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IDEXX Laboratories

idxx · NASDAQ Healthcare
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Industry Medical - Diagnostics & Research
Employees 5001-10,000
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FY2019 Annual Report · IDEXX Laboratories
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IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. 

2019 Annual Report 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-K

(Mark One)

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from _______________ to _______________. 
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 0-19271 

IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. 
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation 
or organization)

One IDEXX Drive
(Address of principal executive offices)

Westbrook

Maine

01-0393723

(IRS Employer Identification No.)

04092
(ZIP Code)

207-556-0300 
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class
Common Stock, $0.10 par value per share

Trading Symbol(s)
IDXX

Name of each exchange on which registered
NASDAQ Global Select Market

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes 

 No 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes 

 No 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the 
preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 
days. Yes 

 No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T 
(§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes 

  No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging 
growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,”  “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of 
the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

Smaller reporting company

Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised 
financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes 

 No 

Based on the closing sale price on June 30, 2019 of the registrant’s Common Stock, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal 
quarter, as reported by the NASDAQ Global Select Market, the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $23,368,790,688. 
For these purposes, the registrant considers its directors and executive officers to be its only affiliates.

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Common Stock was 85,329,642 on February 10, 2020.

Part III—Specifically identified portions of the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with the Company’s 2020 annual meeting of 
stockholders (the “2020 Annual Meeting”), to be held on May 6, 2020, are incorporated herein by reference.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 
 
GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND SELECTED ABBREVIATIONS

Term/Abbreviation

Definition

AOCI

ASC

ASU 2014-09

ASU 2016-02

ASU 2016-16

CAG

CDOR

cGMP

Credit Facility

EMA

EPA

EPS

EU

FASB

FDA

FeLV

FIV

Instrument rebate programs

IVLS

  Accumulated other comprehensive income or loss

Accounting Standards Codification

Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), also
referred to as the “New Revenue Standard”

  ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842); also referred to as the "New Leasing Standard"

ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory,

Companion Animal Group, a reporting segment that provides veterinarians diagnostic products and services
and information management solutions that enhance the health and well-being of pets

Canadian Dollar Offered Rate, a rate at which banks commit to lending to companies

  The FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations

Our $850 million five-year unsecured revolving credit facility under an amended and restated credit
agreement that was executed in December 2015, also referred to as line of credit

  Extended maintenance agreements

  U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

  Earnings per share, if not specifically stated, EPS refers to earnings per share on a diluted basis

  European Union

  U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration

  Feline leukemia virus

  Feline immunodeficiency virus, similar to the virus that leads to AIDS in humans

Our customer instrument rebate programs, previously referred to as IDEXX Instrument Marketing
Programs, which require an instrument purchase and provide customers the opportunity to earn future
rebates based on the volume of products and services they purchase over the term of the program

IDEXX VetLab Station, connects and integrates the diagnostic information from all the IDEXX VetLab
analyzers and thus provides reference laboratory information management system capability

Kits and consumables

  Rapid assay kits and IDEXX VetLab consumables

LIBOR

LPD

OCI

OPTI Medical

Organic revenue growth

Ortho

London Interbank Offered Rate, current benchmark interest rate used between banks and used to set interest
rates on loans

Livestock, Poultry and Dairy, a reporting segment that provides diagnostic products and services for
livestock and poultry health and ensures the quality and safety of milk and improve producer efficiency

  Other comprehensive income or loss

OPTI Medical Systems, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of IDEXX Laboratories Inc., located in Roswell,
Georgia. This business manufactures and supplies blood gas analyzers and consumables worldwide for the
human point-of-care medical diagnostics market. The Roswell facility also manufactures electrolytes slides
(instrument consumables) to run Catalyst One®, Catalyst Dx®, and blood gas analyzers and consumables
for the veterinary market, and is also referred to as OPTI.

A non-GAAP financial measure that represents the percentage change in revenue, as compared to the same
period for the prior year, net of the effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, certain business
acquisitions and divestitures. Organic revenue growth should be considered in addition to, and not as a
replacement for or as a superior measure to, revenues reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and may not
be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Inc., a supplier of dry slide consumables used in our Catalyst One and Catalyst
Dx Chemistry Analyzers and VetTest Chemistry Analyzer

Up-Front customer loyalty
programs

Our up-front loyalty programs provides customers with incentives in the form of cash payments or IDEXX
Points upon entering into multi-year agreements to purchase annual minimum amounts of future products or
services

PACS

R&D

Picture archiving and communication software, our software solution for accessing, storing, and sharing
diagnostic images

  Research and Development

2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Reagent rentals

Instruments being placed at customer sites at little or no cost in exchange for a long-term customer
commitment to purchase instrument consumables

Reported revenue growth

The percentage change in revenue reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP, as compared to the same period
in the prior year

S&P

  Standard & Poor’s

S&P 500 Health Care Index

The index for the S&P 500 Health Care (U.S. companies) measures the performance of companies that are
classified as members in the Global Industry Classification Standard of health care services sub-industry

S&P 500 Index

SaaS

SDMA

SEC

The S&P 500 Index is a U.S. stock market index based on the market capitalization of 500 large companies
having common stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ, including IDEXX

  Software-as-a-service

  Symmetrical dimethyl arginine, a biomarker that detects kidney disease

  U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

Senior Note Agreements

Note purchase agreements for the private placement of senior notes having an aggregate principal amount
of approximately $700 million, referred to as senior notes or long-term debt

T4

2017 Tax Act

U.S. GAAP

USDA

  Thyroxine, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland, tested to indicate thyroid health

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted on December 22, 2017, which includes significant changes to the U.S.
corporate tax system

  Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America

  United States Department of Agriculture

Volume commitment programs

Programs that provide customers with a free or discounted instrument or system upon entering into multi-
year agreements to purchase annual minimum amounts of products and services, such as our IDEXX 360
program.

Water

  Water, a reporting segment that provides water microbiology testing products

3

 
 
 
 
 
IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC.
Annual Report on Form 10-K
Table of Contents

PART I

Business
Risk Factors
Unresolved Staff Comments
Properties
Legal Proceedings
Mine Safety Disclosures

PART II
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 
Securities

Selected Financial Data
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Controls and Procedures
Other Information

PART III
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Executive Compensation
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Item No.

Item 1
Item 1A
Item 1B
Item 2
Item 3
Item 4

Item 5
Item 6
Item 7
Item 7A
Item 8
Item 9
Item 9A
Item 9B

Item 10
Item 11
Item 12
Item 13
Item 14

Item 15
Item 16 

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
Form 10-K Summary

PART IV

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

Exhibit Index
Signatures

Page No.

6
20
31
32
33
33

34

36
37
65
66
66
67
68

69
69
69
69
69

70
70

F-1

4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The terms “IDEXX,” “Company,” “registrant,” “we,” “us,” and “our” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K 

mean IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. and all subsidiaries that are consolidated under U.S. GAAP.

We have included certain terms and abbreviations used throughout this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the "Glossary 

of Terms and Selected Abbreviations.” 

Our name, logo and the following terms used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are either registered trademarks or 

trademarks of IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries: 4Dx®, Animana® Veterinary Software, 
Catalyst Dx®, Catalyst One®, Coag Dx™,  Colilert®,  Colisure®,  Cornerstone®,  DVMAX®,  Enterolert®,  Feline Triple®,  Filta-
Max®,  Filta-Max xpress®,  IDEXX I-Vision CR®,  IDEXX I-Vision DR®,  IDEXX I-Vision Mobile™,  IDEXX ImageBank™
  , 
IDEXX Neo®, IDEXX-PACS™, IDEXX SDMA®, IDEXX VetLab®,  IDEXX VPM™,  LaserCyte®, LaserCyte® Dx, OPTI®, 
 PetChek®,  PetDetect®,  Pet Health Network®, Petly® Plans, Practice Profile™,  ProCyte Dx®,  Pseudalert®,  Quanti-Tray®, 
rVetLink®, SediVue Dx®, IDEXX SmartService™, Smart Flow™, SNAP®,  SNAPduo®,  SNAP Pro®, SNAP®
 cPL™, SNAP®
 SNAPshot Dx®, IDEXX VetAutoread™,  VetConnect®, IDEXX VetLab®
VetAutoread is a trademark of QBC Diagnostics.

  UA™, VetLINK®,  VetLyte®,  VetStat®,  and VetTest®. 

?

 fPL™, 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019, contains statements which, to the extent 

they are not statements of historical fact, constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements about our 
business and expectations within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the 
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange 
Act”), include statements relating to future revenue growth rates, future tax benefits; business trends, earnings and other 
measures of financial performance;  the effect of economic downturns on our business performance; projected impact of foreign 
currency exchange rates; demand for our products; realizability of assets; future cash flow and uses of cash; future repurchases 
of common stock; future levels of indebtedness and capital spending; interest expense; warranty expense; share-based 
compensation expense; the adoption and projected impact of new accounting standards; future commercial efforts; future 
product launches; projected cost and completion of capital investments; and competition. Forward-looking statements can be 
identified by the use of words such as “expects,” “may,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “would,” “will,” “plans,” “believes,” 
“estimates,” “should,” “project,” and similar words and expressions. These forward-looking statements are intended to provide 
our current expectations or forecasts of future events, are based on current estimates, projections, beliefs, and assumptions, and 
are not guarantees of future performance. Actual events or results may differ materially from those described in the forward-
looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among other 
things, the matters described under the headings "Business," "Risk Factors," "Legal Proceedings," "Management's Discussion 
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," and "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market 
Risk" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Any forward-looking statements represent our estimates only as of the day this 
Annual Report on Form 10-K was first filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and should not be relied 
upon as representing our estimates as of any subsequent date. From time to time, oral or written forward-looking statements 
may also be included in other materials released to the public and they are subject to the risks and uncertainties described or 
cross-referenced in this section. While we may elect to update forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we 
specifically disclaim any obligation to do so, even if our estimates or expectations change.

5

 
 
 
 
ITEM 1. 

BUSINESS

COMPANY OVERVIEW

PART I

IDEXX was incorporated in Delaware in 1983. We develop, manufacture, and distribute products and provide services 

primarily for the companion animal veterinary, livestock and poultry, dairy and water testing markets. We also sell a line of 
portable electrolytes and blood gas analyzers for the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market. Our primary products 
and services are:

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Point-of-care veterinary diagnostic products, comprised of instruments, consumables, and rapid assay test kits;

Veterinary reference laboratory diagnostic and consulting services;

Practice management and diagnostic imaging systems and services used by veterinarians;

Health monitoring, biological materials testing, laboratory diagnostic instruments, and services used by the
biomedical research community;

Diagnostic, health-monitoring products for livestock, poultry, and dairy;

Products that test water for certain microbiological contaminants; and

Point-of-care electrolytes and blood gas analyzers used in the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market.

Our purpose guides our strategy: to be a great company that creates exceptional long-term value for our customers, 

employees, and stockholders by enhancing the health and well-being of pets, people, and livestock.

DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS BY SEGMENT

We operate primarily through three business segments:

Companion Animal Group (“CAG”) - Diagnostic and information management-based products and services for the 
veterinary market.

Water quality products (“Water”) - Design, development, manufacture, and distribution of products used in the detection 
of various microbiological parameters in water.

Livestock, Poultry and Dairy (“LPD”) - Diagnostic products and services for livestock and poultry health and to ensure 
the quality and safety of milk and food, and improve producer efficiency.  

Our Other operating segment combines and presents products for the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market 

(“OPTI Medical”) with our out-licensing arrangements because they do not meet the quantitative or qualitative thresholds for 
reportable segments. 

The performance of our business is particularly subject to various risks that are associated with doing business 
internationally. For the year ended December 31, 2019, sales of products and services to customers outside the U.S. accounted 
for approximately 38% of our overall revenue. See “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors”, “Part II, Item 7. Management’s Discussion 
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary 
Data, Note 16. Segment Reporting" to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, included in 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information about our segments and revenue from customers outside of the U.S.

6

CAG

Mission:  To provide veterinarians with the diagnostic 
capabilities and information management solutions that 
enhance the health and well-being of pets

9
1
1
,
2
$

5
3
9
,
1
$

3
0
7
,
1
$

1
8
1
,
1
$

7
6
0
,
1
$

7
3
9
$

2
9
4
$

9
2
4
$

4
6
3
$

Revenue

Gross Profit

Operating Income

2019

2018
in millions

2017

We believe that the breadth of our full diagnostic solution, including novel products and services developed and made 
available only by IDEXX, as well as the seamless software integration of our offering provide a unique competitive advantage 
by giving veterinarians the tools and services to offer advanced veterinary medical care. We believe that with the use of our 
products and services, veterinary practices significantly improve the quality of veterinary care provided to their patients, 
increase staff efficiencies, and effectively communicate the value of this medical care to the pet owner. We believe that these 
capabilities, enabled by the use of IDEXX products and services, improve the financial health of the veterinary practice.

CAG Diagnostics 

We provide diagnostic capabilities that meet veterinarians’ diverse needs through a variety of modalities, including in-
clinic diagnostic solutions and outside reference laboratory services. Regardless of modality utilized, veterinarians are provided 
with clinically relevant data which is integrated within our information management technologies. The result is a 
comprehensive view of patient diagnostic information that is easily accessible by both the veterinarian and pet owner.

Integrated Diagnostic Information Management

VetConnect PLUS is a cloud-based technology that enables veterinarians to access and analyze patients’ data from all 

of IDEXX’s diagnostic modalities. These integrated diagnostic results provide the veterinarian with a visualization of patient-
specific testing results, allowing the veterinarian to easily see and trend diagnostic results, enabling greater medical insight and 
enhanced decision-making. In addition, VetConnect PLUS provides instant mobile or browser-based access to results, which 
can be printed or emailed to pet owners and other veterinarians. In this way, VetConnect PLUS can aid veterinarians and 
practice staff in engaging the pet owner in the patient’s care, which can support greater compliance with medical 
recommendations or preventive care protocols. Customers have activated VetConnect PLUS in over 100 countries.

7

In-Clinic Diagnostic Solutions

Our in-clinic diagnostic solutions are comprised of our IDEXX VetLab suite of in-clinic chemistry, hematology, 

immunoassay, urinalysis, and coagulation analyzers, as well as associated proprietary consumable products that provide real-
time reference lab quality diagnostic results. Our in-clinic diagnostic solutions also include a broad range of single-use, 
handheld IDEXX SNAP rapid assay test kits that provide quick, accurate, and convenient point-of-care diagnostic test results 
for a variety of companion animal diseases and health conditions.

The IDEXX VetLab suite includes several instrument systems, as well as associated proprietary consumable products, 

all of which are described below. Additionally, we offer extended maintenance agreements in connection with the sale of our 
instruments.

Blood and Urine Chemistry. We have three blood and urine chemistry analyzers that are used by veterinarians to 

measure levels of certain enzymes and other substances in blood or urine for monitoring health status and assisting in 
diagnosing physiologic conditions. We currently sell two of these chemistry analyzers, the Catalyst One Chemistry analyzer 
and the VetTest Chemistry analyzer. We continue to support our Catalyst Dx Chemistry analyzer, previously sold as part of the 
Catalyst platform. These three instruments use consumables manufactured for IDEXX by Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. 
(“Ortho”) based on Ortho’s dry slide technology. In addition, the Catalyst analyzers also use dry slide electrolyte consumables 
manufactured by IDEXX at our Roswell, Georgia facility, as well as certain slides that are manufactured at our Westbrook, 
Maine facility. Blood tests commonly run on these analyzers include glucose, alkaline phosphatase, ALT (alanine 
aminotransferase), albumin, calcium, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, total protein, and many others. Tests are sold individually 
and in prepackaged panels, called clips. All three analyzers also run a urine test called urine protein:creatinine ratio, which 
assists in the detection of renal disease. 

The Catalyst analyzers provide significantly improved throughput, ease of use and test menu relative to the VetTest 

analyzer (our original chemistry analyzer), including the ability to run electrolytes, phenobarbital, fructosamine, total thyroxine 
(“T4”), C-reactive protein, and SDMA, as part of one run. Key ease-of-use features include the ability to run a whole blood 
sample using an on-board centrifuge, the ability to run pre-packaged, multi-slide clips in addition to single chemistry slides and 
an automated metering system. These analyzers also enable automated dilutions, which is an ease-of-use feature both for 
certain blood chemistries and the test for urine protein:creatinine ratio. The Catalyst Dx analyzer allows a veterinarian to run 
multiple patient samples simultaneously and both the Catalyst Dx and Catalyst One analyzers run different sample types 
including whole blood, plasma, serum, and urine. The Catalyst SDMA test allows our customers to use the Catalyst One and 
Catalyst Dx analyzers to screen for SDMA, an innovative proprietary test that detects the onset of canine and feline kidney 
disease months or years earlier than traditional methods. The Catalyst SDMA Test is also available in a combo kit with T4.

The Catalyst One analyzer is engineered to deliver the same laboratory-quality results and real-time work flow as the 
Catalyst Dx analyzer. The Catalyst One analyzer currently offers all the same tests as the Catalyst Dx, including an expanded 
menu of 33 tests.

We also have two other chemistry analyzers, the VetLyte Electrolyte analyzer and the VetStat Electrolyte and Blood 

Gas analyzer. The VetStat analyzer runs single-use disposable cassettes that are manufactured by IDEXX at our Roswell, 
Georgia facility.

Sales of consumables to customers who use our chemistry analyzers provide the majority of our instrument 

consumables revenues from our installed base of IDEXX VetLab instruments.

Hematology. We sell four hematology analyzers that assess the cellular components of blood, including red blood 

cells, white blood cells, and platelets (also called a complete blood count). These analyzers include the ProCyte Dx 
hematology analyzer, the first and only in-clinic analyzer to combine laser-flow cytometry, optical fluorescence, and laminar-
flow impedance in its analysis; the LaserCyte Dx hematology analyzer, which uses laser-flow cytometry technology in their 
analysis; and the IDEXX VetAutoread hematology analyzer, our original hematology analyzer. In addition, the ProCyte 
Dx hematology analyzer, the LaserCyte Dx hematology analyzer, and the LaserCyte hematology analyzer each have the ability 
to analyze the components of certain body fluids. We also sell the Coag Dx analyzer, which permits the detection and diagnosis 
of blood clotting disorders. 

The ProCyte Dx analyzer, our premier hematology analyzer, provides significantly improved throughput and accuracy 

and more complete medical information relative to the LaserCyte, LaserCyte Dx and VetAutoread hematology analyzers. The 
ProCyte Dx analyzer provides up to 27 different blood parameters, including the ability to detect band neutrophils, nucleated 
red blood cells, and reticulocyte hemoglobin for a more complete picture of a patient’s health. The ProCyte Dx is validated for 
8

many animal species (canine, feline, equine, bovine, ferret, rabbit, gerbil, pig, guinea pig, mini pig, llama, alpaca, camel, sheep, 
goat, dolphin, and hamster). The LaserCyte and LaserCyte Dx analyzers are the only other point of care hematology analyzers 
in the veterinary market able to report absolute reticulocyte counts.

Immunoassay Testing Instruments. Our SNAP Pro Analyzer, which automatically activates a SNAP test, properly 

times the run, and captures an image of the result. This device improves medical care by allowing veterinarians to share the test 
results with the pet owner on the SNAP Pro Analyzer screen, or via VetConnect PLUS. In addition, the SNAP Pro Analyzer 
improves staff efficiency and ensures that all SNAP test runs are captured and entered into the patient record for customer 
billing. ProRead is a software upgrade that enables the SNAP Pro Analyzer to interpret the test results.

With multiple-patient testing functionality, the SNAPshot Dx analyzer provides quantitative measurements of total T4, 
cortisol and bile acids to assist in the evaluation of thyroid, adrenal and liver function, respectively. The SNAPshot Dx analyzer 
also reads, interprets, and records the results of many IDEXX rapid assay SNAP tests, including our canine SNAP 4Dx Plus 
test, feline SNAP FIV/FeLV Combo test, canine SNAP cPL test, feline SNAP fPL test, and canine SNAP Heartworm RT test.

Urinalysis.  The SediVue Dx analyzer is designed to provide automated real-time results in a fraction of the time of 

manual microscope analysis. The SediVue Dx analyzer brings automation, speed and consistency to urinalysis, a traditionally 
laborious and variable process. Its leading-edge technology allows veterinary staff to perform a urine sediment analysis in 
approximately 3 minutes. The SediVue Dx analyzer uses proprietary image processing algorithms similar to facial recognition 
technology to identify clinically relevant particles found in urine and to capture high-contrast digital images that become part of 
the permanent patient record. The SediVue Dx analyzer leverages its algorithmic software and machine-learning, a type of 
artificial intelligence, to better identify abnormalities with each result generated, which we refer to as Neural Network 4.0. The 
IDEXX VetLab UA analyzer provides rapid, automated capture of semi-quantitative chemical urinalysis from IDEXX UA strips 
and is validated specifically for veterinary use.

IDEXX VetLab Station. The IDEXX VetLab Station (“IVLS”) connects and integrates the diagnostic information from 

all the IDEXX VetLab analyzers, and thus, provides reference laboratory information management system capability. IVLS 
securely connects to the Internet, and in this way, enables IDEXX to perform, through its SmartService Solutions wireless 
services, remote instrument service and software updates to IVLS and certain connected instruments. IVLS also sends all 
results created on connected instruments instantly to VetConnect PLUS. We sell IVLS as an integral component of the Catalyst 
One, Catalyst Dx, LaserCyte, LaserCyte Dx and ProCyte Dx analyzers, SNAP Pro Analyzer, SNAPshot Dx analyzer and also as 
a standalone hardware platform. The IVLS includes a touch screen user interface to simplify laboratory work flow, connect 
with a practice management system and send information to run the individual analyzers. IVLS also generates one integrated 
patient report incorporating all of the lab work generated by the IDEXX VetLab suite, stores, retrieves and analyzes historical 
patient diagnostics data, including SNAP test results, and sends and receives information from practice management systems, 
including the Cornerstone system, as well as a wide variety of third-party systems. 

The SNAP rapid assays are single-use, handheld test kits that can work without the use of instrumentation, although 
many kits may also be read and recorded automatically by the SNAPshot Dx analyzer or activated and captured automatically 
by the SNAP Pro Analyzer and interpreted using ProRead, as discussed above. The principal SNAP rapid assay tests are as 
follows: 

Single-Use Canine Tests:

•

•

•

•

•

•

SNAP 4Dx Plus, which tests for the six vector-borne diseases; Lyme disease, Ehrlichia canis, Ehrlichia ewingii,
Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys, and canine heartworm;

SNAP Heartworm RT, which tests for heartworm;

SNAP Parvo, which tests for parvovirus, a virus causing life-threatening damage to the immune system and
intestinal tract;

SNAP cPL, which tests for canine pancreatitis;

SNAP Giardia, which is a fecal test for soluble Giardia antigens, a common cause of waterborne infection; and

SNAP Lepto, which tests for leptospirosis, a life-threatening bacterial infection spread through contact with water or
soil that has been contaminated by the urine of infected animals.

Sales of canine vector-borne disease tests, including SNAP 4Dx Plus and SNAP Heartworm RT, are greater in the first 

half of our fiscal year due to seasonality of disease testing in the veterinary practices in the Northern Hemisphere.   

9

•

•

•

•

•

Single-Use Feline Tests:

SNAP Feline Triple, which tests for feline immunodeficiency virus (“FIV”) (which is similar to the virus that leads
to AIDS in humans), feline leukemia virus (“FeLV”) and feline heartworm;

SNAP FIV/FeLV Combo Test, which tests for FIV and FeLV;

SNAP fPL, which tests for feline pancreatitis;

SNAP Giardia, which is a fecal test for soluble Giardia antigens; and

SNAP Feline proBNP, which uses a cardiac biomarker (NT proBNP) to test for stretch and stress on the heart.

Outside Reference Laboratory Diagnostic and Consulting Services

We offer commercial reference laboratory diagnostic and consulting services to veterinarians in many developed 
markets worldwide, including customers in the U.S., Europe, Canada, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, South 
Korea, and Brazil, through a network of over 80 laboratories. We have reference laboratories in Memphis, Tennessee; 
Louisville, Kentucky and Leipzig, Germany that are strategically located near large logistics hubs of major air cargo carriers. 
Customers use our services by submitting samples by courier or overnight delivery to one of our facilities. Most test results 
have same-day or next-day turnaround times. 

Our reference laboratories offer a large selection of tests and diagnostic panels to detect a number of disease states and 

other conditions in animals, including all tests that can be run in-clinic at the veterinary practice with our instruments or rapid 
assays. This menu of tests also includes a number of specialized and proprietary tests that we have developed that allow 
practitioners to diagnose increasingly relevant diseases and conditions in dogs and cats, including parasites, heart disease, 
allergies, pancreatitis, diabetes, and infectious diseases. Canine vector-borne disease testing volumes are greater in the first half 
of our fiscal year due to seasonality of disease testing in the veterinary practices in the Northern Hemisphere.  

Our broad range of innovative tests include our IDEXX SDMA test, which is an innovative proprietary kidney test that 
detects the onset of canine and feline kidney disease months or years earlier than traditional methods, as well as our hookworm, 
roundworm, and whipworm antigen tests on all fecal panels that detect the presence of intestinal worms often undiagnosed by 
current methods, including finding them earlier in the infection cycle and therefore enabling earlier disease diagnosis and 
treatment intervention.

Additionally, we provide specialized veterinary consultation, telemedicine, and advisory services, including radiology, 

cardiology, internal medicine, and ultrasound consulting. These services enable veterinarians to obtain readings and 
interpretations of test results transmitted by telephone and over the Internet. 

Our diagnostic laboratory business also provides health monitoring and diagnostic testing services to biomedical 

research customers in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Veterinary Software, Services and Diagnostic Imaging Systems

Veterinary Software and Services.  We develop, market, and sell a portfolio of software and services for independent 

veterinary clinics and corporate groups.  This portfolio includes:

•

•

Practice management systems. Software, hardware, and integrated services that run key functions of
veterinary clinics, including managing patient electronic health records (EHR), scheduling, client
communication, billing, and inventory management. Our principal practice management systems are
Cornerstone (on-premise), IDEXX Neo (cloud-based), DVMAX (on-premise), and IDEXX Animana (cloud-
based, available in Europe).  We also support several other practice management systems including Better
Choice, VPM, VetLINK, and BeeFree. To support the software system needs of practices, IDEXX provides
integrated services including: Hardware, Payment Solutions, Data Backup & Recovery, and Practice Supplies
including PetDetect boarding collars.

Software applications that extend workflow capabilities for practices and groups.  With our Smart Flow cloud
offering, which we acquired in the third quarter of 2018, we are able to improve overall patient management
and workflow optimization through coordination and tracking of every step of a patient during a hospital stay.
Smart Flow works in conjunction with major veterinary practice management systems, including IDEXX
Cornerstone, DVMAX, IDEXX Animana, IDEXX Neo, and certain third-party practice management systems.

10

•  Client marketing and wellness plan management.  In addition, we offer cloud-based client communication 

(Pet Health Network Pro and Pet Health Network 3D) and preventive care plan management software (Petly 
Plans) designed to strengthen the relationship between the veterinarian and the pet owner.  To support the 
communication needs between general practices and specialty referral practices, IDEXX offers rVetLink 
software, which we acquired in the second quarter of 2017. Lastly, IDEXX Enterprise provides centralized 
management and reporting capabilities for groups of veterinary practices. 

Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Our diagnostic imaging systems capture radiographic images in digital form, replacing 

traditional x-ray film and the film development process, which generally requires the use of hazardous chemicals and 
darkrooms. We market and sell three diagnostic imaging systems primarily used in small animal veterinary applications: the 
IDEXX ImageVue DR50, the IDEXX ImageVue DR40, and the IDEXX ImageVue CR20.

Our newest radiography system, the IDEXX ImageVue DR50, enables low-dose radiation image capture without 
sacrificing clear, high-quality images, a component in reducing the risk posed by excess radiation exposure for veterinary 
professionals. The IDEXX ImageVue DR50 system also offers wireless capabilities for flexibility in patient positioning.

Our diagnostic imaging systems employ picture archiving and communication system (“PACS”) software called 

IDEXX-PACS, which facilitates radiographic image capture and review. IDEXX Web PACS is our cloud-based software-as-a-
service (“SaaS”) offering for viewing, accessing, storing, and sharing multi-modality diagnostic images. IDEXX Web PACS is 
integrated with Cornerstone, IDEXX Neo and IDEXX VetConnect PLUS to provide centralized access to diagnostic imaging 
results alongside patient diagnostic results from any internet connected device. IDEXX Web PACS updates automatically and 
offers secure storage for an unlimited number of diagnostic images. The software features advanced radiology measurement 
tools as well as an interactive collaboration feature that allows veterinarians to collaborate and consult remotely with other 
practitioners.

IDEXX I-Vision Mobile is a software application that allows veterinarians with IDEXX digital radiography systems 
the ability to request, view and send images using an iPad® or an Android™ mobile tablet. This application integrates with our 
IDEXX-PACS software. 

11

 
 
 
 
Water

Mission:  To provide innovative testing solutions for easy, rapid 
and accurate detection and quantification of various 
microbiological parameters in water, helping to ensure safety for 
billions of people around the world

3
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$

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1
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Revenue

Gross Profit

Operating Income

2019

2018
in millions

2017

Our principal products are the Colilert, Colilert-18, and Colisure tests, which detect the presence of total coliforms and 

E. coli in water. These organisms are broadly used as microbial indicators for potential fecal contamination in water. Our
products utilize nutrient-indicators that produce a change in color or fluorescence when metabolized by target microbes in the
sample. Our water tests are used by government laboratories, water utilities and private certified laboratories to test drinking
water in compliance with regulatory standards, including U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) standards. The tests
also are used in evaluating water used in production processes (for example, in beverage and pharmaceutical applications) and
in evaluating bottled water, recreational water, wastewater, and water from private wells.

Our Enterolert products detect the presence of enterococci in drinking, waste, and recreational waters. Enterococci, 

bacteria normally found in human and animal waste, are organisms broadly used as microbial indicators for potential fecal 
contamination in water. Our Pseudalert products detect the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in pool, spa, and bottled 
water. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a pathogen that can cause “hot-tub rash,” “swimmer’s ear”, and potentially fatal infections 
in individuals with weakened immune systems.  Our Filta-Max and Filta-Max xpress products are used in the detection of 
Cryptosporidium and Giardia in water. Cryptosporidium and Giardia are parasites that can cause potentially fatal 
gastrointestinal illness if ingested. We also distribute certain water testing kits manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. 
that complement our Cryptosporidium and Giardia testing products.

In 2016, we launched Legiolert, a simple culture method test for the detection of Legionella pneumophila, the most 

common Legionella species in water, and the primary cause of Legionnaires’ disease. The Legiolert test is designed to be used 
on potable or non-potable water sources with results in seven days.

Our Quanti-Tray products, when used in conjunction with our Colilert, Colilert-18, Colisure, Enterolert, Pseudalert, 
Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC) or Legiolert products, provide users quantitative measurements of microbial contamination 
rather than a presence/absence indication. In 2015, we launched the Quanti-Tray Sealer PLUS, a next generation instrument of 
the previously available Quanti-Tray Sealer 2X. These instruments are used with the Quanti-Tray products for the 
determination of bacterial density in water samples. Our SimPlate for HPC product detects the total number of the most 
common bacteria in a water sample.

We also sell consumables, parts, and accessories to be used with many of our water testing products.

12

LPD

Mission:  To provide diagnostic tests, services and related 
instrumentation that are used to manage the health status 
of livestock and poultry, to improve dairy efficiency, and 
to ensure the quality and safety of milk and food

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Revenue

Gross Profit

Operating Income

2019

2018
in millions

2017

We sell diagnostic tests, services and related instrumentation that are used to manage the health status of livestock and 

poultry, to improve producer efficiency, and to ensure the quality and safety of milk and food. Our livestock and poultry 
diagnostic products are purchased by government and private laboratories that provide testing services to livestock 
veterinarians, producers, and processors. Our herd health screening services are offered to livestock veterinarians and 
producers. Our principal livestock and poultry diagnostic products include tests for Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (“BVDV”) and 
Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (“PRRS”). BVDV is a common and contagious viral infection that suppresses 
the immune system, making the animal susceptible to a host of other infections, impacting beef and dairy production yields as a 
result. PRRS is a contagious virus causing reproductive problems and respiratory diseases in swine, leading to increased piglet 
mortality, reduced growth, and vulnerability to secondary infections.

Our principal dairy products use our SNAP test platform and are used by dairy producers and processors worldwide to 

detect antibiotic drug residue in milk. Our primary product lines are SNAP Beta-Lactam ST and SNAPduo Beta-Tetra ST, 
which detect certain beta lactam and tetracycline antibiotic residues. We also sell SNAP tests for the detection of certain other 
contaminants in milk, such as Aflatoxin M1. 

In 2016, we launched the RealPCR ASFV Test, which is a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for 

African Swine Fever (ASFV) in domestic and wild swine species. This test provides early and accurate detection of ASFV 
supporting prevention, control, and eradication programs by veterinarians and producers.

13

 
 
 
OTHER

OPTI Medical

Through OPTI Medical, we sell point-of-care analyzers and related consumables for use in human medical hospitals 
and clinics to measure electrolytes, blood gases, acid-base balance, glucose, lactate, blood urea nitrogen and ionized calcium, 
and to calculate other parameters such as base excess and anion gap. These OPTI analyzers are used primarily in emergency 
rooms, operating rooms, cardiac monitoring areas and other locations where time-critical diagnostic testing is performed within 
the hospital setting. Our latest generation OPTI CCA-TS2 Blood Gas and Electrolyte analyzer, which launched in 2013, 
contains many new features relative to previous generation blood gas analyzers including customized work flows, faster time to 
result, improved communication, and a multi-level electronic control. Similar to our earlier generation OPTI CCA and OPTI 
Touch Electrolyte analyzers, the OPTI CCA-TS2 runs whole blood, plasma, and serum samples on single-use disposable 
cassettes that contain various configurations of analytes.

Other Activities

We own certain drug delivery technology intellectual property, that we continue to seek to commercialize through 

agreements with third parties, such as pharmaceutical companies, that are included in the Other segment.

MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION

We market, sell, and service our products worldwide through our marketing, customer service, sales, and technical 

service groups, as well as through independent distributors and other resellers. We maintain sales offices outside the U.S. in all 
major regions including Africa, Asia Pacific, Canada, Europe, Middle East, and Latin America.

Generally, we select the appropriate distribution channel for our products based on the type of product, technical 
service requirements, number and concentration of customers, regulatory requirements, and other factors. We market our 
companion animal diagnostic products to veterinarians directly in the U.S. Outside the U.S., we sell our companion animal 
diagnostic products through our direct sales force and, in certain countries, through distributors and other resellers. We sell our 
veterinary reference laboratory diagnostic and consulting services worldwide, generally through our direct sales force. We 
market our diagnostic imaging products primarily through our direct sales force in the U.S. and Canada. We market our 
software products primarily through our direct sales force in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia. We market our Water and 
LPD products primarily through our direct sales force in the U.S. and Canada. Outside the U.S. and Canada, we market these 
products through our direct sales force and, in certain countries, through selected independent distributors. We sell our OPTI 
electrolyte and blood gas analyzers both directly and through independent human medical product distributors in the U.S. and 
we sell most of the related consumables through the distribution channel. Outside the U.S., we sell our OPTI products primarily 
through distributors and other resellers.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Our business includes the development and introduction of new products and services and may involve entry into new 

business areas. We maintain active research and development programs in each of our business segments. Our research and 
development expenses, which consist of salaries, employee benefits, materials and external consulting and development costs, 
were $133.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, or 5.5% of our consolidated revenue, $117.9 million for the year 
ended December 31, 2018, or 5.3% of our consolidated revenue and $109.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, or 
5.5% of our consolidated revenue.

14

 
 
 
 
 
PATENTS AND LICENSES

We actively seek to obtain patent protection in the U.S. and other countries for inventions covering our products and 

technologies. We also license patents and technologies from third parties. Patents and licenses of patents and technologies from 
third parties are considered important to the Company based on a variety of factors, including providing protection for the 
Company’s inventions and other proprietary intellectual property, affording protection from competitors in certain markets, 
enabling the use of more effective and efficient technologies in the development and production of our products and offerings, 
strengthening our reputation and standing among customers, employees and key suppliers, and acting as a deterrent against 
counterfeiters, imitators and other copiers of technologies. 

Important patents and licenses include:

•  An exclusive license from Tulane University to patents that started to expire in 2019 and are continuing into 2020 
relating to reagents for the detection of Lyme disease utilized in certain of our SNAP products and a reference 
laboratory diagnostic test;

•  An exclusive license from Cornell University to patents covering methods for detecting BVDV that started to expire 

in 2017 and will continue into 2022;

• 

• 

Patents relating to reagents and methods for the detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum utilized in certain of our 
SNAP products that started to expire in 2017 and will continue into 2022;

Patents relating to reagents and methods for the detection of Ehrlichia canis utilized in certain of our SNAP 
products that expire beginning in 2019 and continuing into 2022;

•  A patent concerning LaserCyte consumables that expires in 2020;

• 

• 

• 

• 

Patents concerning Catalyst consumables that expire beginning in 2020 and will continue into 2035;

Patents concerning Catalyst instruments that expire beginning in 2026 and will continue into 2032;

Patents relating to reagents and methods for the detection of canine pancreatic lipase that expire in 2026; and

Patents relating to reagents and methods for the detection of SDMA that expire in 2029.

In addition, we have pending U.S. patent applications concerning reagents and methods for detecting SDMA. If such 

applications are granted, we expect the associated patents would have expirations ranging from 2036 to 2038.

While we consider these proprietary technology rights to be important to us, a range of factors help to mitigate the 

future effects of patent and license expiration on our results of operations and financial position. These factors include 
publications, including peer-reviewed third-party studies, that demonstrate the accuracy of our products; our brand strength and 
reputation in the marketplace; the breadth, quality and integration of our product offerings; our existing customer relationships 
and our customer support; our sales force; our online ordering platform that enables direct ordering of (including establishing 
automatic reorder schedules for) our consumables, tests and other products by our customers; the applicable regulatory 
approval status for certain products; our continued investments in innovative product improvements that often result in new 
technologies and/or additional patents; our investment in diagnostic innovations that results in new product offerings that often 
are patentable and that expand the test menu for our in-clinic instruments and/or reference laboratory business; and our 
significant know-how, scale and investments related to manufacturing processes of associated product offerings and certain 
supply arrangements for consumables that are compatible with our instruments. Although we have several patents and licenses 
of patents and technologies from third parties that expired during 2019, and are expected to expire in 2020 and beyond, the 
expiration of these patents, individually or in the aggregate, is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial 
position or future operations. In addition, we already face notable competition in certain areas as other companies have been 
successful in bringing competitive products to market, despite the protections afforded by these proprietary technology rights.  

To the extent some of our products may now, or in the future, embody technologies protected by patents, copyrights, 
or trade secrets of others, we may be required to obtain licenses to such technologies in order to continue to sell our products. 
These licenses may not be available on commercially reasonable terms or at all. Our failure to obtain any such licenses may 
delay or prevent the sale of certain new or existing products. See “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

15

 
 
 
 
 
PRODUCTION AND SUPPLY

Many of the instruments that we sell are manufactured by third parties. We rely on third parties in our supply chain to 

supply us, and our direct suppliers, with certain important components, raw materials and consumables used in or with our 
products. In some cases, these third parties are sole or single source suppliers. From time to time, we seek to qualify alternative 
suppliers.

Instruments and consumables. Significant products supplied by sole and single source providers include certain 

Catalyst Dx and Catalyst One consumables (other than electrolyte consumables and the fructosamine, T4, CRP, and SDMA 
slides), progesterone, VetLyte consumables, LaserCyte and LaserCyte Dx consumables, VetTest, VetAutoread and ProCyte Dx 
analyzers and consumables, SediVue Dx urinalysis instrument and consumables, and components of our SNAP Pro Mobile 
Device.

VetTest and certain Catalyst chemistry slides are supplied by Ortho under supply agreements that are currently set to 
expire in December of 2028. We are required to purchase all of our requirements for our current menu of VetTest and Catalyst 
chemistry slides from Ortho to the extent Ortho is able to supply those requirements. The agreements provide for pricing based 
on purchase volumes and a fixed annual inflationary adjustment. The agreements also prohibit Ortho from promoting and 
selling these chemistry slides in the veterinary market, excluding the EU, other than to IDEXX. 

We purchase other analyzers and consumables under supply agreements with terms extending through 2034, which in 

some cases may be extended at our option. We have minimum purchase obligations under some of these agreements, and our 
failure to satisfy these obligations may result in loss of some or all of our rights under these agreements. See “Part I, Item 1A. 
Risk Factors.”

Other components. We purchase certain other products, raw materials, and components from sole and single source 
suppliers. These products include certain diagnostic imaging systems and certain components used in our SNAP rapid assay 
and dairy devices, livestock, and poultry testing kits and water testing products.

We have been successful in ensuring an uninterrupted supply of products purchased from sole and single source 

suppliers. However, there can be no assurance that uninterrupted supply can be maintained if these agreements terminate for 
any reason or our suppliers otherwise are unable to satisfy our requirements for products. See “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

BACKLOG

We do not generally maintain a significant backlog of orders and believe that our backlog at any particular date 

historically has not been indicative of future sales.

COMPETITION

We compete with many companies ranging from large human and animal health pharmaceutical and medical 
diagnostics companies to small businesses focused on animal health. Our companion animal veterinary diagnostic products and 
services compete with both reference laboratory service and in-clinic product providers. Our competitors vary in our different 
markets. In some markets, academic institutions, governmental agencies, and other public and private research organizations 
conduct research activities and may commercialize products or services which could compete with our products, on their own 
or through joint ventures. Several of our direct and potential competitors have substantially greater financial and managerial 
resources than us, as well as greater experience in manufacturing, marketing, research and development, and obtaining 
regulatory approvals than we do. For more information on risks related to our competition, see “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors."

