UNDERSTAND.
INNOVATE.
DELIVER.™
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN & CEO
DEAR SHAREHOLDERS,
2018 was an important and very positive year for
our company. It included the closing of the Becton
Dickinson deal, the acquisitions of Cianna Medical
and Vascular Insights, and the continued execution of
our global growth and profitability plan. Integration
of these new businesses, sales of our core products
and the introduction of new products continue to
drive growth to the point where we are comfortable
forecasting an expansion of our 2019 core revenue
growth to a range of 8–10%.
We believe this forecasted growth will be facilitated by
recently introduced products such as the EmboCube™
Embolization Gelatin, the basixTAU™ Inflation Device,
the Prelude Prestige™ Splittable Sheath Introducer, the
Prelude Ideal™ Hydrophilic Sheath Introducer and the
PreludeSYNC™ Radial Hemostasis Device, as well as
the momentum of our legacy products.
The BD deal, our expanded presence in the United
Kingdom, and our continued progression in the
development of more therapeutic products require us
to provide additional physician training. New facilities
in Reading, UK will provide improved capabilities, as
well as a hedge against potential Brexit implications.
Additionally, our new product pipeline is full.
We expect to introduce 10—15 new products this
year, which we believe will continue to support our
overall business strategy. Our business measurements
of top-line improvement, SG&A and R&D expense
discipline and bottom-line improvement continue to
support our business thesis. Finally, the healthcare
market continues to consolidate, and we intend to
continue to pursue opportunities that fit our overall
strategic and financial metrics.
We look forward to years of growth and opportunity.
Sincerely,
FRED P. LAMPROPOULOS | CHAIRMAN & CEO
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018
Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
or
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Utah
0-18592
87-0447695
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or
organization)
(Commission File No.)
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
1600 West Merit Parkway, South Jordan, Utah 84095
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (801) 253-1600
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Common Stock, No Par Value, registered on the NASDAQ Global Select Market
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to
Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 229.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit
such files). Yes No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to
this Form 10-K.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or
an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and "emerging growth company"
in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer
Accelerated Filer
Non-Accelerated Filer (Do not check if
a smaller reporting company)
Smaller Reporting
Company
Emerging Growth Company
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any
new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes No
The aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on June 29, 2018, which is the last business day
of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter (based upon the closing sale price of $51.20 of the registrant’s common stock on the
NASDAQ National Market System on June 29, 2018), was approximately $2.5 billion. Shares of common stock held by each officer and director of the
registrant and by each person who may be deemed to be an affiliate have been excluded.
As of February 26, 2019, the registrant had 54,902,835 shares of common stock outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the following document are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Report: the registrant’s definitive proxy statement relating to the
Annual Meeting of Shareholders scheduled for May 23, 2019.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Business……………………………………………………………………………………………
Risk Factors……………………………………………………………………………………….
Unresolved Staff Comments…………………………………………………………………….
Properties………………………………………………………………………………………….
Legal Proceedings………………………………………………………………………………..
Mine Safety Disclosures………………………………………………………………………….
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 Accountant Fees and Services………………………………………………………..
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42
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53
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PART I
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
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.
Item 16.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules………………………………………………….
Form 10-K Summary……………………………………………………………………………..
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100
SIGNATURES……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
101
PART I
Unless otherwise indicated in this report, “Merit,” “we,” “us,” “our,” and similar terms refer to Merit Medical
Systems, Inc. and our consolidated subsidiaries.
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All
statements in this report, other than statements of historical fact, are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of
these provisions, including any projections of earnings, revenues or other financial items, any statements of the plans
and objectives of our management for future operations, any statements concerning proposed new products or
services, any statements regarding the integration, development or commercialization of the business or any assets
acquired from other parties, any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance, and any
statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. All forward-looking statements included in this report are
made as of the date hereof and are based on information available to us as of such date. We assume no obligation
to update any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of
terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “seeks,” “believes,” “estimates,”
“potential,” “forecasts,” “continue,” or other forms of these words or similar words or expressions, or the negative
thereof or other comparable terminology. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking
statements contained herein are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations or any of the forward-
looking statements will prove to be correct, and actual results will likely differ, and could differ materially, from those
projected or assumed in the forward-looking statements. Prospective investors are cautioned not to unduly rely on
any such forward-looking statements.
Our future financial condition and results of operations, as well as any forward-looking statements, are subject
to inherent risks and uncertainties, including the following:
• risks relating to managing growth, particularly if accomplished through acquisitions, and the integration of acquired
businesses;
• risks relating to protecting our intellectual property;
• claims by third parties that we infringe their intellectual property rights, which could cause us to incur significant
legal or licensing expenses and prevent us from selling our products;
• greater scrutiny and regulation by governmental authorities, including risks relating to the subpoena we received
in October 2016 from the U.S. Department of Justice seeking information on our marketing and promotional
practices;
• risks relating to physicians’ use of our products in unapproved circumstances;
• FDA regulatory clearance processes and any failure to obtain and maintain required regulatory clearances and
•
approvals
international regulatory clearance processes and any failure to obtain and maintain required regulatory
clearances and approvals;
• disruption of our security of information technology systems to operate our business, our critical information
systems or a breach in the security of our systems;
the effect of evolving U.S. and international laws and regulations regarding privacy and data protection;
•
• uncertainties about when, how or if the United Kingdom will withdraw from the European Union;
• risks relating to significant adverse changes in, or our failure to comply, with governing regulations;
• restrictions and limitations in our debt agreements and instruments, which could affect our ability to operate our
business and our liquidity;
• uncertainties relating to the LIBOR calculation and potential phasing out of LIBOR after 2021;
• expending significant resources for research, development, testing and regulatory approval or clearance of our
products under development and any failure to develop the products, any failure of the products to be effective or
any failure to obtain approvals for commercial use;
• violations of laws targeting fraud and abuse in the healthcare industry;
• risks relating to healthcare legislation negatively affecting our financial results, business, operations or financial
•
•
condition;
loss of key personnel;
termination or interruption of, or a failure to monitor, our supply relationships or increases in the price of our
component parts, finished products, third-party services or raw materials, particularly petroleum-based products;
• product liability claims;
1
•
•
failure to report adverse medical events to the FDA or other governmental authorities, which may subject us to
sanctions that may materially harm our business;
failure to maintain or establish sales capabilities on our own or through third parties, which may result in our
inability to commercialize any of our products in countries where we lack direct sales and marketing capabilities;
• employees, independent contractors, consultants, manufacturers and distributors engaging in misconduct or
other improper activities, including noncompliance;
the addressable market for our product groups being smaller than our estimates;
•
• consolidation in the healthcare industry, group purchasing organizations or public procurement policies leading
to demands for price concessions;
• our inability to compete in markets, particularly if there is a significant change in relevant practices or technology;
•
•
•
• changes in general economic conditions, geopolitical conditions, U.S. trade policies and other factors beyond
fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates negatively impacting our financial results;
inability to accurately forecast customer demand for our products or manage our inventory;
International and national economic and industry conditions constantly changing;
•
•
our control;
failure to comply with export control laws, customs laws, sanctions laws and other laws governing our operations
in the U.S. and other countries, which could subject us to civil or criminal penalties, other remedial measures and
legal expenses;
inability to generate sufficient cash flow to fund our debt obligations, capital expenditures, and ongoing
operations;
• risks relating to our revenues being derived from a few products and medical procedures;
• risks relating to work stoppage, transportation interruptions, severe weather and natural disasters;
•
•
•
• volatility of the market price of our common stock and potential dilution from future equity offerings; and
• other factors referenced in our press releases and in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange
fluctuations in our effective tax rate adversely affecting our business, financial condition or results of operation;
limits on reimbursement imposed by governmental and other programs;
failure to comply with applicable environmental laws and regulations;
Commission (the “SEC”).
All subsequent forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly
qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. Our actual results will likely differ, and may differ materially,
from anticipated results. Financial estimates are subject to change and are not intended to be relied upon as
predictions of future operating results, and we assume no obligation to update or disclose revisions to those
estimates. If we do update or correct one or more forward-looking statements, investors and others should not
conclude that we will make additional updates or corrections. Additional factors that may have a direct bearing on our
operating results are described under Item 1A “Risk Factors” beginning on page 22.
DISCLOSURE REGARDING TRADEMARKS
This report includes trademarks, tradenames and service marks that are our property or the property of other
third parties. Solely for convenience, such trademarks and tradenames sometimes appear without any “™” or “®”
symbol. However, failure to include such symbols is not intended to suggest, in any way, that we will not assert our
rights or the rights of any applicable licensor, to these trademarks and tradenames.
Item 1. Business.
Our Company
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and marketer of proprietary disposable medical
devices used in interventional, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, particularly in cardiology, radiology, oncology,
critical care and endoscopy. We strive to be the most customer-focused company in healthcare. Each day we are
determined to make a difference by understanding our customers’ needs and innovating and delivering a diverse
range of products that improve the lives of people and communities throughout the world. We believe that long-term
value is created for our customers, employees, shareholders, and communities when we focus outward and are
determined to deliver an exceptional customer experience.
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. was founded in 1987 by Fred P. Lampropoulos, Kent W. Stanger, Darla Gill and
William Padilla. Initially we focused our operations on injection and insert molding of plastics. Our first product was a
specialized control syringe used to inject contrast solution into a patient's arteries for a diagnostic cardiac procedure
2
called an angiogram. Since that time, our sales and product lines have expanded substantially, both through internal
research and development projects and through strategic acquisitions.
Business Strategy
Our business strategy focuses on five target areas as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
enhancing global growth and profitability through research and development, sales model
optimization, cost discipline and operational focus;
optimizing our operational capability through lean processes, cost effective environments and
asset utilization;
targeting high-growth, high-return opportunities by understanding, innovating and delivering in our
core product groups;
maintaining a highly disciplined, customer-focused enterprise guided by strong core values to
globally address unmet or underserved healthcare needs, and
creating sustainability of our business for our employees, shareholders and community.
We conduct our operations through a number of domestic and foreign subsidiaries. Our principal offices are
located at 1600 West Merit Parkway, South Jordan, Utah, 84095, and our telephone number is (801) 253-1600. See
Item 2. “Properties.” We maintain an Internet website at www.merit.com.
Products
We design, develop, market and manufacture, through our own operations and contract manufacturers,
medical products that offer a high level of quality, value and safety to our customers, as well as the patients they
serve. Our products are used in the following clinical areas: diagnostic and interventional cardiology; interventional
radiology; neurointerventional radiology; vascular, general and thoracic surgery; electrophysiology; cardiac rhythm
management; interventional pulmonology; interventional nephrology; orthopaedic spine surgery; interventional
oncology; pain management; outpatient access centers; intensive care; computed tomography; ultrasound; and
interventional gastroenterology. During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, net sales generated
by our top ten selling products accounted for approximately 33%, 37% and 39%, respectively of our total net sales.
Sales of our inflation devices (including our Big60® device sold within our endoscopy segment and kits and packs
which include inflation devices, but also include other products) accounted for approximately 10.8%, 11.4% and
12.7% of our net sales for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
The success of our products is enhanced by the extensive experience of our management team in the
healthcare industry, our experienced direct sales force and distributors, our ability to provide custom procedural
solutions such as kits, trays and procedural packs at the request of our customers and our dedication to offering
facility-unique solutions in the markets we serve worldwide.
Our products are offered for sale in six core product groups: peripheral intervention, cardiac intervention,
cardiovascular and critical care, interventional oncology and spine, breast cancer localization and guidance, and
endoscopy. A number of our products are marketed within multiple product groups; accordingly, we do not maintain
separate measures of profitability by product group. Based on industry data and our internal market information, we
estimate that the addressable market opportunities (in terms of annual net sales), that we are targeting with our
current or newly released product portfolios, for each of our core product groups are as follows:
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•
•
•
•
•
Peripheral Intervention: $3.1 billion (global)
Cardiac Intervention: $1.8 billion (global)
Cardiovascular and Critical Care: $5.5 billion (global)
Interventional Oncology and Spine: $1.4 billion (global)
Breast Cancer Localization and Guidance: $1 billion (global)
Endoscopy: $484 million (U.S. domestic)
3
We currently conduct our business through two financial reporting segments: cardiovascular (which includes
our peripheral intervention, cardiac intervention, interventional oncology and spine, cardiovascular and critical care,
and breast cancer localization and guidance product groups) and endoscopy. For information relating to our business
segments, see Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8 of this report.
Peripheral Intervention
Our peripheral intervention products support the minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment of diseases in
peripheral vessels and organs throughout the body, excluding the heart. Our peripheral intervention product line is
organized into product portfolios as follows: Access, Angiography, Intervention, Drainage, Biopsy and Solutions. The
main products we offer under these portfolios are identified below.
We offer a broad line of medical devices used to gain and maintain vascular access. These products include
our micropuncture kits, angiographic needles, our family of Prelude® sheath introducers and a wide range of guide
wires and safety products. Additionally, we offer hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis catheters and grafts which
provide dialysis access options across a continuum of disease states. Our principal dialysis and graft offerings
include:
•
•
•
•
our HeRO® (Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow) Graft, a fully subcutaneous vascular access system, which is
intended for use in maintaining long-term vascular access for chronic hemodialysis patients,
our CentrosFLO® Long-Term Hemodialysis Catheter and ProGuide® Chronic Dialysis Catheter,
our peritoneal dialysis catheters, accessories and implantation kits, and
our Surfacer® Inside-Out® Access Catheter System, an innovative approach to restore access and to
preserve treatment options for hemodialysis patients with occluded veins. The Surfacer Inside-Out is sold
through our distribution agreement with BlueGrass Vascular Technologies.
Our angiography products are used to identify blockages and other disease states in the blood vessel. Our
angiography products include:
•
•
•
our extensive line of Merit Laureate® Hydrophilic Guide Wires, a smooth-surface guide wire designed to
minimize friction and promote rapid catheter exchanges,
our InQwire® Diagnostic Guide Wires and InQwire® Amplatz guide wires, and
our Performa® and Impress® Diagnostic Catheters, designed for traversing difficult to access peripheral
blood vessels.
Our intervention products are chiefly used to remove blood clots, retrieve foreign bodies in blood vessels and
assist with placing balloons and stents to treat arterial disease.
On May 18, 2018, we entered into a distribution agreement with QXMédical, LLC ("QXMédical") for the
exclusive global distribution rights to the Q50® PLUS Stent Graft Balloon Catheter. The Q50 PLUS is used in
abdominal and thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair procedures to repair abdominal aortic aneurysms and thoracic
aortic aneurysms.
On December 14, 2018 we acquired the intellectual property rights, inventory and certain other assets of
Vascular Insights, LLC ("Vascular Insights"). The primary assets are the ClariVein® IC and ClariVein OC specialty
infusion and occlusion catheter systems utilized in more than 120,000 cases to treat superficial venous disease,
particularly below the knee and in venous leg ulcers. In addition to our Q50 PLUS, ClariVein IC and ClariVein OC
specialty infusion and occlusion catheter systems, our intervention offerings include:
•
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•
•
•
our Advocate™ Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty ("PTA") Catheter and Dynamis AV™ PTA Dilatation
Catheter, used to correct failing or thrombosed dialysis fistulae,
our Fountain® Infusion System and Mistique® Infusion Catheters, used to treat arterial and hemodialysis
graft occlusions and deep vein thrombosis,
our low profile and standard ASAP® Aspiration Catheters, a safe and efficient catheter used to remove fresh,
soft emboli and thrombi from vessels,
our extensive line of EN Snare® and One Snare® Endovascular Snare Systems, snares designed to
manipulate, capture and retrieve foreign material in the body,
our line of inflations devices, including our basixTOUCH™ Inflation Device, BasixCompak™ Inflation Device
and Blue Diamond™ Digital Inflation Device, designed to accurately measure pressures during balloon and
stent deployment. and
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•
our new high-pressure basixTOUCH40™ Inflation Device, introduced in 2018, which features a quick-release
handle with a 40-atmosphere pressure capacity.
Our drainage products are used to drain fluids from body cavities to relieve pain and discomfort and lessen
trauma. On February 14, 2018, we expanded our drainage product line through our acquisition of the divestment
assets of Becton, Dickinson and Company ("BD") in connection with BD’s recently completed acquisition of C.R.
Bard, Inc. ("Bard") in which we acquired the Aspira® Pleural Effusion Drainage and Aspira® Peritoneal Drainage
Systems. The Aspira system provides a compassionate home treatment option for end-stage cancer patients with
malignant pleural effusion or malignant ascites, allowing patients to spend more time at home by eliminating the need
for frequent hospital visits to treat their symptoms. In the same acquisition, we acquired soft tissue core needle biopsy
products sold under the trade names Achieve® Programmable Automatic Biopsy System, Temno® Biopsy System
and Tru-Cut® Biopsy Needles.
In addition to our Aspira® products, we offer a broad line of drainage access products. Our drainage access
products include:
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•
our One-Step™ and Valved One-Step™ Drainage Catheters, sold individually and in kits, for emergency
drainage procedures, quickly removing unwanted fluid accumulation,
our ReSolve® Locking and Non-Locking Drainage Catheters, Resolve Biliary Catheter and related products
including tubing sets and drainage bags, and
our Revolution™ Catheter Securement Device and StayFIX® Fixation Device, used to stop migration,
movement and accidental removal of a percutaneous catheter.
In addition to the soft tissue core needle biopsy products we acquired from BD, our biopsy product offerings also
include:
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•
our innovative CorVocet® Biopsy System, introduced in 2018, for soft tissue biopsy procedures, designed to
cut a full-core of tissue, providing large specimens for pathological examination, and
our Madison™, Huntington™, Kensington™, Preston™ and Westbrook™ bone and spine biopsy products,
now fully launched in the U.S.
Our solutions products conveniently package an assortment of peripheral intervention products in trays,
packs and kits.
Cardiac Intervention Products
We manufacture and sell a variety of products designed to treat various heart conditions. Our cardiac
intervention product group is organized under the following product portfolios: Access, Angiography, Hemostasis,
Intervention, and Electrophysiology and Cardiac Rhythm Management. The main products we offer under these
portfolios are identified below.
Our cardiac intervention access products used to gain access to the heart include:
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our Merit Advance® needles, arm boards with radiation scatter protection, scalpels and guide wires, and
our family of Prelude Introducer Sheaths, for both radial and femoral access, features our new Prelude
Ideal™ Hydrophilic Sheath Introducer, introduced in 2018, an ultra-thin wall introducer sheath that provides
more room for the insertion of catheters and other devices in the radial artery.
Our angiography products identify blocked or narrowed coronary arteries and overlap with our peripheral
intervention angiography products. Our angiography product offerings include:
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•
our InQwire® Guide Wires and complete line of manifolds, syringes, and stopcocks,
our Performa® Diagnostic Catheter, known for its superior torque, high shaft strength for pushability and a
large inner diameter for improved flow rates; and
our MIV™ Radial Ventriculogram Pigtail Catheter, a catheter specifically designed for radial artery access.
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Our hemostasis products assist clinicians in obtaining and maintaining hemostasis or stopping the flow of
blood following arterial catheterization. Our cardiac intervention hemostasis product offerings include:
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our SafeGuard Pressure Assisted Device and Safeguard Radial Compression Device, a comfortable
hemostasis device which delivers adjustable active compression and enables immediate pressure
adjustment and
our new and innovative PreludeSYNC™ Hemostasis Device and PreludeSYNC Distal, introduced in early
2019, a comfortable hemostasis device with colorful band designs.
Our cardiac intervention products for coronary catheterization procedures include:
our new FLO40XR™ and FLO50™ Hemostasis Valves, introduced in 2018, and our full line of hemostasis
valves including the MAP™ Merit Angioplasty Packs, Honor®, PhD™, AccessPLUS™, Access-9™,
DoublePlay™, MBA™ and the Passage®,
our new basixTAU™ Inflation Device, introduced in 2018, which features a fold-out handle, reducing
physician fatigue by reducing the rotational force applied by physicians when performing multiple inflation
procedures, along with our legacy inflation devices, including our BasixCompak™, Blue Diamond™ and
BasixTouch™,
our pericardiocentesis kits, which combines the necessary medical devices for pericardial drainage
procedures,
our Ostial PRO® Stent Positioning System, a stent alignment tool for precise stent implantation in aorto-ostial
lesions,
our ConcierGE® Guiding Catheters with a large inner lumen and soft tip used to gain access to the heart,
and
our Merit SureCross® Support Catheters, support catheters used to reach and cross tight, difficult lesions.
Cardiac rhythm management (“CRM”) is the field of cardiac disease therapy that relates to the diagnosis and
treatment of cardiac arrhythmias or the improper beating of the heart. Electrophysiology is the study of diagnosing
and treating abnormal electrical activities of the heart. We offer innovative solutions in the rapidly-expanding cardiac
rhythm management and electrophysiology markets including:
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•
our Worley™ Advanced LV Delivery System, used to aid in the insertion and implantation of left ventricular
pacing leads, shown to reduce lead implant failures, improve target lead location and reduce procedure times,
our HeartSpan® Transseptal Needle, for left-heart access procedures, exceptionally responsive with
transparent handle allowing direct visualization, and
our newest generation HeartSpan® Steerable Sheath Introducer, introduced in 2018, featuring a neutral
position indicator and tactile click to help physicians identify curve orientation.
Cardiovascular and Critical Care
Our cardiovascular and critical care products treat patients with life-threatening diseases, protect healthcare
providers from exposure to bloodborne pathogens and provide medical devices designed for efficiency and
effectiveness, improving a patient's experience, while simplifying the challenges of clinical care.
Our cardiovascular product offering includes:
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our DualCap® Disinfection Protection System, which protects and disinfects needleless valves
with isopropyl alcohol, designed to reduce healthcare-associated infections in hospitals,
our Medallion® Syringes, a medication syringe, available in assorted colors for easy medication
identification,
our Pen and Label Medication Labeling Systems, for labeling syringes, bowls and other medical containers,
our ShortStop® Temporary Sharps Holders, to hold needles and prevent accidental needlestick injuries to
hospital staff, and
our family of BackStop® Disposable Basins, for holding contaminated fluid waste, for safe and quick waste
elimination.
6
Blood pressure monitoring products are vital to critical care. Our extensive portfolio of monitoring devices
and fluid management devices provide valuable information to physicians to assist and accelerate patient recovery,
which include:
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our Meritrans DTXPLUS® Pressure Transducers, used to identify a patient's blood pressure and
cardiovascular status,
our Safedraw® Closed Arterial Blood Sampling System, for easy blood sampling, which reduces
unnecessary blood discard,
our RadialFlo™ Arterial Catheter, introduced in 2018, which controls blood flow with an integral switch and
is silicone-coated for smooth insertion,
our TRAM® Manifolds with an integral pressure transducer to measure blood pressures, and
our Careflow® Central Venous and Arterial Catheters for high flow rate infusions.
Interventional Oncology and Spine
Our interventional oncology and spine products treat vertebral compression fractures, metastatic spinal
tumors, liver cancer, uterine fibroids, benign prostatic hyperplasia, arteriovenous malformations and hemostatic
embolization for certain markets outside of the U.S. Our interventional oncology and spine product line is organized
into product portfolios as follows: Delivery Systems, Embolotherapy, Spine Ablation and Vertebral Compression
Fracture. The main products we offer under these portfolios are identified below.
Our delivery systems portfolio includes a variety of microcatheters and guide wires for targeted access,
control and selective infusion of diagnostic, embolic, or therapeutic agents into vessels. Our interventional oncology
delivery systems include:
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•
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•
our new Merit Pursue™ Microcatheter, introduced in 2018, a small microcatheter designed for pushability
and trackability through small and tortuous vessels,
our SwiftNINJA® Steerable Microcatheter, an advanced microcatheter with a 180-degree articulating tip, sold
through our exclusive worldwide distribution agreement (excluding Japan) with Sumitomo Bakelite Co., Ltd.,
our Merit Maestro® Microcatheter, designed for small vessels, providing reliable embolization,
our True Form™ Reshapable Guide Wire, which can be shaped and reshaped multiple times, reducing the
need for multiple guide wires, and
our Tenor® Steerable Guide Wire, which facilitates navigation in challenging anatomy during embolic
procedures.
Our embolotherapy products treat disease by blocking or slowing the flow of blood into the arteries or
delivering chemotherapy drugs in the treatment of primary and metastatic liver cancer. In 2017, we received FDA
approval for prostatic artery embolization ("PAE") providing a non-surgical treatment option for millions of men who
suffer from BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia. Our embolotherapy products include:
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our Embosphere® Microspheres, a highly studied, round embolic for consistent and predictable results,
our new EmboCube™, introduced in 2018, a pre-loaded syringe filled with gelatin foam which speeds up
procedure preparation,
our Bearing nsPVA® Embolization Particles, non-spherical embolic particles,
our QuadraSphere® Microspheres, a precisely calibrated embolic for controlled, targeted embolization, and
our HepaSphere™ Microspheres, offered outside of the U.S., for the treatment of primary and metastatic
liver cancer.
Our spine systems are used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures caused by osteoporosis or
cancer by injecting a bone cement through a small hole in the skin into a fractured vertebra. Our vertebral
compression fracture products include:
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our StabiliT® Vertebral Augmentation System, which treats pathological fractures by delivering bone cement
with a consistent viscosity using radio-frequency energy,
our StabiliT MX Vertebral Augmentation System, using our industry-leading inflation devices to deliver bone
cement,
our StabiliT VP Vertebroplasty System, which combines a simple cement preparation and controlled delivery
of high-viscosity cement, and
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our Osseoflex® products, which are part of our unique brand of directional devices that allow users to
navigate and target specific anatomy within the spine. Our Osseoflex products include access kits, steerable
needles, steerable and straight balloons, as well as cement mixing and delivery systems.
Our tumor ablation portfolio is represented by the STAR™ Tumor Ablation System. The STAR system is
designed to provide palliative treatment of painful metastatic spinal tumors in cancer patients by targeted
radiofrequency ablation.
Cianna Medical
On November 13, 2018, we completed the acquisition of Cianna Medical, Inc. ("Cianna Medical"), a privately
held company dedicated to the innovative treatment of early-stage breast cancer. Following the Cianna Medical
acquisition, we began selling our SAVI® Brachytherapy Breast Radiation and our SAVI SCOUT® Radar Localization
System , a wire-free breast tumor localization system, designed to produce audible and visual indicators surgeons
can use to mark cancerous tissue during lumpectomy and biopsy procedures.
Endoscopy
Our endoscopy division, Merit Endotek™, markets products for gastrointestinal and pulmonary conditions.
On April 6, 2018 our endoscopy product offering was expanded to include the NvisionVLE® Imaging System through
a worldwide distribution agreement with NinePoint Medical, Inc. This innovative system uses an optical signal
acquisition and processing method to create high-resolution cross-sectional images and mark tissue visible under
white light endoscopy, designed to help clinicians evaluate 100% of the tissue allowing targeted biopsies in the
esophagus.
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We offer a variety of non-vascular stents to treat pulmonary and gastrointestinal disease including:
our AERO®, AEROmini® and AERO DV® Fully Covered Tracheobronchial Stents, for the treatment of
tracheobronchial strictures produced by malignant neoplasms,
our Alimaxx-ES™ and EndoMAXX®, Fully Covered Esophageal Stents, intended for maintaining esophageal
luminal patency in esophageal strictures caused by intrinsic and/or extrinsic malignant tumors and for
occlusion of esophageal fistulae, and
our Alimaxx-B® biliary stent systems, intended for the palliation of malignant strictures in the biliary tree.
We offer dilation balloons to endoscopically dilate strictures. Our balloon dilators products include:
our Elation® Fixed Wire and Wire Guided Balloon Dilators, intended for use in the alimentary tract,
our newly-added Elation Pulmonary Balloon Dilator, for the dilation of strictures of the trachea and bronchi,
and
our BIG60® Inflation Device, a 60-mL syringe and gauge designed to inflate and deflate non-vascular balloon
dilators while monitoring and displaying inflation pressures up to 12 atmospheres.
We also offer a variety of kits and accessories for endoscopy and bronchoscopy procedures, including:
our MAXXWIRE™ Guide Wire, used to position catheters and other interventional devices within the
gastrointestinal tract and the tracheobronchial tree,
our Brighton® Bipolar Probe, used to provide hemostasis throughout the gastrointestinal tract,
our BiliQUICK™ Cholangiography Rapid Refill Continuous Injection Kit, a combination kit designed to deliver
contrast media quickly and efficiently,
our TIO™ Three-in-One, a combination oral airway, bite block and oxygen administration device,
our BAL (bronchoalveolar lavage) Convenience Kit™, designed to save time and improve specimen quality
during bronchoalveolar lavage procedures, and
our Aspira® Drainage System, acquired from BD, sold in partnership with our peripheral intervention sales
team.
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Specialty Procedure Products
We provide coating services for medical tubes and wires under original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”)
brands in addition to many of the products identified above. We offer coated tubes and wires to customers on a spool
or as further manufactured components like hypotubes, guide wire components, coated mandrels/stylets and coated
needles. We operate a hypotube manufacturing facility in Galway, Ireland, which provides advanced laser cutting
and ablation, passivation, cleaning and other hypotube manufacturing processes.
Customers and clinicians often have unique needs when performing procedures, and we work closely with
customers to create standard and customized trays, packs, and kits to enable clinicians to more effectively perform
clinical procedures.
We also manufacture and sell microelectromechanical systems sensor components consisting of
piezoresistive pressure sensors in various forms, including bare silicon die, die mounted on ceramic substrates, and
fully calibrated components for numerous applications both inside and outside the healthcare industry.
Marketing and Sales
Target Market/Industry. Our principal target markets are peripheral intervention, cardiac intervention,
interventional oncology, critical care and endoscopy. Within these markets our products are used in the following
clinical areas: diagnostic and interventional cardiology; interventional radiology; neurointerventional radiology;
vascular, general and thoracic surgery; electrophysiology; cardiac rhythm management; interventional pulmonology;
interventional nephrology; orthopedic spine surgery; interventional oncology; pain management; breast cancer
surgery, outpatient access centers; intensive care; computed tomography; ultrasound and interventional
gastroenterology.
According to U.S. government statistics, cardiovascular disease continues to be a leading cause of death
and a significant health problem in the U.S. Treatment options range from dietary changes to surgery, depending on
the nature of the specific disease or disorder. Endovascular techniques, including angioplasty, stenting and
endoluminal stent grafts, continue to represent important therapeutic options for the treatment of vascular disease.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and is the second leading cause of cancer death
among women. We derive a large percentage of our revenues from sales of products used during percutaneous
diagnostic and interventional procedures such as angiography, angioplasty and stent placement, and we intend to
pursue additional sales growth by building on our existing market position in both core technology and accessory
products.
Marketing Strategy. As part of our product sales and marketing efforts, we attend major medical conventions
throughout the world pertaining to our target markets and invest in market development including physician training,
peer-to-peer education, and patient outreach. We work closely with major healthcare facilities and physicians
involving our primary target markets in the areas of training, therapy awareness programs, clinical studies and
ongoing research.
In general, our target markets are characterized by rapid change resulting from technological advances and
scientific discoveries. We plan to continue to develop and launch innovative products to support clinical trends and
to address the increasing demands of these markets.
Product Development Strategy. Our product development is focused on identifying and introducing a
regular flow of profitable products that meet customer needs. To stay abreast of customer needs, we frequently seek
suggestions from health care professionals working in the fields of medicine in which we offer, or are developing,
products. Suggestions for new products and product improvements may also come from engineers, marketing and
sales personnel, physicians and technicians who perform clinical procedures.
When we believe that a product suggestion demonstrates a sustainable competitive advantage, meets
customer needs, fits strategically and technologically with our business and has a good potential financial return, we
generally assemble a “project team” comprised of individuals from our sales, marketing, engineering, manufacturing,
legal and quality assurance departments. This team works to identify the customer requirements, integrate the design,
compile necessary documentation and testing, and prepare the product for market introduction. We believe that one
of our marketing strengths is our capacity to conceive, design, develop and introduce new products.
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U.S. and International Sales. Sales of our products in the U.S. accounted for approximately 56%, 58% and
61% of our net sales for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. In the U.S., we have a
dedicated, direct sales organization primarily focused on selling to end-user physicians, hospitals and clinics, major
buying groups and integrated healthcare networks.
Internationally, we employ sales representatives and contract with independent dealer organizations and
custom procedure tray manufacturers to distribute our products worldwide, including territories in Europe, the Middle
East, Africa, Asia, Oceania, Central and South America and Canada. In 2018, our international sales grew
approximately 26% over our 2017 international sales, and accounted for approximately 44% of our net sales. China
represents our most significant international sales market with net sales of approximately $92.7 million, $73.4 million,
and $59.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. With the recent and planned
additions to our product lines, we believe our international sales will continue to increase.
Our largest non-U.S. market is China, which represented approximately 10.5% of our net sales in 2018. We
maintain a distribution center and administrative office in Beijing. We also have small sales offices in Shanghai,
Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. We sell our products through more than 500 distributors in mainland China, who are
responsible for reselling the products, primarily to hospitals. We employ sales personnel throughout China who work
with our distributors to promote the clinical advantages of our products to clinicians and other decision makers at
hospitals. Under this “modified direct” sales approach, our salespeople are involved with promoting the advantages
of our products to clinicians and other customers, while the distributors handle sales transactions and address issues
related to fulfillment and inventory management. With respect to our business activities in the rest of the Asia-Pacific
region, in 2018 we continued to increase our sales presence and related new business development activities.
In Europe, the Middle East and Africa, we have both direct and modified direct sales operations. Our
corporate sales operations are active throughout the region, including the largest markets of the UK, France,
Germany, Russia and Turkey.
Our direct sales personnel are principally engaged in each of our product groups. Marketing teams
responsible for each product group operate clinical education programs, often directed by leading subject matter
personnel, who provide technical instruction on techniques and therapies to physicians, nurses and technologists.
We are currently conducting education programs specific to radial access, spinal intervention, surgical grafts and
electrophysiology.
We require our international dealers to store products and sell directly to customers within defined sales
territories. Each of our products must be approved for sale under the laws of the country in which it is sold.
International dealers are responsible for compliance with applicable anti-bribery laws, such as the U.S. Foreign
Corrupt Practices Act, as well as all applicable laws and regulations in their respective countries.
In Australia and Canada, we have both a direct sales force and distributors and we operate distribution
centers in those countries. In connection with our acquisition of the critical care division of Argon, we have
implemented a modified direct sales approach (similar to the approach we are pursuing in China) to market and sell
the majority of our products in Japan.
We consider training to be a critical factor in the success of our sales force. Members of our sales force are
trained by our clinical marketers, our staff professionals, consulting physicians, and senior field trainers in their
respective territories.
OEM Sales. Our global OEM division sells components and finished devices, including molded components,
sub-assembled goods, custom kits and bulk non-sterile goods, to medical device manufacturers. These products
may be combined with other components and products from other companies and sold under a Merit or customer
label. Products sold by our OEM division can be customized and enhanced to customer specifications, including
packaging, labeling and a variety of physical modifications. Our OEM division serves customers with a staff of regional
sales representatives based in the U.S., Europe and Asia, and a dedicated OEM Engineering and Customer Service
Group.
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Customers
We provide products to hospitals and clinic-based physicians, technicians and nurses. Hospitals and acute
care facilities in the U.S. purchase our products through our direct sales force, distributors, OEM partners, or custom
procedure tray manufacturers who assemble and combine our products in custom kits and packs. Outside the U.S.,
hospitals and acute care facilities generally purchase our products through our direct sales force, or, in the absence
of a sales force, through independent distributors or OEM partners.
In 2018, 38% of our net sales to U.S. hospitals and clinics were derived through our direct sales force and
approximately 8% of our net sales through other channels, such as U.S. custom procedure tray manufacturers and
distributors. We also sell products to other medical device companies through our U.S. OEM sales force, which
accounted for approximately 10% of our 2018 net sales. The remaining 44% of our 2018 net sales was attributable
to sales made to international markets by our direct sales force, international distributors, and our OEM sales force.
