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Zebra

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FY2001 Annual Report · Zebra
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Annual Report

W e   E n a b l e

Zebra Technologies Corporation

Zebra Technologies Corporation provides innovative and reliable on-demand 

printing solutions to businesses and governments in nearly 100 countries around

the world. Zebra® thermal bar code label and receipt printers and Eltron® card printers

encode and deliver information, which enables users to strengthen security,

increase productivity, enhance quality, lower costs and improve customer service.

ncrease inventory accuracy - Ensure quality - Eliminate packing errors - Lower labor costs - Shorten cycle time - Prevent theft - Avert tampering - Avoid misplaced goods -

A vertical markets focus: 

Small package delivery

Entertainment

Driver’s licenses 

Specialty retailing

Department store retailing

National ID 

Food service distribution

Vehicle rental

Transportation 

Auto parts manufacturing

Third-party logistics

Electronics manufacturing

Lodging

Drug manufacturing

Warehousing

High-security access

High-performance bar code 
label and specialty printers

Industrial and commercial 
bar code label printers

Desktop label, ticket 
and receipt printers 

Mobile printing systems

F I N A N C I A L   S U M M A R Y

2001

% change

2000

% change

1999

(In thousands, except per share data and percentages)

Operating Results

Net sales

Capitalization

Gross profit

Operating income

Net income

Diluted earnings per share

Cash and cash equivalents
and investments in 
marketable securities

Working capital

Total assets

Total shareholders’ equity

$450,008

209,893

92,459

61,529

1.99

$249,349

329,789

479,556

445,007

-6.6%

$481,569

-9.7

-14.9

-14.0

-13.4

232,428

108,670

71,622

2.30

$156,714

256,799

418,896

371,288

19.7%

14.3

4.7

2.8

4.0

$402,213

203,271

103,784

69,632

2.21

$235,568

302,804

394,643

349,307

Certify documentation - Authenticate merchandise - Collect customer data - Enhance customer service - Speed customer checkout - Control access - Secure assets - Verify personnel

Card printers

Thermal printing supplies

Radio Frequency 
Identification  (RFID)

Connectivity and label 
design software

L E T T E R   T O   S T O C K H O L D E R S

Edward Kaplan

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Early in 2001, as the U.S. economy
slowed, Zebra made important
strategic investments to strengthen
its position for long-term success.
Facing an expected sales decline,
but with substantial resources
and high profitability, we decided
to trade current earnings for the
opportunity for much larger gains
in the following years.  

We focused on demand-generating
activities. We introduced new prod-
ucts that enable businesses and

governments to improve security,
productivity, quality, and customer
service. We expanded our global
presence and introduced high-
growth mobile printing solutions
to new territories. We also began
implementing new channel and
marketing programs targeting
vertical markets with high-growth
opportunities. Our pursuit of
acquisitions yielded increased deal
flow and, regrettably, a transaction
that we were unable to complete.
Against a backdrop of weak manu-

facturing and technology sectors,
we materially strengthened our
financial condition and generated
record free cash flow. 

As expected, net sales for 2001
declined for the first time in Zebra’s
history, down 6.6% to $450 million.
Net income before merger expenses
amounted to $2.03 per share, com-
pared with $2.53 per share in 2000.
At the same time, continued high
profitability and the success of
better working capital management

2  | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

helped generate $84 million in
free cash. Operating profit margins
exceeded 21% for the year.
Inventories declined 30%, and
receivables fell 20%. Cash and
investments at the end of 2001
totaled $249 million, which can
be used for acquisitions.

We believe our performance was
quite respectable relative to
Corporate America in general and
technology companies in particular.
More important, we enhanced our
ability to grow and deliver stock-
holder value over the long term.  

Certainly our accomplishments in
2001 underscore our commitment
to long-term growth. In Europe,
we established a mobile printing
systems business. In a few short
months, our associates captured
some important contract awards. Our
investments in geographic expansion
with in-country representation
helped us win more business oppor-
tunities as well. On the strength of
our product offerings, we increased
sales with national postal organi-
zations, banking systems, and
hospitality and travel providers. 

Major leaps forward in connectivity
and wireless communications
enhanced the value of Zebra’s prod-
ucts in 2001. Our products became
easier to integrate into IT networks.
We introduced the first wireless
tabletop printers. The introduction
of Bluetooth and other important
wireless technologies also broadened
the connectivity of Zebra printers. 

Record sales and product-line
expansion were the high points for
Zebra’s card printers. Heightened
awareness of safety and security fol-
lowing the tragedy of September 11
supported growth of these products.
Related to our growth in card
printers and our commitment to
building stockholder value was
our agreement to acquire Fargo
Electronics. We devoted sig-
nificant resources over
eight months to bring
the transaction to a
successful conclu-
sion. Ultimately,
the Federal Trade
Commission Staff
indicated that it was
unlikely to clear the
transaction in its pro-
posed form. After carefully
considering the time and uncer-
tainty in making selective product
divestitures outlined by the FTC
Staff, Zebra and Fargo determined
that continued pursuit of the
transaction was not in the best
interests of the companies and
their stockholders. Accordingly, we
agreed to terminate the acquisition. 

No doubt, we are disappointed
that we were unable to complete
the acquisition. Zebra, however,
remains committed to the attrac-
tive market for card personalization
systems. The opportunities for
personal identification, access
control and security are excellent,
and Zebra’s card printer business
unit is very well positioned for
continued growth. 

We are working with law enforce-
ment agencies on developing card
personalization systems that meet
higher security needs, as govern-
ments, defense agencies and
military contractors, and global
corporations are upgrading their
card personalization programs
and showing greater interest in
higher-value identification tech-

nologies. Our new P720

We have a 
sharper focus on 
high-growth vertical
markets and applications
where  we  deliver 
real value for our 
customers. 

performance printer is
targeted at high-
security applica-
tions, including
driver’s licenses
and national ID
cards. In addi-
tion, new entry-
level P200 series
printers are perfect

for loyalty cards,
employee badges, and member-

ship cards. During 2002, we
intend to expand our card printer
line further, with new features
and price points to increase the
number of potential applications
and deliver better value in card
personalization solutions. 

Advances in wireless technology
are expanding the applications for
mobile printing systems. The latest
addition to Zebra’s leading line of
mobile printers is the QL320, which
offers modular wireless connectivity
options in a lightweight ergonomic
design for applications such as
shelf labeling, in-store pricing and
mobile receipt printing. We intend
to expand this exciting mobile
platform in 2002. 

Internationally, our plans call for
expanding our presence in Eastern
Europe with more sales representa-
tives and for accelerating penetra-
tion of mobile applications from the
outstanding base we built last year.
In Asia Pacific and Latin America,
our in-country representatives are
working to generate more business
in these regions, which offer excel-
lent long-term growth opportunities. 

In 2001, we devoted additional
resources to executing our acquisi-
tion strategy. The goal of this
strategy is to strengthen Zebra’s
technological base, diversify into
related businesses, and add products
to address new printing applica-
tions. We believe this is the best
way to use our cash to grow
stockholder value. 

It is clear to me that the decision
to invest in 2001, rather than cut
spending, was the right decision
for Zebra. We distanced ourselves
from the competition, extended
our customer reach and expanded
our product line. We have a sharper
focus on high-growth vertical
markets and applications where we
deliver real value for our customers.
Zebra is very well positioned to
capitalize on the demand that we
anticipate will emerge in 2002. We
look forward to sharing our progress
with you as the year unfolds.  

Edward Kaplan
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 3

S E E I N G   T H E   B I G   P I C T U R E

Over years of innovation, Zebra Technologies has achieved a clear view of the entire 

industrial supply chain and how it can add value at each link. Zebra now enables its customers 

to achieve their business goals more quickly, more safely, more accurately and more efficiently.

Component Tracking The accuracy of

barcoding enables companies to track individual

parts, certify documentation, ensure procedural 

compliance and prevent tampering.

A

Connectivity - Component manufacturing - Product identification - Quality assurance - Inventory tracking - Compliance labeling - WIP management - Warehouse management -  

Commerce today demands ever-increasing

ZebraLink maximizes

With WebView, network

speed and efficiency in the delivery of

goods and services. Zebra’s key enabling

technologies automate information

exchange to maximize efficiencies at

uptime and gives users

administrators download

unparalleled control over

label formats and configure

their bar code printer 
networks. Alert instantly

sends a message to any

email-enabled device 

a printer to optimize 

performance and meet 

customer needs quickly. 

every step of a company’s operations,

when a printer runs out 

The ZBITM basic interpreter

from production to inventory, to shipping,

receiving and tracking, and ultimately,

to sale and delivery to the customer. 

of ribbon or labels, or 

other situations arise. 

can control other peripheral

devices for cost-effective

stand-alone operations, as

well as interpret non-Zebra

data streams. 

4 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Connectivity Direct connections

to enterprise, warehouse management

and other data networks add value

to Zebra printers. Web and wireless

connectivity increases printer flexibility

by eliminating costly hard wiring. 

Package Labeling Barcoding speeds shipping and 

makes it possible to track the billions of packages sent each

year. Better tracking reduces losses and helps ensure on-time

deliveries, especially in time-critical business operations.

On-Demand 
Shelf Labeling 

Pricing updates are

The Zebra Portable

handled quickly and

Radio (ZPR) clips onto

accurately thanks to net-

handheld devices for

worked mobile printing

short-range wireless

solutions for scanning

communication with

and printing right on

Zebra mobile printers

the selling floor.

to add functionality

and flexibility.

QL320

Package labeling - Cross-docking - Receiving and stocking - In-store pricing - On-demand shelf labeling - Self-serve kiosk printing - Point-of-sale receipts and coupons - Mobile POS/queue busting - Customer loyalty cards 

Z

Mobile POS/Queue Busting With magnetic stripe and

smart card readers on Zebra mobile printers, retailers can add

wireless, point-of-sale locations during peak times for instant

improvement in productivity and customer service.

Economical mobile POS solutions shorten checkout

lines, increase customer satisfaction and prevent

lost sales. They also maximize selling space by

eliminating the need for additional fixed POS stations. 

Cameo 2sc

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 5

A   V I E W   O F   T O M O R R O W

As the world becomes more complex and interconnected, the need for fast 

and accurate identification, tracking and transactions processing 

provides Zebra outstanding avenues for growth. 