Competitive factors in our different business areas are detailed below:

•  Companion animal diagnostic offerings. We compete primarily on the basis of ease of use and speed of our 

products, diagnostic accuracy, product quality, breadth of our product line and services, unique product innovations, 
fully integrated technology, information management capability, availability of medical consultation, effectiveness 
of our sales and distribution channels, quality of our technical and customer service, and our pricing relative to the 
value of our products and services in comparison with competitive products and services. Our major competitors in 
most geographic locations in North America are Antech Diagnostics, a unit of VCA Inc., a division of Mars, 
Incorporated; Zoetis Inc. (including its wholly-owned subsidiary Abaxis, Inc.); Heska Corporation; Samsung 
Electronics Co., Ltd., and FUJIFILM North America Corporation.  We also compete in certain international markets 
with Zoetis, Fujifilm Holdings Corporation, Samsung Electronics, Arkray, Inc., and BioNote, Inc.

16

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
•  Water, livestock, poultry, and dairy testing products. We compete primarily on the basis of the ease of use, speed, 
accuracy, product quality and other performance characteristics of our products and services (including unique 
tests), the breadth of our product line and services, the effectiveness of our sales and distribution channels, the 
quality of our technical and customer service, our ability to receive regulatory approvals from governing agencies 
and our pricing relative to the value of our products in comparison with competitive products and services. Our 
competitors include highly focused smaller companies and multibillion-dollar companies with small livestock and 
poultry diagnostics and water testing solution franchises.

•  Veterinary Software, Services and Diagnostic Imaging Systems. We compete primarily on the basis of functionality, 
connectivity to equipment and other systems, performance characteristics, effectiveness of our implementation, 
training process and customer service, information handling capabilities, advances in technologies and our pricing 
relative to the value of our products and services. We sell these products primarily in North America and Europe. 
Our largest competitor in North America and the U.K. is Covetrus, Inc., which offers several systems and leverages 
its animal health distribution business in sales and service. We also compete with numerous focused smaller 
companies throughout the markets in which we offer veterinary software, including those offering cloud-based 
solutions.

•  Electrolyte and blood gas analyzers for the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market. We compete primarily 
on the basis of the ease of use, menu, convenience, international distribution and service, instrument reliability, and 
our pricing relative to the value of our products. We compete primarily with large human medical diagnostics 
companies such as Radiometer A/S, Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics, Instrumentation Laboratory Company, 
Abbott Diagnostics, a division of Abbott Laboratories and Roche Diagnostics Corporation.

GOVERNMENT REGULATION

Many of our products are subject to comprehensive regulation by U.S. and foreign regulatory agencies that relate to, 

among other things, product approvals, product registrations, manufacturing, import, export, distribution, marketing and 
promotion, labeling, recordkeeping, testing, quality, storage, product disposal, environmental compliance, and workplace 
safety. The following is a description of the principal regulations affecting our businesses.

Veterinary diagnostic products. These products include our diagnostic test kits for companion and food animal 

infectious diseases, including most of our livestock and poultry products and our rapid assay products. These products are 
licensed and regulated in the U.S. by the Center for Veterinary Biologics within the United States Department of Agriculture 
(“USDA”) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (“APHIS”). These products must be approved by APHIS before they 
may be sold in and from the U.S. The APHIS regulatory approval process involves the submission of product validation data, 
including manufacturing process and facility documentation. Following regulatory licensure to market a product, APHIS 
requires that each lot of product be submitted for test review before release to customers. In addition, APHIS requires special 
approval to market products where test results are used in part for government-mandated disease management programs. A 
number of foreign governments accept APHIS approval, to support product registration for sale, distribution, and use within 
their countries. However, compliance with extensive country-specific regulatory processes is required in connection with 
importing and marketing diagnostic products in Japan, Germany, Canada, Brazil, the Netherlands, China, and many other 
countries. We are also required to have a facility license from APHIS to manufacture USDA-licensed products. We have a 
facility license for our manufacturing facility in Westbrook, Maine which also covers our distribution center in Memphis, 
Tennessee. Our LPD manufacturing facility in Montpellier, France has been approved by APHIS and we have a permit to 
import products manufactured in Montpellier, France to the U.S. for distribution.

Our veterinary diagnostic slide and instrument systems, including T4, fructosamine, progesterone, CRP, and SDMA, 

are veterinary medical devices regulated by the FDA under the Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act (the “FDC Act”). Other FDA 
regulated products include our non-licensed Rapid Assay products such as SNAP Pancreatic Lipase, Cortisol, Bile Acid, Foal 
IgG, and ProBNP. While the sale of these products does not require premarket approval by the FDA and does not subject us to 
the FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practices regulations (“cGMP”), the FDC Act specifies that these products must not be 
adulterated, mislabeled, or misbranded.

Water testing products. Our water tests are not subject to formal premarket regulatory approval. However, before a test 

can be used as part of a water quality monitoring program in the U.S. that is regulated by the EPA, the test must first be 
approved by the EPA. The EPA approval process involves submission of extensive product performance data in accordance 
with an EPA-approved protocol, evaluation of the data by the EPA and publication for public comment of any proposed 
approval in the Federal Register before final approval. Our Colilert, Colilert-18, Colisure, Quanti-Tray, Filta-Max xpress, 
Enterolert and SimPlate for heterotrophic plate counts products have been approved by the EPA for use under various 

17

 
 
 
 
regulatory programs. Water testing products are subject to similarly extensive regulatory processes in other countries around the 
world.

Dairy testing products. Dairy products used in National Conference on Interstate Milk Shipments (“NCIMS”) milk-

monitoring programs in the U.S. are regulated by the FDA as veterinary medical devices. However, before products requiring 
FDA approval can be sold in the U.S., performance data must be submitted in accordance with an FDA-approved protocol 
administered by an independent body, such as the Association of Analytical Communities Research Institute (“AOAC RI”). 
Following approval of a product by the FDA, the product must also be approved by NCIMS, an oversight body that includes 
state, federal and industry representatives. Our SNAP Beta-Lactam antibiotic residue test product has been approved by the 
FDA, NCIMS and AOAC RI for sale in the U.S. While some foreign countries accept AOAC RI approval as part of their 
regulatory approval process, many countries have separate regulatory processes.

Human point-of-care electrolyte and blood gas analyzers. Our OPTI instrument systems are classified as Class I and/or 
Class II medical devices, and their design, manufacture and marketing are regulated by the FDA. Accordingly, we must comply 
with cGMP in the manufacture of our OPTI products. The FDA’s Quality System regulations further set forth standards for 
product design and manufacturing processes, require the maintenance of certain records and provide for inspections of our 
facilities by the FDA. New OPTI products fall into FDA classifications that require notification of and review by the FDA 
before marketing, and which are submitted as a 510(k) application. OPTI Medical products are also subject to the European 
Medical Device Directives and regulations governing the manufacture and marketing of medical devices in other countries in 
which they are sold.

Other Environmental Regulations. All IDEXX products must comply with applicable global product regulations, 

including those governing consumer product safety and materials requirements such as the Europeans Union's Electromagnetic 
Compatibility ("EMC") Directive, the European Regulation for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of 
Chemical Substances ("REACH"), the Restriction of Hazardous Substances ("RoHS") Directive, and the Waste Electrical and 
Electronic Equipment ("WEEE") Directive. These complex regulatory requirements create risk to IDEXX’s ability to market 
and sell our products, our business and our financial performance. For more information about the risks associated with various 
U.S. and foreign government regulation, see "Various U.S. and foreign government regulations could limit or delay our ability 
to market and sell our products or otherwise negatively impact our business" under "Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors." 

In the European Union, our analyzers and certain associated equipment are subject to the requirements of the RoHS 
Directive, which regulates and restricts certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.  Other countries, 
including China, Russia, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey have implemented or anticipate implementing regulatory 
regimes similar to the RoHS Directive. Our veterinary diagnostic instrument systems are not subject to regulation under the 
European Medical Device Directive or the In Vitro Diagnostic Directive, which are both strictly applicable to human use 
products. However, these systems are required to meet CE certification, which required compliance with the RoHS Directive, 
the EMC Directive, and other safety requirements. Similar requirements are specified by most counties in which we sell our 
products and are subject to increasing harmonization globally.

The European Union was among the first to regulate and restrict the use of certain substances that we currently use in 
our products. These requirements include the Biocidal Products Regulation, which requires the use of approved biocides in our 
products prior to being exported to the European Union, and REACH, which regulates and restricts the use of certain chemicals 
in the European Union. Compliance with these regulations (and similar regulations that have been or may be adopted 
elsewhere, such as Turkey, Korea, and other countries) may require registration of the applicable substances or the redesign or 
reformulation of our products.  Some of our products, including some of our Companion Animal products, may be subject to 
pending restriction of microplastics pursuant to REACH.

In the US, the EPA regulates chemical use similarly to the EU. In addition, certain states have their own chemical 

regulations, such as California's Proposition 65, which requires businesses to provide warnings to California residents about 
significant risk of exposures to chemicals in products that are known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. 

In addition to the foregoing, our business is generally subject to various U.S. and foreign regulatory authorities, 

including the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (the “FTC”) and other anti-competition authorities, and we are also subject to 
anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws, such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, import and export laws and regulations, 
including U.S. import and export control and sanctions laws, and laws and regulations governing the collection, use, retention, 
sharing and security of data. Development or acquisition of new products and technologies may subject us to additional areas of 
government regulation. These may involve medical device, water-quality and other regulations of the FDA, the EPA, the 
USDA, the FTC, and other federal agencies, as well as state, local and foreign governments.

18

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
EMPLOYEES

As of February 7, 2020, we had approximately 9,200 employees.

AVAILABLE INFORMATION

Our principal executive offices are located at One IDEXX Drive, Westbrook, Maine 04092, our telephone number is 
207-556-0300, and our internet address is www.idexx.com. References to our website in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are 
inactive textual references only and the content of our website should not be deemed incorporated by reference for any purpose.

We make available free of charge at www.idexx.com our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 
10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of 
the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we file such information with, or furnish it to, the SEC. In addition, 
copies of our reports filed electronically with the SEC may be accessed at www.sec.gov. 

Our Corporate Governance Guidelines and our Code of Ethics are also available on our website at www.idexx.com.

19

 
 
 
 
ITEM 1A. 

RISK FACTORS

You should consider carefully the risks and uncertainties described below in addition to the other information included 

or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in evaluating our company and our business. Our future 
operating results involve a number of risks and uncertainties and actual events or results may differ materially from those 
discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not 
limited to, the factors discussed below, as well as those factors discussed elsewhere herein. Any of these factors, in whole or in 
part, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results and stock price. 

RISKS RELATED TO OUR BUSINESS

Because our business lines are highly attractive, they are also highly competitive. Our failure to successfully 

execute certain strategies within this competitive environment could have a material negative impact on our future 
growth and profitability

The companion animal healthcare industry is highly competitive, and we anticipate increasing levels of competition 

from both existing competitors and new market entrants given our performance and the market’s strong growth and returns. Our 
ability to maintain or enhance our growth rates and our profitability depends on our successful execution of many elements of 
our strategy, including:

•  Developing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative new or improved and cost competitive in-clinic laboratory 

analyzers that drive sales of IDEXX VetLab instruments, grow our installed base of instruments and increase demand for 
related recurring sales of consumable products, services, and accessories;

•  Developing and introducing new proprietary diagnostic tests and services for both our reference laboratories and in-

clinic applications that provide valuable medical information to our customers and effectively differentiate our products 
and services from those of our competitors;

• 

Increasing the value to our customers of our companion animal products and services by enhancing the integration of the 
information and transactions of these products and the management of diagnostic information derived from our products;

•  Maintaining premium pricing, including by effectively implementing price increases, for our differentiated products and 
services through, among other things, effective communication and promotion of the value of our products and services 
in an environment where many of our competitors promote, market, and sell lesser offerings at prices lower than ours;

• 

Providing our veterinary customers with the medical and business tools, information, and resources that enable them to 
grow their practices and the utilization of our diagnostic products and services, through increased pet visits, use of 
preventive care protocols and enhanced practice of real-time care;

•  Achieving cost improvements in our worldwide network of reference laboratories by implementing global best practices, 
including lean processing techniques, incorporating technological enhancements, including laboratory automation and a 
global laboratory information management system, employing purchasing strategies to maximize leverage of our global 
scale, increasing the leverage of existing infrastructure and consolidating testing in high volume laboratory hubs;

•  Achieving cost improvements in the manufacture and service of our in-clinic laboratory analyzers by employing the 
benefits of economies of scale in both negotiating supply contracts and leveraging manufacturing overhead, and by 
improving reliability of our instruments;

•  Continuing to expand, develop, and advance the productivity of our companion animal diagnostic sales, marketing, 

customer support and logistics organizations in the U.S. and international markets in support of, among other things, our 
all-direct sales strategies;

•  Attracting, developing, and retaining key leadership and talent necessary to support all elements of our strategy, which is 

challenging due to the increasingly competitive and tight labor markets in which we operate;  

•  Expanding our served market and growing our market share by strengthening our sales and marketing activities both 

within the U.S. and in geographies outside of the U.S.;  

• 

Identifying, completing, and integrating acquisitions that enhance our existing businesses or create new business or 
geographic areas for us;

•  Developing and implementing new technology and licensing strategies; and

•  Continuing to effectively manage our growth and expansion on a global scale through, among other things, designing 

and implementing cost-effective improvements to our processes, procedures, and infrastructure.

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If we are unsuccessful in implementing and executing on some or all of these strategies, our rate of growth or 

profitability may be negatively impacted.

We depend on key leadership and talent to succeed and compete effectively

Our continued success is substantially dependent on our ability to attract, develop, and retain highly capable and 
skilled senior leadership and other key personnel. As we continue to grow our business, expand our geographic scope, and 
develop and offer innovative, new products and services, we require the organizational talent necessary to ensure effective 
succession for our senior leadership and other key personnel. Competition for experienced leaders and employees, particularly 
for persons with specialized skills, can be intense. Our ability to recruit and retain such talent will depend on a number of 
factors, including compensation and benefits, work location, work environment and development opportunities. The loss of the 
services of, or our failure to recruit or develop and implement effective succession plans for, our senior leadership or other key 
personnel may significantly delay or prevent the achievement of our strategic objectives, disrupt our operations, and adversely 
affect our business and our future success. In addition, even if we effectively develop and implement succession plans and 
make key leadership transitions, we cannot provide assurances as to whether we may experience management or other 
challenges in connection with any of those leadership transitions that could adversely affect our future success.

Our dependence on suppliers could limit our ability to sell certain products or negatively affect our operating 

results

We rely on third-party suppliers to provide components for our products, manufacture products that we do not 

manufacture ourselves, and perform services that we do not provide ourselves, including package-delivery services. Because 
these suppliers are independent third parties with their own financial objectives, actions taken by them could have a materially 
negative effect on our results of operations. The risks of relying on suppliers include our inability to enter into contracts with 
such suppliers on reasonable terms, breach, or termination by suppliers of their contractual obligations, inconsistent or 
inadequate quality control, relocation of supplier facilities, disruption to suppliers’ business, including work stoppages, 
suppliers’ failure to comply with complex and changing regulations, and third-party financial failure. Any problems with our 
suppliers and associated disruptions to our supply chain could materially negatively impact our ability to supply the market, 
substantially decrease sales, lead to higher costs, or damage our reputation with our customers, and any longer-term disruptions 
could potentially result in the permanent loss of our customers, which could reduce our recurring revenues and long-term 
profitability. Disruption to our supply chain could occur as a result of any number of events, including, but not limited to, 
increases in wages that drive up prices; the imposition of regulations, trade protection measures, tariffs, duties, import/export 
restrictions, quotas or embargoes on key components; labor stoppages; transportation failures affecting the supply and shipment 
of materials and finished goods; the unavailability of raw materials; severe weather conditions; natural disasters; public health 
issues (such as outbreaks, epidemics, or the prospect of a pandemic); climate change-related events; civil unrest, war, terrorism 
or other geopolitical developments, including the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union; computer viruses, physical 
or electronic breaches, or other information system disruptions or security breaches; and disruptions in utility and other 
services. For more information regarding the risks presented by natural and other disasters and system disruptions and security 
breaches from cyberattacks, see “We are increasingly dependent on the continuous and reliable operation of our information 
technology systems, and a disruption of these systems or significant security breaches could adversely affect our business” and 
"Natural and other disasters could adversely affect our business" below.

In addition, we currently purchase many products and materials from sole or single sources. Some of the products that 
we purchase from these sources are proprietary and, therefore, cannot be readily or easily replaced by alternative sources. These 
products include the majority of our Catalyst Dx and Catalyst One consumables; VetLyte electrolyte consumables; ProCyte Dx 
hematology, IDEXX VetAutoread hematology, and VetTest Chemistry analyzers and related consumables and accessories; 
SediVue Dx urine sediment analyzer and consumables; image capture plates used in our diagnostic imaging systems; and 
certain components and raw materials used in our SNAP rapid assay kits and SNAP Pro Mobile Device, Catalyst One, 
LaserCyte and LaserCyte Dx hematology analyzers, livestock and poultry diagnostic tests, dairy testing products, and water 
testing products. Even where products and materials are available from alternative suppliers, if any become unavailable to us 
for any reason, we likely would incur additional costs and delays in identifying or qualifying replacement materials and there 
can be no assurance that replacements would be available to us on acceptable terms, or at all. In certain cases, we may be 
required to obtain regulatory approval to use alternative suppliers, and this process of approval could delay production of our 
products or development of product candidates indefinitely.

We seek to mitigate risks associated with sole and single source suppliers on a risk-prioritized basis and in a variety of 

ways, including, when possible, by identifying and qualifying alternative suppliers, developing applicable in-house 
manufacturing capabilities and expertise, and entering into escrow arrangements for manufacturing information for certain 

21

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
single or sole-sourced products. We also seek to enter into long-term contracts with our sole and single source suppliers that 
provide for an uninterrupted supply of products at predictable or fixed prices. However, there can be no assurance that we will 
successfully implement any of these mitigating activities or that, if implemented, any of them will be effective in preventing 
any delay or other disruption in our ability to supply the market. In addition, suppliers may decline to enter into long-term 
contracts for any number of reasons, which would require us to purchase products via short-term contracts or on a purchase 
order basis. There can be no assurance that suppliers with which we do not have long-term contracts will continue to supply our 
requirements for products, that suppliers with which we do have long-term contracts will always fulfill their obligations under 
those contracts, or that any of our suppliers will not experience disruptions in their ability to supply our requirements for 
products. In cases where we purchase sole and single source products or components under purchase orders, we are more 
susceptible to unanticipated cost increases or changes in other terms of supply. In addition, under some contracts with suppliers 
we have minimum purchase obligations, and our failure to satisfy those obligations may result in loss of some or all of our 
rights under these contracts or require us to compensate the supplier. If we are unable to obtain adequate quantities of products 
in the future from sole and single source suppliers, or if such sole and single source suppliers are unable to obtain the 
components or other materials required to manufacture the products, we may be unable to supply the market, which could have 
a material adverse effect on our results of operations, and any longer-term disruptions could potentially result in the permanent 
loss of customers, which could reduce our recurring revenues and long-term profitability.

Our biologic products are complex and difficult to manufacture, which could negatively affect our ability to 

supply the market 

Many of our rapid assay, livestock and poultry diagnostic, water and dairy products are biologic products, which are 
products that include materials from living organisms, such as antibodies, cells, and sera. Manufacturing biologic products is 
highly complex due to the inherent variability of biological input materials and the difficulty of controlling the interactions of 
these materials with other components of the products, samples, and the environment. There can be no assurance that we will be 
able to maintain adequate sources of biological materials or that we will be able to consistently manufacture biologic products 
that satisfy applicable product release criteria and regulatory requirements. Further, products that meet release criteria at the 
time of manufacture may fall out of specification while in customer inventory, which could require us to incur expenses 
associated with recalling products and providing customers with new products, either of which could damage customer 
relations. Our inability to produce or obtain necessary biological materials or to successfully manufacture biologic products that 
incorporate such materials could result in our inability to supply the market with these products, which would have an adverse 
effect on our results of operations.

We are increasingly dependent on the continuous and reliable operation of our information technology systems, 

and a disruption of these systems or significant security breaches could adversely affect our business.

We rely on several information systems throughout our company, as well as our third-party business partners’ and 

suppliers’ information systems, to provide access to our web-based products and services, keep financial records, analyze 
results of operations, process customer orders, manage inventory, process shipments to customers, store confidential or 
proprietary information and operate other critical functions. Although we maintain information security policies and employ 
system backup measures and engage in information system redundancy planning and processes, such policies, measures, 
planning and processes, as well as our current disaster recovery plans, may be ineffective or inadequate to address all 
eventualities. Further, our information systems and our business partners’ and suppliers’ information systems may be vulnerable 
to attacks by hackers and other security breaches, including, among other things, computer viruses and malware, denial of 
service actions, misappropriation of data and similar events through the internet (including via devices and applications 
connected to the internet), and through email attachments and persons with access to these information systems, such as our 
employees or third parties with whom we do business. As information systems and the use of software and related applications 
by us, our business partners, suppliers, and customers become more cloud-based and connected to the “Internet of Things,” 
which is inherently susceptible to cyberattacks, there has been an increase in global cybersecurity vulnerabilities and threats, 
including more sophisticated and targeted cyber-related attacks that pose a risk to the security of our information systems and 
networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of data and information. We process credit card payments 
electronically over secure networks and also offer products and services that connect to and are part of the “Internet of Things,” 
such as our connected devices (e.g., IDEXX VetLab instruments). Any such attack or breach could compromise our networks 
and the information stored thereon could be accessed, publicly disclosed, lost, or stolen. While we have implemented network 
security and internal control measures, especially for the purpose of protecting our connected products and services from 
cyberattacks, and invested in our data and information technology infrastructure, there can be no assurance that these efforts 
will prevent a system disruption, attack, or security breach and, as such, the risk of system disruptions and security breaches 
from a cyberattack remains.

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We, and some of our third party vendors, have experienced cybersecurity attacks in the past and may experience 

further attacks in the future, potentially with more frequency. To our knowledge, most of these attacks have been unsuccessful, 
and none have resulted in any material adverse impact to our business or operations. We have adopted measures to mitigate 
potential risks associated with information technology disruptions and cybersecurity threats; however, given the 
unpredictability of the timing, nature and scope of such disruptions and the evolving nature of cybersecurity threats, which vary 
in technique and sources, if we or our business partners or suppliers were to experience a system disruption, attack or security 
breach that impacts any of our critical functions, or our customers were to experience a system disruption, attack or security 
breach via any of our connected products and services, we could potentially be subject to production downtimes, operational 
delays, other detrimental impacts on our operations or ability to provide products and services to our customers, the 
compromising of confidential or otherwise protected information, destruction or corruption of data, security breaches, other 
manipulation or improper use of our systems or networks, financial losses and additional costs from remedial actions, repairs to 
infrastructure, physical systems or data processing systems, increased cybersecurity and information technology protection 
costs, loss of business or potential liability, and/or damage to our reputation, any of which could have a material adverse effect 
on our competitive position, results of operations, cash flows or financial condition. Our customers could also face negative 
consequences such as the compromises of sensitive or critical information or systems. Furthermore, any access to, public 
disclosure of, or other loss of data or information (including any of our confidential or proprietary information or personal data 
or information) as a result of an attack or security breach could result in governmental actions or private claims or proceedings, 
which could damage our reputation, cause a loss of confidence in our products and services, damage our ability to develop (and 
protect our rights to) our proprietary technologies and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results 
of operations or prospects. For more information regarding data and information privacy and protection risks, see “Our 
operations and reputation may be impaired if we, our products, or our services do not comply with our global privacy policy or 
evolving laws and regulations regarding data privacy and protection” below.

Risks associated with doing business internationally could negatively affect our operating results

For the year ended December 31, 2019, approximately 38% of our revenue was attributable to sales of products and 

services to customers outside the U.S. Although we intend to continue to expand our international operations and business, we 
may not be able to successfully promote, market, import, export, sell or distribute our products and services outside the U.S. 
Various risks associated with foreign operations may impact our international sales, including, but not limited to, disruptions in 
transportation of our products or our supply chain; fluctuations in oil prices; increased border protection and restriction on 
travel; the differing product and service needs of foreign customers; difficulties in building, staffing and managing foreign 
operations (including a geographically dispersed workforce); differing protection of intellectual property; trade protection 
measures, quotas, embargoes, import/export restrictions, tariffs, duties, and regulatory and licensing requirements; natural and 
other disasters; public health issues (such as outbreaks, epidemics, or the prospect of a pandemic); ongoing instability or 
changes in a country’s or region’s regulatory, economic or political conditions, including as a result of the United Kingdom’s 
exit from the European Union; other unfavorable geopolitical conditions; security concerns; and local business and cultural 
factors that differ from our normal standards and practices, including business practices prohibited by the Foreign Corrupt 
Practices Act and other anti-corruption laws and regulations. 

In addition, to market and sell many of our products outside the U.S., we are subject to product approval and 
registration requirements that often require us to provide confidential, proprietary information about those products to foreign 
regulatory agencies. There can be no assurance that the confidential, proprietary information provided to foreign regulatory 
agencies to comply with product approval and registration requirements may not be accessed by unauthorized persons or 
otherwise stolen, which could negatively affect our ability to protect our proprietary rights in our innovative products and our 
future success. We also may forgo marketing and selling some of our products in certain foreign jurisdictions due to the risk of 
intellectual property theft, which could negatively affect our ability to expand our international operations and business. For 
more information about the risks related to the protection of our proprietary rights in our products and services, see "Our 
success is heavily dependent on our continued proprietary product and service innovation" below. 

Further, prices that we charge to foreign customers may be different than the prices we charge for the same products in 

the U.S. due to competitive, market or other factors, or changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Our results of operations 
are also susceptible to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. As a result, the mix of domestic and international sales in a 
particular period could have an adverse impact on our results of operations for that period.

23

 
 
 
 
 
Various U.S. and foreign government regulations could limit or delay our ability to market and sell our 

products or otherwise negatively impact our business

As a global business, we sell products and services in more than 175 countries and operate in an increasingly complex 

legal and regulatory environment. In the U.S., the manufacture and sale of certain of our products are regulated by agencies 
such as the USDA, the FDA, and the EPA. Our diagnostic tests for animal health applications that involve the detection of 
infectious diseases, including most rapid assay canine and feline SNAP tests and livestock and poultry diagnostic tests, must be 
approved by the USDA prior to sale in the U.S. Our dairy testing products as well as the manufacture and sale of our OPTI line 
of human point-of-care electrolytes and blood gas analyzers require approval by the FDA before they may be sold 
commercially in the U.S. Our water testing products must be approved by the EPA, as a part of a water quality monitoring 
program required by the EPA, before they can be used by customers in the U.S. Delays in obtaining regulatory approvals for 
new products or product upgrades could have a negative impact on our growth and profitability.

The manufacture, import, and sale of our products, as well as our research and development processes, are subject to 
similar and sometimes more stringent laws in many foreign countries. For example, the European Union regulates the use of 
certain substances that we currently use in our products or processes. These regulations include the Biocidal Products 
Regulation, which requires approval for the use of certain biocides in our products prior to being manufactured, used, or sold in 
the European Union; the European Regulation for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical 
Substances, or REACH, which regulates and restricts the use of certain chemicals in the European Union; and the Restriction of 
Hazardous Substances("RoHS") Directive, which regulates and restricts certain hazardous substances in electrical and 
electronic equipment. Compliance with these regulations (and similar regulations that may be adopted elsewhere, including 
China and Brazil) may require registration of the applicable substances or the redesign or reformulation of our products and 
may reduce or eliminate the availability of certain parts and components used in our products and services in the event our 
suppliers are unable to comply with the applicable regulations in a timely and cost-effective manner. Any redesign or 
reformulation or restricted supply of parts and components may negatively affect the availability or performance of our 
products and services, add testing lead-times for products and reformulated products, reduce our margins, result in additional 
costs, or have other similar effects. In addition, the costs to comply with these regulations may be significant. Any of these 
could adversely affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations. These legal and regulatory requirements are 
complex and subject to change, and we continue to evaluate their impact.

In addition, some foreign governments require us to register our products before they can be distributed or sold, and 

these product registration requirements, which vary among the applicable jurisdictions and change from time to time, are often 
complex and require us to engage in lengthy and costly processes and provide confidential, proprietary information about those 
products to foreign regulatory agencies. There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain or maintain any product 
registration required by one or more foreign governments. Any inability to obtain or maintain a required product registration in 
a jurisdiction could adversely affect our ability to market and sell the applicable product in that jurisdiction, which could have a 
negative effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. There can also be no assurance that confidential, 
proprietary information provided to foreign regulatory agencies may not be accessed by unauthorized persons or otherwise 
stolen, which could negatively impact our ability to protect our proprietary rights in our innovative products and our future 
success. For more information about the risks related to the protection of our proprietary rights in our products and services, see 
"Our success is heavily dependent on our continued proprietary product and service innovation" below.

We are also subject to a variety of federal, state, local, and international laws and regulations governing, as well as 

legal and political environments that vary broadly regarding, among other things, the importation and exportation of products; 
our global business practices, such as anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, and anti-competition laws; and immigration and 
travel restrictions. These legal, regulatory, and political requirements and environments differ among jurisdictions around the 
world and are rapidly changing and increasingly complex. The costs associated with compliance with these legal and regulatory 
requirements and adjusting to changing legal and political environments are significant and likely to increase in the future.

Any failure by us to comply with applicable legal and regulatory requirements, or to adjust to changing legal and 

political environments, could result in fines, penalties, and sanctions; product recalls; suspensions or discontinuations of, or 
limitations or restrictions on, our ability to design, manufacture, market, import, export or sell our products; and damage to our 
reputation. Any of these could negatively impact our business.

24

 
 
Our success is heavily dependent on our continued proprietary product and service innovation 

We believe our future success significantly depends on our ability to continue, on a cost-effective and timely basis, to 

enhance our existing proprietary product and service offerings and to develop and introduce new and innovative proprietary 
products and services. As a result, we invest substantial funds and efforts into R&D, investigating new products and 
technologies being developed by third parties and obtaining certain such new products and technologies through licenses or 
acquisitions. There can be no assurance that our R&D, licensing, or acquisition efforts will achieve expected results, when or 
whether any of our products or services now under development will be launched, or whether we may be able to develop, 
license or otherwise acquire new products or technologies. We also cannot predict whether any product or service offering, once 
launched, will achieve market acceptance or achieve sales and revenue consistent with our expectations. 

We rely on a combination of patent, trade secret, trademark, and copyright laws to protect our proprietary rights. We 

also license patents and technologies from third parties to enable the use of third-party technologies in the development and 
production of our products and offerings. If we do not have adequate protection of our proprietary rights or are unable to license 
third-party patents and technologies on reasonable terms, our business may be affected by competitors who utilize substantially 
equivalent technologies that compete with us.

We cannot ensure that we will obtain issued patents, that any patents issued or licensed to us will remain valid, or that 
any patents owned or licensed by us will provide protection against competitors with similar technologies. Even if our patents 
cover products sold by our competitors, the time and expense of litigating to enforce our patent rights could be substantial and 
could have an adverse effect on our results of operations. In addition, expiration of patent rights could result in substantial new 
competition in the markets for products previously covered by those patent rights.

In the past, we have received notices claiming that our products infringe third-party patents and we may receive such 
notices in the future. Patent litigation is complex and expensive, and the outcome of patent litigation can be difficult to predict. 
We cannot ensure that we will win a patent litigation case or negotiate an acceptable resolution of such a case. If we lose, we 
may be prohibited from selling certain products and/or we may be required to pay damages and/or ongoing royalties as a result 
of the lawsuit. Any such result could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

Increased competition from and technological advances by our competitors could negatively affect our 

operating results

We face intense competition within the markets in which we sell our products and services, and we expect that future 
competition will become even more intense as new products, services and technologies become available and new competitors 
enter the market. Our competitors in the veterinary diagnostic market in the United States and abroad include companies that 
develop, manufacture, and sell veterinary diagnostic tests and commercial veterinary reference laboratories, certain large and 
well-funded animal health pharmaceutical companies, as well as corporate hospital chains that operate reference laboratories 
that serve both their hospitals and unaffiliated hospitals, such as VCA Inc. (formerly named VCA Antech, Inc.), which is wholly 
owned by Mars, Incorporated, another operator of corporate hospital chains. Consolidation among our competitors and our 
customers may intensify the competition we face. While we believe that our offerings are competitively differentiated due to 
our proprietary products and services (such as the IDEXX SDMA test and VetConnect Plus) that offer an integrated, 
comprehensive diagnostic solution and the quality of our technical and customer service, there can be no assurance that 
increased consolidation among our competitors or customers (as well as any resulting reference laboratory vertical integration 
among our customers) would not have a negative impact on our ability to compete successfully. For more information regarding 
the risks presented by consolidation and reference laboratory vertical integration among our customers, see “Consolidation in 
our customer base, including through increased corporate hospital ownership, and prevalence of buying consortiums could 
negatively affect our business” below.

Competition could negatively affect our sales and profitability in a number of ways. New competitors may enter our 

markets through the development of innovative new technology, the acquisition of rights to use existing technologies or the use 
of existing technologies when patents protecting such existing technologies expire. New or existing competitors may introduce 
new, innovative, and competitive products and services, which could be superior, or be perceived by our customers to be 
superior, to our products and services or lead to the obsolescence of one or more of our products or services. Business 
combinations and mergers among our competitors may result in competitors that are better positioned to create, market, and sell 
more compelling product and service offerings. While an important aspect of our strategy is to continue, on a cost-effective and 
timely basis, to enhance our existing products and services and to develop and introduce new and innovative products and 
services, there can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully develop such products and services or that those 
products or services will be superior to our competitors’ products or services or otherwise achieve market acceptance. Some of 

25

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
our competitors and potential competitors may choose to differentiate themselves by offering products and services perceived in 
the eyes of customers as similar, at substantially lower sales prices, which could have an adverse effect on our results of 
operations through loss of market share or a decision to lower our own sales prices to remain competitive. In addition, our 
ability to attract and retain customers depends on the effectiveness of our customer marketing and incentive programs and 
multiple competitors could bundle product and service offerings through co-marketing or other arrangements, which could 
enhance their ability to compete with our broad product and service offering. Certain of our competitors and potential 
competitors, including large diagnostic and pharmaceutical companies, also have substantially greater financial and managerial 
resources than us, as well as greater experience in manufacturing, marketing, research and development, and obtaining 
regulatory approvals than we do.

Consolidation in our customer base, including through increased corporate hospital ownership, and prevalence 

of buying consortiums could negatively affect our business 

Veterinarians are our primary customers for our CAG products and services, and the veterinary services industry in the 

U.S. and abroad has been consolidating over time at an accelerating rate in recent years. In the United States, the number of 
owners of veterinary hospitals has been declining, and an increasing percentage of veterinary hospitals are owned by 
corporations that are in the business of acquiring veterinary hospitals and/or opening new veterinary hospitals nationally or 
regionally. Major corporate hospital owners in the U.S. include Mars, Incorporated (owner of Banfield Pet Hospitals, Blue Pearl 
Veterinary Partners, Pet Partners and VCA Inc.), and National Veterinary Associates, and are joined by dozens of smaller 
consolidators. A similar trend exists in other regions such as Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and China. 
Furthermore, an increasing percentage of individually-owned veterinary hospitals in the U.S. are participating in buying 
consortiums. Corporate owners of veterinary hospitals and buying consortiums often seek to improve profitability by leveraging 
the buying power they derive from their scale to obtain favorable pricing from suppliers, which could have a negative impact on 
our profitability and results of operations. While we have strong supplier relationships with several corporate hospital groups 
and buying consortiums, decisions by larger corporate owners and buying consortiums to shift their purchasing of products and 
services away from us and to a competitor would have a negative impact on our results of operations. In addition, certain 
corporate owners also operate reference laboratories that serve both their hospitals and unaffiliated hospitals. Any hospitals 
acquired by these companies generally attempt to shift all or a large portion of their testing to the reference laboratories 
operated by these companies, and there can be no assurance that hospitals that otherwise become affiliated with these 
companies would not shift all or a portion of their testing to such reference laboratories. Furthermore, because these companies 
compete with us in the reference laboratory services marketplace, hospitals acquired by these companies or those that establish 
other affiliations with these companies may cease to be customers or potential customers of our other companion animal 
products and services, which would cause our sales of these products and services to decline.

Changes in testing patterns could negatively affect our operating results 

The market for our companion animal, livestock and poultry diagnostic tests and our dairy and water testing products 
could be negatively impacted by a number of factors impacting testing practices. The introduction or broad market acceptance 
of vaccines or preventatives for the diseases and conditions for which we sell diagnostic tests and services could result in a 
decline in testing. Changes in accepted medical protocols regarding the diagnosis of certain diseases and conditions could have 
a similar effect. Eradication or substantial declines in the prevalence of certain diseases also could lead to a decline in 
diagnostic testing for such diseases. Our livestock and poultry products business in particular is subject to fluctuations resulting 
from changes in disease prevalence. The outbreak of certain diseases (such as African swine fever) among livestock or poultry, 
or the adverse impact of climate change-related events (such as hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, and floods), could lead to the 
widespread death or precautionary destruction of such animals in the affected regions, reducing herd or flock sizes, which could 
reduce the demand for our testing products for such animals. Changes in government regulations or in the availability of 
government funds available for monitoring programs could negatively affect sales of our products that are driven by 
compliance testing, such as our livestock and poultry, dairy and water products. In addition, changes and trends in local dairy, 
poultry, or other food markets around the world could negatively affect the related production markets resulting in a decline in 
demand for our testing products. Declines in testing for any reason, including the reasons described above, along with lost 
opportunities associated with a reduction in veterinary visits, could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

Natural and other disasters could adversely affect our business.

Our business and results of operations could be negatively affected by certain factors beyond our control, such as 

natural disasters and/or climate change-related events (such as hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, and floods); public health issues 
(such as outbreaks, epidemics, or the prospect of a pandemic); civil unrest; negative geopolitical conditions and developments; 
and war, terrorism, or other man-made disasters. Any of these events could result in, among other things, damage to or the 

26

 
 
 
 
 
temporary closure of one or more of our manufacturing or distribution facilities or reference laboratories (damage to one of our 
facilities or the manufacturing equipment we use could be costly and may require substantial lead-time to repair or replace); 
damage to or closure of one or more facilities of our third-party business partners or suppliers on which we rely; a temporary 
lack of an adequate work force in one or more markets; an interruption in power supply; a temporary or long-term disruption in 
our supply chain (including a disruption to our ability to obtain critical components for the manufacture of our products); a 
temporary disruption in our ability to deliver (or delays in the delivery of) our products or services; and short- or long-term 
damage to our customers’ businesses (which would adversely impact customer demand for our products and services). For 
more information regarding the risks presented by disruption to our suppliers’ operations and supply chain, see “Our 
dependence on suppliers could limit our ability to sell certain products or negatively affect our operating results” above.

We manufacture many of our significant companion animal products, including our rapid assay devices and certain 

instruments, many of our water testing products and certain of our livestock, poultry, and dairy testing products, at a single 
facility in Westbrook, Maine. Certain of our companion animal products, as well as our human point-of-care products, are 
manufactured in Roswell, Georgia. We also manufacture certain of our livestock and poultry testing products in Bern, 
Switzerland and Montpellier, France. In addition, we maintain major distribution facilities in North America and in the 
Netherlands and major reference laboratories in Memphis, Tennessee; Ludwigsburg, Germany; Sacramento, California; 
Elmhurst, Illinois; North Grafton, Massachusetts; East Brisbane, Australia; Markham, Ontario; Wetherby, U.K.; Tokyo, Japan; 
and Leipzig, Germany. Interruption of operations at any of these facilities due to the occurrence of one or more of the events 
described above could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

While we maintain plans to continue business under such circumstances, there can be no assurance that such plans will 

be successful in fully or partially mitigating the effects of such events. We also maintain property and business interruption 
insurance to insure against the financial impact of certain events of this nature. However, this insurance may be insufficient to 
compensate us for the full amount of any losses that we may incur. In addition, such insurance will not compensate us for 
potential long-term competitive effects of being out of the market for the period of any interruption in operations.

Our operations and reputation may be impaired if we, our products, or our services do not comply with our 

global privacy policy or evolving laws and regulations regarding data privacy and protection

The nature of our business involves the receipt and storage of information about our customers, pet owners, suppliers, 

and employees.  We collect and use personal data in a variety of ways. We offer products and services that collect and use 
personal data provided by customer practices, individuals, and third-parties at customers' direction, including practice 
management systems for veterinary practices, online customer communication tools and services, VetConnect PLUS, two-way 
integration technology, and use by third-parties authorized by our customers to provide programs and services to such 
customers. Some of these products and services rely on third-party providers for cloud storage. We also engage in e-commerce 
through various websites and collect contact and other personal data from our customers and visitors to our websites. The 
privacy, security, retention, sharing and use of the personal data described above are subject to expanding and increasingly 
complex laws and regulations in the U.S. (such as the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”), which became effective on 
January 1, 2020) and abroad (such as the Brazilian General Data Protection Law (“LGPD”), which will become effective on 
August 15, 2020), some of which impose significant compliance obligations. Some of these laws and regulations apply broadly 
to the collection, use, storage, disclosure, sharing and security of personal data that identifies or may be used to identify an 
individual, such as names, contact information, and sensitive personal data. These laws and regulations are subject to frequent 
revisions and differing interpretations and have generally become more stringent over time. In many cases, the federal, state, 
and international laws described above apply not only to third-party transactions, but also to transfers of information between us 
and our subsidiaries, and among us, our subsidiaries, and other parties with which we have commercial relations. For example, 
we are subject to the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, which became effective in May 2018. 
The GDPR imposes stringent operational requirements for controllers and processors of personal data, including expanded 
disclosures about how personal information is to be used, limitations on retention of information and mandatory data breach 
notification requirements, and could subject us to increased liability for violations. In addition, the laws and regulations related 
to data privacy and protection continue to develop, are subject to differing interpretations and may be applied inconsistently 
from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and may be inconsistent with our current global privacy policy and data protection practices. 
The costs associated with compliance with these evolving legal and regulatory requirements are significant and likely to 
increase in the future and as a result may cause us to incur substantial costs, require us to change our business practices in a 
manner adverse to our business or limit our ability to use and share personal data.  Additionally, public perception and standards 
related to the privacy of personal data can shift rapidly, in ways that may affect our reputation or influence regulators in the 
U.S. and abroad to expand or adopt more stringent regulations and laws.

