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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-K
(cid:3) (cid:3) (cid:3) (cid:3)
(cid:1) (cid:1) (cid:1) (cid:1)
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended February 2, 2008
or
TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 0-20243
ValueVision Media, Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
Minnesota
(State or Other Jurisdiction
of Incorporation or Organization)
6740 Shady Oak Road, Eden Prairie, MN
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
41-1673770
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
55344-3433
(Zip Code)
952-943-6000
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
Common Stock, $0.01 par value
Name of exchange on which registered: Nasdaq Global Market
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange 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 (cid:1)
No (cid:3)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange
Act. Yes (cid:1) No (cid:3)
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 (cid:3) No (cid:1)
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. (cid:1)
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 the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer (cid:1)
Accelerated filer (cid:3)
Non-accelerated filer (cid:1)
(Do not check if a smaller reporting
company)
Smaller reporting company
(cid:1)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. Yes (cid:1)
No (cid:3)
As of April 14, 2008, 33,550,834 shares of the registrant’s common stock were outstanding. The aggregate market value of the
common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on August 3, 2007, based upon the closing sale price for the registrant’s
common stock as reported by the Nasdaq Global Market on August 3, 2007 was approximately $269,762,167. For purposes of
determining such aggregate market value, all officers and directors of the registrant are considered to be affiliates of the registrant,
as well as shareholders holding 10% or more of the outstanding common stock as reflected on Schedules 13D or 13G filed
with the registrant. This number is provided only for the purpose of this annual report on Form 10-K and does not represent an
admission by either the registrant or any such person as to the status of such person.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the registrant’s definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to
Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the close of its fiscal year ended February 2, 2008 are incorporated by reference in
Part III of this annual report on Form 10-K.
VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC.
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
For the Fiscal Year Ended
February 2, 2008
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PART I
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Business
Risk Factors
Unresolved Staff Comments
Properties
Legal Proceedings
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
PART II
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A.
Item 9B.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder 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
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13.
Item 14.
Directors, and Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Executive Compensation
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder
Matters
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
PART IV
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
Item 15.
Signatures
Description of Director Compensation Program
Offer Letter
Non-Competition Agreement
Significant Subsidiaries
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (RLM)
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302
Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
Audited Financial Statements
Audited Financial Statements for Ralph Lauren Media, LLC
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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This annual report on Form 10-K, as well as other materials filed by us with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, and information included in oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by us,
contains forward-looking statements regarding us, our business prospects and our results of operations that are
subject to certain risks and uncertainties posed by many factors and events that could cause our actual business,
prospects and results of operations to differ materially from those that may be anticipated by the forward-looking
statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those described
in the “Risk Factors” section of this annual report on Form 10-K, as well as risks relating to: consumer spending and
debt levels; the general economic and credit environment; interest rates; seasonal variations in consumer purchasing
activities; changes in the mix of products sold by us; competitive pressures on sales; pricing and sales margins; the
level of cable and satellite distribution for our programming and associated fees; the success of our
e-commerce initiatives; the success of our strategic alliances and relationships; our ability to manage our operating
expenses successfully; risks associated with acquisitions; changes in governmental or regulatory requirements;
litigation or governmental proceedings affecting our operations; significant public events that are difficult to predict,
such as widespread weather catastrophes or other significant television-covering events causing an interruption of
television coverage or that directly compete with the viewership of our programming; and our ability to obtain and
retain key executives and employees.
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Item 1. Business
PART I
When we refer to “we,” “us” or the “company,” we mean ValueVision Media, Inc. and its subsidiaries unless the
context indicates otherwise. ValueVision Media, Inc. is a Minnesota corporation with principal and executive offices
located at 6740 Shady Oak Road, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344-3433. ValueVision Media, Inc. was incorporated
on June 25, 1990. Our fiscal year ended February 2, 2008 is designated fiscal 2007, our fiscal year ended February 3,
2007 is designated fiscal 2006 and our fiscal year ended February 4, 2006 is designated fiscal 2005.
A. General
We are an integrated direct marketing company that markets, sells and distributes our products directly to
consumers through various forms of electronic media and direct-to-consumer mailings otherwise known as multi-
channel retailing. Our operating strategy incorporates television home shopping, internet e-commerce, direct mail
marketing and fulfillment services. Our principal electronic media activity is our television home shopping business,
which uses on-air spokespersons to market brand name merchandise and private label consumer products at
competitive prices. Our live 24-hour per day television home shopping programming is distributed primarily through
cable and satellite affiliation agreements and the purchase of month-to-month full- and part-time lease agreements of
cable and broadcast television time. In addition, we distribute our programming through a company-owned full
power television station in Boston, Massachusetts. We also market and sell a broad array of merchandise through our
internet retailing websites, www.shopnbc.com and www.shopnbc.tv.
We have an exclusive license from NBC Universal, Inc., known as NBCU, for the worldwide use of an NBC-
branded name and the peacock image for a period ending in May 2011. Pursuant to the license, we operate our
television home shopping network under the ShopNBC brand name and operate our internet website under the
ShopNBC.com brand name.
Television and Internet Retailing
Our principal electronic media activity is our live 24-hour per day television home shopping network program.
Our home shopping network is the third largest television home shopping retailer in the United States. Through our
merchandise-focused television programming, we sell a wide variety of products and services directly to consumers.
Sales from our television and companion internet website business, including shipping and handling revenues, totaled
$767,276,000, $755,302,000 and $680,592,000 representing 98% of consolidated net sales for fiscal 2007, 2006 and
2005. Products are presented by on-air television home shopping sales persons and guests; viewers may then call a
toll-free telephone number and place orders directly with us or enter an order on the ShopNBC.com website. Our
television programming is produced at our Eden Prairie, Minnesota facility and is transmitted nationally via satellite
to cable system operators, satellite dish owners and to our full power broadcast television station WWDP TV-46 in
Boston, Massachusetts.
Products and Product Mix
Products sold on our television network and internet shopping website include jewelry, watches, computers and
other electronics, housewares, apparel, cosmetics, seasonal items and other merchandise. We believe that having a
broad diversity of products appeals to a larger segment of potential customers and is important to our growth. Our
product diversification strategy is to continue to develop new product offerings across multiple merchandise
categories as needed in response to both customer demand and in order to maximize margin dollars per hour in our
television home shopping and internet operation.
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The following table shows our television and internet net sales during the past three fiscal years by product
category:
Category
Jewelry
Home products
Watches, apparel and other
Fiscal 2007
Fiscal 2006
38 %
37 %
25 %
Fiscal 2005
43 %
36 %
21 %
39 %
37 %
24 %
Jewelry. Our jewelry merchandise assortment includes gold and gemstone jewelry for men and women.
Home products. Home products consist of products for the home, including home electronics such as
televisions and computers, mattresses, lamps and other home furnishings.
Watches, apparel and other. Watches, apparel and other consists of clothing and footwear for men and women,
as well as watches, cosmetics, health and beauty items, coins, seasonal merchandise and other unique items.
B. Business Strategy
We endeavor to be positioned as a profitable and innovative leader in multi-channel retailing in the United
States. The following strategies were pursued during fiscal 2007 to increase revenues and profitability and grow our
active customer base, for both television and internet sales: (i) continue to optimize our mix of product categories
offered on television and the internet in order to appeal to a broader population of potential customers; (ii) continue
the growth of our internet business through the innovative use of technology and marketing efforts, such as advanced
search capabilities, personalization, internet video, affiliate agreements and internet-based auction capabilities;
(iii) obtain cost-effective distribution agreements for our television programming with cable and satellite operators,
as well as pursuing other means of reaching customers such as through webcasting, internet videos and internet-
based broadcasting networks; (iv) increase the productivity of each hour of television programming, through a focus
on television offers of merchandise that maximizes margin dollars per hour and marketing efforts to increase the
number of customers within the households currently receiving our television programming; (v) continue to enhance
our television broadcast quality, programming, website features and customer support; (vi) increase the average order
size through sales initiatives such as add-on sales, continuity programs and warranty sales; and (vii) leverage the
strong brand recognition of the NBC brand name.
At the beginning of fiscal 2008, a new chief executive officer and three new industry-experienced senior
executives joined us. These new senior executives are reviewing our strategy for long-term growth in revenues and
profits, in conjunction with the board of directors and other members of management, and will develop a plan for
improving our strategic focus during fiscal 2008. Some of the key focus areas include: improving the customer
experience; retaining and growing the core customer base of repeat customers; shifting the merchandise mix and
price points to appeal to the core female customer; broadening the vendor base; and improving business disciplines
and execution.
C. Television Program Distribution and Internet Operations
Television Home Shopping Network
Satellite Delivery of Programming. Our programming is presently distributed via a leased communications
satellite transponder to cable systems, a full power television station in Boston, certain other broadcast stations and
satellite dish owners. On January 31, 2005, we entered into a new long-term satellite lease agreement with our
present provider of satellite services. Pursuant to the terms of this agreement, we distribute our programming through
a satellite that was launched in February 2006. The agreement provides us with preemptable back-up services if
satellite transmission is interrupted.
Cable Affiliation Agreements. As of February 2, 2008, we have entered into affiliation agreements with parties
representing approximately 1,400 cable systems that require each operator to offer our television home shopping
programming substantially on a full-time basis over their systems. The stated terms of the affiliation
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agreements typically ranged originally from three to twelve years. Under certain circumstances, the television
operators may cancel the agreements prior to their expiration. The affiliation agreements generally provide that we
will pay each operator a monthly access fee and marketing support payments based on the number of homes
receiving our programming. Certain of the affiliation agreements also required payment of one-time initial launch
fees, which are capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreements. We are seeking to
enter into affiliation agreements with additional television operators providing for full- or part-time carriage of our
programming.
A significant number of cable operators have started to offer cable programming on a digital basis. The use of
digital compression technology provides cable companies with greater channel capacity. While greater channel
capacity increases the opportunity for distribution and, in some cases, reduces subscriber fees paid by us, it also may
adversely impact our ability to compete for television viewers to the extent it results in higher channel position for us,
placement of our programming in separate programming tiers, the broadcast of additional competitive channels or
viewer fragmentation due to a greater number of programming alternatives.
During 2007, there were approximately 112 million homes in the United States with at least one television set.
Of those homes, there were approximately 66 million basic cable television subscribers and approximately 28 million
direct-to-home satellite subscribers or DTH. Homes that receive our television home shopping programming
24 hours per day are each counted as one full-time equivalent, or FTE, and homes that receive our programming for
any period less than 24 hours are counted based upon an analysis of time of day and day of week that programming is
received. We have continued to experience growth in the number of FTE subscriber homes that receive our
programming.
As of February 2, 2008, we served approximately 72.4 million subscriber homes, or approximately 68.9 million
average FTEs, compared with approximately 69.2 million subscriber homes, or approximately 65.2 million average
FTEs, as of February 3, 2007. As of February 2, 2008, our television home shopping programming was carried by
1,454 broadcasting systems on a full-time basis, compared to 1,320 broadcasting systems on February 3, 2007, and
60 broadcasting systems on a part-time basis for both fiscal years. The total number of cable homes that presently
receive our television home shopping programming represents approximately 67% of the total number of cable
subscribers in the United States. NBCU has the exclusive right to negotiate on our behalf for the distribution of our
television home shopping service pursuant to the terms of the strategic alliance between us, NBCU and GE Capital
Equity Investments, Inc. (now known as GE Commercial Finance — Equity, and referred to in this report as GE
Equity) entered into in March 1999. See “Strategic Relationships — Strategic Alliance with NBCU and GE Equity
Strategic Alliance” discussed below.
Direct Satellite Service Agreements. Our programming is carried on the direct-to-home, or DTH, satellite
services DIRECTV and DISH Network. Carriage is full-time and we pay each operator a monthly access fee based
upon the number of subscribers receiving our television home shopping programming. As of February 2, 2008, our
programming reached approximately 28 million DTH subscribers on a full-time basis.
Other Methods of Program Distribution. Our programming is also made available full-time to “C”-band
satellite dish owners nationwide and is made available to homes in the Boston, Massachusetts market over the air via
a full power television broadcast station owned by us. In fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006, our Boston, Massachusetts
station and “C”-band satellite dish transmissions were responsible for less than 5% of our total consolidated net sales.
Internet Website
Our website, ShopNBC.com, provides customers with a broad array of consumer merchandise, including all
products being featured on our television programming. The website includes a live webcast feed of our television
programming, an archive of recent past programming, videos of many individual products that the customer can view
on demand and clearance and auction sites.
Internet sales for fiscal 2007 increased at a greater rate than television sales over fiscal 2006. Internet net sales in
fiscal 2007 increased by 18% over internet net sales in fiscal 2006, while television home shopping net sales in fiscal
2007 decreased by 4% over television home shopping net sales in fiscal 2006. Sales from our website
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business, inclusive of shipping and handling revenues, totaled $217,854,000, $184,139,000 and $146,067,000,
representing 28%, 24% and 21% of consolidated net sales for fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. We believe
that our internet business represents an important component of our future growth opportunities, and we will
continue to invest in and enhance our internet-based capabilities.
Our e-commerce activities are subject to a number of general business regulations and laws regarding taxation
and online commerce. As the role and importance of e-commerce has grown in the United States in recent years,
there have been continuing efforts to increase the legal and regulatory obligations and restrictions on companies
conducting commerce through the internet, primarily in the areas of taxation, consumer privacy and protection of
consumer personal information. These laws and regulations could increase the costs and liabilities associated with
our e-commerce activities and increase the price of our products to consumers, without an increase in our revenue or
net income. On October 31, 2007, the United States enacted a seven-year moratorium on internet access taxes
extending a ban on internet taxes that was set to expire on November 1, 2007. In addition, in November 2002, a
number of states approved a multi-state agreement to simplify state sales tax laws by establishing one uniform
system to administer and collect sales taxes on traditional retailers and electronic commerce merchants. The
agreement became effective on October 3, 2005, although fewer than half of the states have become members by
enacting implementation legislation. No prediction can be made as to whether individual states will enact legislation
requiring retailers such as us to collect and remit sales taxes on transactions that occur over the internet. Adding sales
tax to our internet transactions could negatively impact consumer demand.
The federal Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act of 2003, or the CAN-
SPAM Act, was signed into law on December 16, 2003 and went into effect on January 1, 2004. The CAN-SPAM
Act pre-empts similar laws passed by over thirty states, some of which contain restrictions or requirements that are
viewed as stricter than those of the CAN-SPAM Act. The CAN-SPAM Act is primarily an opt-out type law; that is,
prior permission to send e-mail solicitations to a recipient is not required, but a recipient may affirmatively opt out of
such future e-mail solicitations. The CAN-SPAM Act requires commercial e-mails to contain a clear and
conspicuous identification that the message is an advertisement or solicitation for goods or services (unless the
sender obtains prior affirmative consent from the recipient to receive such messages), as well as a clear and
conspicuous unsubscribe function that allows recipients to alert the sender that they do not desire to receive future
e-mail solicitation messages. In addition, the CAN-SPAM Act requires that all commercial e-mail messages include
a valid physical postal address. We believe the CAN-SPAM Act limits our ability to pursue certain direct marketing
activities, thus limiting our sales and potential customers.
Changes in consumer protection laws also may impose additional burdens on those companies conducting
business online. The adoption of additional laws or regulations may decrease the growth of the internet or other
online services, which could, in turn, decrease the demand for our products and services and increase our cost of
doing business through the internet.
In addition, since our website is available over the internet in all states, various states may claim that we are
required to qualify to do business as a foreign corporation in such state, a requirement that could result in fees and
taxes as well as penalties for the failure to qualify. Any new legislation or regulation, the application of laws and
regulations from jurisdictions whose laws do not currently apply to our business or the application of existing laws
and regulations to the internet and other online services could have a material adverse effect on the growth of our
business in this area.
D. Strategic Relationships
NBC Trademark License Agreement
On November 16, 2000, we entered into a trademark license agreement with NBCU pursuant to which NBCU
granted us an exclusive, worldwide license for a term of ten years to use certain NBC trademarks, service marks and
domain names to rebrand our business and corporate name and website. We subsequently selected the names
ShopNBC and ShopNBC.com.
Under the license agreement we have agreed, among other things, to (i) certain restrictions on using trademarks,
service marks, domain names, logos or other source indicators owned or controlled by NBCU, (ii) the
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loss of our rights under the license with respect to specific territories outside of the United States in the event we fail
to achieve and maintain certain performance targets in such territories, (iii) not own, operate, acquire or expand our
business to include certain businesses without NBCU’s prior consent, (iv) comply with NBCU’s privacy policies and
standards and practices, and (v) not own, operate, acquire or expand our business such that one-third or more of our
revenues or our aggregate value is attributable to certain services (not including retailing services similar to our
existing e-commerce operations) provided over the internet. The license agreement also grants to NBCU the right to
terminate the license agreement at any time upon certain changes of control of our company, in certain situations
upon the failure by NBCU to own a certain minimum percentage of our outstanding capital stock on a fully diluted
basis, and certain other situations. On March 28, 2007, we and NBCU agreed to extend the term of the license by six
months, such that the license would continue through May 15, 2011, and to provide that certain changes of control
involving a financial buyer would not provide the basis for an early termination of the license by NBCU.
Strategic Alliance with NBCU and GE Equity
In March 1999, we entered into a strategic alliance with NBCU and GE Equity. Pursuant to the terms of the
transaction, NBCU and GE Equity acquired 5,339,500 shares of our Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred
Stock between April 1999 and June 1999, and NBCU was issued a warrant to acquire 1,450,000 shares of our
common stock, known as the distribution warrants, with an exercise price of $8.29 per share, under a distribution and
marketing agreement discussed below. In addition, we issued to GE Equity a warrant, known as the investment
warrant, to increase its potential aggregate equity stake (together with its affiliates, including NBCU) at the time of
exercise to approximately 40%. The preferred stock is convertible into an equal number of shares of our common
stock, subject to anti-dilution adjustments, has a mandatory redemption on the tenth anniversary of its issuance or
upon a change of control at $8.29 per share, participates in dividends on the same basis as the common stock and has
a liquidation preference over the common stock and any other junior securities. On July 6, 1999, GE Equity
exercised the investment warrant and acquired an additional 10,674,000 shares of our common stock for an aggregate
of $178,370,000, or $16.71 per share. Following the exercise of the investment warrant, the combined ownership of
our company by GE Equity and NBCU on a diluted basis was approximately 40%. In February 2005, GE Equity sold
2,000,000 shares of our common stock to several purchasers. In July 2005, GE Equity entered into agreements to sell
an additional 2,604,932 shares of our common stock in privately negotiated transactions to a number of different
purchasers; this sale was completed on September 15, 2005. As of the end of fiscal 2007, GE Equity and NBCU
currently have a combined ownership in our company of approximately 29% on a diluted basis.
GE Equity Shareholder Agreement
In March 1999, we also entered into a shareholder agreement with GE Equity, which provides for certain
corporate governance and standstill matters. The shareholder agreement (together with the certificate of designation
of the preferred stock) initially provided that GE Equity and NBCU would be entitled to designate nominees for two
out of seven members of our board of directors so long as their aggregate beneficial ownership was at least equal to
50% of their initial beneficial ownership, and one out of seven members so long as their aggregate beneficial
ownership was at least 10% of the “adjusted outstanding shares of common stock,” as defined in the shareholder
agreement. The shareholder agreement also requires the consent of GE Equity prior to our entering into any material
agreements with certain restricted parties (broadcast networks and internet portals in certain limited circumstances).
Finally, we are prohibited from exceeding certain thresholds relating to the issuance of voting securities over a
twelve-month period, the payment of quarterly dividends, the repurchase of common stock, acquisitions (including
investments and joint ventures) or dispositions, and the incurrence of debt greater than the larger of $40 million or
30% of our total capitalization. We are also prohibited from taking any action that would cause any ownership
interest by us in TV broadcast stations from being attributable to GE Equity, NBCU or their affiliates.
The shareholder agreement provides that during the standstill period (as defined in the shareholder agreement),
subject to certain limited exceptions, GE Equity and NBCU are prohibited from: (i) any asset/ business purchases
from us in excess of 10% of the total fair market value of our assets; (ii) increasing their beneficial ownership above
39.9% of our shares; (iii) making or in any way participating in any solicitation of proxies; (iv) depositing any
securities of our company in a voting trust; (v) forming, joining or in any way becoming a member of a “13D Group”
with respect to any voting securities of our company; (vi) arranging any financing for, or providing any financing
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commitment specifically for, the purchase of any voting securities of our company; (vii) otherwise acting, whether
alone or in concert with others, to seek to propose to us any tender or exchange offer, merger, business combination,
restructuring, liquidation, recapitalization or similar transaction involving us, or nominating any person as a director
of our company who is not nominated by the then incumbent directors, or proposing any matter to be voted upon by
our shareholders. If, during the standstill period, any inquiry has been made regarding a “takeover transaction” or
“change in control,” each as defined in the shareholder agreement, that has not been rejected by the board of
directors, or the board pursues such a transaction, or engages in negotiations or provides information to a third party
and the board has not resolved to terminate such discussions, then GE Equity or NBCU may propose to us a tender
offer or business combination proposal.
In addition, unless GE Equity and NBCU beneficially own less than 5% or more than 90% of the adjusted
outstanding shares of common stock, GE Equity and NBCU shall not sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any
securities of our company except for transfers: (i) to certain affiliates who agree to be bound by the provisions of the
shareholder agreement, (ii) that have been consented to by us, (iii) pursuant to a third-party tender offer, (iv) pursuant
to a merger, consolidation or reorganization to which we are a party, (v) in a bona fide public distribution or bona
fide underwritten public offering, (vi) pursuant to Rule 144 of the Securities Act of 1933, or (vii) in a private sale or
pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933; provided, that in the case of any transfer pursuant to clause (v)
or (vii), the transfer does not result in, to the knowledge of the transferor after reasonable inquiry, any other person
acquiring, after giving effect to such transfer, beneficial ownership, individually or in the aggregate with that
person’s affiliates, of more than 10% of the adjusted outstanding shares of the common stock.
The standstill period will terminate on the earliest to occur of (i) the ten-year anniversary of the shareholder
agreement, (ii) our entering into an agreement that would result in a “change in control” (subject to reinstatement),
(iii) an actual “change in control,” (iv) a third-party tender offer (subject to reinstatement), or (v) six months after GE
Equity and NBCU can no longer designate any nominees to the board of directors. Following the expiration of the
standstill period pursuant to clause (i) or (v) above (indefinitely in the case of clause (i) and two years in the case of
clause (v)), GE Equity and NBCU’s beneficial ownership position may not exceed 39.9% of our diluted outstanding
stock, except pursuant to issuance or exercise of any warrants or pursuant to a 100% tender offer for our company.
On March 19, 2004, we agreed with NBCU and GE Equity to amend the shareholder agreement as follows:
(i) to increase the authorized size of our board of directors to nine from seven; (ii) to permit NBCU and GE Equity
together to appoint three directors instead of two to our board of directors; and (iii) to provide that NBCU and GE
Equity would no longer have the right to have its director-nominees serve on the audit, compensation or nominating
and governance committees, in the event the committees must be comprised solely of “independent” directors under
applicable laws or Nasdaq regulations. In such case, NBCU and GE Equity would have the right to have an observer
attend all of these committee meetings, to the extent permitted by applicable law or regulation.
GE Equity Registration Rights Agreement
Pursuant to the investment agreement, we entered into a registration rights agreement with GE Equity providing
GE Equity, NBCU and their affiliates and any transferees and assigns, an aggregate of five demand registrations and
unlimited piggy-back registration rights.
NBCU Distribution and Marketing Agreement
We entered into a distribution and marketing agreement with NBCU dated March 8, 1999 that provides NBCU
with the exclusive right to negotiate on our behalf for the distribution of our home shopping television programming.
NBCU may terminate the distribution agreement if we enter into certain significant affiliation agreements or a
transaction resulting in a change in control. As compensation for these services, we agreed to pay NBCU an annual
fee which is currently approximately $930,000 per year, and issued NBCU 1,450,000 distribution warrants. The
exercise price of the distribution warrants was $8.29 per share. In fiscal 2004, NBCU exercised a portion of the
original distribution warrants in a cashless exercise acquiring 101,509 shares of common stock. In fiscal 2005,
NBCU exercised all remaining original distribution warrants in a cashless exercise acquiring 281,199 additional
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shares of common stock. On March 28, 2007, we agreed with NBCU to reduce the amount of the annual fee payable
to NBCU to the current rate of approximately $930,000.
Polo Ralph Lauren/Ralph Lauren Media Electronic Commerce Alliance
In February 2000, we entered into an agreement with Polo Ralph Lauren, NBCU, NBCi and CNBC whereby the
parties created RLM, a joint venture formed for the purpose of bringing the Polo Ralph Lauren lifestyle experience to
consumers via multiple media platforms, including internet, broadcast, cable and print. During fiscal 2006, RLM was
owned 50% by Polo Ralph Lauren, 37.5% by NBCU and its affiliates and 12.5% by us. RLM’s primary business
activity to date has been the operation of the Polo.com website. Polo.com launched in November 2000 and includes
an assortment of men’s, women’s, children’s and home products across the Ralph Lauren family of brands as well as
unique gift items. In connection with the formation of RLM, we entered into various agreements setting forth the
manner in which certain aspects of the business of RLM are to be managed and certain of the members’ rights, duties
and obligations with respect to RLM. On March 28, 2007, we sold our 12.5% ownership interest in RLM to Polo
Ralph Lauren for approximately $43.8 million.
Agreement for Services
In February 2000, RLM and our subsidiary VVI Fulfillment Center, Inc., known as VVIFC, entered into an
agreement for services under which VVIFC provides certain telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment services
to RLM. On March 28, 2007, VVIFC and RLM entered into an amendment to the agreement for services providing
for certain changes to the agreement, including a potential extension of the term at RLM’s option. We anticipate that
the services agreement will end in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as RLM migrates to its own customer service,
warehousing and fulfillment facilities.
E. Marketing and Merchandising
Television and Internet Retailing
Our television and internet revenues are generated from sales of merchandise and services offered through our
television home shopping programming and website. Our television home shopping business utilizes live television
24 hours a day, seven days a week, to create an interactive and entertaining atmosphere to describe and demonstrate
our merchandise. Selected customers participate through live conversations with on-air sales hosts and occasional on-
air guests. We believe our customers make purchases based primarily on convenience, value, quality of merchandise
and promotional offerings, including financing. Our customers are primarily women over the age of 35 with an
annual household income in excess of $70,000. We schedule special programming at different times of the day and
week to appeal to specific viewer and customer profiles. We feature announced and occasionally unannounced
promotions to drive interest and incremental sales, including “Our Top Value,” a sales program that features one
special offer every day. We also feature other major and special promotional events and inventory-clearance sales.
Our merchandise is generally offered at or below comparable retail prices. We continually introduce new
products on our television home shopping program and website. Inventory sources include manufacturers,
wholesalers, distributors and importers. We intend to continue to promote private label merchandise, which generally
has higher margins than branded merchandise.
ShopNBC Private Label and Co-Brand Credit Card Program
In the third quarter of fiscal 2006, we introduced a new private label and co-branded revolving consumer credit
card program. The program is made available to all qualified consumers for the financing of purchases of products
and services from ShopNBC and for the financing of purchases from other retailers. The program is intended to be
used by cardholders for purchases made primarily for personal, family or household use. The issuing bank is the sole
owner of the account issued under the program and absorbs all losses associated with non-payment by cardholders.
The issuing bank pays fees to us based on the number of credit card accounts activated and on card usage. Once a
customer is approved to receive a ShopNBC private label or co-branded credit card and the card is activated, the
customer is eligible to participate in our credit card rewards program. Under the rewards program,
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points are earned on purchases made with the credit cards at ShopNBC and other retailers where the co-branded card
is accepted. Cardholders who accumulate the requisite number of points are issued a $50 certificate award towards
the future purchase of ShopNBC merchandise. The certificate award expires after twelve months if unredeemed. The
program provides a number of benefits to customers in addition to the awards program, including deferred billing
options and other special offers. During fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006, customer use of the private label and co-branded
cards accounted for approximately 20% and 17% of our television and internet sales, respectively. We believe that
the use of the ShopNBC credit card furthers customer loyalty and reduces our overall bad debt exposure since the
credit card issuing bank bears the risk of bad debt on ShopNBC credit card transactions.
Favorable Purchasing Terms
We obtain products for our direct marketing businesses from domestic and foreign manufacturers and suppliers
and are often able to make purchases on favorable terms based on the volume of products purchased or sold. Some of
our purchasing arrangements with our vendors include inventory terms that allow for return privileges for a portion
of the order or stock balancing. We generally do not have long-term commitments with our vendors, and a variety of
sources are available for each category of merchandise sold. During fiscal 2007 products purchased from one vendor
accounted for approximately 20% of our consolidated net sales. We believe that we could find alternative sources for
this vendor’s products if this vendor ceased supplying merchandise; however, the unanticipated loss of any large
supplier could impact our sales and earnings on a temporary basis.
F. Order Entry, Fulfillment and Customer Service
Our products are available for purchase via toll-free telephone numbers or our website. We maintain an
agreement with West Teleservices Corporation to provide us with telephone order entry operators for taking of
customer orders. West Teleservices provides teleservices to us from a service site located in Omaha, Nebraska as
well as through home agents. At the present time, we do not utilize any call center services based overseas.
We own a 262,000 square foot distribution facility in Bowling Green, Kentucky, which we use for the
fulfillment of all merchandise purchased and sold by us.
The majority of customer purchases are paid by credit card and debit cards. As discussed above, we maintain a
private label and a co-brand credit card program using the ShopNBC name. Purchases made with the ShopNBC
private label credit card are non-recourse to us. We also utilize an installment payment program called ValuePay,
which entitles customers to pay by credit card for certain merchandise offered in two to five equal monthly
installments. We intend to continue to sell merchandise using the ValuePay program due to its significant
promotional value. It does, however, create a credit collection risk from the potential inability to collect outstanding
balances.
We maintain a product inventory, which consists primarily of consumer merchandise held for resale. The
product inventory is valued at the lower of average cost or realizable value, and we reduce our balance by an
allowance for excess and obsolete merchandise. As of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, we had inventory
balances of $79,444,000 and $66,622,000, respectively.
Merchandise is shipped to customers by the United States Postal Service, UPS, DHL, and Federal Express or
other recognized carriers. We also have arrangements with certain vendors who ship merchandise directly to our
customers after an approved customer order is processed.
Customer service functions are performed and processed by West Teleservices as well as by us. Our in-house
customer service functions are located in our Brooklyn Center, Minnesota facility.
Our return policy allows a standard 30-day refund period from the date of invoice for all customer purchases.
Our return rates have been approximately 32% to 33% over the past three fiscal years. These return rates are higher
than the average return rates reported by our larger competitors in the television home shopping industry.
Management believes the higher return rate is partially a result of (i) the significantly higher average selling prices of
our products as compared to the average selling prices of our competitors, and (ii) the fact that we have a higher
percentage of sales attributable to jewelry products. Both of these characteristics are associated with higher product
return rates. Management has been pursuing a number of initiatives to reduce the overall return rate.
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G. Competition
The direct marketing and retail businesses are highly competitive. In our television home shopping and
e-commerce operations, we compete for customers with other types of consumer retail businesses, including
traditional “brick and mortar” department stores, discount stores, warehouse stores and specialty stores; other
television home shopping and e-commerce retailers; infomercial companies; catalog and mail order retailers and
other direct sellers.
In the competitive television home shopping sector, we compete with QVC Network, Inc. and HSN, Inc., both
of whom are substantially larger than we are in terms of annual revenues and customers, and whose programming is
carried more broadly to U.S. households than is our programming. Both QVC and HSN are owned by large, well-
capitalized parent companies in the media business, who are also expanding into related e-commerce businesses. The
American Collectibles Network (ACN), the operator of Jewelry Television, also competes with us for television
home shopping customers in the jewelry category. In addition, there are a number of smaller niche players and
startups in the television home shopping arena who compete with us.
The e-commerce sector is also highly competitive, and we are in direct competition with virtually all other
internet retailers, many of whom are larger, more well-established, more well-financed and/or have broader customer
bases. Certain of our competitors in the television home shopping sector have acquired internet businesses
complementary to their existing internet sites, which may pose new competitive challenges for us. For example, the
parent company of HSN has acquired the internet search business Ask Jeeves (now known as Ask.com), and the
parent company of QVC acquired Provide Commerce, an operator of retail websites.
We anticipate continuing competition for viewers and customers, for experienced home shopping personnel, for
distribution agreements with cable and satellite systems, and for vendors and suppliers — not only from television
home shopping companies, but also from other companies that seek to enter the home shopping and internet retail
sectors, including telecommunications and cable companies, television networks, and other established retailers. We
believe that our success in the television home shopping and e-commerce businesses is dependent on a number of
key factors, including (i) obtaining carriage on additional cable systems, and retaining our existing carriage, on
favorable terms, (ii) increasing the number of households who purchase products from us, and (iii) increasing the
dollar value of sales per customer to our existing customer base. We believe that we are positioned to compete
because of our established relationships with cable operators. No assurance can be given, however, that we will be
able to acquire additional cable carriage or maintain our current cable carriage at prices favorable to us.
H. Federal Regulation
The cable television industry and the broadcasting industry in general are subject to extensive regulation by the
FCC. The following does not purport to be a complete summary of all of the provisions of the Communications Act
of 1934, as amended, known as the Communications Act, the Cable Television Consumer Protection Act of 1992
known as the Cable Act, the Telecommunications Act of 1996, known as the Telecommunications Act, or other laws
and FCC rules or policies that may affect our operations.
Cable Television
The cable industry is regulated by the FCC under the Cable Act and FCC regulations promulgated thereunder, as
well as by state or local governments with respect to certain franchising matters.
Must Carry. In general, the FCC’s “must carry” rules under the Cable Act entitle analog full power television
stations to mandatory cable carriage of their signals, at no charge, to all cable homes located within each station’s
broadcast market provided that the signal is of adequate strength, and the cable system must carry designated
channels available. FCC rules currently extend similar cable must carry rights to the primary video and
programming-related material of new television stations that transmit only digital television signals, and to existing
television stations that return their analog spectrum and convert to digital operations. Cable providers’ obligation to
provide must carry rights to full power television stations after the close of the transition to digital television is
discussed below in “Federal Regulation — Advanced Television Systems.” In addition, certain aspects
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of the must carry rights of stations transmitting digital television signals now, as well as after the transmission to
digital television, remain subject to pending FCC proceedings.
The FCC has also been asked to reevaluate its 1993 extension of must carry rights to predominantly home
shopping television stations. Although this request was filed over ten years ago, in May 2007 the FCC issued a public
notice seeking additional comment on the request. The comment period in response to the FCC’s public notice closed
in August 2007, and the proceeding remains pending. There can be no assurance the FCC will uphold the right of
home shopping television stations to be eligible for must carry in the future. In addition, under the Cable Act, cable
systems may petition the FCC to determine that a station is ineligible for must carry rights because of the station’s
lack of service to the community, its previous noncarriage or other factors. The unavailability of must carry rights to
our existing or future stations would likely substantially reduce the number of cable homes that could be reached by
any full power television station that we own or may acquire or on which we might provide programming.
Cable Leased Access
The Cable Act and the FCC’s rules provide unaffiliated cable programmers such as us with certain rights to
lease channels from cable operators. In February 2008, the FCC released an order revising its leased access rate
formulas and policies. The FCC declined, however, to extend at this time the revised lease access rates and policies
to home shopping programmers, such as us, and other programmers that predominantly transmit sales presentations
or program length commercials and infomercials. Instead, the FCC deferred resolution of that issue until it completes
a further proceeding, on which it solicited comments. A number of parties, including us, have sought judicial review
of various aspects of the FCC’s February 2008 order, and those appeals have been consolidated before the U.S. Court
of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit where they remain pending. We also have filed comments in response to the FCC’s
further notice. There can be no assurance as to the outcome of this litigation or of the FCC’s ongoing proceeding
considering whether to extend the revised lease access rates and policies to home shopping programmers. Although
no prediction can be made at this time, it is possible that in the future it will become more difficult for us to lease
channels from cable operators because other programmers will occupy the required leased access slots on a particular
cable system.
Broadcast Television
General. Our acquisition and operation of television stations is subject to FCC regulation under the
Communications Act. The Communications Act prohibits the operation of television broadcasting stations except
under a license issued by the FCC. The statute empowers the FCC, among other things, to issue, revoke and modify
broadcasting licenses, adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of the Communications Act and impose penalties
for violation of such regulations. Such regulations impose certain obligations with respect to the programming and
operation of television stations, including requirements for carriage of children’s educational and informational
programming, programming responsive to local problems, needs and interests, advertising upon request by legally
qualified candidates for federal office, closed captioning, and other matters. In addition, FCC rules prohibit foreign
governments, representatives of foreign governments, aliens, representatives of aliens and corporations and
partnerships organized under the laws of a foreign nation from holding broadcast licenses. Aliens may own up to
20% of the capital stock of a licensee corporation, or generally up to 25% of a U.S. corporation, which, in turn, has a
controlling interest in a licensee.
