ANNUA L R EPORT 201 4
PROXY STATEMENT 201 5
ABOUT IntriCon
IntriCon designs, develops and manufactures body-worn devices. These
advanced products help medical, healthcare and professional audio
communications companies meet the rising demand for smaller, more intelligent
and better connected devices.
As part of an industry-wide effort to reduce the cost of healthcare, our
body-worn medical devices help shift the point of care from more expensive
settings, like hospitals and clinics, to less expensive ones, such as the home.
We accomplish this by putting more intelligence into our devices, connecting
patients and caregivers in non-traditional ways. This shift is enabled by
advanced technologies, such as our ultra-low-power (ULP) wireless and digital
signal processing (DSP), allowing intervention to be administered by boarder
range of professionals and technicians.
Today we are focused on two significant healthcare opportunities: the value
hearing health market—where we will work to bring additional low-cost and
effective devices to consumers; and, the medical biotelemetry market—
connecting people with caregivers through technology.
IntriCon is headquartered in Arden Hills, Minn., a suburb of Minneapolis/St.
Paul, and employs more than 550 people at facilities in the United States,
Europe and Asia. IntriCon common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global
Market under the symbol “IIN.”
To Our Shareholders:
I am pleased to report that fiscal 2014 was a record year for IntriCon. We delivered our strongest year
from a net sales, gross margin and profitability perspective since the Selas restructuring nearly a decade
ago. Furthermore, our competitive position, technology portfolio, global operations and balance sheet are
all stronger today than a year ago.
For 2014, IntriCon reported net sales of $68.3 million and a net income of $2.2 million, or $0.37 per
diluted share. This compares to 2013 annual net sales of $53.0 million and a net loss of $(6.2) million, or
$(1.08) per diluted share. Net income from continuing operations for 2014 was $2.5 million, or $0.42 per
diluted share, with a discontinued operations net loss of $(270,000), or $(0.04) per diluted share. The
2013 annual results included a loss from continuing operations of $(2.3) million, or $(0.40) per diluted
share, and a discontinued operations net loss of $(3.9) million, or $(0.68) per diluted share.
Key Highlights
As a company we achieved a number of milestones that position us for a successful 2015 and beyond.
During the year we:
• Grew revenue 29 percent with all markets posting double-digit gains, gross margins increased
400 basis points from prior year and EPS was the strongest in over a decade;
• Reduced bank debt by $2.0 million from 2013;
• Successfully completed our global restructuring program with the sale of Tibbetts which allowed
us to consolidate operations, right size our global manufacturing footprint, lower costs and
provide greater focus on our strategic plan;
• Secured CE Mark approval giving us the opportunity to directly pursue significant value hearing
health business throughout Europe; and,
• Furthered our foothold in the value hearing health space through our distribution agreement with
the United Kingdom’s PC Werth Ltd which allows IntriCon to be a main supplier to the National
Health Service (NHS) Supply Chain’s National Framework
Growth Opportunities: Value Hearing Health and Medical Biotelemetry
As a percentage of 2014 sales, healthcare-related revenue (hearing health and medical combined) totaled
85 percent of our business, and we are committed to growth. The next phase of our long-term strategy is
to leverage IntriCon’s technology, product platforms and manufacturing capabilities into two large
healthcare opportunities: the value hearing health (VHH) market—where we will work to bring additional
low-cost and effective devices to consumers; and, the biotelemetry market—connecting people with
caregivers through technology.
The VHH market is attractive due to several key factors, and we believe it offers significant growth
potential for IntriCon. Driving this opportunity are:
• An aging population in a market with low penetration rate—primarily due to the high costs of
hearing devices;
Inconveniences and inefficiencies in the conventional hearing health distribution channel;
•
• Retail consolidation;
• Market share growth from big box retailer, such as Costco and the entrance of U.S. insurance
providers such as hi HealthInnovations (a UnitedHealth Group company); and
• The emergence of key core technologies, which enable lower-cost and highly effective devices.
These factors have created the opportunity for alternative care models, such as the value hearing aid
(VHA) channel and personal sound amplifier product (PSAP) channel. The VHA channel is outcome
based and requires the best value-added device and software technology, to provide the most efficient,
lowest cost solution to the consumer. We have positioned ourselves as a leader in the VHA and PSAP
channels through significant, on-going investments in sales, marketing and research and development.
We are in the fourth year of our partnership with hi HealthInnovations and they continue to expand their
program offering, which now includes all health insurers, including employer-sponsored, individual and
Medicare plans. In the fourth quarter, we announced our exclusive distribution agreement with PC Werth
in the United Kingdom. PC Werth, through its partnership with IntriCon, has been appointed one of the
main suppliers to the National Health Service (NHS) Supply Chain’s National Framework. The NHS,
which offers free hearing health care to UK citizens, is the world’s largest purchaser of hearing aids,
supplying an estimated 1.2 million devices annually. We believe both these large insurance models offer
sizable potential.
Over the past few years the PSAP channel, which includes ear worn devices that provide cost effective
sound amplification, has begun to emerge. These sound amplification devices, which are not FDA
regulated, can be purchased “off-the-shelf” and are not fitted or prescribed to meet a specific individual’s
needs rather; these products amplify sound and tend to be used in noisy or challenging environments.
They have a significantly lower retail price to the consumer than traditional hearing aids.
In addition to our current partnerships and customers, we are aggressively pursuing prospective
partnerships and customers who can benefit from our value proposition and the VHA and PSAP channels.
Our steadfast commitment to VHH is focused on long-term value creation. This commitment does not
come without a price. Today we are making annual investments in excess of $5 million to the support
VHH infrastructure, technology and solutions. Despite minimal VHH revenue generation to date, we
believe these investments will be the drivers of long-term shareholder value.
Within the medical biotelemetry space, our technology connects patients and caregivers in non-traditional
ways. Our advanced, smaller lightweight devices have helped shift the point of care from traditional
settings such as hospitals, to non-traditional settings like homes. The company currently has a strong
presence in both the diabetes and cardiac diagnostic monitoring biotelemetry markets. For diabetes,
IntriCon has partnered with Medtronic to manufacture their wireless continuous glucose monitors,
sensors, and related accessories that measure glucose levels and deliver real-time blood glucose trend
information. During the 2013 third quarter, Medtronic received Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
approval for their MiniMed 530G insulin pump system, which accounted for a significant portion of the
growth in our medical business in 2014. In addition to the MiniMed 530G system, the products we
manufacture also support Medtronic’s international insulin pump system offerings, such as the recently
unveiled MiniMed 640G system. Through our strong partnership with Medtronic we anticipate this
business to provide continuous long-term growth.
In the cardiac diagnostic monitoring market, we provide solutions for ambulatory cardiac monitoring. Our
Sirona platform, which incorporates the PhysioLink technology, is essentially two products in one design:
it can be used as an event recorder, a holter monitor or both. This platform is very small, rechargeable,
and water spray proof. We are receiving positive feedback from customers about the treatment flexibility
and economic benefits of remote patient monitoring.
In both medical biotelemetry and VHH, IntriCon has the core technology and product offering to expand
our existing customer relationships, as well as move into new markets. IntriCon is allocating more capital
and resources in sales and marketing and research and development to expand its reach to other large
medical device and health care companies.
Looking ahead
Overall we are very encouraged by our progress in 2014. Our business has strong momentum that we will
build off of as we aggressively pursue significant revenue opportunities in rapidly growing markets. As
we look to the future we anticipate the need for targeted on-going sales, marketing and research and
development investments to execute our strategic plan and drive shareholder value. Looking ahead to
2015 specifically, we are focused on:
• Expanding VHH Channels. The VHH market is rapidly emerging. Our top strategic priority is
to aggressively expand our VHH reach, by establishing the required infrastructure and securing
additional channel partners.
• Core Technology Development. Core technology development is critical to our long-term
success. In 2015 we will define and validate ULP wireless technology test platforms aimed at
increasing access to and efficiencies in the emerging VHH distribution channel and medical
biotelemetry markets.
From a financial perspective, our goals are simple: to increase revenue, improve margins, grow our
bottom line and reduce bank debt.
On behalf of board of directors and executive team, I want to thank you for your continued support, as we
follow a promising course to long-term growth and consistent value creation.
Sincerely,
Mark Gorder
President and Chief Executive Officer
IntriCon Corporation
March 6, 2015
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
(Mark one)
FORM 10-K
(cid:2) ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE
(cid:3) TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014
or
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ____________ to ____________.
Commission File Number 1-5005
INTRICON CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Pennsylvania______________ 23-1069060
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)
1260 Red Fox Road
Arden Hills, Minnesota
(Address of principal executive offices)
55112
(Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code
(651) 636-9770
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class__________
Common Shares, $1 par value per share
Name of each exchange on
which registered_____
The NASDAQ Global Market
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes (cid:3) No (cid:2)
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 (cid:3) No
(cid:2)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports),
and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes (cid:2) No (cid:3)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every
Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes (cid:2) No (cid:3)
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (Section 229.405 of this chapter) is
not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. (cid:2)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller
reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2
of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer (cid:3)
Accelerated filer (cid:3)
Non-accelerated filer (cid:3) (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company (cid:2)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes (cid:3) No(cid:2)
The aggregate market value of the voting common shares held by non-affiliates of the registrant on June 30, 2014 was $43,317,476.
Common shares held by each officer and director and by each person who owns 10% or more of the outstanding common shares have
been excluded in that such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive
determination for other purposes.
The number of outstanding shares of the registrant’s common shares on February 19, 2015 was 5,848,286.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the Company's definitive proxy statement for the 2015 annual meeting of shareholders are incorporated by reference into
Part III of this report; provided, however, that the Audit Committee Report and any other information in such Proxy Statement that is
not required to be included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, shall not be deemed to be incorporated herein or filed for the
purposes of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
2
Page No.
Table of Contents
PART I
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 4A.
PART II
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A
Item 9B.
PART III
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13.
Item 14.
PART IV
Item 15.
Business
Risk Factors
Unresolved Staff Comments
Properties
Legal Proceedings
Mine Safety Disclosures
Executive Officers of the Registrant
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
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Executive Compensation
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related
Stockholder Matters
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Principal Accounting Fees and Services
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
SIGNATURES
EXHIBIT INDEX
4
11
18
18
18
19
19
20
21
23
34
34
61
61
61
62
62
62
63
63
63
67
68
3
ITEM 1. Business
Company Overview
PART I
IntriCon Corporation (together with its subsidiaries referred herein as the “Company”, or “IntriCon”, “we”, “us” or “our”) is an
international company engaged in designing, developing, engineering and manufacturing body-worn devices. The Company serves
the body-worn device market by designing, developing, engineering and manufacturing micro-miniature products, microelectronics,
micro-mechanical assemblies, complete assemblies and software solutions, primarily for medical bio-telemetry devices, value hearing
health devices and professional audio communication devices. The Company, headquartered in Arden Hills, Minnesota, has facilities
in Minnesota, California, Singapore, Indonesia and Germany, and operates through subsidiaries. The Company is a Pennsylvania
corporation formed in 1930. The Company has gone through several transformations since its formation. The Company’s core
business of body-worn devices was established in 1993 through the acquisition of Resistance Technologies Inc., now known as
IntriCon, Inc. The majority of IntriCon's current management came to the Company with the Resistance Technologies Inc.
acquisition, including IntriCon’s President and CEO, who was a co-founder of Resistance Technologies Inc.
Currently, the Company operates in one operating segment, the body-worn device segment. On June 13, 2013, the Company
announced a global restructuring plan to accelerate future growth and reduce costs by approximately $3.0 million annually. As part of
the restructuring, the Company sold its security and certain microphone and receiver operations on January 27, 2014 to Sierra Peaks
Corporation. For all periods presented, the Company classified these businesses as discontinued operations, and, accordingly, has
reclassified historical financial data presented herein.
Information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and expressed in U.S. dollars or number of shares are presented in
thousands (000s), except for per share data and as otherwise noted.
Business Highlights
Major Events in 2014
The Company reported its strongest financial results in over a decade, including its strongest revenue, margin and earnings.
On December 4, 2014 the Company announced an exclusive distribution agreement with PC Werth in the United Kingdom. PC Werth,
through its partnership with IntriCon, has been appointed as one of the main suppliers to the National Health Service (NHS) Supply
Chain’s National Framework. The NHS is the largest purchaser of hearing aids in the world, supplying an estimated 1.2 million
hearing aids annually.
On February 14, 2014, the Company and its domestic subsidiaries entered into a Sixth Amendment to the Loan and Security
Agreement and Waiver with The PrivateBank and Trust Company, which among other things extended the maturity date of the term
loan and revolving credit facility to February 28, 2018 (refer to Note 7).
On January 27, 2014, the Company sold its remaining security and certain microphone and receiver operations;, which marked the
final milestone in the global strategic restructuring plan announced in 2013.
Major Events in 2013
On June 13, 2013, the Company announced a global strategic restructuring plan designed to accelerate the Company’s future growth
by focusing resources on the highest potential growth areas and reduce costs by approximately $3.0 million annually. As part of this
plan, the Company reduced investment in certain non-core professional audio communications product lines; transferred specific
product lines from Singapore to the Company’s lower-cost manufacturing facility in Batam, Indonesia; reduced its global
administrative and support workforce; transferred the medical coil operations from the Company's Maine facility to Minnesota to
better leverage existing manufacturing capacity, added experienced professionals in value hearing health; and focused more resources
in medical biotelemetry. During the 2013 third quarter, the Company’s customer, Medtronic, received Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) approval for their MiniMed 530G insulin pump. Medical market sales strengthened in the 2013 fourth quarter as Medtronic
ramped for its launch of the MiniMed 530G.
Major Events in 2012
In August 2012, the Company sold its 50% interest in its Global Coils joint venture, to joint venture partner Audemars SA. Global
Coils is in the business of marketing, designing, manufacturing, and selling audio coils to the hearing health industry. Audemars paid
$426 in cash at closing and will make future recurring royalty payments as specified in the purchase agreement. Audemars also
transferred certain hearing health inventory to IntriCon. The Company recorded a gain on the sale of $822, or $.14 per diluted share,
in the gain on sale of investment in partnership line of the accompanying statement of operations.
4
Market Overview:
IntriCon serves the body-worn device market by designing, developing, engineering and manufacturing micro-miniature products,
microelectronics, micro-mechanical assemblies, complete assemblies and software solutions, primarily for medical bio-telemetry
devices, value hearing health devices and professional audio communication devices. Revenue from the medical bio-telemetry and
value hearing health markets is reported on the respective medical and hearing health lines in the discussion of our results of
operations in “Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 18
“Revenue by Market” to the Company’s consolidated condensed financial statements included herein.
Value Hearing Health Market
The Company believes the value hearing health (VHH) market offers significant growth opportunities. In the United States alone,
there are approximately 48 million adults that report some degree of hearing loss. In adults the most common cause of hearing loss is
aging and noise. In fact, by the age of 65 year old, one out of three people have hearing loss. The hearing impaired population is
expected to grow significantly over the next decade due to an aging population and more frequent exposure to loud sounds that can
cause noise-induced hearing loss. It is estimated that hearing aids can help more than 90 percent of people with hearing loss, however
the current market penetration into the U.S. hearing impaired population is approximately 20 percent, a percentage that has remained
essentially unchanged for the last four decades. We believe the U.S. market penetration is low primarily due to the high costs to
purchase a hearing aid, consolidation at the retail level and inconveniences in the distribution channel. These factors have created the
opportunity for alternative care models, such as the value hearing aid (VHA) channel and personal sound amplifier (PSAP) channel.
The VHA channel is outcome based focused and requires the best device and software technology, to provide the most efficient,
lowest cost solution to the consumer. IntriCon has positioned itself as a leader in these channels through significant, on-going
investments in sales and marketing and its research and development. The Company is aggressively pursuing prospective partnerships
and customers who can benefit from our value proposition and the VHA and PSAP channels.
In the VHA channel, the Company entered into a manufacturing agreement with hi HealthInnovations, a UnitedHealth Group
company, to become their supplier of hearing aids. At the beginning of 2012, hi HealthInnovations launched a suite of high-tech,
lower-cost hearing devices for their Medicare and Part D participants and later in the year announced they were increasing this
offering to the over 26 million people enrolled in their employer-sponsored and individual health benefit plans. Recently they have
expanded their offering to include a hearing aid discount program for health plans. This program is available nationwide to all health
insurers, including employer-sponsored, individual and Medicare plans. The insurance model has been successfully demonstrated
internationally, where several countries providing a full insurance program are serving 40 to 70 percent of the hearing impaired
population. Further, research in the U.S. has shown a fully insured model will encourage an individual to seek treatment at an earlier
stage of hearing loss, greatly increasing the market size and penetration. The Company also has various international VHA initiatives.
In 2014 the Company entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with PC Werth in the United Kingdom. PC Werth, through its
partnership with IntriCon, has been appointed as one of the main suppliers to the National Health Service (NHS) Supply Chain’s
National Framework. The NHS, which offers free hearing health care to UK citizens, is the largest purchaser of hearing aids in the
world, supplying an estimated 1.2 million hearing aids annually.
We also believe there are niches in the conventional hearing health channel that will embrace our VHA proposition. High costs of
conventional devices and retail consolidation, have constrained the growth potential of the independent audiologist and dispenser. We
believe our software and product offering can provide the independent audiologist and dispensers the ability to compete with larger
retailers, such as Costco and manufacturer owned retail distributors.
In the past few years the PSAP channel, which includes ear worn devices that provide cost effective sound amplification, has begun to
emerge. These sound amplification devices are not regulated by the FDA, as they are hearing aids and make no claims of
compensating for hearing loss. They can be purchased “off-the-shelf” and are not fit or prescribed to meet a specific individual’s
needs rather, these devices amplify sound and tend to be used in noisy or challenging environments. They have a significantly lower
retail price to the consumer than traditional hearing aids. Additionally, the Company believes there is great potential to market its
situational listening devices (SLD’s). Similar to the PSAP devices, the Company’s SLD’s are intended to help people hear in noisy
environments, like restaurants and automobiles, and listen to television, music, and direct broadcast by wireless connection. Such
devices are intended to be supplements to conventional hearing aids, which do not handle those situations well. The product line
consists of an earpiece, TV transmitter, companion microphone, iPod/iPhone transmitter, and USB transmitter.
We believe IntriCon is very well positioned to serve these VHH market channels. Over the past several years the Company has
invested heavily in core technologies, product platforms and its global manufacturing capabilities geared to provide high-tech, lower-
cost hearing devices and can help drive efficiencies in the delivery model. Our DSP devices provide better clarity and an improved
ability to filter out background noise at attractive pricing points. We believe product platform introductions such as the Audion
Amplifiers, APT™ and Lumen™ devices will drive market share gains into all channels of the emerging VHH market.
5
Medical Bio-Telemetry
In the medical bio-telemetry market, the Company is focused on sales of bio-telemetry devices for life-critical diagnostic monitoring.
Using our nanoDSP and BodyNet™ technology platforms, the Company manufactures microelectronics, micro-mechanical
assemblies, high-precision injection-molded plastic components and complete bio-telemetry devices for emerging and leading medical
device manufacturers. The medical industry is faced with pressures to reduce the cost of healthcare. Driven by core technologies, such
as the IntriCon Physiolink™ that wirelessly connects patients and care givers in non-traditional ways, IntriCon helps shift the point of
care from expensive traditional settings, such as hospitals, to less expensive non-traditional settings like the home. IntriCon currently
serves this market by offering medical manufacturers the capabilities to design, develop and manufacture medical devices that are
easier to use, are more miniature, use less power, and are lighter. Increasingly, the medical industry is looking for wireless, low-power
capabilities in their devices. We have a strategic relationship with Advanced Medical Electronics Corp. (AME) that allows us to
develop new bio-telemetry devices that better connect patients and care givers, providing critical information and feedback. Through
the further development of our ULP BodyNet family, we believe the bio-telemetry markets offer significant opportunity.
IntriCon currently has a strong presence in both the diabetes and cardiac diagnostic monitoring bio-telemetry markets. For diabetes,
IntriCon has partnered with Medtronic to manufacture their wireless continuous glucose monitors, sensors, and related accessories that
measure glucose levels and deliver real-time blood glucose trend information. During the 2013 third quarter, Medtronic received Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for their MiniMed 530G insulin pump system. To support their MiniMed 530G system
launch in the United States, IntriCon built and sold significant inventory from the fourth quarter of 2013 through the first half of 2014.
In addition to the MiniMed 530G system, the products we manufacture also support Medtronic’s international insulin pump system
offerings, such as the recently unveiled MiniMed 640G system. Further, we believe there are opportunities to expand our diabetes
product offering with Medtronic as well as move into new markets outside of the diabetes market.
In the cardiac diagnostic monitoring market, we provide solutions for ambulatory cardiac monitoring. Our first two product platforms,
Sirona and Centauri, received FDA 510(k) approval in late 2011. The Sirona platform, which incorporates the PhysioLink technology,
is essentially two products in one design: it can be used as an event recorder, a holter monitor or both. This platform is very small,
rechargeable, and water spray proof. IntriCon is receiving feedback from its customers about the treatment flexibility and economic
benefits of remote patient monitoring. The Company has contracts in place with lead customers for the Sirona platform and anticipates
expanding that customer base during the first quarter of 2015.
IntriCon has a suite of medical coils and micro coils that it offers to various original equipment manufacturing (OEM) customers.
These products are currently used in pacemaker programming and interventional catheter positioning applications. As part of the
global restructuring initiative, the Company is increasing its investment of resources and capital to help expand our customer base and
market share.
IntriCon manufactures bubble sensors and flow restrictors that monitor and control the flow of fluid in an intravenous infusion system
as well as a family of safety needle products for an OEM customer that utilizes IntriCon’s insert and straight molding capabilities.
These products are assembled using full automation, including built-in quality checks within the production lines.
Lastly, IntriCon is targeting other emerging biotelemetry and home care markets, such as sleep apnea, that could benefit from its
capabilities to develop devices that are more technologically advanced, smaller and lightweight. To do so, IntriCon is focusing more
capital and resources in sales and marketing and research and development to expand its reach to other large medical device and
health care companies.
Professional Audio Communications
IntriCon entered the high-quality audio communication device market in 2001, and now has a line of miniature, professional audio
headset products used by customers focusing on emergency response needs. The line includes several communication devices that are
extremely portable and perform well in noisy or hazardous environments. These products are well suited for applications in the fire,
law enforcement, safety, aviation and military markets. In addition, the Company has a line of miniature ear- and head-worn devices
used by performers and support staff in the music and stage performance markets. We believe performance in difficult listening
environments and wireless operations will continue to improve as these products increasingly include our proprietary nanoDSP,
wireless nanoLink and PhysioLink technologies.
For information concerning our net sales, net income and assets, see the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual
Report on Form 10-K.
6
Core Technologies Overview:
Our core technologies expertise is focused on three main markets: medical bio-telemetry, value hearing health and professional audio
communications. Over the past several years, the Company has increased investments in the continued development of four critical
core technologies: Ultra-Low-Power (ULP) Digital Signal Processing (DSP), ULP Wireless, Microminiaturization, and Miniature
Transducers. These four core technologies serve as the foundation of current and future product platform development, designed to
meet the rising demand for smaller, portable more advanced devices and the need for greater efficiencies in the delivery models. The
continued advancements in this area have allowed the Company to further enhance the mobility and effectiveness of miniature body-
worn devices.
ULP DSP
DSP converts real-world analog signals into a digital format. Through our nanoDSP™ technology, IntriCon offers an extensive range
of ULP DSP amplifiers for hearing, medical and professional audio applications. Our proprietary nanoDSP incorporates advanced
ultra-miniature hardware with sophisticated signal processing algorithms to produce devices that are smaller and more effective.
The Company further expanded its DSP portfolio including improvements to its Reliant CLEAR™ feedback canceller, offering
increased added stable gain and faster reaction time. Additionally, newly developed DSP technologies are utilized in our recently
unveiled Audion8™, our new eight-channel hearing aid amplifier. The Audion8 is a feature-rich amplifier designed to fit a wide array
of applications. In addition to multiple compression channels, the amplifier has a complete set of proven adaptive features which
greatly improve the user experience.
ULP Wireless
Wireless connectivity is fast becoming a required technology, and wireless capabilities are especially critical in new body-worn
devices. IntriCon’s BodyNet™ ULP technology, including the nanoLink™ and PhysioLink™ wireless systems, offers solutions for
transmitting the body’s activities to caregivers, and wireless audio links for professional communications and surveillance products.
Potential BodyNet applications include electrocardiogram (ECG) diagnostics and monitoring, diabetes monitoring, sleep apnea studies
and audio streaming for hearing devices.
IntriCon is in the final stages of commercializing its PhysioLink wireless technology, which will be incorporated into product
platforms serving the medical, hearing health and professional audio communication markets. This system is based on 2.4GHz
proprietary digital radio protocol in the industrial-scientific-medical (ISM) frequency band and enables audio and data streaming to
ear-worn and body-worn applications over distances of up to five meters.
Microminiaturization
IntriCon excels at miniaturizing body-worn devices. We began honing our microminiaturization skills over 30 years ago, supplying
components to the hearing health industry. Our core miniaturization technology allows us to make devices for our markets that are one
cubic inch and smaller. We also are specialists in devices that run on very low power, as evidenced by our ULP wireless and DSP.
Less power means a smaller battery, which enables us to reduce size even further, and develop devices that fit into the palm of one’s
hand.
Miniature Transducers
IntriCon’s advanced transducer technology has been pushing the limits of size and performance for over a decade. Included in our
transducer line are our miniature medical coils and micro coils used in pacemaker programming and interventional catheter
positioning applications. We believe with the increase of greater interventional care that our coil technology harbors significant value.
Marketing and Competition:
IntriCon intends to focus more capital and resources in marketing and sales to expand its reach into large medical device and
healthcare companies in the medical bio-telemetry and value hearing health markets outlined above. The Company believes this will
allow us to advance our technology portfolio, advance new product platforms, strengthen customer relationships and expand our
market knowledge.
Currently, IntriCon sells its hearing instrument components directly to domestic hearing instrument manufacturers and distributors
through an internal sales force. Sales of medical and professional audio communications products are also made primarily through an
internal sales force. In recent years, a small number of companies have accounted for a substantial portion of the Company’s sales.
In 2014, one customer accounted for approximately 37 percent of the Company’s net sales. During 2014, the top five customers
accounted for approximately $38,690, or 57% percent, of the Company’s net sales. See note 4 to the consolidated financial statements
for a discussion of net sales and long-lived assets by geographic area.
Internationally, sales representatives employed by IntriCon GmbH ("GmbH"), a wholly owned German subsidiary, solicit sales from
European hearing instrument, medical device and professional audio communications manufacturers and suppliers.
IntriCon believes that it is the largest supplier worldwide of micro-miniature electromechanical components to hearing instrument
7
manufacturers and that its full product line, automated manufacturing process and low cost manufacturing capabilities in Asia, allow it
to compete effectively with other manufacturers within this market. In the market of hybrid amplifiers and molded plastic faceplates,
hearing instrument manufacturers produce a substantial portion of their internal needs for these components.
IntriCon markets its high performance microphone products to the radio communication and professional audio industries and has
several larger competitors who have greater financial resources. IntriCon holds a small market share in the global market for
microphone capsules and other related products.
Employees. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had a total of 561 full time equivalent employees, of whom 36 are executive and
administrative personnel, 17 are sales personnel, 26 are engineering personnel and 482 are operations personnel. The Company
considers its relations with its employees to be satisfactory. None of the Company’s employees are represented by a union.
As a supplier of consumer and medical products and parts, IntriCon is subject to claims for personal injuries allegedly caused by its
products. The Company maintains what it believes to be adequate insurance coverage.
Research and Development. IntriCon conducts research and development activities primarily to improve its existing products and
proprietary technology. The Company is committed to increasing its investment in the research and development of proprietary
technologies, such as the ULP nanoDSP and ULP wireless technologies. The Company believes the continued development of key
proprietary technologies will be the catalyst for long-term revenues and margin growth. Research and development expenditures were
$4,832, $4,181, and $4,481 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. These amounts are net of customer and grant reimbursed research
and development. In 2013, the Company filed for a Minnesota research and development tax credit of $567, which lowered the
research and development expenditure for the year.
IntriCon owns a number of United States patents which cover a number of product designs and processes. Although the Company
believes that these patents collectively add value to the Company, the costs associated with the submission of patent applications are
expensed as incurred given the uncertainty of the patents providing future economic benefit to the Company.
Regulation. A large portion of our business operates in a marketplace subject to extensive and rigorous regulation by the FDA and by
comparable agencies in foreign countries. In the United States, the FDA regulates the design control, development, manufacturing,
labeling, record keeping, and surveillance procedures for medical devices.
United States Food and Drug Administration
FDA regulations classify medical devices based on perceived risk to public health as either Class I, II or III devices. Class I devices
are subject to general controls, Class II devices are subject to special controls and Class III devices are subject to pre-market approval
(“PMA”) requirements. While most Class I devices are exempt from pre-market submission, it is necessary for most Class II devices
to be cleared by a 510(k) pre-market notification prior to marketing. 510(k) establishes that the device is “substantially equivalent” to
a legally marketed predicate device which was legally marketed prior to May 28, 1976 or which itself has been found to be
substantially equivalent, through the 510(k) process, after May 28, 1976. It is “substantially equivalent” if it has the same intended use
and the same technological characteristics as the predicate. The 510(k) pre-market notification must be supported by data establishing
the claim of substantial equivalence to the satisfaction of the FDA. The process of obtaining a 510(k) clearance typically can take
several months to a year or longer. If the product is notably new or different and substantial equivalence cannot be established, the
FDA will require the manufacturer to submit a PMA application for a Class III device that must be reviewed and approved by the
FDA prior to sale and marketing of the device in the United States. The process of obtaining PMA approval can be expensive,
uncertain, lengthy and frequently requires anywhere from one to several years from the date of FDA submission, if approval is
obtained at all. The FDA controls the indicated uses for which a product may be marketed and strictly prohibits the marketing of
medical devices for unapproved uses. The FDA can withdraw products from the market for failure to comply with laws or the
occurrence of safety risks.
All of our current hearing aid devices are air conduction devices and, as such, are Class I medical devices, exempt from the 510(k)
submission process. They are typically marketed to FDA approved manufacturers with IntriCon assisting in the design, development
and production. Our ECG recorder devices are classified as Class II medical devices and have received 510(k) clearance from the
FDA. Our manufacturing operations are subject to periodic inspections by the FDA, whose primary purpose is to audit the Company’s
compliance with the Quality System Regulations published by the FDA and other applicable government standards. Strict regulatory
action may be initiated in response to audit deficiencies or to product performance problems. We believe that our manufacturing and
quality control procedures are in compliance with the requirements of the FDA regulations and this has been substantiated with no
findings cited during our most recent FDA audit in December of 2013.
8
International Regulation
International regulatory bodies have established varying regulations governing product standards, packaging and labeling
requirements, import restrictions, tariff regulations, duties and tax. Many of these regulations are similar to those of the FDA. We
believe we are in compliance with the regulatory requirements in the foreign countries in which our medical devices are marketed.
The registration system for our medical devices in the EU requires that our quality system conform to international quality standards
and that our medical devices conform to “essential requirements” set forth by the Medical Device Directive (“MDD”). Manufacturing
facilities and processes under which our ECG recorder devices are produced are inspected and audited by our International
Organization for Standardization (“ISO”) registrar British Standards Institute (“BSI”). Our authorized representative, CE Partner 4U,
maintains our technical file and registers our products with competent authorities in all EU member states. Manufacturing facilities
and processes under which all of our other medical devices are produced are inspected and audited annually by the BSI. These audits
verify our compliance with the essential requirements of the MDD. These certifying bodies verify that our quality system conforms to
the international quality standard ISO 13485:2003 and that our products conform to the “essential requirements” and “supplementary
requirements” set forth by the MDD for the class of medical devices we produce. These certifying bodies also certify our conformity
with both the quality standards and the MDD requirements, entitling us to place the “CE” mark on all of our ECG recorder devices.
Our hearing aid devices typically bear the CE mark of our customers who assume regulatory responsibilities for those devices. In
2014, IntriCon obtained "CE" certification for our own hearing aid devices and we are prepared to supply these devices into the
European market.
Third Party Reimbursement
The availability and level of reimbursement from third-party payers for procedures utilizing our products is significant to our business.
Our products are purchased primarily by OEM customers who sell into clinics, hospitals and other end-users, who in turn bill various
third party payers for the services provided to the patients. These payers, which include Medicare, Medicaid, private health insurance
plans and managed care organizations, reimburse all or part of the costs and fees associated with the procedures utilizing our products.
In response to the national focus on rising health care costs, a number of changes to reduce costs have been proposed or have begun to
emerge. There have been, and may continue to be, proposals by legislators, regulators and third party payers to curb these costs. The
development or increased use of more cost effective treatments for diseases could cause such payers to decrease or deny
reimbursement for surgeries or devices to favor alternatives that do not utilize our products. A significant number of Americans enroll
in some form of managed care plan. Higher managed care utilization typically drives down the payments for health care procedures,
which in turn places pressure on medical supply prices. This causes hospitals to implement tighter vendor selection and certification
processes, by reducing the number of vendors used, purchasing more products from fewer vendors and trading discounts on price for
guaranteed higher volumes to vendors. Hospitals have also sought to control and reduce costs over the last decade by joining group
purchasing organizations or purchasing alliances. We cannot predict what continuing or future impact these practices, the existing or
proposed legislation, or such third-party payer measures within a constantly changing healthcare landscape may have on our future
business, financial condition or results of operations.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements included or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K or the Company’s other public filings
and releases, which are not historical facts, or that include forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “believe”, “anticipate”,
“expect”, “should”, “optimistic” or “continue”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “would”, “could”, “guidance”, “potential”,
“opportunity”, “project”, “forecast”, “confident”, “projections”, “schedule”, “designed”, “future”, “discussion”, “if” or the negative
thereof or other variations thereof, are forward-looking statements (as such term is defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and the regulations thereunder), which are intended to be covered by the
safe harbors created thereby. These statements may include, but are not limited to statements in “Business,” “Legal Proceedings,
“Risk Factors,” Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Notes to the
Consolidated Financial Statements, such as the Company’s ability to compete, statements concerning the hi HealthInnovations
program, the divestiture of its security and certain receiver and microphone business and its Global Coils joint venture interest,
expected expenses and cost savings from the global restructuring, strategic alliances and their benefits, the adequacy of insurance
coverage, government regulation, potential increases in demand for the Company’s products, net operating loss carryforwards, the
ability to meet cash requirements for operating needs, the ability to meet liquidity needs, assumptions used to calculate future levels of
funding of employee benefit plans, the adequacy of insurance coverage, the impact of new accounting pronouncements and litigation.
Forward-looking statements also include, without limitation, statements as to the Company's expected future results of operations and
growth, the Company’s ability to meet working capital requirements, the Company's business strategy, the expected increases in
operating efficiencies, anticipated trends in the Company's body-worn device markets, the effect of compliance with environmental
protection laws and other government regulations, estimates of goodwill impairments and amortization expense of other intangible
assets, estimates of asset impairment, the effects of changes in accounting pronouncements, the effects of litigation and the amount of
insurance coverage, and statements as to trends or the Company's or management's beliefs, expectations and opinions. Forward-
looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and may be affected by various risks, uncertainties and other factors that can
cause actual results and developments to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements,
including, without limitation, the risk factors discussed in Item 1A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
9
The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the
Company.
Available Information
The Company files or furnishes its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, proxy
statements and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any reports, statements and other information that the
Company files with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549, on official business
days during the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by
calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The Company’s reports, proxy and information statements and other SEC filings are also
available on the SEC’s Internet site as part of the EDGAR database (http://www.sec.gov).
The Company maintains an internet web site at www.IntriCon.com. The Company maintains a link to the SEC’s website by which
you may review its annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments
to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
The information on the website listed above, is not and should not be considered part of this annual report on Form 10-K and is not
incorporated by reference in this document. This website is and is only intended to be an inactive textual reference.