27

 
 
While we have policies and procedures in place to comply with all applicable privacy-related laws and regulations 

(including the GDPR and CCPA), as well as our contractual obligations, any failure or perceived failure by us, the third parties 
with whom we work or our products and services to so comply could result in damage to our reputation or legal proceedings or 
actions against us by governmental entities or others, any of which could have an adverse effect on our business. In addition, 
concerns about our practices with regard to the collection, use, retention, disclosure, or security of personal data or other 
privacy-related matters, even if unfounded and even if we are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, could 
damage our reputation and harm our business.

Strengthening of the rate of exchange for the U.S. dollar has a negative effect on our business

We are a global business, with 38% of our revenue during the year ended December 31, 2019, attributable to sales of 

products and services to customers outside of the U.S. Any strengthening of the rate of exchange for the U.S. dollar against 
foreign currencies, and in particular the euro, British pound, Canadian dollar, Chinese renminbi, Japanese yen, Australian dollar 
and Brazilian real, adversely affects our results, as it reduces the dollar value of sales and profits that are made in those 
currencies. The strengthening of the U.S. dollar has a greater adverse effect on the profits from products manufactured or 
sourced in U.S. dollars that are exported to international markets and a lesser effect on profits from foreign sourced products 
and services due to a natural hedge from international expenses denominated in the corresponding foreign currencies. 

For the year ended December 31, 2019, approximately 22% of our consolidated revenue was derived from products 

manufactured or sourced in U.S. dollars and sold internationally in local currencies, as compared to 22% and 21% for the years 
ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. A strengthening U.S. dollar could also negatively impact the ability of 
customers outside the U.S. to pay for purchases denominated in U.S. dollars as well as affect our overall competitiveness in 
international markets. The accumulated impacts from any continued, longer-term growth in the value of the U.S. dollar against 
foreign currencies may have a material adverse effect on our operating results. See “Part II, Item 7A. Quantitative and 
Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information regarding 
currency impact. In addition, there has been, and may continue to be, volatility in currency exchange rates as a result of the 
United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union, especially between the U.S. dollar and the British pound.

Our foreign currency hedging activities (see "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 18. 

Hedging Instruments" in the accompanying Notes to consolidated financial statements), which are designed to minimize and 
delay, but not to eliminate, the effects of foreign currency fluctuations, may not sufficiently offset the adverse financial effect of 
unfavorable movements in foreign exchange rates on our financial results over the limited time the hedges are in place. In 
addition, our hedging activities involve costs and risks, such as transactions costs and the risk that our hedging counterparties 
will default on their obligations.

We primarily hedge intercompany product purchases and sales denominated in the euro, British pound, Canadian 

dollar, Japanese yen, and Australian dollar. Other foreign currency exposures related to foreign sourced services and emerging 
markets may not be practical to hedge. In certain cases, these exposures are not offset by foreign currency denominated costs. 
As we primarily use foreign currency exchange contracts with durations of less than 24 months and enter into contracts to 
hedge incremental portions of anticipated foreign currency transactions on a quarterly basis for the current and following year, 
the effectiveness of our foreign currency hedging activities to offset longer-term appreciation in the value of the U.S. dollar 
against non-U.S. currencies may be limited. Factors that could affect the effectiveness of our hedging activities include 
accuracy of sales and other forecasts, volatility of currency markets, and the cost and availability of hedging instruments. Since 
our hedging activities are designed to minimize volatility, they not only temporarily reduce the negative impact of a stronger 
U.S. dollar, but they also temporarily reduce the positive impact of a weaker U.S. dollar. Our future financial results could be 
significantly affected by a strengthening value of the U.S. dollar in relation to the foreign currencies in which we conduct 
business. The degree to which our financial results are affected for any given time period will depend in part upon our hedging 
activities.

A weak worldwide economy could result in reduced demand for our products and services or increased 

customer credit risk

A substantial percentage of our sales are made worldwide to the companion animal veterinary market. Demand for our 

companion animal diagnostic products and services is driven in part by the number of patient visits to veterinary hospitals and 
the practices of veterinarians with respect to the recommendations for diagnostic testing, as well as pet owner compliance with 
these recommendations. Pet owners generally pay cash out of pocket for health care services for their pets from veterinary 
practices. Economic weakness in our significant markets could cause pet owners to forgo or defer visits to veterinary hospitals 

28

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
or affect their willingness to approve certain diagnostic tests, comply with a treatment plan or, even more fundamentally, 
continue to own a pet. In addition, concerns about the financial resources of pet owners could cause veterinarians to be less 
likely to recommend certain diagnostic tests, and concerns about the economy may cause veterinarians to defer purchasing 
capital items such as our instruments and systems. These conditions, if they continue, could result in a decrease in sales or 
decrease in sales growth, of diagnostic products and services, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

Demand for our water products is driven in part by the availability of funds at government laboratories, water utilities 
and private certified laboratories that utilize our products. Availability of funds also affects demand by government laboratories 
and cattle, swine and poultry producers that utilize our livestock and poultry diagnostic products, and by users of our human 
point-of-care diagnostic instruments. Economic weakness in our markets has caused and could continue to cause our customers 
to reduce their investment in such testing, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

In all of our markets, a weak economy may also cause deterioration in the financial condition of our distributors and 

customers, which could inhibit their ability to pay us amounts owed for products delivered or services provided in a timely 
fashion or at all. 

We sell many products through distributors, which presents risks that could negatively affect our 

operating results

Some of our product sales in international markets occur through third-party distributors. As a result, we are dependent 
on these distributors to promote and create demand for our products. Our distributors often offer products from several different 
companies, and certain of our distributors may carry our competitors’ products and promote our competitors’ products over our 
own products. We have limited ability, if any, to cause our distributors to devote adequate resources to promoting, marketing, 
selling, and supporting our products or to maintain certain inventory levels, and changes in our distributors’ inventory levels, as 
compared to comparable prior periods, could negatively impact our revenue growth rates. We cannot assure you that we will be 
successful in maintaining and strengthening our relationships with our distributors or establishing relationships with new 
distributors who have the ability to market, sell and support our products effectively. We may rely on one or more key 
distributors for a product or a region, and the loss of these distributors could reduce our revenue. Distributors may face financial 
difficulties, including bankruptcy, which could harm our collection of accounts receivable and financial results. While we 
maintain a rigorous distribution compliance program, violations of anti-corruption or similar laws by our distributors could 
have a material impact on our business and reputation, and any termination of a distributor relationship may result in increased 
competition in the applicable jurisdiction. Failure to manage the risks associated with our use of distributors outside of the U.S. 
may reduce sales, increase expenses, and weaken our competitive position, any of which could have a negative effect on our 
operating results.

Future operating results could be negatively affected by changes in tax rates, the adoption of new U.S. or 

international tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities

The nature of our international operations subjects us to local, state, regional and federal tax laws in jurisdictions 

around the world. Our future tax expense could be affected by changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing 
statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities or changes in tax laws or their interpretation. 
Additionally, tax rules governing cross-border activities are continually subject to modification as a result of both coordinated 
actions by governments and unilateral measures designed by individual countries, both intended to tackle concerns over base 
erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) and perceived international tax avoidance techniques.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “2017 Tax Act”) was enacted in the U.S. on December 22, 2017 and includes 

significant changes to the U.S. federal corporate tax system. Effective January 1, 2018, the 2017 Tax Act reduced the U.S. 
federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and transitioned from a worldwide tax system to a modified territorial tax system. 
The 2017 Tax Act introduced new provisions including the Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income (“GILTI”), Foreign Derived 
Intangible Income (“FDII”), Base Erosion Anti-Abuse Tax (“BEAT’), expanded bonus depreciation and changed deductions for 
executive compensation and interest expense. The U.S. Department of Treasury continues to issue regulations related to the 
2017 Tax Act which may increase or decrease our tax liability in future periods. See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and 
Supplementary Data, Note 13. Income Taxes" in the accompanying Notes to consolidated financial statements for more 
information regarding the impact of the 2017 Tax Act.

We have received a tax ruling from the Netherlands that documents our mutual understanding of how existing tax laws 

apply to our circumstances.  This ruling expires as of December 31, 2022, and we have been informed that it will not be 
renewed due to changes to the advance ruling policy in the Netherlands. While the absence of an advance agreement does not 

29

 
 
 
 
 
preclude our ability to continue to apply existing tax laws in the same manner as allowed by the existing ruling, the lack of such 
agreement could create uncertainty as to our future tax rate.

Additionally, the European Commission has opened formal investigations into specific tax rulings granted by several 

countries to specific taxpayers. While we believe that our rulings are different than those being discussed, the ultimate 
resolution of such activities cannot be predicted and could also have an adverse impact on future operating results.

Our income tax filings are regularly under audit by various tax authorities, and the final determination of tax audits 

could be materially different from that which is reflected in historical income tax provisions and accruals. Significant judgment 
is required in determining our worldwide provision for income taxes. We regularly assess our exposures related to our 
worldwide provision for income taxes to determine the adequacy of our provision for taxes. Any reduction in these contingent 
liabilities or additional assessments would increase or decrease income, respectively, in the period such determination is made.

Our limited experience and small scale in the human point-of-care market could inhibit our success in this 

market 

We have limited experience in the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market and we operate at a small scale in 

this market. This market differs in many respects from the veterinary diagnostic market. Significant differences include the 
impact of third-party reimbursement on diagnostic testing, more extensive regulation, greater product liability risks, larger 
competitors, a more segmented customer base and more rapid technological innovation. Our limited experience and small scale 
in the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market could negatively affect our ability to successfully manage the risks and 
features of this market that differ from the veterinary diagnostic market. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in 
achieving growth and profitability in the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market comparable to the results we have 
achieved in the veterinary diagnostic market.

Restrictions in our debt agreements or our inability to obtain financing on favorable terms may increase our 

cost of borrowing and limit our activities

Our ability to make scheduled payments and satisfy our other obligations under our Credit Facility and senior notes 
depends on our future operating performance and on economic, financial, competitive, and other factors beyond our control. 
Our business may not generate sufficient cash flows to meet these obligations or generate sufficient levels of earnings to satisfy 
the applicable affirmative, negative, and financial covenants. Our failure to comply with these covenants and the other terms of 
the Credit Facility and senior notes could result in an event of default and acceleration of our obligations under these 
agreements, which may require us to seek additional financing or restructure existing debt on unfavorable terms. In addition, 
adverse changes in credit markets could increase our cost of borrowing and make it more difficult for us to obtain financing.

Our senior notes include provisions which stipulate a prepayment penalty for which we will be obligated in the event 

that we elect to repay the notes prior to their stated maturity dates. Should we elect to repay some or all of the outstanding 
principal balance on our senior notes, the prepayment penalty we incur could adversely affect our results of operations and cash 
flows.

We fund our operations, capital purchase requirements and strategic growth needs through cash on hand, funds 

generated from operations, amounts available under our Credit Facility and senior note financings. If we are unable to obtain 
financing on favorable terms, we could face restrictions that would limit our ability to execute certain strategies, which could 
have an adverse effect on our revenue growth and profitability.

Borrowings under our Credit Facility bear interest at variable rates, including rates based on the London Interbank 

Offered Rate (LIBOR), exposing us to interest rate risk. If interest rates were to increase, our debt service obligations under our 
variable-rate Credit Facility would increase even if the principal amount borrowed remained the same. While we may enter into 
interest rate swaps in the future to reduce the impact of interest rate fluctuations associated with our variable-rate indebtedness, 
we may not maintain interest rate swaps with respect to all of our variable rate indebtedness, and any swaps we enter into may 
not fully mitigate our interest rate risk. 

In addition, the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, announced in July 2017 that 

it will no longer persuade or require banks to submit rates for LIBOR after 2021 and it is unclear whether new methods of 
calculating LIBOR will be established. If LIBOR ceases to exist, one or more interest rates under our Credit Facility would, in 
the absence of an amendment, instead apply (depending on currency of the borrowing and other factors, including the cost of 
funds of applicable lenders, as determined by them), and similarly we may need to amend certain of our other agreements that 

30

use LIBOR as a benchmark and we cannot predict what alternative index or other amendments may be negotiated with our 
counterparties. As a result, our interest expense could increase and our available cash flow for general corporate requirements 
may be adversely affected. Additionally, uncertainty as to the nature of a potential discontinuance or modification of LIBOR, 
alternative reference rates, or other reforms may materially adversely affect the trading market for securities linked to such 
benchmarks. 

RISKS RELATED TO AN INVESTMENT IN OUR SECURITIES

Fluctuations in our quarterly or annual results may cause our stock price to decline

Our prior operating results have fluctuated due to a number of factors, including seasonality of certain product lines; 

changes in our accounting estimates; the impact of acquisitions; timing of distributor purchases product launches, operating 
expenditures, customer marketing and incentive programs; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; timing of regulatory 
approvals and licenses; litigation and claim-related expenditures; increase in the number and type of competitors; changes in 
competitors’ product offerings; changes in our sales and distribution model; changes in the economy affecting consumer 
spending; and other matters. Similarly, our future operating results may vary significantly from quarter to quarter or year to year 
due to these and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. If our operating results or projections of future operating 
results do not meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors in future periods, our stock price may fall.

The market price of our common stock may be highly volatile, and you may not be able to resell your shares at 

or above the price you paid

The trading price of our common stock may be volatile. Securities markets worldwide experience significant price and 

volume fluctuations. This market volatility, as well as other general economic, market or political conditions, could reduce the 
market price of our common stock in spite of our operating performance. The following factors, in addition to other factors 
described in this “Risk Factors” section and elsewhere in this Form 10-K, may have a significant impact on the market price of 
our common stock:

•  Changes in customer needs, expectations or trends and our ability to maintain relationships with key customers;

•  Our ability to implement our business strategy;

•  Our stock repurchase program;

•  Changes in our capital structure, including the issuance of additional debt;

• 

Public announcements (including the timing of these announcements) regarding our business, financial performance and 
prospects or new products or services, product enhancements or technological advances by our competitors or us;

•  Trading activity in our stock, including portfolio transactions in our stock by us, our executive officers and directors, and 
significant stockholders or trading activity that results from the ordinary course rebalancing of stock indices in which we 
may be included, such as the S&P 500 Index;

• 

Short-interest in our common stock, which could be significant from time to time;

•  Our inclusion in, or removal from, any stock indices;

• 

Investor perception of us and the industry and markets in which we operate;

•  Changes in earnings estimates or buy/sell recommendations by securities analysts; 

•  Whether or not we meet earnings estimates of securities analysts who follow us; and

•  General financial, domestic, international, economic, and market conditions, including overall fluctuations in the U.S. 

equity markets.

In addition, broad market and industry factors may negatively affect the market price of our common stock, regardless 

of our actual operating performance, and factors beyond our control may cause our stock price to decline rapidly and 
unexpectedly. Furthermore, the stock market has experienced extreme volatility that, in some cases, has been unrelated or 
disproportionate to the operating performance of particular companies.

ITEM 1B. 

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

Not applicable.

31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 2. 

PROPERTIES

Our worldwide headquarters is located in Westbrook, Maine where we engage in manufacturing, research and 
development, marketing, sales, and general and administrative support functions. Our Hoofddorp, Netherlands location includes 
distribution, warehousing, and office space. We are also in the process of relocating and expanding our laboratory facility in 
Ludwigsburg, Germany to Kornwestheim, Germany which is expected to be completed in 2020.

Primary Facility Locations

Location
Westbrook, Maine
Hoofddorp, Netherlands
Memphis, Tennessee
Ludwigsburg, Germany
Wetherby, United Kingdom
Newmarket, United Kingdom
Bern, Switzerland
Montpelier, France
Roswell, Georgia

Functions
United States Headquarters
European Headquarters
Distribution Center and Reference Lab
Reference Lab
Reference Lab
Water manufacturing
LPD manufacturing
LPD manufacturing
OPTI Medical manufacturing

Own/Lease
Own
Lease
Lease
Lease
Lease
Lease
Lease
Lease
Lease

Including the locations above, we have over 50 reference laboratories throughout the United States and over 25 

reference laboratories internationally, including locations in Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Asia, and South 
Africa. The majority of our reference laboratories are leased, with the remainder being owned. We also lease space in various 
locations worldwide for administrative support, manufacturing, sales, distribution, and storage. We believe that our leased and 
owned properties are generally in good condition, are well-maintained, and are generally suitable and adequate to carry on our 
business.

32

 
 
 
ITEM 3. 

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Due to the nature of our activities, we are at times subject to pending and threatened legal actions that arise out of the 

ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, based in part upon advice of legal counsel, the disposition of any 
such currently pending or threatened matters is not expected to have a material effect on our results of operations, financial 
condition, or cash flows. However, the results of legal actions cannot be predicted with certainty. Therefore, it is possible that 
our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows could be materially adversely affected in any particular period by the 
unfavorable resolution of one or more legal actions.

ITEM 4. 

MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

33

 
 
ITEM 5. 
MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER 

PART II

Market Information

Our common stock is quoted on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol IDXX.

Holders of Common Stock

As of February 10, 2020, there were 420 holders of record of our common stock. Because the majority of our common 

stock is held by brokers and other institutions on behalf of stockholders, we are unable to estimate the total number of 
stockholders represented by these record holders.

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer

During the three months ended December 31, 2019, we repurchased shares of common stock as described below:

Period

Total Number of 
Shares Purchased
(a)

Average Price Paid 
per Share
(b)

Total Number of 
Shares Purchased 
as Part of Publicly 
Announced Plans 
or Programs (1)
(c)

Maximum Number 
of Shares that May 
Yet Be Purchased 
Under the Plans or 
Programs (1)
(d)

October 1, 2019 to October 31, 2019
November 1, 2019 to November 30, 2019
December 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019
Total

120,339
197,421
215,313
533,073

(2)

$

$

273.57
258.96
254.51
260.46

120,339
197,421
214,500
532,260

2,408,629
2,211,208
1,996,708
1,996,708

(1) As of December 31, 2019, our Board of Directors had approved the repurchase of up to 68 million shares of our 
common stock in the open market or in negotiated transactions pursuant to the Company’s share repurchase program. The 
program was approved and announced on August 13, 1999, and the maximum number of shares that may be purchased under 
the program has been increased by the Board of Directors on numerous occasions. On February 12, 2020, our Board of 
Directors approved an additional 5.0 million shares to be purchased under the Company's share repurchase program. With this 
increase, the total amount of shares that may be repurchased pursuant to the Company's share repurchase program is 73 million 
shares. There is no specified expiration date for this repurchase program. There were no other repurchase programs outstanding 
during the three months ended December 31, 2019, and no repurchase programs expired during the period. Repurchases of 
approximately 0.5 million shares were made during the three months ended December 31, 2019, in transactions made pursuant 
to our repurchase program.

(2) During the three months ended December 31, 2019, we received less than 1,000 shares of our common stock that 
were surrendered by employees in payment for the minimum required withholding taxes due on the vesting of restricted stock 
units and settlement of deferred stock units. In the above table, these shares are included in columns (a) and (b) but excluded 
from columns (c) and (d). These shares do not reduce the number of shares that may yet be purchased under the repurchase 
program.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, we repurchased approximately 1.2 million shares of our common stock in 

transactions made pursuant to our repurchase program and received approximately 0.04 million shares of common stock that 
were surrendered by employees in payment for the minimum required withholding taxes due on the vesting of restricted stock 
units and settlement of deferred stock units. See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 19. 
Repurchases of Common Stock" to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, included in 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.

Dividends

We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock. From time to time our Board of Directors 

may consider the declaration of a dividend. However, we have no intention to declare or pay a dividend at this time.

34

 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock Performance

This graph compares our total stockholder returns, the Total Return for the Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) 500 Index, the 
Total Return for the S&P 500 Health Care Index, and the Total Return for the NASDAQ Stock Market Index (U.S. Companies) 
(the “NASDAQ Index”) prepared by the Center for Research in Security Prices. This graph assumes the investment of $100 on 
December 31, 2014, in IDEXX’s common stock, the S&P 500 Index, the S&P 500 Health Care Index, and the NASDAQ Index 
and assumes dividends, if any, are reinvested. Measurement points are the last trading days of the years ended December 2014 
to 2019.

S
R
A
L
L
O
D

400

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

12/31/2014

12/31/2015

12/31/2016

12/31/2017

12/31/2018

12/31/2019

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

Nasdaq
Index

S&P 500 Index

S&P 500 Health Care Index

12/31/2014

12/31/2015

12/31/2016

12/31/2017

12/31/2018

12/31/2019

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
NASDAQ Index
S&P 500 Index
S&P 500 Health Care Index

$100.00
$100.00
$100.00
$100.00

$98.36
$106.96
$101.38
$106.89

$158.18
$116.45
$113.51
$104.01

$210.94
$150.96
$138.29
$126.98

$250.92
$146.67
$132.23
$135.19

$352.24
$200.49
$173.86
$163.34

35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 6. 

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial data for each of the last five fiscal years. The selected 
consolidated financial data presented below has been derived from the consolidated financial statements. This financial data 
should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, related notes and other financial information 
appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Revenue
Cost of revenue
Gross profit
Expenses:

Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development
Impairment charge

Income from operations

Interest expense, net

Income before provision for income taxes

Provision for income taxes
Net income

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling
interest

Net income attributable to IDEXX
Laboratories, Inc. stockholders

Earnings per share:

Basic
Diluted

Weighted average shares outstanding:

Basic
Diluted

BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents
Marketable securities

Cash and cash equivalents and marketable
securities

Working capital
Total assets
Total long-term debt
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)

?

$

$
$

$

$
$
$
$
$

For the Years Ended December 31,
(in thousands, except per share data)
2017

2016

2018 (2)

2019 (1)

2015

$

$

2,406,908
1,041,359
1,365,549

$

2,213,242
971,700
1,241,542

$

1,969,058
871,676
1,097,382

$

1,775,423
799,987
975,436

1,601,892
711,622
890,270

418,193
261,317
133,193
—
552,846
(30,628)
522,218
94,426
427,792

387,406
244,938
117,863
—
491,335
(33,593)
457,742
80,695
377,047

354,294
220,878
109,182
—
413,028
(31,971)
381,057
117,788
263,269

317,058
207,017
101,122
—
350,239
(28,393)
321,846
99,792
222,054

299,955
182,510
99,681
8,212
299,912
(26,771)
273,141
81,006
192,135

72

16

125

9

57

$

$
$

427,720

4.97
4.89

86,115
87,542

$

$
$

377,031

4.34
4.26

86,864
88,470

$

$
$

263,144

3.00
2.94

87,769
89,567

$

$
$

222,045

2.47
2.44

89,732
90,884

192,078

2.07
2.05

92,601
93,649

$

90,326
—

123,794
—

$

187,675
284,255

$

154,901
236,949

$

128,994
213,591

$
90,326
(45,698) $
$
$
$

1,832,475
698,910
177,825

$
123,794
(116,272) $
$
1,537,349
$
601,348
(9,233) $

$
471,930
(32,582) $
$
1,713,416
606,075
$
(53,842) $

$
391,850
(88,984) $
$
1,530,704
593,110
$
(108,213) $

342,585
(35,127)
1,474,993
597,085
(83,995)

(1)  See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" and "Part II, Item 8. 

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 7. Leases, "to the consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K 
for additional information regarding the adoption of the New Leasing Standard.

(2)  See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 3. Revenue Recognition" to the consolidated financial statements included in 

the Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information regarding the adoption of the New Revenue Standard.

36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 7. 
OF OPERATIONS

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS 

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in 

conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report on 
Form 10 K. The discussion of our financial condition and results of operations and liquidity and capital resources for the year 
ended December 31, 2017, is included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, within Item 
7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and is incorporated by 
reference herein.

We have included certain terms and abbreviations used throughout this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the "Glossary 

of Terms and Selected Abbreviations.” 

Description of Business Segments. We operate primarily through three business segments: diagnostic and information 

management-based products and services for the veterinary market, which we refer to as the Companion Animal Group 
(“CAG”); water quality products (“Water”); and diagnostic products and services for livestock and poultry health and to ensure 
the quality and safety of milk and food, which we refer to as Livestock, Poultry and Dairy (“LPD”). Our Other operating 
segment combines and presents products for the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market (“OPTI Medical”) with our 
out-licensing arrangements because they do not meet the quantitative or qualitative thresholds for reportable segments. See 
"Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 3. Revenue Recognition and Note 16. Segment Reporting" 
to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K 
for financial information about our segments, including our product and service categories, and our geographic areas.

Certain costs are not allocated to our operating segments and are instead reported under the caption “Unallocated 

Amounts”. These costs include costs that do not align with one of our existing operating segments or are cost prohibitive to 
allocate, which primarily consist of our R&D function, regional or country expenses, certain foreign currency revaluation and 
settlement gains and losses on monetary balances in currencies other than our subsidiaries’ functional currency, and unusual 
items. Corporate support function costs (such as information technology, facilities, human resources, finance and legal), health 
benefits and incentive compensation are charged to our business segments at pre-determined budgeted amounts or rates. 
Differences from these pre-determined budgeted amounts or rates are also captured within Unallocated Amounts.

The following is a discussion of the strategic and operating factors that we believe have the most significant effect on 

the performance of our business.

Companion Animal Group

Our strategy is to provide veterinarians with both the highest quality diagnostic information to support more advanced 

medical care and information management solutions that help demonstrate the value of diagnostics to pet owners and enable 
efficient practice management. By doing so, we are able to build a mutually successful relationship with our veterinarian 
customers based on healthy pets, loyal customers and expanding practice revenues.

CAG Diagnostics. We provide diagnostic capabilities that meet veterinarians’ diverse needs through a variety of 

modalities including in-clinic diagnostic solutions and outside reference laboratory services. Veterinarians that utilize our full 
line of diagnostic modalities obtain a single view of a patient’s diagnostic results, which allows them to track and evaluate 
trends and achieve greater medical insight.

Our diagnostic capabilities generate both recurring and non-recurring revenues. Revenues related to capital placements 
of our in-clinic IDEXX VetLab suite of instruments and our SNAP Pro Analyzer are non-recurring in nature in that they are sold 
to a particular customer only once. Revenues from the associated proprietary IDEXX VetLab consumables, SNAP rapid assay 
test kits, reference laboratory and consulting services, and extended maintenance agreements and accessories related to our 
IDEXX VetLab instruments and our SNAP Pro Analyzer are recurring in nature, in that they are regularly purchased by our 
customers, typically as they perform diagnostic testing as part of ongoing veterinary care services. Our recurring revenues, most 
prominently IDEXX VetLab consumables and rapid assay test kits, have significantly higher gross margins than those provided 
by our instrument sales. Therefore, the mix of recurring and non-recurring revenues in a particular period will impact our gross 
margins.

37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diagnostic Capital Revenue. Revenues related to the placement of the IDEXX VetLab suite of instruments are non-
recurring in nature, in that the customer will buy an instrument once over its respective product life cycle, but will purchase 
consumables for that instrument on a recurring basis as they use that instrument for testing purposes. During the early stage of 
an instrument’s life cycle, we derive relatively greater revenues from instrument placements, while consumable sales become 
relatively more significant in later stages as the installed base of instruments increases and instrument placement revenues begin 
to decline. In the early stage of an instrument’s life cycle, placements are made primarily through sales transactions. As the 
market for the product matures, an increasing percentage of placements are made in transactions, sometimes referred to as 
volume commitments, such as our IDEXX 360 program, or reagent rentals, in which instruments are placed at customer sites at 
little or no cost in exchange for a multi-year customer commitment to purchase recurring products and services.

We place our Catalyst chemistry analyzers through sales, leases, rental, and other programs. In addition, we continue 

to place VetTest instruments through sales, lease, rental, and other programs, with substantially all of our revenues from that 
product line currently derived from consumable sales. As of December 31, 2019, our Catalyst and VetTest chemistry analyzers 
provided for a combined active installed base of approximately 56,200 units globally, as compared to approximately 50,800 
units in 2018 and approximately 47,000 units in 2017. As of December 31, 2019, our premium Catalyst chemistry analyzers 
provided for an active installed base of approximately 43,900 units globally, as compared to approximately 37,000 units in 2018 
and approximately 30,000 units in 2017. A majority of our Catalyst chemistry analyzer placements were to customers that are 
new to IDEXX, including customers who had been using instruments from one of our competitors, sometimes referred to as 
competitive accounts. Generally, placement of an instrument with a new or competitive account has the highest economic value 
as the entire consumable stream associated with that placement represents incremental recurring revenue, whereas the 
consumable stream associated with a Catalyst placement at a VetTest customer substitutes a Catalyst consumable stream for a 
VetTest consumable stream. We have found that the consumables revenues increase when a customer upgrades from a VetTest 
analyzer to a Catalyst analyzer due to the superior test menu capability, flexibility, and ease of use of the Catalyst analyzers, 
which leads to additional testing by the customer.

As we continue to experience growth in placements of Catalyst analyzers and in sales of related consumables, we 

expect this growth to be partly offset by a decline in placements of VetTest analyzers and in sales of related consumables.

The ProCyte Dx analyzer is our latest generation hematology analyzer.  In addition, we sell the LaserCyte Dx and 

VetAutoread analyzers. As of December 31, 2019, these hematology analyzers provided for a combined active installed base of 
approximately 38,200 units, as compared to 35,900 units in 2018 and 33,400 units in 2017. As of December 31, 2019, our 
premium ProCyte Dx and LaserCyte Dx hematology analyzers provided for an active installed base of approximately 31,500 
units globally, as compared to approximately 29,000 units in 2018 and approximately 26,000 units in 2017. A majority of our 
Procyte analyzer placements were made to new or competitive accounts. We also continue to place a substantial number of 
LaserCyte Dx instruments, both new and recertified, as trade-ups from the VetAutoread analyzer and at new and competitive 
accounts. As we continue to experience growth in placements of ProCyte Dx analyzers and in sales of related consumables, we 
expect this growth to be partly offset by a decline in placements of LaserCyte Dx and VetAutoread analyzers and a decrease 
in the associated recurring revenue stream.  

Our SediVue Dx instrument was launched in North America early in 2016 and in the U.K. and Australia in the fourth 

quarter of 2016. During 2017, we continued to launch SediVue Dx internationally. As of December 31, 2019, our premium 
SediVue Dx analyzers provided for an active installed base of nearly 8,900 units globally, as compared to approximately 6,600 
units in 2018 and approximately 4,000 units in 2017. This instrument and single-use consumable system provides a highly 
accurate way to automate the process of examining urine under a microscope. We provide customers with SediVue Dx 
consumables that are charged upon utilization, which we refer to as pay-per-run, as compared to other instruments where we 
charge upon shipment of consumables. This new pay-per-run consumable revenue stream is contributing to our continuing 
growth, however is not currently material relative to IDEXX’s overall revenue.

We seek to enhance the attractiveness and customer loyalty of our SNAP rapid assay tests, including by providing the 

SNAP Pro Analyzer, which activates SNAP tests, properly times the run, captures, and saves images of the results and, in 
conjunction with IVLS, records invoice charges in the patient record. Beginning in January of 2017, with our ProRead 
software, the SNAP Pro Analyzer interprets results. These features promote practice efficiency by eliminating manual entry of 
test results in patient records and also helps ensure that the services are recorded and accurately invoiced. In addition, SNAP 
Pro Analyzer results can be shared with pet owners on the SNAP Pro screen or, in conjunction with IVLS, via VetConnect 
PLUS. We also sell the SNAPshot Dx, which automatically reads certain SNAP test results and, in conjunction with IVLS, 
records those results in the electronic medical record. We continue to work on enhancing the functionality of our analyzers to 
read the results of additional tests from our canine and feline family of rapid assay products.

38

 
 
 
 
 
 
Our long-term success in the continuing growth of our CAG recurring diagnostic product and services is dependent 
upon: growing volumes at existing customers by increasing their utilization of existing and new test offerings, acquiring new 
customers, maintaining high customer loyalty and retention, our ability to realize modest annual price increases based on our 
differentiated products and the growing value of our diagnostic offering. We continuously seek opportunities to enhance the 
care that veterinary professionals give to their patients and clients through supporting the implementation of real-time care 
testing work flows, which is performing tests and sharing test results with the client at the time of the patient visit. Our latest 
generation of chemistry and hematology instruments demonstrates this commitment by offering enhanced ease of use, faster 
time to results, broader test menu and connectivity to various information technology platforms that enhance the value of the 
diagnostic information generated by the instruments. In addition, we provide marketing tools and customer support that help 
drive efficiencies in veterinary practice processes and allow practices to increase the number of clients they see on a daily basis.

With all of our instrument product lines, we seek to differentiate our products from our competitors’ products based on 
time-to-result, ease-of-use, throughput, breadth of diagnostic menu, flexibility of menu selection, accuracy, reliability, ability to 
handle compromised samples, analytical capability of diagnostics software, integration with the IVLS and VetConnect PLUS, 
client communications capabilities, education and training, and superior sales and customer service. Our success depends, in 
part, on our ability to differentiate our products in a way that justifies a premium price.

Recurring Diagnostic Revenue. Revenues from our proprietary IDEXX VetLab consumable products, our SNAP rapid 

assay test kits, outside reference laboratory and consulting services, and extended maintenance agreements and accessories 
related to our CAG Diagnostics instruments are considered recurring in nature. For the year ended December 31, 2019, 
recurring diagnostic revenue, which is both highly durable and profitable, accounted for approximately 76% of our consolidated 
revenue.

Our in-clinic diagnostic solutions, consisting of our IDEXX VetLab consumable products and SNAP rapid assay test 

kits, provide real-time reference lab quality diagnostic results for a variety of companion animal diseases and health conditions. 
Our outside reference laboratories provide veterinarians with the benefits of a more comprehensive list of diagnostic tests and 
access to consultations with board-certified veterinary specialists and pathologists, combined with the benefit of same-day or 
next-day turnaround times.

We derive substantial revenues and margins from the sale of consumables that are used in IDEXX VetLab instruments 
and the multi-year consumable revenue stream is significantly more valuable than the placement of the instrument. Our strategy 
is to increase diagnostic testing within veterinary practices by placing IDEXX VetLab instruments and increasing instrument 
utilization of consumables. Utilization can increase due to a greater number of patient samples being run or to an increase in the 
number of tests being run per patient sample. Our strategy is to increase both drivers. To increase utilization, we seek to educate 
veterinarians about best medical practices that emphasize the importance of chemistry, hematology, and urinalysis testing for a 
variety of diagnostic purposes, as well as by introducing new testing capabilities that were previously not available to 
veterinarians. 

Our in-clinic diagnostic solutions also include SNAP rapid assay tests that address important medical needs for 

particular diseases prevalent in the companion animal population. We seek to differentiate these tests from those of other in-
clinic test providers and reference laboratory diagnostic service providers based on critically important sensitivity and 
specificity, as demonstrated by peer-reviewed third-party research, as well as overall superior performance and ease of use by 
providing our customers with combination tests that test a single sample for up to six diseases at once, including the ability to 
utilize our SNAP Pro Analyzer. We further augment our product development and customer service efforts with sales and 
marketing programs that enhance medical awareness and understanding regarding certain diseases and the importance of 
diagnostic testing.

We believe approximately half of all diagnostic testing by U.S. veterinarians is provided by outside reference 
laboratories such as IDEXX Reference Laboratories. In certain markets outside the U.S., in-clinic testing may be less prevalent, 
and an even greater percentage of diagnostic testing is done in reference laboratories. We attempt to differentiate our reference 
laboratory testing services from those of competitive reference laboratories and competitive in-clinic offerings primarily on the 
basis of a unique and proprietary test menu, technology employed, quality, turnaround time, customer service and tools such as 
VetConnect PLUS that demonstrate the complementary manner in which our laboratory services work with our in-clinic 
offerings.

Profitability in our lab business is supported, in part, by our expanding business scale globally. Profit improvements 

also reflect benefits from price increases and our ability to achieve operational efficiencies. When possible, we utilize core 
reference laboratories to service samples from other states or countries, expanding our customer reach without an associated 

39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
expansion in our reference laboratory footprint. New laboratories that we open typically will operate at a loss until testing 
volumes achieve sufficient scale. Acquired laboratories frequently operate less profitably than our existing laboratories and 
acquired laboratories may not achieve the profitability of our existing laboratory network for several years until we complete 
the implementation of operating improvements and efficiencies. Therefore, in the short term, new and acquired reference 
laboratories generally will have a negative effect on our operating margin. 

Recurring reference lab revenue growth is achieved both through increased testing volumes with existing customers 
and through the acquisition of new customers, net of customer losses. We believe the increased number of customer visits by 
our sales professionals as a result of the growth in our field sales organization has led to increased reference laboratory 
opportunities with customers who already use one of our in-clinic diagnostic modalities. In recent years, recurring reference 
laboratory diagnostic and consulting revenues have also been increased through reference laboratory acquisitions, customer list 
acquisitions, the opening of new reference laboratories, including laboratories that are co-located with large practice customers, 
and as a result of our up-front customer loyalty programs and our volume commitment programs. Our up-front customer loyalty 
programs are associated with customer acquisitions and retention and provide incentives to customers in the form of cash 
payments or IDEXX Points upon entering multi-year contractual agreements to purchase annual minimum amounts of products 
or services, including reference laboratory services. Our volume commitment programs, such as IDEXX 360, provide 
customers with a free or discounted instrument or system upon entering into multi-year agreements to purchase annual 
minimum amounts of products and services.

Health Monitoring and Biological Materials Testing.  We believe the acquisition of the research and diagnostic 

laboratory business of the College of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Missouri has allowed us to leverage our 
expertise in veterinary diagnostics and expand our integrated offering of reference laboratory diagnostic and consulting services 
and in-clinic testing solutions in the adjacent bioresearch market.

Veterinary Software, Services and Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Our portfolio of practice management offerings is 

designed to serve the full range of customers within the North American, Australian, and European markets. Cornerstone, 
DVMAX, IDEXX Animana and IDEXX Neo practice management systems provide superior integrated information solutions, 
backed by exceptional customer support and education. These practice management systems allow the veterinarian to practice 
better medicine and achieve the practice’s business objectives, including a quality client experience, staff efficiency and 
practice profitability. We market Cornerstone, DVMAX and IDEXX Neo practice management systems to customers primarily 
in North America and Australia. We market our IDEXX Animana offering to customers primarily throughout Europe.

IDEXX Animana and IDEXX Neo practice management systems are subscription-based SaaS offerings designed to 

provide flexible pricing and a durable, recurring revenue stream, while utilizing cloud technology instead of a client server 
platform. While we continue to develop, sell, and support our licensed-based Cornerstone and DVMAX software, we are 
growing our installed base of subscription-based practice management offerings for new customers of IDEXX practice 
management systems. We believe that once established, this subscription-based model will provide higher profitability as 
compared to the historical license-based placements. Our Cornerstone and DVMAX customer base continues to be an important 
driver of growth through enhanced diagnostic integrations and high value add-on subscription services, such as Pet Health 
Network Pro, Petly Plans, and credit card processing, and we continue to make investments to enhance the customer experience 
of all of our license-based software offerings. We also offer rVetLink, a comprehensive referral management solution for 
specialty care hospitals that streamlines the referral process between primary care and specialty care veterinarians. rVetLink’s 
cloud technology integrates with major specialty hospital management systems, including Cornerstone Software and DVMAX 
Software.

We differentiate our practice management systems through enhanced functionality, ease of use, and embedded 

integration with in-clinic IDEXX VetLab instruments and outside reference laboratory test results. Our client communication 
services create more meaningful pet owner experiences through personalized communication.  With our Smart Flow cloud 
technology, we are able to improve overall patient management through coordination and tracking of every step in a patient 
workflow. Pet Health Network Pro online client communication and education service complements the entire IDEXX product 
offering by educating pet owners and building loyalty through engaging the pet owner before, during and after the visit, thereby 
building client loyalty and driving more patient visits.

Our diagnostic imaging systems offer a convenient radiographic solution that provides superior image quality and the 

ability to share images with clients virtually anywhere. IDEXX imaging software enables enhanced diagnostic features and 
streamlined integration with our other products and services. Our newest digital radiography systems, the ImageVue DR50 
Digital Imaging System enables low-dose radiation image capture without sacrificing clear, high-quality diagnostic 
images, reducing the risk posed by excess radiation exposure for veterinary professionals. Placements of imaging systems are 

40

 
 
 
 
 
important to the growth of revenue streams that are recurring in nature, including extended maintenance agreements and 
IDEXX Web PACS, which is our cloud-based SaaS offering for viewing, accessing, storing, and sharing multi-modality 
diagnostic images. We derive relatively higher margins from our subscription-based products. IDEXX Web PACS is integrated 
with Cornerstone, IDEXX Neo and IDEXX VetConnect PLUS to provide centralized access to diagnostic imaging results 
alongside patient diagnostic results from any internet connected device. 

Water

Our strategy in the water testing business is to develop, manufacture, market and sell proprietary products that test 

primarily for the presence of microbial contamination in water matrices, including drinking water supplies, with superior 
performance, supported by exceptional customer service. Our customers primarily consist of water utilities, government 
laboratories and private certified laboratories that highly value strong relationships and customer support. We expect that future 
growth in this business will be partially dependent on our ability to increase international sales. Growth also will be dependent 
on our ability to enhance and broaden our product line. Most water microbiological testing is driven by regulation, and, in many 
countries, a test may not be used for compliance testing unless it has been approved by the applicable regulatory body and 
integrated into customers’ testing protocols. As a result, we maintain an active regulatory program that involves applying for a 
growing number of regulatory approvals in a number of countries, primarily in Europe. Further, we seek to receive regulatory 
approvals from governing agencies as a means to differentiate our products from the competition.

