Quarterlytics / Consumer Cyclical / Packaging & Containers / Viskase Companies, Inc.

Viskase Companies, Inc.

vksc · OTC Consumer Cyclical
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Sector Consumer Cyclical
Industry Packaging & Containers
Employees 1001-5000
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FY2019 Annual Report · Viskase Companies, Inc.
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VISKASE COMPANIES, INC. 

ANNUAL REPORT 2019 

This report has been prepared in accordance with Section 5.04 of the Credit 
Agreement dated as of January 30, 2014 among Viskase Companies, Inc. (the 

Branch as administrative agent and as collateral 

1 

 
 
            
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF VISKASE COMPANIES, INC. AND    
SUBSIDIARIES 

1.        Financial Statements: 

Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants 

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 
2019, 2018 and 2017 

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income for the years ended 
December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the years ended 
December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 
2018 and 2017 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 

2. 

M
Operations (unaudited) 

Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of  

 
 
 
      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
      
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS  

Grant Thornton Tower 
171 N Clark Street, Suite 200 

Chicago, IL 60601-3370 

    +312.856.0200 

    +312.555.4719 

Board of Directors 
Viskase Companies, Inc. 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Viskase 
Companies, Inc. (a Delaware corporation) and subsidiaries, which comprise the 
consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the related 
consolidated statements of operations,comprehensive (loss) income, changes in 

December 31, 2019, and the related notes to the financial statements. 

each of the three years in the period ended 

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these 
consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally 
accepted in the United States of America; this includes the design, implementation, and 
maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of 
consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether 
due to fraud or error. 

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements 
based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards 
generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we 
plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the 
consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement. 

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts 
and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected 

rial 
misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In 
making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the 
consolidated financial statements in 
order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for 

Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the 
appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant 
accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall 
presentation of the consolidated financial statements. 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to 
provide a basis for our audit opinion.  

Grant Thornton LLP is the U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd (GTIL). GTIL and each of its member firms 
are separate legal entities and are not a worldwide partnership.    

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Opinion  
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in 
all material respects, the financial position of Viskase Companies, Inc. and subsidiaries 
as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of their operations and their  cash 
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019 in accordance 
with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. 

Emphasis of matter  
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has 
adopted new accounting guidance in the year ended December 31, 2019, related to the 
adoption to ASC 842, Leases. Our opinion is not modified with respect to this matter. 

Emphasis of matter regarding going concern 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming 
that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 25 to the 
consolidated financial statements, the Company has been delayed in refinancing its 
$258 million term loan due January 2021 due to the Coronavirus outbreak. The 

20, which is also described in Note 25, contemplates 
the refinancing of its bank credit agreement maturity occurring within 12 months of the 
date of our audit opinion to long-
the refinancing of this indebtedness is uncertain, and the Company has stated that 
there
concern. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that 
might result from the outcome of this uncertainty. Our opinion is not modified with 
respect to this matter. 

Chicago, Illinois 
May 1, 2020 

 
 
VISKASE COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 
(In Thousands, Except for Number of Shares) 

ASSETS
Current assets:
   Cash and cash equivalents
   Restricted cash
   Receivables, net
   Inventories
   Other current assets

Total current assets

Property, plant and equipment
Less accumulated depreciation

Property, plant and equipment, net

Right of use assets
Other assets, net
Intangible assets
Goodwill
Deferred income taxes

Total Assets

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
   Short-term debt
   Accounts payable
   Accrued liabilities
   Short-term portion lease liabilities

Total current liabilities

Long-term debt, net of current maturities
Long-term liabilities
Accrued employee benefits
Deferred income taxes
Long-term lease liabilities

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 53,995,935 shares issued and 53,190,665 
outstanding
Paid in capital

Retained earnings
Less 805,270 treasury shares, at cost
Accumulated other comprehensive loss

Total Viskase stockholders' equity

Deficit attributable to non-controlling interest

Total stockholders' equity

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$21,820
1,153
77,956
99,821
43,617

244,367

384,290
(222,495)

161,795

34,062
16,617
22,471
3,376
30,199

$46,031
1,159
74,300
92,525
40,348

254,363

368,484
(198,452)

170,032

-
18,998
24,317
3,428
37,105

$512,887

$508,243

$11,840
35,038
44,679
6,128
97,685

255,865
5,929
70,648
3,991
32,296

540
82,843

41,415
(298)
(77,435)

47,065

(592)

46,473

$4,659
33,053
40,246
500
78,458

266,814
9,338
75,418
6,526
603

540
82,843

67,699
(298)
(79,276)

71,508

(422)

71,086

Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

$512,887

$508,243

See notes to consolidated financial statements. 

5 

 
 
 
 
 
 
                        
                     
                        
                        
 
 
 
 
 
 
VISKASE COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS   
(In Thousands) 

NET SALES

Cost of sales

GROSS MARGIN

Selling, general and administrative
Amortization of intangibles
Asset impairment charge
Restructuring expense

OPERATING INCOME

Interest income
Interest expense, net
Other expense, net

Year
Ended
December
31, 2019

Year
Ended
December
31, 2018

Year
Ended
December
31, 2017

$384,872

$395,329

$391,978

311,644

315,764

296,100

73,228

53,704
1,619
951
9,224

7,730

275
16,498
8,875

79,565

56,426
1,664
149
8,862

12,464

519
15,821
15,701

95,878

58,440
1,556
1,832
1,745

32,305

85
13,217
3,004

16,169

20,410

($4,241)

(LOSS) INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

(17,368)

(18,539)

Income tax provision (benefit) 

7,749

(4,069)

NET LOSS 

($25,117)

($14,470)

Less: net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests

(170)

(278)

(144)

Net loss attributable to Viskase Companies, Inc

($24,947)

($14,192)

($4,097)

WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES

- BASIC 

53,190,665

53,007,515

36,523,999

PER SHARE AMOUNTS:
EARNINGS PER SHARE

- BASIC

WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES

($0.47)

($0.27)

($0.11)

- DILUTED

53,190,665

53,007,515

36,523,999

PER SHARE AMOUNTS:
EARNINGS PER SHARE

- DILUTED

($0.47)

($0.27)

($0.11)

See notes to consolidated financial statements.  

6 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                     
                    
                 
                  
                 
                 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
VISKASE COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME 
(In Thousands) 

Net loss

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax

    Pension liability adjustment
    Foreign currency translation adjustment

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

Year
Ended
December
31, 2019

Year
Ended
December
31, 2018

Year
Ended
December
31, 2017

($25,117)

($14,470)

($4,241)

1,738
(1,234)

504

6,095
(4,622)

1,473

1,256
6,647

7,903

Comprehensive (loss) income 

($24,613)

($12,997)

$3,662

Less: comprehensive (loss) attributable to 
noncontrolling interests

(170)

(278)

(144)

Net comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Viskase 
Companies, Inc

($24,443)

($12,719)

$3,806

See notes to consolidated financial statements.  

7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
VISKASE COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY  
(In Thousands) 

See notes to consolidated financial statements. 

8 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
VISKASE COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 
(In Thousands) 

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net loss

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash 

 provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
Stock-based compensation
Amortization of deferred financing fees
Deferred income taxes
Postretirement settlement charge
Loss on disposition/impairment of assets
Bad debt and accounts receivable provision

Non-cash interest on term loans

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Receivables

Inventories
Other current assets
Accounts payable
Accrued current liabilities

Accrued employee benefits
Other assets
Other long term liabilities
Other

Total adjustments

Year
Ended
December
31, 2019

Year
Ended
December
31, 2018

Year
Ended
December
31, 2017

($25,117)

($14,470)

($4,241)

25,745
-
641
3,819
-
477
2,401

350

(5,912)

(6,462)
(3,133)
2,208
4,626

(1,391)
2,343
(289)
181

25,604

24,749
224
550
(7,241)
7,381
57
128

486

2,386

(2,564)
(1,306)
(2,076)
3,243

(1,738)
(392)
(436)
12

23,463

23,662
224
597
15,423
-
2,043
348

480

(594)

(6,759)
(8,694)
2,054
(2,406)

1,263
(266)
1,237
(668)

27,944

Net cash provided by operating activities

487

8,993

23,703

Cash flows from investing activities:

Capital expenditures
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired

Proceeds from disposition of assets

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities:

    Issuance of common stock

Deferred financing costs

Proceeds from long-term debt
Repayment of short-term debt

Repayment of capital lease

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash

Net (decrease) increase in cash and equivalents

Cash, equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period

Cash, equivalents and restricted cash at end of period

Supplemental cash flow information:

Interest paid less capitalized interest

Income taxes paid 

See notes to consolidated financial statements. 

9 

(17,679)
-

516
(17,163)

-

(140)

-
(4,600)

(431)
(5,171)

(2,370)

(24,217)

47,190

$22,973

$15,295

$1,874

(24,609)
-

19
(24,590)

50,000

(120)

4,637
(8,160)

(491)
45,866

(673)

29,596

17,594

$47,190

$14,797

$4,238

(25,674)
(31,141)

308
(56,507)

-

(120)

10,716
(2,750)

(476)
7,370

1,836

(23,598)

41,192

$17,594

$12,169
$7,820  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                    
                   
                   
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
              
                    
                    
                
              
               
               
               
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 (Dollar Amounts In Thousands) 

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policy 

Nature of Operations 

edible cellulosic, fibrous and plastic casings used to prepare and package processed meat products, 
and provides value-added support services relating to these products, for some of the largest global 
consumer products companies. We were incorporated in Delaware in 1970.  The Company operates ten 
manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, South America, and Asia and, as a result, is able to 
sell its products in nearly one hundred countries throughout the world.  

is a producer of non-

Principles of Consolidation 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company. Intercompany accounts 
and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. 

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements  

The financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles 

in the United States of America and include the use of estimates and assumptions that affect 

a 
pensions and other postretirement benefits and related disclosures, reserves for excess and obsolete 
inventory, allowance for doubtful accounts, and income taxes. Management bases its estimates on 
historical experience and other assumptions that we believe are reasonable. If actual amounts are 

period in which the actual amounts become known. Historically, the aggregate differences, if any, 

the Company  consolidated financial statements. 

Cash and Cash Equivalents 

For purposes of the statement of cash flows, the Company considers cash equivalents to consist of all 
highly liquid debt investments purchased with an initial maturity of approximately three months or less. 
Due to the short-term nature of these instruments, the carrying values approximate the fair market value.  
Of the cash held on deposit, essentially all of the cash balance was in excess of amounts insured by the 
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or other foreign provided bank insurance.  The Company 
performs periodic evaluations of these institutions for relative credit standing and has not experienced 
any losses as a result of its cash concentration.  Consequently, no significant concentrations of credit 
risk are considered to exist. 

Receivables 

Trade accounts receivable are classified as current assets and are reported net of allowance for doubtful 
accounts.  This estimated allowance is primarily based upon our evaluation of the financial condition of 

-offs.   

Inventories 

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value.   Cost is determined by using the 
first-in, first-

 basis method. 