Specialty Labeling Zebra teams specialty ribbon,

adhesive and face stock to meet unique labeling

requirements. Companies value Zebra’s UL/CSA-

approved Color Match Labels for applications

requiring extreme durability, superior adhesion and

chemical resistance, plus the aesthetics of color matching. 

D r i v e r ’ s   l i c e n s e s -   A s s e t   t r a c k i n g -   K e y l e s s   e n t r y   -   P e r s o n n e l   i d e n t i f i c a t i o n -   C h i l d   s a f e t y   -   S p e c i a l t y   l a b e l i n g -   N a t i o n a l   I D   c a r d s -

Identifying, tracking and protecting

in customer service can all be achieved

people and their property give rise to

with solutions that incorporate Zebra

an expanding array of applications that

printers and supplies. Wireless connec-

are benefiting from Zebra’s innovations

tivity and radio frequency identification

in label, receipt and card printing.

(RFID) technology further enhance the

Greater safety and security, a reduction

value of Zebra products. 

in medical errors and an improvement

6 |

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Child Safety Municipalities are implementing

child safety programs with Zebra card printers.

Identification cards containing a child’s vital

information, including a thumbprint, let parents

provide police with the key facts needed to start

a search immediately if their child is missing. 

Passenger Tracking

Applications in transportation

incorporate Zebra printers

with wireless connectivity for

issuing tickets and boarding

passes, upgrading ticket fares,

printing timetables and route

maps, and taking payment for

refreshments all while increasing

passenger satisfaction. 

Pa s s e n g e r   t r a c k i n g -   B i o m e t r i c s   -   E l e c t r o n i c   p u r s e   -   A c c e s s   c o n t r o l -   L a w   e n f o r c e m e n t   t i c k e t i n g   -   E v i d e n c e   t r a c k i n g   -   L u g g a g e   i d e n t i f i c a t i o n   a n d   t r a c k i n g  

Access Control 

Zebra’s card personalization systems enhance safety and security

for cruise lines and their passengers. Multi-featured cards with

magnetic stripes, smart chips and bar codes give guests access to

their staterooms, act as an electronic purse for on-board purchases

and track who has left the ship in ports of call. 

$

“Smart” Labels with embedded radio frequency 

identification (RFID) chips can enhance security by

matching baggage with passenger manifests. Zebra 

RFID printer/encoders simultaneously print a label 

and encode the embedded chip. The ability to

append information to smart labels and read the

chip’s RF signals where there is no line of sight

expands Zebra’s applications opportunities.

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 7

Patient Identification

Healthcare professionals

increasingly depend on the

accuracy that bar codes provide

to reduce potentially life-

threatening errors. Barcoded

ID bracelets match patients

with their records, test results

and lab samples. Scanning

wristbands when delivering

medications verifies that the

correct medication is dispensed

to each patient and reduces

health risk and legal liability. 

Ht-146

Specimen Tracking Barcoding specimens with labels

from a desktop or wireless mobile printer at the same time

they are obtained from a patient ensures proper labeling and

tracking, averts misplacing and tampering, makes certain

that procedures are followed, and avoids rework. 

Pa t i e n t   i d e n t i f i c a t i o n   -   Pa t i e n t   b i l l i n g   -   B l o o d   b a g   i d e n t i f i c a t i o n -   R e g u l a t o r y   c o m p l i a n c e -   S p e c i m e n   t r a c k i n g -   P r o c e d u r e   t r a c k i n g   -   I n s t r u m e n t   a n d   t r a c k i n g   -   P h a r m a c y   m a n a g e m e n t

H

E

A

L

T

H

C

A

R

E

Patient Billing 

Barcoding reduces billing

errors by cutting paper-

work and increasing

records management 

accuracy. Barcoded items

are scanned when removed

from inventory, and the

patient’s chart is scanned 

to show utilization and

adjust the bill. 

8 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Pharmacy Management Barcoding helps drug manufac-

turers comply with regulatory mandates, minimize production

errors, and ensure security of company assets. Pharmacists can

help the visually impaired take their proper medication by

labeling pill bottles with Zebra-encoded smart labels that “speak”

in a synthesized voice with the aid of a handheld reader. 

Selected Consolidated Financial Data

Financial Data

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Year Ended December 31, 

Consolidated statements 
of earnings data

Net sales  

Cost of sales 

Gross profit  

2001

2000 

1999 

1998 

1997 

$ 450,008

$ 481,569

$ 402,213(4)

$ 339,678(4)

$ 300,071(4)

240,115

249,141

198,942(4)

183,639(4)

153,205(4)

209,893

232,428

203,271

156,039

146,866 

Total operating expenses  

117,434(1) 

123,758(1)

99,487(2) 

94,174(2) 

72,446

Operating income 

92,459(1)

108,670(1)

103,784(2)

61,865(2)

74,420  

Income before income taxes

96,139(1)

111,911(1)

108,800(2)

65,021(2)

85,225(3)

Net income 

Earnings per share

Basic   

Diluted 

61,529(1)

71,622(1)

69,632(2)

40,069(2)

54,447(3)

$

$

2.01(1)

1.99(1)

$

$

2.33(1)

2.30(1)

$

$

2.23(2)

2.21(2)

$

$

1.30(2)

1.29(2)

$

$

1.76(3)

1.74(3)

Weighted average shares outstanding

Basic   

Diluted 

30,645

30,881

30,790

31,155

31,175

31,521

30,919

31,176

30,897     

31,380        

(In thousands)
December 31, 

Consolidated balance sheet data

Cash and cash equivalents and 

investments and marketable securities

$ 249,349

$ 156,714

$ 235,568

$ 162,668

$ 139,320

Working capital  

Total assets 

Long-term obligations  

Shareholders’ equity 

330,510

256,799

302,804

229,688

209,862  

479,556

418,896

394,643

310,002

270,447  

408

513

664

36

314  

445,007

371,288

349,307

270,884

236,220  

(1) Includes pretax charges for merger costs relating to the acquisition of Comtec Information Systems, Inc., and merger with Eltron International, Inc. of

$1,838 in 2001 and $11,066 in 2000. 

(2) Includes a pretax charge for merger costs of $6,341 in 1999 and $8,080 in 1998 relating to the merger with Eltron International, Inc. 

(3) Includes a one-time pretax gain of $5,458 from the sale of Zebra’s investment in Norand Corporation common stock. 

(4) Reflects the adjustment of net sales and cost of sales for EITF Issue No. 00-10, which requires freight billed to customers to be reported as revenue, 

not as a reduction of freight costs. This adjustment has no impact on net income.

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 9

DiscussionManagement’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 

General

78.4% of net sales for 2000. Sales of supplies increased

to believe that the Asia Pacific and Latin American

On April 3, 2000, Zebra acquired all of the outstanding

5.2% to $85,266,000 from $81,045,000 to represent

regions hold significant growth opportunities, because

capital stock of Comtec Information Systems, Inc.

18.9% of net sales versus 16.8% of net sales in 2000.

it believes that barcoding and other auto-id technologies

This acquisition was accounted as a purchase trans-

Service and software revenue was $19,345,000 in 2001,

are not as well adopted in these international markets

action. Accordingly, Zebra’s results of operations

up 12.1% from $17,251,000 to account for 4.3% of net

as in North America. The strength of the U.S. dollar

reflect Comtec’s results of operations from the date

sales compared with 3.6% for 2000. Freight revenue

versus the British pound and the euro reduced sales

of acquisition. 

was $5,511,000 for 2001, compared with $5,773,000

for the Company’s European region by approximately

During the fourth quarter of 2000, the Company adopted

accounted for 1.2% of net sales in both 2001 and 2000. 

vailed during 2000. It is difficult for management to

Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 00-10 (EITF 00-10).

accurately forecast the direction of foreign exchange

In accordance with EITF 00-10, the Company adjusted

North American sales declined 10.5% to $269,955,000

movements, and therefore, to estimate the impact of

sales for all years reported to include freight billed to

for 2001 from $301,580,000 for 2000, as the slowing

foreign exchange rates on future financial results,

for 2000, representing a 4.5% decline. Freight revenue

$2,976,000, compared with exchange rates that pre-

customers as freight revenue. Previously, these freight

U.S. economy restricted sales of bar code label and

either positive or negative.

billings were classified as a reduction of freight costs

receipt printers in North America. This slowdown

in cost of sales. This change in classification had no

began in 2000 and became more severe in 2001.

Gross profit was $209,893,000 for 2001, down 9.7%

effect on previously reported net income.

Management believes that the long-term outlook for

from $232,428,000 for 2000. In addition, gross profit

Comparison of Years Ended 
December 31, 2001 and 2000

Net sales of $450,008,000 declined 6.6% from

bar code label and receipt printing remains favorable

margin declined to 46.6% from 48.3%. Lower production

but is unable to determine at this time when growth

volumes and the resulting decline in manufacturing

might return to historical levels. 

capacity utilization had the predominant effect on

the gross profit and gross profit margin declines.

$481,569,000 in 2000. The decline was primarily related

International sales for 2001 of $180,053,000 showed

Management calculates that changes in foreign

to softness in sales of bar code label and receipt printers

virtually no growth from the $179,989,000 recorded

exchange rates reduced gross profit by $2,287,000.

in North America from deteriorating economic condi-

in 2000. Because of the overall decline in net sales,

Positive variances to standard costs related to lower

tions in the U. S., specifically in the manufacturing and

international sales increased to 40.0% of net sales in

component costs and a favorable mix of products

technology sectors. A full year’s sales of mobile printing

2001 from 37.4% of net sales in 2000. Growth in the

sold had a positive effect on gross profit margin. 

systems as a result of the Comtec acquisition, com-

Company’s European region to a record level resulted

pared with only three quarters in 2000, partially offset

from the formation of a team dedicated to the sale of

Selling and marketing expenses increased 2.9% to

the decline from this weakness. Hardware sales

mobile printing systems and sales expansion in Eastern

$49,688,000, or 11.0% of net sales, from $48,306,000,

decreased 10.0% to $339,886,000 from $377,500,000

Europe. This growth was offset by sales declines in

or 10.0% of net sales. During 2001, the Company

and represented 75.5% of net sales, compared with

Latin America and Asia Pacific. Management continues

continued to invest in demand-generating activities

10 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

to support long-term growth. For 2001, higher

As part of the Comtec acquisition, the Company

Company recorded a $2,242,000 pre-tax write-down of

expenditures for personnel, market research and co-

acquired printer and wireless technology. A portion

a long-term investment, in which the decline in value

op activities were partially offset by declines in travel

of the purchase price was attributed to acquired 

was viewed as other than temporary. This write-down

and entertainment and other expenses. 

in-process technology, as the development work

reduced 2001 diluted earnings by $0.05 per share.

associated with the projects had not yet reached

Research and development expenses for 2001 were

technological feasibility and was believed to have

Interest expense and other expense, net, for 2001

$28,184,000, up 5.4% from $26,746,000 for 2000, and

no alternative future use. The Company assessed

totaled $1,739,000, compared with $8,104,000. The

represented 6.3% of net sales in 2001 versus 5.6% in

the fair value of the acquired in-process technology

78.5% decline was primarily attributable to the effec-

2000. Lower project expenses partially offset higher

using an income approach. During the second quarter

tiveness of currency hedging strategies to minimize

expenditures related to engineering personnel and

of 2000, the Company recorded a $5,953,000 charge

the effects of foreign currency transactions, which the

consulting services. 

to write off this acquired in-process technology.