Livestock, Poultry and Dairy

We develop, manufacture, market and sell a broad range of tests and perform services for various livestock diseases 

and conditions, and have active research and development and in-licensing programs in this area. Our strategy is to offer 
proprietary tests with superior performance characteristics for use in government programs to control or eradicate disease and 
disease outbreaks and in livestock and poultry producers’ disease, reproductive, and herd health and production management 
programs. Disease outbreaks are episodic and unpredictable, and certain diseases that are prevalent at one time may be 
substantially contained or eradicated at a later time. In response to outbreaks, testing initiatives may lead to exceptional demand 
for certain products in certain periods. Conversely, successful eradication programs may result in significantly decreased 
demand for certain products. In addition, increases in government funding may lead to increased demand for certain products 
and budgetary constraints may lead to decreased demand for certain products. As result, the performance in certain sectors of 
this business can fluctuate.

Our strategy in the dairy testing business is to develop, manufacture and sell antibiotic residue and contaminant testing 

products that satisfy applicable regulatory requirements or dairy processor standards for testing of milk and provide reliable 
field performance. The manufacture of these testing products leverages the SNAP platform and production assets that also 
support our rapid assay business, which also leverages the SNAP platform. The dairy SNAP products incorporate customized 
reagents for antibiotic and contaminant detection. To successfully increase sales of dairy testing products, we believe that we 
need to increase penetration in dairy processors and develop product line enhancements and extensions. Our Rapid Visual 
Pregnancy Test for cattle can detect pregnancy 28 days after breeding. This test provides a quick and accurate identifier using 
whole blood samples.

The performance of the business is particularly subject to the various risks that are associated with doing business 

internationally.  See “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

Other

OPTI Medical. Our strategy in the OPTI Medical business for the human market is to develop, manufacture, and sell 

electrolyte and blood gas analyzers and related consumable products for the medical point-of-care diagnostics market 
worldwide, with a focus on small to mid-sized hospitals. We seek to differentiate our products based on ease of use, 
convenience, international distribution and service and instrument reliability. Similar to our veterinary instruments and 
consumables strategy, a substantial portion of the revenues from this product line is derived from the sale of consumables for 
use on the installed base of electrolyte and blood gas analyzers. During the early stage of an instrument’s life cycle, relatively 
greater revenues are derived from instrument placements, while consumable sales become relatively more significant in later 
stages as the installed base of instruments increases and instrument placement revenues begin to decline. Our long-term success 

41

 
 
 
 
 
in this area of our business is dependent upon new customer acquisition, customer retention and increased customer utilization 
of existing and new assays introduced on these instruments.

Our facility in Roswell, Georgia develops and manufactures the OPTI product lines using the same or similar 
technology to support the electrolyte needs of the veterinary market. We leverage this facility’s know-how, intellectual property, 
and manufacturing capability to continue to expand the menu and instrument capability of the VetStat and Catalyst platforms 
for veterinary applications, while reducing our cost of consumables by leveraging experience and economies of scale.

The performance of the business is particularly subject to the various risks that are associated with doing business 

internationally.  See “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

42

 
 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon the consolidated 

financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements 
requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and 
related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis. We base our estimates on 
historical experience and on various assumptions that we believe 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. Actual results may differ from these estimates. See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, 
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on 
Form 10-K describes the significant accounting policies used in preparation of these consolidated financial statements.

We believe the following critical accounting estimates and assumptions may have a material impact on reported 
financial condition and operating performance and involve significant levels of judgment to account for highly uncertain 
matters or are susceptible to significant change. 

Revenue Recognition

See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 3. Revenue Recognition" to the consolidated 

financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional 
information about our revenue recognition policy and criteria for recognizing revenue.

We enter into contracts with multiple performance obligations where customers purchase a combination of IDEXX 

products and services. Determining whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should 
be accounted for separately requires judgment. We determine the transaction price for a contract based on the consideration we 
expect to receive in exchange for the transferred goods or services. To the extent the transaction price includes variable 
consideration, such as volume rebates or expected price adjustments, we apply judgment in constraining the estimated variable 
consideration due to factors that may cause reversal of revenue recognized. We evaluate constraints based on our historical and 
projected experience with similar customer contracts.

We allocate revenue to each performance obligation in proportion to the relative standalone selling prices and 

recognize revenue when control of the related goods or services is transferred for each obligation. We utilize the observable 
standalone selling price when available, which represents the price charged for the performance obligation when sold 
separately. When standalone selling prices for our products or services are not directly observable we determine the standalone 
selling prices using relevant information available and apply suitable estimation methods including, but not limited to, the cost 
plus a margin approach. 

Our up-front loyalty programs provide customers with incentives in the form of cash payments or IDEXX Points upon 

entering into multi-year agreements to purchase annual minimum amounts of future products or services. If a customer 
breaches its agreement, they are required to refund all or a portion of the up-front cash or IDEXX Points, or make other 
repayments, remedial actions, or both. Up-front incentives to customers in the form of cash or IDEXX Points are not made in 
exchange for distinct goods or services and are capitalized as customer acquisition costs within other current and long-term 
assets, which are subsequently recognized as a reduction to revenue over the term of the customer agreement. If these up-front 
incentives are subsequently utilized to purchase instruments, we allocate total consideration, including future committed 
purchases less up-front incentives and estimates of expected price adjustments, based on relative standalone selling prices to 
identified performance obligations and recognize instrument revenue and cost at the time of installation and customer 
acceptance. We estimate, based on historical experience, and apply judgment to predict the amounts of future customer 
purchases and expected price adjustments related to these multi-year agreements. Differences between estimated and actual 
customer purchases may impact the amount and timing of revenue recognition and a 10% change in these estimates would have 
increased or reduced other assets and cumulative revenue related to these programs by approximately $1.6 million at 
December 31, 2019.

Our volume commitment programs, such as our IDEXX 360 program, provide customers with free or discounted 

instrument or system upon entering into multi-year agreements to purchase annual minimum amounts of products and services. 
We allocate total consideration, including future committed purchases and expected price adjustments, based on relative 
standalone selling prices to identified performance obligations and recognize instrument revenue and cost at the time of 
installation and customer acceptance in advance of billing the customer, which is also when the customer obtains control of the 
instrument based on legal title transfer. Our right to future consideration related to instrument revenue is recorded as a contract 

43

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
asset within other current and long-term assets. The contract asset is transferred to accounts receivable when customers are 
billed for future products and services over the term of the contract. We estimate, based on historical experience, and apply 
judgment to predict the amounts of future customer purchases and expected price adjustments related to these multi-year 
agreements. Differences between estimated and actual customer purchases may impact the amount and timing of revenue 
recognition and a 10% change in these estimates would have increased or reduced contract assets and cumulative revenue 
related to these programs by approximately $2.2 million at December 31, 2019.

Our instrument rebate programs, previously referred to as IDEXX Instrument Marketing Programs, require an 
instrument purchase and provide customers the opportunity to earn future rebates based on the volume of products and services 
they purchase over the term of the program. We account for the customer’s right to earn rebates on future purchases as a 
separate performance obligation and determine the standalone selling price based on an estimate of rebates the customer will 
earn over the term of the program. Total consideration allocated to identified performance obligations is limited to goods and 
services that the customer is presently obligated to purchase and does not include estimates of future purchases that are 
optional. We allocate total consideration to identified performance obligations, including a customer’s right to earn rebates on 
future purchases, which is deferred and recognized upon the purchase of future products and services, offsetting future rebates 
as they are earned. We estimate, based on historical experience, and apply judgment to predict the amounts of future customer 
rebates related to these multi-year agreements. Differences between estimated and actual customer rebates may impact the 
amount and timing of revenue recognition and a 10% change in these estimates would have increased or reduced deferred 
revenue and cumulative revenue related to these programs by approximately $2.4 million at December 31, 2019.

Future market conditions and changes in product offerings may cause us to change marketing strategies to increase or 
decrease customer incentive offerings, possibly resulting in incremental reductions of revenue in future periods as compared to 
reductions in the current or prior periods. Additionally, certain customer programs require us to estimate, based on historical 
experience, and apply judgment to predict the amounts of future customer purchases, customer rebates and other incentive 
payments, and price adjustments related to multi-year agreements. Differences between estimated and actual customer 
purchases may impact the amount and timing of revenue recognition as described above.

Valuation of Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

A significant portion of the purchase price for acquired businesses is generally assigned to intangible assets. Intangible 

assets other than goodwill are initially valued at fair value. If a quoted price in an active market for the identical asset is not 
readily available at the measurement date, the fair value of the intangible asset is estimated based on discounted cash flows 
using market participant assumptions, which are assumptions that are not specific to IDEXX. The selection of appropriate 
valuation methodologies and the estimation of discounted cash flows require significant assumptions about the timing and 
amounts of future cash flows, risks, appropriate discount rates, and the useful lives of intangible assets. When material, we 
utilize independent valuation experts to advise and assist us in determining the fair values of the identified intangible assets 
acquired in connection with a business acquisition and in determining appropriate amortization methods and periods for those 
intangible assets. Goodwill is initially valued based on the excess of the purchase price of a business combination over the fair 
value of acquired net assets recognized and represents the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired that could 
not be individually identified and separately recognized.

We assess goodwill for impairment annually, at the reporting unit level, in the fourth quarter and whenever events or 
circumstances indicate impairment may exist. An impairment charge is recorded for the amount, if any, by which the carrying 
amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. Our reporting units are the individual product and service categories that 
comprise our CAG operating segment, our Water and LPD operating segments and goodwill remaining from the restructuring 
of our pharmaceutical business in the fourth quarter of 2008. A substantial portion of the goodwill remaining from the 
pharmaceutical business, included in our “Other Segment”, is associated with intellectual property that has been, or that we 
expect to be, licensed to third parties. Realization of this goodwill is dependent upon the success of those third parties in 
developing and commercializing products, which will result in our receipt of royalties and other payments.

As part of our goodwill testing process, we evaluate factors specific to a reporting unit as well as industry and 

macroeconomic factors that are reasonably likely to have a material impact on the fair value of a reporting unit. Examples of 
the factors considered in assessing the fair value of a reporting unit include: the results of the most recent impairment test, the 
competitive environment, the regulatory environment, anticipated changes in product or labor costs, revenue growth trends, the 
consistency of operating margins and cash flows and current and long-range financial forecasts. The long-range financial 
forecasts of the reporting units, which are based upon management’s long-term view of our markets, are used by senior 
management and the Board of Directors to evaluate operating performance. 

44

 
 
 
 
 
In the fourth quarters of 2019 and 2018, we elected to bypass the qualitative approach that allows the assessment of 
qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying 
amount and instead proceeded directly to assessing the fair value of all of our reporting units and comparing the fair value of to 
the carrying value to determine if any impairment is necessary.

We estimate the fair values of applicable reporting units using an income approach based on discounted forecasted 

cash flows. We make significant assumptions about the extent and timing of future cash flows, growth rates and discount rates. 
Model assumptions are based on our projections and best estimates, using appropriate and customary market participant 
assumptions. In addition, we make certain assumptions in allocating shared assets and liabilities to individual reporting units in 
determining the carrying value of each reporting unit. To validate the reasonableness of our reporting units' estimated fair 
values, we reconcile the aggregate fair values of our reporting units to our total market capitalization. Valuation assumptions 
reflect our projections and best estimates, based on significant assumptions about the extent and timing of future cash flows, 
growth rates and discount rates.

We maintain approximately $6.5 million of goodwill associated with our remaining pharmaceutical intellectual 
property, out-licensing arrangements, and certain retained drug delivery technologies (collectively “Pharmaceutical Activities”) 
that we seek to commercialize through arrangements with third parties. Currently, our primary support for the carrying value of 
this goodwill is royalty revenue associated with the commercialization of certain intellectual property. There is no guarantee 
that we will be able to maintain or increase revenues from our remaining Pharmaceutical Activities. The results of our goodwill 
impairment test for these Pharmaceutical Activities indicate an excess of estimated fair value over the carrying amount of this 
reporting unit by approximately $4.7 million and 71% of the reporting unit’s carrying value. Excluding these Pharmaceutical 
Activities, the results of our goodwill impairment test indicate an excess of estimated fair value over the carrying amount for 
each of our reporting units with a minimum of 217% and an average of approximately 1,060%. 

While we believe that the assumptions used to determine the estimated fair values of each of our reporting units are 
reasonable, a change in assumptions underlying these estimates could result in a material negative effect on the estimated fair 
value of the reporting units. Our fair value estimate assumes the achievement of future financial results contemplated in our 
forecasted cash flows, and there can be no assurance that we will realize that value. We use forecasts to estimate future cash 
flows and include an estimate of long-term future growth rates based on our most recent views of the long-term outlooks for our 
reporting units. Actual results may differ from those assumed in our forecasts. The discount rate is based on a weighted average 
cost of capital derived from industry peers. Changes in market conditions, interest rates, growth rates, tax rates, costs, pricing, 
or the discount rate would affect the estimated fair values of our reporting units and could result in a goodwill impairment 
charge in a future period. No goodwill impairments were identified during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017.

A prolonged economic downturn in the U.S. or internationally resulting in lower long-term growth rates and reduced 
long-term profitability may reduce the fair value of our reporting units. Industry specific events or circumstances could have a 
negative impact on our reporting units and may also reduce the fair value of our reporting units. Should such events occur, and 
it becomes more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value has fallen below its carrying value, we will perform an interim 
goodwill impairment test, in addition to the annual impairment test. Future impairment tests may result in an impairment of 
goodwill, depending on the outcome of future impairment tests. An impairment of goodwill would be reported as a non-cash 
charge to earnings.

We assess the realizability of intangible assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying 

value may not be recoverable. If an impairment review is triggered, we evaluate the carrying value of intangible assets, other 
than goodwill, based on estimated undiscounted future cash flows over the remaining useful life of the primary asset of the 
asset group and compare that value to the carrying value of the asset group. The cash flows that are used contain our best 
estimates, using appropriate and customary assumptions and projections at the time. If the net carrying value of an intangible 
asset exceeds the related estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment to adjust the intangible asset to its fair value 
would be reported as a non-cash charge to earnings. If necessary, we would calculate the fair value of an intangible asset using 
the present value of the estimated future cash flows to be generated by the intangible asset and applying a risk-adjusted discount 
rate.

We had no impairments of our intangible assets during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017.

45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-Based Compensation

Our share-based compensation programs provide for grants of stock options, restricted stock units and deferred stock 

units, along with the issuance of employee stock purchase rights. The total fair value of future awards may vary significantly 
from past awards based on a number of factors, including our share-based award practices. Therefore, share-based 
compensation expense is likely to fluctuate, possibly significantly, from year to year.

We use the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model to determine the fair value of options granted. Option-pricing 
models require the input of highly subjective assumptions, particularly for the expected stock price volatility and the expected 
term of options. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield for a duration similar to the expected term at the 
date of grant. We have never paid any cash dividends on our common stock and we have no intention to pay a dividend at this 
time; therefore, we assume that no dividends will be paid over the expected terms of option awards. We determine the 
assumptions to be used in the valuation of option grants as of the date of grant. As such, we use different assumptions during 
the year if we grant options at different dates. Substantially all our options granted during the years ended December 31, 2019, 
2018 and 2017 were granted in the first quarter of each year. The weighted average of each of the valuation assumptions used to 
determine the fair value of each option grant during each of the previous three years is as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
2019

2018

2017

Expected stock price volatility
Expected term, in years (1)
Risk-free interest rate

(1)  Options granted have a contractual term of ten years.

26%
6.0
2.4%

24%
5.8
2.7%

26%
5.8
2.0%

Changes in these subjective assumptions, particularly for the expected stock price volatility and the expected term of 
options, can materially affect the fair value estimate. Our expected stock price volatility assumption is based on the historical 
volatility of our stock over a period similar to the expected term and other relevant factors. Higher estimated volatility increases 
the fair value of a stock option, while lower estimated volatility has the opposite effect. The total fair value of stock options 
granted during the year ended December 31, 2019, was $23.1 million. If the weighted average of the stock price volatility 
assumption was increased or decreased by 5%, the total fair value of stock options awarded during the year ended 
December 31, 2019, would have increased or decreased by approximately $3.3 million and the total expense recognized for the 
year ended December 31, 2019, for options awarded during the same period would have increased or decreased by 
approximately $0.6 million.

We derive the expected term assumption for stock options based on historical experience and other relevant factors 
concerning expected behavior with regard to option exercises. The expected term is determined using a consistent method at 
each grant date. A longer expected term assumption increases the fair value of stock option awards, while a shorter expected 
term assumption has the opposite effect. If the weighted average of the expected term was increased or decreased by one year, 
the total fair value of stock options awarded during the year ended December 31, 2019, would have increased or decreased by 
approximately $2.1 million, and the total expense recognized for the year ended December 31, 2019, for options awarded 
during 2019 would have increased or decreased by approximately $0.4 million.

For a significant majority of our awards, share-based compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over 
the requisite service period, which ranges from one to five years, depending on the award. Share-based compensation expense 
is recognized on a grade-vesting methodology for performance-based restricted stock units. Share-based compensation expense 
is based on the number of awards expected to vest and is, therefore, reduced for an estimate of the number of awards that are 
expected to be forfeited. The forfeiture estimates are based on historical data and other factors; share-based compensation 
expense is adjusted annually for actual results. Total share-based compensation expense for the year ended December 31, 2019, 
was $39.3 million, which is net of a reduction of approximately $3.7 million for actual and estimated forfeitures. Fluctuations in 
our overall employee turnover rate may result in changes in estimated forfeiture rates and differences between estimated 
forfeiture rates and actual experience and, therefore could have a significant unanticipated impact on share-based compensation 
expense.

Modifications of the terms of outstanding awards may result in significant increases or decreases in share-based 

compensation. During the fourth quarter of 2019, we entered a mutual separation agreement with our former CEO, pursuant to 
which his outstanding stock options were modified, which resulted in $10.9 million of share-based compensation expense in the 
quarter related to the acceleration and revaluation of his stock options. There were no material modifications to the terms of 
outstanding options, restricted stock units or deferred stock units during 2018 or 2017.

46

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The fair value of stock options, restricted stock units, deferred stock units and employee stock purchase rights issued 
totaled $42.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, $34.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, and $31.4 
million for the year ended December 31, 2017. The total unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, for 
unvested share-based compensation awards outstanding at December 31, 2019, was $50.1 million, which will be recognized 
over a weighted average period of approximately 1.7 years. 

Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes is determined using the asset and liability approach of accounting for income taxes. 
Under this approach, deferred taxes represent the estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between book and tax 
treatment of assets and liabilities and carryforwards to the extent they are realizable.

On a quarterly basis, we assess our current and projected earnings by jurisdiction to determine whether or not our 

earnings during the periods when the temporary differences become deductible will be sufficient to realize the related future tax 
benefits. Should we determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax asset in a particular 
jurisdiction in the future, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset would be charged to income in the period such determination 
was made.

For those jurisdictions where tax carryforwards are likely to expire unused or the projected operating results indicate 

that realization is not more likely than not, a valuation allowance is recorded to offset the deferred tax asset within that 
jurisdiction. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we consider future taxable income and ongoing prudent and 
feasible tax planning strategies. In the event that we determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the 
future in excess of the net recorded amount, a reduction of the valuation allowance would increase income in the period such 
determination was made. Likewise, should we determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax 
asset in the future, a reduction to the deferred tax asset would be charged to income in the period such determination was made. 

Our net taxable temporary differences and tax carryforwards are recorded using the enacted tax rates expected to apply 

to taxable income in the periods in which the deferred tax liability or asset is expected to be settled or realized. Should the 
expected applicable tax rates change in the future, an adjustment to our deferred taxes would be credited or charged, as 
appropriate, to income in the period such determination was made.

We periodically assess our exposures related to our worldwide provision for income taxes and believe that we have 

appropriately accrued taxes for contingencies. Any reduction of these contingent liabilities or additional assessment would 
increase or decrease income, respectively, in the period such determination was made.

We record a liability for uncertain tax positions that do not meet the more likely than not standard as prescribed by the 

authoritative guidance for income tax accounting. We record tax benefits for only those positions that we believe will more 
likely than not be sustained. For positions that we believe that it is more likely than not that we will prevail, we record a benefit 
considering the amounts and probabilities that could be realized upon ultimate settlement. If our judgment as to the likely 
resolution of the uncertainty changes, if the uncertainty is ultimately settled or if the statute of limitation related to the 
uncertainty expires, the effects of the change would be recognized in the period in which the change, resolution or expiration 
occurs. Our net liability for uncertain tax positions was $29.7 million as of December 31, 2019, and $26.0 million as of 
December 31, 2018, which includes estimated interest expense and penalties. See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and 
Supplementary Data, Note 13. Income Taxes" in the accompanying Notes to consolidated financial statements for more 
information.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In addition to the impacts from new accounting pronouncements included above, see "Part II, Item 8. Financial 

Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (v) and (w)" to the consolidated 
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a complete 
discussion of recent accounting pronouncements adopted and not adopted.

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE

Our purpose is to be a great company that creates exceptional long-term value for our customers, employees, and 

stockholders by enhancing the health and well-being of pets, people, and livestock. Corporate Responsibility is core to IDEXX 
culture and is reflected in our environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) performance across the company. We prioritize 

47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
community investments and partnerships that are aligned with our purpose, conduct ourselves with the highest ethical standards 
and demonstrate environmental responsibility in our facilities and operations.  Our Corporate Responsibility Report is available 
on our website and features examples of our ESG activities and performance metrics.   

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND TRENDS

Effects of Certain Factors on Results of Operations

Distributor Purchasing and Inventories.  When selling our products through distributors, changes in distributors’ 

inventory levels can impact our reported sales, and these changes may be affected by many factors, which may not be directly 
related to underlying demand for our products by veterinary practices, which are the end users. If during the current year, 
distributors’ inventories grew by less than those inventories grew in the comparable period of the prior year, then changes in 
distributors’ inventories would have an unfavorable impact on our reported sales growth in the current period. Conversely, if 
during the current year, distributors’ inventories grew by more than those inventories grew in the comparable period of the prior 
year, then changes in distributors’ inventories would have a favorable impact on our reported sales growth in the current period. 

In certain countries, we sell our products through third-party distributors and may be unable to obtain data for sales to 

end users. We do not believe the impact of changes in these distributors’ inventories had or would have a material impact on our 
growth rates. See “Part I, Item 1. Business, Marketing and Distribution” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for 
additional information regarding distribution channels.

Currency Impact. For the year ended December 31, 2019, approximately 22% of our consolidated revenue was derived 

from products manufactured or sourced in U.S. dollars and sold internationally in local currencies, as compared to 22% and 
21% for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Strengthening of the rate of exchange for the U.S. dollar 
relative to other currencies has a negative impact on our revenues derived in currencies other than the U.S. dollar and on profits 
of products manufactured or purchased in U.S. dollars and sold internationally, and a weakening of the U.S. dollar has the 
opposite effect. Similarly, to the extent that the U.S. dollar is stronger in current or future periods relative to the exchange rates 
in effect in the corresponding prior periods, our growth rate will be negatively affected. The impact of foreign currency 
denominated operating expenses and foreign currency denominated supply contracts partly offsets this exposure. Additionally, 
our designated hedges of intercompany inventory purchases and sales help delay the impact of certain exchange rate 
fluctuations on non-U.S. denominated revenues. See “Part II, Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market 
Risk” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information regarding currency impact. Our future income 
tax expense could also be affected by changes in the mix of earnings, including as a result of changes in the rate of exchange for 
the U.S. dollar relative to currencies in countries with differing statutory tax rates. See “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors” included 
in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information regarding tax impacts. 

Effects of Economic Conditions.  Pet owners generally pay cash out of pocket for health care services for their pets 

from veterinary practices. Demand for our products and services is vulnerable to changes in the economic environment, 
including slow economic growth, high unemployment, and credit availability. Negative or cautious consumer sentiment can 
lead to reduced or delayed consumer spending, resulting in a decreased number of patient visits to veterinary clinics. 
Unfavorable economic conditions can impact sales of instruments, diagnostic imaging and practice management systems, 
which are larger capital purchases for veterinarians. Additionally, economic turmoil can cause our customers to remain sensitive 
to the pricing of our products and services. In the U.S., we monitor patient visits and clinic revenue data provided by a subset of 
our CAG customers. Although this data is a limited sample and susceptible to short-term impacts such as weather, which may 
affect the number of patient visits in a given period, we believe that this data provides a fair and meaningful long-term 
representation of the trend in patient visit activity in the U.S., providing us insight regarding demand for our products and 
services.

Economic conditions can also affect the purchasing decisions of our Water and LPD business customers. Water testing 
volumes may be susceptible to declines in discretionary testing for existing home and commercial sales and in mandated testing 
as a result of decreases in home and commercial construction. Testing volumes may also be impacted by severe weather 
conditions such as drought. In addition, fiscal difficulties can also reduce government funding for water and herd health 
screening services.

We believe that the diversity of our products and services and the geographic diversity of our markets partially 

mitigate the potential effects of the economic environment and negative consumer sentiment on our revenue growth rates.

48

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effects of Patent Expiration. Although we have several patents and licenses of patents and technologies from third 

parties that expired during 2019, and several that are expected to expire in 2020 and beyond, the expiration of these patents or 
licenses, individually or in the aggregate, is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position or future operations 
due to a range of factors as described in "Part I, Item 1. Business, Patents and Licenses”. 

Non-GAAP Financial Measures. The following revenue analysis and discussion focuses on organic revenue growth, 

and references in this analysis and discussion to “revenue,” “revenues” or “revenue growth” are references to “organic revenue 
growth.” Organic revenue growth is a non-GAAP financial measure and represents the percentage change in revenue during the 
current year, as compared to the same period for the prior year, net of the effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, 
certain business acquisitions, and divestitures. Organic revenue growth should be considered in addition to, and not as a 
replacement for, or as a superior measure to, revenues reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and may not be comparable to 
similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Management believes that reporting organic revenue growth provides 
useful information to investors by facilitating easier comparisons of our revenue performance with prior and future periods and 
to the performance of our peers.

We exclude from organic revenue growth the effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates because changes in 

foreign currency exchange rates are not under management’s control, are subject to volatility and can obscure underlying 
business trends. We calculate the impact on revenue resulting from changes in foreign currency exchange rates by applying the 
difference between the weighted average exchange rates during the current year period and the comparable prior year period to 
foreign currency denominated revenues for the prior year period. 

We also exclude from organic revenue growth the effect of certain business acquisitions and divestitures because the 
nature, size and number of these transactions can vary dramatically from period to period, and because they either require or 
generate cash as an inherent consequence of the transaction, and therefore can also obscure underlying business and 
operating trends. We consider acquisitions to be a business when all three elements of inputs, processes and outputs are present, 
consistent with ASU 2017-01, “Business Combinations: (Topic 805) Clarifying the Definition of a Business.” In a business 
combination, if substantially all the fair value of the assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or group of 
similar identifiable assets, we do not consider these assets to be a business. A typical acquisition that we do not consider a 
business is a customer list asset acquisition, which does not have all elements necessary to operate a business, such as 
employees or infrastructure. We believe the efforts required to convert and retain these acquired customers are similar in nature 
to our existing customer base and therefore are included in organic revenue growth. 

We also use Adjusted EBITDA, gross debt, net debt, gross debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio and net debt to Adjusted 

EBITDA ratio, all of which are non-GAAP financial measures that should be considered in addition to, and not as a 
replacement for, financial measures presented according to U.S. GAAP. Management believes that reporting these non-GAAP 
financial measures provides supplemental analysis to help investors further evaluate our business performance and available 
borrowing capacity under our Credit Facility. 

Executive Officers and Directors. As reported previously, effective October 23, 2019, our Board of Directors (our 

“Board”) appointed Jonathan (Jay) Mazelsky as our President and Chief Executive Officer and as a director of the Company.  
Mr. Mazelsky had been serving as our Interim President and Chief Executive Officer since June 28, 2019. Prior to that time, 
since August 2012, Mr. Mazelsky had been an Executive Vice President of the Company. In addition, effective November 1, 
2019, Lawrence D. Kingsley, a Company director since October 2016 and Lead Independent Director since May 2018, was 
appointed as Independent Non-Executive Chairman of our Board. Also, effective November 1, 2019, Jonathan W. Ayers, our 
Chairman and former President and Chief Executive Officer, who had been on a medical leave of absence since June 28, 2019, 
stepped down as Chairman of our Board, ceased to be an employee of the Company and transitioned to the role of external 
Senior Advisor to the Company. Mr. Ayers continues to serve as a member of our Board. While we cannot provide assurances 
as to whether we may experience management or other challenges in connection with our leadership transition that could 
adversely affect our future success, we believe that under the leadership of Mr. Mazelsky as President and Chief Executive 
Officer and Mr. Kingsley as Independent Non-Executive Chairman, we will continue to successfully execute our strategy and 
create long-term value for shareholders, customers, and employees.

In connection with the foregoing, Mr. Ayers and IDEXX entered into a mutual separation agreement pursuant to which 
severance payments will be made to Mr. Ayers, in accordance with the terms of his pre-existing employment agreement, and his 
outstanding stock options were modified. As a result of his severance payments and the modification of Mr. Ayers’s outstanding 
stock options, we recognized a charge to operating income of approximately $13.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2019, 
representing the cost of the severance and an acceleration of the cost of the equity awards, which was offset by a reduction to 
our provision for income taxes of approximately $1.2 million, resulting in a total charge to net income of approximately $12.2 

49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
million, net of tax impacts. This total charge to net income is less than our previously communicated expectation of 
approximately $15.5 million, as a result of finalizing our income tax provision.  

Comparisons to Prior Periods. Our fiscal years end on December 31. Unless otherwise stated, the analysis 

and discussion of our financial condition, results of operations and liquidity, including references to growth and organic growth 
and increases and decreases, are being compared to the equivalent prior year period. 

50

 
Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2019, Compared to Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2018

Total Company

The following table presents revenue by operating segment by U.S. markets and non-U.S., or international markets: 

For the Years Ended
December 31,

Net Revenue 
(dollars in thousands)

2019

2018

Dollar
Change

Reported 
Revenue 
Growth (1)

Percentage
Change
from
Currency

Percentage
Change
from
Acquisitions

Organic 
Revenue 
Growth (1)

CAG

United States
International

Water

United States
International

LPD

United States
International

$ 2,119,183
1,410,278
708,905

$ 1,935,428
1,277,146
658,282

$

183,755
133,132
50,623

132,850
62,673
70,177

132,635
14,230
118,405

125,198
58,774
66,424

130,581
13,932
116,649

7,652
3,899
3,753

2,054
298
1,756

9.5%
10.4%
7.7%

6.1%
6.6%
5.7%

1.6%
2.1%
1.5%

(1.5%)
—
(4.6%)

(2.6%)
—
(4.9%)

(4.2%)
—
(4.7%)

Other

22,240

22,035

205

0.9%

—

0.2%
0.3 %
—

—
—
—

—
—
—

—

Total Company
United States
International

$ 2,406,908
1,495,516
911,392

$ 2,213,242
1,357,909
855,333

$

193,666
137,607
56,059

8.8%
10.1%
6.6%

(1.8%)
—
(4.6%)

0.2%
0.3 %
—

(1)  Reported revenue growth and organic revenue growth may not recalculate due to rounding.

10.8%
10.1%
12.2%

8.7%
6.6%
10.6%

5.8%
2.1%
6.2%

0.9%

10.3%
9.8%
11.1%

Total Company Revenue. The increase in both U.S. and international organic revenues was driven by strong volume 

gains in CAG Diagnostics recurring revenue, supported by our differentiated diagnostic technologies and expanded commercial 
organization that are driving increased volumes from new and existing customers in our reference laboratory business. We also 
had high growth in consumable revenues, supported by the impact of the continued expansion of our CAG Diagnostics 
instrument installed base globally. Our Water business also contributed to our overall growth, primarily from higher sales 
volumes of our Colilert test products and related accessories. Our LPD business growth was primarily due to increased demand 
for African swine fever testing programs and diagnostic testing for alternative food sources, including poultry, which more than 
offset lower recurring swine testing in China, as well as increased herd health screening. The impact of currency movements 
decreased revenue by 1.8%.

51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents our total Company results of operations:

Total Company - Results of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

2019

Percent of
Revenue

2018

Percent of
Revenue

Amount

Percentage

For the Years Ended December 31,

Change

Revenues
Cost of revenue
Gross profit

Operating Expenses:

Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development

Total operating expenses
Income from operations

$ 2,406,908
1,041,359
1,365,549

  $ 2,213,242
971,700
56.7% 1,241,542

$

193,666
69,659
124,007

56.1%

418,193
261,317
133,193
812,703
552,846

$

17.4%
10.9%
5.5%
33.8%
23.0% $

387,406
244,938
117,863
750,207
491,335

17.5%
11.1%
5.3%
33.9%
22.2% $

30,787
16,379
15,330
62,496
61,511

8.8%
7.2%
10.0%

7.9%
6.7%
13.0%
8.3%
12.5%

Gross Profit. The total Company gross profit increase was due to higher sales volumes and a 60 basis point increase in 
the gross profit margin. The increase in the gross profit margin was driven by mix benefits from high growth in IDEXX VetLab 
consumable revenues, volume leverage, the favorable impact of lower product costs in our CAG business, as well as the net 
benefit of price increases in our CAG Diagnostics recurring revenue portfolio and Water business. The impact from foreign 
currency movements increased the gross profit margin by approximately 20 basis points, including the impact of hedge gains in 
the current year, as compared to hedge losses in the prior year. 

Operating Expenses. Sales and marketing expense increased approximately 10%, excluding the impact of foreign 

currency, primarily due to increased personnel-related costs as we continue to invest in and grow our global commercial 
infrastructure. General and administrative expense increased approximately 9%, excluding the impact of foreign currency, 
primarily from higher personnel-related costs, including costs associated with the separation agreement of our former CEO, 
partially offset by the benefits of cost control initiatives across our business segments. Research and development expense 
increased primarily due to higher personnel-related costs, with an immaterial impact from foreign currency. The overall change 
in currency exchange rates resulted in a decrease in operating expenses of approximately 2%, including lower foreign exchange 
losses on settlements of foreign currency denominated transactions recorded within Unallocated Amounts.

52

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Companion Animal Group 

The following table presents revenue by product and service category for CAG: ?

For the Years Ended
December 31,

Net Revenue
(dollars in thousands)

2019

2018

Dollar
Change

Reported 
Revenue 
Growth (1)

Percentage
Change
from
Currency

Percentage
Change
from
Acquisitions

Organic 
Revenue 
Growth (1)

CAG Diagnostics recurring
revenue:

IDEXX VetLab
consumables
Rapid assay products
Reference laboratory
diagnostic and
consulting services

CAG Diagnostics
services and
accessories

CAG Diagnostics capital -
instruments

Veterinary software,
services and diagnostic
imaging systems

Net CAG revenue

$ 1,828,329

$ 1,654,530

$

173,799

10.5%

(1.6%)

0.2%

11.9%

693,360
232,149

617,237
217,541

76,123
14,608

12.3%
6.7%

(2.0%)
(0.8%)

—
—

14.3%
7.6%

822,497

746,794

75,703

10.1%

(1.5%)

0.4%

11.2%

80,323

72,958

7,365

10.1%

(1.9%)

132,685

134,264

(1,579)

(1.2%)

(2.0%)

158,169
$ 2,119,183

146,634
$ 1,935,428

$

11,535
183,755

7.9%
9.5%

(0.3%)
(1.5%)

—

—

0.9%
0.2%

12.0%

0.9%

7.3%
10.8%

(1)  Reported revenue growth and organic revenue growth may not recalculate due to rounding.

CAG Diagnostics Recurring Revenue. The increase in CAG Diagnostics recurring revenue was primarily due to 

increased volumes in IDEXX VetLab consumables and reference laboratory diagnostic services, and to a lesser extent, higher 
realized prices. 

The increase in IDEXX VetLab consumables revenue was primarily due to higher sales volumes across all regions for 
our Catalyst consumables, and to a lesser extent, Procyte Dx consumables. These increases were supported by an expansion of 
our instruments installed base, growth in testing by new and existing customers, our expanded menu of available tests, and to a 
lesser extent, benefits from higher average unit sales prices. 

The increase in rapid assay revenue resulted from higher sales volumes across our SNAP product portfolio, driven by 

SNAP®

 4Dx Plus tests, and to a lesser extent, higher average unit sales prices. 

The increase in reference laboratory diagnostic and consulting services revenue was primarily due to the impact of 

higher testing volumes throughout our worldwide network of laboratories, most prominently in the U.S., resulting from 
increased testing from new and existing customers, supported by our differentiated diagnostic technologies, such as IDEXX 
SDMA™ and fecal antigen testing, and to a lesser extent, higher average unit sales prices. 

CAG Diagnostic services and accessories revenue growth was primarily a result of the increase in our active installed 

base of instruments. 

CAG Diagnostics Capital – Instruments Revenue. The decrease in CAG Diagnostics capital instrument revenue 

reflects the impact of foreign currency movements, which reduced revenues 2.0%.  Excluding the impact of foreign currency 
movements, our revenues increased slightly, primarily due to higher Catalyst and Procyte instrument placements, partially 
offset by product mix, including lower Sedivue Dx placements compared to high prior year levels, as well as the lower 
allocated revenue per unit on our IDEXX VetLab instruments related to increased international placements under our customer 
volume commitment programs.

Veterinary Software, Services, and Diagnostic Imaging Systems Revenue. The increase in revenue was primarily due 
to increased veterinary software and hardware upgrades, subscription-based services, as well as higher realized prices on these 

53

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
service offerings, and to a lesser extent, higher diagnostic imaging services as a result of the increase in our active installed 
base. These increases were partially offset by lower allocated revenue per unit on our diagnostic imaging systems related to 
increased placements under volume commitment programs. Our acquisition of a software company in the second half of 2018 
contributed 0.9% to reported revenue growth.

The following table presents the CAG segment results of operations:

Results of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

Revenues
Cost of revenue
Gross profit

Operating Expenses:

Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development

Total operating expenses
Income from operations

For the Years Ended December 31,

Change

2019

Percent of
Revenue

2018

Percent of
Revenue

Amount

Percentage

$ 2,119,183
938,423
1,180,760

$ 1,935,428
868,919
55.7% 1,066,509

$

183,755
69,504
114,251

55.1%

378,302
212,794
98,062
689,158
$ 491,602

17.9%
10.0%
4.6%
32.5%
23.2% $

345,737
204,425
86,864
637,026
429,483

17.9%
10.6%
4.5%
32.9%
22.2% $

32,565
8,369
11,198
52,132
62,119

9.5%
8.0%
10.7%

9.4%
4.1%
12.9%
8.2%
14.5%

Gross Profit. Gross profit increased primarily due to higher sales volumes, as well as a 60 basis point increase in the 

gross profit margin. The increase in gross profit margin was driven by mix benefits from high growth in IDEXX VetLab 
consumable revenues, volume leverage, lower product costs, as well as the benefit of price increases in our CAG Diagnostics 
recurring revenue portfolio, partially offset by incremental investments in reference laboratory capacity and software services 
field resources. The impact from foreign currency movements increased the gross profit margin by approximately 10 basis 
points, including the impact of hedge gains in the current year, compared to hedge losses in the prior year. 

Operating Expenses. Sales and marketing expenses increased approximately 11%, excluding the impact of foreign 

currency, primarily due to increased personnel-related costs as we continue to invest in our global commercial infrastructure. 
General and administrative costs increased 5%, excluding the impact of foreign currency, primarily from higher personnel-
related costs. The increase in research and development expense was primarily due to increased personnel-related costs, with an 
immaterial impact from foreign currency. The overall change in currency exchange rates resulted in a decrease in operating 
expenses of approximately 1%. 

54

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Water

The following table presents the Water segment results of operations:

Results of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

Revenues
Cost of revenue
Gross profit

Operating Expenses:

Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development

Total operating expenses
Income from operations

For the Years Ended December 31,

Change

2019

Percent of
Revenue

2018

Percent of
Revenue

Amount

Percentage

$ 132,850
36,915
95,935

$

125,198
37,106
88,092

72.2%

$

7,652
(191)
7,843

70.4%

15,980
13,388
4,132
33,500
62,435

$

12.0%
10.1%
3.1%
25.2%
47.0% $

15,900
13,005
2,580
31,485
56,607

12.7%
10.4%
2.1%
25.1%
45.2% $

80
383
1,552
2,015
5,828

6.1 %
(0.5%)
8.9 %

0.5 %
2.9 %
60.2 %
6.4 %
10.3 %

Revenue. The increase in revenue was attributable to the benefit of price increases and higher sales volumes of our 
Colilert test products and related accessories, used in coliform and E. coli testing, including strong volume growth across all 
regions including the U.S. The impact of currency movements decreased revenue by approximately 2.6%.

Gross Profit. Gross profit for Water increased due to higher sales volumes as well as a 180 basis point increase in the 

gross profit margin. Foreign currency movements increased the gross profit margin by approximately 70 basis points, including 
the impact of hedge gains in the current year, as compared to hedge losses in the prior year. The remaining increase in the gross 
profit margin was primarily due to the net benefit of price increases, partially offset by higher distribution costs.

Operating Expenses.  While both sales and marketing and research and development expenses had higher personnel-

related costs, the limited increase in sales and marketing expense and significant increase in research and development expense 
were primarily due to the realignment of certain personnel within operating expense categories. General and administrative 
expense increased primarily due to higher personnel-related costs. The overall change in currency exchange rates resulted in a 
decrease in operating expenses of approximately 2%.