Property, Plant and Equipment 

The Company carries property, plant and equipment at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Property 
and equipment additions include acquisition of property and equipment and costs incurred for computer 

10 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
software purchased for internal use including related external direct costs of materials and services and 
payroll costs for employees directly associated with the project. Upon retirement or other disposition, 
cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is 
included in results of operations. Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method using a half year 
convention over the estimated useful lives of the assets ranging from (i) building and improvements - 10 
to 32 years, (ii) machinery and equipment - 4 to 12 years, (iii) furniture and fixtures - 3 to 12 years, (iv) 
auto and trucks - 2 to 5 years, (v) data processing 
 3 to 7 years and (vi) leasehold improvements - 
shorter of lease or useful life. 

In the ordinary course of business, we lease certain equipment, consisting mainly of autos, and certain 
real property. Real property consists of manufacturing, distribution and office facilities.   

Deferred Financing Costs 

Deferred financing costs are presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying 
amount of debt liability and amortized as expense using the effective interest rate method over the 
expected term of the related debt agreement. Amortization of deferred financing costs is classified as 
interest expense. 

Intangible Assets and Goodwill 

The Company has recognized definite lived intangible assets for patents and trademarks, customer 
relationships, technologies and in-place leases. The intangible assets are amortized on the straight-line 
method over an estimated weighted average useful life of 12 years for patents and trademarks, 20 years 
for customer relationships, 13 years for technologies and 14 years for in-place leases.  

Our estimates of the useful lives of finite-lived intangible assets consider judgments regarding the future 
effects of obsolescence, demand, competition and other economic factors. We conduct impairment tests 
when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of these finite-lived assets 
may not be recoverable. Undiscounted cash flow analyses are used to determine if an impairment exists. 
If an impairment is determined to exist, the loss is calculated based on the estimated fair value of the 
assets. 

We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill on at least an annual basis by applying a fair-value-based 
test. In evaluating the recoverability of the carrying value of goodwill, we must make assumptions 
regarding the fair value of our reporting units, as defined under FASB ASC Topic 350.  Goodwill 
impairment testing involves comparing the fair value of our reporting units to their carrying values. If the 
book value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the goodwill of the reporting unit is considered to 
be impaired. The amount of impairment loss is equal to the excess of the book value of the goodwill over 
the fair value of goodwill.  The reporting unit fair value is based upon consideration of various valuation 
methodologies, including guideline transaction multiples, multiples of current earnings, and projected 
future cash flows discounted at rates commensurate with the risk involved.   

Long-Lived Assets  

The Company continues to evaluate the recoverability of long-lived assets including property, plant and 
equipment, trademarks and patents.  Impairments are recognized when the expected undiscounted 
future operating cash flows derived from long-lived assets are less than their carrying value. If 
impairment is identified, valuation techniques deemed appropriate under the particular circumstances 

carrying value over the determined fair value.  The review for impairment is performed whenever events 
or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of assets may not be recoverable. 

Shipping and Handling 

The Company periodically bills customers for shipping charges.   These amounts are included in net 
revenue, with the associated costs included in cost of sales. 

11 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits 

The Company uses appropriate actuarial methods and assumptions in accounting for its defined benefit 
pension plans and non-pension postretirement benefits. 

Actual results that differ from assumptions used are accumulated and amortized over future periods and, 
accordingly, generally affect recognized expense and the recorded obligation in future periods. 
Therefore, assumptions used to calculate benefit obligations as of the end of a fiscal year directly impact 

accounting for employee benefits as of December 31, 2019 are as follows:  

-term rate of return on plan assets: The required use of the expected long-term rate of return 
on plan assets may result in recognized returns that are greater or less than the actual returns on 
those plan assets in any given year. Over time, however, the expected long-term rate of return on 
plan assets is designed to approximate actual earned long-term returns. The Company uses long-
term historical actual return information, the mix of investments that comprise plan assets, and 
future estimates of long-term investment returns by reference to external sources to develop an 
assumption of the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets. The expected long-term rate 
of return is used to calculate net periodic pension cost. In determining its pension obligations, the 
Company is using a long-term rate of return on U.S. plan assets of 5.85% for 2019.  The Company 
is using a long-term rate of return on French plan assets of 3.20% for 2019.  The German pension 
plan has no assets.   

   Discount rate: The discount rate is used to calculate future pension and postretirement obligations.  
The Company is using a Mercer Bond yield curve in determining its pension obligations. The 
Company was using a discount rate of 3.38% for 2019.  The Company is using a weighted average 
discount rate of 1.70% on its non-U.S. pension plans for 2019.  

Income Taxes 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax laws and tax rates expected to apply 
to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or 
settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities due to a change in tax rates is recognized in 
income in the period that includes the enactment date. In addition, the amounts of any future tax benefits 
are reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent such benefits are not expected to be realized on a 
more likely than not basis. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are included as a 
component of tax expense. 

Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income 

Comprehensive (loss) income includes all other non-stockholder changes in equity. Changes in other 
comprehensive (loss) income in 2019 and 2018 resulted from changes in foreign currency translation 
and minimum pension liability. 

Revenue Recognition 

satisfies its performance obligation(s) under the contract (either implicit or explicit) by transferring the 
promised product to its customer when its customer obtains control of the product. A performance 

transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation. Substantially all of the Com
contracts have a single performance obligation, as the promise to transfer products is not separately 
identifiable from other promises in the contract and, therefore, not distinct.  

Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration the Company expects to receive in exchange for 

types of variable consideration. As such, revenue is recorded net of estimated discounts, rebates and 
allowances. These estimates are based on historical experience, anticipated performance and the 

they are included in the transaction price of its contracts. 

12 

 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales, value add, and other taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities 
are accounted for on a net (excluded from revenues) basis. 

The Company recognizes revenue at the point in time in which the customer obtains control of the 
product, which is generally when product title passes to the customer upon shipment. In certain cases, 
title does not transfer and revenue is not recognized until the customer has received the products at its 
physical location or at port. 

 Financial Instruments 

The Company routinely enters into fixed price natural gas agreements which require us to purchase a 
portion of our natural gas each month at fixed prices.  These fixed price agreements qualify for the 

scope exception under derivative and hedging standards, therefore the natural gas 

purchases under these contracts were expensed as incurred and included within cost of sales. As of 
December 31, 2019, future annual minimum purchases remaining under the agreement are $2,437. 

 accounts receivable and 
accounts payable. The carrying amounts of these financial assets and liabilities approximate fair value 
due to the short maturities of these instruments.  Management believes t
revolving loans approximate the carrying value due to credit risk or current market rates, which 
approximate the effective interest rates on those instruments.  The fair value of th
Loan 
similar types and maturities of debt. 

borrowing rates for 

Leases 

As discussed below, on January 1, 2019, we adopted FASB ASC Topic 842, Leases, using the modified 
retrospective approach, which does not require the application of this Topic to periods prior to January 
1, 2019. The guidance under Topic 842 significantly impacts our presentation of financial condition and 
disclosures, but did not have significant impact to our results of operations. We now have a material 

on our balance sheet. Financing leases under current U.S. GAAP are classified and accounted for in 
substantially the same manner as capital leases under prior U.S. GAAP and therefore, we do not 
distinguish between financing leases and capital leases unless the context requires.  The determination 
of whether an arrangement is or contains a lease occurs at inception. We have elected the practical 
expedient to include both the lease component and the non-lease component as a single component 
when accounting for each lease and calculating the resulting lease liability and ROU asset. The following 
is our accounting policy for leases in which we are the lessee. 

operating leases reported 

Leases are classified as either operating or financing by the lessee depending on whether the lease 
terms provide for control of the underlying asset to be transferred to the lessee. When control transfers 
to the lessee, we classify the lease as a financing lease. All other leases are recorded as operating 
leases. Effective January 1, 2019, for all leases with an initial lease term in excess of twelve months, we 
record a right-of-use asset with a corresponding liability in our balance sheet. We have elected the 
practical expedient for all leases less than 12 months to not record a ROU asset or corresponding lease 
liability. Right-of-use assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease 
liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Right-of-use assets 
and lease liabilities are recognized at commencement of the lease based on the present value of lease 
payments over the lease term. Right-of-use assets are adjusted for any lease payments made on or 
before commencement of the lease, less any lease incentives received. 

The lease liability represents future lease payments for lease and non-lease components discounted for 
present value. Lease payments that may be included in the lease liability include fixed payments, 
variable lease payments that are based on an index or rate and payments for penalties for terminating 
the lease if the lessee is reasonably certain to utilize a termination option, among others. Certain of our 
leases contain rent escalation clauses that are specifically stated in the lease and these are included in 
the calculation of the lease liability. Variable lease payments for lease and non-lease components which 

13 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
are not based on an index or rate are excluded from the calculation of the lease liability and are 
recognized in the statement of operations during the period incurred. 

We utilize discount rates to determine the net present value of our gross lease obligations when 
calculating the lease liability and related ROU asset. In cases in which the rate implicit in the lease is 
readily determinable, we utilize that discount rate for purposes of the net present value calculation. In 
most cases, our lease agreements do not have a discount rate that is readily determinable and therefore 
we utilize an estimate of our incremental borrowing rate. Our incremental borrowing rate is determined 
at lease commencement or lease modification and represents the rate of interest we would have to pay 
to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar 
economic environment.  For adoption of the new standard, the rate was determined at the adoption date. 

The lease term is determined by taking into account the initial period as stated in the lease contract and 
adjusted for any renewal options that the company is reasonably certain to exercise as well as any 
period of time that the lessee has control of the space before the stated initial term of the lease. If we 
determine that we are reasonably certain to exercise a termination option, the lease term is then adjusted 
to account for the expected termination date. 

Operating lease expense is recorded as a single expense recognized on a straight-line basis over the 
lease term. Financing lease expense consists of interest expense on the financing lease liability and 
amortization of the right-of-use financing lease asset on a straight-line basis over the lease term. 

New Accounting Pronouncements  

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which supersedes FASB 
ASC Topic 840, Leases. This ASU requires the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities by 
lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous guidance. In addition, among 
other changes to the accounting for leases, this ASU retains the distinction between finance leases and 
operating leases. The classification criteria for distinguishing between financing leases and operating 
leases are substantially similar to the classification criteria for distinguishing between capital leases and 
operating leases under previous guidance. Furthermore, quantitative and qualitative disclosures, 
including disclosures regarding significant judgments made by management, will be required. This ASU 
is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those 
fiscal years. The amendments in this ASU should be applied using a modified retrospective approach. 
Early application is permitted. In addition, in July 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-11, Leases 
(Topic 842), which provides an additional (and optional) transition method to adopt the new leases 
standard. Also, upon adoption we elected the practical expedients related to leases that commenced 
before the effective date, where the Company need not reassess; whether any expired or expiring 
contracts are or contain leases, the lease classification for any expired or existing leases, or initial direct 
costs for any existing leases.  We adopted the new leases standards using the modified retrospective 
approach option effective January 1, 2019.  No adjustment to prior period presentation and disclosure 
were required. The most significant impact related to the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease 
liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets for long-term operating leases. The aggregate impact was 
the recognition of operating lease right-of-use assets of $35,114 and liabilities of $39,045 and financing 
lease right-of-use assets and liabilities of $991 as of January 1, 2019. 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial 
Instruments, which amends FASB ASC Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses. This ASU 
requires financial assets measured at amortized cost to be presented at the net amount to be collected 
and broadens the information, including forecasted information incorporating more timely information, 
that an entity must consider in developing its expected credit loss estimate for assets measured. This 
ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within 
those fiscal years. Early application is permitted for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. We 
are currently evaluating the impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements. 

