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Mesa Laboratories, Inc.
Annual Report 2013

MLAB · NASDAQ Technology
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FY2013 Annual Report · Mesa Laboratories, Inc.
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2013 Annual Report

 $50,000

 $45,000

 $40,000

 $35,000

 $30,000

 $25,000

 $20,000

$9,000

$8,000

$7,000

$6,000

$5,000

$4,000

 $2.50

 $2.00

 $1.50

 $1.00

 $0.50

 $-

Year ended March 31st

Revenues

$46,435

$39,616

$34,227

$22,649

$23,087

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Net Income

$8,450

$7,919

$6,183

$4,790

$4,769

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Dividends and Net Income
$2.29

$2.35

$1.86

$1.48

$1.45

$0.40

$0.42

$0.46

$0.50

$0.54

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Dividends per share

Net income per diluted share

In thousands, except per share data

Letter to Our Shareholders: 

         August 8, 2013 

During fiscal 2013, Mesa continued its long history of profitable growth and we made strides to 
reposition the Company, both operationally and strategically, to facilitate continued growth and 
development.  During the year, we set several revenue and profitability records, and we made significant 
investments in your Company.  I will summarize some of our more important achievements in this letter, 
and for more details I refer you to our press releases and public filings. 

Mesa posted record revenues and profits for the year, driven by our acquisition of the flow calibration 
business of Bios International early in the fiscal year, along with organic growth in our Biological 
Indicators (“BI”) Division.  For fiscal 2013, Mesa posted $46,435,000 of revenues, up 17% from fiscal 
2012.  Profits also increased significantly, with net income up 7% at $8,450,000 and adjusted net income1 
up 14% at $10,144,000.  We are especially pleased with how well gross margins as a percentage of 
revenues improved this fiscal year, increasing to 62% in fiscal 2013 from 59% in fiscal 2012.  These 
gross margin improvements were due to improved efficiency in our BI Division and the addition of the 
high-margin Bios business to the Instruments Division.  Even though we made a number of strategic 
investments in our business, and there were significant expenses during the year that were one-time in 
nature, much of this gross margin dropped to the bottom line, and adjusted net income held steady 
compared to last year at 22% of revenues.  From a financial standpoint, it was a very good year for Mesa. 

We made a number of significant changes in our personnel and operations this fiscal year, partially driven 
by our growth during the past several years and in anticipation of future growth.  The most significant 
personnel change was at the CFO position, where John Sakys came to Mesa, replacing the retiring Steve 
Peterson, who had held this position for approximately 20 years.  In addition to this change, we have three 
new Vice Presidents who are managing our operations.  Each one of these new members of senior 
management brings many years of technical and managerial experience to their position, and they will be 
instrumental in guiding our businesses forward in the years ahead. 

A significant operational improvement that we made this year was in the area of Sarbanes-Oxley (“SOX”) 
compliance.  With Mesa’s recent growth and the increase in our market capitalization, an external audit of 
our financial controls was required for the first time this year.  In order to more easily comply with these 
audit requirements we had to add personnel, upgrade our ERP system, and implement a number of new 
procedures throughout the organization.  The ERP upgrade represented a significant one-time investment, 
but it enabled us to meet the audit requirements of SOX at the end of the year, and it also positions Mesa 
very well for the future. 

We also made a number of strategic investments this year.  Of course, the most significant was the 
acquisition of the flow calibration business from Bios International.  The Bios gas flow calibrators are a 
great addition to Mesa’s line of instrumentation products, and fit very well with our strategic focus on 
quality control products sold into regulated industries.  The Bios line has a strong market position and 
enjoys excellent gross margins, which helped Mesa financially this past fiscal year, and which are 
expected to contribute in the years ahead.  We continued to make strategic investments through our 
acquisition program after the end of the fiscal year and added another line of bottle cap torque testing 
instruments on July 1, 2013, by the acquisition of the SureTorque product line.  The SureTorque 
instruments are widely used in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries for quality control of 
bottling processes and complement our Torqo line, which has been more focused in the food and 
beverage industry.  With the combination of the two lines of bottle cap torque testing instrumentation, 
Mesa will be able to offer a wider range of products to a broader set of potential customers.  During fiscal 
2013, we also made a strategic investment in new product development, and we increased our R&D 

1 Excludes the non-cash impact of amortization of intangible assets, net of tax.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
spending 31% over fiscal 2012.  While some of the increased spending was due to taking on the R&D 
program of Bios, we also increased spending in our other instrumentation lines and our BI Division to 
improve the flow of new products to our markets. 

Instruments Division 
Revenues for Mesa’s Instruments Division increased 30% in fiscal 2013, driven by the addition of the 
Bios flow calibrators to the product mix.  Otherwise, it was a somewhat disappointing year in terms of 
organic growth for the remainder of the Instruments Division.  Uncertainty in the U.S. economy, coupled 
with continued weakness in Europe, tempered demand for our instrumentation products during the year.  
Most of the weakness in demand occurred toward the end of calendar 2012, and organic instruments 
revenue fell about 7% in Mesa’s third quarter, compared to the same period the prior year.  In all of the 
other quarters of the year, however, the Instruments Division grew organically, and for the full year ended 
at approximately the same level as fiscal 2012, excluding the Bios acquisition. 

Biological Indicators Division 
Our BI Division performed well during fiscal 2013, and revenues grew 5%.  All of this growth was 
organic, as there were no acquisitions in this segment during the year.  Equally important, the gross 
margins as a percentage of revenues for this division increased from 55% to 58%, due to improved 
efficiencies at our two production facilities.   

Outlook 
Entering the new fiscal year, Mesa has a strong, stable platform on which to build, having invested in the 
development of new processes, new people in key roles, and infrastructure during the past two years.  We 
are hopeful that our R&D efforts will allow us to roll out new products in the coming years, and with the 
desire to add companies and products through our acquisition program, we are well positioned to continue 
our recent growth.  Growth will also be dependent on how well the global economies perform in the years 
ahead.  We will need some assistance from the markets we serve if we are to continue the 18% compound 
annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of revenue that we have achieved during the past 5 years.  You can rest 
assured that continuing to grow at, or near, this historical rate is the top priority for me and the other 
members of Mesa’s management team.  Of course, revenue growth does no good without a corresponding 
growth of profits.  As we have in past years, we will continue to focus on maintaining Mesa’s high level 
of profitability through the efficient management of our existing businesses and by focusing on the 
acquisition of highly profitable businesses. 

Lastly, I would like to thank our shareholders for their continued support.  We look forward to reporting 
our fiscal 2014 progress to you in the months ahead.  As always, you can track our progress by visiting 
our web site at www.mesalabs.com. 

Sincerely, 

John J. Sullivan, Ph.D. 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

 
 
UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 

(Mark one) 

FORM 10-K 

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

For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2013 

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

For the transition period from ____ to ____ 

Commission File No: 0-11740 

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

Colorado 
(State or other jurisdiction of 
Incorporation or organization) 

84-0872291 
(I.R.S. Employer 
Identification number) 

12100 West Sixth Avenue 
Lakewood, Colorado 
(Address of principal executive offices) 

80228 
(Zip Code) 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (303) 987-8000 

Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Act: 

Title of each class 

Name of each exchange on which registered 

Common Stock, no par value 

NASDAQ 

Securities registered under 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 to be filed by Section13 or 15(d) of the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such 
reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  
YES 

   NO 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every 
Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232.405 of the 
chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such 
files).  YES 

   NO 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and 
will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by 
reference in Part III of the Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. 

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

Large accelerated filer 

Accelerated filer 

Non-accelerated filer 

Smaller reporting company 

(Do not check if a  
smaller reporting company)  

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

   NO 

The aggregate market value as of September 28, 2012 (the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed 
second fiscal quarter), of the voting and non-voting common equity of Mesa Laboratories Inc. held by non-affiliates 
(assuming, for this purpose, that all directors, officers and owners of 5% or more of the registrant’s common stock are deemed 
affiliates) computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold ($48.38 per share) was $108,981,000. 

The number of outstanding shares of the common stock as of May 31, 2013 was 3,395,847. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table of Contents 

Forward Looking Statements 

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. 

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 

1 
5 
9 
9 
9 
9 

10 
12 
13 
21 
22 
44 
44 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS 

This report contains information that may constitute "forward-looking statements.”  Generally, the words "believe," 
"expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "project," "will" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, 
which generally are not historical in nature.  However, the absence of these words or similar expressions does not mean 
that a statement is not forward-looking.  All statements that address operating performance, events or developments that 
we expect or anticipate will occur in the future — including statements relating to revenue growth and statements 
expressing general views about future operating results — are forward-looking statements.  Management believes that 
these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made.  However, caution should be taken not to place undue 
reliance on any such forward-looking statements because such statements speak only as of the date when made.  We 
undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new 
information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.  In addition, forward-looking statements are subject to 
certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our 
present expectations or projections.  These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those described in Part I, 
"Item 1A.  Risk Factors" and elsewhere in this report and those described from time to time in our future reports to be filed 
with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 

PART I 

ITEM 1.  BUSINESS 

Introduction 

Mesa Laboratories, Inc. (we, us, our, the "Company" or "Mesa") was incorporated under the laws of the State of Colorado on 
March 26, 1982.  We pursue a strategy of focusing primarily on quality control products, which are sold into niche markets 
that are driven by regulatory requirements.  We prefer markets that have limited competition where we can establish a 
commanding presence and achieve high gross margins.  We are organized into two divisions across four physical locations.  
Our Instruments Division designs, manufactures and markets quality control instruments and disposable products utilized in 
connection with the healthcare, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, medical device, industrial hygiene, semiconductor and 
petrochemical industries. Our Biological Indicators Division manufactures and markets biological indicators and distributes 
chemical indicators used to assess the effectiveness of sterilization processes, including steam, gas, hydrogen peroxide and 
radiation, in the hospital, dental, medical device and pharmaceutical industries.   

Our Lakewood, Colorado and Butler, New Jersey facilities manufacture our Instruments Division products, which include the 
DataTrace®, Medical, Bios, Torqo®, and Nusonics® brands.  Our Omaha, Nebraska and Bozeman, Montana locations 
manufacture our Biological Indicators Division products – the Mesa and Apex™ brands.  

Our philosophy is to manufacture a quality product and provide a high level of on-going service for those products.  Our 
revenues come from two main sources – product sales, and parts and services.  Our strategic goals involve continuing to 
grow revenues and profits through three key strategies – a) improving our distribution channels, b) introducing new 
products to the market, and c) seeking out companies or product lines to acquire.  

In May 2012, we completed a business combination (the “Bios Acquisition”) by acquiring specific assets and assuming 
certain liabilities of Bios International Corporation (“Bios”), a New Jersey corporation. 

In April 2010, we acquired SGM Biotech, Inc. and the facility that houses the operations, located in Bozeman, Montana.  
In December 2010, we acquired the biological indicator business of Apex Laboratories, Inc. 

Our principal executive offices and corporate headquarters are located at 12100 West Sixth Ave., Lakewood, Colorado 
80228, and our telephone number is 303-987-8000.  Our website is www.mesalabs.com.  The information contained or 
connected to our website is not incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K and should not be 
considered part of this report.  

PAGE 1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Instruments Division 

Our Instruments Division designs, manufactures and markets quality control instruments and disposable products utilized in 
the healthcare, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, medical device, industrial hygiene, semiconductor and petrochemical 
industries.  Generally, our instrument products are used for testing, quality control, safety validation and regulatory 
compliance.  Our Instruments Division products include:  1) DataTrace data loggers, which are used in critical manufacturing 
and quality control processes in the food, pharmaceutical and medical device industries; 2) Medical meters and calibration 
solutions, which are used for quality control in dialysis clinics and dialysis machine manufacturing operations; 3) Gas flow 
calibration equipment, which is used for quality control, occupational health and safety, and environmental air monitoring 
in metrology labs, industrial hygiene and environmental air sampling; 4) Torqo torque testing systems, which are used to 
measure bottle cap tightness in the beverage and pharmaceutical industries; and 5) Nusonics concentration analyzers, 
pipeline interface detectors and flow meter products used in the chemical, food, pharmaceutical and plastics industries.  

Data Loggers 

Our data logger products are self-contained, wireless, high precision instruments that are used in critical manufacturing, 
quality control and validation applications.  They are used to measure temperature, humidity and pressure inside a process 
or a product during manufacturing.  In addition, data loggers can be used to validate the proper operation of laboratory or 
manufacturing equipment, either during its installation or for annual re-certifications.  The products consist of individual 
data loggers, a personal computer (“PC”) interface, software and various accessories.  A customer typically purchases a 
large number of data loggers along with a single PC interface and the software package.  In practice, using the PC 
interface, the user programs the loggers to collect environmental data at a pre-determined interval, places the data loggers 
in the product or process, and then collects stored process data from the data logger either through the PC interface or 
wirelessly via a radio link.  The user can then prepare tabular and graphical reports using the software.  Unique aspects of 
our data loggers are their ability to operate at elevated temperatures and in explosive environments – important 
differentiating factors in the marketplace and, consequently, they are used by companies to control their most critical 
processes, such as sterilization.  Industries utilizing the data loggers include food processing, pharmaceutical 
manufacturing, medical device companies, and contract sterilizers. 

Medical Meters and Calibration Solutions 

Our medical meters are used to test various parameters of the dialysis fluid (dialysate), and the proper calibration and 
operation of the dialysis machine.  Each measures some combination of temperature, pressure, pH and conductivity to ensure 
that the dialysate has the proper composition to promote the transfer of waste products from the blood to the dialysate.  The 
meters provide a digital readout that the patient, physician or technician uses to verify that the dialysis machine is working 
within prescribed limits and delivering properly prepared dialysate.  We manufacture two styles of medical meters; those 
designed for use by dialysis machine manufacturers and biomedical technicians, and those used primarily by dialysis nurses.  
The meters for technicians are characterized by exceptional accuracy, stability and flexibility, and are used by the industry as 
the primary standard for the calibration of dialysis machines.  The meters designed for use by dialysis nurses are known 
primarily for their ease of use and incorporate a patented, built-in syringe sampling system.  These meters are used as the final 
quality control check on the dialysate just prior to starting a treatment.  In addition to the dialysate meters, we market a line of 
standard solutions for use in dialysis clinics for calibration and testing.  These standard solutions are regularly consumed by 
the dialysis clinics thus, along with calibration services, are less impacted by general economic conditions than instrument 
sales.  Customers that utilize these products include dialysis facilities, medical device manufacturers and biomedical service 
companies. 

Gas Flow Calibration Equipment 

Gas flow is defined as the volume of gas per unit of time through a system.  Our DryCal® technology, which measures gas, is 
considered to be a “primary standard” of gas flow, as it involves a direct measurement of volume and time.  Many other gas 
flow meters measure flow via indirect means of either a pressure drop across a flow restriction or through the transfer of heat 
from the gas flow.  Some of our devices may also incorporate measurement of pressure and temperature, which allows them to 
convert volumetric flow to mass flow.  Our gas flow calibration equipment provides the precise standards required by 
laboratories and industry in the design, development, manufacture, installation and calibration of various gas and mass flow 
meters, and air sampling devices.  Our flow meters are used in many industries where professionals require the superior 
accuracy, reliability and ease of operation that our flow meters provide, including 1) industrial hygienists, 2) calibration and 

PAGE 2 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
research laboratories, 3) manufacturers who design, develop and manufacture gas and mass flow meters, and 4) industry 
engineering and manufacturing companies that utilize gas and mass flow meters.  