55

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Livestock, Poultry and Dairy

The following table presents the LPD segment results of operations:

Results of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

Revenues
Cost of revenue
Gross profit

Operating Expenses:

Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development

Total operating expenses
Income from operations

For the Years Ended December 31,

Change

2019

Percent of
Revenue

2018

Percent of
Revenue

Amount

Percentage

$ 132,635
54,145
78,490

$

130,581
55,621
74,960

59.2%

$

2,054
(1,476)
3,530

57.4%

22,808
17,651
12,657
53,116
25,374

$

17.2%
13.3%
9.5%
40.0%
19.1% $

24,594
19,159
11,795
55,548
19,412

18.8%
14.7%
9.0%
42.5%
14.9% $

(1,786)
(1,508)
862
(2,432)
5,962

1.6%
(2.7%)
4.7%

(7.3%)
(7.9%)
7.3%
(4.4%)
30.7%

Revenue. Overall LPD revenue increased despite the unfavorable impact of foreign currency movements which 

decreased revenue 4.2%. The prolonged outbreak of African swine fever in Asia, which began in August 2018, continues to 
negatively impact the swine population in China; however demand for new diagnostic testing programs has increased and 
diagnostic testing for alternative food sources has also increased, including poultry, which more than offset the lower recurring 
swine testing volumes in China. Revenue growth for the year also benefited from increased herd health screening, partially 
offset by lower bovine testing, primarily in Europe.

Gross Profit. The increase in LPD gross profit was due to higher sales volume and a 180 basis point increase in the 

gross profit margin. The impact from foreign currency movements increased the gross profit margin by approximately 130 basis 
points, including the impact of hedges. The remaining increase in the gross profit margin was driven by favorable product mix 
from higher herd health screening.

Operating Expenses.  Sales and marketing expense decreased primarily due to lower personnel-related costs, including 
cost control initiatives. General and administrative expense decreased primarily due to lower third-party services. Research and 
development expense increased primarily due to increased personnel-related costs. The overall change in currency exchange 
rates resulted in a decrease in operating expense of approximately 2%.

56

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other

The following table presents the Other results of operations:

Results of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

Revenues
Cost of revenue
Gross profit

Operating Expenses:

Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development

Total operating expenses
Income from operations

?

For the Years Ended December 31,

Change

2019

Percent of
Revenue

2018

Percent of
Revenue

Amount

Percentage

$

$

22,240
12,154
10,086

1,366
1,991
1,789
5,146
4,940

$

22,035
11,785
10,250

45.4%

$

205
369
(164)

46.5%

0.9%
3.1%
(1.6%)

6.1%
9.0%
8.0%
23.1%
22.2% $

1,806
3,741
974
6,521
3,729

8.2%
17.0%
4.4%
29.6%
16.9% $

(440)
(1,750)
815
(1,375)
1,211

(24.4%)
(46.8%)
83.7%
(21.1%)
32.5%

Revenue. The increase in Other revenues was due to higher royalties associated with intellectual property related to 

our former pharmaceutical product line, partially offset by lower volumes of our OPTI Medical products and services. The 
impact of foreign currency movements on revenue was immaterial.

Gross Profit. Gross profit for Other decreased due to a 110 basis point decrease in the gross profit margin primarily 

due to higher OPTI Medical service costs, partially offset by lower product costs, as well as mix benefits from increased 
royalties. The overall change in currency exchange rates had an immaterial impact on the gross profit margin.

Operating Expenses. The decrease in sales and marketing was primarily due to lower personnel costs. The decrease in 
general and administrative cost was primarily due to the recovery of previously established bad debt reserves in Africa and the 
Middle East. The increase in research and development cost was primarily due to higher personnel-related and project costs.

57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unallocated Amounts

We estimate certain personnel-related costs and allocate these budgeted expenses to the operating segments. This 
allocation differs from actual expense and consequently yields a difference that is reported under the caption “Unallocated 
Amounts.”

The following table presents the Unallocated Amounts results of operations:

Results of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

Revenues
Cost of revenue
Gross profit

Operating Expenses:

Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development

Total operating expenses
Income from operations

For the Years Ended December 31,

Change

2019

Percent of
Revenue

2018

Percent of
Revenue

Amount

Percentage

$

$

—
(278)
278

(263)
15,493
16,553
31,783
(31,505)

  $

—
(1,731)
1,731

  $

—
1,453
(1,453)

N/A
(83.9%)
(83.9%)

(631)
4,608
15,650
19,627
(17,896)

$

368
10,885
903
12,156
(13,609)

$

(58.3%)
236.2%
5.8%
61.9%
76.0%

Unallocated Amounts. The change in unallocated amounts was primarily due to our CEO transition costs of $13.4 

million in the fourth quarter of 2019 and higher other unallocated employee incentive costs, partially offset by lower foreign 
exchange losses on settlements of foreign currency denominated transactions, lower unallocated employee benefit costs, and 
lower unallocated corporate function and research and development costs.

Non-Operating Items

Interest Income. Interest income was $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, as compared to $1.2 million 

for the same period in the prior year. The decrease in interest income was primarily due to the liquidation of our portfolio of 
marketable securities during the first quarter of 2018. 

Interest Expense. Interest expense was $31.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, as compared to $34.7 

million for the prior year. The decrease in interest expense was the result of lower average debt levels, offset by higher interest 
rates. We also realized lower interest expense from the benefit of our cross currency swaps, as well as increased capitalized 
interest related to the expansion of our Westbrook, Maine headquarters and relocation of our core reference laboratory in 
Germany.

Provisions for Income Taxes. Our effective income tax rate was 18.1% for the year ended December 31, 2019, and 

17.6% for the year ended December 31, 2018. Our effective income tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2019 was higher 
primarily due to lower tax benefits related to share-based compensation, partially offset by a nonrecurring item recorded in the 
first quarter of 2018, that resulted from the 2017 Tax Cut and Jobs Act. 

During the third quarter of 2019, the Swiss government enacted changes to Swiss federal tax laws and required all 

Swiss cantons to make conforming changes to their own laws.  As the cantons consider how to implement the required changes 
through early 2020, we will continue assessing the impact, if any, of the canton’s adoption of Swiss federal tax reform.  The 
impact of any such change will be recorded upon the date of canton's enactment.

Our effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2019, was reduced by approximately 3.5% from the tax 

benefits related to share-based payments. We anticipate the tax benefit related to share-based payments to reduce our 2020 
effective income tax rate by approximately 1.5%, based on recent settlement trends and stock price levels. These impacts may 
vary significantly based on the timing of actual settlement activity. 

58

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

We fund the capital needs of our business through cash on hand, funds generated from operations, and amounts 

available under our Credit Facility. We generate cash primarily through the payments made by customers for our diagnostic 
products and services, consulting services, and other various systems and services provided to the animal veterinary, livestock, 
poultry, dairy, and water testing markets. Our cash disbursements are primarily related to compensation and benefits for our 
employees, inventory and supplies, taxes, research and development, capital expenditures, rents, occupancy-related charges, 
interest expense, and acquisitions. At December 31, 2019, we had $90.3 million of cash and cash equivalents, as compared to 
$123.8 million on December 31, 2018. Working capital, including our Credit Facility, totaled negative $45.7 million at 
December 31, 2019, as compared to negative $116.3 million at December 31, 2018. Additionally, at December 31, 2019, we 
had remaining borrowing availability of $559.8 million under our $850 million Credit Facility. We believe that, if necessary, we 
could obtain additional borrowings at similar rates to our existing borrowings to fund our growth objectives. We further believe 
that current cash and cash equivalents, funds generated from operations, and committed borrowing availability will be sufficient 
to fund our operations, capital purchase requirements, and anticipated growth needs for the next twelve months. We believe that 
these resources, coupled with our ability, as needed, to obtain additional financing on favorable terms will also be sufficient to 
fund our business as currently conducted for the foreseeable future.

We manage our worldwide cash requirements considering available funds among all of our subsidiaries. Our foreign 

cash and cash equivalents are generally available without restrictions to fund ordinary business operations outside the U.S.  

The 2017 Tax Act was enacted on December 22, 2017, and includes significant changes to the U.S. corporate tax 

system. The 2017 Tax Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective as of January 1, 2018, and 
transitioned the U.S. federal tax system from a worldwide tax system to a territorial tax system. In converting to the new 
territorial tax system, a deemed repatriation tax on previously tax-deferred earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries was required 
to be recognized as of December 31, 2017, and will be payable over eight years. We are no longer asserting indefinite reversal 
under ASC 740-30-25 for undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries and have accrued for related tax liabilities as of 
December 31, 2019.

The following table presents cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities held domestically, and by our foreign 

subsidiaries:

Cash and cash equivalents
(dollars in millions)

U.S.
Foreign
Total

Total cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities held in U.S. dollars by our foreign
subsidiaries

For the Years Ended December 31,

2019

2018

$

$

$

1.1
89.2
90.3

6.5

$

$

$

2.0
121.8
123.8

11.1

Percentage of total cash and cash equivalents held in U.S. dollars by our foreign subsidiaries

7.2%

9.0%

Of the $90.3 million of cash and cash equivalents held as of December 31, 2019, greater than 99% was held as bank 

deposits. Of the $123.8 million of cash and cash equivalents held as of December 31, 2018, greater than 99% was held as bank 
deposits.

Should we require more capital than is generated by our operations, for example to fund significant discretionary 

activities, we could raise capital through debt or equity issuances. These alternatives could result in increased interest expense 
and dilution of our earnings. We have borrowed funds domestically and continue to have the ability to borrow funds 
domestically at reasonable interest rates. 

59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents additional key information concerning working capital:

December 31,
2019

For the Three Months Ended
June 30,
2019

September 30,
2019

March 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

Days sales outstanding (1)
Inventory turns (2)

42.6
2.3
(1)   Days sales outstanding represents the average of the accounts receivable balances at the beginning and end of each quarter divided by revenue for that 

42.0
2.0

41.8
2.0

40.5
2.2

41.7
2.1

quarter, the result of which is then multiplied by 91.25 days.

(2)   Inventory turns represent inventory-related cost of product revenue for the 12 months preceding each quarter-end divided by the average inventory 

balances at the beginning and end of each quarter.

Sources and Uses of Cash

The following table presents cash provided (used): 

(in thousands)

Net cash provided by operating activities
Net cash (used) provided by investing activities
Net cash used by financing activities
Net effect of changes in exchange rates on cash
Net change in cash and cash equivalents

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

Dollar Change

$

$

$

459,158
(205,528)
(286,409)
(689)
(33,468) $

$

400,084
138,602
(597,799)
(4,768)
(63,881) $

59,074
(344,130)
311,390
4,079
30,413

Operating Activities. The increase in cash provided by operating activities of $59.1 million during 2019 as compared 

to 2018, was primarily due to the increase in net income, net of noncash items, offset by changes in operating assets and 
liabilities.

The following table presents cash flows from changes in operating assets and liabilities: 

(in thousands)

Accounts receivable
Inventories
Accounts payable
Deferred revenue
Other assets and liabilities

Total change in cash due to changes in operating assets and liabilities

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

Dollar Change

$

$

(22,472) $
(37,306)
1,957
(12,360)
(34,788)
(104,969) $

(18,401) $
(25,623)
(166)
(7,719)
(39,731)
(91,640) $

(4,071)
(11,683)
2,123
(4,641)
4,943
(13,329)

Cash used due to changes in operating assets and liabilities during 2019, as compared to the same period in the prior 

year, increased approximately $13.3 million. The increase was primarily due to higher inventory levels to support greater 
demand.  Additionally, other assets increased due to higher instrument placements under our customer commitment programs, 
which are offset by lower deferred revenue from placements under our instrument rebate programs, as well as increases in 
accrued liabilities and accounts payable due to growth and timing.  

We have historically experienced proportionally lower net cash flows from operating activities during the first quarter 

and proportionally higher cash flows from operating activities for the remainder of the year and for the annual period driven 
primarily by payments related to annual employee incentive programs in the first quarter following the year for which the 
bonuses were earned and the seasonality of vector-borne disease testing, which has historically resulted in significant increases 
in accounts receivable balances during the first quarter of the year.

Investing Activities. Cash used by investing activities was $205.5 million during 2019 as compared to $138.6 million 
provided during 2018. The increase in cash used by investing activities during 2019 as compared to 2018 was primarily due to 
sale of marketable securities in 2018, as a result of our repatriation of cash and investments held by our foreign subsidiaries, as 
well as increased capital spending in the current year, as we expand our Westbrook, Maine headquarters and relocate our core 

60

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
reference laboratory in Germany. During 2018, in connection with the passage of the 2017 Tax Act in the fourth quarter of 
2017, we liquidated our marketable securities and used the cash to partially pay down our Credit Facility. 

Our total capital expenditure plan for 2020 is estimated to be approximately $140 million to $155 million, which 
includes the completion of the expansion of our headquarters, the relocation and expansion of our German core reference 
laboratory, other capital investments in manufacturing and reference laboratory buildings and equipment, investments in 
internal use software and information technology infrastructure, and the renovation and expansion of our facilities and reference 
laboratories.

Financing Activities. Cash used by financing activities was $286.4 million during 2019 as compared to $597.8 million 

used during 2018. The decrease in cash used by financing activities during 2019 as compared to 2018 was due to a larger 
repayment on our revolving Credit Facility in 2018 from repatriated foreign cash, an issuance of $100 million senior notes 
during the first quarter of 2019, and a decrease in repurchases of our common stock.

Cash used to repurchase shares of our common stock decreased by $67.7 million during 2019, as compared to 2018. 
From the inception of our share repurchase program in August 1999 to December 31, 2019, we have repurchased 66.0 million 
shares for $4.1 billion. During 2019, we purchased 1.22 million shares for an aggregate cost of $303.8 million, as compared to 
purchases of 1.77 million shares for an aggregate cost of $368.7 million during 2018. We believe that the repurchase of our 
common stock is a favorable means of returning value to our stockholders and we also repurchase our stock to offset the 
dilutive effect of our share-based compensation programs. Repurchases of our common stock may vary depending upon the 
level of other investing activities and the share price. See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 
19. Repurchases of Common Stock" to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for 
additional information about our share repurchases.

The $850 million unsecured revolving Credit Facility matures on December 4, 2020 and requires no scheduled 
prepayments before that date. All amounts borrowed under the terms of the Credit Facility are reflected in the current liabilities 
section in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Applicable interest rates on borrowings under the Credit Facility 
generally range from 0.875 to 1.375 percentage points above the LIBOR or CDOR, based on our leverage ratio, or the 
prevailing prime rate plus a maximum spread of up to 0.375%, based on our leverage ratio. For more information regarding risk 
associated with interest rates based on LIBOR, see "Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors, Restrictions in our debt agreements or our 
inability to obtain financing on favorable terms may increase our cost of borrowing and limit our activities."

Under the Credit Facility, the net repayment and borrowing activity resulted in less cash used of $145.8 million during 

2019, as compared to 2018. At December 31, 2019, we had $288.8 million outstanding under the Credit Facility. At 
December 31, 2018, we had $398.9 million outstanding under the Credit Facility. The general availability of funds under the 
Credit Facility was further reduced by $1.4 million and $1.3 million for letters of credit that was issued in connection with 
claims under our workers' compensation policy at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The Credit Facility contains 
affirmative, negative, and financial covenants customary for financings of this type. The negative covenants include restrictions 
on liens, indebtedness of subsidiaries of the Company, fundamental changes, investments, transactions with affiliates, and 
certain restrictive agreements and violations of laws and regulations. The financial covenant is a consolidated leverage ratio test 
that requires our ratio of debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and share-based compensation not to 
exceed 3.5-to-1. At December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with the covenants of the Credit Facility. The obligations under 
the Credit Facility may be accelerated upon the occurrence of an event of default under the Credit Facility, which includes 
customary events of default including payment defaults, defaults in the performance of the affirmative, negative and financial 
covenants, the inaccuracy of representations or warranties, bankruptcy and insolvency related defaults, defaults relating to 
judgments, certain events related to employee pension benefit plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 
1974, ("ERISA"), the failure to pay specified indebtedness, cross-acceleration to specified indebtedness and a change of control 
default.

On March 14, 2019, we amended the Multicurrency Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, dated as of 
December 19, 2014, among the Company, Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, and the accredited institutional purchasers 
named therein, and pursuant to such amended agreement, we issued and sold through a private placement an aggregate 
principal amount of  $100 million of unsecured senior notes at a 4.19% per annum rate, due March 14, 2029 (the "2029 Series 
C Notes"). The 2029 Series C Notes proceeds were used for general corporate purposes.

Since December 2013, we have issued and sold through private placements unsecured senior notes having an 
aggregate principal amount of approximately $700 million, including the $100 million 2029 Series C Notes, pursuant to certain 
note purchase agreements (collectively, the “Senior Note Agreements”). The Senior Note Agreements contain affirmative, 

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
negative, and financial covenants customary for agreements of this type. The negative covenants include restrictions on liens, 
indebtedness of our subsidiaries, priority indebtedness, fundamental changes, investments, transactions with affiliates, certain 
restrictive agreements and violations of laws and regulations. See "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary 
Data, Note 12. Debt" to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional 
information regarding our senior notes.

Should we elect to prepay the senior notes, such aggregate prepayment will include the applicable make-whole 

amount(s), as defined within the applicable Senior Note Agreements. Additionally, in the event of a change in control of the 
Company, or upon the disposition of certain assets of the Company the proceeds of which are not reinvested (as defined in the 
Senior Note Agreements), we may be required to prepay all or a portion of the senior notes. The obligations under the senior 
notes may be accelerated upon the occurrence of an event of default under the applicable Senior Note Agreement, each of 
which includes customary events of default including payment defaults, defaults in the performance of the affirmative, negative 
and financial covenants, the inaccuracy of representations or warranties, bankruptcy and insolvency related defaults, defaults 
relating to judgments, certain events related to employee pension benefit plans under ERISA, the failure to pay specified 
indebtedness and cross-acceleration to specified indebtedness.

Effect of currency translation on cash. The net effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates are related to 

changes in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the functional currencies of our foreign subsidiaries. These changes will 
fluctuate each year as the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the value of the foreign currencies change. A currency’s value 
depends on many factors, including interest rates, the country’s debt levels and strength of economy.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements. We have no off-balance sheet arrangements or variable interest entities except for 

letters of credit and third-party guarantees, as reflected in "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 
12 Debt" and "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. Note 15. Commitments, Contingencies and 
Guarantees" to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, included in this Annual Report on 
Form 10-K, respectively.

62

 
 
 
Financial Covenant. The financial covenant is a consolidated leverage ratio test that requires our ratio of debt to 

earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and share-based compensation, as defined in the Senior Note 
Agreements and Credit Facility, not to exceed 3.5-to-1. At December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with the covenants of 
the Senior Note Agreements. The following details our consolidated leverage ratio calculation:

(in thousands)

Trailing 12 Months Adjusted EBITDA:

Net income attributable to stockholders
Interest expense
Provision for income taxes
Depreciation and amortization
Share-based compensation expense
Extraordinary and other non-recurring non-cash charges
Adjusted EBITDA

(in thousands)

Debt to Adjusted EBITDA Ratio:

Line of credit
Long-term debt
Total debt
Acquisition-related consideration payable
Financing leases
Deferred financing costs
Gross debt
Gross debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio

Cash and cash equivalents
Net debt
Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio

Twelve months ended
December 31, 2019

$

$

427,720
31,055
94,426
88,011
39,278
968
681,458

Twelve months ended
December 31, 2019

$

$

$
$

288,765
698,910
987,675
3,000
103
512
991,290
1.45

(90,326)
900,964
1.32

Other Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees

Under our current employee healthcare insurance policy for U.S. employees, we retain claims liability risk per incident 

up to $1 million per year in 2019, 2018, and 2017. We recognized U.S. employee healthcare claim expense of $59.3 million, 
$52.7 million, and $47.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, which represents actual 
claims paid and an estimate of our liability for the uninsured portion of employee healthcare obligations that have been incurred 
but not paid. Should employee health insurance claims exceed our estimated liability, we would have further obligations. Our 
estimated liability for healthcare claims that have been incurred but not paid as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, was 
approximately $5.0 million.

Workers’ compensation and automobile claim expenses recognized during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 
and 2017 and our respective liability for such claims as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 were not material. For the years 
ended on or prior to December 31, 2017, based on our retained claim liability per incident and our aggregate claim liability per 
year, our maximum liability in excess of the amounts deemed probable and previously recognized is not material as of 
December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2019, we had outstanding letters of credit totaling $1.4 million to the insurance 
companies as security for the claims in connection with these policies.

63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We are contractually obligated to make the following payments in the years below:

(in thousands)

Long-term debt obligations (1)
Credit facility (2)
Operating leases
Purchase obligations (3)
Minimum royalty payments
Total contractual cash obligations

Total

Less than 1
year

1-3 years

3-5 years

More than
5 years

$

837,602
288,765
99,025
298,370
1,320
$ 1,525,082

$

$

24,447
288,765
18,016
224,394
421
556,043

$

$

169,512
—
31,392
48,135
317
249,356

$

$

186,569
—
16,015
22,412
157
225,153

$

$

457,074
—
33,602
3,429
425
494,530

(1)  Long-term debt amounts include interest payments associated with long-term debt.
(2)  Credit facility amounts do not include interest payments.
(3)  Purchase obligations include agreements and purchase orders to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding and that specify all 

significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities, pricing, and approximate timing of purchase transactions. 

These commitments do not reflect unrecognized tax benefits of $26.8 million and $1.7 million of deferred 
compensation liabilities as of December 31, 2019, as the timing of recognition is uncertain. See "Part II, Item 8. Financial 
Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 13. Income Taxes" to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for additional discussion of unrecognized tax benefits. As of December 31, 2019, our remaining 
obligation associated with the deemed repatriation tax resulting from the Tax Act is $27.0 million, which is expected to be paid 
in installments through 2025.

Not reflected in the contractual obligation table above are agreements with third parties that we have entered into in 
the ordinary course of business under which we are obligated to indemnify such third parties for and against various risks and 
losses. The precise terms of such indemnities vary with the nature of the agreement. In many cases, we limit the maximum 
amount of our indemnification obligations, but in some cases those obligations may be theoretically unlimited. We have not 
incurred material expenses in discharging any of these indemnification obligations, and based on our analysis of the nature of 
the risks involved, we believe that the fair value of these agreements is minimal. Accordingly, we did not record any liabilities 
for these obligations at December 31, 2019 and 2018, and do not anticipate any future payments for these guarantees.

64

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 7A. 

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Our market risk consists primarily of foreign currency exchange risk and interest rate risk. Our functional currency is 
the U.S. dollar and our primary manufacturing operations and inventory supply contracts are in the U.S. or in U.S. dollars, but 
we distribute our products worldwide both through direct export and through our foreign subsidiaries. Our primary foreign 
currency transaction risk consists of intercompany purchases and sales of products and we attempt to mitigate this risk through 
our hedging program described below. For the year ended December 31, 2019, approximately 22% of our consolidated revenue 
was derived from products manufactured or sourced in U.S. dollars and sold internationally in local currencies, as compared to 
22% for the year ended December 31, 2018, and 21% for the year ended December 31, 2017. The functional currency of most 
of our subsidiaries is their local currency. For four of our foreign subsidiaries the functional currency is the U.S. dollar. 

Our foreign currency exchange impacts are comprised of three components: 1) local currency revenues and expenses; 

2) the impact of hedge contracts; and 3) intercompany and monetary balances for our subsidiaries that are denominated in a 
currency that is different from the functional currency used by each subsidiary. Based on projected revenues and expenses for 
2020, excluding the impact of intercompany and trade balances denominated in currencies other than the functional subsidiary 
currencies, a 1% strengthening of the U.S. dollar would reduce revenue by approximately $9 million and operating income by 
approximately $5 million. Additionally, we project our foreign currency hedge contracts in place as of December 31, 2019, 
would provide incremental offsetting gains of approximately $2 million. The impact of the intercompany and monetary 
balances referred to in the third component above have been excluded, as they are transacted at multiple times during the year 
and we are not able to reliably forecast the impact that changes in exchange rates would have.

At our current foreign exchange rate assumptions, we anticipate the effect of a stronger U.S. dollar will have an 

unfavorable effect on our operating results by decreasing our revenues, operating profit, and diluted earnings per share in the 
year ending December 31, 2020, by approximately $11 million, $10 million, and $0.09 per share, respectively. This unfavorable 
impact includes foreign currency hedging activity, which is expected to decrease total company operating profit by 
approximately $6 million and diluted earnings per share by $0.05 in the year ending December 31, 2020. The actual impact of 
changes in the value of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies in which we transact may materially differ from our 
expectations described above. The above estimate assumes that the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies will 
reflect the euro at $1.10, the British pound at $1.29, the Canadian dollar at $0.76, and the Australian dollar at $0.68; and the 
Japanese yen at ¥110, the Chinese renminbi at RMB 7.10, and the Brazilian real at R$4.14 to the U.S. dollar for the full year of 
2020.

The following table presents the foreign currency exchange impacts on our revenues, operating profit, and diluted 

earnings per share, as compared to the respective prior periods:

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

Revenue impact

Operating profit impact, excluding hedge activity

Hedge losses (gains) - prior year
Hedge gains (losses) - current year

Hedging activity impact

Operating profit impact, including hedge activity
Diluted earnings per share impact, including hedge activity

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

$

$

$
$

(38,624) $

13,623

(16,947) $

2,260

$

$

976
10,628
11,604

(27)
(976)
(1,003)

(5,343) $
(0.05) $

1,257
0.01

$
$

6,615

2,542

(3,620)
27
(3,593)

(1,051)
(0.01)

The primary purpose of our foreign currency hedging activities is to protect against the volatility associated with 
foreign currency transactions. We also utilize natural hedges to mitigate our transaction and commitment exposures. Our 
corporate policy prescribes the range of allowable hedging activity. We enter into foreign currency exchange contracts with 
large multinational financial institutions and we do not hold or engage in transactions involving derivative instruments for 
purposes other than risk management. Our accounting policies for these contracts are based on our designation of such 
instruments as hedging transactions. If a hedging instrument qualifies for hedge accounting, changes in the fair value of the 
derivative instrument from the effective portion of the hedge are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of 
tax, and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. We 

65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
immediately record in earnings the extent to which a hedge instrument is not effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair 
value. We primarily utilize foreign currency exchange contracts with durations of less than 24 months.

Our subsidiaries enter into foreign currency exchange contracts to manage the exchange risk associated with their 

forecasted intercompany inventory purchases and sales for the next year. From time to time, we may also enter into other 
foreign currency exchange contracts or foreign-denominated debt issuances to minimize the impact of foreign currency 
fluctuations associated with specific balance sheet exposures, including net investments in certain foreign subsidiaries. See 
"Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 18. Hedging Instruments" to the consolidated financial 
statements of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for details regarding euro-denominated notes that we designated as a hedge of 
our euro net investment in certain foreign subsidiaries.

Our foreign currency hedging strategy is consistent with prior periods and there were no material changes in our 

market risk exposure during the year ended December 31, 2019. We enter into foreign currency exchange contracts designated 
as cash flow hedges for amounts that are less than the full value of forecasted intercompany purchases and sales and for 
amounts that are equivalent to, or less than, other significant transactions. As a result, no significant ineffectiveness has resulted 
or been recorded through the statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. Our hedging 
strategy related to intercompany inventory purchases and sales is to employ the full amount of our hedges for the succeeding 
year at the conclusion of our budgeting process for that year. Quarterly, we enter into contracts to hedge incremental portions of 
anticipated foreign currency transactions for the current and following year. Accordingly, our risk with respect to foreign 
currency exchange rate fluctuations may vary throughout each annual cycle.

We enter into hedge agreements where we believe we have meaningful exposure to foreign currency exchange risk, 

with the exception of certain emerging markets where it is not practical to hedge our exposure. We hedge approximately 85% of 
the estimated exposure from intercompany product purchases and sales denominated in the euro, British pound, Canadian 
dollar, Japanese yen, Australian dollar, and in 2017 and prior, the Swiss Franc. We have additional unhedged foreign currency 
exposures related to foreign services and emerging markets where it is not practical to hedge. The notional amount of foreign 
currency exchange contracts to hedge forecasted intercompany purchases and sales totaled $210.9 million at December 31, 
2019, and $190.9 million at December 31, 2018. At December 31, 2019, we had $2.7 million of net unrealized gains on foreign 
currency exchange contracts recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of related tax.

We have a Credit Facility with a syndicate of multinational banks, which matures on December 4, 2020, and requires 

no scheduled prepayments before that date. Although the Credit Facility does not mature until December 4, 2020, all individual 
borrowings under the terms of the Credit Facility have a stated term between 30 and 180 days. Borrowings outstanding under 
the Credit Facility at December 31, 2019, were $288.8 million at a weighted-average effective interest rate of 2.78%. Based on 
amounts outstanding under our Credit Facility as of December 31, 2019, an increase in the LIBOR or the CDOR of 1% would 
increase interest expense by approximately $2.9 million on an annualized basis.

For additional information, see "Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors; Risks associated with doing business internationally 

could negatively affect our operating results and Strengthening of the rate of exchange for the U.S. dollar has a negative effect 
on our business," and "Part II, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 2. Summary of Significant 
Accounting Policies."

ITEM 8. 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The response to this item is submitted as a separate section of this report commencing on page F-1.

ITEM 9. 
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND 

Not applicable.

66

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9A. 

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures, as defined by the 
SEC in its Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act. The term “disclosure controls and procedures,” as defined in 
Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, means controls and other procedures of an issuer that are designed to 
ensure that information required to be disclosed by the issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is 
recorded, processed, summarized, and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms. Disclosure 
controls and procedures include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a 
company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the company’s 
management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions 
regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and 
operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment 
in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Based on the evaluation of our disclosure 
controls and procedures at December 31, 2019, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that, as of 
such date, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.

Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We are responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in 

Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to 
provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for 
external purposes in accordance with U.S. GAAP and includes those policies and procedures that:

• 

• 

• 

Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and 
dispositions of the assets of the Company;

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

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 its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. 

In addition, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to risk that controls may become 
inadequate because of changes in conditions and that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures may 
deteriorate.

We conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in 

Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission. Based on this evaluation, we concluded that, at December 31, 2019, our internal control over financial reporting 
was effective.

The effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting at December 31, 2019, has been audited 

by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears 
herein.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) 

under the Exchange Act) during the three months ended December 31, 2019, that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to 
materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. 

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
Certifications

The certifications with respect to disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting of the 

Company’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer are attached as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2 to this Annual Report on 
Form 10-K.

ITEM 9B. 

OTHER INFORMATION

Not applicable.

68

 
 
ITEM 10. 

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

PART III

The information required by this Item with respect to Directors, executive officers, compliance with Section 16(a)  of 

the Exchange Act, our code of ethics and corporate governance is omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K and, pursuant 
to Regulation 14A of the Exchange Act, is incorporated herein by reference from the sections entitled “Corporate Governance - 
Proposal One - Election of Directors,” “Executive Officers,” “Stock Ownership Information - Delinquent Section 16(a) 
Reports,” “Corporate Governance – Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code of Ethics” and “Corporate Governance –Board 
Committees” in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement with respect to its 2020 Annual Meeting, which Proxy Statement 
will be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 11. 

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this Item is omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K and, pursuant to Regulation 

14A of the Exchange Act, is incorporated herein by reference from the sections entitled “Executive Compensation – 
Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Executive Compensation – Executive Compensation Tables,” “Executive 
Compensation – Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control,” “Corporate Governance –Board Committees – 
Compensation Committee – Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” and “Compensation Committee 
Report” in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement with respect to its 2020 Annual Meeting, which Proxy Statement will be 
filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 12. 
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND 

The information required by this Item with respect to Item 201(d) of Regulation S-K is omitted from this Annual 
Report on Form 10-K and, pursuant to Regulation 14A of the Exchange Act, is incorporated herein by reference from the 
section entitled “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement with respect to its 2020 
Annual Meeting, which Proxy Statement will be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  The information required by this Item with respect to Item 403 of Regulation S-K is omitted 
from this Annual Report on Form 10-K and, pursuant to Regulation 14A of the Exchange Act, is incorporated herein by 
reference from the sections entitled “Stock Ownership Information” in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement with respect 
to its 2020 Annual Meeting, which Proxy Statement will be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year 
covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 13. 
INDEPENDENCE

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR 

The information required by this Item is omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K and, pursuant to Regulation 

14A of the Exchange Act, is incorporated herein by reference from the sections entitled “Corporate Governance – Related 
Person Transactions” and “Corporate Governance – Director Independence” in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement with 
respect to its 2020 Annual Meeting, which Proxy Statement will be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the 
fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 14. 

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by this Item is omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K and, pursuant to Regulation 

14A of the Exchange Act, is incorporated herein by reference from the section entitled “Audit Committee Matters - Independent 
Auditors’ Fees” in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement with respect to its 2020 Annual Meeting, which Proxy Statement 
will be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this report.

69

 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 15. 

EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

PART IV

The following documents are filed as part of this Form 10-K:

(a) (1) and (a) (2)

The financial statements set forth in the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and the
Consolidated Financial Statement Schedule are filed as a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
commencing on page F-1.

(a)(3) and (b)

The exhibits listed in the accompanying Exhibit Index are filed as part of this Annual Report on
Form 10-K and either filed herewith or incorporated by reference herein, as applicable.

ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY

None.

70

 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AND
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2019 and 2018

Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit) for the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 
2017

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Schedule II

    Valuation and Qualifying Accounts for the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

Page No.

F-2

F-5

F-6

F-7

F-8

F-9

F-10

F-47

F-1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the 
“Company”) as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, 
stockholders’ equity (deficit) and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, including the 
related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index (collectively referred to as the “consolidated 
financial statements”). We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, 
based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).  

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial 
position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the 
three years in the period ended December 31, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United 
States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over 
financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) 
issued by the COSO.

Changes in Accounting Principles

As discussed in Notes 2 and 3 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts 
for leases in 2019 and the manner in which it accounts for revenues from contracts with customers in 2018.

Basis for Opinions

The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal 
control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included 
in the Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to 
express opinions on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial 
reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight 
Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. 
federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the 
audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, 
whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material 
respects.  

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement 
of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. 
Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated 
financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by 
management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal 
control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the 
risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based 
on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the 
circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process 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. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures 
that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and 
dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit 

F-2

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 (iii) 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 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.

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial 
statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relates to accounts or 
disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or 
complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated 
financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate 
opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates. 

Revenue Recognition Relating to Customer Commitment Programs

As described in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company recognized revenue associated with instruments 
totaling $132.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, the majority of which were sales under customer commitment 
programs. The Company enters into contracts with multiple performance obligations where customers purchase a combination 
of the Company’s products and services. The Company also offers customer incentives through its various customer 
commitment programs. These customer commitment programs provide customers with a free or discounted instrument or 
system, or incentives in the form of cash payments or IDEXX Points, upon entering into multi-year agreements to purchase 
annual minimum amounts of future products or services.  Management determines the transaction price for a contract based on 
the total consideration expected to be received in exchange for the transferred goods or services. To the extent the transaction 
price includes variable consideration, such as volume rebates or expected price adjustments, management applies judgment in 
estimating variable consideration based on the Company’s historical and projected experience with similar customer contracts. 
Management allocates total consideration, including future committed purchases and expected price adjustments, based on 
relative standalone selling prices to identified performance obligations and recognizes instruments revenue and cost at the time 
of installation and customer acceptance, which is also when the customer obtains control of the instrument based on legal title 
transfer. Management monitors customer purchases over the term of the agreement and reviews estimates of variable 
consideration.

The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures over revenue recognition relating to the customer 
commitment program is a critical audit matter are there was significant judgment by management in 1) estimating the amount 
of variable consideration included in the transaction price and 2) allocating the transaction price to the performance obligations 
based on standalone selling price and future committed purchases.  This in turn led to significant auditor judgment, subjectivity 
and effort in performing procedures to evaluate the amount of variable consideration included in the transaction price and 
allocation of transaction price to the performance obligations, as well as in evaluating audit evidence relating to future 
committed purchases. 

F-3

Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall 
opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to the 
revenue recognition process and customer commitment programs, including controls over the estimation of the amount of 
variable consideration included in the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to the performance obligations. The 
procedures also included, among others, (i) examining contracts on a test basis and (ii) testing management’s process for 
estimating the amount of variable consideration included in the transaction price and allocation of the transaction price to the 
performance obligations, including determination of the standalone selling price and future committed purchases.  To test 
standalone selling price, we tested on a sample basis the list price, discounts, and other price adjustments of historical sales data 
for products and services which are all sold separately.  We assessed management’s estimate of forecasted product purchases by 
comparing to historical actual sales data. 

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Boston, Massachusetts
February 14, 2020

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2002. 

F-4

IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except per share amounts)

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$

$

$

ASSETS

Current Assets:

Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net of reserves of $3,581 in 2019 and $4,702 in 2018
Inventories
Other current assets
Total current assets

Long-Term Assets:

Property and equipment, net
Operating lease right-of-use assets (Notes 2 and 7)
Goodwill
Intangible assets, net
Other long-term assets
Total long-term assets
TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)

Current Liabilities:

Accounts payable
Accrued liabilities
Line of credit
Current portion of deferred revenue

Total current liabilities

Long-Term Liabilities:

Deferred income tax liabilities
Long-term debt
Long-term deferred revenue, net of current portion
Long-term operating lease liabilities (Notes 2 and 7)
Other long-term liabilities
Total long-term liabilities

Total liabilities

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 15)

Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit):

Common stock, $0.10 par value: Authorized: 120,000 shares; Issued: 105,711 shares
in 2019 and 105,087 shares in 2018; Outstanding: 85,471 shares in 2019 and 86,100
shares in 2018
Additional paid-in capital
Deferred stock units: Outstanding: 143 units in 2019 and 162 units in 2018
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Treasury stock, at cost: 20,240 shares in 2019 and 18,988 shares in 2018

Total IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. stockholders’ equity (deficit)

Noncontrolling interest

Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)

$

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

?

F-5

$

$

$

90,326
269,312
195,019
124,982
679,639

533,845
80,607
239,724
58,468
240,192
1,152,836
1,832,475

72,172
322,938
288,765
41,462
725,337

33,024
698,910
48,743
67,472
81,164
929,313
1,654,650

10,571
1,213,517
4,462
1,595,648
(46,182)
(2,600,543)
177,473
352
177,825
1,832,475

$

123,794
248,855
173,303
108,220
654,172

437,270
—
214,489
41,825
189,593
883,177
1,537,349

69,534
260,683
398,937
41,290
770,444

29,267
601,348
60,697
—
84,826
776,138
1,546,582

10,509
1,138,216
4,524
1,167,928
(41,791)
(2,288,899)
(9,513)
280
(9,233)
1,537,349

 
 
 
 
IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(in thousands, except per share amounts)

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Revenue:

Product revenue
Service revenue
Total revenue

Cost of Revenue:

Cost of product revenue
Cost of service revenue
Total cost of revenue

Gross profit

Expenses:

Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development
Income from operations

Interest expense
Interest income

Income before provision for income taxes

Provision for income taxes
Net income

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest

Net income attributable to IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. stockholders

Earnings per Share:

Basic
Diluted

Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:

Basic
Diluted

$

$

1,423,144
983,764
2,406,908

$

1,322,683
890,559
2,213,242

506,202
535,157
1,041,359
1,365,549

494,889
476,811
971,700
1,241,542

418,193
261,317
133,193
552,846
(31,055)
427
522,218
94,426
427,792
72
427,720

4.97
4.89

86,115
87,542

$

$
$

387,406
244,938
117,863
491,335
(34,744)
1,151
457,742
80,695
377,047
16
377,031

4.34
4.26

86,864
88,470

$

$
$

$

$
$

1,176,115
792,943
1,969,058

446,449
425,227
871,676
1,097,382

354,294
220,878
109,182
413,028
(37,225)
5,254
381,057
117,788
263,269
125
263,144

3.00
2.94

87,769
89,567

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

F-6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 
(in thousands)  

Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Unrealized gain (loss) on Euro-denominated notes, net of tax
expense (benefit) of $564 in 2019, $1,148 in 2018 and ($4,555) in
2017

Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of tax expense (benefit)
of $84 in 2019, ($40) in 2018 and $0 in 2017
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments:

Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency exchange contracts,
net of tax expense (benefit) of $362 in 2019, $2,529 in 2018 and
($5,304) in 2017

Unrealized gain on cross currency swaps, net of tax expense of
$664 in 2019, $323 in 2018 and $0 in 2017

Less: reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in
net income, net of tax (expense) benefit of ($2,467) in 2019,
$187 in 2018 and $224 in 2017

Unrealized (loss) gain on derivative instruments
Other comprehensive (loss) gain, net of tax

Comprehensive income

Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest

Comprehensive income attributable to IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

$

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

$

427,792

$

377,047

$

263,269

(1,590)

(21,911)

25,107

1,790

267

1,196

2,107

(8,161)
(4,858)
(4,391)
423,401
72
423,329

$

3,917

(135)

10,659

1,360

789
12,808
(5,321)
371,726
16
371,710

$

(8,347)

(42)

(10,332)

—

197
(10,135)
6,583
269,852
125
269,727

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

F-7

 
 
 
 
 
 
IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

?

