial Employees
*†10.23
†10.24
†10.25
Form of Time-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award
Key Employee Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 2013)
Employee Confidentiality and Protection of Business Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the
Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013)
*21
Subsidiaries of the Company
*23.1
Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP
*24
Powers of Attorney
*31.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
*31.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
*32.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
*32.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
*101
The following financial statements from our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, filed
on March 2, 2015, formatted in XBRL: (i) Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31,
2014, 2013, and 2012, (ii) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, (iii) Consolidated
Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, (iv) Consolidated Statements of
Stockholders’ Investment for the years ended 2014, 2013, and 2012, and (v) the Notes to the Consolidated Financial
Statements, tagged as blocks of text
*
Filed herewith
† Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit to Form 10-K pursuant to Item 15(c) of
the Form 10-K Report
61
CORPORATE & SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
John P. Wiehoff, 53
Chief Executive Officer,
President, and Chairman of the
Board
Ben G. Campbell, 49
Chief Legal Officer and
Secretary
Bryan D. Foe, 47
President of Europe
Angela K. Freeman, 47
Chief Human Resources Officer
Jordan Kass, 42
President of Managed Services
James P. Lemke, 48
President of Robinson Fresh
Chad M. Lindbloom, 50
Chief Information Officer and
Chief Financial Officer
Christopher J. O’Brien, 47
Chief Commercial Officer
Stephane Rambaud, 50
President of Global Freight
Forwarding
Scott A. Satterlee, 46
President of North American
Surface Transportation
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
John P. Wiehoff, 53
Chief Executive Officer,
President, and Chairman
of the Board
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
Director since 2001
Scott P. Anderson, 48
President, Chief Executive
Officer, and Chairman
Patterson Companies, Inc.
Director since 2012
Robert Ezrilov, 70
Chief Executive Officer
Cogel Management Company
Director since 1995
Wayne M. Fortun, 66
Chairman of the Board
Hutchinson Technology, Inc.
Director since 2001
Mary J. Steele Guilfoile, 61
Chairman of MG Advisors, Inc.
Director Since 2012
Jodee Kozlak, 52
Executive Vice President,
Human Resources of
Target Corporation
Director since 2013
David W. MacLennan, 55
President, Chief Executive
Officer, and Member of the
Board of Directors
Cargill Incorporated
Director since 2010
ReBecca Koenig Roloff, 60
Chief Executive Officer
YWCA of Minneapolis
Director since 2004
Brian P. Short, 65
Chief Executive Officer
Leamington Co.
Director since 2002
James B. Stake, 62
Retired Executive Vice President
3M Corporation
Director since 2009
INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT
Timothy D. Gagnon
Director, Investor Relations
952-683-5007
tim.gagnon@chrobinson.com
SEC FILINGS
Copies of the Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, are available to shareholders
without charge on request from C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.,
14701 Charlson Road, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55347-5088,
attention Timothy D. Gagnon, and are also available on our website,
www.chrobinson.com.
ANNUAL MEETING
The annual meeting of shareholders is scheduled for May 7, 2014,
1:00 p.m. U.S. Central Time, at our offices located at 14800 Charlson
Road, Eden Prairie, Minnesota.
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
TRANSFER AGENT & REGISTRAR
Wells Fargo Bank Minnesota, N.A.
South St. Paul, Minnesota
800-468-9716
14701 Charlson Road | Eden Prairie, MN 55347-5076 | 952.937.8500 | chrobinson.com