Quarterlytics / Industrials / Industrial - Machinery / Raven Industries Inc.

Raven Industries Inc.

ravn · NASDAQ Industrials
Claim this profile
Ticker ravn
Exchange NASDAQ
Sector Industrials
Industry Industrial - Machinery
Employees 1001-5000
← All annual reports
FY2004 Annual Report · Raven Industries Inc.
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
RAVEN
2004 Annual Report
for fiscal year ended January 31

“One of America’s
Best Small Companies”

—Forbes Magazine

Financial Highlights

Dollars in thousands, except per-share data

OPERATIONS

For the years ended January 31

2004

2003

change

About the cover

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$142,727

$120,903

Operating income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21,626

13,836

17,065

11,185

PER SHARE

Net income – diluted  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$   1.50

$   1.20

Cash dividends  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Book value  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.34

7.37

0.28

6.42

18.1%

26.7%

23.7%

25.0%

21.4%

14.8%

PERFORMANCE

Operating income margin  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Return on net sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Return on average assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Return on beginning shareholders’ equity  . . . . . .

Shares outstanding, year-end (in thousands)  . . . .

Average number of employees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15.2%

9.7%

18.2%

23.8%

9,021

770

14.1%

9.3%

7.8%

4.3%

15.9% 14.5%

21.5% 10.7%

9,066

758

–0.5%

1.6%

Raven was named one of
“America’s 200 Best Small
Companies” by Forbes Magazine
based on our one- and five-year
track record of solid financial
performance (average return on
equity, sales and earnings) and
corporate board standing
(ranked in the 93rd percentile).
We are not strangers to this list
as this was our fifth appearance
since 1987. In 2003, we were 
in the “top 100,” at No. 71.
We plan on making this list 
again this year—aiming higher—
as we target another year of
sales and profit growth.

NET SALES
(dollars in millions)

EARNINGS PER SHARE
(dollars)

SALES PER EMPLOYEE
(dollars in thousands)

Table of Contents

160

120

80

40

0

1.50

1.20

0.90

0.60

0.30

0.00

200

150

100

50

0

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

Business Profile  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Letter to Shareholders  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Operating Units  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Eleven-Year Financial Summary  . . . . . 14

Business Segments  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Financial Review and Analysis  . . . . . . 17

Stock and Quarterly Performance  . . . . 26

Financial Statements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Report of Independent Auditors  . . . . . 39

Directors, Officers and 

Senior Management  . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Investor Information  . . Inside Back Cover

Business Profile

Founded in 1956, Raven today is an industrial manufacturer with four operating units. The company has 
divested lower-performing assets, simplified its product bases, and enhanced profitability (cash return on invested
capital) and shareholder value–a strategy of “Improve, innovate, grow.”

Operating Unit

Products

Markets

Competitive Strengths

Flow Controls

● Computerized control

hardware and software for
precision farming
● Leading developer of 
GPS-based control
systems 

● Precision application of
pesticides, fertilizer and
road de-icers

● Agriculture OEMs and
sprayer manufacturers 

● Market leader for 
ag sprayer controls

● Marine navigation

● Strong brand recognition
and distribution network
● New Precision Solutions™

product line

Engineered Films

● Rugged reinforced plastic

● Manufactured housing 

● Vertically integrated

sheeting

and RVs

● Temporary grain covers for

agriculture

● Temporary building

construction enclosures

● Pond lining and

containment for oil
exploration

● High-altitude research

balloons

● NASA 
● Universities

manufacturing capabilities

● Broad product line
● Superior target marketing
● High productivity and low-

cost structure

● Sole source in US for
scientific balloons

● Worldwide reputation for

leadership

Electronic Systems

● Electronics Manufacturing

● Primarily industrial OEMs

● Advanced manufacturing,

Services (EMS)

in North America

technology

● Fortune 500 companies
that contract their low-
volume, high-mix
production

● Full-service provider, from

engineering and
manufacturing to customer
service
● ISO 9001

Aerostar

● Military cargo parachutes
● Government service

uniforms

● Custom-shaped inflatables

● US military, homeland
defense and foreign
governments
● Promotional and

advertising markets,
including Disney and
Macy’s

● Reputation for innovation

and quality
● Best technology

Sales
(dollars in millons)

$35.0

$28.5

$23.2

 2002  2003  2004

Sales
(dollars in millons)

$46.4

$40.3 $40.0

 2002  2003  2004

Sales
(dollars in millons)

$44.3

$38.6

$32.3

 2002  2003  2004

Sales
(dollars in millons)

$16.3

$17.0

$12.5

 2002  2003  2004

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

page 1

To Our Shareholders, Employees and Customers

Left: Ronald M. Moquist
President & Chief Executive Officer

Right: Thomas Iacarella
Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

The past year was one of significant

accomplishment. We met the chal-

lenge of improving, innovating and

growing the company. As a result,

each of our four business units 

delivered solid financial results. Even more importantly, we deepened our commitment 

to doing things “The Raven Way.” For us, that means building a company that has lasting

value—one with profitable growth based on maximizing cash flow return on investment,

a strong balance sheet, and leaders who thrive in a culture of learning and accountability.

FISCAL YEAR RESULTS

Last year demonstrated our growing strength. We have created a diversified mix of leading industrial businesses
that now have the ability to grow profitably even in tough economic times.

(cid:2) New product introductions and continued gains in market share spurred an increase in revenue of 18%

to $143 million.

(cid:2) Net earnings grew to $13.8 million, up 24%.

(cid:2) Investments in equipment, product development and marketing increased by $6 million in the past 

18 months, setting the stage for future growth.

(cid:2) We increased our commitment to Six Sigma, making it part of the fabric of our company. Five major

quality-improvement projects were completed.

(cid:2) Free cash flow, which we define as cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures, was

up 145% to $16.4 million.

(cid:2) The quarterly dividend was increased twice during the year, up a total of 29%, our seventeenth consecu-
tive annual increase. We also continued our share-repurchase program and bought back $3.1 million of
our stock. Overall, $6.1 million was returned to Raven shareholders.

(cid:2) Raven’s share price reached an all-time high of $30.45 and closed the fiscal year at $28.21. In the last

three years our share price has increased 364% while the S&P 500 index fell 17%.

We emphasize

three strategies:

internal growth

opportunities,

operational

excellence and

innovation.

page 2

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

A COMPANY OF LASTING VALUE

Over the last four years we have fundamentally changed Raven—exiting low-margin businesses that accounted
for $70 million in revenue, focusing on a smaller customer base, investing heavily in core businesses and becom-
ing a leaner, simpler organization.

We are no longer dependent on labor-intensive, low-margin, commodity-type products. The business model 
now in place is based on speed, flexibility and innovation. We have strong positions in niche markets that are
capable of driving high-margin sales and capital-efficient growth. We can compete locally and against the tough-
est international competition.

PROFITABLE GROWTH STRATEGIES

To achieve our goals of 12% revenue growth and 15% net earnings growth per year on average, we will continue
to emphasize three strategies: focusing on internal growth opportunities, driving operational excellence and
investing in innovation.

Internal Growth
Our goal is not to get big fast; it is to get big profitably. That’s not to diminish the importance of driving the
topline revenue, but profit margins come before rapid sales growth. For the next three years the emphasis 
will be on internal growth. That’s the centerpiece of our plan. Growth will be based on technology, new 
products, improved processes and focused marketing. And we can do it without a major acquisition. We prefer
small, strategic acquisitions that bring new technology, products or geographic reach to Raven, especially in 
Flow Controls and Engineered Films.

Operational Excellence
We can only maintain strong margins through operational excellence. That means disciplined cost controls; a
simple, focused organization; and continuous improvement through Six Sigma and Total Quality initiatives. These
initiatives already have had a combined impact of several million dollars saved in the last three years. But equally
important, they have raised the level of quality, flexibility and customer-response time. Raven employees have
embraced these initiatives and understand how important they are to our future success. We realize that this is
only a beginning and that the road to success demands a corporate culture that constantly challenges and
improves everything we do and strives for the ultimate prize—zero waste.

Innovation
Don’t expect any wild cost cutting, divestitures, big layoffs or pricey acquisitions to lead Raven into an uncertain
future. More than ever, our future will be shaped by our ability to connect with customers and to innovate.
Innovation at Raven is not just about developing great new products. It also includes new ways of selling,
servicing and supporting the customer. Last year we:

(cid:2) introduced the TrueLine® tractor steering-assist product in Flow Controls. Sales were minimal but the

responses were encouraging and point to a growing market.

(cid:2) completed the transformation of Aerostar from a commercial outerwear and hot-air sport balloon
company to a military contractor, reversing an operating loss with a $2 million improvement in 
profitability.

(cid:2) introduced new co-extruded products in Engineered Films, using the high-volume plastic film extruder

installed in the fourth quarter, 2002.

(cid:2) utilized Six Sigma to boost speed, flexibility, quality and profits in Electronic Systems.

The road to

success demands

a corporate

culture that

constantly

challenges 

and improves

everything we

do and strives

for the ultimate

prize—zero

waste.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

page 3

Raven’s solid

business models

are not

dependent on

cheap labor or

commodity

businesses to 

be successful.

While new products, operational improvements and the Aerostar turnaround were all important developments,
the continued growth in profitability and returns on invested capital—under tough conditions—was impressive.

FY2004
25.0%
23.8%
18.2%
9.7%

FY2003
29.0%
21.5%
15.9%
9.3%

FY2002
50.0%
18.4%
13.3%
7.5%

Previous 5-Year
Average
9.2%
12.5%
9.1%
4.8%

Annual EPS Growth
Return on Equity
Return on Assets
Return on Sales

A STRONG BALANCE SHEET

Our balance sheet is rock solid, giving us a full range of strategic choices. With no debt and substantial cash
resources, we have the flexibility to act decisively and take advantage of opportunities. Generating cash is one of
our highest priorities. At Raven, we turn net income into cash, giving you confidence that both numbers are real.

We raised the dividend 14% in April, and 13% in October 2003. We continue to buy back our common stock 
but at a reduced rate of less than 2% of shares outstanding annually. Our strategy is to return excess cash to 
our shareholders.

We’re improving the turnover in working capital. In the past year inventory turns improved by 48%, and
accounts-receivable collections dropped from an average 48 days to 45 days. We can do even better.

SPECIAL DIVIDEND

On March 9, 2004, Raven’s Board of Directors announced the 18th annual increase in the company’s quarterly
cash dividend to 11 cents per share, and at the same time declared a one-time special cash dividend of 
$1.25 per share, or approximately $11 million, to both enhance shareholder returns and redeploy the company’s
excess cash balances. These actions will substantially improve our returns on both equity and assets.

This will have no impact on current operations and does not in any way restrict our ability to fund growth 
initiatives, including strategic acquisitions. We will continue to have a strong balance sheet with significant
borrowing capacity.

MARKET-LEADING BUSINESSES

Raven has some terrific businesses, plus solid business models that can outperform the competition and the
market. To a great extent they are “China-proof.” By that we mean we are not dependent on cheap labor or
commodity businesses to be successful.

Flow Controls Division
Flow Controls is a market leader with a dynamic leadership team and it is positioned for long-term double-digit
growth. Flow Controls introduced eight new products last year, the most in its history. Even more will be intro-
duced this year. While this segment will have another strong year, it will not post the same rate of growth of the
last three years. First-half Flow Controls sales and profits could be off because of the loss of a large special order
we had last year. But the last six months of the fiscal year should be strong.

page 4

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Engineered Films Division
Engineered Films continues to outpace the competition. We have a broad and deep product line and the best
marketing in the industry. We will continue to invest heavily in new co-extruded plastic film products and
advanced extrusion equipment to maintain our leadership position. The big negative we face is the volatility of
polyethylene resin pricing, our major cost item.

Electronic Systems Division
We continue to make progress in our strategy to provide electronics manufacturing services to customers 
needing low-volume, high-mix production with significant engineering and customer-service support. This 
focused strategy somewhat limits Electronic System’s ability to grow rapidly but it makes us less vulnerable to
cheap foreign competition.

Our reputation

for integrity is

Raven’s most

valuable asset.

Aerostar, Inc.
We completed the transformation that began in 2000. Aerostar’s focus is now on three new business platforms:
military cargo parachutes, specialty uniforms for government agencies and large inflatables such as military
decoys and tethered blimps. We have the potential for sustained profitable growth and there is plenty of room 
to improve.

Electronic Systems and Aerostar have had dramatic turnarounds and are now full partners in the growth and
success of Raven. Both have developed profitable and sustainable business models and have the greatest growth
potential, percentagewise, of any of our businesses.

THE BEST IS STILL AHEAD OF US

In June 2003, Raven was added to the Russell 3000 Index of U.S. securities. This should improve the liquidity of
our common shares as the company’s stock is added to more funds using the Russell Index. Ultimately, our 
liquidity depends on growing the company’s sales and profits and our market capitalization.

We were pleased to be named to the Forbes list as one of the top 200 small companies in America. In fact, we
were in the top 100, at No. 71. We can make this list again this year and improve that ranking. We have planned
for another year of sales and profit growth, overcoming the challenge of a relatively flat first half.

Our reputation for integrity is Raven’s most valuable asset. We have taken an active role in building investor trust
through the clarity of our financial statements and the straightforward approach to investor communications.
We present the financial information in this annual report proudly, knowing that investment decisions are made
based on trust in the numbers.

I want to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of Ken TeKrony who will retire as Vice President and
General Manager of Engineered Films on April 30. Ken is a 36-year employee who played an important role in 
the growth and success of Raven. He set high standards and consistently delivered.