In addition, we will provide, at no cost (other than for exhibits), paper or electronic copies of our reports and other filings made with
the SEC. Requests should be directed to:
Corporate Secretary
IntriCon Corporation
1260 Red Fox Road
Arden Hills, MN 55112
10
ITEM 1A. Risk Factors
You should carefully consider the risks described below. If any of the risks events actually occur, our business, financial condition or
results of future operations could be materially adversely affected. This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking
statements that involve risk and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking
statements as a result of many factors, including the risks faced by us described below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form
10-K.
We have experienced and expect to continue to experience fluctuations in our results of operations, which could adversely
affect us.
Factors that affect our results of operations include, but are not limited to, the volume and timing of orders received, changes in the
global economy and financial markets, changes in the mix of products sold, market acceptance of our products and our customer’s
products, competitive pricing pressures, global currency valuations, the availability of electronic components that we purchase from
suppliers, our ability to meet demand, our ability to introduce new products on a timely basis, the timing of new product
announcements and introductions by us or our competitors, changing customer requirements, delays in new product qualifications, and
the timing and extent of research and development expenses. These factors have caused and may continue to cause us to experience
fluctuations in operating results on a quarterly and/or annual basis. These fluctuations could materially adversely affect our business,
financial condition and results of operations, which in turn, could adversely affect the price of our common stock.
The loss of one or more of our major customers could adversely affect our results of operations.
We are dependent on a small number of customers for a large portion of our revenues. In fiscal year 2014, our largest customer
accounted for approximately 37 percent of our net sales and our five largest customers accounted for approximately 57 percent of our
net sales. A significant decrease in the sales to or loss of any of our major customers could have a material adverse effect on our
business and results of operations. Our revenues are largely dependent upon the ability of customers to develop and sell products that
incorporate our products. No assurance can be given that our major customers will not experience financial, technical or other
difficulties that could adversely affect their operations and, in turn, our results of operations.
We may not be able to collect outstanding accounts receivable from our customers.
Some of our customers purchase our products on credit, which may cause a concentration of accounts receivable among some of our
customers. As of December 31, 2014, we had accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts, of $7,673, which represented
approximately 48 percent of our shareholders’ equity as of that date. As of that date, two customers accounted for a combined total of
28 percent of our accounts receivable. Our financial condition and profitability may be harmed if one or more of our customers are
unable or unwilling to pay these accounts receivable when due.
Despite signs of improvement in economic conditions, downturns in the domestic economic environment could cause a severe
disruption in our operations.
Our business has been negatively impacted by the domestic economic environment in recent years. If the economy does not continue
to improve or worsens, there could be several severely negative implications to our business that may exacerbate many of the risk
factors we identified including, but not limited to, the following:
Liquidity:
• The domestic economic environment and the associated credit crisis could worsen and reduce liquidity and this could
have a negative impact on financial institutions and the country’s financial system, which could, in turn, have a negative
impact on our business.
• We may not be able to borrow additional funds under our existing credit facility and may not be able to expand our
existing facility if our lender becomes insolvent or its liquidity is limited or impaired or if we fail to meet covenant levels
going forward. In addition, we may not be able to renew our existing credit facility at the conclusion of its current term
in February 2018 or renew it on terms that are favorable to us.
• During the last few years the Federal Reserve Board's involvement in the purchase of U.S. government debt securities,
commonly known as "quantitative easing," has caused interest rates to be lower than they would have been without such
involvement. As a result of the end of quantitative easing in October 2014, interest rates could begin to rise, which could
disrupt domestic and world markets and could adversely affect our liquidity and results of operations.
Demand:
• Any deterioration in the economy or a return to recession could result in lower sales to our customers. Additionally, our
customers may not have access to sufficient cash or short-term credit to obtain our products or services.
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Prices:
• Certain markets could experience deflation, which would negatively impact our average prices and reduce our margins.
Health care policy changes, including U.S. health care reform legislation signed in 2010, may have a material adverse effect on
us.
In March 2010, President Obama signed into law the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education
Affordability Reconciliation Act of 2010. The legislation imposes significant new taxes on medical device makers in the form of a
2.3% excise tax on all U.S. medical device sales beginning in January 2013. Under the legislation, the total cost to the medical device
industry is expected to be approximately $30 billion over ten years. This significant increase in the tax burden on our industry could
have a material, negative impact on our results of operations and our cash flows either directly, through taxes on us, or indirectly
through others in our value chain being subject to the tax. Although the direct impact of the excise tax is expected to be immaterial on
us, if facts or circumstances change in our business relationships, we could be subject to customer pricing pressures or required to pay
additional taxes under the rules. Other elements of this legislation, such as comparative effectiveness research, an independent
payment advisory board, payment system reforms, including shared savings pilots, and other provisions, could meaningfully change
the way health care is developed and delivered, and may materially impact numerous aspects of our business.
If we are unable to continue to develop new products that are inexpensive to manufacture, our results of operations could be
adversely affected.
We may not be able to continue to achieve our historical profit margins due to advancements in technology. The ability to continue
our profit margins is dependent upon our ability to stay competitive by developing products that are technologically advanced and
inexpensive to manufacture.
Our need for continued investment in research and development may increase expenses and reduce our profitability.
Our industry is characterized by the need for continued investment in research and development. If we fail to invest sufficiently in
research and development, our products could become less attractive to potential customers and our business and financial condition
could be materially and adversely affected. As a result of the need to maintain or increase spending levels in this area and the
difficulty in reducing costs associated with research and development, our operating results could be materially harmed if our research
and development efforts fail to result in new products or if revenues fall below expectations. In addition, as a result of our
commitment to invest in research and development, management believes that research and development expenses as a percentage of
revenues could increase in the future.
We operate in a highly competitive business and if we are unable to be competitive, our financial condition could be adversely
affected.
Several of our competitors have been able to offer more standardized and less technologically advanced hearing and professional
audio communication products at lower prices. Price competition has had an adverse effect on our sales and margins. Many of our
competitors are larger than us and have greater research and development resources, marketing and financial resources, manufacturing
capability and customer support organizations than we have. There can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain or enhance
our technical capabilities or compete successfully with our existing and future competitors.
Merger and acquisition activity in our hearing health market has resulted in a smaller customer base. Reliance on fewer
customers may have an adverse effect on us.
Several of our customers in the hearing health market have undergone mergers or acquisitions, resulting in a smaller customer base
with larger customers. If we are unable to maintain satisfactory relationships with the reduced customer base, it may adversely affect
our operating profits and revenue.
Unfavorable legislation in the hearing health market may decrease the demand for our products, and may negatively impact
our financial condition.
In some of our foreign markets, government subsidies cover a portion of the cost of hearing aids. A change in legislation that would
reduce or eliminate these subsidies could decrease the demand for our hearing health products. This could result in an adverse effect
on our operating results. We are unable to predict the likelihood of any such legislation.
12
Our failure, or the failure of our customers, to obtain required governmental approvals and maintain regulatory compliance
for regulated products would adversely affect our ability to generate revenue from those products.
The markets in which our business operates are subject to extensive and rigorous regulation by the FDA and by comparable agencies
in foreign countries. In the United States, the FDA regulates the design control, development, manufacturing, labeling, record keeping,
and surveillance procedures for our medical devices and those of our customers
The process of obtaining marketing clearance or approvals from the FDA for new products and new applications for existing products
can be time-consuming and expensive, and there is no assurance that such clearance/approvals will be granted, or that the FDA review
will not involve delays that would adversely affect our ability to commercialize additional products or additional applications for
existing products. Some of our products in the research and development stage may be subject to a lengthy and expensive pre-market
approval process with the FDA. The FDA has the authority to control the indicated uses of a device. Products can also be withdrawn
from the market due to failure to comply with regulatory standards or the occurrence of unforeseen problems. The FDA regulations
depend heavily on administrative interpretation, and there can be no assurance that future interpretations made by the FDA or other
regulatory bodies, with possible retroactive effect, will not adversely affect us.
The registration system for our medical devices in the EU requires that our quality system conform to international quality standards.
Manufacturing facilities and processes under which our ECG recorder devices and hearing aid devices are produced, are inspected and
audited by various certifying bodies. These audits verify our compliance with applicable requirements and standards. Further, the
FDA, various state agencies and foreign regulatory agencies inspect our facilities to determine whether we are in compliance with
various regulations relating to quality systems, such as manufacturing practices, validation, testing, quality control, product labeling
and product surveillance. A determination that we are in violation of such regulations could lead to imposition of civil penalties,
including fines, product recalls or product seizures, suspensions or shutdown of production and, in extreme cases, criminal sanctions,
depending on the nature of the violation.
Further, to the extent that any of our customers to whom we supply products become subject to regulatory actions or delays, our sales
to those customers could be reduced, delayed or suspended, which could have a material adverse effect on our sales and earnings.
Implementation of our growth strategy may not be successful, which could affect our ability to increase revenues.
Our growth strategy includes developing new products and entering new markets, as well as identifying and integrating acquisitions.
Our ability to compete in new markets will depend upon a number of factors including, among others:
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our ability to create demand for products in new markets;
our ability to manage growth effectively;
our ability to strengthen our sales and marketing presence;
our ability to successfully identify, complete and integrate acquisitions;
our ability to respond to changes in our customers’ businesses by updating existing products and introducing, in a timely
fashion, new products which meet the needs of our customers;
the quality of our new products; and
our ability to respond rapidly to technological change.
The failure to do any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of
operations. In addition, we may face competition in these new markets from various companies that may have substantially greater
research and development resources, marketing and financial resources, manufacturing capability and customer support organizations.
We have foreign operations in Singapore, Indonesia and Germany, and various factors relating to our international operations
could affect our results of operations.
In 2014, we operated in Singapore, Indonesia and Germany. Approximately 18 percent of our revenues were derived from our
facilities in these countries in 2014. As of December 31, 2014 approximately 22 percent of our long-lived assets are located in these
countries. Political or economic instability in these countries could have an adverse impact on our results of operations due to
diminished revenues in these countries. Our future revenues, costs of operations and profit results could be affected by a number of
factors related to our international operations, including changes in foreign currency exchange rates, changes in economic conditions
from country to country, changes in a country's political condition, trade protection measures, licensing and other legal requirements
and local tax issues. Unanticipated currency fluctuations in the euro, Singapore dollar and other currencies could lead to lower
reported consolidated revenues due to the translation of this currency into U.S. dollars when we consolidate our revenues and results
from operations.
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The recent recessions in Europe and the debt crisis in certain countries in the European Union could negatively affect our
ability to conduct business in those geographies.
The recent debt crisis in certain European countries could cause the value of the euro to deteriorate, reducing the purchasing power of
our European customers. Financial difficulties experienced by our suppliers and customers, including distributors, could result in
product delays and inventory issues; risks to accounts receivable could also include delays in collection and greater bad debt expense.
Also, the effect of the debt crisis in certain European countries could have an adverse effect on the capital markets generally,
specifically impacting our ability and the ability of our customers to finance our and their respective businesses on acceptable terms, if
at all, the availability of materials and supplies and demand for our products.
We may explore acquisitions that complement or expand our business. We may not be able to complete these transactions and
these transactions, if executed, pose significant risks and may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and
operating results.
We may explore opportunities to buy other businesses or technologies that could complement, enhance or expand our current business
or product lines or that might otherwise offer us growth opportunities. We may have difficulty finding these opportunities or, if we do
identify these opportunities, we may not be able to complete the transactions for various reasons, including a failure to secure
financing. Any transactions that we are able to identify and complete may involve a number of risks, including: the diversion of our
management's attention from our existing business to integrate the operations and personnel of the acquired or combined business or
joint venture; possible adverse effects on our operating results during the integration process; unanticipated liabilities; and our possible
inability to achieve the intended objectives of the transaction. In addition, we may not be able to successfully or profitably integrate,
operate, maintain and manage our newly acquired operations or employees. In addition, future acquisitions may result in dilutive
issuances of equity securities or the incurrence of additional debt.
We may experience difficulty in paying our debt when it comes due, which could limit our ability to obtain financing.
As of December 31, 2014, we had bank indebtedness of $6,513. Our ability to pay the principal and interest on our indebtedness as it
comes due will depend upon our current and future performance. Our performance is affected by general economic conditions and by
financial, competitive, political, business and other factors. Many of these factors are beyond our control. We believe that availability
under our existing credit facility combined with funds expected to be generated from operations and control of capital spending will be
sufficient to meet our anticipated cash requirements for operating needs for at least the next 12 months. If, however, we are unable to
renew these facilities or obtain waivers (see “Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources”) in the future or do not generate sufficient cash or complete such financings on a timely
basis, we may be required to seek additional financing or sell equity on terms which may not be as favorable as we could have
otherwise obtained. No assurance can be given that any refinancing, additional borrowing or sale of equity will be possible when
needed or that we will be able to negotiate acceptable terms. In addition, our access to capital is affected by prevailing conditions in
the financial and equity capital markets, as well as our own financial condition and performance.
If we fail to meet our financial and other covenants under our loan agreements with our lenders, absent a waiver, we will be in
default of the loan agreements and our lenders can take actions that would adversely affect our business.
There can be no assurances that we will be able to maintain compliance with the financial and other covenants in our loan agreements.
In the event we are unable to comply with these covenants during future periods, it is uncertain whether our lenders will grant waivers
for our non-compliance. If there is an event of default by us under our loan agreements, our lenders have the option to, among other
things, accelerate any and all of our obligations under the loan agreements which would have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our success depends on our senior management team and if we are not able to retain them, it could have a materially adverse
effect on us.
We are highly dependent upon the continued services and experience of our senior management team, including Mark S. Gorder, our
President, Chief Executive Officer and director. We depend on the services of Mr. Gorder and the other members of our senior
management team to, among other things, continue the development and implementation of our business strategies and maintain and
develop our client relationships. We do not maintain key-man life insurance for any members of our senior management team.
Cybersecurity incidents could disrupt business operations, result in the loss of critical and confidential information, and
adversely impact our reputation and results of operations.
Global cybersecurity threats can range from uncoordinated individual attempts to gain unauthorized access to our information
technology (IT) systems to sophisticated and targeted measures known as advanced persistent threats. While we employ
comprehensive measures to prevent, detect, address and mitigate these threats (including access controls, vulnerability assessments,
continuous monitoring of our IT networks and systems and maintenance of backup and protective systems), cybersecurity incidents,
depending on their nature and scope, could potentially result in the misappropriation, destruction, corruption or unavailability of
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critical data and confidential or proprietary information (our own or that of third parties) and the disruption of business operations.
The potential consequences of a material cybersecurity incident include reputational damage, litigation with third parties, diminution
in the value of our investment in research, development and engineering, and increased cybersecurity protection and remediation
costs, which in turn could adversely affect our competitiveness and results of operations.
Our future success depends in part on the continued service of our engineering and technical personnel and our ability to
identify, hire and retain additional personnel.
There is intense competition for qualified personnel in our markets. We may not be able to continue to attract and retain engineers or
other qualified personnel necessary for the development and growth of our business or to replace engineers or other qualified
personnel who may leave our employ in the future. The failure to retain and recruit key technical personnel could cause additional
expense, potentially reduce the efficiency of our operations and could harm our business.
We and/or our customers may be unable to protect our and their proprietary technology and intellectual property rights or
keep up with that of competitors.
Our ability to compete effectively against other companies in our markets depends, in part, on our ability and the ability of our
customers to protect our and their current and future proprietary technology under patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret and unfair
competition laws. We cannot assure that our means of protecting our proprietary rights in the United States or abroad will be adequate,
or that others will not develop technologies similar or superior to our technology or design around the proprietary rights we own or
license. In addition, we may incur substantial costs in attempting to protect our proprietary rights.
Also, despite the steps taken by us to protect our proprietary rights, it may be possible for unauthorized third parties to copy or
reverse-engineer aspects of our and our customers’ products, develop similar technology independently or otherwise obtain and use
information that we or our customers regard as proprietary. We and our customers may be unable to successfully identify or prosecute
unauthorized uses of our or our customers’ technology.
If we become subject to material intellectual property infringement claims, we could incur significant expenses and could be
prevented from selling specific products.
We may become subject to material claims that we infringe the intellectual property rights of others in the future. We cannot assure
that, if made, these claims will not be successful. Any claim of infringement could cause us to incur substantial costs defending
against the claim even if the claim is invalid, and could distract management from other business. Any judgment against us could
require substantial payment in damages and could also include an injunction or other court order that could prevent us from offering
certain products.
Environmental liability and compliance obligations may affect our operations and results.
Our manufacturing operations are subject to a variety of environmental laws and regulations as well as internal programs and policies
governing:
air emissions;
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(cid:2)
(cid:2)
the storage, use, handling, disposal and remediation of hazardous substances, wastes and chemicals; and
employee health and safety.
If violations of environmental laws occur, we could be held liable for damages, penalties, fines and remedial actions. Our operations
and results could be adversely affected by any material obligations arising from existing laws, as well as any required material
modifications arising from new regulations that may be enacted in the future. We may also be held liable for past disposal of
hazardous substances generated by our business or former businesses or businesses we acquire. In addition, it is possible that we may
be held liable for contamination discovered at our present or former facilities.
We are subject to numerous asbestos-related lawsuits, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations
or liquidity.
We are a defendant along with a number of other parties in lawsuits alleging that plaintiffs have or may have contracted asbestos-
related diseases as a result of exposure to asbestos products or equipment containing asbestos sold by one or more named defendants.
These lawsuits relate to the discontinued heat technologies segment which we sold in March 2005. Due to the non-informative nature
of the complaints, we do not know whether any of the complaints state valid claims against us. Certain insurance carriers have
informed us that the primary policies for the period August 1, 1970-1978 have been exhausted and that the carriers will no longer
provide defense and insurance coverage under those policies. However, we have other primary and excess insurance policies that we
believe afford coverage for later years. Some of these other primary insurers have accepted defense and insurance coverage for these
suits, and some of them have either ignored our tender of defense of these cases, or have denied coverage, or have accepted the tenders
15
but asserted a reservation of rights and/or advised us that they need to investigate further. Because settlement payments are applied to
all years a litigant was deemed to have been exposed to asbestos, we believe we will have funds available for defense and insurance
coverage under the non-exhausted primary and excess insurance policies. However, unlike the older policies, the more recent policies
have deductible amounts for defense and settlements costs that we will be required to pay; accordingly, we expect that our litigation
costs will increase in the future as the older policies are exhausted. Further, many of the policies covering later years (approximately
1984 and thereafter) have exclusions for any asbestos products or operations, and thus do not provide insurance coverage for asbestos-
related lawsuits. If our insurance policies do not cover the costs and any awards for the asbestos-related lawsuits, we will have to use
our cash or obtain additional financing to pay the asbestos-related obligations and settlement costs. There is no assurance that we will
have the cash or be able to obtain additional financings on favorable terms to pay asbestos related obligations or settlements should
they occur. The ultimate outcome of any legal matter cannot be predicted with certainty. In light of the significant uncertainty
associated with asbestos lawsuits, there is no guarantee that these lawsuits will not materially adversely affect our financial position,
results of operations or liquidity.
The market price of our common stock has been and is likely to continue to be volatile and there has been limited trading
volume in our stock, which may make it difficult for shareholders to resell common stock when they want to and at prices they
find attractive.
The market price of our common stock has been and is likely to be highly volatile, and there has been limited trading volume in our
common stock. The common stock market price could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to a variety of factors, including the
following:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
announcements of fluctuations in our or our competitors’ operating results;
the timing and announcement of sales or acquisitions of assets by us or our competitors;
changes in estimates or recommendations by securities analysts;
adverse or unfavorable publicity about our products, technologies or us;
the commencement of material litigation, or an unfavorable verdict, against us;
terrorist attacks, war and threats of attacks and war;
additions or departures of key personnel; and
sales of common stock.
In addition, the stock market in recent years has experienced significant price and volume fluctuations. Such volatility has affected
many companies irrespective of, or disproportionately to, the operating performance of these companies. These broad fluctuations and
limited trading volume may materially adversely affect the market price of our common stock, and your ability to sell our common
stock.
Most of our outstanding shares are available for resale in the public market without restriction. The sale of a large number of these
shares could adversely affect the share price and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of equity securities or make
acquisitions for common stock.
“Anti-takeover” provisions may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire control of us, even if the change in control
would be beneficial to shareholders.
We are a Pennsylvania corporation. Anti-takeover provisions in Pennsylvania law and our charter and bylaws could make it more
difficult for a third party to acquire control of us. These provisions could adversely affect the market price of the common stock and
could reduce the amount that shareholders might receive if we are sold. For example, our charter provides that the board of directors
may issue preferred stock without shareholder approval. In addition, our bylaws provide for a classified board, with each board
member serving a staggered three-year term. Directors may be removed by shareholders only with the approval of the holders of at
least two-thirds of all of the shares outstanding and entitled to vote.
Further, under an agreement that we entered into with hi HealthInnovations, a UnitedHealth Group company, in connection with our
manufacturing agreement, we are required to, among other things, offer to United Healthcare Services, Inc. the right to complete the
acquisition of our company by a health insurer on the same terms and conditions and the right to participate in certain other sales of
our company, all of which may have an anti-takeover effect. For more information, see our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the
SEC on November 14, 2011.
16
If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or
prevent fraud. As a result, current and potential shareholders and customers could lose confidence in our financial reporting,
which could harm our business, the trading price of our stock and our ability to retain our current customers or obtain new
customers.
Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, referred to as Section 404, we are required to include in our Annual
Reports on Form 10-K, our management’s report on internal control over financial reporting. Currently, we are not required to
include a report of our independent registered public accounting firm on our internal controls because we are a “smaller reporting
company” under SEC rules; therefore, shareholders do not have the benefit of an independent review of our internal controls. While
we have reported no “material weaknesses” in the Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, we cannot guarantee that
we will not have material weaknesses in the future. Compliance with the requirements of Section 404 is expensive and time-
consuming. If in the future we fail to complete this evaluation in a timely manner, or if we determine that we have a material
weakness, we could be subject to regulatory scrutiny and a loss of public confidence in our internal control over financial reporting. In
addition, any failure to establish an effective system of disclosure controls and procedures could cause our current and potential
investors and customers to lose confidence in our financial reporting and disclosure required under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, which could adversely affect our business and the market price of our common stock.
17
ITEM 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None
ITEM 2. Properties
The Company leases six facilities, three domestically and three internationally, as follows:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
a 47,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Arden Hills, Minnesota, which also serves as the Company’s headquarters, from a
partnership consisting of two former officers of IntriCon Inc. and Mark S. Gorder who serves as the chairman of the board,
president and CEO of the Company. At this facility, the Company manufactures body-worn devices, other than plastic
component parts. Annual base rent expense, including real estate taxes and other charges, is approximately $486. The
Company believes the terms of the lease agreement are comparable to those which could be obtained from unaffiliated third
parties. As amended, this lease expires in November 2016.
a 46,000 sq. ft. building in Vadnais Heights, Minnesota at which IntriCon produces plastic component parts for body-worn
devices. Annual base rent expense, including real estate taxes and other charges, is approximately $428. This lease expires in
June 2016.
a 4,000 square foot building in Escondido, California, which houses assembly operations and administrative offices relating
to our cardiac monitoring business. Annual base rent expense, including real estate taxes and other charges, is approximately
$35. This lease expires in April 2016.
a 28,000 square foot building in Singapore which houses production facilities and administrative offices. Annual base rent
expense, including real estate taxes and other charges, of the 24,000 square foot portion of the building we use is
approximately $290. This lease expires in October 2015.
a 15,000 square foot facility in Indonesia which houses production facilities. Annual base rent expense, including real estate
taxes and other charges is approximately $97. This lease expires in July 2016.
a 2,000 square foot facility in Germany which houses sales and administrative offices. Annual base rent expense, including
real estate taxes and other charges, is approximately $34. This lease expires in June 2017.
See Notes 14 and 15 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of the Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings
The Company is a defendant along with a number of other parties in lawsuits alleging that plaintiffs have or may have contracted
asbestos-related diseases as a result of exposure to asbestos products or equipment containing asbestos sold by one or more named
defendants. These lawsuits relate to the discontinued heat technologies segment which was sold in March 2005. Due to the non-
informative nature of the complaints, the Company does not know whether any of the complaints state valid claims against the
Company. Certain insurance carriers have informed the Company that the primary policies for the period August 1, 1970-1978 have
been exhausted and that the carriers will no longer provide defense and insurance coverage under those policies. However, the
Company has other primary and excess insurance policies that the Company believes afford coverage for later years. Some of these
other primary insurers have accepted defense and insurance coverage for these suits, and some of them have either ignored the
Company’s tender of defense of these cases, or have denied coverage, or have accepted the tenders but asserted a reservation of rights
and/or advised the Company that they need to investigate further. Because settlement payments are applied to all years a litigant was
deemed to have been exposed to asbestos, the Company believes that it will have funds available for defense and insurance coverage
under the non-exhausted primary and excess insurance policies. However, unlike the older policies, the more recent policies have
deductible amounts for defense and settlements costs that the Company will be required to pay; accordingly, the Company expects that
its litigation costs will increase in the future. Further, many of the policies covering later years (approximately 1984 and thereafter)
have exclusions for any asbestos products or operations, and thus do not provide insurance coverage for asbestos-related lawsuits. The
Company does not believe that the asserted exhaustion of some of the primary insurance coverage for the 1970-1978 period will have
a material adverse effect on its financial condition, liquidity, or results of operations. Management believes that the number of
insurance carriers involved in the defense of the suits, and the significant number of policy years and policy limits under which these
insurance carriers are insuring the Company, make the ultimate disposition of these lawsuits not material to the Company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations.
The Company’s former wholly owned French subsidiary, Selas SAS, filed for insolvency in France. The Company may be subject to
additional litigation or liabilities as a result of the French insolvency proceeding.
The Company is also involved in other lawsuits arising in the normal course of business, as further described in Note 14 to the
consolidated financial statements in Item 8. While it is not possible to predict with certainty the outcome of these matters,
management is of the opinion that the disposition of these lawsuits and claims will not materially affect the Company’s consolidated
financial position, liquidity, or results of operations.
18
ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
ITEM 4A. Executive Officers of the Registrant
The names, ages and offices (as of February 19, 2015) of the Company's executive officers were as follows:
Name
Mark S. Gorder
Scott Longval
Michael P. Geraci
Dennis L. Gonsior
Greg Gruenhagen
Age
68
38
56
56
61
Position
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Company
Vice President, Sales and Marketing
Vice President, Global Operations
Vice President, Corporate Quality and Regulatory Affairs
Mr. Gorder joined the Company in October 1993 when Resistance Technology, Inc. (RTI) (now known as IntriCon, Inc.) was
acquired by the Company. Mr. Gorder received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from the St. Olaf College, a Bachelor of
Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Business Administration from the
University of Minnesota. Prior to the acquisition, Mr. Gorder was President and one of the founders of RTI, which began operations in
1977. Mr. Gorder was promoted to Vice President of the Company and elected to the Board of Directors in April 1996. In December
2000, he was elected President and Chief Operating Officer and in April 2001, Mr. Gorder assumed the role of Chief Executive
Officer.
Mr. Longval has served as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer since July 2006. Mr. Longval received a Bachelor of Science
degree in Accounting from the University of St. Thomas. Prior to being appointed as CFO, Mr. Longval served as the Company’s
Corporate Controller since September 2005. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Longval was Principal Project Analyst at ADC
Telecommunications, Inc., a provider of innovative network infrastructure products and services, from March 2005 until September
2005. From May 2002 until March 2005 he was employed by Accellent, Inc., formerly MedSource Technologies, a provider of
outsourcing solutions to the medical device industry, most recently as Manager of Financial Planning and Analysis. From September
1998 until April 2002, he was employed by Arthur Andersen, most recently as experienced audit senior.
Mr. Geraci joined the Company in October 1983. Mr. Geraci received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from
Bradley University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Minnesota – Carlson School of Business. He has
served as the Company’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing since January 1995.
Mr. Gonsior joined the Company in February 1982. Mr. Gonsior received a Bachelor of Science degree from Saint Cloud State
University. He has served as the Company’s Vice President of Operations since January 1996.
Mr. Gruenhagen joined the Company in November 1984. Mr. Gruenhagen received a Bachelor of Science degree from Iowa State
University. He has served as the Company’s Vice President of Corporate Quality and Regulatory Affairs since December 2007. Prior
to that, Mr. Gruenhagen served as Director of Corporate Quality since 2004 and Director of Project Management since 2000.
19
PART II
ITEM 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The Company’s common shares are listed on the NASDAQ Global Market under the ticker symbol “IIN”.
Market and Dividend Information
The high and low sale prices of the Company’s common stock during each quarterly period during the past two years were as follows:
Quarter
First
Second
Third
Fourth
$
2014 Market Price Range
High
Low
3.78
5.11
4.42
8.90
5.74
8.88
5.55
6.95
$
2013 Market Price Range
Low
High
4.00
5.45
3.26
5.14
2.75
4.70
3.42
4.60
The closing sale price of the Company’s common stock on February 19, 2015, was $8.09 per share.
At February 19, 2015 the Company had 271 shareholders of record of common stock. Such number does not reflect shareholders who
beneficially own common stock in nominee or street name.
The Company currently intends to retain any future earnings to support operations and to finance the growth and development of its
business and does not intend to pay cash dividends on its common stock for the foreseeable future. Any payment of future dividends
will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend upon, among other things, the Company’s earnings, financial
condition, capital requirements, level of indebtedness, contractual restrictions with respect to the payment of dividends, and other
factors that the Board of Directors deems relevant. Terms of the Company’s banking agreements prohibit the payment of cash
dividends without prior bank approval.
See “Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters — Equity
Compensation Plans” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for disclosure regarding our equity compensation plans.
In 2014, the Company did not sell any unregistered securities and did not repurchase any of its securities.
20
ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data
Year Ended December 31
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
Sales, net
Gross profit
Operating expenses
Interest Expense
Equity in income (loss) of partnerships
Gain on sale of investment in partnership
Other income (expense), net
$
68,303 $
52,961
$
59,955 $
52,095
$
58,697
18,484
12,169
15,299
12,650
15,013
15,076
(461)
(228)
-
227
13,507
(600)
(262)
-
127
13,231
(755)
(116)
822
(96)
12,709
(609)
174
-
52
13,419
(655)
(135)
-
(4)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
and discontinued operations
2,946
(2,073)
1,923
(442)
800
Income tax (expense) benefit
(428)
(217)
(164)
160
(145)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before discontinued
operations
2,518
(2,290)
1,759
(282)
655
Gain (Loss) on sale of discontinued operations, net of income
taxes
(120)
-
-
-
35
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
Net income (loss)
Basic income (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
Diluted income (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
(150)
2,248
(3,872)
(6,162)
$
0.43
(0.05)
0.39
$
$
(0.40)
(0.68)
(1.08)
0.42
(0.04)
0.37
$
$
(0.40)
(0.68)
(1.08)
(1,050)
709
0.31
(0.19)
0.13
0.30
(0.18)
0.12
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
(1,143)
(1,425) $
(329)
361
(0.05)
(0.20)
(0.25)
(0.05)
(0.20)
(0.25)
$
$
$
$
0.12
(0.05)
0.07
0.12
(0.05)
0.07
Weighted average number of shares outstanding during year:
Basic
Diluted
5,791
6,038
5,699
5,699
5,669
5,888
5,599
5,599
5,484
5,535
21
Other Financial Highlights
Year Ended December 31
2014
2013 (b)
2012 (b)
2011 (b)
2010
Working capital (a)
Total assets
Long-term debt
Shareholders' equity
Depreciation and amortization
7,804
33,961
4,627
16,107
2,182
5,978
32,720
6,271
13,308
2,402
8,893
39,132
7,222
18,722
1,983
8,207
40,730
8,217
17,446
2,083
8,615
36,267
6,465
18,571
2,601
(a) Working capital is equal to current assets less current liabilities.
(b)
In 2013, the Company classified its security and certain microphone, and receiver operations as discontinued operations. The
Company revised its financial statements for 2011 and 2012 to reflect the discontinued operations.
22
ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Company Overview
IntriCon Corporation, (the “Company” or “IntriCon”, “we”, “us” or “our”) is an international company engaged in the designing,
developing, engineering and manufacturing of body-worn devices. The Company serves the body-worn device market by designing,
developing, engineering and manufacturing micro-miniature products, microelectronics, micro-mechanical assemblies and complete
assemblies, primarily for bio-telemetry devices, hearing instruments and professional audio communication devices.
As discussed below, the Company has one operating segment - its body-worn device segment. Our expertise in this segment is
focused on three main markets: medical, hearing health and professional audio communications. Within these chosen markets, we
combine ultra-miniature mechanical and electronics capabilities with proprietary technology – including ultra low power (ULP)
wireless and digital signal processing (DSP) capabilities – that enhances the performance of body-worn devices.
Business Highlights
The Company reported its strongest financial results in over a decade, including its strongest revenue, margin and earnings.
On December 4, 2014 the Company announced an exclusive distribution agreement with PC Werth in the United Kingdom. PC Werth,
through its partnership with IntriCon, has been appointed as one of the main suppliers to the National Health Service (NHS) Supply
Chain’s National Framework. The NHS is the largest purchaser of hearing aids in the world, supplying an estimated 1.2 million
hearing aids annually.
On February 14, 2014, the Company and its domestic subsidiaries entered into a Sixth Amendment to the Loan and Security
Agreement and Waiver with The PrivateBank and Trust Company, which among other things extended the maturity date of the term
loan and revolving credit facility to February 28, 2018 (refer to Note 7).
On January 27, 2014, the Company sold its remaining security and certain microphone and receiver operations; which marked the
final milestone in the global strategic restructuring plan announced in 2013.
Forward–Looking Statements
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our financial
statements and the related notes appearing in Item 8 of this report. This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements
that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-
looking statements as a result of many factors, including but not limited to those under the heading “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of this
Annual Report on Form 10-K. See also Item 1. “Business—Forward-Looking Statements” for more information.
23
Results of Operations: 2014 Compared with 2013
Consolidated Net Sales
Our net sales are comprised of three main markets: medical, hearing health, and professional audio - collectively our body-worn
device segment. Below is a recap of our sales by main markets for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Medical
Hearing Health
Professional Audio Communications
Consolidated Net Sales
Change
2014
2013
Dollars
$
$
35,109
22,959
10,235
68,303
$
$
25,978
19,739
7,244
52,961
$
$
9,131
3,220
2,991
15,342
Percent
35.1%
16.3%
41.3%
29.0%
In 2014, we experienced a 35.1 percent increase in medical sales primarily driven by higher sales to Medtronic and other key medical
customers. In September 2013, Medtronic received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for their MiniMed 530G insulin
pump system. To support their MiniMed 530G system launch, we built and sold significant inventory from the fourth quarter of 2013
through the first half of 2014, which is the primary reason sales have increased significantly from the prior period. While the company
has satisfied the initial launch volume requirements, IntriCon anticipates sequential Medtronic revenue growth in 2015. Management
believes that the industry-wide trend to shift the point of care from expensive traditional settings, such as hospitals, to less expensive
non-traditional settings like the home, will result in growth of the medical bio-telemetry industry. IntriCon currently serves this market
by offering medical manufacturers the capabilities to design, develop and manufacture medical devices that are easier to use, are more
miniature, use less power, and are lighter. IntriCon has a strong presence in both the diabetes market, with its Medtronic partnership,
and cardiac diagnostic monitoring bio-telemetry market. The Company believes there are growth opportunities in these markets as
well other emerging biotelemetry and home care markets, such as sleep apnea, that could benefit from its capabilities to develop
devices that are more technologically advanced, smaller and lightweight.
Net sales in our hearing health business for the year ended December 31, 2014 increased 16.3 percent over the same period in 2013.
The increase was primarily due to strong device sales to hi HealthInnovations and to the conventional hearing health channel. Market
dynamics, such as low penetration rates, an aging population, and the need for reduced cost and convenience, have resulted in the
emergence of alternative care models, such the insurance channel and PSAP channel. IntriCon believes it is very well positioned to
serve these value hearing health market channels. The Company will be aggressively pursuing larger customers who can benefit from
our value proposition. Over the past several years, the Company has invested heavily in core technologies, product platforms and its
global manufacturing capabilities geared to provide high-tech, lower-cost hearing devices.
Net sales to the professional audio device sector increased 41.3 percent in 2014 compared to the same period in 2013. During 2014,
the Company delivered on a contract with the Singapore government to provide technically advanced headsets worn in military
applications, which makes up a large portion of the period over period increase. IntriCon will continue to leverage its core technology
in professional audio to support existing customers, as well as pursue related hearing health and medical product opportunities.