Full Power Television Station. In April 2003, one of our wholly owned subsidiaries acquired a full power
television station serving the Boston, Massachusetts market. On April 11, 2007, the FCC granted our application for
renewal of the station’s license.
Broadcast Multiple Ownership Limits. Many of our existing and potential competitors are larger and more
diversified than we are, or have greater financial, marketing, merchandising and distribution resources. In January
2004, Congress passed legislation that would allow a television broadcaster to own local television stations reaching
39% of the nation’s households, up from the previous 35% limit, and these limits have been codified by the FCC. In
June 2003, the FCC adopted rules that would have significantly relaxed certain other limits and restrictions on media
ownership. Among other changes, the FCC relaxed its rules governing the common ownership of more than
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one television station in any given market. In June 2004, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit invalidated
these revised media ownership rules on the ground that the FCC had failed to provide a sufficient justification for the
relaxed ownership limitations and restrictions, and stayed the new rules pending further FCC proceedings and
subsequent judicial review. In June 2006, the FCC issued a further notice of proposed rulemaking, again seeking
comment on potential changes to its media ownership rules. In February 2008, the FCC issued a report and order that
made limited changes to its rules governing newspaper/broadcast cross ownership. It made no changes to its other
rules. A number of appeals of that decision have been brought, and it is possible that, as a result of those appeals,
new rules will be adopted that result in increased consolidation in the broadcast industry, making it more difficult for
us to compete.
Alternative Technologies
Alternative technologies could increase the types of video program delivery systems on which we may seek
carriage. Three direct broadcast satellite systems known as DBS currently provide service to the public. According to
FCC statistics, the number of DBS subscribers continues to increase, and as of June 2006, 29% of households
received their video programming via DBS systems. Congress has enacted legislation designed to facilitate the
delivery of local broadcast signals by DBS operators and thereby to promote DBS competition with cable systems. In
addition, another new technology permits the viewing of live linear cable television channels through broadband-
connected personal computers, laptops and mobile devices, without the need for a physical cable-box or special
software. We currently broadcast our live programming through a dedicated website, ShopNBC.tv as well as through
BiggyTV.com.
Advanced Television Systems
Technological developments in television transmission will make it possible for the broadcast and nonbroadcast
media to provide advanced television services, that is television services using digital or other advanced
technologies. The FCC in late 1996 approved a digital television technical standard known as DTV to be used by
television broadcasters, television set manufacturers, the computer industry and the motion picture industry. This
DTV standard allows the simultaneous transmission of multiple streams of digital data on the bandwidth presently
used by a normal analog channel. It is possible to broadcast one or more high-definition channels with visual and
sound quality superior to present-day television or several standard-definition channels with digital sound and
pictures of a quality slightly better than present television, or one high-definition and one or more standard-definition
channels; to provide interactive data services, including visual or audio transmission, on multiple channels
simultaneously; or to provide some combination of these possibilities on the multiple channels allowed by DTV.
As part of the nationwide transition from analog to digital broadcasting, each full power television station has
been granted a second channel by the FCC on which to initiate digital operations. On February 1, 2006, Congress
passed a law setting a final deadline for the DTV transition of February 17, 2009, by which broadcasters must
surrender their analog signals and broadcast only on their allotted digital frequency. We commenced operations on
our digital channel in May 2003. While broadcasters currently do not have to pay to obtain digital channels, the FCC
has ruled that a television station that receives compensation from a third party for the ancillary or supplementary use
of its DTV spectrum (e.g., data transmission or paging services) must pay a fee of 5% of gross revenues received.
The FCC has rejected a proposal that fees be imposed when a DTV broadcaster receives payment for transmitting
home shopping programming, although it left open the question whether interactive home shopping programming
might be treated differently. It is not yet clear whether and how television broadcast stations will be able to profit by
the transition to DTV, how quickly the viewing public will embrace the cost of new digital television sets and
monitors, or how difficult it will be for viewers who do not do so to continue to receive television broadcasts,
whether through cable or DBS service or over the air.
As noted above, the FCC’s must carry rules generally entitle analog full power television stations to mandatory
cable carriage of their signals, at no charge, to all cable homes located within each station’s designated market area,
or DMA. After the end of the digital transition in 2009, the FCC has determined that full power television stations
will be entitled to mandatory cable carriage of their digital signals. In November 2007, the FCC released a decision
providing that cable operators will be required to provide those broadcast station signals to subscribers with analog
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television receivers in a viewable format at no additional charge to the subscriber and at no cost to the broadcast
station. These rules will remain in force until February 2012, and are subject to extension by the FCC. In addition,
the FCC has confirmed that after the transition, cable operators will only be obligated to carry the primary video and
programming-related material of digital television station’s signals and are not required to carry any of the stations’
additional programming streams. Petitions for reconsideration of that decision remain pending at the FCC.
As part of this transition to digital television, the spectrum currently used by broadcasters transmitting on
channels 52-69 will be transitioned to use by new wireless and public safety operators. Some broadcast stations,
including our station in the Boston, Massachusetts marketplace, originally were granted a digital channel allocation
within this spectrum. Under FCC rules, although stations awarded digital channels between channels 52 and 69 may
use those channels until the close of the DTV transition, they must either seek an alternative digital channel below
channel 52 on which to transmit their digital signal or transition their digital operations to their analog channel. On
August 6, 2007, the FCC issued a decision granting our request to use channel 10 as our digital television channel
after the close of the DTV transition. On March 26, 2008, the FCC granted our application for a construction permit
for our post-transition facility on channel 10. We believe that our operations on channel 10 will provide us with
coverage that is equivalent to or exceeds our current coverage.
Telephone Companies’ Provision of Programming Services
The Telecommunications Act eliminated the previous statutory restriction forbidding the common ownership of
a cable system and telephone company. Verizon, AT&T, Qwest, and a number of other local telephone companies
are planning to provide or are providing video services through fiber to the home or fiber to the neighborhood
technologies, while other local exchange carriers are using video digital subscriber loop technology, known as
VDSL, to deliver video programming, high-speed internet access and telephone service over existing copper
telephone lines. In March 2007 and November 2007, the FCC released orders designed to streamline entry by carriers
by preempting the imposition by local franchising authorities of unreasonable conditions on entry. A number of
franchising authorities have sought judicial review of the March 2007 order, and those cases have been consolidated
before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit where they remain pending. In addition, a number of parties
have requested that the FCC reconsider various aspects of the March 2007 and November 2007 orders, and those
requests also remain pending. No prediction can be made as to the deployment schedules of these telephone
companies, the success of their technologies, or their ability to attract and retain customers.
Regulations Affecting Multiple Payment Transactions
The antitrust settlement between MasterCard, VISA and approximately 8 million retail merchants raises certain
issues for retailers who accept telephonic orders that involve consumer use of debit cards for multiple or continuity
payments. A condition of the settlement agreement provided that the code numbers or other means of distinguishing
between debit and credit cards be made available to merchants by VISA and MasterCard. Under Federal Reserve
Board regulations, this may require merchants to obtain consumers’ written consent for preauthorized transfers where
the merchant is aware that the method of payment is a debit card as opposed to a credit card. We believe that debit
cards are currently being offered as the payment vehicle in approximately 30% of our transactions with VISA and
MasterCard. Effective February 9, 2006, the Federal Reserve Board amended language in its official commentary to
Regulation E by removing an express prohibition on the use of taped verbal authorization from consumers as
evidence of a written authorization for purposes of the regulation. There can be no assurance that compliance with
the authorization procedures under this regulation will not adversely affect the customer experience in placing orders
or adversely affect sales.
I. Seasonality and Economic Sensitivity
Our businesses are subject to seasonal fluctuation, with the highest sales activity normally occurring during our
fourth fiscal quarter of the year, primarily November through January. Our businesses are also sensitive to general
economic conditions and business conditions affecting consumer spending. Additionally, our television audience
(and therefore sales revenue) can be significantly impacted by major world or domestic events, which divert audience
attention away from our programming.
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J. Employees
At February 2, 2008, we had approximately 1,100 employees, the majority of whom are employed in customer
service, order fulfillment and television production. Approximately 21% of our employees work part-time. We are
not a party to any collective bargaining agreement with respect to our employees. Management considers its
employee relations to be good.
K. Executive Officers of the Registrant
Set forth below are the names, ages and titles of the persons serving as our executive officers.
Name
Rene G. Aiu
Frank P. Elsenbast
Nathan E. Fagre
Glenn K. Leidahl
Terry T. Curtis
John D. Gunder
Geoffrey Smith
Position(s) Held
Age
58 President and Chief Executive Officer and Director
42 Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
52 Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary
59 Chief Operating Officer
49
Senior Vice President — Customer Analytics and Sales
Planning
58 Senior Vice President — Media & On-Air Sales
42 Vice President — Internet & Marketing
Rene G. Aiu joined us as President and Chief Executive Officer in March 2008. From July 2005 until she
accepted her position with ShopNBC, Ms. Aiu served as an independent consultant and provided new business
development services in the television shopping and interactive television areas to major corporate clients, including
InterActive Corporation and Liberty Global Inc. From January 2004 until June 2007, she also was a director of
Jupiter SHOP Channel Japan. From February 2003 through May 2005, Ms. Aiu was the President and Chief
Executive Officer of Parti-TV Japan, a venture of Liberty Global Inc. and Sumitomo Corporation through Jupiter
TV, Japan. From April 2000 through February 2003, Ms. Aiu was the President and Chief Executive Officer of
Jupiter SHOP Channel Japan, and was promoted to the position of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from
February 2003 through December 2003. Before joining Jupiter SHOP Channel Japan, Ms. Aiu worked in various
capacities as an international business consultant in the television shopping arena and from February 1992 through
July 1995 was Senior Vice President of Marketing, Sales, Programming & Production at Home Shopping Network.
Prior to her position at Home Shopping Network, Ms. Aiu held senior level management positions at JCPenney
Television Shopping Network, Cable Value Network, which later merged with QVC, and Twentieth Century Fox.
From time to time in her professional career, including since July 2005, Ms. Aiu worked on various TV shopping
related projects in a consultancy capacity across the globe with TCI International, HSN International and Liberty
Global.
Frank P. Elsenbast served as our Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis from September 2003 to
October 2004, when he became Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Elsenbast was promoted to Senior
Vice President in May 2006. Mr. Elsenbast has over 19 years of corporate finance, operations analysis and public
accounting experience. From May 2001 to September 2003, he served as Finance Director and from May 2000 to
May 2001 he served as Finance Manager at our company. Prior to joining us, Mr. Elsenbast served in various
analytical and operational roles with The Pillsbury Company from May 1995 through May 2000. Mr. Elsenbast is a
CPA and began his career with Arthur Andersen, LLP.
Nathan E. Fagre joined us as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary in May 2000. From 1996 to
2000, Mr. Fagre was Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation in Los
Angeles, California, the oil and gas operating subsidiary of Occidental Petroleum Corporation. From 1995 to 1996,
Mr. Fagre held other positions in the legal department at Occidental. His previous legal experience included
corporate and securities law practice with the law firms of Sullivan & Cromwell in New York and Gibson, Dunn &
Crutcher in Washington, D.C. Mr. Fagre served on the board of Ralph Lauren Media, L.L.C. as our representative
from October 2004 through April 2007. In addition, Mr. Fagre is a director, member of the executive committee and
chair-elect of the Electronic Retailing Association, an industry association serving the television home shopping,
e-commerce, infomercial and electronic direct-response industry.
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Glenn K. Leidahl joined us as Chief Operating Officer in April 2008. Since 1994, Mr. Leidahl served as
Managing Director of GLK Management Consulting, LLP, where he and his associates provided consulting and
bridge management services in the launch and operation of television and web shopping ventures for QVC,
Sportsfair America, HSN, and Liberty Media. Mr. Leidahl also served as Director of Planning and Development and
then Vice President of Affiliate Relations for Cable Value Network, a 24-hour television home shopping network,
from 1986 through its sale to QVC in 1990. Following the sale, Mr. Leidahl served as a consultant to QVC to
integrate the marketing programs of the two stations. Mr. Leidahl also served as the President of MarQuest, Inc.,
which provides product and fundraising services to the non-profit sector, as General Manager for Genmar, Inc., a
marina and restaurant complex, and as Chief Operating Officer of Watkins Inc., a national multilevel marketing
company.
Terry T. Curtis joined us in April 2008 as Senior Vice President — Customer Analytics and Sales Planning.
From August 2005 to October 2007, Mr. Curtis served as Chief Financial Officer at Liberty Global’s Jupiter SHOP
Channel Japan until the company was sold. From June 2004 to August 2005 Mr. Curtis was Senior Vice President of
Finance International for HSN and Vice President of Finance International from April 2000 to January 2002. From
January 2002 to June 2004, Mr. Curtis served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Home
Shopping Europe, AG, a German tele-shopping, e-commerce subsidiary of IAC/HSN. Prior to April 2000, Mr. Curtis
held senior manager roles at The Timberland Company and Honeywell Bull.
John D. Gunder joined us in April 2008 as Senior Vice President — Media & On-Air Sales. From January 2000
to March 2008, Mr. Gunder operated his own consulting business, offering client services to LiveShop (Netherlands),
IAC, Liberty Global, and Jupiter SHOP Channel. From April 1996 to December 1998, Mr. Gunder held senior level
positions at TCI International’s Jupiter SHOP Channel Japan, including General Manager of Production and
Executive Producer. Prior to April 1996, Mr. Gunder was Vice President of Production Design and Styling for HSN
and started his home shopping career with the JCPenney Television Shopping Channel in Hollywood as Creative
Director and Special Project Director.
Geoffrey Smith joined us as Vice President of ShopNBC.com in August 2006. Prior to joining, from June 2005
to July 2006 Mr. Smith was Senior Vice President, Interactive Commerce for the Shop At Home network, a division
of E.W. Scripps Company where he was responsible for online commerce for Shop At Home, Food Network Store
and the HGTV and DIY Stores. From June 2000 to May 2005 Mr. Smith served as President, Internet Division for
Creative Catalog Corp. From November 1997 to May 2000 he served as Vice President of Retail for Hickory Farms
and from September 1996 to October 1997 served as Director of the AOL Shopping Channel for America Online.
L. Available Information
Our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, and
amendments to these reports if applicable, are available, without charge, on our Investor Relations website as soon as
reasonably practicable after they are filed electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies also
are available, without charge, by contacting the General Counsel, ValueVision Media, Inc., 6740 Shady Oak Road,
Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344-3433.
Our Investor Relations internet address is www.valuevisionmedia.com. The information contained on and
connected to our Investor Relations website is not incorporated into this report.
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
In addition to the general investment risks and those factors set forth throughout this document, including those
set forth under the caption “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Information,” the following risks
should be considered regarding our company.
We have a history of losses and a high fixed cost operating base and may not be able to achieve or maintain
profitable operations in the future.
We experienced operating losses from continuing operations of approximately $23.1 million, $9.5 million and
$18.6 million in fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. While we reported net income per basic and diluted share
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in fiscal 2007, this was due to the $40.2 million pre-tax gain we recorded on the sale of our equity interest in Ralph
Lauren Media, LLC, operator of the polo.com website. We reported a net loss in fiscal 2006 and 2005. There is no
assurance that we will be able to achieve or maintain profitable operations in future fiscal years.
In addition, our television home shopping business operates with a high fixed cost base, primarily driven by
fixed annual fees under multi-year contracts with cable and satellite system operators to carry our programming. In
order to operate on a profitable basis, we must reach and maintain sufficient annual sales revenues to cover our high
fixed cost base and/or negotiate a reduction in this cost structure. In the event we do not achieve our expected sales
revenue targets or experience an unanticipated decline in sales, our ability to reduce operating expenses in the near
term will be limited by the fixed cost base. In that case, our earnings and growth prospects could be adversely
affected.
A majority of our cable and satellite distribution agreements are scheduled to expire at the end of 2008 and it
may be difficult or more costly to renew these agreements for additional terms.
We have entered into affiliation agreements that represent approximately 1,400 cable systems that require each
operator to offer our television home shopping programming substantially on a full-time basis over their systems.
The stated terms of the affiliation agreements typically ranged originally from three to twelve years. Under certain
circumstances, the television operators may cancel the agreements prior to their expiration. If these agreements are
terminated, the termination may materially or adversely affect our business. Cable and satellite distribution
agreements representing a majority of the total cable and satellite households who currently receive our television
programming are scheduled to expire at the end of 2008. While we and NBCU, as our agent, have begun discussions
with certain cable and satellite system operators regarding extensions or renewals of these agreements, no assurance
can be given that we will be successful in negotiating renewal contracts with all the existing systems, or that the
financial and other terms of renewal will be on acceptable terms. Failure to successfully renew carriage agreements
covering a material portion of our existing cable and satellite households on acceptable financial and other terms
could adversely affect our future growth, sales revenues and earnings unless we were able to arrange for alternative
means of broadly distributing our television programming. In addition, unless we and NBCU mutually agree on an
extension of the distribution and marketing agreement under which NBCU acts as our agent, this agreement will
expire in March 2009 and this could adversely affect our ability to increase our program distribution.
We may be required to issue substantial numbers of new warrants to NBCU in fiscal 2008 and 2009 in
connection with successful renewals of cable and satellite distribution agreements.
Under our 1999 marketing and distribution agreement with NBCU, we may be required to issue a substantial
number of new warrants to NBCU upon their successful negotiation of cable and satellite distribution agreements for
us, under a detailed formula outlined in the agreement. If NBCU is able successfully to negotiate renewals of all or a
substantial portion of our existing distribution agreements that expire in 2008 within the financial parameters we
have established and with terms of three years or longer, they could be entitled to receive additional warrants to
purchase shares of our common stock under a formula (outlined in the 1999 marketing and distribution agreement)
that includes factors such as the number of subscribers covered by the renewal, the length of the new distribution
agreement and the market price of our common stock at the time the renewal agreement is effective. These warrants
would contain a cashless exercise feature.
Mandatory redemption of our Preferred Stock could have a material impact on our liquidity and cash
resources.
Our Class A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock issued to GE Equity may be redeemed upon certain
changes in control of our company and, in any event, may be redeemed in March 2009 upon the ten-year anniversary
of its issuance (unless previously converted into common stock). If we are unable to generate positive cash flow or
obtain additional capital prior to any such redemption, the requirement that we pay cash in connection with such
redemption may have a material impact on our liquidity and cash resources. The aggregate redemption cost of all the
preferred stock is $44,264,000. We ended fiscal 2007 with cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of
$59,078,000, with long-term investments of $26,306,000 and no long-term debt. The preferred stock has a
redemption price of $8.29 per share and is convertible on a one-for-one basis into our common stock, and
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accordingly, if the market value of our stock is lower than the redemption price immediately prior to the redemption
date, GE Equity may choose to redeem its shares of preferred stock rather than exercise its right to conversion into
common stock. We intend to discuss with G.E. Equity alternatives to a possible redemption but there is no assurance
that any such alternative will be agreed to by us and G.E. Equity. On April 16, 2008, the trading day immediately
preceding the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the closing price of our common stock on the NASDAQ
Global Trading System was $5.00.
NBCU and GE Equity have the ability to exert significant influence over us and have the right to disapprove of
certain actions by us.
As a result of their equity ownership in our company, NBCU and GE Equity together are currently our largest
shareholder and have the ability to exert significant influence over actions requiring shareholder approval, including
the election of directors, adoption of equity-based compensation plans and approval of mergers or other significant
corporate events. Through the provisions in the shareholder agreement and certificate of designation for the preferred
stock, NBCU and GE Equity also have the right to disapprove of certain major corporate actions by our company (as
discussed under “Business — Strategic Relationships — Shareholder Agreement” above).
In addition, because NBCU has the exclusive right to negotiate for the distribution of our television home
shopping programming, NBCU exercises significant control on our ability to maintain or increase our program
distribution.
Loss of the NBC branding license would require us to pursue a new branding strategy that may not be
successful and may incur significant additional expense.
We have branded our television home shopping network and internet site as ShopNBC and ShopNBC.com,
respectively, under an exclusive, worldwide licensing agreement with NBCU for the use of NBC trademarks, service
marks and domain names that continues until May 2011. We do not have the right to automatic renewal at the end of
the license term, and consequently may be required to pursue a new branding strategy which may not be as
successful as the NBC brand with current or potential customers, and which may involve significant additional
expense. In addition, there are limitations and conditions to our use of the license, which may under certain
circumstances restrict us from pursuing business opportunities outside of our current scope of operations. NBCU also
has the right to terminate the license prior to the end of the license term in the event of a breach by us of the terms of
the license agreement or upon certain changes of control, as outlined in greater detail in “Business — Strategic
Relationships — NBC Trademark License Agreement” above.
Intense competition in the general merchandise retailing industry and particularly the live home shopping and
e-commerce sectors could limit our growth and reduce our profitability.
As a general merchandise retailer, we compete for consumer expenditures with other forms of retail businesses,
including department, discount, warehouse and specialty stores, television home shopping, e-commerce businesses,
mail order and catalog companies, and other direct sellers. The home shopping industry is highly competitive, with
the two largest competitors being HSN and QVC. QVC and HSN offer home shopping programming similar to our
programming, and are well established, reach a significantly larger percentage of United States television households
than we do, and in many markets have more favorable channel locations than we have. QVC is owned by Liberty
Media Corp., while HSN is a wholly owned subsidiary of InterActiveCorp. Liberty Media and InterActiveCorp are
larger, more diversified and have greater financial, marketing and distribution resources than us. The internet
retailing industry is also highly competitive, with numerous e-commerce websites competing in every product
category we carry, in addition to the websites operated by the other television home shopping companies. This
competition in the internet retailing sector makes it more challenging and expensive for us to attract new customers,
retain existing customers and maintain desired gross margin levels.
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We may not be able to maintain our satellite services in certain situations, beyond our control, which may cause
our programming to go off the air for a period of time and incur substantial additional costs.
Our programming is presently distributed to cable systems, full power television stations and satellite dish
owners via a leased communications satellite transponder. In the future, satellite service may be interrupted due to a
variety of circumstances beyond our control, such as satellite transponder failure, satellite fuel depletion,
governmental action, preemption by the satellite service provider, solar activity and service failure. The agreement
provides us with preemptable back-up service if satellite transmission is interrupted. However, there can be no
assurance if satellite transmission is so interrupted that we will be able to utilize existing back-up transponder or
satellite capacity. In the event of any transmission interruption, we may need to enter into new arrangements,
resulting in substantial additional costs and the inability to broadcast our signal for some period of time.
The FCC may limit must-carry rights, which would impact distribution of our television home shopping
programming and might impair the value of our Boston FCC license.
The Federal Communications Commission, known as the FCC, issued a public notice on May 4, 2007 stating
that it was updating the public record for a petition for reconsideration filed in 1993 and still pending before the FCC.
The petition challenges the FCC’s prior determination to grant the same mandatory cable carriage (or “must-carry”)
rights for TV broadcast stations carrying home shopping programming that the FCC’s rules accord to other TV
stations. The time period for comments and reply comments regarding the reconsideration closed in August 2007,
and we submitted comments supporting the continuation of must-carry rights for home shopping stations. If the FCC
decides to change its prior determination and withdraw must-carry rights for home shopping stations as a result of
this updating of the public record, we could lose our current carriage distribution on cable systems in three markets:
Boston, Pittsburgh and Seattle, which currently constitute approximately 3.2 million full-time equivalent households,
or FTE’s, receiving our programming. We own the Boston television station and have carriage contracts with the
Pittsburg and Seattle television stations. In addition, if must-carry rights for home shopping stations are withdrawn, it
may not be possible to replace these FTE’s on commercially reasonable terms and the carrying value of our Boston
television station ($31.9 million) may become partially impaired.
We may be subject to product liability claims for on air misrepresentations or if people or properties are harmed
by products sold by us.
Products sold by us and representations related to these products may expose us to potential liability from claims
by purchasers of such products, subject to our rights, in certain instances, to seek indemnification against this liability
from the suppliers or manufacturers of the products. In addition to potential claims of personal injury, wrongful death
or damage to personal property, the live unscripted nature of our television broadcasting may subject us to claims of
misrepresentation by our customers, the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general. We maintain, and
have generally required the manufacturers and vendors of these products to carry, product liability and errors and
omissions insurance. There can be no assurance that we will maintain this coverage or obtain additional coverage on
acceptable terms, or that this insurance will provide adequate coverage against all potential claims or even be
available with respect to any particular claim. There also can be no assurance that our suppliers will continue to
maintain this insurance or that this coverage will be adequate or available with respect to any particular claims.
Product liability claims could result in a material adverse impact on our financial performance.
Our ValuePay installment payment program could lead to significant unplanned credit losses if our credit loss
rate was to deteriorate.
We utilize an installment payment program called ValuePay that entitles customers to purchase merchandise and
generally pay for the merchandise in two to five equal monthly installments. As of February 2, 2008 we had
approximately $100 million due from customers under the ValuePay installment program. We maintain allowances
for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments.
While credit losses have historically been within our estimates for such losses, during fiscal 2007, we saw a
significant increase in bad debt write offs due to the recent deterioration of consumer credit. Hence, there is no
guarantee that we will continue to experience the same credit loss rate that we have in the past or that losses will not
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continue to increase or not be within current provisions. A continued significant increase in our credit losses could
result in a material adverse impact on our financial performance.
We may be subject to claims by consumers and state and federal authorities for security breaches involving
customer information, which could materially harm our reputation and business.
In order to operate our business we take orders for our products from customers. This requires us to obtain
personal information from these customers including credit card numbers. Although we take reasonable and
appropriate security measures to protect customer information, there is still the risk that external or internal security
breaches could occur. In addition, new tools and discoveries by third parties in computer or communications
technology or software or other developments may facilitate or result in a future compromise or breach of our
computer systems. Such compromises or breaches could result in significant liability or costs to us from consumer
lawsuits for monetary redress, state and federal authorities for fines and penalties, and could also lead to interruptions
in our operations and negative publicity causing damage to our reputation and limiting customers’ willingness to
purchase products from us. Recently, a major discount retailer and a credit reporting agency experienced theft of
credit card numbers of millions of consumers resulting in multi-million dollar fines and consumer settlement costs,
FTC audit requirements, and significant internal administrative costs.
The expansion of digital cable systems may adversely impact our ability to compete for television viewers.
The majority of cable operators now offer cable programming on a digital basis. While the growth of digital
cable systems may over time make it possible for our programming to be more widely distributed and at a lower cost,
there are several risks as well. First, as cable operators move our network from analog to digital tiers, we experience
a loss of viewers, since at the current time less than half of all cable television subscribers choose to also subscribe to
the digital tier. Second, we could experience a reduction in the growth rate or an absolute decline in sales per digital
tier subscriber because of the increased number of channels offered on digital systems competing for the same
number of viewers and the higher channel location we typically are assigned in digital tiers, unless we are able to
offset the reduction through increased marketing efforts, greater internet-based sales or alternative distribution
channels for our television programming. Such efforts may not be successful or may incur significant additional
operating costs.
The unanticipated loss of several of our larger vendors could impact our sales on a temporary basis.
Under the current economic conditions, it is possible that one or more of our larger vendors could experience
financial difficulties, including bankruptcy, or otherwise could determine to cease doing business with us. While we
have periodically experienced the loss of a major vendor, if a number of our current larger vendors ceased doing
business with us, this could materially and adversely impact our sales and profitability on a short term basis.
Many of our key functions are concentrated in a single location, and a natural disaster could seriously impact
our ability to operate.
Our television broadcast studios, internet operations, IT systems, merchandising team, inventory control
systems, executive offices and finance/accounting functions, among others, are centralized in our adjacent offices at
6740 and 6690, Shady Oak Road in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. In addition, our only fulfillment and distribution facility
is centralized at a location in Bowling Green, Kentucky. A natural disaster such as a tornado could seriously disrupt
our ability to continue or resume normal operations for some period of time. While we have certain business
continuity plans in place, no assurances can be given as to how quickly we would be able to resume operations and
how long it may take to return to normal operations. We could incur substantial financial losses above and beyond
what may be covered by applicable insurance policies, and may experience a loss of customers, vendors and
employees during the recovery period.
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Our television home shopping and internet businesses are sensitive to general economic conditions, consumer
confidence and major news events.
Our businesses are sensitive to general economic conditions affecting consumer spending. Unfavorable
economic conditions and/or a loss of consumer confidence may lead to a reduction in consumer spending generally
and in home shopping specifically, and may lead to a reduction in consumer spending on the types of merchandise
we currently offer. Additionally, our television audience and sales revenue can be significantly impacted by major
world or domestic events, which divert audience attention away from our programming.
Our e-commerce activities are subject to a number of general business regulations and laws regarding taxation
and online commerce, which may increase our pricing or lessen consumer demand.
Our e-commerce activities are subject to a number of general business regulations and laws regarding taxation
and online commerce. As the role and importance of e-commerce has grown in the United States in recent years,
there have been continuing efforts to increase the legal and regulatory obligations and restrictions on companies
conducting commerce through the internet, primarily in the areas of taxation, consumer privacy and protection of
consumer personal information. These laws and regulations could increase the costs and liabilities associated with
our e-commerce activities and increase the price of our product to consumers, without a corresponding increase in
our revenue or net income. On October 31, 2007, the United States enacted a seven-year moratorium on internet
access taxes, extending a ban on internet taxes that was set to expire on November 1, 2007. In addition, in November
2002, a number of states approved a multi-state agreement to simplify state sales tax laws by establishing one
uniform system to administer and collect sales taxes on traditional retailers and electronic commerce merchants. The
agreement became effective on October 3, 2005, although fewer than half of the states have become members by
enacting implementation legislation. No prediction can be made as to whether individual states will enact legislation
requiring retailers such as us to collect and remit sales taxes on transactions that occur over the internet. Adding sales
tax to our internet transactions could negatively impact consumer demand.
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
In connection with its review of our Form 10-K for our fiscal year ended February 3, 2007, the Commission
requested that we file the financial statements of Ralph Lauren Media, LLC, in which we had a minority interest that
was sold in March 2007, as of and for the year ended March 31, 2007 as an exhibit to that Form 10-K. We requested
and received from the Commission a waiver to permit us to file these financial statements as an exhibit in this
form 10-K.
Item 2. Properties
We own two commercial buildings occupying approximately 209,000 square feet in Eden Prairie, Minnesota (a
suburb of Minneapolis). One of the buildings is used for our corporate administrative and television production. The
second building has approximately 70,000 square feet of commercial rental space, which we utilize for additional
office space. We own a 262,000 square foot distribution facility on a 34-acre parcel of land and lease approximately
72,000 square feet of warehouse space in Bowling Green, Kentucky. We also lease approximately 25,000 square feet
of office space for a telephone call center in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, which we primarily use to fulfill our
service obligations in connection with the services agreement entered into with RLM and our own customer service
operations. Additionally, we rent transmitter site and studio locations in Boston, Massachusetts for our full power
television station. We believe that our existing facilities are adequate to meet our current needs and that suitable
additional or alternative space will be available as needed to accommodate expansion of operations.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
We are involved from time to time in various claims and lawsuits in the ordinary course of business. In the
opinion of management, these claims and suits individually and in the aggregate have not had a material adverse
effect on our operations or consolidated financial statements.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
No matters were submitted to our shareholders during the fourth quarter ended February 2, 2008.
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PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity
Securities
Market Information for Common Stock
Our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “VVTV.” The following table sets
forth the range of high and low sales prices of the common stock as quoted by the Nasdaq Global Market for the
periods indicated.
Fiscal 2007
First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter
Fiscal 2006
First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter
Holders
High
Low
$ 13.30 $ 11.12
8.85
12.19
5.00
10.06
4.45
7.21
13.13
13.75
12.95
14.12
11.48
9.83
10.03
11.83
As of April 3, 2008 we had approximately 550 shareholders of record.
Dividends
We have never declared or paid any dividends with respect to our capital stock. Pursuant to the shareholder
agreement we have with GE Equity, we are prohibited from paying dividends in excess of 5% of our market
capitalization in any quarter. We currently expect to retain our earnings for the development and expansion of our
business and do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Any future determination by us to pay
cash dividends will be at the discretion of the board of directors and will be dependent upon our results of operations,
financial condition, any contractual restrictions then existing and other factors deemed relevant at the time by the
board of directors.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
In August 2006, our board of directors authorized a common stock repurchase program. The program authorizes
our management, acting through an investment banking firm selected as our agent, to repurchase up to $10 million of
our common stock by open market purchases or negotiated transactions at prices and amounts as we determine from
time to time. In May 2007, our board of directors authorized the repurchase of an additional $25 million of our
common stock under the repurchase program. During fiscal 2007, we purchased a total of 3,618,000 shares of
common stock for a total investment of $26,985,000 at an average price of $7.46 per share. During fiscal 2006, we
repurchased a total of 406,000 shares of common stock for a total investment of $4,699,000 at an average price of
$11.58 per share. We did not repurchase any shares under any stock repurchase program during fiscal 2005.
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The following table presents information with respect to purchases of our common stock made during the three
months ended February 2, 2008, by our company or by any of “affiliated purchaser” of our company, as defined in
Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Exchange Act:
Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Value of Shares
that May Yet Be
Approximate Dollar
Period
November 4, 2007 through
December 1, 2007
December 2, 2007 through
January 5, 2008
January 6, 2008 through
February 2, 2008
Total
Total Number of Average Price Paid Part of a Publicly
per Share
Shares Purchased
Announced Program
Purchased Under the
Program(1)
292,000 $
6.44
2,046,000 $
12,318,000
483,000 $
6.33
2,529,000 $
9,258,000
1,089,000 $
1,864,000 $
5.46
5.84
3,618,000 $
3,618,000 $
3,317,000
3,317,000
(1) On March 6, 2008, our board of directors authorized an additional $10 million for stock repurchases under its
stock repurchase program.
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Stock Performance Graph
The graph below compares the cumulative five-year total return to our shareholders (based on appreciation of
the market price of our common stock) on an indexed basis with (i) a broad equity market index and (ii) a peer group
created by us over the same period and consisting of companies involved in various aspects of the television home
shopping, jewelry and internet retail and service industries. The presentation compares the common stock price in the
period from January 31, 2003 to February 2, 2008, to the Nasdaq Global Market stock index and to the peer group.
The total return to shareholders of those companies comprising the peer group are weighted according to their stock
market capitalization. The companies in the current peer group are: InterActiveCorp, the parent company of the
Home Shopping Network; Liberty Interactive, the holding company of QVC, a home shopping television network;
Amazon.com, Inc., an on-line retailer; RedEnvelope, Inc., an upscale on-line retailer; GSI Commerce, Inc., a
provider of professional services to the on-line retail industry; and Zale Corporation, a specialty jewelry retailer; On
May 9, 2006, shares of Liberty Media Corporation were exchanged for shares of Liberty Interactive and Liberty
Capital tracking stocks and the old Liberty Media Corporation Series A and Series B shares ceased trading. The
cumulative return is calculated assuming an investment of $100 on January 31, 2003, and reinvestment of all
dividends. You should not consider shareholder return over the indicated period to be indicative of future shareholder
returns.
COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*
Among ValueVision Media, Inc. The NASDAQ Composite Index
And A Peer Group
* $100 invested on 1/31/03 in stock or index-including reinvestment of dividends.
Index calculated on month-end basis.
January 31, January 31, January 31, February 4, May 10, February 3, February 2,
2003
2004
2005
2006
2006
2007
2008
ValueVision Media,
Inc.
Nasdaq Stock
Market (U.S.)
Index
Peer Group
$ 100.00
$ 134.27
$ 108.04
$ 94.16
$ 100.99 $ 94.09
$ 46.47
100.00
100.00
156.84
186.78
158.35
152.31
179.18
147.76
181.71
138.55
193.92
167.46
186.99
192.60
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Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table provides information as of February 2, 2008 for our compensation plans under which
securities may be issued:
Plan Category
Number of Securities to be Issued
Upon Exercise of Outstanding
Options, Warrants and Rights
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights Equity Compensation Plans
Remaining Available for
Future Issuance under
Number of Securities
Equity Compensation Plans
Approved by Security holders
Equity Compensation Plans Not
Approved by Security holders
(2)
Total
4,418,000
$
10.27
1,875,000 (1)
3,474,000 (2) $
$
7,892,000
16.52
13.02
—
1,875,000
(1) Includes securities available for future issuance under shareholder approved compensation plans other than
upon the exercise of an outstanding options, warrants or rights, as follows: 1,114,000 shares under the 2001
Omnibus Stock Plan and 761,000 shares under the 2004 Omnibus Stock Plan.
(2) Reflects 2,037,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the various warrants issued by our
company and held by NBCU, described in “Business — Strategic Relationships — Strategic Alliance with
NBCU and GE Equity,” and 1,437,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of nonstatutory stock
options granted to our employees at per share exercise prices equal to the fair market value of a share of
common stock on the date of grant. Each of these options expires between five and ten years after the date of
issuance, and is subject to vesting requirements varying between completely vested and vesting over a period
of three to six years, depending on the circumstances of each individual grant.
Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved By Shareholders
Outstanding options to purchase up to 1,437,000 shares of common stock to employees at per share exercise
prices equal to the fair market value of a share of common stock on the date of grant. Each of these options expires
between five and ten years after the date of issuance, and is subject to vesting requirements varying between
completely vested and vesting over a period of three to six years, depending on the circumstances of each individual
grant. These stock options were utilized solely for inducement stock option grants for newly hired officers and
certain key employees.
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Item 6. Selected Financial Data
The selected financial data for the five years ended February 2, 2008 have been derived from our audited
consolidated financial statements. The selected financial data presented below are qualified in their entirety by, and
should be read in conjunction with, the financial statements and notes thereto and other financial and statistical
information referenced elsewhere herein including the information referenced under the caption “Management’s
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
Year Ended
February 2, February 3, February 4, January 31, January 31,
2007
2005(c)
2006(b)
2008(a)
(In thousands, except per share data)
2004(d)
Statement of Operations Data:
Net sales
Net sales less cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation
$ 781,550 $ 767,275 $ 691,851 $ 623,634 $ 591,185
and amortization(g)
Operating loss
Income (loss) from continuing operations(e)
Discontinued operations(f)
Per Share Data:
Net income (loss) from continuing operations per
271,015 267,161 238,944 204,096 209,508
(7,987 )
(23,052 )
(8,329 )
22,452
(3,063 )
—
(9,479 ) (18,646 ) (44,271 )
(2,396 ) (13,457 ) (42,719 )
(2,296 ) (14,882 )
—
common share
$
0.53 $
(0.07 ) $
(0.37 ) $
(1.17 ) $
(0.23 )
Net income (loss) from continuing operations per
common share — assuming dilution
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic
Diluted
$
0.53 $
(0.07 ) $
(0.37 ) $
(1.17 ) $
(0.23 )
41,992 37,646 37,182 36,815 35,934
42,011 37,646 37,182 36,815 35,934
Balance Sheet Data:
Cash and short-term investments
Current assets
Long-term investments
Property, equipment and other assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Other long-term obligations
Redeemable preferred stock
Shareholders’ equity
Other Data:
Sales margin(g)
Working capital
Current ratio
Adjusted EBITDA (as defined)(h)
Cash Flows:
Operating
Investing
Financing
February 2, February 3, February 4, January 31, January 31,
2006
(In thousands)
2008
2007
2005
2004
—
$ 59,078 $ 71,294 $ 82,350 $ 100,581 $ 127,181
252,183 260,445 246,029 240,524 270,984
26,306
—
80,591 91,535 101,110 109,772 125,607
359,080 351,980 347,139 350,296 396,591
118,350 105,274 100,820 89,074 84,837
2,002
43,898 43,607 43,318 43,030 42,745
194,510 198,847 202,871 216,812 267,007
1,380
2,553
130
—
—
—
Year Ended
February 2, February 3, February 4, January 31, January 31,
2007
2005
2006
(In thousands, except statistical data)
2008
2004
34.7 %
34.8 %
34.5 %
32.7 %
35.4 %
$ 133,833 $ 155,171 $ 145,209 $ 151,450 $ 186,147
3.2
1,910 $ (19,129 ) $ 11,465
2.5
6,850 $ 14,690 $
2.4
2.7
2.1
$
$ 11,189 $
$
(475 ) $
$ (26,605 ) $
3,542 $ (10,374 ) $ (18,070 ) $
(1,562 ) $ (10,111 ) $
988 $
(3,627 ) $
3,368
(2,304 ) $ 23,003
(447 )
1,981 $
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(a) Results of operations for the year ended February 2, 2008 includes a $40,240,000 gain on the sale of RLM.
Results of operations for the year ended February 2, 2008 also include a charge of $5.0 million related to the
restructuring of certain company operations and a charge of $2.5 million related to costs associated with our
chief executive officer transition. See Notes 2, 16 and 17 to the consolidated financial statements.
(b) Results of operations for the year ended February 4, 2006 includes a $294,000 gain on the sale of a television
station.
(c) Results of operations for the year ended January 31, 2005 includes a non-cash charge of $1.9 million related to
the write off of deferred advertising credits.
(d) Results of operations for the year ended January 31, 2004 include the operations of television station WWDP
TV-46 from the effective date of its acquisition, April 1, 2003. Results of operations for the year ended
January 31, 2004 also include a charge of $4.6 million related to costs associated with our chief executive
officer transition and a $4.4 million gain on the sale of television stations.
(e) Income (loss) from continuing operations includes a net pre-tax gain of $40.2 million from the sale of RLM
and a net pre-tax loss of $1.7 million from the sale and holdings of investments and other assets in fiscal 2003.
(f) Discontinued operations relate to the operations of our FanBuzz subsidiary, which were shut down in fiscal
2005. See Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.
(g) Management views net sales less cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization), or sales margin, as
an alternative operating measure because it is commonly used by management, analysts and institutional
investors in analyzing our net sales profitability. This term is not considered a measure determined in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP. The comparable GAAP measurement is
gross profit, which is defined as net sales less cost of sales (inclusive of depreciation and amortization). Our
gross profit from continuing operations for fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 is $251.0 million, $244.9 million and
$218.4 million, respectively. The percentage change year over year under either measure is relatively
consistent.
(h) EBITDA represents net income (loss) from continuing operations for the respective periods excluding
depreciation and amortization expense, interest income (expense) and income taxes. We define EBITDA, as
adjusted, as EBITDA excluding non-recurring non-operating gains (losses) and equity in income of Ralph
Lauren Media, LLC; non-recurring restructuring and CEO transition costs; and non-cash equity-based
compensation expense. Management has included the term EBITDA, as adjusted, in its EBITDA reconciliation
in order to adequately assess the operating performance of our “core” television and internet businesses and in
order to maintain comparability to our analyst’s coverage and financial guidance. Management believes that
EBITDA, as adjusted, allows investors to make a more meaningful comparison between our core business
operating results over different periods of time with those of other similar small cap, higher growth companies.
In addition, management uses EBITDA, as adjusted, as a metric measure to evaluate operating performance
under its management and executive incentive compensation programs. EBITDA, as adjusted, should not be
construed as an alternative to operating income (loss) or to cash flows from operating activities as determined
in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and should not be construed as a measure of
liquidity. EBITDA as adjusted, may not be comparable to similarly entitled measures reported by other
companies.
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A reconciliation of EBITDA, as adjusted, to its comparable GAAP measurement, net income (loss), follows:
Year Ended
February 2, February 3, February 4, January 31, January 31,
2006
(In thousands)
2008
2004
2007
2005
EBITDA, as adjusted
Less:
Non-operating gains (losses) and equity in income of
$
6,850 $ 14,690 $
1,910 $ (19,129 ) $ 11,465
RLM
40,663
3,356
1,379
(50 )
(1,650 )
Restructuring costs and other non-recurring
television station sale gains
CEO transition costs
Non-cash share-based compensation expense
EBITDA (as defined)
A reconciliation of EBITDA to net income (loss) is
as follows:
EBITDA, as defined
Adjustments:
Depreciation and amortization
Interest income
Income tax (provision) benefit
Discontinued operations of FanBuzz
Net income (loss)
(5,043 )
(2,451 )
(2,415 )
(29 )
—
(1,901 )
37,604 16,116
(5,736 )
212
—
—
(199 )
(486 )
3,302 (25,401 )
2,417
(4,625 )
(845 )
6,762
37,604 16,116
3,302 (25,401 )
6,762
(19,993 ) (22,239 ) (20,569 ) (18,920 ) (16,399 )
1,488
(180 )
(3,063 )
(2,396 ) $ (15,753 ) $ (57,601 ) $ (11,392 )
1,627
(25 )
(2,296 ) (14,882 )
5,680
(839 )
—
$ 22,452 $
3,802
(75 )
—
3,048
762
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Introduction
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is qualified by reference to
and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere herein.
Cautionary Statement for Purposes of the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform
Act of 1995
This Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations and other materials we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (as
well as information included in oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by us) contain certain
forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All
statements other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding guidance, industry prospects or
future results of operations or financial position, made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are forward looking. We
often use words such as “anticipates, believes, expects, intends and similar expressions to identify forward-looking
statements. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and are accordingly subject to
uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may vary materially from the expectations contained herein
due to various important factors, including (but not limited to): consumer spending and debt levels; the general
economic and credit environment; interest rates; seasonal variations in consumer purchasing activities; changes in the
mix of products sold by us; competitive pressures on sales; pricing and sales margins; the level of cable and satellite
distribution for our programming and the associated fees; the success of our e-commerce initiatives; the success of
our strategic alliances and relationships; our ability to manage our operating expenses successfully; risks associated
with acquisitions; changes in governmental or regulatory requirements; litigation or governmental proceedings
affecting our operations; the risks identified under “Risk Factors”; significant public events that are difficult to
predict, such as widespread weather catastrophes or other significant television-covering
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events causing an interruption of television coverage or that directly compete with the viewership of our
programming; and our ability to obtain and retain key executives and employees. Investors are cautioned that all
forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty and we are under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any
obligation) to update or alter our forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or
otherwise.
Overview
ValueVision Media, Inc. is an integrated direct marketing company that markets its products to consumers
through various forms of electronic media and direct-to-consumer mailings otherwise known as multi-channel
retailing. Our operating strategy incorporates television home shopping, internet e-commerce, direct mail and on-line
marketing and fulfillment services. Our live 24-hour per day television home shopping programming is distributed
primarily through cable and satellite affiliation agreements and on-line through ShopNBC.TV. We have an exclusive
license from NBC Universal, Inc., known as NBCU, for the worldwide use of an NBC-branded name and the
peacock image for a period ending in May 2011. Pursuant to the license, we operate our television home shopping
network under the ShopNBC brand name and operate our internet website under the ShopNBC.com brand name.
Products and Customers
Products sold on our television home shopping network and internet shopping website include jewelry, watches,
computers and other electronics, housewares, apparel, cosmetics, seasonal items and other merchandise. Jewelry is
our largest single category of merchandise, representing 38% of television home shopping and internet net sales in
fiscal 2007, 39% in fiscal 2006 and 43% in fiscal 2005. Home products, including electronics product categories,
represented approximately 37% of television home shopping and internet net sales in fiscal 2007, 37% in fiscal 2006
and 36% in fiscal 2005. Watches, apparel and health and beauty product categories represented approximately 25%
of television home shopping and internet net sales in fiscal 2007, 24% in fiscal 2006 and 21% in fiscal 2005. Our
strategy is to continue to develop new product offerings across multiple merchandise categories as needed in
response to both customer demand and in order to maximize margin dollars per minute in our television home
shopping and internet operations. Our customers are primarily women over the ages of 35 with an average annual
household income in excess of $70,000 and who make purchases based primarily on convenience, unique product
offerings, value and quality of merchandise.
Company Strategy
We endeavor to be positioned as a profitable and innovative leader in multi-channel retailing in the United
States. The following strategies were pursued during fiscal 2007 to increase revenues and profitability and grow our
active customer base, for both television and internet sales: (i) continue to optimize our mix of product categories
offered on television and the internet in order to appeal to a broader population of potential customers; (ii) continue
the growth of our internet business through the innovative use of technology and marketing efforts, such as advanced
search capabilities, personalization, internet video, affiliate agreements and internet-based auction capabilities;
(iii) obtain cost-effective distribution agreements for our television programming with cable and satellite operators,
as well as pursuing other means of reaching customers such as through webcasting, internet videos and internet-
based broadcasting networks; (iv) increase the productivity of each hour of television programming, through a focus
on television offers of merchandise that maximizes margin dollars per hour and marketing efforts to increase the
number of customers within the households currently receiving our television programming; (v) continue to enhance
our television broadcast quality, programming, website features and customer support; (vi) increase the average order
size through sales initiatives such as add-on sales, continuity programs and warranty sales; and (vii) leverage the
strong brand recognition of the NBC brand name.
At the beginning of fiscal 2008, a new chief executive officer and three new industry-experienced senior
executives joined us. These new senior executives are reviewing our strategy for long-term growth in revenues and
profits, in conjunction with the board of directors and other members of management, and will develop a plan for
improving our strategic focus during fiscal 2008. Some of the key focus areas include: improving the customer
experience; retaining and growing the core customer base of repeat customers; shifting the merchandise mix and
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price points to appeal to the core female customer; broadening the vendor base; and improving business disciplines
and execution.
Challenge
Our television home shopping business operates with a high fixed cost base, which is primarily due to fixed
contractual fees paid to cable and satellite operators to carry our programming. In order to attain profitability, we
must achieve sufficient sales volume through the acquisition of new customers and the increased retention of existing
customers to cover our high fixed costs or reduce the fixed cost base for our cable and satellite distribution. Our
growth and profitability could be adversely impacted if sales volume does not meet expectations, as we will have
limited immediate capability to reduce our fixed cable and satellite distribution operating expenses to mitigate any
potential sales shortfall.
Our Competition
The direct marketing and retail businesses are highly competitive. In our television home shopping and
e-commerce operations, we compete for customers with other types of consumer retail businesses, including
traditional “brick and mortar” department stores, discount stores, warehouse stores and specialty stores; other
television home shopping and e-commerce retailers; infomercial companies; catalog and mail order retailers and
other direct sellers.
In the competitive television home shopping sector, we compete with QVC Network, Inc. and HSN, Inc., both
of whom are substantially larger than we are in terms of annual revenues and customers, and whose programming is
carried more broadly to U.S. households than is our programming. Both QVC and HSN are owned by large, well-
capitalized parent companies in the media business, who are also expanding into related e-commerce and web-based
businesses. The American Collectibles Network, known as ACN, which operates Jewelry Television, also competes
with us for television home shopping customers in the jewelry category. In addition, there are a number of smaller
niche players and startups in the television home shopping arena who compete with our company.
The e-commerce sector is also highly competitive, and we are in direct competition with numerous other internet
retailers, many of whom are larger, more well-financed and/or have a broader customer base. Certain of our
competitors in the television home shopping sector have acquired internet businesses complementary to their existing
internet sites, which may pose new competitive challenges for our company.
We anticipate continuing competition for viewers and customers, for experienced home shopping personnel, for
distribution agreements with cable and satellite systems, and for vendors and suppliers — not only from television
home shopping companies, but also from other companies that seek to enter the home shopping and internet retail
industries, including telecommunications and cable companies, television networks, and other established retailers.
We believe that our success in the TV home shopping and e-commerce sectors is dependent on a number of key
factors, including (i) obtaining more favorable terms in our cable and satellite distribution agreements, (ii) increasing
the number of households who purchase products from us, and (iii) increasing the dollar value of sales per customer
to our existing customer base.
Results for Fiscal 2007
Consolidated net sales from continuing operations in fiscal 2007 were $781,550,000 compared to $767,275,000
in fiscal 2006, a 2% increase. The increase in consolidated net sales from continuing operations is directly
attributable to increased net sales from our television home shopping and internet operations. Effective for fiscal
2005, the results of operations of FanBuzz have been presented as loss from discontinued operations in the
accompanying consolidated statements of operations for fiscal 2005. Net sales attributed to our television home
shopping and internet operations increased 2% to $767,276,000 in fiscal 2007 from $755,302,000 in fiscal 2006. We
reported an operating loss of $23,052,000 and net income of $22,452,000, which included a pretax gain of
$40,240,000 from the sale of RLM, in fiscal 2007. We reported an operating loss of $9,479,000 and a net loss of
$2,396,000 in fiscal 2006. Operating expenses in fiscal 2007 included a $5,043,000 restructuring charge and CEO
termination costs of $2,451,000.
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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations discusses our
consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to
make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and
expenses during the reporting periods. On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates and assumptions,
including those related to the realizability of long-term investments and intangible assets, accounts receivable,
inventory and product returns. Management bases its estimates and assumptions on historical experience and on
various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis
for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other
sources. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ from these estimates under different assumptions
or conditions.
Management believes the following critical accounting policies affect the more significant assumptions and
estimates used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements:
• Accounts receivable. We utilize an installment payment program called ValuePay that entitles customers to
purchase merchandise and generally pay for the merchandise in two to five equal monthly credit card
installments in which we bear the risk for uncollectibility. As of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, we
had approximately $99,875,000 and $105,197,000 respectively, due from customers under the ValuePay
installment program. We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the
inability of its customers to make required payments. Estimates are used in determining the allowance for
doubtful accounts and are based on historical write off and delinquency rates, historical collection experience,
current trends, credit policy and a percentage of accounts receivable by aging category. In determining these
percentages, we review our historical write-off experience, current trends in the credit quality of the customer
base as well as changes in credit policies and our sales mix. While credit losses have historically been within
our expectations and the provisions established, during fiscal 2007 we saw a significant increase in bad debt
write offs due to the recent deterioration of consumer credit coupled with our mix shift to higher delinquency
product categories, increases in our average ValuePay installment length and increased sales to lower credit-
score customers. Provision for doubtful accounts receivable (primarily related to our ValuePay program) for
fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 were $12,613,000, $6,065,000 and $4,542,000, respectively. Based on our fiscal
2007 bad debt experience, a one-half point increase or decrease in our bad debt experience as a percentage of
total television home shopping and internet sales would have an impact of approximately $3.8 million on
consolidated distribution and selling expense.
• Inventory. We value our inventory, which consists primarily of consumer merchandise held for resale,
principally at the lower of average cost or realizable value, and reduce our balance by an allowance for excess
and obsolete merchandise. As of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, we had inventory balances of
$79,444,000 and $66,622,000, respectively. We regularly review inventory quantities on hand and record a
provision for excess and obsolete inventory based primarily on a percentage of the inventory balance as
determined by its age and specific product category. In determining these percentages, we look at our
historical write-off experience, the specific merchandise categories on hand, our historic recovery percentages
on liquidations, forecasts of future product television shows and the current market value of gold. Provision
for excess and obsolete inventory for fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 were $1,811,000, $2,977,000 and
$3,508,000, respectively. Based on our fiscal 2007 inventory write down experience, a 10% increase or
decrease in inventory write downs would have had an impact of approximately $181,000 on consolidated net
sales less cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization).
• Product returns. We record a reserve as a reduction of gross sales for anticipated product returns at each
month-end and must make estimates of potential future product returns related to current period product
revenue. Our return rates on our television and internet sales have been approximately 32% to 33% over the
past three fiscal years. We estimate and evaluate the adequacy of our returns reserve by analyzing historical
returns by merchandise category, looking at current economic trends and changes in customer demand and
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by analyzing the acceptance of new product lines. Assumptions and estimates are made and used in
connection with establishing the sales returns reserve in any accounting period. Reserves for product returns
for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005 were $8,376,000, $8,498,000 and $7,658,000, respectively. Based on our
fiscal 2007 sales returns, a one-point increase or decrease in our television and internet sales returns rate
would have had an impact of approximately $4.7 million on consolidated net sales less cost of sales (exclusive
of depreciation and amortization).
• Long-term investments. As of February 2, 2008 our investment portfolio included auction rate securities with
an estimated fair value of $24,346,000 ($26,800,000 cost basis). Our auction rate securities are primarily
variable rate debt instruments that have underlying securities with contractual maturities ranging from 17 to
42 years and interest rates that are reset at auction primarily every 28 days. These mostly AAA-rated auction
rate securities, which met our investment guidelines at the time the investments were made, have failed to
settle in auctions during fiscal 2007. At this time, these investments are not currently liquid, and in the event
we need to access these funds, we will not be able to do so without a loss of principle unless a future auction
on these investments is successful. As a result, in fiscal 2007, we reduced the carrying value of these
investments by $2,454,000 through other comprehensive income (loss) to reflect a temporary impairment on
these securities. While we believe that our estimates and assumptions regarding the valuation of our
investments are reasonable, different assumptions could have a material affect on our valuations. As of
February 3, 2007, we had $4,139,000 of long-term equity investment in RLM recorded in connection with our
equity share of RLM income under the equity method of accounting. On March 28, 2007, we sold our 12.5%
ownership interest in RLM for approximately $43.8 million. See Note 2 to the consolidated financial
statements.
• FCC broadcasting license. As of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, we have recorded an intangible
FCC broadcasting license asset totaling $31,943,000 as a result of our acquisition of Boston television station
WWDP TV-46 in fiscal 2003. In assessing the recoverability of our FCC broadcasting license asset, which we
determined to have an indefinite life, we must make assumptions regarding estimated projected cash flows,
recent comparable asset market data and other factors to determine the fair value of the related reporting unit.
We performed an impairment test with respect to our FCC broadcasting license in the fourth quarter of fiscal
2007 using resent comparable market data for this asset and a discounted cash flow analysis as stipulated by
SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and other Intangible Assets , and determined that an impairment had not occurred.
With respect to the FCC broadcasting license asset, the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying
value. While we believe that our estimates and assumptions regarding the valuation of our reporting unit are
reasonable, different assumptions or future events could materially affect our valuations.
• Intangible assets. As of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, we had amortizable intangible assets
totaling $11,480,000 and $13,993,000, respectively, for the trademark license agreement with NBCU and the
distribution and marketing agreement entered into with NBCU. We performed an impairment test with respect
to these amortizable intangible assets in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 using an undiscounted cash flow
analysis as stipulated by SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets ,
and determined that an impairment had not occurred. In assessing the recoverability of our intangible assets,
we must make assumptions regarding estimated future cash flows and other factors to determine the fair value
of the respective assets and reporting units.
• Stock-based compensation. We account for stock-based compensation issued to employees in accordance
with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R) (revised 2004), “Share-Based
Payment” (“SFAS No. 123(R)”), which revised SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,”
and superseded APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (“APB 25”). This standard
requires compensation costs related to all share-based payment transactions to be recognized in the financial
statements at fair value. The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-
Scholes option pricing model that uses assumptions for stock volatility, option terms, risk-free interest rates
and dividend yields. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of our stock. Expected term is
calculated using the simplified method taking into consideration the option’s contractual life and vesting
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terms. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the
U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.
Expected dividend yields are not used in the fair value computations as we have never declared or paid
dividends on our common stock. While we believe that our estimates and assumptions regarding the valuation
of our share-based awards are reasonable, different assumptions could have a material affect on our
valuations. See Note 6, Shareholders’ Equity — Stock-Based Compensation, for our disclosure regarding our
share-based equity awards.
• Deferred taxes. We account for income taxes under the liability method of accounting whereby income taxes
are recognized during the fiscal year in which transactions enter into the determination of financial statement
income (loss). Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of
temporary differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax
assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of the enactment
of such laws. We assess the recoverability of our deferred tax assets in accordance with the provisions of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“SFAS No. 109”).
The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income
during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the
scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in
making this assessment. In accordance with that standard, as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, we
recorded a valuation allowance of approximately $56,530,000 and $63,194,000, respectively, for our net
deferred tax assets and net operating and capital loss carryforwards. Based on our recent history of losses, a
full valuation allowance was recorded in fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 and was calculated in accordance with
the provisions of SFAS No. 109, which places primary importance on our most recent operating results when
assessing the need for a valuation allowance. Although management believes that our recent operating losses
were heavily affected by a challenging retail economic environment and slowdown in consumer spending
experienced by us and other merchandise retailers, we intend to maintain a full valuation allowance for our net
deferred tax assets and loss carryforwards until sufficient positive evidence exists to support reversal of
allowances.
Sale of RLM Equity Investment
On March 28, 2007, we entered into a membership interest purchase agreement with Polo Ralph Lauren, NBCU
and certain NBCU affiliates, pursuant to which we sold our 12.5% membership interest in RLM to Polo Ralph
Lauren for an aggregate purchase price of $43,750,000 in cash. As a result of this transaction, we recorded a pre-tax
gain of $40,240,000 on the sale of RLM in the first quarter of fiscal 2007.
Restructuring Costs
On May 21, 2007 we announced the initiation of a restructuring of our operations that included a 12% reduction
in the salaried workforce, a consolidation of our distribution operations into a single warehouse facility, the exit and
closure of a retail outlet store and other cost saving measures. On January 14, 2008, the Company announced
additional organizational changes and cost-saving measures following a formal business review conducted by
management and an outside consulting firm. As a result of the business review, the Company’s organizational
structure was simplified and streamlined to focus on profitability. As part of this restructuring, the Company reduced
its salaried workforce by an additional 10%. As a result, we recorded a $5,043,000 restructuring charge for fiscal
2007. Restructuring costs include employee severance and retention costs associated with the consolidation and
elimination of approximately 80 positions across our company including four officers. In addition, restructuring costs
also include incremental charges associated with our consolidation of our distribution and fulfillment operations into
a single warehouse facility, the closure of a retail outlet store, fixed asset impairments incurred as a direct result of
the operational consolidation and closures and restructuring advisory service fees.
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Chief Executive Officer Transition Costs
On October 26, 2007, we announced that William J. Lansing, at the request of the board of directors, had
stepped down as president and chief executive officer and had left our board of directors. In conjunction with
Mr. Lansing’s resignation, we recorded a charge to income of $2,451,000 during fiscal 2007 relating primarily to
severance payments which Mr. Lansing is entitled to in accordance with the terms of his employment agreement and
executive search fees.
Limitation on Must-Carry Rights
The Federal Communications Commission, known as the FCC, issued a public notice on May 4, 2007 stating
that it was updating the public record for a petition for reconsideration filed in 1993 and still pending before the FCC.
The petition challenges the FCC’s prior determination to grant the same mandatory cable carriage (or “must-carry”)
rights for TV broadcast stations carrying home shopping programming that the FCC’s rules accord to other TV
stations. The time period for comments and reply comments regarding the reconsideration closed in August 2007,
and we submitted comments supporting the continuation of must-carry rights for home shopping stations. If the FCC
decides to change its prior determination and withdraw must-carry rights for home shopping stations as a result of
this updating of the public record, we could lose our current carriage distribution on cable systems in three markets:
Boston, Pittsburgh and Seattle, which currently constitute approximately 3.2 million full-time equivalent households,
or FTE’s, receiving our programming. We own the Boston television station and have carriage contracts with the
Pittsburg and Seattle television stations. In addition, if must-carry rights for home shopping stations are withdrawn, it
may not be possible to replace these FTE’s on commercially reasonable terms and the carrying value of our Boston
television station ($31.9 million) may become partially impaired. At this time, we cannot predict the timing or the
outcome of the FCC’s action to update the public record on this issue.
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain statement of continuing operations data
expressed as a percentage of net sales.
Year Ended
February 2, February 3, February 4,
2007
2008
2006
Net sales
Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Operating expenses:
Distribution and selling
General and administrative
Depreciation and amortization
Restructuring costs
CEO termination costs
Total operating expenses
Operating loss
Other income, net
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net
income of affiliates
Income taxes
Gain on sale of RLM
Equity in net income of affiliates
Income (loss) from continuing operations
100.0 %
65.3 %
100.0 %
65.2 %
100.0 %
65.5 %
30.9 %
3.2 %
2.6 %
0.6 %
0.3 %
37.6 %
(2.9 )%
0.7 %
(2.2 )%
(0.1 )%
5.1 %
0.1 %
2.9 %
29.5 %
3.6 %
2.9 %
—
—
36.0 %
(1.2 )%
0.5 %
(0.7 )%
—
—
0.4 %
(0.3 )%
30.7 %
3.6 %
2.9 %
—
—
37.2 %
(2.7 )%
0.4 %
(2.3 )%
0.1 %
—
0.2 %
(2.0 )%
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Key Performance Metrics*
February 2, %
For the Twelve Months Ended
February 3, %
2008
Change
2007
Change
February 4,
2006
Program Distribution
Cable FTE’s (in thousands, except percentages)
Satellite FTE’s
Total Average FTEs
Net Sales per FTE (Annualized)
Customer Metrics (in thousands, except percentages)
Active Customers — 12 month rolling
% New Customers — 12 month rolling
% Retained Customers — 12 month rolling
Customer Penetration — 12 month rolling
Product Mix
Jewelry
Watches Apparel, Health & Beauty
Home and All Other
Shipped Units (in thousands)
Average Selling Price — Shipped Units
41,335
27,585
68,920
11.13
$
5 % 39,288
6 % 25,923
6 % 65,211
11.58
(4 )% $
4 % 37,822
8 % 24,088
5 % 61,910
10.99
5 % $
893,991
51 %
49 %
1.3 %
6 % 845,564
53 %
47 %
1.3 %
38 %
25 %
37 %
4,621
233
$
39 %
24 %
37 %
4,989
211
(7 )%
10 % $
5 % 803,607
56 %
44 %
1.3 %
43 %
21 %
36 %
1 %
8 % $
4,942
196
* Includes television home shopping and internet sales only.
Program Distribution
Our television home shopping program was available to approximately 68.9 million average full time
equivalent, or FTE, households for the twelve months ended February 2, 2008, approximately 65.2 million average
FTE households for the twelve months ended February 3, 2007 and approximately 61.9 million average FTE
households for the twelve months ended February 4, 2006. Average FTE subscribers grew 6% in fiscal 2007,
resulting in a 3.7 million increase in average FTE’s compared to fiscal 2006. Average FTE subscribers grew 5% in
fiscal 2006, resulting in a 3.3 million increase in average FTE’s compared to fiscal 2005. The annual increases were
driven by continued strong growth in satellite distribution of our programming and increased distribution of our
programming on digital cable. We anticipate that our cable programming distribution will increasingly shift towards
a greater mix of digital as opposed to analog cable tiers, both through growth of the number of digital subscribers and
through cable system operators moving programming that is carried on analog channels over to digital channels.
Nonetheless, because of the broader universe of programming choices available for viewers in digital systems and
the higher channel placements commonly associated with digital tiers, the shift towards digital systems may
adversely impact our ability to compete for television viewers even if our programming is available in more homes.
Our television home shopping programming is also simulcast live 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through our internet
website, www.shopnbc.tv, which is not included in total FTE households.
Net Sales Per FTE
Net sales per FTE for fiscal 2007 decreased 4%, or $0.45, per FTE compared to fiscal 2006. Net sales per FTE
for fiscal 2006 increased 5%, or $0.59, per FTE compared to fiscal 2005. The decrease in the fiscal 2007 net sales per
FTE was primarily due to the overall increase in FTE’s of 6% during the year while net sales increased only 2%
during the year. Home shopping net sales growth was unfavorably affected during the year as a result of the general
softness in overall consumer demand. The increase in fiscal 2006 net sales per FTE were largely the result of strong
television home shopping and internet net sales growth over fiscal 2005, primarily in the first three quarters of fiscal
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2006. Consistent with industry practice, we include internet sales along with television sales in our calculation of net
sales per FTE.
Customers
During fiscal 2007, we added 48,427 active customers, a 6% increase over fiscal 2006. During fiscal 2006, we
added 41,957 active customers, a 5% increase over fiscal 2005. The increase in active customers resulted from the
increase in household distribution and increases in marketing and promotional efforts aimed at attracting new
customers.
Customer Penetration
Customer penetration measures the total number of customers who purchased from our company over the past
twelve months divided by our average FTE’s for that same period. This measure was 1.3% for each of fiscal 2007,
fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005. We include in our customer penetration calculations all of our customers during the
applicable time period, whether they became customers as a result of our television programming, through direct-
mail campaigns, or because of our e-commerce marketing efforts.
Merchandise Mix
During fiscal 2007, jewelry net sales decreased from 39% of total television and internet net sales to 38% as
compared to fiscal 2006. Net sales from home products, including electronic categories, remained flat at 37% of total
television home shopping and internet net sales for both fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 and net sales from watches,
apparel and health and beauty product categories increased to 25% of total television home shopping and internet net
sales from 24% as compared to fiscal 2006. During fiscal 2007, our product mix remained relatively flat as compared
to fiscal 2006.
During fiscal 2006, jewelry net sales decreased from 43% of total television and internet net sales to 39% as
compared to fiscal 2005. Net sales from home products, including electronic categories, increased to 37% of total
television home shopping and internet net sales from 36% as compared to fiscal 2005 and net sales from watches,
apparel and health and beauty product categories increased to 24% of total television home shopping and internet net
sales from 21% as compared to fiscal 2005. Our merchandise mix prior to fiscal 2007 had moved away from our
historical reliance on jewelry and computers to a broader mix that also includes apparel, watches, health and beauty,
home and other electronic product lines. Going forward, we plan to adjust our merchandise mix as needed in an
effort to focus on growing our long term core customer base, in response to customer demand and in order to
maximize margin dollars per minute in our television home shopping and internet operations.
Shipped Units
The number of units shipped during fiscal 2007 decreased 7% from fiscal 2006 to 4,621,000 from 4,989,000.
The number of units shipped during fiscal 2006 increased 1% from fiscal 2005 to 4,989,000 from 4,942,000. The
decrease in shipped units was primarily due to a shift in mix during fiscal 2007 within the jewelry category to higher
price point items, which resulted in less shipped units. The increase in shipped units during fiscal 2006 was due
primarily to the overall increase in net sales over fiscal 2005.
Average Selling Price
Our average selling price, or ASP, per unit was $233 in fiscal 2007, a 10% increase over fiscal 2006. The
increase in 2007 ASP was driven primarily by selling price increases within the jewelry category, due to higher gold
prices, and within the apparel product category. For fiscal 2006, the average per unit selling price was $211, an 8%
increase over fiscal 2005. The increase in the ASP in fiscal 2006 was driven by increases in price points associated
primarily with watches, electronics and apparel merchandise categories, in addition to the mix shift towards higher
priced electronics and home merchandise categories.
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Sales
Consolidated net sales from continuing operations, inclusive of shipping and handling revenue, for fiscal 2007
were $781,550,000 compared to $767,275,000 for fiscal 2006, a 2% increase. The increase in consolidated net sales
from continuing operations was directly attributable to continued improvement in net sales from our television home
shopping and internet operations. Net sales attributed to our television home shopping and internet operations
increased 2% to $767,276,000 for fiscal 2007 from $755,302,000 for fiscal 2006. The growth in television home
shopping and internet net sales during fiscal 2007 is primarily attributable to increased merchandise sales driven by
the higher productivity achieved from certain product categories including jewelry and computers and an 18%
increase, or $33,716,000, in internet net sales over fiscal 2006. Although net sales increased overall from fiscal 2006
to fiscal 2007, we experienced slower sales growth during fiscal 2007 than we have seen recently. We believe this is
driven by a general softness in overall consumer demand and due to increases in product discount offerings made
during fiscal 2007.
Consolidated net sales from continuing operations, inclusive of shipping and handling revenue, for fiscal 2006
were $767,275,000 compared to $691,851,000 for fiscal 2005, an 11% increase. The increase in consolidated net
sales from continuing operations was directly attributable to continued improvement in net sales from our television
home shopping and internet operations. Net sales attributed to our television home shopping and internet operations
increased 11% to $755,302,000 for fiscal 2006 from $680,592,000 for fiscal 2005. The growth in television home
shopping and internet net sales during fiscal 2006 is primarily attributable to increased merchandise sales driven by
the growth in the number of homes receiving our television programming, higher productivity from existing homes
due to increased sales per hour results achieved in the jewelry, watches, apparel and electronics merchandise
categories and a 26% increase, or $38,072,000, in internet net sales over fiscal 2005. In addition, television and
internet net sales increased due to increased shipping and handling revenue resulting from increased sales during
fiscal 2006 compared to fiscal 2005.
We record a reserve as a reduction of gross sales for anticipated product returns at each month-end based upon
historical product return experience. The return rates for our television home shopping and internet operations have
been approximately 32% to 33% over the past three fiscal years and have remained relatively stable. We continue to
manage return rates and are adjusting average selling price points and product mix, in an effort to reduce the overall
return rate related to our television home shopping and internet businesses.
Cost of Sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) from continuing operations for fiscal 2007 was
$510,535,000 compared to $500,114,000 for fiscal 2006, an increase of 2%. The increases in cost of sales is directly
attributable to increased costs associated with increased sales volume from our television home shopping and internet
businesses. Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) from continuing operations for fiscal 2006 was
$500,114,000 compared to $452,907,000 for fiscal 2005, an increase of 10%. The increases in cost of sales is directly
attributable to increased costs associated with increased sales volume from our television home shopping and internet
businesses and increased shipping costs associated with increases in shipping and handling revenues. Net sales less
cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) as a percentage of sales (sales margin) for fiscal 2007, 2006
and 2005 was 34.7%, 34.8% and 34.5%, respectively. The slight sales margin decrease for fiscal 2007 from fiscal
2006 was primarily due to a mix shift to lower margin computers and electronics product categories made during
fiscal 2007. The product sales margin improvement for fiscal 2006 over fiscal 2005 was primarily due to the
achievement of higher merchandise margins on television and internet merchandise in primarily the jewelry, watches,
electronics and apparel product categories and as a result of decreased inventory obsolescence and lower promotional
discounting as a percentage of total net sales.
Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses from continuing operations were $294,067,000, $276,640,000 and $257,590,000 for
fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively, representing an increase of $17,427,000, or 6%, from fiscal 2006 to fiscal
2007, and an increase of $19,050,000, or 7%, from fiscal 2005 to fiscal 2006. Fiscal 2007 total operating expenses
included a $5,043,000 restructuring charge following its second quarter announcement and a $2,451,000 charge
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relating to the termination and transition of our chief executive officer. Fiscal 2005 total operating expenses included
a charge of $82,000 recorded in connection with employee terminations and a $294,000 gain recorded in connection
with the sale of our remaining low power television station, which reduced total operating expenses in fiscal 2005.