Torque Testing Systems 

Our automated torque testing system is a durable and reliable motorized cap torque analyzer used throughout the packaging 
industry.  With its on-board microprocessor, the torque system is easy to use, easy to set up and mostly maintenance free.  
The primary advantages of our torque instruments are their high accuracy and long term consistency of measurement.  
Unlike manual torque testing instruments, our motorized torque system eliminates the effects on the measurement results 
of different operators and different cap removal speeds.  With a motorized torque testing system, the force applied to a cap 
is precisely the same in each testing cycle, regardless of who may be operating the machine, or how strong they may be.  
Our torque system provides the information that helps the packaging operation track events, and potential problems, during 
the manufacturing process so that corrections can be performed in a timely fashion.  Industries utilizing these instruments 
include food processors, beverage companies, pharmaceutical, and consumer product manufacturers. 

Concentration Analyzers and Flow Meters 

Our primary Nusonics brand ultrasonic fluid measurement products include flow meters and concentration monitors.  While 
the total market for flow meters is very large, our flow meters best serve applications where cleanliness and resistance to 
corrosives are required, such as water treatment, chemical processing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (“HVAC”) 
applications.  The concentration monitor component of the product line consists of pipeline interface detectors for 
petrochemical applications and concentration analyzers for a wider variety of industry application, such as chemical, food, 
pharmaceutical and plastics processes.  The ultrasonic products have been subject to strong competition in the marketplace in 
recent years, primarily from larger, well established process control companies.  Consequently, sales of these products have 
decreased and currently represent a minor portion of our total revenue.  Today, most sales are made to existing customers who 
are replacing or adding to their current infrastructure, and it is not expected that we will make significant investments in these 
products in the future. 

Biological Indicators Division 

Our Biological Indicators Division manufactures and markets biological indicators and distributes chemical indicators used to 
assess the effectiveness of sterilization processes, including steam, gas (such as Ethylene Oxide or Chlorine Dioxide), 
hydrogen peroxide and radiation, in the hospital, dental, medical device and pharmaceutical industries.  Our biological 
indicators are registered medical devices manufactured under International Standards Organization (“ISO”) 13485 controlled 
processes.  They are developed and used according to the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation 
(“AAMI”) guidelines, which are adopted as the worldwide standard under ISO.  

Biological indicators consist of resistant spores of certain microorganisms that are applied on a convenient substrate, such as a 
small piece of filter paper.  The spores are well characterized in terms of numbers and resistance to sterilization.  In use, the 
biological indicator is exposed to a sterilization process and then tested to determine the presence of surviving organisms.  Our 
biological indicators include a) spore strips, which require post-processing transfer to a growth media, b) self-contained 
products, which have the growth media already pre-packaged in crushable ampoules, and c) culture media.  Chemical 
indicators are similar to biological indicators, except that a chemical change (generally determined by color) is used to assess 
the exposure to sterilization conditions.  Biological indicators and chemical indicators are often used together to monitor 
processes.  Biological indicators are used to validate equipment and monitor the effectiveness of a process in any industrial or 
healthcare setting which uses sterilization. Key markets include healthcare, such as dental offices and hospitals, and industrial, 
such as medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturers. 

Our biological indicators are distinguished in the marketplace by their high level of quality, consistency and flexibility.  A 
variety of different formats allows the biological indicators to be used in many different types of processes and products.  For 
example, the simple spore strips are used most often in the small table-top steam sterilizers in dental offices, while a more 
complex self-contained biological indicator may be used by a medical device manufacturer to assure the sterility in a complex 
ethylene oxide sterilization process.  In either case, the number of spores contained on the carrier and the resistance of the 
spores to the sterilization process must be well characterized in order to accurately assess the effectiveness of sterilization.  
During manufacturing, extensive quality control steps are used to insure that the microorganism spores are well characterized 
and their resistance is known following placement on the target carrier. 

PAGE 3 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Market Factors 

Product sales are dependent on several factors, including general economic conditions, both domestic and international, 
customer capital spending trends, competition, introduction of new products and acquisitions.  Biological indicator products 
are disposable and are used on a routine basis for quality control, thus product sales are less sensitive to general economic 
conditions.  Instrument products have a longer life, and their purchase by our customers is somewhat discretionary, so sales 
are more sensitive to general economic conditions.  Parts and service demand is driven by our customers’ quality control and 
regulatory environments, which require periodic repair and recalibration or certification of our instrument products.  We 
typically evaluate costs and pricing annually.  Our policy is to price our products competitively and, where possible, we try to 
pass along cost increases in order to maintain our margins.  As part of the integration of our previous biological indicator 
acquisitions we have adjusted prices to achieve price parity for similar products. 

Manufacturing 

We conduct research, manufacturing, and support of our Instruments Division products from our facilities in Lakewood, 
Colorado and Butler, New Jersey.  Our instrument products are manufactured primarily by assembling the products from 
purchased components and calibrating the final products prior to release.  Our torque testing products previously were 
manufactured in Amherst, New Hampshire until December 2010, when they were permanently moved to the Lakewood 
facility.  Facilities in Bozeman, Montana and Omaha, Nebraska are used for the Biological Indicators Division.  Our 
biological indicator products are manufactured by growing microbiological spores from raw materials, forming the finished 
products and testing the finished biological indicators using established quality control tests.  The Apex brand biological 
indicator products were manufactured at the Apex Laboratories facility in Sanford, North Carolina until April 2011, when 
manufacturing commenced at our Bozeman, Montana operations.  

Most of the materials and components used in our product lines are available from a number of different suppliers.  We 
generally maintain multiple sources of supply, but are dependent on a single source for certain items.  We believe that 
alternative sources could be developed, if required, for present single supply sources.  Although our dependence on these 
single supply sources may involve a degree of risk, to date we have been able to acquire sufficient stock to meet our 
production requirements. 

Marketing and Distribution 

Domestically, we generate sales to end users through our sales and marketing staff and distributors.  We use approximately 
275 distributors throughout Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, Australia, Canada and Central America for international 
sales and distribution.  Sales promotions include trade shows, direct mail campaigns, internet and other digital forms of 
advertising. 

Our Instruments Division marketing effort is focused on offering quality products to our customers that will aid them in 
containing cost, improving the quality of their products and services, and helping them meet their regulatory requirements.  
Customers primarily include manufacturers of foods, beverages, pharmaceutical products, medical devices, contract sterilizing 
services and dialysis clinics. 

Our Biological Indicators Division marketing focuses on providing quality test products in a variety of different formats, 
which minimize incubation and test result time.  Customers include companies providing sterility assurance testing to the 
dental office market, hospitals, contract sterilizing services and various industrial users involved in pharmaceutical and 
medical device manufacturing.  

As of and for the years ended March 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, no individual customer represented more than 10% of our 
accounts receivable or revenues. 

Competition 

Our products compete across several industries with a variety of companies, many of which are well established, with 
substantially greater capital resources and larger research and development capabilities.  Furthermore, many of these 
companies have established product lines and a significant operating history.  Accordingly, we may be at a competitive 
disadvantage with some competitors due to their respective size and market presence. 

PAGE 4 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Companies with which our Instruments Division products compete include the Myron L Company, IBP Medical GmbH, GE 
Kaye, Ellab, TMI Orion, SureTorque, Mecmesin and Steinfurth.  Our Biological Indicators Division products compete with 
3M, Terragene, NAMSA and Steris, among others.  

Research and Development 

We are committed to an active research and development program dedicated to innovating new products and improving the 
quality and performance of our existing products.  We spent $2,011,000, $1,534,000 and $1,441,000 for the years ended 
March 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, on research and development activities, including amounts capitalized as 
intangible assets.  

Government Regulation 

While our quality system and manufacturing processes are generally the same throughout the Instruments Division, specific 
products are compliant under ISO 13485, ISO 17025 and certain U.S. Federal regulations.  Compliance requires us to obtain 
third party certification for these products. 

Several products in both the Instruments and Biological Indicators Divisions are medical devices subject to the provisions of 
the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, as amended by the Medical Device Amendments of 1976 (hereinafter referred to as 
the "Act").  The Act requires any company proposing to market a medical device to notify the Food and Drug Administration 
(“FDA”) of its intention at least ninety days before doing so and in such notification must advise the FDA as to whether the 
device is substantially equivalent to a device marketed prior to May 28, 1976.  We have received permission from the FDA to 
market all of the products requiring such permission. 

Some of our facilities are subject to FDA regulations and inspections, which may be time-consuming and costly.  This 
includes on-going compliance with the FDA's current Good Manufacturing Practices regulations that require, among other 
things, the systematic control of manufacture, packaging and storage of products intended for human use.  Failure to comply 
with these practices renders the product adulterated and could subject us to an interruption of manufacturing and selling these 
products, and possible regulatory action by the FDA. 

The manufacture and sale of medical devices is also regulated by some states.  Although there is substantial overlap between 
state regulations and the regulations of the FDA, some state laws may apply.  We do not anticipate that complying with state 
regulations, however, will create any significant problems.  Foreign countries also have laws regulating medical devices sold 
in those countries, which may cause us to expend additional resources on compliance. 

Employees 

On March 31, 2013, we had 215 employees, of which 139 are employed for manufacturing and quality assurance, 15 for 
research and development, 38 for sales and marketing, and 23 for administration. 

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS  

In addition to the other information set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other documents we filed with the 
SEC, you should carefully consider the following factors, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or 
results of operations in future periods.  The risks and uncertainties described below are those that we have identified as 
material, but are not the only risks and uncertainties facing us.  Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to 
us or that we currently believe are immaterial also may impair our business, including our results of operations, liquidity 
and financial condition.  

Conditions in the global economy, the markets we serve and the financial markets may adversely affect our business and 
results of operations. 

Our business is sensitive to general economic conditions, both inside and outside the United States.  Slower global economic 
growth, credit market crisis, high levels of unemployment, reduced levels of capital expenditures, government deficit 
reduction, sequestration and other austerity measures and other challenges affecting the global economy could affect us and 
our distributors, customers and suppliers, including having the effect of: 

PAGE 5 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(cid:2) 

(cid:2) 

(cid:2) 

reducing demand for our products and services, limiting financing available to our customers, increasing order 
cancellations and resulting in longer sales cycles; 

increasing the difficulty in collecting accounts receivable and the risk of excess and obsolete inventories; and 

increasing the risk that counterparties to our contractual arrangements will become insolvent or otherwise unable to 
fulfill their contractual obligations, which could increase the risks identified above. 

If slower growth in the global economy or in any of the markets we serve continues for a significant period, if there is a 
significant deterioration in the global economy or such markets, or if improvements in the global economy do not benefit the 
markets we serve, our business and results of operations could be adversely affected. 

We face competition and if we are unable to compete effectively, we may experience decreased demand and decreased 
market share.  

The markets for some of our current and potential products are competitive.  Because of the range of products we sell and the 
variety of markets we serve, we encounter a wide variety of competitors, including several that possess both larger sales forces 
and more capital resources.  In order to compete effectively, we must retain longstanding relationships with major customers, 
continue to grow our business by establishing relationships with new customers, continually develop new products and 
services to maintain and expand our brand recognition and leadership position in various product and service categories, and 
penetrate new markets, including in developing countries.  Our failure to compete effectively and/or pricing pressures 
resulting from competition may adversely impact our results of operations. 

Changing industry trends may affect our results of operations. 

Various changes within the industries we serve may limit future demand for our products and may include the following: 

(cid:2) 

changes in dialysis reimbursements; 

(cid:2)  mergers within the dialysis provider industry, concentrating our medical meter and solutions sales with a few, large 

customers; 

(cid:2)  mergers within other industries we serve, making us more dependent upon fewer, larger customers for our sales; 

(cid:2) 

(cid:2) 

decreased product demand, driven by changes in our customer’s regulatory environments or standard industry 
practices; and 

price competition for key products. 

Our growth depends in part on the timely development and commercialization, and customer acceptance, of new products 
and the efforts of third party distributors. 

Our growth depends on the acceptance of our products in the marketplace, the penetration achieved by the companies which 
we sell to, and rely on, to distribute and represent our products, and our ability to introduce new and innovative products that 
meet the needs of the various markets we serve.  We can offer no assurance that we will be able to continue to introduce new 
and innovative products, that the products we introduce, or have introduced, will be widely accepted by the marketplace, or 
that the companies that we contract with to distribute and represent our products will continue to successfully penetrate our 
various markets.  Our failure to continue to introduce new products or gain widespread acceptance of our products could 
adversely affect our results of operations.  In order to successfully commercialize our products in new markets, we will need 
to enter into distribution arrangements with companies that can successfully distribute and represent our products into various 
markets. 

Any inability to consummate acquisitions at our historical rate and at appropriate prices could negatively impact our 
growth rate and stock price. 

We may not be able to consummate acquisitions at rates similar to the past, which could adversely impact our growth rate and 
our stock price.  Promising acquisitions are difficult to identify and complete for a number of reasons, including high 

PAGE 6 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
valuations, the availability of affordable funding in the capital markets and the need to satisfy applicable closing conditions.  
In addition, competition for acquisitions in our current and anticipated business areas is significant and may result in higher 
purchase prices.  Changes in accounting or regulatory requirements, or instability in the credit markets could also adversely 
impact our ability to consummate acquisitions.  Our ability to grow revenues, earnings and cash flow at or above our historic 
rates depends in part upon our ability to identify and successfully acquire and integrate businesses at appropriate prices and 
realize anticipated synergies.  

Our acquisition of businesses could negatively impact our results of operations. 

As an important part of our business strategy, we acquire businesses, some of which may be material.  Please see “Item 7. 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for additional details.  Our 
acquisitions involve a number of financial, accounting, managerial, operational, legal and other risks and challenges, including 
the following, any of which could adversely affect our results of operations: 

(cid:2) 

any acquired business, technology, service or product could under-perform relative to our expectations and the price 
that we paid for it, or not perform in accordance with our anticipated timetable; 

(cid:2)  we may incur or assume significant debt in connection with our acquisitions; 

(cid:2) 

(cid:2) 

(cid:2) 

acquisitions could cause our results of operations to differ from our own or the investment community’s expectations 
in any given period, or over the long-term; 

pre-closing and post-closing acquisition-related earnings charges could adversely impact our results of operations in 
any given period, and the impact may be substantially different from period to period; 

acquisitions could create demands on our management, operational resources and financial and internal control 
systems that we are unable to effectively address, or for which we may incur additional costs; 

(cid:2)  we could experience difficulty in integrating personnel, operations, financial and other systems, and in retaining key 

employees and customers; 

(cid:2)  we may be unable to achieve cost savings or other synergies anticipated in connection with an acquisition; 

(cid:2)  we may assume by acquisition unknown liabilities, known contingent liabilities that become realized, known 
liabilities that prove greater than anticipated, internal control deficiencies, or exposure to regulatory sanctions 
resulting from the acquired company’s activities.  The realization of any of these liabilities or deficiencies may 
increase our expenses, adversely affect our financial position or cause us to fail to meet our public financial reporting 
obligations; 

(cid:2) 

(cid:2) 

in connection with acquisitions, we often enter into post-closing financial arrangements such as purchase price 
adjustments, earn-out obligations and indemnification obligations, which may have unpredictable financial results; 
and 

as a result of our acquisitions, we have recorded significant goodwill and other intangible assets on our balance sheet.  
If we are not able to realize the value of these assets, we may be required to incur charges relating to the impairment 
of these assets, which could materially impact our results of operations. 