Gross Profit
Gross profit, both in dollars and as a percent of sales, for 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
2014
Percent
of Sales
2013
Change
Dollars
Percent
of Sales
Dollars
27.1%
$
12,169
23.0%
$
6,315
Percent
51.9%
Dollars
$
18,484
Gross Profit
The 2014 gross profit increase over the comparable prior year period was primarily due to higher overall sales volumes and cost
reductions from global restructuring initiatives, partially offset by a less favorable sales mix.
24
Sales and Marketing, General and Administrative and Research and Development Expenses
Sales and marketing, general and administrative and research and development expenses for the years ended December 31, 2014 and
2013 were:
Sales and Marketing
General and Administrative
Research and Development
2014
Dollars
$
3,699
6,462
4,832
Percent
of Sales
Dollars
2013
Percent
of Sales
Change
Dollars
Percent
$
5.4%
9.5%
7.1%
3,308
5,789
4,181
$
6.2%
10.9%
7.9%
391
673
651
11.8%
11.6%
15.6%
Sales and marketing expenses increased due to the addition of experienced professionals and greater commission expenses based on
the revenue growth. General and administrative expenses are greater than the prior year period primarily due to increased support
costs. Also, sales and marketing and general and administrative expenses increased due to support for VHH opportunities. Research
and development increased over the prior year periods primarily due to a research and development tax credit accrued in the third
quarter of 2013 of $567 and increased expenses in 2014 to support the Company’s VHH initiative.
Restructuring charges
On June 13, 2013 the Company announced a global strategic restructuring plan designed to accelerate the Company’s future growth
by focusing resources on the highest potential growth areas and to reduce costs. The plan was approved by the Company’s Board of
Directors on June 12, 2013. As part of this plan, the Company: reduced investment in certain non-core professional audio
communications product lines; transferred specific product lines from Singapore to the Company’s lower-cost manufacturing facility
in Batam, Indonesia; reduced global administrative and support workforce; transferred the medical coil operations from the
Company’s Maine facility to Minnesota to better leverage existing manufacturing capacity; sold its remaining security, microphone
and receiver operations; added experienced professionals in value hearing health; and focused more resources in medical biotelemetry.
During 2014, the Company incurred restructuring charges of $83 and during 2013 the Company incurred restructuring charges of
$229. These charges are primarily related to employee termination benefits from the restructuring of its continuing operations. In the
future, the Company does not expect to incur any additional cash charges related to this restructuring.
Interest Expense
Interest expense for 2014 was $461, a decrease of $139 from $600 in 2013. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to
lower average debt balances compared to the prior year.
Equity in Loss of Partnerships
The equity in loss of partnerships for 2014 was $228 compared to $262 in 2013.
The Company recorded a $182 decrease in the carrying amount of its investment in the Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Patent
Partnership (“HIMPP”) for 2014, reflecting amortization of the patents and other intangibles and the Company’s portion of the
partnership’s operating results for the year ended December 31, 2013, compared to a $204 decrease in the carrying amount of the
investment in 2013 for the amortization of the patents and other intangibles and the Company’s portion of the partnership’s operating
results for the year ended December 31, 2013. Also, in 2014 the Company paid $46 in operating expenses for HIMPP compared to
$58 in 2013.
Other Income (Expense), net
In 2014, other income (expense), net was $227 compared to $127 in 2013 primarily due to a royalty payment received in 2014.
25
Income Tax Expense
Income taxes were as follows:
Income tax expense
Percentage of income tax expense of income from
continuing operations before income taxes and
discontinued operations
2014
2013
$
428
$
217
14.5%
10.5%
The expense in 2014 and 2013 was primarily due to foreign taxes on German and Singapore operations. The Company is in a net
operating loss position (“NOL”) for US federal and state income tax purposes and, consequently, incurs minimal income tax expense
from the current period domestic operations. Our deferred tax asset related to the NOL carry forwards has been offset by a full
valuation allowance. We have approximately $22,861 of NOL carry forwards available to offset future U.S. federal income taxes that
begin to expire in 2022.
Loss from Discontinued Operations
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $270 compared to a loss of $3,872
for the year ended December 31, 2013. Included in the net loss for the year ended December 31, 2013 was $1,700 in impairment
charges.
Results of Operations: 2013 Compared with 2012
Consolidated Net Sales
Below is a recap of our sales by main markets for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
Year Ended December 31
Medical
Hearing Health
Professional Audio Communications
Consolidated Net Sales
2013
25,978
19,739
7,244
52,961
2012
24,463
23,806
11,686
59,955
$
$
$
$
Change
Dollars
1,515
(4,067)
(4,442)
(6,994)
$
$
Percent
6.2%
-17.1%
-38.0%
-11.7%
In 2013, we experienced a 6.2 percent increase in medical sales primarily driven by higher sales to Medtronic and other key medical
customers. In September 2013, Medtronic obtained FDA approval for the 530G insulin pump system. As such, medical market sales
strengthened in the 2013 fourth quarter as Medtronic ramped for its launch of the MiniMed 530G.
Net sales in our hearing health business for the year ended December 31, 2013 decreased 17.1 percent over the same period in 2012
primarily due to the reduced purchases by hi HealthInnovations and the continued softness in the conventional channel consistent with
industry trends.
Net sales to the professional audio device sector decreased 38.0 percent in 2013 compared to the same period in 2012. The decline was
primarily due to the end of a Singapore government contract that was completed in 2012, the strategic decision to rationalize select
non-core professional audio communications product lines, and the U.S. government sequestration and disruption associated with the
federal government shutdown.
26
Gross Profit
Gross profit, both in dollars and as a percent of sales, for 2013 and 2012, were as follows:
Year Ended December 31
Gross Profit
2013
Percent
of Sales
Dollars
2012
Percent
of Sales
Dollars
Change
Dollars
Percent
$
12,169
23.0%
$ 15,299
25.5%
$
(3,130)
-20.5%
The 2013 gross profit decrease over the comparable prior year periods was primarily due to lower overall sales volumes partially
offset by cost reductions from the global restructuring.
Sales and Marketing, General and Administrative and Research and Development Expenses
Sales and marketing, general and administrative and research and development expenses for the years ended December 31, 2013 and
2012 were:
Year Ended December 31
Sales and Marketing
General and Administrative
Research and Development
2013
Dollars
$ 3,308
5,789
4,181
Percent
of Sales
6.2%
10.9%
7.9%
2012
Change
Dollars
$ 3,324
5,426
4,481
Percent
of Sales
5.5%
9.1%
7.5%
Dollars
Percent
$
(16)
363
(300)
-0.5%
6.7%
-6.7%
Sales and marketing decreased slightly over the prior year due to reduced sales and related selling commissions. During the third
quarter of 2013, the Company contracted with an experienced hearing health veteran to lead the Value Hearing Health strategic
initiative. General and administrative expenses increased over the prior year period primarily driven by increased stock based
compensation and increased administrative bank fees compared to 2012. Research and development decreased over the prior year
primarily due to research and development tax credit refunds accrued of $567 and the global restructure plan, partially offset by higher
outside service costs.
Restructuring charges
During 2013, the Company incurred charges of $229, primarily related to employee termination severance costs, from the
restructuring of its continuing operations. On June 13, 2013, the Company announced a global strategic restructuring plan designed to
accelerate the Company’s future growth by focusing resources on the highest potential growth areas and reduce costs by
approximately $3.0 million annually.
Interest Expense
Interest expense for 2013 was $600, a decrease of $155 from $755 in 2012. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to
lower average debt balances compared to the prior year.
Equity in Income (Loss) of Partnerships
The equity in loss of partnerships for 2013 was $262 compared to $116 in 2012.
The Company recorded a $204 decrease in the carrying amount of its investment in the Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Patent
Partnership (“HIMPP”) for 2013, reflecting amortization of the patents and other intangibles and the Company’s portion of the
partnership’s operating results for the year ended December 31, 2013, compared to a $166 decrease in the carrying amount of the
investment in 2012 for the amortization of the patents and other intangibles and the Company’s portion of the partnership’s operating
results for the year ended December 31, 2012. Also, in 2013 the Company paid $58 in operating expenses for HIMPP compared to
$50 in 2012.
Prior to the sale of the Global Coils joint venture interest in 2012, the Company recorded a $50 increase in the carrying amount of
IntriCon’s investment in this joint venture, reflecting the Company’s portion of the joint venture’s operating results for year ended
December 31, 2012, respectively.
27
Gain on Sale of Investment in Partnership
In August 2012, the Company sold its 50% interest in its Global Coils joint venture, to its joint venture partner Audemars SA. The
Global Coils joint venture is in the business of marketing, designing, manufacturing, and selling audio coils to the hearing health
industry. Audemars paid $426 in cash at closing and will make future payments, both one time and recurring, as specified in the
purchase agreement. Audemars also transferred certain hearing health inventory to IntriCon. The Company recorded a gain on the sale
of $822 in the gain on sale of investment in partnership line of the accompanying statement of operations.
The net gain was computed as follows:
Cash proceeds
Receivables
Inventory
Net assets disposed
Transaction costs
Gain on sale
Other Income (Expense), net
$ 426
721
186
(486)
(25)
$ 822
In 2013, other income (expense), net was $127 compared to $ (96) in 2012 primarily related to the gain (loss) on foreign currency
exchange.
Income Tax (Expense) Benefit
Income taxes were as follows:
Income tax (expense) benefit
Percentage of income tax (expense) benefit of income from continuing
operations before income taxes and discontinued operations
$
2013
(217)
10.5%
$
2012
(164)
-8.5%
The expense in 2013 and 2012 was primarily due to foreign taxes on German and Singapore operations. The Company is in a net
operating loss position (“NOL”) for US federal and state income tax purposes and, consequently, minimal income tax expense
from the current period domestic operations was recognized. Our deferred tax asset related to the NOL carryforward has been
effected by a full valuation allowance.
Loss from Discontinued Operations
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, for the year ended December 31, 2013 was $3,872 compared to a loss of
$1,050 for the year ended December 31, 2012. The increase in the loss was driven by decreased sales to the U.S. government due to
the sequestration and disruption associated with the federal government shutdown. Also, included in the net loss for the year ended
December 31, 2013 was $1,700 in impairment charges.
28
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our primary sources of cash have been cash flows from operations, bank borrowings, and other financing transactions. For the last
three years, cash has been used for repayments of bank borrowings, purchases of equipment, establishment of an additional Asian
manufacturing facility and working capital to support research and development.
As of December 31, 2014, we had approximately $328 of cash on hand. Sources and uses of our cash for the year ended December
31, 2014 have been from our operations, as described below.
Consolidated net working capital increased to $7,804 at December 31, 2014 from $5,978 at December 31, 2013. Our cash flows from
operating, investing and financing activities, as reflected in the statement of cash flows for the years ended December 31, are
summarized as follows:
Cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
Increase (decrease) in cash
$
$
December 31, 2014
December 31, 2013
December 31, 2012
$
2,921
(958)
(1,698)
(154)
111
$
2,674 $
(930)
(1,763)
11
(8) $
2,006
(1,109)
(799)
8
106
Operating Activities. The most significant items that contributed to the $2,921 of cash provided from operating activities was net
income of $2,248, add backs for non-cash depreciation and stock compensation, partially offset by increases in accounts receivable
and inventory. Days sales in inventory decreased from 76 at December 31, 2013 to 75 at December 31, 2014. Days payables
outstanding remained stable at 50 days for both December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2014. Day sales outstanding increased from
33 days at December 31, 2013 to 41 days at December 31, 2014.
Investing Activities. Net cash used in investing activities of $958 consisted of $1,524 of purchases of property, plant and equipment
partially offset by proceeds of $500 from the sale of the Company’s discontinued securities and certain microphone and receiver
businesses.
Financing Activities. Net cash used by financing activities of $1,698 was comprised primarily of repayments of borrowings under
our credit facilities, partially offset by proceeds of new borrowings.
Cash generated from operations may be affected by a number of factors. See “Forward Looking Statements” and “Item 1A Risk
Factors” contained in this Form 10-K for a discussion of some of the factors that can negatively impact the amount of cash we
generate from our operations.
We had the following bank arrangements at December 31:
December 31, 2014
December 31, 2013
Total borrowing capacity under existing facilities
$
10,925
$
11,051
Facility Borrowings:
Domestic revolving credit facility
Domestic term loan
Foreign overdraft and letter of credit facility
Total borrowings and commitments
3,843
1,750
920
6,513
Remaining availability under existing facilities
$
4,412
$
Domestic Credit Facilities
4,450
2,750
1,281
8,481
2,570
The Company and its domestic subsidiaries are parties to a credit facility with The PrivateBank and Trust Company. The credit
facility, as amended, provides for:
29
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
an $8,000 revolving credit facility, with a $200 sub facility for letters of credit. Under the revolving credit facility, the
availability of funds depends on a borrowing base composed of stated percentages of the Company’s eligible trade
receivables and eligible inventory, and eligible equipment less a reserve; and
a term loan in the original amount of $4,000.
In February 2014, the Company and its domestic subsidiaries entered into a Sixth Amendment to the Loan and Security Agreement
and Waiver with The PrivateBank and Trust Company. The amendment, among other things:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
extended the term loan and revolving loan maturity date to February 28, 2018, keeping the existing term loan
amortization schedule in place;
increased the eligible accounts receivable borrowing percentage from eighty percent to eight-five percent for all eligible
accounts other than two specific customers which will be ninety percent. Under the revolving credit facility as
amended, the availability of funds depends on a borrowing base composed of stated percentages of the Company’s
eligible trade receivables and inventory, less a reserve;
amended the applicable base rate margin, applicable LIBOR rate margin, applicable LOC fee and applicable non-use
fee based on the then applicable leverage ratio;
amended the funded debt to EBITDA and fixed charge coverage covenants;
revised the definition of net income.
approved the application of net proceeds from the sale of discontinued operations in 2014 against amounts outstanding
under the revolving credit facility; and
waived certain financial covenant defaults as of December 31, 2013.
Due to the Sixth Amendment as described above, the term loan and the revolving loan maturity date has been extended to February
28, 2018. As a result, all of the borrowings under this agreement have been characterized as either a current or long-term liability on
our balance sheet in accordance with the repayment terms described more fully below.
Loans under the credit facility are secured by a security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Company and its domestic
subsidiaries including a pledge of the stock of its domestic subsidiaries. Loans under the credit facility bear interest at varying rates
based on the Company’s leverage ratio of funded debt / EBITDA, at the option of the Company, at:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
the London InterBank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 2.75% - 4.00%, or
the base rate, which is the higher of (a) the rate publicly announced from time to time by the lender as its “prime rate” and (b)
the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, plus 0.00% - 1.25% ; in each case, depending on the Company’s leverage ratio.
Interest is payable monthly in arrears, except that interest on LIBOR based loans is payable at the end of the one, two or three month
interest periods applicable to LIBOR based loans. IntriCon is also required to pay a non-use fee equal to 0.25% per year of the unused
portion of the revolving line of credit facility, payable quarterly in arrears.
Weighted average interest on our domestic credit facilities was 4.51%, 4.30%, and 4.52% for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
The outstanding balance of the revolving credit facility was $3,843 and $4,450 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The
total remaining availability on the revolving credit facility was approximately $3,456 and $1,682 at December 31, 2014 and 2013,
respectively.
The outstanding principal balance of the term loan, as amended, is payable in quarterly installments of $250. Any remaining principal
and accrued interest is payable on February 28, 2018. IntriCon is also required to use 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset
sales (excluding inventory and certain other dispositions), sale of capital securities or issuance of debt to pay down the term loan.
The borrowers are subject to various covenants under the credit facility, including a maximum funded debt to EBITDA, a minimum
fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum capital expenditure financial covenants. Under the credit facility, except as otherwise
permitted, the borrowers may not, among other things: incur or permit to exist any indebtedness; grant or permit to exist any liens or
security interests on their assets or pledge the stock of any subsidiary; make investments; be a party to any merger or consolidation, or
purchase of all or substantially all of the assets or equity of any other entity; sell, transfer, convey or lease all or any substantial part of
30
its assets or capital securities; sell or assign, with or without recourse, any receivables; issue any capital securities; make any
distribution or dividend (other than stock dividends), whether in cash or otherwise, to any of its equity holders; purchase or redeem
any of its equity interests or any warrants, options or other rights to equity; enter into any transaction with any of its affiliates or with
any director, officer or employee of any borrower; be a party to any unconditional purchase obligations; cancel any claim or debt
owing to it; make payment on or changes to any subordinated debt; enter into any agreement inconsistent with the provisions of the
credit facility or other agreements and documents entered into in connection with the credit facility; engage in any line of business
other than the businesses engaged in on the date of the credit facility and businesses reasonably related thereto; or permit its charter,
bylaws or other organizational documents to be amended or modified in any way which could reasonably be expected to materially
adversely affect the interests of the lender. The Company was in compliance with the fixed charge, leverage and capital expenditure
covenants under the credit facility as of December 31, 2014.
Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an event of default (as defined in the credit facility), the lender may, among other
things: terminate its commitments to the borrowers (including terminating or suspending its obligation to make loans and advances);
declare all outstanding loans, interest and fees to be immediately due and payable; take possession of and sell any pledged assets and
other collateral; and exercise any and all rights and remedies available to it under the Uniform Commercial Code or other applicable
law. In the event of the insolvency or bankruptcy of any borrower, all commitments of the lender will automatically terminate and all
outstanding loans, interest and fees will be immediately due and payable. Events of default include, among other things, failure to pay
any amounts when due; material misrepresentation; default in the performance of any covenant, condition or agreement to be
performed that is not cured within 20 days after notice from the lender; default in the performance of obligations under certain
subordinated debt, default in the payment of other indebtedness or other obligation with an outstanding principal balance of more than
$50, or of any other term, condition or covenant contained in the agreement under which such obligation is created, the effect of which
is to allow the other party to accelerate such payment or to terminate the agreements; a breach by a borrower under certain material
agreements, the result of which breach is the suspension of the counterparty’s performance thereunder, delivery of a notice of
acceleration or termination of such agreement; the insolvency or bankruptcy of any borrower; the entrance of any judgment against
any borrower in excess of $50, which is not fully covered by insurance; any divestiture of assets or stock of a subsidiary constituting a
substantial portion of borrowers’ assets; the occurrence of a change in control (as defined in the credit facility); certain collateral
impairments; a contribution failure with respect to any employee benefit plan that gives rise to a lien under ERISA; and the occurrence
of any event which lender determines could be reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect (as defined in the credit facility).
During 2014, the Company entered into interest rate swaps with The PrivateBank which are accounted for as effective cash flow
hedges. The interest rate swaps had a combined initial notional amount of $3,750, with a portion of the swap amortizing on a basis
consistent with the $250 quarterly installments required under the term loan. The interest rate swaps fix the Company's one month
LIBOR interest rate on the notional amounts at rates ranging from 0.80% - 1.45%. We hold a right to cancel the interest rate swaps
starting August 31, 2016. Interest rate swaps, which are considered derivative instruments, of $19 and $22 are reported in the
consolidated balance sheets at fair value in other current liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Foreign Credit Facility
In addition to its domestic credit facilities, the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, IntriCon, PTE LTD., entered into an international
senior secured credit agreement with Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Ltd. that provides for a $1,876 line of credit as of
December 31, 2014 based on applicable exchange rates. Borrowings bear interest at a rate of .75% to 2.5% over the lender’s
prevailing prime lending rate. Weighted average interest on the international credit facilities was 4.50% and 3.95% for the years
ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. The outstanding balance was $920 and $1,281 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
The total remaining availability on the international senior secured credit agreement was approximately $956 and $888 at December
31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
We believe that funds expected to be generated from operations and the available borrowing capacity through our revolving credit
loan facilities will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash requirements for operating needs for at least the next 12 months. If,
however, we do not generate sufficient cash from operations, or if we incur additional unanticipated liabilities, we may be required to
seek additional financing or sell equity or debt on terms which may not be as favorable as we could have otherwise obtained. No
assurance can be given that any refinancing, additional borrowing or sale of equity or debt will be possible when needed or that we
will be able to negotiate acceptable terms. In addition, our access to capital is affected by prevailing conditions in the financial and
equity capital markets, as well as our own financial condition. While management believes that we will be able to meet our liquidity
needs for at least the next 12 months, no assurance can be given that we will be able to do so.
31
Contractual Obligations
The following table represents our contractual obligations and commercial commitments, excluding interest expense, as of December
31, 2014.
Contractual Obligations
Total
Less than
1 Year
1-3 Years
3-5 Years
Domestic credit facility
Domestic term loan
Foreign overdraft and letter of credit facility
$
3,843 $
1,750
920
- $
1,000
886
- $
750
34
3,843 $
-
-
More
than 5
Years
-
-
-
Pension and other postretirement benefit
obligations
Operating leases
Other
Total contractual obligations
1,424
2,058
175
10,170 $
220
1,307
175
3,588 $
395
751
-
1,930 $
338
-
4,181 $
471
-
-
471
$
There are certain provisions in the underlying contracts that could accelerate our contractual obligations as noted above.
Foreign Currency Fluctuation
Generally, the effect of changes in foreign currencies on our results of operations is partially or wholly offset by our ability to make
corresponding price changes in the local currency. From time to time, the impact of fluctuations in foreign currencies may have a
material effect on the financial results of the Company. Foreign currency transaction amounts included in the statements of operation
include losses of $51, $42 and $177 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. See Note 11 to the Company’s consolidated financial
statements included herein.
Off-Balance Sheet Obligations
We had no material off-balance sheet obligations as of December 31, 2014 other than the operating leases disclosed above.
Related Party Transactions
For a discussion of related party transactions, see Note 15 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included herein.
Litigation
For a discussion of litigation, see “Item 3. Legal Proceedings” and Note 14 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements
included herein.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See “New Accounting Pronouncements” set forth in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 8 of this
Annual Report on Form 10-K, for information pertaining to recently adopted accounting standards or accounting standards to be
adopted in the future.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The significant accounting policies of the Company are described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements and have been
reviewed with the audit committee of our Board of Directors. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period.
Certain accounting estimates and assumptions are particularly sensitive because of their importance to the consolidated financial
statements and possibility that future events affecting them may differ markedly. The accounting policies of the Company with
significant estimates and assumptions are described below.
32
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue when the customer takes ownership, primarily upon product shipment, and assumes risk of loss,
collection of the relevant receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or
determinable.
Customers have 30 days to notify the Company if the product is damaged or defective. Beyond that, there are no significant
obligations that remain after shipment other than warranty obligations. Contracts with customers do not include product return rights,
however, the Company may elect in certain circumstances to accept returns of products. The Company records revenue for product
sales net of returns. Sales and use tax are reported on a net basis. The Company defers recognition of revenue on discounts to
customers if discounts are considered significant.
In general, the Company warrants its products to be free from defects in material and workmanship and will fully conform to and
perform to specifications for a period of one year. The Company develops a warranty reserve based on historical experience. While
the Company’s warranty costs have historically been within its expectations, the Company cannot guarantee that it will continue to
experience the same warranty return rates or repair costs that it has experienced in the past.
Accounts Receivable Reserves
This reserve is an estimate of the amount of accounts receivable that are uncollectible. The reserve is based on a combination of
specific customer knowledge, general economic conditions and historical trends. Management believes the results could be materially
different if economic conditions change for our customers.
Inventory Valuation
Inventory is recorded at the lower of our cost or market value. Market value is an estimate of the future net realizable value of our
inventory. It is based on historical trends, product life cycles, forecasts of future inventory needs and on-hand inventory levels.
Management believes reserve levels could be materially affected by changes in technology, our customer base, customer needs,
general economic conditions and the success of certain Company sales programs.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually on November 30th of each year or more frequently if changes in circumstances or the
occurrence of events suggest impairment exists. Consistent with prior years, in 2014 the Company utilized the two-step impairment
analysis and elected not to use the qualitative assessment or “step zero” approach. In the two-step impairment analysis, in step one, the
fair value of each reporting unit is compared to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value exceeds the carrying value, no
further analysis is required and no impairment loss is recognized. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, the goodwill of the
reporting unit is potentially impaired and the Company would then complete step two in order to measure the impairment loss. In step
two, the Company would calculate the implied fair value of goodwill by deducting the fair value of all tangible and intangible net
assets (including unrecognized intangible assets) of the reporting unit from the fair value of the reporting unit. If the implied fair value
of goodwill is less than the carrying value of goodwill, the Company would recognize an impairment loss, in the period identified,
equal to the difference. The Company concluded that no impairment of goodwill or intangible assets existed as of November 30, 2014.
Long-lived Assets
The carrying value of long-lived assets is periodically assessed to insure their carrying value does not exceed the undiscounted cash
flows expected to be generated from their expected use and eventual disposition. This assessment includes certain assumptions related
to future needs for the asset to help generate future cash flow. Changes in those assessments, future economic conditions or
technological changes could have a material adverse impact on the carrying value of these assets.
Deferred Taxes
The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which
those temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities and projected
future taxable income in making this assessment. Actual future operating results, as well as changes in our future performance, could
have a material impact on the valuation allowance.
Employee Benefit Obligations
We provide retirement and health care insurance for certain domestic and retirees and former Selas employees. We measure the costs
of our obligation based on our best estimate. The net periodic costs are recognized as employees render the services necessary to earn
the post-retirement benefit. Several assumptions and statistical variables are used in the models to calculate the expense and liability
33
related to the plans. We determine assumptions about the discount rate, the expected rate of return on plan assets and the future rate of
compensation increases. The actuarial models also use assumptions on demographic factors such as retirement, mortality and turnover.
Changes in actuarial assumptions could vary materially from actual results due to economic events and different rates of retirement,
mortality and withdrawal.
ITEM 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Not applicable.
ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Management of IntriCon Corporation and its subsidiaries (“the Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate
internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. 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 generally accepted accounting
principles. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to
maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the
Company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of the financial
statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being
made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance
regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a
material effect on the financial statements.
Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of
any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls
may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may
deteriorate.
The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31,
2014, using criteria set forth in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission (1992 framework). Based on this assessment, the Company’s management believes that, as of December 31,
2014, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control
over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by the Company’s registered public accounting firm
pursuant to a provision of the Dodd Frank Act, which eliminated such requirement for “smaller reporting companies,” as defined in
SEC regulations, such as IntriCon.
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under
the Exchange Act) during the most recent fiscal quarter covered by this report that would have materially affected, or are reasonably
likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
34
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders, Audit Committee and Board of Directors
IntriCon Corporation and Subsidiaries
Arden Hills, Minnesota
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of IntriCon Corporation and Subsidiaries (the Company) as of
December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’
equity and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. These consolidated financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements
based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial
statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its
internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of its internal control over financial reporting as a basis for
designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. An audit also
includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management as well as evaluating the overall
consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
IntriCon Corporation and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the results of their operations and cash flows for the
years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of
America.
/s/ Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 6, 2015
35
INTRICON CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
Year Ended December 31
2014
2013
2012
Sales, net
Cost of sales
Gross profit
Operating expenses:
Sales and marketing
General and administrative
Research and development
Restructuring charges (Note 3)
Total operating expenses
Operating income (loss)
Interest expense
Equity in income (loss) of partnerships
Gain on sale of investment in partnership
Other income (expense), net
Income (loss) from continuing operations before
income taxes and discontinued operations
Income tax expense
Income (loss) before discontinued operations
Loss on sale of discontinued operations (Note 2)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
(Note 2)
Net income (loss)
Basic income (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss) per share:
Diluted income (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss) per share:
Average shares outstanding:
Basic
Diluted
$
$
$
$
$
$
68,303
49,819
18,484
3,699
6,462
4,832
83
15,076
3,408
(461)
(228)
-
227
2,946
428
2,518
(120)
(150)
$
$
52,961
40,792
12,169
3,308
5,789
4,181
229
13,507
(1,338)
(600)
(262)
-
127
(2,073)
217
(2,290)
-
(3,872)
2,248
$
(6,162)
$
$
$
$
$
0.43
(0.05)
0.39
0.42
(0.04)
0.37
5,791
6,038
$
$
$
$
(0.40)
(0.68)
(1.08)
(0.40)
(0.68)
(1.08)
5,699
5,699
(See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements)
36
59,955
44,656
15,299
3,324
5,426
4,481
-
13,231
2,068
(755)
(116)
822
(96)
1,923
164
1,759
-
(1,050)
709
0.31
(0.19)
0.13
0.30
(0.18)
0.12
5,669
5,888
INTRICON CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(In Thousands)
Net income (loss)
Change in fair value of interest rate swap
Gain (loss) on foreign currency translation adjustment
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
$
2014
Year Ended December 31
2013
2012
2,248
3
$
(74)
(6,162)
69
$
2
2,177
$
(6,091)
$
709
1
(13)
697
(See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements)
37
INTRICON CORPORATION
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
December 31,
2014
December 31,
2013
At December 31,
Current assets:
Cash
Restricted cash
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $120 at December 31, 2014
and $124 at December 31, 2013
Inventories
Other current assets
Current assets of discontinued operations
Total current assets
Property, plant, and equipment
Less: Accumulated depreciation
Net machinery and equipment
Goodwill
Investment in partnerships
Other assets, net
Other assets of discontinued operations
Total assets
Current liabilities:
Checks written in excess of cash
Current maturities of long-term debt
Accounts payable
Accrued salaries, wages and commissions
Deferred gain
Other accrued liabilities
Liabilities of discontinued operations
Total current liabilities
Long-term debt, less current maturities
Other postretirement benefit obligations
Accrued pension liabilities
Deferred gain
Other long-term liabilities
Total liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (Note 14)
Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $1.00 par value per share; 20,000 shares authorized; 5,844 and 5,727
shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively
Additional paid-in capital
Accumulated deficit
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Total shareholders' equity
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
328
640
7,673
9,983
1,013
-
19,637
35,104
30,859
4,245
9,194
387
498
-
33,961
516
1,886
5,438
2,519
110
1,364
-
11,833
4,627
485
741
55
113
17,854
5,844
16,939
(6,274)
(402)
16,107
33,961
$
217
568
5,433
9,400
1,337
382
17,337
33,971
29,232
4,739
9,194
569
749
132
32,720
279
2,210
5,037
1,676
110
1,893
154
11,359
6,271
531
839
165
247
19,412
5,727
16,434
(8,522)
(331)
13,308
32,720
(See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements)
38
INTRICON CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In Thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided
by operating activities:
$
Depreciation and amortization
Stock-based compensation
Loss on impairment of long-lived assets and goodwill of
discontinued operations
Loss on disposition of property
Change in deferred gain
Change in allowance for doubtful accounts
Equity in loss of partnerships
Gain on sale of investment in partnership
Loss on sale of discontinued operations
Deferred income taxes
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable
Inventories
Other assets
Accounts payable
Accrued expenses
Other liabilities
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Proceeds of sale of discontinued operations
Proceeds from sale of investment in partnership
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
Repayments of long-term borrowings
Proceeds from employee stock purchases and exercise of
stock options
Payments of partnership payable
Change in restricted cash
Change in checks written in excess of cash
Net cash used in financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
Net (decrease) increase in cash
Cash, beginning of period
Cash, end of period
$
2014
2013
2012
2,248
$
(6,162)
$
2,182
457
-
-
(110)
(4)
228
-
120
-
(2,183)
(677)
301
389
(347)
317
2,921
66
500
-
(1,524)
(958)
13,153
(15,221)
165
-
(32)
237
(1,698)
(154)
111
217
328
2,450
532
1,700
4
(110)
(30)
262
-
-
1,327
1,221
500
1,066
(26)
(60)
2,674
39
-
-
(969)
(930)
15,332
(16,863)
145
-
(18)
(359)
(1,763)
11
(8)
225
217
$
$
709
2,150
414
-
36
(110)
(69)
116
(822)
(7)
1,555
789
(972)
(2,252)
240
229
2,006
-
-
626
(1,735)
(1,109)
17,269
(18,211)
159
(240)
(17)
241
(799)
8
106
119
225
(See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements)
39
INTRICON CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity
(In Thousands)
Common Stock
Number of
Shares
Common
Stock
Amount
Additional Paid-
in Capital
Retained
Deficit
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Total
Shareholders'
Equity
5,646
$
5,646
$
15,259
$ (3,069)
$
(390)
$
17,446
20
20
1
20
20
1
30
89
5
414
50
109
6
414
709
(12)
709
(12)
5,687
$
5,687
$
15,797
$ (2,360)
$
(402)
$
18,722
14
26
14
26
28
77
532
(6,162)
71
42
103
532
(6,162)
71
5,727
$
5,727
$
16,434
$ (8,522)
$
(331)
$
13,308
100
16
1
100
16
1
(43)
84
7
457
57
100
457
2,248
(71)
2,248
(71)
5,844
$
5,844
$
16,939
$ (6,274)
$
(402)
$
16,107
(See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements)
Balance December 31, 2011
Exercise of stock options
Shares issued under the ESPP
Shares issued in lieu of cash for services
Stock option expense
Net Income (loss)
Comprehensive income (loss)
Balance December 31, 2012
Exercise of stock options
Shares issued under the ESPP
Stock option expense
Net Income (loss)
Comprehensive income (loss)
Balance December 31, 2013
Exercise of stock options
Shares issued under the ESPP
Shares issued in lieu of cash for services
Stock option expense
Net Income (loss)
Comprehensive income (loss)
Balance December 31, 2014
40
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
IntriCon Corporation
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Headquartered in Arden Hills, Minnesota, IntriCon Corporation (formerly Selas Corporation of America) (referred to as the Company,
we, us or our) is an international company engaged in designing, developing, engineering and manufacturing body-worn devices. The
Company designs, develops, engineers and manufactures micro-miniature products, microelectronics, micro-mechanical assemblies,
complete assemblies and software solutions, primarily for medical bio-telemetry devices, value hearing health devices and
professional audio communication devices. In addition to its operations in Minnesota, the Company has facilities in California,
Singapore, Indonesia and Germany.
Basis of Presentation – On June 13, 2013, the Company announced a global restructuring plan to accelerate future growth and reduce
costs. As part of the restructuring, the Company disposed of the assets relating to its security and certain microphone and receiver
operations. For all periods presented, the Company classified these businesses as discontinued operations, and, accordingly, has
reclassified historical financial data presented herein. See further information in Notes 2 and 3.
Consolidation – The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All
material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Segment Disclosures – A business segment is a distinguishable component of an enterprise that is engaged in providing an individual
product or service or a group of related products or services and that is subject to risks and returns that are different from those of
other business segments. The Company’s segments have similar economic characteristics and are similar in the nature of the products
sold, type of customers, methods used to distribute the Company’s products and regulatory environment. Management believes that
the Company meets the criteria for aggregating the components of its only operating segment of continuing operations into a single
reporting segment.
Use of Estimates – The Company makes estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities, the recording of
reported amounts of revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities to prepare these consolidated
financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Considerable management judgment is necessary in estimating
future cash flows and other factors affecting the valuation of goodwill, intangible assets, and employee benefit obligations including
the operating and macroeconomic factors that may affect them. The Company uses historical financial information, internal plans and
projections and industry information in making such estimates.
Revenue Recognition – The Company recognizes revenue when the customer takes ownership, primarily upon product shipment, and
assumes risk of loss, collection of the relevant receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists and the sales price
is fixed or determinable.
Customers have 30 days to notify the Company if the product is damaged or defective. Beyond that, there are no significant
obligations that remain after shipment other than warranty obligations. Contracts with customers do not include product return rights,
however, the Company may elect in certain circumstances to accept returns of products. The Company records revenue for product
sales net of returns. Sales and use tax are reported on a net basis. The Company defers recognition of revenue on discounts to
customers if discounts are considered significant.
In general, the Company warrants its products to be free from defects in material and workmanship and will fully conform to and
perform to specifications for a period of one year. The Company develops a warranty reserve based on historical experience.
Shipping and Handling Costs –The Company includes shipping and handling revenues in sales and shipping and handling costs in
cost of sales.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments – The carrying value of cash, accounts receivable, notes payable, and trade accounts payables,
approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments. The fair values of the Company’s long-term debt
obligations approximate their carrying values based upon current market rates of interest.
Concentration of Cash – The Company deposits its cash in what management believes are high credit quality financial institutions.