Distribution and selling expense for fiscal 2007 increased $15,231,000, or 7%, to $241,681,000, or 31% of net
sales compared to $226,450,000, or 30% of net sales in fiscal 2006. Distribution and selling expense increased over
fiscal 2006 primarily due to an increase in net cable and satellite access fees of $6,314,000 as a result of increased
subscribers over prior year; increased bad debt expense of $7,219,000 due to increased provisions for recent up-
trends in account delinquencies, costs of collection and write offs experienced during fiscal 2007 all associated with
increased exposure relating to the current consumer credit environment; increased internet and direct-mail and
marketing expenses of $6,030,000 primarily associated with our internet website search engine initiative and our
attempt to acquire additional customers and increase our overall penetration; and increased telemarketing and
customer service costs of $1,860,000 associated with increased sales volumes and our commitment to improve our
customer service. These increases were offset by a decrease in salaries, accrued bonuses and other related personnel
costs associated with merchandising, television production and show management personnel and on-air talent of
$5,205,000 during fiscal 2007 and decreased net credit card processing fees and chargebacks totaling $1,078,000.
Distribution and selling expense for fiscal 2006 increased $14,081,000, or 7%, to $226,450,000, or 30% of net
sales compared to $212,369,000, or 31% of net sales in fiscal 2005. Distribution and selling expense increased over
fiscal 2005 primarily due to an increase in salaries, accrued bonuses and related personnel costs associated with
hiring and retaining primarily merchandising, television production and show management personnel and on-air
talent of $3,452,000 during fiscal 2006; increased credit card and net collection fees of $3,430,000 due to the overall
increase in net sales; increased internet and direct-mail and marketing expenses of $3,490,000 as we attempt to
acquire additional customers and increase our overall penetration; increased telemarketing and customer service costs
of $3,463,000 associated with increased sales volumes and our commitment to improve our customer service; a
$724,000 contract buyout fee relating to our legacy private label credit card agreement and increased share-based
compensation expense of $778,000. These increases were offset by a decrease in net cable and satellite access fees of
$888,000.
General and administrative expense for fiscal 2007 decreased $3,023,000, or 11%, to $24,899,000, or 3% of net
sales from continuing operations, compared to $27,922,000, or 4% of net sales from continuing operations in fiscal
2006. General and administrative expense decreased from fiscal 2006 primarily as a result of our restructuring
initiative that included reductions in salaries, related benefits and accrued bonuses totaling $4,913,000, offset by
increases associated with director stock-based compensation of $190,000, information systems service and contract
labor fees of $726,000, legal fees of $507,000 and stock option expense of $162,000
General and administration expense for fiscal 2006 increased $3,058,000, or 12%, to $27,922,000, or 4% of net
sales from continuing operations, compared to $24,864,000, or 4% of net sales from continuing operations in fiscal
2005. General and administrative expense increased over fiscal 2005 primarily as a result of compensation recorded
related to share-based payments of $778,000, increased salaries, accrued bonuses, and related personnel costs of
$2,982,000, information systems service fees of $402,000 and director stock-based compensation of $273,000, offset
by $660,000 of decreased legal fees and proceeds received from a litigation settlement totaling $300,000.
Depreciation and amortization expense was $19,993,000, $22,239,000 and $20,569,000 for fiscal 2007, 2006
and 2005, respectively, representing an decrease of $2,246,000, or 10%, from fiscal 2006 to fiscal 2007 and an
increase of $1,670,000, or 8%, from fiscal 2005 to fiscal 2006. Depreciation and amortization expense as a
percentage of net sales was 3% for fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005. The 2007 decrease in depreciation and amortization
expense relates to the timing of fully depreciated assets year over year, offset by increased depreciation and
amortization as a result of assets places in service in connection with our various application software development
and functionality enhancements. The dollar increase experienced during fiscal 2006 was primarily due to increased
depreciation and amortization as a result of assets placed in service in connection with our various application
software development and functionality enhancements.
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Operating Loss
We reported an operating loss from continuing operations of $23,052,000 for fiscal 2007 compared with an
operating loss from continuing operations of $9,479,000 for fiscal 2006, an increased loss of $13,573,000. Our
operating loss increased during fiscal 2007 primarily as a result of experiencing slower net sales growth driven by a
general softness in overall consumer demand. In addition, we experienced increases during fiscal 2007 in operating
expenses, particularly (i) increases in distribution and selling expenses recorded in connection with bad debt expense,
net cable access fees, internet direct mail, marketing and search engine expenses, (ii) increases in costs associated
with our restructuring initiative, and (iii) incremental costs associated with our chief executive officer departure and
transition. These operating expense increases were offset by the dollar increase in sales margin (sales minus cost of
sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization), decreases in general and administrative expense as a result of the
restructuring initiative, reduced salary and bonuses and a net decrease in depreciation and amortization expense as a
result of the timing of fully depreciated assets year over year.
We reported an operating loss from continuing operations of $9,479,000 for fiscal 2006 compared with an
operating loss from continuing operations of $18,646,000 for fiscal 2005, an improvement of $9,167,000. Our
operating loss for fiscal 2006 improved from fiscal 2005 primarily as a result of our dollar increase in sales margin.
Offsetting the increase in sales margin over fiscal 2005 were increases in distribution and selling expenses,
particularly (i) additional personnel costs associated with merchandising, television production, show management
and on-air talent, (ii) internet, direct-mail and marketing expenses, (iii) credit card fees and bad debt expense,
(iv) increases in general and administrative expenses recorded in connection with salaries, accrued bonuses and
information system service fees, and (v) increases in depreciation and amortization expense as a result of assets
placed in service in connection with our various application software development and functionality enhancements,
the details of which are discussed above. In addition, operating expenses increased over the prior year due to the
recording of noncash stock option expense totaling $1,556,000 resulting from our adoption of SFAS No. 123(R) in
the first quarter of fiscal 2006.
Net Income (Loss)
For fiscal 2007, we reported net income available to common shareholders of $22,161,000, or $0.53 per basic
and diluted share, on 41,992,000 weighted average common shares outstanding (42,011,000 diluted shares). For
fiscal 2006, we reported a net loss available to common shareholders of $2,685,000, or $0.07 per basic and diluted
share, on 37,646,000 weighted average common shares outstanding. For fiscal 2005, we reported a net loss available
to common shareholders of $16,040,000, or $0.43 per basic and diluted share, on 37,182,000 weighted average
common shares outstanding. Net income available to common shareholders for fiscal 2007 includes the recording of
a pre-tax gain of $40,240,000 on the sale of RLM, the recording of $609,000 of equity in earnings from RLM, a loss
of $119,000 on the sale of a non-operating real estate asset held for sale, a loss of $67,000 relating to non-operating
investments and interest income totaling $5,680,000 earned on our cash and investments. Net loss available to
common shareholders for fiscal 2006 includes the recording of $3,006,000 of equity in earnings from RLM, a
$500,000 gain on the sale of an investment, a $150,000 write-down of a non-operating real estate asset held for sale,
and interest income totaling $3,802,000 earned on our cash and short-term investments. Net loss available to
common shareholders for fiscal 2005 includes a net loss of $2,296,000 from discontinued operations, a $250,000
cash dividend received from RLM, a $256,000 write-down of a non-operating real estate asset held for sale, the
recording of $1,383,000 of equity in earnings of RLM, a $762,000 income tax benefit, and interest income totaling
$3,048,000 earned on our cash and short-term investments.
For fiscal 2007, we reported a net income tax provision of $839,000 which resulted in a recorded effective tax
rate of 3.6%. The provision recorded in fiscal 2007 primarily relates to income taxes attributable to the gain on the
sale of RLM which reflects a 2.5% effective alternative minimum tax rate recorded on the gain on the sale of RLM
and state income taxes payable on certain income for which there is no loss carryforward benefit available.
For fiscal 2006 and 2005, net loss reflects an income tax benefit (provision) of $(75,000) and $762,000,
respectively, which resulted in a recorded effective tax rate of 3.2% in fiscal 2006 and 5.4% in fiscal 2005. We have
recorded an income tax provision during fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 relating to state income taxes payable on certain
income for which there is no loss carryforward benefit available. We recorded an income tax benefit of
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$832,000 in the second quarter of fiscal 2005 related to the reversal of an income tax contingency reserve that
expired in the quarter and was no longer required. We have not recorded any other income tax benefit on the losses
recorded during fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 due to the uncertainty of realizing income tax benefits in the future as
indicated by our recording of an income tax valuation reserve. Based on our recent history of losses, a full valuation
allowance has been recorded and was calculated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 109, which places
primary importance on our most recent operating results when assessing the need for a valuation allowance.
Although management believes that our recent operating losses were heavily affected by the attendant fixed costs
associated with a significant expansion of cable homes, a challenging retail economic environment and a slowdown
in consumer spending experienced by us and other merchandise retailers, we intend to maintain a full valuation
allowance for our net deferred tax assets and net operating loss carryforwards until we believe it is more likely than
not that these assets will be realized in the future.
Quarterly Results
The following summarized unaudited results of operations for the quarters in fiscal 2007 and 2006 have been
prepared on the same basis as the annual financial statements and reflect adjustments (consisting of normal recurring
adjustments) that we consider necessary for a fair presentation of results of operations for the periods presented. Our
results of operations have varied and may continue to fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter. Results of
operations in any period should not be considered indicative of the results to be expected for any future period.
Fiscal 2007:
Net sales
Net sales less cost of sales (exclusive of
depreciation and amortization)
Sales margin
Operating expenses
Operating income (loss)
Other income, net
Gain on sale of RLM
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) per share
Net income (loss) per share — assuming dilution
Weighted average shares outstanding:
First
Quarter
Second
Quarter
Third
Quarter
Fourth
Quarter
Total
(In thousands, except percentages and per share amounts)
$ 188,109 $ 190,613 $ 184,821 $ 218,007 $ 781,550
66,113 67,322 64,984 72,596 271,015
35.1 %
35.3 %
35.2 %
33.3 %
34.7 %
(6,225 )
1,456
—
(5,409 )
73,541 73,547 72,440 74,539 294,067
(1,943 ) (23,052 )
5,494
1,070
— 40,240
(791 ) 22,452
(791 ) $ 22,452
.53
(.02 ) $
.53
(.02 ) $
(7,456 )
(7,428 )
1,728
1,240
—
40,240
34,380
(5,728 )
$ 34,380 $ (5,409 ) $ (5,728 ) $
(.16 ) $
$
(.16 ) $
$
(.15 ) $
(.15 ) $
.80 $
.80 $
Basic
Diluted
42,939 37,367 36,331 35,314 41,992
42,939 37,367 36,331 35,314 42,011
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Fiscal 2006:
Net sales
Net sales less cost of sales (exclusive of
depreciation and amortization)
Sales margin
Operating expenses
Operating income (loss)
Other income, net
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) per share
Net income (loss) per share — assuming dilution
Weighted average shares outstanding:
First
Quarter
Second
Quarter
Third
Quarter
Fourth
Quarter
Total
(In thousands, except percentages and per share amounts)
$ 178,724 $ 186,982 $ 184,886 $ 216,683 $ 767,275
63,202 65,227 63,575 75,157 267,161
35.4 %
34.9 %
34.4 %
34.7 %
34.8 %
67,120 67,923 68,322 73,275 276,640
(9,479 )
(2,696 )
4,152
1,015
(696 )
(2,396 )
(696 ) $ (3,126 ) $ 3,517 $ (2,396 )
(.07 )
(.02 ) $
(.07 )
(.02 ) $
(3,918 )
1,296
(2,091 )
$ (2,091 ) $
(.06 ) $
$
(.06 ) $
$
(4,747 )
990
(3,126 )
1,882
851
3,517
(.09 ) $
(.09 ) $
.09 $
.08 $
Basic
Diluted
37,679 37,736 37,628 37,484 37,646
37,679 37,736 37,628 42,861 37,646
Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources
As of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, cash and cash equivalents and investments were $85,384,000 and
$71,294,000, respectively, a $14,090,000 increase. For fiscal 2007 working capital decreased $21,338,000 to
$133,833,000 compared to working capital of $155,171,000 for fiscal 2006. The decrease in fiscal 2007 working
capital is primarily related to the reclassification of $24,346,000 of auction rate security investments
($26,800,000 par value) from short term to long term following auction failures in fiscal 2007. The current ratio was
2.1 at February 2, 2008 compared to 2.5 at February 3, 2007.
Sources of Liquidity
Our principal sources of liquidity are our available cash, cash equivalents and short and long-term investments,
accrued interest earned from our short and long-term investments and our operating cash flow, which is primarily
generated from credit card receipts from sales transactions and the collection of outstanding customer accounts
receivables. The timing of customer collections made pursuant to our ValuePay installment program and the extent to
which we extend credit to our customers is important to our short-term liquidity and cash resources. A significant
increase in our accounts receivable aging or credit losses could negatively impact our source of cash from operations
in the short term. During fiscal 2007, we experienced a $7.2 million increase in bad debt expense over fiscal 2006
due to recent up-trends experienced in customer account delinquencies, costs of collection and write offs during
fiscal 2007, all associated with increased exposure relating to the current consumer credit environment. While credit
losses have historically been within our estimates for such losses, there is no guarantee that we will continue to
experience the same credit loss rate that we have had in the past or that the recent increase in bad debt losses will not
continue. Historically, we have also been able to generate additional cash sources from the proceeds of stock option
exercises and from the sale of equity investments and other properties; however, these sources of cash are neither
relied upon nor controllable by us. We have no debt other than fixed capital lease obligations and believe we have the
ability to obtain additional financing if necessary. At February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, short and long-term
investments and cash equivalents were invested primarily in money market funds, high quality commercial paper
with original maturity dates of less than 270 days and investment grade corporate and auction rate securities with
original tender option terms ranging from one month to one year. Although management believes our short and long-
term investment policy is conservative in nature, certain short-term investments in commercial paper
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can be exposed to the credit risk of the underlying companies to which they relate and interest earned on these
investments is subject to interest rate fluctuations. The maturities and tender option terms within our investment
portfolio generally range from 30 to 180 days.
At February 2, 2008, our investment portfolio included auction rate securities with an estimated fair value of
$24,346,000 ($26,800,000 cost basis). Our auction rate securities are variable rate debt instruments that have
underlying securities with contractual maturities greater than ten years. Holders of auction rate securities can either
sell through the auction or bid based on a desired interest rate or hold and accept the reset rate. If there are
insufficient buyers, then the auction fails and holders are unable to liquidate their investment through the auction. A
failed auction is not a default of the debt instrument, but does set a new interest rate in accordance with the original
terms of the debt instrument. The result of a failed auction is that the auction rate security continues to pay interest in
accordance with its terms. Auctions continue to be held as scheduled until the auction rate security matures or until it
is called. These mostly AAA-rated auction rate securities, which met our investment guidelines at the time the
investments were made, have failed to settle in auctions during fiscal 2007. At this time, these investments are not
liquid, and in the event we need to access these funds, we will not be able to do so without a loss of principle. We
have reduced the carrying value of these investments by $2,454,000 through other comprehensive income (loss) to
reflect a temporary impairment on these securities. Currently, we believe these investments are temporarily impaired,
but it is not clear in what period of time they will be settled. Due to the current lack of liquidity of these investments,
they are classified as long-term investments on our balance sheet. See Note 2 to the consolidated financial
statements.
Cash Requirements
Our principal use of cash is to fund our business operations, which consist primarily of purchasing inventory for
resale, funding account receivables growth in support of sales growth and funding operating expenses, particularly
our contractual commitments for cable and satellite programming and the funding of capital expenditures.
Expenditures made for property and equipment in fiscal 2007 and 2006 and for expected future capital expenditures
include the upgrade and replacement of computer software and front-end merchandising systems, expansion of
capacity to support our growing business, continued improvements and modifications to our owned headquarter
buildings and the upgrade and digitalization of television production and transmission equipment and related
computer equipment associated with the expansion of our home shopping business and e-commerce initiatives.
Historically, we have also used our cash resources for various strategic investments and for the repurchase of stock
under stock repurchase programs but are under no obligation to continue doing so if protection of liquidity is desired.
In March 2008, we authorized an additional $10 million under our stock repurchase program and have the discretion
to repurchase stock under the program and make strategic investments consistent with our business strategy.
We ended fiscal 2007 with cash and cash equivalents and investments of $85,384,000 ($26,306,000 of which is
classified as long-term), and no long-term debt obligations. We expect future growth in working capital as revenues
grow beyond fiscal 2007 but expect cash generated from operations to partially offset the expected use. We believe
our existing cash balances and our ability to raise additional financing will be sufficient to fund our obligations and
commitments as they come due on a long-term basis and sufficient to fund potential foreseeable contingencies. These
estimates are subject to business risk factors, including those identified under “Risk Factors.” In addition to these risk
factors, a significant element of uncertainty in future cash flows arises from potential strategic investments we may
make, which are inherently opportunistic and difficult to predict. We believe existing cash balances, our ability to
raise financing and the ability to structure transactions in a manner reflective of capital availability will be sufficient
to fund any investments while maintaining sufficient liquidity for our normal business operations.
Our preferred stock issued to GE Equity may be redeemed upon certain changes in control of our company and,
in any event, may be redeemed on March 8, 2009 upon the ten-year anniversary of its issuance (unless previously
converted into common stock). If we are unable to generate positive cash flow or obtain additional capital prior to
any such redemption, the requirement that we pay cash in connection with the redemption may have a material
impact on our liquidity and cash resources. The aggregate redemption cost of all the preferred stock is $44,264,000.
The preferred stock has a redemption price of $8.29 per share and is convertible on a one-for-one basis into our
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common stock, and accordingly, if the market value of our stock is higher than the redemption price immediately
prior to the redemption date, GE Equity may choose to convert its shares of preferred stock to common stock rather
than exercise its right to redemption and not impact our cash liquidity position.
Total assets at February 2, 2008 were $359,080,000 compared to $351,980,000 at February 3, 2007.
Shareholders’ equity was $194,510,000 at February 2, 2008 compared to $198,847,000 at February 3, 2007, a
decrease of $4,337,000. The decrease in shareholders’ equity from fiscal 2006 to fiscal 2007 resulted primarily from
common stock repurchases of $26,985,000, the unrealized loss of $2,454,000 recorded on our auction rate security
investments and accretion on redeemable preferred stock of $291,000. These decreases were offset by increases in
shareholders’ equity of $22,452,000 from net income during the year, $2,415,000 related to the recording of share-
based compensation and $514,000 primarily from proceeds received related to the exercise of stock options. The
decrease in shareholders’ equity from fiscal 2005 to fiscal 2006 resulted primarily from the net loss of $2,396,000
recorded during the year, common stock repurchases of $4,699,000 and accretion on redeemable preferred stock of
$289,000. These decreases were offset by increases in shareholders’ equity of $1,901,000 related to the recording of
share-based compensation and $1,459,000 primarily from proceeds received related to the exercise of stock options.
For fiscal 2007, net cash provided by operating activities totaled $11,189,000 compared to net cash provided by
operating activities of $3,542,000 in fiscal 2006 and net cash used for operating activities of $10,374,000 in fiscal
2005. Net cash provided by operating activities for fiscal 2007 reflects net income, as adjusted for depreciation and
amortization, share-based payment compensation, common stock issued to employees, amortization of deferred
revenue, gain on sale of property and investments, asset impairments and write off charges and equity in net income
of affiliates. In addition, net cash provided by operating activities for fiscal 2007 reflects a decrease in accounts
receivable, decreases in prepaid expenses and other assets, an increase in deferred revenue and an increase in
accounts payable and accrued liabilities, offset by an increase in inventory. Accounts receivable decreased primarily
due to a decrease from sales made during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 utilizing extended payment terms over
fiscal 2006 as we tightened up our customer credit offerings. Prepaid expenses decreased primarily as a result of
proceeds received on the sale of a non-operating real estate asset held for sale. The increase in deferred revenue is a
direct result of the sales growth volume experienced with our private label and co-branded credit card program which
launched in fiscal 2006. The increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses is a direct result of the increase in
inventory levels and the timing of merchandise payments, increased accruals associated with our private label loyalty
point program and the restructuring initiative. These increases were offset by decreases in accrued salaries, bonuses
and accrued cable access and marketing fees. Inventories increased due to marginal fourth quarter sales increases and
due to the timing of merchandise receipts.
Net cash provided by operating activities for fiscal 2006 reflects a net loss, as adjusted for depreciation and
amortization, share-based payment compensation, common stock issued to employees, amortization of deferred
revenue, gain on sale of property and investments, asset impairments and write off charges, proceeds from RLM
dividends and equity in net income of affiliates. In addition, net cash provided by operating activities for fiscal 2006
reflects decreases in inventory, prepaid expenses and other assets and an increase in deferred revenue, accounts
payable and accrued liabilities, offset by an increase in accounts receivable. Inventories decreased primarily as a
result of our strong fourth quarter sales activity and management’s focused effort to reduce overall inventory levels.
Prepaid expenses decreased primarily as a result of the timing of prepaid cable access fees. The increase in deferred
revenue was primarily the result of receiving upfront cash payments in connection with our new private label and co-
branded credit card program. The increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses is a result of increases
associated with accrued salaries, accrued cable access and marketing fees, offset primarily by amounts due to
customers for returns. Accounts receivable increased primarily due to the overall increase in net sales and
specifically due to increases in sales made utilizing extended payment terms and the timing of customer collections
made under our ValuePay installment program.
Net cash used for operating activities for fiscal 2005 reflects a net loss, as adjusted for depreciation and
amortization, common stock issued to employees, amortization of deferred compensation, gain on sale of television
stations, gain on sale of property and investments, asset impairment and write off charges, equity in net income of
affiliates, a noncash tax benefit recorded in fiscal 2005 and a gain on the termination of a long-term lease associated
with FanBuzz. In addition, net cash used for operating activities for fiscal 2005 reflects an increase in inventories,
accounts receivable and prepaid expenses and other assets, offset by an increase in accounts payable and accrued
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liabilities. Inventories increased primarily in preparation for the fourth quarter anticipated strong holiday season and
as a direct result of our effort to diversify our product mix offerings. Accounts receivable increased primarily due to
an increase in receivables from sales utilizing extended payment terms and the timing of customer collections under
the ValuePay installment program. Prepaid expenses and other assets increased primarily as a result of an increase in
prepaid cable access fees due to the timing of payments, an increase in deferred satellite rent, offset by a decrease in
prepaid postage. The increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities is a direct result of the increase in inventory
levels and the timing of merchandise receipts. In addition, accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased as a
result of the timing of payments made for accrued cable access and marketing fees, offset by a decrease in accrued
salaries and a decrease in amounts due to customers for returned merchandise.
We utilize an installment payment program called ValuePay that entitles customers to purchase merchandise and
generally pay for the merchandise in two to five equal monthly credit card installments. As of February 2, 2008, we
had approximately $99,875,000 due from customers under the ValuePay installment program, compared to
$105,197,000 at February 3, 2007. The decrease in ValuePay receivables from fiscal 2006 is primarily the result of
decreased sales made during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 utilizing extended payment terms over fiscal 2006 as
we tighten up our customer credit offerings. ValuePay was introduced many years ago to increase sales and to
respond to similar competitive programs while at the same time reducing return rates on merchandise with above
average selling prices. We record a reserve for uncollectible accounts in our financial statements in connection with
ValuePay installment sales and intend to continue to sell merchandise using the ValuePay program. Receivables
generated from the ValuePay program will be funded in fiscal 2008 from our present capital resources and future
operating cash flows.
Net cash used for investing activities totaled $475,000 in fiscal 2007, compared to net cash used for investing
activities of $1,562,000 in fiscal 2006 and net cash used for investing activities of $10,111,000 in fiscal 2005.
Expenditures for property and equipment were $11,789,000 in fiscal 2007 compared to $11,470,000 in fiscal 2006
and $9,750,000 in fiscal 2005. Expenditures for property and equipment during fiscal 2007, fiscal 2006 and fiscal
2005 primarily include capital expenditures made for the development, upgrade and replacement of computer
software and front-end ERP, customer care management and merchandising systems, related computer equipment,
digital broadcasting equipment and other office equipment, warehouse equipment, production equipment and
building improvements. Principal future capital expenditures are expected to include the upgrade and replacement of
various enterprise software systems, continued improvements and modifications to our owned headquarter buildings,
the expansion of warehousing capacity and security in our Bowling Green distribution facility, the upgrade and
digitalization of television production and transmission equipment and related computer equipment associated with
the expansion of our home shopping business and e-commerce initiatives. During fiscal 2007, we invested
$82,913,000 in various short and long-term investments, received proceeds of $50,477,000 from the sale of short and
long-term investments and received proceeds of $43,750,000 from the sale of our RLM investment.
During fiscal 2006, we invested $21,627,000 in various short-term investments, received proceeds of
$31,035,000 from the sale of short-term investments and received proceeds of $500,000 from the sale of an internet
investment previously written off.
During fiscal 2005, we invested $80,454,000 in various short-term investments, received proceeds of
$79,193,000 from the sale of short-term investments, received proceeds of $400,000 in connection with the sale of a
low power television station and received proceeds of $500,000 from the sale of property and equipment in
connection with the shut down of FanBuzz.
Net cash used for financing activities totaled $26,605,000 in fiscal 2007 and related primarily to payments made
of $26,985,000 in conjunction with the repurchase of 3,618,000 shares of our common stock and payments of long-
term lease obligations of $134,000, offset by cash proceeds received of $514,000 from the exercise of stock options.
Net cash used for financing activities totaled $3,627,000 in fiscal 2006 and related primarily to payments made of
$4,699,000 in conjunction with the repurchase of 406,000 shares of our common stock and payments of long-term
lease obligations of $363,000, offset by cash proceeds received of $1,435,000 from the exercise of stock options. Net
cash provided by financing activities totaled $988,000 in fiscal 2005 and related primarily to cash proceeds received
of $1,869,000 from the exercise of stock options, offset by payments of long-term capital lease obligations of
$881,000.
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Contractual Cash Obligations and Commitments
The following table summarizes our obligations and commitments as of February 2, 2008, and the effect these
obligations and commitments are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flow in future periods:
Payments Due by Period
Cable and satellite agreements(a)
Employment agreements
Operating leases
Purchase order obligations
Total
Total
Less than
1 Year
More than
1-3 Years 3-5 Years 5 Years
(In thousands)
$ 245,873 $ 105,688 $ 77,608 $ 62,577 $ —
—
4,909
10,250
20,327
—
55,700
$ 326,809 $ 167,341 $ 82,708 $ 66,510 $ 10,250
3,756
2,197
55,700
1,153
3,947
—
—
3,933
—
(a) Future cable and satellite payment commitments are based on subscriber levels as of February 2, 2008 and
future payment commitment amounts could increase or decrease as the number of cable and satellite
subscribers increase or decrease. Under certain circumstances, operators may cancel their agreements prior to
expiration.
Impact of Inflation
We believe that inflation has not had a material impact on our results of operations for each of the fiscal years in
the three-year period ended February 2, 2008. We cannot assure you that inflation will not have an adverse impact on
our operating results and financial condition in future periods.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 141(R), Business Combinations . SFAS No. 141(R) applies to all transactions or other events in which
an entity obtains control of one or more businesses. SFAS No. 141(R) establishes how the acquirer of a business
should recognize, measure and disclose in its financial statements the identifiable assets and goodwill acquired, the
liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired business. SFAS No. 141(R) is applied
prospectively for all business combinations with an acquisition date on or after the beginning of the first annual
reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008, with early application prohibited. SFAS No. 141(R) will
not have an impact on our historical consolidated financial statements and will be adopted in the first quarter of fiscal
2009.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements , to establish a consistent
framework for measuring fair value and expand disclosures on fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 does not
impose fair value measurements on items not already accounted for at fair value; rather it applies, with certain
exceptions, to other accounting pronouncements that either require or permit fair value measurements. Under
SFAS No. 157, fair value refers to the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an
orderly transaction between market participants in the principal or most advantageous market. The standard clarifies
that fair value should be based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability.
The provisions of SFAS No. 157 are effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently
evaluating the effect that the adoption of SFAS No. 157 will have on our consolidated results of operations and
financial condition.
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
We do not enter into financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes and do not currently utilize
derivative financial instruments as a hedge to offset market risk. We have held certain equity investments in the form
of common stock purchase warrants in public companies and accounted for these investments in accordance with the
provisions of SFAS No. 133. We currently do not have investments in the form of common stock purchase warrants.
Our operations are conducted primarily in the United States and as such are not subject to foreign currency exchange
rate risk. However, some of our products are sourced internationally and may fluctuate in cost as a result of foreign
currency swings. We have no long-term debt other than fixed capital lease obligations, and accordingly, are not
significantly exposed to interest rate risk, although changes in market interest rates do impact the level of interest
income earned on our substantial cash and short-term investment portfolio.
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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
OF VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and
February 4, 2006
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and
February 4, 2006
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and
February 4, 2006
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Financial Statement Schedule — Schedule II — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Page
48
49
50
51
52
53
84
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of
ValueVision Media, Inc. and Subsidiaries
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of ValueVision Media, Inc. and subsidiaries
(the “Company”) as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007 and the related consolidated statements of operations,
shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4,
2006. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule included in 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 these financial statements and the 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 consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated 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 consolidated
financial position of ValueVision Media, Inc. and subsidiaries as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, and the
results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and
February 4, 2006, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also,
in our opinion, the financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial
statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.
As discussed in Note 2 and Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements, in the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007
the Company changed its method of accounting for stock-based compensation.
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 February 2, 2008, based on criteria established
in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission, and our report dated April 17, 2008, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal
control over financial reporting.
Minneapolis, MN
April 17, 2008
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term investments
Accounts receivable, net
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other
Total current assets
Long-term investments
Property and equipment, net
FCC broadcasting license
NBC Trademark License Agreement, net
Cable distribution and marketing agreement, net
Other assets
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable
Accrued liabilities
Deferred revenue
Total current liabilities
Other long-term obligations
Deferred revenue
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 8 and 9)
Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, $.01 par value, 5,339,500 shares
February 2, February 3,
2008
2007
(In thousands, except share
and per share data)
4,172
$ 25,605 $ 41,496
33,473 29,798
109,489 117,169
79,444 66,622
5,360
252,183 260,445
26,306
—
36,627 40,107
31,943 31,943
10,608 12,234
1,759
872
5,492
541
$ 359,080 $ 351,980
$ 73,093 $ 57,196
44,609 47,709
369
648
118,350 105,274
2,553
—
1,699
2,322
authorized; 5,339,500 shares issued and outstanding
43,898 43,607
Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 34,070,422 and
37,593,768 shares issued and outstanding
Warrants to purchase 2,036,858 and 4,036,858 shares of common stock
Additional paid-in capital
Accumulated other comprehensive losses
Accumulated deficit
Total shareholders’ equity
376
341
12,041 22,972
274,172 287,541
—
(89,590 ) (112,042 )
194,510 198,847
$ 359,080 $ 351,980
(2,454 )
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Years Ended
February 2, February 3, February 4,
2007
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
2006
2008
$
Net sales
Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below)
Operating (income) expenses:
Distribution and selling
General and administrative
Depreciation and amortization
Restructuring costs
CEO transition costs
Gain on sale of television station
Total operating expenses
Operating loss
Other income (expense):
Other
Interest income
Total other income
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in
net income of affiliates
Gain on sale of RLM investment
Income tax benefit (provision)
Equity in net income of affiliates
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Discontinued operations:
Loss from discontinued FanBuzz operations, net of tax
Net income (loss)
Accretion of redeemable preferred stock
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders
Net income (loss) per common share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) per common share — assuming dilution:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
$
$
$
$
$
781,550 $
510,535
767,275 $
500,114
691,851
452,907
241,681
24,899
19,993
5,043
2,451
—
294,067
(23,052 )
226,450
27,922
22,239
29
—
—
276,640
(9,479 )
212,369
24,864
20,569
82
—
(294 )
257,590
(18,646 )
(186 )
5,680
5,494
350
3,802
4,152
(4 )
3,048
3,044
(17,558 )
40,240
(839 )
609
22,452
—
22,452
(291 )
22,161 $
0.53 $
—
0.53 $
0.53 $
—
0.53 $
(5,327 )
—
(75 )
3,006
(2,396 )
—
(2,396 )
(289 )
(2,685 ) $
(0.07 ) $
—
(0.07 ) $
(0.07 ) $
—
(0.07 ) $
(15,602 )
—
762
1,383
(13,457 )
(2,296 )
(15,753 )
(287 )
(16,040 )
(0.37 )
(0.06 )
(0.43 )
(0.37 )
(0.06 )
(0.43 )
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic
Diluted
41,992,167 37,646,162 37,181,717
42,010,972 37,646,162 37,181,717
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
For the Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006
Comprehensive Common Stock
Common
Stock Additional
Accumulated
Other
Total
Net loss
$
(2,396 )
Balance, January 31, 2005
Net loss
Exercise of stock options and common stock
issuances
Exercise of stock purchase warrants
Stock purchase warrants forfeited
Restricted stock forfeited
Amortization of deferred compensation
Accretion on redeemable preferred stock
Balance, February 4, 2006
Repurchases of common stock
Exercise of stock options and common stock
issuances
Stock purchase warrants forfeited
Share-based payment compensation
Effect of accounting change (SFAS 123R)
Accretion on redeemable preferred stock
Balance, February 3, 2007
Net income
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
Unrealized loss on securities
Comprehensive income
Repurchase of common stock
Exercise of stock options and common stock
issuances
Stock purchase warrants forfeited
Share-based payment compensation
Accretion on redeemable preferred stock
Balance, February 2, 2008
Income
(Loss)
Number of Par Purchase Paid-In Deferred
Value Warrants Capital
Compensation
Shares
Comprehensive Accumulated Shareholders’
Deficit
Equity
Losses
37,043,912 $ 370 $ 46,683 $ 264,005 $
(353 ) $
— $
(In thousands, except share data)
$
(15,753 )
(93,893 ) $
(15,753 )
216,812
(15,753 )
318,564
281,200
1,903
5,378
7,276
(9 )
—
(287 )
37,643,676 376 34,029 278,266
3
—
3 (5,378 )
— — (7,276 )
—
— —
—
— —
—
— —
(405,685 )
(4 )
—
(4,695 )
4
—
355,777
1,455
— — (11,057 ) 11,057
1,901
— —
(154 )
— —
(289 )
— —
37,593,768 376 22,972 287,541
—
—
—
—
—
—
9
190
—
(154 )
—
—
—
—
154
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(109,646 )
(2,396 )
1,906
3
—
—
190
(287 )
202,871
(2,396 )
—
(4,699 )
—
—
—
—
—
(112,042 )
22,452
1,459
—
1,901
—
(289 )
198,847
22,452
— —
—
—
—
(2,454 )
—
(2,454 )
(3,617,562 )
(36 )
— (26,948 )
1
—
94,216
525
— — (10,931 ) 10,931
2,414
— —
(291 )
— —
34,070,422 $ 341 $ 12,041 $ 274,172 $
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— $
—
—
(26,984 )
—
—
—
—
(2,454 ) $
—
—
—
—
(89,590 ) $
526
—
2,414
(291 )
194,510
$
22,452
(2,454 )
19,998
$
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash (used for) provided
$ 22,452 $
(2,396 ) $ (15,753 )
For the Years Ended
February 2, February 3, February 4,
2007
(In thousands)
2008
2006
by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
Share-based payment compensation
Common stock issued to employees
Amortization of deferred revenue
Gain on sale of property and investments
Asset impairments and writeoffs
Equity in net income of affiliates
RLM dividends
Vesting of deferred compensation
Gain on sale of television station
Noncash lease termination benefit
Noncash tax benefit
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other
Deferred revenue
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Net cash (used for) provided by operating activities
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Property and equipment additions
Proceeds from sale of investment in RLM and property
Purchase of investments
Proceeds from sale of short and long-term investments
Proceeds from sale of television stations
Net cash used for investing activities
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
Payments for repurchases of common stock
Payment of long-term obligations
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
BEGINNING CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
ENDING CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
19,993 22,239 20,871
—
37
—
(250 )
400
(1,383 )
—
190
(294 )
(924 )
(832 )
2,415
12
(287 )
(40,240 )
428
(609 )
—
—
—
—
—
1,901
24
(119 )
(500 )
179
(3,006 )
250
—
—
—
—
7,680 (29,691 )
(12,822 )
1,532
1,189
9,446
11,189
(8,073 )
1,222 (12,941 )
(3,416 )
3,594
2,188
—
7,657 11,994
3,542 (10,374 )
(9,750 )
(11,789 ) (11,470 )
43,750
500
500
(82,913 ) (21,627 ) (80,454 )
50,477 31,035 79,193
400
(1,562 ) (10,111 )
—
(475 )
—
1,869
1,435
514
—
(4,699 )
(26,985 )
(881 )
(363 )
(134 )
(3,627 )
988
(26,605 )
(1,647 ) (19,497 )
(15,891 )
41,496 43,143 62,640
$ 25,605 $ 41,496 $ 43,143
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007, and February 4, 2006
1. The Company:
ValueVision Media, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) is an integrated direct marketing company that
markets, sells and distributes its products directly to consumers through various forms of electronic media and direct-
to-consumer mailings otherwise known as multi-channel retailing. The Company’s operating strategy incorporates
television home shopping, internet e-commerce, direct mail and on-line marketing and fulfillment services.