Finally, my sincere thanks to all Raven employees. You lead, you execute and you embrace change. You represent
the best of what American manufacturers stand for.

Ronald M. Moquist
President and CEO

March 29, 2004

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

page 5

R

A V

E

N

2

0

0

4

A

N

N

U

A

L

R

E

P O R

T

An improving farm economy and new product acceptance led to record performance for Raven’s Flow Controls Division.

page 6

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

 
 
 
Flow
Controls
Division

An improving farm economy and acceptance of new products led
Raven’s Flow Controls Division (FCD) to record-high performance
this past fiscal year. Sales rose 23% to $35 million while operating
income climbed 20% to $8.3 million. Last year, we implemented the
first phase of our precision ag marketing strategy. We established
technical expertise in key markets to train and support re-sellers on
steering, chemical application and other Raven technologies and
introduced competitive pricing on navigation products, resulting in
significant market-share improvement.

We also introduced design changes to several Precision Ag products
resulting in improved ease of use and wider application as we
established some 40 new dealers who are regional experts on
agronomic practices. FCD also significantly expanded its reach in the
application equipment market for planting operations, delivering to
corn growers equipment that provides highly accurate pest control
without using genetically modified seed.

We improved gross margins on core product lines by reducing
material costs through design changes. The Division also completed
the acquisition of Fluent Systems, LLC, an innovator in monitoring
systems and wireless technology, and plans to expand this
knowledge base throughout our entire product line.

Prospects
Looking to this new year, FCD intends to further expand
international sales—which were up 31% last year—by setting up
additional foreign sales representatives. The Division will address 
the challenge of overcoming a $6 million shortfall in special order
chemical-injection sales by developing new business through
chemical companies. In terms of product development, we intend 
to introduce a new GPS receiver this year as well as a low-cost
steering system. We also plan to significantly improve ease of use
across all product lines.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

page 7

FLOW CONTROLS SALES
(dollars in millions)

40

30

20

10

0

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

R

A V

E

N

2

0

0

4

A

N

N

U

A

L

R

E

P O R

T

Sales in all plastic sheeting markets, including oil drilling, were up in fiscal 2004.

page 8

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

 
 
 
Engineered
Films
Division

Engineered Films Division (EFD) sales rose 16% to $46 million in 
the year just concluded from $40 million in the previous 12 months.
Operating income was up 2% at $11.7 million with the impact of
higher sales substantially offset by higher raw material prices.
Natural gas, the primary feedstock of polyethylene resin, continues
to rise and squeeze profit margins.

Sales in all plastic sheeting markets were up during the year, with
sales for pit lining and industrial applications leading the way.
Plastic sheeting introduced the previous year for use as a vapor
barrier under concrete floors continued demonstrating good
acceptance. Sales of sheeting for use as temporary covers for
agriculture feed grains and silage provided additional growth.
EFD’s new extrusion line made possible increased sales of
agriculture films along with a good portion of the rise in sales 
of pit liners to the oil exploration market. This new equipment
operated at approximately one-third of its capacity during its first
full year—in line with our original plan.

Sales of scientific balloons showed an overall decline. However,
sales of large scientific balloons to NASA, our primary balloon
customer, remained strong and increased over the previous year.
Shortfalls resulted from decreased sales to foreign balloon
customers as well as reduced orders for development of the next
generation of scientific balloons, the Ultra Long Duration Balloon
(ULDB).

Prospects
We expect growth in all plastic sheeting markets this new fiscal
year. The increases will vary by market with most of the sales gains
taking place in the agriculture and pit-lining areas as we utilize
more of our available capacity. We also expect significant growth in
the industrial market as we more fully utilize the capabilities of our
co-extrusion line. EFD is currently looking into new capacity to meet
demand for more complex co-extruded films.

Higher sales activity is also expected in the scientific balloon area as
foreign balloon sales climb back to more historic levels and the
ULDB program is revitalized with new urgency. We expect that the
market for scientific balloons to NASA will remain at the levels of
the past few years.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

page 9

ENGINEERED FILMS SALES
(dollars in millions)

50

40

30

20

10

0

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

R

A V

E

N

2

0

0

4

A

N

N

U

A

L

R

E

P O R

T

Expansion into new markets, including avionics, helped push Electronic Systems sales up 15%.

page 10 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

 
 
 
Electronic
Systems
Division

Despite the depressed level of sales for electronics manufacturing
service providers, our Electronic Systems Division (ESD) achieved
topline growth of 15%, reaching $44 million in fiscal 2004. This was
accomplished primarily through growing existing businesses with
long-term customers and a full year of production with clients who
were added during the previous year. ESD operating profits climbed
44%, hitting $5.8 million vs. $4.0 million the year before.

We have concentrated on a defensible niche of high-mix, low-
volume production with strong engineering and customer service
support. Ongoing cost improvements and improved production
efficiencies have allowed us to improve profitability while serving a
large-company customer base.

ESD continues to be a leader in the implementation of our Six Sigma
methodology. One major project in engineering (regarding the
lifecycle of part numbers) was completed during the year. This
project is expected to reduce inventory levels, improve the efficiency
of the product-revision process and lower inventory-obsolescence
risk. Ongoing efficiencies from previous projects have resulted in
savings of more than $2 million over the past three years.

Prospects
Major activities for this year include efforts using Six Sigma to
evaluate design and quotation cycle times. Efforts will continue on
reducing manufacturing cycle time and increasing throughput yield.
ESD is continuing to maintain a selective base of customers by
adding one to two new clients annually. We will continue our focus
on building customer partnerships and providing value-added
services in test, design, manufacturability-analysis and component-
obsolescence tracking.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 11

ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS SALES
(dollars in millions)

50

40

30

20

10

0

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

R

A V

E

N

2

0

0

4

A

N

N

U

A

L

R

E

P O R

T

Which airplane is an inflatable? Aerostar’s highly realistic inflatable decoys also mimic 
thermal images and radar signatures of actual military equipment. 

page 12 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

 
 
 
Aerostar

Restructuring and new product directions begun two years ago
resulted in major performance improvements. Sales rose to 
$17 million, up 35% from the previous year. Operating income
including $182,000 of gains on asset sales, jumped to $2.0 million,
reversing the operating loss from one year earlier. This substantial
improvement is due to strong operating performance in the
production of military cargo parachutes as well as higher than
expected sales in government and military protective apparel.

Aerostar completed deliveries of its $7.6 million parachute contract
with better than expected margins. This was in large part due to
successful implementation of automation and production techniques
not previously utilized in the parachute manufacturing industry. This
success combined the core skills of Aerostar’s technical engineering
and quality assurance and the production efficiency and automation
talents of Raven’s sewing operations. Aerostar received an additional
option contract of $7.7 million in military parachutes as well as a
smaller contract for other parachute services.

Our inflatable military decoys generated significant interest and sales
this year. These highly realistic products include the visual and radar
fidelity of real equipment along with specialized systems designed to
mimic the thermal image signature of actual units.

Prospects
As Aerostar phased out of traditional outerwear, new opportunities
became available involving biological and chemical protective gear
for the military. Many of these items were produced in support of 
U.S. forces heading to Operation Iraqi Freedom. New protective gear
is being developed this year in conjunction with W.L. Gore, utilizing
its emerging technology.

Much of Aerostar’s current capacity is already booked for the coming
year. Significant to its long-term strength, Aerostar will focus on
securing follow-on contracts in parachutes and protective wear that
will build upon the strong base it has already established.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 13

AEROSTAR SALES
(dollars in millions)

40

30

20

10

0

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

Eleven-Year Financial Summary

Dollars in thousands, except per-share data
OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR
Net sales

Ongoing operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sold businesses(a)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross profit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income

Ongoing operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sold businesses(a)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income before income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income % of sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income % of beginning equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FINANCIAL POSITION
Current assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Working capital  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current ratio  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term debt, less current portion  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shareholders’ equity  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term debt / total capitalization  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventory turnover (CGS / year-end inventory)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY (USED IN)
Operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Increase (decrease) in cash  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
COMMON STOCK DATA
Net income per-share — basic  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income per-share — diluted  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividends per-share  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Book value per-share  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock price range during year

High  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shares outstanding, year-end (in thousands) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Number of shareholders, year-end  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
OTHER DATA
Price / earnings ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Average number of employees  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sales per employee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Backlog  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For the years ended January 31,
2003

2004

2002

$142,727
—
142,727
33,759

21,981
(355)
21,626
21,716
$ 13,836

$119,589
1,314
120,903
27,515

16,861
204
17,065
17,254
$ 11,185

$112,018
6,497
118,515
23,851

13,788
(613)
13,175
13,565
$ 8,847

9.7%
23.8%

9.3%
21.5%

7.5%
18.4%

$ 3,075

$ 2,563

$ 2,371

$ 55,710
11,895
$ 43,815
4.68
$ 15,950
79,508
57
$ 66,471

$ 49,351
13,167
$ 36,184
3.75
$ 16,455
72,816
151
$ 58,236

$ 45,308
13,810
$ 31,498
3.28
$ 14,059
67,836
280
$ 52,032

0.1%
6.5

0.3%
4.4

0.5%
5.0

$ 19,732
(4,352)
(6,155)
9,225

$

1.53
1.50
0.34
7.37

$ 30.45
15.12
$ 28.21
9,021
3,560

18.8
770
$
185
$ 47,120

$ 12,735
(9,166)
(5,830)
(2,261)

$

1.22
1.20
0.28
6.42

$ 18.40
8.75
$ 15.81
9,066
2,781

13.2
758
$
160
$ 42,826

$ 18,496
(13,152)
(8,539)
(3,195)

$

0.95
0.93
0.25
5.65

$ 11.75
6.04
$ 11.28
9,212
2,387

12.1
838
$
141
$ 33,834

All per-share, shares outstanding and market price data reflect the January 2003 two-for-one stock split and the July 2001 three-for-two stock split. All other figures are as reported.

Price / earnings ratio is determined as closing stock price divided by net income per share-diluted.

(a) During the second quarter of fiscal 2003, the company sold its Beta Raven Industrial Controls Division. In fiscal 2001, 2000 and 1996, the company sold its 

Plastic Tank, Glasstite and Astoria businesses, respectively.

(b) Includes $2.6 million of business repositioning charges, net of gains on plant sales, primarily in Electronic Systems Division and Aerostar.

page 14 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

For the years ended January 31,

2001(g)

2000(g)

1999(g)

1998(g)

1997(g)

1996(g)

1995(g)

1994(g)

$113,360
19,498
132,858
21,123

7,417(b)
3,331(c)
10,748
10,924
$ 6,411(b)(c)
4.8%
11.8%

$ 2,399

$ 51,817
13,935
$ 37,882
3.72
$ 11,647
65,656
2,013
$ 47,989

$107,862
42,523
150,385
24,217

7,971
2,606(d)
10,577
10,503
$ 6,762(d)
4.5%
10.9%

$ 2,895

$ 55,371
14,702
$ 40,669
3.77
$ 15,068
74,047
3,024
$ 54,519

$108,408
46,798
155,206
24,441

8,220
1,453
9,673
9,649
$ 6,182

4.0%
10.0%

$104,489
47,679
152,168
24,929

9,555
1,007
10,562
12,540(e)
$ 8,062

5.3%
14.2%

$101,869
39,576
141,445
25,287

9,321
2,650
11,971
11,915
$ 7,688

$ 84,379
38,010
122,389
22,660

7,692
1,869
9,561
9,566
$ 6,197

5.4%
15.6%

5.1%
13.6%

$ 2,944

$ 2,709

$ 2,367

$ 2,130

$ 60,279
15,128
$ 45,151
3.98
$ 19,563
83,657
4,572
$ 62,293

$ 57,285
17,816
$ 39,469
3.22
$ 19,817
82,066
1,128
$ 61,563

$ 56,696
20,016
$ 36,680
2.83
$ 18,142
80,662
3,181
$ 56,729

$ 45,695
14,771
$ 30,924
3.09
$ 18,069
67,553
2,816
$ 49,151

$ 87,458
35,889
123,347
23,968

10,470
466(f)
10,936
9,372
$ 6,088(f)
4.9%
14.8%

$ 1,843

$ 43,795
15,078
$ 28,717
2.90
$ 18,570
65,636
4,179
$ 45,526

$ 88,608
34,279
122,887
23,574

8,054
2,386
10,440
10,638
$ 6,954

5.7%
19.6%

$ 1,545

$ 45,037
16,088
$ 28,949
2.80
$ 13,371
60,597
2,539
$ 41,100

4.0%
5.9

5.3%
5.2

6.8%
4.9

1.8%
4.8

5.3%
4.5

5.4%
4.1

8.4%
4.4

5.8%
4.4

$ 9,441
9,752
(14,227)
4,966

$

$

$

0.62
0.62
0.23
5.06

6.95
3.75
6.08
9,478
2,460

9.8
1,043
$
127
$ 38,239

$ 10,375
6,323
(16,326)
372

$

$

$

0.52
0.52
0.22
4.64

6.08
4.50
4.79
11,748
2,749

9.2
1,320
$
114
$ 44,935

$ 8,326
(3,127)
(2,714)
2,485

$

$

$

0.43
0.43
0.21
4.42

7.58
5.08
5.33
14,082
3,014

12.4
1,445
$
107
$ 47,431

$ 9,274
(4,979)
(4,884)
(589)

$

$

$

0.55
0.55
0.19
4.25

8.58
6.54
7.54
14,472
3,221

13.7
1,511
$
101
$ 47,154

$ 7,088
(5,090)
(2,363)
(365)

$

$

$

0.54
0.54
0.17
3.91

7.83
5.33
7.50
14,508
3,011

13.9
1,387
$
102
$ 38,102

$ 9,687
(4,158)
(4,029)
1,500

$

$

$

0.44
0.43
0.15
3.47

6.92
5.17
6.42
14,148
3,190

14.9
1,368
$
89
$ 32,539

$ 7,452
(10,000)
406
(2,142)

$

$

$

0.43
0.42
0.13
3.20

8.17
6.00
6.25
14,205
3,031

14.9
1,414
$
87
$ 29,661

$ 11,257
(5,908)
(2,042)
3,307

$

$

$

0.49
0.48
0.11
2.92

7.83
6.00
6.67
14,082
3,173

13.9
1,435
$
86
$ 36,403

(c) Includes the $3.1 million pretax gain ($1.4 million net of tax) on the sale of the company’s Plastic Tank Division.