The contingent consideration from the Bios Acquisition may negatively impact our available cash and results from 
operations. 

As part of the Bios Acquisition, we are required to make a contingent consideration payment based on revenue growth related 
to the acquired assets over a three year earn-out period.  The ultimate amount we pay may differ significantly from the liability 
we recorded at the time of the acquisition.  If we are required to pay more than the amount initially recorded, the difference 
will be recorded as expense in our statement of income, which could materially impact our results of operations.  

PAGE 7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If we do not or cannot adequately protect our intellectual property, or if third parties infringe our intellectual property 
rights, we may suffer competitive injury or expend significant resources enforcing our rights. 

We own numerous patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets and other intellectual property and licenses to intellectual 
property owned by others, which in aggregate are important to our business.  The intellectual property rights that we obtain, 
however, may not be sufficiently broad or otherwise may not provide us a significant competitive advantage, and patents may 
not be issued for pending or future patent applications owned by or licensed to us.  In addition, the steps that we and our 
licensors have taken to maintain and protect our intellectual property may not prevent it from being challenged, invalidated, 
circumvented or designed-around, particularly in countries where intellectual property rights are not highly developed or 
protected.  In some circumstances, enforcement may not be available to us because an infringer has a dominant intellectual 
property position or for other business reasons, or countries may require compulsory licensing of our intellectual property.  
Our failure to obtain or maintain intellectual property rights that convey competitive advantage, adequately protect our 
intellectual property, detect or prevent circumvention or unauthorized use of such property, and the cost of enforcing our 
intellectual property rights could adversely impact our competitive position and results of operations. 

We also rely on nondisclosure and noncompetition agreements with employees, consultants and other parties to protect, in 
part, our trade secrets and other proprietary rights.  There can be no assurance that these agreements will adequately protect 
our trade secrets and other proprietary rights, will not be breached, that we will have adequate remedies for any breach, that 
others will not independently develop substantially equivalent proprietary information, or that third parties will not otherwise 
gain access to our trade secrets or other proprietary rights. 

Several of our products are extensively regulated, which could delay product introduction or halt sales. 

The process of obtaining and maintaining required regulatory approvals is lengthy, expensive and uncertain.  Although we 
have not experienced any substantial regulatory delays to date, we can offer no assurance that delays will not occur in the 
future, which could have a significant adverse effect on our ability to introduce new products on a timely basis.  Regulatory 
agencies periodically inspect our manufacturing facilities to ascertain compliance with “good manufacturing practices” and 
can subject approved products to additional testing and surveillance programs.  Failure to comply with applicable regulatory 
requirements can, among other things, result in fines, suspension of regulatory approvals, product recalls, operating 
restrictions and criminal penalties.  While we believe that we are currently in compliance, if we fail to comply with regulatory 
requirements it could have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. 

Product defects and unanticipated use or inadequate disclosure with respect to our products could adversely affect our 
business, reputation and our results of operations. 

Manufacturing or design defects in, unanticipated use of, safety or quality issues with respect to, or inadequate disclosure of 
risks relating to the use of products that we make or sell (including in products or components that we source from third 
parties) can lead to personal injury or property damage.  These events could lead to recalls or safety alerts relating to our 
products, and result in product liability claims being brought against us.  Recalls and product liability claims can result in 
significant costs, as well as negative publicity and damage to our reputation that could reduce demand for our products and 
have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. 

We may be required to recognize impairment charges that could materially affect our results of operations. 

We assess our goodwill and other intangible assets, and our other long-lived assets as and when required by accounting 
principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) to determine whether they are impaired.  If they are impaired, we 
would record appropriate impairment charges.  It is possible that we may be required to record significant impairment charges 
in the future and, if we do so, our results of operations could be materially adversely affected. 

Changes in accounting standards could affect our reported financial results. 

New accounting standards or pronouncements that may become applicable to our Company from time to time, or changes in 
the interpretation of existing standards and pronouncements, could have a significant effect on our reported results of 
operations for the affected periods. 

PAGE 8 

 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our business is subject to sales tax in numerous states 

The application of indirect taxes, such as sales tax, is a complex and evolving issue.  A company must collect and remit state 
sales tax from its customers if the company has “nexus” in a particular state.  The determination of nexus varies by state and 
often requires knowledge of each state’s sales tax case law.  The application and implementation of existing, new or future 
laws could change the states in which we collect and remit sales taxes.  Historically, if we have not properly identified states 
in which we have nexus, we could be held responsible for payment of sales taxes for the years in which it is determined we 
had nexus.  We have determined that we have an obligation for sales taxes in numerous states.  The ultimate amount due will 
depend upon a number of factors, including the amount of sales that were made to customers who already paid the tax or who 
are exempt, the number of years of exposure, and any penalties and interest.  We continue to evaluate our exposure in 
additional states, but at this time the amount of the liability is not estimable.  The resolution of these sales tax obligations is 
likely to have an adverse effect on our results of operations. 

We are utilizing variable rate financing. 

In February 2012, we entered into a three year agreement (the “Credit Facility”) for a $20,000,000 revolving line of credit 
(“Line of Credit”) and up to $1,000,000 of letters of credit.  Under the Credit Facility, indebtedness bears interest at either: 
(1) LIBOR plus an applicable margin, ranging from 1.25% to 2.00%, or (2) the bank’s commercial bank floating rate 
(“CBFR”), which is the greater of the bank’s prime rate or one month LIBOR + 2.50%, adjusted down, from 1.25% to 
0.50%.  A change in interest rate market conditions could increase our interest costs in the future and may have an adverse 
effect on our results of operations. 

We may face continuing challenges in complying with certain sections of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. 

Like many public companies, we face challenges in complying with the internal control requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley 
Act (Section 404).  Under current frameworks, compliance in areas such as separation of duties, information system controls, 
etc. may prove problematic for a smaller company with limited human resources.  We may also be forced to incur on-going 
expense in order to comply with the law under current control frameworks or if the framework changes.  These expenses may 
have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. 

ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS 

None 

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES 

Set forth below is a listing of our facilities.  All locations have manufacturing, research and development, marketing and 
administrative functions. 

Location 

Lakewood, Colorado 
Butler, New Jersey 
Bozeman, Montana 
Omaha, Nebraska 

Operations 

Instruments and corporate headquarters 
Instruments 
Biological indicators 
Biological indicators 

Square Feet 
40,000 
13,900 
21,500 
28,000 

Owned 
Leased 
Owned 
Owned 

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

Not applicable. 

ITEM 4.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES 

Not applicable. 

PAGE 9 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART II 

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANTS COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF 
EQUITY SECURITIES 

Our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market (“NASDAQ”) under the symbol "MLAB.”   

The following table sets forth the high and low market prices per share for our common stock, as reported by NASDAQ, and 
dividend per share information: 

Quarter Ended 

June 30, 2012 
September 30, 2012 
December 31, 2012 
March 31, 2013 

Quarter Ended 

June 30, 2011 
September 30, 2011 
December 31, 2011 
March 31, 2012 

High 
$ 51.45 
48.94 
52.00 
57.00 

High 
$ 32.06 
37.45 
41.90 
58.50 

Low 
$ 38.64 
40.00 
45.10 
49.38 

Low 
$ 28.90 
32.40 
33.90 
41.24 

Dividends Per Share 
$ 0.13 
0.13 
0.14 
0.14 

Dividends Per Share 
$ 0.12 
0.12 
0.13 
0.13 

While we have paid dividends to holders of our common stock on a quarterly basis since 2003, the declaration and payment of 
future dividends will depend on many factors, including, but not limited to, our earnings, financial condition, business 
development needs and regulatory considerations, and is at the discretion of our Board of Directors. 

The NASDAQ Global Market quotations set forth herein reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down or 
commission and may not represent actual transactions. 

As of March 31, 2013, there were approximately 183 record holders of our common stock.  This amount does not include 
“street name” holders or beneficial holders of our common stock, whose holder of records are banks, brokers and other 
financial institutions. 

During the year ended March 31, 2013, we did not sell any equity securities that were not registered under the Securities Act 
of 1933, as amended. 

We made the following repurchases of our common stock, by month, within the fourth quarter of the year covered by this 
report: 

Shares Purchased 

Avg. price Paid 

January 1 – 31, 2013 
February 1 – 29, 2013 
March 1 – 31, 2013 
Total 

- 
3,110 
- 
3,110 

$ - 
52.56 
- 
52.56 

Total Shares 
Purchased as 
Part of Publicly 
Announced Plan 
156,412 
159,522 
159,522 

Remaining 
Shares to 
Purchase Under 
Plan 
143,588 
140,478 
140,478 

On November 7, 2005, our Board of Directors adopted a share repurchase plan which allows for the repurchase of up to 
300,000 of our common shares.  This plan will continue until the maximum is reached or the plan is terminated by further 
action of the Board of Directors. 

We have certain equity compensation plans, all of which were approved by our stockholders.  As of March 31, 2013, 
416,125 shares of common stock may be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, with a weighted-average exercise 
price of $29.87 and 310,820 shares are available for future issuance under the plans.  Please see notes contained in “Item 8.  
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this report for additional details. 

PAGE 10 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Set forth below is a line graph comparing, for the period March 31, 2008 through March 31, 2013, the cumulative total 
stockholder return on our common stock against the cumulative total return of (a) the S&P Composite Stock Index and (b) 
a self-selected peer group, comprised of the following companies: Danaher Corp., ARCA Biopharma, Inc., Steris Corp., 
MOCON Inc., Utah Medical Products, Inc., Cantel Medical Corp., Rochester Medical Corporation, Merit Medical 
Systems, Inc., Transcat Inc., Electro-Sensors Inc., Rudolph Technologies Inc., and Measurement Specialties Inc.  The 
graph shows the value at March 31 of each year, assuming an original investment of $100 in each and reinvestment of cash 
dividends. 

300.00 

250.00 

200.00 

150.00 

100.00 

50.00 

-

3/31/2008

3/31/2009

3/31/2010

3/31/2011

3/31/2012

3/31/2013

Mesa Laboratories, Inc

S&P 500 Index

Peer Group Index

PAGE 11 

 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA 

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with “Item 7.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and financial statements and notes hereto contained in “Item 8.  
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this report. 

(In thousands, except per share data) 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Working capital 

Average return on: 
   Stockholder investments (1) 
   Assets  
   Invested capital (2) 

Revenues 

Gross profit 
Gross margin 

Net income 
Net profit margin 

2013 
$   4,006 
$ 14,793 

As of and for the Year Ended March 31, 
2011 
$   3,546 
$   7,387 

2010 
$ 10,471 
$ 18,530 

2012 
$   7,191 
$ 14,899 

2009 
$   9,111 
$ 17,109 

17% 
13% 
18% 

20% 
16% 
21% 

18% 
15% 
21% 

16% 
15% 
24% 

19% 
17% 
26% 

$ 46,435 

$ 39,616 

$ 34,227 

$ 23,087 

$ 22,649 

$ 28,862 
62% 

$   8,450 
18% 

$ 23,511 
59% 

$   7,919 
20% 

$ 19,568 
57% 

$   6,183 
18% 

$ 13,194 
57% 

$   4,769 
21% 

$ 13,817 
61% 

$   4,790 
21% 

Net income per diluted share 

$     2.35 

$     2.29 

$     1.86 

$     1.45 

$     1.48 

Earnings before amortization of 
 intangible assets, net of tax 

$ 10,144 

$   8,876 

$   6,933 

$  5,052 

$   5,103 

(1) 

(2) 

Average return on stockholder investment is calculated by dividing total net income by the average of end  
and beginning of year total stockholders’ equity. 
Average return on invested capital (invested capital = total assets – current liabilities – cash and cash  
equivalents) is calculated  by dividing total net income by the average of end and beginning of year  
invested capital. 

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measure 

Earnings before amortization of intangible assets, net of tax, is used by management as a supplemental performance and 
liquidity measure, primarily to exclude the impact of acquisition-related intangible assets in order to compare current financial 
performance to historical performance, assess the ability of our assets to generate cash and the evaluation of potential 
acquisitions. 

Earnings before amortization of intangible assets, net of tax, should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful 
than, net income, operating income, cash flow from operating activities or any other measure of financial performance 
presented in accordance with GAAP as measures of operating performance or liquidity. 

The following table sets forth our reconciliation of earnings before amortization of intangible assets, net of tax, a non-GAAP 
measure: 

(In thousands) 

Net income 
Amortization of intangible 
  assets, net of tax 

2013 
$ 8,450 

1,694 
$ 10,144 

Year Ended March 31, 
2011 
$ 6,183 

2012 
$ 7,919 

2010 
$ 4,769 

957 
$ 8,876 

750 
$ 6,933 

283 
$ 5,052 

2009 
$ 4,790 

313 
$ 5,103 

PAGE 12 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 

Overview 

We pursue a strategy of focusing primarily on quality control products, which are sold into niche markets that are driven by 
regulatory requirements.  We prefer markets that have limited competition where we can establish a commanding presence 
and achieve high gross margins.  We are organized into two divisions across four physical locations.  Our Instruments 
Division designs, manufactures and markets quality control instruments and disposable products utilized in connection with 
the healthcare, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, medical device, industrial hygiene, semiconductor and petrochemical 
industries.  Our Biological Indicators Division manufactures and markets biological indicators and distributes chemical 
indicators used to assess the effectiveness of sterilization processes, including steam, gas, hydrogen peroxide and radiation, in 
the hospital, dental, medical device and pharmaceutical industries.  We follow a philosophy of manufacturing a high quality 
product and providing a high level of on-going service for those products. 

Our revenues come from two main sources – products sales, and parts and services.  Product sales are dependent on several 
factors, including general economic conditions, both domestic and international, customer capital spending trends, 
competition, introduction of new products and acquisitions.  Biological indicator products are disposable and are used on a 
routine basis for quality control, thus product sales are less sensitive to general economic conditions.  Instrument products 
have a longer life, and their purchase by our customers is somewhat discretionary, so sales are more sensitive to general 
economic conditions.  Parts and service demand is driven by our customers’ quality control and regulatory environments, 
which require periodic repair and recalibration or certification of our instrument products.  We typically evaluate costs and 
pricing annually.  Our policy is to price our products competitively and, where possible, we try to pass along cost increases in 
order to maintain our margins.  As part of the integration of our previous biological indicator acquisitions we have been 
adjusting prices to achieve price parity for similar products. 

Gross profit is affected by our product mix, manufacturing efficiencies and price competition.  Historically, as we have 
integrated our acquisitions and taken advantage of manufacturing efficiencies, our gross margins for some of the products 
have improved.  There are, however, differences in gross margins between different product lines, and ultimately the mix of 
sales may continue to impact our overall gross margin. 

Selling expense is driven primarily by labor costs, including salaries and commissions.  Accordingly, it may vary with sales 
levels.  Labor costs and amortization of intangible assets drive 70-80% of general and administrative expense.  Research and 
development expense is predominantly comprised of labor costs and third party consultants. 