Company implemented during the second half of 2000.

There was no such charge in 2001. 

In 2001, losses from foreign currency transactions

General and administrative expenses declined 3.3%

on the value of euro-denominated cash deposits and

to $32,491,000 from $33,594,000. As a percentage of

The Company incurred merger costs of $1,838,000 in

receivables from customers and pound sterling-

net sales, general and administrative expenses

2001 and $5,113,000 in 2000. These costs related to

denominated receivables from the Company’s U.K.

increased to 7.2% from 7.0%. Higher expenditures on

the merger with Eltron International, Inc. in October

subsidiary totaled $896,000, compared with $6,032,000

information systems were partially offset by expense

1998, which was accounted for as pooling-of-interests,

for 2000. 

declines for personnel-related expenses from benefits

and the Comtec acquisition. These costs exclude

and taxes, as well as lower expenditures on outside

certain direct costs of the Comtec acquisition, which

Income before income taxes decreased 14.1% to

services for recruiting and consulting. 

were not included as a portion of the purchase price

$96,139,000 from $111,911,000. As a percentage of net

or recorded at the time of the transaction. In 2001,

sales, income before income taxes declined to 21.4%

Amortization of intangible assets totaled $5,233,000,

these costs primarily consisted of expenditures on

from 23.2%. Excluding merger-related charges and

compared with $4,046,000 for 2000. The increase was

information technology infrastructure to integrate the

acquired in-process technology of $1,838,000 in 2001

due to a full year’s amortization of intangible assets

Comtec and Eltron operations. 

and $11,066,000 in 2000, income before income taxes

related to the Comtec acquisition, compared with

declined to $97,977,000,or 21.8% of net sales, from

three quarters in 2000. Management expects the

Investment income was $5,419,000 for 2001, a decrease

$122,977,000, or 25.5% of net sales. The effective

impact of adopting SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and

of 52.2% from $11,345,000 for 2000. Lower investment

income tax rate was 36.0% in both 2001 and 2000. 

Other Intangible Assets, to eliminate approximately

returns on invested balances contributed to the

$5,000,000 in amortization of goodwill and other

decline. In addition, in the third quarter of 2001, the

Net income of $61,529,000, or $1.99 per diluted share,

intangible assets during 2002. 

for 2001 was down 14.1% from $71,622,000, or $2.30

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 11

per diluted share, for 2000. Excluding the effects of

International sales were $179,989,000, up 11.9%

higher expenses related to increased staffing levels

merger expenses, net income for 2001 was $62,706,000,

from $160,893,000 and accounted for 37.4% of net

and other internal operations. 

or $2.03 per diluted share, compared with $78,704,000,

sales, compared with 40.0% in 1999. All international

or $2.53 per diluted share, for 2000. 

regions experienced sales increases to record levels,

Research and development expenses were $26,746,000,

with strong sales growth posted in Asia Pacific and

or 5.6% of net sales, up 21.5% from the $22,007,000,

Comparison of Years Ended 
December 31, 2000 and 1999

Latin America. The strength of the U.S. dollar versus

or 5.5% of net sales. The Company incurred increased

the British pound and the euro reduced reported sales

personnel-related expenses from higher staffing levels,

Net sales increased 19.7% to $481,569,000 from

growth for the Company’s European region in 2000. 

increased use of outside consulting services, and

$402,213,000. A significant portion of this sales growth

higher costs related to activities in the research and

was due to the addition of sales derived from the

Gross profit increased 14.3% to $232,428,000 from

development of new products. 

Comtec acquisition. Hardware sales increased 17.6%

$203,271,000. Gross profit margin declined to 48.3%

to $377,500,000 from $321,354,000 and represented

from 50.5%. Faster growth in portable printers,

General and administrative expenses increased by

78.4% of net sales, compared with 79.9% of net sales.

brought about by the Comtec acquisition, and other

8.9% to $33,594,000 from $30,858,000. As a percentage

Sales of supplies increased 17.3% to $81,045,000 from

lower priced printers contributed to an unfavorable

of net sales, general and administrative expenses

$69,092,000 to represent 16.8% of net sales in 2000

product mix. Foreign exchange rates also negatively

declined to 7.0% from 7.7%. During 2000, the Company

versus 17.2% in 1999. Service and software revenue

affected gross margins, as the strength of the U.S.

recorded higher personnel-related expenses from

advanced 113.7% to $17,251,000 from $8,071,000 and

dollar against the British pound and euro lowered

higher staffing levels, as well as costs for expanded

accounted for 3.6% of net sales in 2000 compared

reported sales of products to European customers.

operations related to the Comtec acquisition. Lower

with 2.0% for 1999. Freight revenue was $5,773,000,

Unfavorable variances to standard costs related to

costs for outside services, notably recruiting, partially

up 56.2% from $3,695,000, and accounted for 1.2% of

higher component costs, increased freight charges

offset these higher expenses. 

net sales in 2000 and 0.9% in 1999. 

and higher labor costs also contributed to the lower

North American sales increased 25.0% to $301,580,000

partially offset these negative factors. 

for 2000, compared with $291,000. The increase was

from $241,320,000. The high concentration of Comtec

due to the amortization of intangible assets related to

gross profit margin. Higher production volumes

Amortization of intangible assets totaled $4,046,000

sales in North America contributed to the sales growth

Selling and marketing expenses increased 20.8% to

the Comtec acquisition. 

in the region. A slowing U.S. economy restricted

$48,306,000 from $39,990,000. As a percentage of

sales growth of bar code label printers in North

net sales, selling and marketing expenses increased

As part of the Comtec acquisition, the Company

America in 2000, as companies reduced expenditures

slightly to 10.0% from 9.9%. Lower expenses for

acquired mobile printer and wireless technology. 

on capital and information technology. 

business development, including trade show expenses,

A portion of the purchase price was attributed to

and outside professional services partially offset

12 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

acquired in-process technology, as the development

the value of euro-denominated cash deposits and

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

work associated with the projects had not yet reached

receivables from customers and pound sterling-

Management prepared the consolidated financial

technological feasibility and was believed to have no

denominated receivables from the Company’s U.K.

statements of Zebra Technologies Corporation in con-

alternative future use. The Company assessed the

subsidiary. These losses totaled $6,032,000 for 2000,

formity with accounting principles generally accepted

fair value of the acquired in-process technology

compared with $1,985,000 for 1999. During the second

in the United States of America. Accordingly, certain

using an income approach. During the second quarter

half of 2000, the Company implemented currency

required estimates, judgments and assumptions are

of 2000, the Company recorded a $5,953,000 charge

hedging strategies to minimize the effects of foreign

believed to be reasonable, based upon the information

to write off this acquired in-process technology.

currency transactions. Higher other expense also

available. These estimates and assumptions affect the

There was no such charge in 1999. 

resulted from interest expense related to short-term

reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date

loans related to the Comtec acquisition. 

of the financial statements and the reported amounts

The Company incurred merger costs of $5,113,000 in

of sales and expenses during the periods presented.

2000 and $6,341,000 in 1999. These costs related to

Income before income taxes increased 2.9% to

The following accounting policies comprise those that

the Eltron and Comtec transactions and consisted

$111,911,000 from $108,800,000. As a percentage of

management believes are the most critical to aid in

principally of expenditures on information technology

sales, income before income taxes declined to 23.2%

fully understanding and evaluating the Company’s

infrastructure to integrate Eltron operations into the

from 27.1%. Excluding merger-related charges and

reported financial results. 

Company’s enterprise-wide resource planning (ERP)

acquired in-process technology of $11,066,000 in 2000

system, and on product line rationalization of the

and $6,341,000 in 1999, income before income taxes

Company’s expanded portable printer line. In 1999,

increased 6.8% to $122,977,000, or 25.5% of net sales,

these costs related to the Eltron merger for consulting

from $115,141,000, or 28.6% of net sales, in 1999. The

fees and personnel-related expenses for relocation,

effective income tax rate for the Company was 36.0%

severance and recruitment. The Company substantially

in both 2000 and 1999.

completed the integration with Eltron in 2000. 

Investment income increased 29.9% to $11,345,000

diluted share, up 2.9% from $69,632,000, or $2.21

Net income for 2000 was $71,622,000, or $2.30 per

Valuation of Long-Lived and 
Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Management assesses the impairment of identifiable

intangibles, long-lived assets and related goodwill

and enterprise-level goodwill whenever events or

changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying

value may not be recoverable. Factors considered

important to possibly trigger an impairment review

from $8,732,000. Higher investment returns more

per diluted share, for 1999. Excluding the effects of

consist of: 

than offset lower average invested balances. 

merger expenses, net income for 2000 was $78,704,000,

or $2.53 per diluted share, versus $73,691,000, or

Other expense for 2000 totaled $8,104,000, compared

$2.34 per diluted share, for 1999. 

with $3,716,000. The expense increase was primarily

due to losses from foreign currency transactions on

•  significant underperformance relative to expected

historical or projected future operating results 

•  significant changes in the manner of use of the

acquired assets or the strategy for the overall business 

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 13

•  significant negative industry or economic trends 

review thereafter. The Company expects to complete

as determined by a review of current credit information.

•  significant decline in Zebra’s stock price for a

sustained period

its initial review during the first quarter of 2002. 