The balance, at times, may exceed federally insured limits.
Restricted Cash – Restricted cash consists of deposits required to secure a credit facility at our Singapore location and deposits
required to fund retirement related benefits for certain employees.
Accounts Receivable – The Company reviews customers’ credit history before extending unsecured credit and establishes an
allowance for uncollectible accounts based upon factors surrounding the credit risk of specific customers and other information.
41
Invoices are generally due 30 days after presentation. Accounts receivable over 30 days are considered past due. The Company does
not accrue interest on past due accounts receivables. Receivables are written off once all collection attempts have failed and are based
on individual credit evaluation and specific circumstances of the customer. The allowance for doubtful accounts balance was $120
and $124 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Inventories – Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. The cost of the inventories was determined by the first-in, first-out
method.
Property, Plant and Equipment – Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost. Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis
using estimated useful lives of 5 to 40 years for buildings and improvements and 3 to 12 years for machinery and equipment.
Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful life of
the asset. Improvements are capitalized and expenditures for maintenance, repairs and minor renewals are charged to expense when
incurred. At the time assets are retired or sold, the costs and accumulated depreciation are eliminated and the resulting gain or loss, if
any, is reflected in the consolidated statement of operations. Depreciation expense was $1,955, $2,214, and $1,759 for the years
ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets and Long-lived Assets to be Disposed of – The Company reviews its long-lived assets, certain
identifiable intangibles, and goodwill for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount
of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount
of an asset group to future net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group. If such assets are considered to be
impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair
value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. As of
December 31, 2014, the Company has determined that no impairment of long-lived assets from continuing operations exists.
Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if changes in circumstances or the occurrence of events suggest
impairment exists. The Company utilizes the two-step impairment analysis and elected not to use the qualitative assessment or “step
zero” approach. In the two-step impairment analysis, in step one, the fair value of each reporting unit is compared to its carrying value,
including goodwill. If the fair value exceeds the carrying value, no impairment loss is recognized. If the carrying value exceeds the
fair value, the goodwill of the reporting unit is potentially impaired and the Company completes step two in order to measure the
impairment loss. In step two, the Company calculates the implied fair value of goodwill by deducting the fair value of all tangible and
intangible net assets (including unrecognized intangible assets) of the reporting unit from the fair value of the reporting unit. If the
implied fair value of goodwill is less than the carrying value of goodwill, the Company recognizes an impairment loss, in the period
identified, equal to the difference. The Company has concluded that no impairment of goodwill or intangible assets occurred during
the year ended December 31, 2014. Refer to Note 2 for loss on impairment of long lived assets during 2013.
Other assets, net – The principal amounts included in other assets, net are technology fees and debt issuance costs. The debt issuance
costs are being amortized over the related term utilizing the effective interest method and are included in interest expense, and the
other assets are being amortized over their estimated useful life on a straight-line basis. Debt issuance cost included in interest expense
was $56, $35, and $136 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Amortization expense was $227, $204
and $229 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
Investments in Partnerships – Certain of the Company’s investments in equity securities are long-term, strategic investments in
companies. The Company accounts for these investments under the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method the
Company records the investment at the amount the Company paid and adjusts for the Company’s share of the investee’s income or
loss and dividends paid. The investments are reviewed quarterly for changes in circumstances or the occurrence of events that suggest
the Company’s investment may not be recoverable. To date there have been no impairment losses recognized.
Income Taxes – Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized
for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and
liabilities and their respective tax bases, operating losses and tax credit carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured
using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be
recovered or settled. Valuation allowances are established to the extent the future benefit from the deferred tax assets realization is
more likely than not unable to be realized. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in
income in the period that includes the enactment date. The deferred tax asset valuation allowance was $10,105 and $10,046 as of
December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions
in income tax expense. At December 31, 2014, the Company had no accrual for the payment of tax related interest and there was no
tax interest or penalties recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company’s federal tax returns are potentially
open to examinations for fiscal years 2010-2014 and state tax returns are potentially open to examination for the fiscal years 2009-
2014.
Employee Benefit Obligations – The Company provides pension and health care insurance for certain domestic retirees and
employees of its operations discontinued in 2005. These obligations have been included in continuing operations as the Company
retained these obligations. The Company also provides retirement related benefits for certain foreign employees. The Company
42
measures the costs of its obligation based on actuarial determinations. The net periodic costs are recognized as employees render the
services necessary to earn the post-retirement benefit and the obligation is recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as accrued
pension liabilities.
Assumptions about the discount rate, the expected rate of return on plan assets and the future rate of compensation increases are
determined by the Company. The Company believes the assumptions are within accepted guidelines and ranges. However, these
actuarial assumptions could vary materially from actual results due to economic events and different rates of retirement, mortality and
withdrawal.
Stock Option and Equity Plans – Under the various Company stock-based compensation plans, executives, employees and outside
directors receive awards of options to purchase common stock. Under all awards, the terms are fixed at the grant date. Generally, the
exercise price equals the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of the grant. Options under the plans generally vest over
three years, and have a maximum term of 10 years. One of the plans also permits the granting of stock awards, stock appreciation
rights, restricted stock units and other equity based awards. The Company expenses grant-date fair values of stock options and awards
ratably over the vesting period of the related share-based award. See Note 12 for additional information.
Product Warranty – The Company offers a warranty on various products and services. The Company estimates the costs that may
be incurred under its warranties and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time the product is sold. Factors that affect
the Company’s warranty liability include the number of units sold, historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims and cost per
claim. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary. The
amount of the reserve recorded is equal to the costs to repair or otherwise satisfy the claim. The following table presents changes in
the Company’s warranty liability for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
Beginning balance
Warranty expense
Closed warranty claims
Ending balance
$
$
2014
72
122
(94)
100
$
$
2012
$
2013
73
123
(124)
72
$
82
42
(51)
73
Patent Costs – Costs associated with the submission of a patent application are expensed as incurred given the uncertainty of the
patents providing future economic benefit to the Company.
Advertising Costs – Advertising costs are charged to expense as incurred.
Research and Development Costs – Research and development costs, net of customer funding, amounted to $4,832, $4,181, and
$4,481 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are charged to expense when incurred, net of customer funding. The Company
accrues proceeds received under governmental grants when earned and estimable as a reduction to research and development expense.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company accrued $567 in research and development tax credit refunds received with
the state of Minnesota as a reduction to research and development expense.
Customer Funded Tooling Costs – The Company designs and develops molds and tools for reimbursement on behalf of several
customers. Costs associated with the design and development of the molds and tools are charged to expense, net of the customer
reimbursement amount. Net customer funded tooling resulted in income of $140, $352 and $336 for the years ended December 31,
2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and is included in cost of goods sold in the consolidated statements of operations.
Income (loss) Per Share – Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number
of shares of common stock outstanding during the year. Diluted income (loss) per common share reflects the potential dilution of
securities that could share in the earnings. The Company uses the treasury stock method for calculating the dilutive effect of stock
options.
Comprehensive Income (Loss) – Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss), change in fair value of derivative
instruments and foreign currency translation adjustments and is presented in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income
(loss).
Foreign Currency Translation - The Company’s German subsidiary accounts for its transactions in its functional currency, the Euro.
Foreign assets and liabilities are translated into United States dollars using the year-end exchange rates. Equity is translated at average
historical exchange rates. Results of operations are translated using the average exchange rates throughout the year. Translation gains
or losses are accumulated as a separate component of shareholders’ equity.
43
Derivative Financial Instruments — When deemed appropriate, the Company enters into derivative instruments. The Company does
not use derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes. All derivative transactions are linked to an existing
balance sheet item or firm commitment, and the notional amount does not exceed the value of the exposure being hedged.
We recognize all derivative financial instruments in the consolidated financial statements at fair value regardless of the purpose or
intent for holding the instrument. Generally, changes in fair values of derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges, to the extent they
are effective as hedges, are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax or, if ineffective, on the
consolidated statements of operations.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued new accounting guidance related to revenue recognition. This new
standard will replace all current U.S. GAAP guidance on this topic and eliminate all industry-specific guidance. The new revenue
recognition standard provides a unified model to determine when and how revenue is recognized. The core principle is that a company
should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration
for which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This guidance will be effective for the Company
beginning January 1, 2017 and can be applied either retrospectively to each period presented or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as
of the date of adoption. We are currently assessing the impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
2. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
On June 13, 2013, the Company announced a global strategic restructuring plan designed to accelerate the Company’s future growth
and reduce costs. See Note 3 for additional information. As part of the global strategic restructuring plan, the Company decided to exit
the security and certain microphone and receiver operations. On January 27, 2014, the Company completed the sale of the security
business and certain microphone and receiver operations of IntriCon Tibbetts Corporation, IntriCon’s wholly owned subsidiary based
in Camden, Maine, to Sierra Peaks Corporation, pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement entered into on January 27, 2014 between
Sierra Peaks Corporation, as the buyer, and IntriCon Tibbetts Corporation as the seller. Sierra Peaks Corporation paid $500 cash at
closing for the assets and assumed certain operating liabilities of the businesses.
The Company recorded a loss on the sale of $120. The net loss was computed as follows:
Accounts receivable, net
Inventory, net
Property, plant and equipment, net
Other assets
Accounts payable
Net assets sold
Cash proceeds received from Sierra Peaks
Net assets sold
Transaction costs
Loss on sale of discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
$
$
384
128
127
1
(69)
571
500
(571)
(49)
(120)
44
The following table shows the assets and liabilities of the Company’s discontinued operations.
Cash
Accounts receivable, net
Inventory, net
Other current assets
Current assets of discontinued operations
Property and equipment, net
Other assets
Other assets of discontinued operations
Accounts payable
Accrued compensation and other liabilities
Current liabilities of discontinued operations
December 31,
2013
4
350
26
2
382
131
1
132
70
84
154
$
$
$
$
The following table shows the results of the Company’s discontinued operations:
Sales, net
Operating costs and expenses
Loss on impairment
Operating loss
Other income (expenses), net
Net loss from discontinued operations
December 31,
2014
Year Ended
December 31,
2013
December 31,
2012
$
$
$
207
(357)
2,480
(4,693)
$
-
(150)
-
(150)
$
(1,700)
(3,913)
41
(3,872)
$
4,242
(5,310)
-
(1,068)
18
(1,050)
45
Management considered the global strategic restructuring plan a triggering event and therefore, in June 2013, the Company evaluated
the related assets for impairment and recorded non-cash impairment charges of $983 to the Company’s results from discontinued
operations. Throughout the remainder of 2013, the Company continued to evaluate the remaining assets for further impairment
indicators and, with the continued decline in U.S. Government revenues due to the government sequestration and government shut-
down, the Company concluded that an additional non-cash impairment charge of $717 was required for accounts receivable,
inventory, fixed assets, and other assets. These charges were recorded in the Company’s results from discontinued operations for the
year ended December 31, 2013. See further information below.
In determining the nonrecurring fair value measurements of impairment of goodwill and other short and long-term assets, the
Company utilized the market value approach, considering the fair value of security, microphone and receiver net assets held for sale or
disposition. Based on the market value assessment, the Company determined fair values for the identified assets and incurred
impairment charges for the remaining book value of the assets during the year ended December 31, 2013 as set forth in the table
below. These charges were reflected in the Company’s discontinued operations in 2013 and had no impact for 2014.
Fair value as
of
measurement
date
Quoted prices in
active markets for
identical assets
(Level 1)
Significant other
observable inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
unobservable
inputs (Level 3)
Impairment
Charge
Long-lived assets of discontinued operations
$
131
$
- $
- $
131 $
Goodwill of discontinued operations
Accounts Receivable
Inventory
Other Assets
-
350
26
3
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
350
26
3
604
515
73
468
40
3. RESTRUCTURING CHARGES
On June 13, 2013 the Company announced a global strategic restructuring plan designed to accelerate the Company’s future growth
by focusing resources on the highest potential growth areas and to reduce costs. The plan was approved by the Company’s Board of
Directors on June 12, 2013. As part of this plan, the Company: reduced investment in certain non-core professional audio
communications product lines; transferred specific product lines from Singapore to the Company’s lower-cost manufacturing facility
in Batam, Indonesia; reduced global administrative and support workforce; transferred the medical coil operations from the
Company’s Maine facility to Minnesota to better leverage existing manufacturing capacity; sold its remaining security and certain
microphone and receiver operations; added experienced professionals in value hearing health; and focused more resources in medical
biotelemetry. During 2014, the Company incurred restructuring charges of $83 and during 2013 the Company incurred restructuring
charges of $229. These charges are primarily related to employee termination benefits from the restructuring of its continuing
operations. In the future, the Company does not expect to incur any additional cash charges related to this restructuring.
46
4. GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
The geographical distribution of long-lived assets and net sales to geographical areas as of and for the years ended December 31 is set
forth below:
Long-lived Assets
United States
Other – primarily Singapore and Indonesia
Consolidated
December 31,
2014
3,307
938
4,245
$
$
December 31,
2013
3,402
1,337
4,739
$
$
Long-lived assets consist of property and equipment and certain other assets as they are difficult to move and relatively illiquid.
Excluded from long-lived assets are investments in partnerships, patents, license agreements and goodwill. The Company capitalizes
long-lived assets pertaining to the production of specialized parts. These assets are periodically reviewed to assure the net realizable
value from the estimated future production based on forecasted cash flows exceeds the carrying value of the assets.
Net Sales to Geographical Areas
Net Sales to Geographical Areas
2014
2013
2012
Year Ended December 31
United States
Germany
China
Switzerland
Singapore
France
Japan
United Kingdom
Turkey
Hong Kong
Vietnam
All other countries
$
$
49,978
2,072
2,854
1,316
2,905
1,786
1,355
1,195
639
730
1,495
1,978
Consolidated
$
68,303
$
36,902
1,234
3,268
1,259
406
1,734
1,442
1,487
322
682
1,325
2,900
52,961
$ 41,038
1,986
2,790
1,127
3,326
1,480
1,190
2,203
692
510
1,219
2,394
$ 59,955
Geographic net sales are allocated based on the location of the customer. All other countries include net sales primarily to various
countries in Europe and in the Asian Pacific.
One customer accounted for 37 percent, 30 percent and 21 percent of the Company’s consolidated net sales in 2014, 2013 and 2012,
respectively. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the top five customers accounted for approximately $39,000, $28,000 and $29,000 or 57
percent, 53 percent and 46 percent of the Company’s consolidated net sales, respectively.
At December 31, 2014, two customers accounted for a combined 28 percent of the Company’s consolidated accounts receivable. Two
customers accounted for a combined 34 percent of the Company’s consolidated accounts receivable at December 31, 2013.
47
5. GOODWILL
The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test as of November 30th for each of the years ended December 31, 2014,
2013 and 2012. The Company completed or obtained an analysis to assess the fair value of its reporting units to determine whether
goodwill was impaired and the extent of such impairment, if any for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Based upon
this analysis, the Company has concluded that no impairment of goodwill or intangible assets occurred during the year ended
December 31, 2014. However, due to the restructuring plan that took effect in June of 2013, goodwill of $515 was determined to be
impaired during the year ended December 31, 2013 and is included in the loss from discontinued operations in the consolidated
statement of operations.
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years presented are as follows:
Carrying amount at December 31, 2011
Changes to the carrying amount
Carrying amount at December 31, 2012
Impairment of goodwill of discontinued operations
Carrying amount at December 31, 2013
Changes to the carrying amount
Carrying amount at December 31, 2014
9,709
-
9,709
(515)
9,194
-
9,194
$
$
$
6. INVENTORIES
Inventories consisted of the following:
Raw materials
Work-in process
Finished products and
components
Total
December 31, 2014
Domestic
Foreign
Total
December 31, 2013
Domestic
Foreign
Total
$
$
$
$
$
3,993
1,894
5,887
$
$
3,548
2,114
5,662
$
$
1,300
720
2,020
$
$
1,173
842
2,015
$
$
1,838
238
2,076
$
$
1,604
119
1,723
$
7,131
2,852
9,983
6,325
3,075
9,400
48
7. SHORT AND LONG-TERM DEBT
Short and long-term debt at December 31 was as follows:
Domestic Asset-Based Revolving Credit Facility
Foreign Overdraft and Letter of Credit Facility
Domestic Term-Loan
Total Debt
Less: Current maturities
Total Long-Term Debt
$
$
2014
2013
3,843
920
1,750
6,513
(1,886)
4,627
$
$
4,450
1,281
2,750
8,481
(2,210)
6,271
$
Domestic credit facility
Domestic term loan
Foreign overdraft and letter of
credit facility
Total Debt
$
Payments Due by Period
2015
-
1,000
886
1,886
$
2016
-
750
2017
$
30
780
$
$
- $
-
4
4
$
2018
3,843
-
-
3,843
Thereafter
$
-
-
$
-
-
$
$
Total
3,843
1,750
920
6,513
Domestic Credit Facilities
The Company and its domestic subsidiaries are parties to a credit facility with The PrivateBank and Trust Company. The credit
facility, as amended, provides for:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
an $8,000 revolving credit facility, with a $200 sub facility for letters of credit. Under the revolving credit facility, the
availability of funds depends on a borrowing base composed of stated percentages of the Company’s eligible trade
receivables and eligible inventory, and eligible equipment less a reserve; and
a term loan in the original amount of $4,000.
In February 2014, the Company and its domestic subsidiaries entered into a Sixth Amendment to the Loan and Security Agreement
and Waiver with The PrivateBank and Trust Company. The amendment, among other things:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
extended the term loan and revolving loan maturity date to February 28, 2018, keeping the existing term loan
amortization schedule in place;
increased the eligible accounts receivable borrowing percentage from eighty percent to eight-five percent for all eligible
accounts other than two specific customers which will be ninety percent. Under the revolving credit facility as
amended, the availability of funds depends on a borrowing base composed of stated percentages of the Company’s
eligible trade receivables and inventory, less a reserve;
amended the applicable base rate margin, applicable LIBOR rate margin, applicable LOC fee and applicable non-use
fee based on the then applicable leverage ratio;
amended the funded debt to EBITDA and fixed charge coverage covenants;
revised the definition of net income.
approved the application of net proceeds from the sale of discontinued operations in 2014 against amounts outstanding
under the revolving credit facility; and
waived certain financial covenant defaults as of December 31, 2013.
49
Due to the Sixth Amendment as described above, the term loan and the revolving loan maturity date has been extended to February
28, 2018. As a result, all of the borrowings under this agreement have been characterized as either a current or long-term liability on
our balance sheet in accordance with the repayment terms described more fully below.
Loans under the credit facility are secured by a security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Company and its domestic
subsidiaries including a pledge of the stock of its domestic subsidiaries. Loans under the credit facility bear interest at varying rates
based on the Company’s leverage ratio of funded debt / EBITDA, at the option of the Company, at:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
the London InterBank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 2.75% - 4.00%, or
the base rate, which is the higher of (a) the rate publicly announced from time to time by the lender as its “prime rate” and (b)
the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, plus 0.00% - 1.25% ; in each case, depending on the Company’s leverage ratio.
Interest is payable monthly in arrears, except that interest on LIBOR based loans is payable at the end of the one, two or three month
interest periods applicable to LIBOR based loans. IntriCon is also required to pay a non-use fee equal to 0.25% per year of the unused
portion of the revolving line of credit facility, payable quarterly in arrears.
Weighted average interest on our domestic credit facilities was 4.51%, 4.30%, and 4.52% for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
The outstanding balance of the revolving credit facility was $3,843 and $4,450 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The
total remaining availability on the revolving credit facility was approximately $3,456 and $1,682 at December 31, 2014 and 2013,
respectively.
The outstanding principal balance of the term loan, as amended, is payable in quarterly installments of $250. Any remaining principal
and accrued interest is payable on February 28, 2018. IntriCon is also required to use 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset
sales (excluding inventory and certain other dispositions), sale of capital securities or issuance of debt to pay down the term loan.
The borrowers are subject to various covenants under the credit facility, including a maximum funded debt to EBITDA, a minimum
fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum capital expenditure financial covenants. Under the credit facility, except as otherwise
permitted, the borrowers may not, among other things: incur or permit to exist any indebtedness; grant or permit to exist any liens or
security interests on their assets or pledge the stock of any subsidiary; make investments; be a party to any merger or consolidation, or
purchase of all or substantially all of the assets or equity of any other entity; sell, transfer, convey or lease all or any substantial part of
its assets or capital securities; sell or assign, with or without recourse, any receivables; issue any capital securities; make any
distribution or dividend (other than stock dividends), whether in cash or otherwise, to any of its equity holders; purchase or redeem
any of its equity interests or any warrants, options or other rights to equity; enter into any transaction with any of its affiliates or with
any director, officer or employee of any borrower; be a party to any unconditional purchase obligations; cancel any claim or debt
owing to it; make payment on or changes to any subordinated debt; enter into any agreement inconsistent with the provisions of the
credit facility or other agreements and documents entered into in connection with the credit facility; engage in any line of business
other than the businesses engaged in on the date of the credit facility and businesses reasonably related thereto; or permit its charter,
bylaws or other organizational documents to be amended or modified in any way which could reasonably be expected to materially
adversely affect the interests of the lender. The Company was in compliance with the fixed charge, leverage, and capital expenditure
covenants under the credit facility as of December 31, 2014.
Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an event of default (as defined in the credit facility), the lender may, among other
things: terminate its commitments to the borrowers (including terminating or suspending its obligation to make loans and advances);
declare all outstanding loans, interest and fees to be immediately due and payable; take possession of and sell any pledged assets and
other collateral; and exercise any and all rights and remedies available to it under the Uniform Commercial Code or other applicable
law. In the event of the insolvency or bankruptcy of any borrower, all commitments of the lender will automatically terminate and all
outstanding loans, interest and fees will be immediately due and payable. Events of default include, among other things, failure to pay
any amounts when due; material misrepresentation; default in the performance of any covenant, condition or agreement to be
performed that is not cured within 20 days after notice from the lender; default in the performance of obligations under certain
subordinated debt, default in the payment of other indebtedness or other obligation with an outstanding principal balance of more than
$50, or of any other term, condition or covenant contained in the agreement under which such obligation is created, the effect of which
is to allow the other party to accelerate such payment or to terminate the agreements; a breach by a borrower under certain material
agreements, the result of which breach is the suspension of the counterparty’s performance thereunder, delivery of a notice of
acceleration or termination of such agreement; the insolvency or bankruptcy of any borrower; the entrance of any judgment against
any borrower in excess of $50, which is not fully covered by insurance; any divestiture of assets or stock of a subsidiary constituting a
substantial portion of borrowers’ assets; the occurrence of a change in control (as defined in the credit facility); certain collateral
impairments; a contribution failure with respect to any employee benefit plan that gives rise to a lien under ERISA; and the occurrence
of any event which lender determines could be reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect (as defined in the credit facility).
During 2014, the Company entered into interest rate swaps with The PrivateBank which are accounted for as effective cash flow
hedges. The interest rate swaps had a combined initial notional amount of $3,750, with a portion of the swap amortizing on a basis
50
consistent with the $250 quarterly installments required under the term loan. The interest rate swaps fix the Company's one month
LIBOR interest rate on the notional amounts at rates ranging from 0.80% - 1.45%. The Company holds a right to cancel the interest
rate swaps starting August 31, 2016. Interest rate swaps, which are considered derivative instruments, of $19 and $22 are reported in
the consolidated balance sheets at fair value in other current liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Foreign Credit Facility
In addition to its domestic credit facilities, the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, IntriCon, PTE LTD., entered into an international
senior secured credit agreement with Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Ltd. that provides for a $1,876 line of credit as of
December 31, 2014 based on applicable exchange rates. Borrowings bear interest at a rate of .75% to 2.5% over the lender’s
prevailing prime lending rate. Weighted average interest on the international credit facilities was 4.50% and 3.95% for the years
ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. The outstanding balance was $920 and $1,281 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
The total remaining availability on the international senior secured credit agreement was approximately $956 and $888 at December
31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
8. OTHER ACCRUED LIABILITIES
Other accrued liabilities at December 31:
Taxes, including payroll withholdings and excluding income taxes
Accrued professional fees
Pension
Postretirement benefit obligation
Other
9. DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN INCOME TAXES
Domestic and foreign income taxes (benefits) were comprised as follows:
2014
2013
$
$
286
143
93
103
739
1,364
$
$
Year Ended December 31
2014
2013
2012
Current
Federal
State
Foreign
Total Current
Deferred
Federal
State
Foreign
Income Tax Expense
Income (loss) from continuing operations before
income taxes and discontinued operations
Foreign
Domestic
-
28
189
217
-
-
-
217
(139)
(1,934)
(2,073)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
-
-
428
428
-
-
-
428
2,402
544
2,946
$
$
$
$
51
8
211
93
103
1,478
1,893
-
9
162
171
-
-
(7)
164
1,023
900
1,923
The following is a reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective tax rate based on income (loss) from
continuing operations:
Tax provision at statutory rate
Change in valuation allowance
Impact of permanent items, including stock based
compensation expense
Effect of foreign tax rates
State taxes net of federal benefit
Effect of dividend of foreign subsidiary in prior year
Prior year provision to return true-up
Other
Domestic and foreign income tax rate
Year Ended December 31
2014
34.00 %
(1.25)
16.40
(18.04)
(3.86)
3.94
(10.27)
(6.40)
14.52 %
2013
(34.00) %
(5.12)
24.15
6.35
(1.43)
17.16
(5.10)
8.45
10.46 %
2012
34.00 %
(34.20)
6.08
(6.35)
0.78
-
9.59
(1.37)
8.53 %
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at
December 31, 2014, and 2013 are presented below:
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carry forwards and credits
Depreciation and amortization
Inventory
Compensation accruals
Accruals and reserves
Credits
Other
Total Deferred tax assets
Less: valuation allowance
Year Ended December 31
2014
2013
$
$
8,125
284
436
1,111
88
225
190
10,459
8,053
114
552
1,148
120
225
186
10,398
(10,105)
(10,046)
Deferred tax assets net of valuation allowance
$
354
$
352
Deferred tax liabilities
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiary
Total deferred tax liabilities
Net deferred tax
(354)
(354)
-
$
(352)
(352)
-
$
The valuation allowance is maintained against deferred tax assets which the Company has determined are more likely than not to be
unrealized. The change in valuation allowance was $59, $(637) and $(264) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012,
respectively. For tax reporting purposes, the Company has actual federal and state net operating loss carryforwards of $22,861 and
$7,651, respectively. These net operating loss carryforwards begin to expire in 2022 for federal tax purposes and 2017 for state tax
purposes. Subsequently recognized tax benefits, if any, related to the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets or realization of net
operating loss carryforwards will be reported in the consolidated statements of operations. If substantial changes in the Company’s
ownership occur, there could be an annual limitation on the amount of the carryforwards that are available to be utilized.
Excluded from the Company’s net operating loss carryforwards is $413 resulting from the exercise of non-qualified stock options.
Because the Company is currently in an NOL position, the windfall is not recorded through additional paid-in capital until the tax
benefit is recognized through a reduction in actual tax payments.
52
During 2013, the company changed its indefinite reinvestment assertion and recognized a deferred tax liability relating to cumulative
undistributed earnings of controlled foreign subsidiaries in Germany. The Company has not recognized a deferred tax liability relating
to cumulative undistributed earnings of controlled foreign subsidiaries in Singapore and Indonesia that are essentially permanent in
duration. If some or all of the undistributed earnings of the controlled foreign subsidiaries are remitted to the Company in the future,
income taxes, if any, after the application of foreign tax credits will be accrued at that time. Determination of the amount of
unrecognized tax liability related to undistributed earnings in foreign subsidiaries is not currently practical.
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of
the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The Company regularly assesses the likelihood that the deferred tax assets will be
recovered from future taxable income. The Company considers projected future taxable income and ongoing tax planning strategies,
then records a valuation allowance to reduce the carrying value of the net deferred taxes to an amount that is more likely than not
unable to be realized. Based upon the Company’s assessment of all available evidence, including the previous three years of United
States based taxable income and loss after permanent items, estimates of future profitability, and the Company’s overall prospects of
future business, the Company determined that it is more likely than not that the Company will not be able to realize a portion of the
deferred tax assets in the future. The Company will continue to assess the potential realization of deferred tax assets on an annual
basis, or an interim basis if circumstances warrant. If the Company’s actual results and updated projections vary significantly from the
projections used as a basis for this determination, the Company may need to change the valuation allowance against the gross deferred
tax assets.
The Company recognizes the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would
more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more-likely-than-not threshold, the amount
recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate
settlement with the relevant taxing authority. The Company has analyzed all tax positions for which the statute of limitations remains
open. As a result of the assessment, the Company has not recorded any liabilities for unrecognized income tax benefits or retained
earnings. The Company does not have any unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and various states and foreign jurisdictions. Tax regulations
within each jurisdiction are subject to the interpretation of the related tax laws and regulations and require significant judgment to
apply. The Company is still subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for the
years 2003 to 2005 and for the years 2009 and after. There are no other on-going or pending IRS, state, or foreign examinations.
The Company recognizes penalties and interest accrued related to liability on unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense for all
periods presented. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013 the Company has no amounts accrued for the payment of interest and penalties.
10. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
The Company has defined contribution plans for most of its domestic employees. Under these plans, eligible employees may
contribute amounts through payroll deductions supplemented by employer contributions for investment in various investments
specified in the plans. In the second quarter of 2009, the Company elected to suspend employer contributions into the defined
contribution plans. The Company restored employer matching contributions to the defined contribution plans effective as of January 1,
2013. The Company contributions to these plans were $271 for 2014 and $152 for 2013.
The Company provides post-retirement medical benefits to certain former domestic employees who met minimum age and service
requirements. In 1999, a plan amendment was instituted which limits the liability for post-retirement benefits beginning January 1,
2000 for certain employees who retire after that date. This plan amendment resulted in a $1,100 unrecognized prior service cost
reduction which will be recognized as employees render the services necessary to earn the post-retirement benefit. The Company’s
policy is to pay the cost of these post-retirement benefits when required on a cash basis. The Company also has provided certain
foreign employees with retirement related benefits.
53
The following table presents the amounts recognized in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013
for post-retirement medical benefits:
2014
2013
Change in Projected Benefit Obligation
Projected benefit obligation at January 1
Interest cost
Actuarial loss
Participant contributions
Benefits paid
Projected benefit obligation at December 31
Change in fair value of plan assets
Employer contributions
Participant contributions
Benefits paid
Funded status
Current liabilities
Noncurrent liabilities
Net amount recognized
Amount recognized in other comprehensive income
Unrecognized net actuarial gain
Total
$
$
633
26
36
27
(134)
588
107
27
(134)
(588)
103
485
588
-
-
-
$
$
702
29
25
32
(155)
633
114
32
(146)
(633)
102
531
633
-
-
-
Accrued post-retirement medical benefit costs are classified as other post-retirement benefit obligations as of December 31, 2014 and
2013.
Net periodic post-retirement medical benefit costs for 2014, 2013, and 2012 included the following components:
For measurement purposes, a 7.0% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered benefits (i.e., health care cost trend rate)
was assumed for 2015; the rate was assumed to decrease gradually to 3.5% by the year 2019 and remain at that level thereafter. The
difference in the health care cost trend rate assumption may have a significant effect on the amounts reported. Employer contributions
for 2015 are expected to be approximately $103.
The assumptions used for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
Annual increase in cost of benefits
Discount rate used to determine year-end obligations
Discount rate used to determine year-end expense
2014
2013
2012
7.0 %
4.5 %
4.5 %
7.0 %
4.0 %
4.5 %
8.0 %
4.5 %
5.5 %
The following employer benefit payments (medical and pension), which reflect expected future service, are expected to be paid:
$
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Years 2020-2024
220
205
190
175
163
471
54
In addition to the post-retirement medical benefits the Company provides retirement related benefits to certain former executive
employees and to certain employees of foreign subsidiaries. The liabilities established for these benefits at December 31, 2014 and
2013 are illustrated below.
Current portion
Long-term portion
Total liability at December 31
$
$
2014
2013
93
741
834
$
$
129
803
932
The Company calculated the fair values of the pension plans above utilizing a discounted cash flow, using standard life expectancy
tables, annual pension payments, and a discount rate of 4.5%.
11. CURRENCY TRANSLATION AND TRANSACTION ADJUSTMENTS
All assets and liabilities of foreign operations in which the functional currency is not the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars at
prevailing rates of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated using average rates of exchange
for the year. Adjustments resulting from the process of translating the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries into U.S. dollars are
reported as a separate component of shareholders’ equity, net of tax, where appropriate.
Foreign currency transaction amounts included in the consolidated statements of operations include a loss of $51, $42, and $177 in
2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
12. COMMON STOCK AND STOCK OPTIONS
The Company has a 2001 stock option plan, a non-employee directors’ stock option plan and a 2006 equity incentive plan. New grants
may not be made under the 2001 and the non-employee directors’ stock option plans; however certain option grants under these plans
remain exercisable as of December 31, 2014. The aggregate number of shares of common stock for which awards could be granted
under the 2006 equity incentive plan as of the date of adoption was 699 shares. The 2006 equity incentive plan was amended in 2010
and 2012 to authorize an additional 250 and 300 shares, respectively, for issuance under the plan. Additionally, as outstanding options
under the 2001 stock option plan and non-employee directors’ stock option plan expire, the shares of the Company’s common stock
subject to the expired options will become available for issuance under the 2006 equity incentive plan.
Under the various plans, executives, employees and outside directors receive awards of options to purchase common stock. Under the
2006 equity incentive plan, the Company may also grant stock awards, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units and other
equity-based awards, although no such awards, other than awards under the director program and management purchase program
described below, had been granted as of December 31, 2014. Under all awards, the terms are fixed on the grant date. Generally, the
exercise price of stock options equals the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of the grant. Options under the plans
generally vest over three years, and have a maximum term of 10 years.
Additionally, the board has established the non-employee directors’ stock fee election program, referred to as the director program, as
an award under the 2006 equity incentive plan. The director program gives each non-employee director the right under the 2006 equity
incentive plan to elect to have some or all of his quarterly director fees paid in common shares rather than cash. There were 0, 0 and 1
shares issued in lieu of cash for director fees under the director program for each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and
2012, respectively.
On July 23, 2008, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved the non-employee director and executive officer
stock purchase program, referred to as the management purchase program, as an award under the 2006 Plan. The purpose of the
management purchase program is to permit the Company’s non-employee directors and executive officers to purchase shares of the
Company’s Common Stock directly from the Company. Pursuant to the management purchase program, as amended, participants may
elect to purchase shares of Common Stock from the Company not exceeding an aggregate of $100 during any fiscal year. Participants
may make such election one time during each twenty business day period following the public release of the Company’s earnings
announcement, referred to as a window period, and only if such participant is not in possession of material, non-public information
concerning the Company and subject to the discretion of the Board to prohibit any transactions in Common Stock by directors and
executive officers during a window period. There was 1 share purchased under the management purchase program during the year
ended December 31, 2014 and no shares purchased under the program during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012,
respectively.
55
Stock option activity during the periods indicated is as follows:
Outstanding at December 31, 2011
Options forfeited or cancelled
Options granted
Options exercised
Outstanding at December 31, 2012
Options forfeited or cancelled
Options granted
Options exercised
Outstanding at December 31, 2013
Options forfeited or cancelled
Options granted
Options exercised
Outstanding at December 31, 2014
Exercisable at December 31, 2013
Exercisable at December 31, 2014
Available for future grant at December 31, 2014
Number of Shares
1,085
(3)
182
(20)
1,244
(15)
192
(14)
1,407
(63)
174
(205)
$
$
$
1,313
1,043
984
175
Weighted-average
Exercise Price
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
$
5.84
6.76
6.42
2.54
5.97
5.21
4.06
2.86
5.75
7.87
4.99
3.74
5.86
6.05
6.17
$
$
$
2,467
348
1,830
The number of shares available for future grant at December 31, 2014, does not include a total of up to 151 shares subject to options
outstanding under the 2001 stock option plan and non-employee directors’ stock option plan which will become available for grant
under the 2006 equity incentive plan in the event of the expiration of said options.
The weighted-average remaining contractual term of options exercisable and outstanding at December 31, 2014, were 3.95 and 5.10
years, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during fiscal 2014, 2013, and 2012, was $635, $12, and $84,
respectively.