The Company’s television home shopping business uses on-air spokespersons to market brand name and private
label consumer products at competitive prices. The Company’s live 24-hour per day television home shopping
programming is distributed primarily through cable and satellite affiliation agreements and the purchase of month-to-
month full and part-time lease agreements of cable and broadcast television time. In addition, the Company
distributes its programming through one Company-owned full power television station in Boston, Massachusetts.
The Company also markets a broad array of merchandise through its internet shopping websites, www.shopnbc.com
and www.shopnbc.tv.
The Company has an exclusive license agreement with NBC Universal, Inc. (“NBCU”), for the worldwide use
of an NBC-branded name and the peacock image through May 2011. Pursuant to the license, we operate our
television home shopping network under the ShopNBC brand name and operate our internet website under the
ShopNBC.com brand name.
The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary, VVI Fulfillment Center, Inc. (“VVIFC”), provides
fulfillment and warehousing services for the fulfillment of merchandise sold by the Company. VVIFC also provides
fulfillment, warehousing, customer service and telemarketing services to Ralph Lauren Media, LLC (“RLM”), the
operator of the Polo.com e-commerce business.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:
Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned
subsidiaries. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Fiscal Year
The Company’s most recently completed fiscal year ended on February 2, 2008 and is designated fiscal 2007.
The year ended February 3, 2007 is designated fiscal 2006 and the year ended February 4, 2006 is designated fiscal
2005. Starting in fiscal 2005, the Company started reporting on a 52/53 week fiscal year which ends on the Saturday
nearest to January 31. The 52/53 week fiscal year allows for the weekly and monthly comparability of sales results
relating to the Company’s television home-shopping business. As a result of this fiscal year change, the fourth
quarter of fiscal 2006 had 13 weeks compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005 which had 14 weeks, a 1.36%
decrease in the number of days over fiscal 2005. The change in the fiscal year was not significant to the Company’s
annual consolidated financial statements.
Revenue Recognition and Accounts Receivable
Revenue is recognized at the time merchandise is shipped or when services are provided. Shipping and handling
fees charged to customers are recognized as merchandise is shipped and are classified as revenue in the
accompanying statements of operations in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue
No. 00-10, Accounting for Shipping and Handling Fees and Cost (“EITF 00-10”). The Company classifies shipping
and handling costs in the accompanying statements of operations as a component of cost of sales. Revenue is
reported net of estimated sales returns and excludes sales taxes. Sales returns are estimated and provided for at the
time of
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
sale based on historical experience. Payments received for unfilled orders are reflected as a component of accrued
liabilities.
Revenue is recognized for the Company’s fulfillment services when the services are provided in accordance
with the Company’s contractual obligation, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectibility is reasonably
assured. The Company’s customary shipping terms for its fulfillment services are Freight-On-Board shipping point.
Accounts receivable consist primarily of amounts due from customers for merchandise sales and from credit
card companies, and are reflected net of reserves for estimated uncollectible amounts of $6,888,000 at February 2,
2008 and $3,641,000 at February 3, 2007. The Company utilizes an installment payment program called ValuePay
that entitles customers to purchase merchandise and generally pay for the merchandise in two to five equal monthly
credit card installments. As of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, the Company had approximately $99,875,000
and $105,197,000, respectively, of net receivables due from customers under the ValuePay installment program. The
Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its
customers to make required payments. Provision for doubtful accounts receivable (primarily related to the
Company’s ValuePay program) for the years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006 were
$12,613,000, $6,065,000 and $4,542,000, respectively.
Cost of Sales and Other Operating Expenses
Cost of sales includes primarily the cost of merchandise sold, shipping and handling costs, inbound freight costs,
excess and obsolete inventory charges and customer courtesy credits. Purchasing and receiving costs, including costs
of inspection, are included as a component of distribution and selling expense and were approximately $10,289,000,
$11,689,000 and $10,460,000 for the years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006,
respectively. Distribution and selling expense consist primarily of cable and satellite access fees, credit card fees, bad
debt expense and costs associated with purchasing and receiving, inspection, marketing and advertising, show
production, website marketing and merchandising, telemarketing, customer service, warehousing and fulfillment.
General and administrative expense consists primarily of costs associated with executive, legal, accounting and
finance, information systems and human resources departments, software and system maintenance contracts,
insurance, investor and public relations and director fees.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash, money market funds and commercial paper with an original maturity
of 90 days or less. The Company maintains its cash balances at financial institutions in investment accounts that are
not federally insured. The Company has not experienced losses in such accounts and believes it is not exposed to any
significant credit risk on its cash and cash equivalents.
Short and Long-Term Investments
Short-term investments consist principally of investment grade corporate debt with original maturity dates of
less than one year. Long-term investments consist principally of investment grade securities and corporate debt with
original maturity dates greater than one year. The Company maintains its short and long-term investments at
financial institutions in investment accounts that are not federally insured. Although management believes the
Company’s short and long-term investment policy is conservative in nature, certain short-term investments can be
exposed to the credit risk of the underlying companies to which they relate and interest earned on these investments
are subject to interest rate fluctuations. The Company believes it is not exposed to any significant credit risk on its
short-term investments. The average maturity of the Company’s short-term investment portfolio ranges from
30-180 days.
The Company’s short and long-term investments consist principally of corporate debt securities, which are
classified as either available-for-sale or held-to-maturity, depending on management’s investment intentions
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
relating to these securities. The Company determines the appropriate classification of its short and long-term
investments at the time of purchase and re-evaluates such classification as of each balance sheet date. Available-for-
sale securities are marked to market based upon quoted market values of these securities. For available-for-sale
securities not actively traded, fair values are estimated by using quoted market prices of comparable instruments or,
if there are no relevant comparables, on pricing models, formulas or cash flow forecasting models using current
assumptions. Investments categorized as held-to-maturity are carried at amortized cost because the Company has
both the intent and ability to hold these investments until they mature. Premiums and discounts are amortized or
accreted into earnings over the life of the related available-for-sale or held-to-maturity security. Dividends or interest
income is recognized when earned. The Company owns no investments that are classified as trading securities.
The Company reviews impairments associated with the above to determine the classification of the impairment
as “temporary” or “other-than-temporary”. A temporary impairment charge results in an unrealized loss being
recorded in the other comprehensive income component of stockholders’ equity. Such an unrealized loss does not
reduce net income for the applicable accounting period because the loss is viewed as temporary. The factors
evaluated to differentiate between temporary and other-than-temporary are the near-term and long-term prospects of
the issuer, the duration and extent to which the market value has been less than cost and our ability and intent to hold
these investments for a period of time sufficient for them to recover in value.
Inventories
Inventories, which consist primarily of consumer merchandise held for resale, are stated principally at the lower
of average cost or realizable value and are reflected net of obsolescence write downs of $4,103,000 at February 2,
2008 and $4,431,000 at February 3, 2007.
Advertising Costs
Promotional advertising, including internet search marketing fees and direct response customer mailings are
expensed in the period the advertising initially takes place. Other direct-response advertising costs, printing and
postage expenditures, are capitalized and amortized over the period during which the benefits are expected. The
Company receives vendor allowances for the reimbursement of certain advertising costs. Advertising allowances
received by the Company are recorded as a reduction of expense and were $2,020,000, $581,000 and $904,000 for
the years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006, respectively. Total advertising costs and
internet search marketing fees, after reflecting allowances given by vendors, totaled $24,838,000, $18,610,000 and
$14,408,000 for the years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006, respectively, and consists
primarily of contractual marketing fees paid to certain cable operators for cross channel promotions and internet
advertising paid to search engine operators and traffic-driving affiliate websites. The Company includes advertising
costs as a component of distribution and selling expense in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Improvements and renewals that extend the life of an asset are
capitalized and depreciated. Repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. The cost and accumulated
depreciation of property and equipment retired or otherwise disposed of are removed from the related accounts, and
any residual values are charged or credited to operations. Depreciation and amortization for financial reporting
purposes are provided on the straight-line method based upon estimated useful lives.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
Property and equipment consisted of the following:
Land and improvements
Buildings and improvements
Transmission and production equipment
Office and warehouse equipment
Computer hardware, software and telephone equipment
Leasehold improvements
Less — Accumulated depreciation and amortization
Estimated
Useful Life
(In Years)
February 2,
February 3,
2008
2007
5-40
5-10
3-15
3-7
3-5
— $ 3,454,000 $ 3,454,000
18,403,000
7,881,000
10,003,000
57,206,000
3,440,000
(60,280,000 )
$ 36,627,000 $ 40,107,000
21,885,000
8,267,000
10,790,000
64,210,000
3,136,000
(75,115,000 )
NBC Trademark License Agreement
As discussed further in Note 15, in November 2000, the Company entered into a Trademark License Agreement
with NBCU (the “License Agreement”) pursuant to which NBCU granted the Company an exclusive, worldwide
license for a term of ten years to use certain NBC trademarks, service marks and domain names to rebrand the
Company’s business and corporate name on the terms and conditions set forth in the License Agreement. In the first
quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company entered into an amendment to the License Agreement which extended the term
of the License Agreement by six months to May 15, 2011. In connection with the License Agreement, the Company
issued to NBCU warrants to purchase 6,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of
$17.375 per share (see Note 6). In March 2001, the Company established a measurement date with respect to the
License Agreement by amending the agreement, and fixed the fair value of the trademark license asset at
$32,837,000, which is being amortized over the remaining term of the License Agreement. The Company used the
Black-Scholes option pricing model to compute the fair market value of the NBCU warrants at March 12, 2001.
Significant assumptions in the warrant fair value calculation included: market price of $11.00; exercise price of
$17.375; risk-free interest rate of 5.08%; volatility factor of 53.54%; and dividend yield of 0%. As of February 2,
2008, all of the warrants are vested and 4,000,000 of the warrants have expired unexercised. As of February 2, 2008
and February 3, 2007, accumulated amortization related to this asset totaled $23,829,000 and $20,603,000,
respectively.
Cable Distribution and Marketing Agreement
As discussed further in Note 13, in March 1999, the Company entered into a ten-year Distribution and
Marketing Agreement with NBCU, which gives NBCU the exclusive right to negotiate on behalf of the Company for
the distribution of its home shopping television service. In compensation for these services, the Company currently
pays NBCU an annual fee of approximately $930,000 and issued NBCU a Distribution Warrant to purchase
1,450,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $8.29. The value assigned to the
Distribution and Marketing Agreement and related warrant of $6,931,000 was determined pursuant to an independent
appraisal using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and is being amortized on a straight-line basis over the term
of the agreement. Significant assumptions used in the warrant valuation included: market price of $9.00; exercise
price of $8.29; risk-free interest rate of 5.01%; volatility factor of 55.36%; and dividend yield of 0%. As of
February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, accumulated amortization related to this asset totaled $6,082,000 and
$5,389,000, respectively.
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company issued to NBCU additional warrants to purchase 36,858 shares
of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $15.74 per share. The warrants were
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
assigned a fair value of $172,000, vest over five years and had a five-year term from the date of vesting. These
warrants were issued in connection with the Distribution and Marketing Agreement which provides that additional
warrants are to be granted at current market prices upon the achievement of specific goals associated with the
distribution of the Company’s television programming with respect to full-time equivalent (“FTE”) subscriber
homes. The fair value assigned to these distribution warrants were determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing
model and are being amortized over the weighted average term of the new distribution agreements which range from
five to seven years. As of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, total accumulated amortization related to this asset
totaled $172,000 and $146,000, respectively.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets have been recorded in connection with the Company’s acquisition of the ShopNBC license and
with the issuance of distribution warrants to NBCU. Intangible assets have also been recorded by the Company as a
result of the acquisition of television station WWDP TV-46. Intangible assets in the accompanying consolidated
balance sheets consist of the following:
February 2, 2008
Weighted
Average
Life
Carrying
(Years) Amount
Gross
Accumulated Carrying
Amortization Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
February 3, 2007
Gross
Amortized intangible assets:
NBC trademark license agreement
Cable distribution and marketing agreement
10.5 $ 34,437,000 $ (23,829,000 ) $ 32,837,000 $ (20,603,000 )
9.5 8,278,000 (7,406,000 ) 8,278,000 (6,519,000 )
$ 42,715,000 $ (31,235,000 ) $ 41,115,000 $ (27,122,000 )
Unamortized intangible assets:
FCC broadcast license
$ 31,943,000
$ 31,943,000
Amortization expense for the NBCU intangible assets was $4,113,000 for the year ended February 2, 2008 and
was $4,122,000 for each of the years ended February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006, respectively. Estimated
amortization expense for the next five years is as follows: $3,943,000 in fiscal 2008, $3,383,000 in fiscal 2009,
$3,227,000 in fiscal 2010 and $927,000 in fiscal 2011.
The FCC broadcasting license, which relates to the Company’s acquisition of television station WWDP TV-46,
is not subject to amortization as a result of its indefinite useful life. The Company tests the FCC license asset for
impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be
impaired. There was no impairment as of February 2, 2008.
Other Assets
Other assets consisted of the following:
Investment in RLM
Prepaid launch fees, net
Deferred satellite rent
Other, net
February 2,
2008
February 3,
2007
$
— $ 4,139,000
561,000
—
672,000
538,000
120,000
3,000
$ 541,000 $ 5,492,000
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
Prepaid launch fees represent prepaid amounts paid to cable operators upon entering into cable affiliation
agreements and prepaid satellite transponder launch fees. These fees are capitalized and amortized over the lives of
the related affiliation contracts, which ranged from 7-8 years.
Deferred satellite rent is attributable to the Company’s fiscal 2004 long-term satellite services rental agreement
that contains provisions for scheduled rent decreases over the lease term. The Company recognizes the related rental
expense on a straight-line basis and records the difference between the recognized rental expense and amounts
payable under the lease as deferred rent.
Other assets consist principally of long-term deposits and the long-term portion of prepaid compensation costs
associated with employment contracts entered into with certain key employees of the Company in fiscal 2004.
Compensation expense is being recognized for these contracts over the four-year service period.
RLM Investment
As discussed in Note 14, in February 2000, the Company entered into a strategic alliance with Polo Ralph
Lauren, NBCU, NBCi and CNBC and created RLM, a joint venture formed for the purpose of bringing the
Polo Ralph Lauren American lifestyle experience to consumers via multiple platforms, including the internet,
broadcast, cable and print. The Company, through VVIFC, has entered into an agreement to provide certain
fulfillment and customer care services to RLM.
On March 28, 2007, the Company entered into a Membership Interest Purchase Agreement (“Purchase
Agreement”) with Polo Ralph Lauren, NBCU and certain NBCU affiliates, pursuant to which the Company sold its
12.5% membership interest in RLM to Polo Ralph Lauren for an aggregate purchase price of $43,750,000 in cash. As
a result of this sales transaction, the Company recorded a pre-tax gain of $40,240,000 on the sale of RLM in the first
quarter of fiscal 2007.
The Company accounted for its ownership interest in RLM under the equity method of accounting and adjusted
its investment balance for its share of RLM income and losses each reporting period. Total equity in net income of
RLM recorded by the Company during fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 was $609,000, $3,006,000 and $1,383,000,
respectively.
The following summarized financial information relates to RLM for the applicable reporting periods (in
thousands):
Net sales
Gross profit
Net income
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2007
$
$
$
26,211 $
17,223 $
4,871 $
Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2006
Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2005
110,930 $
75,857 $
24,053 $
85,584
56,970
17,046
Total current assets
Total assets
Total liabilities
March 31, 2007
$
$
$
78,746 $
79,639 $
18,908 $
December 31, 2006
76,526
76,837
22,179
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities consisted of the following:
Accrued cable access fees
Accrued salaries and related
Reserve for product returns
Other
Income Taxes
February 2,
2008
February 3,
2007
$ 13,483,000 $ 17,960,000
11,083,000
4,640,000
8,498,000
8,376,000
18,110,000
10,168,000
$ 44,609,000 $ 47,709,000
The Company accounts for income taxes under the liability method of accounting in accordance with the
provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes (“SFAS No. 109”)
whereby deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary
differences between financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are
adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of the enactment of such laws. The Company
assesses the recoverability of its deferred tax assets in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 109.
The Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income
Taxes (“FIN 48”), on February 4, 2007. FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in
an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with SFAS No. 109. FIN 48 also prescribes a recognition threshold
and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or
expected to be taken in a tax return. Additionally, FIN 48 provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest
and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. Upon implementation, the Company
determined its positions will more-likely-than-not be sustained if challenged. Therefore, no cumulative effect relating
to adoption of FIN 48 resulted.
The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions within income tax expense.
During the twelve months ended February 2, 2008 the Company did not recognized expense for interest and
penalties, and, do not have any amounts accrued at February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007 respectively, for the
payment of interest and penalties.
The Company is subject to U.S. federal income taxation and the taxing authorities of various states. The
Company’s tax years for 2004, 2005, and 2006 are currently subject to examination by taxing authorities. With
limited exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state, or local examinations by tax authorities
for years before 2004.
Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share
Basic EPS is computed by dividing reported earnings by the weighted average number of common shares
outstanding for the reported period following the two-class method. The effect of our participating convertible
preferred stock is included in basic earnings per share under the two-class method per EITF 03-6, Participating
Securities and the Two-Class Method if dilutive. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if
securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock of the Company
during reported periods.
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A reconciliation of EPS calculations and the number of shares used in the calculation of basic EPS under the
two-class method and diluted EPS under SFAS No. 128 is as follows:
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding using
two-class method
Effect of participating convertible preferred stock
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding using
two-class method — Basic
Dilutive effect of stock options, non-vested shares and warrants
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding —
For the Years Ended
February 3,
February 4,
February 2,
2008
2007
$ 22,452,000 $ (2,396,000 ) $ (13,457,000 )
2006
36,652,000
5,340,000
37,646,000
—
37,182,000
—
41,992,000
19,000
37,646,000
—
37,182,000
—
Diluted
42,011,000
37,646,000
37,182,000
(0.37 )
(0.07 ) $
Net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share $
Net income (loss) from continuing operations per common
0.53 $
share — assuming dilution
$
0.53 $
(0.07 ) $
(0.37 )
In accordance with SFAS No. 128, for the years ended February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006, approximately
228,000 and 611,000, respectively, in-the-money potentially dilutive common share stock options and warrants and
5,340,000 shares of convertible preferred stock have been excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per
share, as required under SFAS No. 128, as the effect of their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The Company reports comprehensive income (loss) in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income (“SFAS No. 130”). SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for
reporting in the financial statements all changes in equity during a period, except those resulting from investments by
and distributions to owners. For the Company, comprehensive income (loss) includes net income (loss) and other
comprehensive income (loss). Total comprehensive income (loss) was $19,998,000, $(2,396,000) and $(15,753,000)
for the years ended February 2, 2008 February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006 respectively.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 107, Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments
(“SFAS No. 107”), requires disclosures of fair value information about financial instruments for which it is
practicable to estimate that value. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on
estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the
assumptions used, including discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. In that regard, the derived fair value
estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets and, in many cases, could not be realized in
immediate settlement of the instrument. SFAS No. 107 excludes certain financial instruments and all non-financial
instruments from its disclosure requirements. Accordingly, the aggregate fair value of amounts presented do not
represent the underlying value of the Company.
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The Company used the following methods and assumptions in estimating its fair values for financial
instruments:
The carrying amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets approximate the fair value for
cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, due
to the short maturities of those instruments.
Fair values for long-term investments are based on quoted market prices, where available. For securities not
actively traded, fair values are estimated by using quoted market prices of comparable instruments or, if there are no
relevant comparables, on pricing models, formulas or cash flow forecasting models using current assumptions.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the
United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts
of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during reporting periods. These estimates relate primarily to the
carrying amounts of accounts receivable and inventories, the realizability of certain long-term assets and the recorded
balances of certain accrued liabilities and reserves. Ultimate results could differ from these estimates.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation arrangements in accordance with Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 123(R) (revised 2004), Share-Based Payment . Compensation is recognized for all stock-
based compensation arrangements by the Company, including employee and non-employee stock options granted
after February 2, 2006 and all unvested stock-based compensation arrangements granted prior to February 2, 2006 as
of such date, commencing with the quarter ended May 6, 2006. The Company adopted the standard using the
modified prospective transition method, which requires the application of the accounting standard to all share-based
awards issued on or after the date of adoption and any outstanding share-based awards that were issued but not
vested as of the date of adoption. Accordingly, the Company did not restate the financial statements for periods prior
to the first quarter of fiscal 2006 as a result of the adoption but does present the disclosure-only effects of stock-based
compensation. See Note 6.
In accordance with SFAS 123R, the estimated grant date fair value of each stock-based award is recognized in
income over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period). The estimated fair value of each option is
calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Non-vested share awards are recorded as compensation
cost over the requisite service periods based on the market value on the date of grant.
Prior to February 5, 2006 the Company applied the recognition and measurement principles of Accounting
Principles Board No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees (“APB 25”), to our stock options and other stock-
based compensation plans as permitted pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123,
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation . In accordance with APB 25, cost for stock-based compensation was
recognized in income based on the excess, if any, of the quoted market price of the stock at the grant date of the
award or other measurement date over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock. The exercise price for
stock options granted to employees equaled the fair market value of the Company’s common stock at the date of
grant, thereby resulting in no recognition of compensation expense by the Company. Non-vested share awards are
recorded as compensation cost over the requisite service periods based on the market value on the date of grant.
Unearned compensation cost on non-vested share awards was shown as a reduction to shareholders’ equity.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 141(R), Business Combinations (“SFAS No. 141(R)”). SFAS No. 141(R)
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applies to all transactions or other events in which an entity obtains control of one or more businesses. SFAS No. 141
(R) establishes how the acquirer of a business should recognize, measure and disclose in its financial statements the
identifiable assets and goodwill acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired
business. SFAS No. 141(R) is applied prospectively for all business combinations with an acquisition date on or after
the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008, with early application
prohibited. SFAS No. 141(R) will not have an impact on the Company’s historical consolidated financial statements
and will be adopted in the first quarter of fiscal 2009.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“SFAS No. 157”), to establish
a consistent framework for measuring fair value and expand disclosures on fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157
does not impose fair value measurements on items not already accounted for at fair value; rather it applies, with
certain exceptions, to other accounting pronouncements that either require or permit fair value measurements. Under
SFAS No. 157, fair value refers to the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an
orderly transaction between market participants in the principal or most advantageous market. The standard clarifies
that fair value should be based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability.
The provisions of SFAS No. 157 are effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is
currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of SFAS No. 157 will have on its consolidated results of operations
and financial condition.
3. ShopNBC Private Label and Co-Brand Credit Card Program:
In the third quarter of fiscal 2006, the Company introduced and established a new private label and co-brand
revolving consumer credit card program (the “Program”). The Program is made available to all qualified consumers
for the financing of purchases of products from ShopNBC and for the financing of purchases of products and services
from other non-ShopNBC retailers. The Program is intended to be used by cardholders for purchases made primarily
for personal, family or household use. The issuing bank is the sole owner of the account issued under the Program
and absorbs losses associated with non-payment by cardholders. The issuing bank pays fees to the Company based
on the number of credit card accounts activated and on card usage. Once a customer is approved to receive a
ShopNBC private label or co-branded credit card and the card is activated, the customer is eligible to participate in
the Company’s credit card rewards program. Under the rewards program, points are earned on purchases made with
the credit cards at ShopNBC and other retailers where the co-branded card is accepted. Cardholders who accumulate
the requisite number of points are issued a $50 certificate award towards the future purchase of ShopNBC
merchandise. The certificate award expires after twelve months if unredeemed. The Company accounts for the
rewards program in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) issue No. 00-22, Accounting for “Points”
and Certain Other Time-Based or Volume-Based Sales Incentive Offers, and Offers for Free Products or Services to
Be Delivered in the Future . The value of points earned is included in accrued liabilities and recorded as a reduction
in revenue as points are earned, based on the retail value of points that are projected to be redeemed. The Company
accounts for the Private Label and Co-Brand Credit Card Agreement in accordance with EITF No. 00-21, Revenue
Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables . In conjunction with the signing of the ShopNBC Private Label and Co-
Brand Credit Card Agreement, the Company received from the issuing bank a non-refundable signing bonus as an
incentive for the Company to enter into the agreement. The bonus has been recorded as deferred revenue in the
accompanying financial statements and is being recognized as revenue over the term of the agreement.
4. Short and Long-Term Investments:
At February 2, 2008, our investment portfolio included auction rate securities with an estimated fair value of
$24,346,000 ($26,800,000 cost basis). The Company’s auction rate securities are variable rate debt instruments that
have underlying securities with contractual maturities greater than ten years. Holders of auction rate securities can
either sell through the auction or bid based on a desired interest rate or hold and accept the reset rate. If there are
insufficient buyers, then the auction fails and holders are unable to liquidate their investment through the auction. A
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failed auction is not a default of the debt instrument, but does set a new interest rate in accordance with the original
terms of the debt instrument. The result of a failed auction is that the auction rate security continues to pay interest in
accordance with its terms. Auctions continue to be held as scheduled until the auction rate security matures or until it
is called. These mostly AAA-rated auction rate securities, which met our investment guidelines at the time the
investments were made, have failed to settle in auctions during fiscal 2007. At this time, these investments are not
liquid, and in the event the Company needs to access these funds, the Company will not be able to do so without a
loss of principle.
The Company has reduced the carrying value of these investments by $2,454,000 through other comprehensive
income (loss) to reflect a temporary impairment on these securities. Currently, the Company believes these
investments are temporarily impaired, but it is not clear in what period of time they will be settled. Due to the current
lack of liquidity of these investments, they are classified as long-term investments on our balance sheet.
Short and long-term investments include the following available-for-sale securities at February 2, 2008 and
February 3, 2007:
Short-term:
Auction-rate securities
Corporate bonds
Long-term:
Auction-rate securities
Short-term:
Auction-rate securities
February 2, 2008
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Cost
Estimated
Fair Value
$ 6,502,000 $
4,088,000
$ 10,590,000 $
— $
—
— $
— $ 6,502,000
—
4,088,000
— $ 10,590,000
$ 26,800,000 $
— $ 2,454,000 $ 24,346,000
February 3, 2007
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Cost
Estimated
Fair Value
$ 29,798,000 $
— $
— $ 29,798,000
Short and long-term investments include the following held-to-maturity securities at February 2, 2008 and
February 3, 2007:
Short-term:
Corporate bonds
Long-term:
Corporate bonds
February 2, 2008
Carrying
Amount
Gross
Unrecognized
Holding Gains
Gross
Unrecognized
Holding Losses
Estimated
Fair Value
$ 22,883,000 $
122,000 $
87,000 $ 22,918,000
$ 1,960,000 $
— $
28,000 $ 1,932,000
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
The following table summarizes the contractual maturities of the Company’s short and long-term debt securities
as of February 2, 2008:
Less than one year
Mature in 1-2 years
Mature after 5 years
$ 33,473,000
1,960,000
24,346,000
$ 59,779,000
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities were $50,477,000, $31,035,000, and
$79,193,000 during fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Sales of available-for-sale securities in fiscal 2007,
fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 resulted in no gains or losses recorded. The cost of all securities sold is based on the
specific identification method. The Company recorded charges for other-than-temporary impairment securities of
$72,000, $-0- and $-0- during fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. As of February 2, 2008, all gross unrealized
losses on the Company’s taxable auction rate security investments deemed to be temporarily impaired have been in
an unrealized position for less than twelve months.
5. Discontinued FanBuzz Operations:
In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company decided to close its FanBuzz subsidiary operations and
finalized the shut down in the third quarter of fiscal 2005. FanBuzz was an e-commerce and fulfillment solutions
provider for a number of sports, media, entertainment and retail companies. The decision to shut down FanBuzz was
made after continued operating losses were experienced following the loss of its NHL contract in September 2004
and after a number of other FanBuzz customers notified the Company in the first quarter of fiscal 2005 that they
elected not to renew the term of their e-commerce services agreements. FanBuzz ceased business operations as of
October 29, 2005 and was a reportable segment under SFAS No. 131. The results of operations for FanBuzz have
been classified as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations for all periods
presented. Net sales from discontinued operations was $5,384,000 for the fiscal year ended February 4, 2006. Loss
from discontinued operations was $2,296,000 for the fiscal year ended February 4, 2006.
6. Shareholders’ Equity and Redeemable Preferred Stock:
Common Stock
The Company currently has authorized 100,000,000 shares of undesignated capital stock, of which
approximately 34,070,000 shares were issued and outstanding as common stock as of February 2, 2008. The board of
directors may establish new classes and series of capital stock by resolution without shareholder approval.
Dividends
The Company has never declared or paid any dividends with respect to its capital stock. Under the terms of the
shareholder agreement between the Company and GE Capital Equity Investments, Inc. (“GE Equity”), the Company
is prohibited from paying dividends in excess of 5% of the Company’s market capitalization in any fiscal quarter.
Redeemable Preferred Stock
As discussed further in Note 13, in fiscal 1999, pursuant to an Investment Agreement between the Company and
GE Equity, the Company sold to GE Equity 5,339,500 shares of its Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred
Stock, $0.01 par value for aggregate proceeds of $44,264,000 less issuance costs of $2,850,000. The preferred stock
is convertible into an equal number of shares of the Company’s common stock and has a mandatory redemption after
ten years from date of issuance at $8.29 per share. The excess of the redemption value over the carrying value is
being accreted by periodic charges to equity over the ten-year redemption period.
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Warrants
VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
As discussed further in Notes 2 and 15, in November 2000, the Company issued to NBCU warrants to purchase
6,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $17.375 per share. The warrants were
issued in connection with the Company’s execution of a Trademark License Agreement pursuant to which NBCU
granted the Company an exclusive, worldwide license to use certain NBC trademarks, service marks and domain
names to rebrand the Company’s business and corporate name for a term of ten years. As of February 2, 2008, all of
the warrants are vested and 4,000,000 of the warrants have expired unexercised.
As discussed further in Notes 2 and 13, in fiscal 2002, the Company issued to NBCU warrants to purchase
36,858 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $15.74 per share. The warrants vest over five
years, and have a term of five years from the date of vesting. The additional warrants, which are currently
outstanding, were issued in connection with the Company’s Distribution and Marketing Agreement with NBCU,
which provides that warrants will be granted at current market prices upon the achievement of specific goals in
connection with distribution of the Company’s television programming with respect to FTE subscriber homes.
Stock-Based Compensation
Stock-based compensation expense charged to continuing operations for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 related to
stock option awards was $1,880,000 and $1,556,000, respectively. The Company has not recorded any income tax
benefit from the exercise of stock options due to the uncertainty of realizing income tax benefits in the future.
Additionally, in fiscal 2006, the Company reclassified unearned compensation on restricted stock awards of
$154,000 to additional paid in capital. The cumulative effect adjustment for forfeitures related to non-vested stock-
based awards was not material.
As of February 2, 2008, the Company had two active omnibus stock plans for which stock awards can be
currently granted: the 2004 Omnibus Stock Plan (as amended and restated in fiscal 2006) which provides for the
issuance of up to 4,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock; and the 2001 Omnibus Stock Plan which
provides for the issuance of up to 3,000,000 shares of the Company’s stock. These plans are administered by the
human resources and compensation committee of the board of directors (“Compensation Committee”) and provide
for awards for employees, directors and consultants. All employees and directors of the Company and its affiliates
are eligible to receive awards under the plans. The types of awards that may be granted under these plans include
restricted and unrestricted stock, incentive and nonstatutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, performance
units, and other stock-based awards. Incentive stock options may be granted to employees at such exercise prices as
the Compensation Committee may determine but not less than 100% of the fair market value of the underlying stock
as of the date of grant. No incentive stock option may be granted more than ten years after the effective date of the
respective plan’s inception or be exercisable more than ten years after the date of grant. Options granted to outside
directors are nonstatutory stock options with an exercise price equal to 100% of the fair market value of the
underlying stock as of the date of grant. Options granted under these plans are exercisable and generally vest over
three years in the case of employee stock options and vest immediately on the date of grant in the case of director
options, and generally have contractual terms of either five years from the date of vesting or ten years from the date
of grant. Prior to the adoption of the 2004 and 2001 plans, the Company had other incentive stock option plans in
place in which stock options were granted to employees under similar vesting terms. The Company has also granted
non-qualified stock options to current and former directors and certain employees with similar vesting terms.
The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing
model that uses assumptions noted in the following table. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of
the Company’s stock. Expected term is calculated using the simplified method taking into consideration the option’s
contractual life and vesting terms. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is
based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. Expected dividend yields were not
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
used in the fair value computations as the Company has never declared or paid dividends on its common stock and
currently intends to retain earnings for use in operations.
Expected volatility
Expected term (in years)
Risk-free interest rate
Fiscal
2007
33%-40%
6 years
3.2%-5.1%
Fiscal
2006
33%-35%
6 years
4.7%-5.12%
Fiscal
2005
36%
6 years
4.7%
A summary of the status of the Company’s stock option activity as of February 2, 2008 and changes during the
year then ended is as follows:
2004
2001
1990
1994
Incentive Weighted Incentive Weighted Incentive Weighted Other Non- Weighted Executive Weighted
Stock
Average
Exercise Option Exercise
Option
Price
Plan
Average Stock
Exercise Option Exercise Option Exercise
Price
Price
Average Qualified Average Stock
Stock
Options
Average Stock
Price
Price
Plan
Plan
Plan
Balance outstanding,
February 3, 2007
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited or canceled
Balance outstanding,
February 2, 2008
Options exercisable at:
February 2, 2008
February 3, 2007
February 4, 2006
1,734,000 $ 12.08 1,624,000 $ 14.44 462,000 $ 18.03 1,838,000 $ 15.89 356,000 $ 27.57
—
—
1,603,000
—
(348,000 ) 12.38 (689,000 ) 14.25 (425,000 ) 18.41 (401,000 ) 17.80 (356,000 27.57
6.19 526,000 10.58
—
—
(1,000 ) 10.69
(48,000 ) 10.58
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2,941,000 $
8.86 1,461,000 $ 13.14 36,000 $ 13.83 1,437,000 $ 15.35
— $ —
1,276,000 $ 11.91 918,000 $ 14.46 36,000 $ 13.83 1,403,000 $ 15.46
— $ —
1,394,000 $ 12.22 1,467,000 $ 14.64 462,000 $ 18.03 1,804,000 $ 15.98 356,000 $ 27.57
1,322,000 $ 12.39 2,097,000 $ 14.82 900,000 $ 18.16 2,501,000 $ 16.61 648,000 $ 16.68
The following table summarizes information regarding stock options at February 2, 2008:
Option Type
2004 Incentive:
2001 Incentive:
1990 Incentive:
Other Non-qualified:
1994 Executive:
Options
Outstanding Price
2,941,000 $ 8.86
1,461,000 $ 13.14
36,000 $ 13.83
1,437,000 $ 15.35
— $ —
Weighted
Weighted Average
Average Remaining Aggregate Vested or Average Remaining Aggregate
Exercise Contractual Intrinsic Expected to Exercise Contractual Intrinsic
Vest
Weighted
Weighted Average
Life (Years) Value
Life (Years) Value
Price
8.6 $ 479,000 2,774,000 $ 9.00
— 1,405,000 $ 13.22
6.4 $
—
1.1 $
36,000 $ 13.83
— 1,403,000 $ 15.46
0.2 $
— $ —
—
— $
8.5 $ 431,000
—
5.6 $
—
1.1 $
—
0.2 $
—
— $
The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted in fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 was $3.16, $5.18
and $6.84, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 was
$52,000, $2,984,000 and $1,252,000, respectively. As of February 2, 2008, total unrecognized compensation cost
related to stock options was $6,307,000 and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of
approximately 1.7 year.
Prior to fiscal 2006, the Company accounted for its stock option plans under the recognition and measurement
principles of APB No. 25, and the disclosure-only provisions of SFAS 123. No employee stock option
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
compensation cost was reflected in the net loss, as all options granted under those plans had an exercise price equal
to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. The following table illustrates the effect on
net loss and net loss per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 to
stock-based employee compensation:
Net loss available to common shareholders:
As reported
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based
method for all awards, net of related tax effects
Pro forma
Net loss per share:
Basic:
As reported
Pro forma
Diluted:
As reported
Pro forma
For the Year Ended
February 4, 2006
$
(16,040,000 )
$
$
$
(17,591,000 )
(33,631,000 )
(0.43 )
(0.90 )
(0.43 )
(0.90 )
In December 2005, the Company’s board of directors approved the acceleration and vesting of approximately
1,200,000 outstanding unvested stock options with an exercise price greater than $11.78 per share as of
December 19, 2005 under the Company’s stock-based incentive compensation plans. The options affected are held
by executive officers, directors and employees of the Company and have a range of exercise prices between $11.80
and $19.26 per share and a weighted average exercise price of $15.06 per share. The board accelerated the vesting
period to eliminate the Company’s future recognition of compensation expense associated with these out-of-the
money stock options required under SFAS No. 123R, which was effective for the Company beginning in the first
quarter of fiscal 2006. As a condition of the acceleration, the Company also imposed a holding period on shares
underlying the accelerated options held by certain of its executive officers requiring these officers to refrain from
selling any shares acquired upon the exercise of the accelerated options until the date on which the related options
would have vested under the options’ original vesting terms.