Management monitors customer collections and pay-

ments and maintains a provision for estimated credit

The Company currently does not expect to record an

losses based upon historical experience and any specific

•  significant decline in market capitalization relative

impairment charge upon completion of the initial

customer collection issues. While such credit losses

to net book value 

impairment review. There can be no assurance, how-

have historically been within expectations and the

ever, that when the review is completed a material

provisions established, management cannot guarantee

When it is determined that the carrying value of

impairment charge will not be recorded. 

that the Company will continue to experience credit loss

intangibles, long-lived assets and related goodwill

consistent with historical experience. Since accounts

and enterprise level goodwill may not be recoverable

Revenue Recognition

receivable are not concentrated in a few number of

based upon the existence of one or more of the above

Zebra recognizes revenue from product sales at the time

customers, a significant change in the liquidity or

indicators of impairment, management measures any

of shipment and passage of title. Certain customers

financial position of any one customer would not

impairment based on a projected discounted cash

have the right to return products that do not function

have a material adverse effect on the collectability of

flow method using a discount rate determined by

properly within a limited time after delivery. The

accounts receivables and future operating results.

management to be commensurate with the risk

Company regularly monitors and tracks product returns

inherent in the current business model. Net intangible

and records a provision for the estimated amount of

Inventories

assets, long-lived assets, and goodwill amounted to

such future returns, based on historical experience and

The Company values its inventories at the lower of

$114,317,000 as of December 31, 2001. 

any notification received of pending returns. While such

the actual cost to purchase or manufacture, or the

returns have historically been within expectations and

current estimated market value. Management regularly

In 2002, SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible

the provisions established, the Company cannot guaran-

reviews inventory quantities on hand and records a

Assets, became effective. As a result, the Company

tee that it will continue to experience return rates con-

provision for excess and obsolete inventory based

will cease to amortize approximately $54,455,000 of

sistent with historical patterns. Any significant increase

primarily on estimated forecasts of product demand

goodwill, including existing intangible assets that are

in product failure rates and the resulting credit returns

and production requirements for the subsequent

not considered identifiable under SFAS No. 142. The

could have a material adverse effect on operating

twelve months. A significant increase in the demand

Company recorded approximately $5,134,000 of

results for the periods in which such returns materialize.

for Zebra’s products could result in a short-term

amortization on these amounts during 2001 and

increase in the cost of inventory purchases, while a

would have recorded approximately $5,134,000 of

Accounts Receivable

significant decrease in demand could result in an

amortization during 2002. In lieu of amortization, the

The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of

increase in the amount of excess inventory quantities

Company is required to perform an initial impairment

customers and adjusts credit limits based upon payment

on hand. Additionally, the Company’s estimates of

review of its goodwill in 2002 and an annual impairment

history and the customer’s current credit worthiness,

future product demand may prove to be inaccurate,

14 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

in which case the provision required for excess and

Liquidity and Capital Resources

and cash equivalents increased by $12,552,000 for

obsolete inventory may be understated or overstated.

Internally generated funds from operations are the

the year. 

In the future, if inventories are determined to be over-

primary source of liquidity for the Company, largely as

valued, the Company would be required to recognize

a result of the Company’s sales and profitability, control

Net cash provided by operating activities totaled

such costs in cost of goods sold at the time of such

over working capital and relatively low requirements

$132,565,000 in 2000. During the year, the Company

determination. Likewise, if inventories are determined

for purchases of property and equipment. As of

reduced its investments and marketable securities

to be undervalued, the Company may have over-

December 31, 2001, the Company had $249,349,000

by $60,860,000 as partial funding for the Comtec

reported cost of goods sold in prior periods and

in cash and cash equivalents and investments and

acquisition. The Company also recorded increases of

would be required to recognize such additional oper-

marketable securities, including approximately

$7,106,000 in accounts receivable and $7,179,000 in

ating income at the time of sale. The Company makes

$100,000,000 earmarked for the Fargo acquisition, com-

inventories. Depreciation and amortization totaled

every effort to ensure the accuracy of its forecasts of

pared with $156,714,000 at the end of 2000. Capital

$14,383,000. Acquired in-process technology related

future product demand; however any significant

expenditures totaled $9,613,000 in 2001, $8,947,000

to the Comtec acquisition had a $5,953,000 positive

unanticipated changes in demand or technological

in 2000, and $11,349,000 in 1999. Management believes

effect on cash flow, while deferred income taxes used

developments could have a significant impact on the

that existing capital resources and funds generated

$6,076,000 in cash during the year. Investing activities

value of inventories and reported operating results. 

from operations are sufficient to finance anticipated

used $97,423,000 in cash in 2000. In addition to the

capital requirements. 

$8,947,000 used for purchases of property and

Reserve for Tax Litigation and Tax Audits

equipment, the Company used $88,476,000 for the

The Company has recorded the estimated liability

For 2001, net cash provided by operating activities

Comtec acquisition, net of cash acquired. For 2000,

related to certain pending tax litigation and tax audits

was $14,076,000, which included an increase of

the Company used $48,675,000 for financing activities,

based on management’s estimates of the probable

$78,874,000 in investments and marketable

including $55,505,000 for the purchase of treasury

range of loss. As additional information becomes

securities and relatively significant declines of

stock. Proceeds of $6,653,000 from the exercise of

available, management will assess the potential liability

$16,223,000, or 19.3%, in accounts receivable and

stock options had a positive effect on net cash used

related to pending litigation and tax audits, and revise

$17,284,000, or 30.4%, in inventories. Both declines

in financing activities. For 2000, cash and cash

estimates. Such revisions in the estimates of potential

exclude the effect of exchange rates on cash.

equivalents declined by $15,041,000. 

future liabilities could materially affect the results of

Depreciation and amortization totaled $15,691,000.

operation and financial position. 

Net cash used in investing activities was used exclu-

For 1999, operating activities provided $15,683,000,

sively for $9,613,000 in purchases of property and

including an increase in investments and marketable

For additional information on the Company’s significant

equipment, and $8,863,000 in net cash provided by

securities of $59,471,000. In addition, accounts

accounting policies, see Note 2 to the accompanying

financing activities was substantially generated by

receivable increased by $5,216,000 and inventories

consolidated financial statements. 

proceeds from the exercise of stock options. Cash

increased $2,695,000. Offsetting these uses of cash,

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 15

accounts payable increased by $3,233,000 and income

period in which the termination occurs. The Company

with a requirement for an impairment test. SFAS 142

taxes payable increased $3,055,000. Depreciation and

expects to incur as yet unquantified additional merger

also requires an evaluation of intangible assets and

amortization totaled $9,900,000 for the year. Investing

integration costs related to the Fargo acquisition, if

their useful lives and a transitional impairment test

activities used $4,403,000. Sales of investments and

consummated. See Note 3 of Notes to Consolidated

for goodwill and certain intangible assets upon

marketable securities of $6,946,000 partially offset the

Financial Statements and the Company’s Form 8-K

adoption. After transition, the impairment test will

$11,349,000 in purchases of property and equipment.

dated July 31, 2001 for a more thorough description

be performed annually. SFAS 142 is effective for

Financing activities provided $9,591,000, almost

of the Fargo acquisition. In addition, see the Acquisition

fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001.

entirely from proceeds from exercise of stock options.

Agreement, Amendment No. 1 to the Acquisition

Management is currently evaluating the impact of

For the year, the Company recorded a net increase of

Agreement, Amendment No. 2 to the Acquisition

adopting SFAS 142 on the Company’s consolidated

$19,439,000 in cash and cash equivalents.

Agreement and Amendment No. 3 to the Acquisition

financial statements.

Agreement, all of which are on file with the SEC.

On July 31, 2001, the Company signed a definitive

As of the date of adoption, the Company expects 

agreement, through its wholly owned subsidiary

On March 22, 2002, the tender offer was extended 

to have unamortized goodwill in the amount of

Rushmore Acquisition Corp., to acquire all of the

to 5:00 PM, New York City time, on April 5, 2002.

$54,455,000, which includes existing intangible

outstanding common stock (including associated

The extension is necessary, because the applicable

assets that are not considered identifiable under

rights to purchase preferred stock) of Fargo Electronics,

Hart-Scott-Rodino antitrust review waiting period has

SFAS No. 142. Amortization expense related to

Inc., for $7.25 per share in cash, or approximately

not expired or been terminated. Because clearance

goodwill was $5,134,000 and $1,283,000 for the year

$86,000,000, plus debt. This debt will become due on

under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements

ended December 31, 2001 and three months ended

consummation of the tender offer. Management will

Act has not been received, Fargo has the right under

December 31, 2001, respectively. Because of the

fund the acquisition with existing cash and investment

the acquisition agreement to terminate the acquisition

extensive effort needed to comply with adopting

resources. The Company believes that existing capi-

at any time during the period beginning at 5:00 PM,

SFAS 142, it is not practical to reasonably estimate

tal resources and funds generated from operations

New York City time, on March 22, 2002 and ending at

the impact of adopting this Statement on the

are also sufficient to finance anticipated capital

12:00 midnight, New York City time, on March 29, 2002.

Company’s financial statements at the date of this

requirements, as well as potential future acquisitions

report, including whether it will be required to

and related integration costs. As of December 31,

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

recognize any transitional impairment losses as the

2001, the Company had $1,395,000 in capitalized

In June 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 142,

cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. 

acquisition costs related to the Fargo transaction. 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, which

If the agreement is terminated, the capitalized acqui-

supersedes APB Opinion No. 17, Intangible Assets.

In June 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 143, Accounting

sition costs and other acquisition costs that would

SFAS 142 replaces the requirements to amortize

for Asset Retirement Obligations. SFAS 143 addresses

otherwise be capitalized will be expensed in the

intangible assets with indefinite lives and goodwill

financial accounting and reporting for obligations

16 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived

adoption of SFAS No. 144 may have on the financial

The Company could encounter difficulties in any

assets and for the associated asset retirement costs.

statements; however, such impact, if any, is not

acquisition it undertakes, including unanticipated

SFAS 143 must be applied starting with fiscal years

known or reasonably estimable at this time.

integration problems and business disruption.

beginning after June 15, 2002. Management is currently

Acquisitions could also dilute stockholder value and

evaluating the impact that the adoption of SFAS 143

Safe Harbor

adversely affect operating results.

will have on the consolidated financial statements. 