Sales to our largest customer accounted for approximately 2%, 2% and 3% of net sales during the years ended
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Research and Development
Our research and development operations have been central to our historical growth, and we believe they
will be critical to our continued growth. In 2018, our commitment to innovation led to the introduction of several new
products, improvements to our existing products and expansion of our product lines, as well as enhancements and
new equipment in our research and development facilities.
We continue to develop new products and make improvements to our existing products utilizing many
different sources. Our Chief Executive Officer and our Executive Vice President of Global Research & Development
work closely with our sales and marketing teams to incorporate feedback from physicians and clinicians in the field,
which can lead to innovative new products and improvements to our existing products.
Currently, we have research and development facilities in:
Jackson Township, New Jersey
• Aliso Viejo and San Jose, California
• Dallas and Pearland, Texas
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• Malvern, Pennsylvania
• South Jordan and West Jordan, Utah
• Galway, Ireland
• Paris, France
• Singapore
• Tijuana, Mexico
• Venlo, The Netherlands
Manufacturing
We manufacture many of our products utilizing our proprietary technology and our expertise in plastic
injection and insert molding. We generally contract with third parties for the tooling of our molds, but we design and
own most of our molds. We utilize our experience in injection and insert molding technologies in the manufacture of
most of the custom components used in our products. We have received International Standards Organization (“ISO”)
13485:2016 certification for our facilities in California, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Ireland, France, Mexico, The
Netherlands and Singapore. We have also received ISO 9001:2015 certification for our coatings facility in Venlo, The
Netherlands and our Merit Sensor Systems, Inc. (“Merit Sensors”) facility in South Jordan, Utah. Merit Sensors
develops and markets silicon pressure sensors and presently supplies a substantial portion of the sensors we utilize
in our digital inflation devices and blood pressure sensors.
Given the specialization of our manufacturing personnel and processes in our Utah and Ireland facilities, we
possess the capability to strategically shift the manufacture of more technologically advanced products to those
facilities and utilize the manufacturing capacity of our other facilities for more commoditized products. The actual
determination of manufacturing location will be based upon multiple factors, including technological capabilities,
market demand, acquisition and integration activities and economic and competitive conditions.
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We currently produce and package all of our embolic products. Manufacturing of our embolic products
includes the synthesis and processing of raw materials and third-party manufactured compounds.
We have packaging and manufacturing facilities located in Chester, Virginia; Galway, Ireland; Joinville, Brazil;
Malvern, Pennsylvania; Melbourne, Australia; Paris, France; Pearland, Texas; Singapore; South Jordan and West
Jordan, Utah; Tijuana, Mexico; and Venlo, The Netherlands. See Item 2. “Properties.”
We have distribution centers located in Auckland, New Zealand; Bangalore, India; Beijing and Hong Kong,
China; Chester, Virginia; Johannesburg, South Africa; Joinville, Brazil; Maastricht, The Netherlands; Malvern,
Pennsylvania; Melbourne, Australia; Toronto, Canada; Podolsk, Russia; Seoul, South Korea; South Jordan, Utah;
Tijuana, Mexico; and Tokyo, Japan. Additionally, in early 2019 we opened a distribution center in London, United
Kingdom.
We believe that our variety of suppliers for raw materials and components necessary for the manufacture of
our products, as well as our long-term relationships with such suppliers, promote stability in our manufacturing
processes. Historically, we have not been materially affected by interruptions with such suppliers; however, we are
experiencing a growing trend from suppliers of polymer resins to refuse to supply resin to medical device
manufacturers or require that we assume additional risks due to the potential for product liability claims. We seek to
develop and have relationships with potential back-up suppliers for materials and components in the event of supply
interruptions. Additionally, there are a limited number of third parties that supply sterilization services for our medical
devices. There are no assurances that we will not experience supply or sterilization service disruptions in the future.
If we are unable to obtain raw materials or sterilization services, we may have to suspend product manufacturing
which could materially harm our ability to meet customer demand.
Competition
The medical products industry is highly competitive. Many of our competitors are much larger than us and
have access to greater resources. We also compete with smaller companies that sell single or limited numbers of
products in specific product lines or geographies. We compete globally in several market areas, including diagnostic
and interventional cardiology; interventional radiology; neurointerventional radiology; vascular, general and thoracic
surgery; electrophysiology; cardiac rhythm management; interventional pulmonology; interventional nephrology;
orthopedic spine surgery; interventional oncology; pain management; outpatient access centers; intensive care;
computed tomography; ultrasound; and interventional gastroenterology.
The principal competitive factors in the markets in which our products are sold are quality, price, value, device
features, customer service, breadth of line, and customer relationships. We believe our products have achieved
market acceptance primarily due to the quality of materials and workmanship of our products, clinical outcomes, their
innovative design, our willingness to customize our products to fit customer needs, and our prompt attention to
customer requests. Our products are priced competitively, but generally not below prices for competing products.
Some of our primary competitive strengths are our relative stability in the marketplace; a comprehensive, broad line
of ancillary products; and our history of introducing a variety of new products and product line extensions to the
market on a regular basis.
In the interventional cardiology, interventional radiology, gastroenterology, endoscopy, general surgery,
thoracic surgery and pulmonology markets we compete with large international, multi-divisional medical supply
companies such as Cordis Corporation (a Cardinal Health company); Boston Scientific Corporation ("Boston
Scientific") (including the operations previously conducted by BTG plc); Medtronic plc ("Medtronic"); Abbott
Laboratories; Teleflex Incorporated; Becton, Dickinson and Company ("BD"); Cook Medical Incorporated ("Cook
Medical"); Guerbet Company; Stryker Corporation ("Stryker"); 3M Company; ICU Medical, Inc. and Terumo
Corporation ("Terumo"). Medium-size companies we compete with include B. Braun Melsungen AG; UreSil LLC;
Olympus Corporation; Edwards Lifesciences; Argon Medical Devices, Inc.; ConMed Corporation; AngioDynamics,
Inc.; Medical Components, Inc. and U.S. Endoscopy.
Within the breast cancer therapy space, we believe we are a market leader in the U.S. in wire-free breast
tumor localization. Currently, we compete with Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH and Hologic, Inc.
Based on available industry data, with respect to the number of procedures performed, we believe we are a
leading provider of digital inflation technology in the world. In addition, we believe we are one of the market leaders
in the U.S. for analog inflation devices. We believe we are a market leader in the U.S. for control syringes, waste-
disposal systems, tubing and manifolds. Although we believe our recent and planned additions to these product lines
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will help us compete even more effectively in both the U.S. and international markets, we cannot give any assurance
that we will be able to maintain our existing competitive advantages or compete successfully in the future.
We derive a substantial majority of our revenues from sales of products used in diagnostic angiography,
interventional cardiology and radiology procedures. We believe medical professionals are starting to use new
interventional methods, procedures and devices, as well as drugs, for the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular
disease. These new methods, procedures, devices and drugs may render some of our products obsolete or limit the
markets for our products. However, with the advent of our vascular stents and other procedures, we have experienced
continued growth in sales of our products.
In the vertebral augmentation market, our main competitors are Medtronic and Stryker. Both Medtronic and
Stryker offer products to treat vertebral compression fractures, but only Medtronic offers products to treat metastatic
spine tumors.
Within the field of uterine fibroid embolization ("UFE") and PAE, we believe we are a market share leader.
Based on both research and clinical studies conducted on our product for UFE and PAE, we believe we offer
physicians consistent and predictable product performance, ease of use, targeted delivery, and durable vessel
occlusion, and therefore satisfactory short- and long-term clinical outcomes validated by peer-reviewed publications,
when compared to our competitors.
Our primary embolotherapy product has been Embosphere Microspheres. In the microsphere and embolic
particle market we compete with Boston Scientific (including the operations previously conducted by BTG plc); Cook
Medical; Terumo; and Pfizer Inc.
Proprietary Rights and Litigation
We rely on a combination of patents, trade secrets, trademarks, copyrights and confidentiality agreements
to protect our intellectual property. We have a number of U.S. and foreign-issued patents and pending patent
applications, including patents and rights to patent applications acquired through strategic transactions, which relate
to various aspects of our products and technology. The duration of our patents is determined by the laws of the
country of issuance and, for the U.S., is typically 20 years from the date of filing of the patent application. As of
December 31, 2018, we owned or had a license to more than 1,500 U.S. and international patents and patent
applications. Additionally, we hold exclusive and non-exclusive licenses to a variety of third-party technologies
covered by patents and patent applications. In the aggregate, our intellectual property assets are critical to our
business, but no single patent, trademark or other intellectual property asset is of material importance to our business.
The Merit® name and logo are trademarks in the U.S. and other countries. In addition to the Merit name and
logo, we have used, registered or applied for registration of other specific trademarks and service marks to help
distinguish our products, technologies and services from those of our competitors in the U.S. and foreign
countries. See “Products” above. The duration of our trademark registrations varies from country to country; in the
U.S. we generally can maintain our trademark rights and renew any trademark registrations for as long as the
trademarks are in use. As of December 31, 2018, we owned over 400 U.S. and foreign trademark registrations and
trademark applications.
There is substantial litigation regarding patents and other intellectual property rights in the medical device
industry. At any given time, we may be involved as either a plaintiff or a defendant, as well as a counter-claimant or
counter-defendant, in patent, trademark, and other intellectual property infringement actions. If a court rules against
us in any intellectual property litigation we could be subject to significant liabilities, be forced to seek licenses from
third parties, or be prevented from marketing certain products. In addition, intellectual property litigation is costly and
may consume significant time of employees and management.
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Regulation
U.S. Regulation. The Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and other federal, state and local authorities
regulate our products and product-related activities. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (“FDCA”) and
accompanying regulations, the FDA regulates the design, development, clinical trials, testing, manufacture,
packaging, labeling, storage, distribution and promotion of medical devices. We believe our products and procedures
are in material compliance with all applicable FDA regulations, but the regulations are subject to change. We cannot
predict the effect, if any, that these changes may have on our business. In addition, if we experience regulatory
problems with a product or manufacturer, we could become subject to fines, delays or suspensions of regulatory
clearances, seizures or recalls of products, operating restrictions, and criminal prosecution. Such actions could have
a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
In October 2016, we received a subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice seeking information on certain
of our marketing and promotional practices. We are in the process of responding to the subpoena, which we anticipate
will continue during 2019. The investigation is ongoing and at this time we are unable to predict its scope, duration
or outcome. Investigations such as this may result in the imposition of, among other things, significant damages,
injunctions, fines or civil or criminal claims or penalties against our company or individuals.
Overview of the FDA Regulation of Devices. The FDCA establishes a risk-based classification system for
medical devices and applies regulatory controls commensurate with the risk posed by a device:
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Class I devices are those for which safety and effectiveness can be reasonably assured by adherence to the
FDA’s general regulatory controls, which include compliance with the applicable portions of the FDA’s Quality
System Regulations (QSRs), facility registration and product listing, reporting of certain adverse medical
events and malfunctions, and compliance with the FDA’s restrictions against misbranding and adulteration.
While most Class I devices are exempt from the 510(k) premarket notification process (assuming they are
within the limitations of the exemption), some Class I devices also require 510(k) clearance by the FDA.
Class II devices are subject to the FDA’s general controls, including the design control requirements of the
QSRs, and any other special controls deemed necessary by the FDA to provide reasonable assurance of the
safety and effectiveness of the device. While most Class II devices require premarket review and clearance
by the FDA through the 510(k) premarket notification procedure, some Class II devices are exempt from the
510(k) premarket notification process (assuming they are within the limitations of the exemption).
Class III devices are those deemed by the FDA to pose the greatest risk, such as life-sustaining, life-
supporting or implantable devices, or those devices deemed not substantially equivalent to a legally marketed
predicate device. Class III devices include those devices for which the FDA has determined that general and
special controls alone are insufficient to assure the safety and effectiveness of the device.
FDA Premarket Review. In general, we cannot introduce a new medical device into the market until we
obtain market clearance through a 510(k) premarket notification or approval through a premarket approval (“PMA”)
application. Some devices, typically lower-risk devices, are subject to specific exemptions from premarket review. In
addition, in limited cases, devices may come to the market through alternative procedures, such as a de novo
classification request or humanitarian device exemption.
To obtain 510(k) clearance, a device manufacturer must submit a premarket notification to the FDA
demonstrating that the device is substantially equivalent to another legally marketed predicate device. A predicate
device is a device that has been cleared through the 510(k) process; a device that was legally marketed prior to May
28, 1976; a device that has been down-classified by the FDA to Class I or Class II; or a device that the FDA has
previously determined to be exempt from the 510(k) process. To be substantially equivalent, the notification must
show that the new device has the same intended use and the same technology as the predicate device, or, if the new
device has different technology, that the device is as safe and effective as the predicate device and does not raise
different questions of safety and effectiveness. Performance testing is generally required to demonstrate substantial
equivalence, and, for some devices, clinical data may be required. The standards and data requirements necessary
for the clearance of a new device may be unclear or may be subject to change. In addition, the FDA may publish or
adopt special controls it deems necessary to provide a reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness of a
device, which might include standards for the testing and clearance of a new device. The 510(k) clearance procedure
usually takes between three months and one year from the date a 510(k) notification is submitted, but it may take
longer. The FDA may find that substantial equivalence has not been shown and, as a result, require additional clinical
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or non-clinical testing to support a 510(k) or require the submission of a de novo classification request or PMA
application for the device.
A de novo classification is an alternate pathway to classify novel devices that are low to moderate risk but
for which no substantially equivalent predicate device exists. Clearance of a de novo request generally takes six
months to one year from the time of submission of the de novo request, although it can take longer.
A PMA application is required for Class III devices. The application must demonstrate that there is reasonable
assurance that the device is safe and effective for its intended use based on valid scientific evidence. The PMA
application process can be expensive, generally takes several years to complete and typically includes, among other
things, human clinical trials, manufacturing facility inspection, bench tests and laboratory and animal studies, which
can be costly to conduct. There is also a substantial “user fee” that must be paid to the FDA in connection with the
submission of each PMA application. The FDA may determine that additional information, including clinical data, be
submitted before a determination is made, which could significantly delay the introduction of new devices. If the FDA
approves the PMA application, it may place restrictions on the device. If the FDA's evaluation of the PMA application
is not favorable, the FDA may deny approval of the PMA application or issue a “not approvable” letter. The FDA may
also require additional testing or clinical trials prior to approval or as a condition of approval.
If human clinical trials of a medical device are required for FDA clearance or approval and the device presents
a significant risk, the sponsor of the trial must file an investigational device exemption (“IDE”) application with the
FDA prior to commencing human clinical trials in the USA. Submission of an IDE application does not ensure that the
FDA will issue the IDE. If the IDE application is approved, there can be no assurance the FDA will determine that the
data derived from the trials support the safety and effectiveness of the device or warrant the continuation of clinical
trials. An IDE supplement must be approved by the FDA before a sponsor or investigator may make a change to the
investigational plan in such a way that may affect its scientific soundness, study indication or the rights, safety or
welfare of human subjects. For clinical trials involving a device that does not present a significant risk, the sponsor is
not required to obtain approval of an IDE, but the sponsor must obtain the review and approval of an institutional
review board. Both significant risk and non-significant risk trials are subject to additional FDA regulations, including
a requirement to obtain informed consent and reporting and recordkeeping requirements. We, the FDA, or the
institutional review board, may suspend a clinical trial at any time for various reasons, including a belief that the risks
to study subjects outweigh the anticipated benefits.
The FDA clearance and approval processes for medical devices are expensive, uncertain and lengthy. There
can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain necessary regulatory clearances or approvals for any product on
a timely basis or at all. Delays in receipt of or failure to receive such clearances or approvals, the loss of previously
received clearances or approvals, or the failure to comply with existing or future regulatory requirements could have
a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. In addition, if the FDA discovers
that an applicant has submitted false or misleading information, the FDA may refuse to review submissions until
certain requirements are met pursuant to its Application Integrity Policy, which specifies procedures that the FDA
personnel should follow to ensure the integrity of data and information in applications submitted for FDA review and
approval.
Clinical Trials. We conduct clinical trials to obtain PMA approval or 510(k) clearance from the FDA and to
obtain CE Marking approval and other international equivalents. In order for us to obtain the desired regulatory
approvals, we will need to complete the trial(s) and submit positive clinical data to the regulatory authority. If we
cannot enroll study subjects in sufficient numbers to complete the necessary studies, if there is a disruption in the
supply of materials for the trials, if there is a change in the standard of care or available competing therapies, or
depending on other factors, we will likely not be able to complete the trial(s). Even if we complete the clinical trial(s),
the regulatory authority may require us to undertake additional testing, or the trial results may not be sufficient to
obtain regulatory approval for other reasons, including inconclusive or negative results of our trials or those conducted
by our competitors or other third parties. If we do not obtain regulatory authority approval of the product use claimed
in a clinical trial, we will not be able to sell, distribute or promote the subject product for the indicated treatment of the
specific disease or condition.
Changes in Cleared or Approved Devices. Certain modifications to our marketed devices, including certain
manufacturing changes, product enhancements and product line extensions, require new 510(k) clearance or
approval of a PMA supplement. For devices marketed under an approved PMA, we must submit a PMA supplement
to the FDA for review and approval prior to making a change to the device that affects the safety or effectiveness of
the device, including changes to the design, manufacturing or labeling of the device. Likewise, for 510(k)-cleared
devices, we must obtain new FDA 510(k) clearance when there is a major change or modification in the intended use
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or indications for use or a change or modification of the device that could significantly affect the safety or effectiveness
of the device. In some cases, clinical data may be required to support a PMA supplement or 510(k) premarket
notification for a device modification. The FDA may determine that a modified device is not substantially equivalent
to the marketed device or may require that additional information, including clinical data, be submitted before a
determination is made, either of which could significantly delay the introduction of modified devices.
Foreign jurisdictions have similar requirements that necessitate submission and review when changes are
made to currently available devices, including product line extensions. These requirements vary between regions
and are subject to ongoing change by their respective regulatory bodies. Prior review and approval in these regions
may be required prior to making a change to the device that affects the safety or effectiveness of the device, including
changes to the design, manufacturing or labeling of the device. In some cases, clinical data may be required. The
process to obtain approval of a modified devices could significantly delay its introduction.
Quality System Requirements. The FDCA requires us to comply with the Quality System Regulation
(“QSR”) and various foreign regulations require compliance with ISO 13485 or national law requirements pertaining
to all aspects of our product design and manufacturing processes, including requirements for packaging, labeling,
record keeping, personnel training, supplier qualification, design controls, complaint handling, corrective and
preventive actions and internal quality system auditing. The FDA and foreign regulators enforce these requirements
through periodic inspections of medical device manufacturers. These requirements are complex, technical and
require substantial resources to remain compliant. Our failure or the failure of our suppliers to maintain compliance
with these requirements could result in the shutdown of our manufacturing operations or the recall of our products,
which would have a material adverse effect on our business. If one of our suppliers fails to maintain compliance with
our quality requirements, we may have to qualify a new supplier and could experience manufacturing delays as a
result. We also could be subject to injunctions, product seizures, or civil or criminal penalties.
Labeling and Promotion. Our labeling and promotional activities are also subject to scrutiny by the FDA
and foreign regulators. Labeling includes not only the label on a device, but also includes any descriptive or
informational literature that accompanies or is used to promote the device. Among other things, labeling violates the
law if it is false or misleading in any respect or it fails to contain adequate directions for use. Moreover, product claims
that are outside the approved or cleared labeling violate the FDCA and other applicable regulations. If the FDA
determines that our promotional materials constitute promotion of an uncleared or unapproved use, or otherwise
violate the FDCA, it could request that we modify our promotional materials or subject us to regulatory or enforcement
actions, including the issuance of an untitled letter, a notice of violation, a warning letter, injunction, seizure, civil fines
or criminal penalties. Allegations of off-label promotion can also result in enforcement action by federal, state, or
foreign enforcement authorities and trigger significant civil or criminal penalties, including exclusion from the Medicare
and Medicaid programs and liability under the False Claims Act, discussed further below.
Our product promotion is also subject to regulation by the Federal Trade Commission (the “FTC”), which has
primary oversight of the advertising of unrestricted devices. The Federal Trade Commission Act prohibits unfair
methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce, as well as unfair or
deceptive practices such as the dissemination of any false or misleading advertisement pertaining to medical devices.
FTC enforcement can result in orders requiring, among other things, limits on advertising, corrective advertising,
consumer redress, rescission of contracts and such other relief as the FTC may deem necessary.
In addition, under the federal Lanham Act and similar state laws, competitors and others can initiate litigation
relating to advertising claims.
Import Requirements. To import a medical device into the U.S., the importer must file an entry notice and
bond with the U.S. Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”). All devices are subject to FDA examination
before release from the CBP. Any article that appears to be in violation of the FDCA may be refused admission and
a notice of detention and hearing may be issued. If the FDA ultimately refuses admission, the CBP may issue a notice
for redelivery and assess liquidated damages for up to three times the value of the lot. Additionally, the laws of the
U.S. require imported articles to have their labels accurately marked with the appropriate country of origin, the
violation of which may result in confiscation, fines and penalties.
Export Requirements. Products for export are subject to foreign countries' import requirements and the
exporting requirements of the exporting countries’ regulating bodies, as applicable. In particular, international sales
of medical devices manufactured in the U.S. that are not approved or cleared by the FDA for use in the U.S., or are
banned or deviate from lawful performance standards, are subject to FDA export requirements and we may not be
able to export such products.
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Foreign countries often require, among other things, an FDA certificate for products for export, also called a
Certificate to Foreign Government. To obtain this certificate from the FDA, the device manufacturer must apply to the
FDA. The FDA certifies that the product has been granted clearance or approval in the U.S. and that the
manufacturing facilities were in compliance with the QSR at the time of the last FDA inspection.
Additionally, the export of our products to certain countries is subject to restrictions due to trade and economic
sanctions imposed by the U.S., the European Union (the "EU") and other governments and organizations. The U.S.
Departments of Justice, Commerce, State and Treasury and other federal agencies and authorities have a broad
range of civil and criminal penalties they may seek to impose against corporations and individuals for violations of
economic sanctions laws, export control laws, and other federal statutes and regulations, including those established
by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”). Under these laws and regulations, as well as other export control
laws, customs laws, sanctions laws and other laws governing our operations, various government agencies may
require export licenses and may seek to impose modifications to business practices, including cessation of business
activities in sanctioned countries or with sanctioned persons or entities.
Additional Post-Market Requirements. Medical device manufacturers are also subject to other post-market
requirements in multiple jurisdictions, including product listing, establishment registration, Unique Device
Identification ("UDI"), reports of corrections and removals and other requirements. Medical Device Reporting required
by the FDA, medical device vigilance reporting requirements under the European Medical Devices Directive and
similar regulations in other foreign markets, require manufacturers to report to the FDA or an equivalent foreign
regulatory body any incident in which their device may have caused or contributed to a death or serious injury, or has
malfunctioned in a way that would likely cause or contribute to a death or serious injury if the malfunction of the device
or a similar device were to recur. Our obligation to report a complaint is triggered on the date on which we become
aware of an adverse event and the nature of the event. If we fail to comply with our reporting obligations, the FDA
could issue warning letters or untitled letters, take administrative actions, commence criminal prosecution, impose
civil monetary penalties, revoke our device clearances, seize our products, or delay the clearance of our future
products. Other regulatory authorities could take similar actions within their jurisdictions.
The FDA regularly inspects companies to determine compliance with the QSRs and other post-market
requirements. Failure to comply with statutory requirements and the FDA’s regulations can result in an FDA Form
483 (which is issued by the FDA at the conclusion of an inspection when an investigator has observed any conditions
that may constitute violations), public warning letters, monetary penalties against a company or its officers and
employees, suspension or withdrawal of regulatory approvals, operating restrictions, total or partial suspension of
production, injunctions, product recalls, product detentions, refusal to provide export certificates, seizure of products
and criminal prosecution. Other regulatory authorities, including EU Notified Bodies, regularly audit companies to
determine compliance with ISO 13485 and their respective regulations. They may take similar actions as FDA within
their jurisdictions.
Foreign Regulations. Medical device laws and regulations are also in effect in many countries outside of
the U.S. These laws and regulations vary significantly from country to country and range from comprehensive device
approval requirements for some or all of our medical device products to more basic requests for product data or
certification. The number, scope, complexity and cost of these requirements are increasing.
Foreign regulatory approval processes for medical devices are expensive, uncertain and lengthy. There can
be no assurance that we will be able to obtain necessary regulatory approvals for any product on a timely basis or at
all. Delays in receipt of or failure to receive such approvals, the loss of previously received approvals, or the failure
to comply with existing or future regulatory requirements could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition or results of operations.
The regulatory framework for medical devices in the European Economic Area underwent a significant
revision in 2017, which has introduced new regulatory requirements to obtain CE Mark approval. The new Medical
Device Regulations (“MDR”) include a three-year transition period which is scheduled to end in May 2020. The MDR
includes increasingly stringent requirements in multiple areas, such as pre-market clinical evidence (some of which
are now in effect), review of high-risk devices, labeling and post-market surveillance. Under the MDR, pre-market
clinical data will now be required to obtain CE Mark approval for high-risk, new and modified medical devices. We
believe these new requirements have the potential to be expensive and time-consuming to implement and maintain
and could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Reimbursement. Our products are generally used in medical procedures that are covered and reimbursed
by governmental payers, such as Medicare, and/or private health plans. In general, these third-party payers cover a
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medical device and/or related procedure only when the payer determines that healthcare outcomes are supported
by medical evidence and the device or procedure is medically necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of the patient’s
illness or injury. Even if a device has received clearance or approval for marketing by the FDA or a similar foreign
regulatory agency, there is no certainty that third-party payers will cover and reimburse for the cost of the device and
related procedures. Because of increasing cost-containment pressures, some private payers in the U.S. and
government payers in foreign countries may also condition payment on the cost-effectiveness of the device or
procedure. Even if coverage is available, third-party payers may place restrictions on the circumstances in which they
provide coverage or may offer reimbursement that is not sufficient to cover the cost of our products. If healthcare
providers such as hospitals and physicians cannot obtain adequate coverage and reimbursement for our products or
the procedures in which they are used, this may affect demand for our products and our business, financial condition,
results of operations, or cash flows could suffer a material adverse impact.
Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“Affordable
Care Act”) has changed the way healthcare in the U.S. is financed by both governmental and private insurers and
has significantly affected the medical device industry. This law contains a number of provisions, including provisions
governing enrollment in federal healthcare programs, reimbursement changes, the increased funding of comparative
effectiveness research for use in healthcare decision-making, and enhancements to fraud and abuse requirements
and enforcement, that we believe affect existing government healthcare programs and result in the development of
new programs. The Affordable Care Act imposed on medical device manufacturers a 2.3% excise tax on U.S. sales
of certain medical devices, which adversely affected our gross profit and earnings for our marketed products in 2015.
The U.S. Congress suspended the excise tax for the 2016-2018 tax years and recently extended the suspension until
January 1, 2020. We cannot predict whether any new action will be taken and whether the suspension will continue
past 2020. If the excise tax is not repealed or further suspended, it will likely adversely impact our future results of
operations.
Additionally, the long-term viability of the Affordable Care Act, and its impact on our business and results of
operations, remains uncertain. For instance, in December 2017, the U.S. enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which,
among other things, eliminated the tax penalty for not obtaining health coverage (beginning in 2019). Additionally,
members of the U.S. Congress have suggested other changes that may impact individual insurance marketplaces.
These and other legislative and executive initiatives may significantly change the scope and impact of the Affordable
Care Act and, in turn, the medical device industry. See Note 6 of the notes to our consolidated financial statements
for further information on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
The U.S. Physician Payment Sunshine Act, and similar state laws, also include annual reporting and
disclosure requirements for device manufacturers aimed at increasing the transparency of the interactions between
device manufacturers and healthcare providers. Reports submitted under these new requirements are placed in a
public database. Other jurisdictions outside the U.S. have also adopted or begun adopting similar physician
transparency laws. In addition to the burden of establishing processes for compliance, if we fail to provide these
reports, or if the reports we provide are not accurate, we could be subject to significant penalties.
Anti-Corruption Laws. Anti-corruption laws are in place in the U.S. and in many jurisdictions throughout the
world. In the U.S., the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the "FCPA") prohibits corruptly offering, paying, or promising to
pay anything of value to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or maintaining business. Anti-corruption laws
present particular challenges in the medical device industry because in many countries including China, hospitals are
state-owned or operated by the government, and doctors and other hospital employees are considered foreign
government officials. The FCPA also requires that we maintain fair and accurate books and records and devise and
maintain an adequate system of internal accounting controls. Among other requirements to implement compliance,
we are required to train our U.S. and international employees, and to train and monitor foreign third parties with whom
we contract, e.g., distributors, to ensure compliance with these anti-corruption laws. Failing to comply with the FCPA
or any other anti-corruption law could result in fines, penalties or other adverse consequences. In addition, the
Chinese government has also sponsored anti-corruption campaigns from time to time, which could have a chilling
effect on any future marketing efforts by us to new hospital customers. There have been occurrences in which certain
hospitals have denied access to sales representatives from medical device companies because the hospitals wanted
to avoid the perception of corruption. If this attitude becomes widespread among our potential customers, our ability
to promote our products to hospitals may be adversely affected.
As we expand our operations in China and other jurisdictions internationally, we will need to increase the
scope of our compliance programs to address the risks relating to the potential for violations of the FCPA and other
anti-corruption laws. Our compliance programs will need to include policies addressing not only the FCPA, but also
the provisions of a variety of anti-corruption laws in multiple foreign jurisdictions, including China, provisions relating
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to books and records that apply to us as a public company, and include effective training for our personnel and
relevant third-parties.
Anti-Kickback Statutes. The federal healthcare Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits persons from, among other
things, knowingly and willfully offering or paying remuneration, directly or indirectly, to a person to induce the
purchase, order, lease, or recommendation of a good or service for which payment may be made in whole or part
under a federal healthcare program such as Medicare or Medicaid, unless the arrangement fits within one of several
statutory exemptions or regulatory “safe harbors.” The definition of remuneration has been broadly interpreted to
include anything of value, including, for example, gifts, discounts, the furnishing of supplies or equipment, credit
arrangements, payments of cash and waivers of payments. Violations can result in significant penalties, imprisonment
and exclusion from Medicare, Medicaid and other federal healthcare programs. Exclusion of a manufacturer would
preclude any federal healthcare program from paying for the manufacturer’s products. In addition, kickback
arrangements can provide the basis for an action under the False Claims Act, which is discussed in more detail
below. A party’s failure to fully satisfy a regulatory “safe harbor” provision may result in increased scrutiny by
government enforcement authorities.
Government officials continue their enforcement efforts on the sales and marketing activities of
pharmaceutical, medical device and other healthcare companies, including the pursuit of cases against individuals
or entities that allegedly offered unlawful inducements to potential or existing customers to procure their business.
Settlements of these government cases have involved significant fines and penalties and, in some instances, criminal
pleas.
In addition to the Anti-Kickback Statute, many states have their own anti-kickback laws. Often, these laws
closely follow the language of the federal law, although they do not always have the same exceptions or safe harbors.
In some states, these anti-kickback laws apply with respect to all payers, including commercial health insurance
companies.
False Claims Laws. The False Claims Act prohibits any person from knowingly presenting, or causing to be
presented, a false claim for payment to the federal government or knowingly making, or causing to be made, a false
statement to get a false claim paid. Manufacturers can be held liable under false claims laws, even if they do not
submit claims to the government, if they are found to have caused submission of false claims. Under the Affordable
Care Act, a violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute is deemed to be a violation of the False Claims Act. The False
Claims Act also includes whistleblower provisions that allow private citizens to bring suit against an entity or individual
on behalf of the U.S. and to recover a portion of any monetary recovery. Many of the recent, highly publicized
settlements in the healthcare industry relating to sales and marketing practices have been cases brought under the
False Claims Act. Most states also have adopted statutes or regulations similar to the federal laws, which apply to
items and services reimbursed under Medicaid and other state programs. Sanctions under the Federal Claims Act
and state laws may include civil monetary penalties, exclusion of a manufacturer's products from reimbursement
under government programs, criminal fines and imprisonment.
Labor Standards Laws. We are also subject to corporate social responsibility (“CSR”) laws and regulations
which require us to monitor the labor standards in our supply chain, including the California Transparency in Supply
Chains Act, the UK Modern Slavery Act, and U.S. Federal Acquisition Regulations regarding Combating Trafficking
in Persons. These CSR laws and regulations may impose additional processes and supplier management systems
and have led certain key customers to impose additional requirements on medical device companies, including audits,
as a prerequisite to selling products to such customers, which could result in increased costs for our products, the
termination or suspension of certain suppliers, and reductions in our margins and profitability.
Privacy and Security. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”), the Health
Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (the “HITECH Act”), and accompanying rules, require
certain entities, referred to as "covered entities" (including most healthcare providers and health plans), to comply
with established standards, including standards regarding the privacy and security of protected health information
(“PHI”). HIPAA further requires that covered entities enter into agreements meeting certain regulatory requirements
with their “Business Associates,” as such term is defined by HIPAA, which, among other things, obligate the Business
Associates to safeguard the covered entity's PHI against improper use and disclosure. In addition, a Business
Associate may face significant statutory and contractual liability if the Business Associate breaches the agreement
or causes the covered entity to fail to comply with HIPAA. Additionally, many state laws regulate the use and
disclosure of health information and require notification in the event of breach of such information.
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Although we do not believe we are a “covered entity” under HIPAA and do not meet the definition of Business
Associate, we are committed to maintaining the security and privacy of patients’ health information and believe that
we meet the expectations of the HIPAA rules in all material respects. However, to the extent we become subject to
HIPAA, whether through a change in our business model or an enforcement action brought by the U.S. government,
we would be directly subject to a broader range of requirements under HIPAA, HITECH, the rules issued thereunder
and their respective civil and criminal penalties.
The EU has adopted a single EU privacy regulation, the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which
went into effect May 25, 2018. The GDPR extends the scope of the EU data protection law to all companies
processing personal data in the context of the activities of an establishment of a controller or a processor in the EU,
regardless of whether the processing takes place in the EU or not. In addition, it applies to the processing of personal
data of data subjects who are in the EU by a controller or processor not established in the EU, where the processing
activities are related to: (a) the offering of goods or services, irrespective of whether a payment of the data subject is
required, to such data subjects in the EU; or (b) the monitoring of their behavior as far as their behavior takes place
within the EU. The GDPR provides for a harmonization of the data protection regulations throughout the EU. It
imposes a strict data protection compliance regime with severe penalties of up to the greater of 4% of worldwide
sales or €20 million and includes new rights such as the “portability” of personal data. Although the GDPR will apply
across the EU without a need for local implementing legislation, it contains a number of opener clauses enabling the
EU member states to provide for additional legislation. In addition, local data protection authorities will still have the
ability to interpret the GDPR, which has the potential to create inconsistencies on a country-by-country basis. We
have implemented changes to our business practices to comply with the GDPR.
We post on our websites our privacy policies and practices regarding the collection, use and disclosure of
user data. Any failure, or perceived failure, by us to comply with our posted privacy policies or with any applicable
regulatory requirements or orders, or privacy, data protection, information security or consumer protection-related
privacy laws and regulations in one or more jurisdictions, could result in proceedings or actions against us by
governmental entities or others, including class action privacy litigation in certain jurisdictions, subject us to significant
fines, penalties, judgments and negative publicity, require us to change our business practices, increase the costs
and complexity of compliance, and adversely affect our business. Data protection, privacy and information security
have become the subject of increasing public, media and legislative concern. If our customers were to reduce their
use of our products and services as a result of these concerns, our business could be materially harmed. As noted
above, we are also subject to the possibility of security and privacy breaches, which themselves may result in a
violation of these privacy laws.
Environmental, Health and Safety Regulations. We are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign
laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment, as well as public and employee health and safety.