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, which amends FASB ASC Topic 220, Income Statement - 
Reporting Comprehensive Income. This ASU allows a reclassification out of accumulated other 
comprehensive loss within equity for standard tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and 
consequently, eliminates the stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The 

14 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company has elected to record the reclassification.  This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after 
December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company early adopted this ASU 
on January 1, 2019 with an adjustment to Retained Earnings from Accumulated Other Comprehensive 
Loss for $1,337 for the income tax effects related to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. 

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15, Customer's Accounting for Implementation Costs 
Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That is a Service Contract, which amends FASB ASC 
Subtopic 350-40, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software. This ASU adds certain 
disclosure requirements related to implementation costs incurred for internal-use software and cloud 
computing arrangements. The amendment aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs 
incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing 
implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software (and hosting arrangements that 
include an internal-use software license). This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 
15, 2019, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments in this ASU should be applied 
either using a retrospective or prospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently 
evaluating the impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements. 

2.   Cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$21,820 
1,153

$22,973 

$46,031 
1,159

$47,190 

As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, cash held in foreign banks was $15,358 and 
$18,282, respectively. 

As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, letters of credit in the amount of $985 were 
outstanding under facilities with a commercial bank, and were cash collateralized in a restricted account.   

3.  Receivables, net 

Accounts receivable, gross
Less allowance for doubtful accounts 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$81,570 
(3,614)

$77,956 

$75,344 
(1,044)

$74,300 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

Beginning balance
   Provision (recoveries) 
   Write-offs

   Other and translation

Ending balance

$1,044 
2,401 

                        (11)

$1,182 
128 
                         -   

180 

$3,614 

(266)

$1,044 

$857 
348 
(24)

1 

$1,182 

4.  Inventories 

15 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Raw materials
Work in process
Finished products

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$15,841 
59,036 
24,944 

$99,821 

$19,351 
41,442 
31,732 

$92,525 

5.   Property, Plant and Equipment, Net  

Land and improvements
Buildings and improvements
Machinery and equipment
Construction in progress

Accumulated depreciation

Land and improvements
Buildings and improvements
Machinery and equipment

6.   Other Assets 

Other taxes receivable
Indemnification asset
Other  

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$1,940 
45,314 
324,287 
12,749 

$1,948 
43,644 
304,206 
18,686 

$384,290 

$368,484 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$400 
19,188 
202,907 

$375 
16,966 
181,111 

$222,495 

$198,452 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$8,564 
6,793 
1,260 
$16,617 

$10,907 
6,793 
1,298 
$18,998 

16 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7.   Accrued Liabilities 

Accrued liabilities were comprised of:

Compensation and employee benefits
Taxes payable
Accrued volume and sales rebates
Accrued interest payable
Restructuring reserve
Other

8.   Debt Obligations 

Short-term debt:
        Bank term loan
        Europe bank loans
        Restructured term loan
                Total short-term debt

Long-term debt:
        Bank term loan, net of discount
        Europe bank loans
        Restructured term loan
        Other
                Total long-term debt

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$7,597 
15,887 
5,107 
14 
10,217 
5,857 
$44,679 

$7,925 
12,602 
4,106 
8 
9,515 
6,090 
$40,246 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$2,750
1,875
7,215
11,840

255,075
375
-
415
255,865

$2,750
1,909
-
4,659

257,237
2,291
6,857
429
266,814

                      Total debt

$267,705

$271,473

Revolving Credit Facility 

On January 30, 2014, the Company entered into an Amendment Agreement to the $25,000 Revolving 
Credit Facility, together with an amended Loan Agreement, with Icahn Enterprises Holdings L.P.  
Drawings under the amended Revolving Credit Facility bear interest at daily three-month LIBOR plus 
2.0%.  The amended Revolving Credit Facility also provides for an unused line fee of 0.375% per annum. 

On June 30, 2019, the Company entered into the Eleventh Amendment to the Loan and Security 
Agreement with Icahn Enterprises L.P., extending the maturity date of the Revolving Credit Facility from 
January 30, 2020 to January 30, 2021 and amending the maximum revolver amount to $45,000.   

Indebtedness under the amended Revolving Credit Facility is secured by liens on substantially all of the 

securing the Term Loan (as hereafter defined) pursuant to an intercreditor agreement, (ii) real property, 

ing the Term Loan pursuant to such 
intercreditor agreement, and (iii) all other assets, to be contractually pari passu with the liens securing 
the Term Loan pursuant to such intercreditor agreement.  Our future direct or indirect material domestic 
subsidiaries are required to guarantee the obligations under the amended Revolving Credit Agreement, 
and to provide security by liens on their assets as described above. 

to, among other things, incur indebtedness, create liens on our assets, make investments, enter into 
merger, consolidation or acquisition transactions, dispose of assets (other than in the ordinary course of 
business), make certain restricted payments, enter into sale and leaseback transactions and transactions 

 ability 

17 

 
 
 
 
 
                     
                        
 
 
                        
 
 
 
 
 
with affiliates, in each case subject to permitted exceptions. The amended Revolving Credit Facility also 
requires that we comply with certain financial covenants, including meeting a minimum EBITDA 
requirement and limitations on capital expenditures, in the event our usage of the Revolving Credit Facility 
exceeds 90% of the facility amount.  The Company is in compliance with the Revolving Credit Facility 
covenants as of December 31, 2019.  The amended Revolving Credit Facility had no borrowings as of 
December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018.     

In its foreign operations, the Company has unsecured lines of credit with various banks providing 
approximately $7,250 of availability.  There were no borrowings under the lines of credit at December 
31, 2019 and December 31, 2018.   

Term Loan Facility 

On January 30, 2014, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement with UBS AG, Stamford Branch 

Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, and the Lenders parties thereto, providing for a 

 bears interest at 
a LIBOR Rate plus 3.25% (with the LIBOR Rate carrying a 1.00% floor or at a Base Rate equal to the sum 
of (1) the greatest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 0.50%, (c) one-month 
LIBOR plus 1.0%, or (d) 2.0%, plus (2) 2.25%).  As of December 31, 2019, the interest rate was 5.19% on 
the Term Loan.  The Term Loan has a contractual obligation to repay 1% annually that has been classified 
as short-term debt.  The maturity date on the Term Loan is January 30, 2021.  The Term Loan is subject 
to certain additional mandatory prepayments upon asset sales, incurrence of indebtedness not otherwise 
permitted, and based upon a percentage of excess cash flow.  Prepayments on the Term Loan may be 
made at any time, subject to a prepayment premium of 1% for certain prepayments during the first six 
months of the term. 

Mexican assets, with liens on (i) the Fixed Asset Priority Collateral, to be contractually senior to the liens 
securing the Revolving Credit Facility pursuant to the intercreditor agreement, (ii) the ABL Priority 
Collateral, to be contractually subordinate to the liens securing the Revolving Credit Facility pursuant to 
the intercreditor agreement, and (iii) all other assets, to be contractually pari passu with the liens securing 
the Revolving Credit Facility pursuant to the intercreditor agreement.  Our future direct or indirect material 
domestic subsidiaries are required to guarantee the obligations under the Term Loan, and to provide 
security by liens on their assets as described above. 

Restructured Term Loan  

clip Systems LLC.  As part of the consideration for the purchase, a former Seller shareholder loan was 
restructured and remained outstanding at the January 10, 2017 closing in the original amount of EUR 
8,111 or $9,257.  The Restructured Term Loan is due for repayment as follows:  EUR 1,688 was paid on 
January 10, 2018; and the balance of EUR 6,423 was paid in full on January 10, 2020.  The Restructured 
Term Loan bears no interest and was recorded for a book value of EUR 7,320 using an imputed interest 
rate of 4%.  

-

Europe Bank Loan 

On July 18, 2018, the French affiliate of the Company entered into a Term Loan Agreement with Credit 
  The CIC Term 

, providing for a  2,000 

Loan bears interest at 0.70% with a three year maturity.  The CIC Term Loan has a contractual obligation 
to repay 8.33% of face value of the loan on a quarterly basis.  The maturity date on the Term Loan is May 
15, 2021.  Prepayments on the CIC Term Loan are permitted with advance notice of 30 days.   

On December 2, 2018, the French affiliate of the Company entered into a second Term Loan Agreement 
with 
  The 
CIC Term Loan bears interest at 0.75% with a two year maturity.  The CIC Term Loan has a contractual 
obligation to repay 12.50% of face value of the loan on a quarterly basis.  The maturity date on the Term 
Loan is October 5, 2020.  Prepayments on the CIC Term Loan are permitted with advance notice of 30 
days.  

, providing for a  2,000 

18 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Debt Maturity 

     The aggregate maturities of debt (1) for each of the next five years are: 

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Thereafter

Term Loan Facility

 $    2,750 

 $255,750 

 $         -         $         -         $         -   

 $            -   

Europe Bank Loan

      1,875 

         375 

           -   

           -   

           -   

               -   

Restructured Term Loan

      7,215 

           -   

           -   

           -   

           -   

               -   

Other

           -   

           -   

           -   

           -   

           -   

903 

 $  11,840 

 $256,125 

 $         -   

 $         -   

 $         -    $          903 

(1) The aggregate maturities of debt represent amounts to be paid at maturity and not                   
the current carrying value of the debt. 

9.  Leases 

We have operating and finance (formerly capital) leases primarily for real estate, equipment and 
vehicles.  Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material 
restrictive covenants.  Right-of- use assets and related liabilities are recorded on the balance sheet for 
leases with an initial term in excess of twelve months 

     Right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are as follows: 

Operating Leases:
   Right-of-use assets
   Lease liabilities 

December 31, 2019

 $                34,062 
                   37,850 

Financing Leases:
   Right-of-use assets (property, plant and equipment, net)
   Lease liabilities (debt)

                       572 
                       574 

Upon adoption of the new lease standard, the Company reclassed $1,358 of lease incentive liability, 
$1,286 of deferred rent liability and $1,024 of lease restructuring liability to ROU assets. 

The following is an analysis of leased property under financing (formerly capital) leases by major classes 
as of December 31, 2019 and 2018.  

Building and improvements
Machinery and equipment
Less: Accumulated depreciation

December 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

$453
3,599
(3,480)

$572

$453
3,625
(2,975)

$1,103

Additional information with respect to our operating and finance leases as of December 31, 2019 
is presented below. 