Forward-looking statements contained in this report

The Company agreed to acquire Fargo Electronics,

are subject to the safe harbor created by the Private

Inc., and may acquire or make investments in other

In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144,

Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are highly

businesses, technologies, services or products. The

Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal for Long-

dependent upon a variety of important factors. These

process of integrating any acquired business, technol-

Lived Assets. SFAS No. 144 addresses financial

factors could cause actual results to differ materially

ogy, service or product into operations may result in

accounting and reporting for the impairment or disposal

from those reflected in such forward-looking state-

unforeseen operating difficulties and expenditures.

of long-lived assets. While SFAS No. 144 supersedes

ments. These factors include those described below.

Integration of an acquired company also may consume

SFAS No. 121, Accounting for the Impairment of

When used in this document, the words “anticipate,”

considerable management time and attention, which

Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be

believe,” “estimate,” “will” and “expect,” and similar

could otherwise be available for ongoing development

Disposed Of, it retains many of the fundamental pro-

expressions as they relate to the company or its

of the business. The expected benefits of any acqui-

visions of that Statement. SFAS No. 144 also supersedes

management, are intended to identify such forward-

sition may not be realized. Moreover, the Company

the accounting and reporting provisions of APB Opinion

looking statements. The Company undertakes no obli-

may be unable to identify, negotiate or finance future

No. 30, Reporting the Results of Operations-Reporting

gation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking

acquisitions successfully. Future acquisitions could

the Effects of Disposal of a Segment of a Business,

statements, whether as a result of new information,

result in potentially dilutive issuances of equity

and Extraordinary, Unusual and Infrequently Occurring

future events, changed circumstances or any other

securities or the incurrence of debt, contingent

Events and Transactions, for the disposal of a segment

reason after the date of this annual report. 

liabilities or amortization expenses. 

of a business. It retains, however, the requirement in

APB Opinion No. 30 to report separately discontinued

Risk Factors

The Company may not be able to continue to develop

operations, and extends that reporting to a component

Investors should carefully consider the risks, uncer-

products to address user needs effectively in an

of an entity that either has been disposed of (by sale,

tainties and other factors described below, as well as

industry characterized by rapid technological change.

abandonment, or in a distribution to owners) or is

other disclosures in Management’s Discussion and

To be successful, Zebra must adapt to rapidly changing

classified as held for sale. SFAS No. 144 is effective

Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of

technological and application needs, by continually

for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001,

Operations, because they could have a material

improving its products as well as introducing new

and interim periods within those fiscal years. The

adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial

products and services to address user demands.

Company is in the process of evaluating the impact that

condition, operating results, and growth prospects. 

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 17

Zebra’s industry is characterized by:

•  high levels of quality and reliability, and

The Company sells a significant amount of its products

•  rapidly changing technology

•  dependable and efficient distribution networks

•  evolving industry standards

•  frequent new product and service introductions

Zebra cannot assure it will be able to compete

successfully against current or future competitors.

Increased competition in printers or supplies may

to customers outside the United States. Shipments

to international customers are expected to continue

to account for a material portion of net sales. Risks

associated with sales and purchases outside the

United States include:

•  evolving distribution channels

•  changing customer demands

Future success will depend on the Company’s ability

to adapt in this rapidly evolving environment. The

Company could incur substantial costs if it has to

modify its business to adapt to these changes, and

may even be unable to adapt to these changes.

The Company competes in a highly competitive

market, which is likely to become more competitive.

Competitors may be able to respond more quickly 

to new or emerging technology and changes in

customer requirements.

Zebra faces significant competition in developing

and selling its systems. Principal competitors have

substantial marketing, financial, development and

personnel resources. To remain competitive, the

Company believes it must continue to provide:

•  technologically advanced systems that satisfy the

user demands;

result in price reductions, lower gross profit margins

•  Fluctuating foreign currency rates could restrict sales,

and loss of market share, and could require increased

or increase costs of purchasing, in foreign countries.

spending on research and development, sales and

marketing and customer support. Some competitors

may make strategic acquisitions or establish

•  Foreign governments may impose burdensome

tariffs, quotas and taxes or other trade barriers.

cooperative relationships with suppliers or companies

•  Political and economic instability may reduce demand

that produce complementary products. Any of these

for our products, or put our foreign assets at risk.

factors could reduce our earnings.

The inability to protect intellectual property could

harm the Company’s reputation, and competitive

•  Restrictions on the export or import of technology

may reduce or eliminate the ability to sell in or

purchase from certain markets.

position may be materially damaged.

•  Potentially limited intellectual property protection in

Zebra’s intellectual property is important to its success.

certain countries, such as China, may limit recourse

Copyrights, patents, trade secrets and contracts are

against infringing products or cause the Company

used to protect these proprietary rights. Despite these

to refrain from selling in certain geographic territories.

precautions, it may be possible for third parties to

copy aspects of the Company’s products or, without

authorization, to obtain and use information which

•  Staffing and managing international operations may

be unusually difficult.

Zebra regards as trade secrets. 

•  The Company may not be able to control

Zebra sells a significant portion of its products

internationally and purchases important components

Economic factors, which are outside the Company’s

from foreign suppliers. These circumstances create a

control, could lead to a deterioration in the quality of

international distributors working on its behalf.

•  superior customer service;

number of risks.

the Company’s accounts receivable.

18 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

The Company sells its products to customers in the

neither has long-term employment agreements with

Taxing authority challenges may lead to tax payments

United States and several other countries around the

key personnel, nor maintains key man life insurance

exceeding current reserves.

world. Sales are typically made on unsecured credit

policies on any of its key employees.

The Company operates in multiple tax jurisdictions

terms, which are generally consistent with the prevailing

worldwide and uses strategies to minimize its tax

business practices in a given country. A deterioration

The ability to attract, retain and motivate highly

exposure. Local tax authorities may challenge these

of economic or political conditions in a country could

skilled employees is important to Zebra’s long-term

tax positions from time to time. Adverse outcomes in

impair Zebra’s ability to collect on receivables in the

success. Competition for personnel in the Company’s

these situations may exceed the Company’s reserves

affected country. 

industry is intense, and the Company may be unable

for tax payments.

to retain key employees or attract, assimilate or retain

Infringement on the proprietary rights of others could

other highly qualified employees in the future.

put the company at a competitive disadvantage, and any

The Company operates in many markets around the

world and in the ordinary course of business, is

related litigation could be time consuming and costly.

Terrorist attacks such as the attacks that occurred in

subjected to many external influences that may affect

Third parties may claim that Zebra violated their

New York City and Washington, D.C., on September 11,

the Company’s operations and financial position.

intellectual property rights. To the extent of a violation of

2001, and other attacks or acts of war may adversely

Management believes that adequate provision has

a third party’s patent or other intellectual property right,

affect the market for the Company’s stock, its operations

been made for any such existing matters. Further

the Company may be prevented from operating its busi-

and profitability.

events, however, including and in addition to those

ness as planned, and may be required to pay damages,

On September 11, 2001, the United States was the

enumerated above may occur.

to obtain a license, if available, or to use a non-infringing

target of terrorist attacks of unprecedented scope.

method, if possible, to accomplish its objectives. Any of

These attacks caused periodic major instability in the

these claims, with or without merit, could result in costly

U.S. and other financial markets. Possible further acts

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure
About Market Risk

litigation and divert the attention of key personnel.

of terrorism in the United States or elsewhere could

Interest Rate Risk

have a similar impact. Leaders of the U.S. government

The Company is exposed to the impact of changes

The Company depends on the ongoing service of its

announced their intention to actively pursue and take

in interest rates because of its large investment

senior management and ability to attract and retain

military and other action against those behind the

portfolio. As stated in the Company’s written invest-

other key personnel.

September 11 attacks and to initiate broader action

ment policy, the Company’s investment portfolio is

Future success is substantially dependent on the

against global terrorism. Armed hostilities or further acts

viewed as a strategic resource that will be managed

continued service and continuing contributions of senior

of terrorism would cause further instability in financial

to achieve above market rates of return in exchange

management and other key personnel. The loss of the

markets and could directly, or indirectly through reduced

for accepting a prudent amount of incremental risk,

service of any of executive officer or other key employ-

demand, negatively affect the Company’s facilities

which includes the risk of interest rate movements.

ees could adversely affect business. The Company

and operations or those of its customers or suppliers. 

Risk tolerance is constrained by an overriding

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 19

objective to preserve capital across each quarterly

Currency swaps that are net settled every month

management limits the amount of the Company’s

reporting cycle.

mitigate the U.S. dollar to U.K. pound sterling net

investments in alternative investment strategies to 

exposure. This policy mitigates, but does not eliminate,

a maximum of 20% of the total investment portfolio,

The Company mitigates interest rate risk with an

the impact of exchange movements on the value of

with no single investment exceeding $10,000,000. 

investment policy that requires the use of outside pro-

future cash flows. Thus, adverse movements in either

fessional investment managers, investment liquidity

the pound or the euro in relation to the dollar can

The Company utilizes a “Value-at-Risk” (VaR) model

and broad diversification across investment strategies,

directly affect the Company’s financial results. The

to determine the maximum potential one-day loss in

and which limits the types of investments that may be

corporate treasury department executes all foreign

the fair value of its interest rate, foreign exchange and

made. Moreover, the policy requires due diligence of

exchange contracts with major financial institutions

equity price sensitive instruments. 

each investment manager both before employment

only. Under no circumstances does the Company

and on an ongoing basis. 

enter into any type of foreign exchange contract for

The following table sets forth the impact of a 1%

trading or speculative purposes.  

movement in interest rates on the value of the

Foreign Exchange Risk

Company’s investment portfolio as of December 31,

The Company conducts business in more than 90 coun-

Equity Price Risk

2001. Similarly, the impact of a 1% change in the

tries throughout the world and, therefore, is exposed

From time to time, the Company has taken direct

value of all equity positions held by the Company’s

to risk based on movements in foreign exchange rates.

equity positions in companies. These investments

investment managers is tabulated. The impact of a

Currency exposures are related to the U.S. dollar/U.K.

relate to potential acquisitions and other strategic

1% movement in the dollar/pound and dollar/euro

pound sterling, U.S. dollar/euro, and the U.K. pound

business opportunities. To the extent that it has a direct

rates is measured as if the Company did not engage

sterling/euro exchange rates arising from invoicing

investment in the equity securities of another company,

in the selective hedging practices described above.