The weighted-average per share grant date fair value of options granted was $3.28, $4.06, and $3.84, in 2014, 2013, and 2012,
respectively, using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.
For disclosure purposes, the fair value of each stock option granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-
pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
Dividend yield
Expected volatility
Risk-free interest rate
Expected life (years)
2014
0.0
%
75.03 - 75.59 %
%
2.00-2.07
6.0
2013
0.0
%
70.84 - 72.19 %
%
.91-1.07
6.0
2012
0.0
%
68.94 - 72.71 %
%
.83 - 1.10
5.0 - 6.0
The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting
restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, option-pricing models require the input of subjective assumptions, including the
expected stock price volatility. Because the Company’s options have characteristics different from those of traded options, in the
opinion of management, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of its options.
The Company calculates expected volatility for stock options and awards using the Company’s historical volatility.
The expected term for stock options and awards is calculated based on the Company’s estimate of future exercise at the time of grant.
56
The Company currently estimates a five percent forfeiture rate for stock options and regularly reviews this estimate.
The risk-free rates for the expected terms of the stock options and awards and the employee stock purchase plan is based on the U.S.
Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.
The Company recorded $457, $532, and $414 of non-cash stock option expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and
2012, respectively. There were 187 stock options that were exercised using a cashless method of exercise for the year ended December
31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014, there was $534 of total unrecognized compensation costs related to non-vested awards that is
expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.98 years.
The Company also has an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “Purchase Plan”). The Purchase Plan initially provided that a maximum
of 100 shares may be sold under the Purchase Plan as of the date of adoption. On April 27, 2011, the Company’s shareholders
approved an amendment to the Purchase Plan to increase the number of shares which may be purchased under the plan by an
additional 100 shares. There were 16, 26, and 20 shares purchased under the plan during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013
and 2012, respectively.
The Company issues new shares of stock upon the exercise of stock options.
13. INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted income (loss) per share:
Numerator:
Income (loss) before discontinued operations
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income
taxes
Net income (loss)
Denominator:
Basic – weighted shares outstanding
Weighted shares assumed upon exercise of stock
options
Diluted – weighted shares outstanding
Basic income (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss) per share:
Diluted income (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss) per share:
$
$
$
$
$
$
Year Ended December 31
2014
2013
2012
2,518
$
(2,290)
$
(270)
(3,872)
2,248
$
(6,162)
$
5,791
247
6,038
0.43
(0.05)
0.39
0.42
(0.04)
0.37
$
$
$
$
5,699
-
5,699
(0.40)
(0.68)
$
(1.08)
$
(0.40)
(0.68)
(1.08)
$
$
1,759
(1,050)
709
5,669
219
5,888
0.31
(0.19)
0.13
0.30
(0.18)
0.12
The Company excluded stock options of 21, 1,407, and 411, in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, from the computation of the
diluted income per share as their effect would be anti-dilutive. For additional disclosures regarding the stock options, see Note 12.
57
14. CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS
The Company is a defendant along with a number of other parties in lawsuits alleging that plaintiffs have or may have contracted
asbestos-related diseases as a result of exposure to asbestos products or equipment containing asbestos sold by one or more named
defendants. These lawsuits relate to the discontinued heat technologies segment which was sold in March 2005. Due to the non-
informative nature of the complaints, the Company does not know whether any of the complaints state valid claims against the
Company. Certain insurance carriers have informed the Company that the primary policies for the period August 1, 1970-1978 have
been exhausted and that the carriers will no longer provide defense and insurance coverage under those policies. However, the
Company has other primary and excess insurance policies that the Company believes afford coverage for later years. Some of these
other primary insurers have accepted defense and insurance coverage for these suits, and some of them have either ignored the
Company’s tender of defense of these cases, or have denied coverage, or have accepted the tenders but asserted a reservation of rights
and/or advised the Company that they need to investigate further. Because settlement payments are applied to all years a litigant was
deemed to have been exposed to asbestos, the Company believes that it will have funds available for defense and insurance coverage
under the non-exhausted primary and excess insurance policies. However, unlike the older policies, the more recent policies have
deductible amounts for defense and settlements costs that the Company will be required to pay; accordingly, the Company expects that
its litigation costs will increase in the future. Further, many of the policies covering later years (approximately 1984 and thereafter)
have exclusions for any asbestos products or operations, and thus do not provide insurance coverage for asbestos-related lawsuits. The
Company does not believe that the asserted exhaustion of some of the primary insurance coverage for the 1970-1978 period will have
a material adverse effect on its financial condition, liquidity, or results of operations. Management believes that the number of
insurance carriers involved in the defense of the suits, and the significant number of policy years and policy limits under which these
insurance carriers are insuring the Company, make the ultimate disposition of these lawsuits not material to the Company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations.
The Company’s former wholly owned French subsidiary, Selas SAS, filed for insolvency in France. The Company may be subject to
additional litigation or liabilities as a result of the French insolvency proceeding.
The Company is also involved in other lawsuits arising in the normal course of business. While it is not possible to predict with
certainty the outcome of these matters, management is of the opinion that the disposition of these lawsuits and claims will not
materially affect our consolidated financial position, liquidity or results of operations.
Total expense for 2014, 2013 and 2012 under leases pertaining primarily to engineering, manufacturing, sales and administrative
facilities, with an initial term of one year or more, aggregated $1,071, $1,304, and $1,356, respectively. Remaining payments under
such leases are as follows: 2015- $1,307; 2016- $683; 2017 - $68, which includes two leased facilities in Minnesota that expire in
2016, one leased facility in California that expires in 2016, one leased facility in Singapore that expires in 2015, one leased facility in
Indonesia that expires in 2016 and one leased facility in Germany that expires in 2017. Certain leases contain renewal options as
defined in the lease agreements.
On October 5, 2007, the Company entered into employment agreements with its executive officers. The agreements call for payments
ranging from seven months to two years base salary and unpaid bonus, if any, to the executives should there be a change of control as
defined in the agreement and the executives are not retained for a period of at least one year following such change of control. Under
the agreements, all stock options granted to the executives would vest immediately and be exercisable in accordance with the terms of
such stock options. The Company also agreed that if it enters into an agreement to sell substantially all of its assets, it will obligate the
buyer to fulfill its obligations pursuant to the agreements. The agreements terminate, except to the extent that any obligation remains
unpaid, upon the earlier of termination of the executive’s employment prior to a change of control or asset sale for any reason or the
termination of the executive after a change of control for any reason other than by involuntary termination as defined in the
agreements.
15. RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
One of the Company’s subsidiaries leases office and factory space from a partnership consisting of three present or former officers of
the subsidiary, including Mark Gorder, a member of the Company’s Board of Directors and the President and Chief Executive Officer
of the Company. The subsidiary is required to pay all real estate taxes and operating expenses. The total base rent expense, real estate
taxes and other charges incurred under the lease was approximately $486, $486 and $490 for the years ended December 31, 2014,
2013 and 2012, respectively.
The Company uses the law firm of Blank Rome LLP for legal services. A partner of that firm is the son-in-law of the Chairman of our
Board of Directors. The Company paid approximately $156, $228, and $174 to Blank Rome LLP for legal services and costs in 2014,
2013 and 2012, respectively. The Chairman of our Board of Directors is considered independent under applicable NASDAQ and SEC
rules because (i) no payments were made to the Chairman or the partner directly in exchange for the services provided by the law firm
and (ii) the amounts paid to the law firm did not exceed the thresholds contained in the NASDAQ standards. Furthermore, the
aforementioned partner does not provide any legal services to the Company and is not involved in billing matters.
58
16. STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
2014
$
Year Ended December 31
2013
$
1
432
132
1
1
512
27
-
2012
$
1
594
5
1
Interest received
Interest paid
Income taxes paid
Shares issued for director services in lieu of
fees
17. INVESTMENT IN PARTNERSHIPS
In December 2006, the Company joined the Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Patent Partnership (K/S HIMPP). Members of the
partnership include the largest six hearing aid manufacturers as well as several other smaller manufacturers. The purchase price of
$1,800 included a 9% equity interest in K/S HIMPP as well as a license agreement that grants the Company access to over 45 US
registered patents. The Company accounted for the K/S HIMPP investment using the equity method of accounting for common stock,
as the equity interest is deemed to be “more than minor”. The company paid the final principal installment under the purchase
agreement of $240 in 2012. The investment in the partnership exceeded underlying net assets by approximately $1,475 at the time of
the agreement. Based on the final assessment of the partnership, the Company determined that approximately $345 of the excess of the
investment over the underlying partnership net assets relates to underlying patents (amortized on a straight-line basis over ten years).
The remaining $1,130 of the excess of the investment over the underlying partnership net assets was assigned to the non-exclusive
patent license agreement (amortized on a straight-line basis over ten years). The Company recorded a $182, $204 and $166 decrease in
the carrying amount of the investment, reflecting amortization of the patents, patent license agreement and the Company’s portion of
the partnership’s operating results for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Also, the Company recorded
operating expenses directly related to HIMPP of $46, $58, and $50 during 2014, 2013, and 2012.The carrying amount of the K/S
HIMPP partnership is $387 and $569 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, amortization remaining
for each of the years ending December 31, 2015 through 2016 is $195.
In August 2012, the Company sold its 50% interest in its Global Coils joint venture to its joint venture partner Audemars SA. The
Global Coils joint venture is in the business of marketing, designing, manufacturing, and selling audio coils to the hearing health
industry. Audemars paid $426 in cash at closing and will make future payments, both one time and recurring, as specified in the
purchase agreement. Audemars also transferred certain hearing health inventory to IntriCon. The Company recorded a gain on the sale
of $822 in the gain on sale of investment in partnership line of the accompanying statement of operations.
The net gain was computed as follows:
Cash proceeds
Receivables
Inventory
Net assets disposed
Transaction costs
Gain on sale
$
$
426
721
186
(486)
(25)
822
The receivables are made up of installment payments and estimated royalties and are included in other current assets and other assets
on the balance sheet based on payment terms. The Company measured the fair value of the estimated royalties based on level 3 inputs
which are considered unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data. The Company used future estimated cash flows
discounted to their present value to calculate fair value. The discount rate used was the value-weighted average of the Company’s
estimated cost of capital derived using both known and estimated customary market metrics. Actual royalty payments may differ from
the Company’s estimate which could adversely affect the Company’s results of operations.
Prior to the sale of the Company’s Global Coils joint venture, the Company recorded a $50 increase in the carrying amount of the
investment, reflecting the Company’s portion of the joint venture’s operating results for the year ended December 31, 2012.
59
18. REVENUE BY MARKET
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, net revenue by market:
Medical
Hearing Health
Professional Audio Communications
Total Net Sales
19. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Year Ended December 31
2014
2013
2012
$
35,109
22,959
10,235
$
25,978
19,739
7,244
24,463
23,806
11,686
68,303
$
52,961
$
59,955
$
$
The Company has reviewed events subsequent to the date these consolidated financial statements were issued and noted no matters
requiring adjustment to or disclosure in these consolidated financial statements.
60
ITEM 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
ITEM 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. As of the end of the period covered by this report (the “Evaluation Date”), the
Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive
Officer (principal executive officer) and the Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer), of the effectiveness of the design and
operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act). Based upon that
evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, our disclosure controls
and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits
under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in applicable rules and
forms, and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial
Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. The report of management required under this
Item 9A is contained in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption “Management’s Report on Internal Control
Over Financial Reporting.”
Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting. There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as
such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the most recent fiscal quarter covered by this
report that would have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial
reporting.
A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives
of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the
benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation
of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been
detected. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not
be detected.
ITEM 9B. Other Information
On February 3, 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company approved Amendment No. 2 to Equity Plans, which amended each of the
following equity plans of the Company (i) the Amended and Restated Non-Employee Directors Stock Option Plan, (ii) the 2001 Stock
Option Plan, as amended and (iii) the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended. Under the Amendment, outstanding options under
such plans will vest and become fully exercisable, and will be exercisable for the balance of the original term of the option, in the
event of the termination of the participant from the Company due to death, disability or retirement, regardless of any contrary
provision in the form of option agreement.
The foregoing description of Amendment No. 2 does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the
Amendment, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 10.24 hereto and is incorporated herein by reference.
61
ITEM 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
PART III
The information called for by Item 10 is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement relating to its 2015
annual meeting of shareholders, including but not necessarily limited to the sections of the 2015 proxy statement entitled “Proposal 1
– Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance.”
The information concerning executive officers contained in Item 4A hereof is incorporated by reference into this Item 10.
Code of Ethics
The Company has adopted a code of ethics that applies to its directors, officers and employees, including its principal executive
officer, principal financial and accounting officer, controller and persons performing similar functions. Copies of the Company’s code
of ethics are available without charge upon written request directed to Cari Sather, Director of Human Resources, IntriCon
Corporation, 1260 Red Fox Road, Arden Hills, MN 55112. The Company intends to satisfy the disclosure requirement under Item 10
of Form 8-K regarding any future amendments to a provision of its code of ethics by posting such information on the Company’s
website: www.intricon.com.
ITEM 11. Executive Compensation
The information called for by Item 11 is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement relating to its 2015
annual meeting of shareholders, including but not necessarily limited to the sections of the 2015 proxy statement entitled “Director
Compensation for 2014,” and “Executive Compensation”.
ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information called for by Item 12 is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement relating to its 2015
annual meeting of shareholders, including but not necessarily limited to the section of the 2015 proxy statement entitled “Share
Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners, Directors and Certain Officers.”
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table details information regarding the Company’s existing equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2014:
(a)
Number of
securities to be
issued upon exercise
of outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(b)
Weighted-
average exercise
price of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(c)
Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation
plans (excluding
securities reflected in
column (a))
Plan Category
Equity compensation plans
approved by security holders(1) ..
1,283
Equity compensation plans not
approved by security holders(2) ..
30
Total ..............................................
1,313
$5.87
$5.55
$5.86
216
--
216
(1) The amount shown in column (c) includes 175 shares issuable under the Company's 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the "2006 Plan")
and 41 shares available for purchase under the Company’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Under the terms of the 2006 Plan, as
outstanding options under the Company’s 2001 Stock Option Plan and Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan expire, the shares
of common stock subject to the expired options will become available for issuance under the 2006 Plan. As of December 31, 2014,
121 shares of common stock were subject to outstanding options under the 2001 Stock Option Plan and Non-Employee Directors’
Stock Option Plan. Accordingly, if any of these options expire, the shares of common stock subject to expired options also will be
available for issuance under the 2006 Plan.
(2) Represents shares issuable under the Non-Employee Directors Stock Option Plan, the (“Non-Employee Directors Plan”), pursuant
to which directors who are not employees of the Company or any of its subsidiaries were eligible to receive options. The exercise
price of the option was the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant. Options become exercisable in equal one-third annual
installments beginning one year from the date of grant, except that the vesting schedule for discretionary grants is determined by the
62
Compensation Committee. As a result of the approval of the 2006 Plan by the shareholders at the 2006 annual meeting of
shareholders, no further grants will be made pursuant to the Non-Employee Directors Plan.
ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information called for by Item 13 is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement relating to its 2015
annual meeting of shareholders, including but not necessarily limited to the sections of the 2015 proxy statement entitled “Certain
Relationships and Related Party Transactions” and “Independence of the Board of Directors.”
ITEM 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
The information called for by Item 14 is incorporated by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement relating to its 2015
annual meeting of shareholders, including but not necessarily limited to the sections of the 2015 proxy statement entitled “Independent
Registered Public Accounting Fee Information.”
ITEM 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this report:
PART IV
1) Financial Statements – The consolidated financial statements of the Registrant are set forth in Item 8 of Part II of this report.
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
63
3)
2.1
3.1
3.2
4.1
+ 10.1.1
+ 10.1.2
+ 10.2
10.3.1
10.3.2
+ 10.4.1
+10.4.2
+ 10.5
+ 10.6
+ 10.7
+ 10.8
+10.9
Exhibits –
Asset Purchase Agreement dated as of January 27, 2014 between Sierra Peaks Corporation and IntriCon Tibbetts
Corporation. (Schedules and exhibits are omitted pursuant to Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(2); IntriCon Corporation
agrees to furnish a copy of such schedules and/or exhibits to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon
request.) (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the Commission
on January 31, 2014).
The Company's Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended. (Incorporated by reference from the
Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on April 24, 2008.)
The Company's Amended and Restated By-Laws. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current Report
on Form 8-K filed with the Commission October 12, 2007.)
Specimen Common Stock Certificate. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Registration Statement on
Form S-3 (registration no. 333-200182) filed with the Commission on November 13, 2014.)
2001 Stock Option Plan. (Incorporated by reference from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2000.)
Form of Stock Option Agreement issued to executive officers pursuant to the 2001 Stock Option Plan.
(Incorporated by reference from the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on April 26,
2005.)
Supplemental Retirement Plan (amended and restated effective January 1, 1995). (Incorporated by reference from
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995.)
Amended and Restated Office/Warehouse Lease, between Resistance Technology, Inc. and Arden Partners I. L.L.P.
(of which Mark S. Gorder is one of the principal owners) dated November 1, 1996. (Incorporated by reference from
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996.)
Amended and Restated Office/Warehouse Lease Second Extension Agreement dated as of October 20, 2011
between IntriCon Inc. and Arden Partners I, L.L.P. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2011.)
Amended and Restated Non-Employee Directors' Stock Option Plan. (Incorporated by reference from the
Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001.)
Form of Non-employee director Option Agreement for options issued pursuant to the Amended and Restated Non-
Employee Directors Stock Option Plan. (Incorporated by reference from the Company's Current Report on Form 8-
K filed with the Commission on October 3, 2005.)
2006 Equity Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference from Appendix A to the Company’s proxy statement filed
with the SEC on March 15, 2010.)
Form of Stock Option Agreement issued to executive officers pursuant to the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan.
(Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31,
2006.)
Form of Stock Option Agreement issued to directors pursuant to the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by
reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2006.)
Non-Employee Directors Stock Fee Election Program. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.)
Non-Employee Director and Executive Officer Stock Purchase Program, as amended. (Incorporated by reference
from the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2008.)
+ 10.10
Deferred Compensation Plan. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed
with the Commission on May 17, 2006.)
64
10.11
10.12
+ 10.13
+ 10.14
10.15
10.16
10.17.1
10.17.2
10.17.3
10.17.4
10.17.5
10.17.6
10.17.7
10.18
10.19.1
Land and Building Lease Agreement between Resistance Technology, Inc. and MDSC Partners, LLP dated June 15,
2006. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on
June 21, 2006.)
Agreement by and between K/S HIMPP and IntriCon Corporation dated December 1, 2006 and the schedules
thereto. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December
31, 2006.)
Employment Agreement with Mark S. Gorder. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current Report on
Form 8-K filed with the Commission October 12, 2007.)
Form of Employment Agreement with executive officers. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Current
Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission October 12, 2007.)
Strategic Alliance Agreement among IntriCon Corporation and Dynamic Hearing Pty Ltd effective as of October 1,
2008 (Incorporated by reference from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
2008.)
First Amendment to Strategic Alliance Agreement among IntriCon Corporation and Dynamic Hearing Pty Ltd
effective as of January 1, 2011 (Incorporated by reference from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2011.)
Loan and Security Agreement dated as of August 13, 2009 by and among IntriCon Corporation, RTI Electronics,
Inc., IntriCon Tibbetts Corporation, IntriCon Datrix Corporation (f/k/a Jon Barron, Inc.) and The PrivateBank and
Trust Company (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended September 30, 2009.)
First Amendment and Waiver dated March 12, 2010 to Loan and Security Agreement dated as of August 13, 2009
by and among IntriCon Corporation, RTI Electronics, Inc., IntriCon Tibbetts Corporation, IntriCon Datrix
Corporation and The PrivateBank and Trust Company. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2010.)
Second Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement and Limited Consent dated as of August 12, 2011 to Loan and
Security Agreement dated as of August 13, 2009 by and among IntriCon Corporation, IntriCon, Inc., IntriCon
Tibbetts Corporation, IntriCon Datrix Corporation and The PrivateBank and Trust Company (Incorporated by
reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2011.)
Third Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement and Waiver dated as of March 1, 2012 to Loan and Security
Agreement dated as of August 13, 2009 by and among IntriCon Corporation, IntriCon, Inc., IntriCon Tibbetts
Corporation, IntriCon Datrix Corporation and The PrivateBank and Trust Company (incorporated by reference to
the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012).
Fourth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement and Consent among the Company, IntriCon, Inc., IntriCon
Tibbetts Corporation , IntriCon Datrix Corporation and The PrivateBank and Trust Company, dated as of August 6,
2012 (incorporated by reference to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter ended June 30,
2012.)
Fifth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement among the Company, IntriCon, Inc., IntriCon Tibbetts
Corporation, IntriCon Datrix Corporation and The PrivateBank and Trust Company, dated as of December 21, 2012.
(incorporated by reference to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on December
21, 2012.)
Sixth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement and Waiver among the Company, IntriCon, Inc., IntriCon
Tibbetts Corporation, IntriCon Datrix Corporation and The PrivateBank and Trust Company, dated as of February
14, 2014 (Incorporated by reference to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on
February 19, 2014.)
Revolving Credit Note issued to The PrivateBank and Trust Company dated August 13, 2009 (Incorporated by
reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2009. f)
Term Note issued to The PrivateBank and Trust Company dated August 13, 2009 (Incorporated by reference from
the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2009.)
65
10.19.2
10.20
10.21
+10.22
+10.23
Term Note dated August 12, 2011 from IntriCon Corporation, IntriCon, Inc., IntriCon Tibbetts Corporation and
IntriCon Datrix Corporation to The PrivateBank and Trust Company (Incorporated by reference from the
Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2011.)
Subordinated Non-Negotiable Promissory Note issued to Jon V. Barron dated August 13, 2009 (Incorporated by
reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2009.)
Amended and Restated Sale or Change of Control, Exclusivity and Noncompete Agreement dated November 12,
2011 between IntriCon Corporation and United Healthcare Services, Inc. (Incorporated by reference from the
Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2011.)
Annual Incentive Plan for Executives and Key Employees. (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012.)
Amended and Restated Amendment to Equity Plans. (Incorporated by reference from the Company's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.)
+10.24*
Amendment No. 2 to Equity Plans.
21*
23.1*
31.1*
31.2*
32.1*
32.2*
99.1
101
List of significant subsidiaries of the Company.
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP).
Certification of principal executive officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of principal financial officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of principal executive officer pursuant to U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of principal financial officer pursuant to U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Shareholders Agreement dated October 10, 2011 by and among the Company, United Healthcare Services, Inc.,
Mark S. Gorder, Michael J. McKenna, Robert N. Masucci, Nicolas A. Giordano, Philip N. Seamon, Christopher D.
Conger, Michael P. Geraci, Scott Longval, Dennis L. Gonsior, and Greg Gruenhagen (Incorporated by reference
from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2011.)
The following materials from IntriCon Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
2014, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Statements of Operations for
the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss);
(iii) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012; (v) Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the
years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012; and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
___________________________
Filed herewith.
*
Denotes management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement.
+
66
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
INTRICON CORPORATION (Registrant)
By: /s/ Scott Longval
Scott Longval
Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary
Dated: March 6, 2015
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.
/s/ Mark S. Gorder
____________________________
Mark S. Gorder
President and Chief Executive
Officer and Director (principal executive officer)
March 6, 2015
/s/ Scott Longval
_____________________________
Scott Longval
Chief Financial Officer
Treasurer and Secretary
(principal accounting and financial officer)
March 6, 2015
/s/Nicholas A. Giordano
Nicholas A. Giordano
Director
March 6, 2015
/s/Robert N. Masucci
Robert N. Masucci
Director
March 6, 2015
/s/ Michael J. McKenna
Michael J. McKenna
Director
March 6, 2015
/s/ Philip N. Seamon
Philip N. Seamon
Director
March 6, 2015
67
EXHIBITS:
+10.24 Amendment No. 2 to Equity Plans.
21
List of significant subsidiaries of the Company.
EXHIBIT INDEX
23.1
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP).
31.1
Certification of principal executive officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2
Certification of principal financial officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1 Certification of principal executive officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2
101
Certification of principal financial officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
The following materials from IntriCon Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2014, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated
Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012; (ii) Consolidated
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss); (iii) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014
and 2013; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and
2012; (v) Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013
and 2012; and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
68
EXHIBIT 21.1
Significant Subsidiaries of
IntriCon Corporation
Subsidiary
Place of Incorporation
IntriCon GmbH
Vertrieb von Elecktronikteilen
Germany
IntriCon, Inc. (formerly Resistance
Technology, Inc.)
Minnesota
IntriCon PTE LTD.
Singapore
PT IntriCon Indonesia
Indonesia
69
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
EXHIBIT 23.1
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-3 (Registration Nos. 33-33712 and 333-
200182) and Forms S-8 (Registration Nos. 333-16377, 333-66433, 333-59694, 333-129104, 333-134256, 333-145577, 333-168586,
333-173837 and 333-181160) of IntriCon Corporation and Subsidiaries of our report dated March 6, 2015, relating to the consolidated
financial statements, which appears on page 35 of this annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.
/s/ BAKER TILLY VIRCHOW KRAUSE, LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 6, 2015
70
CERTIFICATION
EXHIBIT 31.1
I, Mark S. Gorder, certify that:
1.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of IntriCon Corporation;
2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with
respect to the period covered by this report;
3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in
this report;
4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under
our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made
known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be
designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on
such evaluation; and
d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially
affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over
financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the
equivalent functions):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting
which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial
information; and
b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Date: March 6, 2015
/s/ Mark S. Gorder
Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer)
71
CERTIFICATION
EXHIBIT 31.2
I, Scott Longval, certify that:
1.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of IntriCon Corporation;
2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with
respect to the period covered by this report;
3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in
this report;
4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under
our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made
known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be
designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on
such evaluation; and
d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially
affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over
financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the
equivalent functions):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting
which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial
information; and
b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Date: March 6, 2015
/s/ Scott Longval
Chief Financial Officer
(principal financial officer)
72
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C.SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
EXHIBIT 32.1
I, Mark S. Gorder, Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) of IntriCon Corporation (the “Company”), certify, pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that:
1)
2)
the annual report on Form 10-K of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2014 (the “Report”) fully complies
with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of
operations of the Company.
Date: March 6, 2015
____/s/ Mark S. Gorder_________
Mark S. Gorder
President and Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer)
The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 1350 of
Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code) and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.
73
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C.SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
EXHIBIT 32.2
I, Scott Longval, Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer)of IntriCon Corporation (the “Company”), certify, pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that:
1)
2)
the annual report on Form 10-K of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2014 (the “Report”) fully complies
with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of
operations of the Company.
Date: March 6, 2015
_/s/ Scott Longval _____
Scott Longval
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (principal financial officer)
The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 1350 of
Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code) and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.
74
INTRICON CORPORATION
1260 Red Fox Road
Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112
March 6, 2015
Dear Shareholder:
It is my great pleasure to invite you to attend the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the
“Annual Meeting”). The Annual Meeting will be held on Friday, April 24, 2015 at 11:30 a.m., local time,
at the Hampton Inn North located at 1000 Gramsie Road, Shoreview, Minnesota 55126.
At this year’s Annual Meeting our shareholders will vote on the following:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
the election of two directors, each to hold office for a term of three years and until his
successor is duly elected and qualified;
an advisory vote on executive compensation, referred to as “say-on-pay;
the approval of the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan, as more fully described in the
accompanying proxy statement; and
the ratification of the appointment of Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP, as IntriCon
Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year 2015.
We are furnishing our Proxy Statement and other proxy materials to our shareholders over the
Internet. The proxy materials are available at https://materials.proxyvote.com/46121H.
The vote of every shareholder is important. Therefore, whether or not you expect to attend the
meeting in person, I urge you to vote in one of the following ways: (i) over the Internet: log on to
www.proxyvote.com and follow the web site instructions; once you have cast your vote, be sure to click
on “Accept Vote”; (ii) by telephone: you may call toll-free in the U.S. or Canada, 1-800-690-6903 on a
touch-tone telephone; or (iii) by proxy card: sign and date the accompanying proxy card and return it
promptly in the envelope provided for that purpose. If you vote over the Internet or telephone, you do
not need to return your proxy card.
Thank you for your continued interest in IntriCon Corporation. I look forward to seeing you at
the Annual Meeting.
Sincerely,
Mark S. Gorder
President and Chief Executive Officer
INTRICON CORPORATION
1260 Red Fox Road
Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To be held April 24, 2015
The 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “Annual Meeting”) of IntriCon Corporation (the
“Corporation”) will be held on Friday, April 24, 2015 at 11:30 a.m., local time, at the Hampton Inn North
located at 1000 Gramsie Road, Shoreview, Minnesota 55126 for the following purposes:
(1)
to elect two director to hold office, each for a term of three years and until his successor
is duly elected and qualified;
(2) to hold an advisory vote on executive compensation, referred to as “say-on-pay”;
(3)
(4)
(5)
to approve the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan, as more fully described in the accompanying
proxy statement;
to ratify the appointment of Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP as the Corporation’s
independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year 2015; and
to transact such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any
of its adjournments or postponements.
The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on February 19, 2015 as the record date for
the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting or any
adjournment or postponement thereof. If the Annual Meeting is adjourned because of the absence of a
quorum, those shareholders entitled to vote who attend the adjourned Annual Meeting, although
constituting less than a quorum as provided herein, shall nevertheless constitute a quorum for the purpose
of electing directors. If the Annual Meeting is adjourned for one or more periods aggregating at least 15
days because of the absence of a quorum, those shareholders entitled to vote who attend the reconvened
Annual Meeting, if less than a quorum as determined under applicable law, shall nevertheless constitute a
quorum for the purpose of acting upon any other matter set forth in this Notice of Annual Meeting.
All shareholders are cordially invited to attend the meeting, but whether or not you expect to
attend the meeting in person, we urge you to vote promptly using one of the following methods to ensure
your vote is counted:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
over the Internet: log on to www.proxyvote.com and follow the web site instructions;
once you have cast your vote, be sure to click on “Accept Vote”;
by telephone: you may call toll-free in the U.S. or Canada, 1-800-690-6903 on a touch-
tone telephone;
by proxy card: sign and date the accompanying proxy card and return it promptly in the
envelope provided for that purpose; or
(cid:2)
in person: if you are a shareholder of record as of the close of business on the Record
Date, you may vote in person at the Annual Meeting and revoke any previously granted
proxy.
If you vote over the Internet or by telephone, you will need your control number (your control
number can be found on the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials and your proxy card). The
deadline to vote over the Internet or by telephone is Thursday, April 23, 2015, 11:59 p.m., eastern
daylight time. If you vote over the Internet or by telephone, you do not need to return your proxy card.
If your shares are held in “street name” (that is, if your stock is registered in the name of your
broker, bank, or other nominee), please contact your broker, bank or nominee to determine whether you
will be able to vote over the Internet or by telephone.
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for
the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on April 24, 2015
In accordance with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, instead of mailing a
printed copy of our proxy materials to our shareholders, we have elected to furnish these materials by
providing access to these documents over the Internet. Accordingly, on or about March 6, 2015, we sent a
Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials (“Notice of Internet Availability”) to our shareholders
of record and beneficial owners informing them of the availability of our proxy materials online. The
Notice of Internet Availability provides you with instructions regarding how to (i) view our proxy
materials for the Annual Meeting on the Internet; (ii) vote your shares after you have viewed our proxy
materials; and (ii) request a printed copy of the proxy materials. All shareholders have the ability to
access this Proxy Statement, the proxy card and our Annual Report on Form 10-K at the following
website: https://materials.proxyvote.com/46121H.
Meeting directions are available by calling our executive offices at (651) 636-9770.
By Order of the Board of Directors
March 6, 2015
Arden Hills, Minnesota
Michael J. McKenna
Chairman of the Board
INTRICON CORPORATION
1260 Red Fox Road
Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112
PROXY STATEMENT
This proxy statement and the accompanying proxy are being furnished to shareholders of
IntriCon Corporation (the “Corporation”) in conjunction with the solicitation of proxies by the Board of
Directors of the Corporation for use at the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “Annual Meeting”)
to be held on Friday, April 24, 2015 at the Hampton Inn North located at 1000 Gramsie Road, Shoreview,
Minnesota 55126, at 11:30 a.m., local time, and any adjournment or postponement of the Annual
Meeting. This Proxy Statement and accompanying form of proxy are first being made available to
shareholders on or about March 6, 2015.
The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on February 19, 2015 as the record date for
determination of the shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting. As of February
19, 2015, there were 5,848,286 shares of common stock, of the Corporation outstanding, each of which is
entitled to one vote on all matters to be presented at the Annual Meeting.
Proxies in the form provided, if properly executed and received in time for voting, and not
revoked, will be voted as directed on the proxies. If no directions to the contrary are indicated, the
persons named in the proxy will vote all of your shares of common stock “for” the election of two
nominees for director, “for” the approval of the compensation of our Named Executive Officers as
described in this Proxy Statement, “for” the approval of the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan and “for” the
ratification of the appointment of Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP as the Corporation’s independent
registered public accounting firm for fiscal year 2015. With respect to any other matter that properly
comes before the meeting, the proxy holders will vote the proxies in their discretion in accordance with
their best judgment.
You may vote in one of the following ways:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
over the Internet: log on to www.proxyvote.com and follow the web site instructions;
once you have cast your vote, be sure to click on “Accept Vote;
by telephone: you may call toll-free in the U.S. or Canada, 1-800-690-6903 on a touch-
tone telephone;
by proxy card: sign and date the accompanying proxy card and return it promptly in the
envelope provided for that purpose; or
in person: if you are a shareholder of record as of the close of business on the Record
Date, you may vote in person at the Annual Meeting and revoke any previously granted
proxy.
3
If you vote over the Internet or by telephone, you will need your control number (your control
number can be found on the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials and your proxy card). The
deadline to vote over the Internet or by telephone is Thursday, April 23, 2015, 11:59 p.m., eastern
daylight time. If you vote over the Internet or by telephone, you do not need to return your proxy card.
Any shareholder who submits a proxy may revoke it at any time before the proxy is voted at the
Annual Meeting by delivering a later dated proxy or by giving written notice to the Secretary of the
Corporation or attending the Annual Meeting in person and so requesting. If you vote over the Internet or
by telephone, you may change your vote by following the procedures used to submit your initial vote.
The last vote received chronologically will supersede any prior votes. Attendance at the Annual Meeting
will not by itself revoke a previously granted proxy.
The presence, in person or represented by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the outstanding
shares of common stock will constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the Annual Meeting.
All shares of common stock present in person or represented by proxy (including “broker non-votes”
described below) and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting, no matter how they are voted or whether
they abstain from voting, will be counted in determining the presence of a quorum. If the Annual
Meeting is adjourned because of the absence of a quorum, those shareholders entitled to vote who attend
the adjourned Annual Meeting, although constituting less than a quorum as provided herein, shall
nevertheless constitute a quorum for the purpose of electing directors. If the Annual Meeting is adjourned
for one or more periods aggregating at least 15 days because of the absence of a quorum, those
shareholders entitled to vote who attend the reconvened Annual Meeting, if less than a quorum as
determined under applicable law, shall nevertheless constitute a quorum for the purpose of acting upon
any other matter set forth in the Notice of Annual Meeting.
Each share of common stock is entitled to one vote on each matter that may be brought before the
Annual Meeting. Voting results will be determined as follows:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
Proposal 1: the election of the directors will be determined by a plurality vote and the nominees
receiving the highest number of “for” votes will be elected.
Proposal 2: approval of the “say-on-pay” proposal will require the affirmative vote of a majority
of the shares entitled to vote and present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual
Meeting.
Proposal 3: approval of the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan will require the affirmative vote of a
majority of the shares entitled to vote and present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual
Meeting.
Proposal 4: the ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public accounting
firm for fiscal year 2015 will require the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares entitled to
vote and present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting.
Any other proposal will require the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares entitled to vote
and present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting.
Under our Bylaws and the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law, an abstention or withholding
of authority to vote will have the same legal effect as an “against” vote and will be counted in
determining whether the proposal has received the required shareholder vote; however, a broker non-vote
will have no effect on whether the proposal has received the required shareholder vote.