In May 2012, we completed the Bios Acquisition by acquiring specific assets and assuming certain liabilities of Bios, a New 
Jersey corporation.  The purchase price for the acquired net assets was $16,660,000 and potential contingent consideration 
based on revenue growth over a three year earn-out period.  The contingent consideration arrangement requires us to pay Bios 
if cumulative revenues related to the acquisition for the three years subsequent to the acquisition exceed $22,127,000.  The 
potential undiscounted future payment that we could be required to make ranges from $0 to $6,710,000.  We borrowed 
$11,000,000 under our Line of Credit to finance the acquisition, with the balance being paid from available cash.  On 
December 21, 2010, we acquired the assets associated with the biological indicator line of products of Apex Laboratories, Inc. 
(the “Apex Acquisition”) for $6,490,000.  On April 27, 2010, we acquired all of the common stock of SGM Biotech, Inc. (the 
“SGM Acquisition”), another biological indicator business, for $12,083,000. 

General Trends and Outlook 

Acquisitions in May 2012, December 2010, and April 2010 impacted our current assets and working capital, as we used 
available cash and incurred debt to complete those transactions.  Our key indicators were impacted following each acquisition 
as we integrated the acquired operations.  Revenues, gross profit and net income have all increased due to the acquisitions and 
organic growth. 

Our strategic objectives include both growth organically and through further acquisitions.  During the year ended March 31, 
2013, we continued to build our infrastructure to prepare for future growth, including the addition of key personnel to our 
operations, research and development, and finance teams.  We also invested in upgrading our information systems and intend 
to continue doing so. 

PAGE 13 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The markets for our biological indicators remain strong, as the disposable nature of these products makes them less sensitive 
to general economic conditions.  The worldwide market for biological indicators is growing, as more countries focus on 
verifying the effectiveness of sterilization processes.  Recent general economic conditions have slowed the organic growth of 
our instruments business, due to the discretionary nature of these products.  Demand for our instruments products, however, is 
still strong and we strive to maintain or grow revenue going forward. 

We are working on several research and development projects that, if completed, may result in new products for both existing 
customers and in new markets.  We are hopeful that both our Biological Indicators and Instruments Divisions will have new 
products available for sale in the coming year. 

Results of Operations 

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, condensed statements of income data.  The table and the discussion 
below should be read in conjunction with the accompanying financial statements and the notes thereto appearing elsewhere in 
“Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” (in thousands, except percent data): 

Year ended March 31,

2013 vs 2012

2012 vs 2011

Revenues
Cost of revenues
Gross profit

2013
46,435
17,573
28,862

$     

$     

2012
39,616
16,105
23,511

$     

$     

2011
34,227
14,659
19,568

$     

$     

Change

$       

$       

6,819
1,468
5,351

 Percent 

Change 
17%
9%
23%

Change

$       

$       

5,389
1,446
3,943

Gross profit margin

62%

59%

57%

3%

2%

Operating expenses:

Selling
General and administrative
Research and development
Impairment of intangibles

Net income
Net profit margin

Revenues 

$       

$       

$       

$          

$          

4,630
9,117
2,011
-
15,758

3,909
5,416
1,359
350
11,034

3,687
4,576
1,441
-
9,704

721
3,701
652
(350)
4,724

$     

$     

$       

$       

$       

222
840
(82)
350
1,330

$       

8,450
18%

$       

7,919
20%

$       

6,183
18%

$          

531
(2%)

$       

1,736
2%

18%
68%
48%
N/A
43%

7%

 Percent 

Change 
16%
10%
20%

6%
18%
(6%)
N/A
14%

28%

The following table summarizes our revenues by source (in thousands, except percent data): 

Year ended March 31,

2013 vs 2012

2012 vs 2011

 Percent 

 Percent 

2013

2012

2011

Change

Change 

Change

Change 

Biological Indicators:
Product sales
Other

Instruments

Product sales
Other

Total

$     

19,739
1,725
21,464

$     

19,083
1,339
20,422

$     

15,688
1,134
16,822

$          

656
386
1,042

15,612
9,359
24,971
46,435

$     

11,313
7,881
19,194
39,616

$     

10,427
6,978
17,405
34,227

$     

$       

$       

4,299
1,478
5,777
6,819

3%
29%
5%

38%
19%
30%
17%

$       

3,395
205
3,600

$          

886
903
1,789
5,389

$       

22%
18%
21%

8%
13%
10%
16%

Year ended March 31, 2013 versus March 31, 2012 
Biological Indicator revenues increased as a result of continued organic growth, achieved through existing customers, 
expansion into new markets and price increases.  Instruments revenues increased as a result of the Bios Acquisition, while 
legacy Instruments product line revenues remained relatively unchanged. 

PAGE 14 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
       
       
       
         
         
         
         
         
         
            
         
         
         
            
             
             
            
             
           
            
         
         
         
            
            
       
       
       
         
         
       
       
       
         
         
         
         
            
       
       
       
         
         
Effective January 1, 2013, we became subject to a 2.3% medical device excise tax on the domestic sales of a majority of 
our medical instruments and biological indicators.  Where possible, we renegotiated prices with our customers to recover 
this additional cost.  We can offer no assurance that we will be able to successfully recover the full amounts paid as 
medical device excise tax. 

Year ended March 31, 2012 versus March 31, 2011 
Approximately 50% of the Biological Indicators revenue growth of 21% was organic, due primarily to expanding markets.  
The Apex Acquisition contributed a full year of revenues for the year ended March 31, 2012, as compared to three months 
of revenue for the year ended March 31, 2011.  The additional nine months of Biological Indicators revenue contributed 
approximately $1,780,000, or the remaining 50% of the growth.  The Instruments revenue increased as a result of organic 
growth, as well as customers upgrading or expanding as economic uncertainties from the year ended March 31, 2011 
lessened. 

Gross Profit 

The following table summarizes our gross profit by segment (in thousands, except percent data) 

Year ended March 31,

2013 vs 2012

2012 vs 2011

Biological Indicators

Gross profit margin

$     

2013
12,365
58%

$     

2012
11,236
55%

2011

Change

$       

8,918
53%

$       

1,129
3%

Instruments

Gross profit margin

16,497
66%

12,275
64%

10,650
61%

$       

4,222
2%

Total gross profit

Gross profit margin

$     

28,862
62%

$     

23,511
59%

$     

19,568
57%

$       

5,351
3%

 Percent 

Change 
10%

34%

23%

 Percent 

Change 
26%

15%

20%

Change

$       

2,318
2%

1,625
3%

$       

3,943
2%

Year ended March 31, 2013 versus March 31, 2012 
Biological Indicator gross profit increased as a result of improved manufacturing efficiencies, driven by successfully 
completing the integration of the SGM Acquisition and Apex Acquisition, and increased sales.  Instruments gross profit 
increased as a result of the Bios Acquisition, while legacy Instruments product line gross profit remained relatively 
unchanged. 

Year ended March 31, 2012 versus March 31, 2011 
Biological Indicator gross profit increased due to the Apex Acquisition in December 2010 and organic revenue growth.  The 
improvement in Instruments gross profit was driven by relatively flat fixed costs with increased sales volumes, coupled 
with manufacturing efficiencies.  We also integrated manufacturing of one Instruments product line from a third party to 
our Lakewood, Colorado facility in December 2010, which reduced manufacturing costs and contributed an additional gross 
profit of approximately $500,000 for the year ended March 31, 2012. 

PAGE 15 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
       
       
       
         
Operating Expenses  

The following table summarizes the change in our operating expenses (in thousands): 

Selling 

General and administrative 
Chief Financial Officer transition 
ERP system upgrade and SOX compliance 
Acquisitions – professional fees 
Amortization: 
  Bios Acquisition 
  Trademarks 
  Apex Acquisition 
Stock option expense 
Sales tax accrual 
Medical device excise tax 
Personnel costs 
Bios and other, net 

Research and development 

Impairment of intangible asset 

Increase (Decrease) 
Year ended March 31, 

2013 vs 2012 

2012 vs 2011 

$    721 

$     222 

526 
245 
150 

915 
195 
- 
296 
(150) 
62 
848 
614 
3,701 

652 

(350) 

- 
- 
(75) 

- 
30 
310 
- 
250 
- 
345 
(20) 
840 

(82) 

350 

Operating expenses 

$ 4,724 

$ 1,330 

Selling  

Year ended March 31, 2013 versus March 31, 2012 
Selling expense increased due to the Bios Acquisition, with minor increases in other product lines.  As a percent of revenues, 
selling expense remained relatively flat. 

Year ended March 31, 2012 versus March 31, 2011 
Selling expense increased due to higher commissions, driven by increased revenues, and adding individuals to the sales force.  
As a percent of revenues, selling expense remained relatively flat. 

General and Administrative 

Year ended March 31, 2013 versus March 31, 2012 
As part of our Chief Financial Officer transition, certain unvested options were modified, resulting in incremental stock option 
expense of approximately $240,000.  The balance of the Chief Financial Officer transition impact includes a severance 
package and miscellaneous other costs.  All costs associated with the transition were expensed during the year ended March 
31, 2013.  We upgraded our ERP system and implemented computer-based controls as part of our Sarbanes-Oxley compliance 
efforts, which we believe makes us better prepared for any future growth we may experience.  Amortization expense increased 
due to the Bios Acquisition, in May 2012, and the amortization of trademarks, which began in February 2012.  We recorded 
estimated sales tax liabilities of $100,000 and $250,000, respectively, for the years ended March 31, 2013 and 2012.  
Personnel costs increased primarily due to the Bios Acquisition, but also for additional personnel and salary adjustments.  The 
remaining increase primarily consists of expenses associated with the acquired operations from the Bios Acquisition and 
general growth initiatives. 

During the year ended March 31, 2013, we determined that we have an obligation for state sales taxes.  The ultimate amount 
due will depend upon a number of factors, including the amount of sales that were made to customers who already paid the tax 

PAGE 16 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
or who are exempt, the number of years of exposure, and any penalties and interest.  We continue to evaluate this exposure, 
but as of March 31, 2013 the amount of the liability is not estimable.  The resolution of these sales tax obligations is likely to 
have an adverse effect on our results of operations. 

Year ended March 31, 2012 versus March 31, 2011 
Amortization expense increased due to the Apex Acquisition, in December 2010, and the amortization of trademarks, which 
began in February 2012.  We recorded an estimated sales tax liability of $250,000 for the year ended March 31, 2012, but 
none for the year ended March 31, 2011.  Personnel costs increased for additional personnel and compensation adjustments.  

Research and Development 

Year ended March 31, 2013 versus March 31, 2012 
The increase is due to additional internal personnel added as a result of the Bios Acquisition, and external research and 
development consulting costs, as we continue our commitment to research and development.  The cost of intangible assets that 
are purchased from others for use in research and development activities and have alternative future uses, however, are 
capitalized and amortized over their expected useful life.  During the year ended March 31, 2012, we capitalized $175,000 of 
Biological Indicator research as an intangible asset, as it had alternative future uses, and are amortizing it through research and 
development expense over ten years.  This Biological Indicator research project is anticipated to continue through March 31, 
2014. 

Year ended March 31, 2012 versus March 31, 2011 
While research and development expense decreased in 2012, overall spending on research and development increased, as we 
capitalized $175,000 associated with Biological Indicator technology. 

Impairment of intangible asset 

We determined that the carrying value of an Instruments indefinite-lived intangible asset was greater than its estimated fair 
value and in February, 2012 we recorded an impairment charge of $350,000.  Fair value was estimated using the royalty 
replacement approach, whereby a royalty percentage was applied to forecasted revenues and discounted to determine the 
present value.  While gross profit and cash flows have shown improvement since the intangible asset was acquired, 
revenues have not grown at the level originally used to value the intangible asset.  

Net Income 

Other expense remained consistent from year to year.  Generally, income tax expense increased commensurate with our 
growth in profitability.  Income tax expense was reduced for the year ended March 31, 2013, however, by approximately 
$250,000 for refunds received from amending state income tax returns for prior years.  Overall, net income tracked with 
the changes in revenue, gross profit and operating expenses. 

Liquidity and Capital Resources 

Our sources of liquidity may include cash generated from operations, working capital, capacity under our Credit Facility and 
potential equity and debt offerings.  We believe that cash generated from these sources will be sufficient to meet our Short-
term and long-term needs.  Our more significant uses of resources include quarterly dividends to stockholders, payment of 
debt obligations, long-term capital equipment expenditures and potential acquisitions.   

Working capital is the amount by which current assets exceed current liabilities.  We had working capital of $14,793,000 and 
$14,899,000, respectively, at March 31, 2013 and 2012.  The decrease in working capital is due to the use of cash for the Bios 
Acquisition and repayment of long-term debt, partially offset by cash flows from operations. 

In February 2012, we entered into the Credit Facility, which is comprised of a three year agreement for a $20,000,000 
revolving line of credit and up to $1,000,000 of letters of credit.  Funds from the Credit Facility may be used for general 
working capital and corporate needs, retiring existing debt, or to support acquisitions and capital expenditures.  In February 
2012, we also extinguished our obligations under our previous debt agreement.  In May 2012, we borrowed $11,000,000 
against the Line of Credit to partially finance the Bios Acquisition.  At March 31, 2013, we had unused capacity under our 
Credit Facility of $16,000,000.  In April 2013, we made an additional principal payment of $1,000,000. 

PAGE 17 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
On October 1, 2012, we amended our articles of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock 
from 8 million to 25 million. 

We routinely evaluate opportunities for strategic acquisitions.  Future material acquisitions may require that we obtain 
additional capital, assume third party debt or incur other long-term obligations.  We believe that have the option to utilize both 
equity and debt instruments as vehicles for the long-term financing of our investment activities and acquisitions. 

On November 7, 2005, our Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to 300,000 shares of our outstanding 
common stock.  Under the plan, the shares may be purchased from time to time in the open market at prevailing prices or in 
negotiated transactions off the market.  Shares purchased will be canceled and repurchases will be made with existing cash 
reserves.  We do not maintain a set policy or schedule for our buyback program.  We have purchased 159,522 shares of 
common stock under this program from inception through March 31, 2013.   

We have been paying regular quarterly dividends since 2003.  Dividends per share paid by quarter were as follows: 

First quarter 
Second quarter 
Third quarter 
Fourth quarter 

2013 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 
$ 0.12 
0.12 
0.13 
0.13 

$ 0.13 
0.13 
0.14 
0.14 

2011 
$ 0.11 
0.11 
0.12 
0.12 

On April 11, 2013, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share of common stock, payable on 
June 14, 2013, to stockholders of record at the close of business on May 27, 2013. 

Cash Flow – Operating, investing and financing activities were as follows (in thousands): 

Net cash provided by operating 

  activities 

Net cash used in investing activities 
Net cash provided by (used in)  

  financing activities 

Year ended March 31, 

2013 

2012 

2011 

$ 11,402 
(17,568) 

2,981 

$ 12,489 
(1,420) 

(7,424) 

$ 8,868 
(20,618) 

4,825 

Generally, net cash provided by operating activities changes primarily due to increases in revenues and corresponding net 
income, offset by the timing of certain working capital expenditures related to inventory and income taxes.  The year ended 
March 31, 2013 saw an increase in accounts receivable due to our expanding international customer base, which has extended 
payment terms, and an increase in inventory, as we strive to take advantage of volume discounts for raw materials.  The year 
ended March 31, 2012 saw an increase in sales levels, which resulted in a reduction in inventory levels. 