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)
(in thousands, except per share amounts)

Common Stock

Number
of
Shares

$0.10
Par
Value

Additional
Paid-in
Capital

Deferred
Stock
Units

Retained
Earnings

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss

Treasury
Stock

Noncontrolling
Interest

Balance January 1, 2017

103,341

$ 10,334

$ 1,011,895

$

5,514

$ 540,401

$

(43,053) $ (1,633,443) $

Net income

Other comprehensive income,
net

Repurchases of common stock,
net

Common stock issued under
stock plans, net

Deferred stock units activity

Share-based compensation
cost

—

—

—

934

—

—

—

—

—

94

—

—

—

—

—

39,005

(350)

23,381

—

—

—

—

338

136

263,144

—

—

—

—

—

—

6,583

—

—

—

—

—

—

(278,085)

—

—

—

139

125

—

—

—

—

—

Total
Stockholders’
Equity
(Deficit)

$

(108,213)

263,269

6,583

(278,085)

39,099

(12)

23,517

Balance December 31, 2017

104,275

$ 10,428

$ 1,073,931

$

5,988

$ 803,545

$

(36,470) $ (1,911,528) $

264

$

(53,842)

Cumulative effect of
accounting changes from
adoptions of ASU 2014-09 and
ASU 2016-16

Net income

Other comprehensive loss, net

Repurchases of common stock,
net

Common stock issued under
stock plans, net

Deferred stock units activity

Share-based compensation
cost

—

—

—

—

812

—

—

—

—

—

—

81

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

39,756

(2,092)

(385)

24,914

385

243

(12,648)

377,031

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(5,321)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(377,371)

—

—

—

—

16

—

—

—

—

—

Balance December 31, 2018

105,087

$ 10,509

$ 1,138,216

$

4,524

$ 1,167,928

$

(41,791) $ (2,288,899) $

280

$

Net income

Other comprehensive loss, net

Repurchases of common stock,
net

Common stock issued under
stock plans, net

Deferred stock units activity

Share-based compensation
cost

—

—

—

624

—

—

—

—

—

62

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

36,551

(324)

(590)

324

39,074

204

427,720

—

—

—

—

—

—

(4,391)

—

—

—

—

—

—

(311,644)

—

—

—

72

—

—

—

—

—

(12,648)

377,047

(5,321)

(377,371)

37,745

—

25,157

(9,233)

427,792

(4,391)

(311,644)

36,023

—

39,278

Balance December 31, 2019

105,711

$ 10,571

$ 1,213,517

$

4,462

$ 1,595,648

$

(46,182) $ (2,600,543) $

352

$

177,825

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

F-8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

?

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating
activities:

$

427,792

$

377,047

$

263,269

Depreciation and amortization
Impairment charge
Provision for uncollectible accounts
Benefit of (provision for) deferred income taxes
Share-based compensation expense
Other

Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable
Inventories
Accounts payable
Deferred revenue
Other assets and liabilities

Net cash provided by operating activities

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

Purchases of property and equipment
Purchases of marketable securities
Proceeds from the sale and maturities of marketable securities
Acquisitions of intangible assets and equity investment
Acquisitions of businesses

Net cash (used) provided by investing activities

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

(Repayment) borrowings on revolving credit facilities, net
Issuance of senior notes
Debt issuance costs
Repurchases of common stock, net
Proceeds from exercises of stock options and employee stock purchase plans
Payment of acquisition-related contingent consideration
Shares withheld for statutory tax withholding on restricted stock

Net cash used by financing activities

Net effect of changes in exchange rates on cash
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$

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

88,011
968
662
6,162
39,278
1,254

(22,472)
(37,306)
1,957
(12,360)
(34,788)
459,158

(154,969)
—
—
(255)
(50,304)
(205,528)

(110,275)
100,000
(154)
(301,658)
36,106
(2,375)
(8,053)
(286,409)
(689)
(33,468)
123,794
90,326

$

83,178
2,629
1,609
1,209
25,157
895

(18,401)
(25,623)
(166)
(7,719)
(39,731)
400,084

(115,751)
(87)
284,125
(7,185)
(22,500)
138,602

(256,040)
—
—
(369,319)
38,201
(1,266)
(9,375)
(597,799)
(4,768)
(63,881)
187,675
123,794

$

83,140
—
1,881
(7,918)
23,517
1,007

(24,918)
(19,062)
1,391
3,551
47,418
373,276

(74,384)
(334,164)
286,759
(2,320)
(14,579)
(138,688)

44,000
—
—
(282,565)
38,622
—
(8,073)
(208,016)
6,202
32,774
154,901
187,675

F-9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1.      NATURE OF BUSINESS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. and its subsidiaries have been 

prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") and with 
the requirements of Regulation S-X.

These statements include the accounts of IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., and our wholly-owned and majority-owned 

subsidiaries (“IDEXX,” the “Company,” “we” or “our”). We do not have any variable interest entities for which we are the 
primary beneficiary. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

We have included certain terms and abbreviations used throughout this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the "Glossary 

of Terms and Selected Abbreviations.” 

We develop, manufacture, and distribute products and provide services primarily for the companion animal veterinary, 

livestock and poultry, dairy and water testing markets. We also sell a line of portable electrolytes and blood gas analyzers for 
the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market. Our principal line of business, which we refer to as our Companion 
Animal Group (“CAG”) operating segment, provides diagnostic capabilities and information management solutions for the 
veterinary market as well as biological materials testing and services for the bioresearch market. Our principal markets for these 
products and services are the United States (“U.S.”), Europe, Japan, and Australia, but we also sell to customers and distributors 
in many other countries around the world. Our Water operating segment provides innovative testing solutions for the quality 
and safety of water in our principal markets of the U.S. and Europe, but we also sell to customers in many other countries 
around the world. Our Livestock, Poultry and Dairy (“LPD”) operating segment provides diagnostic tests and related 
instrumentation and performs services that are used to manage the health status of livestock and poultry, to improve producer 
efficiency, and to ensure the quality and safety of milk and food. Our principal markets for these products and services are 
Europe, China, and Australia but we also sell to customers in many other countries around the world. We also operate a smaller 
operating segment that comprises products for the human point-of-care medical diagnostics market (“OPTI Medical”). 
Financial information about our OPTI Medical operating segment is combined and presented with our out-licensing 
arrangements remaining from our pharmaceutical business in an “Other” category because they do not meet the quantitative or 
qualitative thresholds for reportable segments. See "Note 3. Revenue Recognition" for additional information regarding 
disaggregated revenue by segment and major product and service categories. See "Note 16. Segment Reporting " for additional 
information regarding our reportable operating segments and geographical areas.

NOTE 2.      SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

(a) 

Estimates

The preparation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to 

make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related 
disclosures. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate these estimates, including those related to reserves for accounts receivable; 
goodwill and other intangible assets; income taxes; inventory valuation; revenue recognition, product returns, customer 
programs and multiple element arrangements; share-based compensation; warranty reserves; self-insurance reserves; fair value 
measurements and loss contingencies. We accrue contingent liabilities when it is probable that future expenditures will be made 
and such expenditures can be reasonably estimated. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other 
assumptions that we believe 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. Actual results may differ from 
these estimates.

(b) 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid investments with original maturities of ninety days or less to be cash equivalents. Cash 

and cash equivalents consist primarily of demand deposits, money market funds and short duration agency bonds and 
commercial paper as described above. There is no restricted cash on our consolidated balance sheet for the years ended 
December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017.

F-10

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(c) 

Inventories – See Note 6 

(d) 

Property and Equipment – See Note 8 

(e) 

(f) 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets – See Note 10 

Warranty Reserves

We provide a standard twelve-month warranty on all instruments sold. We recognize the cost of instrument warranties 

in cost of product revenue at the time revenue is recognized based on the estimated cost to repair the instrument over its 
warranty period. Cost of product revenue reflects not only estimated warranty expense for instruments sold in the current 
period, but also any changes in estimated warranty expense for the portion of the aggregate installed base that is under 
warranty. Estimated warranty expense is based on a variety of inputs, including historical instrument performance in the 
customers’ environment, historical and estimated costs incurred in servicing instruments and projected instrument reliability. 
Should actual service rates or costs differ from our estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required. 
The liability for warranties is included in accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The amount of 
warranty reserve during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, was not material.

(g) 

(h) 

Income Taxes – See Note 13 

Taxes Remitted to Governmental Authorities by IDEXX on Behalf of Customer

We calculate, collect from our customers, and remit to governmental authorities sales, value-added and excise taxes 
assessed by governmental authorities in connection with revenue-producing transactions with our customers. We report these 
taxes on a net basis and do not include these tax amounts in revenue or cost of product or service revenue.

(i) 

(j) 

Revenue Recognition – See Note 3 

Research and Development Costs

Research and development costs, which consist of salaries, employee benefits, materials and external consulting and 
product development costs, are expensed as incurred. We evaluate our research and development costs for capitalization after 
the technological feasibility has been established for software and products containing software to be sold, however no costs 
were capitalized during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. Software developed to deliver hosted services to 
our customers has been designated as internal use and we capitalize certain costs incurred in connection with developing or 
obtaining software designated for internal use based on three distinct stages of development. See "Note 8. Property and 
Equipment, Net" for further information on internal use software. 

(k) 

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs, which are recognized as sales and marketing expense in the period in which they are incurred, were 

$1.5 million, $1.8 million, and $1.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

(l) 

Legal Costs

Legal costs are considered period costs and accordingly are expensed in the year services are provided.

(m) 

Share-Based Compensation – See Note 5 

(n) 

(o) 

(p) 

Self-Insurance Accruals – See Note 15 

Leases – See Note 7 

Earnings per Share – See Note 14 

F-11

 
 
 
 
 
 
(q) 

Foreign Currency

The functional currency of all but four of our subsidiaries is their local currency. Assets and liabilities of these foreign 

subsidiaries are translated to the U.S. dollar using the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date. Revenue and expense 
accounts are translated to the U.S. dollar using the exchange rate at the date which those elements are recognized, and where it 
is impractical to do so, an average exchange rate in effect during the period is used to translate those elements. Cumulative 
translation gains and losses are shown in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as a separate component of 
accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”).  

Revenues and expenses denominated in a currency other than the respective subsidiary’s functional currency are 
recorded at the current exchange rate when the transaction is recognized. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a 
currency other than the respective subsidiary’s functional currency are remeasured at each balance sheet date using the 
exchange rate in effect at each balance sheet date. These foreign currency gains and losses are included in general and 
administrative expenses. We recognized aggregate foreign currency losses of $1.1 million, losses of $3.1 million, and gains of 
$1.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively.

(r) 

(s) 

(t) 

Hedging Instruments – See Note 18 

Fair Value Measurements – See Note 17 

Comprehensive Income

We report all changes in equity, including net income and transactions or other events and circumstances from non-

owner sources during the period in which they are recognized. We have chosen to present comprehensive income, which 
encompasses net income, foreign currency translation adjustments, gains and losses on our net investment hedges and the 
difference between the cost and the fair market value of investments in debt and equity securities, and forward currency 
exchange contracts, in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. See "Note 20. Accumulated Other 
Comprehensive Income" for information about the effects on net income of significant amounts reclassified out of each 
component of AOCI for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017.

(u) 

Concentrations of Risk

Financial Instruments. Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk are principally 
cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable and derivatives. To mitigate such risk with respect to cash and cash equivalents, we 
place our cash with highly-rated financial institutions, in non-interest bearing accounts that are insured by the U.S. government 
and money market funds invested in government securities. Concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is 
limited to certain customers to whom we make substantial sales. To reduce risk, we routinely assess the financial strength of our 
most significant customers and monitor the amounts owed to us, taking appropriate action when necessary. As a result, we 
believe that accounts receivable credit risk exposure is limited. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts, but historically 
have not experienced any material losses related to an individual customer or group of customers in any particular industry or 
geographic area.

To mitigate concentration of credit risk with respect to derivatives we enter into transactions with highly-rated 

financial institutions, enter into master netting arrangements with counterparties to our derivative transactions and frequently 
monitor the credit worthiness of our counterparties. Our master netting arrangements reduce our exposure in that they permit 
outstanding receivables and payables with the counterparties to our derivative transactions to be offset in the event of default. 
We have not incurred such losses and consider the risk of counterparty default to be minimal.

Inventory. If we are unable to obtain adequate quantities of the inventory we need to sell our products, we could face 
cost increases or delays or discontinuations in product shipments, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of 
operations. Many of the third parties that provide us with the instruments we sell as well as certain components, raw materials 
and consumables used in or with our products are sole or single source suppliers. Some of the products that we purchase from 
these sources are proprietary or complex in nature, and, therefore, cannot be readily or easily replaced by alternative sources.

(v) 

New Accounting Pronouncements Adopted

We adopted ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (the "New Leasing Standard"), as of January 1, 2019, using the optional 

transition method that allows for a cumulative-effect adjustment in the period of adoption and did not restate prior periods. In 

F-12

 
 
 
 
 
 
addition, we elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance within the new standard, which 
among other things, allowed us to carry forward the historical lease classification. The adoption of the New Leasing Standard 
resulted in the recording of operating lease liabilities of $86.7 million and right-of-use assets of $83.7 million. Prior to our 
adoption of the New Leasing Standard, rent prepayments of approximately $1.0 million were recorded within other current 
assets and the impact of recognizing rent expense on a straight-line basis of approximately $4.0 million was recorded within 
other current and long-term liabilities. Upon adoption of the New Leasing Standard, these rent prepayments and straight-line 
rent impacts are now recorded within operating lease right-of-use assets and represent the net differences between operating 
lease liabilities and right-of-use assets.

The New Leasing Standard requires us to classify certain reagent rental programs as sales-type leases and thus 
accelerate instrument revenue and cost recognition at the time of instrument placement.  We did not change the historical lease 
classification for placements prior to January 1, 2019, therefore this change applied to certain new placements beginning on 
January 1, 2019. Under prior U.S. GAAP, instruments placed under our reagent rental programs were classified as operating 
leases and instrument revenue and cost was recognized over the term of the program. The New Leasing Standard did not have a 
material impact on our consolidated earnings and had no impact on cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2019.

Adoption of the New Leasing Standard impacted our consolidated balance sheet as follows:

(in thousands)

ASSETS
Other current assets
Total current assets

Operating lease right-of-use asset

Total long-term assets
TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES

Accrued liabilities

Total current liabilities

Long-term operating lease liability

Total long-term liabilities

TOTAL LIABILITIES

Consolidated Balance Sheet

Previous U.S. GAAP
December 31, 2018
(Reported)

New U.S. GAAP
January 1, 2019

Impact of the
New Leasing
Standard

$
$
$
$
$

$
$
$
$
$

108,220
654,172

$
$
— $
$
$

883,177
1,537,349

260,683
770,444

$
$
— $
$
$

776,138
1,546,582

107,228
653,180
83,707
966,884
1,620,064

274,459
784,220
68,939
845,077
1,629,297

$
$
$
$
$

$
$
$
$
$

(992)
(992)
83,707
83,707
82,715

13,776
13,776
68,939
68,939
82,715

We adopted ASU 2018-02, Income Statement – Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) Reclassification of 

Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, on January 1, 2019. We elected not to reclassify the $1.7 
million of stranded tax effects from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Job Act (the “2017 Tax Act”) enacted on December 22, 2017, from 
accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings in the period of adoption.

(w) 

New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326), which require that 
financial assets measured at amortized cost be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. Since then, the FASB has 
issued an update to ASU 2016-13. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is deducted from the amortized 
cost basis of the financial asset to present the net carrying value at the amount expected to be collected. The income statement 
reflects the measurement of credit losses for newly recognized financial assets, as well as the increases or decreases of expected 
credit losses that have taken place during the period. The measurement of expected credit losses is based upon historical 
experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. 
The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods within 
those annual periods. We do not anticipate any material impact related to our allowance for doubtful accounts or otherwise from 
this amendment on the consolidated financial statements. 

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework-
Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement ("ASU 2018-13"), which modifies the disclosure 

F-13

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
requirements of fair value measurements. ASU 2018-13 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and 
early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial 
statements.

NOTE 3.      REVENUE RECOGNITION 

Effective January 1, 2018, we adopted the New Revenue Standard using the modified retrospective method for all 

contracts not completed as of the date of adoption. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying the New Revenue 
Standard as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings.  The comparative information has not been restated and 
continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods presented.

Our revenue is recognized when, or as, performance obligations under the terms of a contract are satisfied, which 

occurs when control of the promised products or services is transferred to a customer. We exclude sales, use, value-added, and 
other taxes we collect on behalf of third parties from revenue. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to 
receive in exchange for transferring products or services to a customer. To accurately present the consideration received in 
exchange for promised products or services, we apply the five-step model outlined below:

Identification of a contract or agreement with a customer
Identification of our performance obligations in the contract or agreement

1. 
2. 
3.  Determination of the transaction price
4.  Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations
5.  Recognition of revenue when, or as, we satisfy a performance obligation

We enter into contracts that include various combinations of products and services, which are generally capable of 
being distinct and accounted for as separate performance obligations. The timing of revenue recognition, billings, and cash 
collections results in accounts receivable, contract assets, and lease receivables as a result of revenue recognized in advance of 
billings (included within other assets), and contract liabilities or deferred revenue as a result of receiving consideration in 
advance of revenue recognition within our consolidated balance sheet. Our general payment terms range from 30 to 60 days, 
with exceptions in certain geographies. Below is a listing of our major categories of revenue for our products and services:

Diagnostic Products and Accessories.  Diagnostic products and accessories revenues, including IDEXX VetLab® 

consumables and accessories, rapid assay, LPD, Water, and OPTI testing products, are predominantly recognized and invoiced 
at the time of shipment, which is when the customer obtains control of the product based on legal title transfer and we have the 
right to payment. Shipping costs reimbursed by the customer are included in revenue and cost of sales. As a practical expedient, 
we do not account for shipping activities as a separate performance obligation.

Reference Laboratory Diagnostic and Consulting Services. Reference laboratory revenues are recognized and invoiced 

when the laboratory diagnostic service is performed.

Instruments, Software and Systems. CAG Diagnostics capital instruments, veterinary software and diagnostic imaging 
systems revenues are generally recognized and invoiced when the customer obtains control of the products based on legal title 
transfer and we have the right to payment, which generally occurs at the time of installation and customer acceptance. Our 
instruments, software, and systems are often included in one of our significant customer programs, as further described below. 
For veterinary software systems that include multiple performance obligations, such as perpetual software licenses and 
computer hardware, we allocate revenue to each performance obligation based on estimates of the price that we would charge 
the customer for each promised product or service if it were sold on a standalone basis.

Lease Revenue. Revenues from instrument rental agreements and reagent rental programs are recognized either as 

operating leases on a ratable basis over the term of the agreement or as sales-type leases at the time of installation and customer 
acceptance. Customers typically pay for the right to use instruments under rental agreements in equal monthly amounts over the 
term of the rental agreement. Our reagent rental programs provide our customers the right to use our instruments upon entering 
into agreements to purchase specified amounts of consumables, which are considered embedded leases. For some agreements, 
the customers are provided with the right to purchase the instrument at the end of the lease term. Lease revenues from these 
agreements are presented in product revenue on our consolidated income statement. Lease revenue was approximately $20.8 
million for the year ended December 31, 2019, as compared to $12.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, including 
both operating leases and sales-type leases under ASC 842, Leases, during 2019, and ASC 840, Leases, prior to 2019.  See 
below for revenue recognition under our reagent rental programs. 

F-14

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Extended Warranties and Post-Contract Support.  CAG Diagnostics capital instruments and diagnostic imaging 

systems extended warranties typically provide customers with continued coverage for a period of one to five years beyond the 
first-year standard warranty. Customers can either pay in full for the extended warranty at the time of instrument or system 
purchase or can be billed on a quarterly basis over the term of the contract. We recognize revenue associated with extended 
warranties over time on a ratable basis using a time elapsed measure of performance over the contract term, which 
approximates the expected timing in which applicable services are performed.

Veterinary software post-contract support provides customers with access to technical support when and as needed 

through access to call centers and online customer assistance. Post-contract support contracts typically have a term of 12 
months and customers are billed for post-contract support in equal quarterly amounts over the term. We recognize revenue for 
post-contract support services over time on a ratable basis using a time-elapsed measure of performance over the contract term, 
which approximates the expected timing in which applicable services are performed.

On December 31, 2018, our deferred revenue related to extended warranties and post-contract support was $40.7 

million, of which approximately $21.0 million was recognized during the year ended December 31, 2019. Furthermore, as a 
result of new agreements, our deferred revenue related to extended warranties and post-contract support was $38.0 
million at December 31, 2019. We do not disclose information about remaining performance obligations that are part of 
contracts with an original expected duration of one year or less and do not adjust for the effect of the financing components 
when the period between customer payment and revenue recognition is one year or less. Deferred revenue related to extended 
warranties and post-contract support with an original duration of more than one year was $24.4 million at December 31, 2019, 
of which approximately 37%, 31%, 20%, 9%, and 3% are expected to be recognized during 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 
thereafter, respectively. Additionally, we have determined these agreements do not include a significant financing component.

SaaS Subscriptions. We offer a variety of veterinary software and diagnostic imaging SaaS subscriptions including 
IDEXX Neo®, Animana®, Pet Health Network® Pro, Petly® Plans, Web PACS, rVetLink®, and Smart Flow™. We recognize 
revenue for our SaaS subscriptions over time on a ratable basis over the contract term, beginning on the date our service is 
made available to the customer. Our subscription contracts vary in term from monthly to two years. Customers typically pay for 
our subscription contracts in equal monthly amounts over the term of the agreement. Deferred revenue related to our SaaS 
subscriptions is not material.

Contracts with Multiple Performance Obligations.  We enter into contracts with multiple performance obligations 
where customers purchase a combination of IDEXX products and services. Determining whether products and services are 
considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately requires significant judgment. We 
determine the transaction price for a contract based on the total consideration we expect to receive in exchange for the 
transferred goods or services. To the extent the transaction price includes variable consideration, such as volume rebates or 
expected price adjustments, we apply judgment in constraining the estimated variable consideration due to factors that may 
cause reversal of revenue recognized. We evaluate constraints based on our historical and projected experience with similar 
customer contracts.

We allocate revenue to each performance obligation in proportion to the relative standalone selling prices and 

recognize revenue when control of the related goods or services is transferred for each obligation. We utilize the observable 
standalone selling price when available, which represents the price charged for the performance obligation when sold 
separately. When standalone selling prices for our products or services are not directly observable we determine the standalone 
selling prices using relevant information available and apply suitable estimation methods including, but not limited to, the cost 
plus a margin approach. We recognize revenue as each performance obligation is satisfied, either at a point in time or over time, 
as described in the revenue categories above. We do not disclose information about remaining performance obligations that are 
part of contracts with an original expected duration of one year or less.

The following customer programs represent our most significant customer contracts which contain multiple 

performance obligations:

Customer Commitment Programs. We offer customer incentives upon entering into multi-year agreements to 

purchase annual minimum amounts of products and services.

Up-Front Customer Loyalty Programs. Our up-front loyalty programs provide customers with 
incentives in the form of cash payments or IDEXX Points upon entering into multi-year agreements to 
purchase annual minimum amounts of future products or services. If a customer breaches its agreement, they 
are required to refund all or a portion of the up-front cash or IDEXX Points, or make other repayments, 

F-15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
remedial actions, or both. Up-front incentives to customers in the form of cash or IDEXX Points are not made 
in exchange for distinct goods or services and are capitalized as customer acquisition costs within other 
current and long-term assets, which are subsequently recognized as a reduction to revenue over the term of 
the customer agreement. If these up-front incentives are subsequently utilized to purchase instruments, we 
allocate total consideration, including future committed purchases less up-front incentives and estimates of 
expected price adjustments, based on relative standalone selling prices to identified performance obligations 
and recognize instrument revenue and cost at the time of installation and customer acceptance. We have 
determined these agreements do not include a significant financing component. Differences between 
estimated and actual customer purchases may impact the amount and timing of revenue recognition.

On December 31, 2018, our capitalized customer acquisition costs were $124.4 million, of which 

approximately $34.6 million were recognized as a reduction of revenue during the year ended December 31, 
2019. Furthermore, as a result of new up-front customer loyalty payments, net of subsequent recognition, our 
capitalized customer acquisition costs were $137.4 million at December 31, 2019. We monitor customer 
purchases over the term of their agreement to assess the realizability of our capitalized customer acquisition 
costs and review estimates of variable consideration. Impairments, revenue adjustments that relate to 
performance obligations satisfied in prior periods, and contract modifications during the years 
ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, were not material.

Volume Commitment Programs. Our volume commitment programs, such as our IDEXX 360 

program, provide customers with free or discounted instruments or systems upon entering into multi-year 
agreements to purchase annual minimum amounts of future products and services. We allocate total 
consideration, including future committed purchases and expected price adjustments, based on relative 
standalone selling prices to identified performance obligations and recognize instrument revenue and cost at 
the time of installation and customer acceptance in advance of billing the customer, which is also when the 
customer obtains control of the instrument based on legal title transfer. Our right to future consideration 
related to instrument revenue is recorded as a contract asset within other current and long-term assets. The 
contract asset is transferred to accounts receivable when customers are billed for future products and services 
over the term of the contract. We have determined that these agreements do not include a significant financing 
component. Differences between estimated and actual customer purchases may impact the amount and timing 
of revenue recognition. 

On December 31, 2018, our volume commitment contract assets were $40.9 million, of which 

approximately $8.9 million were reclassified to accounts receivable when customers were billed for related 
products and services during the year ended December 31, 2019. Furthermore, as a result of new placements 
under volume commitment programs, net of subsequent amounts reclassified to accounts receivable,
our contract assets were $83.9 million at December 31, 2019. We monitor customer purchases over the term 
of their agreement to assess the realizability of our contract assets and review estimates of variable 
consideration. Impairments, revenue adjustments that relate to performance obligations satisfied in prior 
periods, and contract modifications during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, were not material.

For our up-front customer loyalty and volume commitment programs, we estimate future revenues related to 
multi-year agreements to be approximately $1.9 billion, of which approximately 25%, 22%, 20%, 17%, and 16% are 
expected to be recognized during 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and thereafter, respectively. These future revenues relate to 
performance obligations not yet satisfied, for which customers have committed to purchase goods and services, net of 
the expected revenue reductions from customer acquisition costs and expected price adjustments, and as a result, are 
lower than stated contractual commitments by our customers.

Instrument Rebate Programs. Our instrument rebate programs, previously referred to as IDEXX Instrument 

Marketing Programs, require an instrument purchase and provide customers the opportunity to earn future rebates 
based on the volume of products and services they purchase over the term of the program. We account for the 
customer’s right to earn rebates on future purchases as a separate performance obligation and determine the standalone 
selling price based on an estimate of rebates the customer will earn over the term of the program. Total consideration 
allocated to identified performance obligations is limited to goods and services that the customer is presently obligated 
to purchase and does not include estimates of future purchases that are optional. We allocate total consideration to 
identified performance obligations, including the customer’s right to earn rebates on future purchases, which is 
deferred and recognized upon the purchase of future products and services, offsetting future rebates as they are earned.

F-16

 
 
 
 
 
On December 31, 2018, our deferred revenue related to instrument rebate programs was $57.4 million, of 
which approximately $18.1 million were recognized when customers purchased eligible products and services and 
earned rebates during the year ended December 31, 2019. Furthermore, as a result of new instrument purchases under 
rebate programs, net of subsequent recognition, our deferred revenue was $49.1 million at December 31, 2019, of 
which approximately 33%, 27%, 19%, 12%, and 9% are expected to be recognized during 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 
and thereafter, respectively.

Reagent Rental Programs. Our reagent rental programs provide our customers the right to use our instruments 

upon entering into multi-year agreements to purchase annual minimum amounts of consumables. These types of 
agreements include an embedded lease for the right to use our instrument and we determine the amount of lease 
revenue allocated to the instrument based on relative standalone selling prices. We evaluate the terms of these 
embedded leases to determine classification as either a sales-type lease or an operating lease, as defined within the 
New Leasing Standard. We elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance within 
the New Leasing Standard, which among other things, allowed us to carryforward our historical lease classification 
and therefore all reagent rental program placements prior to January 1, 2019 will continue to be classified as operating 
leases. We have not elected the practical expedient within the New Leasing Standard to combine lease and non-lease 
components. 

Sales-type Reagent Rental Programs. Our reagent rental programs that effectively transfer control of 
instruments to our customers are classified as sales-type leases and we recognize instrument revenue and cost 
in advance of billing the customer, at the time of installation and customer acceptance. Our right to future 
consideration related to instrument revenue is recorded as a lease receivable within other current and long-
term assets, and is transferred to accounts receivable when customers are billed for future products and 
services over the term of the contract. As a result of new placements under reagent rental programs, our lease 
receivable assets were $7.2 million at December 31, 2019. The impacts of discounting and unearned income 
at December 31, 2019, were not material. Profit and loss recognized at the commencement date and interest 
income during the year ended December 31, 2019, were not material. We monitor customer purchases over 
the term of their agreement to assess the realizability of our lease receivable assets. Impairments during the 
year ended December 31, 2019, were not material.

Operating-type Reagent Rental Programs. Our reagent rental programs that do not effectively 
transfer control of instruments to our customers are classified as operating leases and we recognize instrument 
revenue and costs ratably over the term of the agreement. The cost of the instrument is capitalized within 
property and equipment. See "Note 8. Property and Equipment, Net," for amounts transferred from inventory 
to property and equipment.

We estimate future revenue to be recognized related to our reagent rental programs of approximately $31.6 

million, of which approximately 39%, 29%, 18%, 8%, and 6% are expected to be recognized during 2020, 2021, 2022, 
2023, and thereafter, respectively. These future revenues relate to performance obligations not yet satisfied for which 
customers have committed to future purchases, net of any expected price adjustments, and as a result, may be lower 
than stated contractual commitments by our customers.

Other Customer Incentive Programs. Certain agreements with customers include discounts or rebates on the 

sale of products and services applied retrospectively, such as volume rebates achieved by purchasing a specified 
purchase threshold of goods and services. We account for these discounts as variable consideration and estimate the 
likelihood of a customer meeting the threshold in order to determine the transaction price using the most predictive 
approach. We typically use the most-likely-amount method, for incentives that are offered to individual customers, and 
the expected-value method, for programs that are offered to a broad group of customers. Revenue adjustments that 
relate to performance obligations satisfied in prior periods during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, were 
not material. Refund obligations related to customer incentive programs are recorded in accrued liabilities for the 
actual issuance of incentives, incentives earned but not yet issued and estimates of incentives to be earned in the 
future.

Program Combinations. At times, we combine elements of our significant customer programs within a single 
customer contract. We separate each significant program element and include the contract assets, customer acquisition 
costs, deferred revenues and estimated future revenues within the most relevant program disclosures above. Each 
customer contract is presented as a net contract asset or net contract liability on our consolidated balance sheet.

F-17

 
 
 
 
 
 
Future market conditions and changes in product offerings may cause us to change marketing strategies to increase or 
decrease customer incentive offerings, possibly resulting in incremental reductions of revenue in future periods as compared to 
reductions in the current or prior periods. Additionally, certain customer programs require us to estimate, based on historical 
experience, and apply judgment to predict the amounts of future customer purchases, customer rebates and other incentive 
payments, and price adjustments related to multi-year agreements. Differences between estimated and actual customer 
purchases may impact the amount and timing of revenue recognition. 

IDEXX Points. IDEXX Points may be applied to trade receivables due to us, converted to cash, or applied against the 

purchase price of IDEXX products and services. We consider IDEXX Points equivalent to cash. IDEXX Points that have not 
yet been used by customers are included in accrued liabilities until utilized or expired. Breakage is not material because 
customers can apply IDEXX Points to trade receivables at any time.

Accounts Receivable. We recognize revenue when it is probable that we will collect substantially all of the 
consideration to which we will be entitled, based on the customer’s intent and ability to pay the promised consideration. We 
apply judgment in determining the customer’s ability and intention to pay, which is based on a variety of factors including the 
customer’s historical payment experience or, in the case of a new customer, published credit and financial information 
pertaining to the customer. We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for potentially uncollectible receivables. We base our 
estimates on a detailed analysis of specific customer situations and a percentage of our accounts receivable by aging category. 
Additional allowances may be required if either the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, or a strengthening 
U.S. dollar impacts the ability of foreign customers to make payments to us on their U.S. dollar-denominated purchases. 
Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we believe it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. We 
do not have any off-balance sheet credit exposure related to our customers. We have no significant customers that accounted for 
greater than 10% of our consolidated revenues and we have no concentration of credit risk as of December 31, 2019.

Disaggregated Revenues. We present disaggregated revenue for our CAG segment based on major product and service 

categories. Our Water segment is comprised of a single major product category. Although our LPD segment does not meet the 
quantitative thresholds to be reported as a separate segment, we believe it is important to disaggregate these revenues as a major 
product and service category within our Other reportable segment given its distinct markets, and therefore we have elected to 
report LPD as a reportable segment.

The following table presents disaggregated revenue by major product and service categories:

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

$

$

1,828,329
693,360
232,149
822,497
80,323
132,685
158,169
2,119,183

132,850
132,635
22,240

$

1,654,530
617,237
217,541
746,794
72,958
134,264
146,634
1,935,428

125,198
130,581
22,035

1,451,701
518,774
205,309
660,142
67,476
119,963
131,713
1,703,377

114,395
128,481
22,805

$

2,406,908

$

2,213,242

$

1,969,058

(in thousands)

CAG segment revenue:

CAG Diagnostics recurring revenue:

IDEXX VetLab consumables
Rapid assay products
Reference laboratory diagnostic and consulting services
CAG Diagnostics services and accessories

CAG Diagnostics capital - instruments
Veterinary software, services and diagnostic imaging systems

CAG segment revenue

Water segment revenue
LPD segment revenue
Other segment revenue

Total revenue

F-18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue by principal geographic area, based on customers’ domiciles, was as follows:

(in thousands)

Americas

United States
Canada
Latin America

Europe, the Middle East and Africa

Germany
United Kingdom
France
Italy
Spain
Switzerland
Netherlands
Other

Asia Pacific Region

Australia
Japan
China
Other

Total

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

$

$

1,495,516
99,550
56,515
1,651,581

$

1,357,909
94,206
50,969
1,503,084

1,203,547
83,818
46,893
1,334,258

104,081
90,969
64,767
39,725
36,439
20,855
19,397
122,206
498,439

100,459
87,807
60,319
36,956
33,687
19,875
18,090
114,877
472,070

71,069
67,246
57,518
61,055
256,888
2,406,908

$

63,386
60,213
57,621
56,868
238,088
2,213,242

$

$

88,328
80,149
55,993
31,889
28,866
17,913
15,877
100,409
419,424

56,994
53,344
55,810
49,228
215,376
1,969,058

Costs to Obtain a Contract. We capitalize sales commissions and the related fringe benefits earned by our sales force 

when considered incremental and recoverable costs of obtaining a contract. Our contracts include performance obligations 
related to various goods and services, some of which are satisfied at a point in time and others over time. Commission costs 
related to performance obligations satisfied at a point in time are expensed at the time of sale, which is when revenue is 
recognized. Commission costs related to long-term service contracts and performance obligations satisfied over time, including 
extended warranties and SaaS subscriptions, are deferred and recognized on a systematic basis that is consistent with the 
transfer of the goods or services to which the asset relates. We apply judgment in estimating the amortization period, which 
ranges from 3 to 7 years, by taking into consideration our customer contract terms, history of renewals, expected length of 
customer relationship, as well as the useful life of the underlying technology and products. Amortization expense is included in 
sales and marketing expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Deferred commission costs are 
periodically reviewed for impairment.

On December 31, 2018, our deferred commission costs, included within other assets, were $13.9 million, of which 

approximately $4.5 million of commission expense were recognized during the year ended December 31, 2019. Furthermore, as 
a result of commissions related to new extended warranties and SaaS subscriptions, net of subsequent recognition, our deferred 
commission costs were $15.6 million at December 31, 2019. Impairments of deferred commission costs during the years 
ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, were not material.

NOTE 4.      ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS

We believe that our acquisitions of businesses and other assets enhance our existing businesses by either expanding 

our geographic range and customer base or expanding our existing product lines.

On October 7, 2019, we acquired the assets of a multi-site reference laboratory business in the mid-west of the U.S. for 
$50.0 million in cash. This acquisition expands our national reference laboratory presence in the U.S., and was accounted for as 
a business combination. The preliminary fair value of the assets acquired consists of $25.0 million in intangible assets, 
primarily for customer relationships, with a weighted average life of 10 years, $0.2 million of tangible assets, and $24.8 million 
of goodwill, representing synergies within our reference laboratory portfolio. The purchase price allocation is subject to change 
if additional information becomes available concerning the fair value of the assets acquired. Additional adjustments, if any, to 
the purchase price allocation will be made as soon as practicable but no later than one year from the date of acquisition. The 

F-19

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
goodwill is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. Pro forma information has not been presented for this 
acquisition because such information is not material to the financial statements. The results of operations have been included in 
our CAG segment since the acquisition date. The acquisition expenses incurred were not material. 

During the fourth quarter of 2018, we invested $5.0 million for a noncontrolling minority interest in a technology 

company. This equity investment has been accounted for under the cost method of accounting. 

During the third quarter of 2018, we acquired substantially all of the assets of a software company for $25.0 million. 

This acquisition expands the IDEXX suite of veterinary software offerings and further underscores our commitment to 
investing in software innovations that advance the veterinary profession. This acquisition was accounted for as a business 
combination. The fair value of the assets acquired consist of $20.3 million of goodwill, representing synergies with our current 
software product offerings, $2.6 million in technology intangible assets, $2.4 million in customer relationship intangible assets, 
and $0.3 million of net liabilities. The goodwill is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. Pro forma information has 
not been presented for this acquisition because such information is not material to the financial statements. The results of 
operations have been included in our CAG segment since the acquisition date. The acquisition expenses incurred were not 
material.

During the second quarter of 2017, we acquired the assets of two software companies that expand our suite of 
technology applications for the veterinary profession, specifically related to patient referral management and other connectivity 
needs between practices and other parties. The combined purchase price of $15.0 million consists of $12.0 million paid at 
closing and a $3.0 million contingent payment to be paid within 36 months if certain commercial goals are achieved, of which 
$1.0 million was paid in 2019 and in 2018, respectively. We finalized the valuation of the acquired assets in the third quarter of 
2017. The fair value estimate of the assets acquired consists of $13.3 million of goodwill, representing synergies within our 
broader CAG portfolio, $1.0 million of customer relationship intangibles and $0.6 million of technology intangible assets. 
Goodwill related to these acquisitions is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. The amount of net tangible assets 
acquired was immaterial. Pro forma information has not been presented for these acquisitions because such information is not 
material to the financial statements. The results of operations have been included in our CAG segment since the acquisition 
date. The acquisition expenses incurred were not material.

NOTE 5.      SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION 

We provide for various forms of share-based compensation awards to our employees and non-employee directors. Our 

share-based compensation plans allow for the issuance of a mix of stock options, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, 
employee stock purchase rights and other stock unit awards. With the exception of stock options, the fair value of our awards is 
equal to the closing stock price of IDEXX common stock on the date of grant. We calculate the fair value of our stock option 
awards using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model. For stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), and deferred 
stock units (“DSUs”), share-based compensation expense is recognized net of estimated forfeitures, on a straight-line basis over 
the requisite service period of the award for stock options. For performance-based restricted stock units (“PBRSUs”), share-
based compensation expense is recognized net of estimated forfeitures, on a grade-vesting methodology over the requisite 
service period. 

Stock options permit a holder to buy IDEXX stock upon vesting at the stock option exercise price set on the day of 

grant. An RSU is an agreement to issue shares of IDEXX stock at the time of vesting. A PBRSU is an agreement to issue shares 
of IDEXX stock at the time of vesting upon successful completion of certain performance goals. DSUs are granted under our 
Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Executive Plan”) and non-employee Director Deferred Compensation Plan (the 
“Director Plan”). DSUs may or may not have vesting conditions depending on the plan under which they are issued. We did not 
issue any restricted stock or stock appreciation rights during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, nor were any 
restricted stock or stock appreciation rights outstanding as of those years ended.

We primarily issue shares of common stock to satisfy stock option exercises and employee stock purchase rights and to 

settle RSUs, PBRSUs, and DSUs. We issue shares of treasury stock to settle certain RSUs and upon the exercise of certain 
stock options, which were not material for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. The number of shares of 
common stock and treasury stock issued are equivalent to the number of awards exercised or settled.

With the exception of employee stock purchase rights, equity awards are issued to employees and non-employee 

directors under the 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2018 Stock Plan"). Our Board of Directors has authorized the issuance of 
7.5 million shares of our common stock under the 2018 Stock Plan. Any shares that are subject to awards of stock options or 
stock appreciation rights will be counted against the share limit as one share for every share granted. Any shares that are issued 

F-20

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
other than stock options and stock appreciation rights will be counted against the share limit as 2.4 shares for every share 
granted. If any shares issued under our prior plans are forfeited, settled for cash, or expire, these shares, to the extent of such 
forfeiture, cash settlement or expiration, will again be available for issuance under the 2018 Stock Plan. As of December 31, 
2019, there were approximately 6.8 million remaining shares available for issuance under the 2018 Stock Plan.

Share-Based Compensation

Share-based compensation costs are classified in the consolidated financial statements consistent with the 

classification of cash compensation paid to the employees receiving such share-based compensation. The following is a 
summary of share-based compensation costs and related tax benefits recorded in our consolidated statements of income:

(in thousands)

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Share-based compensation expense included in cost of revenue
Share-based compensation expense included in operating expenses

$

$

2,681
36,597

$

2,816
22,341

Total share-based compensation expense included in consolidated statements
of income

Income tax benefit resulting from share-based compensation expense

Net share-based compensation expense included in consolidated statements
of income, excluding tax benefit from settlement of share-based awards

Income tax benefit resulting from settlement of share-based awards

Net expense (benefit) related to share-based compensation arrangements
included in consolidated statements of income

39,278
(4,861)

34,417

(19,140)

25,157
(4,190)

20,967

(21,496)

2,675
20,842

23,517
(6,810)

16,707

(27,743)

$

15,277

$

(529) $

(11,036)

In connection with our CEO transition, we entered into a mutual separation agreement with our former CEO, pursuant 
to which Mr. Ayers’s outstanding stock options were modified. As a result of the modification of Mr. Ayers’s outstanding stock 
options, we recognized share-based compensation expense of approximately $10.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2019, 
primarily representing an acceleration of the cost of the equity awards, which was offset by a reduction to our provision for 
income taxes of approximately $0.8 million. Other than the modification to Mr. Ayers's stock options, as described above, there 
were no other material modifications to the terms of outstanding options, RSUs, PBRSUs, or DSUs during the years ended 
December 31, 2019, 2018 or 2017.