In the course of our business, we are involved in the handling, storage and disposal of certain chemicals. The laws
and regulations applicable to our operations include provisions that regulate the release or discharge of hazardous
or other regulated materials into the environment. These environmental laws and regulations may impose “strict
liability,” rendering a person liable without regard to negligence or fault on the part of such person. Such environmental
laws and regulations may expose us to liability for the conduct of, or conditions caused by, others, or for acts that
were in non-compliance with all applicable laws at the time the acts were performed. Failure to comply with applicable
environmental laws could have a material adverse effect on our business. Our operations are also subject to various
laws and regulations relating to occupational health and safety. We maintain safety, training and maintenance
programs as part of our ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Compliance with
applicable health and safety laws and regulations has required and continues to require expenditures. Environmental,
health and safety legislation and regulations change frequently. Changes in those regulations could have a material
adverse effect on our business, operations or financial condition.
Seasonality
Our worldwide sales have not historically reflected a significant degree of seasonality; however, customer
purchases have historically been lower during the third quarter of the year, as compared to other quarters. This
reflects, among other factors, lower demand during summer months in countries in the northern hemisphere.
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Environmental Sustainability Practices
We are engaged and passionate about continually innovating solutions to produce the highest quality medical
products while reducing our global environmental footprint. Each year, we track and measure our environmental
performance, holding ourselves accountable and continually looking for ways to improve.
We have designed programs to reduce waste including:
•
•
•
•
•
our major program to reduce film thickness in kit packaging, without compromising on quality,
our transition to re-usable pallets and methods to move products in bulk containers, significantly
reducing intra-company shipping materials,
our packaging design, which allows our products to ship to customers in its original packaging,
eliminating the need for additional shipping materials, such as boxes and plastic bubble wrap,
our transition from paper to electronic work orders in our facilities worldwide, from which we expect to
reduce our paper usage by approximately 2.8 million pieces and 20,000 plastic sleeves annually,
our GreenChoice™ program for our kits and packs, which now gives our customers the option to
choose eco product alternatives—such as trays and natural fiber towels—that can be included in their
order,
• our Employee Recycling Program, in which our employees recycle as many materials as we can,
including paper, cardboard, food and beverage containers, scrap metal, and pallets,
• our partnership with companies who can use our plastic waste that surrounds a finished molded part
and
• our investment in a line of fully compostable “to-go” containers made from plant starch and sugarcane
and our program to transition to reusable cutlery at all of our dining facilities worldwide, reducing the
amount of cutlery and plates waste sent to landfills.
LEED Certification
We have been awarded Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for our
Bean Building, the newest addition to our Salt Lake City campus.
Employees
As of December 31, 2018, we employed 5,783 people. None of our U.S. employees are subject to collective
bargaining agreements; however, certain of our European employees are subject to such agreements. We believe
our employee relations are generally good. Although our European employees will likely continue to be subject to
collective organizing and bargaining activities, we do not expect such activities to materially affect our future
operations.
Recent Developments
None.
Available Information
We file annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with the SEC. These materials can be
inspected and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. Copies of
these materials may also be obtained by mail at prescribed rates from the SEC’s Public Reference Room at the
above address. Information about the Public Reference Room can be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-
0330. The SEC also maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other
information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The address of the SEC’s Internet website is
www.sec.gov.
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We make available, free of charge, on our Internet website, located at www.merit.com, our most recent
Annual Report on Form 10-K, our most recent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, any Current Reports on Form 8-K
filed since our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, and any amendments to such reports as soon as reasonably
practicable following the electronic filing of such report with the SEC. In addition, we provide electronic or paper
copies of such filings free of charge upon request.
Financial Information About Foreign and Domestic Sales
For financial information relating to our foreign and domestic sales see Note 2 and Note 13 to our
consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8 of this report.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
Our business, operations and financial condition are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Should one or
more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our actual
results will vary, and may vary materially, from those anticipated, estimated, projected or expected. Among the key
factors that may have a direct bearing on our business, operations or financial condition are the factors identified
below:
We may be unable to successfully manage growth, particularly if accomplished through acquisitions, and
the integration of acquired businesses may present significant challenges that could harm our operations.
Successful implementation of our business strategy will require that we effectively manage any associated
growth. To manage growth effectively, our management will need to continue to implement changes in certain aspects
of our business, to improve our information systems, infrastructure and operations to respond to increased demand,
to attract and retain qualified personnel, and to develop, train, and manage an increasing number of management-
level and other employees. Growth could place an increasing strain on our management, sales and other personnel,
and on our financial, product design, marketing, distribution, technology and other resources, and we could
experience operating difficulties. Any failure to manage growth effectively could have a material adverse effect on
our business, operations or financial condition.
Over the past several years, we have completed a series of significant acquisitions and, at any given time,
we may be considering a number of potential further acquisitions and strategic transactions, certain of which may
also be significant. As we grow through acquisitions, we face the additional challenges of integrating the operations,
culture, information management systems and other characteristics of the acquired entity with our own, including
sales models related to capital equipment. Our efforts to integrate future acquisitions may be hampered by delays,
the loss of certain employees, suppliers or customers, proceedings resulting from employment terminations, culture
clashes, unbudgeted costs, and other issues, which may occur at levels that are more severe or prolonged than
anticipated. Additionally, past and future acquisitions may increase the risks of competition we face by, among other
things, extending our operations into industry segments and product lines where we have few existing customers or
qualified sales personnel and limited expertise. For example, although we acquired certain tunneled home drainage
catheter and soft tissue core needle biopsy products from BD in February 2018, BD retained other products that
directly compete with the products we acquired. As BD is a larger company with a more well-established market
presence in such product lines, we may be unable to realize expected benefits from the acquisition in the timeframe
anticipated or at all. Further, as a result of several of our completed acquisition and other strategic transactions, we
are selling capital equipment, in addition to our historical sales of disposable medical devices. The sale of capital
equipment may create additional risks and potential liability, which may negatively affect our business, operations or
financial condition.
We have incurred, and will likely continue to incur, significant expenses in connection with negotiating and
consummating various acquisition and other strategic transactions, and we may inherit significant liabilities in
connection with prospective acquisitions or other strategic transactions, including regulatory, infringement, product
liability, discrimination or other legal claims or issues. In addition, we may not realize competitive advantages,
synergies or other benefits anticipated in connection with any such acquisition or other transaction. If we do not
adequately identify targets for, or manage issues related to, our future acquisition and strategic transactions, such
transactions may have an adverse effect on our business, operations or financial condition.
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We may not be able to effectively protect our intellectual property, which could harm our business and
financial condition.
Our ability to remain competitive is dependent, in part, upon our ability to protect our intellectual property
rights and prevent other companies from using our intellectual property. We seek to protect our intellectual property
rights through a combination of confidentiality and license agreements, and through patent, trademark, copyright and
trade secret laws. However, these measures afford only limited protection and may be challenged, invalidated, or
circumvented by third parties. Additionally, these measures may not prevent competitors from duplicating our
products or gaining access to our proprietary information and technology. Third parties may copy all or portions of
our products or otherwise use our intellectual property without authorization, and we may not be able to prevent the
unauthorized disclosure or use of our technical knowledge or trade secrets by consultants, vendors, former
employees and current employees, despite the existence of nondisclosure and confidentiality agreements and other
contractual restrictions, all of which could have an adverse effect on our business, operations, or financial condition.
Third parties may also develop similar or superior technology independently or by designing around our
patents. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries do not offer the same level of protection for our intellectual
property as the laws of the U.S. Further, no assurances can be given that any patent application we have filed or will
file will result in a patent being issued, or that any existing or future patents will afford adequate or meaningful
protection against competitors or against similar technologies. All of our patents will eventually expire and some of
our patents, including patents protecting significant elements of our technology, will expire within the next several
years.
Filing, prosecuting and defending our intellectual property in countries throughout the world may be
impractical and prohibitively expensive. Litigation may be necessary in the future to enforce our intellectual property
rights, protect our trade secrets or to determine the validity and scope of proprietary rights claimed by others. Any
such lawsuits that we might initiate could be expensive, take significant time and divert management's attention from
our business. Litigation also puts our patents at risk of being invalidated or interpreted narrowly. Additionally, we may
provoke third parties to assert claims against us. Moreover, the legal systems of certain countries, particularly certain
developing countries, do not favor the aggressive enforcement of patents and other intellectual property protections,
which makes it difficult to stop infringement. We may not prevail in any lawsuits that we initiate, and the damages or
other remedies awarded, if any, may not be commercially valuable.
Third parties claiming that we infringe their intellectual property rights could cause us to incur significant
legal or licensing expenses and prevent us from selling our products.
Our commercial success will depend in part on not infringing or violating the intellectual property rights of
others. From time to time, third parties may claim that we have infringed their intellectual property rights, including
claims regarding patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. We may not be aware of whether our products
do or will infringe existing or future patents or the intellectual property rights of others. Because of constant
technological change in the medical device industry in which we compete, the extensive patent coverage of existing
technologies, and the rapid rate of issuance of new patents, it is possible that the number of these claims may grow.
In addition, former employers or our former, current, or future employees may assert claims that such
employees have improperly disclosed to us the confidential or proprietary information of such former employers. Any
such claim, with or without merit, could result in costly litigation, distract management from day-to-day operations and
harm our brand or reputation, which in turn could harm our business or results of operations. If we are not successful
in defending such claims, we could be required to stop selling, delay shipments of, or redesign, our products,
discontinue the use of related trademarks, technologies or designs, pay monetary amounts as damages, enter into
royalty or licensing arrangements and satisfy indemnification obligations that we have with some of our customers.
Royalty or licensing arrangements that we may seek in such circumstances may not be available to us on
commercially reasonable terms or at all and we may not be able to redesign applicable products in a way to avoid
infringing the intellectual property rights of others. We have made and expect to continue making significant
expenditures to investigate, defend and settle claims related to the use of technology and intellectual property rights
as part of our strategy to manage this risk.
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The medical device industry is subject to extensive scrutiny and regulation by governmental authorities.
Moreover, in October 2016, we received a subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice seeking information
on our marketing and promotional practices. If governmental authorities determine that we have violated
laws or regulations, including in respect of our marketing or promotional practices, our company or our
employees may be subject to various penalties, including civil or criminal penalties.
Our medical devices and business activities are subject to rigorous regulation by the FDA and other federal,
state and foreign governmental authorities. These authorities and domestic and foreign legislators continue to
scrutinize the medical device industry. In recent years, the U.S. Congress, Department of Justice, the Office of
Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Defense, as well as
foreign counterparts, have issued subpoenas and other requests for information to medical device manufacturers,
primarily related to financial arrangements with healthcare providers, regulatory compliance and product promotional
practices. If we fail to comply with applicable regulatory requirements, we may be subjected to a wide variety of
sanctions and enforcement actions, including warning letters that require corrective action, injunctions, product
seizures or recalls, suspension of product manufacturing, revocation of approvals, exclusion from participation in
government healthcare programs, civil fines and criminal penalties.
In October 2016, we received a subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice seeking information on certain
of our marketing and promotional practices. Although we are in the process of responding to the subpoena, we may
not be able to resolve this matter, or similar matters that may arise in the future, without our company or employees
incurring significant fines, penalties, or other adverse civil or criminal consequences. Even if we are successful in
resolving the pending matter without such consequences, we have incurred, and anticipate that we will continue to
incur, substantial costs in connection with the matter. The pending matter, or other governmental proceedings, could
significantly impact our reputation and divert management’s attention and resources from growing our business,
which in turn could harm our business, results of operations, financial condition and ability to obtain financing on
reasonable terms or at all.
We anticipate that government authorities will continue to scrutinize our industry closely, and that additional
regulation by government authorities may increase compliance costs, exposure to litigation and other adverse effects
on our operations.
Use of our products in unapproved circumstances could expose us to liabilities.
The marketing clearances and approvals from the FDA and other regulators of certain of our products are,
or are expected to be, limited to specific uses. We are prohibited from marketing or promoting any uncleared or
unapproved use of our product. However, physicians may use these products in ways or circumstances other than
those strictly within the scope of the regulatory approval or clearance. The use of our products for unauthorized
purposes could arise from our sales personnel or distributors violating our policies by providing information or
recommendations about such unauthorized uses. Consequently, claims may be asserted by the FDA or other
enforcement agencies that we are not in compliance with applicable laws or regulations or have improperly promoted
our products for uncleared or unapproved uses. The FDA or such other agencies could require a recall of products
or allege that our promotional activities misbrand or adulterate our products or violate other legal requirements, which
could result in investigations, prosecutions, fines or other civil or criminal actions.
The FDA regulatory clearance process is expensive, time-consuming and uncertain, and the failure to obtain
and maintain required regulatory clearances and approvals could prevent us from commercializing our
products.
Before we can introduce a new device or a new use of or a claim for a cleared device in the U.S., we must
generally obtain clearance from the FDA through the 510(k) premarket notification process or approval through a
PMA application, unless an exemption from premarket review or an alternative procedure, such as a de novo risk-
based classification or a humanitarian device exemption, applies. The FDA clearance and approval processes for
medical devices are expensive, uncertain and time-consuming.
If human clinical trials of a medical device are required for FDA clearance or approval and the device presents
a significant risk, the sponsor of the trial must file an IDE application with the FDA prior to commencing such trials in
the U.S. Submission of an IDE application does not ensure that the IDE will become effective. If the IDE application
is approved, there can be no assurance that the FDA will determine that the data derived from the trials support the
safety and effectiveness of the device or warrant the continuation of clinical trials. For clinical trials involving a device
that does not present a significant risk, the sponsor is not required to obtain FDA approval of an IDE, but the sponsor
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must obtain the review and approval of an institutional review board. Both significant risk and non-significant risk trials
are subject to additional FDA regulations, including a requirement to obtain informed consent, reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, and other requirements. We, the FDA, or the institutional review board, may suspend a
clinical trial at any time for various reasons, including a belief that the risks to study subjects outweigh the anticipated
benefits.
Changes to 510(k) cleared or PMA approved devices, including manufacturing changes, product
enhancements and product line extensions, may require a new 510(k) clearance or approval of a PMA supplement.
For devices marketed under an approved PMA, we must submit a PMA supplement to the FDA for review and
approval prior to making a change to the device that affects the safety or effectiveness of the device, including
changes to the design, manufacturing or labeling of the device. Likewise, for 510(k)-cleared devices, we must obtain
new FDA 510(k) clearance when there is a major change or modification in the intended use, or a change or
modification of the device that could significantly affect the safety or effectiveness of the device. In some cases,
clinical data may be required to support a PMA supplement or 510(k) premarket notification for a device modification.
The FDA requires every manufacturer to make the determination regarding the need for a new 510(k)
submission or a PMA supplement in the first instance, but the FDA may review the manufacturer’s decisions not to
seek a new 510(k) or PMA supplement. We may make changes to our cleared products without seeking additional
clearances or approvals if we determine such clearances or approvals are not necessary and document the basis for
that conclusion. However, the FDA may disagree with our determination or may require additional information,
including clinical data, to be submitted before a determination is made, in which case we may be required to delay
the introduction and marketing of our modified products, redesign our products, conduct clinical trials to support any
modifications and pay significant regulatory fines or penalties. In addition, the FDA may not approve or clear our
products for the indications that are necessary or desirable for successful commercialization.
There is no assurance that we will be able to obtain the necessary regulatory clearances or approvals for
any product on a timely basis or at all. Further, the FDA may change its clearance and approval policies, adopt
additional regulations or revise existing regulations, or take other actions which may prevent or delay approval or
clearance of our products under development or impact our ability to modify our currently cleared products on a timely
basis. Delays in receipt of, or failure to obtain, regulatory clearances for any product enhancements or new products
we develop would result in delayed or no realization of revenue from such product enhancements or new products
and in substantial additional costs, which could decrease our profitability.
In addition, we are required to continue to comply with applicable FDA and other regulatory requirements
once we have obtained clearance or approval for a product. We cannot assure that we will successfully maintain the
clearances or approvals we have received or may receive in the future. The loss of previously received clearances
or approvals, or the failure to comply with existing or future regulatory requirements could also have a material
adverse effect on our business.
Our products are generally subject to regulatory requirements in foreign countries in which we sell those
products. We will be required to expend significant resources to obtain regulatory approvals or clearances
of our products, and there may be delays and uncertainty in obtaining those approvals or clearances.
In order to sell our products in foreign countries, generally we must obtain regulatory approvals and comply
with the regulations of those countries. These regulations, including the requirements for approvals or clearances
and the time required for regulatory review, vary from country-to-country.
The European Union, or EU, requires that manufacturers of medical devices obtain the right to affix the CE
mark, for compliance with the Medical Device Directive (93/42/EEC), as amended, to medical devices before selling
them in member countries of the EU. The CE mark is an international symbol of adherence to quality assurance
standards and compliance with applicable European medical device directives. In order to obtain the authorization to
affix the CE mark to products, a manufacturer must obtain certification that its processes and products meet certain
European quality standards.
In April 2017, the EU adopted the MDR to replace the Medical Device Directive (93/42/EEC), as amended.
The MDR will apply after a three-year transition period and imposes stricter requirements for the marketing and sale
of medical devices and grants Notified Bodies increased post-market surveillance authority.
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Complying with and obtaining regulatory approval in foreign countries have caused or may cause us to
experience more uncertainty, risk, expense and delay in commercializing products in certain foreign jurisdictions,
which could adversely impact our net sales, market share and operating profits from our international operations.
We rely on the proper function, availability and security of information technology systems to operate our
business, and a material disruption of critical information systems or a material breach in the security of our
systems may adversely affect our business and customer relationships.
We rely on information technology systems (including technology from third party providers) to process,
transmit, and store electronic information in our day-to-day operations, including sensitive personal information and
proprietary or confidential information. We also rely on our technology infrastructure, among other functions, to
interact with customers and suppliers, fulfill orders and bill, collect and make payments, ship products, provide support
to customers, fulfill contractual obligations and otherwise conduct business. Our internal information technology
systems, as well as those systems maintained by third-party providers, may be subjected to computer viruses or
other malicious code, unauthorized access attempts, and cyber-attacks, any of which could result in data leaks or
otherwise compromise our confidential or proprietary information and disrupt our operations. Cyber-attacks are
becoming more sophisticated and frequent, and there can be no assurance that our protective measures have
prevented or will prevent security breaches, any of which could have a significant impact on our business, reputation
and financial condition, particularly attacks that result in our intellectual property and other confidential information
being accessed or stolen.
We rely on third-party vendors to supply and support certain aspects of our information technology systems.
These third-party systems could also become vulnerable to cyber-attacks, malicious intrusions, breakdowns,
interference or other significant disruptions, and may contain defects in design or manufacture or other problems that
could result in system disruption or compromise the information security of our own systems. In addition, we continue
to grow in part through business and product acquisitions and, as a result, may face risks associated with defects
and vulnerabilities in the systems operated by the other parties to those transactions, or difficulties or other
breakdowns or disruptions in connection with the integration of the acquired businesses and products into our
information technology systems.
Cyber-attacks could also result in unauthorized access to our systems and products, including personal
information of individuals, which could trigger notification requirements, encourage actions by regulatory bodies,
result in adverse publicity, prompt us to offer credit support products or services to affected individuals and lead to
class action or other civil litigation. If we fail to monitor, maintain or protect our information technology systems and
data integrity effectively or fail to anticipate, plan for or manage significant disruptions to these systems, we could,
lose customers, be subject to fraud, breach our agreements with or duties toward customers, physicians, other health
care professionals and employees, be subject to regulatory sanctions or penalties, incur expenses or lose revenues,
sustain damage to our reputation or suffer other adverse consequences. Unauthorized tampering, adulteration or
interference with our products may also create issues with product functionality that could result in a loss of data, risk
to patient safety, and product recalls or field actions. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our
business, operations or financial condition.
Our business is subject to complex and evolving U.S. and international laws and regulations regarding
privacy and data protection. Many of these laws and regulations are subject to change and uncertain
interpretation and could result in claims, changes to our business practices, penalties, increased cost of
operations, or declines in user growth or engagement, or otherwise harm our business.
The U.S. and many other countries in which we conduct our operations have adopted laws and regulations
protecting certain data, including medical and personal data, and requiring data holders and controllers to implement
administrative, logical and technical controls and procedures in order to protect the privacy of such data.
Internationally, some countries have also passed laws and regulations that require individually identifiable data on
their citizens to be maintained on local servers and that may restrict transfer or processing of that data. In addition,
regulatory authorities around the world are considering a number of additional proposals concerning data protection.
These laws and regulations have been, and may continue to be, inconsistent with each other, requiring different
approaches in different jurisdictions. In addition, the interpretation and application of medical and personal data
protection laws and regulations in the U.S., Europe, China and elsewhere are often uncertain and in flux. Further, we
have incurred, and will likely continue to incur, significant expense in connection with our efforts to comply with those
laws and regulations. It is possible that these laws and regulations may be interpreted and applied in a manner that
is inconsistent with our data practices. These legislative and regulatory proposals, if adopted, and such interpretations
could, in addition to the possibility of fines, result in an order requiring that we change our data practices, which could
26
have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Complying with these various laws could cause us
to incur substantial costs or require us to change our business practices in a manner adverse to our business.
Recent legal developments in Europe have created compliance uncertainty regarding certain transfers of
personal data from the EU to the U.S. and other non-EU jurisdictions. For example, the GDPR, which came into
application in the EU on May 25, 2018, applies to our activities conducted from an establishment in the EU or related
to products and services that we offer to EU users. The GDPR created a range of new compliance obligations, which
could cause us to change our business practices, and significantly increases financial penalties for noncompliance
(including possible fines of up to 4% of global annual turnover for the preceding financial year or €20 million
(whichever is higher) for the most serious infringements).
The pending exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union, and current uncertainty about when, how
or if such exit will occur could harm our business and results of operations in Europe and elsewhere.
On June 23, 2016, the United Kingdom held a referendum in which voters approved an exit from the EU,
commonly referred to as “Brexit.” As a result of the referendum, negotiations are under way to determine the future
terms of the United Kingdom’s relationship with the EU, including the terms of trade. As it stands, the United Kingdom
is scheduled to depart the EU on March 30, 2019, but the terms of its withdrawal and the nature of its future
relationship with the EU are still being decided. Due to stalled negotiations between the United Kingdom and the EU,
and political opposition in the United Kingdom, it is possible that Brexit will not occur in March 2019 or at all. Whether
or not Brexit occurs, as a result of the disruption in the relationship between the United Kingdom and other EU
countries, it is possible that there will be greater restrictions and additional costs on the movement of goods and
people between the United Kingdom and the EU countries and increased regulatory complexities, which could affect
our ability to sell products in certain EU countries and in the United Kingdom. Currently, all of our European production
is in EU countries outside of the United Kingdom. However, during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018,
approximately 2.0% of our world-wide revenues arose from sales into the United Kingdom. Disruptions arising from
the exit of the United Kingdom from the EU, or from stalled or failed negotiations between the United Kingdom and
the EU, could result in various trade barriers limiting or prohibiting our ability to export or sell our products into the
United Kingdom.
In the fiscal year ended in December 31, 2018, approximately 13.0% of our world-wide revenue arose from
sales into EU countries, other than the United Kingdom. Brexit could adversely affect the economy of EU countries,
which could adversely affect our sales into those countries. In addition, Brexit could also harm worldwide economic
and market conditions and could further contribute to instability in global financial and foreign exchange markets,
including volatility in the value of the British pound and the Euro, to which we have significant exposure. In addition,
other European countries may seek to conduct referenda with respect to continuing membership with the EU. The
uncertainties surrounding Brexit, and the possibility that Brexit could result in restrictions on trade and related tariffs
between the United Kingdom and the rest of the EU, could result in additional costs, reduced demand, adverse
currency fluctuations and otherwise harm our business and operations.
In late 2018 we opened a warehouse and distribution facility in Reading, England, principally in an effort to
address the potential impact of Brexit on our ability to market, sell and distribute our products in the United Kingdom.
We have incurred, and will continue to incur, substantial expenses in connection with the leasing, improvement and
commencement of operations associated with the new Reading facility. In part due to the continued uncertainty
regarding the timing and consequences of Brexit, there can be no assurance regarding the effect our Reading facility
will have on our business, operations or financial condition.
A significant adverse change in, or failure to comply with, governing regulations could adversely affect our
business, operations or financial condition.
We have extensive global operations, which necessitate that we seek various regulatory approvals for our
products in the jurisdictions where our products are sold. Different regulatory requirements for product approvals and
our need to comply with different regulatory regimes could impact our business.
Substantially all of our products are “devices,” as defined in the FDCA, and the manufacture, distribution,
record keeping, labeling and advertisement of substantially all of our products are subject to regulation by the FDA
in the U.S. and equivalent regulatory agencies in various foreign countries in which our products are manufactured,
distributed, labeled, offered or sold. Further, we are subject to regular review and periodic inspections at our facilities
with respect to compliance with the FDCA, QSR, ISO standards and similar requirements of foreign countries, which
may cover, among others, the procedures and documentation of the design, testing, production, control, quality
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assurance, labeling, packaging, sterilization, storage and shipment of medical devices. Costs to comply with
regulations, including, for instance, regulations for medical devices enacted by the EU in May 2017 and effective in
2020, and costs associated with remediation can be significant. Additionally, failure to comply with such requirements,
or later discovery of previously unknown problems with our products or our third-party manufacturers’ manufacturing
processes, including any failure to take satisfactory corrective action in response to an adverse QSR inspection could
result in total or partial suspension of production or distribution, a regulatory agency’s refusal to grant pending or
future clearances or approvals for our products, withdrawal or suspension of clearances, approvals, clinical holds,
warning letters or untitled letters or refusal to permit the import or export of our products.
The agreements and instruments governing our debt contain restrictions and limitations that could
significantly affect our ability to operate our business, as well as significantly affect our liquidity.
We have entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, National
Association, as administrative agent, swingline lender and a lender, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as sole lead
arranger and sole bookrunner and the lenders who are or may become party thereto, which was amended on
September 28, 2016, March 20, 2017, December 13, 2017 and March 28, 2018. The Second Amended Credit
Agreement contains a number of significant covenants that could adversely affect our ability to operate our business,
our liquidity or our results of operations. These covenants restrict, among other things, our incurrence of
indebtedness, creation of liens or pledges on our assets, mergers or similar combinations or liquidations, asset
dispositions, repurchases or redemptions of equity interests or debt, issuances of equity, payment of dividends and
certain distributions and entry into related party transactions.
We have pledged substantially all of our assets as collateral for the Second Amended Credit Agreement. Our
breach of any covenant in the Second Amended Credit Agreement, not otherwise cured, waived or amended, could
result in a default under that agreement and could trigger acceleration of the underlying obligations. Any default under
the Second Amended Credit Agreement could adversely affect our ability to service our debt and to fund our planned
capital expenditures and ongoing operations. The administrative agent and lenders under the Second Amended
Credit Agreement have available to them the remedies typically available to lenders and secured parties, including
the ability to foreclose on the collateral we have pledged. It could lead to an acceleration of indebtedness and
foreclosure on our assets.
As currently amended, the Second Amended Credit Agreement provides for potential borrowings of up to
$447.5 million. Such increased borrowing limits may make it more difficult for us to comply with leverage ratios and
other restrictive covenants in the Second Amended Credit Agreement. We may also have less cash available for
operations and investments in our business, as we will be required to use additional cash to satisfy the minimum
payment obligations associated with this increased indebtedness.
Uncertainty relating to the LIBOR calculation method and potential phasing out of LIBOR after 2021
may adversely affect the interest rates under our Credit Agreement.
Certain of the interest rates applicable to our Second Amended Credit Agreement, and applicable to hedging
instruments we have purchased to offset interest rate risk under our Second Amended Credit Agreement, are LIBOR-
based. On July 27, 2017, the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority (the "FCA") announced that it will no longer persuade
or compel banks to submit rates for the calculation of LIBOR rates after 2021. Actions by the FCA, other regulators
or law enforcement agencies may result in changes to the method by which LIBOR is calculated. At this time, it is not
possible to predict the effect of any such changes or any other reforms to LIBOR that may be enacted in the United
Kingdom or elsewhere. Uncertainty as to the nature of such potential changes may adversely affect the trading market
for LIBOR-based securities, including the floating rates applicable to our Second Amended Credit Agreement and
related hedges. It is possible that the changes in how LIBOR is calculated, changes in the trading market for LIBOR-
based securities or actions of the FCA and other government entities may cause unexpected increases in LIBOR
rates or a breakdown in the LIBOR systems. If these issues arise, we could experience increased interest rates or
uncertainty with respect to the calculation of interest on our Second Amended Credit Agreement and other
instruments, which could harm our operations.
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We will be required to expend significant resources for research, development, testing and regulatory
approval or clearance of our products under development, and these products may not be developed
successfully or approved for commercial use.
Most of our products under development will require significant additional research, development,
engineering and, in some cases, preclinical and clinical testing, as well as regulatory approval or clearance and a
commitment of significant additional resources prior to their commercialization. It is possible that our products may
not:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
be developed successfully;
be proven safe or effective in clinical trials;
offer therapeutic or other improvements over current treatments and products;
meet applicable regulatory standards or receive regulatory approvals or clearances;
be capable of production in commercial quantities at acceptable costs and in compliance with
regulatory requirements;
be successfully marketed; or
be covered by private or public insurers.
We are currently conducting one clinical trial in an effort to obtain approval from the FDA that would enable
us to expand our efforts to commercialize the QuadraSphere Microspheres. EU regulations do not currently require
such applications for these classes of medical device. In order for us to obtain FDA approval to promote the use of
QuadraSphere Microspheres for the purposes indicated in our clinical trial, we will need to complete the trial and
submit positive clinical data to the FDA. If we cannot enroll study subjects in sufficient numbers to complete the
necessary study, if there is a disruption in the supply of materials for the trial or if any other factors preclude us from
completing the trial in a timely manner, we will likely not be able to complete the trial. Even if we complete the clinical
trial, the FDA may require us to undertake additional testing, or the trial results may not be sufficient to obtain FDA
approval for other reasons, including inconclusive or negative results of our trials or those conducted by our
competitors or other third parties. Any clinical trials we undertake in the future will likely be subject to these and similar
risks. If we do not obtain FDA approval or clearance of the product use studied in a clinical trial, we will not be able
to promote the subject product for the indicated treatment of the specific disease or condition in the U.S.
We are subject to laws targeting fraud and abuse in the healthcare industry, the violation of which could
adversely affect our business or financial results.
Our operations are subject to various state and federal laws targeting fraud and abuse in the healthcare
industry, including the federal Anti-Kickback Statute and other anti-kickback laws, which prohibit any person from
knowingly and willfully offering, paying, soliciting or receiving remuneration, directly or indirectly, to induce or reward
either the referral of an individual, or the furnishing or arranging for an item or service, for which payment may be
made under federal healthcare programs, such as the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Violations of these fraud
and abuse-related laws are punishable by criminal or civil sanctions, including substantial fines, imprisonment and
exclusion from participation in healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, any of which could harm our
business or financial results.
We are also subject to the FCPA, the U.K. Bribery Act, and similar anti-bribery laws in non-U.S. jurisdictions.
These laws generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from illegally offering things of value to any
individual for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. As we continue to expand our business activities
internationally, compliance with the FCPA and other anti-bribery laws presents greater challenges to our operations.
If our employees or agents violate the provisions of the FCPA or other anti-bribery laws, we may incur fines or
penalties, which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results or financial condition.
The Affordable Care Act affects, and potentially affects, our business in many ways, and both its existence
and repeal (or partial repeal) could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations or financial
condition.
The Affordable Care Act was enacted into law in March 2010 and imposes on medical device manufacturers
a 2.3% excise tax on U.S. sales of certain medical devices. Although this tax has been suspended until January 1,
2020, during the year ended December 31, 2015 we paid $4.3 million related to this tax. We cannot predict whether
the suspension will be continued beyond January 1, 2020. If the excise tax is not repealed or further suspended, it
will likely adversely impact our future results of operations. In addition, the costs of compliance with the Affordable
Care Act’s reporting and disclosure requirements, frequently identified as the Sunshine Act, with regard to payments
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or other transfers of value made to healthcare providers may have a material, negative impact on our results of
operations and our cash flows.
Additionally, the long-term viability of the Affordable Care Act, and its impact on our business and results of
operations, remains uncertain. For instance, in December 2017, the U.S. enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which,
among other things, eliminated the tax penalty for not obtaining health coverage (beginning in 2019). In December
2018, a federal district judge ruled that the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional (but suspended implementation of
such ruling), as a result of the elimination of the tax penalty for not obtaining health coverage. This ruling is subject
to appeal. The adoption of Affordable Care Act increased the number of U.S. residents with health insurance and has
contributed to an overall increase in medical spending in the U.S. If the Affordable Care Act is repealed as a result of
court decision or otherwise, it may reduce the demand for our products in the U.S. On the other hand, the elimination
of the Affordable Care Act could result in the elimination of certain costly reporting and disclosure requirements.
Over the long term, any repeal of the Affordable Care Act could increase the likelihood that new medical
reform legislation would be adopted. We are uncertain whether any such changes would benefit, or harm, our
business and results of operations. Any changes in health care laws in the U.S. could result in additional requirements
and costs on our operations and harm our revenue by limiting the number of products sold or the price at which we
can sell our products. Uncertainty about the status of health care law also harms our ability to plan for the future and
build out our operational and compliance systems.
We are dependent upon key personnel.
Our success is dependent on key management personnel, including Fred P. Lampropoulos, our Chairman
of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Lampropoulos is not subject to any agreement prohibiting
his departure, and we do not maintain key man life insurance on his life. The loss of Mr. Lampropoulos, or of certain
other key management personnel, could have a materially adverse effect on our business and operations. Our
success also depends on, among other factors, the successful recruitment and retention of key operating,
manufacturing, sales and other personnel.
Termination or interruption of, or a failure to monitor, our supply relationships and increases in the price of
our component parts, finished products, third-party services or raw materials, particularly petroleum-based
products, could have an adverse effect on our business, operations or financial condition.
We rely on raw materials, component parts, finished products and third-party services in connection with our
business. For example, substantially all of our products are sterilized by only a few different entities. Additionally,
many of our products have components that are manufactured using resins, plastics and other petroleum-based
materials which are available from a limited number of suppliers. We are experiencing a growing trend among
suppliers of polymer resins to refuse to supply resin to the medical device manufacturers or to require such
manufacturers to assume additional risks due to the potential for product liability claims. Additionally, there is no
assurance that crude oil supplies will be uninterrupted or that petroleum-based manufacturing materials will be
available for purchase in the future. Any interruption to the supply of polymers or petroleum-based resins could have
an adverse effect on our ability to produce, or on the cost to produce, our products.
The availability and price of these materials, parts, products and services are affected by a variety of factors
beyond our control, including the willingness of suppliers to sell into the medical device industry, changes in supply
and demand, general economic conditions, labor costs, fuel-related transportation costs, liability concerns,
competition, import duties, tariffs, currency exchange rates and political uncertainty around the world. Our suppliers
may pass some of their cost increases on to us, and if such increased costs are sustained or increase further, our
suppliers may pass further cost increases on to us. In addition to the effect on resin prices, transportation costs
generally increase based on the effect of higher crude oil prices, and these increased transportation costs may be
passed on to us.
We are also subject to corporate social responsibility, or CSR, laws and regulations which require us to
monitor the labor standards in our supply chain, including the California Transparency in Supply Chains Act, the UK
Modern Slavery Act, and U.S. Federal Acquisition Regulations regarding Combating Trafficking in Persons. These
CSR labor laws and regulations may impose additional processes and supplier management systems and have led
certain key customers to impose additional requirements on medical device companies, including audits, as a
prerequisite to selling products to such customers, which could result in increased costs for our products, the
termination or suspension of certain suppliers, and reductions in our margins and profitability.
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Our ability to recover such increased costs may depend upon our ability to raise prices on our products. Due
to the highly competitive nature of the healthcare industry and the cost-containment efforts of our customers and
third-party payers, we may be unable to pass along cost increases through higher prices. If we are unable to fully
recover these costs through price increases or offset these increases through cost reductions, or we experience
terminations or interruption of our relationships with our suppliers, we could experience lower margins and profitability,
and our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows could be materially harmed.