4
If you are a beneficial owner whose shares are held of record by a broker, bank or other nominee,
you must instruct the broker, bank or other nominee how to vote your shares. If you do not provide voting
instructions, your shares will not be voted on any proposal on which the broker, bank or other nominee
does not have discretionary authority to vote. This is called a “broker non-vote.” In these cases, the
broker, bank or other nominee can register your shares as being present at the Annual Meeting for
purposes of determining the presence of a quorum but will not be able to vote on those matters for which
specific authorization is required. Your broker, bank or other nominee does not have discretionary
authority to vote on the election of directors, the “say-on-pay” proposal or the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan
without instructions from you, in which case a broker non-vote will occur and your shares will not be
voted on these matters. Your broker, bank or other nominee does have discretionary voting authority to
vote your shares on the ratification of the independent registered public accounting firm, even if the
broker, bank or other nominee does not receive voting instructions from you. In any event, it is
particularly important that you instruct your broker as to how you wish to vote your shares.
The cost of this solicitation will be borne by the Corporation. In addition to solicitation by mail,
proxies may be solicited in person or by telephone, telegraph or teletype by officers, directors or
employees of the Corporation, without additional compensation. Upon request, the Corporation will pay
the reasonable expenses incurred by record holders of the Corporation’s shares of common stock who are
brokers, dealers, banks or voting trustees, or their nominees, for mailing proxy materials to the beneficial
owners of the shares they hold of record.
5
PROPOSAL 1
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors currently consists of five members divided into three classes.
The Board of Directors, based upon the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee, has nominated Nicholas A. Giordano and Philip N. Seamon for election as
directors at the Annual Meeting to serve until the 2018 annual meeting of shareholders and until their
successor has been duly elected and qualified. Each nominee is a current director of the Corporation and
previously has been elected as a director by the Corporation’s shareholders. Mr. Giordano and Mr.
Seamon each have indicated their willingness to continue serving as a director. The Board of Directors
knows of no reason why the nominees would be unable to serve as a director. If any nominee is unable to
serve for any reason, then the proxies will be voted for the election of such substitute nominee(s) as the
Board of Directors may designate, unless the Board of Directors reduces the number of directors on the
Board.
The Board of Directors recommends that the shareholders vote “FOR” the election of each
of Mr. Giordano and Mr. Seamon as a director for a three year term.
The Board of Directors seeks to ensure that it is composed of members of high character and
integrity and whose particular experience, qualifications, attributes and skills, when taken together, will
allow the Board of Directors to satisfy its oversight responsibilities effectively. As discussed below under
“—Director Nomination Process,” director candidates are nominated by the Board of Directors upon
recommendation by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee for election at the annual
shareholders’ meeting each year. In considering whether to recommend a director candidate, the
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee evaluates each individual in the context of the Board
as a whole taking into account relevant factors including, among other things:
•
whether the director candidate has significant leadership experience and outstanding
achievement in such director candidate’s career field;
•
whether the director candidate has relevant expertise or experience and would be able to
offer advice and guidance to management based on that expertise or experience;
•
whether the director candidate has the financial expertise or other professional,
educational or business experience relevant to understanding to the Corporation’s business;
•
•
whether the director candidate has sufficient time available to devote to the Corporation;
whether the director candidate has the ability to make independent, analytical inquiries
and challenge management;
•
whether the director candidate will be committed to represent and advance the long-term
interests of the Corporation’s shareholders; and
•
whether the director candidate meets the independence requirements of Nasdaq.
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee does not have a formal policy regarding
director diversity. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee believes that the directors
should encompass a range of experience, viewpoints, qualifications, attributes and skills in order to
6
provide sound and prudent guidance on the Corporation’s operations. The Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee does not assign specific weights to particular criteria and no particular criteria is
necessarily applicable to all prospective nominees.
Included in the director nominee’s or current director’s biography are the particular experiences,
qualifications, attributes or skills that led the Board to the conclusion that each director nominee or
director should serve as a director of the Corporation. Each director brings a strong and unique
background and set of skills to the Board, giving the Board as a whole competence and experience. We
believe all of our directors have integrity and honesty and adhere to high ethical standards. They have
each demonstrated business acumen and an ability to exercise sound judgment, as well as commitment of
service to the Corporation and the Board.
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the nominees and the persons
whose terms as directors will continue after the Annual Meeting.
Director
Since
Term
Expires
2006
2015
2000
2015
Name, Age (as of February 19, 2015) and Occupation
Nominees for Election
Philip N. Seamon (67) became a director in September 2006. Currently, Mr.
Seamon is President of Philip N. Seamon, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in
operational and financial business restructuring services. Until his retirement in
August 2006, Mr. Seamon was a senior managing director in the corporate
finance practice of FTI Consulting, Inc., a provider of a wide range of business
and financial advisory and consulting services. Previously, Mr. Seamon was a
partner and the service line leader of PricewaterhouseCoopers’ Business
Recovery Services practice in their Philadelphia office. FTI Consulting acquired
this practice in September 2002. Prior to joining PricewaterhouseCoopers, Mr.
Seamon held management and partnership positions in both commercial and
investment banking organizations.
Mr. Seamon provides IntriCon with expertise in financial and accounting matters
as well as experience in mergers and acquisitions and business restructuring.
Nicholas A. Giordano (72) became a director in December 2000. Mr. Giordano
has been a business consultant and investor since 1997. Mr. Giordano was
Interim President of LaSalle University from July 1998 to June 1999. From 1981
to 1997, Mr. Giordano was President and Chief Executive Officer of the
Philadelphia Stock Exchange. Mr. Giordano serves as a trustee of Wilmington
Funds and Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust, mutual funds, and as a director of
Independence Blue Cross of Philadelphia, a health insurance company, and The
RBB Fund, Inc., a mutual funds company. Mr. Giordano also served as a director
of Commerce Bancorp, Inc. in 2007-2008. Messrs. Giordano and Masucci are
first cousins.
Mr. Giordano’s financial and investment background provides the Corporation
with perspective and guidance on accounting and financial matters. His service
as an outside director of other companies (including public companies) provides
valuable insight on corporate governance and business matters. He is the Board’s
audit committee financial expert.
7
Director
Since
Term
Expires
1996
2016
1998
2016
2002
2017
Name, Age (as of February 19, 2015) and Occupation
Continuing Directors
Mark S. Gorder (68) became a director in January 1996. Mr. Gorder has served
as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation since April 2001;
President and Chief Operating Officer of the Corporation from December 2000 to
April 2001; and Vice President of the Corporation from 1996 to December 2000.
Mr. Gorder has been President and Chief Executive Officer of IntriCon, Inc., a
subsidiary of the Corporation, since 1983.
Mr. Gorder’s day to day leadership of the Corporation, as Chief Executive
Officer, provides him with intimate knowledge of the Corporation’s operations
and the markets in which the Corporation operates. Also, as co-founder of the
Corporation’s subsidiary, IntriCon, Inc. he provides strategic guidance. The
Board believes that Mr. Gorder provides unique insights into the Corporation’s
challenges, opportunities and operations.
Michael J. McKenna (80) became a director in June 1998 and has served as
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation since April 2001. In
March 2001, Mr. McKenna retired as the Vice Chairman and a Director of
Crown, Cork & Seal Company, Inc. (now Crown Holdings, Inc.), a
manufacturing company. From 1995 to 1998, Mr. McKenna was the President
and Chief Operating Officer and, prior to 1995, was the Executive Vice President
and President of the North American Division of Crown, Cork & Seal Company,
Inc.
As the retired Vice Chairman, director and former executive of Crown, Cork &
Seal, Mr. McKenna brings a global business perspective from his leadership
positions as well as operational and sales experience. In addition, as the director
with the longest tenure among the independent directors, Mr. McKenna also has
considerable knowledge about the operations and background of IntriCon.
Robert N. Masucci (77) became a director in February 2002. Mr. Masucci has
served as the Chairman of the Board of Montgomery Capital Advisors, Inc., a
consulting company, since 1990 and Chairman of the Board of Barclay Brand
Corporation, a distribution company, since 1996. Prior to 1990, Mr. Masucci was
President and Chief Executive Officer of Drexel Industries, Inc., a forklift
manufacturer. Mr. Masucci also served as a director of Agfeed Industries, Inc., a
commercial hog producer and a premix feed company in China, during 2007.
Messrs. Masucci and Giordano are first cousins.
As a former chief executive officer of a publicly traded manufacturing company,
Mr. Masucci provides IntriCon with guidance on business operations, strategic
planning and accounting and financial matters. Mr. Masucci also has mergers
and acquisitions experience.
8
Independence of the Board of Directors
Under our corporate governance guidelines, the Board, with the assistance of legal counsel and
the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, uses the current standards for “independence”
established by the Nasdaq Stock Market, referred to in the remainder of this proxy statement as “Nasdaq,”
to determine director independence. The Board of Directors has determined that the following directors,
constituting a majority of the members of the Board, are independent as defined in the corporate
governance rules of Nasdaq: Messrs. Giordano, Masucci, McKenna and Seamon.
The independence standards of Nasdaq are composed of objective standards and subjective
standards. Under the objective standards, a director will not be deemed independent if he directly or
indirectly receives payments for services (other than as a director) in excess of certain thresholds or if
certain described relationships exist. Under the subjective independence standard, a director will not be
deemed independent if he has a material relationship with the Corporation that, in the view of the Board,
would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a
director. Under the Nasdaq rules, an independent director must satisfy both the objective and the
subjective standards.
In evaluating the independence of Mr. McKenna, the Board considered that a partner of the law
firm retained by the Corporation since 2002 is the son-in-law of Mr. McKenna. See “—Certain
Relationships and Related Party Transactions.” The Board determined that Mr. McKenna was
independent under the objective Nasdaq standards because: (i) no payments were made to Mr. McKenna
or his son-in-law directly in exchange for the services provided to the Corporation by the law firm and (ii)
the amounts paid to the law firm did not exceed the thresholds contained in the Nasdaq standards. The
Board also determined that Mr. McKenna was independent under the subjective Nasdaq standard for the
reasons discussed above and because Mr. McKenna’s son-in-law was not personally involved in the law
firm’s legal representation of the Corporation.
Board Leadership Structure and Risk Oversight
We separate the roles of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board in recognition of the
differences between the two roles. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for setting the strategic
direction for the Corporation and the day to day leadership and performance of the Corporation, while the
Chairman of the Board provides guidance and sets the agenda for Board meetings and presides over
meetings of the full Board. The Board believes that this structure ensures a greater role for the
independent directors in the oversight of the Corporation and active participation of the independent
directors in setting agendas and establishing priorities and procedures that work for the Board. The
Chairman of the Board also acts as a key liaison between the Board and management.
The Board of Directors as a whole is responsible for consideration and oversight of risks facing
the Corporation, and is responsible for ensuring that material risks are identified and managed
appropriately. Certain risks are overseen by committees of the Board of Directors and these committees
make reports to the full Board of Directors, including reports on noteworthy risk-management issues.
Financial risks are overseen by the Audit Committee which meets with management to review the
Corporation’s major financial risk exposure and the steps management has taken to monitor and control
such exposures. Compensation risks are overseen by the Compensation Committee. Members of the
Corporation’s senior management team regularly report to the full Board about their areas of
responsibility and a component of these reports is risk within the area of responsibility and the steps
management has taken to monitor and control such exposures. Additional review or reporting on risks is
conducted as needed or as requested by the Board or committee.
9
Communication with the Board
Shareholders may communicate with the Board of Directors, including any individual director, by
sending a letter to the Board of Directors, c/o Corporate Secretary, IntriCon Corporation, 1260 Red Fox
Road, Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112. The Corporate Secretary has the authority to disregard any
inappropriate communications or to take other appropriate actions with respect to any such inappropriate
communications. If deemed an appropriate communication, the Corporate Secretary will submit your
correspondence to the Chairman of the Board or to any specific director to whom the correspondence is
directed.
Meetings of the Board and Committees
The Corporation’s Board of Directors held six meetings in 2014. During 2014, all directors of the
Corporation attended at least 75% of the total number of meetings of the Board of Directors of the
Corporation and all committees of which they were members.
Attendance at Annual Meeting of Shareholders
The Board of Directors has adopted a policy that all of the directors should attend the annual
meeting of shareholders, absent exceptional cause. All five of the directors attended the 2014 annual
meeting of shareholders.
Code of Ethics
The Corporation has adopted a code of ethics that applies to its directors, officers and employees,
including its chief executive officer, chief financial officer, controller and persons performing similar
functions. Copies of the Corporation’s code of ethics are available without charge upon written request
directed to Cari Sather, Director of Human Resources, IntriCon Corporation, 1260 Red Fox Road, Arden
Hills, MN 55112. A copy of the code of ethics is also available on the Corporation's website:
www.intricon.com. The Corporation intends to satisfy the disclosure requirement under Item 5.05 of
SEC Form 8-K regarding any future amendments to a provision of its code of ethics by posting such
information on the Corporation’s website: www.intricon.com.
Director Compensation for 2014
Each non-employee director is entitled to a base annual retainer of $24,000. For their services in
such capacities, the Chairman of the Board is entitled to receive an additional annual retainer of $25,000,
the Chairman of the Audit Committee is entitled to receive an additional annual retainer of $10,000 and
the Chairman of each of the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance
Committee is entitled to receive an additional annual retainer of $5,000. All retainers are paid in
quarterly installments. Each non-employee director also receives $1,500 for each Board and committee
meeting attended in person and $500 for each telephonic Board and committee meeting attended;
however, no fee is payable for telephonic board and committee meetings that last less than 30 minutes.
Directors are eligible to receive awards under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan. The Compensation
Committee has approved the automatic grant of options to non-employee directors who are re-elected or
continue as a non-employee director at each annual meeting of shareholders as follows: Chairman of the
Board - options to purchase 12,000 shares of common stock and each other non-employee director -
options to purchase 10,000 shares of common stock. Accordingly, following the 2014 annual meeting,
Mr. McKenna, in his capacity as Chairman of the Board, was granted an option to purchase 12,000 shares
of common stock, while each of Messrs. Giordano, Masucci, and Seamon was granted an option to
10
purchase 10,000 shares of common stock, in each case at an exercise price of $6.82 per share, the fair
market value on the date of the grant. Assuming that they are re-elected or continue as a director, as the
case may be, at the 2015 annual meeting, the Chairman of the Board will receive an option to purchase
12,000 shares of common stock, and each of the other non-employee directors will receive an option to
purchase 10,000 shares of common stock, in each case at an exercise price equal to the fair market value
of the shares of common stock on the date of the 2015 Annual Meeting. These options will be granted
under the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan if approved by the shareholders at the 2015 Annual Meeting;
however, if the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan is not approved by shareholders, these options will be granted
under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan. All director options vest in three equal, annual installments
beginning one year after the date of grant, except that the options will become immediately exercisable
upon a “change in control” as defined in the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan or the death, disability or
retirement of the recipient, and expire ten years after the date of grant, unless terminated earlier by the
terms of the option.
The following table sets forth information concerning the compensation earned during the year
ended December 31, 2014 by each of our directors that was not also an employee.
Name
Nicholas A. Giordano ...........................
Fees Earned
or
Paid in Cash
($)
53,500
Stock
Awards (1)
($)
(cid:3)
Option
Awards (2)
($)
68,200
All Other
Compensation
($)
(cid:3)
Robert N. Masucci ...............................
48,500
Michael J. McKenna ............................
68,500
Philip N. Seamon .................................
____________________________
48,500
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
68,200
81,840
68,200
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
Total
($)
121,700
116,700
150,340
116,700
(1)
(2)
We have not granted any stock awards to our directors. Under the Non-Employee Director and
Executive Officer Stock Purchase Program, directors may purchase shares of common stock directly
from the Corporation at the last reported sale price on the date that the election to purchase is made.
The amounts included in the “Option Awards” column represent the aggregate grant date fair value of
stock awards granted during 2014 computed in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards
Board’s Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718 (“FASB Codification Topic 718”). For a
discussion of valuation assumptions, see Note 12 to our consolidated financial statements included in
our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014. The amounts shown
include the impact of option forfeitures during 2014. A total of 43,100 options were forfeited under all
plans during 2014. As of December 31, 2014, the number of stock option awards held by our non-
employee directors was: Mr. Giordano – 90,000; Mr. Masucci – 90,000; Mr. McKenna – 104,000; and
Mr. Seamon – 85,000.
Director Share Ownership Requirements
In April 2006, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee adopted a policy that all
directors must purchase and own shares of common stock with a purchase price equal to at least one-
year's annual director fees. All directors are in compliance with this policy.
Committees of the Board
The Board of Directors of the Corporation has established an Audit Committee, a Compensation
Committee and a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.
11
Audit Committee. The Board of Directors of the Corporation has appointed a standing Audit
Committee consisting of Messrs. Giordano (Chairman), Masucci, McKenna and Seamon. The Board of
Directors has determined that each member of the Audit Committee is independent, as defined in
applicable Nasdaq corporate governance rules and SEC regulations. In addition, the Board of Directors
has determined that Mr. Giordano qualifies as an audit committee financial expert, as defined in
applicable SEC rules. The Audit Committee held seven meetings in 2014.
The Audit Committee is governed by a written charter approved by the Board of Directors, a
copy of which is available on our website at www.intricon.com. The principal duties of the Audit
Committee are to monitor the integrity of the financial statements of the Corporation, the compliance by
the Corporation with legal and regulatory requirements and the independence and performance of the
Corporation’s independent auditors. The Audit Committee also approves all related party transactions
and establishes procedures for (i) the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by the
Corporation regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters, and (ii) the
confidential, anonymous submissions by the Corporation’s employees of concerns regarding questionable
accounting or auditing matters. In addition, the Committee selects the firm to be engaged as the
Corporation's independent public accountants, and approves the engagement of the independent public
accountants for all non-audit activities permitted under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The report of
the Audit Committee appears on page 45.
Compensation Committee. The Board of Directors of the Corporation has appointed a standing
Compensation Committee currently consisting of Messrs. Masucci (Chairman), Giordano, McKenna and
Seamon. The Board of Directors has determined that each member of the Compensation Committee is
independent, as defined in applicable Nasdaq corporate governance rules. The Compensation Committee
reviews and makes recommendations to the Board of Directors concerning officer compensation and
officer and employee bonus programs and administers the Corporation’s equity plans. The Compensation
Committee met three times in 2014.
The Compensation Committee is governed by a written charter approved by the Board of
Directors, a copy of which is available on our website at www.intricon.com. The principal duties of the
Compensation Committee are to formulate, evaluate and approve the compensation of the Corporation’s
executive officers, oversee all compensation programs involving the issuance of the Corporation’s stock
and other equity securities of the Corporation, and, if required, review and discuss with the Corporation’s
management the Compensation Discussion and Analysis and preparing the Committee’s report thereon
for inclusion in the Corporation’s annual proxy statement in accordance with applicable rules and
regulations.
A discussion of the Compensation Committee’s processes and procedures for the consideration
and determination of executive compensation is included in “Executive Compensation — Processes and
Procedures for the Determination of Executive Officer and Director Compensation.”
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The Board of Directors of the Corporation
has appointed a standing Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee currently consisting of
Messrs. Seamon (Chairman), Giordano, Masucci and McKenna. The Board of Directors has determined
that each member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is independent, as defined in
applicable Nasdaq corporate governance rules. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
met two times in 2014.
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is governed by a written charter approved
by the Board of Directors, a copy of which is available on our website at www.intricon.com. The
principal duties of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are to identify individuals
12
qualified to become members of the Board consistent with the criteria approved by the Committee,
consider nominees made by shareholders in accordance with the Corporation’s bylaws, select, or
recommend to the Board, the director nominees for each annual shareholders meeting, recommend to the
Board the directors to be appointed to each Committee of the Board, recommend to the Board whether to
increase or decrease the size of the Board, develop and recommend to the Board corporate governance
principles and oversee the evaluations of the Board and senior management.
Director Nomination Process
Consideration of Director Candidates Recommended by Shareholders. The Nominating and
Corporate Governance Committee will consider properly submitted shareholder recommendations for
director candidates. A shareholder who wishes to recommend a prospective director nominee should send
a signed and dated letter to the Chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, c/o
Corporate Secretary, IntriCon Corporation, 1260 Red Fox Road, Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112 with the
following information:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
the name and address of the shareholder making the recommendation and of each
recommended nominee;
a representation that the shareholder is a holder of record, and/or a beneficial owner, of
voting stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at the meeting and intends to appear in
person or by proxy at the meeting to vote for the person(s) recommended if nominated;
a description of all arrangements and understandings between the shareholder and each
recommended nominee and any other person(s), naming such person(s), pursuant to
which the recommendation was submitted by the shareholder;
such other information regarding each recommended nominee as would be required to be
included in a proxy statement filed pursuant to the proxy rules of the SEC had the
nominee been nominated by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee,
including the principal occupation of each recommended nominee; and
the consent of each recommended nominee to serve as a director if so nominated and
elected.
The deadline for submitting the letter recommending a prospective director nominee for the 2016
annual meeting of shareholders is November 9, 2015. All late or non-conforming recommendations will
be rejected.
In addition, under the Corporation's bylaws, shareholders are permitted to nominate directors to
be elected at a meeting of shareholders by providing notice and the other required information specified in
the bylaws. Although shareholders may nominate directors, such nominees will not appear in the
Corporation's proxy statement or in the proxy solicited by the Board of Directors. The Corporation’s
amended and restated bylaws are available, at no cost, at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov, as Exhibit 3.1
to the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 12, 2007 or upon the shareholder’s
written request directed to the Corporate Secretary at the address given above.
Director Qualifications. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has the sole
authority to select, or to recommend to the Board of Directors, the Board of Director nominees to be
considered for election as a director. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee does not
have any specific minimum qualifications that must be met by a nominee other than nominees for director
13
must be at least 21 years old. Nominees for director will be selected on the basis of outstanding
achievement in their careers; broad experience; education; independence under applicable Nasdaq and
SEC rules; financial expertise; integrity; financial integrity; ability to make independent, analytical
inquiries; understanding of the business environment; and willingness to devote adequate time to Board
and committee duties. The proposed nominee should have sufficient time to devote their energy and
attention to the diligent performance of the director’s duties, including attendance at Board and committee
meetings and review of the Corporation’s financial statements and reports, SEC filings and other
materials. Finally, the proposed nominee should be free of conflicts of interest that could prevent such
nominee from acting in the best interest of shareholders.
Additional special criteria apply to directors being considered to serve on a particular committee
of the Board. For example, members of the Audit Committee must meet additional standards of
independence and have the ability to read and understand the Corporation’s financial statements.
Identifying and Evaluating Nominees for Director. The Nominating and Corporate Governance
Committee assesses the appropriate size of the Board in accordance with the limits fixed by the
Corporation’s charter and bylaws, whether any vacancies on the Board are expected and what incumbent
directors will stand for re-election at the next meeting of shareholders. If vacancies are anticipated, or
otherwise arise, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers candidates for director
suggested by members of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and other Board
members as well as management, shareholders and other parties. The Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee also has the sole authority to retain a search firm to identify and evaluate director
candidates. Except for incumbent directors standing for re-election as described below, there are no
differences in the manner in which the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee evaluates
nominees for director, based on whether the nominee is recommended by a shareholder or any other
party.
In the case of an incumbent director whose term of office expires, the Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee reviews such director’s service to the Corporation during the past term, including,
but not limited to, the number of Board and committee meetings attended, as applicable, quality of
participation and whether the candidate continues to meet the general qualifications for a director outlined
above, including the director’s independence, as well as any special qualifications required for
membership on any committees on which such director serves. When a member of the Nominating and
Corporate Governance Committee is an incumbent director eligible to stand for re-election, such director
will not participate in that portion of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee meeting at
which such director’s potential nomination for election as a director is discussed by the Nominating and
Corporate Governance Committee.
In the case of a new director candidate, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
will evaluate whether the nominee is independent, as independence is defined under applicable Nasdaq
corporate governance rules, and whether the nominee meets the qualifications for director outlined above
as well as any special qualifications applicable to membership on any committee on which the nominee
may be appointed to serve if elected. In connection with such evaluation, the Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee determines whether the committee should interview the nominee, and if
warranted, one or more members of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee interviews the
nominee in person or by telephone.
Upon completing the evaluation, and the interview in case of a new candidate, the Nominating
and Corporate Governance Committee makes a decision as to whether to nominate the director candidate
for election at the shareholders meeting.
14
SHARE OWNERSHIP OF
CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS, DIRECTORS AND CERTAIN OFFICERS
The following table sets forth certain information as of February 19, 2015, concerning beneficial
ownership of the shares of common stock by (i) persons or groups of persons shown by SEC records to own
beneficially more than 5% of the shares of common stock, (ii) directors and nominees, (iii) the executive
officers named in the Summary Compensation Table and (iv) all directors and executive officers as a group:
Name
The Trust Company of New Jersey (3) ....................................................
35 Journal Square
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Amivest Capital Management.(4) ............................................................
275 Broadhollow Road
Melville, NY 11747
Estate of Siggi B. Wilzig (5). ..................................................................
c/o Herrick, Feinstein LLP
2 Penn Plaza
Newark, NJ 07105
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP(6) ..........................................................
Palisades West, Building One
6300 Bee Cave Road
Austin, Texas, 78746
Mark S. Gorder .....................................................................................
Director, President and Chief Executive Officer(7)
Michael J. McKenna .............................................................................
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Nicholas A. Giordano............................................................................
Director
Robert N. Masucci ................................................................................
Director
Philip N. Seamon ..................................................................................
Director
Michael P. Geraci .................................................................................
Vice President, Sales and Marketing
Dennis L. Gonsior .................................................................................
Vice President, Global Operations
Greg Gruenhagen ..................................................................................
Vice President, Quality and Regulatory Affairs
Scott Longval .......................................................................................
Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, and Treasurer
Number of
Shares Beneficially Owned(1) (2)
463,700
448,700
336,575
Percent
of Class
7.9%
7.7%
5.8%
302,158
5.2%
600,284
196,626
131,390
182,202
75,001
111,163
123,309
73,153
116,454
10.0%
3.3%
2.2%
3.1%
1.3%
1.9%
2.1%
1.2%
2.0%
All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group (9 persons) ..................
1,609,582
24.0%
____________________________
(1)
Unless otherwise indicated, each person has sole voting and investment power with respect to all such
shares. The securities “beneficially owned” by a person are determined in accordance with the
15
definition of “beneficial ownership” set forth in the regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission. The information does not necessarily indicate beneficial ownership for any other
purpose. The same shares of common stock may be beneficially owned by more than one person.
Beneficial ownership, as set forth in the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission,
includes securities as to which the person has or shares voting or investment power. shares of common
stock issuable upon the exercise or conversion of securities currently exercisable or convertible or
exercisable or convertible within 60 days of February 20, 2014 are deemed outstanding for computing
the share ownership and percentage ownership of the person holding such securities, but are not
deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of any other person. Beneficial ownership may be
disclaimed as to certain of the securities.
(2)
In the case of the Corporation’s directors and executive officers, includes the following shares which
such person has the right to acquire within 60 days of February 19, 2015 through the exercise of stock
options:
Name
Mark S. Gorder
Michael J. McKenna
Nicholas A. Giordano
Robert N. Masucci
Philip N. Seamon
Michael P. Geraci
Dennis L. Gonsior
Greg Gruenhagen
Scott Longval
All Directors and Executive
Officers as a Group
Number of Shares
Subject to Options
180,834
80,000
70,001
70,001
65,001
107,500
107,500
70,000
97,500
848,337
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
Based upon a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 9, 2004.
Based upon a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on January 22, 2007. According to the Schedule
13G, Amivest Capital Management is an investment adviser and has sole power to vote the shares
reported.
Based upon a Schedule 13D filed with the SEC on October 2, 2003.
Based upon a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 5, 2015. According to the Schedule 13G/A,
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP (“Dimensional”), is an investment advisor that furnishes investment advice
to four investment companies, and serves as investment manager or sub-adviser to certain other
commingled funds, group trusts and separate accounts. These investment companies, trusts and accounts
are the “Dimensional Funds.” In certain cases, subsidiaries of Dimensional may act as an adviser or sub-
adviser to certain Dimensional Funds. In its role as investment advisor, sub-advisor and/or manager,
Dimensional or its subsidiaries may possess voting and/or investment power over the shares of common
stock that are owned by the Dimensional Funds, and may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of the
shares of common stock held by the Dimensional Funds; however, all shares of common stock are owned
by the Dimensional Funds. The Schedule 13G/A states that to Dimensional’s knowledge, no one
Dimensional Fund beneficially owns five percent or more of the shares of common stock. Dimensional
disclaims beneficial ownership of all of the shares of common stock.
(7)
Includes 180,834 shares which Mr. Gorder has the right to acquire within 60 days of February 19, 2015
through the exercise of stock options. Also includes 5,000 shares of common stock owned by his spouse
and 14,000 shares of common stock owned by his daughters. Mr. Gorder has pledged 146,000 shares of
common stock and his spouse has pledged 5,000 shares of common stock as security for a loan. Mr.
Gorder’s business address is 1260 Red Fox Road, Arden Hills, MN 55112.
16
Background
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors administers our compensation program
for executive officers. The objectives of our compensation program are to attract and retain talented and
dedicated executive officers and to align a significant portion of their compensation with our business
objectives and performance and the interests of our shareholders.
Elements of Executive Compensation
Our compensation program for executive officers consists of the following elements:
Base Salary. Base salary is designed to reward the performance of our executive officers in their
daily fulfillment of their responsibilities to us. The Compensation Committee determines the base salary
of each of our executive officers by evaluating their scope of responsibilities and experience, years of
service with us, our performance and the performance of each of the executive officers during the past
year, the executive’s future potential and competitive salary practices. We believe that our base salaries
are competitive with other companies of our size.
Annual Cash Incentive Compensation.
The Compensation Committee’s philosophy is that a significant portion of the total potential
compensation of our executive officers should depend upon the degree of our financial and strategic
success in a particular year.
In March 2012, the Compensation Committee adopted the Annual Incentive Plan for Executives
and Key Employees. For more information, see “Annual Incentive Plan.”
Long-Term Incentive Compensation in the Form of Stock Awards. In 2006, our Board of
Directors and shareholders approved the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan. The 2006 Equity Incentive Plan is
designed to:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
promote the long-term retention of our employees, directors and other persons who are in
a position to make significant contributions to our success;
further reward these employees, directors and other persons for their contributions to our
growth and expansion;
provide additional incentive to these employees, directors and other persons to continue
to make similar contributions in the future; and
further align the interests of these employees, directors and other persons with those of
our shareholders.
To achieve these purposes, the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan permits the Compensation Committee
to make awards of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock or unrestricted stock, deferred
stock, restricted stock units or performance awards for our shares of common stock. For more
information concerning the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, see “Equity Plans - 2006 Equity Incentive Plan”
below.
17
Stock options are granted at the fair market value of our shares of common stock on the date of
grant. Stock options are granted based on various factors, including the executive’s ability to contribute
to our long-term growth and profitability.
If the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan is approved, then no new options will be granted under the 2006
Equity Incentive Plan and the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan will replace the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan. All of our fulltime employees, including our executive officers
(other than Mr. Gorder), are entitled to participate in our Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Under this Plan,
employees may purchase our shares of common stock at a discount of up to 10% through payroll
deductions.
Non-Employee Director and Executive Officer Stock Purchase Program. Under the Non-
Employee Director and Executive Officer Stock Purchase Program, directors and executive officers may
purchase shares of common stock directly from the Corporation at the last reported sale price on the date
that the election to purchase is made. During 2014, a total of 1,000 shares of common stock were
purchased under this program.
Other Benefits. All of our fulltime employees, including our executive officers, are entitled to
participate in our health insurance, life insurance and 401(k) plans. We also maintain a disability
insurance policy on behalf of certain of the members of our senior management, including our executive
officers, that is in addition to the disability benefits that we maintain for our salaried employees.
Additional Benefits Payable to the Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Gorder, our Chief Executive
Officer, receives additional benefits under our employment agreement with him. Under the employment
agreement, we are required to reimburse Mr. Gorder for his country club membership fees. We are also
required to provide Mr. Gorder with an automobile for use in connection with the performance of his
duties under the employment agreement and reimburse him for all expenses reasonably incurred by him
for the maintenance and operation, including fuel, of the automobile.
Processes and Procedures for the Determination of Executive Officer and Director Compensation
Scope of Authority of the Compensation Committee. The scope of the Compensation
Committee’s authority and responsibilities is set forth in its charter, a copy of which is available on our
website at www.intricon.com. The Compensation Committee's authority includes the authority to:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
determine the following with respect to our executive officers: (i) the annual base salary
level, (ii) the annual incentive opportunity level, (iii) the long-term incentive opportunity
level, (iv) employment agreements, severance agreements, change in control
agreements/provisions and other compensatory arrangements, in each case as, when and
if appropriate, and (v) any special or supplemental benefits, in each case subject to the
terms of any existing applicable employment agreement terms; and
determine the compensation payable to directors and members of committees of the
board, including the Chairman of the Board and the Chairman of each committee, other
than directors who are our salaried employees.
Delegation of Authority. As provided under the Compensation Committee’s charter, the
Compensation Committee may delegate its authority to special subcommittees of the Compensation
Committee as the Compensation Committee deems appropriate, consistent with applicable law and
Nasdaq listing standards. Additionally, the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan permits the Compensation
18
Committee, subject to criteria, limitations and instructions as the Compensation Committee determines, to
delegate to an appropriate officer of the Corporation the authority to determine the individual participants
under that Plan and amount and nature of the award to be issued to such participants; provided, that no
awards may be made pursuant to such delegation to a participant who is subject to Section 16(b) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. To date, the Compensation Committee has not delegated
its responsibilities other than delegating from time to time to the Chief Executive Officer and Chief
Financial Officer the authority to grant a limited number of stock options under the 2006 Equity Incentive
Plan to non-executive employees.
Role of Management in Determining or Recommending Executive Compensation.
Traditionally, the Compensation Committee reviews our executive compensation program in December
and/or February of each year, although decisions in connection with new hires and promotions are made
on an as-needed basis. Mr. Gorder, our President and Chief Executive Officer, makes recommendations
concerning the amount of compensation to be awarded to our executive officers, including himself, but
does not participate in the Compensation Committee’s deliberations or decisions. The Compensation
Committee reviews the recommendations together with a "tally sheet" showing all items of executive
compensation. After a presentation by Mr. Gorder, the Committee meets in executive session to discuss
and consider the recommendations and makes a final determination.
Role of Compensation Consultants in Determining or Recommending Executive
Compensation. Under its charter, the Compensation Committee has authority to retain, at the
Corporation’s expense, such counsel, consultants, experts and other professionals as it deems necessary.
Neither the Compensation Committee nor the Corporation engaged a compensation consultant in 2013.
In 2014, the Corporation engaged Verisight Compensation Consulting Group to conduct an assessment of
whether the compensation of our executive officers was competitive based on published survey date and a
peer group analysis. Generally, the Verisight analysis showed that the compensation of our executive
officers was less than competitive when compared to published survey data and peer groups. The
Compensation Committee did not rely on the Verisight analysis in making its compensation decisions for
2015 because it believed that the companies in the peer group had achieved market acceptance of their
value proposition and, therefore, were able to support a higher compensation structure.
Say-on-Pay Vote
At the 2014 annual meeting, we held a shareholder advisory vote on the compensation of our
named executive officers, commonly referred to as a say-on-pay vote. Our shareholders approved the
compensation of our named executive officers at the 2014 annual meeting, with an overwhelming
majority of the votes entitled to be cast voting in favor of our say-on-pay resolution. As we evaluated our
compensation practices for 2015, we were aware of the strong support our shareholders expressed for our
compensation philosophy. As a result, following our annual review of our executive compensation
philosophy, the Compensation Committee decided to retain our general approach to executive
compensation. We believe our executive compensation program for 2015 advances our goals of
attracting and retaining talented and dedicated executive officers and aligning a significant portion of their
compensation with our business objectives and performance and the interests of our shareholders.
Determination of Executive Compensation
Base Salary. Typically, the Compensation Committee reviews and adjusts base salaries on an
annual basis.
In December 2014, the Compensation Committee increased the 2015 base salary of each of our
executive officers from 3% to 8%, which the Committee believed consistent with inflation and overall
market trends. The base salaries of Mr. Geraci, Mr. Gonsior, and Mr. Gorder were increased 3%, with
19
slightly larger increases awarded to Mr. Longval (8%) and Mr. Gruenhagen (6%) to more closely position
them to their respective peer group salary mid-points.