Stock Option Tax Benefit
The exercise of certain stock options granted under the Company’s stock option plans gives rise to
compensation, which is includible in the taxable income of the applicable employees and deductible by the Company
for federal and state income tax purposes. Such compensation results from increases in the fair market value of the
Company’s common stock subsequent to the date of grant of the applicable exercised stock options and is not
recognized as an expense for financial accounting purposes, as the options were originally granted at the fair market
value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The related tax benefits will be recorded as additional
paid-in capital if and when realized, and totaled $23,000, $1,106,000 and $484,000 in fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005,
respectively. The Company has not recorded the tax benefit through paid in capital in these fiscal years, as the related
tax deductions were not taken due to the losses incurred. These benefits will be recorded in the applicable future
periods.
Restricted Stock
On June 28, 2007, the Company granted a total of 40,000 shares of restricted stock from the Company’s 2004
Omnibus Stock Plan to its five non-management directors elected by the holders of the Company’s common stock
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
(in contrast to the three directors elected by the holders of the Company’s preferred stock) as part of the Company’s
annual director compensation program. The restricted stock vests on the first anniversary of the date of grant. The
aggregate market value of the restricted stock at the date of award was $459,000 and is being amortized as director
compensation expense over the twelve-month vesting period.
On June 21, 2006, the Company granted 40,000 shares of restricted stock from the Company’s 2004 Omnibus
Stock Plan to its five non-management directors as part of the Company’s annual director compensation program.
The aggregate market value of the restricted stock at the date of award was $468,000 and was amortized as director
compensation expense over the twelve-month vesting period. The shares vested on June 21, 2007. In the second
quarter of fiscal 2004, the Company awarded 25,000 shares of restricted stock to certain employees. This restricted
stock grant vests over different periods ranging from 17 to 53 months. The aggregate market value of the restricted
stock at the award dates was $308,000 and is being amortized as compensation expense over the respective vesting
periods. Compensation expense recorded in fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005 relating to restricted stock grants was
$534,000, $345,000 and $190,000, respectively. As of February 2, 2008, there was $375,000 of total unrecognized
compensation cost related to non-vested restricted stock granted. That cost is expected to be recognized over a
weighted average period of 0.7 years. The total fair value of restricted stock vested during fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005
was $492,000, $26,000 and $888,000 respectively.
A summary of the status of the Company’s non-vested restricted stock activity as of February 2, 2008 and
changes during the nine-month period then ended is as follows:
Non-vested outstanding, February 3, 2007
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested outstanding, February 2, 2008
Common Stock Repurchase Program
Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair
Shares
60,000 $
67,000 $
(45,000 ) $
— $
82,000 $
Value
11.87
9.39
11.81
—
9.88
In August 2006, the Company’s board of directors authorized a common stock repurchase program. The
program authorizes the Company’s management, acting through an investment banking firm selected as the
Company’s agent, to repurchase up to $10 million of the Company’s common stock by open market purchases or
negotiated transactions at prices and amounts as determined by the Company from time to time. In May 2007, the
Company’s board of directors authorized the repurchase of an additional $25 million of the Company’s common
stock under its stock repurchase program. During fiscal 2007, the Company repurchased a total of 3,618,000 shares
of common stock for a total investment of $26,985,000 at an average price of $7.46 per share. During fiscal 2006, the
Company repurchased a total of 406,000 shares of common stock for a total investment of $4,699,000 at an average
price of $11.58 per share. The Company did not repurchase any shares under its repurchase program during the fiscal
year ended February 4, 2006. On March 6, 2008, the Company’s board of directors authorized an additional
$10 million for stock repurchases under its stock repurchase program.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
7. Income Taxes:
The Company records deferred taxes for differences between the financial reporting and income tax bases of
assets and liabilities, computed in accordance with tax laws in effect at that time. The deferred taxes related to such
differences as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007 were as follows:
Accruals and reserves not currently deductible for tax purposes
Inventory capitalization
Basis differences in intangible assets
Differences in depreciation lives and methods
Differences in investments and other items
Net operating loss carryforwards
Valuation allowance
Net deferred tax asset
The (provision) benefit from income taxes consisted of the following:
February 2,
2008
February 3,
2007
$ 9,341,000 $ 7,578,000
1,273,000
1,388,000
(3,477,000 )
(4,139,000 )
(5,043,000 )
989,000
2,182,000
1,064,000
60,681,000
47,887,000
(63,194,000 )
(56,530,000 )
—
$
— $
Current
Deferred
February 2,
2008
Years Ended
February 3,
2007
$ (839,000 ) $ (75,000 ) $ 762,000
—
$ (839,000 ) $ (75,000 ) $ 762,000
February 4,
2006
—
—
A reconciliation of the statutory tax rates to the Company’s effective tax rate is as follows:
Taxes at federal statutory rates
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit
SFAS 123(R) stock option vesting expense
Valuation allowance and NOL carryforward benefits
Effective tax rate on continuing operations
February 2,
2008
Years Ended
February 3,
2007
February 4,
2006
35.0 %
2.5
3.1
(37.0 )
3.6 %
35.0 %
4.1
(53.2 )
10.9
(3.2 )
35.0 %
5.2
—
(34.8 )
5.4 %
Based on the Company’s recent history of losses, the Company has recorded a full valuation allowance for its
net deferred tax assets and net operating loss carryforwards as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007 in
accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 109, which places primary importance on the Company’s most recent
operating results when assessing the need for a valuation allowance. The ultimate realization of these deferred tax
assets depends on the ability of the Company to generate sufficient taxable income and capital gains in the future.
The Company intends to maintain a full valuation allowance for its net deferred tax assets and net operating loss
carryforwards until sufficient positive evidence exists to support reversal of the reserve. As of February 2, 2008, the
Company has gross operating loss carryforwards for Federal and State income tax purposes of approximately
$117 million and $52 million, respectively, which begin to expire in January 2022 and 2017, respectively. Effective
November 3, 2007, the Company experienced an “ownership change” as defined in section 382 of the Internal
Revenue Code. Because of the ownership change, the Company’s ability to use its net operating loss carryforwards
and credits to offset future taxable income is subject to annual limitations.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
8. Commitments and Contingencies:
Cable and Satellite Affiliation Agreements
As of February 2, 2008, the Company has entered into affiliation agreements that represent approximately 1,400
cable systems along with the satellite companies DIRECTV and EchoStar (DISH Network) that require each to offer
the Company’s television home shopping programming on a full-time basis over their systems. Under certain
circumstances, these television operators may cancel their agreements prior to expiration. The affiliation agreements
generally provide that the Company will pay each operator a monthly access fee and marketing support payment
based upon the number of homes carrying the Company’s television home shopping programming. For the years
ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4, 2006, respectively, the Company expensed approximately
$128,024,000, $121,710,000 and $122,599,000 under these affiliation agreements.
The Company has entered into, and will continue to enter into, affiliation agreements with other television
operators providing for full- or part-time carriage of the Company’s television home shopping programming. Under
certain circumstances the Company may be required to pay the operator a one-time initial launch fee, which is
capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreement.
Future cable and satellite affiliation cash commitments at February 2, 2008 are as follows:
Fiscal Year
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012 and thereafter
Employment Agreements
Amount
$ 105,688,000
39,982,000
37,626,000
32,649,000
29,928,000
The Company has entered into employment agreements with a number of on-air hosts of the Company for
original terms ranging from 12 to 48 months. These agreements specify, among other things, the term and duties of
employment, compensation and benefits, termination of employment (including for cause, which would reduce the
Company’s total obligation under these agreements), severance payments and non-disclosing and non-compete
restrictions. The aggregate commitment for future base compensation at February 2, 2008 was approximately
$4,909,000.
The Company has entered into change in control and separation agreements with a number of its officers under
which separation pay of up to 12 to 24 months of base salary and benefits could become payable in the event of
terminations without cause only under specified circumstances, including terminations following a change in control
(as defined in the related agreements) of the Company.
Operating Lease Commitments
The Company leases certain property and equipment under non-cancelable operating lease agreements. Property
and equipment covered by such operating lease agreements include offices and warehousing facilities at subsidiary
locations, satellite transponder, office equipment and certain tower site locations.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
Future minimum lease payments at February 2, 2008 are as follows:
Fiscal Year
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012 and thereafter
Amount
$ 2,197,000
1,976,000
1,971,000
1,975,000
12,208,000
Total rent expense under such agreements was approximately $2,499,000 in fiscal 2007, $2,640,000 in fiscal
2006 and $2,771,000 in fiscal 2005.
Retirement and Savings Plan
The Company maintains a qualified 401(k) retirement savings plan covering substantially all employees. The
plan allows the Company’s employees to make voluntary contributions to the plan. The Company’s contribution, if
any, is determined annually at the discretion of the board of directors. Starting in January 1999, the Company elected
to make matching contributions to the plan. The Company currently matches $.50 for every $1.00 contributed by
eligible participants up to a maximum of 6% of eligible compensation. The Company made plan contributions
totaling approximately $1,106,000, $860,000 and $653,000 during fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
9. Litigation:
The Company is involved from time to time in various claims and lawsuits in the ordinary course of business. In
the opinion of management, the claims and suits individually and in the aggregate have not had a material adverse
effect on the Company’s operations or consolidated financial statements.
10. Related Party Transactions:
In conjunction with its services agreement with RLM, the Company records revenue for amounts billed to RLM
for customer service, fulfillment and warehousing services. Revenues recorded from these services were
$14,274,000, $11,973,000 and $11,259,000 for the years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4,
2006, respectively. Amounts due from RLM as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007 were $1,320,000 and
$994,000, respectively. On March 28, 2007, VVIFC and RLM entered into an amendment to the agreement for
services providing for certain changes to the agreement, including a potential extension of the term at RLM’s option.
The Company anticipates that this services agreement with RLM will end in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as RLM
migrates to its own customer service, warehousing and fulfillment facilities.
The Company entered into an agreement with RightNow Technologies, Inc. (“RightNow”) in 2005 under which
the Company purchased software applications which enable the Company to utilize certain customer services
technologies developed by RightNow. The Company’s former President and Chief Executive Officer, William J.
Lansing, serves on the board of directors of RightNow. The Company made payments totaling approximately
$46,000 during fiscal 2007, $171,000 during fiscal 2006 and $48,000 during fiscal 2005 for this technology and
annual software maintenance fees relating to this technology and other services.
The Company entered into a Private Label Credit Card and Co-Brand Credit Card Consumer Program
Agreement with GE Money Bank for the financing of private label credit card purchases from ShopNBC and for the
financing of co-brand credit card purchases of products and services from other non-ShopNBC retailers. GE Money
Bank, the issuing bank for the program, is indirectly wholly-owned by the General Electric Company (“GE”), which
is also the parent company of NBCU and GE Commercial Finance — Equity. NBCU and GE Commercial
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
Finance — Equity have a substantial percentage ownership in the Company and together have the right to select three
members of the Company’s board of directors.
The Company and NBCU are partners in a ten-year Distribution and Marketing Agreement dated March 8, 1999
that provides that NBCU shall have the exclusive right to negotiate on behalf of the Company for the distribution of
its home shopping television programming service. As compensation for these services, the Company currently pays
NBCU an annual fee of approximately $930,000. As of February 2, 2008 the Company had accrued approximately
$77,000 in connection with this distribution agreement with NBCU.
11. Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
Supplemental cash flow information and noncash investing and financing activities were as follows:
February 2,
2008
For the Years Ended
February 3,
2007
February 4,
2006
Supplemental cash flow information:
Interest paid
Income taxes paid
Supplemental non-cash investing and financing activities:
$
9,000 $
$ 1,009,000 $
33,000 $ 120,000
71,000
66,000 $
$ 10,931,000 $ 11,057,000 $ 7,276,000
Common stock purchase warrants forfeited
— $ 5,378,000
$
Exercise of common stock purchase warrants
$
—
Restricted stock awards
9,000
$
Restricted stock forfeited
98,000 $ 883,000
Property and equipment purchases included in accounts payable $
Equipment purchases under capital lease
— $ 258,000
$
Noncash reduction of capital lease obligation from FanBuzz
— $
633,000 $
— $
523,000 $
— $
468,000 $
— $
capital lease termination
Accretion of redeemable preferred stock
$
$
— $
291,000 $
— $ 924,000
289,000 $ 287,000
12. Segment Disclosures and Related Information:
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related
Information (“SFAS No. 131”), requires the disclosure of certain information about operating segments in financial
statements. The Company’s reportable segments are based on the Company’s method of internal reporting. The
Company’s primary business segment is its electronic media segment, which consists of the Company’s television
home shopping business and internet shopping website business. Management has reviewed the provisions of
SFAS No. 131 and has determined that the Company’s television and internet home shopping businesses meet the
aggregation criteria as outlined in SFAS No. 131 since these two businesses have similar customers, products,
economic characteristics and sales processes. Products sold through the Company’s electronic media segment
primarily include jewelry, watches, computers and other electronics, housewares, apparel, health and beauty aids,
fitness products, giftware, collectibles, seasonal items and other merchandise. The Company’s segments currently
operate in the United States and no one customer represents more than 5% of the Company’s overall revenue. The
accounting policies of the Company’s segments are the same as those described in the
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
summary of significant accounting policies in Note 2. There are no material intersegment product sales. Segment
information included in the consolidated balance sheets as of February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and February 4,
2006 and included in the consolidated statements of operations for the years then ended is as follows (in thousands):
Years Ended
February 2, 2008
Revenues
Operating income (loss)
Depreciation and amortization
Interest income (expense)
Income taxes
Net income (loss)
Identifiable assets
Capital expenditures
February 3, 2007
Revenues
Operating income (loss)
Depreciation and amortization
Interest income (expense)
Income taxes
Net income (loss)
Identifiable assets
Capital expenditures
February 4, 2006
Revenues
Operating income (loss)
Depreciation and amortization
Interest income (expense)
Income tax benefit
Net income (loss)
Identifiable assets
Capital expenditures
ShopNBC & All
ShopNBC.com Other(a) Investments(b) Operations (Discontinued) Total
Continuing FanBuzz, Inc.
Equity
$
$
$
767,276 $ 14,274 $
(26,015 ) 2,963
19,449
544
5,680 —
(12 )
(20,126 ) 2,590
352,745 6,335
248
11,541
34
755,302 $ 11,973 $
(10,705 ) 1,226
21,548
691
3,802 —
(9 )
227
341,576 6,265
42
(66 )
(5,629 )
11,428
680,592 $ 11,259 $
(19,888 ) 1,242
19,707
862
3,048 —
762 —
252
(15,092 )
338,939 6,461
55
9,623
— $ 781,550
— (23,052 )
— 19,993
5,680
—
(839 )
(861 )
39,988 22,452
— 359,080
— 11,789
— $ 767,275
—
(9,479 )
— 22,239
3,802
—
—
(75 )
3,006
(2,396 )
4,139 351,980
— 11,470
— $ 691,851 $
— (18,646 )
— 20,569
3,048
—
762
—
1,383 (13,457 )
1,383 346,783
9,678
—
5,384 $
(2,235 )
302
(61 )
—
(2,296 ) (15,753 )
356 347,139
9,750
72
(a) Revenue from segments below quantitative thresholds is attributable to VVIFC, which provides fulfillment,
warehousing and telemarketing services primarily to RLM and the Company. The Company anticipates that
this services agreement with RLM will end in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as RLM migrates to its own
customer service, warehousing and fulfillment facilities.
(b) Equity Investment assets and net income and gains from equity investments consist of long-term investments
and earnings from equity investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting and are not directly
assignable to a business segment.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
Information on net sales from continuing operations by significant product groups is as follows (in thousands):
Jewelry
Electronics
Watches, Apparel and Health & Beauty
Home
All others, less than 10% each
Total
13. NBCU and GE Equity Strategic Alliance:
February 2,
2008
February 4,
2006
For the Years Ended
February 3,
2007
$ 289,786 $ 285,262 $ 278,928
140,460
170,262
145,697
180,803
78,116
84,708
55,991
48,650
$ 781,550 $ 767,275 $ 691,851
173,121
181,093
80,934
46,865
In March 1999, the Company entered into a strategic alliance with NBCU and GE Equity. Pursuant to the terms
of the transaction, NBCU and GE Equity acquired 5,339,500 shares of the Company’s Series A Redeemable
Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Preferred Stock”), and NBCU was issued a warrant to acquire 1,450,000 shares of
the Company’s common stock (the “Distribution Warrants”) under a Distribution and Marketing Agreement
discussed below. The Preferred Stock was sold for aggregate consideration of $44,265,000 (or approximately $8.29
per share). In addition, the Company agreed to issue to GE Equity a warrant (the “Investment Warrant”) to increase
its potential aggregate equity stake (together with its affiliates, including NBCU) at the time of exercise to
approximately 40%. NBCU also has the exclusive right to negotiate on behalf of the Company for the distribution of
its television home shopping service. The sale of 3,739,500 shares of the Preferred Stock was completed on April 15,
1999. Final consummation of the transaction regarding the sale of the remaining 1,600,000 Preferred Stock shares
was completed on June 2, 1999. The Preferred Stock was recorded at fair value on the date of issuance. The Preferred
Stock is convertible into an equal number of shares of the Company’s common stock, subject to anti-dilution
adjustments, has a mandatory redemption on the tenth anniversary of its issuance or upon a “change of control” at
$8.29 per share, participates in dividends on the same basis as the common stock and has a liquidation preference
over the common stock and any other junior securities. The excess of the redemption value over the carrying value is
being accreted by periodic charges to equity over the ten-year redemption period. On July 6, 1999, GE Equity
exercised the Investment Warrant and acquired an additional 10,674,000 shares of the Company’s common stock for
an aggregate of $178,370,000, or $16.71 per share. Following the exercise of the Investment Warrant, the combined
ownership of the Company by GE Equity and NBCU on a fully diluted basis was approximately 40%. In February
2005, GE Equity sold 2,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock to a number of different purchasers. In July
2005, GE Equity entered into agreements to sell an additional 2,604,932 shares of the Company’s common stock in
privately negotiated transactions to a number of different purchasers. In connection with such transactions, the
Company filed a registration statement on Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission in July 2005 with
respect to an aggregate of 4,604,932 shares of the Company’s common stock, pursuant to contractual registration
rights obligations. The Company received no proceeds from the sale of the shares covered by the registration
statement. GE Equity and NBCU currently have a combined ownership in the Company of approximately 29% on a
diluted basis.
GE Equity Shareholder Agreement
In March 1999, the Company and GE Equity also entered into a Shareholder Agreement (the “Shareholder
Agreement”), which provides for certain corporate governance and standstill matters. The Shareholder Agreement
(together with the Certificate of Designation of the Preferred Stock) initially provided that GE Equity and NBCU
would be entitled to designate nominees for two out of seven members of the Company’s board of directors so long
as their aggregate beneficial ownership was at least equal to 50% of their initial beneficial ownership, and one out of
seven members so long as their aggregate beneficial ownership was at least 10% of the “adjusted outstanding shares
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
of common stock.” The Shareholder Agreement also requires the consent of GE Equity prior to the Company
entering into any material agreements with certain restricted parties (broadcast networks and internet portals in
certain limited circumstances). Finally, the Company is prohibited from exceeding certain thresholds relating to the
issuance of voting securities over a 12-month period, the payment of quarterly dividends, the repurchase of common
stock, acquisitions (including investments and joint ventures) or dispositions, and the incurrence of debt greater than
the larger of $40.0 million or 30% of the Company’s total capitalization. The Company is also prohibited from taking
any action that would cause any ownership interest by the Company in television broadcast stations from being
attributable to GE Equity, NBCU or their affiliates.
The Shareholder Agreement provides that during the Standstill Period (as defined in the Shareholder
Agreement), and subject to certain limited exceptions, GE Equity and NBCU are prohibited from: (i) any asset or
business purchases from the Company in excess of 10% of the total fair market value of the Company’s assets,
(ii) increasing their beneficial ownership above 39.9% of the Company’s shares, (iii) making or in any way
participating in any solicitation of proxies, (iv) depositing any securities of the Company in a voting trust,
(v) forming, joining, or in any way becoming a member of a “13D Group” with respect to any voting securities of the
Company, (vi) arranging any financing for, or providing any financing commitment specifically for, the purchase of
any voting securities of the Company, (vii) otherwise acting, whether alone or in concert with others, to seek to
propose to the Company any tender or exchange offer, merger, business combination, restructuring, liquidation,
recapitalization or similar transaction involving the Company, or nominating any person as a director of the
Company who is not nominated by the then incumbent directors, or proposing any matter to be voted upon by the
shareholders of the Company. If, during the standstill period, any inquiry has been made regarding a “takeover
transaction” or “change in control,” each as defined in the Shareholder Agreement, which has not been rejected by
the Board, or the Board pursues such a transaction, or engages in negotiations or provides information to a third party
and the Board has not resolved to terminate such discussions, then GE Equity or NBCU may propose to the
Company a tender offer or business combination proposal.
In addition, unless GE Equity and NBCU beneficially own less than 5% or more than 90% of the adjusted
outstanding shares of common stock, GE Equity and NBCU shall not sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any
securities of the Company except for transfers: (i) to certain affiliates who agree to be bound by the provisions of the
Shareholder Agreement, (ii) which have been consented to by the Company, (iii) pursuant to a third party tender
offer, (iv) pursuant to a merger, consolidation or reorganization to which the Company is a party, (v) in a bona fide
public distribution or bona fide underwritten public offering, (vi) pursuant to Rule 144 of the Securities Act of 1933,
or (vii) in a private sale or pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933; provided that, in the case of any
transfer pursuant to clause (v) or (vii), the transfer does not result in, to the knowledge of the transferor after
reasonable inquiry, any other person acquiring, after giving effect to such transfer, beneficial ownership, individually
or in the aggregate with such person’s affiliates, of more than 10% of the adjusted outstanding shares of the common
stock.
The standstill period will terminate on the earliest to occur of (i) the ten-year anniversary of the Shareholder
Agreement, (ii) the entering into by the Company of an agreement that would result in a “change in control” (subject
to reinstatement), (iii) an actual “change in control,” (iv) a third party tender offer (subject to reinstatement), or
(v) six months after GE Equity and NBCU can no longer designate any nominees to the Board. Following the
expiration of the standstill period pursuant to clause (i) or (v) above (indefinitely in the case of clause (i) and two
years in the case of clause (v)), GE Equity and NBCU’s beneficial ownership position may not exceed 39.9% of the
Company’s fully-diluted outstanding stock, except pursuant to issuance or exercise of any warrants or pursuant to a
100% tender offer for the Company.
On March 19, 2004 the Company, NBCU and GE Equity agreed to amend the Shareholder Agreement as
follows: (i) to increase the authorized size of the Company’s board of directors to nine from seven, (ii) to permit
NBCU and GE Equity together to appoint three directors instead of two to the Company’s board of directors, and
(iii) to provide that NBCU and GE Equity would no longer have the right to have its director-nominees serve on the
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
Audit, Compensation or Nominating and Governance Committees, in the event the committees must be comprised
solely of “independent” directors under applicable laws or Nasdaq regulations. In such case, NBCU and GE Equity
would have the right to have an observer attend all of these committee meetings, to the extent permitted by applicable
law.
GE Equity Registration Rights Agreement
Pursuant to the Investment Agreement, the Company and GE Equity entered into a Registration Rights
Agreement providing GE Equity, NBCU and their affiliates and any transferees and assigns, an aggregate of four
demand registrations and unlimited piggy-back registration rights.
NBCU Distribution and Marketing Agreement
NBCU and the Company entered into a ten-year Distribution and Marketing Agreement dated March 8, 1999
(the “Distribution Agreement”) that provides that NBCU shall have the exclusive right to negotiate on behalf of the
Company for the distribution of its home shopping television programming. As compensation for these services, the
Company agreed to pay NBCU an annual fee which is currently approximately $930,000, and issued NBCU
1,450,000 distribution warrants. The exercise price of the distribution warrants was $8.29 per share. In conjunction
with the Company’s November 2000 execution of the Trademark License Agreement with NBCU, the Company
agreed to accelerate the vesting of the unvested original Distribution Warrants. On April 7, 2004, NBCU exercised a
portion of the original Distribution Warrants in a cashless exercise acquiring 101,509 shares of the Company’s
common stock. In November 2005, NBCU exercised all remaining original Distribution Warrants in a cashless
exercise acquiring 281,199 additional shares of the Company’s common stock. Because NBCU successfully
delivered to the Company 10 million FTE homes pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, in fiscal 2001, the
Company issued to NBCU additional warrants to purchase 343,725 shares of the Company’s common stock at an
exercise price of $23.07 which expired unexercised during fiscal 2006 and in fiscal 2002, the Company issued to
NBCU additional warrants to purchase 36,858 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $15.74
which are currently outstanding. NBC could earn additional warrants to the extent that it successfully negotiates
additional distribution agreements for the Company (including renewals of existing distribution agreements). During
2008, a majority of the Company’s distribution agreements are scheduled to expire. If NBC successfully negotiates
extensions or renewals of these agreements under the parameters established by the Company, it will be entitled to
receive additional warrants from the Company under a formula set forth in the Distribution Agreement; some
elements of the formula include the length of the new or renewed contract; the number of subscribers covered by the
contract; and the current market price of the Company’s common stock at the effective date of the new contract. The
Company had a right to terminate the Distribution Agreement after the twenty-fourth, thirty-sixth and forty-second
month anniversary if NBCU was unable to meet the performance targets. In addition, the Company would have been
entitled to a $2.5 million payment from NBCU if the Company terminated the Distribution Agreement as a result of
NBCU’s failure to meet the 24-month performance target. NBCU may terminate the Distribution Agreement if the
Company enters into certain “significant affiliation” agreements or a transaction resulting in a “change of control.”
14. Ralph Lauren Media, LLC Electronic Commerce Alliance (RLM):
During fiscal 2006, the Company owned a 12.5% equity interest in RLM which was being accounted for under
the equity method of accounting. RLM’s primary business activity to date has been the operations of the Polo.com
website. Polo.com officially launched in November 2000 and includes an assortment of men’s, women’s and
children’s products across the Ralph Lauren family of brands as well as unique gift items. In connection with the
formation of RLM, the Company entered into various agreements setting forth the manner in which certain aspects of
the business of RLM are to be managed and certain of the members’ rights, duties and obligations with respect to
RLM, including the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement, pursuant to which certain terms
and conditions regarding operations of RLM and certain rights and obligations of its members are set forth.
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
On March 28, 2007, the Company entered into a Membership Interest Purchase Agreement (“Purchase Agreement”)
with Polo Ralph Lauren, NBCU and certain NBCU affiliates, pursuant to which the Company sold its 12.5%
membership interest in RLM to Polo Ralph Lauren for an aggregate purchase price of $43,750,000.
Agreement for Services
RLM and VVIFC entered into an Agreement for Services under which VVIFC agreed to provide to RLM certain
telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment services to RLM. RLM has advised the Company that it intends to
develop the capability to provide these services internally in the future. On March 28, 2007, VVIFC and RLM
entered into an amendment to the agreement for services providing for certain changes to the agreement, including a
potential extension of the term at RLM’s option. The Company anticipates that the services agreement with RLM
will end in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as RLM migrates to its own customer service, warehousing and fulfillment
facilities.
15. NBC Trademark License Agreement:
On November 16, 2000, the Company entered into a Trademark License Agreement (the “License Agreement”)
with NBCU pursuant to which NBCU granted the Company an exclusive, worldwide license for a term of ten years
to use certain NBC trademarks, service marks and domain names to rebrand the Company’s business and corporate
name and website. Under the License Agreement, the Company agreed to (i) certain restrictions on using trademarks,
service marks, domain names, logos or other source indicators owned or controlled by NBCU or its affiliates in
connection with certain permitted businesses (the “Permitted Businesses”), as defined in the License Agreement,
before the agreement of NBCU to such use, (ii) the loss of its rights under the grant of the license with respect to
specific territories outside of the United States in the event the Company fails to achieve and maintain certain
performance targets in such territories, (iii) amend and restate the current Registration Rights Agreement dated as of
April 15, 1999 among the Company, NBCU and GE Equity so as to increase the demand rights held by NBCU and
GE Equity from four to five, among other things, (iv) not, own, operate, acquire or expand its business to include any
businesses other than the Permitted Businesses without NBCU’s prior consent, (v) comply with NBCU’s privacy
policies and standards and practices, and (vi) not own, operate, acquire or expand the Company’s business such that
one-third or more of the Company’s revenues or its aggregate value is attributable to certain services (not including
retailing services similar to the Company’s existing e-commerce operations) provided over the internet. The License
Agreement also grants to NBCU the right to terminate the License Agreement at any time upon certain changes of
control of the Company, in certain situations the failure by NBCU to own a certain minimum percentage of the
outstanding capital stock of the Company on a fully-diluted basis and certain other related matters. On March 28,
2007, the Company and NBCU agreed to extend the term of the license by six months, such that the license would
continue through May 15, 2011 and to certain limitations on NBCU’s right to terminate the License Agreement in the
event of a change in control of the Company involving a financial buyer.
16. Restructuring Costs:
On May 21, 2007, the Company announced the initiation of a restructuring of its operations that includes a 12%
reduction in the salaried workforce, a consolidation of its distribution operations into a single warehouse facility, the
exit and closure of a retail outlet store and other cost saving measures. On January 14, 2008, the Company announced
additional organizational changes and cost-saving measures following a formal business review conducted by
management and an outside consulting firm. As a result of the business review, the Company’s organizational
structure was simplified and streamlined to focus on profitability. As part of this restructuring, the Company reduced
its salaried workforce by an additional 10%. As a result, the Company recorded a $5,043,000 restructuring charge for
the year February 2, 2008. Restructuring costs include employee severance and retention costs associated with the
consolidation and elimination of approximately 80 positions across the Company including four officers. In addition,
restructuring costs also include incremental charges associated with the Company’s consolidation of its distribution
and fulfillment operations into a single warehouse facility, the closure
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VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
of a retail outlet store, fixed asset impairments incurred as a direct result of the operational consolidation and closures
and restructuring advisory service fees.
The table below sets forth for the year ended February 2, 2008, the significant components and activity under the
restructuring program:
Severance and retention
Asset impairments
Incremental restructuring charges
Balance at
February 3,
2007
Charges
Cash
Balance at
February 2,
Write-offs Payments
2008
$
$
— $ (2,433,000 ) $ 874,000
— $ 3,307,000 $
—
— 428,000 (428,000 )
— (1,014,000 ) 294,000
— 1,308,000
— $ 5,043,000 $ (428,000 ) $ (3,447,000 ) $ 1,168,000
—
17. Chief Executive Officer Transition Costs:
On October 26, 2007, the Company announced that William J. Lansing, at the request of the board of directors,
had stepped down as president and chief executive officer and had left the Company’s board of directors. In
conjunction with Mr. Lansing’s resignation, the Company recorded a charge to income of $2,451,000 during the year
ended February 2, 2008 relating primarily to severance payments which Mr. Lansing is entitled to in accordance with
the terms of his employment agreement with the company and executive search fees.
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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this report, management conducted an evaluation, under the supervision
and with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer of the effectiveness of our
disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934). Based on this evaluation, the officers concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to
ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and
Exchange Commission rules and forms, and to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports
we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal
executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
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MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The management of ValueVision Media, Inc. is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal
control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15 (f) under the Securities Exchange Act 1934. Our
company’s internal control system was designed 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.
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. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not
prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to
the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with
the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of our company’s internal control over financial reporting as of
February 2, 2008. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control — Integrated Framework.
Based on management’s evaluation under the framework in Internal Control — Integrated Framework ,
management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of February 2, 2008.
The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued an
attestation report on our company’s internal control over financial reporting for February 2, 2008. The Deloitte &
Touche LLP attestation report is set forth below.
/s/ RENE G. AIU
Rene G. Aiu
Chief Executive Officer and President
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ FRANK P. ELSENBAST
Frank P. Elsenbast
Senior Vice President Finance, Chief Financial
Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
April 17, 2008
Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
Management, with the participation of the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, performed an
evaluation as to whether any change in the internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15 and
15d-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) occurred during the quarter ended February 2, 2008. Based on
that evaluation the chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that no change occurred in the
internal controls over financial reporting during the period covered by this report that materially affected, or is
reasonably likely to materially affect, the internal controls over financial reporting.
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of
ValueVision Media, Inc. and Subsidiaries
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of ValueVision Media, Inc. and subsidiaries (the
“Company”) as of February 2, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework
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 Control 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 February 2, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework 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 listed in the index at Item 15
as of and for the year ended February 2, 2008, of the Company and our report dated April 17, 2008, expressed an
unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule.
Minneapolis, MN
April 17, 2008
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
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Item 9B.
Other Information
None
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
PART III
Information in response to this item with respect to certain information relating to our executive officers is
contained in Item 1 under the heading “Executive Officers of the Registrant” and with respect to other information
relating to our executive officers and directors is incorporated herein by reference to the sections titled
“Proposal 1 — Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our
definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year
covered by this Form 10-K.
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
We have adopted a code of business conduct and ethics applicable to all of our directors and employees,
including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller and other
employees performing similar functions. A copy of this code of business conduct and ethics is available on our
website at www.shopnbc.com, under “Investor Relations — Business Ethics Policy.” In addition, we have adopted a
code of ethics policy for our senior financial management; this policy is also available on our website at
www.shopnbc.com, under “Investor Relations — Code of Ethics Policy for Chief Executive and Senior Financial
Officers.”
We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirements under Form 8-K regarding an amendment to, or waiver from, a
provision of our code of business conduct and ethics by posting such information on our website at the address
specified above.
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
Information in response to this item is incorporated herein by reference to the sections titled “Proposal 1 —
Election of Directors — Director Compensation” and “Executive Compensation” in our definitive proxy statement to
be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters
Information in response to this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section titled “Security Ownership
of Principal Shareholders and Management in our definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A
within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Information in response to this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section titled “Certain
Transactions” and “Proposal 1 — Election of Directors” in our definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to
Regulation 14A within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
Item 14.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Information in response to this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section titled “Proposal 2 —
Ratification of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm — Fees Billed by Deloitte & Touche LLP” and
“Proposal 2 — Ratification of the Independent Auditors — Approval of Independent Registered Public Accounting
Firm Services and Fees” in our definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days
after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
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Table of Contents
Item 15.
Exhibit and Financial Statement Schedule
PART IV
1. Financial Statements
• Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
• Consolidated Balance Sheets as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007
• Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and
February 4, 2006
• Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and
February 4, 2006
• Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and
February 4, 2006
• Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
2. Financial Statement Schedule
83
Table of Contents
VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Column A
For the year ended February 2, 2008:
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Reserve for returns
For the year ended February 3, 2007:
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Reserve for returns
For the year ended February 4, 2006:
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Reserve for returns
Column C
Column B
Additions
Balances at Charged to
Costs and
Beginning of
Expenses
Year
Column D
Deductions
Column E
Balance at
End of Year
$ 3,641,000 $ 12,613,000 $
(9,366,000 )(1) $ 6,888,000
$ 8,498,000 $ 153,607,000 $ (153,729,000 )(2) $ 8,376,000
$ 2,478,000 $ 6,065,000 $
(4,902,000 )(1) $ 3,641,000
$ 7,658,000 $ 142,983,000 $ (142,143,000 )(2) $ 8,498,000
(4,485,000 )(1) $ 2,478,000
$ 2,421,000 $ 4,542,000 $
$ 7,290,000 $ 131,682,000 $ (131,314,000 )(2) $ 7,658,000
(1) Write off of uncollectible receivables, net of recoveries.
(2) Refunds or credits on products returned.
3. Exhibits
The exhibits filed with this report are set forth on the exhibit index filed as a part of this report immediately
following the signatures to this report.
84
Table of Contents
Pursuant to the requirements of 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, on April 29, 2008.
SIGNATURES
VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC.
(Registrant)
By: /s/ RENE G. AIU
Rene G. Aiu
Chief Executive Officer and President
Each of the undersigned hereby appoints Rene G. Aiu and Frank P. Elsenbast, and each of them (with full power
to act alone), as attorneys and agents for the undersigned, with full power of substitution, for and in the name, place
and stead of the undersigned, to sign and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act
of 1934, any and all amendments and exhibits to this annual report on Form 10-K and any and all applications,
instruments, and other documents to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pertaining to this annual
report on Form 10-K or any amendments thereto, with full power and authority to do and perform any and all acts
and things whatsoever requisite and necessary or desirable. 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 April 29, 2008.
Name
Title
/s/ RENE G. AIU
Rene G. Aiu
/s/ FRANK P. ELSENBAST
Frank P. Elsenbast
/s/ JOHN D. BUCK
John D. Buck
James J. Barnett
/s/ MARSHALL S. GELLER
Marshall S. Geller
/s/ RONALD J. HERMAN, JR.
Ronald J. Herman, Jr.