(d) Includes the $1.2 million pretax gain ($764,000 net of tax) on the sale of assets of the company’s Glasstite subsidiary.

(e) Includes the $1.8 million pretax gain ($1.2 million net of tax) on sale of an investment in an affiliate.

(f) Includes $1.8 million of business repositioning charges at the company’s Beta Raven Industrial Controls Division.

(g) Amounts for these years are unaudited.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 15

Business Segments

Dollars in thousands
FLOW CONTROLS DIVISION
Sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation & amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ENGINEERED FILMS DIVISION
Sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation & amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS DIVISION
Sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income (loss)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation & amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AEROSTAR
Sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income (loss)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation & amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SOLD BUSINESSES(g)
Sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income (loss)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation & amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

REPORTABLE SEGMENTS TOTAL
Sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation & amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$142,727

27,351(a)
57,976
3,024
3,901

2004

2003

2002

2001(i)

2000(i)

1999(i)

For the years ended January 31

$ 35,059
8,254
19,304
341
1,004

$ 46,408
11,701
18,108
1,707
1,664

$ 44,307
5,797
14,975
841
850

$ 16,953

1,954(a)
5,589
135
383

—
(355)
—
—
—

$ 28,496
6,897
21,483
729
948

$ 39,975
11,447
18,507
4,111
1,495

$ 38,589
4,022
14,528
395
978

$ 12,529
(405)
5,769
539
354

$ 1,314
204
—
7
20

$120,903
22,165
60,287
5,781
3,795

$ 23,178
5,509(b)
20,313
677
443

$ 40,280
9,886
14,847
3,182
1,085

$ 32,289
2,264
13,910
774
1,101

$ 16,271
1,278(c)
5,994
252
263

$ 6,497
(613)
1,102
52
76

$ 16,758
3,985
9,578
327
353

$ 40,004
8,810
13,031
674
1,033

$ 32,039

(542)(d)

15,359
1,492
1,089

$ 24,559
1,583
7,361
122
280

$ 19,498
3,331(e)
4,805
246
718

$118,515

$132,858

18,324(b,c)
56,166
4,937
2,968

17,167(d,e)
50,134
2,861
3,473

$ 13,520
2,873
7,096
202
351

$ 35,889
7,464
13,472
792
1,075

$ 30,176
1,632
18,846
1,168
1,032

$ 28,277
2,092
11,307
117
372

$ 42,523
2,606(f)
13,475
1,172
1,831

$150,385
16,667(f)
64,196
3,451
4,661

$ 15,311
2,810
8,553
501
329

$ 32,514
5,836
13,177
566
1,136

$ 24,958
2,322
15,591
1,399
959

$ 35,625
2,724
14,446
308
464

$ 46,798
1,453
22,048
1,585
2,004

$155,206
15,145
73,815
4,359
4,892

CORPORATE & OTHER(h)
Operating (loss)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation & amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TOTAL COMPANY
Sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation & amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ (5,725)
21,532
306
244

$ (5,100)
12,529
252
171

$ (5,149)
11,670
157
177

$ (6,419)
15,522
229
194

$ (6,090)
9,851
188
223

$ (5,472)
9,842
247
241

$142,727

21,626(a)
79,508
3,330
4,145

$120,903
17,065
72,816
6,033
3,966

$118,515

$132,858

13,175(b,c)
67,836
5,094
3,145

10,748(d,e)
65,656
3,090
3,667

$150,385
10,577(f)
74,047
3,639
4,884

$155,206
9,673
83,657
4,606
5,133

(a) Includes $182,000 of pretax gain on plant sale.
(b) Includes a $550,000 in-process research and development charge, related to the Starlink acquisition.
(c) Includes $414,000 of pretax gains on plant sales.
(d) Includes $1.8 million of business repositioning charges in the Electronic Systems Division and $2.6 million for the total company.
(e) Includes a $3.1 million pretax gain on the sale of the company’s Plastic Tank Division.
(f) Includes a $1.2 million pretax gain on the sale of the company’s Glasstite business.
(g) Operating income for sold businesses includes administrative expenses directly attributable to the sold businesses.
(h) Operating loss consists of administrative expenses -- assets are principally cash, investments, deferred taxes and notes receivable.
(i) Amounts for 2001, 2000 and 1999 are unaudited.

page 16 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Financial Review and Analysis

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table presents comparative financial performance for the past three years:

Dollars in thousands, except per-share data
Net sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross profit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating expenses  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss (gain) on sale of businesses and assets  . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income before income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income per-share — diluted  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effective income tax rate  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$142,727
33,759
11,960
173
21,626
21,716
7,880
$ 13,836
1.50
$
36.3%

2004
%
Sales
100.0
23.7
8.4

15.2
15.2
5.5
9.7

%
Change
+18.1
+22.7
+12.5

+26.7
+25.9
+29.8
+23.7
+25.0
+ 3.1

For the years ended January 31
2003
%
Sales
100.0
22.8
8.8

%
Change
+ 2.0
+15.4
– 3.7

$120,903
27,515
10,629
(179)
17,065
17,254
6,069
$ 11,185
1.20
$
35.2%

14.1
14.3
5.0
9.3

+29.5
+27.2
+28.6
+26.4
+29.0
+ 1.1

2002
%
Sales
100.0
20.1
9.3

11.1
11.4
4.0
7.5

%
Change
–10.8
+12.9
–20.5

+22.6
+24.2
+ 4.5
+38.0
+50.0
–15.8

$118,515
23,851
11,043
(367)
13,175
13,565
4,718
$ 8,847
0.93
$
34.8%

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Consolidated Operating Results

Company performance reached new highs in fiscal 2004,
surpassing fiscal 2003’s record-setting results with $13.8
million in net income and $1.50 of earnings per diluted
share. This represents growth in net income and diluted
earnings per share of $2.6 million and $0.30, respectively.
All the divisions performed better than the prior fiscal year,
both at the sales and operating income levels. Sales
increased as a result of new product introductions and
market share gains. Results for fiscal 2003 were also a
record, with net income increasing $2.3 million, to 
$11.2 million, or $1.20 per diluted share.

During fiscal 2004, the board of directors elected to
increase dividends twice, from 7 cents per share to 8 cents
effective for the first- and second-quarter payments, and to
9 cents in August for the third and fourth quarters. On
March 9, 2004, the quarterly dividend was increased again,
to 11 cents per share, helping to meet the 30% dividend
payout target the company had previously set. A special
dividend of $1.25 per share was also declared, payable in
May 2004, which will total approximately $11 million. In
fiscal 2003, the company split the stock two-for-one, and
increased dividends from 6.5 cents to 7.0 cents per share.
Capital expenditures totaled over $3.0 million for fiscal
2004, after spending $6.0 million in fiscal 2003, principally
for construction of an extrusion line and additional ware-
house space for the Engineered Films segment. Fiscal 2005
capital expenditures are anticipated to exceed $10 million,
with over half of that directed towards new extrusion tech-
nology and warehouse capacity for Engineered Films.

Management has planned for fiscal 2005 to be another
year of double-digit sales and profit growth, with earnings
for the first half relatively flat. The flat earnings are antici-
pated because the Flow Controls segment will not see a
repeat of the special chemical-injection systems sale that
totaled $6.0 million in the first half of fiscal 2004.

The following discussion highlights the consolidated oper-
ating results. Results at the divisional and subsidiary level
are more fully explained in the segment discussions that
follow. In addition, the company has undertaken divesti-
tures and repositioning activities in the past three fiscal
years which are more fully explained under “Divestitures
and Repositioning Activities.”
Fiscal 2004 versus fiscal 2003
The company’s net sales of $142.7 million topped fiscal
2003 net sales of $120.9 million by $21.8 million. This
18.1% increase is a result of all the divisions achieving
sales growth over fiscal 2003. Operating income grew
26.7% to $21.6 million as a result of increased gross prof-
its in all the divisions. Flow Controls boasted a $6.6 million
sales increase to $35.1 million on increased special-order
chemical injection system sales and new product sales 
and its operating income reached $8.3 million. Engineered
Films sales of $46.4 million were up 16.1% over fiscal
2003, but material pricing pressures kept operating income
relatively flat at $11.7 million. Electronic Systems increased
sales 14.8% to $44.3 million while growing operating
income to $5.8 million, or 44.1%, from a selective
customer base generating new and expanded orders.
Aerostar effected a strong turnaround, increasing sales
from $12.5 million to $17.0 million, and moving from an
operating loss position in fiscal 2003 to operating income

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 17

of $2.0 million in fiscal 2004, largely due to a US Army
cargo parachute contract. Fiscal 2003 results also included
$1.3 million in net sales and $204,000 of operating
income related to operations of Sold Businesses. Fiscal
2004 results include no sales and an operating loss of
$355,000 for ongoing environmental and legal liabilities
associated with previously sold businesses.
Fiscal 2003 versus fiscal 2002
Net sales of $120.9 million and operating income of $17.1
million represented 2.0% and 29.5% growth over fiscal
2002. Flow Controls had a solid year with a $5.3 million
increase in net sales and $1.4 million growth in operating
income, principally as a result of the Starlink acquisition.
Engineered Films’ sales were flat at $40.0 million, but
strong gross profits resulted in a 15.8% increase in operat-
ing income to $11.4 million. Electronic Systems had the
largest increase in sales, up $6.3 million to $38.6 million
while operating income climbed 77.7% to $4.0 million,
due in part to the System Integrators acquisition and 
operating efficiencies. Aerostar’s net sales were negatively
impacted by the withdrawal from the cold-weather outer-
wear business, declining $3.7 million to $12.5 million,
which, along with dropping gross profits, resulted in an
operating loss of $405,000 compared to income of 
$1.3 million for fiscal 2002. Sold businesses’ net sales
dropped $5.2 million to $1.3 million and contributed
$204,000 of operating income.

FISCAL 2004 PERFORMANCE MEASURES

The company’s net income was 9.7% of net sales for fiscal
2004. In terms of average assets, net income was 18.2%.
This highlights the company’s effective use of its assets to
generate income. Finally, as a percent of beginning equity
for fiscal 2004, net income was 23.8%, underscoring the
value generated for shareholders.

2004

2003

2002

2001

2000

1999

Net income as % of

Net sales  . . . . . . .
Average assets  . . .
Beginning equity . .

9.7% 9.3% 7.5% 4.8% 4.5% 4.0%
18.2% 15.9% 13.3% 9.2% 8.6% 7.4%
23.8% 21.5% 18.4% 11.8% 10.9% 10.0%

DIVESTITURES AND OTHER REPOSITIONING
ACTIVITIES

Over the past three years, the company has closed and
downsized business units that did not provide proper
returns on investment. While the company will continue 
to review the utilization of invested capital, management
believes this activity was substantially completed in 
fiscal 2003.
Fiscal 2004 Activities
Fiscal 2004 divestiture activities were limited to the sale, by
the company’s Aerostar subsidiary, of a sewing plant closed
in fiscal 2003. The sale of that plant and its related equip-
ment resulted in cash proceeds of $196,000 and 
a pretax gain of $182,000. This gain was offset by a
$355,000 loss from increased liabilities for environmental
or legal issues related to previously sold businesses, as 
estimated by the company and its advisors.
Fiscal 2003 Activities
During fiscal 2003, the former Beta Raven Industrial
Controls Division was sold. A pretax gain of $104,000 and
$577,000 of cash proceeds were realized on the comple-
tion of the disposal of that subsidiary. An Aerostar sewing
plant was closed during the third quarter as well. The
remainder of the pretax net gain of $179,000 related to
the collection of a previously discounted note receivable,
net of increased anticipated costs from ongoing environ-
mental and legal liabilities from previously sold businesses.
Fiscal 2002 Activities
In fiscal 2002, the company recorded a net pretax gain 
of $367,000 related to the sale of its former Sportswear
Division warehouse and the closure of its remaining 
Plastic Tank Division operations in Tacoma, Washington.
The company also incurred $249,000 of pretax charges to
reposition the Industrial Controls Division of Beta Raven,
including the closing of its Alabama plant. This charge 
was included in cost of goods sold in the Sold Businesses
segment.

page 18 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Sold Businesses
Fiscal 2003 net sales from Sold Businesses of $1.3 million
were entirely composed of Beta Raven Industrial Controls
Division operations. Operating income totaled $204,000
which included $179,000 of gains on asset sales. Net sales
from Sold Businesses in fiscal 2002 were $6.5 million with
$3.0 million from Beta Raven and $3.5 million from the
Plastic Tank Division. Operating losses were $613,000 with
$47,000 of losses on asset sales.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
SALES AND OPERATING INCOME BY SEGMENT

2004

2003

2002

Dollars in thousands

amount

%
change

amount

%
change

amount

%
change

SALES

Flow Controls  . . . . $ 35,059 +23.0 $ 28,496 +22.9 $ 23,178 +38.3
46,408 +16.1
40,280 + 0.7
Engineered Films  . .
32,289 + 0.8
44,307 + 14.8
Electronic Systems  .
16,271 –33.7
Aerostar  . . . . . . . .
16,953 +35.3
Total ongoing  . . . . 142,727 +19.3
112,018 – 1.2
6,497 –66.7
Sold businesses  . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . $142,727 +18.1 $120,903 + 2.0 $118,515 –10.8

39,975 – 0.8
38,589 +19.5
12,529 –23.0
119,589 + 6.8
1,314 –79.8

—

2004

2003

2002

%
sales

amount

%
sales

amount

%
sales

23.5 $ 6,897
11,447
25.2
4,022
13.1
(405)
11.5

24.2 $ 5,509
9,886
28.6
2,264
10.4
1,278
(3.2)

15.4

(5,100)
16,861
204
15.2 $ 17,065

14.1

(5,149)
13,788
(613)
14.1 $ 13,175

23.8
24.5 
7.0
7.9

12.3 

11.1

Dollars in thousands

amount

OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)

Flow Controls  . . . . $ 8,254
11,701
Engineered Films  . .
5,797
Electronic Systems  .
Aerostar  . . . . . . . .
1,954
Corporate 

(5,725)
expenses . . . . . .
21,981
Total ongoing  . . . .
Sold businesses  . . .
(355)
Total . . . . . . . . . . . $ 21,626

FLOW CONTROLS

The Flow Controls Division (FCD) provides electronic speed
and Global Positioning System (GPS)-based, location-
compensated application-control products for the
agriculture, marine navigation and other niche markets.