19 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average remaining lease term (years)
Weighted average discount rate

Operating

Finance

11.67
7.43%

1.39
5.54%

Lease expense consists of the following: 

Operating lease rent expense

Financing Leases:
   Amortization of right-of-use assets
   Interest expense on lease liabilities

December 31, 2019

$                   

5,979

454
46
500

$                     

Cash flow information related to leases is as follows: 

December 31, 2019

Cash Paid For Amounts Included in the Measurement of Lease Liabilities:
   Cash used in operating activities (operating leases)
   Cash used in operating activities (financing leases)
   Cash used in financing activities (financing leases)

$                     

Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
   Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations (operating leases)
   Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations (financing leases)
   Re-measurement of lease liabilities

$                     

5,631
519
-

2,471
-
-

Maturities of operating and financing lease liabilities as of December 31, 2019 are as follows: 

Year

Operating Leases

Financing Leases

2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
   Total lease payments
   Less: discounted interest

$                     

$                    

5,615
5,623
5,410
5,112
4,797
31,089
57,646
(19,796)
37,850

$                         

$                         

513
39
47
11
-
-
610
(36)
574

20 

 
 
 
 
 
 
                       
                         
 
 
 
                         
                             
                             
                             
 
 
 
 
 
 
                       
                             
                       
                             
                       
                             
                       
                               
                     
                               
                     
                           
                    
                            
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12.  Retirement Plans 

On March 15, 2018, the Company purchased an annuity contract for a preliminary amount of $29,258.  
The contract was finalized on September 26, 2018 for a final amount of $28,403 which affected 1,034 
participants in the U.S. defined benefit pension plan.  The purchase of this annuity contract will lower 
our projected benefit obligation by $28,403.  The Company recognized a settlement charge of $7,381 in 
Other expense related to the annuity purchase.  

The Company has contributed $3,885 to pension benefits in the U.S. during the year ended December 
31, 2019. 

The Company and its subsidiaries have defined contribution and defined benefit plans varying by country 
and subsidiary. 

and Germany historically offered defined 

resulting in various reductions in liabilities and curtailment gains. 

Included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax is $41,313 as of December 31, 2019.  The 
the following amounts not yet recognized in net periodic benefit cost: 

U.S. Pension Benefits 

Non U.S. Pension Benefits

Net actuarial loss                                      
Prior service credit                                             

($33,636)
3

                             (2,712)
                                (156)

Amounts included in other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized as a component of net 
periodic benefit cost for the year ending December 31, 2020 are: 

U.S. Pension Benefits 

Non U.S. Pension Benefits

Net actuarial loss                                      

($1,025)

($75)

The measurement date for all defined benefit plans is December 31.  The year-end status of the plans 
is as follows: 

21 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Pension Benefits 

Non U.S. Pension Benefits

2019

2018

2019

2018

Change in benefit obligation:

Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year

$121,483

$160,671

$24,780

$26,981

Service cost

Interest cost

Actuarial loss (gain) 

Benefits paid

Plan settlements

Liability (Gain)/Loss due to Curtailment

Net increase in obligation due to acquisition

Currency translation

-

5,181

8,661

(6,480)

-

-

-

-

-

5,328

(8,968)

(7,145)

(28,403)

-

-

-

411

436

2,220

(611)

-

(1,367)

-

(468)

489

457

(1,395)

(573)

-

-

-

(1,179)

Estimated benefit obligation at end of year

$128,845

$121,483

$25,401

$24,780

Change in plan assets:

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

$75,852

$113,918

$1,322

$1,343

Actual return on plan assets

Employer contribution

Benefits paid

Plan settlements

Currency translation

15,078

3,885

(6,480)

-

-

(5,701)

3,183

(7,145)

(28,403)

-

37

611

(611)

-

(24)

40

97

(97)

-

(61)

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

$88,335

$75,852

$1,335

$1,322

Unfunded status of the plan

($40,510)

($45,631)

($24,066)

($23,458)

Amounts recognized in statement of financial 
position:

Current liabilities

Noncurrent liabilities
Net amount recognized

U.S. Pension Benefits 

Non U.S. Pension Benefits

2019

2018

2019

2018

($74)

($74)

($503)

(40,436)

(45,557)

(23,563)

($159)

(23,340)

($40,510)

($45,631)

($24,066)

($23,499)

The funded status of these pension plans as a percentage of the projected benefit obligation was 58% in 
2019 compared to 53% in 2018.  

U.S. Pension Benefits 

Non U.S. Pension Benefits

2019

2018

2019

2018

Projected benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

$128,845 
$88,335

$121,483 
$75,852

$25,401 
$1,335

$24,780 
$1,322

22 

 
 
 
           
           
           
     
           
           
           
           
       
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
          
            
         
           
           
     
           
           
           
           
           
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In connection with our adoption of FASB issued ASU No. 2017-07, Improving the Presentation of Net 
Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost, the components of net periodic benefit 
cost other than the service cost component are included in the line item other expense in the income 
statement. 

Components of net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31: 

U.S. Pension Benefits
2018

2019

2017

Non U.S. Pension Benefits
2017
2018
2019

Component of net period benefit cost

Service cost
Interest cost
Expected return on plan assets
Amortization of prior service cost
Amortization of actuarial loss
Settlement loss recognized

-
$        
5,181
(4,310)

1,284

$2,155

-
$        
5,328
(5,128)
-
1,034
7,381
8,615

$ 

$        
-
6,663
(7,709)
-
4,605
-
3,559

$ 

$406
431
(39)
12
48
-
$858

$503
470
(40)
13
120
-
$1,066

$640
428
(72)
-
237
-
$1,233

Weighted average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost as of 
December 31: 

Discount rate
Expected return on plan assets
Rate of compensation increase

U.S. Pension Benefits 

Non U.S. Pension Benefits

2019

2018

2019

2018

3.38%
5.85%
N/A

4.41%
5.85%
N/A

1.70%
3.20%
2.58%

1.78%
3.20%
2.67%  

The Company evaluates its discount rate assumption annually as of December 31 for each of its retirement-
related benefit plans.  The Company is using a Mercer bond model for determining its U.S. pension benefits.  
The Company is using a weighted average discount rate of 1.70% on its non-U.S. pension plans for 2019.  

review of anticipated future long-term performance of individual asset classes, and consideration of the 
appropriate asset allocation strategy to provide for the timing and amount of benefits included in the 
projected benefit obligation.  While the study gives appropriate consideration to recent fund performance 
and historical returns, the assumption is primarily a long-term prospective rate.   

The Company
investments for long-term growth and 25% for near-term benefit payments with a wide diversification of asset 
types, fund strategies, and fund managers.  The target allocations for plan assets are 65% equity securities, 
5% hedge funds and 25% to fixed income investments. Equity securities primarily include investments in 
large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap companies primarily located in the United States and international 
developed markets. Fixed income securities include corporate bonds of companies from diversified 
industries, mortgage-backed securities, and U.S. Treasuries. Other types of investments include 
investments in hedge funds that follow several different strategies. 

Plan management uses the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate fair value of 
investments.  

Money market   overnight bank deposits and money market mutual funds maintaining at all times $1.00 

US Government and agency obligations 
obligations. 

 U.S. Treasury bonds, notes and other government 

Exchange traded funds 

 marketable securities tracking asset baskets traded on active markets.  

23 

 
 
 
 
      
      
       
      
   
   
  
       
     
     
   
      
      
      
      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds - 
which is obtained from an active market or at share or unit prices provided by the fund manager with 
significant observable inputs.  

ts held by the Plan at year-end 

Hedge funds - Value provided by the administrator of the fund. The pricing for these funds is provided 
monthly by the fund to determine the quoted price. 

Common stocks - marketable corporate equity securities traded on active markets. 

9 and 2018, by 

asset category are as follows: 

Fair Value Measurement at
December 31, 2019

Quoted 
Prices in 
Active 
Markets for 
Identical 
Assets
(Level 1)
$3,342
1,008
18,348
26,355
26,619
$75,672

$            

Significant 
Observable 
Inputs
(Level 2)
-
1,739
-
1,861
-
$3,600

Significant 
Unobservable 
Inputs
(Level 3)
-
$              
-
-
-
-
$0

Money market
US Government and agency obligations
Exchange traded funds
Mutual funds
Common stocks

Total Assets in the fair value hierarchy

Investments measured at NAV (a)
Investments at fair value

Total

$3,342
2,747
18,348
28,216
26,619
79,272
10,398
$89,670

Fair Value Measurement at
December 31, 2018

Quoted 
Prices in 
Active 
Markets for 
Identical 
Assets

Significant 
Observable 
Inputs

Significant 
Unobservable 
Inputs

Total

(Level 1)

(Level 2)

(Level 3)

Money market

US Government and agency obligations

Exchange traded funds

Mutual funds

Common stocks

Total Assets in the fair value hierarchy

Investments measured at NAV (a)
Investments at fair value

$3,224

2,497

16,551

24,318

20,785
67,375

9,799
$77,174

$3,224

$            

-

$              

-

879

16,551

22,355

20,785
$63,794

1,618

-

1,963

-
$3,581

-

-

-
-

$              

(a) Hedge funds are measured at fair value using the NAV per share practical expedient, and therefore have not
       been classified in the fair value hierarchy.

The following table provides a summary of the estimated benefit payments for the postretirement plans 
for the next five fiscal years individually and for the following five fiscal years in the aggregate.   

24 

 
 
 
 
 
           
        
          
                
         
      
              
                
         
      
          
                
         
      
              
                
         
         
 
 
           
           
          
         
      
              
                
         
      
          
                
         
      
              
                
         
           
 
 
 
U.S.

Non U.S 

2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter  

$7,532
7,695
7,768
7,882
8,005
39,470

$540
627
657
697
883
4,740

to 2021 under the CARE Act for the U.S. pension plan. There is no funding requirement for non U.S. 
pension plans. 

20 fiscal year is $700 with an additional $9,321 deferred 

Savings Plans 

The Company also has defined contribution savings and similar plans for eligible employees, which vary 

contributions and certain other factors. The Company expense for these plans was $1,012, $1,050 and 
$998 in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

International Plans 

The Company maintains various pension and statutory separation pay plans for its European 
employees.  The expense, not including the French and German pension plan, in 2019, 2018, and 2017 
was $285, $382 and $572, respectively. As of their most recent valuation dates, for those plans where 
vested benefits exceeded plan assets, the actuarially computed value of vested benefits exceeded those 

assets by approximately $4,560. 

13. Capital Stock, Treasury Stock and Paid in Capital  

Authorized shares of preferred stock ($0.01 par value per share) and common stock ($0.01 par value 
per share) for the Company are 50,000,000 shares and 100,000,000 shares, respectively.  

On January 3, 2018, the Company completed a rights offering of 16,666,666 shares of common stock 
at $3.00 per share. The Company plans to use the net proceeds of the offering to replenish working 
capital used for the acquisitions of Walsroder and Darmex and for other general corporate purposes, 
including acquisitions and capital expenditures. 

As a result of the rights offering, Icahn Enterprises L.P. currently owns approximately 78.6% of our 
outstanding common stock. 