Our products may be subject to product liability claims and warranty claims.
Our products are used in connection with invasive procedures and in other medical contexts that entail an
inherent risk of product liability claims. If medical personnel or their patients suffer injury or death in connection with
the use of our products, whether as a result of a failure of our products to function as designed, an inappropriate
design, inadequate disclosure of product-related risks or information, improper use, or for any other reason, we could
be subject to lawsuits seeking significant compensatory and punitive damages. Product liability claims may be
brought by individuals or by groups seeking to represent a class. We have previously faced claims by patients
claiming injuries from our products. To date, these claims have not resulted in material harm to our operations or
financial condition. The outcome of this type of personal injury litigation is difficult to assess or quantify. We maintain
product liability insurance; however, there is no assurance that this coverage will be sufficient to satisfy any claim
made against us. Moreover, any product liability claim brought against us could result in significant costs, divert our
management’s attention from other business matters or operations, increase our product liability insurance rates, or
prevent us from securing insurance coverage in the future. As a result, any lawsuit seeking significant monetary
damages may have a material adverse effect on our business, operations or financial condition.
We generally offer a limited warranty for the return of product due to defects in quality and workmanship. We
attempt to estimate our potential liability for future product returns and establish reserves on our financial statements
in amounts that we believe will be sufficient to address our warranty obligations; however, our actual liability for
product returns may significantly exceed the amount of our reserves. If we underestimate our potential liability for
future product returns, or if unanticipated events result in returns that exceed our historical experience, our financial
condition and operating results could be materially harmed.
In addition, the occurrence of such an event or claim could result in a recall of products from the market or a
safety alert relating to such products. Such a recall could result in significant costs, reduce our revenue, divert
management's attention from our business, and harm our reputation.
Our products may cause or contribute to adverse medical events that we are required to report to the FDA
or other governmental authorities, and if we fail to do so, we may be subject to sanctions that may materially
harm our business.
Our products are subject to medical device reporting regulations, which require us to report to the FDA
information that reasonably suggests one of our products may have caused or contributed to a death or serious injury,
or one of our products malfunctioned and, if the malfunction were to recur, this device or a similar device that we
market would be likely to cause or contribute to a death or serious injury. Our obligation to report under the medical
device reporting regulations is triggered on the date on which we become aware of information that reasonably
suggests a reportable adverse event occurred. We may fail to report adverse events of which we become aware
within the prescribed timeframe. We may also fail to recognize that we have become aware of a reportable adverse
event, especially if it is not reported to us as an adverse event or if it is an adverse event that is unexpected or if the
product characteristic that caused the adverse event is removed in time from our products. If we fail to comply with
our medical device reporting obligations, the FDA could issue warning letters or untitled letters, take administrative
actions, commence criminal prosecution, impose civil monetary penalties, demand or initiate a product recall, seize
our products, or delay the clearance of our future products.
We lack direct sales and marketing capabilities in many countries, and are dependent on our distributors for
the commercialization of our products in these countries. If we are unable to maintain or establish sales
capabilities on our own or through third parties, we may not be able to commercialize any of our products in
those countries.
We have no or limited direct sales or marketing capabilities in some of the regions and countries in which our
products are sold, including, among others, China, Japan, Russia and India. We have entered into distribution
agreements with third parties to market and sell our products in those countries in which we do not have a direct
sales force and in those countries in which we utilize a "modified direct" sales approach. If we are unable to maintain
31
or enter into such distribution arrangements on acceptable terms, or at all, we may not be able to successfully
commercialize our products in certain countries. Moreover, to the extent that we enter into distribution arrangements
with other companies, our revenues, if any, will depend on the terms of any such arrangements and the efforts of
others. These efforts may turn out not to be sufficient and our third-party distributors may not effectively sell our
products. In addition, although our contract terms require our distributors to comply with all applicable laws regarding
the sale of our products, including anti-competition, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering and sanctions laws, we
may not be able to ensure proper compliance. If our distributors fail to effectively market and sell our products in full
compliance with applicable laws, our results of operations and business could be impacted.
Our employees, independent contractors, consultants, manufacturers and distributors may engage in
misconduct or other improper activities, including noncompliance with regulatory standards and
requirements.
We are exposed to the risk that our employees, independent contractors, consultants, manufacturers and
distributors may engage in fraudulent conduct or other illegal activity. Misconduct by these parties could include
intentional, reckless or negligent conduct or disclosure of unauthorized activities to us that violates healthcare laws
and regulations of the FDA and other federal, state and international authorities, manufacturing standards, and laws
that require the true, complete and accurate reporting of financial information or data. We have adopted a code of
business conduct and ethics, and a global anti-corruption policy, but it is not always possible to identify and deter
misconduct, and the precautions we take to detect and prevent this activity may not be effective in controlling unknown
or unmanaged risks or losses or in protecting us from governmental investigations or other actions or lawsuits
stemming from a failure to be in compliance with such laws or regulations. If any such actions are instituted against
us, and we are not successful in defending ourselves or asserting our rights, those actions could have a significant
impact on our business, including the imposition of significant civil, criminal and administrative penalties.
The size of the market for our product groups has not been established with precision and may be smaller
than we estimate.
Our estimates of the annual total addressable market for our cardiac intervention, peripheral intervention,
interventional oncology and spine, and cardiovascular and critical care and endoscopy product groups are based on
a number of internal and third-party estimates, including published industry data. While we believe these factors have
historically provided and may continue to provide us with effective tools in estimating the total market for our products,
these estimates may not be correct and the conditions supporting our estimates may change at any time, thereby
reducing the predictive accuracy of the underlying factors we consider in our analysis. As a result, our estimates of
the annual total addressable market for our products may prove to be incorrect. If the actual number of patients who
would benefit from our products and the annual total addressable market for our products is smaller than we have
estimated, our sales growth may be impaired and our business adversely impacted. Even if the markets are as large
as projected, there is no assurance that our market share or aggregate sales will increase as a result of the size of
addressable markets.
Consolidation in the healthcare industry, group purchasing organizations or public procurement policies
could lead to demands for price concessions, which may harm our ability to sell our products at prices
necessary to support our current business strategies.
Healthcare costs have risen significantly over the past decade, which has resulted in or led to numerous cost
reform initiatives by legislators, regulators and third-party payers. Cost reform has triggered a consolidation trend in
the healthcare industry to aggregate purchasing power, which may create more requests for pricing concessions in
the future. Additionally, group purchasing organizations, independent delivery networks, public procurement policies
and large single accounts may continue to use their market power to consolidate purchasing decisions for hospitals
and healthcare service providers. We expect that market demand, government regulation, third-party coverage and
reimbursement policies and societal pressures will continue to change the healthcare industry worldwide, resulting in
further business consolidations and alliances among our customers, which may exert further downward pressure on
the prices of our products.
32
We may be unable to compete in our markets, particularly if there is a significant change in relevant practices
or technology.
The markets in which our products compete are highly competitive. We face competition from many
companies which are larger, better established, have greater financial, technical and other resources and possess a
greater market presence than we do. Such resources and market presence may enable our competitors to more
effectively market competing products or to market competing products at reduced prices in order to gain market
share.
In addition, our ability to compete successfully is dependent, in part, upon our response to changes in
technology and upon our efforts to develop and market new products which achieve significant market acceptance.
Competing companies with substantially greater resources than us are actively engaged in research and
development of new methods, treatments, drugs, and procedures to treat or prevent cardiovascular disease that
could limit the market for our products and eventually make some of our products obsolete. A reduction in the demand
for a significant number of our products, or a few key products, could have a material adverse effect on our business,
operations or financial condition.
Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates may negatively impact our financial results.
As our operations have grown outside the U.S., we have also become increasingly subject to market risk
relating to foreign currency. Those fluctuations could have a negative impact on our margins and financial
results. During 2018, 2017 and 2016, the exchange rate between all applicable foreign currencies and the U.S. Dollar
resulted in an increase in net sales of approximately $5.2 million, an increase of approximately $0.6 million and a
decrease of approximately $4.9 million, respectively.
For the year ended December 31, 2018, approximately $284.8 million, or 32.3%, of our net sales were
denominated in foreign currencies, with our Euro-denominated sales representing our largest single currency risk. If
the rate of exchange between foreign currencies declines against the U.S. Dollar, we may not be able to increase
the prices we charge our customers for products whose prices are denominated in those respective foreign
currencies. Furthermore, we may be unable or elect not to enter into hedging transactions which could mitigate the
effect of declining exchange rates. As a result, if the rate of exchange between foreign currencies declines against
the U.S. Dollar, our financial results may be negatively impacted.
We may be unable to accurately forecast customer demand for our products and manage our inventory.
To ensure adequate supply, we must forecast our inventory needs and place orders with our suppliers based
on estimates of future demand for particular products. Our ability to accurately forecast demand for our products
could be negatively affected by many factors, including our failure to accurately manage our expansion strategy and
customer acceptance of new products, product introductions by our competitors, an increase or decrease in customer
demand for our products or for products of our competitors, unanticipated changes in general market conditions or
regulatory matters and weakening of economic conditions or consumer confidence in future economic conditions.
Inventory levels in excess of customer demand may result in inventory write-downs or write-offs, which would impact
our gross margin. Conversely, if we underestimate customer demand for our products, our manufacturing facilities
may not be able to deliver products to meet our order requirements, which could damage our reputation and customer
relationships.
Our forecasts of customer demand and related decisions that we make about production levels may take into
account potential opportunities created by regulatory issues, supply disruptions or other challenges experienced by
our competitors. We generally do not know the extent and cannot predict the duration of these challenges
experienced by our competitors. As a result, our estimates about related increased demand for our products are
inherently uncertain and subject to change. If our estimates incorrectly forecast the extent or duration of this increased
demand, or the product types to which it relates, our revenues, margins and earnings could be adversely affected.
International and national economic and industry conditions constantly change, and could harm our
business and results of operations.
Our business and our results of operation are affected by many changing economic, industry and other
conditions beyond our control, including, for instance, potential changes to the economic relationship between the
U.S. and Mexico, China, and other countries in which we operate as a result of the current U.S. administration, and
other changes and developments that we cannot anticipate, each of which could harm our business and results of
33
operations. Actual or potential changes in international, national, regional and local economic, business and financial
conditions, including recession, inflation and trade protection measures, may negatively affect consumer preferences,
perceptions, spending patterns or demographic trends, any of which could harm our business or results of operations.
Our customers may experience financial difficulties or be unable to borrow money to fund their operations, which may
harm their ability or decision to purchase or pay for our products. Disruptions in the credit markets have previously
resulted, and could again result, in volatility, decreased liquidity, widening of credit spreads, and reduced availability
of financing. There can be no assurance that future financing will be available to our customers on acceptable terms,
if at all. An inability of our customers to obtain financing necessary to purchase our products could harm our business
and results of operations.
Changes in general economic conditions, geopolitical conditions, U.S. trade policies and other factors
beyond our control may adversely impact our business and operating results.
Our operations and performance depend significantly on global, regional and U.S. economic and geopolitical
conditions. During, and following, the U.S. presidential election in 2016, there has been discussion and dialogue
regarding potential significant changes to U.S. trade policies, legislation, treaties and tariffs, including the North
American Free Trade Agreement (“NAFTA”) as well as trade policies and tariffs affecting China. At this time, it is
unknown whether and to what extent new legislation will be passed into law, pending or new regulatory proposals
will be adopted, international trade agreements will be negotiated, or the effect that any such action would have,
either positively or negatively, on our industry or our Company. If any new legislation and/or regulations are
implemented, or if existing trade agreements are renegotiated, it may be inefficient and expensive for us to alter our
business operations in order to adapt to or comply with such changes. Such operational changes could have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
In addition to changes in U.S. trade policy, a number of other economic and geopolitical factors both in the
U.S. and abroad could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or
cash flows, which could ultimately result in:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
a global or regional economic slowdown in any of our market segments;
postponement of spending, in response to tighter credit, financial market volatility and other factors;
effects of significant changes in economic, monetary and fiscal policies in the U.S. and abroad including
significant income tax changes, currency fluctuations and inflationary pressures;
rapid material escalation of the cost of regulatory compliance and litigation;
changes in government policies and regulations affecting the Company or its significant customers;
industrial policies in various countries that favor domestic industries over multinationals or that restrict
foreign companies altogether;
difficulties protecting intellectual property;
longer payment cycles;
credit risks and other challenges in collecting accounts receivable; and
the impact of each of the foregoing on outsourcing and procurement arrangements.
In addition, any changes in U.S. trade policy could trigger retaliatory actions by affected countries, such as
China, resulting in a “trade war.” A trade war could result in increased costs for raw materials we use in our
manufacturing and could result in foreign governments imposing tariffs on products that we export outside the U.S.
or otherwise limiting our ability to sell our products abroad. These events could result in increased costs, lower
margins and lower demand than we have assumed in our projected financial results, which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
We are subject to export control laws, customs laws, sanctions laws and other laws governing our operations
in the U.S. and other countries. If we fail to comply with these laws, we could be subject to civil or criminal
penalties, other remedial measures and legal expenses, which could adversely affect our business, results
of operations and financial condition.
Our global operations expose us to trade and economic sanctions and other restrictions imposed by the U.S.,
the EU and other governments and organizations. The U.S. Departments of Justice, Commerce, State and Treasury
and other federal agencies and authorities have a broad range of civil and criminal penalties they may seek to impose
against corporations and individuals for violations of economic sanctions laws, export control laws, and other federal
statutes and regulations, including those established by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. Under these laws and
regulations, as well as other export control laws, customs laws, sanctions laws and other laws governing our
operations, various government agencies may require export licenses, may seek to impose modifications to business
34
practices, including cessation of business activities in sanctioned countries or with sanctioned persons or entities and
modifications to compliance programs, which may increase compliance costs, and may subject us to fines, penalties
and other sanctions. A violation of these laws or regulations could adversely impact our business, results of
operations and financial condition.
We depend on generating sufficient cash flow to fund our debt obligations, capital expenditures, and ongoing
operations.
We are dependent on our cash on hand and free cash flow to fund our debt obligations, capital expenditures
and ongoing operations. Our ability to service our debt and to fund our planned capital expenditures and ongoing
operations will depend on our ability to continue to generate cash flow. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash
flow or we are unable to access additional liquidity sources, we may not be able to service or repay our debt, operate
our business, respond to competitive challenges, or fund our other liquidity and capital needs.
A significant portion of our revenues is derived from a few products and medical procedures.
A significant portion of our revenues is attributable to sales of our inflation devices. During the year ended
December 31, 2018, sales of our inflation devices (including our Big60® device sold within our endoscopy segment
and kits and packs which include inflation devices, but also include other products) accounted for approximately
10.8% of our net sales. Any material decline in market demand, or change in OEM supplier preference, for our
inflation devices could have an adverse effect on our business, operations or financial condition.
In addition, the products that have accounted for a majority of our historical revenues are designed for use
in connection with a few related medical procedures, including angioplasty, stent placement procedures, and spinal
procedures. If subsequent developments in medical technology or drug therapy make such procedures obsolete, or
alter the methodology of such procedures so as to eliminate the usefulness of our products, we may experience a
material decrease in demand for our products and experience deteriorating financial performance.
We are subject to work stoppage, transportation, severe weather, natural disasters and related risks.
We manufacture products at various locations in the U.S. and foreign countries and sell our products
worldwide. We depend on third-party transportation companies to deliver supplies necessary to manufacture our
products from vendors to our various facilities and to move our products to customers, operating divisions, and other
subsidiaries located worldwide. Our manufacturing operations, and the operations of the transportation companies
on which we depend, may be harmed by natural disasters or significant human events, such as a war, civil unrest,
terrorist attack, riot, strike, slowdown, or similar events. Any disruption in our manufacturing or transportation could
materially harm our ability to meet customer demands or our operations.
Furthermore, our manufacturing operations could be affected by many other factors beyond our control,
including severe weather conditions and natural disasters, including hurricanes, earthquakes and tornadoes. These
conditions could cause substantial damage to our facilities, interrupt our production and disrupt our ability to deliver
products to our customers.
Fluctuations in our effective tax rate may adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of
operation.
We are subject to taxation in numerous countries, states and other jurisdictions. Our effective tax rate is
derived from a combination of applicable tax rates in the various countries, states and other jurisdictions in which we
operate. In preparing our financial statements, we estimate the amount of tax that will become payable in each of
these jurisdictions. Our effective tax rate may, however, differ from the estimated amount due to numerous factors,
including a change in the mix of our profitability from country to country and changes in tax laws. Relevant authorities
may also disagree with tax positions we have taken and assess further taxes. On December 22, 2017, the U.S.
government enacted comprehensive federal tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of
2017, or TCJA. The TCJA makes changes to the corporate tax rate, business-related deductions and taxation of
foreign earnings, among others, that will generally be effective for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017.
These changes could have a material impact on the value of our U.S. deferred tax assets, result in significant one-
time charges in the current or future taxable years and increase our future U.S. tax expense. We continue to evaluate
the TCJA and its requirements, as well as its application to our business and its impact on our effective tax rate. At
this stage, it is unclear how many U.S. states will incorporate these federal law changes, or portions thereof, into their
tax codes. The implementation by us of new practices and processes designed to comply with, and benefit from, the
35
TCJA and its rules and regulations could require us to make substantial changes to our business practices, allocate
additional resources, and increase our costs, which could negatively affect our business, results of operations and
financial condition. In addition, further changes in the tax laws of foreign jurisdictions could arise, including as a result
of recommendations issued by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, or the OECD, which
could, if implemented, result in substantial changes to numerous long-standing tax positions and principles. These
contemplated changes, to the extent adopted by OECD members or other countries, could increase tax uncertainty
and may adversely affect our provision for income taxes. Any of these factors could cause us to experience an
effective tax rate significantly different from previous periods or our current expectations, which could have an adverse
effect on our business, financial condition or results of operation.
Limits on reimbursement imposed by governmental and other programs may adversely affect our business
and results of operation.
We sell our products to hospitals and other healthcare providers around the world that typically receive
reimbursement for the services provided to patients from third-party payers such as government programs (e.g.,
Medicare and Medicaid in the U.S.) and private insurance programs. The ability of our customers to obtain
appropriate reimbursement for the cost of our products from governmental and private third-party payers is critical to
our business. Limits on reimbursement imposed by such programs may adversely affect the ability of hospitals and
others to purchase our products, which could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Third-party payers, whether foreign or domestic, or governmental or commercial, are developing increasingly
sophisticated methods of controlling healthcare costs. In general, a third-party payer covers a medical procedure only
when the plan administrator is satisfied that the product or procedure is reasonable and necessary to the patient’s
treatment; however, the cost-effectiveness of the treatment may also be a condition. In addition, in the U.S., no
uniform policy of coverage and reimbursement for procedures using our products exists among third-party payers.
Therefore, coverage and reimbursement for procedures using our products can differ significantly from payer to
payer. In addition, payers continually review new and existing technologies for possible coverage and can, without
notice, deny or reverse coverage or alter pre-authorization requirements for new or existing products and procedures.
We cannot provide assurance that we will be successful in any efforts we may potentially undertake to reverse such
non-coverage decisions. If we are not successful in reversing non-coverage policies, or if third-party payers that
currently cover or reimburse certain procedures reverse or limit their coverage of such procedures in the future, or if
other third-party payers issue similar policies, our business could be adversely impacted.
Further, we believe that future coverage and reimbursement may be subject to increased restrictions, such
as additional preauthorization requirements, both in the U.S. and in international markets. Third-party coverage and
reimbursement for procedures using our products or any of our products in development for which we may receive
regulatory approval may not be available or adequate in either the U.S. or international markets, which could have
an adverse impact on our business.
Our failure to comply with applicable environmental laws and regulations could affect our business,
operations or financial condition.
We manufacture and assemble certain products that require the use of hazardous materials that are subject
to various national, federal, state and local laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment, health
and safety. While the cost of compliance with such laws and regulations has not had a material adverse effect on our
results of operations historically, compliance with future regulations may require additional capital investments.
Additionally, because we use hazardous and other regulated materials in our manufacturing processes, we are
subject to certain risks of future liabilities, lawsuits and claims resulting from any substances we manufacture, dispose
of or release. Any accidental release may have an adverse effect on our business, operations or financial condition.
We cannot predict what additional environmental, health and safety legislation or regulations will be enacted or
become effective in the future or how existing or future laws or regulations will be administered or interpreted with
respect to our operations, capital expenditures, results of operations or competitive position. Compliance with more
stringent laws or regulations or adverse changes in the interpretation of existing laws or regulations by government
agencies could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations or financial condition, and could require
substantial expenditures.
36
The market price of our common stock has been, and may continue to be, volatile.
The market price of our common stock has at times been, and may in the future be, volatile for various
reasons, including those discussed in these risk factors. Other events that could cause volatility in our stock, include
without limitation, variances in our financial results; analysts’ and other projections or recommendations regarding
our common stock specifically or medical technology stocks generally; any restatement of our financial statements
or any investigation of us by the SEC, the FDA, or another regulatory authority; or a decline, or rise, of stock prices
in capital markets generally.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
Item 2. Properties.
Our world headquarters is located in South Jordan, Utah, with our principal office for European operations
located in Galway, Ireland. We also support our European operations from a distribution and customer service facility
located in Maastricht, the Netherlands. In addition, we lease commercial space in Bangalore, India; Beijing, Hong
Kong, GuangZhou and Shanghai, China; Buccinasco, Italy; Dubai, UAE; Melbourne, Australia; Moscow, Russia;
Toronto, Canada; Rockland, Massachusetts; São Paulo, Brazil; Selangor, Malaysia; Seoul, Republic of Korea; Tokyo,
Japan; Johannesburg, South Africa; Reading, United Kingdom; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Taipei, Taiwan; Auckland,
New Zealand; Jakarta, Indonesia; Jackson Township, New Jersey; Carrolton, Texas; and Versailles, France. Our
principal manufacturing and packaging facilities are located in Chester, Virginia; Galway, Ireland; Joinville, Brazil;
Malvern, Pennsylvania; Melbourne, Australia; Paris, France; Pearland, Texas; Singapore; South Jordan and West
Jordan, Utah; Tijuana, Mexico; and Venlo, The Netherlands. Our research and development activities are conducted
principally at facilities located in South Jordan and West Jordan, Utah; Pearland and Dallas, Texas; Malvern,
Pennsylvania; Jackson Township, New Jersey; San Jose, California; Galway, Ireland; Paris, France; Singapore; and
Venlo, The Netherlands.
The following is a summary of the approximate square footage of our facilities as of December 31, 2018:
U.S.
International
Total
Owned
552,207
344,181
896,388
Leased
499,074
456,957
956,031
Total
1,051,281
801,138
1,852,419
Operations associated with our cardiology segments utilize all of our facilities, while operations associated
with our endoscopy segment are conducted primarily from our facilities located in South Jordan, Utah and Pearland
and Dallas, Texas.
We are currently constructing an additional manufacturing facility at our South Jordan, Utah, headquarters,
totaling approximately 136,000 square feet and anticipate construction of the facility will be completed in February
2020.
In addition to routine leases, during 2018 we entered into leases for properties in Johannesburg, South Africa,
and Reading, United Kingdom, for customer service offices and distribution warehouses in each location.
We believe our existing and proposed facilities will generally be adequate for our present and future
anticipated levels of operations.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
In the ordinary course of business, we are involved in various claims and litigation matters. These claims and
litigation matters may include actions involving product liability, intellectual property, contract disputes, and
employment or other matters that are significant to our business. Based upon our review of currently available
information, we do not believe that any such actions are likely to be, individually or in the aggregate, materially
adverse to our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
In addition to the foregoing matters, in October 2016, we received a subpoena from the U.S. Department of
Justice seeking information on certain of our marketing and promotional practices. We are in the process of
37
responding to the subpoena, which we anticipate will continue during 2019. We have incurred, and anticipate that we
will continue to incur, substantial costs in connection with the matter. The investigation is ongoing and at this stage
we are unable to predict its scope, duration or outcome. Investigations such as this may result in the imposition of,
among other things, significant damages, injunctions, fines, civil or criminal claims or penalties against our company
or individuals.
It is possible that the ultimate resolution of any of the foregoing matters, or other matters, if resolved in a
manner unfavorable to us, may be materially adverse to our business, financial condition, results of operations or
liquidity. Legal costs for these matters, such as outside counsel fees and expenses, are charged to expense in the
period incurred.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
The disclosure required by this item is not applicable.
38
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of
PART II
Equity Securities.
Market Price for the Common Stock
Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “MMSI.”
As of February 26, 2019, the number of shares of our common stock outstanding was 54,902,835, held by
approximately 105 shareholders of record, not including shareholders whose shares are held in securities position
listings.
Performance
The following graph compares the performance of our common stock with the performance of the NASDAQ
Stock Market (U.S. Companies) and NASDAQ Stocks (SIC 3840-3849 U.S. Companies - Surgical, Medical and
Dental Instruments and Supplies) for a five-year period by measuring the changes in common stock prices from
December 31, 2013 to December 31, 2018.
Comparison of 5 Year Cumulative Total Return
Among Merit Medical Systems, Inc., NASDAQ Stock Market (U.S.)
and NASDAQ Stocks (SIC 3840-3849)
l
e
u
a
V
r
a
l
l
o
D
450.00
400.00
350.00
300.00
250.00
200.00
150.00
100.00
50.00
0.00
354.57
209.10
143.37
Dec-13 Jun-14 Dec-14 Jun-15 Dec-15 Jun-16 Dec-16 Jun-17 Dec-17 Jun-18 Dec-18
Date
Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
NASDAQ Stock Market (US Companies)
NASDAQ Stocks (SIC 3840-3849 US Companies
Surgical, Medical, and Dental Instruments and Supplies)
Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
NASDAQ Stock Market
(U.S. Companies)
NASDAQ Stocks (SIC 3840-
3849 U.S. Companies)
12/2013
$ 100
100
12/2014
$ 110
115
12/2015
$ 118
124
12/2016
$ 168
136
12/2017
$ 274
146
12/2018
$ 355
143
100
114
127
132
185
209
The stock performance graph assumes for comparison that the value of our common stock and of each index was
$100 on December 31, 2013 and that all dividends were reinvested. Past performance is not necessarily an indicator
of future results.
NOTE:
Performance graph data is complete through last fiscal year. Performance graph with peer group uses peer group only performance
(excludes only Merit). Peer group indices use beginning of period market capitalization weighting. Index Data: Calculated (or Derived)
based from CRSP NASDAQ Stock Market (US Companies), Center for Research in Security Prices (CRSP®), Graduate School of
Business, The University of Chicago. Copyright 2019. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
39
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
The following table contains information regarding our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2018
(in thousands, except weighted-average price):
Plan category
Equity compensation Plans approved
by security holders
Number of
securities to be
issued upon
exercise of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(a)
Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column (a))
(b)
(c)
3,507 (1),(3)
$
26.30
3,005 (2),(3)
(1) Consists of 3,306,660 shares of common stock subject to the options granted under the Merit Medical
Systems, Inc. 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan and 200,000 shares of common stock subject to the
options granted under the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 2018 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
(2) Consists of 105,207 shares available to be issued under the 1996 Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Non-
Qualified Employee Stock Purchase Plan and 2,900,000 shares available to be issued under the Merit
Medical Systems, Inc. 2018 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
(3) See Note 12 to our consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8 of this report for additional
information regarding these plans.
40
Item 6. Selected Financial Data (in thousands, except per share amounts).
OPERATING DATA:
Net Sales
Cost of Sales
Gross Profit
Operating Expenses:
Selling, general, and administrative
Research and development
Intangible asset impairment charge
Contingent consideration expense (benefit)
Acquired in-process research and
development
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
$ 882,753 $ 727,852 $ 603,838 $ 542,149 $ 509,689
487,983 401,599 338,813 306,368 284,467
394,770 326,253 265,025 235,781 225,222
276,018 229,134 184,398 156,348 147,894
36,632
59,532
1,102
657
(572 )
(698 )
51,403
809
(298 )
45,229
—
61
40,810
—
80
644
12,136
461
1,000
—
Total operating expenses
336,153 293,184 230,149 198,238 185,056
Income from Operations
58,617
33,069
34,876
37,543
40,166
Other Income (Expense):
Interest income
Interest expense
Gain on bargain purchase
Other income (expense)
Other income (expense)—net
1,199
(10,360 )
—
63
(9,098 )
381
(7,736 )
11,039
(872 )
2,812
81
(8,798 )
—
(773 )
272
(6,229 )
—
(386 )
(9,490 )
(6,343 )
217
(8,829 )
—
18
(8,594 )
Income Before Income Taxes
49,519
35,881
25,386
31,200
31,572
Income Tax Expense
7,502
8,358
5,265
7,398
8,598
Net Income
$ 42,017 $ 27,523 $ 20,121 $ 23,802 $ 22,974
Earnings Per Common Share:
Diluted
Average Common Shares:
Diluted
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Working capital
Total assets
Long-term debt, less current portion
Stockholders’ equity
$
0.78 $
0.55 $
0.45 $
0.53 $
0.53
53,931
50,101
44,862
44,511
43,409
$ 254,491 $ 200,501 $ 155,092 $ 116,093 $ 116,910
1,620,012 1,111,811 942,803 778,728 747,165
373,152 259,013 314,373 197,593 214,490
932,775 676,334 498,189 466,103 435,259
41
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in
conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes thereto, which are included in Item 8 of
this report.
Overview
We design, develop, manufacture and market medical products for interventional and diagnostic procedures.
For financial reporting purposes, we report our operations in two operating segments: cardiovascular and endoscopy.
Our cardiovascular segment consists of cardiology and radiology devices, which assist in diagnosing and treating
coronary arterial disease, peripheral vascular disease and other non-vascular diseases and
includes
embolotherapeutic, cardiac rhythm management, electrophysiology, critical care, Cianna Medical and interventional
oncology and spine devices. Our endoscopy segment consists of gastroenterology and pulmonology devices which
assist in the palliative treatment of expanding esophageal, tracheobronchial and biliary strictures caused by malignant
tumors. Within those two operating segments, we offer products focused in six core product groups: peripheral
intervention, cardiac intervention, interventional oncology and spine, cardiovascular and critical care, breast cancer
localization and guidance and endoscopy.
For the year ended December 31, 2018, we reported sales of approximately $882.8 million, up approximately
$154.9 million or 21.3%, over 2017 sales of approximately $727.9 million.
Gross profit as a percentage of sales decreased to 44.7% for the year ended December 31, 2018 as
compared to 44.8% for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Net income for the year ended December 31, 2018 was approximately $42.0 million, or $0.78 per share, as
compared to $27.5 million, or $0.55 per share, for the year ended December 31, 2017.
We continue to focus our efforts on expanding our presence in foreign markets, particularly Europe, Middle
East and Africa ("EMEA"), China, Southeast Asia, Japan, Australia and Brazil, in an effort to expand our market
opportunities. These efforts have increased our selling, general and administrative expenses, but we believe over
time they will help us improve our profitability. Our international sales growth was strong for the year ended December
31, 2018. In 2018, international sales were approximately $386.3 million, or 44% of our net sales, up 26% from
international sales of $307.1 million in 2017.
We believe our forecasted growth will be facilitated by recently introduced products such as the EmboCube™
Embolization Gelatin, the basixTAU™ Inflation Device, the Prelude Prestige™ Splittable Sheath Introducer, the
Prelude Ideal™ Sheath Introducer, and the PreludeSYNC™ Radial Compression Device, among others.
We recently opened a new distribution center in Reading, England in an effort to address potential Brexit
disruption, as well as a direct sales and distribution center in Johannesburg, South Africa. We believe the ability to
provide essentially same-day service to our customers in those regions will enhance customer confidence and
increase our growth prospects.
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth certain operational data as a percentage of sales for the years indicated:
Net sales
Gross profit
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Research and development expenses
Intangible asset impairment charges
Contingent consideration expense (benefit)
Acquired in-process research and development expenses
Income from operations
Income before income taxes
Net income
42
2018
100%
44.7
31.3
6.7
0.1
(0.1)
0.1
6.6
5.6
4.8
2017
100%
44.8
31.5
7.1
0.1
—
1.7
4.5
4.9
3.8
2016
100%
43.9
30.5
7.5
—
—
0.1
5.8
4.2
3.3
Listed below are the sales by product category within each operating segment for the years ended
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands):
% Change
2018
% Change
2017
% Change
2016
Cardiovascular
Stand-alone devices
Cianna Medical
Custom kits and procedure trays
Inflation devices
Catheters
Embolization devices
CRM/EP
Total
Endoscopy
Endoscopy devices
31%
n/a
7%
16%
22%
1%
17%
21%
$ 361,613
44%
6,292 —%
6%
$ 275,456
23%
— —%
2%
134,756
92,419
155,525
50,038
48,834
849,477
8%
13%
8%
15%
21%
126,089
79,875
127,747
49,532
41,914
700,613
1%
17%
2%
8%
11%
$ 191,127
—
119,247
73,916
113,367
46,035
36,459
580,151
22%
33,276
15%
27,239
12%
23,687
Total
21%
$ 882,753
21%
$ 727,852
11%
$ 603,838
Note: Certain product categories for 2017 and 2016 have been adjusted from prior disclosure to reflect changes in
product classifications to be consistent with updates in the management of our product portfolios in 2018. Also note
that Cianna Medical is a new category in 2018 as a result of the acquisition in November 2018 (see Note 3).
Cardiovascular Sales. Our cardiovascular sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 were approximately
$849.5 million, up 21.2%, when compared to the corresponding period for 2017 of approximately $700.6 million.
Sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 were favorably affected by increased sales of (a) our stand-alone
devices (particularly our Map™ Merit Angioplasty Packs, PreludeSYNC™, guide wires, and Merit Laureate®
Hydrophilic Guide Wire products, as well as sales from our acquisitions of the BD and Argon critical care division
product lines, among others) of approximately $86.2 million, up 31.3%; (b) catheters (particularly our Prelude® Radial
Introducer Sheath product line, our Merit Maestro® Microcatheters and our new Prelude Ideal™) of approximately
$27.8 million, up 21.7%; and (c) our inflation devices (particularly our BASIXTouch™ and BasixCompak™ product
lines and inflation kits sold through our OEM relationships) of approximately $12.5 million, up 15.7%.
Our cardiovascular sales for the year ended December 31, 2017 were approximately $700.6 million, up
20.8%, when compared to the corresponding period for 2016 of approximately $580.2 million. Sales for the year
ended December 31, 2017 were favorably affected by increased sales of (a) our stand-alone devices (particularly our
Map™, Medallion®, guide wires, and HeRO® Graft products, as well as new sales from our acquisitions of the DFINE,
Argon critical care division and Catheter Connections product lines) of approximately $84.3 million, up 44.1%; (b)
catheters (particularly our SwiftNINJA® product line, Concierge® Guiding Catheters, Prelude® Radial Introducer
Sheath product line, and our Merit Maestro® Microcatheters) of approximately $14.4 million, up 12.7%; and (c) our
custom kits and procedure trays of approximately $6.8 million, up 5.7%, which includes sales from our acquisition of
ITL Healthcare Pty Ltd. ("ITL").
Sales by our international direct sales forces are subject to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations
between the natural currency of a foreign country and the U.S. Dollar. Foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations
increased sales 0.6% for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017 and increased sales 0.1% for the
year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016. New products and market share gains in our existing product
lines were additional sources of revenue growth.
Endoscopy Sales. Our endoscopy sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 were approximately $33.3
million, up 22.2%, when compared to sales in 2017 of approximately $27.2 million. This increase was primarily related
to new sales from our distribution agreement with NinePoint Medical, Inc. and our acquisition of BD, as well as an
increase in sales of our EndoMAXX™ fully covered esophageal stent and our Elation® balloon dilator. Our endoscopy
sales for the year ended December 31, 2017 were approximately $27.2 million, up 15.0%, when compared to sales
in 2016 of approximately $23.7 million. This increase was primarily related to an increase in sales of our EndoMAXX™
fully covered esophageal stent and our Elation® balloon dilator.