The following table shows the base salaries of our current executive officers as in effect at
January 1, 2015:
Name and Principal Position
Mark S. Gorder ........................................
President and Chief Executive Officer
Scott Longval ..........................................
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
Michael P. Geraci ....................................
Vice President, Sales and Marketing
Dennis L. Gonsior....................................
Vice President, Global Operations
Greg Gruenhagen.....................................
Vice President, Quality and Regulatory
Affairs
2015 Annual
Base Salary
$405,820
$232,740
$238,033
$222,789
$200,658
Annual Cash Incentive Compensation. In March 2012, the Compensation Committee adopted
the Annual Incentive Plan for Executives and Key Employees, referred to as the Annual Incentive Plan.
The targets for the Annual Incentive Plan are adopted each by the Compensation Committee.
No cash bonuses were paid under the Annual Incentive Plan for 2012 and 2013 because the plan
targets for such years were not reached.
In March 2014, the Compensation Committee established the targets and bonus amounts for 2014
under the Annual Incentive Plan. In February 2015, the Compensation Committee determined that the
target for 2014 had been achieved at the 84% level and approved a total payout under the 2014 Annual
Incentive Plan of $357,687, of which a total of $113,127 was paid to the Named Executive Officers. For
more information, see “Summary Compensation Table.”
In February 2015, the Compensation Committee established the targets and bonus amounts for
2015 under the Annual Incentive Plan. For more information, see “Annual Incentive Plan.”
Long-Term Incentive Compensation in the Form of Stock Option Awards. The Compensation
Committee generally makes awards on an annual basis but also makes awards in connection with new
hires and promotions.
In January 2014, the Compensation Committee awarded stock options to the Corporation's
executive officers under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan to purchase shares of common stock at an
exercise price of $3.85 per share. Mr. Gorder was awarded options to purchase 12,500 shares of common
stock and each of the other Named Executive Officers was awarded options to purchase 7,500 shares of
common stock. For information concerning stock options held by our executive officers as of December
31, 2014, see “—Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End.”
20
In January 2015, the Compensation Committee awarded stock options to the Corporation's
executive officers under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan to purchase shares of common stock at an
exercise price of $6.87 per share. Mr. Gorder was awarded options to purchase 20,000 shares of common
stock and each of the other Named Executive Officers was awarded options to purchase 12,000 shares of
common stock.
Employment Agreements and Change in Control Arrangements
We have entered into employment agreements with Mark S. Gorder, our President and Chief
Executive Officer, and the other Named Executive Officers.
The employment agreement with Mr. Gorder was based on his prior employment agreement and
incorporated the provisions of the change in control agreement that was then in effect. The employment
agreements with the other executive officers also contain a similar change in control provision. Among
other things, each employment agreement provides for a fixed employment term, subject to annual
renewals, the executive’s base salary and the executive’s right to participate in our bonus plans, equity
plans and other employee benefits. In addition, in the event that (i) there occurs a “change in control” (as
defined in the agreements) or sale of our assets accounting for 90% of more of our sales and (ii) the
executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated within one year afterwards, the executive will be
entitled to payment of his base salary for one year (two years for Mr. Gorder) in a lump sum and
continuation of his medical benefits for a period of one year.
The change in control provisions that we use contain a “double trigger” requirement, meaning
that for an executive to receive a payment under the change of control provision, there must be both a
change of control, as defined in the applicable agreement, and an involuntary termination of the
executive’s employment. The double trigger requirement was chosen to prevent us from having to pay
substantial payments in connection with a change in control where an executive had not suffered any
adverse employment consequences. However, all stock options will vest and become immediately
exercisable upon a change of control, regardless of whether the executive is involuntarily terminated.
We believe that employment agreements and change in control protections are important to
attract and retain talented executive officers and to protect our executive officers from a termination or
significant change in responsibilities arising after a change in control. For more information, see “—
Employment Agreements” and “—Potential Payments Upon Termination of Employment or Change in
Control.”
Accounting and Tax Considerations
Under our prior stock options plans, the Compensation Committee was limited to issuing stock
options. The Compensation Committee considers making awards using the other types of awards
permitted under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan in light of FASB ASC Topic 718 - Stock Compensation.
This accounting standard requires us to record as compensation expense the grant date fair value of a
stock option over the life of the option. The Compensation Committee considers the compensation
expense of option and other equity grants when making future awards; however, given that, traditionally,
the Compensation Committee has not made large grants of option awards to our executive officers and
employees, we do not expect that the compensation expense associated with option grants will have a
material adverse effect on our reported earnings.
Generally, Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, referred to as the “Internal
Revenue Code,” and the Internal Revenue Service, referred to as the “IRS,” regulations adopted under
that section, which are referred to collectively as “Section 162(m),” deny a deduction to any publicly held
corporation, such as the Corporation, for certain compensation exceeding $1,000,000 paid during each
21
calendar year to each of the chief executive officer and the three other highest paid executive officers
whose compensation must be reported to shareholders in the proxy statement. Section 162(m) does not
apply to qualified performance-based compensation. Our policy is to maximize the tax deductibility of
compensation paid to our most highly compensated executives under Section 162(m). For example,
awards under our 2006 Equity Incentive Plan are intended to satisfy certain of the requirements for an
exemption for “qualified performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m). We do not believe
that Section 162(m) will have a material adverse effect on us in 2015.
Summary Compensation Table
The following table summarizes compensation earned during 2014, 2013 and 2012 by our chief
executive officer, chief financial officer and each of our executive officers in our continuing operations.
We refer to these individuals throughout this proxy statement as the “Named Executive Officers.”
Name and Principal Position
Mark S. Gorder, ..............................
President and Chief Executive
Officer (principal executive officer)
Scott Longval, .................................
Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer (principal financial officer)
Michael P. Geraci, ...........................
Vice President, Sales and Marketing
Dennis L. Gonsior, ..........................
Vice President, Global Operations
Year
2014
2013
2012
2014
2013
2012
2014
2013
2012
2014
2013
2012
Salary
($)
394,000
386,250
375,000
215,500
203,300
190,000
231,100
226,600
220,000
216,300
206,000
200,000
Greg Gruenhagen, ...........................
Vice President, Quality and
Regulatory Affairs
2014
2013
2012
189,300
182,000
175,000
____________________________
Stock
Awards
(1)
($)
7,000
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
Option
Awards
(2)
($)
48,125
101,250
92,703
Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
(3)
($)
31,000
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
All Other
Compensation
(4)
($)
26,758
23,592
23,919
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
28,875
60,750
55,622
28,875
60,750
55,622
28,875
60,750
55,622
28,875
60,750
55,622
20,768
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
22,271
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
20,845
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
18,243
(cid:3)
(cid:3)
1,234
1,211
1,179
4,176
4,405
3,402
3,612
3,615
2,713
5,602
5,483
4,544
Total
($)
506,883
511,092
491,622
266,377
265,261
246,801
286,422
290,965
279,024
269,632
270,365
258,335
242,020
248,233
235,166
(1)
(2)
Under the Non-Employee Director and Executive Officer Stock Purchase Program, executive officers may
purchase shares of common stock directly from the Corporation at the last reported sale price on the date
that the election to purchase is made. During 2014, the Named Executive Officers purchased a total of
1,000 shares of common stock from the Corporation under this program.
The amounts included in the “Option Awards” column represent the aggregate grant date fair value of
option awards granted during the year indicated, computed in accordance with FASB Codification
Topic 718. For a discussion of valuation assumptions, see Note 12 to our consolidated financial
statements included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.
The amounts shown include the impact of option forfeitures during 2014. A total of 43,100 options
were forfeited under all plans during 2014.
(3)
Represents amounts payable under the Annual Incentive Plan for services rendered in 2014. No
amounts were payable under the Annual Incentive Plan for 2013 or 2012 because the plan targets were
not reached.
22
(4)
Consists of payment of premiums for group term life insurance maintained for such executives and
disability policies maintained for certain executives. In the case of Mr. Gorder, such amount also
includes payment of country club membership dues and payment for his automobile lease and related
expenses.
Employment Agreements
We have entered into employment agreements with Mark S. Gorder, our President and Chief
Executive Officer, and our executive officers.
The employment agreements contain the following material terms:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
a current employment term expiring on April 30, 2015, subject to automatic renewal for
additional one year terms unless either party gives notice of non-renewal at least sixty
(60) days prior to the end of the then current employment term; and
a base salary as determined by the Board of Directors or the Compensation Committee,
but in no event less than their base salaries for 2007 in effect at the time of the agreement.
For a discussion of the provisions relating to the termination of the employment of the executive
officer under certain circumstances, see “—Potential Payments Upon Termination of Employment or
Change in Control.”
Annual Incentive Plan
In March 2012, the Compensation Committee adopted the Annual Incentive Plan for Executives
and Key Employees, referred to as the Annual Incentive Plan. Under the Annual Incentive Plan, our
executive officers and key employees are eligible to receive incentive compensation based on (i) the
Corporation achieving a designated level of financial results, referred to as the “plan target,” for a
designated calendar year, referred to as a “plan year,” and (ii) if applicable, achievement of designated
strategic objectives. The plan targets and strategic objectives, if any, will be determined each year by the
Compensation Committee. A participant will receive incentive compensation only if the minimum plan
target is achieved. No cash bonuses were paid under the Annual Incentive Plan for 2012 and 2013
because the plan targets for such years were not reached. In February 2015, the Compensation
Committee determined that the target under the Annual Incentive Plan for 2014 had been achieved at the
84% level and approved a total payout under the 2014 Annual Incentive Plan of $357,687, of which a
total of $113,127 was paid to the Named Executive Officers.
In February 2015, the Compensation Committee established the targets and bonus amounts for
2015 under the Annual Incentive Plan. For 2015, based on the Corporation achieving a targeted range of
net income, Mr. Gorder will be eligible to receive incentive compensation ranging from 2% to 40% of his
plan year base salary and each of the other Named Executive Officers will be eligible to receive incentive
compensation ranging from 3% to 35% of their plan year base salary. Other employees are eligible to
receive from 2% to 17% of their plan year base salaries depending upon their tier level. Between these
points, the amount of the incentive compensation available will increase or decrease proportionately
based upon the Corporation achieving more or less than the midpoint of the target range; however, no
incentive compensation will be paid if the Corporation achieves less than the low end of the target range
and the maximum incentive compensation payable is capped at the Corporation achieving the high end of
the target range.
The plan target is based on 2015 net income; provided, that the plan target must be achieved after
accruing any incentive compensation payable under the Annual Incentive Plan. In addition, the Named
Executive Officers will not be entitled to incentive compensation at the minimum plan target level unless
23
certain strategic objectives for 2015 are achieved. The Committee did not otherwise impose any strategic
objectives because the Committee believed that reaching the plan targets would necessitate meeting any
strategic objectives they would otherwise have imposed. The Committee has the discretion to determine
whether (and at what level) the plan target and strategic objectives have been satisfied and to adjust the
plan target and strategic objectives as circumstances warrant. The Committee has the authority to weight
the importance of the strategic objectives and to determine the amount of the awards if less than all of the
strategic objectives are achieved.
The following table shows the potential amounts payable to our Named Executive Officers under
the Annual Incentive Plan at different levels of the 2015 plan target.
Potential incentive compensation payable under the
Annual Incentive Plan at the following levels
of the 2015 Plan Target:
Name
Mark S. Gorder ..........
Scott Longval.............
Michael P. Geraci.......
Dennis L. Gonsior ......
Greg Gruenhagen .......
Equity Plans
Minimum
Target
Potential Incentive Compensation
Maximum
$ 8,125
7,157
7,320
6,851
6,171
$ 51,250
32,859
33.607
31,454
28,330
$ 160,875
81,205
83,051
77,733
70,011
The following descriptions summarize our equity plans pursuant to which eligible employees,
including the Named Executive Officers, and directors receive equity based awards. Our 2006 Equity
Incentive Plan replaced our 2001 Stock Option Plan (described below) and the Amended and Restated
Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan, referred to collectively as the “Old Plans.” No additional
grants may be made under the Old Plans. Outstanding grants under the Old Plans continue to be
governed by their terms and the terms of the Old Plans.
In February 2014, the Board approved amendments to the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan and the Old
Plans to permit “cashless” exercises for all stock options issued under such plans, regardless of whether
the form of option agreement or award contains such a provision.
In February 2015, the Board approved amendments to the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan and the Old
Plans to provide that outstanding options under such plans will vest and become fully exercisable, and
will be exercisable for the balance of the original term of the option, in the event of the termination of the
participant from the Corporation due to death, disability or retirement, regardless of any contrary
provision in the form of option agreement.
2006 Equity Incentive Plan
Shareholders approved the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan in April 2006 and, in April 2010 and May
2012, approved amendments to the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan to, among other things, increase the shares
of common stock authorized for issuance under that plan by 250,000 shares in 2010 and by 300,000
shares in 2012.
The 2006 Equity Incentive Plan permits grants of incentive stock options, options not intended to
qualify as incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted and unrestricted stock awards,
24
restricted stock units, deferred stock units, performance awards, supplemental cash awards and
combinations of the foregoing.
The 2006 Equity Incentive Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of
Directors. The Compensation Committee determines the type of awards to be granted under the 2006
Equity Incentive Plan; selects award recipients and determines the extent of their participation;
determines the method or formula for establishing the fair market value of the shares of common stock for
various purposes under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan; and establishes all other terms, conditions,
restrictions and limitations applicable to awards and the shares of common stock issued pursuant to
awards, including, but not limited to, those relating to a participant’s retirement, death, disability, leave of
absence or termination of employment. The Compensation Committee may accelerate or defer the vesting
or payment of awards, cancel or modify outstanding awards, waive any conditions or restrictions imposed
with respect to awards or the shares of common stock issued pursuant to awards and make any and all
other interpretations and determinations which it deems necessary with respect to the administration of
the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, other than a reduction of the exercise price of an option after the grant
date and subject to the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code with respect to
“covered employees,” as defined in Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, except that the
Committee may not, without the consent of the holder of an award or unless specifically authorized by the
terms of the plan or an award, take any action with respect to such award if such action would adversely
affect the rights of such holder.
The maximum total number of shares for which awards may be granted under the 2006 Equity
Incentive Plan, as amended, is 1,248,500 shares of common stock, subject to appropriate adjustment in a
manner determined by the Board of Directors to reflect changes in the Corporation’s capitalization;
however, such authorized share reserve will be increased from time to time by a number of shares equal
to the number of shares of common stock that are issuable pursuant to grants outstanding under the Old
Plans as of April 26, 2006 that, but for the termination and/or suspension of the Old Plans, would
otherwise have reverted to the share reserve of the Old Plans pursuant to the terms thereof as a result of
the expiration, termination, cancellation or forfeiture of such options.
As of February 19, 2015:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
options to purchase 1,287,014 shares of common stock were outstanding under the 2006
Equity Incentive Plan;
the total number of shares available for new awards under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan
was 50,214 shares of common stock; and
options to purchase 146,800 shares of common stock were outstanding under the Old
Plans, which shares will become available for new awards under the 2006 Equity
Incentive Plan in the event of the cancellation, expiration, forfeiture or repurchase of such
awards.
The maximum number of shares of common stock for which stock options may be granted to any
person in any fiscal year and the maximum number shares of common stock subject to SARs granted to
any person in any fiscal year each is 50,000. The maximum number of shares of common stock subject to
other Awards granted to any person in any fiscal year is 50,000 shares.
If the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan is approved by shareholders, then no new awards will be
granted under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan.
25
2001 Stock Option Plan
The 2001 Stock Option Plan provided for the grant of incentive stock options (as defined in
Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code) and non-qualified stock options for officers and other key
employees of the Corporation.
The Compensation Committee administers the 2001 Stock Option Plan. Non-qualified stock
options granted under the 2001 Stock Option Plan were required to have a per share exercise price of at
least the fair market value of the shares of common stock on the date of grant. Incentive stock options
granted under the 2001 Stock Option Plan were required to have a per share exercise price of at least
100% of the fair market value of the shares of common stock on the date of grant, and not less than 110%
of the fair market value in the case of incentive stock options granted to an employee who holds more
than 10% of the total voting power of all classes of the Corporation’s stock or any parent or subsidiary’s
stock. Payment of the exercise price or purchase price with respect to any award may be made in cash or
other consideration as determined by the Compensation Committee. The term of an option cannot be
longer than 10 years from the date of grant or five years from the date of grant of an incentive stock
option in the case of a greater than 10% shareholder.
26
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End
The following table summarizes stock option awards held by our Named Executive Officers as of
December 31, 2014. We do not have any outstanding stock awards.
Name
Mark S. Gorder, ............................................
President and Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer)
Scott Longval, ..............................................
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
(principal financial officer)
Michael P. Geraci, ........................................
Vice President, Sales and Marketing
Dennis L. Gonsior, ........................................
Vice President, Global Operations
Greg Gruenhagen, .........................................
Vice President, Quality and Regulatory
Affairs
Number of Securities
Underlying Unexercised
Options
(#)
Exercisable
50,000
15,000
25,000
20,000
25,000
16,667
8,333
-
25,000
5,000
15,000
10,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
-
25,000
10,000
20,000
10,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
-
25,000
10,000
20,000
10,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
-
5,000
2,500
10,000
10,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
-
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
(#)
Unexercisable
Option
Exercise
Price
($)
2.45
5.35
14.70
4.69
4.53
6.26
4.05
3.85
5.30
5.35
14.70
4.69
4.53
6.26
4.05
3.85
2.45
5.35
14.70
4.69
4.53
6.26
4.05
3.85
2.45
5.35
14.70
4.69
4.53
6.26
4.05
3.85
2.45
5.35
14.70
4.69
4.53
6.26
4.05
3.85
8,333(1)
16,667(2)
12,500(3)
5,000(1)
10,000(2)
7,500(3)
5,000(1)
10,000(2)
7,500(3)
5,000(1)
10,000(2)
7,500(3)
5,000(1)
10,000(2)
7,500(3)
Option Expiration
Date
7/27/2015
12/11/2016
12/10/2017
12/09/2018
4/27/2021
1/2/2022
1/5/2023
1/2/2024
7/18/2016
12/11/2016
12/10/2017
12/09/2018
4/27/2021
1/2/2022
1/5/2023
1/2/2024
7/27/2015
12/11/2016
12/10/2017
12/09/2018
4/27/2021
1/2/2022
1/5/2023
1/2/2024
7/27/2015
12/11/2016
12/10/2017
12/09/2018
4/27/2021
1/2/2022
1/5/2023
1/2/2024
7/27/2015
12/11/2016
12/10/2017
12/09,2018
4/27/2021
1/2/2022
1/5/2023
1/2/2024
______________________________
(1) The unvested balance of this option vests on January 2, 2015.
(2) The unvested balance of this option vests in two equal installments on each of January 5, 2015 and 2016.
(3) The unvested balance of this option vests in three equal installments on each of January 2, 2015, 2016 and
2017.
27
Potential Payments Upon Termination of Employment or Change in Control
Our employment agreements with our Named Executive Officers provide the following material
terms in the event of the termination of the employment of the executive under certain circumstances:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
in the event of the termination of the executive’s employment without cause, we are
required to pay the executive’s base salary and medical benefits for a severance period
equal to one year (two years in the case of Mr. Gorder with respect to salary); provided
that for any executive that has less than 12 years of continuous service with us, the
severance period will be equal to 30 days for each year of continuous full-time
employment, but in no event less than 90 days or more than one year. We are required to
pay the present value of the base salary in a lump sum, using a discount rate of 6%;
in the event that (i) there occurs a change in control or sale of our assets accounting for
90% of more of our sales and (ii) the executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated
within one year afterwards, we are required to pay the executive’s base salary for one
year (two years for Mr. Gorder) in a lump sum and to continue medical benefits for a
period of one year;
in the sole and absolute discretion of the Board of Directors, in the event that the
executive is terminated without cause or there occurs a change of control followed by the
executive’s involuntary termination, we may elect to pay executive a prorated amount of
the bonus that executive would have been entitled to receive for the year in which he was
terminated;
the immediate vesting of all stock options and equity awards held by the executive in the
event of a change in control or in the event that the executive’s employment is terminated
(i) by us for any reason other than cause or (ii) by the executive under circumstances that
constitute an involuntary termination; and
a one year non-competition covenant (or, if longer, for so long as the period with respect
to which executive is entitled to receive, or has received, payment of severance following
a termination by us without cause or change of control) and covenants concerning
confidentiality and inventions.
In the event that we give a notice of non-renewal of the term of the agreement to the executive
and, within 12 months after the date of the non-renewal notice, the executive’s employment is terminated
by us for any reason other than cause or the death or disability of executive, then the executive will be
entitled to the severance benefits described above with respect to a termination without cause except that
the severance period shall be reduced by the number of days between the date of the non-renewal notice
and the termination of executive’s employment.
As defined in the employment agreements:
“Asset Sale” means the sale of our assets (including the stock or assets of our subsidiaries) to
which 90% or more of our consolidated sales volume is attributable.
“Cause” means the following, provided that, in the case of circumstances described in the fourth
through sixth clauses below, we must have first given written notice to executive, and executive must
have failed to remedy the circumstances as determined in the sole discretion of the Board of Directors
within 30 days after such notice:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
fraud or dishonesty in connection with executive’s employment or theft, misappropriation
or embezzlement of our funds;
conviction of any felony, crime involving fraud or knowing misrepresentation, or of any
other crime (whether or not such felony or crime is connected with his employment) the
28
effect of which in the judgment of the Board of Directors is likely to adversely affect us
or our affiliates;
(cid:2) material breach of executive’s obligations under the employment agreement;
(cid:2)
repeated and consistent failure of executive to be present at work during normal business
hours unless the absence is because of a disability as defined in the agreement;
(cid:2) willful violation of any express direction or requirement established by the Board of
Directors, as determined by a majority of Board of Directors;
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
insubordination, gross incompetence or misconduct in the performance of, or gross
neglect of, executive’s duties under the employment agreement, as determined by a
majority of the Board of Directors; or
use of alcohol or other drugs which interfere with the performance by executive of his
duties, or use of any illegal drugs or narcotics.
“Change of control” of means an “asset sale” or a “change in majority stock ownership.”
“Change in majority stock ownership” means the acquisition by any “person” (as such term is
used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, referred to as the “Exchange
Act”), including any affiliate or associate as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act of such
person, or any group of persons acting in concert, other than us, any trustee or other fiduciary holding
securities under an employee benefit plan of ours, or any corporation or other entity owned, directly or
indirectly, by our shareholders in substantially the same proportion as their ownership of capital stock of
us, of “beneficial ownership” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of
50% or more of the combined voting power of our then outstanding securities.
“Involuntarily terminated” means:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
any termination of the employment of executive by us other than for cause, death or
disability; or
any termination of employment of the executive by executive following:
o a material diminution in the executive’s base compensation;
o a material diminution in the executive’s authority, duties, or responsibilities;
o a material diminution in the authority, duties, or responsibilities of the supervisor to
whom the executive is required to report, including a requirement that a executive
report to a corporate officer or employee instead of reporting directly to the board of
directors;
o a material diminution in the budget over which the executive retains authority;
o a material change in the geographic location at which the executive must perform the
services; or
o any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach by us under the
agreement.
Provided, however, that with respect to any termination by executive pursuant to the foregoing, executive
shall have first provided notice to us of the existence of the condition proposed to be relied upon within
90 days of the initial existence of the condition, and shall have given us a period of 30 days during which
we may remedy the condition and we shall have failed to do so during such period.
The change in control provisions that we use contain a “double trigger” requirement, meaning
that for an executive to receive a payment under the change of control provision, there must be both a
29
change of control, as defined in the applicable agreement, and an involuntary termination of the
executive’s employment. The double trigger requirement was chosen to prevent us from having to pay
substantial payments in connection with a change in control where an executive had not suffered any
adverse employment consequences. However, all stock options will vest and become immediately
exercisable upon a change of control, regardless of whether the executive is involuntarily terminated.
Disability Benefits for Certain Named Executive Officers. We provide all of our full-time
salaried employees with short-term disability benefits for six months. We also maintain a disability
insurance policy on behalf of certain members of our senior management, including our Named Executive
Officers, which is in addition to the disability benefits that we maintain for our salaried employees. In the
event that any of these executives became disabled, as provided in their respective policies, was unable to
return to the performance of their duties after six months and was terminated as an employee effective as
of December 31, 2014, they would be paid monthly benefits until age 65 as follows: Mr. Gorder - $8,370
per month; Mr. Geraci - $6,450 per month; Mr. Gonsior - $5,860 per month; Mr. Gruenhagen - $6,935
per month; and Mr. Longval $3,250 per month.
Equity Plans. Our Named Executive Officers hold unvested stock options under our 2001 Stock
Option Plan and our 2006 Equity Incentive Plan. All options under the 2001 Stock Option Plan are
vested.
Under our 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, all unvested options will automatically accelerate and
become vested upon the death, disability, retirement of the holder or upon a change of control of us, as
defined in that Plan.
Under both the 2001 Stock Option Plan and 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, options held by an
employee whose employment is terminated for cause, as defined in those plans, will terminate
immediately. In addition, under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, the voluntary resignation of employment
by an employee, other than for retirement as defined, will not result in the acceleration of unvested
options.
Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions
Mr. Gorder, our president, chief executive officer and a director, is a general partner (with a one-
third interest) of Arden Partners I, L.L.P., a Minnesota limited liability partnership, referred to as Arden,
that owns and leases to us property under a lease entered into in 1991, which we use as a manufacturing
facility. In October 2013, the lease was renewed with a term expiring on October 31, 2016. Under the
lease, we pay Arden a base monthly rent of approximately $31,007 plus real estate taxes and other
charges. In 2014 and 2013, we paid Arden approximately $486,000 each year for rent, real estate taxes
and other charges. Mr. Gorder’s interest in such payments was approximately $163,000 in each of 2014
and 2013.
We use the law firm of Blank Rome LLP for legal services. A partner of that firm is the son-in-
law of the Chairman of our Board of Directors, Mr. McKenna; however, the legal services are provided
by other attorneys at that firm and not by the son-in-law. In 2014 and 2013, we paid that firm
approximately $156,000 and $228,000, respectively, for legal services and costs. The interest of the son-
in-law in such amounts is not determinable.
The foregoing transactions were approved by the disinterested members of the Audit Committee
pursuant to its written policy applicable to related party transactions.
30
PROPOSAL 2
ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
As described in detail under the heading “Executive Compensation” beginning on page 17 of this
Proxy Statement, our executive compensation program is designed to attract and retain talented and
dedicated executive officers and to align a significant portion of their compensation with our business
objectives and performance and the interests of our shareholders. We believe that our program creates an
environment of shared risk between our executive officers and our shareholders by including equity based
awards and cash compensation based on financial performance as part of our executive compensation
program. We believe that our executive compensation program should focus management’s attention on
achieving both annual performance targets and profitable growth over a longer time period. The program
is designed to reward management for the achievement of both short and long term strategic objectives as
established by the Board of Directors. Additional details about our executive compensation programs,
including information about executive compensation for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, are
described under the section entitled “Executive Compensation” which begins on page 17 of this Proxy
Statement.
Securities laws require that we provide our shareholders with the opportunity to vote to approve,
on a nonbinding, advisory basis, the compensation of our Named Executives Officers as disclosed in this
proxy statement at least once every three years, commonly known as a “say-on-pay” proposal. In
accordance with the shareholders’ advisory vote on the frequency of the say-on-pay vote that was held at
the 2013 annual meeting of shareholders, the Board of Directors has determined to hold the say-on-pay
vote on executive compensation every year until we hold another advisory vote on the frequency of the
say-on-pay vote.
We are asking our shareholders to indicate their support for our Named Executive Officer
compensation as described in this Proxy Statement. This proposal gives our shareholders the opportunity
to express their views on the compensation of our Named Executive Officers. This vote is not intended to
address any specific item of compensation, but rather the overall compensation of our Named Executive
Officers and the philosophy, policies and practices described in this Proxy Statement. Accordingly, the
following resolution is submitted for shareholder vote at the Annual Meeting:
“RESOLVED, that the shareholders of IntriCon Corporation hereby APPROVE, on an advisory
basis, the compensation paid to its named executive officers, as disclosed in the Proxy Statement for the
2015 annual meeting of shareholders pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the Securities and
Exchange Commission, including the compensation tables and the narrative discussion that accompany
the compensation tables.”
This say-on-pay vote is advisory, and therefore not binding on the Corporation, the Compensation
Committee or our Board of Directors. Our Board and our Compensation Committee value the opinion of
our shareholders and to the extent there is any significant vote against the compensation of Named
Executive Officers as disclosed in this Proxy Statement, we will consider our shareholders’ concerns and
the Compensation Committee will evaluate whether any actions are necessary to address those concerns.
Proxies submitted without direction pursuant to this solicitation will be voted “for” approval of the
compensation of our Named Executives Officers as disclosed in this proxy statement.
The Board of Directors recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of the compensation of our
Named Executive Officers as disclosed in this proxy statement.
31
PROPOSAL 3
APPROVAL OF 2015 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
In March 2015, the Board of Directors, upon recommendation from the Compensation
Committee, approved the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2015 Plan”), subject to shareholder approval.
The Corporation is submitting the 2015 Plan to shareholders for approval in accordance with the Nasdaq
Stock Market listing standards that require shareholder approval of most equity-based compensation
plans, including the 2015 Plan. The 2015 Plan is also being submitted for shareholder approval so that
the requisite shareholder approval may be obtained to permit the issuance of incentive stock options under
the Internal Revenue Code and to permit the Corporation to deduct certain performance-based
compensation under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. The 2015 Plan is described below.
The 2015 Plan will replace the Corporation’s 2006 Equity Incentive Plan on a prospective basis.
If the 2015 Plan is approved by the Corporation’s shareholders, no new grants will be made from the
2006 Equity Incentive Plan. See “– Number of Shares Available for Issuance.” Any awards previously
granted under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan will continue to vest and be exercisable in accordance with
their original terms and conditions. The Corporation also has options outstanding under its Non-
Employee Directors Stock Option Plan and 2001 Stock Option Plan, which options will continue to vest
and be exercisable in accordance with their original terms and conditions. If the 2015 Plan is not
approved, the Corporation intends to continue to issue options under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan to the
extent that authorized shares are available.
Description of the 2015 Plan
The following summary of the 2015 Plan is qualified in its entirety by the specific language of the
2015 Plan, which is attached as Appendix A to this proxy statement. Capitalized terms used but not
defined herein have the meanings set forth in the 2015 Plan.
General
The purposes of the 2015 Plan are to attract and promote the long-term retention of key
employees, directors and certain other persons who are in a position to make significant contributions to
the success of the Corporation, to reward these employees, directors and other persons for their
contributions, to provide additional incentive to such employees, directors and other persons to continue
making similar contributions and to further align the interests of these employees, directors and other
persons with those of the Corporation’s shareholders. To achieve these purposes, the 2015 Plan permits
grants of incentive stock options (“ISOs”), options not intended to qualify as incentive stock options
(“non-ISOs”), stock appreciation rights (“SARs”), restricted and unrestricted stock awards, restricted
stock units, performance awards, supplemental cash awards and combinations of the foregoing
(collectively referred to as “Awards”). Awards of restricted and unrestricted stock, restricted stock units
and/or deferred stock may also be issued to participants in connection with management or employee
purchase programs. Shares issuable under Awards that terminate unexercised or otherwise terminate
without an issuance of shares, shares issuable under Awards that are payable in stock or cash but are paid
in cash, shares issued but later forfeited and shares that, at the election of the plan participant, are
withheld by the Corporation to pay the exercise or purchase price of the Award or applicable withholding
taxes will be available for future Awards under the 2015 Plan.
The 2015 Plan is intended to satisfy the requirements of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue
Code (the “Section 162(m) Limitations”), which limits the deductibility for Federal corporate income tax
purposes of certain compensation in excess of $1,000,000 per year paid by a publicly traded corporation
32
to “Covered Employees.” “Covered Employees” are determined at the end of the tax year, and are the
chief executive officer plus the other three most highly compensated employees of the Corporation whose
compensation is required to be reported to shareholders in the proxy statement under applicable SEC rules
and regulations.
Compensation paid to Covered Employees will not be subject to the Section 162(m) Limitations
if it is considered “qualified performance-based compensation.” Under the regulations to Section 162(m),
compensation related to Awards (other than supplemental cash awards) is deemed to constitute qualified
performance-based compensation if the Award meets the following conditions: (i) it is made by a
committee of the board of directors comprised solely of two or more outside directors; (ii) the plan under
which the Award is made sets forth the maximum number of shares with respect to Awards that may be
granted to any individual during a specified period; (iii) under the terms of the Award, the amount of
compensation that an employee can receive is based solely on an increase in the value of the shares of
common stock after the date of the grant or award or the entitlement to the compensation subject to the
Award is contingent solely on the attainment of one or more pre-established and objective performance
goals; and (iv) the material terms of plan are disclosed to and approved by shareholders. As described in
more detail below, the terms of the 2015 Plan are intended to satisfy the foregoing requirements with
respect to Awards to “Covered Employees.”
Administration
The 2015 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board
of Directors, which has full and exclusive power to administer and interpret the 2015 Plan, to grant
Awards and to adopt such administrative rules, regulations, procedures and guidelines governing the 2015
Plan and the Awards as it may deem necessary in its discretion, from time to time. The Committee is
comprised solely of outside directors of the Corporation who are intended to satisfy the requirements of
the Section 162(m) Limitations. The Committee’s authority will include the authority to: (i) determine
the type of Awards to be granted under the 2015 Plan; (ii) select Award recipients and determine the
extent of their participation; (iii) determine the method or formula for establishing the fair market value of
the shares of common stock for various purposes under the 2015 Plan; and (iv) establish all other terms,
conditions, restrictions and limitations applicable to Awards and the shares of common stock issued
pursuant to Awards, including, but not limited to, those relating to a participant’s Retirement, death,
disability, leave of absence or termination of employment. The Committee may accelerate or defer the
vesting or payment of Awards, cancel or modify outstanding Awards, waive any conditions or restrictions
imposed with respect to Awards or the shares of common stock issued pursuant to Awards and make any
and all other interpretations and determinations which it deems necessary with respect to the
administration of the 2015 Plan, other than a reduction of the exercise price of an option after the grant
date and subject to the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code with respect to
“Covered Employees.” The Committee’s right to make any decision, interpretation or determination
under the 2015 Plan shall be in its sole and absolute discretion.
The Committee may, subject to criteria, limitations and instructions as the Committee determines,
delegate to an appropriate officer of the Corporation the authority to determine the individual Participants
and amount and nature of the Award to be issued to such Participants; provided, that no Awards may be
made pursuant to such delegation to a Participant who is subject to Section 16(b) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Eligibility
ISOs may be granted under the 2015 Plan only to employees of the Corporation. All current and
future employees of the Corporation, directors and other persons who, in the opinion of the Committee,
33
are in a position to make significant contributions to the success of the Corporation, such as consultants
and non-employee directors, are eligible to receive all other types of Awards under the 2015 Plan.
Number of Shares Available for Issuance
As of the Effective Date of the 2015 Plan, no additional grants will be made under the
Corporation’s 2006 Equity Incentive Plan. Outstanding grants and awards under the 2006 Equity
Incentive Plan will continue to be governed by their terms and the terms of the 2006 Equity Incentive
Plan.
The aggregate number of shares of common stock for which Awards may be granted under the
2015 Plan is 500,214 shares of common stock, which includes 50,214 shares which remain available for
grant under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan; provided, however, that such share reserve shall be increased
from time to time by a number of shares equal to the number of shares of common stock that are issuable
pursuant to option grants outstanding under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, the Non-Employee Directors
Stock Option Plan and the 2001 Stock Option Plan (collectively referred to as the “Old Plans”) as of the
Effective Date that, but for the termination or suspension of the Old Plans, would otherwise have reverted
to the share reserve of the Old Plans pursuant to the terms thereof as a result of the expiration,
termination, cancellation, cashless exercise, net exercise or forfeiture of such options.
As of the date of this proxy statement, 146,800 shares of common stock are subject to outstanding
options under the Old Plans, which shares will become available for new Awards under the 2015 Plan in
the event of the expiration, termination, cancellation, cashless exercise, net exercise or forfeiture of such
options as described above.