In 2004, the Company purchased 805,270 shares of its common stock from the underwriter for a 
purchase price of $298. The common stock has been accounted for as treasury stock. 

25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
14.  Income Taxes 

Income tax provision (benefit) consisted of: 

Current

Domestic
Foreign

          Total current
Deferred

Domestic
Foreign
Total deferred

Total

2019

2018

2017

$83 
            3,847 

$139 
            3,033 

$274 
            4,713 

            3,930 

            3,172 

            4,987 

              (303)
            4,122 
            3,819 

              (394)
           (6,847)
           (7,241)

          15,842 
              (419)
          15,423 

$7,749 

($4,069)

$20,410 

The reconciliation of income tax provision (benefit) attributable to earnings differed from the amounts 
computed by applying the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate to earnings by the following amounts: 

Income (loss) before income taxes:

Domestic
Foreign

               Total

2019

2018

2017

($895)
         (16,473)

($1,340)
         (17,199)

$1,572 
          14,597 

($17,368)

($18,539)

$16,169 

Computed income tax (benefit) provision 
State and local taxes, net of federal tax
Foreign taxes, net
Valuation allowance
Uncertain tax positions - (benefit) expense 
Foreign exchange impact
Permanent differences, net
Tax reform items
Revaluation of deferreds
Other, net

Total income tax (benefit) expense 

Computed income tax (benefit) provision 
State and local taxes, net of federal tax
Foreign taxes, net
Valuation allowance
Uncertain tax positions - expense (benefit) 
Foreign exchange impact
Permanent differences, net
Tax reform items
Revaluation of deferreds
Other, net

Effective income tax rate

Statutory federal rate

($3,647)
(225)
(2,281)
9,344
867
264
2,047
-
867
513
$7,749 

21.0%
1.3%
13.1%
-53.8%
-5.0%
-1.5%
-11.8%
0.0%
-5.0%
-3.0%
-44.6%

21.0%

26 

($3,893)
(26)
(2,650)
(97)
(108)
953
1,459
(527)
302
518
($4,069)

21.0%
0.1%
14.3%
0.5%
0.6%
-5.1%
-7.9%
2.8%
-1.6%
-2.8%
21.9%

21.0%

$5,659
(62)
(442)
612
(1,419)
167
(235)
16,146
276
(292)
$20,410 

35.0%
-0.4%
-2.7%
3.8%
-8.8%
1.0%
-1.5%
99.9%
1.7%
-1.8%
126.2%

35.0%  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
              
               
               
           
           
              
            
               
               
               
              
           
               
               
               
            
            
              
               
              
          
               
               
               
               
               
              
Temporary differences and net operating loss carryforwards that give rise to a significant portion of 
 deferred tax assets and liabilities for 2019 and 2018 are as follows:    

Deferred tax asset
    Provisions not currently deductible
    Inventory basis differences
    Stock options
    Pension and healthcare 
    Net operating loss carryforwards
    Lease liability
    Foreign exchange and other
    Valuation allowance
Total deferred tax asset

Deferred tax liability
    Property, plant, and equipment
    Intangible asset
    Right of use assets
    Foreign exchange and other
Total deferred tax liability

2019

2018

$8,004
4,939
41
12,410
26,528
9,465
300
(10,354)
$51,333

($8,831)
(6,829)
(9,465)
-

($25,125)
$26,208

$6,288
4,186
151
13,263
25,920
-
-
(1,184)
$48,624

($9,745)
(7,481)
-
(819)
($18,045)
$30,579

 The net deferred tax asset (liability) is classified in the balance sheet as follows: 

Non-current deferred tax assets
Non-current deferred tax liability
Non-current deferred tax assets, net

2019

2018

$30,199
(3,991)
$26,208

$37,105
(6,526)
$30,579

A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net 
deferred tax assets will not be realized.  Management believes that is more likely than not that its net 
deferred tax assets will be realized based on the weight of positive evidence and future income except 
with respect to the loss in Poland, Brazil and a portion of the state loss in the US.  The Company has a 
valuation allowance for Brazil December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 of $9,506 and $0, 
respectively.  The Company has a valuation allowance for Viskase Poland at December 31, 2019 and 
December 31, 2018 of $376 and $685, respectively.  The Company has a valuation allowance in the 
U.S. at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 of $471 and $473, respectively.  The Company has 
gross U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 of 
$58,485 and $69,381, respectively, with amounts beginning to expire in 2024.  The Company has gross 
net operating loss carryforwards in Brazil at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 of $11,498 
and $8,315, respectively and has an unlimited carryforward period.  The Company has gross net 
operating loss carryforwards in Poland at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 of $4,268 and 
$4,429, respectively and has a five year carryforward period.  The Company has gross net operating 
loss carryforwards in France at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 of $11,927 and $8,510, 
respectively and has an unlimited carryforward period. The Company has gross net operating loss 
carryforwards in Viskase Germany at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 of $2,372 and $1,770 
for Income Tax and Trade Tax.  The Company has gross net operating loss carryforwards in CT Casings 
at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 of $14,836 and $403 for Income Tax and Trade Tax.  
Germany has an unlimited carryforward period on Trade Tax. 

The Company joins in filing a United States consolidated Federal income tax return including all of its 
domestic subsidiaries. 

27 

 
 
 
   
               
              
              
        
          
              
              
 
 
 
          
          
 
 
Uncertainty in Income Taxes 

The uncertain tax positions as of December 31, 2019 totaled $17,443. The following table summarizes 
the activity related to the unrecognized tax benefits.  

(in thousands)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of January 1
Increases in positions taken in a prior period 
Decreases in positions taken in a prior period 
Increases in positions taken in a current period 
Increases due to currency translation
Decreases due to currency translation
Decreases due to lapse of statute of limitations
 Unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31

2019
$11,677  
-
(12)
5,803
55
-
(80)
$17,443

2018
$11,855

-
(28)
-
-
(21)
(129)
$11,677

In 2019, the Company recognized an approximate net increase of $5,767 to the reserves for uncertain 
tax positions. The majority of the increase in the reserve is mainly due to the increase of reserves in 
France and Germany. 

Approximately $17,400 of the total gross unrecognized tax benefits represents the amount that, if 
recognized, would affect the effective income tax rate in future periods.   The Company and its 
subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state and foreign 
jurisdictions. The Company has substantially concluded all U.S. federal income tax matters for years 
through 2015.  Substantially all material state and local and foreign income tax matters have been 
concluded for years through 2012.  Based on the expiration of the statute of limitations for certain 
jurisdictions, it is reasonably possible that the unrecognized tax benefits will decrease in the next twelve 
months by approximately $300.   

The Company's continuing practice is to recognize interest and/or penalties related to income tax 
matters in income tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company 
recorded adjustments for interest of $965 and ($4), respectively, and for penalties of $(1) and $(68), 
respectively related to these unrecognized tax benefits. In total, as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the 
Company has recorded a liability of interest of $1,635 and $670, respectively, and $173 and $174, 
respectively, for potential penalties. 

15.  Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net 

The Company currently has $3,376 of goodwill with no impairment.  

Goodwill consists of the following: 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Beginning balance
   Translation
Gross carrying amount, 
December 31st

$3,580 
(152)

$3,428 

$3,428 
(52)

$3,376 

28 

 
 
 
 
             
 
 
           
 
           
        
 
           
            
           
           
           
           
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Intangible assets, net consists of the following: 

Definite live intangible assets:
     Customer relationships
     Technologies
     Patents/Trademarks
     In-place leases

Definite live intangible assets:
     Customer relationships
     Technologies
     Patents/Trademarks
     In-place leases

December 31, 2019

Gross 
Carrying 
Value

$19,704 
2,357 
9,626 
204 
$31,891   

Accumulated 
Amortization

Net Carrying 
Value

($2,955)
(494)
(5,927)
(44)
($9,420)

$16,749 
1,863 
3,699 
160 
$22,471 

December 31, 2018

Gross 
Carrying 
Value

$20,083 
2,402 
9,482 
208 
$32,175   

Accumulated 
Amortization

Net Carrying 
Value

($2,002)
(378)
(5,448)
(30)
($7,858)

$18,081 
2,024 
4,034 
178 
$24,317 

Amortization expense associated with definite-lived intangible assets was $1,619 and $1,664 for 2019 
and 2018, respectively. We utilize the straight-line method of amortization, recognized over the estimated 
useful lives of the assets. 

The estimated future amortization expense for our definite-lived intangible assets is as follows: 

2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Total thereafter
Total amortization

16. Contingencies 

$1,620 
1,620 
1,620 
1,620 
1,620 
14,371 
$22,471 

The Company from time to time is involved in various other legal proceedings, none of which are 
expected to have a material adverse effect upon results of operations, cash flows or financial 
condition. 

17.  Stock-based compensation (Dollars in Thousands, except Per Share Amount) 

Stock-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on fair value of the award and is 
recognized as an expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is the 
vesting period.  Included in net income is non-cash compensation expense of $0 for the year ended 
December 31, 2019 and $224 for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.   

29 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The fair values of the options granted during 2013 were estimated on the date of grant using the 
binomial option pricing model. The assumptions used and the estimated fair values are as follows: 

Expected term
Expected stock volatility
Risk-free interest rate
Expected forfeiture rate
Fair value per option

2013
10 years
17.33%
1.75%
0.00%
$0.51

In December 2016, the Company granted non-qualified stock options to its current chief executive officer 
for the purchase of 600,000 shares of its common stock under an employment agreement. Options were 
granted at the fair market value at date of grant and will vest one third each on December 31, 2017, 
December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2019. As a result of the termination of the chief executive officer 
on October 3, 2019, the stock options granted expired at the commencement of business on that date 
pursuant to the terms of the stock option plan.  Stock option expense for the unvested potion of this 
grant was reversed in October 2019. 

In April 2013, the Company granted non-qualified stock options to its current chief administrative 
officer for the purchase of 325,000 shares of its common stock under an employment agreement. 
Options were granted at the fair market value at date of grant and are fully vested.  The options for the 
chief administrative officer expire on April 16, 2023. 

The Company's outstanding options were: 

Weighted Average Weighted Average

Shares Under  Weighted Average

Option

Exercise Price

Remaining
Contractual Life

Outstanding, December 31, 2017
Vested and exercisable at Dec. 31, 2017
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Outstanding, December 31, 2018
Vested and exercisable at Dec. 31, 2018
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Outstanding, December 31, 2019
Vested and exercisable at Dec. 31, 2019

925,000
525,000
-
-
-
925,000
725,000
-
-
600,000
325,000
325,000

4.45
$                       
$                       
5.92
-
$                         
$                         
-
$                         
-
$                       
4.45
$                       
4.98
$                         
-
$                         
-
$                         
-
$                       
8.00
$                       
8.00

93 months
81 months

-
-
-

81 months
77 months

-
-
-

41 months
41 months

Grant-Date
Fair Value
$                       
$                       

$                       
$                       

$                       
$                       

0.91
0.74
-
-
-
0.91
0.85
-
-
-
0.51
0.51

Vested and exercisable options as of December 31, 2019 were 325,000 with a weighted average share 
price of $8.00. 