9

6

24

36

Net Sales 
(dollars in millions) 

FLOW CONTROLS
Operating 
Income 
(dollars in millions)

Fiscal 2004 versus fiscal 2003
Net sales of $35.1 million grew 23.0% from fiscal 2003
net sales of $28.5 million. Shipments of $6.0 million under
a special order for chemical injection systems during the
first half of fiscal 2004 were $2.8 million higher than 
fiscal 2003 shipments. The division’s precision agriculture
distribution plan, comprised of new product introductions,
improvements on existing products and an expanded
customer base, helped drive the remaining growth.
Operating income of $8.3 million surpassed fiscal 2003
operating income by
$1.4 million. Higher sales
levels in turn produced
increased gross profits,
but were partially offset
by a $678,000, or
39.5%, increase in sell-
ing expenses. As a
percentage of net sales,
gross profits were 30.4%
as compared to 29.8%
for fiscal 2003. Selling
expenses rose sharply
from personnel and
advertising costs associ-
ated with the new
precision agriculture
distribution plan.
Additionally, fiscal 2003 bad debt expense was favorable
due to the collection of a receivable for which an
allowance had previously been established.
Fiscal 2003 versus fiscal 2002
Fiscal 2003 net sales growth of $5.3 million over fiscal
2002 net sales was propelled mainly by the Starlink 
acquisition and new product sales. The increase also
resulted in higher gross profits, which grew $1.4 million,
and combined with a slight decrease in expenses, resulted
in operating income of $6.9 million. Selling expenses
increased with additional advertising, travel and consulting
costs, mostly offset by a credit for bad debt expense due to
collection. Gross profits as a percentage of net sales for
fiscal 2003 were 29.8%. The fiscal 2002 gross profit
percentage was 30.5%, negatively impacted 2.4 percentage

2004

2004

2002

2003

2003

2002

12

3

0

0

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 19

 
Research balloon sales dropped $1.1 million (22.7%) while
construction sales remained steady and agriculture sales
increased. Despite the sales growth, gross profits increased
only 3.9%. Combined with a $237,000, or 11.9%, increase
in selling expenses, operating income increased only
$254,000. Selling expenses grew as a result of additional
sales personnel as the division works to expand its new
product sales and market penetration. As a percentage of
net sales, gross profits declined from 33.7% to 30.1%. This
reflects the fluctuation in raw material costs between the
years, although the division adjusts selling prices whenever
possible to pass along the increases.
Fiscal 2003 versus fiscal 2002
EFD’s fiscal 2003 net sales of $40.0 million were $305,000
below fiscal 2002 net sales. The markets for pit lining were
depressed by reduced oil and gas exploration, while landfill
and manufactured housing demand were also below fiscal
2002. Research balloon sales increased 8.8%, and
combined with continued strength in the industrial and
construction markets, helped to offset some of the shortfall.
Operating income of $11.4 million grew $1.6 million over
fiscal 2002, a result of low raw material costs that helped
drive up gross profits. As a percentage of sales, gross 
profits increased from 29.1% to 33.7% on lower costs.
Partially offsetting that growth was a 13.1% increase in
selling expenses, or $231,000, due to higher personnel
costs and product improvement expenses.
Prospects
EFD continues to develop new products to fully utilize its
extrusion capacity. New products typically carry lower gross
profit margins during their introduction into the market-
place; however, margins should rise as the products mature
and capacity is utilized. Volatility in resin prices can also
impact gross profit rates. The division expects to see sales
increase in the 10% range with operating income rising
along with revenues. Management continues to invest in
this division with new extrusion technology and warehouse
capacity, still in the planning stage, scheduled to come 
on-line late in fiscal 2005 or early in fiscal 2006.

points due to a $550,000 write-off of acquired research and
development costs. The margin decline from fiscal 2002 to
fiscal 2003 is due to higher fixed costs which increased as a
result of the Starlink acquisition, whose operations concen-
trate heavily on research and development.
Prospects
The division will continue to emphasize its precision agri-
culture distribution and marketing plans. FCD is committed
to continued focus on improving current products, develop-
ing new solutions, and broadening the dealer network.
Gaining more market share in the precision agriculture
arena will be challenging as competition continues to
increase and may cause pricing and margin pressures. The
lack of a new chemical injection system special order
leaves a substantial gap to fill, and will be particularly
evident in the first half of fiscal 2005. The improving farm
economy in the United States, and continued success of our
precision agriculture initiative, may be sufficient to over-
come this first-half shortfall by the end of fiscal 2005. The
division remains strong and a key component of the
company’s overall success.

ENGINEERED FILMS

The Engineered Films Division (EFD) produces rugged 
reinforced plastic sheeting for industrial, construction,
manufactured housing and agriculture applications and
high altitude balloons for public and commercial research.
Fiscal 2004 versus fiscal 2003
The division’s net sales exceeded fiscal 2003 net sales by
$6.4 million to reach $46.4 million. The current fiscal year

saw an upturn in pit-
lining, industrial-market
sales, and vapor-barrier
sales. A new extrusion
line added late in fiscal
2003 is operating
according to plan, at
approximately 
one-third capacity, and
the expanded product
offerings account for a
large percentage of the
overall sales increase.

ENGINEERED FILMS
Operating 
Income 
(dollars in millions)

Net Sales 
(dollars in millions) 

48

32

16

0

12

8

4

0

2002

2003

2004

2002

2003

2004

page 20 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

 
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS

45

Net Sales 
(dollars in millions) 

ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS

Operating 
Income 
(dollars in millions)

The Electronic Systems Division (ESD) is a total-solutions
provider of electronics manufacturing services, primarily to
North American original equipment manufacturers.
Fiscal 2004 versus fiscal 2003
Division net sales rose 14.8%, or $5.7 million, to 
$44.3 million over fiscal 2003 net sales. Increased demand
for our customers’ products fueled the increase. The divi-
sion strives to maintain a small but profitable, efficient and
selective customer base,
and works with these
customers to obtain
order renewals and new
orders as older orders
end. Operating income
increased $1.8 million
over fiscal 2003 operat-
ing income of $4.0
million. Gross profit
growth was the main
contributor, as selling
expenses remained rela-
tively flat. Gross profit
margins improved from
12.4% in fiscal 2003 to
14.8% in 2004. ESD’s

2004

2004

2002

2003

2002

2003

15

30

4

0

2

6

0

fourth quarter gross profit rate of 13.8% reflected start-up
costs related to new customers. The improvement for the
full year is a result of production efficiencies and better
capacity utilization.
Fiscal 2003 versus fiscal 2002
ESD increased sales 19.5% over fiscal 2002 to reach 
$38.6 million. Much of the growth is attributable to
customers retained from the System Integrators acquisition
of December 2001, and sales from the former Beta Raven
electronics manufacturing services operations folded into
ESD during fiscal 2002. Government contract sales were
lower than fiscal 2002, partially offsetting the growth.
Operating income for the division reached $4.0 million
versus operating income of $2.3 million for fiscal 2002. The
growth is attributable to an increase in gross profits, coun-
tered by a $126,000 (20.2%) increase in selling expenses.

Selling expenses increased from higher personnel costs.
Bad debt expense in fiscal 2002 was favorably impacted by
a $92,000 bad debt that was recovered. As a percentage
of net sales, gross profits improved from 8.7% to 12.4%.
Higher sales, continued focus on improving efficiencies,
better utilization rates and a better customer base drove
the increase.
Prospects
The division has built solid relationships with its customer
base that should continue to provide growth opportunities
throughout fiscal 2005. Overall, the division looks for sales
growth in excess of 10% for fiscal 2005, with increases
coming from existing accounts and the addition of one or
two new customers. Better utilization of capacity and effi-
ciency improvements are expected to increase operating
income at a faster pace.

AEROSTAR

The Aerostar segment manufactures military cargo para-
chutes, government service uniforms and custom-shaped
inflatable products.
Fiscal 2004 versus fiscal 2003
Aerostar had a strong turnaround in fiscal 2004, pulling
net sales up 35.3% over fiscal 2003 results, to $17.0
million. Shipments under the US Army cargo parachute
contract secured in fiscal 2003 increased $6.0 million,
offsetting the loss in sales from discontinued outerwear
lines and lower advertising-inflatables sales. Operating
income of $2.0 million
displayed a similarly
strong turnaround as
compared to a $405,000
loss in fiscal 2003, driven
by gross profit increases
and selling expense
decreases. The restructur-
ing that the subsidiary
has undergone in the
past three fiscal years
has resulted in the elimi-
nation of cold-weather
outerwear business and
a diminished focus on
hot-air balloon sales.

Operating 
Income 
(dollars in millions)

Net Sales 
(dollars in millions) 

AEROSTAR

18

12

-1

6

0

0

2

1

2002

2003

2004

2002

2003

2004

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 21

 
 
10

15

NET OPERATING  
MARGIN
(in percent)

percentage of sales, expenses declined slightly. Expenses
were relatively flat in fiscal 2003 as compared to fiscal
2002, declining $49,000. Interest expense increased
slightly from $63,000 in fiscal 2003 to $70,000 for fiscal
2004. The company’s main expense was interest on capital
leases and deferred acquisition
payments from the Starlink
and System Integrators acquisi-
tions as no borrowings were
made in fiscal 2004. In addi-
tion, interest expense was
incurred on payments related
to a previously accrued tax
dispute settlement. Between
fiscal 2002 and fiscal 2003,
interest expense declined
$66,000 due to reduced debt
levels from the prepayment of
notes. Other income declined
from $519,000 for fiscal 2002
to $252,000 and $160,000 in
fiscal 2003 and 2004, respec-
tively. The main component of
other income is interest income which has suffered from
low interest rates despite increased cash and investments,
particularly between fiscal 2002 and 2003. Fiscal 2004’s
effective income tax rate of 36.3% was higher than the
35.2% effective rate for fiscal 2003 due to state income
taxes and higher nondeductible expenses. The impact of
graduated rates also declined due to the higher taxable
income. Similar factors impacted the growth from 34.8% in
fiscal 2002 to 35.2% in fiscal 2003.

2004

2003

2000

2001

2002

1999

0

5

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The following table summarizes cash provided by 
(used in) the company’s business activities for the past
three fiscal years:
Dollars in thousands
Operating activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2004
$19,732
(4,352)
(6,155)

2003
$12,735
(9,166)
(5,830)

2002
$18,496
(13,152)
(8,539)

Operating income includes a $182,000 gain on the sale 
of a sewing plant closed in fiscal 2003. Gross profits
increased as a percentage of sales from 4.5% to 15.0%,
largely on the strength of the cargo parachute contract and
improved margins on other sewn and sealed products.
Fiscal 2003 profits were also depressed by $306,000 of
inventory obsolescence charges on hot air balloon and
apparel operations and start-up costs incurred for para-
chute manufacturing.
Fiscal 2003 versus fiscal 2002
Fiscal 2003 net sales dropped $3.7 million from the fiscal
2002 net sales level of $16.3 million. The withdrawal from
the cold-weather outerwear market was responsible for
most of the decline. Hot-air balloon sales were lower 
and inflatable display purchases were depressed by lower
advertising spending by customers. Operating losses
reached $405,000, down from an operating income level
of $1.3 million in fiscal 2002. A decrease in gross profits
drove most of the decline, along with the inclusion in fiscal
2002 operating income of a $414,000 gain on the sale of
a building. As a percentage of sales, gross profits declined
to 4.5% compared to 11.9% for fiscal 2002. Besides the
lower sales levels, inventory obsolescence charges, para-
chute contract start-up costs and increased product liability
costs negatively impacted gross profits.
Prospects
Aerostar has positioned itself for further growth in fiscal
2005. Its current backlog position indicates sales growth in
the 10% range. Additional sales growth should improve
plant utilization and productivity, driving operating income
even higher. New orders secured for parachutes and inflat-
able military decoys provide a basis for continuing
optimism as Aerostar solidifies its product strategy.