Share-based compensation expense is reduced for an estimate of the number of awards that are expected to be 
forfeited. We use historical data and other factors to estimate expected employee terminations and to evaluate whether 
particular groups of employees have significantly different forfeiture expectations.

The total unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, for unvested share-based compensation 
awards at December 31, 2019, was $50.1 million, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 
1.7 years.

Stock Options

Prior to December 4, 2019, all options granted to employees primarily vest ratably over five years on each anniversary 
of the date of grant. Options granted to non-employee directors vest fully on the first anniversary of the date of grant. Employee 
grants after December 4, 2019, will vest ratably over 4 years. Vesting of option awards issued is conditional based on 
continuous service. Options granted after May 8, 2013 have a contractual term of ten years and options granted between 
January 1, 2006 and May 8, 2013 have contractual terms of seven years. Upon any change in control of the company, 25% of 
the unvested stock options then outstanding will vest and become exercisable. However, if the acquiring entity does not assume 
outstanding options, then all options will vest immediately prior to the change in control.

We use the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model to determine the fair value of options granted. Option-pricing 
models require the input of highly subjective assumptions, particularly for the expected stock price volatility and the expected 
term of options. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate. Our expected stock 
price volatility assumptions are based on the historical volatility of our stock over periods that are similar to the expected terms 
of grants and other relevant factors. We derive the expected term based on historical experience and other relevant factors 
concerning expected employee behavior with regard to option exercise. The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. Treasury 
yields for a maturity approximating the expected term calculated at the date of grant. We have never paid any cash dividends on 

F-21

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
our common stock and we have no intention to pay a dividend at this time; therefore, we assume that no dividends will be paid 
over the expected terms of option awards.

We determine the assumptions used in the valuation of option awards as of the date of grant. Differences in the 

expected stock price volatility, expected term or risk-free interest rate may necessitate distinct valuation assumptions at those 
grant dates. As such, we may use different assumptions for options granted throughout the year. The weighted averages of the 
valuation assumptions used to determine the fair value of each option award on the date of grant and the weighted average 
estimated fair values were as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Share price at grant
Share exercise price
Expected stock price volatility
Expected term, in years
Risk-free interest rate
Weighted average fair value of options granted

$
$

$

218.66
220.88

$
$

179.56
179.56

$
$

142.89
142.89

26%
6.0
2.4%

24%
5.8
2.7%

26%
5.8
2.0%

65.53

$

52.99

$

40.83

A summary of the status of options granted under our share-based compensation plans at December 31, 2019, and 

changes during the year then ended, are presented in the table below:

Number of
Options (000)

Weighted
Average Exercise
Price

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
($000)

Outstanding as of December 31, 2018

Granted
Exercised
Forfeited

Outstanding as of December 31, 2019

$
2,449
351
$
(445) $
(44) $
$

2,311

91.64
220.88
58.32
122.23
117.13

Fully vested as of December 31, 2019

1,222

$

83.11

6.4

5.4

$

$

334,116

217,569

Fully vested and expected to vest as of December 31,
2019

2,277

$

116.52

6.4

$

330,606

The total fair value of options vested was $12.2 million, $10.5 million, and $9.2 million during the years ended 

December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Intrinsic value of stock options exercised represents the amount by which the market price of the common stock 
exceeded the exercise price, before applicable income taxes. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $83.7 
million, $87.1 million, and $78.3 million during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Restricted Stock Units 

Prior to December 4, 2019, the majority of RSUs, including our PBRSUs, granted to employees vest ratably over five 

years on each anniversary of the date of grant. Employee grants after December 4, 2019, will vest ratably over 4 years. PBRSUs 
granted to employees vest based on meeting performance goals set on the day of grant. RSUs granted to non-employee 
directors vest fully on the first anniversary of the date of grant. Vesting as it relates to RSUs and PBRSUs issued is conditional 
based on continuous service.  Upon any change in control of the company, 25 percent of the unvested RSUs and PBRSUs then 
outstanding will vest, provided, however, that if the acquiring entity does not assume the RSUs and PBRSUs, then all such units 
will vest immediately prior to the change in control. At time of grant, we assume all PBRSUs will meet performance goals to 
vest.

F-22

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
A summary of the status of RSUs and PBRSUs granted under our share-based compensation plans at December 31, 

2019, and changes during the period then ended, are presented in the table below:

Nonvested as of December 31, 2018

Granted
Vested
Forfeited

Nonvested as of December 31, 2019

Expected to vest as of December 31, 2019

Number of Units
(000)

Weighted
Average Grant-
Date Fair Value

$
306
80
$
(113) $
(15) $
$
258

113.87
209.39
95.20
134.89
150.50

243

$

149.65

The total fair value of RSUs and PBRSUs vested was $23.8 million, $24.5 million, and $22.1 million during the years 

ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of nonvested RSUs and PBRSUs as of 
December 31, 2019, is equal to the fair value of IDEXX’s common stock as of December 31, 2019, multiplied by the number of 
nonvested units as of December 31, 2019.

Deferred Stock Units

Under our Director Plan, non-employee directors may defer a portion of their cash fees in the form of vested DSUs. 

Prior to 2014, certain members of our management could elect to defer a portion of their cash compensation in the form of 
vested deferred stock units under our Executive Plan. Each DSU represents the right to receive one unissued share of our 
common stock. These recipients receive a number of DSUs equal to the amount of cash fees or compensation deferred divided 
by the closing sale price of the common stock on the date of deferral. Also, under the Director Plan, non-employee directors are 
awarded annual grants of DSUs that vest fully on the first anniversary of the date of grant. Vesting for these annual DSU grants 
is conditional based on continuous service. DSUs are exchanged for a fixed number of shares of common stock, upon vesting if 
vesting criteria apply, subject to the limitations of the Director and Executive Plans and applicable law.

There were approximately 143,000 and 162,000 vested DSUs outstanding under our share-based compensation plans 

as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Unvested DSUs as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, were not material.

Employee Stock Purchase Rights

Employee stock purchase rights are issued under the 1997 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, under which we reserved 
and may issue up to an aggregate of 4.7 million shares of common stock in periodic offerings. Under this plan, stock is sold to 
employees at a 15% discount off the closing price of the stock on the last day of each quarter. The dollar value of this discount 
is equal to the fair value of purchase rights recognized as share-based compensation. We issued approximately 47,000, 52,000, 
and 61,000 shares of common stock in connection with the Employee Stock Purchase Plan during the years ended 
December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. As of December 31, 2019, there were approximately 1.1 million remaining 
shares available for issuance under the 1997 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

NOTE 6.      INVENTORIES 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the 
estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and 
transportation. We write down the carrying value of inventory for estimated obsolescence by an amount equal to the difference 
between the cost of inventory and the estimated market value when warranted based on assumptions of future demand, market 
conditions, remaining shelf life, or product functionality. If actual market conditions or results of estimated functionality are 
less favorable than those we estimated, additional inventory write-downs may be required, which would have a negative effect 
on results of operations.

Unpaid inventory reflected within accounts payable in our consolidated balance sheets was $39.5 million, $41.3 

million, and $37.2 million at December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

F-23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The components of inventories are as follows:

(in thousands)

Raw materials
Work-in-process
Finished goods
Inventories

NOTE 7.      LEASES 

December 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

$

$

41,202
20,077
133,740
195,019

$

$

31,973
17,009
124,321
173,303

The majority of our facilities are occupied under operating lease arrangements with various expiration dates through 
2067, some of which include options to extend the life of the lease, and some of which include options to terminate the lease 
within 1 year. In certain instances, we are responsible for the real estate taxes and operating expenses related to these 
facilities. Additionally, we enter into operating leases for certain vehicles and office equipment in the normal course of 
business. We determine the expected term of any executed agreements using the non-cancelable lease term plus any renewal 
options by which the failure to renew imposes a penalty in such amount that renewal is reasonably assured. The derived 
expected term is then used in the determination of a financing or operating lease and in the calculation of straight-line rent 
expense. Rent escalations are considered in the calculation of minimum lease payments in our capital lease tests and in 
determining straight-line rent expense for operating leases. Minimum lease payments include the fixed lease component of the 
agreement, as well as fixed rate increases that are initially measured at the lease commencement date. Variable lease payments 
based on an index, payments associated with non-lease components and short-term rentals (leases with terms less than 12 
months) are expensed as incurred. Consideration is allocated to the lease and non-lease components based on the estimated 
standalone prices.

We determine if an arrangement is a lease at its inception. Operating leases are included in operating lease right-of-use 

assets, accrued liabilities, and long-term operating lease liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. Our financing leases are 
not material to the financial statements.

Right-of-use assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our 
obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease liabilities and right-of-use assets are recognized at 
commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. As most of our leases do not provide an 
explicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in 
determining the present value of lease payments. Our lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it 
is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Rent expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis 
over the lease term. The operating lease right-of-use assets also includes any rent prepayments, lease incentives upon receipt, 
and straight-line rent expense impacts, which represent the differences between our operating lease liabilities and right-of-use 
assets.

F-24

 
 
 
Maturities of operating lease liabilities are as follows:

(in thousands, except lease term and discount rate)

2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter

Total lease payments

Less imputed interest

Total

Current operating lease liabilities, included in accrued liabilities
Long-term operating lease liabilities

Weighted average remaining lease term - operating leases

Weighted average discount rate - operating leases

December 31,
2019

$

$

$
$

18,016
17,424
13,968
9,358
6,657
33,602
99,025
(16,272)
82,753

15,281
67,472

10.3 years

3.5%

Total minimum future lease payments of approximately $4.0 million for leases that have not commenced as of 

December 31, 2019 are not included in the consolidated financial statements, as we do not yet control the underlying assets. 
These leases are expected to commence between 2020 and 2021 with lease terms of approximately 4 years to 11 years.

Rent expense charged to operations under operating leases, excluding variable and short-term leases were 
approximately $21.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2019. Total rent expense, including variable rent and short-
term leases, were approximately $23.8 million, $25.2 million, and $23.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, 
and 2017, respectively.

Supplemental cash flow information for leases is as follows:

(in thousands)

For the Year
Ended
December 31,
2019

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease obligations, net of early lease terminations

$
$

20,008
13,399

At December 31, 2018, under ASC 840, Leases, the minimum annual rental payments under our lease agreements 
were as follows: $19.4 million in 2019; $17.1 million in 2020; $14.5 million in 2021; $10.8 million in 2022; $8.5 million in 
2023; and $36.5 million thereafter.

F-25

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 8.      PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET 

Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. The costs of additions 

and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. When an item is sold or 
retired, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are relieved, and the resulting gain or loss, if any, is recognized in the 
consolidated statements of income. We evaluate our property and equipment for impairment periodically or as changes in 
circumstances or the occurrence of events suggest the remaining value is not recoverable from future cash flows. If the carrying 
value of our property and equipment is impaired, an impairment charge is recorded for the amount by which the carrying value 
of the property and equipment exceeds its fair value. We provide for depreciation and amortization primarily using the straight-
line method by charges to the consolidated statements of income in amounts that allocate the cost of property and equipment 
over their estimated useful lives as follows:

Asset Classification

Estimated Useful Life

Land improvements
Buildings and improvements

Leasehold improvements
Machinery and equipment
Office furniture and equipment
Computer hardware and software

15 to 20 years
10 to 40 years
Shorter of remaining lease term or useful life
of improvements
3 to 8 years
3 to 7 years
3 to 7 years

We capitalize interest on the acquisition and construction of significant assets that require a substantial period of time 
to be made ready for use. The capitalized interest is included in the cost of the completed asset and depreciated over the asset’s 
estimated useful life. The amount of interest capitalized during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was not material.

We capitalize certain costs incurred in connection with developing or obtaining software designated for internal use 

based on three distinct stages of development. Qualifying costs incurred during the application development stage, which 
consist primarily of internal payroll and direct fringe benefits and external direct project costs, including labor and travel, are 
capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset. Costs incurred during the 
preliminary project and post-implementation and operation phases are expensed as incurred. These costs relate primarily to the 
determination of performance requirements, data conversion and training. Software developed to deliver hosted services to our 
customers has been designated as internal use.

Property and equipment, net, consisted of the following:

(in thousands)

Land and improvements
Buildings and improvements
Leasehold improvements
Machinery and equipment
Office furniture and equipment
Computer hardware and software
Construction in progress

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
Total property and equipment, net

December 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

$

$

8,725
249,918
74,602
322,814
53,210
240,406
103,200
1,052,875
519,030
533,845

$

$

8,701
190,809
66,917
299,204
51,661
218,150
70,561
906,003
468,733
437,270

F-26

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Below are the amounts of depreciation and amortization of property and equipment, capitalized computer software for 

internal use, unpaid property and equipment reflected in accounts payable and accrued expenses, and rental and reagent rental 
program instruments transferred from inventory to property and equipment:

(in thousands)

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Depreciation and amortization expense
Capitalized computer software developed for internal use
Unpaid property and equipment, reflected in accounts payable and accrued
liabilities

Rental and operating-type reagent rental program instruments transferred from
inventory to property and equipment (Note 3)

$
$

$

$

78,495
20,130

24,688

14,498

$
$

$

$

74,208
17,115

17,894

20,360

$
$

$

$

73,797
16,131

11,744

16,313

NOTE 9.      OTHER CURRENT AND LONG-TERM ASSETS 

Other current assets consisted of the following:

(in thousands)

Customer acquisition costs
Prepaid expenses (Note 2)
Taxes receivable
Contract assets
Deferred sales commissions
Other
Other current assets

Other long-term assets consisted of the following:

(in thousands)

Customer acquisition costs
Contract assets
Taxes receivable
Investment in long-term product supply arrangements
Deferred sales commissions
Deferred income taxes
Other
Other long-term assets

December 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

$

$

$

$

39,329
31,992
20,516
17,659
5,202
10,284
124,982

December 31,
2019

98,117
66,226
14,960
13,657
10,442
8,100
28,690
240,192

$

$

$

$

34,515
30,314
14,098
9,670
4,464
15,159
108,220

December 31,
2018

89,862
31,269
19,219
10,894
9,470
8,481
20,398
189,593

NOTE 10.      GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET 

A significant portion of the purchase price for acquired businesses is generally assigned to intangible assets. Intangible 

assets other than goodwill are initially valued at fair value. If a quoted price in an active market for the identical asset is not 
readily available at the measurement date, the fair value of the intangible asset is estimated based on discounted cash flows 
using market participant assumptions, which are assumptions that are not specific to IDEXX. The selection of appropriate 
valuation methodologies and the estimation of discounted cash flows require significant assumptions about the timing and 
amounts of future cash flows, risks, appropriate discount rates, and the useful lives of intangible assets. When material, we 
utilize independent valuation experts to advise and assist us in determining the fair values of the identified intangible assets 
acquired in connection with a business acquisition and in determining appropriate amortization methods and periods for those 
intangible assets. Goodwill is initially valued based on the excess of the purchase price of a business combination over the fair 
value of acquired net assets recognized and represents the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired that could 
not be individually identified and separately recognized.

F-27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our business combinations regularly include contingent consideration arrangements that require additional 
consideration to be paid based on the achievement of established objectives, most commonly related to the retention or growth 
of the customer base during the post-combination period. We assess contingent consideration to determine if it is part of the 
business combination or if it should be accounted for separately from the business combination in the post-combination period. 
Contingent consideration is recognized at its fair value on the acquisition date. A liability resulting from contingent 
consideration is remeasured to fair value at each reporting date until the contingency is resolved, with changes in fair value 
recognized in earnings. Changes in fair value of contingent consideration and differences arising upon settlement were not 
material during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. See "Note 4. Acquisitions and Investments" for additional 
information regarding contingent consideration arising from recent business acquisitions.

We assess goodwill for impairment annually, at the reporting unit level, in the fourth quarter and whenever events or 

circumstances indicate impairment may exist. In evaluating goodwill for impairment, we have the option to first assess the 
qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying 
amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the goodwill impairment test. The more likely than not 
threshold is defined as having a likelihood of more than 50%. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we 
determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we would assess 
the fair value of all of our reporting units and compare the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value to determine if 
the carrying value exceeds its fair value, and if a goodwill impairment loss should be recognized. In contrast, we can opt to 
bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit in any period and proceed directly to assessing the fair value of all of 
our reporting units and compare the fair value of the reporting unit to carrying value to determine if any impairment is 
necessary. Doing so does not preclude us from performing the qualitative assessment in any subsequent period.

In the fourth quarter of 2019, we elected to bypass the qualitative approach that allows the assessment of qualitative 

factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount and 
instead proceeded directly to assessing the fair value of all of our reporting units and comparing the fair values of the reporting 
units to the carrying values to determine if any impairment is necessary. We estimate the fair values of applicable reporting 
units using an income approach based on discounted forecasted cash flows. We make significant assumptions about the extent 
and timing of future cash flows, growth rates and discount rates. Model assumptions are based on our projections and best 
estimates, using appropriate and customary market participant assumptions. In addition, we make certain assumptions in 
allocating shared assets and liabilities to individual reporting units in determining the carrying value of each reporting unit. 
Changes in forecasted cash flows or the discount rate would affect the estimated fair values of our reporting units and could 
result in a goodwill impairment loss in a future period.

No goodwill impairments were identified during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 or 2017.

We assess the realizability of intangible assets other than goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances 

indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If an impairment review is triggered, we evaluate the carrying value of 
intangible assets based on estimated undiscounted future cash flows over the remaining useful life of the primary asset of the 
asset group and compare that value to the carrying value of the asset group. The cash flows that are used contain our best 
estimates, using appropriate and customary assumptions and projections at the time. If the net carrying value of an intangible 
asset exceeds the related estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment loss to adjust the intangible asset to its fair 
value would be reported as a non-cash charge to earnings. If necessary, we would calculate the fair value of an intangible asset 
using the present value of the estimated future cash flows to be generated by the intangible asset, and applying a risk-adjusted 
discount rate. We had no impairments of our intangible assets during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017. 

We provide for amortization primarily using the straight-line method by charges to income in amounts that allocate the 

intangible assets over their estimated useful lives as follows:

Asset Classification

Estimated Useful Life

Customer-related intangible assets (1)
Product rights (2)
Noncompete agreements

3 to 17 years
5 to 15 years
3 to 5 years

(1)  Customer-related intangible assets are comprised of customer lists and customer relationships acquired from third parties.
(2)  Product rights comprise certain technologies, intellectual property, licenses, and trade names acquired from third parties.

F-28

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Intangible assets other than goodwill consisted of the following:

(in thousands)

Customer-related intangible assets (1)
Product rights (2)
Noncompete agreements

December 31, 2019
Accumulated
Amortization
46,801
$
10,214
118
57,133

$

$

$

Cost

$

99,301
16,130
170
$ 115,601

Net
52,500
5,916
52
58,468

Cost

$

77,015
27,060
856
$ 104,931

December 31, 2018
Accumulated
Amortization
43,352
$
19,153
601
63,106

$

$

$

Net
33,663
7,907
255
41,825

     The above table excludes fully amortized intangible assets for the periods presented.

(1)  Customer-related intangible assets are comprised of customer lists and customer relationships acquired from third parties.
(2)  Product rights comprise certain technologies, intellectual property, licenses, and trade names acquired from third parties.

Amortization expense of intangible assets other than goodwill was $9.4 million, $8.9 million, and $9.0 million for the 

years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.  

At December 31, 2019, the aggregate amortization expense associated with intangible assets is estimated to be as 

follows for each of the next five years and thereafter:

(in thousands)

2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter

Amortization
Expense

$

$

9,782
8,915
7,697
5,905
4,917
21,252
58,468

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, were as 

follows:

(in thousands)
Balance as of December 31, 2016

Business combinations
Impact of changes in foreign currency
exchange rates

Balance as of December 31, 2017

Business combinations
Impact of changes in foreign currency
exchange rates

Balance as of December 31, 2018

Business combinations
Impact of changes in foreign currency
exchange rates

Balance as of December 31, 2019

CAG

Water

LPD

Other

Consolidated
Total

$

$

$

$

146,194
13,541

6,501
166,236
20,282

(4,132)
182,386
24,826

138
207,350

$

$

$

$

10,890
—

1,061
11,951
—

(730)
11,221
—

390
11,611

$

$

$

$

14,613
—

542
15,155
—

(804)
14,351
—

(119)
14,232

$

$

$

$

6,531
—

—
6,531
—

—
6,531
—

—
6,531

$

$

$

$

178,228
13,541

8,104
199,873
20,282

(5,666)
214,489
24,826

409
239,724

See "Note 4. Acquisitions and Investments" for information regarding goodwill and other intangible assets recognized 

in connection with the acquisition of businesses and other assets during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017.

F-29

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 11.      ACCRUED LIABILITIES AND OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES 

Accrued liabilities consisted of the following:

(in thousands)

Accrued employee compensation and related expenses
Accrued expenses (Note 2)
Accrued customer incentives and refund obligations
Accrued taxes
Current lease liabilities (Notes 2 and 7)
Accrued liabilities

Other long-term liabilities consisted of the following:

(in thousands)

Accrued taxes
Other accrued long-term expenses (Note 2)
Other long-term liabilities

NOTE 12.      DEBT 

Credit Facility

December 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

127,174
86,296
63,079
31,108
15,281
322,938

$

$

109,488
65,212
59,374
26,609
—
260,683

December 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

67,463
13,701
81,164

$

$

66,767
18,059
84,826

$

$

$

$

In December 2015, we refinanced our existing $700 million unsecured revolving credit facility by entering into a 

second amended and restated credit agreement relating to a five-year unsecured revolving credit facility in the principal amount 
of $850 million with a syndicate of multinational banks, which matures on December 4, 2020, (“Credit Facility”) and requires 
no scheduled prepayments before that date. Although the Credit Facility does not mature until December 4, 2020, all individual 
borrowings under the terms of the Credit Facility have a stated term between 30 and 180 days. At the end of each term, the 
obligation is either repaid or rolled over into a new borrowing. The Credit Facility contains a subjective material adverse event 
clause, which allows the debt holders to call the loans under the Credit Facility if we fail to provide prompt written notice to the 
syndicate of such an event. Based on the stated term and the existence of the subjective material adverse event clause, this 
Credit Facility has been reflected in the current liabilities section of our consolidated balance sheets. At December 31, 2019, we 
had $288.8 million outstanding under our Credit Facility with a weighted average effective interest rate of 2.78%. At 
December 31, 2018, we had $398.9 million outstanding under our Credit Facility with a weighted average effective interest rate 
3.63%. The funds available under the Credit Facility at December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, reflect a further reduction 
due to the issuance of letters of credit for $1.4 million and $1.3 million, respectively, which were issued in connection with our 
workers’ compensation policy.

Applicable interest rates on borrowings under the Credit Facility generally range from 0.875% to 1.375% (“Credit 
Spread”) above the London interbank offered rate, based on our leverage ratio, or the prevailing prime rate plus a maximum 
spread of up to 0.375%, based on our leverage ratio. See "Note 18. Hedging Instruments" for a discussion of our derivative 
instruments and hedging activities. Under the Credit Facility, we pay quarterly commitment fees of 0.075% to 0.25%, based on 
our leverage ratio, on any unused commitment.

The obligations under the Credit Facility may be accelerated upon the occurrence of an event of default under the 
Credit Facility, which includes customary events of default including payment defaults, defaults in the performance of the 
affirmative, negative and financial covenants, the inaccuracy of representations or warranties, bankruptcy and insolvency 
related defaults, defaults relating to judgments, certain events related to employee pension benefit plans under the Employee 
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the failure to pay specified indebtedness, cross-acceleration to specified indebtedness 
and a change of control default. The Credit Facility contains affirmative, negative, and financial covenants customary for 
financings of this type. The negative covenants include restrictions on liens, indebtedness of subsidiaries of the Company, 
fundamental changes, investments, transactions with affiliates and certain restrictive agreements. The sole financial covenant is 
a consolidated leverage ratio test that requires our ratio of debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and 

F-30

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
share-based compensation defined as the consolidated leverage ratio under the terms of the Credit Facility, not to exceed 3.5-
to-1. At December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with the covenants of the Credit Facility.

Senior Notes

The following describes all of our currently outstanding unsecured senior notes issued and sold in private placements 

(collectively, the "Senior Notes"):

(Principal Amount in thousands)

Issue Date

Due Date

Series

Principal
Amount

Coupon
Rate

Senior Note Agreement

12/11/2013

12/11/2023

2023 Series A Notes

12/11/2013

12/11/2025

2025 Series B Notes

9/4/2014

7/21/2014

7/21/2014

6/18/2015

2/12/2015

2/12/2015

3/14/2019

9/4/2026

7/21/2021

7/21/2024

6/18/2025

2/12/2022

2/12/2027

3/14/2029

2026 Senior Notes

2021 Series A Notes

2024 Series B Notes

2025 Series C Notes

2022 Series A Notes

2027 Series B Notes

$

$

$

$

$

€

$

$

75,000

75,000

75,000

50,000

75,000

88,857

75,000

75,000

3.94% NY Life 2013 Note Agreement

4.04% NY Life 2013 Note Agreement

3.72% NY Life 2014 Note Agreement

3.32% Prudential 2015 Amended Agreement

3.76% Prudential 2015 Amended Agreement

1.785% Prudential 2015 Amended Agreement

3.25% MetLife 2014 Note Agreement, as Amended

3.72% MetLife 2014 Note Agreement, as Amended

2029 Series C Notes

$ 100,000

4.19% MetLife 2014 Note Agreement, as Amended

The following narrative represents our Senior Note activity:

NY Life 2013 and 2014 Note Agreements

In December 2013, we issued and sold through a private placement an aggregate principal amount of $150 million of 
unsecured senior notes consisting of $75 million of 3.94% Series A Senior Notes due December 11, 2023 (the “2023 Series A 
Notes”) and $75 million of 4.04% Series B Senior Notes due December 11, 2025 (the “2025 Series B Notes”) under a Note 
Purchase Agreement among the Company, New York Life Insurance Company and the accredited institutional purchasers 
named therein (the “NY Life 2013 Note Agreement”).

In September 2014, we issued and sold through a private placement an aggregate principal amount of $75 million of 
unsecured 3.72% senior notes due September 4, 2026 (the “2026 Senior Notes”) under a Note Purchase Agreement dated as of 
July 22, 2014, among the Company, New York Life Insurance Company and the accredited institutional purchasers named 
therein (the “NY Life 2014 Note Agreement”).

Prudential 2015 Amended Agreement

In July 2014, we issued and sold through a private placement an aggregate principal amount of $125 million of 
unsecured senior notes consisting of $50 million of 3.32% Series A Senior Notes due July 21, 2021 (the “2021 Series A Notes”) 
and $75 million of 3.76% Series B Senior Notes due July 21, 2024 (the “2024 Series B Notes”) under a Note Purchase and 
Private Shelf Agreement among the Company, Prudential Investment Management, Inc. (“Prudential”) and the accredited 
institutional purchasers named therein (the “Prudential 2014 Note Agreement”).

In June 2015, we entered into an Amended and Restated Multi-Currency Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement 

(the “Prudential 2015 Amended Agreement"), among the Company, Prudential, and the accredited institutional purchasers 
named therein, which amends and restates the Prudential 2014 Note Agreement. Pursuant to the Prudential 2015 Amended 
Agreement, we issued and sold through an aggregated private placement an aggregate principal amount of €88.9 million of 
unsecured 1.785% Series C Senior Notes due June 18, 2025 (the “2025 Series C Notes”).

MetLife 2014 Note Agreement and Amendment

We entered into a Multicurrency Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, dated as of December 19, 2014 (the 

"MetLife 2014 Note Agreement"), among the Company, Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MetLife”) and the accredited 
institutional purchasers named therein pursuant to which we agreed to issue and sell an aggregate principal amount of $150 
million of unsecured senior notes consisting of $75 million of our 3.25% Series A Senior Notes having a seven-year term (the 

F-31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
"2022 Series A Notes"), and $75 million of our 3.72% Series B Senior Notes having a twelve-year term ("2027 Series B 
Notes"). The issuance, sale and purchase of these notes occurred in February 2015.

On March 14, 2019, we amended the MetLife 2014 Note Agreement. Pursuant to the MetLife 2014 Note Agreement, 

as so amended, we issued and sold through a private placement an aggregate principal amount of $100 million of unsecured 
senior notes at a 4.19% per annum rate, due March 14, 2029 (the "2029 Series C Notes").

We refer to the MetLife 2014 Agreement, as so amended, together with the NY Life 2013 Note Agreement, NY Life 

2014 Note Agreement, and Prudential 2015 Amended Note Agreement, collectively, as the "Senior Note Agreements."

 Senior Note Agreements

The Senior Note Agreements contain affirmative, negative, and financial covenants customary for agreements of this 
type. The negative covenants include restrictions on liens, indebtedness of our subsidiaries, priority indebtedness, fundamental 
changes, investments, transactions with affiliates, certain restrictive agreements, and violations of laws and regulations. The 
sole financial covenant is a consolidated leverage ratio test that requires our ratio of debt to earnings before interest, taxes, 
depreciation, amortization, and share-based compensation, as defined in the Senior Note Agreements, not to exceed 3.5-to-1. At 
December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with the covenants of the Senior Note Agreements.

Should we elect to prepay the Senior Notes, such aggregate prepayment will include the applicable make-whole 

amount(s), as defined within the applicable Senior Note Agreements. Additionally, in the event of a change in control of the 
Company or upon the disposition of certain assets of the Company the proceeds of which are not reinvested (as defined in the 
Senior Note Agreements), we may be required to prepay all or a portion of the Senior Notes. The obligations under the Senior 
Notes may be accelerated upon the occurrence of an event of default under the applicable Senior Note Agreement, each of 
which includes customary events of default including payment defaults, defaults in the performance of the affirmative, negative 
and financial covenants, the inaccuracy of representations or warranties, bankruptcy and insolvency related defaults, defaults 
relating to judgments, certain events related to employee pension benefit plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security 
Act of 1974, the failure to pay specified indebtedness and cross-acceleration to specified indebtedness.

The MetLife 2014 Note Agreement, as amended on March 14, 2019, provides for an uncommitted shelf facility by 

which we may request until December 20, 2021, that MetLife purchase up to $50 million of additional senior notes of the 
Company at an interest rate to be determined at the time of purchase and with a maturity date not to exceed fifteen years. 

We used the net proceeds from the issuances and sale of the Senior Notes for general corporate purposes. Total 
Company interest paid on all debt for the periods ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, was $29.7 million, $34.7 million, 
and $37.6 million, respectively.

Annual principal payments on long-term debt at December 31, 2019, are as follows:

(in thousands)
Years Ending December 31,

2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter

NOTE 13.      INCOME TAXES 

Amount

—
50,000
75,000
75,000
75,000
424,422
699,422

$

$

The provision for income taxes is determined using the asset and liability approach of accounting for income taxes. 
Under this approach, deferred taxes represent the estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between book and tax 
treatment of assets and liabilities and carryforwards to the extent they are realizable. We record a valuation allowance to reduce 
our deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. While we consider future taxable income and 
ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance, in the event we determine 
that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of the net recorded amount, a reduction of the 

F-32

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
valuation allowance would increase income in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should we determine that we 
would not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax asset in the future, a reduction to the deferred tax asset would be 
charged to income in the period such determination was made.

We record a liability for uncertain tax positions that do not meet the more likely than not standard as prescribed by the 

authoritative guidance for income tax accounting. We record tax benefits for only those positions that we believe will more 
likely than not be sustained. Unrecognized tax benefits are the differences between tax positions taken, or expected to be taken, 
in tax returns, and the benefits recognized for accounting purposes. We classify uncertain tax positions as long-term liabilities.

Significant judgment is required in determining our worldwide provision for income taxes and our income tax filings 

are regularly under audit by tax authorities. Any audit result differing from amounts recorded would increase or decrease 
income in the period that we determine such adjustment is likely. Interest expense and penalties associated with the 
underpayment of income taxes are included in income tax expense.

The 2017 Tax Act was enacted on December 22, 2017, and includes significant changes to the U.S. corporate tax 

system. Effective January 1, 2018, the 2017 Tax Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, transitioned 
the U.S. federal tax system from a worldwide tax system to a territorial tax system, and eliminated or reduced certain domestic 
deductions among other changes. In converting to the new territorial tax system, a deemed repatriation tax on previously tax-
deferred earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries was required to be recognized as of December 31, 2017, and is payable over 
eight years.

Earnings before income taxes were as follows:?

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

377,964
144,254
522,218

$

$

337,437
120,305
457,742

$

$

268,714
112,343
381,057

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

52,194
11,967
24,239
88,400

4,826
269
931
6,026
94,426

$

$

47,130
10,415
22,015
79,560

3,970
(937)
(1,898)
1,135
80,695

$

$

92,453
9,258
23,993
125,704

(1,201)
(4,102)
(2,613)
(7,916)
117,788

(in thousands)

Domestic
International

The provision (benefit) for income taxes comprised the following:

(in thousands)

Current

Federal
State
International

Deferred

Federal
State
International

$

$

$

$

F-33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The provision for income taxes differs from the amounts computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate as 

follows:?

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

U.S. federal statutory rate
State income tax, net of federal tax benefit
Taxation on international earnings
Foreign derived intangible income
Share-based compensation from settlements
Domestic manufacturing exclusions
Research and development credit
Impact of the 2017 Tax Act
State income tax carryforwards
Other, net
Effective tax rate

21.0%
2.3
(1.1)
(1.1)
(3.6)
—
(0.8)
—
—
1.4
18.1%

21.0%
2.6
(0.8)
(1.3)
(4.7)
—
(0.9)
0.5
(0.2)
1.4
17.6%

35.0%
1.9
(5.5)
—
(7.3)
(1.1)
(0.9)
9.4
(1.4)
0.8
30.9%

Our effective income tax rate was 18.1% for the year ended December 31, 2019, and 17.6% for the year ended 
December 31, 2018. Our effective income tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2019 was higher primarily due to lower tax 
benefits related to share-based compensation, partially offset by a nonrecurring item recorded in the first quarter of 2018, that 
resulted from the 2017 Tax Cut and Jobs Act.

Our effective income tax rate was 17.6% for the year ended December 31, 2018, and 30.9% for the year ended 

December 31, 2017. Our effective income tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2018, was lower primarily related to the 
reduction in the 2018 U.S. statutory tax rate to 21% from 35%, as well as the comparison to a nonrecurring charge resulting 
from the 2017 Tax Act for the year ended December 31, 2017.  These favorable impacts were offset by lower tax benefits 
related to share-based compensation and the prior year utilization of foreign tax credits. 

Income taxes paid, net of refunds received, for the periods ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 were $88.0 

million, $69.7 million, and $81.2 million, respectively.

We have received a tax ruling from the Netherlands that documents our mutual understanding of how existing tax laws 

apply to our circumstances.  This ruling expires as of December 31, 2022, and we have been informed that it will not be 
renewed due to changes to the advance ruling policy in the Netherlands. While the absence of an advance agreement does not 
preclude our ability to continue to apply existing tax laws in the same manner as allowed by the existing ruling, the lack of such 
agreement could create uncertainty as to our future tax rate. Primarily as a result of this tax ruling, our net income was higher 
by $13.7 million, $9.2 million, and $8.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively. The 
benefit from these tax rulings is reflected within the overall benefit received from international income taxes in the table above.

F-34

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The components of the net deferred tax assets (liabilities) included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets 

are as follows:

(in thousands)

Assets

Accrued expenses
Accounts receivable reserves
Deferred revenue
Inventory basis differences
Property-based differences
Share-based compensation
Other
Net operating loss carryforwards
Tax credit carryforwards
Unrealized losses on foreign currency exchange contracts and investments

Total assets
Valuation allowance

Total assets, net of valuation allowance

Liabilities

Customer acquisition costs
Property-based differences
Intangible asset basis differences
Other
Unrealized gains on foreign currency exchange contracts and investments

Total liabilities

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)

December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018

$

$

$

25,296
617
6,073
3,315
3,113
10,593
1,160
4,045
12,276
20
66,508
(9,454)
57,054

(28,519)
(33,802)
(14,513)
(3,961)
(1,183)
(81,978)
(24,924) $

22,652
776
7,637
2,787
1,652
9,267
2,314
3,208
10,226
404
60,923
(6,212)
54,711

(24,323)
(32,494)
(13,454)
(3,319)
(1,907)
(75,497)
(20,786)

As of December 31, 2019, we have recorded a valuation allowance of $9.5 million against certain deferred tax assets 

related to temporary differences including net operating loss (“NOL”) and tax credit carryforwards, as it is more likely than not 
that they will not be realized or utilized within the carryforward period.

As of December 31, 2019, we have NOL’s in certain state and international jurisdictions of approximately $17.0 

million available to offset future taxable income. Most of these NOL’s will expire at various dates between 2021 and 2026 and 
the remainder have indefinite lives.

The following table summarizes the changes in unrecognized tax positions:

(in thousands)

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of period

$

24,247

$

21,417

$

18,463

Gross (decreases) increases in unrecognized tax positions as a result of tax
positions taken during a prior period

Gross increases in unrecognized tax positions as a result of tax positions taken
in the current period

Decreases in unrecognized tax positions relating to settlements with taxing
authorities

Decreases in unrecognized tax positions as a result of a lapse of the applicable
statutes of limitations

Total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits, end of period

(276)

2,991

4,083

—

461

—

(1,213)
26,841

$

(622)
24,247

$

$

74

4,681

(713)

(1,088)
21,417

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, was $26.8 million and 

$24.2 million, respectively. Of the total unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2019 and 2018, $21.2 million and $18.3 
million, respectively, comprise unrecognized tax positions that would, if recognized, affect our effective tax rate.

F-35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
During the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, we recorded interest expense and penalties of $1.8 
million, $1.2 million, and $0.9 million, respectively, as income tax expense in our consolidated statement of income. At 
December 31, 2019 and 2018, we had $3.6 million and $2.1 million, respectively, of estimated interest expense and penalties 
accrued in our consolidated balance sheets.

In the ordinary course of our business, our income tax filings are regularly under audit by tax authorities. While we 

believe we have appropriately provided for all uncertain tax positions, amounts asserted by taxing authorities could be greater 
or less than our accrued position. Accordingly, additional provisions on income tax matters, or reductions of previously accrued 
provisions, could be recorded in the future as we revise our estimates due to changing facts and circumstances or the underlying 
matters are settled or otherwise resolved. We are currently under tax examinations in various jurisdictions. We anticipate that 
these examinations will be concluded within the next two years. With few exceptions, we are no longer subject to income tax 
examinations in any jurisdiction in which we conduct significant taxable activities for years before 2014.

NOTE 14.      EARNINGS PER SHARE 

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to our stockholders by the weighted average 

number of shares of common stock and vested deferred stock units outstanding during the year. The computation of diluted 
earnings per share is similar to the computation of basic earnings per share, except that the denominator is increased for the 
assumed exercise of dilutive options and assumed issuance of unvested restricted stock units and unvested deferred stock units 
using the treasury stock method unless the effect is anti-dilutive. The treasury stock method assumes that proceeds, including 
cash received from the exercise of employee stock options and the total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested 
share-based compensation awards, would be used to purchase our common stock at the average market price during the 
period. Vested deferred stock units outstanding are included in shares outstanding for basic and diluted earnings per share 
because the associated shares of our common stock are issuable for no cash consideration, the number of shares of our common 
stock to be issued is fixed and issuance is not contingent. See "Note 5. Share-Based Compensation" for additional information 
regarding deferred stock units.

The following is a reconciliation of weighted average shares outstanding for basic and diluted earnings per share:

(in thousands)

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Shares outstanding for basic earnings per share:

86,115

86,864

87,769

Shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share:
Shares outstanding for basic earnings per share
Dilutive effect of share-based payment awards

86,115
1,427
87,542

86,864
1,606
88,470

87,769
1,798
89,567

Certain options to acquire shares have been excluded from the calculation of shares outstanding for diluted earnings 

per share because they were anti-dilutive. The following table presents information concerning those anti-dilutive options:

(in thousands)

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Weighted average number of shares underlying anti-dilutive options

200

287

327

NOTE 15.      COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES 

Commitments

See "Note 7. Leases", for more information regarding our lease commitments.

We are required to annually purchase a minimum amount of inventory from certain suppliers. Through 2025, we have 

a total of $5.3 million in minimum purchase commitments under these arrangements.

F-36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contingencies

We are subject to claims that may arise in the ordinary course of business, including with respect to actual and 

threatened litigation and other matters. We accrue for loss contingencies when it is probable that future expenditures will be 
made, and such expenditures can be reasonably estimated. However, the results of legal actions cannot be predicted with 
certainty, and therefore our actual losses with respect to these contingencies could exceed our accruals. At December 31, 2019, 
our accruals with respect to actual and threatened litigation were not material. 

We self-insure costs associated with health, workers’ compensation, auto, and general welfare claims incurred by our 
U.S. and Canadian employees up to certain limits. Insurance companies provide insurance for claims above these limits. Claim 
liabilities are recorded for estimates of the loss that we will ultimately incur on reported claims, as well as estimates of claims 
that have been incurred but not yet reported. Such liabilities are based on individual coverage, the average time from when a 
claim is incurred to the time it is paid and judgments about the present and expected levels of claim frequency and severity. 
Estimated claim liabilities could be significantly affected if future occurrences and claims differ from these assumptions and 
historical trends. Estimated claim liabilities are included in accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Under our current employee healthcare insurance policy for U.S. employees, we retain claims liability risk per incident 

up to $1 million per year in 2019, 2018, and 2017. We recognized U.S. employee healthcare claim expense of $59.3 million, 
$52.7 million, and $47.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, which represents actual 
claims paid and an estimate of our liability for the uninsured portion of employee healthcare obligations that have been incurred 
but not paid. Should employee health insurance claims exceed our estimated liability, we would have further obligations. Our 
estimated liability for healthcare claims that have been incurred but not paid as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, was 
approximately $5.0 million.