43
International Sales. International sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 were approximately $386.3
million, or 44% of net sales, up 26% from 2017. International sales for the year ended December 31, 2017 were
approximately $307.1 million, or 42% of net sales, up 32% from 2016. The increase in our international sales during
2018 was primarily related to a year-over-year sales increase in China of approximately $19.4 million, or 26%, in
Japan of approximately $12.8 million, or 38%, and in Australia of approximately $9.3 million, or 190% (primarily due
to the acquisition of ITL). The increase in our international sales during 2017 was primarily related to a year-over-
year sales increase in China of approximately $13.4 million, or 22%, the acquisition of the critical care division of
Argon, and sales in modified direct markets added in 2017, namely South Korea, Japan and India, as well as
continued growth in direct markets added in 2016, namely Canada, Australia and Russia.
Gross Profit. Our gross profit as a percentage of sales was 44.7%, 44.8%, and 43.9% for the years ended
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of sales for 2018, as
compared to 2017, was primarily related to increased amortization expense and mark-up of acquired inventory
associated with current year acquisitions and unfavorable manufacturing variances associated with our operations in
Australia, which was partially offset by improvements associated with changes in product mix. The increase in gross
profit as a percentage of sales for 2017, as compared to 2016, was primarily related to changes in product mix and
increased efficiencies gained from our operations team.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Our selling, general and administrative expenses increased
approximately $46.9 million, or 20.5%, for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017 and $44.7 million,
or 24.3%, for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016. Selling, general and administrative expenses
as a percentage of sales were 31.3%, 31.5% and 30.5% for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016,
respectively.
The increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018
compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 was primarily related to $7.6 million of acquisition and integration-
related costs (compared to $6.6 million in 2017), increased headcount, increased amortization of intangible assets
and foreign market expansion, partially offset by decreased legal costs associated with responding to the pending
subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice ($5.6 million in 2018 compared to $12.6 million in 2017).
The increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017
compared to the year ended December 31, 2016 was primarily related to legal expenses of approximately $12.6
million incurred in responding to the pending subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice, $6.6 million of acquisition
and integration-related costs, increased headcount, increased amortization, and foreign market expansion.
Research and Development Expenses. Research and development ("R&D") expenses increased by $8.1
million or 15.8% to approximately $59.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to approximately
$51.4 million in 2017. The increase in R&D expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 was largely due to hiring
additional research and development personnel to support various new core and acquired product developments.
Research and development expenses increased by approximately $6.2 million or 13.7% to approximately $51.4
million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to approximately $45.2 million in 2016. The increase in
R&D expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017 was largely due to hiring additional research and development
personnel to support various new core and acquired product developments. Our research and development expenses
as a percentage of sales were 6.7%, 7.1% and 7.5% for 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively. We have a pipeline of
new products, and we believe that we have an effective level of capabilities and expertise to continue the flow of new,
internally developed products into the foreseeable future with average gross margins that are higher than our
historical gross margins.
In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 we incurred in-process research and
development charges of approximately $0.6 million, $12.1 million and $0.5 million, respectively. The decrease in our
in-process research and development charges for the year ended December 31, 2018 was primarily driven by the
acquisition of IntelliMedical and its intellectual property rights associated with a steerable guidewire system in 2017,
as discussed in Note 3 of the notes to our consolidated financial statements.
44
Our operating profits by business segment for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 were as
follows (in thousands):
Operating Income
Cardiovascular
Endoscopy
Total operating income
2018
2017
2016
$
$
49,289
9,328
58,617
$
$
24,819
8,250
33,069
$ 30,053
4,823
$ 34,876
Cardiovascular Operating Income. Our cardiovascular operating income for the year ended December 31,
2018 was approximately $49.3 million, compared to cardiovascular operating income of approximately $24.8 million
for the year ended December 31, 2017. This increase in cardiovascular operating income was primarily related to
increased sales, lower R&D costs as a percentage of sales, the $11.9 million acquired in-process R&D charge from
Intellimedical in 2017 which did not repeat in 2018, lower legal expenses incurred in responding to the pending
subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice ($5.6 million in 2018 compared to $12.6 million in 2017), partially
offset by costs related to increased headcount, increased amortization of intangible assets, and costs associated with
foreign market expansion. Our cardiovascular operating income for the year ended December 31, 2017 was
approximately $24.8 million, compared to operating income of approximately $30.1 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016. This decrease in cardiovascular operating income was primarily related to legal expenses of
approximately $12.6 million incurred in responding to the pending subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice,
$6.6 million of acquisition and integration-related costs, increased headcount, increased amortization, and foreign
market expansion.
Endoscopy Operating Income. Our endoscopy operating income for the year ended December 31, 2018 was
approximately $9.3 million, compared to approximately $8.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. This
increase was primarily the result of higher sales (due to the distribution agreement with NinePoint Medical, Inc. and
the acquisition of BD). Our endoscopy operating income for the year ended December 31, 2017 was approximately
$8.3 million, compared to approximately $4.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was
primarily the result of higher sales, improved gross margins, and lower SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales.
Effective Tax Rate. Our effective income tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
was 15.2%, 23.3%, and 20.7%, respectively. On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted the TCJA, which
significantly revises the U.S. corporate tax by, among other things, lowering the corporate tax rate and imposing a
one-time repatriation tax on deemed repatriated earnings of foreign subsidiaries (“transition tax”). The decrease in
the effective income tax rate for 2018 compared to 2017 was primarily the result of the reduced U.S. corporate tax
rate and the favorable impact of the revision and completion of the transition tax calculation, partially offset by the
unfavorable impact of the estimated withholding tax on unremitted foreign earnings. The increase in the effective
income tax rate for 2017 compared to 2016 was primarily the result of increased tax expense due to the transition
tax, partially offset by the favorable impact of the reduced tax rate on our net deferred tax liabilities.
Other Income (Expense). Our other income (expense) for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and
2016 was approximately $(9.1) million, $2.8 million, and $(9.5) million, respectively. The change in other income
(expense) for 2018 over 2017 was principally the result of increased interest expense due to higher average debt
balances during 2018 and from the fact that the gain on bargain purchase related to the 2017 acquisition of the Argon
critical care division of approximately $11.0 million did not repeat in 2018. The change in other income (expense) for
2017 over 2016 was principally the result of the gain on bargain purchase related to the acquisition of the Argon
critical care division of approximately $11.0 million.
Net Income. Our net income for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was approximately
$42.0 million, $27.5 million, and $20.1 million, respectively. The increase in net income for 2018, when compared to
2017, was primarily due to increased sales (both from acquisitions and organic growth), decreased R&D expenses
as a percentage of sales, lower legal expenses incurred in responding to the pending subpoena from the U.S.
Department of Justice ($5.6 million in 2018 compared to $12.6 million in 2017) and a lower effective tax rate in 2018
(in large part due to the TCJA), partially offset by slightly lower gross margins and increased interest expense due to
higher average debt balances in 2018.
45
The increase in net income for the year ended December 31, 2017, when compared to 2016, was primarily
due to increased sales, gross margin improvement and the gain on bargain purchase of approximately $11.0 million
related to the acquisition of the Argon critical care division, which was partially offset by the acquired in-process
research and development expenses of approximately $12.1 million attributable to the IntelliMedical acquisition,
approximately $12.6 million of legal expenses incurred in responding to the pending subpoena from the U.S.
Department of Justice, and approximately $6.6 million of acquisition and integration-related costs.
Total Assets. Total assets utilized in our cardiovascular segment were approximately $1.6 billion as of
December 31, 2018, compared to approximately $1.1 billion as of December 31, 2017 and approximately $932.9
million as of December 31, 2016. Total assets utilized in our endoscopy segment were approximately $31.0 million
as of December 31, 2018, compared to approximately $8.0 million as of December 31, 2017 and approximately $9.9
million as of December 31, 2016.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements. We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have had, or are
reasonably likely in the future to have, an effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital
expenditures or capital resources.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Capital Commitments and Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our capital commitments and contractual obligations as of December 31,
2018, as well as the future periods in which such payments are currently anticipated to become due:
Payment due by period (in thousands)
Contractual Obligations
Less than 1 Year 1-3 Years
Total
$ 395,500 $
Long-term debt
Interest on long-term debt (1)
Operating leases
Royalty obligations
After 5 Years
—
—
52,754
3,640
56,394
(1) Interest payments on our variable long-term debt were forecasted using the LIBOR forward curves plus a base of
1.00% based on the terms of our Second Amended Credit Agreement. Interest payments on a portion of our long-
term debt were forecasted using a fixed rate of 2.115% as a result of our interest rate swap (see Note 8 to our
consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8 of this report).
22,000 $ 373,500 $
11,063
13,421
804
— $
—
15,006
1,350
16,356 $
39,843
102,495
7,236
28,780
21,314
1,442
47,288 $ 425,036 $
Total contractual cash
$ 545,074 $
4-5 Years
As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately $82.2 million of contingent consideration liabilities, $3.0
million of unrecognized tax positions, and $11.2 million of deferred compensation payable that have been recognized
as liabilities that have not been included in the contractual obligations table due to uncertainty as to when such
amounts may be settled.
Additional information regarding our capital commitments and contractual obligations, including royalty
payments, is contained in Notes 8 and 10 to our consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8 below.
Cash Flows
At December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $67.4 million and
$32.3 million respectively, of which approximately $57.3 million and $30.4 million, respectively, were held by foreign
subsidiaries. The TCJA one-time repatriation tax liability effectively taxes the undistributed earnings previously
deferred from U.S. income taxes. The TCJA eliminated certain material tax effects on the repatriation of cash to the
U.S. Future repatriation of cash and other property held by our foreign subsidiaries will generally not be subject to
U.S. federal income tax. As a result, after reevaluation of the permanent reinvestment assertion, we are no longer
permanently reinvested with respect to our historic unremitted foreign earnings as of December 31, 2018.
In addition, cash held by our subsidiary in China is subject to local laws and regulations that require
government approval for the transfer of such funds to entities located outside of China. As of December 31, 2018
and 2017, we had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $18.6 million and $13.1million, respectively, held by
our subsidiary in China.
46
Cash flows provided by operating activities. Cash provided by operating activities during the years ended
December 31, 2018 and 2017 was primarily the result of net income excluding non-cash items, offset by shifts in
working capital. Our working capital as of December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was approximately $254.5 million,
$200.5 million and $155.1 million, respectively. The increase in working capital as of December 31, 2018 compared
to December 31, 2017 was primarily the result of increases in cash, trade receivables and inventories, which were
partially offset by an increase in trade payables and accrued expenses. The increase in working capital as of
December 31, 2017 compared to December 31, 2016 was primarily the result of increases in cash, trade receivables
and inventories, which were partially offset by an increase in accrued expenses and the current portion of long-term
debt. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had a current ratio of 2.45 to 1 and 2.73 to 1, respectively.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, our inventory balance increased approximately $42.2 million,
from approximately $155.3 million as of December 31, 2017 to approximately $197.5 million as of December 31,
2018. The increase in the inventory balance was due to several factors, including acquisitions and increased demand.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, our inventory balance increased approximately $34.6 million, from
approximately $120.7 million at December 31, 2016 to approximately $155.3 million at December 31, 2017. The
increase in the inventory balance was due to several factors, including acquisitions, increased sales, and the opening
of new modified direct sales markets in South Korea, India, and Japan. The trailing twelve month inventory turns for
the period ended December 31, 2018 was 2.80, compared to 2.91 for the twelve-month period ended December 31,
2017.
Cash flows provided by financing activities. Cash provided by financing activities for the year ended
December 31, 2018 was approximately $328.3 million compared to approximately $96.5 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, an increase of approximately $231.8 million. The increase in net cash provided from financing
activities was primarily the result of an increase in the proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt (primarily driven
by the acquisitions of BD and Cianna Medical), as well as cash provided from our public equity offering of 4,025,000
shares of common stock (from which we received net proceeds of approximately $205.0 million, which is net of
approximately $12.0 million in underwriting discounts and commissions incurred and paid by us in connection with
this equity offering). This was partially offset by increased payments on our long-term debt, as we used the proceeds
of the equity offering to pay down debt balances.
Cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2017 was approximately $96.5 million,
compared to approximately $121.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, a change of approximately $24.6
million. The decrease in net cash provided from financing activities was primarily the result of a decrease in the
proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt, which was partially offset by our public equity offering
of 5,175,000 shares of common stock from which we received net proceeds of approximately $136.6 million, which
is net of approximately $8.8 million in underwriting discounts and commissions and approximately $816,000 in other
direct costs incurred and paid by us in connection with this equity offering.
The Second Amended Credit Agreement provides for a term loan of $150 million and a revolving credit
commitment up to an aggregate amount of $375 million, which includes a reserve of $25 million to make swingline
loans from time to time. The term loan is payable in quarterly installments in the amounts provided in the Second
Amended Credit Agreement until the maturity date of July 6, 2021, at which time the term and revolving credit loans,
together with accrued interest thereon, will be due and payable. At any time prior to the maturity date, we may repay
any amounts owing under all revolving credit loans, term loans, and all swingline loans in whole or in part, subject to
certain minimum thresholds, without premium or penalty, other than breakage costs.
Revolving credit loans denominated in dollars and term loans made under the Second Amended Credit
Agreement bear interest, at our election, at either a Base Rate or Eurocurrency Base Rate (as such terms are defined
in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) plus the applicable margin, which increases as our Consolidated Total
Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) increases. Revolving credit loans
denominated in an Alternative Currency (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) bear interest at the
Eurocurrency rate plus the applicable margin. Swingline loans bear interest at the base rate plus the applicable
margin. Upon an event of default, the interest rate may be increased by 2.0%. The revolving credit commitment will
also carry a commitment fee of 0.15% to 0.40% per annum on the unused portion.
47
The Second Amended Credit Agreement is collateralized by substantially all our assets. The Second
Amended Credit Agreement contains covenants, representations and warranties and other terms customary for loans
of this nature. The Second Amended Credit Agreement requires that we maintain certain financial covenants, as
follows:
Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio (1)
January 1, 2018 and thereafter
Consolidated EBITDA (2)
Consolidated Net Income (3)
Facility Capital Expenditures (4)
Covenant Requirement
3.25 to 1.0
1.25 to 1.0
$—
$30 million
(1) Maximum Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) as of any fiscal
quarter end.
(2) Minimum ratio of Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement and adjusted for certain
expenditures) to Consolidated Fixed Charges (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) for any period of
four consecutive fiscal quarters.
(3) Minimum level of Consolidated Net Income (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) for certain periods,
and subject to certain adjustments.
(4) Maximum level of the aggregate amount of all Facility Capital Expenditures (as defined in the Second Amended Credit
Agreement) in any fiscal year.
Additionally, the Second Amended Credit Agreement contains customary events of default and affirmative
and negative covenants for transactions of this type. As of December 31, 2018, we believe we were in compliance
with all covenants set forth in the Second Amended Credit Agreement.
As of December 31, 2018, we had outstanding borrowings of approximately $388.5 million under the Second
Amended Credit Agreement, with available borrowings of approximately $58.3 million, based on the leverage ratio
required pursuant to the Second Amended Credit Agreement. Our interest rate as of December 31, 2018 was a fixed
rate of 2.12% on $175.0 million as a result of an interest rate swap (see Note 9) and a variable floating rate of 3.52%
on $213.5 million. We also had a variable rate of 3.39% on $7.0 million related to our collateralized debt facility with
HSBC in China.
Our interest rate as of December 31, 2017 was a fixed rate of 2.68% on $175.0 million as a result of an
interest rate swap (see Note 9) and a variable floating rate of 2.82% on $97.0 million. We also had a variable floating
rate of 2.38% on approximately $7.0 million related to a collateralized debt facility with HSBC in China.
Cash flows used in investing activities. Our cash flow used in investing activities for the year ended December
31, 2018 was approximately $378.8 million compared to approximately $146.8 million for the year ended December
31, 2017, an increase of approximately $232.1 million. This increase was primarily a result of an increase of
approximately $196.2 million in net cash paid for acquisitions (primarily BD and Cianna Medical) during the year
ended December 31, 2018, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 (see Note 3) and a $24.7 million
increase in capital expenditures for property and equipment to fund our expanding operations.
Our cash flow used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2017 was approximately $146.8
million, compared to approximately $159.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, a decrease of
approximately $12.3 million. This decrease was primarily a result of a decrease of approximately $19.6 million in net
cash paid for acquisitions during the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to the year ended December 31,
2016 (see Note 3), partially offset by a $5.8 million increase in capital expenditures for property and equipment.
Capital expenditures for property and equipment were approximately $63.3 million, $38.6 million, and $32.8
million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Historically, we have incurred significant
expenses in connection with facility construction, production automation, product development and the introduction
of new products. We anticipate that we will spend approximately $60 to $65 million in 2019 for buildings, property
and equipment.
We currently believe that our existing cash balances, anticipated future cash flows from operations and
borrowings under the Second Amended Credit Agreement will be adequate to fund our current and currently planned
future operations for the next twelve months and the foreseeable future. In the event we pursue and complete
48
significant transactions or acquisitions in the future, additional funds will likely be required to meet our strategic needs,
which may require us to raise additional funds in the debt or equity markets.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The SEC has requested that all registrants address their most critical accounting policies. The SEC has
indicated that a “critical accounting policy” is one which is both important to the representation of the registrant’s
financial condition and results and requires management’s most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often as
a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. We base our estimates
on past experience and on various other assumptions our management believes to be reasonable under the
circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about carrying values of assets and liabilities
that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results will differ, and may differ materially from these
estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Additionally, changes in accounting estimates could occur in the
future from period to period. The following paragraphs identify our most critical accounting policies:
Inventory Obsolescence. Our management reviews on a quarterly basis inventory quantities on hand for
unmarketable and/or slow-moving products that may expire prior to being sold. This review includes quantities on
hand for both raw materials and finished goods. Based on this review, we provide adjustments for any slow-moving
finished good products or raw materials that we believe will expire prior to being sold or used to produce a finished
good and any products that are unmarketable. This review of inventory quantities for unmarketable and/or slow
moving products is based on forecasted product demand prior to expiration lives.
Forecasted unit demand is derived from our historical experience of product sales and production raw
material usage. If market conditions become less favorable than those projected by our management, additional
inventory write-downs may be required. During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, we recorded
obsolescence expense of approximately $8.2 million, $6.1 million, and $3.9 million, respectively, and wrote off
approximately $7.9 million, $2.9 million, and $2.8 million, respectively. Based on this historical trend, we believe that
our inventory balances as of December 31, 2018 have been accurately adjusted for any unmarketable and/or slow
moving products that may expire prior to being sold.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. A majority of our receivables are with hospitals which, over our history,
have demonstrated favorable collection rates. Therefore, we have experienced relatively minimal bad debts from
hospital customers. In limited circumstances, we have written off bad debts as the result of the termination of our
business relationships with foreign distributors. The most significant write-offs over our history have come from U.S.
and international distributors, as well as from U.S. custom procedure tray manufacturers who bundle our products in
surgical trays.
We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts relating to estimated losses resulting from the inability of our
customers to make required payments. These allowances are based upon historical experience and a review of
individual customer balances. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment
of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.
Stock-Based Compensation. We measure stock-based compensation cost at the grant date based on the
value of the award and recognize the cost as an expense over the term of the vesting period. Judgment is required
in estimating the fair value of stock-based awards granted and their expected forfeiture rate. If actual results differ
significantly from these estimates, stock-based compensation expense and our results of operations could be
materially impacted.
Income Taxes. Under our accounting policies, we initially recognize a tax position in our financial statements
when it becomes more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities. Such
tax positions are initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax positions that has a greater than
50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the tax authorities assuming full knowledge of the
position and all relevant facts. Although we believe our provisions for unrecognized tax positions are reasonable, we
can make no assurance that the final tax outcome of these matters will not be different from that which we have
reflected in our income tax provisions and accruals. The tax law is subject to varied interpretations, and we have
taken positions related to certain matters where the law is subject to interpretation. Such differences could have a
material impact on our income tax provisions and operating results in the period(s) in which we make such
determination.
49
Valuation of Goodwill, Intangible Assets and Contingent Consideration. We allocate any excess
purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired in a business
combination to goodwill. We test our goodwill balances for impairment as of July 1 of each year, or whenever
impairment indicators arise. We utilize several reporting units in evaluating goodwill for impairment. We assess the
estimated fair value of reporting units using a combination of a guideline public company market-based approach
and a discounted cash flow income-based approach. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the fair value
of the reporting unit, an impairment charge is recognized in an amount equal to the excess of the carrying amount of
the reporting unit goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. This analysis requires significant judgment,
including estimation of future cash flows and the length of time they will occur, which is based on internal forecasts,
and a determination of a discount rate based on our weighted average cost of capital. During our annual test of
goodwill balances in 2018, which was completed during the third quarter of 2018, we determined that the fair value
of each reporting unit with goodwill exceeded the carrying amount by a significant amount.
We evaluate the recoverability of intangible assets subject to amortization whenever events or changes in
circumstances indicate that an asset's carrying amount may not be recoverable. This analysis requires similar
significant judgments as those discussed above regarding goodwill, except that undiscounted cash flows are
compared to the carrying amount of intangible assets to determine if impairment exists. In-process technology
intangible assets, which are not subject to amortization until projects reach commercialization, are assessed for
impairment at least annually and more frequently if events occur that would indicate a potential reduction in the fair
value of the assets below their carrying value.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we compared the carrying value of the amortizing intangible
assets acquired in our July 2015 acquisition of certain assets from Quellent, LLC, all of which pertained to our
cardiovascular segment, to the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the asset group and determined that
the carrying amount was not recoverable. We then determined the fair value of the amortizing assets related to the
Quellent acquisition based on estimated future cash flows discounted back to their present value using a discount
rate that reflects the risk profiles of the underlying activities. Some of the factors that influenced our estimated cash
flows were slower than anticipated sales growth in the products acquired from our Quellent acquisition and
uncertainty about future sales growth. The excess of the carrying value compared to the fair value was recognized
as an intangible asset impairment charge. We recorded an impairment charge for Quellent of approximately
$657,000.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we compared the carrying value of the amortizing intangible
assets acquired in our July 2015 acquisition of certain assets from Distal Access, LLC to the undiscounted cash flows
expected to result from the asset group and determined that the carrying amount was not recoverable. We then
determined the fair value of the amortizing assets related to the Distal Access acquisition based on estimated future
cash flows discounted back to their present value using a discount rate that reflects the risk profiles of the underlying
activities. Some of the factors that influenced our estimated cash flows were slower than anticipated sales growth in
the products acquired from our Distal Access acquisition and uncertainty about future sales growth. The excess of
the carrying value compared to the fair value was recognized as an intangible asset impairment charge. We recorded
an impairment charge for Distal Access of approximately $809,000.
Contingent consideration is an obligation by the buyer to transfer additional assets or equity interests to the
former owner upon reaching certain performance targets. Certain of our business combinations involve the potential
for the payment of future contingent consideration, generally based on a percentage of future product sales or upon
attaining specified future revenue or other milestones. In connection with a business combination, any contingent
consideration is recorded on the acquisition date based upon the consideration expected to be transferred in the
future. We utilize a discounted cash flow method, which includes a probability factor for milestone payments, in
valuing the contingent consideration liability. We re-measure the estimated liability each quarter and record changes
in the estimated fair value through operating expense in our consolidated statements of income. Significant increases
or decreases in our estimates could result in changes to the estimated fair value of our contingent consideration
liability, as the result of changes in the timing and amount of revenue estimates, as well as changes in the discount
rate or periods.
50
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
Our principal market risk relates to changes in the value of the following currencies related to the U.S. Dollar
(USD):
• Euro (EUR),
• Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY), and
• British Pound (GBP)
We also have a limited market risk relating to the following currencies (among others):
• Hong Kong Dollar (HKD),
• Mexican Peso (MXN),
• Australian Dollar (AUD),
• Canadian Dollar (CAD),
• Brazilian Real (BRL),
• Swiss Franc (CHF),
• Swedish Krona (SEK),
• Danish Krone (DKK),
• South Korean Won (KRW), and
•
Japanese Yen (JPY).
Our consolidated financial statements are denominated in, and our principal currency is, the U.S. Dollar. For
the year ended December 31, 2018, a portion of our net sales (approximately $284.8 million, representing
approximately 32.3% of our aggregate net sales), was attributable to sales that were denominated in foreign
currencies. All other international sales were denominated in U.S. Dollars.
Our Euro-denominated revenue represents our largest single currency risk. However, our Euro-denominated
expenses associated with our European operations (manufacturing sites, a distribution facility and sales
representatives) provide a natural hedge. Accordingly, changes in the Euro, and in particular a strengthening of the
U.S. Dollar against the Euro, generally have a positive effect on our operating income. As we continue to expand our
operations in China, we have been increasingly exposed to currency risk related to our CNY-denominated revenue.
In general, a strengthening of the U.S. Dollar against CNY has a negative effect on our operating income. The
following table presents the USD impact to reported operating income related to a hypothetical positive and negative
10% exchange rate fluctuation in the value of the U.S. Dollar relative to both the EUR and CNY:
(in thousands)
Impact to Operating Income of:
EUR
CNY
USD Relative to Other Currency
10% Strengthening
10% Weakening
$4,600
$(6,600)
$(4,600)
$6,600
During the year ended December 31, 2018, exchange rate fluctuations of foreign currencies against the U.S.
Dollar had the following impact on sales, cost of sales and gross profit (in thousands, except basis points):
Year Ended
December 31, 2018
Currency Impact to Reported Amounts
Increase/(Decrease)
5,163
5,260
(97 )
Net Sales
Cost of Sales
Gross Profit (1)
(1) Represents approximately 27 basis points decrease in gross margin
percentage
Percent
Increase/(Decrease)
0.59 %
1.09 %
(0.02 )%
51
The impact to sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 was primarily a result of favorable impacts due
to sales denominated in CNY and EUR, partially offset by unfavorable impacts due to sales denominated in BRL.
The impact to cost of sales was primarily a result of unfavorable impacts from EUR fluctuations related to
manufacturing costs from our facilities in Europe denominated in EUR and unfavorable MXN fluctuations on our
manufacturing costs from our facility in Tijuana, Mexico denominated in MXN.
We forecast our net exposure in various receivables and payables to fluctuations in the value of various
currencies, and we enter into foreign currency forward contracts to mitigate that exposure. As of December 31, 2018,
we had entered into the following foreign currency forward contracts (which were not designated as hedging
instruments) related to those balance sheet accounts (amounts in thousands and in local currencies):
Currency
Australian Dollar
Brazilian Real
Canadian Dollar
Swiss Franc
Chinese Renminbi
Danish Krone
Euro
British Pound
Hong Kong Dollar
Japanese Yen
Korean Won
Mexican Peso
Swedish Krona
Singapore Dollar
Symbol
AUD
BRL
CAD
CHF
CNY
DKK
EUR
GBP
HKD
JPY
KRW
MXN
SEK
SGD
Forward Notional Amount
11,400
9,000
2,300
269
63,200
3,237
5,927
2,358
11,000
265,000
5,500,000
23,000
9,627
8,500
We also forecast our net exposure related to sales and expenses denominated in foreign currencies. As of
December 31, 2018, we had entered into foreign currency forward contracts, which qualified as cash flow hedges,
with the following notional amounts (in thousands and in local currencies):
Currency
Australian Dollar
Canadian Dollar
Swiss Franc
Chinese Renminbi
Danish Krone
Euro
British Pound
Japanese Yen
Korean Won
Mexican Peso
Swedish Krona
Symbol
AUD
CAD
CHF
CNY
DKK
EUR
GBP
JPY
KRW
MXN
SEK
Forward Notional Amount
3,000
4,410
2,145
160,000
17,225
20,310
5,280
1,145,000
3,050,000
230,000
30,210
See Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements for a discussion of our foreign currency forward
contracts.
As discussed in Note 8 to our consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8 of this report, as of
December 31, 2018, we had outstanding borrowings of approximately $388.5 million under the Second Amended
Credit Agreement. Accordingly, our earnings and after-tax cash flow are affected by changes in interest rates. On
August 5, 2016, we entered into a pay-fixed, receive-variable interest rate swap with Wells Fargo, which as of
December 31, 2018 had a notional amount of $175 million, to fix the one-month LIBOR rate at 1.12%. The interest
rate swap is scheduled to expire on July 6, 2021. This instrument is intended to reduce our exposure to interest rate
52
fluctuations and was not entered into for speculative purposes. Excluding the amount that is subject to a fixed rate
under the interest rate swap and assuming the current level of borrowings remained the same, it is estimated that
our interest expense and income before income taxes would change by approximately $2.1 million annually for each
one percentage point change in the average interest rate under these borrowings.
In the event of an adverse change in interest rates, our management would likely take actions to mitigate our
exposure. However, due to the uncertainty of the actions that would be taken and their possible effects, additional
analysis is not possible at this time. Further, such analysis would not consider the effects of the change in the level
of overall economic activity that could exist in such an environment.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Merit Medical Systems, Inc.:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Merit Medical Systems, Inc. and
subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of income,
comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 2018, and the related notes and the schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as
the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the U.S. of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based
on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated March 1, 2019, expressed an unqualified opinion
on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to
express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm
registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the
U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission
and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we
plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material
misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to
those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures
in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Salt Lake City, Utah
March 1, 2019
We have served as the Company's auditor since 1988.
53
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
DECEMBER 31, 2018 AND 2017
(In thousands)
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade receivables — net of allowance for uncollectible accounts —
2018 — $2,355 and 2017 — $1,769
Other receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Prepaid income taxes
Income tax refund receivables
Total current assets
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
Land and land improvements
Buildings
Manufacturing equipment
Furniture and fixtures
Leasehold improvements
Construction-in-progress
Total property and equipment
2018
2017
$
67,359 $
32,336
137,174
11,879
197,536
11,326
3,627
933
105,536
9,429
155,288
9,096
3,225
1,211
429,834
316,121
26,801
151,251
221,029
54,765
33,678
53,491
19,877
147,356
197,651
49,528
31,161
32,896
541,015
478,469
Less accumulated depreciation
(209,563 )
(185,649 )
Property and equipment — net
331,452
292,820
OTHER ASSETS:
Intangible assets:
Developed technology — net of accumulated amortization —
2018 — $102,357 and 2017 — $72,420
Other — net of accumulated amortization — 2018 — $49,136 and
2017 — $38,127
Goodwill
Deferred income tax assets
Other assets
Total other assets
383,147
167,771
79,566
335,433
3,001
57,579
59,553
238,147
2,359
35,040
858,726
502,870
TOTAL
$ 1,620,012 $ 1,111,811
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
(continued)
54
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
DECEMBER 31, 2018 AND 2017
(In thousands)
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Trade payables
Accrued expenses
Current portion of long-term debt
Income taxes payable
Total current liabilities
LONG-TERM DEBT
DEFERRED INCOME TAX LIABILITIES
LONG-TERM INCOME TAXES PAYABLE
2018
2017
$
54,024 $
96,173
22,000
3,146
34,931
58,932
19,459
2,298
175,343
115,620
373,152
259,013
56,363
23,289
392
4,846
LIABILITIES RELATED TO UNRECOGNIZED TAX BENEFITS
3,013
2,746
DEFERRED COMPENSATION PAYABLE
DEFERRED CREDITS
OTHER LONG-TERM OBLIGATIONS
Total liabilities
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Notes 3, 8, 9, and 10)
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Preferred stock — 5,000 shares authorized as of December 31,
2018 and 2017; no shares issued
Common stock, no par value; shares authorized — 2018 and 2017 -
100,000; issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2018 - 54,893
and December 31, 2017 - 50,248
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Total stockholders’ equity
11,219
11,181
2,261
2,403
65,494
16,379
687,237
435,477
—
—
571,383
363,425
(2,033 )
353,392
321,408
1,534
932,775
676,334
TOTAL
$ 1,620,012 $ 1,111,811
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
(concluded)
55
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, 2017 AND 2016
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
NET SALES
COST OF SALES
GROSS PROFIT
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
Intangible asset impairment charges
Contingent consideration expense (benefit)
Acquired in-process research and development
2018
882,753 $
2017
727,852 $ 603,838
2016
$
487,983
401,599
338,813
394,770
326,253
265,025
276,018
59,532
657
(698 )
644
229,134
51,403
809
(298 )
12,136
184,398
45,229
—
61
461
Total operating expenses
336,153
293,184
230,149
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
58,617
33,069
34,876
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest income
Interest expense
Gain on bargain purchase
Other income (expense) – net
1,199
(10,360 )
—
63
381
(7,736 )
11,039
(872 )
81
(8,798 )
—
(773 )
Other income (expense) — net
(9,098 )
2,812
(9,490 )
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
49,519
35,881
25,386
INCOME TAX EXPENSE
7,502
8,358
5,265
NET INCOME
$
42,017 $
27,523 $
20,121
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:
Basic
Diluted
AVERAGE COMMON SHARES:
Basic
Diluted
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
0.80 $
0.56 $
0.45
0.78 $
0.55 $
0.45
52,268
48,805
44,408
53,931
50,101
44,862
$
$
56
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, 2017 AND 2016
(In thousands)
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Cash flow hedges
Less income tax (expense)
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Less income tax (expense)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
Total comprehensive income
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, 2017 AND 2016
(In thousands)
2018
2017
2016
$
42,017 $
27,523 $
20,121
64
(16 )
(3,606 )
(9 )
(3,567 )
38,450 $
901
(350 )
3,117
(252 )
3,416
30,939 $
4,784
(1,861 )
878
(196 )
3,605
23,726
$
BALANCE — January 1, 2016
Net income
Other comprehensive income
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation
Stock-based compensation expense
Options exercised
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase
Plans
Shares surrendered in exchange for payment of payroll tax
liabilities
Shares surrendered in exchange for exercise of stock options
BALANCE — December 31, 2016
Net income
Other comprehensive income
Stock-based compensation expense
Options exercised
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase
Plans
Issuance of common stock, net of offering costs
BALANCE — December 31, 2017
Net income
Other comprehensive loss
Stock-based compensation expense
Options exercised
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase
Plans
Issuance of common stock, net of offering costs
Shares surrendered in exchange for payment of payroll tax
liabilities
Common Stock
Total
Shares Amount
Retained
Earnings
$ 466,103 44,267 $ 197,826 $ 273,764 $
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
(5,487 )
20,121
3,605
293,885
(1,882 )
27,523
3,416
321,408
1,534
42,017
(3,567 )
20,121
3,605
669
2,506
4,923
669
2,506
4,923
362
694
34
694
(86 )
(4 )
(86 )
(346 )
(14 )
(346 )
498,189 44,645 206,186
27,523
3,416
4,075
5,689
404
4,075
5,689
836
836
24
136,606 5,175 136,606
676,334 50,248 353,392
42,017
(3,567 )
6,117
10,634
690
6,117
10,634
1,087
1,087
22
205,030 4,025 205,030
(2,616 )
(49 )
(2,616 )
Shares surrendered in exchange for exercise of stock options
(2,261 )
(43 )
(2,261 )
BALANCE — December 31, 2018
$ 932,775 54,893 $ 571,383 $ 363,425 $
(2,033 )
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
57
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, 2017 AND 2016
(In thousands)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income
2018
2017
2016
$
42,017 $
27,523 $
20,121
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
Gain on bargain purchase
Losses on sales and/or abandonment of property and
equipment
Write-off of patents and intangible assets
Acquired in-process research and development
Amortization of deferred credits
Amortization of long-term debt issuance costs
Deferred income taxes
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation
Stock-based compensation expense
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects
from acquisitions:
Trade receivables
Other receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Prepaid income taxes
Income tax refund receivables
Other assets
Trade payables
Accrued expenses
Income taxes payable
Long-term income taxes payable
Liabilities related to unrecognized tax benefits
Deferred compensation payable
Other long-term obligations
69,546
—
53,582
(11,039 )
43,755
—
625
814
644
(142 )
804
2,052
—
6,117
(27,522 )
(2,754 )
(28,172 )
(2,000 )
(444 )
232
315
15,726
12,706
918
(4,454 )
267
39
(801 )
427
988
12,136
(147 )
685
(1,304 )
—
4,075
(12,844 )
(3,557 )
(17,834 )
(1,236 )
(611 )
(588 )
(3,735 )
417
6,461
21
4,846
(19 )
1,970
2,510
530
101
461
(170 )
952
(962 )
(669 )
2,506
(6,816 )
1,161
(3,656 )
271
404
406
(3,763 )
(6,835 )
3,242
1,451
—
597
712
(200 )
Total adjustments
44,516
35,204
33,478
Net cash provided by operating activities
86,533
62,727
53,599
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures for:
Property and equipment
Intangible assets
Proceeds from sale of cost method investment
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment
Issuance of notes receivable
Cash paid in acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(63,324 )
(3,012 )
—
55
(10,750 )
(301,789 )
(38,623 )
(2,577 )
—
21
—
(105,582 )
(32,837 )
(2,217 )
1,089
19
—
(125,161 )
Net cash used in investing activities
(378,820 )
(146,761 )
(159,107 )
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
(continued)
58
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, 2017 AND 2016
(In thousands)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
Offering costs
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
Payments on long-term debt
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation
Long-term debt issuance costs
Contingent payments related to acquisitions
Payment of taxes related to an exchange of common stock
2018
2017
2016
$
214,993 $
(366 )
639,108
(522,608 )
—
—
(231 )
(2,616 )
143,810 $
(816 )
197,214
(243,214 )
—
(416 )
(61 )
—
5,271
—
219,505
(102,098 )
669
(1,948 )
(218 )
(86 )
Net cash provided by financing activities
328,280
96,517
121,095
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATES ON CASH
(970 )
682
(593 )
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
35,023
13,165
14,994
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
Beginning of year
32,336
19,171
4,177
End of year
$
67,359 $
32,336 $
19,171
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW
INFORMATION
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest (net of capitalized interest of $647, $513 and $460,
respectively)
Income taxes
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF NON-CASH INVESTING
AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Property and equipment purchases in accounts payable
Contingent receivable in exchange for sale of equity
investment
Receivable for issuance of common stock associated with
option exercises
Acquisition purchases in accrued expenses and other long-
term obligations
Merit common stock surrendered (43, 0 and 14 shares,
respectively) in exchange for exercise of stock options
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
10,324 $
7,707 $
8,872
8,692 $
6,049 $
2,318
4,989 $
1,992 $
2,398
— $
— $
711
— $
137 $
72,209 $
10,488 $
—
—
2,261 $
— $
346
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
(concluded)
59
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
1. ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Organization. Merit Medical Systems, Inc. (“Merit,” “we,” or “us”) designs, develops, manufactures and
markets single-use medical products for interventional and diagnostic procedures. For financial reporting purposes,
we report our operations in two operating segments: cardiovascular and endoscopy. Our cardiovascular segment
consists of cardiology and radiology medical device products which assist in diagnosing and treating coronary artery
disease, peripheral vascular disease and other non-vascular diseases and includes embolotherapeutic, cardiac
rhythm management, electrophysiology, critical care, and interventional oncology and spine devices. Our endoscopy
segment consists of gastroenterology and pulmonology devices which assist in the palliative treatment of expanding
esophageal, tracheobronchial and biliary strictures caused by malignant tumors. Within those two operating
segments, we offer products focused in six core product groups: peripheral intervention, cardiac intervention,
interventional oncology and spine, cardiovascular and critical care, breast cancer localization and guidance, and
endoscopy.