 18. Research and Development Costs 

Research and development costs are expensed as incurred and totaled $4,882, $5,808 and $4,947 for 
2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively.  

19. Related-Party Transactions 

As of December 31, 2019, Icahn Enterprises L.P. owned approximately 78.6% of our outstanding 
common stock.   

order to maximize the potential buying power of a group of entities with which Mr. Icahn has a relationship 

 is an entity formed and controlled by Mr. Icahn in 

30 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
            
                   
                           
                          
                   
                          
                          
                   
                          
                          
            
                   
                           
                          
                   
                          
                          
            
                          
                          
            
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
in negotiating with a wide range of suppliers of goods, services and tangible and intangible property at 
negotiated rates.  

On January 1, 2013, Viskase acquired a minority equity interest in Insight Portfolio Group and agreed to 
pay a portion of Insight Portfolio Gro
, which is approximately $189 and $189 for 
the year ended 2019 and 2018.  A number of other entities with which Mr. Icahn has a relationship also 
acquired equity interests in Insight Portfolio Group and 
operating expenses in 2019.   

In December 2019, Insight advised us that it was shutting down its services effective January 1, 2020.  
Supplier contracts coordinated through Insight will remain in effect through their individual terms.  
Effective February 10, 2020, the Company withdrew as a member of Insight and assigned its interests 
in Insight to another Delaware limited liability company. 

Icahn Enterprises L.P. was 
2019. The Company paid Icahn Enterprises L.P. service, commitment fees and interest of $154 and 
$114 for the year ended 2019 and 2018.   

 as of December 31, 

20.   Business Segment Information and Geographic Area Information  

The Company primarily manufactures and sells cellulosic food casings as its sole business segment. 

are viewed in geographic regions of North America, South America, Europe 

and Asia. Intercompany sales and charges (including royalties) have been reflected as appropriate in 

and 

and income tax benefits. 

Reporting Segment Information: 

Net sales
North America
South America
Europe
Asia
Other and eliminations

Operating income 
North America
South America
Europe
Asia

2019

2018

2017

$191,548
39,780
168,086
47,535
(62,077)

$193,135
46,541
175,594
43,571
(63,512)

$183,771
52,715
178,502
39,032
(62,042)

$384,872

$395,329

$391,978

$9,972
(2,618)
(7,232)
7,608

$7,730

$17,491
(813)
(12,079)
7,865

$12,464

$13,799
5,210
3,991
9,305

$32,305

31 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Sales by country

United States

Brazil
Italy
Germany
France
Philippines
Poland
Other international

$118,749

$115,575

$109,357

21,280
23,894
28,000
11,476
22,191
12,086
147,196

27,928
24,052
28,229
12,569
21,549
11,450
153,977

32,233
23,132
28,445
12,220
18,682
10,664
157,245

$384,872

$395,329

$391,978

21. Interest Expense, Net 

       Net interest expense consisted of: 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

Interest expense
Less Capitalized interest
    Interest expense, net

$16,498

-

$16,498

$15,821

-

$15,821

$13,293
(76)
$13,217

22. Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss 

Balance at December 31, 2018
Other comprehensive (loss) before
    reclassifications
Reclassifications from accumulated other  
    comprehensive loss to earnings
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting 
from tax legislation

Balance at December 31, 2019

Accrued 
Employee 
Benefits

Translation 
Adjustments

($44,388)

($34,888)

                394 

1,344
1,738

(1,234)

-
(1,234)

Total
($79,276)

(840)

1,344
504

1,337
($41,313)

-

($36,122)

1,337
($77,435)

Amounts Reclassified 
from Accumulated 
Other Comprehensive 
Loss 

Affected Line Items in the 
Consolidation Statement of 
Operations and 
Comprehensive Loss

Accrued Employee Benefits
     Settlement charges 
     Amortization of net actuarial loss 

                              -   

1,344
$1,344

Other Income/Expense
Other Income/Expense

32 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                            
                           
 
 
 
 
                 
                 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
23. Restructuring Charges   

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recognized a restructuring expense in our 
European segment of $8,862, which we believe is our statutory cost for the plan. During 2019, the Company 
recognized an additional $9,224 in expense for the final approved restructuring plans.  The costs relate to a 
restructuring of its French and German subsidiary operations to sa
environment in the European market.  The plan will involve the involuntary termination of approximately 150 
employees, the closure of our European sales office and relocation of part of our finishing operation.   The 
Company has also opened a European shared service center with the consolidation of corporate jobs in this 
market.     

The following table provides details of our restructuring provisions. 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Beginning balance

   Provision

   Payments

$9,515 

                        9,224 

                       (7,778)

$1,237 

8,862 

(381)

   ASC 842 adoption

                          (310)

                             -   

   Translation

Ending balance

                          (434)                          (203)

$10,217 

$9,515 

24. Variable Interest Entity 

The Company holds a variable interest in a joint venture for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. 
The joint venture, VE Netting, LLC, is a manufacturing, marketing and selling company of high quality netting 
solutions for the meat and poultry industry.   VE Netting, LLC is a Delaware limited liability company with its 
principal place of business in Lombard, IL.  The netting product will be manufactured under agreement by 

.  

As the primary beneficiary of the variable interest entity (VIE), th

December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018

d Balance Sheets.  

period ended, 

he 

December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018: 

33 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASSETS
Current assets:
   Cash and cash equivalents
   Receivables, net
   Inventories
   Other current assets

Property, plant and equipment
Less: Accumulated depreciation
   Property, plant and equipment,net

Deferred tax asset
Other assets

Total Assets

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities

Total Liabilites

Paid in capital
Retained earnings
Total Stockholder Equity
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

$14
139
211
148

1,237
(260)
977

115
26

$1,630

634
634

2,181
(1,185)
996
$1,630

$28
49
232
45

1,205
(136)
1,069

115
20

$1,558

221
221

2,181
(844)
1,337
$1,558

All assets in the above table can only be used to settle obligations of the consolidated VIE. Liabilities are 
nonrecourse obligations. Amounts presented in the table above are adjusted for intercompany eliminations. 

The following table summarizes the Statement of Operations 
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the period ended December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018. 

Net sales
Cost of sales
Gross margin

Selling, general and administrative

Operating loss

Other expense
Loss before income taxes

Income tax benefit

Net loss

December 31, 2019
$380
438
(58)

December 31, 2018
$90
384
(294)

187

(245)

96
(341)

-

223

(517)

38
(555)

-

($341)

($555)

34 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                       
 
                          
                      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
25.  Going Concern 

the United States of America applicable to a going concern which contemplates the realization of assets 
and liquidation of liabilities in the normal course of business.  While the Company has sufficient 
operating income to fund normal operations, the ability of the Company to continue as a going concern 
is dependent on the Company obtaining adequate refinancing of its Term B loan before its maturity in 
January 2021. 

cepted in 

In order to continue as a going concern, the Company will need, among other things, additional capital 

such as loans; sales of equity instruments; and obtaining capital from significant stockholders sufficient 
to meet its debt obligations.   

Most recently, from the beginning of 2020, the global spread of a novel coronavirus pandemic, also 
known as COVID-19, has delayed the proposed refinancing arranged by the Company.  We fully expect 
the refinancing will be completed before the maturity of our Term B facility.  However, there is no 
assurance that the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funds to refinance these 
maturities occurring within 12 months of the date of the issuance of our financials or that such funds, if 
available, will be obtainable on terms satisfactory to the Company, and therefore substantial doubt 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue 
as a going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and the liquidation of liabilities in the 
normal course of business.  

26. Subsequent Events 

Viskase evaluated its December 31, 2019 consolidated financial statements for subsequent events 
through May 1, 2020, the date the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued.  

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak of a novel coronavirus (COVID-
19) as a pandemic, which continues to spread throughout the United States. As a result, the Company 
has implemented a COVID-19 response plan which has phased responses to levels of severity and 
locality of the virus. With these measures in place the Company does not believe there will be a material 
impact on its operations. 

bodies in its countries of operations, therefore, there are no restrictions to prevent employees from 
working. Its supplies are mainly domestic, but certain items are sourced internationally.  We have not 
experienced any cross-border restrictions that have impacted the Company, and none of its sales are 
expected to be impacted by cross-border restrictions. While the disruption is currently expected to be 
temporary, there is uncertainty around the duration. Therefore, while the Company has not experienced 
this matter negatively impacting its business, results of operations, and financial position, the related 
financial impact cannot be reasonably estimated at this time. The Company has seen a positive  impact 
on order volume at this time and expect the longer the duration the more uncertain the overall impact. 
As a result, the Company and its Parent are monitoring the situation as it unfolds and adjusting 
measures as needed.  

35 

 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited) 

Company Overview  

The Company operates in the casing product segment of the food industry.  Viskase is a worldwide leader 
in the production and sale of cellulosic, fibrous and plastic casings for the processed meat and poultry 
industry.  Viskase currently operates ten manufacturing facilities throughout North America, Europe, South 
America and Asia.  Viskase provides value-added support services relating to these products for some of 
the world's largest global consumer products companies.  Viskase is one of the two largest worldwide 
producers of non-edible cellulosic casings for processed meats and one of the three largest manufacturers 
of non-edible fibrous casings. 

Our net sales are driven by consumer demand for meat products and the level of demand for casings by 
processed meat manufacturers, as well as the average selling prices of our casings. Specifically, demand 
for our casings is dependent on population growth, overall consumption of processed meats and the types 
of meat products purchased by consumers. Average selling prices are dependent on overall supply and 
demand for casings and our product mix. 

Our cellulose, fibrous and plastic casing extrusion operations are capital-intensive and are characterized by 
high fixed costs. Our finishing 

produce casings under a timed chemical process and operate continuously.  

Our contribution margin varies with changes in selling price, input material costs, labor costs and 
manufacturing efficiencies. The total contribution margin increases as demand for our casings increases. 
Our financial results benefit from increased volume because we do not have to increase our fixed cost 
structure in proportion to increases in demand. For certain products, we operate at near capacity in our 
existing facilities. We regularly evaluate our capacity and projected market demand.  We believe the current 
and planned cellulosic production capacity in our industry is in balance with global demand. 

Comparison of Results of Operations for Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. 

The following discussion compares the results of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 to 
the results of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, and compares the results of 
operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 to the results of operations for the fiscal year ended 
December 31, 2017. We have provided the table below in order to facilitate an understanding of this 

36 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
discussion. The table shows our results of operations (in millions) for the 2019, 2018 and 2017 fiscal years. 

Year

Ended

Dec

31,  2019

Year

Ended

Dec

31,  2018

Year

Ended

Dec

31,  2017

NET SALES

$384.9

-2.6%

$395.3

0.8%

$392.0

Cost of sales

311.6

-1.3%

315.8

6.7%

296.1

Selling, general and administrative

Amortization of intangibles

Asset impairment

Restructing expense

OPERATING INCOME

Interest expense, net of income

Other expense, net

Income tax provision (benefit) 

53.7

1.6

1.0

9.2

7.7

16.2

8.9

7.7

-4.8%

-5.9%

900.0%

3.4%

56.4

1.7

0.1

8.9

-3.4%

6.2%

-94.4%

423.5%

58.4

1.6

1.8

1.7

-37.9%

12.4

-61.7%

32.4

5.9%

-43.3%

NM

15.3

15.7

(4.1)

16.8%

423.3%

NM

13.1

3.0

20.4

NET LOSS

($25.1)

74.3%

($14.4)

242.9%

($4.2)

NM= Not meaningful when comparing positive to negative numbers or to zero. 