EXPENSES, INCOME TAXES AND OTHER

Corporate expenses increased 12.3% over fiscal 2003 to
$5.7 million for fiscal 2004. Personnel costs accounted for
nearly half of the growth, a result of additional staff and
increased compensation and insurance expenses. As a

page 22 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

OPERATING ACTIVITIES AND CASH POSITION

Cash flow from operations totaled $19.7 million, a $7.0
million increase over inflows in fiscal 2003. The rise in net
income and cash generated from inventory reductions were
the main drivers. Flow Controls inventory levels in particu-
lar were higher at January 31, 2003, in anticipation of
shipments for special order chemical-injection systems
shipped in the first half of fiscal 2004. Engineered Films
inventories at January 31, 2003, were also higher to 
take advantage of favorable raw material costs. Accounts
receivable increased from January 31, 2003, balances,
particularly within Electronic Systems from fourth-quarter
shipments and higher sales levels in Engineered Films.
Accounts payable shifted from a net cash inflow in fiscal
2003 to a cash use of $1.6 million for fiscal 2004 due to
the decline in inventory and through efforts to take advan-
tage of discounts. Fiscal 2003 operating cash flows were

CASH FLOWS FROM 
OPERATIONS
(dollars in millions)

20

15

10

5

0

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

$12.7 million as compared to
cash flows of $18.5 million
for fiscal 2002. Net income
was higher, but the growth
was offset by a decrease in
cash flows from inventory and
accounts receivable. Included
in fiscal 2002 cash flows was
the liquidation of accounts
receivable and inventory from
the closed Plastic Tank
Division. In addition, fiscal
2003 inventory levels were
higher in preparation for the
chemical-injection systems
order and to take advantage
of lower material costs.

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled
$18.4 million at January 31, 2004. This is double the
balance of $9.2 million on January 31, 2003, which itself

was 22.7% higher than the $7.5 million at January 31,
2002. Increased earnings, minimal capital expenditures and
lower inventory levels have generated the growth in avail-
able cash. The company expects that cash and short-term
investments, combined with continued positive operating
cash flows, will continue to be sufficient to fund day-to-day
operations and approximately $11 million of special divi-
dends in May 2004.

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

The company used $4.4 million of cash for investing activi-
ties in fiscal 2004 versus $9.2 million for fiscal 2003. The
company acquired Fluent Systems, LLC for $1.0 million and
purchased a formerly leased Engineered Films segment
facility for $1.0 million in fiscal 2004. The remaining expen-
ditures represent ongoing capital improvements, partially
reduced by proceeds from the sale of an Aerostar sewing
plant. Cash used for investing activities in fiscal 2003
decreased $4.0 million as compared to cash used of 
$13.2 million in fiscal 2002. While no business acquisitions
were completed during fiscal 2003 as in fiscal 2002 when
Starlink and System Integrators were purchased, the
Engineered Films Division completed construction of a 
$4.4 million extrusion line and additional warehouse space.
Short-term investments of $4.0 million were purchased in
2003 with excess cash.

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Cash used in financing activities of $6.2 million was rela-
tively flat compared to $5.8 million expended in fiscal
2003. The company’s main financing activities continue to
be the payment of dividends and the repurchase of
company stock. Fiscal 2002 financing activities included
$3.0 million in prepayment of a long-term note. The divi-
dend was increased 21.4% over fiscal 2003, and purchases
of 144,175 shares at an average price of $21.28 were
made during the year. In fiscal 2003, 251,230 shares were
repurchased at an average price of $13.23, while 346,618
shares at an average price of $8.22 were repurchased in

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 23

Dollars in thousands
Contractual Obligations:
Line of credit(a)  . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital leases  . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred acquisition 

obligations . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating leases  . . . . . . . . .
Unconditional purchase 

obligations . . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other Commercial Commitments:
Letters of credit  . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total

FY 2005

FY 2006-
FY 2007

FY 2008-
FY 2009

$ — $ —
81

142

$ —
61

409
688

409
220

17,464
18,703

17,464
18,174

—
331

—
392

1,682
$20,385

1,682
$19,856

—
$392

$ —
—

—
137

—
137

—
$137

(a) $7.0 million line bears interest at 4.00% and expires July 2004.

CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS

18

15

RETURN ON  
AVERAGE ASSETS
(in percent)

The company maintains an excellent financial condition and
capacity for growth. Management continues to look for
opportunities to expand its core businesses through acqui-
sitions or internal growth. The company has the capacity to
assume additional financing
and will do so if the appropri-
ate strategic opportunity
presents itself. Capital expendi-
tures for fiscal 2005 are
budgeted to exceed 
$10 million. Over half of these
expenditures will be to support
the Engineered Films Division
with new extrusion technology
and warehouse capacity. Stock
repurchases are anticipated to
continue as a means to return
additional cash to shareholders
and increase the leverage of
the company’s balance sheet.
As noted in the financing
section, a one-time dividend of approximately $11 million
will also be paid in May 2004. The cash generated from
operations and the availability under existing credit facili-
ties is anticipated to be sufficient to fund these initiatives.

2004

2003

1999

2001

2000

2002

12

6

3

9

0

fiscal 2002. On March 9, 2004, the company announced
that in addition to a 22% increase in the regular quarterly
dividend (from 9 cents to 11 cents per share) a special
one-time dividend of $1.25 per share will be paid May 20,
2004. Based on current shares outstanding, the one-time
dividend will total approximately $11 million. The company
anticipates paying this dividend with existing cash and
short-term investments.

No short-term borrowings were made in fiscal 2004.
The remaining debt of the company consists of capital
leases assumed in the acquisition of Starlink and 
System Integrators which are scheduled to be repaid by
fiscal 2006.

Contractual obligations consist of capital leases and non-
cancelable operating leases for facilities and equipment,
deferred acquisition payments related to the Starlink,
System Integrators and Fluent Systems acquisitions and
unconditional purchase obligations primarily for raw mate-
rials. The letters of credit have been issued for worker’s
compensation insurance obligations that remain from the
period of self-insurance (February 1, 2001, and prior). In
the event the bank chooses not to renew the line of credit,
the letters of credit would cease and alternative methods
of support for the insurance obligations would be necessary
that would be more expensive and require additional cash
outlays. The company believes the chances of such an 
event are remote. A summary of the obligations and
commitments at January 31, 2004, for the next five years 
is presented in the following table.

page 24 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND 
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Critical accounting policies for the company are those poli-
cies that require the application of judgment when valuing
assets and liabilities on the company’s balance sheet. The
company, other than utilizing operating leases, does not
enter into off balance sheet financing or derivatives.

The company’s most difficult accounting decision is deter-
mining inventory value at the lower of cost or market.
Typically, when a product reaches the end of its life cycle,
inventory value declines slowly or the product has alterna-
tive uses. Management uses its computerized
manufacturing resources planning data to help determine if
inventory is slow moving or has become obsolete due to an
engineering change. The company closely reviews items
that have balances in excess of the prior year’s require-
ments or that have been dropped from production
requirements. Despite these reviews, technological or
strategic decisions, made by management or the company’s
customers, may result in unexpected excess material. In the
Electronic Systems Division, the company typically has
recourse to customers for obsolete or excess material.
Under terms of the contract, the customers may have to
take delivery of the material or compensate the company
accordingly. In every operating unit of the company,
management must manage obsolete inventory risk. The
accounting judgment ultimately made is an evaluation of
the success that division management will have in control-
ling inventory risk and mitigating the impact of
obsolescence when it does occur.

Determining the level of the allowance for doubtful
accounts, warranty and self-insurance accruals represent
management’s best estimate of future events. Historical
levels of activity or assistance from advisors may be used in
certain circumstances, but knowledge of the current 
financial climate or the impact of a new product on these
accruals always tempers evaluation of the historical data.

6

8

BOOK VALUE  
PER SHARE
(in dollars)

The company periodically
assesses goodwill and other
intangible assets for impair-
ment, at the segment level,
using fair value measurement
techniques. Estimates of 
fair value are primarily deter-
mined using discounted cash
flows, market comparisons and
recent transactions. These valu-
ation methodologies use
significant estimates and
assumptions, which include
projected future cash flows,
including timing and the risks
inherent in future cash flows,
perpetual growth rates and
determination of appropriate market comparables.

2001

1999

2000

4

0

2

2002

2003

2004

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

The Financial Accounting Standards Board has released
several Staff Positions, Interpretations and revised
Standards in the latter portion of fiscal 2004. The company
has reviewed the issues covered by these pronouncements,
and has determined their impacts to be minimal, and in
most cases, not applicable to the company.

CHANGES IN SECURITIES LAWS AND REGULATIONS

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Act”) that became
law in July 2002 requires changes in some of the
company’s corporate governance and securities disclosure
or compliance practices. The company is presently preparing
for its required compliance on January 31, 2005, with
Section 404 of the Act, and management’s assertions
concerning financial reporting controls. This process is time-
consuming and costly and involves significant
interpretation of proposed requirements. The company
believes that while it will be challenging, it will ultimately
comply with the requirements.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 25

Monthly Closing Stock Price and Volume

e
c
i
r
P

30

24

18

12

6

0

2000

1600

1200

800

400

0

e
m
u
l
o
V

Feb03  Mar03  Apr03  May03  Jun03 

Jul03  Aug03  Sep03  Oct03  Nov03  Dec03 

Jan04

Shares Traded (in thousands) 

Closing Stock Price (in dollars)

Quarterly Information (Unaudited)

Dollars in thousands,
except per-share data
FISCAL 2004
First Quarter  . . . . . . . . .
Second Quarter . . . . . . .
Third Quarter  . . . . . . . .
Fourth Quarter  . . . . . . .
Total Year  . . . . . . . . . . .

FISCAL 2003
First Quarter . . . . . . . . . . .
Second Quarter  . . . . . . . .
Third Quarter  . . . . . . . . . .
Fourth Quarter  . . . . . . . . .
Total Year  . . . . . . . . . . . .

FISCAL 2002
First Quarter . . . . . . . . . . .
Second Quarter  . . . . . . . .
Third Quarter  . . . . . . . . . .
Fourth Quarter  . . . . . . . . .
Total Year  . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net
Sales

Gross
Profit

Operating
Income

Pretax
Income

Net
Income

Net Income
(a)(b)Per Share(a)(b)
Diluted
Basic

Common Stock
(b)Market Price(b)
Low
High

Cash
Dividends
(b)Per Share(b)

$ 36,942
36,110
36,081
33,594
$142,727

$ 30,974
29,692
31,423
28,814
$ 120,903

$ 30,972
28,157
28,780
30,606
$ 118,515

$ 9,437
7,811
9,219
7,292
$33,759

$ 8,150
5,996
7,332
6,037
$ 27,515

$ 6,239
5,299
6,391
5,922
$ 23,851

$ 6,544
4,937
6,121
4,024
$21,626

$ 5,304
3,532
4,872
3,357
$ 17,065

$ 3,294
3,020
3,762
3,099
$ 13,175

$ 6,556
4,976
6,126
4,058
$21,716

$ 5,320
3,569
4,939
3,426
$ 17,254

$ 3,415
3,157
3,879
3,114
$ 13,565

$ 4,183
3,163
3,902
2,588
$13,836

$ 3,458
2,320
3,210
2,197
$ 11,185

$ 2,209
2,043
2,510
2,085
$ 8,847

$0.46
0.35
0.43
0.29
$1.53

$ 0.38
0.25
0.35
0.24
$ 1.22

$ 0.23
0.22
0.27
0.23
$ 0.95

$0.45
0.34
0.42
0.28
$1.50

$ 0.37
0.25
0.34
0.24
$ 1.20

$ 0.23
0.22
0.27
0.22
$ 0.93

$19.00
22.00
27.46
30.45
$30.45

$ 12.18
14.43
14.00
18.40
$ 18.40

$ 6.42
9.09
9.06
11.75
$ 11.75

$15.12
15.80
21.24
23.77
$15.12

$ 8.75
10.75
11.65
13.40
$ 8.75

$ 6.04
6.34
7.23
8.55
$ 6.04

$0.080
0.080
0.090
0.090
$0.340

$ 0.070
0.070
0.070
0.070
$ 0.280

$ 0.060
0.065
0.065
0.065
$ 0.255

(a) Net income per share is computed discretely by quarter and may not add to the full year.
(b) All per-share and market price data reflect the January 2003 two-for-one stock split and the July 2001 three-for-two stock split.

page 26 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets

Dollars in thousands, except per-share data
ASSETS
Current assets

2004

As of January 31
2003

2002

Cash and cash equivalents  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $14,442
Short-term investments  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4,000
18,454
Accounts receivable, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16,763
Inventories, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1,313
Deferred income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
738
55,710
Total current assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Property, plant and equipment, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15,950
6,776
1,072
Total assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $79,508

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities

Current portion of long-term debt  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts payable  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer advances  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

72
3,666
7,784
373
11,895

Long-term debt, less current portion  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other liabilities, primarily compensation and benefits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