The maximum number of shares of common stock for which Stock Options may be granted to
any person in any fiscal year and the maximum number of SARs granted to any person in any fiscal year
will each be 50,000. The maximum number of shares of common stock subject to other Awards granted
to any person in any fiscal year will be 50,000 shares. The foregoing provisions will be construed in a
manner consistent with Section 162(m).
Adjustments
In the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or exchange of equity securities,
merger, consolidation, recapitalization, reorganization, divestiture or other distribution (other than
ordinary cash dividends) of assets to shareholders, or any other event affecting the shares of common
stock that the Committee deems, in its sole discretion, to be similar circumstances, the Committee may
make such adjustments as it may deem appropriate, in its discretion, to:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
the maximum number of shares available for issuance under the 2015 Plan or to any one
participant;
the number or kind of shares of shares of common stock covered by outstanding Awards;
the exercise price applicable to outstanding Awards;
any measure of performance that relates to an Award in order to reflect such change in
the shares of common stock; and/or
any other affected terms of any equity-based Award.
Exercise Price
The Committee will determine the exercise price applicable to each ISO, non-ISO and SAR,
which will not be less than the fair market value of Corporation shares of common stock at the time of the
34
grant, as described below. The 2015 Plan does not permit the repricing of options without prior
shareholder approval.
Options
Recipients of stock options under the 2015 Plan will have the right to purchase shares of common
stock at an exercise price, during a period of time and on such other terms and conditions as are
determined by the Committee. For ISOs, the recipient must be an employee, the exercise price must be at
least 100% (110% if issued to a greater than ten percent shareholder of the Corporation) of the fair market
value of the Corporation’s shares of common stock on the date of grant and the term cannot exceed ten
years (five years if issued to a greater than ten percent shareholder of the Corporation) from date of grant.
The maximum number of ISOs that may be granted under the 2015 Plan is limited to 500,214
shares of common stock plus the number of shares of common stock that are issuable pursuant to option
grants outstanding under the Old Plans as of the Effective Date that but for the termination or suspension
of the Old Plans, would otherwise have reverted to the share reserve of the Old Plans pursuant to the
terms thereof as a result of the expiration, termination, cancellation, cashless exercise, net exercise or
forfeiture of such options.
The exercise price of a non-ISO must be at least 100% of the fair market value of shares of
common stock on the date of grant. An option exercise price may be paid in cash or by check, bank draft
or money order payable to the order of the Corporation, or if permitted by the Committee and subject to
certain conditions, by delivery of shares of common stock that have been owned by the recipient for at
least six months (unless the Committee expressly approves a shorter period) and have a fair market value
on the date of exercise at least equal to the exercise price, or an unconditional and irrevocable undertaking
by a broker to promptly deliver the necessary funds (including in connection with so-called “cashless
exercise” effected by such broker) or by a combination of such methods. Additionally, an option may be
exercised by the “net exercise” method without the payment of cash. In a net exercise, upon exercise of
an option, the Corporation issues the number of shares with a fair market value equal to the excess of the
fair market value of the shares exercised at the time of exercise over the exercise price.
The Committee may at any time accelerate the time at which all or any part of the option may be
exercised.
Stock Appreciation Rights
SARs may be granted under the 2015 Plan either alone or in tandem with stock options.
Generally, recipients of SARs are entitled to receive upon exercise, cash or shares of common stock
(valued at the then fair market value of shares of common stock) equal to such fair market value on the
date of exercise minus the fair market value on the date of grant of the shares subject to the SAR,
although certain other measurements also may be used. A SAR granted in tandem with a stock option is
exercisable only if and to the extent that the option is exercisable.
Stock Awards
The 2015 Plan provides for restricted and unrestricted stock awards, restricted stock units and
deferred stock awards. Restricted and unrestricted stock awards allow the recipient to acquire shares of
common stock for no consideration, nominal consideration or any higher price determined by the
Committee. In the case of restricted stock awards, the shares acquired are subject to a vesting schedule
and other possible conditions determined by the Committee. A restricted stock unit is an award
denominated in restricted shares of common stock, pursuant to a formula determined by the Committee,
35
which may be settled either in restricted shares of common stock or in cash, in the discretion of the
Committee, subject to such other terms, conditions, restrictions and limitations determined by the
Committee from time to time. A deferred stock award entitles the recipient to receive shares of common
stock to be delivered in the future. Delivery of the shares of common stock will take place at such time or
times, and on such terms and conditions, as the Committee may determine.
Performance Awards
The 2015 Plan provides for performance awards entitling the recipient to receive Awards without
payment upon achieving certain performance goals determined by the Committee. At the discretion of
the Committee, any of the above-described Awards may be contingent on attainment of performance
goals which are based on certain pre-established criteria. Performance goals may involve overall
corporate performance, operating group or business unit performance, personal performance or any other
category of performance determined by the Committee.
Supplemental Cash Awards
Under the 2015 Plan and subject to applicable law, supplemental cash awards may be granted to
recipients of Awards to help defray taxes due as a result of the Awards. The terms and conditions of
supplemental cash awards are determined by the Committee.
Termination of Awards
Upon termination of a recipient’s employment or other relationship with the Corporation due to
death, Disability or Retirement, except as otherwise determined by the Committee: (i) stock options and
SARs will automatically become exercisable in full and will remain exercisable for a period equal to the
unexpired term of the options or SARs; (ii) all restricted stock and restricted stock units shall
automatically become free of all restrictions and conditions; and (iii) any payment or benefit under
deferred stock awards, performance awards and supplemental grants shall be made by the Corporation.
Retirement is defined in the 2015 Plan as termination of employment with or service to the Corporation
by a participant, other than by reason of death or permanent disability or termination for Cause, at a time
when such participant has attained age 65 or greater, provided that such participant has performed a
minimum of five years of service for the Corporation, except that in the case of a director who meets the
age and years of service requirement in the definition of Retirement, such term also includes the failure to
be re-nominated for election, the failure to be re-elected by the shareholders, removal by shareholders or
the Board (other than a removal for Cause) and resignation of such director.
Upon termination of a recipient’s employment or other relationship with the Corporation for any
reason other than death, Disability or Retirement, except as otherwise determined by the Committee: (i)
stock options and SARs, to the extent that they were exercisable at the time of termination, will remain
exercisable for a period ending on the earlier of (a) 90 days after the date of termination and (b) the
scheduled expiration date of the option, after which they shall terminate; (ii) stock options and SARs that
are not then exercisable shall terminate upon such termination; (iii) all restricted stock shall be transferred
to the Corporation for purchase for the amount of cash paid for such stock, or forfeited to the Corporation
if no cash were paid; and (iv) any payment or benefit under restricted stock units, deferred stock awards,
performance awards and supplemental grants to which the recipient was not irrevocably entitled at the
time of termination shall be forfeited and such Awards cancelled as of the date of such termination.
36
Deferral of Awards
In connection with the 2015 Plan, the Board of Directors may adopt a deferred compensation plan
that will permit participants in the 2015 Plan to defer receipt of Awards granted pursuant to the 2015
Plan. If deferred, the Awards would be paid at a future date pursuant to the deferred compensation plan.
Section 162(m) Limitations
If the Committee determines at the time an Award that is intended to qualify as performance-
based compensation for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code is granted to a recipient
that such recipient is, or may be as of the end of the tax year for which the Corporation would claim a tax
Federal income tax deduction in connection with such Award, a “covered employee,” then, if necessary to
preserve the deductibility of the Award under Section 162(m), the Committee may provide that the Award
be subject to the achievement of specified levels of one or more of the following performance goals,
unless and until the Corporation’s shareholders approve a change to such performance goals: operating
income, net earnings, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), earnings
before interest and taxes (EBIT), net income, earnings per share, total shareholder return, cash flow,
return on assets, decrease in expenses, common stock price, price-earnings multiple, comparisons to
market indices, sales growth, market share, the achievement of certain quantitatively and objectively
determinable non-financial performance measures including, but not limited to, growth strategies,
strategic initiatives, corporate development and leadership development, and any combination of the
foregoing. The performance goals shall be determined and approved by the Committee within the first 90
days of each fiscal year or, if shorter, the first 25% of the performance period to which the Award relates.
Awards subject to such conditions may not be adjusted upward; however, the Committee shall retain the
discretion to adjust such Awards downward. Prior to the payment of any Award subject to these Section
162(m) Limitations, the Committee shall certify in writing that the applicable performance goal was
satisfied.
The Committee shall have the discretion to impose such other restrictions on Awards as it may
deem necessary or appropriate to ensure that such Awards qualify as performance-based compensation
for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. In the event that applicable tax/and or
securities laws change to permit the Committee the discretion to alter the governing performance goals
without obtaining shareholder approval, the Committee shall have the sole discretion to make such
changes without obtaining shareholder approval. In addition, in the event that the Committee determines
that it is advisable to grant Awards that shall not qualify as performance-based compensation for purposes
of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, the Committee may make such grants without satisfying
the Section 162(m) Limitations.
Change in Control
The 2015 Plan generally provides that, unless the Committee determines otherwise at the time of
grant with respect to a particular Award, in the event of a change in control (as defined below), (1) any
options and SARs shall automatically become exercisable in full upon the occurrence of such change of
control, (2) any restricted stock shall automatically become free of all restrictions and conditions upon the
occurrence of such change of control, and (3) any conditions on restricted stock units, deferred stock
awards performance awards and supplemental grants which relate only to the passage of time and
continued employment shall automatically terminate upon the occurrence of such change of control.
A change in control means: (i) the occurrence of an event that would, if known to the
Corporation’s management, be required to be reported by the Corporation as a change in control pursuant
to the SEC’s Current Report on Form 8-K under to the Exchange Act; or (ii) the acquisition or receipt, in
37
any manner, by any person (as defined for purposes of the Exchange Act) or any group of persons acting
in concert, of direct or indirect beneficial ownership (as defined for purposes of the Exchange Act) of
more than 50% of the Corporation’s combined voting securities ordinarily having the right to vote for the
election of directors of the Corporation; or (iii) a change in the constituency of the Board of Directors
with the result that individuals (the “Incumbent Directors”) who are members of the Board on the
effective date of the 2015 Plan cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of
Directors, provided that any individual who is elected to the Board after the effective date of the 2015
Plan and whose nomination for election was unanimously approved by the Incumbent Directors shall be
considered an Incumbent Director beginning on the date of his or her election to the Board, but excluding,
for this purpose, any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of an actual or
threatened election contest (as defined for purposes of the Exchange Act) with respect to the election or
removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a
person other than the Board of Directors; or (iv) the sale, exchange, liquidation or other disposition of all
or more than 50% of the Corporation’s business or assets; unless in any such case, at least a majority of
the Incumbent Directors determine, prior to the occurrence of such change in control, that no change in
control has or will have occurred; or (v) the occurrence of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or other
corporate transaction involving the Corporation, in each case, with respect to which the Corporation’s
shareholders immediately prior to such transaction do not, immediately after such transaction, own more
than 50% of the combined voting securities ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors
of the Corporation or other corporation resulting from such transaction; or (vi) the approval by the
Corporation’s shareholders of a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Corporation; or (vii) any
similar transaction, circumstance or event which the Committee determines to constitute a change in
control.
Additional Cancellation Provisions
In any instance where the rights of a recipient under an Award continue after termination of their
service relationship with the Corporation, all of such rights shall terminate and be forfeited if, in the
determination of the Committee, the recipient, at any time prior or subsequent to such termination,
breached or violated, in a material way, the terms of any agreement with the Corporation, including any
employment agreement, termination agreement, confidentiality agreement, non-solicitation agreement or
non-competition agreement or engaged or engages in conduct that would have permitted the Corporation
to terminate the recipient’s service relationship for “Cause” if the recipient was still in such relationship
with the Corporation.
Reduction of Payments to Participants
If any payment under the 2015 Plan constitutes a “parachute payment” within the meaning of
Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code and would be subject to the excise tax imposed on the
participant by Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such payment will be
reduced, if on an after-tax basis (including the Excise Tax), such reduction would result in the recipient
receiving a greater amount of the payment.
Summary of Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following is a brief summary of the principal United States federal income tax consequences
of transactions under the 2015 Plan, based on current United States federal income tax laws. This
summary is not intended to be exhaustive, does not constitute tax advice and, among other things, does
not describe state, local or foreign tax consequences.
38
Non-ISOs. No taxable income is recognized by a participant upon the grant of an Option that is a
non-ISO. Upon the exercise of a non-ISO, the participant will recognize ordinary income in an amount
equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the shares of common stock received upon exercise
over the aggregate non-ISO exercise price, even though the common stock received may be subject to a
restriction on transferability or may be subsequently forfeited, in limited circumstances. Income and
payroll taxes are required to be withheld by the Corporation on the amount of ordinary income resulting
to the participant from the exercise of a non-ISO. Any ordinary income recognized by the participant is
generally deductible by the Corporation for federal income tax purposes, subject to the possible
limitations on deductibility of compensation paid to some executives under Section 162(m) of the Internal
Revenue Code. The participant’s tax basis in shares of common stock acquired by exercise of a non-ISO
will be equal to the exercise price plus the amount taxable as ordinary income to the participant.
Upon a sale of the shares of common stock received by the participant upon exercise of the non-
ISO, any gain or loss will generally be treated for federal income tax purposes as long-term or short-term
capital gain or loss, depending upon the holding period of that stock. The participant’s holding period for
shares acquired after the exercise of a non-ISO begins on the date of exercise of that option.
If the participant pays the exercise price in full or in part by using shares of previously acquired
shares of common stock, the exercise will not affect the tax treatment described above and no gain or loss
generally will be recognized to the participant with respect to the previously acquired shares. The shares
received upon exercise which are equal in number to the previously acquired shares used will have the
same tax basis as the previously acquired shares surrendered to the Corporation, and will have a holding
period for determining capital gain or loss that includes the holding period of the shares used. The value
of the remaining shares received by the participant will be taxable to the participant as compensation,
even though those shares may be subject to sale restrictions. The remaining shares will have a tax basis
equal to the fair market value recognized by the participant as ordinary income and the holding period
will commence on the exercise date. Shares used to pay applicable income and payroll taxes arising from
that exercise will generate taxable income or loss equal to the difference between the tax basis of those
shares and the amount of income and payroll taxes satisfied with those shares. The income or loss will be
treated as long-term or short-term capital gain or loss depending on the holding period of the shares used.
Where the shares used to pay applicable income and payroll taxes arising from that exercise generate a
loss equal to the difference between the tax basis of those shares and the amount of income and payroll
taxes satisfied with those shares, that loss may not be currently recognizable if, within a period beginning
30 days before the exercise date and ending 30 days after that date, the participant acquires or enters into
a contract or option to acquire additional shares of common stock.
Participants may exercise non-ISO Options by a “net exercise.” In a net exercise, upon exercise
of an Option the Corporation issues the number of shares with a fair market value equal to the excess of
the fair market value of the shares exercised at the time of exercise over the exercise price. In a net
exercise, the participant will recognize for Federal income tax purposes ordinary income in an amount
equal to the fair market value of the shares actually received. The participant’s tax basis in any shares
received pursuant to a net exercise is equal to the ordinary income recognized with respect to the exercise.
In limited circumstances, if the shares that are received are subject to a restriction on transferability or
forfeiture, the participant will not recognize income at exercise but will instead recognize ordinary
income when the restrictions or possibility of forfeiture end.
ISOs. No taxable income is recognized by a participant upon the grant or exercise of an Option
that is an ISO. However, the exercise of an ISO will give rise to an item of tax preference that may result
in alternative minimum tax liability for the participant.
39
If the shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an ISO are held for at least two years after the
date of grant of the ISO and at least one year after the date of exercise of the ISO, then:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
upon the sale of those shares, any amount realized in excess of the option exercise price
will be taxed to that participant as a long-term capital gain; and
the Corporation will not be allowed a deduction.
If the shares acquired upon the exercise of an ISO are disposed of prior to the expiration of either
holding period described above, that disposition would be a “disqualifying disposition,” and generally:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
the participant will recognize ordinary income in the year of disposition in an amount
equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise,
or, if less, the amount realized on the disposition of the shares, over the ISO exercise
price; and
the Corporation will be entitled to deduct that amount.
Any other gain realized by the participant on that disposition will be taxed as short-term or long-
term capital gain, and will not result in any deduction to the Corporation. If a participant pays the
exercise price in full or in part with previously acquired shares of common stock, the exchange will not
affect the tax treatment of the exercise. Upon the exchange, no gain or loss generally will be recognized
upon the delivery of the previously acquired shares to the Corporation, and the shares issued in
replacement of the shares used to pay the exercise price will have the same basis and holding period for
capital gain purposes as the previously acquired shares. A participant, however, would not be able to
utilize the holding period for the previously acquired shares for purposes of satisfying the ISO statutory
holding period requirements described above. Additional shares of common stock will have a basis of
zero and a holding period that commences on the date the shares of common stock are issued to the
participant upon exercise of the ISO. If this exercise is effected using shares of common stock previously
acquired through the exercise of an ISO, the exchange of the previously acquired shares may be a
disqualifying disposition of those shares of common stock if the holding periods discussed above have not
been met.
If an ISO is exercised at a time when it no longer qualifies as an ISO, the Option will be treated as
a non-ISO. Subject to some exceptions for permanent disability or death, an ISO generally will not be
eligible for the federal income tax treatment described above if it is exercised more than three months
following a termination of employment (one year if termination is due to death or disability, as defined in
the Internal Revenue Code).
Participants may exercise ISO Options by a “net exercise.” In a net exercise, upon exercise of an
Option the Corporation issues the number of shares with a fair market value equal to the excess of the fair
market value of the shares exercised at the time of exercise over the exercise price. In a net exercise, the
participant will recognize for Federal income tax purposes ordinary income in an amount equal to the
excess of the fair market value of the shares used to pay the exercise price over the Option exercise price
for such shares. The participant’s tax basis in any shares received pursuant to a net exercise is equal to
the Option exercise price for such shares. In limited circumstances, if the shares that are received are
subject to a restriction on transferability or forfeiture, the participant will not recognize income at exercise
but will instead recognize ordinary income when the restrictions or possibility of forfeiture end.
Stock Appreciation Rights. No taxable income is recognized by a participant upon the grant of a
SAR. Upon the exercise of a SAR, the participant will recognize ordinary income in an amount equal to
the cash received plus the fair market value of any shares of common stock received from the exercise.
40
The participant’s tax basis in the shares of common stock received in the exercise of the SAR will be
equal to the ordinary income recognized with respect to the shares of common stock. The participant’s
holding period for shares acquired on the exercise of a SAR begins on the exercise date. Income and
payroll taxes are required to be withheld on the amount of compensation attributable to the exercise of the
SAR, whether the income is paid in cash or shares. Upon the exercise of a SAR, the Corporation will
generally be entitled to a deduction in the amount of the ordinary income recognized by the participant.
Unrestricted and Restricted Stock. Upon the grant of an unrestricted stock award, the participant
recognizes ordinary income equal to the fair market value on the date of grant minus the price paid for the
shares awarded. A recipient of a restricted stock award recognizes ordinary income only as of and when
the shares vest or are no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture (as defined in the Internal
Revenue Code). The ordinary income recognized on each vesting or transfer date equals the fair market
value on that date less any purchase price paid for the shares. A recipient of a restricted stock award may,
however, choose or be required by the terms of the award to elect under Section 83(b) of the Internal
Revenue Code to have the ordinary income associated with all of the restricted shares recognized and
measured on the date of grant. A recipient who makes such an election and later forfeits restricted shares
may claim a loss for tax purposes only in an amount equal to the excess of the purchase price paid for the
shares (if any) over the amount received (if any) upon the forfeiture. The Corporation will generally be
entitled to a deduction at the time and in the amount of the ordinary income recognized by the participant.
Restricted Stock Units. A recipient of a restricted stock unit award recognizes ordinary income
only as of and when the shares vest or are no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture (as defined
in the Internal Revenue Code). The ordinary income recognized on each vesting or transfer date equals
the fair market value on that date less the price paid for the shares. The Corporation will generally be
entitled to a deduction at the time and in the amount of the ordinary income recognized by the participant.
Performance Awards and Supplemental Grants. The tax consequences of a performance award
depend upon the nature of the underlying award earned if and when the performance goals are achieved.
The recipient of a supplemental cash award recognizes ordinary income equal to the amount received, and
the Corporation will generally be entitled to a corresponding deduction.
Certain Limitations on Deductibility of Executive Compensation. As discussed above, the
Section 162(m) Limitations apply to all Awards granted under the 2015 Plan, unless certain conditions
are satisfied. Compensation under the 2015 Plan generally is intended to satisfy those conditions and
constitute “qualified performance-based compensation,” but there is no guarantee that an individual
Award will do so. As discussed above, payments to or benefits for participants that constitute “parachute
payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code may be subject to an excise
tax imposed on the participant by Section 4999 of the Code. If any such payment or benefit is subject to
the excise tax, the payment or benefit may not be deducted by the Corporation.
Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. Certain awards under the 2015 Plan may be subject
to Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code, which addresses “nonqualified deferred compensation.”
Awards under the 2015 Plan are generally designed to avoid the additional taxes, excise taxes and interest
imposed by Section 409A on participants, but there is no guarantee that an individual Award will do so.
If an Award under the 2015 Plan that is subject to Section 409A is not administered in compliance with
Section 409A, or if an Award under the 2015 Plan that is exempt from Section 409A is not administered
in compliance with such exemption, or if such Awards are not administered in compliance with their
terms, then all compensation under the 2015 Plan that is considered “nonqualified deferred
compensation” (and awards under any other plan of the Corporation that are required pursuant to Section
409A to be aggregated with the Award under the 2015 Plan) will be taxable to the participant as ordinary
income in the year of the violation, or if later, the year in which the compensation subject to the award is
41
no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture. In addition, the participant will be subject to an
additional tax equal to 20% of the compensation that is required to be included in income as a result of the
violation, plus interest from the date that the compensation subject to the award was required to be
included in taxable income.
Amendment and Termination
The 2015 Plan may be amended or terminated by the Committee at any time, without the
approval of shareholders or participants, provided that any such action shall not affect any Awards
granted before the actual date on which such action is taken by the Committee; and further provided that
the approval of our shareholders shall be required whenever necessary for the 2015 Plan to continue to
satisfy the conditions of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code
with respect to the award of ISOs (unless the Board determines that ISOs shall no longer be granted under
the 2015 Plan), any bylaw, rule or regulation of the market system or stock exchange on which our
common stock is then listed or admitted to trading, or any other applicable law, rule or regulation.
No Awards may be granted under the 2015 Plan from and after April 24, 2015. Unless
terminated earlier by the Board, the 2015 Plan will terminate on such date (which shall not be prior to
April 24, 2025) that all Awards under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan have been exercised or have
terminated.
New Plan Benefits
The Board of Directors approved the 2015 Plan in March 2015, subject to shareholder approval.
In the event that the 2015 Plan is approved by shareholders at the Annual Meeting, each non-employee
director of the Corporation that is re-elected at, or continues as a director following, the Annual Meeting,
as the case may be, automatically will receive an option to purchase shares of common stock at an
exercise price equal to the fair market value of the shares of common stock on the date of the 2015
Annual Meeting as follows:
Name of Director
Nicholas A. Giordano ................
Robert N. Masucci ....................
Michael J. McKenna .................
Philip N. Seamon ......................
Total ......................................
Number of
Options
10,000
10,000
12,000
10,000
42,000
All director options will vest in three equal, annual installments beginning one year after the date
of grant, except that the options will become immediately exercisable upon a “change in control” as
defined in the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan or the death or disability of the recipient, and expire ten years
after the date of grant, unless terminated earlier by the terms of the option.
Except as described above, no determinations have been made with respect to any other Awards
under the 2015 Plan.
The closing price of the common stock on March 4, 2015 was $7.76 per share, as reported on the
Nasdaq Stock Market.
The Board of Directors recommends that the shareholders vote for approval of the 2015
Equity Incentive Plan.
42
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table details information regarding the Corporation’s existing equity compensation
plans as of December 31, 2014:
(a)
Number of
securities to be
issued upon exercise
of outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(b)
Weighted-
average exercise
price of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(c)
Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation
plans (excluding
securities reflected in
column (a))
1,283,398
30,000
$5.87
$5.55
216,683
--
Plan Category
Equity compensation plans
approved by security holders(1)
Equity compensation plans not
approved by security holders(2)
Total .............................................
1,313,398
$5.86
216,683
(1) The amount shown in column (c) includes 175,349 shares issuable under the 2006 Equity Incentive
Plan and 41,334 shares available for purchase under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Under the terms
of the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, as outstanding options under the Corporation’s 2001 Stock Option
Plan and Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan expire, the shares of common stock subject to the
expired options will become available for issuance under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan. As of December
31, 2014, 150,800 shares of common stock were subject to outstanding options under the 2001 Stock
Option Plan and Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan. Accordingly, if any of these options
expire, the shares of common stock subject to expired options also will be available for issuance under the
2006 Equity Incentive Plan or, if approved by shareholders, the 2015 Plan.
(2) Represents shares issuable under the Non-Employee Directors Stock Option Plan, the (“Non-
Employee Directors Plan”), pursuant to which directors who are not employees of the Corporation or any
of its subsidiaries were eligible to receive options. The exercise price of the option was the fair market
value of the stock on the date of grant. Options become exercisable in equal one-third annual installments
beginning one year from the date of grant, except that the vesting schedule for discretionary grants was
determined by the Compensation Committee. As a result of the approval of the 2006 Equity Incentive
Plan by the shareholders at the 2006 annual meeting of shareholders, no further grants will be made
pursuant to the Non-Employee Directors Plan.
43
PROPOSAL 4
RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF AUDITOR
The Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2014 was the firm of Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP (previously known as Virchow,
Krause & Company, LLP), referred to as “Baker Tilly.” Baker Tilly was engaged as independent auditor
beginning in August 2005. Services provided to the Corporation and its subsidiaries by Baker Tilly in
2014 and 2013 are described below under “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.” The Audit
Committee of the Board of Directors has appointed Baker Tilly to serve as the independent registered
public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2015. Shareholders will be asked to ratify this
appointment. Although action by the shareholders on this matter is not required, the Audit Committee
believes it is appropriate to seek shareholder ratification of the appointment of the independent registered
public accounting firm to provide a forum for shareholders to express their views with regard to the Audit
Committee’s appointment. If the shareholders do not ratify the appointment of Baker Tilly, the selection
of independent registered public accounting firm may be reconsidered by the Audit Committee; provided
however, the Audit Committee retains the right to continue to engage Baker Tilly. Notwithstanding the
ratification of Baker Tilly as the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year
ending December 31, 2015, the Audit Committee retains the right to replace Baker Tilly at any time
without shareholder approval. A representative of Baker Tilly is expected to be present at the Annual
Meeting and to be available to respond to appropriate questions. The representative will have the
opportunity to make a statement if he or she so desires.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Fee Information
Fees for professional services provided by Baker Tilly, the Corporation’s independent auditor, for
the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 in each of the following categories were:
Services Rendered (1)
2014
2013
Audit Fees.................................................................................
Audit-Related Fees ....................................................................
Tax Fees ...................................................................................
All Other Fees ...........................................................................
$212,613
12,500
—
—
$210,440
17,800
—
—
Total .........................................................................................
$225,113
$228,240
____________________________
(1)
The aggregate fees included in Audit Fees are fees billed for the fiscal years. The aggregate
fees included in each of the other categories are fees billed in the fiscal years. Does not
include: foreign statutory audit fees of $24,900 and $28,481 for 2014 and 2013 and foreign
tax fees of $6,132 in 2014, respectively by Baker Tilly TFW, LLC, a firm that is also an
independent member firm of Baker Tilly International, for audits of the Corporation’s foreign
subsidiaries.
Audit Fees. The audit fees for 2014 and 2013 include fees for professional services rendered for
the audit of the Corporation’s annual financial statements included in the Corporation’s Form 10-K
Reports, the review of the financial statements included in the Corporation’s Form 10-Q Reports, and
professional services rendered for a required review of the Corporation’s other SEC filings.
44
Audit-Related Fees. The audit-related fees for 2014 and 2013 include fees for audits of the
Corporation’s employee benefit plan and professional services rendered for a required review of the
Corporation’s royalty arrangements.
All Other Fees. There were no other fees billed for 2014 and 2013.
Tax Fees. We did not use Baker Tilly for domestic tax services in 2014 or 2013.
Auditor Independence
The Audit Committee has considered the nature of the above-listed services provided by Baker
Tilly and determined that the provisions of the services are compatible with Baker Tilly maintaining its
independence.
Pre-Approval Policy
The Audit Committee has established pre-approval policies and procedures pursuant to which the
Audit Committee pre-approved the foregoing audit and permissible non-audit services provided by Baker
Tilly in 2014.
Audit Committee Report
The Audit Committee has prepared the following report on its activities with respect to the
Corporation’s audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014, which are
referred to herein as the Corporation’s audited consolidated financial statements:
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
(cid:2)
The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the audited consolidated financial
statements with management.
The Audit Committee has discussed with Baker Tilly, the Corporation’s independent
auditors, the matters required to be discussed by Auditing Standard No. 16, as issued by
the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board.
The Audit Committee has received the written disclosures and the letter from Baker Tilly
required by applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
regarding the independent accountant’s communications with the Audit Committees
concerning independence, and has discussed with Baker Tilly their independence.
Based on the review and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee has
recommended to the Board of Directors that the audited consolidated financial statements
be included in the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2014, for filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Audit Committee:
Nicholas A. Giordano, Chairman
Michael J. McKenna
Robert N. Masucci
Philip N. Seamon
The Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote “FOR” ratification of the
appointment of Baker Tilly as the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm for
2015.
45
SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires the Corporation’s executive
officers and directors and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered class of the
Corporation’s equity securities (collectively, the “reporting persons”) to file reports of ownership and
changes in ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission and to furnish the Corporation with
copies of these reports.
Based on the Corporation’s review of the copies of these reports received by it and written
representations, if any, received from reporting persons with respect to the filing of reports of Forms 3, 4
and 5, the Corporation believes that all filings required to be made by the reporting persons for fiscal year
2014 were made on a timely basis.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS FOR 2016 ANNUAL MEETING
Under the Corporation’s bylaws, shareholder proposals with respect to the 2016 Annual Meeting
of Shareholders, including nominations for directors, which have not been previously approved by the
Board of Directors, must be submitted to the Secretary of the Corporation no later than November 9,
2015. Any such proposals must be in writing and sent either by personal delivery, nationally recognized
express mail or United States mail, postage prepaid to Corporate Secretary, IntriCon Corporation, 1260
Red Fox Road, Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112. Each nomination or proposal must include the
information required by the bylaws. All late or nonconforming nominations and proposals may be
rejected by the officer presiding at the meeting.
Shareholder proposals for the 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders must be submitted to the
Corporation by November 9, 2015 to receive consideration for inclusion in the Corporation’s Proxy
Statement relating to the 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Any such proposal must also comply
with SEC proxy rules, including SEC Rule 14a-8, and any applicable requirements set forth in the bylaws.
In addition, shareholders are notified that the deadline for providing the Corporation timely notice
of any shareholder proposal to be submitted outside of the Rule 14a-8 process for consideration at the
Corporation’s 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is November 9, 2015. As to all such matters which
the Corporation does not have notice on or prior to November 9, 2015, discretionary authority shall be
granted to the persons designated in the Corporation’s Proxy related to the 2016 Annual Meeting of
shareholders to vote on such proposal.
ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS
A copy of the Corporation’s 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
2014 as filed with the SEC is being made available to each shareholder with this Proxy Statement.
The Corporation files reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, referred to as the “SEC.” Copies of these documents may be obtained at the SEC’s public
reference room in Washington, D.C. The Corporation’s SEC filings are also available on the SEC’s web
site at http://www.sec.gov.
EACH SHAREHOLDER CAN OBTAIN A COPY OF THE CORPORATION’S ANNUAL
REPORT ON FORM 10-K, INCLUDING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FINANCIAL
SCHEDULES FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AS FILED WITH THE SEC,
WITHOUT CHARGE EXCEPT FOR EXHIBITS TO THE REPORT, BY SENDING A
46
WRITTEN REQUEST TO: INTRICON CORPORATION, 1260 RED FOX ROAD, ARDEN
HILLS, MINNESOTA 55112 ATTN: SCOTT LONGVAL.
HOUSEHOLDING
In order to reduce printing costs and postage fees, the Corporation has adopted the process called
“householding” for mailing its annual report and proxy statement to “street name holders,” which refers to
shareholders whose shares are held in a stock brokerage account or by a bank or other nominee. This
means that street name holders who share the same last name and address will receive only one copy of
the Corporation’s annual report and proxy statement, unless the Corporation receives contrary instructions
from a street name holder at that address. The Corporation will continue to mail a proxy card to each
shareholder of record who requests it.
The Corporation will promptly deliver separate copies of the Corporation’s proxy statement and
annual report upon written or oral request. If you prefer to receive multiple copies of the Corporation’s
proxy statement and annual report at the same address, you may obtain additional copies by writing to
IntriCon Corporation, Attention: Scott Longval, Chief Financial Officer, 1260 Red Fox Road, Arden
Hills, Minnesota 55112 or by calling Mr. Longval at (651) 604-9526. Eligible shareholders of record
receiving multiple copies of the annual report and proxy statement can request householding by
contacting the Corporation in the same manner.
OTHER MATTERS
The Corporation is not presently aware of any matters (other than procedural matters) that will be
brought before the Meeting which are not reflected in the attached Notice of the Meeting. The
accompanying proxy confers discretionary authority to vote with respect to any and all of the following
matters that may come before the Meeting: (i) matters which the Corporation did not receive notice by
November 18, 2014 were to be presented at the Meeting; (ii) approval of the minutes of a prior meeting of
shareholders, if such approval does not amount to ratification of the action taken at the meeting; (iii) the
election of any person to any office for which a bona fide nominee named in this Proxy Statement is
unable to serve or for good cause will not serve; (iv) any proposal omitted from this Proxy Statement and
the form of proxy pursuant to Rules 14a-8 or 14a-9 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and (v)
matters incident to the conduct of the Meeting. In connection with such matters, the persons named in the
accompanying proxy will vote in accordance with their best judgment.
Scott Longval
Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer
and Secretary
47
Management
Mark S. Gorder
President and Chief Executive Officer
Legal Counsel
Blank Rome LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
J. Scott Longval
Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer
Auditors
Michael P. Geraci
Vice President, Sales and Marketing
Greg Gruenhagen
Vice President, Quality and Regulatory Affairs
Dennis L. Gonsior
Vice President, Global Operations
Delain Wright
Vice President, Business Development,
Value Hearing Health
Directors
Michael J. McKenna
Chairman of the Board of IntriCon Corporation,
Retired Vice Chairman,
President and Director,
Crown Cork & Seal Company, Inc.
Nicholas A. Giordano
Business Consultant,
Former President and CEO
Philadelphia Stock Exchange
Mark S. Gorder
President and Chief Executive Officer,
IntriCon Corporation
Robert N. Masucci
Chairman of Barclay Brand Corporation
Chairman, Montgomery Capital Advisors, Inc.
Philip N. Seamon
President, Philip N. Seamon, Inc.
Retired Senior Managing Director,
Corporate Finance,
FTI Consulting, Inc.
Baker Tilly Virchow Krause
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Transfer Agent and Registrar
Broadridge
1115 Long Island Avenue
Edgewood, NY 11717
1.800.733.1121
www.broadridge.com
Locations
IntriCon Corporation Headquarters
1260 Red Fox Road
Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112
Phone: 651.636.9770
Fax: 651.636.8944
www.intricon.com
IntriCon Datrix Corporation
340 State Place
Escondido, California 92029
IntriCon PTE LTD
Admirax Building #02-01 to 06
8 Admiralty Street
Singapore 757438
IntriCon Gmbh
Kesselschmiedstr. 10
D-75354 Freising, Germany
PT IntriCon Indonesia
Batam Indo Industrial Park
Lot 202 Level 1
Mukakuming, Batam, Indonesia 29433
IntriCon Corporation
1260 Red Fox Road
Arden Hills, Minnesota 55112
Phone: 651.636.9770
Fax: 651.636.8944
intricon.com