2019 Versus 2018 

Net Sales.   Our net sales for 2019 were $384.9 million, which represents an decrease of $10.4 million or 
2.6% from the prior year. Net sales decreased $3.9 million from volume, $7.5 million due to foreign currency 
translation offset by an increase of $1.0 million due to price and mix. 

Cost of Sales.  Cost of sales for 2019 decreased 1.3% from the comparable prior year period. The decrease 
is due to lower volume, business interruption claim and lower absorption of manufacturing costs at our plants. 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  We decreased selling, general and administrative expenses 
from $56.4 million in 2018 to $53.7 million in 2019. The decrease is mainly due to lower costs with the 
restructuring plan offset by one time expenses related to strategic alternatives. 

Amortization of Intangibles.    The Company incurred an expense of $1.6 million on the amortization of  
intangibles recognized with the acquisitions.  

Asset Impairment Charge.  The Company incurred an asset impairment charge of $1.0 million in 2019 related 
to the write down of certain high cost production machinary taken out of service.  

Restructuring Expense.    Restructuring expense of $9.2 million during of 2019 and $8.9 million in 2018 
resulted from the planned partial relocation of our manufacturing operation in Thaon, France and a 
downsizing of our facilitiy in Bomlitz, Germany. The plan involved the involuntary termination of 
approximately 150 employees. The Company anticipates an annual savings of $10.0 million per year when 
the plan is fully implemented. 

Operating Income.   Operating income for 2019 was $7.7 million, representing an decrease of $4.7 million 
from the prior year. The decrease in operating income was primarily due to lower gross profit due to 
manufacturing performance and the resulting lower sales volume, plus the asset impairment charge. 

Interest Expense.   Interest expense, net of interest income, for 2019 was $16.2 million, representing an 
increase of $0.9 million compared to 2018. The increase is a result of a higher interest rate on our Term 
loan. 

37 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Other Expense.  Other expense for 2019 was approximately $8.9 million, representing a decrease of $6.8 
million over 2018.   The decrease is primarily due to one time expense related to pension settlement 
accounting in 2018. 

Income Tax Provision.   During 2019, an income tax expense of $7.7 million was recognized on the loss 
before income taxes of $17.4 million compared to income tax benefit of $4.1 million in 2018. The 2019 
effective income tax rate was (44.6%) compared to (18.9%) for 2018
8 income tax 
expense and rate differ from the amount of income tax determined by applying the U.S. Federal income tax 
rate to pre-tax income primarily as a result of a $9.5 million increase for a valuation allowance against a 
Brazilian deferred tax asset.   

Primarily as a result of the factors discussed above, net loss was ($25.1) million compared to net loss of 
$(14.4) million for 2018. 

2018 Versus 2017 

Net Sales.  Our net sales for 2018 were $395.3 million, which represents an increase of $3.3 million or 0.8% 
from the prior year. Net sales decreased $3.1 million from volume, $0.6 million due to price and mix offset 
by an increase of $7.0 million due to foreign currency translation. 

Cost of Sales.  Cost of sales for 2018 increased 6.7% from the comparable prior year period. The increase 
is due to higher raw material and labor costs, plus lower absorption of manufacturing costs at our plants. 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  We decreased selling, general and administrative expenses 
from $58.4 million in 2017 to $56.4 million in 2018. The decrease is mainly due to favorable settlement of 
open claims, lower employee expenses and lower costs associated with the prior acquisitions. 

Amortization of Intangibles.    The Company incurred an expense of $1.7 million on the amortization of  
intangibles recognized with the acquisitions.  

Asset Impairment Charge.  The Company incurred an asset impairment charge of $0.1 million in 2018 related 
to the write down of certain production supplies taken out of service.  

Restructuring Expense.    Restructuring expense of $8.9 million during of 2018 resulted from the planned 
partial relocation of our manufacturing operation in Thaon, France and a downsizing of our facilitiy in Bomlitz, 
Germany. The plan involved the involuntary termination of approximately 150 employees. The Company 
anticipates an annual savings of $10.0 million per year when the plan is fully implemented. 

Restructuring expense of $1.7 million during of 2017 resulted from the closure of our manufacturing 
operation in Warsaw, Poland. The plan involved the involuntary termination of approximately 13 employees 
and included an operating lease liability of $1.3 million. The Company anticipates an annual savings of $0.6 
million per year when the plan is fully implemented and a similar cash flow savings when the Warsaw facility 
is subleased.   

Operating Income.  Operating income for 2018 was $12.4 million, representing an decrease of $20.0 million 
from the prior year. The decrease in operating income was primarily due to lower gross profit and an increase 
in restructuring expense. 

Interest Expense.   Interest expense, net of interest income, for 2018 was $15.3 million, representing an 
increase of $2.2 million compared to 2017. The increase is a result of a higher interest rate on our Term loan 
and a new capital lease from an acquisition. 

Other Expense.  Other expense for 2018 was approximately $15.7 million, representing a increase of $12.7 
million over 2017.  The increase is primarily due to higher expense related to pension settlement accounting 
and loss foreign currency translation. 

Income Tax Provision.  During 2018, an income tax benefit of $4.1 million was recognized on the loss before 
income taxes of $18.5 million compared to income tax expense of $20.4 million in 2017. The 2018 effective 

rate differ from the amount of income tax determined by applying the U.S. Federal income tax rate to pre-

38 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
tax income primarily as a result of a $5.5 million increase for a valuation allowance against a Brazilian 
deferred tax asset.   

Primarily as a result of the factors discussed above, net loss was ($14.4) million compared to net loss of 
$(4.2) million for 2017. 

Liquidity and Capital Resources 

Cash and cash equivalents decreased by $24.2 million during 2019. Net cash provided by operating activities 
was $0.1 million and net cash used in investing activities was $17.6 million. Net cash used in financing 
activities was $5.2 million.  Cash flows used in operating activities were principally attributable to results from 
operations, offset by an increase in working capital. Our inventory increased during 2018 due to soft market 
demand not forecasted by the Company and certain production related issues in our operations.  These 
issues are reflected in our reduced sales volume for the year. Cash flows used in investing activities were 
principally attributable to capital expenditures. Cash flows used in financing activities principally consisted of 
by debt repayments under our Europe Bank Loan, Term Loan and capital leases.  

Our cash held in foreign banks was $15.4 million (against a total cash balance of $23.0 million) and $18.3 
million (against a total cash balance of $47.2 million) as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, 
respectively. Any cash held by our foreign subsidiaries does not have a significant impact on our overall 
liquidity, but if we fail to generate sufficient cash through our domestic operations, our foreign operations 
could be a potential source of liquidity. 

As of December 31, 2019 the Company had positive working capital of approximately $146.7 million 
including restricted cash of $1.2 million, with additional amounts available under its Revolving Credit Facility. 

On November 

 subsequently amended. 

On January 30, 2014, the Company entered into an Amendment Agreement to the Revolving Credit Facility, 

the amended Revolving Credit Facility bear interest at daily three month LIBOR plus 2.0%. The amended 
Revolving Credit Facility also provides for an unused line fee of 0.375% per annum. 

On June 30, 2019, the Company entered into the Eleventh Amendment to the Loan and Security Agreement 
with Icahn Enterprises L.P., extending the maturity date of the Revolving Credit Facility from January 30, 
2020 to January 30, 2021 and amending the maximum revolver amount to $45,000.   

Indebtedness under the amended Revolving Credit Facility is secured by liens on substantially all of the 

 accounts, inventory, lockboxes, deposit accounts 

and investme
Term Loan (as hereafter defined) pursuant to an intercreditor agreement, (ii) real property, fixtures and 
improvements thereon, equipment and proceeds thereof 
contractually subordinate to the liens securing the Term Loan pursuant to such intercreditor agreement, and 
(iii) all other assets, to be contractually pari passu with the liens securing the Term Loan pursuant to such 
intercreditor agreement. Our future direct or indirect material domestic subsidiaries are required to guarantee 
the obligations under the amended Revolving Credit Agreement, and to provide security by liens on their 
assets as described above. 

Th
among other things, incur indebtedness, create liens on our assets, make investments, enter into merger, 
consolidation or acquisition transactions, dispose of assets (other than in the ordinary course of business), 
make certain restricted payments, enter into sale and leaseback transactions and transactions with affiliates, 
in each case subject to permitted exceptions. The amended Revolving Credit Facility also requires that we 
comply with certain financial covenants, including meeting a minimum EBITDA requirement and limitations 
on capital expenditures, in the event our usage of the Revolving Credit Facility exceeds 90% of the facility 
amount. The Company is in compliance with the Revolving Credit Facility covenants as of December 31, 
2019. 

39 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
The Company had no borrowings and an additional $45.0 million of availability under the amended Revolving 
Credit Facility as of December 31, 2019. 

In its foreign operations, the Company has unsecured lines of credit with various banks providing 
approximately $5.5 million of availability. There were no borrowings under the lines of credit at December 31, 
2019. 

On January 30, 2014, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement with UBS AG, Stamford Branch 

  The Term Loan bears interest at a 

LIBOR Rate plus 3.25% (with the LIBOR Rate carrying a 1.00% floor or at a Base Rate equal to the sum of 
(1) the greatest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 0.50%, (c) one-month 
LIBOR plus 1.0%, or (d) 2.0%, plus (2) 2.25%). As of December 31, 2019, the interest rate was 5.19% on 
the Term Loan.  The Term Loan has a contractual obligation to repay 1% per year and this amount is carried 
as short term debt.  The Term Loan has a maturity date of January 30, 2021, please reference Going 
Concern Footnote 25. The Term Loan is subject to certain additional mandatory prepayments upon asset 
sales, incurrence of indebtedness not otherwise permitted, and based upon a percentage of excess cash 
flow. Prepayments on the Term Loan may be made at any time. 

Mexican assets, with liens on (i) the Fixed Asset Priority Collateral, to be contractually senior to the liens 
securing the Revolving Credit Facility pursuant to the intercreditor agreement, (ii) the ABL Priority Collateral, 
to be contractually subordinate to the liens securing the Revolving Credit Facility pursuant to the intercreditor 
agreement, and (iii) all other assets, to be contractually pari passu with the liens securing the Revolving 
Credit Facility pursuant to the intercreditor agreement.  Our future direct or indirect material domestic 
subsidiaries are required to guarantee the obligations under the Term Loan, and to provide security by liens 
on their assets as described above. 

On December 30, 2016, the Company entered into a Share and Asset Purchase Agreement to purchase all 
of the shares in CT Casings Beteiligungs GmbH and certain assets of Poly-clip Systems LLC.  As part of the 
consideration for the purchase, a former seller shareholder loan was restructured and remained outstanding 
at the January 
million.  After reductions for post-
million.  