57
1,085

Commitments and contingencies

$ 5,217
4,000
16,468
21,366
1,493
807
49,351

16,455
5,933
1,077
$72,816

$

119
5,291
7,157
600
13,167

151
1,262

$ 7,478
—
16,427
19,082
1,927
394
45,308

14,059
5,863
2,606
$67,836

$

127
4,801
8,179
703
13,810

280
1,714

Shareholders’ equity  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

66,471

58,236

52,032

Common shares, par value $1.00 per share

Authorized — 100,000,000
Outstanding — 2004: 9,020,544; 2003: 9,066,362;
2002: 9,211,138 (4,605,569 pre-split)

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $79,508

$72,816

$67,836

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

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 27

Consolidated Statements of Income

Dollars in thousands, except per-share data
Net sales  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of goods sold  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For the years ended January 31

2004
$142,727
108,968

2003
$120,903
93,388

2002
$118,515
94,664

Gross profit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

33,759

27,515

23,851

Selling, general and administrative expenses  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss (gain) on sales of businesses and assets, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11,960
173

10,629
(179)

11,043
(367)

Operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21,626

17,065

13,175

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

70
(160)

63
(252)

129
(519)

Income before income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21,716

17,254

13,565

Income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7,880

6,069

4,718

Net income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 13,836

$ 11,185

$ 8,847

Net income per common share

— basic  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
— diluted  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$
$

1.53
1.50

$
$

1.22
1.20

$
$

0.95
0.93

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

page 28 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity 
and Comprehensive Income

Dollars in thousands, except per-share data
Balance January 31, 2001  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net and comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividends ($.255 per share)(a)  . . . . . . . .
Three-for-two stock split   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase of stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase and retirement of stock  . . . . . . . . .
Employees’ stock options exercised  . . . . . . . .
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options  . . .
Balance January 31, 2002  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SFAS 123 adoption adjustment  . . . . . . . . . . .
Net and comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividends ($.280 per share)(a)  . . . . . . . .
Two-for-one stock split  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase of stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase and retirement of stock  . . . . . . . . .
Employees’ stock options exercised  . . . . . . . .
Stock compensation expense  . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options  . . .
Balance January 31, 2003  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Common
Stock

Paid-in
Capital
$ 5,223 $3,459

—
—
2,612
—
(70)
110
—
7,875

—
—
—
7,875
—
(70)
176
—
—
15,856

—
—
(2,614)
—
(1,134)
1,378
133
1,222

478
—
—
(1,682)
—
(835)
917
174
66
340

Treasury stock

Retained
Earnings
Cost
(2,063,807) $ (28,941) $ 68,248

Shares

Total
$ 47,989

—
—
(1,031,903)
(173,309)
—
—
—
(3,269,019)

—
—
—
(3,269,019)
(251,230)
—
—
—
—
(6,789,268)

8,847
8,847
—
(2,371)
— (2,371)
—
(2)
—
— (2,848)
(2,848)
— (1,204)
—
1,488
—
—
133
—
—
52,032
74,724
(31,789)

—
—
— 11,185
— (2,563)
— (6,193)

478
11,185
(2,563)
—
— (3,324)
(905)
—
1,093
—
174
—
66
—
58,236
77,153

(3,324)
—
—
—
—
(35,113)

Net and comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividends ($.340 per share)  . . . . . . . . .
Purchase of stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase and retirement of stock  . . . . . . . . .
Employees’ stock options exercised  . . . . . . . .
Stock compensation expense  . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options  . . .

—
—
—
(39)
137
—
—
Balance January 31, 2004  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15,954

(a) Reflects the July 2001 three-for-two stock split and January 2003 two-for-one stock split.

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

— 13,836
— (3,075)

—
—
—
(804)
435
282
531

13,836
(3,075)
— (3,068)
(843)
—
572
—
282
—
531
—
$784 (6,933,443) $(38,181) $87,914 $66,471

—
—
(144,175)
—
—
—
—

(3,068)
—
—
—
—

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 29

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Dollars in thousands
Cash flows from operating activities

For the years ended January 31
2003

2002

2004

Net income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $13,836
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided 

$11,185

$ 8,847

by operating activities:
Depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquired in-process research and development charge  . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for losses on accounts receivable, net of recoveries  . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses and assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock compensation expense  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from the 

3,674
471
—
67
173
254
282

acquisition and sale of businesses  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other operating activities, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash provided by operating activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

850
125
19,732

Cash flows from investing activities

Capital expenditures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase of short-term investments  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sale of short-term investments  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition of businesses  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sales of businesses and assets, net of cash sold  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other investing activities, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash used in investing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from borrowing under line of credit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repayment on borrowing under line of credit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term debt principal payments  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net proceeds from exercise of stock options  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends paid  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase of treasury stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other financing activities, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash used in financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3,330)
(4,000)
4,000
(1,038)
257
(241)
(4,352)

—
—
(141)
129
(3,075)
(3,068)
—
(6,155)

3,541
425
—
(100)
(179)
1,157
174

(3,470)
2
12,735

(6,033)
(5,000)
1,000
(57)
927
(3)
(9,166)

1,025
(1,025)
(131)
188
(2,563)
(3,324)
—
(5,830)

2,975
170
550
126
(367)
586
76

5,453
80
18,496

(5,094)
—
—
(8,735)
677
—
(13,152)

1,470
(1,470)
(3,602)
284
(2,371)
(2,848)
(2)
(8,539)

9,225
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5,217
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $14,442

(2,261)
7,478
$ 5,217

(3,195)
10,673
$ 7,478

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

page 30 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Notes to Financial Statements

Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND PRINCIPLES 
OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts
of Raven Industries, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries
(the “company”). The company is an industrial manufac-
turer providing a variety of products to customers within
the industrial, agricultural, construction and military/aero-
space markets primarily in North America. The company
operates three divisions (Flow Controls, Engineered Films
and Electronic Systems) in addition to a wholly owned
subsidiary, Aerostar International, Inc. (Aerostar). All signifi-
cant intercompany balances and transactions have been
eliminated in consolidation.

USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of the company’s financial statements in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States of America requires management to
make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of
the financial statements and the reported amounts of
revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual
results could differ from these estimates.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
The company considers all highly liquid debt instruments
with original maturities of three months or less to be cash
equivalents. Cash and cash equivalent balances are princi-
pally concentrated in checking and savings accounts with
Wells Fargo Bank N.A.

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
The investments consist of fully insured certificates of
deposit with varying maturities, all less than 12 months
from the balance sheet date. Rates on the deposits at
January 31, 2004, range from 1.3% to 1.6%.

INVENTORY VALUATION
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with
cost determined on the first-in, first-out basis. Market value
encompasses consideration of all business factors including
price, contract terms and usefulness.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and are
depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets
using accelerated methods. The estimated useful lives used
for computing depreciation are as follows:
Buildings and improvements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 to 39 years
3 to 7 years
Machinery and equipment  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense in the
year incurred and renewals and betterments are capital-
ized. The cost and related accumulated depreciation of
assets sold or disposed of are removed from the accounts
and the resulting gain or loss is reflected in operations.

INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangible assets, primarily comprised of technologies
acquired through acquisition, are recorded at cost net of
accumulated amortization. Amortization is computed on a
straight-line basis over estimated useful lives ranging from
3 to 20 years. The straight-line method of amortization
reflects an appropriate allocation of the cost of the intangi-
ble assets to earnings in each reporting period.

GOODWILL
Goodwill related to acquisitions completed prior to June
30, 2001, was previously amortized over lives ranging from
15 to 20 years. As required by Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other
Intangible Assets,” amortization ceased on February 1,
2002, and no goodwill resulting from acquisitions after
June 30, 2001, has been amortized. Goodwill is instead
evaluated in terms of its fair value at least annually and
any impairment recognized at that time.

LONG-LIVED ASSETS
The company periodically assesses the recoverability of
long-lived and intangible assets using fair value measure-
ment techniques, where fair value is calculated based upon
anticipated future earnings and undiscounted operating
cash flows. If the fair value is less than the carrying amount
of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized to the extent
the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 31

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

INSURANCE OBLIGATIONS
The company employs deductible insurance policies cover-
ing worker’s compensation and general liability costs. Costs
are accrued related to the risk retained under these policies
based on claims filed and estimates for claims incurred but
not reported. In addition, accruals are maintained to cover
the company’s partial self-insurance status for worker’s
compensation prior to February 1, 2001.

CONTINGENCIES
The company is involved as a defendant in lawsuits, claims
or disputes arising in the normal course of business. An
estimate of the loss on these matters is charged to opera-
tions when it is probable that an asset has been impaired
or a liability has been incurred, and the amount of the loss
can be reasonably estimated. The settlement of such claims
cannot be determined at this time; however, management
believes that any liability resulting from these claims will be
substantially mitigated by insurance coverage. Accordingly,
management does not believe that the ultimate outcome
of these matters will be significant to its results of opera-
tions, financial position or cash flows.

REVENUE RECOGNITION
The company recognizes revenue and records revenues
upon shipment of products. The company sells directly to
customers or distributors who incur the expense and
commitment for any post-sale obligations beyond stated
warranty terms. Any returns, allowances or warranty
charges are recognized after shipment of a product. The
company does not typically require collateral from its
customers. Shipping and handling costs are classified as a
cost of goods sold component.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Research and development expenditures of $1.7 million in
fiscal 2004, $1.3 million in fiscal 2003, and $1.4 million in
fiscal 2002 were charged to cost of goods sold in the year
incurred. Expenditures are principally composed of labor
and material costs. Fiscal 2002 expenditures include the
$550,000 acquired research and development charge
related to the acquisition of Starlink.

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
In fiscal 2003, the company began recording compensation
expense related to its stock-based compensation plan using
the fair value method permitted by SFAS No. 123,
“Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” under the
modified prospective method outlined by SFAS No. 148,
“Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and
Disclosure.” Fiscal 2002’s compensation expense was
measured under the intrinsic value method.

INCOME TAXES
Income tax expense is the tax payable for the period and
the change during the period in deferred tax assets and
liabilities and reserves. Judgmental reserves are maintained
for income tax audits and other tax issues. Deferred income
taxes reflect temporary differences between assets and
liabilities reported on the company’s balance sheet and
their tax bases. These differences are measured using
enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates applicable to the
periods when the temporary differences will impact taxable
income. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation
allowance to reflect realizable value, when necessary.

STOCK SPLITS
The company completed a two-for-one stock split effected
in the form of a 100% stock dividend on January 15, 2003.
Previously, the company completed a three-for-two stock
split effected in the form of a 50% stock dividend on July
13, 2001. All per-share information reflects the effect of
these stock splits.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
The Financial Accounting Standards Board has released
several Staff Positions, Interpretations and revised
Standards in the latter portion of fiscal 2004. The company
has reviewed the issues covered by these pronouncements,
and has determined their impacts to be minimal, and in
most cases, not applicable to the company.

page 32 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Note 2. Selected Balance Sheet Information
Following are the components of selected balance sheet
items:

Dollars in thousands
Accounts receivable, net:

As of January 31
2003

2004

2002

Trade accounts  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $18,719
(265)
Allowance for doubtful accounts  . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $18,454

$16,708
(240)
$16,468

$16,737
(310)
$16,427

Inventories, net:

Finished goods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,500
2,120
In process  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12,143
Materials  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $16,763

Property, plant and equipment, net:

Land  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,110
13,049
Building and improvements . . . . . . . . . .
32,479
Machinery and equipment . . . . . . . . . . .
(30,688)
Accumulated depreciation . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15,950

Other assets, net:

Amortizable assets:

Purchased technology  . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,250
1,136
Other intangibles  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(1,494)
Accumulated amortization . . . . . . . . .
892
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
—
Deferred income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . .
96
Deposits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
84
Other, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,072

Accrued liabilities:

Salaries and benefits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,875
1,638
Vacation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
906
401(k) contributions  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
524
Self-insurance obligations  . . . . . . . . . . .
267
Income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
544
Profit sharing  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
389
Deferred acquisition payments . . . . . . . .
1,641
Other  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 7,784

$ 5,290
2,275
13,801
$21,366

$ 1,091
12,154
32,248
(29,038)
$16,455

$ 1,080
884
(1,027)
937
6
96
38
$ 1,077

$ 1,766
1,627
782
1,045
276
406
—
1,255
$ 7,157

$ 4,509
1,732
12,841
$19,082

$ 1,091
10,614
29,219
(26,865)
$14,059

$ 1,080
1,116
(705)
1,491
696
112
307
$ 2,606

$ 2,109
1,731
825
1,627
144
284
—
1,459
$ 8,179

Note 3. Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Dollars in thousands
Changes in operating assets and liabilities,
net of effects from the purchase and 
sale of businesses:
Accounts receivable  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other assets  . . . . . .
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued and other liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer advances  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash paid during the year for:

For the years ended January 31
2002
2003
2004

$(2,072)
4,603
(16)
(1,625)
187
(227)
$ 850

$ (304)
(2,671)
15
560
(1,153)
83
$(3,470)

$4,510
1,506
386
681
(1,299)
(331)
$5,453

Interest  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

50
7,014

$

44
4,852

$ 149
3,923

Note 4. Acquisitions
On December 19, 2003, the company acquired substantially
all of the assets of Fluent Systems, LLC for $1.0 million in
cash and a payment deferred until December 2004, which
was valued at $60,000. This start-up company has devel-
oped a wireless liquid level monitoring system used with
anhydrous ammonia tanks. Of the purchase price, $79,000
was assigned to property, plant and equipment, $195,000
was assigned to intangible assets, $19,000 to current liabili-
ties assumed and $843,000 to goodwill, which is fully
deductible for tax purposes. The operation was assigned to
the Flow Controls segment.
The company acquired the operating assets and assumed
certain liabilities of Starlink, Incorporated and System
Integrators, Inc. on December 5, 2001. Starlink provides
GPS-based guidance systems for the agriculture and 
marine markets. The purchase price of Starlink was 
$7.9 million, including $7.5 million of cash and a
$287,000 payment deferred until December 2004.
System Integrators is an electronics manufacturing services
(EMS) provider and has been combined into the company’s
Electronic Systems Division. The adjusted purchase price
was $1.2 million including a $61,000 deferred payment
due December 2004.