We manufacture our products in plants located in the U.S., Mexico, The Netherlands, Ireland, France, Brazil,
Australia, and Singapore. We export sales to dealers and have direct or modified direct sales forces in the U.S.,
Canada, Western Europe, Australia, Brazil, Russia, Japan, China, Malaysia, South Korea, UAE, India, New Zealand
and South Africa (see Note 13). Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The following is a summary of the more significant of
such policies.
Use of Estimates in Preparing Financial Statements. The preparation of financial statements in conformity
with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent
assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses
during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include our wholly owned subsidiaries.
Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
Cash and Cash Equivalents. For purposes of the statements of cash flows, we consider interest bearing
deposits with an original maturity date of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Receivables. Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the net invoice value and are not interest bearing.
An allowance for uncollectible accounts receivable is recorded based on our historical bad debt experience and on
management’s evaluation of our ability to collect individual outstanding balances. Once collection efforts have been
exhausted and a receivable is deemed to be uncollectible, such balance is charged against the allowance for
uncollectible accounts.
Inventories. We value our inventories at the lower of cost, at approximate costs determined on a first-in,
first-out method, or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of
business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Inventory costs include
material, labor and manufacturing overhead. We review inventories on hand at least quarterly and record provisions
for estimated excess, slow moving and obsolete inventory, as well as inventory with a carrying value in excess of net
realizable value. The regular and systematic inventory valuation reviews include a current assessment of future
product demand, historical experience and product expiration.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets. We test goodwill balances for impairment on an annual basis as of July 1
or whenever impairment indicators arise. We utilize several reporting units in evaluating goodwill for impairment. We
assess the estimated fair value of reporting units using a combination of a guideline public company market-based
approach and a discounted cash flow income-based approach. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the
fair value of the reporting unit, an impairment charge is recognized in an amount equal to the excess of the carrying
amount of the reporting unit goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill.
Finite-lived intangible assets including developed technology, customer lists, distribution agreements, license
agreements, trademarks, covenants not to compete and patents are subject to amortization. Intangible assets are
60
amortized over their estimated useful life on a straight-line basis, except for customer lists, which are generally
amortized on an accelerated basis. Estimated useful lives are determined considering the period the assets are
expected to contribute to future cash flows. We evaluate the recoverability of our finite-lived intangible assets
periodically and take into account events or circumstances that warrant revised estimates of useful lives or that
indicate impairment exists.
In-process technology intangible assets, which are not subject to amortization until projects reach
commercialization, are assessed for impairment at least annually and more frequently if events occur that would
indicate a potential reduction in the fair value of the assets below their carrying value. An impairment charge would
be recognized to the extent the carrying amount of the in-process technology exceeded its fair value.
Long-Lived Assets. We periodically review the carrying amount of our depreciable long-lived assets for
impairment. An asset is considered impaired when estimated future cash flows are less than the carrying amount of
the asset. In the event the carrying amount of such asset is not considered recoverable, the asset is adjusted to its
fair value. Fair value is generally determined based on discounted future cash flow.
Property and Equipment. Property and equipment is stated at the historical cost of construction or
purchase. Construction costs include interest costs capitalized during construction. Maintenance and repairs of
property and equipment are charged to operations as incurred. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the
lesser of the base term of the lease or estimated life of the leasehold improvements. Construction-in-process consists
of new buildings and various production equipment being constructed internally and externally. Assets in
construction-in-process will commence depreciating once the asset has been placed in service. Depreciation is
computed using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives as follows:
Buildings
Manufacturing equipment
Furniture and fixtures
Land improvements
Leasehold improvements
40 years
4
3
10
4
- 20 years
- 20 years
- 20 years
- 25 years
Depreciation expense related to property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and
2016 was approximately $28.3 million, $26.8 million, and $24.5 million, respectively.
Deferred Compensation. We have a deferred compensation plan that permits certain management
employees to defer a portion of their salary until the future. We established a Rabbi trust to finance obligations under
the plan with corporate-owned variable life insurance contracts. The cash surrender value totaled approximately
$11.7 million and $11.7 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, which is included in other assets in our
consolidated balance sheets. We have recorded a deferred compensation payable of approximately $11.2 million
and $11.2 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, to reflect the liability to our employees under this
plan.
Other Assets. Other assets consist of our deferred compensation plan cash surrender value discussed
above, unamortized issuance costs on revolving debt, investments in privately-held companies, notes receivable
issued to third-parties, a long-term income tax refund receivable, deposits related to various leases, and the long-
term assets related to derivatives.
We analyze our investments to determine if they should be accounted for using the equity method based on
our ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies of the investment. Our share of
earnings associated with equity method investments is reported within other income (expense) in our consolidated
statements of income. Investments not accounted for under the equity method of accounting are accounted for under
the cost method of accounting wherein impairment charges are recognized if circumstances suggest that the value
of the investment has changed.
Deferred Credits. Deferred credits consist of grant money received from the Irish government. Grant money
is received for a percentage of expenditures on eligible property and equipment, specific research and development
projects and costs of hiring and training employees. Amounts related to the acquisition of property and equipment
are amortized as a reduction of depreciation expense over the lives of the corresponding property and equipment.
61
Revenue Recognition. We sell our medical products through a direct sales force in the U.S. and through
OEM relationships, custom procedure tray manufacturers and a combination of direct sales force and
independent distributors in international markets. Revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of
promised goods based on the consideration we expect to receive in exchange for these goods. This core principle is
achieved through the following steps:
Identify the contract with the customer. A contract with a customer exists when (i) we enter into an enforceable
contract with a customer that defines each party’s rights regarding the goods to be transferred and identifies the
payment terms related to these goods, (ii) the contract has commercial substance and, (iii) we determine that
collection of substantially all consideration for services that are transferred is probable based on the customer’s intent
and ability to pay the promised consideration. We do not have significant costs to obtain contracts with customers.
For commissions on product sales, we have elected the practical expedient to expense the costs as incurred if the
amortization period would have been one year or less.
Identify the performance obligations in the contract. Generally, our contracts with customers do not include
multiple performance obligations to be completed over a period of time. Our performance obligations generally relate
to delivering single-use medical products to a customer, subject to the shipping terms of the contract. Limited
warranties are provided, under which we typically accept returns and provide either replacement parts or refunds.
We do not have significant returns. We do not typically offer extended warranty or service plans.
Determine the transaction price. Payment by the customer is due under customary fixed payment terms, and
we evaluate if collectability is reasonably assured. None of our contracts as of December 31, 2018 contained a
significant financing component. Revenue is recorded at the net sales price, which includes estimates of variable
consideration such as product returns, rebates, discounts, and other adjustments. The estimates of variable
consideration are based on historical payment experience, historical and projected sales data, and current contract
terms. Variable consideration is included in revenue only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal of
the revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently
resolved. Taxes collected from customers relating to product sales and remitted to governmental authorities are
excluded from revenues.
Allocate the transaction price to performance obligations in the contract. We typically do not have multiple
performance obligations in our contracts with customers. As such, we generally recognize revenue upon transfer of
the product to the customer's control at contractually stated pricing.
Recognize revenue when or as we satisfy a performance obligation. We generally satisfy performance
obligations at a point in time upon either shipment or delivery of goods, in accordance with the terms of each contract
with the customer. We do not have significant service revenue.
Reserves are recorded as a reduction in net sales and are not considered material to our consolidated
statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. In addition, we invoice our customers
for taxes assessed by governmental authorities such as sales tax and value added taxes. We present these taxes
on a net basis.
Shipping and Handling. We bill our customers for shipping and handling charges, which are included in net
sales for the applicable period, and the corresponding shipping and handling expense is reported in cost of sales.
Cost of Sales. We include product costs (i.e. material, direct labor and overhead costs), shipping and
handling expense, product royalty expense, developed technology amortization expense, production-related
depreciation expense and product license agreement expense in cost of sales.
Research and Development. Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.
Income Taxes. Under our accounting policies, we initially recognize a tax position in our financial statements
when it becomes more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities. Such
tax positions are initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax positions that has a greater than
50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the tax authorities assuming full knowledge of the
position and all relevant facts. Although we believe our provisions for unrecognized tax positions are reasonable, we
can make no assurance that the final tax outcome of these matters will not be different from that which we have
reflected in our income tax provisions and accruals. The tax law is subject to varied interpretations, and we have
taken positions related to certain matters where the law is subject to interpretation. Such differences could have a
62
material impact on our income tax provisions and operating results in the period(s) in which we make such
determination.
Earnings per Common Share. Net income per common share is computed by both the basic method, which
uses the weighted average number of our common shares outstanding, and the diluted method, which includes the
dilutive common shares from stock options and warrants, as calculated using the treasury stock method.
Fair Value Measurements. The fair value of a financial instrument is the amount that could be received upon
the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the
measurement date. Financial assets are marked to bid prices and financial liabilities are marked to offer prices. Fair
value measurements do not include transaction costs. A fair value hierarchy is used to prioritize the quality and
reliability of the information used to determine fair values. Categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based on
the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fair value hierarchy is defined in the
following three categories:
Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Observable market-based inputs or inputs that are corroborated by market data.
Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.
Stock-Based Compensation. We recognize the fair value compensation cost relating to stock-based
payment transactions in accordance with ASC 718, Compensation — Stock Compensation. Under the provisions of
ASC 718, stock-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and
is recognized over the employee’s requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period. The fair value of
our stock options is estimated using a Black-Scholes option valuation model. Stock-based compensation expense
for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was approximately $6.1 million, $4.1 million and $2.5 million,
respectively.
Concentration of Credit Risk. Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit
risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. We provide credit, in the normal course
of business, primarily to hospitals and independent third-party custom procedure tray manufacturers and
distributors. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and maintain allowances for potential credit
losses. Sales to our single largest customer accounted for approximately 2%, 2%, and 3% of net sales for the years
ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Foreign Currency. The financial statements of our foreign subsidiaries are measured using local currencies
as the functional currency, with the exception of our subsidiaries in Ireland and Mexico, which each use the U.S.
Dollar as its functional currency. Assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. Dollars at year-end rates of exchange
and results of operations are translated at average rates for the year. Gains and losses resulting from these
translations are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a separate component of
stockholders’ equity. Foreign currency transactions denominated in a currency other than the entity’s functional
currency are included in determining net income for the period.
Derivatives. We use forward contracts to mitigate our exposure to volatility in foreign exchange rates, and
we use interest rate swaps to hedge changes in the benchmark interest rate related to our Second Amended Credit
Agreement described in Note 8. All derivatives are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets at fair
value. Classification of each hedging instrument is based upon whether the maturity of the instrument is less than or
greater than 12 months. We do not purchase or hold derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading
purposes (see Note 9).
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss). As of December 31, 2018, accumulated other
comprehensive loss included approximately $3.5 million (net of tax of $(2.2) million) related to cash flow hedges and
$(5.6) million (net of tax of $(9,000)) related to foreign currency translation. As of December 31, 2017, accumulated
other comprehensive income included approximately $3.5 million (net of tax of $(2.2) million) related to cash flow
hedges and $(1.9) million (net of tax of $0) related to foreign currency translation.
63
New Financial Accounting Standards.
Recently Adopted
In October 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic
740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory, which requires the recognition of the income tax
consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset, other than inventory, when the transfer occurs. ASU 2016-16
became effective for us as of January 1, 2018. The adoption of ASU 2016-16 did not have a material impact on our
consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of
Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments, which addresses eight specific cash flow issues with the objective of
reducing the existing diversity in practice in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and
classified in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-15 became effective for us on January 1, 2018. The adoption of
ASU 2016-15 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December
31, 2018.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and
Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, which amends the guidance regarding the classification
and measurement of financial instruments. Changes to the current guidance primarily affect the accounting for equity
investments, financial liabilities under the fair value option, and the presentation and disclosure requirements for
financial instruments. In addition, ASU 2016-01 clarifies guidance related to the valuation allowance assessment
when recognizing deferred tax assets resulting from unrealized losses on available-for-sale debt securities. We
adopted ASU 2016-01 on January 1, 2018. The adoption of ASU 2016-01 did not have a material impact on our
consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018.
The FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which provides a
single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers. We
adopted this ASU (and all subsequent ASUs that modified Topic 606) effective January 1, 2018 on a modified
retrospective basis. Adoption of this standard did not result in significant changes to our accounting policies, business
processes, systems or controls, or have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash
flows. As such, prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported under accounting standards then
in effect, and we did not record a cumulative adjustment to the opening equity balance of retained earnings as of
January 1, 2018. However, additional disclosures have been added in accordance with the requirements of Topic
606 and are reflected in Note 2.
Not Yet Adopted
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), ("ASC 842"). The objective of the
guidance in ASC 842 is to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets
and liabilities in the balance sheet and disclosing key information. ASC 842 amends previous lease guidance to
require a lessee to recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use asset on the entity’s balance sheet for all leases with
terms that exceed one year. ASC 842 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim
periods within those fiscal years. ASC 842 provides that lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for
sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases
existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements.
The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the
earliest comparative period presented.
We have completed our assessment of all our leases, and we estimate that the impact of the adoption of
ASC 842 will result in recognition of operating right-of-use assets and lease liabilities of approximately $80 million.
We do not expect the adoption to have a material impact on our statements of operations or cash flows. ASC 842
allows for several practical expedients which permit the following: no reassessment of lease classification or initial
direct costs; use of the standard’s effective date as the date of initial application; and no separation of non-lease
components from the related lease components and, instead, to account for those components as a single lease
component if certain criteria are met. We expect to elect these practical expedients and adopt ASC 842 on January
1, 2019 using the effective date as our date of initial application. Therefore, financial information and disclosures
under ASC 842 will not be provided for periods prior to January 1, 2019.
64
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income
(Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, which allows a
reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting
from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted in December 2017. ASU 2018-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after
December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We do not believe that
the adoption of ASU 2018-02 will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted
Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities, which expands and refines hedge accounting for both financial
and non-financial risk components, aligns the recognition and presentation of the effects of hedging instruments and
hedge items in the financial statements, and includes certain targeted improvements to ease the application of current
guidance related to the assessment of hedge effectiveness. ASU 2017-12 is effective for fiscal years beginning after
December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We do not anticipate
the impact of adopting ASU 2017-12 will be material to our consolidated financial statements.
All other issued and not yet effective accounting standards are not relevant to our financial statements.
2. REVENUES
The following table presents sales by operating segment disaggregated based on type of product and geographic
region for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.
Year Ended December 31, 2018
Year Ended December 31, 2017
Year Ended December 31, 2016
United
States
International
Total
United
States
International
Total
United
States
International
Total
Cardiovascular
Stand-alone
devices
Cianna Medical
Custom kits and
procedure trays
Inflation devices
Catheters
Embolization
devices
CRM/EP
Total
Endoscopy
Endoscopy
devices
$ 202,129 $ 159,484 $ 361,613 $ 148,620 $ 126,836 $ 275,456 $ 105,250 $ 85,877 $ 191,127
—
6,292
6,292
—
—
—
—
—
—
92,975
31,717
68,708
41,781 134,756
60,702
92,419
86,817 155,525
92,474
31,848
62,284
33,615 126,089
48,027
79,875
65,463 127,747
93,109
35,506
56,899
26,138 119,247
38,410
73,916
56,468 113,367
20,433
41,970
464,224
29,605
6,864
50,038
48,834
385,253 849,477
22,374
36,746
394,346
27,158
5,168
49,532
41,914
306,267 700,613
24,075
32,561
347,400
21,960
3,898
46,035
36,459
232,751 580,151
32,189
1,087
33,276
26,357
882
27,239
22,950
737
23,687
Total
$ 496,413 $ 386,340 $ 882,753 $ 420,703 $ 307,149 $ 727,852 $ 370,350 $ 233,488 $ 603,838
Note: Certain revenue categories for 2017 and 2016 have been adjusted from prior disclosures to reflect changes in product
classifications to be consistent with updates in management of our product portfolios during 2018. Also note that Cianna Medical
is a new category in 2018 as a result of the acquisition in November 2018 (see Note 3).
3. ACQUISITIONS
On December 14, 2018, we consummated an acquisition transaction contemplated by an asset purchase
agreement with Vascular Insights, LLC and VI Management, Inc. (combined "Vascular Insights") and acquired
Vascular Insight's intellectual property rights, inventory and certain other assets, including, the ClariVein® IC system
and the ClariVein OC system. The ClariVein systems are specialty infusion and occlusion catheter systems with
rotating wire tips designed for the controlled 360-degree dispersion of physician-specified agents to the targeted
treatment area. We accounted for this acquisition as a business combination. The purchase consideration included
an upfront payment of $40 million, and we are obligated to pay up to an additional $20 million based on achieving
certain revenue milestones specified in the asset purchase agreement. The sales and results of operations related
to this acquisition have been included in our cardiovascular segment since the acquisition date and were not material.
65
Acquisition-related costs associated with the Vascular Insights acquisition, which were included in selling, general
and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of income, were not material. Given the circumstances
of this acquisition, which closed in December 2018, as well as the complexity of the transaction, the purchase price
allocation disclosed herein is considered provisional at this time and subject to adjustment. We are in the process of
finalizing the net working capital adjustment pursuant to the asset purchase agreement and the valuation of the
acquired intangible assets and contingent consideration. The purchase price was preliminarily allocated as follows
(in thousands):
Inventories
Intangibles
Developed technology
Customer list
Trademarks
Goodwill
$
1,308
32,830
840
1,410
21,832
Total assets acquired
$
58,220
We are amortizing the developed technology intangible assets over 12 years, the related trademarks over nine years
and the customer list on an accelerated basis over eight years. The total weighted-average amortization period for
these acquired intangible assets is approximately 11.8 years.
On November 13, 2018 we consummated an acquisition transaction contemplated by a merger agreement
to acquire Cianna Medical, Inc. ("Cianna Medical"). The purchase consideration consisted of an upfront payment of
$135 million plus an initial working capital adjustment of $1 million in cash, with potential earn-out payments of an
additional $15 million for achievement of supply chain and scalability metrics, and up to an additional $50 million for
achievement of sales milestones. Cianna Medical developed the first non-radioactive, wire-free breast cancer
localization system. Its SCOUT® and SAVI® Brachy technologies are FDA-cleared and address unmet needs in the
delivery of radiation therapy, tumor localization and surgical guidance. We accounted for this acquisition as a
business combination. During the year ended December 31, 2018, our net sales of Cianna Medical products were
approximately $6.3 million. It is not practical to separately report earnings related to the products acquired from
Cianna Medical, as we cannot split out sales costs related solely to the products we acquired from Cianna Medical,
principally because our sales representatives sell multiple products (including the products we acquired from Cianna
Medical) in our cardiovascular business segment. Acquisition-related costs associated with the Cianna Medical
acquisition, which are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated
statements of income, were approximately $3.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. The following table
summarizes the preliminary purchase price allocated to the net assets acquired from Cianna Medical (in thousands):
Assets Acquired
Trade receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Property and equipment
Other long-term assets
Intangibles
Developed technology
Customer lists
Trademarks
Goodwill
Total assets acquired
Liabilities Assumed
Trade payables
Accrued expenses
Other long-term liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Total liabilities assumed
$
6,151
5,803
315
1,047
14
134,510
3,330
7,080
65,885
224,135
(1,497 )
(2,384 )
(1,527 )
(30,363 )
(35,771 )
Total net assets acquired
$
188,364
66
We are amortizing the developed technology intangible assets over 11 years, the related trademarks over ten years
and the customer lists on an accelerated basis over eight years. The total weighted-average amortization period for
these acquired intangible assets is approximately 10.7 years.
During July 2018, we purchased 1,786,000 preferred limited liability company units of Cagent Vascular, LLC,
a medical device company ("Cagent"), for approximately $2.2 million. We had previously purchased 3,000,000
preferred limited liability company units for approximately $3.0 million during 2016 and 2017. Our investment has
been recorded as an equity investment accounted for at cost and reflected within other assets in the accompanying
consolidated balance sheets because we are not able to exercise significant influence over the operations of Cagent.
Our total current investment in Cagent represents an ownership of approximately 19.5% of the outstanding stock.
On May 23, 2018, we entered into an asset purchase agreement with DirectACCESS Medical, LLC
(“DirectACCESS”) to acquire its assets, including, certain product distribution agreements for the FirstChoice™ Ultra
High Pressure PTA Balloon Catheter. We accounted for this acquisition as a business combination. The purchase
price for the assets was approximately $7.3 million. The sales and results of operations related to the acquisition
have been included in our cardiovascular segment since the acquisition date and were not material. Acquisition-
related costs associated with the DirectACCESS acquisition, which were included in selling, general and
administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of income, were not material. The purchase price was
preliminarily allocated as follows (in thousands):
Inventories
Intangibles
Developed technology
Customer list
Trademarks
Goodwill
$
971
4,840
120
400
938
Total assets acquired
$
7,269
We are amortizing the developed technology intangible asset over ten years, the related trademarks over ten years
and the customer list on an accelerated basis over five years. The total weighted-average amortization period for
these acquired intangible assets is approximately 9.9 years.
On May 18, 2018, we paid $750,000 for a distribution agreement with QXMédical, LLC ("QXMédical") for the
Q50® PLUS Stent Graft Balloon Catheter. We accounted for this acquisition as an asset purchase. We are amortizing
the distribution agreement intangible asset over a period of ten years.
On April 6, 2018, we entered into long-term agreements with NinePoint Medical, Inc. (“NinePoint”), pursuant
to which we (a) became the exclusive worldwide distributor for the NvisionVLE® Imaging System with Real-time
Targeting™ using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and (b) acquired an option to purchase up to 100% of the
outstanding equity in NinePoint throughout a three-month period commencing 18 months subsequent to the
agreement date, both in exchange for total consideration of $10 million. We accounted for this transaction as an asset
purchase. In addition, we made a loan to NinePoint for $10.5 million with a maturity date of April 6, 2023, at which
time the loan, together with accrued interest thereon, will be due and payable. The loan bears interest at a rate of
9.0% and is collateralized by NinePoint's rights, interest and title to the NvisionVLE® Imaging System and any other
product owned or licensed by NinePoint utilizing OCT. This loan has been recorded as a note receivable within other
long-term assets in our consolidated balance sheets.
We utilized the consolidation of variable interest entities guidance to determine whether or not NinePoint was
a variable interest entity ("VIE"), and if so, whether we are the primary beneficiary of NinePoint. As of December 31,
2018, we concluded that NinePoint is a VIE based on the fact that the equity investment at risk in NinePoint is not
sufficient to finance its activities. We have also determined that Merit is not the primary beneficiary of NinePoint as
we do not have the power to direct NinePoint's most significant activities. Our exposure to loss related to our
transaction with NinePoint is the carrying value of the amounts paid to and due from NinePoint. The results of
operations related to the NinePoint distribution agreement have been included in our endoscopy segment since the
acquisition date. During the year ended December 31, 2018, our net sales of NinePoint products were approximately
$3.0 million. We believe the NinePoint products will enhance the product offerings of our Endotek operating segment
and will be another step in our strategy to add therapy and disease-state products to our portfolio.
67
On February 14, 2018, we acquired certain divested assets from Becton, Dickinson and Company ("BD"), for
an aggregate purchase price of $100.3 million. We also recorded a contingent consideration liability of $1.6 million
related to milestone payments payable pursuant to the terms of the acquired contract with Sontina Medical LLC. The
assets acquired include the soft tissue core needle biopsy products sold under the tradenames of Achieve®
Programmable Automatic Biopsy System, Temno® Biopsy System, Tru-Cut® Biopsy Needles as well as Aspira®
Pleural Effusion Drainage Kits, and the Aspira® Peritoneal Drainage System. We accounted for this acquisition as a
business combination.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, our net sales of BD products were approximately $42.1 million.
It is not practical to separately report earnings related to the products acquired from BD, as we cannot split out sales
costs related solely to the products we acquired from BD, principally because our sales representatives sell multiple
products (including the products we acquired from BD) in our cardiovascular business segment. Acquisition-related
costs associated with the BD acquisition, which are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the
accompanying consolidated statements of income, were approximately $1.8 million for the year ended December 31,
2018. During the measurement period, which ended in December 2018, adjustments were made to finalize the
allocation of purchase price related to intangible assets, goodwill and contingent liabilities. The following table
summarizes the purchase price allocated to the assets acquired from BD (in thousands):
Inventories
Property and equipment
Intangibles
Developed technology
Customer list
Trademarks
In-process technology
Goodwill
$
5,804
748
74,000
4,200
4,900
2,500
9,728
Total assets acquired
$ 101,880
We are amortizing the developed technology intangible assets over eight years, the related trademarks over nine
years, and the customer lists on an accelerated basis over seven years. The total weighted-average amortization
period for these acquired intangible assets is approximately 8 years.
On October 2, 2017 we acquired a custom procedure pack business located in Melbourne, Australia from
ITL Healthcare Pty Ltd. ("ITL"), for an aggregate purchase price of $11.3 million. We accounted for this acquisition
as a business combination. The following table summarizes the aggregate purchase price allocated to the assets
acquired from ITL (in thousands):
Assets Acquired
Trade receivables
Other receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Property and equipment
Intangibles
Customer lists
Goodwill
Total assets acquired
Liabilities Assumed
Trade payables
Accrued expenses
Deferred tax liabilities
Total liabilities assumed
$
1,287
56
1,808
65
1,053
5,940
3,945
14,154
(216 )
(747 )
(1,901 )
(2,864 )
Total net assets acquired
$
11,290
68
We are amortizing the customer list on an accelerated basis over seven years. Acquisition-related costs associated
with the ITL acquisition, which are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying
consolidated statements of income, were not material. The results of operations related to this acquisition have been
included in our cardiovascular segment since the acquisition date. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and
2017, our net sales of ITL products were approximately $8.0 million and $3.3 million, respectively. It is not practical
to separately report the earnings related to the ITL acquisition, as we cannot split out sales costs related solely to the
products we acquired from ITL, principally because our sales representatives sell multiple products (including the
products we acquired from ITL) in our cardiovascular business segment.
On September 1, 2017, we acquired intellectual property rights associated with a steerable guidewire system
from IntelliMedical Technologies Pty. Ltd. ("IntelliMedical"). We made an initial payment of approximately $11.9 million
in September 2017, and we are obligated to pay up to an additional A$15.0 million (Australian dollars) if certain
milestones set forth in the share purchase agreement with IntelliMedical are achieved. We are also required to pay
royalties equal to 6% of net sales, commencing upon the first commercial sale of the product and throughout the term
of the applicable patents. We accounted for this transaction as an asset purchase. The initial payment has been
included in the accompanying consolidated statements of income as acquired in-process research and development
expense for the year ended December 31, 2017, because both technological feasibility of the underlying research
and development project had not yet been reached and such technology had no identified future alternative use as
of the date of acquisition.
On August 4, 2017 we acquired from Laurane Medical S.A.S. ("Laurane") and its shareholders inventories
and the intellectual property rights associated with certain manual bone biopsy devices, manual bone marrow needles
and muscle biopsy kits for an aggregate purchase price of $16.5 million. We also recorded a contingent consideration
liability of $5.5 million related to royalties potentially payable to Laurane's shareholders pursuant to the terms of an
intellectual property purchase agreement. We accounted for this acquisition as a business combination. The following
table summarizes the aggregate purchase price (including contingent royalty payment liabilities) allocated to the
assets acquired from Laurane (in thousands):
Inventories
Intangibles
Developed technology
Customer list
Goodwill
$
594
14,920
120
6,366
Total net assets acquired
$
22,000
We are amortizing the developed technology intangible asset over 12 years and the customer list on an accelerated
basis over one year. The total weighted-average amortization period for these acquired intangible assets is 11.9
years. The sales and results of operations related to the acquisition have been included in our cardiovascular segment
since the acquisition date and were not material. Acquisition-related costs associated with the Laurane acquisition,
which are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of
income, were not material.
On July 3, 2017, we acquired from Osseon LLC (“Osseon”) substantially all the assets related to Osseon’s
vertebral augmentation products. We accounted for this acquisition as a business combination. The purchase price
for the assets was approximately $6.8 million. Acquisition-related costs associated with the Osseon acquisition, which
are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income,
were not material. The results of operations related to this acquisition have been included in our cardiovascular
segment since the acquisition date. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, our net sales of Osseon
products were approximately $2.1 million and $942,000, respectively. It is not practical to separately report the
earnings related to the Osseon acquisition, as we cannot split out sales costs related solely to the products we
acquired from Osseon, principally because our sales representatives sell multiple products (including the products
69
we acquired from Osseon) in our cardiovascular business segment. The following table summarizes the purchase
price allocated to the assets acquired (in thousands):
Inventories
Property and equipment
Intangibles
Developed technology
Customer list
Goodwill
$
979
58
5,400
200
203
Total net assets acquired
$
6,840
We are amortizing the developed technology intangible asset over nine years and customer lists on an accelerated
basis over eight years. The total weighted-average amortization period for these acquired intangible assets is
approximately 9.0 years.
On July 1, 2017, we entered into an exclusive license agreement with Pleuratech ApS ("Pleuratech") to
acquire the rights to manufacture and sell the KatGuideTM chest tube insertion tool. As of December 31, 2018, we had
paid $2.0 million in connection with this agreement. We are obligated to pay an additional $5.0 million if certain
milestones set forth in the license agreement are met. We are also required to pay royalties equal to 6% of net sales
throughout the term of the license agreement. We accounted for this transaction as an asset purchase. We recorded
the amount paid upon closing as a license agreement intangible asset, which we are amortizing over 15 years.
On June 16, 2017, we acquired from Lazarus Medical Technologies, LLC the patent rights and other
intellectual property related to the Repositionable Chest TubeTM and related devices. As of December 31, 2018, we
had paid $620,000 in connection with this agreement. We are also obligated to pay an additional $700,000 if certain
milestones set forth in the purchase agreement are met. We are also required to pay royalties equal to 6% of net
sales throughout the term of the purchase agreement. We accounted for this transaction as an asset purchase. We
recorded the amount paid upon closing as a license agreement intangible asset, which we are amortizing over 15
years.
On May 23, 2017, we paid $2.5 million to acquire 182,000 shares of preferred stock of Fusion Medical, Inc.
("Fusion"), a developer of medical devices designed primarily for clot removal. The shares of preferred stock we
acquired, which represent an ownership interest of approximately 19.5%, have been accounted for as an equity
method investment of $2.5 million reflected within other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets
because we may be deemed to exercise significant influence over the operations of Fusion.
On May 19, 2017, we terminated our distribution agreement with Sheen Man Co., Ltd. and Sugan Co, Ltd.,
("Sugan"), a Japanese medical device distributor and entered into a business purchase agreement, distribution
agreement and a supply agreement with Sugan. Pursuant to these agreements, we acquired the customer list Sugan
used in the distribution of our products in Japan. The purchase price is recorded as a customer list intangible asset
of approximately $1.2 million. We are amortizing the customer list intangible asset on an accelerated basis over five
years. In addition, we granted to Sugan the right to continue to distribute a limited number of our products, related to
fluid administration, through December 31, 2021 and to manufacture and sell to Sugan certain contrast injector
products during a term of four years, subject to extensions.
On May 1, 2017, we entered into an agreement and plan of merger with Vascular Access Technologies, Inc.
("VAT"), pursuant to which we acquired the SAFECVAD™ device. We accounted for this acquisition as a business
combination. The purchase price for the business was $5.0 million. We also recorded $4.9 million of contingent
consideration related to royalties potentially payable to VAT pursuant to the merger agreement. The following table
summarizes the purchase price allocated to the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed (in thousands):
Intangibles
Developed technology
In-process technology
Goodwill
Deferred tax liabilities
Total net assets acquired
$
$
7,800
920
4,281
(3,101 )
9,900
70
We are amortizing the developed technology intangible asset over 15 years. The sales and results of operations
related to the acquisition have been included in our cardiovascular segment since the acquisition date and were not
material. Acquisition-related costs associated with the VAT acquisition, which are included in selling, general and
administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income, were not material.
On January 31, 2017, we acquired Argon’s critical care division, including a manufacturing facility in
Singapore, the related commercial operations in Europe and Japan, and certain inventories and intellectual property
rights within the U.S. We made an initial payment of approximately $10.9 million and received a subsequent reduction
to the purchase price of approximately $797,000 related to a working capital adjustment according to the terms of the
purchase agreement. We accounted for the acquisition as a business combination.