Workers’ compensation and automobile claim expenses recognized during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 
and 2017 and our respective liability for such claims as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 were not material. For the years 
ended on or prior to December 31, 2017, based on our retained claim liability per incident and our aggregate claim liability per 
year, our maximum liability in excess of the amounts deemed probable and previously recognized is not material as of 
December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2019, we had outstanding letters of credit totaling $1.4 million to the insurance 
companies as security for the claims in connection with these policies.

We have entered into an employment agreement with our chief executive officer whereby payment may be required if 

we terminate his employment without cause other than following a change in control. The amount payable is based upon the 
executive’s salary at the time of termination and the cost to us of continuing to provide certain benefits. Had this officer been 
terminated without cause at December 31, 2019, other than following a change in control, we would have had an obligation for 
salaries and benefits of approximately $1.8 million under such agreement. In addition, the agreement provides for continued 
vesting of his outstanding equity awards for a period of two years, which would accelerate approximately $3.8 million of share-
based compensation expense as of December 31, 2019.

We have entered into employment agreements with each of our officers that require us to make certain payments in the 
event the officer’s employment is terminated under certain circumstances within a certain period following a change in control. 
The amount payable by us under each of these agreements is based on the officer’s salary and bonus history at the time of 
termination and the cost to us of continuing to provide certain benefits. Had all of our officers been terminated in qualifying 
terminations following a change in control at December 31, 2019, we would have had aggregate obligations of approximately 
$30.7 million under these agreements. These agreements also provide for the acceleration of the vesting of all stock options and 
restricted stock units upon any qualifying termination following a change in control. At this time, we believe the likelihood of 
terminations as a result of the scenarios described is remote, and therefore, we have not accrued for such loss contingencies.

From time to time, we have received notices alleging that our products infringe third-party proprietary rights, although 

we are not aware of any pending litigation with respect to such claims. Patent litigation frequently is complex and expensive, 
and the outcome of patent litigation can be difficult to predict. There can be no assurance that we will prevail in any 
infringement proceedings that may be commenced against us. If we lose any such litigation, we may be stopped from selling 
certain products and/or we may be required to pay damages as a result of the litigation.

F-37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Guarantees

We enter into agreements with third parties in the ordinary course of business under which we are obligated to 
indemnify such third parties for and against various risks and losses. The precise terms of such indemnities vary with the nature 
of the agreement. In many cases, we limit the maximum amount of our indemnification obligations, but in some cases those 
obligations may be theoretically unlimited. We have not incurred material expenses in discharging any of these indemnification 
obligations, and based on our analysis of the nature of the risks involved, we believe that the fair value of potential 
indemnification under these agreements is minimal. Accordingly, we have recorded no liabilities for these obligations at 
December 31, 2019 and 2018.

When acquiring a business, we sometimes assume liability for certain events or occurrences that took place prior to the 

date of acquisition. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, we do not have any material pre-acquisition liabilities recorded.

NOTE 16.      SEGMENT REPORTING 

We operate primarily through three business segments: diagnostic and information technology-based products and 
services for the veterinary market, which we refer to as CAG; water quality products (“Water”); and diagnostic products and 
services for livestock and poultry health and to ensure the quality and safety of milk and improve producer efficiency, which we 
refer to as LPD. Our Other operating segment combines and presents products for the human point-of-care medical diagnostics 
market with our out-licensing arrangements because they do not meet the quantitative or qualitative thresholds for reportable 
segments. 

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available 
that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision-maker (the "CODM"), or decision-making group, in deciding how to 
allocate resources and in assessing performance. Our CODM is our Chief Executive Officer. Our reportable segments include: 
CAG, Water, LPD, and Other. Assets are not allocated to segments for internal reporting purposes.

CAG develops, designs, manufactures, and distributes products and performs services for veterinarians and the 

biomedical analytics market, primarily related to diagnostics and information management. Water develops, designs, 
manufactures, and distributes a range of products used in the detection of various microbiological parameters in water. LPD 
develops, designs, manufactures, and distributes diagnostic tests and related instrumentation and performs services that are used 
to manage the health status of livestock and poultry, to improve producer efficiency, and to ensure the quality and safety of milk 
and food. OPTI Medical manufactures and distributes point-of-care electrolyte and blood gas analyzers and related consumable 
products for the human medical diagnostics market.

Intersegment revenues, which are not included in the table below, were not material for the years ended December 31, 

2019, 2018 and 2017.

Certain costs are not allocated to our operating segments and are instead reported under the caption “Unallocated 

Amounts”. These costs include costs that do not align with one of our existing operating segments which primarily consist of 
our R&D function, regional and country expenses, certain foreign currency revaluation and settlement gains and losses on 
monetary balances in currencies other than our subsidiaries’ functional currency and unusual items. Corporate support function 
costs (such as information technology, facilities, human resources, finance and legal), health benefits and incentive 
compensation are charged to our business segments at pre-determined budgeted amounts or rates. Differences from these pre-
determined budgeted amounts or rates are also captured within Unallocated Amounts.

F-38

 
 
 
 
 
 
The following is a summary of segment performance:

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

(in thousands)

2019
Revenue

Income (loss) from operations
Interest expense, net
Income before provision for
income taxes
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Less: Net income attributable to
noncontrolling interest

Net income attributable to
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
stockholders

Depreciation and amortization

2018
Revenue

Income (loss) from operations
Interest expense, net
Income before provision for
income taxes
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Less: Net income attributable to
noncontrolling interest

Net income attributable to
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
stockholders

Depreciation and amortization

2017
Revenue

Income (loss) from operations
Interest expense, net
Income before provision for
income taxes
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Less: Net income attributable to
noncontrolling interest

Net income attributable to
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
stockholders

CAG

Water

LPD

Other

Unallocated
Amounts

Consolidated
Total

For the Years Ended December 31,

2,119,183

491,602

$

$

132,850

62,435

$

$

132,635

25,374

$

$

22,240

4,940

$

$

— $

2,406,908

(31,505) $

552,846
(30,628)

522,218
94,426
427,792

72

$

427,720

77,620

$

2,794

$

4,007

$

3,590

$

— $

88,011

1,935,428

429,483

$

$

125,198

56,607

$

$

130,581

19,412

$

$

22,035

3,729

$

$

— $

2,213,242

(17,896) $

491,335
(33,593)

457,742
80,695
377,047

16

$

377,031

72,789

$

2,592

$

4,094

$

3,703

$

— $

83,178

1,703,377

363,557

$

$

114,395

50,616

$

$

128,481

16,464

$

$

22,805

4,837

$

$

— $

1,969,058

(22,446) $

413,028
(31,971)

381,057
117,788
263,269

125

$

263,144

Depreciation and amortization

$

71,835

$

2,856

$

5,052

$

3,397

$

— $

83,140

See "Note 3. Revenue Recognition" for a summary of disaggregated revenue by reportable segment and by major 

product and service category for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. 

F-39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net long-lived assets, consisting of net property and equipment, are subject to geographic risks because they are 
generally difficult to move and to effectively utilize in another geographic area in a reasonable time period and because they are 
relatively illiquid. Net long-lived assets by principal geographic areas were as follows:

(in thousands)

Americas

United States
Brazil
Canada

Europe, the Middle East and Africa

Germany
United Kingdom
Netherlands
France
Switzerland
Other

Asia Pacific Region

Japan
Australia
Other

Total

December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018

$

$

$

401,248
22,274
7,784
431,306

52,032
12,114
13,586
2,061
3,508
3,395
86,696

5,409
4,088
6,346
15,843
533,845

$

348,240
16,735
1,859
366,834

25,036
11,517
10,273
2,130
2,742
3,763
55,461

5,296
4,257
5,422
14,975
437,270

NOTE 17.      FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS 

U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an 

orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. U.S. GAAP requires an entity to maximize the use of 
observable inputs, where available, and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.

We have certain financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, certain nonfinancial 

assets and liabilities that may be measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis and certain financial assets and liabilities that 
are not measured at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets but for which we disclose the fair value. The fair value 
disclosures of these assets and liabilities are based on a three-level hierarchy, which is defined as follows:

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can access at the
measurement date.
Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities;
quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be
corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the
fair value of the assets or liabilities.

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is 

significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement 
in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. We did not have any transfers between 
Level 1 and Level 2 or transfers in or out of Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 
2018.

Our cross currency swap contracts are measured at fair value on a recurring basis in our accompanying consolidated 

balance sheets. We measure the fair value of our cross currency swap contracts classified as derivative instruments using 
prevailing market conditions as of the close of business on each balance sheet date. The product of this calculation is then 
adjusted for counterparty risk.

Our foreign currency exchange contracts are measured at fair value on a recurring basis in our accompanying 

consolidated balance sheets. We measure the fair value of our foreign currency exchange contracts classified as derivative 

F-40

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
instruments using an income approach, based on prevailing market forward rates less the contract rate multiplied by the 
notional amount. The product of this calculation is then adjusted for counterparty risk. 

The amounts outstanding under our unsecured revolving credit facility ("Credit Facility" or “line of credit”) and senior 

notes (“long-term debt”) are measured at carrying value in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets though we disclose 
the fair value of these financial instruments. We determine the fair value of the amount outstanding under our Credit Facility 
and long-term debt using an income approach, utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis based on current market interest rates 
for debt issues with similar remaining years to maturity, adjusted for applicable credit risk. Our Credit Facility and long-term 
debt are valued using Level 2 inputs. The estimated fair value of our Credit Facility approximates its carrying value. At 
December 31, 2019, the estimated fair value and carrying value of our long-term debt were $753.6 million and $699.4 million, 
respectively. At December 31, 2018, the estimated fair value and carrying value of our long-term debt were $607.3 million and 
$601.8 million, respectively.

The following tables set forth our assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level 

within the fair value hierarchy:

(in thousands)

As of December 31, 2019

Assets
Money market funds (1)
Equity mutual funds (2)
Cross currency swaps (3)
Foreign currency exchange contracts (3)
Liabilities
Foreign currency exchange contracts (3)
Deferred compensation (4)

(in thousands)

As of December 31, 2018

Assets
Money market funds (1)
Equity mutual funds (2)
Cross currency swaps (3)
Foreign currency exchange contracts (3)
Liabilities
Foreign currency exchange contracts (3)
Deferred compensation (4)

Quoted Prices 
in Active 
Markets for 
Identical 
Assets 
(Level 1)

Significant 
Other 
Observable 
Inputs 
(Level 2)

Significant 
Unobservable 
Inputs 
(Level 3)

Balance at
December 31,
2019

$

$

$

$

$

$

71

1,676

$

$

— $

— $

— $

1,676

$

— $

— $

4,559

1,791

2,886

$

$

$

— $

— $

— $

— $

— $

— $

— $

71

1,676

4,559

1,791

2,886

1,676

Quoted Prices 
in Active 
Markets for 
Identical 
Assets 
(Level 1)

Significant 
Other 
Observable 
Inputs 
(Level 2)

Significant 
Unobservable 
Inputs 
(Level 3)

Balance at
December 31,
2018

$

$

$

$

$

$

250

1,673

$

$

— $

— $

— $

1,673

$

— $

— $

1,789

8,163

603

$

$

$

— $

— $

— $

— $

— $

— $

— $

250

1,673

1,789

8,163

603

1,673

(1)  Money market funds with an original maturity of less than ninety days are included within cash and cash equivalents. The remaining balance of cash 

and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, consisted of demand deposits.

(2)  Equity mutual funds relate to a deferred compensation plan that was assumed as part of a previous business combination. This amount is included 

within other long-term assets. See footnote (4) below for a discussion of the related deferred compensation liability.

(3)  Cross currency swaps and foreign currency exchange contracts are included within other current assets; other long-term assets; accrued liabilities; or 

other long-term liabilities depending on the gain (loss) position and anticipated settlement date.

(4)  A deferred compensation plan assumed as part of a previous business combination is included within accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities. 
The fair value of our deferred compensation plan is indexed to the performance of the underlying equity mutual funds discussed in footnote (2) above.

The estimated fair values of certain financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and 

accounts payable, approximate carrying value due to their short maturity. 

F-41

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 18.      HEDGING INSTRUMENTS 

Disclosure within this note is presented to provide transparency about how and why we use derivative and non-

derivative instruments (collectively “hedging instruments”), how the instruments and related hedged items are accounted for, 
and how the instruments and related hedged items affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

We are exposed to certain risks related to our ongoing business operations. The primary risk that we currently manage 

by using hedging instruments is foreign currency exchange risk. We may also enter into interest rate swaps to minimize the 
impact of interest rate fluctuations associated with borrowings under our variable-rate Credit Facility.

Our subsidiaries enter into foreign currency exchange contracts to manage the exchange risk associated with their 

forecasted intercompany inventory purchases and sales for the next year. From time to time, we may also enter into other 
foreign currency exchange contracts, cross currency swaps or foreign-denominated debt issuances to minimize the impact of 
foreign currency fluctuations associated with specific balance sheet exposures, including net investments in certain foreign 
subsidiaries. 

The primary purpose of our foreign currency hedging activities is to protect against the volatility associated with 

foreign currency transactions, including transactions denominated in euro, British pound, Japanese yen, Canadian dollar, and 
Australian dollar. We also utilize natural hedges to mitigate our transaction and commitment exposures. Our corporate policy 
prescribes the range of allowable hedging activity. We enter into foreign currency exchange contracts with well-capitalized 
multinational financial institutions, and we do not hold or engage in transactions involving hedging instruments for purposes 
other than risk management. Our accounting policies for these contracts are based on our designation of such instruments as 
hedging transactions. 

We recognize all hedging instruments on the balance sheet at fair value at the balance sheet date. Instruments that do 

not qualify for hedge accounting treatment must be recorded at fair value through earnings. To qualify for hedge accounting 
treatment, cash flow and net investment hedges must be highly effective in offsetting changes to expected future cash flows or 
fair value on hedged transactions. If the instrument qualifies for hedge accounting, changes in the fair value of the hedging 
instrument from the effective portion of the hedge are deferred in AOCI, net of tax, and reclassified into earnings in the same 
period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. We immediately record in earnings the extent to which a 
hedging instrument is not effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value. We de-designate hedging instruments from 
hedge accounting when the likelihood of the hedged transaction occurring becomes less than probable. For de-designated 
instruments, the gain or loss from the time of de-designation through maturity of the instrument is recognized in earnings. Any 
gain or loss in AOCI at the time of de-designation is reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the 
hedged transaction affects earnings. See “Note 20. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income” for further information 
regarding the effect of hedging instruments on the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2019, 
2018 and 2017.

We enter into master netting arrangements with the counterparties to our derivative transactions which permit certain 
outstanding receivables and payables to be offset in the event of default. Our derivative contracts do not require either party to 
post cash collateral. We elect to present our derivative assets and liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets on 
a gross basis. All cash flows related to our foreign currency exchange contracts are classified as operating cash flows, which is 
consistent with the cash flow treatment of the underlying items being hedged. 

See "Note 17. Fair Value Measurements" for additional information regarding the fair value of our derivative 

instruments and "Note 20. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income" for additional information regarding the effect of 
derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges on the consolidated statements of income. 

Cash Flow Hedges

We have designated our foreign currency exchange contracts as cash flow hedges as these derivative instruments 
mitigate the exposure to variability in the cash flows of forecasted transactions attributable to foreign currency exchange. 
Unless noted otherwise, we have also designated our derivative instruments as qualifying for hedge accounting treatment.

We did not de-designate any instruments from hedge accounting treatment during the years ended December 31, 2019, 

2018 and 2017. Gains and losses related to hedge ineffectiveness recognized in earnings during the years ended December 31, 
2019, 2018 and 2017 were not material. At December 31, 2019, the estimated amount of net losses, net of tax, which are 

F-42

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
expected to be reclassified out of AOCI and into earnings within the next twelve months is $0.7 million if exchange rates do not 
fluctuate from the levels at December 31, 2019.

We hedge approximately 85% of the estimated exposure from intercompany product purchases and sales denominated 

in the euro, British pound, Canadian dollar, Japanese yen, Australian dollar, and, in prior years, the Swiss franc. We have 
additional unhedged foreign currency exposures related to foreign services and emerging markets where it is not practical to 
hedge. We primarily utilize foreign currency exchange contracts with durations of less than 24 months. Quarterly, we enter into 
contracts to hedge incremental portions of anticipated foreign currency transactions for the current and following year. As a 
result, our risk with respect to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and the notional value of foreign currency exchange 
contracts may vary throughout the year. The U.S. dollar is the currency purchased or sold in all of our foreign currency 
exchange contracts. The notional amount of foreign currency exchange contracts to hedge forecasted intercompany inventory 
purchases and sales totaled $210.9 million, and $190.9 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

The following table presents the effect of cash flow hedge accounting on our consolidated statements of income and 
comprehensive income, and provides information regarding the location and amounts of pretax gains or losses of derivatives: 

(in thousands)

Years Ended December 31,
2018

2017

2019

Financial statement line items in which effects of cash
flow hedges are recorded

Cost of revenue

Foreign exchange contracts

Amount of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated
other comprehensive income into income

$

$

1,041,359

$

971,700

$

871,676

10,628

$

(976) $

27

Net Investment Hedges, Euro-Denominated Notes

In June 2015, we issued and sold through a private placement an aggregate principal amount of €88.9 million in euro-

denominated 1.785% Series C Senior Notes due June 18, 2025. We have designated these euro-denominated notes as a hedge of 
our euro net investment in certain foreign subsidiaries to reduce the volatility in stockholders’ equity caused by changes in 
foreign currency exchange rates in the euro relative to the U.S. dollar. As a result of this designation, gains and losses from the 
change in translated U.S. dollar value of these euro-denominated notes are recorded in AOCI rather than to earnings. We 
recorded gains of $1.8 million and $3.9 million, and a loss of $8.3 million, net of tax, within AOCI as a result of this net 
investment hedge for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively. The related cumulative unrealized gain 
recorded at December 31, 2019, will not be reclassified in earnings until the complete or substantially complete liquidation of 
the net investment in the hedged foreign operations or all or a portion of the hedge no longer qualifies for hedge accounting 
treatment. See "Note 12. Debt" to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for 
further information regarding the issuance of these euro-denominated notes. 

Net Investment Hedges, Cross Currency Swaps

During May 2018, January 2019, March 2019, and November 2019, we entered into cross currency swap contracts as 
a hedge of our net investment in foreign operations to offset foreign currency translation gains and losses on the net investment. 
The cross currency swaps have a maturity date of June 30, 2023. At maturity of the cross currency swap contracts, we will 
deliver the notional amount of €90.0 million and will receive approximately $104.5 million from the counterparties. The change 
in fair value of the cross currency swap contracts are recorded in AOCI and will be reclassified to earnings when the foreign 
subsidiaries are sold or substantially liquidated. During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, we recorded gains 
of $2.1 million and $1.4 million, net of tax, within AOCI as a result of these net investment hedges, respectively. We will 
receive quarterly interest payments from the counterparties based on a fixed interest rate until maturity of the cross currency 
swaps. This interest rate component is excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness and, thus is recognized as a 
reduction to interest expense over the life of the hedge instrument. We recognized approximately $2.4 million and $1.0 million 
related to the excluded component as a reduction of interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, 
respectively. 

F-43

 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Values of Hedging Instruments Designated as Hedges in Consolidated Balance Sheets

The fair values of hedging instruments, and their respective classification on the consolidated balance sheets, and 

amounts subject to offset under master netting arrangements consisted of the following derivative instruments, unless otherwise 
noted:

(in thousands)

Hedging Assets

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Derivatives and non-derivatives designated as hedging
instruments
Foreign currency exchange contracts

Cross currency swaps

Total derivative instruments presented as hedge instruments on the
balance sheet

Gross amounts subject to master netting arrangements not offset on
the balance sheet
Net amount

?

(in thousands)

Balance Sheet
Classification

Other current assets
Other long-term
assets

$

$

1,791

$

4,559

6,350

(1,354)
4,996

$

8,163

1,789

9,952

(603)
9,349

Hedging Liabilities

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Derivatives and non-derivatives designated as hedging
instruments
Foreign currency exchange contracts
Total derivative instruments presented as cash flow hedges on the
balance sheet

Non-derivative foreign currency denominated debt designated as 
net investment hedge on the balance sheet (1)
Total hedging instruments presented on the balance sheet

Gross amounts subject to master netting arrangements not offset on
the balance sheet
Net amount

Balance Sheet
Classification

Accrued liabilities

$

2,886

$

Long-term debt

2,886

99,422

102,308

$

(1,354)
100,954

$

603

603

101,777

102,380

(603)
101,777

(1)  Amounts represent reported carrying amounts of our foreign currency denominated debt. See "Note 17. Fair Value Measurements" for information 

regarding the fair value of our long-term debt.

NOTE 19.      REPURCHASES OF COMMON STOCK 

As of December 31, 2019, our Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to 68.0 million shares of our 

common stock in the open market or in negotiated transactions pursuant to the Company’s share repurchase program. We 
believe that the repurchase of our common stock is a favorable means of returning value to our stockholders, and we also 
repurchase to offset the dilutive effect of our share-based compensation programs. Repurchases of our common stock may vary 
depending upon the level of other investing activities and the share price. As of December 31, 2019, there are approximately 2.0 
million remaining shares available for repurchase under this authorization.

We primarily acquire shares by repurchases in the open market. However, we also acquire shares that are surrendered 
by employees in payment for the minimum required statutory withholding taxes due on the vesting of restricted stock units and 
the settlement of deferred stock units, otherwise referred to herein as employee surrenders. We issue shares of treasury stock 
upon the vesting of certain restricted stock units and upon the exercise of certain stock options. The number of shares of 
treasury stock issued during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, was not material.

F-44

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following is a summary of our open market common stock repurchases, reported on a trade date basis, and shares 

acquired through employee surrenders:

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

Shares repurchased in the open market
Shares acquired through employee surrenders for statutory tax withholding
Total shares repurchased

Cost of shares repurchased in the open market
Cost of shares for employee surrenders
Total cost of shares

Average cost per share - open market repurchases
Average cost per share - employee surrenders
Average cost per share - total

For the Years Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

1,215
39
1,254

303,838
8,054
311,892

249.84
210.10
248.62

$

$

$
$
$

1,773
52
1,825

368,691
9,375
378,066

207.92
182.18
207.19

$

$

$
$
$

1,749
57
1,806

270,297
8,074
278,371

154.51
142.55
154.13

$

$

$
$
$

NOTE 20.      ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

The changes in AOCI, net of tax, consisted of the following:

For the Years Ended December 31, 2019 and 2018

Unrealized (Loss)
Gain on Cash
Flow Hedges, Net
of Tax

Unrealized (Loss) Gain on
Net Investment Hedges,
Net of Tax

(in thousands)

Unrealized
(Loss) Gain
on
Investments,
Net of Tax

Foreign Currency
Exchange
Contracts

Euro-
Denominated
Notes

Cross
Currency
Swaps

Cumulative
Translation
Adjustment

Total

Balance as of December 31, 2017

$

(22) $

(5,219) $

(4,311) $

— $

(26,918) $

(36,470)

Other comprehensive (loss) income
before reclassifications

Losses reclassified from accumulated
other comprehensive income

Balance as of December 31, 2018

Other comprehensive income (loss)
before reclassifications

Gains reclassified from accumulated
other comprehensive income

(135)

—

(157)

267

—

10,659

3,917

789

6,229

1,196

(8,161)

—

(394)

1,790

—

1,360

—

1,360

2,107

—

(21,911)

(6,110)

—

789

(48,829)

(41,791)

(1,590)

3,770

—

(8,161)

Balance as of December 31, 2019

$

110

$

(736) $

1,396

$

3,467

$

(50,419) $

(46,182)

The following table presents components and amounts reclassified out of AOCI to net income:

(in thousands)

Affected Line Item in the
Statements of Income

Amounts Reclassified from AOCI for the Years
Ended December 31,
2018

2019

2017

Gains (losses) on derivative instruments
included in net income:
Foreign currency exchange contracts

Cost of revenue
Tax expense (benefit)
Gains (losses), net of tax

$

$

10,628
2,467
8,161

$

$

(976) $
(187)
(789) $

27
224
(197)

F-45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 21.      PREFERRED STOCK 

Our Board of Directors is authorized, subject to any limitations prescribed by law, without further stockholder 
approval, to issue from time to time up to 500,000 shares of Preferred Stock, $1.00 par value per share (“Preferred Stock”), in 
one or more series. Each such series of Preferred Stock shall have such number of shares, designations, preferences, voting 
powers, qualifications and special or relative rights or privileges as shall be determined by the Board of Directors, which may 
include, among others, dividend rights, voting rights, redemption and sinking fund provisions, liquidation preferences, 
conversion rights and preemptive rights. There are no shares of Preferred Stock outstanding as of December 31, 2019 and 2018.

NOTE 22.      IDEXX RETIREMENT AND INCENTIVE SAVINGS PLAN 

We have established the IDEXX Retirement and Incentive Savings Plan (the “401(k) Plan”). U.S. employees eligible 
to participate in the 401(k) Plan may contribute specified percentages of their salaries. Beginning January 1, 2018, we matched 
a portion of these contributions, not to exceed 5% of participants’ eligible compensation. Prior to January 1, 2018, we matched 
a portion of these contributions, not to exceed 4% of participants' eligible compensation. We matched $21.1 million, $19.0 
million, and $13.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. In addition, we may make 
contributions to the 401(k) Plan at the discretion of the Board of Directors. There were no discretionary contributions in 2019, 
2018 or 2017.

We also have established defined contribution plans for regional employees in Europe and in Canada. With respect to 

these plans, our contributions over the past three years have not been material.

NOTE 23.      SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED)

A summary of quarterly data (1) follows:

(in thousands, except per share data)

For the Three Months Ended

March 31,

June 30,

September 30,

December 31,

2019
Revenue
Gross profit
Operating income
Net income attributable to IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
stockholders

Earnings per share:

Basic
Diluted

2018
Revenue
Gross profit
Operating income
Net income attributable to IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
stockholders

Earnings per share:

Basic
Diluted

$
$
$
$

$
$

$
$
$
$

$
$

576,056
331,597
133,138
102,681

1.19
1.17

537,656
303,099
113,044
89,451

1.02
1.01

$
$
$
$

$
$

$
$
$
$

$
$

620,103
357,853
164,275
125,706

1.46
1.43

580,752
332,439
145,594
108,691

1.25
1.23

$
$
$
$

$
$

$
$
$
$

$
$

605,303
344,950
139,802
108,837

1.26
1.24

545,448
305,643
117,350
93,251

1.07
1.05

$
$
$
$

$
$

$
$
$
$

$
$

605,446
331,149
115,631
90,496

1.05
1.04

549,386
300,361
115,347
85,638

0.99
0.98

(1)  Amounts presented may not recalculate to full-year totals due to rounding.

F-46

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SCHEDULE II

IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

(in thousands)?

Balance at
Beginning of
Year

Charges to
Costs and
Expenses

Write-Offs/
Cash
Payments

Foreign
Currency
Translation

Balance at End
of Year

Reserves for doubtful accounts receivable:
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2018
December 31, 2019

Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets:
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2018
December 31, 2019

$
$
$

$
$
$

$

$

4,523
4,576
4,702

4,891
6,211
6,212

$

$

591
390
562

1,789
402
3,489

(1,660) $
(969)
(813)

(679) $
—
(226)

$

$

1,122
705
(870)

210
(401)
(21)

4,576
4,702
3,581

6,211
6,212
9,454

F-47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit No.

Description

EXHIBIT INDEX

3.1

3.2

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

4.6

4.7

Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended (filed as Exhibit No. 3(i) to Quarterly 
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by 
reference).

Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company (filed as Exhibit No. 3.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K 
filed December 12, 2017, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

Description of the Registrant's Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act 
of 1934 filed herewith.

Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 11, 2013, among the Company, as issuer, New York Life 
Insurance Company, New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation and New York Life Insurance and 
Annuity Corporation Institutionally Owned Life Insurance Separate Account (BOLI 30C), as purchasers 
(filed as Exhibit No. 99.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 12, 2013, File No. 0-19271, and 
incorporated herein by reference). 

Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, dated as of July 21, 2014, among the Company, as issuer, 
Prudential Investment Management, Inc., Pruco Life Insurance Company, The Prudential Insurance 
Company of America, The Gibraltar Life Insurance Co., Ltd., PAR U Hartford Life Insurance Comfort Trust, 
The Independent Order of Foresters, Zurich American Insurance Company, Globe Life and Accident 
Insurance Company, Family Heritage Life Insurance Company of America, MTL Insurance Company, The 
Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, William Penn Life Insurance Company of New York, Farmers 
Insurance Exchange and Mid Century Insurance Company, as purchasers (filed as Exhibit No. 99.1 to 
Current Report on Form 8-K Filed July 25, 2014, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of July 22, 2014, among the Company, as issuer, New York Life 
Insurance Company, New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation and New York Life Insurance and 
Annuity Corporation Institutionally Owned Life Insurance Separate Account (BOLI 30C), as purchasers 
(filed as Exhibit No. 99.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K file July 25, 2014, File No. 0-19271, and 
incorporated herein by reference).

Amended and Restated Multi-Currency Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, dated as of June 18, 
2015, among the Company, Prudential Investment Management, Inc., Pruco Life Insurance Company, The 
Prudential Insurance Company of America, The Gibraltar Life Insurance Co., Ltd., PAR U Harford Life 
Insurance Comfort Trust, The Independent Order of Foresters, Zurich American Insurance Company, Globe 
Life and Accident Insurance Company, Family Heritage Life Insurance Company of America, MTL 
Insurance Company, The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, William Penn Life Insurance Company 
of New York, Farmers Insurance Exchange, Mid Century Insurance Company and Farmers New World Life 
Insurance Company, as purchasers (filed as Exhibit No. 99.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 24, 
2015, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Multicurrency Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, dated as of December 19, 2014, among the 
Company, as issuer, and Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, MetLife Insurance Company USA, Symetra 
Life Insurance Company, MetLife Insurance K.K., AXIS Reinsurance Company, and Union Fidelity Life 
Insurance Company, as purchasers (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 15, 
2019, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

First Amendment to Multicurrency Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, dated March 14, 2019, 
among the Company, as issuer, and IDEXX Distribution, Inc., IDEXX Operations, Inc., and OPTI Medical 
Systems, Inc., each as a subsidiary guarantor, and Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, MetLife 
Reinsurance Company of Bermuda, Ltd., Brighthouse Life Insurance Company, Symetra Life Insurance 
Company, and AXIS Reinsurance Company (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed 
March 15, 2019, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

10.1*

U.S. Supply Agreement, effective as of October 16, 2003, among IDEXX Operations, Inc., the Company and 
Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. (“Ortho”) (filed as Exhibit No. 10.7 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the 
year ended December 31, 2003, File No. 0-19271 (“2003 Form 10-K”), and incorporated herein by 
reference).

F-48

10.2*

10.3

10.4*

10.5*

10.6*

10.7*

10.8*

10.9*

10.10*

10.11*

10.12*

10.13

10.14**

10.15**

10.16**

Amendment No. 1 to U.S. Supply Agreement effective as of January 1, 2005, among IDEXX Operations, 
Inc., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter 
ended June 30, 2005, File No. 0-19271 (“June 2005 Form 10-Q”), and incorporated herein by reference).

Amendment No. 2 to U.S. Supply Agreement effective as of October 15, 2006, among IDEXX Operations, 
Inc., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.4 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 2007, File No. 0-19271 (“2007 Form 10-K”), and incorporated herein by reference).

Amendment No. 3 to U.S. Supply Agreement effective as of January 18, 2008, among IDEXX Operations, 
Inc., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.5 to 2007 Form 10-K, and incorporated herein by 
reference).

Amendment No. 4 to U.S. Supply Agreement effective as of December 28, 2011, among IDEXX Operations, 
Inc., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.5 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 2011, File No. 0-19271 (“2011 Form 10-K”), and incorporated herein by reference).

Amendment No. 5 to U.S. Supply Agreement effective as of December 9, 2013, among IDEXX Operations, 
Inc., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.6 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 2013, File No. 0-19271 (“2013 Form 10-K”), and incorporated herein by reference).

Amendment No. 6 to U.S. Supply Agreement effective as of January 1, 2017, among IDEXX Operations, 
Inc., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.27 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 2017, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

European Supply Agreement, effective as of October 17, 2003, among IDEXX Europe B.V., the Company 
and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.8 to 2003 Form 10-K, and incorporated herein by reference).

Amendment No. 1 to European Supply Agreement effective as of January 1, 2005, among IDEXX Europe 
B.V., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.2 to June 2005 Form 10-Q, and incorporated herein by 
reference).

Amendment No. 2 to European Supply Agreement effective as of January 18, 2008, among IDEXX Europe 
B.V., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.8 to 2007 Form 10-K, and incorporated herein by 
reference).

Amendment No. 3 to European Supply Agreement effective as of December 28, 2011, among IDEXX 
Europe B.V., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.9 to 2011 Form 10-K, and incorporated herein 
by reference).

Amendment No. 4 to European Supply Agreement effective as of December 9, 2013, among IDEXX Europe 
B.V., the Company and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.11 to 2013 Form 10-K, and incorporated herein by 
reference).

Amendment, Release and Settlement Agreement dated as of September 12, 2002, among the Company, 
IDEXX Europe B.V., and Ortho (filed as Exhibit No. 10.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter 
ended September 30, 2002, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

Employment Agreement dated January 22, 2002, between the Company and Jonathan W. Ayers (filed as 
Exhibit No. 10.13 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001, File No. 0-19271, 
and incorporated herein by reference).

Amended and Restated Executive Employment Agreement dated May 26, 2013, between the Company and 
Jonathan W. Ayers (filed as Exhibit No. 10.2 to Quarter Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 
2013, File No. 0-19271 (“June 2013 Form 10-Q”), and incorporated herein by reference).

Form of Executive Employment Agreement dated May 26, 2013, between the Company and each of the 
Company’s Executive Officers, other than the Chief Executive Officer (filed as Exhibit No. 10.3 to June 
2013 Form 10-Q, and incorporated herein by reference).

F-49

10.17**

10.18**

10.19**

10.20**

10.21**

Restated Director Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended (filed as Exhibit No. 10.1 to Quarterly Report on 
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2010, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by 
reference).

Restated Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended (filed as Exhibit No. 10.3 to Quarterly Report 
on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

IDEXX Laboratories 1997 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended (filed as Exhibit No. 10.2 to 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated 
herein by reference).

2009 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended (filed as Exhibit No. 99.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-8 
filed December 30, 2013, File No. 333-193136, and incorporated herein by reference).

2018 Stock Incentive Plan (filed as Appendix B to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A for the 
2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed on March 28, 2018, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.22**

Summary of Executive Incentive Plan (filed herewith).

10.23**

10.24**

10.25**

10.26**

10.27**

10.28**

10.29**

10.30**

10.31**

10.32**

10.33**

Form of Director Stock Option Agreement (filed as Exhibit 10.24 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the 
year ended December 31, 2018, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated by reference herein).

Form of Director Restricted Stock Unit (filed herewith).

Form of Employee Stock Option Agreement for grants in 2010 to 2015 (filed as Exhibit 10.21 to Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated by 
reference herein).

Form of Employee Stock Option Agreement for grants in 2016 and 2017 (filed as Exhibit 10.20 to Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated by 
reference herein).

Form of Employee Stock Option Agreement for grants in 2018 and 2019 (filed as Exhibit 10.25 to Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated by 
reference herein).

Form of Employee Stock Option Agreement for grants in 2020 (filed herewith).

Form of Employee Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for grants in 2015 (filed as Exhibit 10.24 to Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated by 
reference herein).

Form of Employee Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for grants in 2016 and 2017 (filed as Exhibit 10.22 to 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated by 
reference herein).

Form of Employee Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for grants in 2018 and 2019 (filed as Exhibit 10.26 to 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated by 
reference herein).

Form of Employee Restricted Stock Unit for grants in 2020 (filed herewith).

Form of Employee Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (filed as Exhibit 10.27 to Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated by 
reference herein).

F-50

10.34

10.35**

10.36**

10.37**

21

23

31.1

31.2

32.1

32.2

101

104

*

**

Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December 4, 2015, among the Company, 
IDEXX Distribution, Inc., IDEXX Operations, Inc., OPTI Medical Systems, Inc., IDEXX Laboratories 
Canada Corporation and IDEXX Europe B.V., as borrowers, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Bank of America, 
N.A., Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Keybank National Association, MUFG Union Bank, N.A., HSBC Bank USA, 
National Association, Citibank, N.A. The Northern Trust Company , People's United Bank, National 
Association, TD Bank N.A., U.S. Bank National Association and Deutshe Bank AG New York Branch. as 
lenders, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Toronto Branch, 
as Toronto agent, and J.P. Morgan Europe Limited, as London agent (filed as Exhibit No. 10.1 to the Current 
Report on Form 8-K filed December 8, 2015, File No.0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

Mutual Separation Agreement, dated October 23, 2019, by and between the Company and Mr. Jonathan W. 
Ayers (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 24, 2019, File No. 0-19271, and 
incorporated herein by reference).

Senior Advisory Agreement, dated October 23, 2019, by and between the Company. and Mr. Jonathan W. 
Ayers (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 24, 2019, File No. 0-19271, and 
incorporated herein by reference).

Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated October 23, 2019, by and between the 
Company and Jonathan (Jay) Mazelsky (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 
24, 2019, File No. 0-19271, and incorporated herein by reference).

Subsidiaries of the Company (filed herewith).

Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm (filed herewith).

Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed 
herewith).

Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed 
herewith).

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 
906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 
906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

The following financial and related information from IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, formatted in Inline eXtensible Business Reportable
Language (iXBRL) includes: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheet; (ii) the Consolidated Statement of Income;
(iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income; (iv) the Consolidated Statement of Changes in
Stockholders' Equity (Deficit); (v) the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows; and, (vi) Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements.

The cover page from the Company's Annual Report of Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
2019, formatted in Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101.

Confidential treatment requested as to certain portions.

Management contract or compensatory arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit pursuant to Item 15(a)
(3) of Form 10-K.

F-51

 
 
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.

SIGNATURES

Date: February 14, 2020

IDEXX LABORATORIES, INC.

By:  /s/ Jonathan J. Mazelsky
Jonathan J. Mazelsky
President and Chief Executive Officer

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 and on the dates indicated:

SIGNATURE

TITLE

DATE

/s/ Jonathan J. Mazelsky

Jonathan J. Mazelsky

/s/ Brian P. McKeon

Brian P. McKeon

/s/ Lawrence D. Kingsley

Lawrence D. Kingsley

/s/ Jonathan W. Ayers

Jonathan W. Ayers

/s/ Bruce L. Claflin

Bruce L. Claflin

/s/ Stuart M. Essig, PhD

Stuart M. Essig

/s/ Rebecca M. Henderson, PhD

Rebecca M. Henderson, PhD

/s/ Daniel M. Junius

Daniel M. Junius

/s/ Sam A. Samad

Sam A. Samad

/s/ M. Anne Szostak

M. Anne Szostak

/s/ Sophie V. Vandebroek, PhD

Sophie V. Vandebroek, PhD

?

President, Chief Executive Officer and
Director (Principal Executive Officer)

February 14, 2020

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial
and Accounting Officer)

February 14, 2020

Non-Executive Board Chair

February 14, 2020

February 14, 2020

February 14, 2020

February 14, 2020

February 14, 2020

February 14, 2020

February 14, 2020

February 14, 2020

February 14, 2020

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

F-52

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Form 10-K 
A copy of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the 
fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 (“2019 10-K”) 
is included as part of this 2019 Annual Report, has 
been furnished to all shareholders together with the 
proxy statement for the 2020 Annual Meeting of 
Shareholders, which is scheduled to be held on May 
6, 2020, and is incorporated herein by reference. 
Additionally, copies of the 2019 10-K are available 
without charge on the internet by visiting the EDGAR 
section of the Securities and Exchange Commission 
(SEC) website (www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml) or the 
Investors section of our website www.idexx.com. We 
will also provide a copy of the 2019 10-K without 
charge, upon written request from shareholders to 
Investor Relations at the address provided below. 

The copy of the 2019 10-K that is included as 
part of this 2019 Annual Report is not 
accompanied by the exhibits that were filed with 
the SEC. These exhibits are accessible on the 
internet by visiting the EDGAR section of the 
SEC website (www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml) or the 
Investors section of our website www.idexx.com.  
We will furnish any printed copies of the exhibits to 
those shareholders who request copies upon 
payment to the Company of its reasonable expenses 
in furnishing the exhibits. Requests for copies of the 
exhibits should be made to Investor Relations at the 
address provided below. 

Investor Relations 
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. 
One IDEXX Drive 
Westbrook, Maine 04092 
Tel: 207-556-8155 
Email: investorrelations@idexx.com 

Quarterly Reports and Proxy Statements  
Our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and proxy 
statements can be obtained on the internet by 
visiting the EDGAR section of the SEC website 
(www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml) or via the Investors 
section of our website www.idexx.com or by 
contacting Investor Relations. 

2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders 
May 6, 2020, 10:00 a.m., Eastern time 
Virtual meeting only via webcast at 
www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/IDXX2020 

Common Stock Listing 
NASDAQ Global Select Market 
Trading Symbol: IDXX 

Transfer Agent and Registrar 
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company 
6201 15th Avenue 
Brooklyn, New York 11219 
Tel: 800-937-5449  
Outside U.S. and Canada: +1-718-921-8124 
Email: info@astfinancial.com 

Corporate Offices 
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. 
One IDEXX Drive 
Westbrook, Maine 04092 
Tel: 207-556-0300 
www.idexx.com 

References to websites are inactive textual 
references only and the contents of our website are 
not incorporated by reference into this 2019 Annual 
Report for any purpose.