Net cash used in investing activities was driven by the Bios Acquisition in May 2012, the Apex Acquisition in December 
2010, and the SGM Acquisition in April 2010.  The final payment for the Apex Acquisition was made in December 2011.  
Purchases of property, plant and equipment were $908,000, $683,000 and $2,645,000, respectively, for the years ended March 
31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. 

Financing activities for the year ended March 31, 3013 resulted from borrowings under our Line of Credit of $11,000,000 and 
proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $894,000, partially offset by payments on long-term debt of $7,000,000 and the 
payment of dividends of $1,815,000.  Activity for the year ended March 31, 2012 resulted from the repayment of debt of 
$6,500,000 and the payment of dividends of $1,645,000, partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options of 
$813,000.  Activity for the year ended March 31, 2011, resulted from net borrowings under our debt agreement of $6,222,000 
and payment of dividends of $1,488,000. 

At March 31, 2013, we had contractual obligations for open purchase orders for routine purchases of supplies and inventory, 
which were payable in less than one year.  In September 2011, we entered into a license agreement for certain biological 
indicator technology.  Under the terms of this agreement, we made payments of $175,000 for rights to the technology.  Up to 

PAGE 18 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$225,000 of additional payments may be made in the future, depending on meeting certain development and performance 
milestones. 

In May 2012, we completed the Bios Acquisition by acquiring specific assets and assuming certain liabilities of Bios, a New 
Jersey corporation.  The purchase price for the acquired net assets was $16,660,000 and potential contingent consideration 
based on revenue growth over a three year earn-out period.  The contingent consideration arrangement requires us to pay Bios 
if cumulative revenues related to the acquisition for the three years subsequent to the acquisition exceed $22,127,000.  The 
potential undiscounted future payment that we could be required to make ranges from $0 to $6,710,000.    

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates 

Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, 
which require management to make estimates, judgments, and assumptions that affect the amounts reporting in our 
financial statements and accompanying notes.  We believe that the following are the more critical judgment areas in the 
application of our accounting policies that currently affect our financial condition and results of operations.  Management 
has discussed the development, selection, and disclosure of critical accounting policies and estimates with the Audit 
Committee of our Board of Directors.  While our estimates and assumptions are based on our knowledge of current events 
and actions we may undertake in the future, actual results may ultimately differ from these estimates and assumptions.  For 
a discussion of our significant accounting policies, please see Note 1 of Notes to Financial Statements contained in “Item 8.  
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” 

Accounts Receivable 

We estimate an allowance for doubtful accounts based on overall historic write-offs, the age of our receivable balances, 
and the payment history and creditworthiness of the customer.  If actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and 
judgments or our assumptions and estimates change due to new information, we may experience material changes in our 
allowance for doubtful accounts and bad debt expense. 

Inventories 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, based on standards using the first-in, first-out method (FIFO) to determine 
cost.  We evaluate standard costs annually, unless circumstances necessitate a mid-year evaluation for specific items.  Our work 
in process and finished goods inventory includes labor and overhead, which are estimated based on trailing twelve months of 
expense and standard labor hours for each product.  Our biological indicator inventory is tracked by lot number, thus it is 
generally based on actual hours. 

We monitor inventory cost compared to selling price in order to determine if a lower of cost or market reserve is necessary. 
At year end we perform a complete physical inventory observation.  Throughout the year, we estimate and maintain an 
inventory reserve, as needed, for such matters as obsolete inventory, shrink and scrap.  This reserve may fluctuate as our 
assumptions change due to new information, discrete events, or changes in our business, such as entering new markets or 
discontinuing a specific product. 

Recoverability of Long-lived Assets 

For property, plant and equipment, and amortizable intangible assets, recoverability and/or impairment tests are required only 
when conditions exist that indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable.  We monitor the same conditions for our 
goodwill, but an annual evaluation is also required.  For years ended March 31, 2012 and earlier, indefinite-lived intangible 
assets were evaluated for impairment by comparing the fair value to the carrying amount. 

Monitoring these conditions requires significant management judgment, including evaluating general economic conditions, 
industry and market considerations, changes in production costs, cash flow trends, and other relevant entity-specific events such 
as changes in management, key personnel, strategy or customers. 

If conditions exist that indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable, we would be required to estimate the fair value of the 
asset, asset group, or reporting unit.  We determine fair value using widely accepted valuation techniques, primarily discounted 
cash flow and market multiple analyses.  These techniques are also used when initially allocating the purchase price to acquired 

PAGE 19 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
assets and liabilities.  These types of analyses require us to make assumptions and estimates regarding industry and economic 
factors, the profitability of future business strategies, and cash flow. 

We did not record any impairment charges for the year ended March 31, 2013.  If actual results are not consistent with our 
assumptions and estimates, or our assumptions and estimates change due to new information, we may be exposed to an 
impairment charge in the future. 

Purchase Accounting for Acquisitions 

We apply the acquisition method of accounting for a business combination.  In general, this methodology requires companies to 
record assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their respective fair market values at the date of acquisition.  Any amount of the 
purchase price paid that is in excess of the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.  For the Bios 
Acquisition, we also recorded a liability for contingent consideration based on estimated future revenue.  We monitor our 
assumptions surrounding these estimated future cash flows and, if there is a significant change, would record an adjustment to 
the contingent consideration liability and a corresponding adjustment to either income or expense. 

We determine fair value using widely accepted valuation techniques, primarily discounted cash flow and market multiple 
analyses.  These types of analyses require us to make assumptions and estimates regarding industry and economic factors, the 
profitability of future business strategies, and cash flow. 

If actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and estimates, or our assumptions and estimates change due to new 
information, we may be exposed to an impairment charge in the future.  If the contingent consideration paid for the Bios 
Acquisition differs from the amount initially recorded, we would record either income or expense. 

Stock-based Compensation 

We estimate the fair value of option grants using the Black-Scholes model, which requires us to estimate the volatility and 
forfeiture rate.  Under our current stock-based compensation plan, we recognize the expense on a straight-line basis over 
the service period. 

Contingent Liabilities 

We accrue a loss for contingencies if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred, and 
when the amount of loss can be reasonably estimable.  When no accrual is made because one or both of these conditions 
does not exist, we disclose the contingency if there is at least a reasonable possibility that a loss may have been incurred.  
We estimate contingent liabilities, such as for state sales taxes, based on the best information available at the time.  If we 
have a range of possible outcomes, we accrue the low end of the range. 

Recent Accounting Standards and Pronouncements 

Please see Note 1 of Notes to Financial Statements contained in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for a 
discussion of recent accounting standards and pronouncements. 

Contractual Obligations, Commitments and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

In accordance with the definition under SEC rules, the following qualify as off-balance sheet arrangements: 

• 
• 

• 
• 

any obligation under certain guarantee contracts; 
a retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to an unconsolidated entity or similar arrangement that serves 
as credit, liquidity or market risk support to that entity for such assets; 
any obligation under certain derivative instruments; and 
any obligation arising out of a material variable interest held by the registrant in an unconsolidated entity that 
provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit risk support to the registrant, or engages in leasing, hedging or 
research and development services with the registrant. 

PAGE 20 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of March 31, 2013, we have no obligations or interests which qualify as off-balance sheet arrangements. 

Contractual Obligations 

As of March 31, 2013, our contractual obligations, including payments due by period, are as follows (in thousands):  

Total 

2014 

2015-2016 

2017-2018 

Thereafter 

Payments due for years ending March 31, 

 Purchase Commitments  
 Line of Credit  
Total 

$1,308  
4,000  
5,308 

1,308  
-   
1,308 

-   
4,000  
4,000 

-   
-   
- 

-   
-   
- 

Our purchase commitments consist primarily of open purchase orders, which we have established to take advantage of volume 
discounts for materials and to ensure a reliable supply of critical parts. 

ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK 

We have no derivative instruments and minimal exposure to foreign currency and commodity market risks. 

We are subject to interest rate volatility with regard to existing and future issuances of debt, as our current credit facility is 
variable-rate.  Based on annualized variable-rate debt for the year ended March 31, 2013, a one percentage point increase in 
interest rates would have increased interest expense by $70,000. 

PAGE 21 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA 

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 
Balance Sheets 
Statements of Income 
Statements of Stockholders’ Equity 
Statements of Cash Flows 
Notes to Financial Statements 

23 
25 
26 
27 
28 
29 

PAGE 22 

 
 
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM 

Board of Directors and Stockholders 
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. 
Lakewood, Colorado 

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Mesa Laboratories, Inc. as of March 31, 2013 and 2012 and the related 
statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2013.  
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion 
on these financial statements based on our audits. 

We  conducted  our  audits  in  accordance  with  the  standards  of  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board  (United 
States).    Those  standards  require  that  we  plan  and  perform  the  audits  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  about  whether  the 
financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the 
amounts and disclosures in the financial  statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and 
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe 
that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

In our opinion, the  financial  statements referred to above present fairly, in all  material  respects, the financial position of 
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. as of March 31, 2013 and 2012, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of 
the  three  years  in  the  period  ended  March  31,  2013,  in  conformity  with  accounting  principles  generally  accepted  in  the 
United States of America.  

We  also  have  audited,  in  accordance  with  the  standards  of  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board  (United 
States),  Mesa  Laboratories,  Inc.’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of  March  31,  2013,  based  on  criteria 
established  in  Internal  Control-Integrated  Framework  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring  Organizations  of  the 
Treadway Commission (“COSO”), and our report dated June 6, 2013, expressed an unqualified opinion. 

/s/ EKS&H LLLP 
EKS&H LLLP 

June 6, 2013 
Denver, Colorado 

PAGE 23 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM 

The Board of Directors and Stockholders 
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. 
Lakewood, Colorado 

We have audited Mesa Laboratories, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2013, based on criteria 
established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the 
Treadway Commission (“COSO”).  As described in Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, 
management excluded from its assessment the internal control over financial reporting of the specific assets and certain 
assumed liabilities of Bios International Corporation (“Bios Acquisition”), which were acquired on May 15, 2012, and 
whose financial statements constitute 5% of total assets and 13% of net sales of the financial amounts of the Company as 
of and for the year ended March  31, 2013. Accordingly, our audit of internal control over financial reporting of the 
Company also excluded an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of the Bios Acquisition.  The 
Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its 
assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s 
Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal 
control over financial reporting based on our audit.  

We  conducted  our  audit  in  accordance  with  the  standards  of  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board  (United 
States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective 
internal  control  over  financial  reporting  was  maintained  in  all  material  respects.  Our  audit  included  obtaining  an 
understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and 
evaluating  the  design  and  operating  effectiveness  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  based  on  the  assessed  risk. 
Our  audit  also  included  performing  such  other  procedures  as  we  considered  necessary  in  the  circumstances.  We  believe 
that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.  

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed 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 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.  

In  our  opinion,  Mesa  Laboratories,  Inc.  maintained,  in  all  material  respects,  effective  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting as of March 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by COSO.  

We  have  also  audited,  in  accordance  with  the  standards  of  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board  (United 
States), the balance sheets of Mesa Laboratories, Inc. as of March 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related statements of income, 
changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2013, and our 
report dated June 6, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion.  

June 6, 2013 
Denver, Colorado 

/s/ EKS&H LLLP 
EKS&H LLLP 

PAGE 24 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. 
Balance Sheets 
(In thousands, except share amounts) 

ASSETS 
Current assets: 
  Cash and cash equivalents 
  Accounts receivable, net 
  Inventories, net 
  Prepaid expenses and other 
  Deferred income taxes 
    Total current assets 

Property, plant and equipment, net 
Intangibles, net 
Goodwill 

March 31, 

2013 

2012 

$   4,006 
8,474 
5,576 
553 
846 
19,455 

7,406 
15,418 
23,640 

$    7,191 
6,486 
4,438 
336 
710 
19,161 

7,266 
9,819 
14,450 

      Total assets 

$ 65,919 

$ 50,696 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY 
Current liabilities: 
  Accounts payable 
  Accrued salaries and payroll taxes 
  Other accrued expenses 
  Income taxes payable 
    Total current liabilities 

Deferred income taxes 
Long-term debt 
Contingent consideration 
    Total liabilities 

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 12) 

Stockholders’ equity: 
  Preferred stock, no par value 
  Common stock, no par value; authorized 25,000,000 shares; 
    issued and outstanding, 3,388,548 shares (March 31, 
    2013) and 3,321,965 shares (March 31, 2012) 
  Employee loans to purchase stock 
  Retained earnings 
    Total stockholders’ equity 

$   1,010 
2,085 
422 
1,145 
4,662 

2,364 
4,000 
2,140 
13,166 

- 

- 

10,723 
(149) 
42,179 
52,753 

$      573 
2,134 
504 
1,051 
4,262 

2,519 
- 
- 
6,781 

- 

- 

8,566 
(396) 
35,745 
43,915 

      Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity 

$ 65,919 

$ 50,696 

See accompanying notes to financial statements. 

PAGE 25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. 
Statements of Income 
 (In thousands, except per share data) 

2013 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 

2011 

Revenues 
  Product 
  Other 
    Total revenues 
Cost of revenues 
  Gross profit 

Operating expenses 
  Selling 
  General and administrative 
  Research and development  
  Impairment of intangible asset 
    Total operating expenses 

Operating income 
Other expense, net 

Earnings before income taxes 

Income taxes 

Net income 

Net income per share: 
  Basic 
  Diluted 

$ 35,351 
11,084 
46,435 
17,573 
28,862 

4,630 
9,117 
2,011 
- 
15,758 

13,104 
(126) 

12,978 

4,528 

$ 30,396 
9,220 
39,616 
16,105 
23,511 

3,909 
5,416 
1,359 
350 
11,034 

12,477 
(146) 

12,331 

4,412 

$ 26,115 
8,112 
34,227 
14,659 
19,568 

3,687 
4,576 
1,441 
- 
9,704 

9,864 
(113) 

9,751 

3,568 

$  8,450 

$   7,919 

$   6,183 

$    2.52 
2.35 

$     2.41 
2.29 

$     1.91 
 1.86 

Weighted average common shares outstanding: 
    Basic 
    Diluted 

3,357 
3,593 

3,285 
3,462 

3,231 
3,330 

See accompanying notes to financial statements. 

PAGE 26 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MESA LABORATORIES, INC. 
STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY 
(In thousands, except share amounts) 

Common Stock 

Number of 
Shares 
3,203,726 

Amount 

$   5,903 

Employee 
Loans 

Retained 
Earnings 

$         - 

$ 25,294 

Total 
$ 31,197 

51,432 

(4,422) 
- 
- 

- 
- 

633 

(11) 
- 
383 
- 

- 

(437) 

- 

196 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 

(94) 
(1,488) 
- 

51 
6,183 

(105) 
(1,488) 
383 

51 
6,183 

March 31, 2010 

Common stock issued for conversion 
  of stock options net of 12,446 shares 
  returned as payment 
Purchase and retirement of common 
  stock 
Dividends paid 
Stock-based compensation 
Tax benefit on exercise of stock   
options 
Net income 

March 31, 2011 

3,250,736 

6,908 

(437) 

29,946 

36,417 

Common stock issued for conversion 
  of stock options net of 12,634 shares 
  returned as payment 
Purchase and retirement of common 
  stock 
Dividends paid 
Stock-based compensation 
Tax benefit on exercise of stock   
options 
Net income 

88,043 

1,277 

41 

- 

1,318 

(16,814) 
- 
- 

- 
- 

(60) 
- 
441 
- 

- 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 

(537) 
(1,645) 
- 

62 
7,919 

(597) 
(1,645) 
441 

62 
7,919 

March 31, 2012 

3,321,965 

$   8,566 

$ (396) 

$ 35,745 

$ 43,915 

Common stock issued for conversion 
  of stock options net of 15,572 shares 
  returned as payment 
Purchase and retirement of common 
  stock 
Dividends paid 
Stock-based compensation 
Tax benefit on exercise of stock   
options 
Net income 

77,753 

(11,170) 
- 
- 

- 
- 

1,101 

(56) 
- 
1,112 
- 

- 

(203) 

- 

898 

450 
- 
- 

- 
- 

(496) 
(1,815) 
- 

295 
8,450 

(102) 
(1,815) 
1,112 

295 
8,450 

March 31, 2013 

3,388,548 

$ 10,723 

$ (149) 

$ 42,179 

$ 52,753 

See accompanying notes to financial statements. 