 10, 
was paid on January 10, 2020. The Restructured Term Loan bears no 

Pension and Postretirement Benefits 

Our long-term pension and postretirement benefit liabilities totaled $70.8 million at December 31, 2019.  

Expected annual cash contributions for U.S. pension liabilities are expected to be (in millions):  

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Pension

 $      0.7 

 $    13.8     $      6.6     $        7.5     $      7.4 

Contract Obligations 

As of December 31, 2019, the aggregate maturities of debt(1), leases and purchase commitments for each 
of the next five years are (in millions): 

40 

 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
Term Loan Facility
Europe Bank Loan
Restructured Term Loan
Operating Leases
Other

2020
 $      2.8 
         1.9 
7.2
5.6
          -   
 $    17.5 

2021

2022

2023

2024

 $   255.8     $        -       $          -       $        -   

0.4
0.0
5.6
          -   
 $   261.8 

          -   
          -   
5.4
          -   
 $      5.4 

            -   
            -   
5.1
            -   
 $        5.1 

          -   
          -   
4.8
          -   
 $      4.8 

Thereafter
 $        -   
           -   
           -   
31.1

0.9 
 $     32.0 

 (1) The aggregate maturities of debt represent amounts to be paid at maturity and not the current carrying 
value. 

Critical Accounting Policies 

in the United States of America and include the use of estimates and assumptions that affect a number of 
amoun
postretirement benefits and related disclosures, reserves for excess and obsolete inventory, allowance for 
doubtful accounts, and income taxes.  Management bases its estimates on historical experience and other 
assumptions that we believe are reasonable.  If actual amounts are ultimately different from previous 

amounts 

become known.  

Cash and Cash Equivalents 

For purposes of the statement of cash flows, the Company considers cash equivalents to consist of all highly 
liquid debt investments purchased with an initial maturity of approximately three months or less.  Due to the 
short-term nature of these instruments, the carrying values approximate the fair market value.  Of the cash 
held on deposit, essentially all of the cash balance was in excess of amounts insured by the Federal Deposit 
Insurance Corporation or other foreign provided bank insurance.  The Company performs periodic 
evaluations of these institutions for relative credit standing and has not experienced any losses as a result 
of its cash concentration.  Consequently, no significant concentrations of credit risk are considered to exist.  

Receivables 

Trade accounts receivable are classified as current assets and are reported net of allowance for doubtful 
accounts and a reserve for returns.  This estimated allowance is primarily based upon our evaluation of the 
financial condition of each customer, each cus

-offs. 

Inventories 

Inventories are valued at the lower of first-in, first-

Property, Plant and Equipment 

The Company carries property, plant and equipment at cost less accumulated depreciation. Property and 
equipment additions include acquisition of property and equipment and costs incurred for computer software 
purchased for internal use including related external direct costs of materials and services and payroll costs 
for employees directly associated with the project.  Upon retirement or other disposition, cost and related 
accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is included in results of 
operations.  Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method using a half year convention over the 
estimated useful lives of the assets ranging from (i) building and improvements - 10 to 32 years, 
(ii) machinery and equipment - 4 to 12 years, (iii) furniture and fixtures - 3 to 12 years, (iv) auto and trucks - 
 3 to 7 years and (vi) leasehold improvements - shorter of lease or useful 
2 to 5 years, (v) data processing 
life. 

In the ordinary course of business, we lease certain equipment, consisting mainly of autos, and certain real 
property. Real property consists of manufacturing, distribution and office facilities.  

41 

 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
Deferred Financing Costs 

Deferred financing costs are presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount 
of debt liability and amortized as expense using the effective interest rate method over the expected term of 
the related debt agreement.  Amortization of deferred financing costs is classified as interest expense.  

Intangible Assets and Goodwill 

The Company has recognized definite lived intangible assets for patents and trademarks, customer 
relationships, technologies and in-place leases. The intangible assets are amortized on the straight-line 
method over an estimated weighted average useful life of 12 years for patents and trademarks, 20 years for 
customer relationships, 13 years for technologies and 14 years for in-place leases.  

We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill on at least an annual basis by applying a fair-value-based test. 
In evaluating the recoverability of the carrying value of goodwill, we must make assumptions regarding the 
fair value of our reporting units, as defined under FASB ASC Topic 350.  Goodwill impairment testing involves 
comparing the fair value of our reporting units to their carrying values. If the book value of the reporting unit 
exceeds its fair value, the goodwill of the reporting unit is considered to be impaired. The amount of 
impairment loss is equal to the excess of the book value of the goodwill over the fair value of goodwill.  The 
reporting unit fair value is based upon consideration of various valuation methodologies, including guideline 
transaction multiples, multiples of current earnings, and projected future cash flows discounted at rates 
commensurate with the risk involved.   

Long-Lived Assets 

The Company continues to evaluate the recoverability of long-lived assets including property, plant and 
equipment, trademarks and patents.  Impairments are recognized when the expected undiscounted future 
operating cash flows derived from long-lived assets are less than their carrying value.  If impairment is 
identified, valuation techniques deemed appropriate under the particular circumstances will be used to 

  The loss will be measured based on the excess of carrying value over the 

determined fair value.  The review for impairment is performed whenever events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of assets may not be recoverable.  

Shipping and Handling 

The Company periodically bills customers for shipping charges.  These amounts are included in net revenue, 
with the associated costs included in cost of sales.  

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits 

The Company uses appropriate actuarial methods and assumptions in accounting for its defined benefit 
pension plans and non-pension postretirement benefits. 

Actual results that differ from assumptions used are accumulated and amortized over future periods and, 
accordingly, generally affect recognized expense and the recorded obligation in future periods. Therefore, 
assumptions used to calculate benefit obligations as of the end of a fiscal year directly impact the expense 

employee benefits as of December 31, 2019 are as follows: 

                  Long-term rate of return on plan assets:  The required use of the expected long-term rate of return 
on plan assets may result in recognized returns that are greater or less than the actual returns on 
those plan assets in any given year.  Over time, however, the expected long-term rate of return on 
plan assets is designed to approximate actual earned long-term returns.  The Company uses long-
term historical actual return information, the mix of investments that comprise plan assets, and future 
estimates of long-term investment returns by reference to external sources to develop an 
assumption of the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets.  The expected long-term rate of 
return is used to calculate net periodic pension cost. In determining its pension obligations, the 
Company is using a long-term rate of return on U.S. plan assets of 5.85% for 2019.  The Company 
is using a long-term rate of return on French plan assets of 3.20% for 2019.  The German pension 
plan has no assets. 

42 

 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
                  Discount rate: The discount rate is used to calculate future pension and postretirement obligations. 

The Company is using a Mercer Bond yield curve in determining its pension obligations.  The 
Company was using a discount rate of 3.38% for 2019.  The Company is using a weighted average 
discount rate of 1.70% on its non-U.S. pension plans for 2019.  

Income Taxes 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax laws and tax rates expected to apply to 
taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or 
settled.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities due to a change in tax rates is recognized in income 
in the period that includes the enactment date.  In addition, the amounts of any future tax benefits are 
reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent such benefits are not expected to be realized on a more likely 
than not basis. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are included as a component of 
tax expense. 

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive income (loss) includes all other non-stockholder 
changes in equity. Changes in other comprehensive income (loss) in 2019 and 2018 resulted from changes 
in foreign currency translation and minimum pension liability.  

Revenue Recognition 

Revenues are recognized at the time products are shipped to the customer, under F.O.B shipping point, 
customer pick up or F.O.B port terms, which is the point at which title is transferred, the customer has the 
assumed risk of loss, and when payment has been received or collection is reasonably assured.  Revenues 
are net of discounts, rebates and allowances.  Viskase records all labor, raw materials, in-bound freight, 
plant receiving and purchasing, warehousing, handling and distribution costs as a component of costs of 
sales. 

Acquisitions of Businesses 

We account for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting (other than acquisitions 
of businesses under common control), which requires us to recognize separately from goodwill the assets 
acquired and the liabilities assumed at their acquisition date fair values.  While we use our best estimates 
and assumptions to accurately value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date as well 
as contingent consideration, where applicable, our estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to 
refinement. 

Accounting for business combinations requires us to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially 
at the acquisition date including our estimates for intangible assets, contractual obligations assumed, pre-
acquisition contingencies, and contingent consideration, where applicable. In valuing our acquisitions we 
estimate fair values based on industry data and trends and by reference to relevant market rates and 
transactions, and discounted cash flow valuation methods, among other factors.  The discount rates used 
were commensurate with the inherent risks associated with each type of asset and the level and timing of 
cash flows appropriately reflect market participant assumptions.  The primary items that generate goodwill 
include the value of the synergies between the acquired company and our existing businesses and the value 
of the acquired assembled workforce, neither of which qualifies for recognition as an intangible asset.  

Financial Instruments 

The Company routinely enters into fixed price natural gas agreements which require us to purchase a 

under these contracts were expensed as incurred and included within cost of sales. Future annual 
minimum purchases remaining under the agreement are $2.4 million at December 31, 2019. 

43 

 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
  
  
accounts payable. The carrying amounts of these financial assets and liabilities approximate fair value due 
to the short maturities of these instruments. 

ivable and 

New Accounting Pronouncements 

Please reference Footnote 1 in our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS 

-

  Forward-looking statements are those that do not relate 

solely to historical fact. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and 
implicate known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, 
performances or levels of activity of our business or our industry to be materially different from that 
expressed or implied by any such forward-looking statements. They include, but are not limited to, any 
statement that may predict, forecast, indicate or imply future results, performance, achievements or 
events. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by use of words such a

business strategy and measures to implement that strategy, including changes to operations, competitive 
strengths, goals, plans, references to future success and other similar matters are forward-looking 
statements. Forward-looking statements may relate to, among other things:  

                  our ability to meet liquidity requirements and to fund necessary capital expenditures; 

                  the strength of demand for our products, prices for our products and changes in overall 

demand; 

                  assessment of market and industry conditions and changes in the relative market shares of 

industry participants; 

                  consumption patterns and consumer preferences; 

                  the effects of competition and competitor responses to our products and services ; 

                  our ability to realize operating improvements and anticipated cost savings; 

                  pending or future legal proceedings and regulatory matters; 

                  general economic conditions and their effect on our business; 

                  changes in the cost or availability of raw materials and changes in energy prices or other 

costs; 

                  pricing pressures for our products; 

                  the cost of and compliance with environmental laws and other governmental regulations; 

                  our results of operations for future periods; 

                  our anticipated capital expenditures; 

                  our ability to pay, and our intentions with respect to the payment of, dividends on shares of 

our capital stock; 

                  our ability to protect our intellectual property; 

                  economic and industry conditions affecting our customers and suppliers 

44 

 
 
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
                  our ability to identify, complete and integration acquisitions; and 

                  our strategy for the future, including opportunities that may be presented to and/or pursued 

by us. 

These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements 

45