European customers in pounds sterling and euros from

the Company is exposed to the risks associated with

It is based on the dollar/euro and dollar/pound exchange

the Company’s U.K. office. The U.S. dollar/Japanese

such investments. 

rates and euro- and pound-denominated assets and

yen exchange rate arises from invoicing customers.

liabilities as of December 31, 2001. 

The yen foreign currency exposure averages less than

The Company currently employs three investment

$200,000. There is no foreign exchange risk associated

managers, two of which manage portfolios of invest-

Interest rate sensitive instruments

with the Company’s investment portfolio. 

ment funds (i.e. fund of funds). These investment

funds use a variety of investment strategies, some

+1% movement

-1% movement

The Company manages its foreign exchange exposure

of which involve the use of equity securities. Each

Foreign exchange

through a policy of selective hedging. This policy

investment manager’s portfolio is designed to be

involves selling forward up to 120 days projected remit-

market neutral, although an individual fund within a

Dollar/pound

Dollar/euro

$(2,044,747)

$ 2,044,747

$      87,360

$    196,130

tances in euros from the Company’s U.K. subsidiary.

portfolio may be exposed to market risk. By policy,

Equity price sensitive instruments

N/A  

20 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)
December 31, 

Assets

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents
Investments and marketable securities 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $1,975 in 2001 and $1,420 in 2000
Inventories
Deferred income taxes
Prepaid expenses

Total current assets 

Property and equipment at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization

Deferred income taxes

Excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired

Other intangibles

Other assets 

Total assets

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable
Accrued liabilities
Short-term note payable
Current portion of obligation under capital lease with related party 
Income taxes payable

Total current liabilities 

Obligation under capital lease with related party, less current portion

Deferred rent

Total liabilities

Shareholders’ equity:

Preferred stock, $.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding

Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized, 26,018,743 
and 25,610,515 shares issued; 25,256,380 and 24,551,762 shares outstanding 
in 2001 and 2000, respectively

Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value; 28,358,189 shares authorized, 5,527,773 
and 5,936,001 shares issued and outstanding in 2001 and 2000, respectively

Additional paid-in capital

Treasure stock, at cost (762,363 shares and 1,058,753 shares, respectively)

See accompanying notes to 
consolidated financial statements.

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

Total shareholders’ equity

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

2001  

2000

$ 26,328

223,021

67,160

39,923

4,295

3,611

364,338

40,742

902

32,735

26,693

14,146

$ 13,776  
142,938  
83,941  
56,852  
4,601  
1,578  

303,686  

41,587  

3,469  

34,529  

29,281  

6,344  

$ 479,556

$418,896

$ 14,414

14,993

221

79

4,121

33,828

408

313

$ 23,838  
11,910  
149  
77  
10,913  

46,887  

513  

208  

34,549

47,608

—

260

55

59,012

(35,482)

422,555

(1,393)

445,007

$ 479,556

—  

256  

59  

63,491

(50,128)  

361,026  

(3,416)  

371,288

$418,896

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 21

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N Earnings

Consolidated Statements of Earnings

(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)
Year Ended December 31, 

Net sales

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Operating expenses:

Selling and marketing

Research and development

General and administrative

Amortization of intangible assets

Acquired in-process technology

Merger costs

Total operating expenses 

Operating income 

Operating income (expense):

Investment income

Interest expense

Other, net

Total other income 

Income before income taxes

Income taxes

Net income

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share 

See accompanying notes to 
consolidated financial statements.

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

Diluted weighted average and equivalent shares outstanding

2001  

2000 

1999

$ 450,008

$ 481,569

$ 402,213

240,115

209,893

49,688

28,184

32,491

5,233

—

1,838

117,434

92,459

5,419

(231)

(1,508)

3,680

96,139

34,610

249,141

232,428

48,306

26,746

33,594

4,046

5,953

5,113

123,758

108,670

11,345

(1,120)

(6,984)

3,241

111,911

40,289

198,942

203,271  

39,990  

22,007 

30,858

291

—

6,341  

99,487  

103,784  

8,732  

(209) 

(3,507) 

5,016 

108,800 

39,168

$ 61,529

$ 71,622

$ 69,632  

$

$

2.01

1.99

30,645

30,881

$

$

2.33

2.30

30,790

31,155

$

$

2.23  

2.21 

31,175 

31,521

22 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

Income

(Amounts in thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 

Net income

Other comprehensive income (loss):

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

2001  

2000 

1999

$ 61,529

$ 71,622 

$ 69,632

Foreign currency translation adjustment

(977)

(1,508)

(1,432)  

See accompanying notes to 
consolidated financial statements.

Unrealized holding gains (losses) on investments:

Net change in unrealized holding gain (loss) 

for the period, net of income tax expense (benefit) 
of $1,687 for 2001 and of ($801) for 2000

Comprehensive income 

3,000

(1,425)

—  

$ 63,552

$ 68,689 

$ 68,200  

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 23

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N Shareholders’ Equity

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

(Dollars in thousands)

Balance at December 31, 1998

Issuance of 474,676 shares of Class A Common Stock

Conversion of 2,079,731 shares of Class B Common Stock 

to 2,079,731 shares of Class A Common Stock

Tax benefit resulting from exercise of options

Net income

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Balance at December 31, 1999

Issuance of 128,827 shares of Class A Common Stock

upon exercise of stock options

Conversion of 604,187 shares of Class B Common Stock 

to 604,187 shares of Class A Common Stock

Repurchase of 1,170,500 shares of Class A Common Stock

Reissuance of 111,747 treasury shares upon exercise 

of stock options

Tax benefit resulting from exercise of options

Gains on put options

Net income

Unrealized holding loss on investments (net of income taxes)

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Balance at December 31, 2000

Conversion of 408,228 shares of Class B Common Stock 

to 408,228 shares of Class A Common Stock

Reissuance of 296,390 treasury shares upon exercise 

of stock options

Tax benefit resulting from exercise of options

Loss on put options

Net income

Unrealized holding gain on investments (net of income taxes)

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Class A
Common
Stock

$ 223 

5

21

—

—

—

249

1 

6

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

256

4

—

—

—

—

—

—

Class B
Common
Stock

Additional
Paid-in
Capital

Retained
Earnings

Treasury
Stock

Unrealized
Holding Loss
on Investments

Cumulative
Translation 
Adjustment

Total 

Accumulated Other 
Comprehensive Income 

$  86

—

(21)

—

—

—

65

—

(6)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

59

(4)

—

—

—

—

—

—

$ 49,854

$ 219,772

$         —

$      —

$     949

$ 270,884

9,828

—

390

—

—

—

—

—

69,632

—

60,072

289,404

3,227

—

—

(1,952)

1,505

639

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

71,622

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(55,505)

5,377

—

—

—

—

—

63,491

361,026

(50,128)

—

(5,751)

1,273

(1)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

61,529

—

—

—

14,646

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1,425)

—

(1,425)

—

—

—

—

—

3,000

—

—

—

—

—

(1,432)

9,833

—

390

69,632

(1,432)

(483)

349,307

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1,508)

(1,991)

—

—

—

—

—

—

(977)

3,228

—

(55,505)

3,425

1,505

639

71,622

(1,425)

(1,508)

371,288

—

8,895

1,273

(1)

61,529

3,000

(977)

Balance at December 31, 2001

$260

$55

$59,012

$422,555

$(35,482)

$1,575

$(2,968)

$445,007

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

24 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Cash FlowsConsolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

(Amounts in thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income

2001  

2000 

1999

$ 61,529

$ 71,622

$ 69,632

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization
Tax benefit from exercise of options 
Acquired in-process technology
Depreciation (appreciation) in market value 
of investments and marketable securities

Write-down of long-term investment 
Deferred income taxes
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of business acquired:

Accounts receivable, net
Inventories
Other assets
Accounts payable
Accrued expenses
Income taxes payable
Other operating activities
Investments and marketable securities

Net cash provided by operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities:

Purchases of property and equipment
Acquisition of Comtec Information Systems, net of cash acquired
Sales of investments and marketable securities

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities:

Purchase of treasury stock
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
Proceeds from (cost of) put options
Issuance (repayment) of notes payable
Payments for obligation under capital lease, with related party

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

15,691

1,273

—

(1,209)

2,242

2,873

16,223

17,284

(7,895)

(9,424)

3,083

(6,792)

(1,928)

(78,874)

14,076

(9,613)

—

—

(9,613)

—
8,895

(1)

72

(103)

8,863

(774)

12,552

13,776

14,383
1,505
5,953

2,952
—
(6,076)

(7,106)
(7,179)
(542)
(6,064)
(810)
3,372
(305)
60,860

132,565

(8,947)
(88,476)
—

(97,423)

(55,505)
6,653
639
(140)
(322)

(48,675)

(1,508)
(15,041)
28,817

9,900

390  
—  

(936)  
—  
1,211  

( 5,216)
(2,695)
(2,931)
3,233
(203)
3,055
(286)
(59,471)  

15,683 

( 11,349) 
—  
6,946  

( 4,403)  

—  
9,833  
—
70  
(312)  

9,591  

(1,432)  
19,439  
9,378  

See accompanying notes to 
consolidated financial statements.

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

$ 26,328

$ 13,776

$ 28,817  

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

Interest paid
Income taxes paid

Supplemental disclosures of non-cash financing activity:

$

231

38,604

$ 1,120
44,736

$

209
36,010  

Conversion of Class B Common Stock to Class A Common Stock

4

6

21  

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 25

Notes

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1 Description of Business

Trading and available-for-sale securities are recorded at fair value. Held-to-maturity

Zebra Technologies Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the Company)

securities are recorded at amortized cost, adjusted for the amortization or accretion

design, manufacture, sell and support a broad line of bar code label and receipt printers

of discounts or premiums. Unrealized holding gains and losses on trading securities

and card printers, self-adhesive labeling materials, card supplies, thermal transfer

are included in earnings. Unrealized holding gains and losses, net of the related tax

ribbons and bar code label design software. These products are used principally in

effect, on available-for-sale securities are excluded from earnings and are reported

automatic identification (auto ID), data collection and personal identification applications

as a separate component of shareholders’ equity until realized. 

and are distributed world-wide through a network of resellers, distributors and end users

representing a wide cross-section of industrial, service and government organizations.

Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation. The accompanying financial statements have been

prepared on a consolidated basis to include the accounts of the Company and its

wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant inter-company accounts, transactions, and

unrealized profit have been eliminated in consolidation.