PAGE 27 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. 
Statements of Cash Flows 
(In thousands) 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 

2013 

2011 

Cash flows from operating activities: 
Net income 
Depreciation and amortization 
Deferred income taxes 
Stock-based compensation 
Impairment of intangible asset 
Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions 
  Accounts receivable, net 
  Inventories, net 
  Prepaid expenses and other 
  Accounts payable 
  Accrued liabilities and taxes payable 
Net cash provided by operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities: 
  Acquisitions 
  Purchases of property, plant and equipment 
Net cash used in investing activities 

Cash flow from financing activities: 
  Proceeds from the issuance of debt 
  Payments on debt 
  Dividends 
  Proceeds from the exercise of stock options 
  Purchase and retirement of common stock 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

Cash paid during the year for: 

Income taxes 

     Cash paid for interest 

$    8,450 
3,432 
(291) 
1,112 
- 

(1,510) 
(228) 
(189) 
437 
189 
11,402 

(16,660) 
(908) 
(17,568) 

11,000 
(7,000) 
(1,815) 
894 
(98) 
2,981 
(3,185) 
7,191 
$    4,006 

$   7,919 
2,215 
(258) 
464 
350 

493 
1,276 
38 
(150) 
142 
12,489 

(737) 
(683) 
(1,420) 

- 
(6,500) 
(1,645) 
813 
(92) 
(7,424) 
3,645 
3,546 
$   7,191 

$    6,183 
1,844 
(414) 
383 
- 

(931) 
(72) 
180 
(1) 
1,696 
8,868 

(17,973) 
(2,645) 
(20,618) 

7,000 
(778) 
(1,488) 
196 
(105) 
4,825 
(6,925) 
10,471 
$    3,546 

$    4,778 
116 

$   4,457 
176 

$    3,528 
141 

Supplemental non-cash activity: 
  Employee loans issued for exercise of stock options 
  Repayment of employee loans for stock options 
  Contingent consideration as part of an acquisition 

$       203 
450 
2,140 

$      396 
437 
- 

$       437 
- 
- 

In December 2011, we settled the $600 holdback amount from our acquisition of the assets of Apex Laboratories, Inc. by 
paying $562 and returning $38 of accounts receivable. 

See accompanying notes to financial statements. 

PAGE 28 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. 
Notes to Financial Statements 

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 

Description of Business 

Mesa Laboratories, Inc. (we, us, our, the "Company" or "Mesa") was incorporated under the laws of the State of Colorado on 
March 26, 1982.  We pursue a strategy of focusing primarily on quality control products, which are sold into niche markets 
that are driven by regulatory requirements.  We prefer markets that have limited competition where we can establish a 
commanding presence and achieve high gross margins.  We are organized into two divisions across four physical locations.  
Our Instruments Division designs, manufactures and markets quality control instruments and disposable products utilized in 
connection with the healthcare, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, medical device, industrial hygiene, semiconductor and 
petrochemical industries. Our Biological Indicators Division manufactures and markets biological indicators and distributes 
chemical indicators used to assess the effectiveness of sterilization processes, including steam, gas, hydrogen peroxide and 
radiation, in the hospital, dental, medical device and pharmaceutical industries.   

Basis of Presentation 

Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States 
(“GAAP”). The preparation of our financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported 
amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities in our financial 
statements and accompanying notes.  Although these estimates are based on our knowledge of current events and actions we 
may undertake in the future, actual results may ultimately differ from these estimates and assumptions.  Furthermore, when 
testing assets for impairment in future periods, if management uses different assumptions or if different conditions occur, 
impairment charges may result. 

On October 1, 2012 our articles of incorporation were amended to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock 
from 8,000,000 to 25,000,000. 

Certain amounts as of and for the years ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 were reclassified to conform to the March 31, 
2013 presentation.  As of March 31, 2010, $1,020,000 of cumulative stock-based compensation expense was reclassified 
from retained earnings to common stock.  For the years ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, stock-based compensation of 
$464,000 and $383,000, respectively, were presented as changes in common stock on the statements of stockholders’ 
equity.  The cumulative reclassification between retained earnings and common stock in the March 31, 2012 balance sheet 
was $1,867,000.  These reclassifications had no impact on other figures in the accompanying balance sheets or statements 
of income and stockholders’ equity. 

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 

Revenue Recognition 

We recognize revenue when the four revenue recognition criteria are met, as follows: 

(cid:2)  Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists – our customary practice is to obtain written evidence, typically in the 

form of a purchase order; 

(cid:2)  Delivery – when custody is transferred to our customers either upon shipment to or receipt at our customers’ locations, 

with no right of return or further obligations, such as installation or training; 

(cid:2)  The price is fixed or determinable – prices are typically fixed at the time the order is placed and no price protections or 

variables are offered; and 

(cid:2)  Collectability is reasonably assured – new and existing customers are subject to a credit review process and pre-

payment may be required.  

Other revenues in the statements of income primarily consist of recalibration, installation, repairs, and shipping and handling. 

PAGE 29 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shipping and handling 

Payments by customers to us for shipping and handling costs are included in revenue on the statements of income, while our 
expense is included in cost of revenue.  Shipping and handling for inventory and materials purchased by us is included as a 
component of inventory on the balance sheets, and in cost of revenue when the product is sold. 

Accrued Warranty Expense 

We provide limited product warranty on our products and, accordingly, accrue an estimate of the related warranty expense at 
the time of sale. 

Cash Equivalents 

We classify time deposits and other investments that are highly liquid and have maturities of three months or less at the date of 
purchase as cash equivalents.  

Accounts Receivable 

We record trade accounts receivable at net realizable value.  This value includes an appropriate allowance for estimated 
uncollectible accounts to reflect any loss anticipated on the trade accounts receivable balances and is charged to the provision 
for doubtful accounts.  We calculate this allowance based on our history of write-offs, the level of past-due accounts based on 
the contractual terms of the receivables, and our relationships with, and the economic status of, our customers.  

Concentration of Credit Risk  

Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist of accounts receivable.  For the years 
ended March 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, no individual customer represented more than 10% of our revenues and as of March 
31, 2013, no individual customer represented more than 10% of our accounts receivable balance.  Approximately 60% and 
40% of our sales are to customers located in the United States and foreign countries, respectively. 

Inventories 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, based on standards using the first-in, first-out method (“FIFO”) to 
determine cost.  We evaluate standard costs annually, unless circumstances necessitate a mid-year evaluation for specific items.  
Our work in process and finished goods inventory includes raw materials, labor and overhead, which are estimated based on 
trailing twelve months of expense and standard labor hours for each product.  Our biological indicator inventory is tracked by 
lot number, thus it is generally based on actual hours. 

We monitor inventory cost compared to selling price in order to determine if a lower of cost or market reserve is necessary.  
At year end we perform a complete physical inventory observation.  Throughout the year, we estimate and maintain an 
inventory reserve, as needed, for such matters as obsolete inventory, shrink and scrap. 

Property, Plant and Equipment 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost.  Repair and maintenance costs that do not improve service potential or extend 
economic life are expensed as incurred.  Depreciation is recorded using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives 
of our assets, which are reviewed periodically and generally have the following ranges: buildings: 40 years or less; 
manufacturing equipment: 7 years or less; and computer equipment: 3 years or less.  Land is not depreciated and construction in 
progress is not depreciated until placed in service.   

Goodwill and Intangible Assets 

We classify intangible assets into three categories: (1) intangible assets with definite lives subject to amortization, (2) intangible 
assets with indefinite lives not subject to amortization and (3) goodwill.  We determine the useful lives of our identifiable 
intangible assets after considering the specific facts and circumstances related to each intangible asset.  Factors we consider 
when determining useful lives include the contractual term of any agreement related to the asset, the historical performance of 

PAGE 30 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
the asset, our long-term strategy for using the asset, any laws or other local regulations which could impact the useful life of the 
asset and other economic factors, including competition and specific market conditions.  Intangible assets that are deemed to 
have definite lives are amortized, primarily on a straight-line basis, over their useful lives, generally ranging from three to 
sixteen years (See Note 5).   

When facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of definite-lived intangible assets may not be recoverable, 
management assesses the recoverability of the carrying value by preparing estimates of revenues and the resulting gross profit 
and cash flows.  These estimated future cash flows are consistent with those we use in our internal planning.  If the sum of the 
expected future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) is less than the carrying amount, we recognize an 
impairment loss.  The impairment loss recognized is the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset (or asset group) 
exceeds the fair value.  We use a variety of methodologies to determine the fair value of these assets, including discounted cash 
flow models, which are consistent with the assumptions we believe hypothetical marketplace participants would use. 

We test intangible assets determined to have indefinite useful lives, including trademarks, franchise rights and goodwill, for 
impairment annually, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that assets might be impaired.  We perform these 
annual impairment reviews as of the first day of our fourth fiscal quarter.  We use a variety of methodologies in conducting 
impairment assessments of indefinite-lived intangible assets, including, but not limited to, discounted cash flow models, which 
are based on the assumptions we believe hypothetical marketplace participants would use.  For indefinite-lived intangible assets, 
other than goodwill, if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, an impairment charge is recognized in an amount equal to 
that excess.  Prior to February 2012, certain marketing intangible assets, such as trade names, were determined to have an 
indefinite life and were not being amortized.  In February 2012, management determined that in the future we may phase out 
the use of these marketing intangible assets.  Accordingly, we began amortizing them on a straight-line basis over an estimated 
useful life of 10 years. 

We have the option to perform a qualitative assessment of indefinite-lived intangible assets, other than goodwill, prior to 
completing the impairment test described above.  We must assess whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the 
intangible asset is less than its carrying amount.  If we conclude that this is the case, we must perform the testing described 
above.  Otherwise, we do not need to perform any further assessment.  

We perform impairment tests of goodwill at our reporting unit level, which is one level below our operating segments.  Our 
operating segments consist of our Instruments and Biological Indicators Divisions.  These operating segments are consistent 
with the way management runs our business.  Our Instruments operating segment is subdivided into smaller business units.  
These business units are also our reporting units.  Goodwill is assigned to the reporting unit or units that benefit from the 
synergies arising from each business combination. 

The goodwill impairment test consists of a two-step process, if necessary.  The first step is to compare the fair value of a 
reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill.  We typically use discounted cash flow models to determine the fair 
value of a reporting unit.  The assumptions used in these models are consistent with those we believe hypothetical marketplace 
participants would use.  If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, the second step of the impairment 
test must be performed in order to determine the amount of impairment loss, if any.  The second step compares the implied fair 
value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's 
goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, an impairment charge is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The loss 
recognized cannot exceed the carrying amount of goodwill. 

We have the option to perform a qualitative assessment of goodwill prior to completing the two-step process described above to 
determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including 
goodwill and other intangible assets.  If we conclude that this is the case, we must perform the two-step process.  Otherwise, we 
will forego the two-step process and do not need to perform any further testing.  

Research & Development Costs 

Internal costs related to research and development efforts on existing or potential products are expensed as incurred.  The costs 
of intangible assets that are purchased from others for use in research and development activities, and also have alternative 
future benefit, are capitalized and amortized over their expected useful life. 

PAGE 31 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Under certain agreements, we may receive advance payments from customers to perform research and development on their 
behalf.  These payments are recovered by the customer through lower product prices.  In these circumstances, we initially 
record deferred revenue, included in other accrued expenses on the accompanying balance sheets.  As product is sold, this 
liability will be reduced through revenues on the statements of income. 

Stock-based Compensation 

Equity classified stock-based compensation is measured at fair value, based on the closing stock price at grant date, using the 
Black-Scholes option-pricing model.  We recognize expense on a straight-line basis over the service period, net of an 
estimated forfeiture rate, resulting in a compensation cost for only those shares expected to vest.  We do not have any liability 
classified stock-based compensation.  We allocate stock-based compensation expense to cost of sales and general and 
administrative expense in the accompanying statements of income. 

Income Taxes 

We recognize deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences 
between the income tax and financial reporting carrying amount of our assets and liabilities.  We monitor our deferred tax 
assets and evaluate the need for a valuation allowance based on the estimate of the amount of such deferred tax assets that we 
believe do not meet the more-likely-than-not recognition criteria.  We also evaluate whether we have any uncertain tax 
positions and would record a reserve if we believe it is more-likely-than-not our position would not prevail with the applicable 
tax authorities.  We have not recorded a valuation allowance or a reserve for uncertain tax positions.  Any penalties and 
interest are included in other expense on the statements of income. 

Fair Value of Measurements 

Our financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and 
long-term debt.  The carrying value of these financial instruments is considered to be representative of their fair value due to 
the short maturity of these instruments.  Our debt has a variable interest rate, so the carrying amount approximates fair value 
because interest rates on these instruments approximate the interest rate on debt with similar terms available to us. 

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements 

In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB’) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2012-
02, Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment.  We do not have indefinite-lived intangible assets; as a result, 
the adoption of this standard did not have an impact on our financial statements and disclosures. 

In October 2012, the FASB issued ASU 2012-04, Technical Corrections and Improvements.  This standard includes: 1) 
source literature amendments to conform the language between current accounting literature and legacy source literature; 2) 
clarification of guidance and reference corrections; and 3) relocation of guidance to a more appropriate location.  The adoption 
of this standard did not have an impact on our financial statements or disclosures. 

Note 2.  Acquisitions 

On May 15, 2012, we completed a business combination (the “Bios Acquisition”) by acquiring specific assets and 
assuming certain liabilities of Bios International Corporation (“Bios”), a New Jersey corporation.  The asset acquisition 
agreement (the “Bios Agreement”) includes a provision for contingent consideration based on revenue growth over a three 
year earn-out period.  The Bios Acquisition further diversifies and grows our Instruments segment, and we believe that it 
will maintain our historic profitability measures. 

The contingent consideration arrangement requires us to pay Bios if cumulative revenues related to the acquisition for the 
three years subsequent to the acquisition exceed $22,127,000.  The potential undiscounted future payment that we could be 
required to make ranges from $0 to $6,710,000.  The fair value of the contingent consideration arrangement included in the 
purchase price below was estimated based on the historic revenue growth rates of Bios. 