Acquisition-related costs associated with the acquisition of the Argon critical care division during the year
ended December 31, 2017, which are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying
consolidated statements of income, were approximately $2.6 million. The results of operations related to this
acquisition have been included in our cardiovascular segment since the acquisition date. During the years ended
December 31, 2018 and 2017, our net sales of the Argon critical care products were approximately $45.5 million and
$41.2 million, respectively. It is not practical to separately report the earnings related to the Argon critical care
acquisition, as we cannot split out sales costs related solely to the products we acquired from Argon, principally
because our sales representatives sell multiple products (including the products we acquired from Argon) in our
cardiovascular business segment.
The assets and liabilities in the purchase price allocation for the Argon critical care acquisition are stated at
fair value based on estimates of fair value using available information and making assumptions our management
believes are reasonable. The following table summarizes the purchase price allocated to the net tangible and
intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed (in thousands):
Assets Acquired
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Income tax refund receivable
Property and equipment
Deferred tax assets
Intangibles
Developed technology
Customer lists
Trademarks
Total assets acquired
Liabilities Assumed
Trade payables
Accrued expenses
Income taxes payable
Deferred income tax liabilities
Total liabilities assumed
Total net assets acquired
Gain on bargain purchase (1)
Total purchase price
$ 1,436
8,351
11,222
1,275
165
2,319
202
2,200
1,500
900
29,570
(2,414 )
(5,083 )
—
(934 )
(8,431 )
21,139
(11,039 )
$ 10,100
(1) The total fair value of the net assets acquired from Argon exceeded the purchase price, resulting in a gain on
bargain purchase which was recorded within other income (expense) in our consolidated statements of income.
We believe the reason for the gain on bargain purchase was a result of the divestiture of a non-strategic, slow-
growth critical care business for Argon. It is our understanding that the divestiture allows Argon to focus on its
higher growth interventional portfolio.
71
With respect to the Argon critical care assets, we are amortizing developed technology over seven years and
customer lists on an accelerated basis over five years. While U.S. trademarks can be renewed indefinitely, we
currently estimate that we will generate cash flow from the acquired trademarks for a period of five years from the
acquisition date. The total weighted-average amortization period for these acquired intangible assets is 6.0 years.
On January 31, 2017, we acquired substantially all the assets, including intellectual property covered by
approximately 40 patents and pending applications, and assumed certain liabilities, of Catheter Connections, Inc.
(“Catheter Connections”), in exchange for payment of $38.0 million. Catheter Connections, based in Salt Lake City,
Utah, developed and marketed the DualCap® System, an innovative family of disinfecting products designed to
protect patients from intravenous infections resulting from infusion therapy. We accounted for this acquisition as a
business combination.
Acquisition-related costs associated with the Catheter Connections acquisition during the year ended
December 31, 2017, which are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying
consolidated statements of income, were approximately $482,000. The results of operations related to this acquisition
have been included in our cardiovascular segment since the acquisition date. During the years ended December 31,
2018 and 2017, our net sales of the products acquired from Catheter Connections were approximately $13.7 million
and $10.0 million, respectively. It is not practical to separately report the earnings related to the products acquired
from Catheter Connections, as we cannot split out sales costs related solely to those products, principally because
our sales representatives sell multiple products (including the DualCap System) in the cardiovascular business
segment. The purchase price was allocated as follows (in thousands):
Assets Acquired
Trade receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Property and equipment
Intangibles
$
Developed technology
Customer lists
Trademarks
Goodwill
Total assets acquired
Liabilities Assumed
Trade payables
Accrued expenses
Total liabilities assumed
958
2,157
85
1,472
21,100
700
2,900
8,989
38,361
(338 )
(23 )
(361 )
Net assets acquired
$
38,000
We are amortizing the Catheter Connections developed technology asset over 12 years, the related trademarks over
ten years, and the associated customer list over eight years. We have estimated the weighted average life of the
intangible Catheter Connections assets acquired to be approximately 11.7 years.
On December 19, 2016, we paid $5.0 million for 1,251,878 shares of common stock and a distribution
agreement with Bluegrass Vascular Technologies, Inc. ("Bluegrass"). The common stock, which represents an
ownership interest of approximately 19.5%, has been accounted for as a cost method investment of $4.0 million
reflected within other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets because we are not able to exercise
significant influence over the operations of Bluegrass. The distribution agreement intangible asset was valued at $1.0
million and will be amortized over a period of three years.
On July 6, 2016, we acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of DFINE Inc. ("DFINE"). The DFINE
acquisition added a line of vertebral augmentation products for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures
("VCF") as well as medical devices used to treat metastatic spine tumors. We made an initial payment of $97.5 million
to certain DFINE stockholders on July 6, 2016 and paid approximately $578,000 related to a net working capital
adjustment subject to review by Merit and the preferred stockholders of DFINE. We accounted for the acquisition as
72
a business combination. In the three-month period ended December 31, 2016, we negotiated the final net working
capital adjustment resulting in a reduction to the purchase price of approximately $1.1 million. As a result, we recorded
measurement period adjustments to reduce inventories by approximately $89,000, reduce property and equipment
by approximately $109,000, reduce goodwill by approximately $1.2 million, reduce accrued expenses by
approximately $407,000 and increase the associated deferred tax liabilities by approximately $113,000. Under U.S.
GAAP, measurement period adjustments are recognized on a prospective basis in the period of change, instead of
restating prior periods. There was no impact to reported earnings in connection with these measurement period
adjustments.
Acquisition-related costs during the year ended December 31, 2016, which are included in selling, general, and
administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income, were approximately $1.6 million.
The results of operations related to this acquisition have been included in our cardiovascular segment since the
acquisition date. During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, our net sales of DFINE products were
approximately $26.6 million, $27.0 million and $13.5 million, respectively. It is not practical to separately report the
earnings related to the DFINE acquisition, as we cannot split out sales costs related to DFINE products, principally
because our sales representatives are selling multiple products (including DFINE products) in the cardiovascular
business segment.
The purchase price was allocated to the net tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed,
based on estimated fair values, as follows (in thousands):
Assets Acquired
Trade receivables
Other receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses
Property and equipment
Other long-term assets
Intangibles
Developed technology
Customer lists
Trademarks
Goodwill
Total assets acquired
Liabilities Assumed
Trade payables
Accrued expenses
Deferred income tax liabilities - current
Deferred income tax liabilities - noncurrent
Total liabilities assumed
$
4,054
6
8,585
630
1,630
145
67,600
2,400
4,400
24,818
114,268
(1,790 )
(5,298 )
(701 )
(10,844 )
(18,633 )
Net assets acquired, net of cash received of
$1,327
$
95,635
The gross amount of trade receivables we acquired in the acquisition was approximately $4.3 million, of
which approximately $224,000 was expected to be uncollectible or returned. With respect to the DFINE assets, we
are amortizing developed technology over 15 years and customer lists on an accelerated basis over nine years. While
U.S. trademarks can be renewed indefinitely, we currently estimate that we will generate cash flow from the acquired
trademarks for a period of 15 years from the acquisition date. The total weighted-average amortization period for
these acquired intangible assets is 14.8 years.
On February 4, 2016, we purchased the HeRO® Graft device and other related assets from CryoLife, Inc., a
developer of medical devices based in Kennesaw, Georgia ("CryoLife"). The HeRO Graft is a fully subcutaneous
vascular access system intended for use in maintaining long-term vascular access for chronic hemodialysis patients
who have failing fistulas, grafts or are catheter dependent due to a central venous blockage. The purchase price was
73
$18.5 million, which was paid in full during 2016. We accounted for this acquisition as a business combination. The
purchase price was allocated as follows (in thousands):
Assets Acquired
Inventories
Property and equipment
Intangibles
Developed technology
Trademarks
Customers Lists
Goodwill
$
2,455
290
12,100
700
400
2,555
Total assets acquired
$
18,500
We are amortizing the developed HeRO Graft technology asset over ten years, the related trademarks over 5.5 years,
and the associated customer lists over 12 years. We have estimated the weighted average life of the intangible HeRO
Graft assets acquired to be approximately 9.8 years. Acquisition-related costs related to the HeRO Graft device and
other related assets during the year ended December 31, 2016, which are included in selling, general and
administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income, were not material. The results of
operations related to this acquisition have been included in our cardiovascular segment since the acquisition date.
During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, our net sales of the products acquired from CryoLife
were approximately $9.1 million, $8.6 million and $7.1 million, respectively. It is not practical to separately report the
earnings related to the products acquired from CryoLife, as we cannot split out sales costs related to those products,
principally because our sales representatives are selling multiple products (including the HeRO Graft device) in the
cardiovascular business segment.
The following table summarizes our consolidated results of operations for the years ended December 31,
2018, 2017 and 2016, as well as unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations as though the DFINE
acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2015, the acquisition of the Argon critical care division had occurred on
January 1, 2016 and the acquisition of Cianna Medical and Vascular Insights had occurred on January 1, 2017 (in
thousands, except per common share amounts):
2018
2017
2016
Net sales
Net income (loss)
Earnings per common share:
As
Reported
As
Reported
Pro Forma
Pro Forma
$ 882,753 $ 928,336 $ 727,852 $ 768,571 $ 603,838 $ 664,366
23,054
Pro Forma
20,699
20,121
27,523
42,017
(13,720 )
As
Reported
Basic
Diluted
$
$
0.80 $
0.78 $
0.40 $
0.38 $
0.56 $
0.55 $
(0.28 ) $
(0.27 ) $
0.45 $
0.45 $
0.52
0.51
The unaudited pro forma information set forth above is for informational purposes only and includes adjustments
related to the step-up of acquired inventories, amortization expense of acquired intangible assets, stock-based
compensation for cancelled or forfeited options, interest expense on long-term debt and changes in the timing of the
recognition of the gain on bargain purchase. The pro forma information should not be considered indicative of actual
results that would have been achieved if the acquisition of Cianna Medical and Vascular Insights had occurred on
January 1, 2017, the acquisition of the Argon critical care division had occurred on January 1, 2016, or the acquisition
of DFINE had occurred on January 1, 2015, or results that may be obtained in any future period. The pro forma
consolidated results of operations do not include the acquisition of assets from BD because it was deemed
impracticable to obtain information to determine net income associated with the acquired product lines which
represent a small product line of a large, consolidated company without standalone financial information. The pro
forma consolidated results of operations do not include the DirectACCESS, ITL, Laurane, Osseon, VAT, Catheter
Connections or HeRO Graft acquisitions as we do not deem the pro forma effect of these transactions to be material.
74
The goodwill arising from the acquisitions discussed above consists largely of the synergies and economies
of scale we hope to achieve from combining the acquired assets and operations with our historical operations (see
Note 5). The goodwill recognized from certain acquisitions is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.
4. INVENTORIES
Inventories at December 31, 2018 and 2017, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Finished goods
Work-in-process
Raw materials
Total
$
2018
117,703
14,380
65,453
$
2017
86,555
12,799
55,934
$
197,536
$ 155,288
5. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, are as
follows (in thousands):
Goodwill balance at January 1
Effect of foreign exchange
Additions as the result of acquisitions
Goodwill balance at December 31
2018
238,147
(1,304 )
98,590
335,433
$
$
2017
211,927
2,641
23,579
238,147
$
$
Total accumulated goodwill impairment losses aggregated to $8.3 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017.
We did not have any goodwill impairments for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. The total goodwill
balance as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, is related to our cardiovascular segment.
Other intangible assets at December 31, 2018 and 2017, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Patents
Distribution agreements
License agreements
Trademarks
Covenants not to compete
Customer lists
In-process technology
Total
2018
Gross Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
$
19,378
8,012
26,930
29,998
1,028
39,936
3,420
$
(5,012 )
(5,766 )
(7,411 )
(6,586 )
(1,000 )
(23,361 )
—
$
Net Carrying
Amount
14,366
2,246
19,519
23,412
28
16,575
3,420
$
128,702
$
(49,136 )
$
79,566
75
Patents
Distribution agreements
License agreements
Trademarks
Covenants not to compete
Customer lists
In-process technology
Gross Carrying
Amount
$
16,528
7,262
23,783
16,224
1,028
31,935
920
$
2017
Accumulated
Amortization
$ (3,737 )
(4,686 )
(5,568 )
(4,686 )
(968 )
(18,482 )
—
Total
$
97,680
$ (38,127 )
$
Net Carrying
Amount
12,791
2,576
18,215
11,538
60
13,453
920
59,553
Aggregate amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was approximately
$41.2 million, $26.8 million and $19.3 million, respectively.
We evaluate long-lived assets, including amortizing intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or
changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. We perform the impairment
analysis at the asset group for which the lowest level of identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash
flows of other assets and liabilities. We compare the carrying value of the amortizing intangible assets acquired to
the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the asset group and determine whether the carrying amount is
recoverable. We determine the fair value of our amortizing assets based on estimated future cash flows discounted
back to their present value using a discount rate that reflects the risk profiles of the underlying activities. During the
years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, we recorded impairment charges of $657,000, related to our July 2015
acquisition of certain assets from Quellent, LLC, and $809,000, related to our July 2015 acquisition of certain assets
from Distal Access, LLC, respectively, all of which pertained to our cardiovascular segment. Some of the factors that
influenced our estimated cash flows were slower than anticipated sales growth in the products acquired from our
Quellent and Distal Access acquisitions and uncertainty about future sales growth. We did not record any impairment
charges during the year ended December 31, 2016.
Estimated amortization expense for the developed technology and other intangible assets for the next five
years consists of the following as of December 31, 2018 (in thousands):
Year Ending December 31
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
$
58,035
55,341
48,084
46,648
45,417
6. INCOME TAXES
On December 22, 2017, U.S. federal tax legislation, commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
(“TCJA”) was signed into law. Significant provisions that have impacted (and will in the future impact) our effective
tax rate include the reduction in the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective in 2018; a one-time deemed
repatriation (“transition tax”) on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred; and new
taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings. At December 31, 2017, we had not completed our accounting for the tax
effects of the TCJA; however, in certain cases, as described below, we made reasonable estimates of the effects on
our existing deferred tax balances and impact of the one-time transition tax. In accordance with SEC Staff Accounting
Bulletin 118 (“SAB 118”), income tax effects of the TCJA may be refined upon obtaining, preparing, and/or analyzing
additional information during the measurement period and such changes could be material. During the measurement
period, provisional amounts may also be adjusted for the effects, if any, of interpretative guidance issued after
December 31, 2017, by U.S. regulatory and standard-setting bodies.
As of December 31, 2017, we were able to determine a reasonable estimate and recognize the provisional
impacts of the rate reduction on our existing deferred tax balances and the impact of the transition tax. The reduction
76
in the U.S. corporate tax rate resulted in a net tax benefit of approximately $8.4 million related to the revaluation of
our U.S. net deferred tax liability. The transition tax resulted in a one-time tax expense of approximately $10.6 million.
As of December 31, 2018, we have revised these estimated amounts based upon further analysis of the
TCJA and notices and regulations issued and proposed by the U.S. Department of Treasury and the Internal Revenue
Service. We recognized an additional tax benefit of approximately $71,000 on the difference between the 2017 U.S.
enacted tax rate of 35%, and the 2018 enacted tax rate of 21%. We recognized a tax benefit of approximately $3.3
million from the revised transition tax calculation, which included the completion of our calculation of the total post-
1986 foreign earnings and profits (“E&P”) of our foreign subsidiaries, and related foreign tax credits. We elected to
pay our transition tax over the eight-year period provided by the TCJA.
For tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, the TCJA introduces new provisions of U.S. taxation of
certain Global Intangible Low-Tax Income (“GILTI”). The FASB provided guidance that companies should make an
accounting policy election to either treat taxes on GILTI as period costs or use the deferred method. We have elected
to treat taxes on GILTI as period costs and recognized tax expense of approximately $347,000 in December 2018.
As of December 31, 2018, we have completed our accounting for the tax effects of the enactment of the
TCJA; however, we continue to expect U.S. regulatory and standard-setting bodies to issue guidance and regulations
that could have a material financial statement impact on our effective tax rate in future periods.
We have historically asserted indefinite reinvestment of the earnings of certain non-U.S. subsidiaries outside
the U.S. The TCJA eliminated certain material tax effects on the repatriation of cash to the U.S. As such, future
repatriation of cash and other property held by our foreign subsidiaries will generally not be subject to U.S. federal
income tax. Therefore, after reevaluation of the permanent reinvestment assertion, we no longer consider our foreign
earnings to be permanently reinvested as of December 31, 2018. As a result of the change in the assertion, during
2018 we recorded tax expense of approximately $5.6 million for foreign withholding taxes on unremitted foreign
earnings as of December 31, 2018.
For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, income before income taxes is broken out between
U.S. and foreign-sourced operations and consisted of the following (in thousands):
Domestic
Foreign
Total
2018
21,084
28,435
49,519
$
$
2017
14,531
21,350
35,881
2016
6,174
19,212
25,386
$
$
$
$
The components of the provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016,
consisted of the following (in thousands):
Current expense (benefit):
Federal
State
Foreign
Total current expense
Deferred expense (benefit):
Federal
State
Foreign
Total deferred (benefit) expense
2018
2017
2016
$
$
$
(1,132 )
582
6,000
5,450
4,400
(667 )
(1,681 )
2,052
3,849
645
5,168
9,662
(314 )
(216 )
(774 )
(1,304 )
1,933
492
3,802
6,227
(144 )
(195 )
(623 )
(962 )
Total income tax expense
$
7,502
$
8,358
$
5,265
77
The difference between the income tax expense reported and amounts computed by applying the statutory
federal rate of 21.0% to pretax income for the year ended December 31, 2018, and 35% for years ended December
31, 2017 and 2016, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Computed federal income tax expense at applicable statutory rate
State income taxes
$
2018
10,399
(59 )
$
Tax credits
Production activity deduction
Foreign tax rate differential
Uncertain tax positions
Deferred compensation insurance assets
Transaction-related expenses
U.S. transition tax
TCJA remeasurement of deferred taxes
Stock-based payments
Bargain purchase gain
In-process research and development
Net GILTI
Foreign withholding tax
Other — including the effect of graduated rates
Total income tax expense
(1,734 )
—
(1,361 )
267
186
223
(3,271 )
(71 )
(4,278 )
—
—
347
5,590
1,264
7,502
$
$
2017
12,559
279
(1,377 )
—
(3,329 )
(19 )
(479 )
90
10,612
(8,383 )
(2,264 )
(1,570 )
1,486
—
—
753
8,358
$
$
2016
8,885
193
(1,164 )
(53 )
(3,717 )
597
(307 )
274
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
557
5,265
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2018 and 2017, consisted of the following
temporary differences and carry-forward items (in thousands):
Deferred income tax assets:
Allowance for uncollectible accounts receivable
Accrued compensation expense
Inventory differences
Net operating loss carryforwards
Deferred revenue
Stock-based compensation expense
Other
Total deferred income tax assets
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Prepaid expenses
Property and equipment
Intangible assets
Foreign withholding tax
Other
Total deferred income tax liabilities
Valuation allowance
Net deferred income tax assets (liabilities)
Reported as:
Deferred income tax assets - Long-term
Deferred income tax liabilities - Long-term
Net deferred income tax liabilities
78
2018
2017
$
606 $
7,414
1,269
20,226
46
2,833
9,243
41,637
467
5,154
2,505
15,741
58
2,281
8,986
35,192
(1,142 )
(20,045 )
(58,883 )
(5,590 )
(4,350 )
(90,010 )
(4,989 )
(53,362 ) $
(930 )
(20,352 )
(28,588 )
—
(1,830 )
(51,700 )
(4,422 )
(20,930 )
3,001 $
(56,363 )
(53,362 ) $
2,359
(23,289 )
(20,930 )
$
$
$
The long-term deferred income tax balances are not netted as they represent deferred amounts applicable
to different taxing jurisdictions. Deferred income tax balances reflect the temporary differences between the carrying
amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis and are stated at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when
taxes are actually paid or recovered.
The valuation allowance is primarily related to state credit carryforwards, non-US net operating loss
carryforwards, and capital loss carryforwards for which we believe it is more likely than not that the deferred tax
assets will not be realized. The valuation allowance increased by approximately $567,000, $636,000 and $1.8 million
during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had U.S federal net operating loss carryforwards of approximately
$86.3 million and $67.9 million, respectively, which were generated by Cianna Medical, VAT, DFINE and Biosphere
Medical, Inc. prior to our acquisition of these companies. Cianna Medical, Inc. was acquired on November 13, 2018.
These net operating loss carryforwards, which expire at various dates through 2035, are subject to an annual
limitation under Internal Revenue Code Section 382. We anticipate that we will utilize the net operating loss
carryforwards over the next 17 years. We utilized a total of approximately $11.9 million and $9.1 million in U.S. federal
net operating loss carryforwards during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately $5.9 million of non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards,
of which approximately $5.2 million have no expiration date and approximately $761,000 expire at various dates
through 2027. As of December 31, 2017, we had $5.4 million of non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards, of which
approximately $4.9 million had no expiration date and approximately $526,000 expire at various dates through 2027.
Non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards utilized during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 were not
material.
We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgment is
required in determining our worldwide provision for income taxes and recording the related assets and liabilities. In
the ordinary course of our business, there are many transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax
determination is uncertain. In our opinion, we have made adequate provisions for income taxes for all years subject
to audit. We are no longer subject to U.S. federal, state, and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for
years before 2015. In foreign jurisdictions, we are no longer subject to income tax examinations for years before
2012.
Although we believe our estimates are reasonable, the final outcomes of these matters may be different from
those which we have reflected in our historical income tax provisions and accruals. Such differences could have a
material effect on our income tax provision and operating results in the period in which we make such determination.
The total liability for unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2018, including interest and penalties, was
approximately $3.3 million, of which approximately $3.0 million would favorably impact our effective tax rate if
recognized. The total liability for unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2017, including interest and penalties,
was approximately $3.1 million, of which approximately $2.7 million would favorably impact our effective tax rate if
recognized. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the total liability for uncertain tax benefits, as presented on our
consolidated balance sheets, has been reduced by approximately $307,000 related to certain liabilities for
unrecognized tax benefits, which, if realized, would reduce the transition tax under the TCJA by approximately
$307,000. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had accrued approximately $373,000 and $304,000 respectively,
in total interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits. We account for interest and penalties for
unrecognized tax benefits as part of our income tax provision. During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and
2016, we added interest and penalties of approximately $69,000, $88,000 and $30,000, respectively, to our liability
for unrecognized tax benefits. It is reasonably possible that within the next 12 months the total liability for
unrecognized tax benefits may change, net of potential decreases due to the expiration of statutes of limitation, up to
$400,000.
79
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of liabilities associated with uncertain tax benefits for
the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Tabular Roll-forward
2018
2017
2016
Unrecognized tax benefits, opening balance
Gross increases in tax positions taken in a prior year
Gross increases in tax positions taken in the current year
$
Lapse of applicable statute of limitations
Unrecognized tax benefits, ending balance
$
2,749
35
586
(423 )
2,947
$
$
2,549
80
403
(283 )
2,749
$
$
1,982
77
856
(366 )
2,549
The tabular roll-forward ending balance does not include interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax
benefits.
7. ACCRUED EXPENSES
Accrued expenses at December 31, 2018 and 2017, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Payroll and related liabilities
Current portion of contingent liabilities
Advances from employees
Other accrued expenses
Total
2018
$ 37,396
23,760
540
34,477
2017
$ 30,225
289
796
27,622
$ 96,173
$ 58,932
8. REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY AND LONG-TERM DEBT
Principal balances outstanding under our long-term debt obligations as of December 31, 2018 and 2017,
consisted of the following (in thousands):
2016 Term loan
2016 Revolving credit loans
Collateralized debt facility
Less unamortized debt issuance costs
Total long-term debt
Less current portion
Long-term portion
Collateralized Debt Facility
2018
72,500 $
316,000
7,000
(348 )
395,152
22,000
373,152 $
2017
85,000
187,000
6,959
(487 )
278,472
19,459
259,013
$
$
On September 3, 2018, we renewed our loan agreement with HSBC Bank USA, National Association ("HSBC
Bank") whereby HSBC Bank agreed to provide us with a loan in the amount of $7.0 million. As of December 31, 2018
the loan was set to mature on January 11, 2019, with an extension available at our option, subject to certain
conditions. In January 2019, we entered into an agreement to extend the loan agreement through April 28, 2019. The
loan agreement bears interest at the six-month London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.0%. The loan is
secured by assets equal to the currently outstanding loan balance. The loan contains covenants, representations and
warranties and other terms customary for loans of this nature. As of December 31, 2018, our interest rate on the loan
was a variable rate of 3.39%.
80
2016 Term Loan and Revolving Credit Loans
On July 6, 2016, we entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as amended to date,
the “Second Amended Credit Agreement”), with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent,
swingline lender and a lender, and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as sole lead arranger and sole bookrunner. In
addition to Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, Bank of America, N.A., U.S. Bank, National Association, and
HSBC Bank USA, National Association, are parties to the Second Amended Credit Agreement as lenders. The
Second Amended Credit Agreement amends and restates in its entirety our previously outstanding Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement and all amendments thereto. The Second Amended Credit Agreement was amended on
September 28, 2016 to allow for a new revolving credit loan to our wholly-owned subsidiary, on March 20, 2017 to
allow flexibility in how we apply net proceeds received from equity issuances to prepay outstanding indebtedness, on
December 13, 2017 to increase the revolving credit commitment by $100 million up to $375 million, and on March
28, 2018 to amend certain debt covenants.
The Second Amended Credit Agreement provides for a term loan of $150 million and a revolving credit
commitment up to an aggregate amount of $375 million, which includes a reserve of $25 million to make swingline
loans from time to time. The term loan is payable in quarterly installments in the amounts provided in the Second
Amended Credit Agreement until the maturity date of July 6, 2021, at which time the term and revolving credit loans,
together with accrued interest thereon, will be due and payable. At any time prior to the maturity date, we may repay
any amounts owing under all revolving credit loans, term loans, and all swingline loans in whole or in part, subject to
certain minimum thresholds, without premium or penalty, other than breakage costs.
Revolving credit loans denominated in dollars and term loans made under the Second Amended Credit
Agreement bear interest, at our election, at either a Base Rate or Eurocurrency Base Rate (as such terms are defined
in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) plus the applicable margin, which increases as our Consolidated Total
Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) increases. Revolving credit loans
denominated in an Alternative Currency (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) bear interest at the
Eurocurrency rate plus the applicable margin. Swingline loans bear interest at the base rate plus the applicable
margin. Upon an event of default, the interest rate may be increased by 2.0%. The revolving credit commitment will
also carry a commitment fee of 0.15% to 0.40% per annum on the unused portion.
The Second Amended Credit Agreement is collateralized by substantially all our assets. The Second
Amended Credit Agreement contains covenants, representations and warranties and other terms customary for loans
of this nature. The Second Amended Credit Agreement requires that we maintain certain financial covenants, as
follows:
Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio (1)
January 1, 2018 and thereafter
Consolidated EBITDA (2)
Consolidated Net Income (3)
Facility Capital Expenditures (4)
Covenant Requirement
3.5 to 1.0
1.25 to 1.0
$—
$30 million
(1) Maximum Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) as of any
fiscal quarter end.
(2) Minimum ratio of Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement and adjusted for
certain expenditures) to Consolidated Fixed Charges (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) for
any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters.
(3) Minimum level of Consolidated Net Income (as defined in the Second Amended Credit Agreement) for certain
periods, and subject to certain adjustments.
(4) Maximum level of the aggregate amount of all Facility Capital Expenditures (as defined in the Second Amended
Credit Agreement) in any fiscal year.
Additionally, the Second Amended Credit Agreement contains customary events of default and affirmative
and negative covenants for transactions of this type. As of December 31, 2018, we believe we were in compliance
with all covenants set forth in the Second Amended Credit Agreement.
81
Future Payments
Future minimum principal payments on our long-term debt as of December 31, 2018, are as follows (in
thousands):
Years Ending
December 31
2019
2020
2021
Total future minimum principal payments
Future Minimum
Principal Payments
22,000
17,500
356,000
$ 395,500
As of December 31, 2018, we had outstanding borrowings of approximately $388.5 million under the Second
Amended Credit Agreement, with available borrowings of approximately $58.3 million, based on the leverage ratio
required pursuant to the Second Amended Credit Agreement. Our interest rate as of December 31, 2018 was a fixed
rate of 2.12% on $175.0 million as a result an interest rate swap (see Note 9) and a variable floating rate of 3.52%
on $213.5 million. Our interest rate as of December 31, 2017 was a fixed rate of 2.68% on $175.0 million as a result
of an interest rate swap and a variable floating rate of 2.82% on $97.0 million.
9. DERIVATIVES
General. Our earnings and cash flows are subject to fluctuations due to changes in interest rates and foreign
currency exchange rates, and we seek to mitigate a portion of these risks by entering into derivative contracts. The
derivatives we use are interest rate swaps and foreign currency forward contracts. We recognize derivatives as either
assets or liabilities at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, regardless of whether or not hedge
accounting is applied. We report cash flows arising from our hedging instruments consistent with the classification of
cash flows from the underlying hedged items. Accordingly, cash flows associated with our derivative programs are
classified as operating activities in the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows.
We formally document, designate and assess the effectiveness of transactions that receive hedge accounting
initially and on an ongoing basis. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting treatment
are recorded, net of applicable taxes, in accumulated other comprehensive income, a component of stockholders’
equity in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. For the ineffective portions of qualifying hedges, the change
in fair value is recorded through earnings in the period of change. Changes in the fair value of derivatives not
designated as hedging instruments are recorded in earnings throughout the term of the derivative.
Interest Rate Risk. A portion of our debt bears interest at variable interest rates and, therefore, we are
subject to variability in the cash paid for interest expense. In order to mitigate a portion of this risk, we use a hedging
strategy to reduce the variability of cash flows in the interest payments associated with a portion of the variable-rate
debt outstanding under our Second Amended Credit Agreement that is solely due to changes in the benchmark
interest rate.
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
On August 5, 2016, we entered into a pay-fixed, receive-variable interest rate swap with a current notional
amount of $175.0 million with Wells Fargo to fix the one-month LIBOR rate at 1.12%. The variable portion of the
interest rate swap is tied to the one-month LIBOR rate (the benchmark interest rate). On a monthly basis, the interest
rates under both the interest rate swap and the underlying debt reset, the swap is settled with the counterparty, and
interest is paid. The interest rate swap is scheduled to expire on July 6, 2021.
At December 31, 2018 and 2017, our interest rate swap qualified as a cash flow hedge. The fair value of our
interest rate swap at December 31, 2018 was an asset of approximately $5.8 million, which was partially offset by
approximately $1.5 million in deferred taxes. The fair value of our interest rate swaps at December 31, 2017 was an
asset of approximately $5.7 million, which was offset by approximately $1.5 million in deferred taxes.
Foreign Currency Risk. We operate on a global basis and are exposed to the risk that our financial
condition, results of operations, and cash flows could be adversely affected by changes in foreign currency exchange
rates. To reduce the potential effects of foreign currency exchange rate movements on net earnings, we enter into
derivative financial instruments in the form of foreign currency exchange forward contracts with major financial
institutions. Our policy is to enter into foreign currency derivative contracts with maturities of up to two years. We are
82
primarily exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk with respect to transactions and balances denominated in
Euros, British Pounds, Chinese Renminbi, Mexican Pesos, Brazilian Reals, Australian Dollars, Hong Kong Dollars,
Swiss Francs, Swedish Krona, Canadian Dollars, Danish Krone, Japanese Yen, Korea Won, and Singapore Dollars,
among others. We do not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. We are not subject
to any credit risk contingent features related to our derivative contracts, and counterparty risk is managed by
allocating derivative contracts among several major financial institutions.
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the
gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and
reclassified into earnings in the same line item associated with the forecasted transaction and in the same period or
periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The remaining gain or loss on the derivative instrument
in excess of the cumulative change in the present value of future cash flows of the hedged item, if any (i.e., the
ineffective portion) or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness, are recognized in earnings
during the current period. We entered into forward contracts on various foreign currencies to manage the risk
associated with forecasted exchange rates which impact revenues, cost of sales, and operating expenses in various
international markets. The objective of the hedges is to reduce the variability of cash flows associated with the
forecasted purchase or sale of the associated foreign currencies.
We enter into approximately 150 cash flow foreign currency hedges every month. As of December 31, 2018,
we had entered into foreign currency forward contracts, which qualified as cash flow hedges, with the following
notional amounts (in thousands and in local currencies):
Currency
Australian Dollar
Canadian Dollar
Swiss Franc
Chinese Renminbi
Danish Krone
Euro
British Pound
Japanese Yen
Korean Won
Mexican Peso
Swedish Krona
Symbol
Forward Notional Amount
3,000
4,410
2,145
160,000
17,225
20,310
5,280
1,145,000
3,050,000
230,000
30,210
AUD
CAD
CHF
CNY
DKK
EUR
GBP
JPY
KRW
MXN
SEK
83
Derivatives Not Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
We forecast our net exposure in various receivables and payables to fluctuations in the value of various
currencies, and we enter into foreign currency forward contracts to mitigate that exposure. We enter into
approximately 20 foreign currency fair value hedges every month. As of December 31, 2018, we had entered into
foreign currency forward contracts related to those balance sheet accounts with the following notional amounts (in
thousands and in local currencies):
Currency
Australian Dollar
Brazilian Real
Canadian Dollar
Swiss Franc
Chinese Renminbi
Danish Krone
Euro
British Pound
Hong Kong Dollar
Japanese Yen
Korean Won
Mexican Peso
Swedish Krona
Singapore Dollar
Symbol
AUD
BRL
CAD
CHF
CNY
DKK
EUR
GBP
HKD
JPY
KRW
MXN
SEK
SGD
Forward Notional Amount
11,400
9,000
2,300
269
63,200
3,237
5,927
2,358
11,000
265,000
5,500,000
23,000
9,627
8,500
Balance Sheet Presentation of Derivatives. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, all derivatives, both
those designated as hedging instruments and those that were not designated as hedging instruments, were recorded
gross at fair value on our consolidated balance sheets. We are not subject to any master netting agreements.
The fair value of derivative instruments on a gross basis is as follows (in thousands):
Balance Sheet Location
December 31, 2018
December 31, 2017
Fair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Assets
Interest rates swaps
Other assets (long-term)
$ 5,772
$ 5,749
Foreign currency forward contracts
Prepaid expenses and other
assets
Foreign currency forward contracts
Other assets (long-term)
Liabilities
Foreign currency forward contracts
Foreign currency forward contracts
Accrued expenses
Other long-term obligations
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Assets
613
151
(711 )
(101 )
363
35
(468 )
(82 )
Foreign currency forward contracts
Liabilities
Prepaid expenses and other
assets
$ 814
$ 223
Foreign currency forward contracts
Accrued expenses
(796 )
(841 )
84
Income Statement Presentation of Derivatives
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges had the following effects, before income taxes, on
other comprehensive income ("OCI"), accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") and net earnings in our
consolidated statements of income, consolidated statements of comprehensive income and consolidated balance
sheets (in thousands):
Amount of Gain/(Loss)
recognized in OCI
Year ended December 31,
2018
2017
2016
Amount of Gain/(Loss)
reclassified from AOCI
Year ended December 31,
2018
2017
2016
Derivative instrument
Interest rate swaps
Foreign currency forward contracts
Location in statements of income
$1,559 $
539
853 $
491
4,989 Interest Expense
(205 ) Revenue
Cost of goods sold
$1,537
136
361
95
(277 )
625
(718 )
21
(26 )
The net amount recognized in earnings during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 due to
ineffectiveness and amounts excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness were not significant.
As of December 31, 2018, approximately $27,000, or $20,000 after taxes, was expected to be reclassified
from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings in revenue and cost of sales over the succeeding twelve
months. As of December 31, 2018, approximately $2.5 million, or $1.9 million after taxes, was expected to be
reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings in interest expense over the succeeding
twelve months.
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
The following gains/(losses) from these derivative instruments were recognized in our consolidated
statements of income for the years presented (in thousands):
Derivative Instrument
Foreign currency forward contracts
Location in statements of income
Other expense
See Note 16 for more information about our derivatives.