Inventories. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, and cost is determined

by the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. 

Property and Equipment. Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation and

amortization is computed primarily using the straight-line method over the estimated

useful lives of the various classes of property and equipment, which are 30 years for

buildings and range from 3 to 10 years for other property. Property and equipment

held under capital leases is amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter

Cash Equivalents. Cash consists primarily of deposits with banks. In addition, the

of the lease term or estimated useful life of the asset.

Company considers highly liquid short-term investments with original maturities of

less than seven days to be cash equivalents. Previously, the Company considered

highly liquid instruments with original maturities of less than three months to be cash

equivalents. Those instruments with original maturities of seven to 119 days that

were considered cash equivalents are now included in investments and marketable

securities. The financial statements for all periods presented have been reclassified

to reflect this change.

Investments and Marketable Securities. Investments and marketable securities at

December 31, 2001, consisted of U.S. government securities, state and municipal

Income Taxes. The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability

method. Accordingly, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future

tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carry-

ing amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred

tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to

taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be

recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in

tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

bonds, partnership interests and equity securities, which are held indirectly in diver-

Intangible Assets. Excess cost over fair value of net assets acquired represents the

sified funds actively managed by investment professionals. The Company classifies

unamortized excess of the cost of acquiring a business over the fair values of the net

its debt and marketable equity securities in one of three categories: trading, available-

assets received at the date of acquisition. This excess cost is being amortized on a

for-sale or held-to-maturity. Trading securities are bought and held principally for the

straight-line basis over 20 years and is stated net of accumulated amortization of

purpose of selling them in the near term. Held-to-maturity securities are those secu-

$4,648,000 and $2,870,000 at December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively. 

rities that the Company has the ability and intent to hold until maturity. All securities

not included in trading or held-to-maturity are classified as available-for-sale.

26 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

Other intangible assets consist primarily of customer lists, assembled workforce and

Use of Estimates. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity

current technology. These assets are recorded at cost and amortized on a straight-line

with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires

basis over periods up to 15 years. Accumulated amortization for these other intangible

management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of

assets was $5,944,000 and $2,505,000 at December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of

Revenue Recognition. Revenue is recognized at the time of shipping and includes

freight billed to customers.

Research and Development Costs. Research and development costs are expensed 

as incurred.

Advertising. Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expenses for

the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 totaled $4,405,000, $4,637,000

and $4,700,000, respectively.

Warranty. The Company provides warranty coverage of up to one year on printers

against defects in material and workmanship. A provision for warranty expense is

recorded at the time of shipment. To date, the Company has not experienced any 

significant warranty claims. 

Financial instruments. The reported amounts of the Company’s financial instruments,

which include investments and marketable securities, trade accounts receivable,

accounts payable, accrued liabilities, income taxes payable and short-term notes

payable, approximate their fair values because of the contractual maturities and 

short-term nature of these instruments. 

Stock-based Compensation. The Company grants stock options for a fixed number 

of shares to employees with an exercise price equal to the fair value of the shares at

the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and

expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Foreign Currency Translation. The consolidated balance sheets of the Company’s

foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars using the year-end exchange

rate, and statement of earnings items are translated using the average exchange rate

for the year. The resulting translation gains or losses are recorded in shareholders’

equity as a cumulative translation adjustment, which is a component of accumulated

other comprehensive loss.

Capitalized Software. The Company’s investment in software development consists

primarily of enhancements to its existing E-commerce web-based application, which

will include the automation of current business activities. Specifically, the activities

include the processing of customer orders; the acknowledgement of customer orders

and delivery; and the financial invoicing for all of Zebra’s products and will aid in

enabling the Company to create new business efficiencies.

Costs associated with the planning and design phases of web-based development,

including coding and testing activities necessary to establish technological feasibility

of the functionality of the website, are charged to research and development as

incurred. Once technological feasibility has been determined, costs incurred in the

construction phase of software development including coding, testing, and product

quality assurance are capitalized. 

the date of grant. The Company accounts for stock option grants in accordance with

Amortization commences at the time of capitalization or, in the case of a new service

Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to

offering, at the time the service becomes available for use. Unamortized capitalized

Employees, and provides the pro forma disclosures required by Statement of Financial

costs determined to be in excess of the net realizable value of the product are

Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 123, Accounting for Stock-based Compensation.

expensed at the date of such determination. The Company assesses the recoverability

of its software development costs against estimated future undiscounted cash flows.

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 27

Given the highly competitive environment and technological changes, it is reasonably

upon adoption. After transition, the impairment test will be performed annually.

possible that those estimates of anticipated future gross revenue, the remaining

SFAS 142 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. Management is

estimated economic life of the product, or both may be reduced significantly.

currently evaluating the impact of adopting SFAS 142 on the Company’s consolidated

Funded Engineering Arrangement. The Company is part of an arrangement with a

financial statements.

third party, whereby the Company will be reimbursed for certain engineering services

As of the date of adoption, the Company expects to have unamortized goodwill in

performed on behalf of the third party. The arrangement has a term of three years.

the amount of $54,455,000, which includes existing intangible assets that are not

The arrangement also provides that the Company will be the exclusive manufacturer

considered identifiable under SFAS No. 142. Amortization expense related to goodwill

of the products resulting from the engineering agreement. The products will be

was $5,134,000 and $1,283,000 for the year ended December 31, 2001 and three

distributed under the third party’s brand name. During 2001, the Company incurred

months ended December 31, 2001, respectively. Because of the extensive effort

approximately $2,800,000 of reimbursable expenses under the agreement. As of

needed to comply with adopting SFAS 142, it is not practical to reasonably estimate

December 31, 2001, the Company had an accounts receivable of approximately

the impact of adopting this Statement on the Company’s financial statements at the

$2,600,000, including an unbilled portion of $1,100,000 related to the arrangement. 

date of this report, including whether it will be required to recognize any transitional

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of. The

impairment losses as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. 

Company accounts for long-lived assets in accordance with the provisions of SFAS

In June 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement

No. 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived

Obligations. SFAS 143 addresses financial accounting and reporting for obligations

Assets to be Disposed of. The statement requires that long-lived assets and certain

associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and for the associated

identifiable intangibles be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in

asset retirement costs. SFAS 143 must be applied starting with fiscal years beginning

circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.

after June 15, 2002. Management is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption

Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the

of SFAS 143 will have on the consolidated financial statements. 

carrying amount of an asset to future net cash flows expected to be generated by

the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recog-

nized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds

the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the

carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.

In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or

Disposal for Long-Lived Assets. SFAS No. 144 addresses financial accounting and

reporting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets. While SFAS No. 144

supersedes SFAS No. 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for

Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of, it retains many of the fundamental provisions of

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements. In June 2001, the FASB issued

that Statement. SFAS No. 144 also supersedes the accounting and reporting provisions

SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, which supersedes APB Opinion

of APB Opinion No. 30, Reporting the Results of Operations-Reporting the Effects of

No. 17, Intangible Assets. SFAS 142 replaces the requirements to amortize intangible

Disposal of a Segment of a Business, and Extraordinary, Unusual and Infrequently

assets with indefinite lives and goodwill with a requirement for an impairment

Occurring Events and Transactions, for the disposal of a segment of a business. It

test. SFAS 142 also requires an evaluation of intangible assets and their useful

retains, however, the requirement in APB Opinion No. 30 to report separately discontin-

lives and a transitional impairment test for goodwill and certain intangible assets

ued operations, and extends that reporting to a component of an entity that either has

28 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

been disposed of (by sale, abandonment, or in a distribution to owners) or is classified

Pending Transaction. On July 31, 2001, the Company announced that it signed a

as held for sale. SFAS No. 144 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15,

definitive agreement to acquire all of the outstanding common stock (including

2001, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is in the process of

associated rights to purchase preferred stock) of Fargo Electronics, Inc., for $7.25 per

evaluating the impact that adoption of SFAS No. 144 may have on the financial state-

share in cash, or approximately $86,000,000, plus approximately $16,500,000 in debt.

ments; however, such impact, if any, is not known or reasonably estimable at this time.

This debt will become due upon consummation of the tender offer. On August 3,

Reclassifications. Certain amounts in the prior years’ financial statements have been

reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. 

Note 3 Business Combinations

Comtec Information Systems, Inc. On April 3, 2000, the Company acquired Comtec

Information Systems, Inc. (Comtec), by acquiring all of the outstanding capital stock

of Comtec for approximately $88,476,000 in cash. Located in Warwick, Rhode Island,

Comtec had been a privately held company. Comtec designs, manufactures and

supports mobile printing systems. The acquisition was accounted for under the purchase

method. Accordingly, the purchase price has been allocated to identifiable tangible

assets and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated

2001, Zebra, through its Rushmore Acquisition Corporation wholly owned subsidiary,

commenced a cash tender offer for Fargo Electronics common stock. The tender

offer is subject to certain conditions, including successful termination of Hart-Scott-

Rodino antitrust review, and at least a majority of the outstanding shares of Fargo’s

common stock on a fully diluted basis being tendered without withdrawal before

expiration of the offer. 

The applicable Hart-Scott-Rodino antitrust review waiting period has yet to expire or

be terminated. Zebra intends to extend the offer at least until expiration or termination

of the Hart-Scott-Rodino antitrust review waiting period, subject to the provisions of

the acquisition agreement. Pursuant to the acquisition agreement signed by Zebra and

Fargo, the tender offer will generally be extended in increments of 10 business days.

fair values. Estimated amounts allocated to acquired in-process technology were

See Zebra’s Form 8-K dated July 31, 2001, for additional information regarding the

expensed at the time of the acquisition. The excess of cost over net assets acquired

Fargo transaction. In addition, see the Acquisition Agreement, Amendment No. 1

is amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected period to be benefited of 20

to the Acquisition Agreement, Amendment No. 2 to the Acquisition Agreement,

years. Other intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over periods up

and Amendment No. 3 to the Acquisition Agreement, all of which have been filed

to 15 years. The consolidated statements of earnings reflect the results of operations

with the SEC.

of Comtec since the effective date of the acquisition.