We expect to achieve significant savings and income growth as we integrate the operations and marketing functions.  
These factors, among others, contributed to a purchase price in excess of the estimated fair value of Bios’ net identifiable 

PAGE 32 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
assets and, as a result, we recorded goodwill in connection with this transaction.  The goodwill is expected to be deductible 
for tax purposes.  All of the goodwill was assigned to our Instruments segment. 

The Bios Acquisition constituted the acquisition of a business and was recognized at fair value.  We determined the 
estimated fair values using discounted cash flow analyses and estimates made by management.  The following reflects our 
allocation of the consideration, subject to customary purchase price adjustments in accordance with the Bios Agreement (in 
thousands): 

Cash consideration 
Contingent purchase price liability 
  Aggregate consideration 

The purchase price was allocated as follows: 
  Accounts receivable, net 
  Inventories, net 
  Other current assets 
  Property, plant and equipment 
  Intangible assets 
  Goodwill 
  Current liabilities 
Total purchase price allocation 

$ 16,660 
2,140 
$ 18,800 

$      478 
910 
28 
63 
8,200 
9,190 
(69) 
$ 18,800 

The accompanying statements of income include the results of the Bios Acquisition from the acquisition date of May 15, 
2012.  The pro forma effects of the acquisition on the results of operations as if the acquisition had been completed on 
April 1, 2012, 2011 and 2010, are as follows (in thousands, except per share data): 

Total revenues 
Net income 
Net income per common share: 
  Basic 
  Diluted 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 
$ 46,498 
8,102 

2013 
$ 47,216 
8,471 

$     2.52 
2.36 

$     2.47 
2.34 

2011 
$ 40,496 
6,349 

$     1.97 
1.91 

The above pro forma results include adjustments for amortization of acquired intangible assets, interest expense and 
income tax expense.  The pro forma information as presented above is for informational purposes only and is not 
necessarily indicative of results of operations that would have been achieved if the acquisition had taken place at the dates 
identified. 

On December 21, 2010, we completed a business combination (the “Apex Acquisition”) by purchasing the assets associated 
with the biological indicator line of products of Apex Laboratories, Inc.  The products acquired include their biological 
indicators for use in vapor hydrogen peroxide disinfection processes.  The purchase price consisted of a $6,452,000 in cash 
and an accounts receivable settlement of $38,000.  The purchase price also included a $600,000 holdback that accrued interest 
at two percent per annum. 

The transaction constituted the acquisition of a business and was recognized at fair value.  We determined the estimated fair 
value using discounted cash flow analyses and estimates made by management.  The purchase price allocation was as follows 
(in thousands): 

Accounts Receivable, net 
Inventories, net 
Property and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

$      544 
65 
49 
4,571 
1,261 
$  6,490 

PAGE 33 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
On April 27, 2010, we purchased SGM Biotech, Inc. located in Bozeman, Montana.  Under the terms of the agreement, we 
acquired all of the common stock of SGM Biotech, Inc. for $12,083,000 in cash.  We incurred approximately $168,000 in 
third party acquisition costs related to this transaction.  On April 30, 2010, we also acquired from the former owners of 
SGM Biotech, Inc. the facility that houses the operations for an additional $2,150,000. 

The transaction constituted the acquisition of a business and was recognized at fair value.  We determined the estimated 
fair value using discounted cash flow analyses and estimates made by management.  The difference between the purchase 
price and the carryover tax basis was not deductible for tax purposes, resulting in a deferred tax liability.  The purchase 
price allocation was as follows (in thousands): 

Accounts receivable, net 
Inventories, net 
Other assets 
Property and equipment 
Liabilities 
Deferred tax liability 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

$     1,116 
758 
195 
1,035 
(1,021) 
(2,358) 
5,434 
6,924 
$  12,083 

Note 3.  Inventories 

Inventories consist of the following (in thousands): 

Raw materials 
Work-in-process 
Finished goods 
Less reserve 

March 31, 

2013 

2012 

$ 4,052 
271 
1,514 
(261) 
$ 5,576 

$ 3,242 
331 
1,090 
(225) 
$ 4,438 

Note 4.  Property, Plant and Equipment 

Property, plant and equipment consist of the following (in thousands): 

Land 
Buildings 
Manufacturing equipment 
Computer equipment 
Other 

Less accumulated depreciation 

March 31, 

2013 

2012 

$      873 
4,553 
5,665 
1,129 
384 
12,604 
(5,198) 
$   7,406 

$       873 
4,489 
5,235 
811 
225 
11,633 
(4,367) 
$   7,266 

Depreciation expense for the years ended March 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $831,000, $725,000 and $661,000, respectively. 

PAGE 34 

 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 5.  Goodwill and Intangible Assets 

The change in the carrying amount of goodwill was as follows (in thousands): 

April 1, 2011 
  Acquisitions 
March 31, 2012 
  Acquisitions 
March 31, 2013 

Other intangible assets are as follows:  

(In thousands) 

Intellectual property 
Trade names 
Customer relationships 
Non-compete agreements 

Intellectual property 
Trade names 
Customer relationships 
Non-compete agreements 

Biological 
Indicators 

$ 9,279 
-- 
9,279 
-- 
$ 9,279 

Instruments 
$   5,171 
-- 
5,171 
9,190 
$ 14,361 

Total 
$ 14,450 
-- 
14,450 
9,190 
$ 23,640 

Carrying 
Amount 
$   4,991 
2,296 
14,485 
823 
$ 22,595 

Carrying 
Amount 
$   4,091 
1,596 
8,185 
523 
$ 14,395 

March 31, 2013 

  Accumulated 
Amortization 

$ 1,037 
248 
5,345 
547 
$ 7,177 

  Useful Life 

(Years) 
10-16 
10 
7-8.5 
3-5 

Net 
$   3,954 
2,048 
9,140 
276 
$ 15,418 

March 31, 2012 

  Accumulated 
Amortization 

$    542 
27 
3,555 
452 
$ 4,576 

  Useful Life 

(Years) 
10-16 
10 
7-8.5 
3-5 

Net 
$ 3,549 
1,569 
4,630 
71 
$ 9,819 

The following is estimated amortization expense for the years ending March 31: 

(In thousands) 
2014 
2015 
2016 
2017 
2018 

$ 2,355 
2,324 
2,304 
2,186 
2,043 

Amortization expense for the years ended March 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011was $2,601,000, $1,490,000 and $1,183,000, 
respectively.  

For the year ended March 31, 2012, we determined that the carrying value of an indefinite-lived trade name intangible asset 
was greater than its estimated fair value and recorded an impairment loss of $350,000, which is disclosed separately on the 
accompanying statements of income.  Fair value was estimated using the royalty replacement approach, whereby a royalty 
percentage is applied to forecasted revenues and discounted to determine the present value.  While gross profit and cash flows 
showed improvement since the intangible asset was acquired, revenues did not grow at the level originally used to value the 
intangible asset.  This impairment impacted the Instruments segment. 

PAGE 35 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 6.  Long-term Debt 

Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands): 

Line of credit (1.5% at March 31, 2013) 
Less:  current portion 
Long-term portion 

March 31, 
2013 
$  4,000 
- 
$  4,000 

  March 31, 

2012 

$     - 
- 
$     - 

In February 2012, we entered into a three year agreement (the “Credit Facility”) for a $20,000,000 revolving line of credit 
(“Line of Credit”) and up to $1,000,000 of letters of credit, maturing in February 2015.  Funds from the Credit Facility may be 
used for general working capital and corporate needs, retiring existing debt, or to support acquisitions and capital 
expenditures. 

Under the Credit Facility, indebtedness bears interest at either: (1) LIBOR, as defined, plus an applicable margin ranging from 
1.25% to 2.00%; or (2) the bank’s commercial bank floating rate (“CBFR”), which is the greater of the bank’s prime rate or 
one month LIBOR + 2.50%, adjusted down, from 1.25% to 0.50%.  We elect the interest rate with each borrowing under the 
line of credit.  In addition, there is an unused capacity fee of 0.15% to 0.30%.  The adjustments and unused capacity fee 
depend on the ratio of funded debt to our trailing four quarters of EBITDA, as defined, with four tiers ranging from a ratio of 
less than one to greater than two.  Letter of credit fees are based on the applicable LIBOR rate. 

The Credit Facility is secured by all of our assets and requires us to maintain a ratio of funded debt to our trailing four quarters 
of EBIDTA, as defined, of 2.5 to 1.0, and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.5 to 1.0.  We were in compliance with 
these covenants at March 31, 2013. 

In order to facilitate the Bios Acquisition, in May 2012 we borrowed $11,000,000 under the terms of the Line of Credit.  
During the year ended March 31, 2013 we made principal repayments of $7,000,000.  As a result, the amount outstanding 
under the Line of Credit was $4,000,000 as of March 31, 2013.  In April 2013, we made an additional principal payment of 
$1,000,000. 

Future contractual maturities of debt are as follows (in thousands): 

Year ending March 31, 
2014 
2015 

$          -    
4,000 
$ 4,000 

In April 2010, we entered into a credit facility consisting of: a) 36 month reducing line of credit for $3,000,000 and maturing 
at April 27, 2013, requiring quarterly principal payments of $250,000 beginning July 27, 2010, which was retired in February 
2012; and b) revolving line of credit for $4,000,000 maturing on December 23, 2011, which was retired in December 2011.  
Both of these lines of credit were subject to a variable rate of interest and a rate floor. 

Note 7.  Stockholders' Equity 

Under applicable law, Colorado corporations are not permitted to retain treasury stock.  The price paid for repurchased shares is 
allocated between common stock and retained earnings, based on management’s estimate of the original sales price of the 
underlying shares. 

In November, 2005, our Board of Directors approved a program to repurchase up to 300,000 shares of our outstanding common 
stock.  Under the program, shares of common stock may be purchased from time to time in the open market at prevailing prices 
or in negotiated transactions off the market.  Shares of common stock purchased will be cancelled and repurchases of shares of 
common stock will be funded through existing cash reserves. 

PAGE 36 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dividends per share paid by quarter were as follows: 

2013 

First quarter 
Second quarter 
Third quarter 
Fourth quarter 

Note 8.  Employee Benefit Plans 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 
$ 0.12 
0.12 
0.13 
0.13 

$ 0.13 
0.13 
0.14 
0.14 

2011 
$ 0.11 
0.11 
0.12 
0.12 

We adopted our 401(k) plan effective January 1, 2000.  Participation is voluntary and employees are eligible the first day of the 
following month that an employee attains an age of 21 and one hour of service time.  We match 50% of the employee’s 
contribution up to 6% of the employee’s salary and those contributions are vested immediately.  Our Bozeman, Montana 
facility (“Bozeman’) is currently operating on a separate 401(k) plan.  That plan was adopted effective August 15, 1996.  
Participation is voluntary and employees are eligible to participate at age 21 and after one year of employment.  Bozeman 
matches 100% of the employee’s contribution up to 4% of the employee’s salary and those contributions are vested 
immediately.  Bozeman also offers a Roth Savings Plan which is incorporated into their 401(k) Plan with identical requirements 
and contributions.  We contributed $214,000, $193,000 and $184,000, respectively, to all plans for the years ended March 31, 
2013, 2012 and 2011. 

Note 9.  Stock-based Compensation 

We adopted stock option plans for the benefit of our employees and outside directors.  Under terms of the plans, stock options 
are granted at an amount not less than 100% of the quoted market price of the underlying shares at the date of grant.  Stock 
options are exercisable for a term of five to ten years and vest ratably over a four year period.  All of our stock option plans have 
been approved by our stockholders. 

On December 8, 2006, we adopted our current stock compensation plan (the “2006 Plan”).  The purpose of the 2006 Plan is to 
encourage ownership of our common stock by certain officers, directors, employees and advisors in order to provide incentive 
to promote the success and business of the Company.  A total of 400,000 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance 
under the 2006 Plan and are subject to terms as set by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors at the time of 
grant.  On September 23, 2010, our stockholders approved an amendment to the 2006 Plan whereby the number of shares 
authorized for issuance was increased to 800,000.  As of March 31, 2013, we have 382,750 stock options outstanding under 
the 2006 Plan.  On February 27, 2013, we filed a Registration Statement on Form S-8 whereby we registered the additional 
400,000 shares of common stock underlying stock options issuable under the 2006 Plan. 

Under the October 21, 1999 plan (the “1999 Plan”), a total of 300,000 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance and 
were subject to terms as set by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors at the time of grant.  On October 18, 
2004, our stockholders approved an amendment to the 1999 Plan to reserve an additional 200,000 shares of common stock for 
issuance under the plan.  The 1999 Plan has expired and no new grants can be made under this plan.  As of March 31, 2013, we 
have 33,375 stock options outstanding under the 1999 Plan. 

Amounts recognized in the financial statements related to stock-based compensation are as follows (in thousands, except per 
share data):  

Total cost of stock based compensation 
  charged against income before income tax 
Amount of income tax benefit recognized in earnings 
Amount charged against net income 
Impact on net income per common share: 
  Basic 
  Diluted 

2013 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 

2011 

$ 1,112 
77 
$ 1,035 

$ 0.31 
0.29 

$ 464 
81 
$ 383 

$ 0.12 
0.11 

$ 383 
21 
$ 362 

$ 0.11 
0.11 

PAGE 37 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model that uses 
assumptions noted in the following table.  We use historical data to estimate volatility, expected option life and forfeiture rate.  
The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.  The dividend yield is calculated based 
upon the dividend payments made during the prior four quarters as a percent of the average stock price for that period. 

  Volatility 
  Risk-free interest rate 
  Expected option life (years) 
  Dividend yield 

2013 
27.5-31.1% 
0.6-1.0% 
5-10 
1.4% 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 
33.4-33.7% 
0.9-2.2% 
5-10 
1.8% 

2011 
34-36% 
1.1-3.9% 
5-10 
1.8% 

A summary of the option activity as of and for the years ended March 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 is as follows:  

Number of  
Shares 

Weighted-  
average  
Exercise  
Price 

Outstanding at March 31, 2010 
  Granted 
  Forfeited 
  Expired 
  Exercised 
Outstanding at March 31, 2011 
  Granted 
  Forfeited 
  Expired 
  Exercised 
Outstanding at March 31, 2012 
  Granted 
  Forfeited 
  Expired 
  Exercised 
Outstanding at March 31, 2013 

Exercisable at March 31, 
  2013 
  2012 
  2011 

391,765 
137,060 
(22,315) 
(150) 
(62,718) 
443,642 
103,780 
(11,940) 
(1,020) 
(100,677) 
433,785 
116,080 
(40,375) 
(40) 
(93,325) 
416,125 

158,320 
148,910 
152,217 

$17.37 
25.43 
19.16 
11.65 
15.02 
20.10 
29.87 
26.06 
14.50 
18.00 
22.77 
49.97 
32.87 
18.98 
20.56 
29.87 

21.00 
19.28 
17.36 

Weighted-  
average  
Remaining  
Contractual  
Term 
4.2 
5.0 
- 
- 
- 
4.0 
5.4 
- 
- 
- 
3.9 
5.9 
- 
- 
- 
3.7 

3.0 
3.2 
3.2 

Aggregate  
Intrinsic  
Value 
(000s) 

$ 3,861 

11,516 

9,529 

5,031 
4,473 
1,742 

PAGE 38 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
A summary of the status of our unvested option shares as of and for the years ended March 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 is as 
follows:  

Unvested at March 31, 2010 
  Options granted 
  Options forfeited  
  Options vested 
Unvested at March 31, 2011 
  Options granted 
  Options forfeited  
  Options vested 
Unvested at March 31, 2012 
  Options granted 
  Options forfeited  
  Options vested 
Unvested at March 31, 2013 

Unvested 
Shares 

247,085  
137,060 
(13,540) 
(79,180) 
291,425 
103,780 
(11,395) 
(98,935) 
284,875 
116,065 
(38,720) 
(104,415) 
257,805 

Weighted-average  
Grant-date Fair Value 
$ 5.51 
7.53 
6.51 
5.34 
6.46 
8.33 
7.31 
5.97 
7.28 
12.43 
8.86 
6.69 
9.55 

The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $2,742,000, $2,228,000 and $688,000 during the years ended March 31, 2013, 
2012 and 2011, respectively.  As of March 31, 2013, there was $1,889,000 of total unrecognized compensation expense related 
to unvested options.  As of March 31, 2013, we have 310,820 shares available for future option grants. 