Year ended December 31,
2018
2017
2016
$
4,147 $
(4,746 ) $
69
85
10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
We are obligated under non-terminable operating leases for manufacturing facilities, finished good
distribution centers, office space, equipment and certain vehicles. Total rental expense on these operating leases for
the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, approximated $14.5 million, $13.6 million and $11.4 million,
respectively.
The future minimum lease payments for operating leases as of December 31, 2018, consisted of the following
(in thousands):
Years Ending December 31
Operating Leases
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Thereafter
$
13,421
11,319
9,995
8,053
6,953
52,754
Total minimum lease payments
$ 102,495
Irish Government Development Agency Grants. As of December 31, 2018, we had entered into several
grant agreements with the Irish Government Development Agency. Grants related to the acquisition of property and
equipment purchased in Ireland are amortized as a reduction to depreciation expense over lives corresponding to
the depreciable lives of such property and equipment. The balance of deferred credits related to such grants as of
December 31, 2018 and 2017, was approximately $2.3 million and $2.4 million, respectively. During the years
ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, approximately $142,000, $147,000 and $170,000, respectively, of the
deferred credit was amortized as a reduction of operating expenses.
We had committed to repay the Irish government for grants received if we cease production in Ireland prior
to the expiration of the grant liability period. The grant liability period is usually between five and eight years from the
last claim made on a grant. As of December 31, 2018, the grant liability period had expired and there was no
remaining amount which the Irish government could reclaim if we were to cease production in Ireland. We have no
plans to cease production in Ireland.
Royalties. As of December 31, 2018, we had entered into a number of agreements to license or acquire
rights to certain intellectual property which require us to make royalty payments during the term of the agreements
generally based on a percentage of sales. Total royalty expense during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017
and 2016, approximated $5.3 million, $4.4 million and $3.2 million, respectively. Minimum contractual commitments
under royalty agreements to be paid within twelve months of December 31, 2018 were not significant. See Note 3 for
discussion of future royalty commitments related to acquisitions.
Litigation. In the ordinary course of business, we are involved in various claims and litigation matters. These
claims and litigation matters may include actions involving product liability, intellectual property, contract disputes,
and employment or other matters that are significant to our business. Based upon our review of currently available
information, we do not believe that any such actions are likely to be, individually or in the aggregate, materially
adverse to our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
In addition to the foregoing matters, in October 2016, we received a subpoena from the U.S. Department of
Justice seeking information on certain of our marketing and promotional practices. We are in the process of
responding to the subpoena, which we anticipate will continue during 2019. We have incurred, and anticipate that we
will continue to incur, substantial costs in connection with the matter. The investigation is ongoing and at this stage
we are unable to predict its scope, duration or outcome. Investigations such as this may result in the imposition of,
among other things, significant damages, injunctions, fines or civil or criminal claims or penalties against our company
or individuals.
In the event of unexpected further developments, it is possible that the ultimate resolution of any of the
foregoing matters, or other similar matters, if resolved in a manner unfavorable to us, may be materially adverse to
86
our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. Legal costs for these matters, such as outside
counsel fees and expenses, are charged to expense in the period incurred.
11. EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (EPS)
The computation of weighted average shares outstanding and the basic and diluted earnings per common
share for the following periods consisted of the following (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Year ended December 31, 2018:
Basic EPS
Effect of dilutive stock options and warrants
Net
Income
$
42,017
Per Share
Amount
$
0.80
Shares
52,268
1,663
Diluted EPS
$
42,017
53,931
$
0.78
Year ended December 31, 2017:
Basic EPS
Effect of dilutive stock options and warrants
$
27,523
48,805
1,296
$
0.56
Diluted EPS
$
27,523
50,101
$
0.55
Year ended December 31, 2016:
Basic EPS
Effect of dilutive stock options and warrants
$
20,121
44,408
454
$
0.45
Diluted EPS
$
20,121
44,862
$
0.45
For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, approximately 396,000, 381,000 and 727,000,
respectively, of stock options were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because their effect
would have been anti-dilutive.
12. EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN, STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS.
Our stock-based compensation primarily consists of the following plans:
2018 Long-Term Incentive Plan. In June 2018, our Board of Directors adopted and our shareholders
approved, the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 2018 Long-Term Incentive Plan, which was subsequently amended
effective December 14, 2018 (the “2018 Incentive Plan”) to supplement the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 2006 Long-
Term Incentive plan (the "2006 Incentive Plan"). The 2018 Incentive Plan provides for the granting of stock options,
stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, stock units (including restricted stock units) and performance
awards. Options may be granted to directors, officers, outside consultants and key employees and may be granted
upon such terms and such conditions as the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors determines. Options
will typically vest on an annual basis over a three to five-year life with a contractual life of 7 years. As of December 31,
2018, a total of 2,900,000 shares remained available to be issued under the 2018 Incentive Plan.
2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan. In May 2006, our Board of Directors adopted and our shareholders
approved, the 2006 Incentive Plan. As of December 31, 2018, the 2006 Incentive Plan was no longer being used for
the granting of equity awards. However, as of December 31, 2018, options granted under this plan were still
outstanding, vesting, and being exercised and will continue to be outstanding until the vesting periods end and the
terms of the equity awards expire.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan. We have a non-qualified Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”), which
has an expiration date of June 30, 2026. As of December 31, 2018, the total number of shares of common stock that
remained available to be issued under our non-qualified plan was 105,207 shares. ESPP participants purchase
shares on a quarterly basis at a price equal to 95% of the market price of the common stock at the end of the
applicable offering period.
87
Stock-Based Compensation Expense. The stock-based compensation expense before income tax
expense for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Cost of goods sold
Research and development
Selling, general, and administrative
Stock-based compensation expense before taxes
2018
2017
$
$
870
553
4,694
6,117
$
$
632
376
3,067
4,075
$
$
2016
472
184
1,850
2,506
We recognize stock-based compensation expense (net of a forfeiture rate) for those awards which are
expected to vest on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. We estimate the forfeiture rate based on
our historical experience and expectations about future forfeitures. As of December 31, 2018, the total remaining
unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options, net of expected forfeitures, was approximately
$19.0 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.09 years.
In applying the Black-Scholes methodology to the option grants, the fair value of our stock-based awards
granted were estimated using the following assumptions for the periods indicated below:
2018
2017
2016
Risk-free interest rate
Expected option life
Expected dividend yield
Expected price volatility
2.63%
- 2.77%
1.77%
- 1.83%
5.0 years
—%
5.0 years
—%
1.15%
1.40%
-
5.0 years
—%
-
34.06%
- 34.32% 33.81%
- 34.07% 34.28%
37.06%
The average risk-free interest rate is determined using the U.S. Treasury rate in effect as of the date of grant,
based on the expected term of the stock option. We determine the expected term of the stock options using the
historical exercise behavior of employees. The expected price volatility was determined using a weighted average of
daily historical volatility of our stock price over the corresponding expected option life and implied volatility based on
recent trends of the daily historical volatility. For options with a vesting period, compensation expense is recognized
on a straight-line basis over the service period, which corresponds to the vesting period. During the years ended
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, approximately 692,000, 1.3 million and 880,000 stock-based compensation
grants were made, respectively, for a total fair value of approximately $11.1 million, $12.4 million and $5.2 million,
net of estimated forfeitures, respectively.
The table below presents information related to stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2018,
2017 and 2016 (in thousands):
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised
Cash received from stock option exercises
Excess tax benefit from the exercise of stock options
$
2018
25,692
8,510
4,278
$
2017
9,264
5,552
2,264
$
2016
3,648
4,577
669
88
Changes in stock options for the year ended December 31, 2018, consisted of the following (shares and
intrinsic value in thousands):
Beginning balance
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited/expired
Outstanding at December 31
Exercisable
Ending vested and expected to vest
Number
of Shares
3,623
692
(690 )
(118 )
3,507
1,101
3,388
$
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
20.40
46.45
15.41
26.90
26.30
17.71
26.05
Remaining Contractual
Term (in years)
Intrinsic
Value
4.54
3.33
4.51
$
103,483
41,963
100,820
The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2018,
2017 and 2016 was $16.05, $9.57 and $5.94, respectively.
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2018 (shares
in thousands):
Range of Exercise
$9.95
-
$16.41 -
$28.20 -
$34.40 -
$16.05
$22.00
$28.20
$50.50
Number
Outstanding
982
683
961
881
$9.95
-
$50.50
3,507
Options Outstanding
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Life (in
years)
Options Exercisable
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
Number
Exercisable
Weighted
Average Exercise
Price
3.02
3.73
5.27
6.04
$
$
$
$
13.99
18.93
28.20
43.65
585
319
159
38
1,101
$
$
$
$
13.16
18.76
28.20
34.74
13. SEGMENT REPORTING AND FOREIGN OPERATIONS
We report our operations in two operating segments: cardiovascular and endoscopy. Our cardiovascular
segment consists of cardiology and radiology medical device products which assist in diagnosing and treating
includes
coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and other non-vascular diseases and
embolotherapeutic, cardiac rhythm management ("CRM"), electrophysiology ("EP"), critical care, Cianna Medical,
interventional oncology and spine devices, and breast cancer localization and guidance. Our endoscopy segment
consists of gastroenterology and pulmonology medical device products which assist in the palliative treatment of
expanding esophageal, tracheobronchial and biliary strictures caused by malignant tumors. We evaluate the
performance of our operating segments based on operating income (loss). See Note 2 for a detailed breakout of our
sales by operating segment and product group, disaggregated between domestic and international sales.
During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, we had international sales of approximately
$386.3 million, $307.1 million and $233.5 million, respectively, or approximately 44%, 42% and 39%, respectively, of
net sales, primarily in China, Japan, Germany, France, the United Kingdom and Russia. China represents our most
significant international sales market with sales of approximately $92.7 million, $73.4 million, and $59.9 million for the
years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. International sales are attributed based on location
of the customer receiving the product.
89
Our long-lived assets (which are comprised of our net property, plant and equipment) by geographic area at
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, consisted of the following (in thousands):
United States
Ireland
Other foreign countries
Total
2018
231,864
45,283
54,305
331,452
$
$
2017
202,504
45,671
44,645
292,820
$
$
2016
194,715
47,337
34,521
276,573
$
$
Financial information relating to our reportable operating segments and reconciliations to the consolidated
totals for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, are as follows (in thousands):
Net Sales
Cardiovascular
Endoscopy
Total net sales
Operating expenses
Cardiovascular
Endoscopy
Total operating expenses
Operating income
Cardiovascular
Endoscopy
Total operating income
Total other income (expense) - net
Income tax expense
2018
2017
2016
$
$
849,477
33,276
882,753
700,613
27,239
727,852
$
580,151
23,687
603,838
321,461
14,692
336,153
49,289
9,328
58,617
(9,098 )
7,502
281,095
12,089
293,184
24,819
8,250
33,069
2,812
8,358
218,659
11,490
230,149
30,053
4,823
34,876
(9,490 )
5,265
Net income
$
42,017
$
27,523
$
20,121
Total assets by business segment at December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, consisted of the following (in
thousands):
Cardiovascular
Endoscopy
Total
2018
1,588,970
31,042
1,620,012
$
$
2017
1,103,806
8,005
1,111,811
$
$
$
$
2016
932,927
9,876
942,803
Total depreciation and amortization by business segment for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017,
and 2016 consisted of the following (in thousands):
Cardiovascular
Endoscopy
Total
2018
68,722
824
69,546
$
$
2017
52,700
882
53,582
$
$
2016
42,806
949
43,755
$
$
90
Total capital expenditures for property and equipment by business segment for the years ended
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 consisted of the following (in thousands):
Cardiovascular
Endoscopy
Total
14. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
2018
63,032
292
63,324
$
$
$
$
2017
38,437
186
38,623
2016
32,613
224
32,837
$
$
We have a contributory 401(k) savings and profit sharing plan (the “Plan”) covering all U.S. full-time
employees who are at least 18 years of age. The Plan has a 90-day minimum service requirement. We may
contribute, at our discretion, matching contributions based on the employees’ compensation. Contributions we made
to the Plan for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, totaled approximately $3.5 million, $2.4 million
and $2.3 million, respectively.
We also have defined contribution plans covering some of our foreign employees. We contribute between
2% and 32% of the employee’s compensation for certain foreign non-management employees, and between 2% and
32% of the employee’s compensation for certain foreign management employees. Contributions made to these plans
for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, totaled approximately $3.0 million, $2.3 million and $1.1
million, respectively.
15. QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
Quarterly data for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 consisted of the following (in thousands,
except per share amounts):
2018
Net sales
Gross profit
Income from operations
Income tax expense
Net income
Basic earnings per common share
Diluted earnings per common share
2017
Net sales
Gross profit
Income from operations
Income tax expense
Net income (loss)
Basic earnings per common share
Diluted earnings per common share
March 31
June 30
September 30
December 31
Quarter Ended
$
$
203,035 $
88,056
8,781
1,090
5,269
0.10
0.10
171,069 $
75,942
5,609
690
14,803
0.33
0.32
224,810 $
100,009
15,114
624
10,941
0.22
0.21
186,549 $
84,141
13,362
1,830
9,483
0.19
0.19
221,659 $
102,039
21,061
2,766
16,619
0.31
0.30
179,337 $
80,514
879
1,364
(3,569 )
(0.07 )
(0.07 )
233,249
104,666
13,661
3,022
9,188
0.17
0.16
190,897
85,656
13,219
4,474
6,806
0.14
0.13
Basic and diluted earnings per share are computed independently for each of the quarters presented.
Therefore, the sum of the quarterly amounts may not equal the total computed for the year.
91
16. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Our financial assets and (liabilities) carried at fair value measured on a recurring basis as of December 31,
2018 and 2017, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Description
Interest rate contracts (1)
Foreign currency contract assets, current
and long-term (2)
Foreign currency contract liabilities,
current and long-term (3)
Description
Interest rate contracts (1)
Foreign currency contract assets, current
and long-term (2)
Foreign currency contract liabilities,
current and long-term (3)
$
$
$
$
$
Fair Value Measurements Using
Total Fair
Value at
December 31,
2018
Quoted prices in
active markets
(Level 1)
Significant other
observable inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
unobservable inputs
(Level 3)
5,772
1,578
$
$
(1,608 )
$
—
—
—
$
5,772
$
1,578
$
$
$
(1,608 )
$
—
—
—
Fair Value Measurements Using
Total Fair
Value at
December 31,
2017
Quoted prices in
active markets
(Level 1)
Significant other
observable inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
unobservable inputs
(Level 3)
5,749
621
$
$
—
—
—
$
5,749
$
$
621
$
$
—
—
—
$
(1,391 )
$
(1,391 )
$
(1) The fair value of the interest rate contracts is determined using Level 2 fair value inputs and is recorded as other long-term assets or
other long-term obligations in the consolidated balance sheets.
(2) The fair value of the foreign currency contract assets (including those designated as hedging instruments and those not designated as
hedging instruments) is determined using Level 2 fair value inputs and is recorded as prepaid and other assets or other long-term assets
in the consolidated balance sheets.
(3) The fair value of the foreign currency contract liabilities (including those designated as hedging instruments and those not designated
as hedging instruments) is determined using Level 2 fair value inputs and is recorded as accrued expenses or other long-term obligations
in the consolidated balance sheets.
Certain of our business combinations involve the potential for the payment of future contingent consideration,
generally based on a percentage of future product sales or upon attaining specified future revenue milestones. See
Note 3 for further information regarding these acquisitions. The contingent consideration liability is re-measured at
the estimated fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value recognized within operating expenses
in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. We measure the initial liability and re-measure the liability
on a recurring basis using Level 3 inputs as defined under authoritative guidance for fair value measurements.
Changes in the fair value of our contingent consideration liability during the years ended December 31, 2018 and
2017, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Beginning balance
Contingent consideration liability recorded as the result of acquisitions (see Note 3)
Fair value adjustments recorded to income during the period
Contingent payments made
Ending balance
2018
10,956
72,209
(698 )
(231 )
82,236
$
$
2017
683
10,400
(66 )
(61 )
10,956
$
$
92
As of December 31, 2018, approximately $58.5 million was included in other long-term obligations and
approximately $23.8 million was included in accrued expenses in our consolidated balance sheet. As of
December 31, 2017, approximately $10.7 million was included in other long-term obligations and $289,000 was
included in accrued expenses in our consolidated balance sheet. The cash paid to settle the contingent consideration
liability recognized at fair value as of the acquisition date (including measurement-period adjustments) has been
reflected as a cash outflow from financing activities in the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows.
During the year ended December 31, 2016, we sold an equity investment for cash and for the right to receive
additional payments based on various contingent milestones. We determined the fair value of the contingent
payments using Level 3 inputs defined under authoritative guidance for fair value measurements, and we recorded
a contingent receivable asset, which as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 had a value of approximately $607,000 and
$760,000, respectively. We record any changes in fair value to operating expenses as part of our cardiovascular
segment in our consolidated statements of income. For the year ended December 31, 2018, there were no significant
changes to the fair value of the contingent receivable which impacted net income and we collected payments of
approximately $153,000. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a gain on the contingent receivable
of approximately $232,000. As of December 31, 2018, the receivable of approximately $607,000 was included in
other receivables as a current asset in our consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2017, approximately
$319,000 was included in other long-term assets and approximately $441,000 was included in other receivables as
a current asset in our consolidated balance sheet.
The recurring Level 3 measurement of our contingent consideration liability and contingent receivable
includes the following significant unobservable inputs at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):
Contingent consideration
asset or liability
Revenue-based royalty
payments contingent liability
$
Fair value at
December 31,
2018
10,661
Valuation
technique
Unobservable inputs
Discounted
cash flow
Discount rate
Projected year of payments
Supply chain milestone
contingent liability
$
13,593
Discounted
cash flow
Discount rate
Probability of milestone payment
Projected year of payments
Range
9.9% - 25%
2018-2037
5.3%
95%
2019
Revenue milestones
contingent liability
$
57,982
Discounted
cash flow
Discount rate
Projected year of payments
3.3% - 13%
2019-2023
Contingent receivable
Asset
$
607
Discounted
cash flow
Discount rate
Probability of milestone payment
Projected year of payments
10%
67%
2019
Contingent consideration
asset or liability
Revenue-based royalty
payments contingent liability
Fair value at
December 31,
2017
10,956
$
Valuation
technique
Unobservable inputs
Discounted
cash flow
Discount rate
Projected year of payments
Range
9.9% - 15%
2017-2037
Contingent receivable
Asset
$
760
Discounted
cash flow
Discount rate
Probability of milestone payment
Projected year of payments
10%
75%
2018-2019
The contingent consideration liability and contingent receivable are re-measured to fair value each reporting
period using projected revenues, discount rates, probabilities of payment, and projected payment dates. Projected
contingent payment amounts are discounted back to the current period using a discounted cash flow model. Projected
revenues are based on our most recent internal operational budgets and long-range strategic plans. An increase
(decrease) in either the discount rate or the time to payment, in isolation, may result in a significantly lower (higher)
fair value measurement. A decrease in the probability of any milestone payment may result in lower fair value
measurements. Our determination of the fair value of the contingent consideration liability and contingent receivable
93
could change in future periods based upon our ongoing evaluation of these significant unobservable inputs. We intend
to record any such change in fair value to operating expenses in our consolidated statements of income.
During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, we had losses of approximately $814,000,
$988,000 and $101,000, respectively, related to the measurement of non-financial assets at fair value on a
nonrecurring basis subsequent to their initial recognition (see Note 5).
The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, and trade payables approximate fair value
because of the immediate, short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The carrying amount of long-term debt
approximates fair value, as determined by borrowing rates estimated to be available to us for debt with similar terms
and conditions. The fair value of assets and liabilities whose carrying value approximates fair value is determined
using Level 2 inputs, with the exception of cash and cash equivalents, which are Level 1 inputs.
17. ISSUANCE OF COMMON STOCK
On July 30, 2018, we closed a public offering of 4,025,000 shares of common stock and received proceeds
of approximately $205.0 million, which is net of approximately $12.0 million in underwriting discounts and
commissions and approximately $366,000 in other direct cost incurred in connection with this equity offering. The net
proceeds from the offering were used primarily to repay outstanding borrowings (principally revolving credit loans)
under our Second Amended Credit Agreement.
On March 28, 2017, we closed a public offering of 5,175,000 shares of common stock and received proceeds
of approximately $136.6 million, which is net of approximately $8.8 million in underwriting discounts and commissions
and approximately $816,000 in other direct costs incurred in connection with this equity offering. The net proceeds
from the offering were used primarily to repay outstanding borrowings (including our term loan and revolving credit
loans) under our Second Amended Credit Agreement.
Supplementary Financial Data
The supplementary financial information required by Item 302 of Regulation S-K is contained in Note 15 to
our consolidated financial statements set forth above.
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
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer
and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and
procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
("Exchange Act"), as of December 31, 2018. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal
financial officer concluded that as of December 31, 2018, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective, at
a reasonable assurance level, to ensure that information we are required to disclose in the reports we file or submit
under the Exchange Act is (a) recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in
the SEC's rules and forms and is (b) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal
executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial
reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Our
internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability
of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the U.S. of America.
Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2018. In making this assessment, our management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of
94
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission ("COSO") in Internal Control-Integrated Framework
(2013). However, as permitted by SEC guidance, we have excluded the acquisition of Cianna Medical, Inc. from
management's assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. Cianna constituted
approximately 1.3% of our total assets as of December 31, 2018 (excluding approximately $209.6 million of goodwill
and intangible assets, which were integrated into our systems and control environment). Additionally, the operations
of Cianna contributed 0.7% of our 2018 net sales, and resulted in pre-tax income in 2018 of approximately $1.1
million (excluding approximately $1.2 million of amortization of intangible assets, which was integrated into our
systems and control environment).
Based on the criteria discussed above and our management’s assessment, our management concluded that,
as of December 31, 2018, our internal control over financial reporting was effective.
CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Except as set forth below, during the quarter ended December 31, 2018, there were no changes in our
internal control over financial reporting that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal
control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934).
On November 14, 2018, we completed our acquisition of Cianna. We are currently integrating the policies,
processes, employees, technology and operations of Cianna. Management does not currently expect a material
change to our internal controls over financial reporting as we fully integrate Cianna into our operations.
Our independent registered public accountants have also issued an audit report on our internal control over
financial reporting. Their report appears below.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Merit Medical Systems, Inc. and subsidiaries
(the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework
(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion,
the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December
31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Frame Work (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 of
the Company and our report dated March 1, 2019, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
As described in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management excluded
Cianna Medical, Inc. (“Cianna”) from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting, which was acquired
on November 13, 2018, and whose financial statements constituted approximately 1.3% of total assets as of
December 31, 2018 (excluding approximately $209.6 million of goodwill and intangible assets), 0.7% of 2018 net
sales, and resulted in a net pre-tax income in 2018 of approximately $1.1 million (excluding approximately $1.2 million
of amortization of intangible assets) of the consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended
December 31, 2018. Accordingly, our audit did not include the internal control over financial reporting at Cianna.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting
and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered
with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal
securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
95
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we
plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control
over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and
operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we
considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting
includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail,
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made
only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's
assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect
misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that
controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies
or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Salt Lake City, Utah
March 1, 2019
Item 9B. Other Information.
None.
Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14.
PART III
The information required by these items is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement relating
to our Annual Meeting of Shareholders scheduled for May 23, 2019. We anticipate that our definitive proxy statement
will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after December 31, 2018, pursuant to Regulation 14A of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
96
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
(a) Documents filed as part of this Report:
PART IV
(1) Financial Statements. The following consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, and the
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm are incorporated by reference as provided
in Item 8 and Item 9A of this report:
− Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm — Internal Control
− Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm — Financial Statements
− Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017
− Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and
2016
− Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31,
2018, 2017 and 2016
− Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31,
2018, 2017 and 2016
− Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2018, 2017
and 2016
− Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(2) Financial Statement Schedule.
— Schedule II - Valuation and qualifying accounts
Years Ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
(In thousands)
Description
Balance at
Beginning of Year
Additions Charged to
Costs and
Expenses (a)
Deduction (b)
Balance at
End of Year
ALLOWANCE FOR UNCOLLECTIBLE ACCOUNTS:
2016
2017
2018
(1,297 )
(1,587 )
(1,769 )
(612 )
(1,012 )
(1,055 )
322
830
469
(1,587 )
(1,769 )
(2,355 )
(a) We record a bad debt provision based upon historical experience and a review of individual
customer balances.
(b) When an individual customer balance becomes impaired and is deemed uncollectible, a
deduction is made against the allowance for uncollectible accounts.
97
Years Ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
(In thousands)
Description
TAX VALUATION ALLOWANCE:
Balance at
Beginning of Year
Additions Charged to
Costs and
Expenses (c)
Deduction
Balance at
End of Year
2016
2017
2018
(1,981 )
(3,786 )
(4,422 )
(1,805 )
(636 )
(567 )
—
—
—
(3,786 )
(4,422 )
(4,989 )
(c) We record a valuation allowance against a deferred tax asset when it is determined that it is
more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be realized.
(b) Exhibits:
The following exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K are filed herewith or have been filed previously with
the SEC as indicated below:
Exhibit
No.
Index to Exhibits
1.1
1.2
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
3.1
3.2
4.1
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
Underwriting Agreement, dated March 22, 2017, by and among Merit Medical Systems, Inc.,
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, and Piper Jaffray & Co.*
Underwriting Agreement, dated July 25, 2018, by and among Merit Medical Systems, Inc.,
Wells Fargo Securities, LLC and Piper Jaffray & Co.*
Agreement and Plan of Merger by and among Merit, MMS Transaction Co., a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Merit, DFine Inc., certain preferred stockholders and Shareholder Representative
Services LLC as a stockholder representative*
Additional Materials to Agreement and Plan of Merger by and among Merit, MMS Transaction
Co., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Merit, DFine Inc., certain preferred stockholders and
Shareholder Representative Services LLC as a stockholder representative*
Additional Materials to Agreement and Plan of Merger by and among Merit, MMS Transaction
Co., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Merit, DFine Inc., certain preferred stockholders and
Shareholder Representative Services LLC as a stockholder representative*
Asset Purchase Agreement by and between Merit Medical Systems, Inc. and Becton,
Dickinson and Company dated November 15, 2017*
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated October 1, 2018, by and among Merit Medical Systems,
Inc., CMI Transaction Co., Cianna Medical, Inc. and Fortis Advisors LLC, as the
Securityholder's Representative *
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation dated May 31, 2018*
Third Amended and Restated Bylaws dated May 31, 2018*
Specimen Certificate of the Common Stock*
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Long Term Incentive Plan (as amended and restated) dated
March 25, 1996*†
Lease Agreement dated as of June 8, 1993 for office and manufacturing facility*
Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan*†
Seventh Amendment to the First Restatement of the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 401(k) Profit
Sharing Plan*†
10.5
Stock Purchase Agreement by and between Merit Medical Systems, Inc. and Sheen Man Co.
LTD, dated April 1, 2007*
98
Exhibit
No.
Index to Exhibits
10.6
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan, effective
January 1, 2008*†
10.7
10.8
10.9
10.10
10.11
10.12
10.13
10.14
10.15
10.16
10.17
10.18
10.19
10.20
10.21
10.22
10.23
10.24
10.25
10.26
10.27
10.28
Second Amendment to the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan*†
Second Restatement of the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan*†
Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of July 6, 2016 by and among
Merit Medical Systems, Inc., Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, Well Fargo Securities,
LLC and the lenders named therein*
Form of Indemnification Agreement, dated June 13, 2016, between the Company and each of
the following individuals: Fred P. Lampropoulos, Kent W. Stanger, Nolan E. Karras, A. Scott
Anderson, Richard W. Edelman, Franklin J. Miller, M.D., Michael E. Stillabower, M.D., F. Ann
Millner, Ed. D., Bernard J. Birkett, Ronald A. Frost, Joseph C. Wright, Justin J. Lampropoulos,
and Brian G. Lloyd*†
Form of Employment Agreement, dated May 26, 2016 between the Company and each of the
following individuals: Bernard J. Birkett, Ronald A. Frost, Joseph C. Wright, Justin J.
Lampropoulos, and Brian G. Lloyd*†
Employment Agreement, dated May 26, 2016 between the Company and Fred P.
Lampropoulos*†
Third Amendment to the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan dated
February 13, 2015*†
Merit Medical Systems, Inc., Restatement of the 1996 Employee Stock Purchase Plan dated
July 1, 2000*†
First Amendment to the Merit Medical Systems, Inc., 1996 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
dated April 1, 2001*†
Second Amendment to the Merit Medical Systems, Inc., 1996 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
dated January 1, 2006*†
Third Amendment to the Merit Medical Systems, Inc., 1996 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
dated April 7, 2006*†
Fourth Amendment to the Merit Medical Systems, Inc., 1996 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
dated February 13, 2015*†
Indemnification Agreement, dated July 23, 2016, between the Company and David M. Liu*†
First Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated September 28,
2016*
Second Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated March 20,
2017, entered into by and among Merit Medical Systems, Wells Fargo Bank, National
Association and the lenders and subsidiary guarantors named therein*
Indemnification Agreement with Thomas J. Gunderson*†
Third Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement and Incremental
Increase Agreement, dated December 13, 2017, entered into by and among Merit Medical
Systems, Inc., Wells Fargo Bank National Association and the lenders and subsidiary
guarantors named therein*
First Amendment to Employment Agreement made and entered into by and between Merit
Medical Systems, Inc. and Fred P. Lampropoulos as of the 11th day of December, 2017*†
Form of First Amendment to Employment Agreement for each of Ronald A. Frost, Bernard J.
Birkett, Justin J. Lampropoulos, Joseph C. Wright, and Brian G. Lloyd*†
First Amendment to Lease Agreement dated May 22, 2017 for office and manufacturing
facility*
Asset Purchase Agreement by and between Merit Medical Systems, Inc. and Becton,
Dickinson and Company dated November 15, 2017*
Fourth Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated March 28,
2018, entered into by and among Merit Medical Systems, Inc., Wells Fargo Bank National
Association and the lenders and subsidiary guarantors named therein*
10.29
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 2018 Long-Term Incentive Plan effective May 24, 2018†
99
Exhibit
No.
10.30
10.31
10.32
10.33
10.34
21
23.1
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
101
Index to Exhibits
Indemnification Agreement dated made and entered into by and between Merit Medical
Systems, Inc. and Raul Parra as of the 1st day of August, 2018.*†
Employment Agreement made and entered into by and between Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
and Raul Parra as of the 1st day of August, 2018.*†
First Amendment to the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. 2018 Long-Term Incentive Plan effective
December 14, 2018†
Form of Indemnification Agreement, dated December 14, 2018 between the Company and Jill
Anderson and Elizabeth Huebner†
Asset Purchase Agreement, dated December 14, 2018, by and among Merit Medical Systems,
Inc., Vascular Insights, LLC and VI Management, Inc.
Subsidiaries of Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Certification of Chief Executive Officer
Certification of Chief Financial Officer
Certification of Chief Executive Officer
Certification of Chief Financial Officer
The following materials from the Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Annual Report on Form 10-K for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, formatted in Extensible Business Reporting
Language (XBRL): (i) the Consolidated Statements of Operations, (ii) Consolidated Balance
Sheets, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (iv) Consolidated Statements
of Stockholders' Equity, (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (vi) related notes.
* These exhibits are incorporated herein by reference.
† Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
(c) Schedules:
None
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary.
None.
100
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant
has duly caused this Annual Report on Form 10-K to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized, on March 1, 2019.
MERIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
By:
/s/ FRED P. LAMPROPOULOS
Fred P. Lampropoulos, President and
Chief Executive Officer
ADDITIONAL SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, this Annual Report on
form 10-K has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities indicated on March 1, 2019.
Signature
Capacity in Which Signed
/s/: FRED P. LAMPROPOULOS
Fred P. Lampropoulos
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
(Principal executive officer)
/s/: RAUL PARRA
Raul Parra
/s/: A. SCOTT ANDERSON
A. Scott Anderson
/s/: JILL ANDERSON
Jill Anderson
/s/: THOMAS J. GUNDERSON
Thomas J. Gunderson
/s/: ELIZABETH HUEBNER
Elizabeth Huebner
/s/: NOLAN E. KARRAS
Nolan E. Karras
/s/: DAVID M. LIU
David M. Liu
/s/: FRANKLIN J. MILLER
Franklin J. Miller
/s/: F. ANN MILLNER
F. Ann Millner
/s/: KENT W. STANGER
Kent W. Stanger
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
(Principal financial and accounting officer)
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
/s/: MICHAEL E. STILLABOWER
Director
Michael E. Stillabower
101
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COR PORATE INFORMATION
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
FORM 10-K
Fred P. Lampropoulos
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer
Raul Parra
Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer
Ronald A. Frost
Chief Operating Officer
Joseph C. Wright
President, International
Brian G. Lloyd
Chief Legal Officer, Corporate Secretary
Justin J. Lampropoulos
Executive Vice President Global Sales,
Marketing and Strategy
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. filed an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange
Commission for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. A copy may be obtained by written
request from Anne-Marie Wright, Vice President, Corporate Communications, at Merit’s corporate
office in South Jordan, Utah.
ANNUAL MEETING
All shareholders are invited to attend Merit’s Annual Meeting of shareholders on Thursday, May 23,
2019, at 3:00 p.m. at Merit’s corporate offices in South Jordan, Utah.
STOCK TRANSFER AGENT/REGISTRAR
Zions Bank, a division of ZB, N.A.
P. O. Box 30880
Salt Lake City, Utah 84130
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MARKET INFORMATION
Fred P. Lampropoulos
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
A. Scott Anderson
President and Chief Executive Officer
Zions First National Bank
Jill D. Anderson
Co-Founder and prior Chief Executive
Officer of Cianna Medical
Thomas J. Gunderson
Chairman at Minneapolis Heart
Institute Foundation, Inc.
Nolan E. Karras
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
The Karras Company, Inc.
David M. Liu, M.D.
Clinical Associate Professor,
Faculty of Medicine,
University of British Columbia
Franklin J. Miller, M.D.
Emeritus Professor, Interventional Radiology
University of Utah
F. Ann Millner, Ed. D.
Regents Professor and Professor
of Health Administrative Services
Weber State University
Kent W. Stanger
Former Chief Financial Officer
Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
Michael E. Stillabower, M.D.
Director, Cardiovascular Clinical Trials
Christiana Care Health System
Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine
Jefferson Medical College
Merit’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market System under the symbol
“MMSI.” As of February 26, 2019, the number of shares of common stock outstanding was
54,902,835, held by approximately 105 shareholders of record, not including shareholders whose
shares are held in securities position listings.
MARKET INFORMATION
Anne-Marie Wright
Vice President, Corporate Communications
(801) 253-1600
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT
Raul Parra
Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer
Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
(801) 253-1600
CORPORATE OFFICES
Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
1600 West Merit Parkway
South Jordan, Utah 84095
(801) 253-1600
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
Deloitte & Touche LLP
LEGAL COUNSEL
Parr Brown Gee & Loveless
Corporate and Securities Counsel
Stoel Rives LLP
Intellectual Property Counsel
Workman Nydegger
Intellectual Property Counsel
This report includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933
and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements other than statements of historical fact are
forward-looking statements for purposes of these provisions. Merit assumes no obligation to update any forward-
looking statement. Although Merit believes the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained
herein are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations or any of the forward-looking statements
will prove to be correct, and actual results will likely differ, and may differ materially, from those projected or
assumed in the forward-looking statements. Merit’s future financial condition and results of operations, as well
as any forward-looking statements, are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, including factors referenced
in Merit’s press releases and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A number of the factors that
may have a direct bearing on Merit’s financial condition and operating results are described under “Risk Factors”
beginning on page 22 of Merit’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 1, 2019.
UNDERSTAND. INNOVATE. DELIVER.™
MERIT MEDIC AL SYSTEMS, INC.
1600 West Merit Parkway
South Jordan, Utah 84095
+1 (801) 253-1600
www.merit.com