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 33

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

Note 6. Goodwill and Other Intangibles
Goodwill and other intangibles are accounted for under
SFAS No. 142 as adopted February 1, 2002 (first day of
fiscal 2003) for all previously acquired or internally devel-
oped intangibles and goodwill, and as of June 30, 2001 for
any acquisitions completed after that date. Under the
Statement, amortization of goodwill and any indefinite-
lived intangibles ceased, and are instead tested at least
annually, on a fair value basis, for impairment.
Excluding goodwill amortization expense and related taxes,
net income and net income per share would have been as
follows:

Dollars in thousands except per-share amounts
Net Income:

For the years ended January 31
2002
2003
2004

As reported  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill amortization, net of taxes  . . . . .
As adjusted  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$13,836
—
$13,836

$11,185
—
$11,185

Basic net income per-share:

As reported  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill amortization, net of taxes  . . . . .
As adjusted  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1.53
—
$ 1.53

$ 1.22
—
$ 1.22

Diluted net income per-share:

As reported  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill amortization, net of taxes  . . . . .
As adjusted  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1.50
—
$ 1.50

$ 1.20
—
$ 1.20

$8,847
61
$8,908

$ 0.95
0.01
$ 0.96

$ 0.93
0.01
$ 0.94

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by report-
ing segment are shown below:

Dollars in thousands
Balance at January 31, 2001  . . . . . .
Goodwill acquired during year  . . .
Amortization  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at January 31, 2002  . . . . . .
Purchase price adjustments  . . . . .
Balance at January 31, 2003  . . . . . .
Goodwill acquired during year  . . .
Balance at January 31, 2004  . . . . . .

Total

Flow
Controls
Films
$ — $642
—
4,947
(82)
—
560
4,947
—
(7)
560
4,940
—
843
$560
$5,783

Engineered Electronic
Systems
$ — $ 642
5,303
(82)
5,863
70
5,933
843
$6,776

356
—
356
77
433
—
$433

Estimated future amortization expense based on the
current carrying value of amortizable intangible assets for
fiscal periods 2005 through 2009 is $445,000, $145,000,
$128,000, $73,000, and $34,000, respectively.

The results of operations for acquired businesses have been
included in the consolidated financial statements since the
date of acquisition. Pro forma earnings are not presented
due to the immateriality of the acquisitions to the consoli-
dated operations.

Note 5. Divestitures and Other 
Repositioning Activities
Fiscal 2004 divestiture activities were limited to the sale 
by the company’s Aerostar subsidiary of a sewing plant
closed in fiscal 2003. The sale of that plant and its related
equipment resulted in cash proceeds of $196,000 and a
pretax gain of $182,000. This gain was offset by a
$355,000 loss from increased liabilities for environmental
or legal issues related to previously sold operations, as 
estimated by the company and its advisors. At January 31,
2004, the company had an undiscounted accrual remaining
of $228,000 for environmental monitoring and 
clean-up costs.
During fiscal 2003, the former Beta Raven Industrial
Controls Division was sold. A pretax gain of $104,000 and
$577,000 of cash proceeds were realized on the comple-
tion of the disposal of that subsidiary. An Aerostar sewing
plant was closed during the third quarter as well. The
remainder of the pretax net gain of $179,000 related to
the collection of a previously discounted note receivable,
net of increased anticipated costs from ongoing liabilities
from previously sold businesses.
In fiscal 2002, the company recorded a net pretax gain of
$367,000 related to the sale of its former Sportswear
Division warehouse and the closure of its remaining 
Plastic Tank Division operations in Tacoma, Washington.
The company also incurred $249,000 of pretax charges to
reposition the Industrial Controls Division of Beta Raven,
including the closing of its Alabama plant. This charge was
included in cost of goods sold in the Sold Businesses
segment.

page 34 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Note 7. Employee Retirement Benefits
The company has a 401(k) plan covering substantially 
all employees and contributed 3% of qualified payroll.
The company’s contribution expense was $817,000,
$715,000 and $727,000 for fiscal 2004, 2003 and 
2002, respectively.
In addition, the company provides postretirement medical
and other benefits to senior executive officers and senior
managers. The company accounts for these benefits in
accordance with SFAS No. 106, “Accounting for
Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions.” There are no
assets held for the plans and any obligations are covered
through the company’s operating cash and investments.
The liability and expense reflected in the balance sheet and
income statement are as follows:

Dollars in thousands
Beginning balance  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employer expense  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retiree benefits paid  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current portion  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term portion  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For the years ended 
January 31
2003
$ 969
306
(173)
1,102
(150)
$ 952

2004
$1,102
316
(206)
1,212
(200)
$1,012

2002
$ 654
482
(167)
969
(150)
$ 819

Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wage inflation rate  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Medical inflation rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7.0%
4.0%
7.0%

8.0%
4.0%
7.0%

8.0%
4.0%
6.0%

The accumulated benefit obligation based upon the rates
noted in the table above was approximately $2.4 million,
$2.2 million and $2.3 million at January 31, 2004, 2003
and 2002, respectively. No material fluctuations in retiree
benefits are expected in future years.

Note 8. Warranties
Accruals necessary for product warranties are estimated
based upon historical warranty costs and average time
elapsed between purchase and returns for each division.
Any warranty issues that are unusual in nature are accrued
individually. Changes in the warranty reserve were as
follows:

Dollars in thousands
Beginning balance  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrual for warranties  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Settlements made (in cash or in kind) . . . . . . . . .
Sale of businesses  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For the years ended 
January 31
2003
$ 248
584
(576)
(100)
$ 156

2004
$ 156
863
(756)
—
$ 263

2002
$ 199
525
(476)
—
$ 248

Note 9. Income Taxes
The reconciliation of income tax computed at the federal
statutory rate to the company’s effective income tax rate is
as follows:

Tax at U.S. federal statutory rate  . . . . . . . . . . . .
State and local income taxes, net of 

For the years ended 
January 31
2004
2002
2003
35.0% 35.0% 35.0%

0.9
U.S. federal benefit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nondeductible stock option expense  . . . . . . . . .
0.3
Impact of graduated rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . —
Other, net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
0.1
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.4
0.3
(0.6)
0.1
36.3% 35.2% 34.8%

0.2
—
(0.7)
0.3

Significant components of the company’s income tax provi-
sion are as follows:

Dollars in thousands
Income taxes:

For the years ended 
January 31
2003

2002

2004

Currently payable  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$7,626
254
$7,880

$4,912
1,157
$6,069

$4,132
586
$4,718

Significant components of the company’s deferred tax
assets and liabilities are as follows:

Dollars in thousands
Current deferred tax assets:

As of January 31
2003

2004

2002

Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventory valuation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued vacation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Insurance obligations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other accrued liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current deferred tax assets (liabilities):

Accrued compensation and benefits  . . . . . . .
Depreciation and amortization  . . . . . . . . . . .
Other  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net deferred tax asset  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

93
182
532
183
323
1,313

354
(502)
75
(73)
$1,240

$

84
194
508
369
338
1,493

333
(380)
53
6
$1,499

$ 109
271
525
549
473
1,927

417
244
35
696
$2,623

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 35

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

Note 10. Financing Arrangements
Raven has an uncollateralized credit agreement providing a
line of credit of $7.0 million which expires in July 2004.
Letters of credit totaling $1.7 million have been issued
under the line, primarily to support self-insured worker’s
compensation bonding requirements. No borrowings were
outstanding as of January 31, 2004, 2003 or 2002, and
$5.3 million was available at January 31, 2004. The credit
agreement contains certain restrictive covenants that,
among other things, require maintenance of certain levels
of net worth and working capital. Borrowings on the 
credit line bore interest as of January 31, 2004, 2003 and
2002, at 4.00%, 4.25% and 4.75%, respectively. The
weighted-average interest rates for borrowing under the
short-term credit lines in fiscal 2003 and 2002 were 4.6%
and 6.3%. There were no borrowings under the credit line
in fiscal 2004.
Wells Fargo Bank N.A. provides the company’s line of
credit. One member of the company’s board of directors is
also on the board of directors of Wells Fargo & Co., the
parent company of Wells Fargo Bank N.A.
In connection with its fiscal 2002 acquisitions, the company
assumed $412,000 of capital lease obligations. The capital
lease obligations expire through 2006, with annual
payments of $72,000 and $57,000 due in fiscal 2005 and
2006. The company believes the fair value of its long-term
debt approximates its carrying value based on quoted
market prices for similar debt.
The company leases certain transportation, equipment 
and facilities under operating leases. Total rent and lease
expense was $355,000, $446,000 and $575,000 in fiscal
2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Future minimum lease
payments under non-cancelable operating leases for 
fiscal periods 2005 to 2008 are $220,000, $177,000,
$154,000, and $137,000 with all leases scheduled to
expire by fiscal 2008.

Note 11. Stock Options
Senior officers and key employees of the company have
been granted options to purchase stock under the
company’s 2000 Stock Option and Compensation Plan
(“Plan”). The Plan, administered by the board of directors,
allows for a fixed cash bonus when options are exercised
and may grant either incentive or non-qualified options
with terms not to exceed ten years. There are 364,400
shares of the Company’s common stock reserved for issue
under the plan at January 31, 2004. Options are granted
with exercise prices not less than market value at the date
of grant. These stock options vest over a four-year period
and expire after five years. Options granted after fiscal
1999 do not include a fixed cash bonus.
Prior to fiscal year 2003, the company accounted for the
Plan under the recognition and measurement provisions of
APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees,” which utilized the intrinsic value method to
recognize compensation expense. Compensation expense
related to the Plan’s cash bonus feature was $76,000 in
fiscal 2002. Effective February 1, 2002, the company
adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No.
123 “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.” Under
the modified prospective method of adoption selected by
the company pursuant to the provisions of SFAS No. 148,
“Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and
Disclosure,” compensation cost recognized in fiscal year
2003 is the same as that which would have been recog-
nized had the recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 been
applied from its original effective date. Results for the prior
years have not been restated. The following table illustrates
the effect on net income and net income per share if the
fair value based method had been applied to all outstand-
ing and unvested awards in each period.

page 36 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Dollars in thousands,
except per-share amounts
Net income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add: Stock-based employee compensation 
expense included in reported net income,
net of related tax effects  . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deduct: Total stock-based employee 

compensation expense determined under 
fair value based method for all awards,
net of related tax effects  . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pro forma net income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income per share:

For the years ended January 31
2002
2004
2003
$8,847
$11,185
$13,836

—

—

50

—
$13,836

—
$11,185

(95)
$8,802

Basic — as reported  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1.53

$ 1.22

Basic — pro forma  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1.53

$ 1.22

Diluted — as reported  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1.50

$ 1.20

Diluted — pro forma  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 1.50

$ 1.20

$ 0.95

$ 0.95

$ 0.93

$ 0.93

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date
of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with
the following assumptions: dividend yield of 1.3-4.8%;
expected volatility of 26-36%; risk-free interest rate of 
3.0-6.2%; and expected lives of 4.5 years. The weighted
average grant date fair value of each option granted was
$8.22, $3.77 and $2.17 in fiscal 2004, 2003 and 2002,
respectively. Compenstion expense is recognized ratably
over the four-year vesting period. Expense for fiscal years
2004 and 2003 was $282,000 and $174,000, respectively.
Information regarding option activity follows:

For the years ended January 31
2003

2004

2002

weighted
average
exercise
price

weighted
average
exercise
price

options

weighted
average
exercise
price

options

options

Outstanding 

at beginning 
of year . . . .
Granted . . . . .
Exercised  . . . .
Forfeited  . . . .
Outstanding 
at end 
of year . . . .

Options 

exercisable at 
year-end  . .

436,056
64,500
(137,218)
(1,500)

$ 7.43
27.00

551,304
76,400
5.21 (176,946)
(14,702)
5.29

701,250
$ 6.09
14.00
88,400
6.18 (219,672)
(18,674)
6.27

$5.98
8.75
6.77
6.23

361,838

$11.77

436,056

$ 7.43

551,304

$6.09

163,304

$ 7.13

207,073

$ 5.55

282,322

$5.83

The following table contains information about stock
options outstanding at January 31, 2004:
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
0.75
1.75
2.75
3.75
4.75

Exercise
Price
$ 4.75
5.33
8.75
14.00
27.00

Number
Outstanding
28,050
108,838
84,050
76,400
64,500
361,838

Number
Exercisable
28,050
74,129
42,025
19,100
—
163,304

Note 12. Net Income Per Share
Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net
income by the weighted-average common shares outstand-
ing. Common shares outstanding represent common shares
issued less shares purchased and held in treasury. Share
and per-share data in the net income per-share computa-
tion have been restated to reflect the January 15, 2003
two-for-one stock split and the July 13, 2001 three-for-two
stock split. Diluted net income per-share is computed by
dividing net income by the weighted-average common and
common equivalent shares outstanding, which includes the
shares issuable upon exercise of employee stock options,
net of shares assumed purchased with the option proceeds.
Certain outstanding options were excluded from the
diluted net income per-share calculations because their
exercise prices were greater than the average market price
of the company’s common stock during those periods. For
fiscal 2004, 2003 and 2002, 16,125, 19,100 and 22,100
options, respectively, were excluded from the diluted net
income per-share calculation. Details of the computation
are presented below.