Effective November 30, 2012, as part of our Chief Financial Officer transition, 14,400 unvested options were modified to a) 
extend the expiration date to 10 years following the original grant date, b) allow them to be exercised through their expiration 
date, and c) accelerate the vesting such that all options will vest by November 30, 2014.  This was a modification of the terms of 
an equity award and, accordingly, we treated this as an exchange of the original award for a new award.  We recorded 
incremental compensation expense of approximately $240,000 for the year ended March 31, 2013, which is included in general 
and administrative expense on the accompanying statements of income. 

Note 10.  Income Taxes 

Under current accounting standards, we must recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely 
than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the 
position.  We measure the tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position based on the largest benefit 
that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate resolution.  The application of income tax law is 
inherently complex.  Laws and regulations in this area are voluminous and are often ambiguous.  As such, we are required to 
make many subjective assumptions and judgments regarding our income tax exposures.  Interpretations of and guidance 
surrounding income tax law and regulations change over time and may result in changes to our subjective assumptions and 
judgments which can materially affect amounts recognized in our balance sheets and statements of income.  Our assessment 
of tax positions as of March 31, 2013 and 2012, determined that there were no material uncertain tax positions.  Our federal 
tax returns for all years after 2009 and our state tax returns after 2008 are subject to future examination by tax authorities for 
all our tax jurisdictions.  We recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in other expense and general and 
administration expense, respectively.  During the year ended March 31, 2013, we amended several state income tax returns, 
resulting in tax refunds of $258,000.  These tax refunds are included as an offset to income tax expense in the accompanying 
statement of operations for the year ended March 31, 2013. 

PAGE 39 

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
The components of the provision for income taxes are as follows (in thousands): 

Current tax provision 
  Federal 
  State 

Deferred tax provision: 
  Federal 
  State 

2013 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 

2011 

$ 4,440 
280 
4,720 

(180) 
(12) 
(192) 
$ 4,528 

$ 4,233 
437 
4,670 

(237) 
(21) 
(258) 
$ 4,412 

$ 3,291 
691 
3,982 

(342) 
(72) 
(414) 
$ 3,568 

The components of net deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows (in thousands): 

Current deferred tax assets: 
  Accrued employee-related expenses 
  Asset reserves 
  Stock option deductible differences 
  Inventory 

Long-term deferred tax liability: 
  Property, plant and equipment 
  Goodwill and intangible assets 

March 31, 

2013 

2012 

$ 125 
226 
243 
252 
846 

(1,320) 
(1,044) 
(2,364) 

$ 211 
196 
99 
204 
710 

(1,299) 
(1,220) 
(2,519) 

Net deferred tax liability 

$ (1,518) 

$ (1,809) 

A reconciliation of our income tax provision and the amounts computed by applying statutory rates to income before income 
taxes is as follows: 

Income taxes at statutory rates 
State income taxes, net of federal benefit 
Tax benefit of stock option exercises 
Section 199 manufacturing deduction 
Other 

Note 11.  Net Income Per Share 

2013 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 

2011 

$ 4,543 
158 
197 
(357) 
(13) 
$ 4,528 

$ 4,193 
285 
61 
(347) 
220 
$ 4,412 

$ 3,313 
272 
90 
(273) 
166 
$ 3,568 

Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding 
during the reporting period.  Diluted net income per share is computed similarly to basic net income per share, except that it 
includes the potential dilution that could occur if dilutive securities were exercised. 

PAGE 40 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents a reconciliation of the denominators used in the computation of net income per share - basic and 
diluted (in thousands, except share data): 

Net income available for stockholders 

Weighted avg. outstanding shares of common stock 
Dilutive effect of stock options 
Common stock and equivalents 
Net Income per share: 
  Basic 
  Diluted 

2013 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 

$ 8,450 

$ 7,919 

2011 

$ 6,183 

3,357 
236 
3,593 

$ 2.52 
2.35 

3,285 
177 
3,462 

$ 2.41 
2.29 

3,231 
99 
3,330 

$ 1.91 
1.86 

For the years ended March 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, no shares attributable to outstanding stock options were excluded from 
the calculation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise prices of the stock options were greater than or equal to the 
average price of the common shares, and therefore their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. 

Note 12.  Commitments and Contingencies 

As part of the Bios Acquisition, the Bios Agreement includes a provision for contingent consideration based on revenue 
growth over a three year earn-out period.  The contingent consideration arrangement requires us to pay Bios if the cumulative 
revenues from the acquisition for the three years subsequent to the acquisition exceed $22,127,000.  The potential 
undiscounted future payment that we could be required to make ranges from $0 to $6,710,000.  The fair value of the 
contingent consideration arrangement included in the purchase price was estimated based on the historic revenue growth of 
Bios.  We recorded a contingent consideration liability of $2,140,000 on the accompanying balance sheet as of March 31, 
2013.  Any changes to the contingent consideration ultimately paid would result in additional income or expense on the 
statements of income.  There has been no material change to the contingent consideration liability as of March 31, 2013.  The 
contingent consideration is payable in the first quarter of our year ending March 31, 2016. 

During the year ended March 31, 2013, we determined that we have an obligation for state sales taxes.  The ultimate amount 
due will depend upon a number of factors, including the amount of sales that were made to customers who already paid the tax 
or who are exempt, the number of years of exposure, and any penalties and interest.  We recorded an estimate of $100,000 
associated with one state, which is included in other accrued expenses on the accompanying balance sheets, and general and 
administrative expense in the accompanying statements of income.  This estimate may change as further analysis is completed 
and sales tax returns are filed.  During the year ended March 31, 2012, we determined that we had a liability for state sales 
taxes in a different state and recorded an estimate of $250,000.  During the year ended March 31, 2013, we settled this 
liability.  We continue to evaluate our exposure in additional states, but at this time the amount of the liability is not estimable. 

PAGE 41 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 13.  Segment Data 

Our operations are organized into two reporting segments:  Biological Indicators and Instruments.  The following tables set 
forth our segment information (in thousands): 

Revenues 

Gross profit 
Selling expenses 

Reconciling items(1) 
Earnings before income taxes 

Revenues 

Gross profit 
Selling expenses 
Impairment of intangible asset 

Reconciling items(1) 
Earnings before income taxes 

Revenues 

Gross profit 
Selling expenses 

Reconciling items(1) 
Earnings before income taxes 

Year ended March 31, 2013 

Biological 
Indicators 
$ 21,464 

$12,365 
1,552 
$ 10,813 

Instruments 
$ 24,971 

$ 16,497 
3,078 
$ 13,419 

Year ended March 31, 2012 

Biological 
Indicators 
$ 20,422 

$ 11,236 
1,607 
- 
$ 9,629 

Instruments 
$ 19,194 

$ 12,275 
2,302 
350 
$   9,623 

Total 
$ 46,435 

$ 28,862 
4,630 
24,232 
(11,254) 
$ 12,978 

Total 
$ 39,616 

$ 23,511 
3,909 
350 
19,252 
(6,921) 
$ 12,331 

Year ended March 31, 2011 

Biological 
Indicators 
$  16,822 

$    8,918 
1,554 
$    7,364 

Instruments 
$ 17,405 

$ 10,650 
2,133 
$   8,517 

Total 
$  34,227 

$  19,568 
3,687 
15,881 
(6,130) 
$    9,751 

(1) Reconciling items include general and administrative, research and development, and other expenses. 

Revenues from external customers are attributed to individual countries based upon locations to which the product is shipped or 
exported, as follows (in thousands): 

Revenues from unaffiliated customers 
  United States 
  Foreign 

2013 

Year ended March 31, 
2012 

2011 

$  28,590 
17,845 
$  46,435 

$ 23,770 
15,846 
$ 39,616 

$ 21,053 
13,174 
$ 34,227 

PAGE 42 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 31, 

2013 

2012 

$ 27,558 
31,782 
6,579 
$ 65,919 

$ 28,887 
13,572 
8,237 
$ 50,696 

 Total assets 
   Biological Indicators 
   Instruments 
   Corporate and administrative 

All long-lived assets are located in the United States. 

Note 14.  Quarterly Results (unaudited) 

Quarterly financial information for the years ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 is summarized as follows (net income per share 
per quarter will not add up to reported annual earnings per share due to differences in average outstanding shares as reported 
on a quarterly basis) (in thousands, except per share data): 

2013 
Revenues 
Gross profit 
Net income 
Net Income per share – basic 
Net Income per share – diluted 

2012 
Revenues 
Gross profit 
Net income 
Net Income per share – basic 
Net Income per share – diluted 

2011 
Revenues 
Gross profit 
Net income 
Net Income per share – basic 
Net Income per share – diluted 

First 
Quarter 

$ 10,560 
6,456 
2,100 
$     0.63 
0.59 

First 
Quarter 

$ 9,297 
5,388 
1,679 
$   0.51 
0.49 

Second 
Quarter 

Third 
Quarter 

$ 11,706 
7,248 
2,248 
$     0.67 
0.64 

$ 11,361 
6,947 
1,543 
$     0.46 
0.44 

Second 
Quarter 

Third 
Quarter 

$ 9,702 
5,774 
2,054 
$   0.63 
0.59 

$ 9,649 
5,885 
1,987 
$   0.60 
0.57 

First 
Quarter 

Second 
Quarter 

Third 
Quarter 

$ 7,778 
4,381 
1,320 
$   0.41 
0.40 

$ 8,072 
4,552 
1,429 
$   0.44 
0.43 

$ 8,000 
4,440 
1,258 
$   0.39 
0.37 

Fourth 
Quarter 

$ 12,808 
8,211 
2,559 
$    0.76 
0.71 

Fourth 
Quarter 

$ 10,968 
6,464 
2,199 
$     0.67 
0.64 

Fourth 
Quarter 

$ 10,377 
6,195 
2,176 
$     0.67 
0.64 

Note 15.  Related Party Transactions 

On April 30, 2010, we purchased the building housing the facilities of SGM Biotech, Inc. for $2,150,000 from Surreal, LLC.  
Surreal, LLC is owned by the former owners of SGM Biotech, Inc., which we acquired on April 27, 2010.  As of May, 2011, 
these former owners are no longer affiliated with the Company. 

Note 16.  Subsequent Events 

On April 11, 2013, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share of common stock, payable on 
June 14, 2013, to stockholders of record at the close of business on May 27, 2013. 

PAGE 43 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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  

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) that are designed to reasonably ensure that information required to be disclosed by us 
in the reports we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, 
summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms 
and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and 
principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding 
required disclosure.  Our management evaluated, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of March 31, 2013.  Based on that evaluation, our 
management concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at March 31, 2013. 

Our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, is responsible for establishing and 
maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting.  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 in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.  Because of its inherent 
limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Therefore, even those 
systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives.  
Management evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in 
“Internal Control – Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission (COSO). 

Our management evaluated, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, the 
effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2013.  Based on that evaluation, our 
management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective at March 31, 2013.  As allowed, this 
evaluation excludes the operations of the Bios Acquisition due to the timing of the acquisition.  Revenues related to the 
Bios Acquisition were approximately 13% of total revenues for the year ended March 31, 2013. 

Our independent auditors, EKS&H LLLP, a registered public accounting firm, are appointed by the Audit Committee of 
our Board of Directors, subject to ratification by our stockholders.  EKS&H LLLP has audited and reported on the 
financial statements of Mesa Laboratories, Inc. and our internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2013.  The 
attestation reports of our registered public accounting firm are contained in this annual report.  

Changes in internal control over financial reporting 

There were no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended 
March 31, 2013, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over 
financial reporting.  

PAGE 44 

 
 
  
  
 
 
   
  
 
 
Operational Data

Year ended March 31,
Revenues
Gross profit
Gross margin
Net income
Net income per diluted share
Average shares outstanding

$    
$    

2013
46,435
28,862
62%
8,450
2.35
3,593

$      
$        

$    
$    

2012
39,616
23,511
59%
7,919
2.29
3,462

$      
$        

$    
$    

2011
34,227
19,568
57%
6,183
1.86
3,330

$      
$        

$    
$    

2010
23,087
13,194
57%
4,769
1.45
3,293

$      
$        

$    
$    

2009
22,649
13,817
61%
4,790
1.48
3,238

$      
$        

Financial Position

As of March 31,
Working capital
Total assets
Long-term debt
Stockholders' equity
Stockholders' equity per share

2013
14,793
65,919
4,000
52,753
15.57

$    
$    
$      
$    
$      

2012
14,899
$    
50,696
$    
$          
-
$    
43,915
$      
12.68

2011

$      
$    
$      
$    
$      

7,387
50,560
1,500
36,417
10.94

2010
18,530
$    
33,639
$    
$          
-
$    
31,197
$        
9.47

2009
17,109
$    
29,614
$    
$          
-
$    
27,602
$        
8.52

Average Return

Year ended March 31,
Average return on:
  Stockholders' investment
  Assets
  Invested capital
Dividends paid

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

17%
13%
18%
0.54

$        

20%
16%
21%
0.50

$        

18%
15%
21%
0.46

$        

16%
15%
24%
0.42

$        

19%
17%
26%
0.40

$        

In thousands, except per share data

        
        
        
        
        
Mesa Laboratories, Inc.

Glenn E. Adriance
Vice President, 
Chief Sales and Marketing 
Officer

John J. Sullivan, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer, 
President and Director

John V. Sakys
Chief Financial Officer

Butler Manufacturing
10 Park Place
Butler, NJ 07405
(973) 492-8400

Bozeman Manufacturing
10 Evergreen Drive
Bozeman, MT  59715
(303) 987-8000

Directors
Luke R. Schmieder
Chairman, Board of Directors

John J. Sullivan, Ph.D.
Director

H. Stuart Campbell
Chairman, Nominating 
Committee

Michael T. Brooks
Director

Robert V. Dwyer
Director

Evan C. Guillemin
Chairman, Audit Committee

David M. Kelly 
Chairman, Compensation 
Committee

Corporate Offices
12100 West Sixth Avenue
Lakewood, CO  80228
(303) 987-8000

Omaha Manufacturing 
8607 Park Drive
Omaha, NE  68127
(303) 987-8000

Transfer Agent
Computershare Investor Services
Denver, Colorado

Independent Auditors
EKS&H LLLP 

SEC Counsel
Andrew N. Bernstein, PC
Denver, Colorado

www.mesalabs.com
shares traded on the NASDAQ under the symbol MLAB