/s/ DOUGLAS V. HOLLOWAY
Douglas V. Holloway
/s/ ROBERT J. KORKOWSKI
Robert J. Korkowski
/s/ GEORGE A. VANDEMAN
George A. Vandeman
Chief Executive Officer President and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
Senior Vice President Finance, Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
Chairman of the Board
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
85
Table of Contents
Exhibit No.
3 .1
3 .2
EXHIBIT INDEX
Description
Method of Filing
10 .10 2004 Omnibus Stock Plan
10 .11
Incorporated by reference(B)
Incorporated by reference(G)
Incorporated by reference(Q)
Incorporated by reference(B)
Incorporated by reference(H)†
Sixth Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended
Certificate of Designation of Series A Redeemable Convertible
Preferred Stock
Articles of Merger
Bylaws, as amended
Second Amended 1990 Stock Option Plan of the Registrant (as
amended and restated)
Form of Option Agreement under the Amended 1990 Stock Option
Plan of the Registrant
1994 Executive Stock Option and Compensation Plan of the
Registrant
Form of Option Agreement under the 1994 Executive Stock Option
and Compensation Plan of the Registrant
Incorporated by reference(N)†
2001 Omnibus Stock Plan of the Registrant
Amendment No. 1 to the 2001 Omnibus Stock Plan of the Registrant Incorporated by reference(P)†
Incorporated by reference(R)†
Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement under the 2001 Omnibus
Stock Plan of the Registrant
Form of Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement under the 2001
Omnibus Stock Plan of the Registrant
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement under the 2001 Omnibus Stock
Plan of the Registrant
Incorporated by reference(D)†
Incorporated by reference(A)†
Incorporated by reference(R)†
Incorporated by reference(R)†
Incorporated by reference(E)†
Form of Stock Option Agreement (Employees) under 2004 Omnibus
Stock Plan
Form of Stock Option Agreement (Executive Officers) under 2004
Omnibus Stock Plan
Form of Stock Option Agreement (Executive Officers) under 2004
Omnibus Stock Plan
Form of Stock Option Agreement (Directors — Annual Grant) under
2004 Omnibus Stock Plan
Form of Stock Option Agreement (Directors — Other Grants) under
2004 Omnibus Stock Plan
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement (Directors) under 2004 Omnibus
Stock Plan
Option Agreement between the Registrant and Marshall Geller dated
as of March 3, 1997
Option Agreement between the Registrant and Marshall Geller dated
May 9, 2001
Option Agreement between the Registrant and Marshall Geller dated
June 21, 2001
Option Agreement between the Registrant and Robert Korkowski
dated March 3, 1997
Option Agreement between the Registrant and Robert Korkowski
dated May 9, 2001
Option Agreement between the Registrant and Robert Korkowski
dated June 21, 2001
Incorporated by reference(U)†
Incorporated by reference(V)†
Incorporated by reference(V)†
Incorporated by reference(V)†
Incorporated by reference(V)†
Incorporated by reference(V)†
Incorporated by reference(CC)†
Incorporated by reference(A)†
Incorporated by reference(N)†
Incorporated by reference(N)†
Incorporated by reference(A)†
Incorporated by reference(N)†
Incorporated by reference(N)†
3 .3
3 .4
10 .1
10 .2
10 .3
10 .4
10 .5
10 .6
10 .7
10 .8
10 .9
10 .12
10 .13
10 .14
10 .15
10 .16
10 .21
10 .17
10 .18
10 .19
10 .20
10 .21
86
Table of Contents
Exhibit No.
10 .22
10 .23
Description
Option Agreement between the Registrant and Nathan Fagre dated
May 1, 2000
Option Agreement between the Registrant and Jim Gilbertson dated
November 30, 2005
10 .24 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan
10 .25 2007 Annual Management Incentive Plan
10 .26
Form of Change of Control and Severance Agreement with Executive
Officers
10 .32
10 .34
10 .36
10 .37
10 .35
10 .31
10 .33
10 .27 Form of Resale Restriction Agreement with Executive Officers
10 .28 Description of Director Compensation Program
10 .29 Offer letter from the Registrant to Rene G. Aiu dated March 3, 2008
Non-competition agreement between the Registrant and Rene G. Aiu
10 .30
dated March 3, 2008
Employment Agreement between the Registrant and Bryan Venberg
dated May 3, 2004
Severance Agreement dated as of November 8, 2007 between the
Registrant and Brian Venberg
Form of Salary Continuation Agreement between the Registrant and
Nathan Fagre dated July 2, 2003
Description of Modification of Severance Arrangements for Nathan
Fagre and Frank Elsenbast approved December 13, 2007
Offer letter from the Registrant to Glenn Leidahl dated March 25,
2008
Non-competition agreement between the Registrant and Glenn
Leidahl dated March 25, 2008
Investment Agreement by and between the Registrant and GE Equity
dated as of March 8, 1999
First Amendment and Agreement dated as of April 15, 1999 to the
Investment Agreement, dated as of March 8, 1999, by and between
the Registrant and GE Equity
Distribution and Marketing Agreement dated as of March 8, 1999 by
and between NBC and the Registrant
Letter Agreement dated March 8, 1999 between NBC, GE Equity and
the Registrant
Shareholder Agreement dated April 15, 1999 between the Registrant,
and GE Equity
Amendment No. 1 dated March 19, 2004 to Shareholder Agreement
dated April 15, 1999 between the Registrant, NBC and GE Equity
ValueVision Common Stock Purchase Warrant dated as of April 15,
1999 issued to GE Equity
Registration Rights Agreement dated April 15, 1999 between the
Registrant, GE Equity and NBC
Letter Agreement dated November 16, 2000 between the Registrant
and NBC
Trademark License Agreement dated as of November 16, 2000
between NBC and the Registrant
10 .46
10 .43
10 .44
10 .41
10 .42
10 .45
10 .40
10 .39
10 .38
Method of Filing
Incorporated by reference(K)†
Incorporated by reference(DD)†
Incorporated by reference(BB)†
Incorporated by reference (FF)†
Incorporated by reference(Z)†
Incorporated by reference(AA)†
Filed herewith †
Incorporated by reference(C)†
Incorporated by reference(C)†
Incorporated by reference(W)†
Incorporated by reference(T)†
Incorporated by reference(S)†
Incorporated by reference(GG)†
Filed herewith †
Filed herewith †
Incorporated by reference(F)
Incorporated by reference(G)
Incorporated by reference(F)
Incorporated by reference(F)
Incorporated by reference(G)
Incorporated by reference(U)
Incorporated by reference(G)
Incorporated by reference(G)
Incorporated by reference(M)
Incorporated by reference(L)
87
Table of Contents
Exhibit No.
10 .47
Description
Method of Filing
ValueVision Common Stock Purchase Warrant dated as of April 15,
1999 issued to NBC
Warrant Purchase Agreement dated as of November 16, 2000
between NBC and the Registrant
Common Stock Purchase Warrant dated as of November 16, 2000
between NBC and the Registrant
Amendment No. 1 dated March 12, 2001 to Common Stock Purchase
Warrant dated as of November 16, 2000 between NBC and the
Registrant
ValueVision Common Stock Purchase Warrant dated as of March 20,
2001 between NBC and the Registrant
Warrant Purchase Agreement dated September 13, 1999 between the
Registrant, Snap!LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and
Xoom.com, Inc., a Delaware corporation
Common Stock Purchase Warrant dated September 13, 1999 to
purchase shares of the Registrant held by Xoom.com, Inc., a
Delaware corporation
Registration Rights Agreement dated September 13, 1999 between
the registrant and Xoom.com, Inc., a Delaware corporation, relating to
Xoom.com, Inc.’s warrant to purchase shares of the Registrant
Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of
Ralph Lauren Media, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company,
dated as of February 7, 2000, among Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation,
a Delaware corporation, National Broadcasting Company, Inc., a
Delaware corporation, the Registrant, CNBC.com LLC, a Delaware
limited liability company and NBC Internet, Inc., a Delaware
corporation
Agreement for Services dated February 7, 2000 between Ralph
Lauren Media, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and VVI
Fulfillment Center, Inc., a Minnesota corporation
Amendment to Agreement for Services dated as of January 31, 2003
between Ralph Lauren Media, LLC and VVI Fulfillment Center, Inc.
Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of February 9, 2005 between GE
Capital Equity Investments, Inc. and Delta Onshore, LP, Delta
Institutional, LP, Delta Pleiades, LP and Delta Offshore, Ltd.
Stock Purchase and Registration Agreement dated as of July 8, 2005
between GE Capital Equity Investments, Inc. and Janus Investment
Fund
Stock Purchase and Registration Agreement dated as of July 8, 2005
between GE Capital Equity Investments, Inc. and Caxton
International Limited
Stock Purchase and Registration Agreement dated as of July 8, 2005
between GE Capital Equity Investments, Inc. and Magnetar
Investment Management, LLC
Stock Purchase and Registration Agreement dated as of July 8, 2005
between GE Capital Equity Investments, Inc. and RCG Ambrose
Master Fund, Ltd., RCG Halifax Fund, Ltd., Ramius Securities, LLC,
Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund, LLC, Parche, LLC and
Ramius Master Fund, Ltd.
Significant Subsidiaries of the Registrant
10 .48
10 .49
10 .50
10 .51
10 .52
10 .53
10 .54
10 .55
10 .56
10 .57
10 .58
10 .59
10 .60
10 .61
10 .62
21
Incorporated by reference(G)
Incorporated by reference(L)
Incorporated by reference(L)
Incorporated by reference(O)
Incorporated by reference(O)
Incorporated by reference(I)
Incorporated by reference(I)
Incorporated by reference(I)
Incorporated by reference(J)
Incorporated by reference(J)
Incorporated by reference(R)
Incorporated by reference(Y)
Incorporated by reference(X)
Incorporated by reference(X)
Incorporated by reference(X)
Incorporated by reference(X)
Filed herewith
88
Table of Contents
Description
Method of Filing
Exhibit No.
23 .1
23 .2
24
31 .1
31 .2
32
99 .1
99 .2
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (RLM)
Powers of Attorney
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief
Financial Officer
Audited Financial Statements for Ralph Lauren Media, LLC as
of April 1, 2006, and for the fifteen-month period ended April 1, 2006
Audited Financial Statements for Ralph Lauren Media, LLC as
of and for the year ended March 31, 2007
Filed herewith
Filed herewith
Filed herewith
Filed herewith
Filed herewith
Filed herewith
Included with signature pages
Filed herewith
† Management compensatory plan/arrangement.
(A) Incorporated herein by reference to Quantum Direct Corporation’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed
on March 13, 1998, File No. 333-47979.
(B) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended
August 31, 1994, filed on September 13, 1994, File No. 0-20243.
(C) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 3, 2008, filed
on March 7, 2008, File No. 0-20243.
(D) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement in connection with its annual meeting of
shareholders held on August 17, 1994, filed on July 19, 1994, File No. 0-20243.
(E) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
January 31, 1998, filed on April 30, 1998, File No. 0-20243.
(F) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 8, 1999, filed
on March 18, 1999, File No. 0-20243.
(G) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 15, 1999, filed
on April 29, 1999, File No. 0-20243.
(H) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed on
September 25, 2000, File No. 333-46572.
(I) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
July 31, 1999, filed on September 14, 1999, File No. 0-20243.
(J) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
January 31, 2000, File No. 0-20243.
(K) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed on
September 25, 2000, File No. 333-46576.
(L) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
October 31, 2000, filed on December 14, 2000, File No. 0-20243.
(M) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
January 31, 2001, File No. 0-20243.
(N) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed on January 25,
2002, File No. 333-81438.
(O) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
April 30, 2001, filed on June 14, 2001, File No. 0-20243.
89
Table of Contents
(P) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement in connection with its annual meeting of
shareholders held on June 20, 2002, filed on May 23, 2002, File No. 0-20243.
(Q) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K Dated May 16, 2002, filed
on May 17, 2002, File No. 0-20243.
(R) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
January 31, 2003, File No. 0-20243.
(S) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
June 30, 2003, filed on August 15, 2003, File No. 0-20243.
(T) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 8, 2007,
filed on November 14, 2007, File No. 333-13957.
(U) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement in connection with its annual meeting of
shareholders held on June 21, 2006, filed on May 23, 2006, File No. 0-20243.
(V) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 14, 2005, filed
on January 14, 2005, File No. 0-20243.
(W) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
April 30, 2005, filed on June 9, 2005, File No. 0-20243.
(X) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on July 29,
2005, File No. 333-127040.
(Y) Incorporated by reference to the Schedule 13D/A (Amendment No. 7) dated February 11, 2005, filed
February 15, 2005, File No. 005-41757.
(Z) Incorporated by reference to the description of this program included in the Registrant’s Current Report on
Form 8-K dated August 24, 2005, filed on August 26, 2005, File No. 0-20243.
(AA) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
October 29, 2005, filed on December 8, 2005, File No. 0-20243.
(BB) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 19, 2005,
filed on December 23, 2005, File No. 0-20243.
(CC) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 21, 2006, filed on
June 26, 2006, File No. 0-20243.
(DD) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed on
December 22, 2006, File No. 333-13957.
(EE) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
February 3, 2007, File No. 0-20243.
(FF) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement in connection with its annual meeting of
shareholders held on June 28, 2007, filed on June 1, 2007, File No. 0-20243.
(GG) Incorporated herein by reference to Item 5.02 of the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated
December 13, 2007, filed on December 19, 2007, File No. 0-20243.
90
ValueVision Media, Inc.
Compensation of Directors*
(Effective April 17, 2008)
Exhibit 10.28
1. Compensation for service on the Board:
•
•
$65,000 per annum cash compensation
Annual grant of 8,000 shares of restricted stock made immediately following election of the director at each annual shareholders
meeting. The shares of restricted stock vest on the day immediately prior to the next following annual shareholders meeting after
the date of grant.
2. Additional Compensation for Chairman of the Board:
•
•
•
Additional cash compensation of $65,000 per annum
Annual grant of 20,000 stock options per annum, with the option grant made immediately following the annual shareholders
meeting
Monthly retainer of $10,000 per month for transitional assistance to incoming CEO during the period of March 2008 through
January 2009
3. Additional Cash Compensation for service on Committees of the Board:
•
•
•
$12,000 per annum for serving as Chairman of Compensation or Governance Committee
$20,000 per annum for serving as Chairman of Audit Committee; and
$10,000 for other members of the Audit Committee
4. Per Meeting Fees:
•
No per meeting fees
*
Directors who are a member of ValueVision Media, Inc. management or who are elected by the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock
(currently the sole holder is GE Equity Investments, Inc.) do not receive any compensation for their service on the Board of Directors or
the Committees thereof.
Glenn K. Leidahl
Bloomington, MN
March 25, 2008
Dear Glenn:
We are pleased to offer you the position of Chief Operating Officer. We look forward to your partnership and leadership in our company in the
delivery of results that meet or exceed our shareholder’s expectations.
Exhibit 10.35
To follow is confirmation of your offer:
Position Title
Chief Operating Officer
Employment Start Date
April 1st, 2008
Reports To
Rene Aiu -- President and CEO
Annualized Base Salary
$350,000
Signing Bonus
$50,000 -- one time payment on employment start date
Annual Cash Incentive
Your incentive opportunity at the target performance level(s) will be 50% of your base salary with the
Long Term Incentive
opportunity to achieve up to 100% of your base salary (200% of target) if company financial performance
meets or exceeds the maximum award level goal(s). The annual incentive plan financial goal(s) are established
annually and approved by the Board of Directors. Any payments made under this plan to Company Officers
are made at the discretion of the Board of Directors or its Human Resources and Compensation Committee,
subject to the terms of the approved plan. Your actual incentive payment for FY2008 will be pro-rated based
on your employment start date. A portion of your FY2008 incentive payment will be guaranteed at $80,000, to
be paid upon your employment start date. The FY2008 balance payable following the end of the year will be
the actual incentive earned less $80,000.
Subject to the terms and conditions applicable to options granted under the Company’s Omnibus Stock Plan,
the applicable stock option agreement, and upon approval of the Company’s Board of Directors or its Human
Resources and Compensation Committee, you will be granted an option to purchase 225,000 shares of the
Company’s common stock at a price per share equal to the closing fair market value per share as of your
employment start date. Your option to purchase Company shares will vest in 1/3 increments upon each
anniversary of your employment start date (vests over 3 years) and exercisable for 10 years from the date of
grant. Beginning in 2010, you will be eligible for consideration for additional periodic long term incentive
grants determined based on a combination of competitive practice benchmarking, company performance and
your personal performance, in the discretion of and as determined by the Board of Directors or its Human
Resources and Compensation Committee.
Insurance & Benefits
You will be eligible for the Company’s standard benefit package. Eligibility and benefits are governed by the
terms of each respective plan, which the Company may change or terminate at any time.
Vacation
You will accrue 4 weeks of paid time off annually
Severance Eligibility
In the event your employment is terminated without Cause or you resign from employment for Good Reason
(as defined in Exhibit A),
1
you would be eligible for the greater of (a) the severance pay and other transition benefits as defined in the
Company’s severance guidelines for executive officers in effect at the time of your termination or (b) 12
months of your base salary and 12 months of Company-subsidized medical coverage under COBRA (you
would still be required to pay the employee contribution portion that you were paying prior to termination)
(base salary shall be determined as of the day immediately preceding your termination or the first day of the
fiscal year in which you are terminated, whichever is greater). At the current time, certain enhanced severance
guidelines for executive officers are in effect that will expire at the end of FY2008, at which time it is
expected that the guidelines will revert to the severance guideline referred to in clause (b) above. As defined in
Exhibit A, any tax liability imposed upon you or incurred by you in connection with the severance payments
and medical coverage payments, including tax liability relating to Section 280G, Section 4999 or Section
409A of the Internal Revenue Code, shall be solely your responsibility. The Company agrees to cooperate
with you and to reasonably modify any such payment terms in order to minimize any taxes due under the
aforementioned sections of the Code. All severance pay or benefits are conditional upon your execution of an
effective agreement substantially in the form annexed hereto that complies with applicable laws in which you
release the Company and all related parties from any and all claims against them.
With this offer you will be receiving our Company relocation package. It is understood and agreed that in connection with accepting this offer
you will relocate to the greater Minneapolis/St. Paul area of Minnesota sometime during 2008.
As with all ValueVision employment offers, this offer is conditional upon criminal background check and employment verification. We also
require non-compete, confidentiality and inventions agreements be executed by you upon employment. For the purposes of federal immigration
law, you will be required to provide documentary evidence of your identity and eligibility for employment in the United States. Should you
have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 952-943-6163. Thank you for treating the terms of your employment offer with Value
Vision Media confidentially.
We are excited to have you join our team and are confident that you have the skills and experience to be an effective leader in our organization.
Sincerely
/s/ Rene Aiu
Rene Aiu
President & CEO ValueVision Media, Inc.
Agreed and Accepted
/s/ Glenn K. Leidahl
Date: 3/25/08
2
Exhibit A to Glenn Leidahl Offer Letter Dated March 25, 2008
Definitions:
A. Termination For Cause (not severance eligible) : The Company may terminate Executive’s employment immediately for Cause. Cause shall
mean: (i) a material act which results in, or is intended to result in, Executive’s personal enrichment at the expense of the Company,
including theft or embezzlement; (ii) public conduct by Executive materially detrimental to the reputation of the Company; (iii) material
willful violation by Executive of any Company policy, regulation or practice known to the Executive, including but not limited to the
Executive’s willful or grossly negligent failure to adequately perform the duties of his or her position to the material detriment of the
Company; (iv) conviction of, or a plea of guilty or no contest to, a felony; (v) Executive’s Disability (as defined below); or (vi) Executive’s
death. Disability shall mean that the Executive (vii) is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically
determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death within 12 months or can be expected to last for a
continuous period of not less than 12 months; (viii) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be
expected to result in death within 12 months or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, is receiving
income replacement benefits for a period of not less than three months under an accident and health plan covering employees of the
Company; or (ix) has been determined to be totally disabled by the Social Security Administration. Disability under subsections (vii) and
(viii) shall be determined by a physician selected by the Company. Executive shall cooperate with the Company, including making
Executive reasonably available for examination by physicians at the Company’s request and at the Company’s expense to determine
whether or not Executive has a Disability.
B. Benefit Eligibility . Executive will be eligible to receive severance pay in the amounts specified in the Offer Letter or in the applicable
severance guidelines in effect at such for executive officers if the Executive:
i.
Is terminated Without Cause, including, without limitation, due to position elimination, reduction in workforce, reorganization,
consolidation or Resigns for Good Reason in the event that:
a.
The Executive is impacted by a mandatory relocation of the Executive’s principal place of employment to a location more
than 50 miles from Executive’s current office location
b.
The Company reduces the Executive’s total compensation opportunity (excluding equity) (unless part of an across-the-board
compensation opportunity or benefit plan reduction applicable on a similar basis to all other senior executive officers of the
Company)
c.
The Company materially breaches its obligations to pay the Executive, unless the failure to pay is a result of a good faith
dispute between the Company and the Executive
d.
The Company substantially diminishes the duties, responsibilities or title of the Executive such that the position held is no
longer the chief executive officer
e.
The Company alters the Executive’s reporting relationship, currently the Board of Directors of the Company
ii.
Continues to satisfactorily perform job duties as assigned and continues in employment through the date established by ValueVision
Media, Inc. as the Executive’s last day of employment
iii. Provides the Company written notice (in the case of a Good Reason resignation) that details the reason that Good Reason exists.
The Company shall have thirty (30) days following receipt of this notice to correct the occurrence. Only if the company fails to
correct the occurrence does Good Reason exist.
A-1
iv. Returns to the Company, no later than the last day of employment, all ValueVision Media, Inc. property in the Executive’s
possession; and
v.
Signs an effective agreement, substantially in the form annexed hereto, that complies with applicable laws in which the Executive
releases ValueVision Media, Inc. and all related parties from any and all claims against them. Payment of severance will be made
on the next regularly scheduled pay date after the applicable rescission period expires, unless the provisions of any applicable
section(s) of the tax code would otherwise indicate.
vi. Complies with the terms of any non-compete, confidentiality, invention or other written agreements
C. Change in Control. “Change in Control” means any of the following:
(i)
the acquisition by any individual, entity or group (within the meaning of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”)
Sections 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2)) of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Exchange Act Rule 13d-3) of (a) more than 50% of
the then-outstanding shares of common stock of the Company (the “Outstanding Company Common Stock”) or (b) 30% or more of
the combined voting power of the then-outstanding voting securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of the
Board (the Outstanding Company Voting Securities); notwithstanding the above, the following acquisitions will not constitute a
Change in Control; (A) any acquisition of common stock or voting securities of the Company directly from the Company, (B) any
acquisition of common stock or voting securities of the Company by the Company or any of its wholly owned subsidiaries, (C) any
acquisition of common stock or voting securities of the Company by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or
maintained by the company or any of its subsidiaries, or (D) any acquisition by any corporation with respect to which immediately
following such acquisition, more than 70% of, respectively, the then-outstanding voting securities of such corporation entitled to
vote generally in the election of directors is then beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by all or substantially all of the
individuals and entities who were the beneficial owners, respectively, of the Outstanding Company Common Stock and
Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately before such acquisition in substantially the same proportions as was their
ownership, immediately before such acquisition, of the Outstanding Company Common Stock and Outstanding Company Voting
Securities, as the case may be.
(ii) Individuals who, as of a date within the 12 months preceding the date that it is determined whether a Change in Control has
occurred, constitute the Board (the “Incumbent Board”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board. However,
any individual who becomes a director of the Board whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s shareholders, was
approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board will be considered a member of the
Incumbent Board.
(iii) A reorganization, merger, consolidation or statutory exchange of Outstanding Company Voting Securities, unless immediately
following such reorganization, merger, consolidation or exchange, all or substantially all of the individuals and entities who were
the beneficial owners, respectively, of the Outstanding company Common Stock and Outstanding Company Voting Securities
immediately before such reorganization, merger, consolidation or exchange beneficially own, directly or indirectly, more than 70%
of, respectively, the then-outstanding shares of common stock and the combined voting power of the then-outstanding voting
securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, as the case may be, of the corporation resulting from such
reorganization, merger, consolidation or exchange in substantially the same proportions as was their ownership, immediately before
such reorganization, merger, consolidation or exchange, of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities.
A-2
(iv) A reorganization, merger, consolidation or statutory exchange of Outstanding Company Common Stock, unless immediately
following such reorganization, merger, consolidation or exchange, all or substantially all of the individuals and entities that were the
beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Common Stock immediately before such reorganization, merger consolidation or
exchange beneficially own, directly or indirectly more than 50% of the then outstanding shares of common stock of the corporation
resulting from such reorganization, merger, consolidation, or exchange in substantially the same proportion as was their ownership
immediately before such reorganization, merger, consolidation or exchange of the Outstanding Company Common Stock.
(v) The sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, other than to a corporation with respect to
which, immediately following such sale or other disposition, more than 50% of, respectively, the then-outstanding shares of
common stock of such corporation or the combined voting power of the then-outstanding voting securities of such corporation
entitled to vote generally in the election of directors is then beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by all or substantially all of
the individuals and entities who were the beneficial owners, respectively, of the Outstanding Company Common Stock and
Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately before such sale or other disposition in substantially the same proportion as
was their ownership, immediately before such sale or other disposition, of the Outstanding Company Common Stock and
Outstanding Company Voting Securities, as the case may be.
(vi) Notwithstanding the above, a Change of Control shall not be deemed to occur with respect to Executive if the acquisition of the
interests referred to above is by a group, acting in concert, that includes the Executive or if at least 30% of the then-Outstanding
Common Stock or Outstanding Company Voting Securities of the surviving corporation or other entity acquiring all or substantially
all of the assets of the Company is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, immediately thereafter by a group, acting in concert,
that includes Executive.
(vii) In no event shall a Change of Control be deemed to have occurred if it does not constitute a Change in Control under Section 409A
of the Internal Revenue Code and guidance issued thereunder.
D. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Exhibit A to the contrary, if any of the payments or benefits received or to be received by
Executive (whether pursuant to the terms of Offer Letter or any other plan, arrangement or agreement with the Company, any person whose
actions result in a Change in Control or any person affiliated with the Company or such person) (all such payments and benefits being
hereinafter referred to as the “Total Payments”) will be subject to the excise tax under Code Section 4999 (“Excise Tax”), the following
provisions shall apply:
(i) If the Total Payments, reduced by the sum of (a) the Excise Tax and (b) the total of the Federal, state, and local income and
employment taxes payable by Executive on the amount of the Total Payments which are in excess of the Threshold Amount, are greater
than or equal to the Threshold Amount, Executive shall be entitled to the full benefits payable under this Agreement.
(ii) If the Threshold Amount is less than (a) the Total Payments, but greater than (b) the Total Payments reduced by the sum of (1) the
Excise Tax and (2) the total of the Federal, state and local income and employment taxes on the amount of the Total Payments which are
in excess of the Threshold Amount, then the benefits payable under this Agreement shall be reduced (but not below zero) to the extent
necessary so that the maximum Total Payments shall not exceed the Threshold Amount. To the extent that there is more than one method
of reducing the payments or benefits to bring them within the Threshold Amount, Executive shall determine which method shall be
followed; provided that if Executive fails to make such determination within fifteen (15) days after the Company has sent Executive
written notice of the need for such reduction, the Company may determine the amount of such reduction in its sole discretion.
“Threshold Amount” shall mean three times Executive’s “base amount” within the meaning of Code Section 280G(b)(3), less one dollar
($1.00).
A-3
The determination as to which of subsections (i) or (ii) above shall apply to Executive shall be made by a nationally recognized
accounting firm selected by the Company (the “Accounting Firm”), which shall provide detailed supporting calculations both to the
Company and Executive within fifteen (15) business days of the Date of Termination, if applicable, or at such earlier time as is
reasonably requested by the Company or Executive. For purposes of determining which of subsections (i) or (ii) above shall apply,
Executive shall be deemed to pay Federal income taxes at the highest marginal rate of Federal income taxation applicable to individuals
for the calendar year in which the determination is to be made, and state and local income taxes at the highest marginal rates of individual
taxation in the state and locality of Executive’s residence on the Date of Termination, net of the maximum reduction in Federal income
taxes which could be obtained from deduction of such state and local taxes. Any determination by the Accounting Firm shall be binding
upon the Company and Executive.
E.
If Executive shall be a specified employee, as defined in Code Section 409A and guidance issued thereunder as of the date of
separation from service, then the maximum amount that can be paid to Executive during the first six months following the
separation from service is the least of the following amount: (i) the amount otherwise required under the Agreement to be paid
during such six month period; (ii) twice the annualized base salary of Executive as of the last day of the year immediately preceding
the separation from service; (iii) twice the compensation limit for the year in which the separation from service occurs under
Section 401(a)(17) of the Code; or (iv) the maximum amount permitted to be paid under Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code
during such six month period. Any amounts not otherwise permitted to be paid during the six month period shall be paid in a lump
sum without interest on the first day of the month following the six month anniversary of the date of the separation from service.
F.
For purposes of this Agreement, “termination of employment” shall mean a separation from service under Code Section 409A and
guidance issued thereunder.
A-4
Exhibit 10.36
NON-COMPETITION AGREEMENT
This Non-Competition Agreement (“Agreement”) is made as of March 25, 2008 by and between ValueVision Media, Inc. , a Minnesota
corporation (together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”), and Glenn K. Leidahl (the “Employee”) pursuant to and in consideration of the
offer of employment dated March 25, 2008.
Non-Compete . While Employee is working for the Company and, if Employee voluntarily resigns, or departs from the Company under
circumstances where Employee receives severance payments from the Company, then also for the Non-competition Period (defined below)
following his/her departure, Employee will not:
(i) directly or indirectly own, manage, control, participate in, be a director, officer or employee of, lend Employee’s name to, act as
consultant or advisor to, render services to, or receive compensation from, any other person or entity engaged or seeking to engage in the
television home shopping business (including a television home shopping channel internet site) anywhere within the United States;
(ii) induce or attempt to induce any employee of the Company to leave his or her employment with the Company, or in any other way
interfere with the relationship between the Company and any other employee of the Company; or
(iii) induce or attempt to induce any customer, vendor, franchisee, licensee, or other business relation of the Company to cease doing
business with the Company, or in any way interfere with the relationship between such party and the Company.
For purposes of this Agreement, “Non-competition Period” shall mean the period commencing as of the date of this Agreement and ending on
the last day of the twelfth (12th) month following the last day of the month in which Employee’s employment with the Company ends.
Entire Agreement: Governing Law. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of the parties relating to Employee’s non-compete
agreement with the Company and supersedes any and all prior agreements and understandings with respect to such subject matter. All matters
relating to the interpretation, application, validity and enforcement of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Minnesota,
without regard to that state’s conflict of laws provisions.
VALUEVISION MEDIA, INC.
/s/ Rene G. Aiu
Name: Rene G. Aiu
EMPLOYEE
/s/ Glenn K. Leidahl
Name: Glenn K. Leidahl
1
All of the Company’s subsidiaries listed below are wholly owned.
SIGNIFICANT SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT
Name
ValueVision Media, Inc.
VVI Fulfillment Center, Inc.
Iosota, Inc.
FanBuzz, Inc.
FanBuzz Retail, Inc.
ValueVision Media Acquisitions, Inc.
ValueVision Retail, Inc.
Exhibit 21
State of Incorporation
Minnesota
Minnesota
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 33-93006 and 333-127040 on Form S-3 and Registration
Statement Nos. 33-60549, 33-68646, 33-68648, 33-96950, 333-40973, 333-40981, 333-75803, 333-84705, 333-46572, 333-46576, 333-81438,
333-113736, 33-125183, and 333-139597 on Form S-8 of our reports dated April 17, 2008, relating to the consolidated financial statements and
financial statement schedule of ValueVision Media, Inc. and Subsidiaries (which report expressed an unqualified opinion and includes an
explanatory paragraph relating to the change in accounting for stock-based compensation in the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007) and the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of ValueVision Media, Inc. and
Subsidiaries for the year ended February 2, 2008.
EXHIBIT 23.1
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Minneapolis, MN
April 28, 2008
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 33-93006 and 333-127040 on Form S-3 and Registration
Statement Nos. 33-60549, 33-68646, 33-68648, 33-96950, 333-40973, 333-40981, 333-75803, 333-84705, 333-46572, 333-46576, 333-81438,
333-113736, 333-125183 and 333-139597 on Form S-8 of ValueVision Media, Inc. of our reports, dated (1) September 28, 2007 (which report
expresses an unqualified opinion and includes an explanatory paragraph relating to the termination of several agreements due to the acquisition
by one member of the other members’ ownership interests) and (2) October 30, 2006, (April 11, 2007 as to Note 10) (which report expresses an
unqualified opinion and includes explanatory paragraphs relating to a change in the fiscal year end and a change in ownership interests);
relating to the financial statements of Ralph Lauren Media, LLC, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of ValueVision Media, Inc.
for the year ended February 2, 2008.
Exhibit 23.2
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
New York, New York
April 28, 2008
Exhibit 31.1
CERTIFICATION OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Rene G. Aiu, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of ValueVision Media, Inc.;
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary
to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the
period covered by this report;
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15(d)-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a.
designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known
to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b.
designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed
under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c.
evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such
evaluation; and
d.
disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s
most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control
over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial
reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the
equivalent function):
a.
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information;
and
b.
any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s
internal control over financial reporting.
Date: April 29, 2008
/s/ Rene G. Aiu
Rene G. Aiu
Chief Executive Officer and President
(principal executive officer)
Exhibit 31.2
CERTIFICATION OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Frank P. Elsenbast, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of ValueVision Media, Inc.;
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary
to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the
period covered by this report;
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15(d)-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a.
designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known
to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b.
designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed
under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c.
evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such
evaluation; and
d.
disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s
most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control
over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial
reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the
equivalent function):
a.
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information;
and
b.
any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s
internal control over financial reporting.
Date: April 29, 2008
/s/ Frank P. Elsenbast
Frank P. Elsenbast
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
(principal financial officer)
Exhibit 32
CERTIFICATION OF THE PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE AND FINANCIAL OFFICER
PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350
PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of ValueVision Media, Inc., a Minnesota corporation (the “ Company ”), for the year
ended February 2, 2008, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “ Report ”), the undersigned officers of
the Company certify pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to their knowledge:
•
the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
•
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the
Company.
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company
and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.
Date: April 29, 2008
Date: April 29, 2008
/s/ Rene G. Aiu
Rene G. Aiu
Chief Executive Officer and President
(principal executive officer)
/s/ Frank P. Elsenbast
Frank P. Elsenbast
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
(principal financial officer)
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
Financial Statements
As of April 1, 2006 and for the 15 Month Period Ended April 1, 2006 and
Independent Auditors' Report
EXHIBIT 99.1
.
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
.
.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------
PAGE
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT 1
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF APRIL 1, 2006 AND FOR THE
15 MONTH PERIOD ENDED APRIL 1, 2006
Balance Sheet 2
Statement of Income 3
Statement of Partners' Capital 4
Statement of Cash Flows 5
Notes to Financial Statements 6-13
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
To the Members of Ralph Lauren Media, LLC
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Ralph Lauren Media, LLC (the "Company") as of April 1, 2006 and the related statements
of income, partners' capital, and cash flows for the 15 month period then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. 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 consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the
circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures
in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the
overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Ralph Lauren Media LLC as of April 1,
2006, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the 15 month period then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America.
As discussed in Note 2 to the financial statements, the Company changed its fiscal year-end from the Saturday closest to December 31st to the
Saturday closest to March 31st.
As discussed in Note 10, on March 28, 2007, one of the partners of the Company acquired the equity interest of the other two partners.
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
October 30, 2006
(April 11, 2007 as to Note 10)
-1-
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
BALANCE SHEET
APRIL 1, 2006
(IN THOUSANDS)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 33,804
Accounts receivable 1,737
Related party receivables 98
Inventory 16,793
Other current assets 53
------------------
Total current assets 52,485
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT---Net 307
------------------
TOTAL ASSETS $ 52,792
==================
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 6,184
Related party payables 9,100
------------------
Total current liabilities 15,284
PARTNERS' CAPITAL 37,508
------------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL $ 52,792
==================
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
-2-
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
STATEMENT OF INCOME
15 MONTH PERIOD ENDED APRIL 1, 2006
(IN THOUSANDS)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------
NET REVENUES $ 106,216
COST OF GOODS SOLD 35,728
------------------
Gross profit 70,488
OPERATING EXPENSES---
Selling, general and administrative 49,750
------------------
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS 20,738
INTEREST INCOME 680
------------------
NET INCOME $ 21,418
==================
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
-3-
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
STATEMENT OF PARTNERS' CAPITAL
15 MONTH PERIOD ENDED APRIL 1, 2006
(IN THOUSANDS)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
POLO RALPH NATIONAL
LAUREN VALUEVISION BROADCASTING
CORPORATION MEDIA, INC. COMPANY, INC. TOTAL
PARTNERS' CAPITAL --
January 1, 2005 $ 7,532 $ (8,426) $ 17,935 $ 17,041
Contribution of services 1,049 1,049
Distribution of capital (1,000) (250) (750) (2,000)
Net income 10,709 2,677 $ 8,032 21,418
-------------- ------------- -------------- -----------
PARTNERS' CAPITAL -
April 1, 2006 $ 18,290 $ (5,999) $ 25,217 $ 37,508
============== ============= ============== ===========
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
-4-
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
15 MONTH PERIOD ENDED APRIL 1, 2006
(IN THOUSANDS)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income $ 21,418
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Services provided by Joint Venture Partners 1,049
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable (558)
Related party receivables 2,989
Inventory (5,658)
Other current assets 25
Accounts payable and accrued expenses (176)
Related party payables 3,440
--------------
Net cash provided by operating activities 22,529
--------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures (307)
--------------
Cash used in investing activities (307)
--------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Distribution of capital (2,000)
--------------
Cash used in financing activities (2,000)
--------------
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 20,222
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS --- Beginning of period 13,582
--------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS --- End of period $ 33,804
==============
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
-5-
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF AND FOR THE 15 MONTH PERIOD ENDED APRIL 1, 2006
(IN THOUSANDS)
1. BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION
Ralph Lauren Media, LLC (the "Company") was formed to bring the Polo American lifestyle experience to consumers via multiple media
platforms, including the Internet, broadcast, cable and print. The Company's first initiative is the Polo.com website, which opened its virtual
doors in November 2000. Polo.com provides entertaining format and content that promotes and sells the Polo brands.