Dollars in thousands, 
except per-share amounts

For the years ended January 31

2004

2003

2002

Net income  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 13,836

$ 11,185

$

8,847

Weighted-average common shares 

outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dilutive impact of stock options  . . . .
Weighted-average common and 
common-equivalent shares 
outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income per common share:

9,040,856
203,934

9,151,465
196,360

9,310,590
181,004

9,244,790

9,347,825

9,491,594

— basic  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

— diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

1.53

1.50

$

$

1.22

1.20

$

$

0.95

0.93

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 37

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

Note 14. Subsequent Event
The company announced on March 9, 2004, that it would
pay a special one-time dividend of $1.25 per share on 
May 20, 2004. Based on current shares outstanding, the
one-time dividend will total approximately $11 million.

Note 15. Quarterly Information (Unaudited)
The company’s quarterly information is presented on 
page 26.

Note 13. Business Segments and Major Customer
Information
The company’s reportable segments are defined by their
common technologies, production processes and invento-
ries. These segments reflect the organization of the
company into three Raven divisions, each with a Divisional
Vice President, and one subsidiary. In the second quarter of
fiscal 2002, the electronics manufacturing services opera-
tion of Beta Raven was combined with the Electronic
Systems segment. The Industrial Controls Division of Beta
Raven, sold in fiscal 2003, is included under the caption
“Sold Businesses.”
The company measures the performance of its segments
based on their operating income exclusive of administrative
and general expenses. The accounting policies of the oper-
ating segment are the same as those described in Note 1,
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Other income,
interest expense and income taxes are not allocated to
individual operating segments, and assets not identifiable
to an individual segment are included as corporate assets.
Segment information is reported consistent with the
company’s management reporting structure as required by
SFAS No. 131 “Disclosures about Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information.” In fiscal 2003, one
customer in the Electronic Systems segment accounted for
$12.9 million, or 10.7%, of the company’s consolidated
sales, although no customer accounted for more than 10%
of accounts receivable. No customers accounted for more
than 10% of the company’s consolidated sales or accounts
receivable in any of the other years presented.
The company had sales of $9.2 million for the year ended
January 31, 2004, to countries outside the United States,
primarily to Canada. Sales were included in the Flow
Controls, Engineered Films, Electronic Systems and Aerostar
segments totaling $3.5 million, $1.1 million, $4.1 million
and $492,000, respectively.
Market and segment information is presented on pages 1
and 16 of this annual report.

page 38 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

Report of Independent Auditors

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Raven Industries, Inc.:

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of income, of
shareholders’ equity and comprehensive income and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of Raven Industries, Inc. as of January 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, and the results of its operations and its cash
flow for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2004, in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of Raven Industries, Inc.’s
management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted
our audits of these statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America
which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements
are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts 
and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made 
by management, and evaluating the overall presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for 
our opinion.

Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 8, 2004

RAVEN 2004 Annual Report page 39

Board of Directors

David A.
Christensen
Former President &
Chief Executive
Officer, 
Raven 
Industries, Inc.,
Sioux Falls, SD;
Director since:
1971

Thomas S.
Everist
President,
The Everist
Company,
Sioux Falls, SD;
Director since:
1996

Anthony W.
Bour
President & Chief
Executive Officer,
Showplace Wood
Products, Inc.,
Sioux Falls, SD;
Director since:
1995

Mark E.
Griffin
President & Chief
Executive Officer,
Lewis Drugs,
Inc.,
Sioux Falls, SD;
Director since:
1987

Conrad J.
Hoigaard
Chairman of 
the Board, 
Raven 
Industries, Inc.;
Chairman of 
the Board, 
Hoigaard’s Inc.,
Minneapolis, MN;
Director since:
1976

Cynthia H.
Milligan
Dean,
College of
Business
Administration,
University of
Nebraska,
Lincoln,
Lincoln, NE;
Director since:
2001

Ronald M.
Moquist
President & Chief
Executive Officer,
Raven 
Industries, Inc.,
Sioux Falls, SD;
Director since:
1999

The Raven Board held four regular meetings and one special meeting in Fiscal Year 2004.
In April 2003, it increased the quarterly dividend for the 17th year.

Audit Committee
Thomas S. Everist, Chair
Anthony W. Bour
Cynthia H. Milligan

The Audit Committee held two meetings to review
the activities and independence of Raven’s
external auditors. It also reviewed the auditor’s
findings regarding Raven’s financial reporting
process, related internal and disclosure controls
and compliance with applicable law.

Personnel and Compensation Committee
David A. Christensen, Chair
Mark E. Griffin
Conrad J. Hoigaard

The Personnel and Compensation Committee 
held two meetings to review and approve
executive compensation plans, policies and
practices, and key succession plans.

Governance Committee
Cynthia H. Milligan, Chair
Anthony W. Bour
David A. Christensen
Thomas S. Everist
Mark E. Griffin
Conrad J. Hoigaard

The Governance Committee held two meetings to
review corporate by-laws, corporate governance
standards, and assess the Board’s effectiveness.
This Committee is responsible for the Board
nomination process.

Senior Executive Officers

Ronald M. Moquist

President & Chief Executive Officer, Age: 58, Service 28 years

Thomas Iacarella

Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Age: 50, Service 12 years

Senior Management

David R. Bair

Division Vice President & General Manager–Electronic Systems Division, Age: 47, Service 5 years

Barbara K. Ohme

Vice President–Administration, Age: 56, Service 16 years

Daniel A. Rykhus

Division Vice President & General Manager–Flow Controls Division, Age: 39, Service 14 years

Kenneth L. TeKrony

Division Vice President & General Manager–Engineered Films Division, Age: 60, Service 36 years

Mark L. West

President–Aerostar International, Inc., Age: 50, Service 22 years

page 40 RAVEN 2004 Annual Report

P
l
e
a
s
e

s
e
n
d
m
e

t
h
e

f
o
l
l
o
w
n
g
:

i

D
e
a
r

S
h
a
r
e
h
o
l
d
e
r
:

R
a
v
e
n

I
n
d
u
s
t
r
i
e
s
,

I
n
c
.

I
w
o
u
l
d

l
i
k
e
m
o
r
e

i
n
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n

o
n

B
r
o
k
e
r

I
d
e
n
t
i
t
y

C
a
r
d
:

R
a
v
e
n

I
n
d
u
s
t
r
i
e
s
,

I
n
c
.

(cid:2)
N
e
w
s

r
e
l
e
a
s
e
s

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

2
0
0
4
F
o
r
m
1
0
-
K

L
a
t
e
s
t

q
u
a
r
t
e
r
l
y

r
e
p
o
r
t

I
n
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
o
n
y
o
u
r
D
i
v
i
d
e
n
d
R
e
i
n
v
e
s
t

m
e
n
t

P
l
a
n

P
h
o
n
e

(

)

C
i
t
y

A
d
d
r
e
s
s

C
o
m
p
a
n
y

N
a
m
e

a
n
d
T

i
t
l
e

(
p
l
e
a
s
e

p
r
i
n
t
)

(cid:2)
P
l
e
a
s
e

a
d
d
m
e

t
o

t
h
e
R
a
v
e
n
m
a
i
l
i

n
g

l
i
s
t
.

F
a
x

(

S
t
a
t
e

)

Z
i
p

+

4

M
y

b
r
o
k
e
r

i
s

M
y

a
d
d
r
e
s
s

i
s

M
y
n
a
m
e

i
s

L
o
c
a
t
e
d

i

n
(
c
i
t
y
)

H
i
s
/
H
e
r

c
o
m
p
a
n
y

i
s

a
n
a
c
c
u
r
a
t
e
m
a
i
l
i

n
g

l
i
s
t
.

I
h
a
v
e

b
e
e
n
a

s
h
a
r
e
h
o
l
d
e
r

o
f

R
a
v
e
n
s
i
n
c
e

(cid:2)
P
l
e
a
s
e

a
d
d
m
e

t
o

t
h
e
R
a
v
e
n
m
a
i
l
i

n
g

l
i
s
t
.

F
a
x

(

)

b
o
t
h
o
f

y
o
u
a
r
e

c
u
r
r
e
n
t

o
n
o
u
r

f
i
n
a
n
c
i
a
l

c
o
n
d
i
t
i
o
n

.

K
e
e
p
i
n
g

y
o
u
a
n
d

y
o
u
r

s
t
o
c
k
b
r
o
k
e
r

i

n
f
o
r
m
e
d

o
f

o
u
r

c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e

a
c
t
i
v
i
t
i
e
s

i
s

t
h
e

b
e
s
t

w
a
y

f
o
r
u
s

t
o
m
a
k
e

s
u
r
e

t
h
a
t

S
o

t
h
a
t

w
e

a
r
e

a
b
l
e

t
o

k
e
e
p

y
o
u

i

n
f
o
r
m
e
d

,

p
l
e
a
s
e

p
r
o
v
i
d
e

t
h
e

r
e
q
u
i
r
e
d

i

n
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n

.

T
h
i
s
w

i
l
l

e
n
a
b
l
e
u
s

t
o
m
a
i
n
t
a
i
n

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
E
G
A
T
S
O
P
O
N

Y
R
A
S
S
E
C
E
N

D
E
L
I
A
M
F
I

E
H
T
N

I

S
E
T
A
T
S
D
E
T
I
N
U

E
G
A
T
S
O
P
O
N

Y
R
A
S
S
E
C
E
N

D
E
L
I
A
M
F
I

E
H
T
N

I

S
E
T
A
T
S
D
E
T
I
N
U

D
R
A
C

Y
L
P
E
R

S
S
E
N
S
U
B

I

D
S

S
L
L
A
F

X
U
O

I

S

3
8
5

O
N

I

T
M
R
E
P

L
I

A
M
S
S
A
L
C
-
T
S
R

I

F

D
R
A
C

Y
L
P
E
R

S
S
E
N
S
U
B

I

D
S

S
L
L
A
F

X
U
O

I

S

3
8
5

O
N

I

T
M
R
E
P

L
I

A
M
S
S
A
L
C
-
T
S
R

I

F

I

E
E
S
S
E
R
D
D
A
Y
B
D
A
P
E
B
L
L
I
W
E
G
A
T
S
O
P

I

E
E
S
S
E
R
D
D
A
Y
B
D
A
P
E
B
L
L
I
W
E
G
A
T
S
O
P

I

S
E
R
T
S
U
D
N

I

N
E
V
A
R

I

S
E
R
T
S
U
D
N

I

N
E
V
A
R

I

S
N
O
T
A
L
E
R
R
O
T
S
E
V
N

I

I

S
N
O
T
A
L
E
R
R
O
T
S
E
V
N

I

8
7
8
9
-
7
1
1
7
5
D
S
S
L
L
A
F
X
U
O
S

I

7
0
1
5
X
O
B
O
P

8
7
8
9
-
7
1
1
7
5
D
S
S
L
L
A
F
X
U
O
S

I

7
0
1
5
X
O
B
O
P

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investor Information

Independent Auditors
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Minneapolis, MN

Stock Transfer Agent & Registrar
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
161 N. Concord Exchange
P.O. Box 64854
S. St. Paul, MN 55164-0854
Phone: 1-800-468-9716

Form 10-K
Upon written request, Raven Industries, Inc.’s
form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January
31, 2004, which has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, is
available free of charge.

Direct inquires to:
Raven Industries, Inc.
Attention: Investor Relations
P.O. Box 5107
Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5107

Phone: 605-336-2750

Raven Website
www.ravenind.com

Stock Quotations
Listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market—RAVN

Annual Meeting
May 26, 2004, 9:00 a.m.
Ramkota Inn
Hwy 38 & I-29
Sioux Falls, SD

Raven Industries, Inc. is an Equal
Employment Opportunity Employer with an
approved affirmative action plan.

Dividend Reinvestment Plan
Raven Industries, Inc. sponsors a Dividend
Reinvestment Plan whereby shareholders
can purchase additional Raven common
stock without the payment of any brokerage
commission or fees. For more information on
how you can take advantage of this plan,
contact your broker, our stock transfer agent 
or write: Investor Relations; P.O. Box 5107,
Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5107

SIC Codes:
3672, 3081, 3829

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act provides a “safe harbor” for forward-looking statements. Certain informa-
tion included in this Annual Report and other materials filed or to be filed by the company with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (as well as information included in statements made or to be made by the company) contains
statements that are forward-looking. Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-
looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, there is no assurance that such expectations will be
achieved. Such assumptions involve important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect results in the
future. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those relating to weather conditions, which could
affect certain of the company’s primary markets, such as agriculture and construction, or changes in competition,
material availability, technology or relationships with the company’s largest customers, any of which could adversely
impact any of the company’s product lines. The foregoing list is not exhaustive and the company disclaims any obliga-
tion to subsequently revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such
statements.

L
I

,
o
g
a
c
i
h
C

,
d
r
a
o
B

n
g
i
s
e
D
e
v
i
t
a
e
r
C

:
n
g
i
s
e
D

 
 
RAVEN

Raven Industries
P.O. Box 5107
Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5107