The Company, which was formed in February 2000, is a 30 year joint venture between Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation ("Polo") which owns
50% of the Company, National Broadcasting Company, Inc. ("NBC") which owns 37.5% of the Company, and ValueVision Media, Inc.
(formerly ValueVision International, Inc.) ("ValueVision") which owns 12.5% of the Company. NBC and ValueVision collectively form the
"Media Partners." The Company's managing board has equal representation from Polo and the Media Partners. The details are presented in the
Joint Venture agreement dated February 7, 2000.
Polo provides marketing through its annual print advertising campaign and provides inventory to the Company through a Supply Agreement
(the "Supply Agreement"). Polo makes its merchandise available at cost of inventory and handles excess inventory through its outlet stores. As
detailed in Note 9, Polo provides the Company with accounting, legal and human resources services as well as facilities support.
As detailed in Note 9, ValueVision provides the Company with telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment operations.
2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
FISCAL YEAR--The Company's fiscal year end was changed this year. It is now based on a 12 month fiscal year which ends on the Saturday
nearest to March 31. Previously the fiscal year ended on the Saturday nearest to December 31. All references to "Fiscal 2006" represent the 15
month fiscal period ended April 1, 2006. This 15 month based financial statement begins January 1, 2005 and ends April 1, 2006. All
references to "Fiscal 2007" represent the fiscal year ending March 31, 2007. Selected financial information derived from the results of
operations for the three month periods ended April 1, 2006 and April 2, 2005 is as follows:
THREE MONTH PERIOD ENDED
APRIL 1, 2006 APRIL 2, 2005
----------------------------------
Net revenues $20,632 $16,223
Cost of goods sold 7,115 5,961
----------------------------------
Gross profit 13,517 10,262
Operating expenses 9,503 9,055
----------------------------------
Income from operations 4,014 1,207
Interest income 357 17
----------------------------------
Net income $4,371 $1,224
==================================
-6-
BASIS OF PRESENTATION (CONTINUED):
USE OF ESTIMATES-- The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and assumptions affect
amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosure of gain and loss contingencies at the date of the financial statements.
The amounts currently estimated by the Company are subject to change if different assumptions as to the outcome of future events were made.
The Company evaluates its estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis and predicates those estimates and judgments on historical experience
and on various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Management makes adjustments to its assumptions and
judgments when facts and circumstances dictate. The primary estimates underlying the financial statements include sales returns and deferred
revenue. Actual results may differ from the estimates used by the Company in preparing the accompanying financial statements.
3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
REVENUE RECOGNITION--The Company recognizes revenue from e-commerce sales upon receipt of products by customers. Sales to
individuals are paid for entirely with credit cards. Shipping and handling fees billed to customers are included in net revenues and the related
costs are included in operating expenses. The Company records revenue from gift cards as deferred revenue and recognizes revenue upon
redemption. Gift cards sold to customers do not have expiration dates.
Allowances for estimated returns are provided when sales are recorded. The Company's reserve for sales returns which is included in accounts
payable and accrued expenses is approximately $1.4 million at April 1, 2006. Deferred revenues are reported according to the expected
delivery date to the customer. It is estimated that the last three days of sales are considered deferred revenue and at April 1, 2006 was $0.6
million and classified in accounts payable and accrued expenses.
COST OF GOODS SOLD--Cost of goods sold includes the expenses incurred to acquire inventory for sale, including product costs, freight-in
and import costs. This also includes reserves for shrinkage, damages and inventory obsolescence. The costs of selling merchandise, including
preparing the merchandise for sale, such as picking, packing, shipping, warehousing and order costs are included in selling, general and
administrative ("SG&A").
SHIPPING AND HANDLING COSTS-- The costs associated with shipping goods to the customer are reflected as a component of SG&A.
Shipping and handling costs incurred approximated $6.8 million in Fiscal 2006.
ADVERTISING COSTS-- In accordance with American Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("AICPA") Statement of Position ("SOP")
No. 93-7, Reporting on Advertising Costs, advertising costs, including the costs to produce advertising, are expensed upon the first time that
the advertisement is exhibited. Advertising expense was approximately $5.0 million for Fiscal 2006. There were no deferred advertising costs
recorded as of April 1, 2006.
TECHNOLOGY AND WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT--The Company develops its website through use of internal and external resources.
External costs incurred in connection with development of the website, prior to technological feasibility, are expensed when incurred. Costs
incurred subsequent to technological feasibility through the period of the site availability are capitalized.
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME--Comprehensive income was equal to the net income during Fiscal 2006.
-7-
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED):
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION-- Through the end of fiscal 2006, the Company used the intrinsic value method to account for stock-
based compensation in accordance with Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,
("APB 25") and had adopted the disclosure-only provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Statement No. 123,
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, as amended by FASB Statement No. 148, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation -- Transition
and Disclosure ("FAS 123"). Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for fixed stock option grants issued at fair market value.
This is for the issuance of Polo common stock and restricted stock units, which is managed by Polo. Had compensation costs for the Company's
stock option grants been determined based on the fair value at the grant dates of such awards in accordance with FAS 123, the Company's net
income would have been reduced to the pro forma amount as follow:
Net income as reported $21,418
Deduct: Total stock-based compensation expense
determined under fair value based method for all
awards (224)
--------
Pro forma net income $21,194
========
For purposes of applying the pro forma disclosure requirements of FAS 123, the fair value of each stock option grant was estimated on the date
of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The following weighted-average assumptions were used for all grants in Fiscal 2006:
annual dividend rate of $0.20; expected volatility of 29.1%; risk-free interest rate of 3.66%; and an expected term to exercise of 5.2 years. In
addition, see Note 4 to the Notes to Financial Statements for a discussion of the adoption of FASB Statement No. 123R, Share-Based Payment,
("FAS 123R"), effective in Fiscal 2007, which requires compensation cost to be recognized for all stock-based compensation awards granted,
modified or settled on or after April 2, 2006.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS--Cash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three
months or less.
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE--The balance represents receivables related to sales generated from the website through GSI Commerce, Inc
("GSI") a third-party provider of e-commerce solutions. GSI remits the collected tender to the Company.
INVENTORY--Inventory, which consists entirely of finished goods, is valued at the lower of cost or market value as determined on a
weighted-average cost basis. All risks of ownership of excess inventory, as defined by the Supply Agreement, are borne by Polo, who
reimburses the Company at cost for all saleable inventories returned.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT--Property and equipment is carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Computer
equipment and technology and website development are depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives of up to 3
years when placed in service. Major additions are capitalized, and repairs and maintenance are charged to operations in the period incurred.
Additions in Fiscal 2006 were not yet put into service at April 1, 2006.
ACCOUNTING FOR THE CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS--The Company records in-kind contributions from the partners at the partners'
carrying value on their financial statements at the time of contribution. Partner cash contributions are recorded at the time of contribution.
-8-
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED):
INCOME TAX--The Company is not considered a taxable entity for Federal income tax purposes and most state income tax purposes. The
members report any taxable income or losses on their respective income tax returns. As a result, no tax expense or benefit has been recorded by
the Company for the period presented.
CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISKS--The Company is potentially exposed to credit risk primarily due to cash deposits. The Company
reduces this risk by depositing all of its funds with a number of major banks and financial institutions and investing in high-quality instruments.
4. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
In December 2004, the FASB issued FAS 123R and, in March 2005, the US Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") issued Staff
Accounting Bulletin No. 107 ("SAB 107"). SAB 107 provides implementation guidance for companies to use in their adoption of FAS 123R.
FAS 123R supersedes both APB 25, which permitted the use of the intrinsic-value method in accounting for stock-based compensation, and
FAS 123, which allowed companies applying APB 25 to just disclose in their financial statements the pro forma effect on net income from
applying the fair-value method of accounting for stock-based compensation.
Under FAS 123R, all forms of share-based payments to employees, including stock options, would be treated as compensation and recognized
in the statement of operations based on their fair value at the date of grant for awards that actually vest. This standard is effective for awards
granted, modified or settled by the Company beginning on April 2, 2006. The Company has historically accounted for stock-based
compensation under APB 25 and has adopted FAS 123R effective as of Fiscal 2007 under the modified prospective transition method. The
adoption of FAS 123R did not have a material impact on its financial statements. This program is managed by Polo and the cost is allocated to
the Company.
In May 2005, the FASB issued Statement No. 154, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections ("FAS 154"). FAS 154 generally requires that
accounting changes and errors be applied retrospectively. FAS 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal
years beginning after December 15, 2005. The adoption of FAS 154 did not have a material impact on its financial statements.
In March 2005, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") Interpretation No. 47, Accounting for Conditional
Asset Retirement Obligations ("FIN 47"). FIN 47 provides clarification regarding the timing of liability recognition for legal obligations
associated with the retirement of a tangible long-lived asset when the timing and/or method of settlement are conditioned on a future event. The
Company adopted the provisions of FIN 47 during Fiscal 2006. The application of FIN 47 did not have an impact on the Company's financial
statements.
In November 2004, the FASB issued Statement No. 151, Inventory Costs ("FAS 151"). FAS 151 clarifies standards for the treatment of
abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs and spoilage. FAS 151 is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15,
2005. The adoption of FAS 151 did not have a material effect on its financial statements.
In September 2006, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108 ("SAB 108"). SAB 108 addresses the process and diversity in practice
of quantifying financial statement misstatements resulting in the potential build-up of improper amounts on the balance sheet. The Company
will be required to adopt the provisions of SAB 108 in fiscal year 2007. The Company does not expect the adoption of SAB 108 to have a
material impact on its financial statements.
-9-
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS (CONTINUED):
In March 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 156, Accounting for Servicing of Financial Assets ("FAS 156") -- an amendment of FASB
Statement No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities, with respect to the
accounting for separately recognized servicing assets and servicing liabilities. This statement is effective as of the beginning of an entity's first
fiscal year that begins after September 15, 2006. The Company believes FAS 156 does not have an impact on its financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 157, Fair Value Measurements ("FAS 157"). FAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a
framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This
statement applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements, the Board having previously
concluded in those accounting pronouncements that fair value is the relevant measurement attribute. Accordingly, this statement does not
require any new fair value measurements. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November
15, 2007. The Company believes FAS 157 does not have an impact on its financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 158, Employers' Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans
("FAS 158") - an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and
132(R). FAS 158 improves financial reporting by requiring an employer to recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of a defined benefit
postretirement plan (other than a multiemployer plan) as an asset or liability in its statement of financial position and to recognize changes in
that funded status in the year in which the changes occur through comprehensive income of a business entity or changes in unrestricted net
assets of a not-for-profit organization. This statement also improves financial reporting by requiring an employer to measure the funded status
of a plan as of the date of its year-end statement of financial position, with limited exceptions. An employer without publicly traded equity
securities is required to recognize the funded status of a defined benefit postretirement plan and to provide the required disclosures as of the
end of the fiscal year ending after June 15, 2007. The Company believes FAS 158 does not have an impact on its financial statements.
In June 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in
Income Taxes ("FIN 48") -- an interpretation of FASB Statement No.
109. FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise's financial statements in accordance with FAS
109, Accounting for Income Taxes. This interpretation prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement
recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. This Interpretation also provides guidance on
derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. This interpretation is effective for
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. The Company believes FIN 48 does not have a material impact on its financial statements.
-10-
5. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES
The Company's accounts payable and accrued expenses consist of the following as of April 1, 2006:
Operating expenses $ 1,568
Reserve for sales returns 1,419
Gift cards liability 1,154
Accrued employee costs 1,042
Sales tax payable 389
Deferred revenue 612
--------
$ 6,184
========
6. PARTNERS' CAPITAL
Contributions of services by Polo had a value of $1.0 million in Fiscal 2006 which were determined on a proportional cost allocation method.
Distributions of capital amounted to $2.0 million in Fiscal 2006, and were allocated in accordance with ownership percentages.
The Company allocates profits and losses to the partners in accordance with the LLC Agreement. The LLC agreement provides that losses are
first allocated to the partners in a manner to make their partner's tax basis capital account balances consistent with their ownership percentages,
then pro rata in accordance with their ownership percentages. Profits of the Company are allocated to the partners in accordance with their
ownership percentages.
7. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
In connection with the hiring of key executives, Polo has issued options for the purchase of Polo common stock and restricted stock units to
certain executives of the Company. Polo granted 20,015 options on June 15, 2005 at an exercise price of $43.05 equal to fair market value at
the date of grant. The options become exercisable ratably, over a three-year vesting period for employees. The stock options generally expire
either seven or ten years from the date of grant. This is managed by Polo.
Polo granted 3,400 restricted stock units on June 15, 2005, which are subject to Polo's satisfaction of performance goals and will vest in three
equal installments on the first three anniversaries of the grant date through June 15, 2008. Performance-based restricted stock units also are
payable in shares of Polo's common stock and may vest over
(1) a three-year period of time (cliff vesting), subject to the employee's continuing employment and Polo's satisfaction of certain performance
goals over the three-year period; or (2) ratably over a three-year period of time (graded vesting), subject to the employee's continuing
employment during the applicable vesting period and the achievement by the Company of separate annual performance goals. Compensation
expense for performance-based restricted stock units is recognized over the service period when attainment of the performance goals is
probable. The is accounted as variable arrangements. The Company is required to reimburse Polo for the expense and has recorded
compensation expense of $0.3 million in Fiscal 2006 related to the restricted stock units and are included in SG&A.
-11-
8. SIGNIFICANT AGREEMENTS
In May 2003, the Company entered into an agreement with Amazon.com ("Amazon") whereby the Company would make its website available
through Amazon.com's internet operations. As part of the arrangement, a percentage of sales to customers who access Polo.com through the
Amazon.com web portal are paid as a commission to Amazon. Amazon is also responsible for credit card fees and credit risk on transactions
processed through their operations. The Company began selling through the Amazon site in October 2003. During Fiscal 2006, the Company
recorded expenses of approximately $0.5 million.
In November 2003, the Company entered into an agreement with GSI for e-commerce technology services. In connection with this agreement,
the Company pays a service fee to GSI equivalent to a percentage of net merchandising revenue, as defined in the agreement. GSI is also
responsible for all credit card processing fees and credit risk on all sales processed through its technology platform with the exception of sales
through Amazon's internet operations as described above. During Fiscal 2006, the Company recorded expenses of approximately $12.3 million.
9. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
LICENSING--The Company entered into a license agreement with a wholly-owned subsidiary of Polo (the "License Agreement"). The terms
of the License Agreement require the Company to pay a royalty on the sale of Polo products based on a specified percentage of net retail sales.
The volume of net retail sales shall be reset to zero each year. The royalty calculation is based on a calendar year ending December 31, 2005.
During fiscal 2006, the Company paid royalties of $0.5 million which are included in SG&A.
INVENTORY--Under the terms of the Supply Agreement, the Company has the right to purchase its inventory from Polo, its suppliers and its
licensees, at Polo's cost. During Fiscal 2006, the Company purchased approximately $33.1 million or 74% of its inventory from Polo and its
suppliers, and the remaining 26% of the Company's inventory was purchased from Polo licensees. The Company relies on Polo and its
relationship with its suppliers to achieve favorable inventory costs in accordance with the Supply Agreement. If Polo were to terminate the
Supply Agreement or be unable to continue its relationships with its suppliers there may be a material adverse effect to the Company and its
cost of doing business. At least twice a year, Polo agrees to purchase from the Company at the Company's cost, all unsold Polo products that
were purchased in accordance with the Supply Agreement, subject to certain exclusions. During Fiscal 2006, Polo purchased $3.7 million in
unsold inventory from the Company. At April 1, 2006, the Company had a receivable and a payable due to Polo for inventory and other
services of approximately $0.1 million and $6.9 million, respectively. These amounts are included in related party receivables and related party
payables in the accompanying balance sheet.
FULFILLMENT--ValueVision provides telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment operations to the Company based on the agreement
entered on May 18, 2004. For Fiscal 2006, telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment expenses (inclusive of system expenses) amounted
to approximately $10.6 million and are included in SG&A. The liability for these services was $2.2 million and is included in related party
payables in the accompanying balance sheet.
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES--Polo provides the Company with administrative services in the way of accounting, treasury, human
resources, payroll services, accounts payable services, office space and utilities, IT support and legal services. The services Polo provided
totaled approximately $1.0 million for Fiscal 2006 based on a proportional cost allocation method and are included in SG&A and as a capital
contribution in Polo's capital account. The Company reimburses payroll and operating expenses which are initially paid by Polo.
-12-
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED):
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS--The Company currently does not maintain any of its own employee benefit plans, including, health, dental, short-
term disability, long-term disability and 401(k). Polo administers these benefits and the Company's employees are permitted to participate.
During Fiscal 2006, the Company recorded expenses of approximately $1.1 million for these benefits based on a proportional cost allocation
method.
10. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In October 2006, the Company amended its Services Agreement with ValueVision. The amendment provided for an extension of the term of
the agreement to August 31, 2008, with an option to extend this term for up to an additional 12 months, required the Company to commit to
minimum order and call center contact volumes, and changed its order fulfillment pricing from a net order to gross units shipped pricing
structure, among other things.
On December 18, 2006, the Company entered into a lease agreement for a 360,000 square foot distribution center facility located in High Point,
North Carolina. The lease has an initial term of fifteen years and contains four 5-year extension options. Rent commences upon the substantial
completion of the facility by the lessor which is anticipated to be in September 2007. During the first year, the fixed annual rent is
approximately $1,264,000 with annual rent increases over the initial lease term of 1.125%.
On March 28, 2007, Polo acquired the 50% equity interest in the Company held by NBC and its related entities (37.5%) and ValueVision and
its related entities (12.5%). As a result of this transaction, the Company is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Polo, and NBC and ValueVision
no longer have any Partners' Capital in the Company. In connection with the acquisition, the LLC Agreement, the Operating Agreement, the
Supply Agreement, the License Agreement, the Advertising Agreement, the Promotion Agreement and the Restated Limited Liability
Company Agreement were all terminated. The Services Agreement, whereby ValueVision provides telemarketing, customer support and
fulfillment operations to the Company, is still in effect, as amended.
-13-
Ralph Lauren Media, LLC
Financial Statements as of and for the
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2007, and
Independent Auditors’ Report
Exhibit 99.2
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF AND FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2007:
Balance Sheet
Statement of Income
Statement of Members’ Capital
Statement of Cash Flows
Notes to Financial Statements
Page
1
2
3
4
5
6—12
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT
To the Members of Ralph Lauren Media, LLC
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Ralph Lauren Media, LLC (the “Company”) as of March 31, 2007, and the related
statements of income, members’ capital, and cash flows for the fiscal year then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. 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 consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the
circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures
in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the
overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of March 31, 2007,
and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the fiscal year then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States of America.
As discussed in Note 1, on March 28, 2007, the Company became a wholly owned subsidiary of one of the members and several agreements
between the members were terminated.
September 28, 2007
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
BALANCE SHEET
MARCH 31, 2007
(In thousands)
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable
Inventory
Other current assets
Total current assets
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT — Net
TOTAL
LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS’ CAPITAL
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Related-party payables
Total current liabilities
MEMBERS’ CAPITAL
TOTAL
See notes to financial statements.
-2-
$ 54,634
2,715
21,324
73
78,746
893
$ 79,639
$ 10,749
8,159
18,908
60,731
$ 79,639
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
STATEMENT OF INCOME
FISCAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2007
(In thousands)
NET REVENUES
COST OF GOODS SOLD
Gross profit
OPERATING EXPENSES — Selling, general and administrative
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
INTEREST INCOME
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
PROVISION FOR STATE INCOME TAXES
NET INCOME
See notes to financial statements.
-3-
$ 116,655
36,946
79,709
57,402
22,307
2,380
24,687
523
$ 24,164
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
STATEMENT OF MEMBERS’ CAPITAL
FISCAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2007
(In thousands)
MEMBERS’ CAPITAL (DEFICIT) — April 1, 2006
Contribution of services
Distribution of capital
Net income
Purchase of Members’ ownership interest
MEMBERS’ CAPITAL — March 31, 2007
See notes to financial statements.
Polo Ralph
Lauren
Corporation
$ 18,290
1,059
(1,000 )
12,082
30,300
$ 60,731
ValueVision
Media, Inc.
National
Broadcasting
Company,
Inc.
$
(5,999 )
$
25,217
(250 )
3,020
3,229
—
$
(750 )
9,062
(33,529 )
—
$
Total
$ 37,508
1,059
(2,000 )
24,164
—
$ 60,731
-4-
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FISCAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2007
(In thousands)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation
Services provided by Joint Venture Members
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable
Related-party receivables
Inventory
Other current assets
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Related-party payables
Net cash provided by operating activities
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES — Capital expenditures
Cash used in investing activities
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES — Distribution of capital
Cash used in financing activities
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Beginning of period
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — End of period
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION — Cash paid for income taxes
See notes to financial statements.
-5-
$ 24,164
107
1,059
(978 )
98
(4,531 )
(20 )
4,565
(941 )
23,523
(693 )
(693 )
(2,000 )
(2,000 )
20,830
33,804
$ 54,634
$
622
RALPH LAUREN MEDIA, LLC
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF AND FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2007
(In thousands)
1. BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION
Ralph Lauren Media, LLC (the “Company”) was formed to bring the Polo American lifestyle experience to consumers via multiple media
platforms, including the Internet, broadcast, cable and print. The Company’s first initiative is the RalphLauren.com website, which opened
its virtual doors in November 2000. RalphLauren.com provides entertaining format and content that promotes and sells the Polo brands.
The Company, which was formed in February 2000, was a 30-year joint venture between Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation (“Polo”), which
owned 50% of the Company, National Broadcasting Company, Inc. (NBC), which owned 37.5% of the Company, and ValueVision Media,
Inc. (formerly ValueVision International, Inc.) (“ValueVision”), which owned 12.5% of the Company. NBC and ValueVision collectively
formed the “Media Members.” The Company’s managing board had equal representation from Polo and the Media Members. The details
were presented in the Joint Venture agreement dated February 7, 2000.
On March 28, 2007, Polo acquired the 50% equity interest in the Company held by NBC and its related entities (37.5%) and ValueVision
and its related entities (12.5%). As a result of this transaction, the Company became a wholly owned subsidiary of Polo, and NBC and
ValueVision no longer have any Members’ Capital in the Company. In connection with the acquisition, the Joint Venture Agreement, the
Operating Agreement, the Supply Agreement, the License Agreement, the Advertising Agreement, the Promotion Agreement and the
Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement were all terminated. The Services Agreement, whereby ValueVision provides
telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment operations to the Company, is still in effect, as amended. The activities of the Company are
expected to remain the same subsequent to the acquisition with the exception of the termination of the License Agreement and
administrative services as detailed in Note 9.
Polo provided marketing through its annual print advertising campaign and provides inventory to the Company through a Supply Agreement
(the “Supply Agreement”). Polo makes its merchandise available at cost of inventory and handles excess inventory through its outlet stores.
As detailed in Note 9, Polo provides the Company with accounting, legal and human resources services as well as facilities support.
As detailed in Note 9, ValueVision provides the Company with telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment operations.
2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Fiscal Year — The Company’s fiscal year end is based on a 12-month fiscal year which ends on the Saturday nearest to March 31. All
references to “fiscal 2007” represent the fiscal year ending March 31, 2007.
-6-
Use of Estimates — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and assumptions affect
amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosure of gain and loss contingencies at the date of the financial statements.
The amounts currently estimated by the Company are subject to change if different assumptions as to the outcome of future events were
made.
The Company evaluates its estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis and predicates those estimates and judgments on historical
experience and on various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Management makes adjustments to its
assumptions and judgments when facts and circumstances dictate. The primary estimates underlying the financial statements include sales
returns and deferred revenue. Actual results may differ from the estimates used by the Company in preparing the accompanying financial
statements.
3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Revenue Recognition — The Company recognizes revenue from e-commerce sales upon receipt of products by customers. Sales to
individuals are paid for entirely with credit cards. Shipping and handling fees billed to customers are included in net revenues and the
related costs are included in operating expenses. The Company records revenue from gift cards as deferred revenue and recognizes revenue
upon redemption. Gift cards sold to customers do not have expiration dates.
Allowances for estimated returns are provided when sales are recorded. The Company’s reserve for sales returns, which is included in
accounts payable and accrued expenses, is approximately $2.1 million at March 31, 2007. Deferred revenues are reported according to the
expected delivery date to the customer. It is estimated that the last three days of sales are considered deferred revenue and at March 31,
2007, was $1.9 million and classified in accounts payable and accrued expenses.
Cost of Goods Sold — Cost of goods sold includes the expenses incurred to acquire inventory for sale, including product costs, freight-in
and import costs. Cost of goods sold also includes reserves for shrinkage, damages and inventory obsolescence. The costs of selling
merchandise, including preparing the merchandise for sale, such as picking, packing, shipping, warehousing and order costs are included in
selling, general and administrative (SG&A).
Shipping and Handling Costs — The costs associated with shipping goods to the customer are reflected as a component of SG&A.
Shipping and handling costs incurred approximated $7.2 million in fiscal 2007.
Advertising Costs — In accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Statement of Position
(SOP) No. 93-7, Reporting on Advertising Costs, advertising costs, including the costs to produce advertising, are expensed upon the first
time that the advertisement is exhibited. Advertising expense was approximately $6.2 million for fiscal 2007. There were no deferred
advertising costs recorded as of March 31, 2007.
Technology and Website Development — The Company develops its website through use of internal and external resources. External costs
incurred in connection with development of the website, prior to technological feasibility, are expensed when incurred. Costs incurred
subsequent to technological feasibility through the period of the site availability are capitalized.
Comprehensive Income — Comprehensive income was equal to the net income during fiscal 2007.
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Stock-Based Compensation — Effective fiscal 2007, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Statement
No. 123R, Share-Based Payment (FAS 123R), which requires compensation cost to be recognized for all stock-based compensation awards
granted, modified or settled on or after April 2, 2006. This program is managed by Polo and the cost is allocated to the Company. In fiscal
2007, the Company incurred costs of $0.3 million in relation to these compensation awards. The following weighted-average assumptions
were used for all grants in fiscal 2007: annual dividend yield of 0.39%, expected volatility of 33.2%, risk-free interest rate of 4.9%, and an
expected term to exercise of 4-5 years.
Cash and Cash Equivalents — Cash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or
less.
Accounts Receivable — The balance represents receivables related to sales generated from the website through GSI Commerce, Inc. (GSI),
a third-party provider of e-commerce solutions. GSI remits the collected tender to the Company.
Inventory — Inventory, which consists entirely of finished goods, is valued at the lower of cost or market value as determined on a
weighted-average cost basis. All risks of ownership of excess inventory, as defined by the Supply Agreement, are borne by Polo, which
reimburses the Company at cost for all saleable inventories returned.
Property and Equipment — Property and equipment is carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Computer
equipment and technology and website development are depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives of up to
three years when placed in service. Major additions are capitalized, and repairs and maintenance are charged to operations in the period
incurred. As of March 31, 2007, the Company had $0.6 million of additions that were not yet placed in service.
Accounting for Capital Contributions — Through March 28, 2007, the Company recorded in-kind contributions from the members at the
members’ carrying value on their financial statements at the time of contribution. Member cash contributions are recorded at the time of
contribution.
Income Tax — The Company is not considered a taxable entity for federal income tax purposes and most state income tax purposes. The
members report any taxable income or losses on their respective income tax returns. The income tax expense for fiscal 2007, $0.5 million,
represents state taxes incurred by the Company in states that tax the Company at the entity level as opposed to the member level.
Concentration of Credit Risks — The Company is potentially exposed to credit risk primarily due to cash deposits. The Company reduces
this risk by depositing all of its funds with a number of major banks and financial institutions and investing in high-quality instruments.
4. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
In July 2006, the FASB issued Financial Accounting Standards Interpretation (FIN) No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes —
an interpretation of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income tax
positions. FIN No. 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement
of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The evaluation of a tax position in accordance with FIN No. 48 is a two-step
process. The Company first will be required to determine whether it is “more-likely-than-not” that a tax position will be sustained upon
examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the
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position. A tax position that meets the “more-likely-than-not” recognition threshold will then be measured to determine the amount of
benefit to recognize in the financial statements based upon the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being
realized upon ultimate settlement. FIN No. 48 is effective for the Company as of the beginning of fiscal 2008 (April 1, 2007). The
application of FIN No. 48 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.
In February 2007, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities —
Including an Amendment of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115. FASB Statement No. 159 permits companies to choose
to measure, on an instrument-by-instrument basis, financial instruments and certain other items at fair value that are not currently required to
be measured at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option is elected will be recognized in earnings at
each subsequent reporting date. FASB Statement No. 159 is effective for the Company as of the beginning of fiscal 2009 (March 30, 2008).
The application of FASB Statement No. 159 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and other
Postretirement Plans — an amendment of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 87, 88, 106 and 132R. FASB Statement
No. 158 requires an employer that is a business entity and sponsors one or more single-employer defined benefit plans to recognize the
funded status of a benefit plan — measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value (with limited exceptions) and the benefit
obligation — in its statement of financial position. For a pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for any other
postretirement benefit plan, such as a retiree health care plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation.
FASB Statement No. 158 is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2006. As the Company does not maintain any defined
benefit plans, the application of FASB Statement No. 158 did not have an effect on the Company’s financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. FASB Statement No. 157 defines fair value,
establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with US GAAP and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.
FASB Statement No. 157 is effective for the Company as of the beginning of fiscal 2009. The application of FASB Statement No. 157 is not
expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.
5. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES
The Company’s accounts payable and accrued expenses consist of the following as of March 31, 2007:
Operating expenses
Reserve for sales returns
Gift cards liability
Accrued employee costs
Taxes payable
Deferred revenue
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$ 3,624
2,078
1,056
1,772
347
1,872
$ 10,749
6. MEMBERS’ CAPITAL
Contributions of services by Polo through March 28, 2007, had a value of $1.1 million in fiscal 2007 which was determined on a
proportional cost allocation method. Distributions of capital amounted to $2.0 million in fiscal 2007 and were allocated in accordance with
ownership percentages.
The Company allocates profits and losses to the members in accordance with the LLC Agreement. The LLC Agreement provides that losses
are first allocated to the members in a manner to make their member’s tax basis capital account balances consistent with their ownership
percentages, then pro rata in accordance with their ownership percentages. Profits of the Company are allocated to the members in
accordance with their ownership percentages.
7. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
In connection with the hiring of key executives, Polo has issued options for the purchase of Polo common stock and restricted stock units to
certain executives of the Company. Polo granted 9,900 options on June 8, 2006, at an exercise price of $55.43 equal to fair market value at
the date of grant. The options become exercisable ratably, over a three-year vesting period for employees. The stock options generally
expire either seven or ten years from the date of grant. Such stock awards are managed by Polo.
Polo granted 5,403 restricted stock units on June 15, 2006, which are subject to Polo’s satisfaction of performance goals and will vest in
three equal installments on the first three anniversaries of the grant date through June 15, 2009. Performance-based restricted stock units
also are payable in shares of Polo’s common stock and may vest over (1) a three-year period of time (cliff vesting), subject to the
employee’s continuing employment and Polo’s satisfaction of certain performance goals over the three-year period; or (2) ratably over a
three-year period of time (graded vesting), subject to the employee’s continuing employment during the applicable vesting period and the
achievement by the Company of separate annual performance goals. Compensation expense for performance-based restricted stock units is
recognized over the service period when attainment of the performance goals is probable. This accounted as variable arrangements. The
Company is required to reimburse Polo for the expense and has recorded compensation expense of $0.3 million in fiscal 2007 related to the
restricted stock units and stock options and are included in SG&A.
8. SIGNIFICANT AGREEMENT
In November 2003, the Company entered into an agreement with GSI for e-commerce technology services. In connection with this
agreement, the Company pays a service fee to GSI equivalent to a percentage of net merchandising revenue, as defined in the agreement.
GSI is also responsible for all credit card processing fees and credit risk on all sales processed through its technology platform. During fiscal
2007, the Company recorded expenses of approximately $13.1 million.
9. RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Licensing — The Company entered into a license agreement with a wholly owned subsidiary of Polo (the “License Agreement”). The terms
of the License Agreement require the Company to pay a royalty on the sale of Polo products based on a specified percentage of net retail
sales. The volume of net retail sales shall be reset to zero each year. The royalty calculation for fiscal 2007 is based on the calendar year
ending December 30, 2006. During fiscal 2007, the Company paid royalties of $2.9 million which are included in SG&A. In connection
with a change in ownership more fully described in Note 1, this agreement was terminated on March 28, 2007.
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Inventory — Under the terms of the Supply Agreement, the Company has the right to purchase its inventory from Polo, its suppliers and its
licensees, at Polo’s cost. During fiscal 2007, the Company purchased approximately $37.2 million or 84.0% of its inventory from Polo and
its suppliers, and $6.4 million, or 14% from Polo licensees. The Company relies on Polo and its relationship with its suppliers to achieve
favorable inventory costs in accordance with the Supply Agreement. If Polo were to terminate the Supply Agreement or be unable to
continue its relationships with its suppliers, there may be a material adverse effect to the Company and its cost of doing business. At least
twice a year, Polo agrees to purchase from the Company, at the Company’s cost, all unsold Polo products that were purchased in accordance
with the Supply Agreement, subject to certain exclusions. During fiscal 2007, Polo purchased $5.0 million in unsold inventory from the
Company. At March 31, 2007, the Company had a payable due to Polo for inventory and other services of approximately $7.1 million. This
amount is included in related-party payables in the accompanying balance sheet.
Fulfillment — ValueVision provides telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment operations to the Company based on the agreement
entered into on May 18, 2004. In October 2006, the Company amended its Services Agreement with ValueVision. The amendment provided
for an extension of the term of the agreement to August 31, 2008, with an option to extend this term for up to an additional 12 months,
required the Company to commit to minimum order and call center contact volumes, and changed its order fulfillment pricing from a net
order to gross units shipped pricing structure, among other things. For fiscal 2007, telemarketing, customer support and fulfillment expenses
(inclusive of system expenses) amounted to approximately $10.3 million and are included in SG&A. The liability for these services was
$1.1 million as of March 31, 2007, and is included in related-party payables in the accompanying balance sheet.
Administrative Services — Polo provides the Company with administrative services in the way of accounting, treasury, human resources,
payroll services, accounts payable services, office space and utilities, IT support and legal services. The services Polo provided totaled
approximately $1.1 million for fiscal 2007 based on a proportional cost allocation method and are included in SG&A and as a capital
contribution in Polo’s capital account. The Company reimburses payroll and operating expenses which are initially paid by Polo. In
connection with a change in ownership more fully described in Note 1, this agreement was terminated on March 28, 2007.
Employee Benefits — The Company currently does not maintain any of its own employee benefit plans, including health, dental, short-term
disability, long-term disability and 401(k). Polo administers these benefits and the Company’s employees are permitted to participate.
During fiscal 2007, the Company recorded expenses of approximately $1.1 million for these benefits based on a proportional cost allocation
method.
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10. LEASE
On December 18, 2006, the Company entered into a lease agreement for a 360,000 square-foot distribution center facility located in High
Point, North Carolina. The lease has an initial term of fifteen years and contains four 5-year extension options. Rent payment increases by
one and one-eighth percent (1.125%) over the fixed annual rent payable at the end of the prior lease year. Rent commences upon the
substantial completion of the facility by the lessor, which occurred in September 2007.
As of March 31, 2007, future minimum rental payments under noncancelable operating leases with lease terms in excess of one year were
as follows:
Fiscal Year Ending
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013 and thereafter
Total
Annual Minimum
Operating Lease
Payments
(Thousands)
$
843
1,272
1,287
1,301
1,316
15,233
$
21,252
*******
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