The following summary presents information concerning the purchase price allocation

systems. Fargo printing systems create personalized plastic identification cards

for the Comtec acquisition:

complete with digital images and text, lamination, and electronically encoded infor-

Fargo Electronics, Inc. designs and manufactures desktop plastic card personalization

Amount (in thousands)

mation. On a combined basis, sales of instant-issuance plastic card printers and

Net tangible assets

Acquired in-process technology

Intangible assets

Excess cost over fair value of net assets acquired

Purchase price

$15,235

5,953

31,786

35,502

$88,476

related supplies and accessories would represent approximately 20% of Zebra’s net

sales for the twelve-month period that ended December 31, 2001.

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 29

Note 4 Earnings Per Share  

Note 5 Investments and Marketable Securities

For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000, and 1999, earnings per share were

The amortized cost, gross unrealized holding gains, gross unrealized holding losses

computed as follows (in thousands, except per-share amounts):

and aggregate fair value of investment securities at December 31, 2000, were as 

2000  

2001 

2000

1999

Basic earnings per share:

Net income

Weighted average common 

shares outstanding

Per share amount

Diluted earnings per share:

$61,529

$71,622

$69,632

30,645

$ 2.01

30,790

$

2.33

31,175

$    2.23  

Net income

$61,529

$71,622

$69,632

Weighted average common 

shares outstanding

Add: Effect of dilutive securities – 

stock options

Diluted weighted average and  
equivalent shares outstanding

Per share amount

30,645

30,790

31,175

236

365

346

30,881

$ 1.99

31,155

$ 2.30

31,521

$ 2.21 

follows (in thousands):

Available for sale 

(included in other assets):

Amortized
Cost

Gross
Unrealized

Gross
Unrealized

Holding Gains Holding Losses

Fair Value

Equity securities 

$

1,804

$2,462

$ —

$

4,266

Trading Securities:

U.S. government and 
agency securities 

State and municipal bonds

Corporate bonds

Partnership interests

Other

118,825

76,576

5,077

17,326

2,000

219,804

42

286

89

3,104

—

3,521

(53)

(222)

—

(29)

—

(304)

118,814

76,640

5,166

20,401

2,000

223,021

$ 221,608

$5,983

$ (304)

$ 227,287

The potentially dilutive securities, which were excluded from the earnings per

The amortized cost, gross unrealized holding gains, gross unrealized holding losses

share calculation, consisted of stock options for which the exercise price was

and aggregate fair value of investment securities at December 31, 2000, were as 

greater than the average market price of the Class A Common Stock. For the years

follows (in thousands):  

ended December 31, the shares amounted to 436,325 in 2001, 267,500 in 2000, and

21,500 in 1999. 

Amortized
Cost

Gross
Unrealized

Gross
Unrealized

Holding Gains Holding Losses

Fair Value

Available for sale 

(included in other assets):

Equity securities 

$

4,596

$ —

$ (2,226)

$

2,370

Trading Securities:

U.S. government and 
agency securities 

22,564

State and municipal bonds

104,699

Corporate bonds

Partnership interests

5,054

8,614

140,931

110

326

35

2,413

2,884

(61)

(816)

—

—

(877)

22,613

104,209

5,089

11,027

142,938

$ 145,527

$2,884

$ (3,103)

$ 145,308

30 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

The Company is a limited partner in two non-registered partnerships. The partnerships

Lease payments related to the leases were included in the consolidated financial

seek to provide returns to its partners by making strategic investments in a diversified

statements as follows (in thousands):

portfolio of investment funds. Zebra’s investment as a limited partner allows it to

have liability protection limited to the amount of its investments in the funds.

The contractual maturities of debt securities at December 31, 2001, were as follows

(in thousands):  

2001

2000

1999

Unique Operating
Lease Payments

$2,085

2,085

1,662

Due within one year 

Due after one year through five years

Due after five years

Fair Value

$131,583

25,067

45,970

$202,620

Using the specific identification method, the proceeds and realized gains on the sales

of available-for-sale securities were as follows (in thousands): 

Proceeds

Realized gains (losses)

2001  

—

($2,242)

2000 

$ — 

— 

1999

$6,947

19  

The realized loss of $2,242,000 in 2001 is the result of a write-down of an available-

for-sale security whose decline in value was determined to be other than temporary. 

Note 6 Related-Party Transactions

Unique Building Corporation (Unique), an entity controlled by certain officers and

stockholders of the Company, leases a facility and equipment to the Company under

a lease described in Note 11. Management believes that the lease payments are

substantially consistent with amounts that could be negotiated with third parties on

an arm’s-length basis.

Note 7 Inventories

The components of inventories, net of allowances, are as follows (in thousands):

December 31,

Raw material

Work in process

Finished goods

Total inventories

2001  

2000 

$ 25,410

1,360

13,153

$ 35,907

365

20,580

$ 39,923

$ 56,852  

Note 8 Property and Equipment

Property and equipment, which includes assets under capital leases, is comprised of

the following (in thousands):

December 31,

Buildings

Land

Machinery, equipment and tooling

Machinery and equipment under capital leases

Furniture and office equipment

Computers and software

Automobiles

Leasehold improvements

Projects in progress

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

2001  

2000 

$ 12,029

$ 11,981

1,910

35,507

1,670

5,681

28,951

183

2,997

2,705

91,633

50,891

1,910

31,211

1,670

5,375

27,854

254

2,516

1,508

84,279

42,692

Net property and equipment

$ 40,742

$ 41,587 

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 31

Amortization of capitalized software was $1,834,000 in 2001, $1,797,000 in 2000, and

The provision for income taxes differs from the amount computed by applying the

$2,129,000 in 1999.

U.S. statutory Federal income tax rate of 35%. The reconciliation of statutory and

Note 9 Income Taxes

The geographical sources of earnings before income taxes were as follows 

(in thousands):

United States

Outside United States

Total

2001  

2000 

1999

$ 90,272

5,867

$ 96,139

$101,532 

10,379 

$111,911 

$ 95,637

13,163

$ 108,800  

effective income taxes is presented below (in thousands):

2001  

2000 

1999

Provision computed at statutory rate

$ 33,649

$ 39,169

$ 38,080

State income tax 

(net of Federal tax benefit)

Tax-exempt interest and dividend income

Tax benefit of exempt foreign 

trade income

Other

3,556

(1,524)

(1,438)

367

3,880

(1,588)

(1,035)

(137)

2,862

(1,677)

(805)

708

Provision for income taxes

$ 34,610

$ 40,289

$ 39,168 

The Company does not provide for deferred income taxes on undistributed

earnings of foreign subsidiaries, which totaled approximately $8,700,000 at

Deferred income taxes reflect the impact of temporary differences between the

December 31, 2001 and $6,500,000 at December 31, 2000. Management expects

amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and such amounts

such earnings to be permanently reinvested in these companies. Should such

as measured by tax laws. Based on management’s assessment, it is more likely than

earnings be remitted to the Company, foreign tax credits would be available

not that the deferred tax assets will be realized through future taxable earnings.

to substantially offset the U.S. income taxes due upon repatriation. 

The provision for income taxes consists of the following (in thousands):

The Company is litigating a dispute over a 1998 tax assessment in the amount of

approximately $2,600,000, including penalties and interest, with the Illinois Department

of Revenue for the years 1993 through 1995. The case was filed by the Company on

Current:

Federal

State

Foreign

Deferred:

Federal

State

Foreign

2001 

2000 

1999

November 1, 2000, in the District Court of Illinois and tried during November 2000.

The decision from the court was unfavorable to the Company but has been

$ 25,998

$ 35,362

$ 27,914

appealed. Management believes that adequate provisions have been made in the

5,319

2,107

1,132

152

(98)

6,441

3,761

(4,922)

(472)

119

4,489

5,554

1,376

(85)

(80)

Company’s financial statements for the estimated liability arising from this dispute.

Total

$ 34,610

$ 40,289

$ 39,168  

32 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

The Illinois Department of Revenue is currently examining the Company’s tax returns

Note 10 401(k) Savings and Profit Sharing Plans

for the years 1996 and 1997. Management believes that this examination will not be

The Company has a Retirement Savings and Investment Plan (the 401(k) Plan),

completed until the outcome of the lawsuit relating to the 1993 through 1995 returns

which is intended to qualify under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.

is known. The Company believes that adequate provisions have also been made in

Qualified employees may participate in the Company’s 401(k) Plan by contributing

its financial statements related to the potential assessments for the years 1996

up to 15% of their gross earnings to the plan subject to certain Internal Revenue

through 2000. 

Tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities

are as follows (in thousands):

December 31,

Deferred tax assets:

Deferred rent — building

Capital equipment lease

Accrued vacation

Inventory items

Allowance for doubtful accounts

Other accruals

Acquisition related items

Unrealized loss on securities

Total deferred tax assets

Deferred tax liabilities:

Unrealized gain on securities

Depreciation

Total deferred tax liabilities

Net deferred tax asset

2001 

2000 

$

124

$

11

576

2,193

259

3,102

2,321

—

8,586

(1,717)

(1,672)

(3,389)

83

15

825

2,354

152

2,843

2,538

1,235

10,045

—

(1,975)

(1,975)

$ 5,197

$ 8,070  

Service restrictions. The Company matches each participant’s contribution of up to

6% of gross eligible earnings at the rate of 50%. The Company may contribute

additional amounts to the 401(k) Plan at the discretion of the Board of Directors,

subject to certain legal limits.

The Company has a discretionary profit-sharing plan for qualified employees, to which

it contributed 1.9% of eligible earnings for 2001, 3.1% for 2000 and 4.2% for 1999.

Participants are not permitted to make contributions under the profit-sharing plan. 

Company contributions to these plans, which were charged to operations, approximated

the following (in thousands):

401(k)

Profit sharing

Total

2001  

2000 

1999

$ 1,374

1,178

$ 2,552

$ 1,287 

877 

$ 2,164 

$ 740

820

$ 1,560  

Note 11 Commitments and Contingencies

Leases. In September 1989, the Company entered into a lease agreement for its

Vernon Hills facility and certain machinery, equipment, furniture and fixtures with

Unique Building Corporation. The facility portion of the lease is the only remaining

portion in existence as of December 31, 2001, and is treated as an operating lease.

An amendment to the lease dated July 1997 added 59,150 square feet and extended

the term of the existing lease through June 30, 2014. The lease agreement includes a

modification to the base monthly rental, which goes into effect if the prescribed rent

payment is less than the aggregate principal and interest payments required to be

made by Unique under an Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB). 

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 33

Minimum future obligations under noncancelable operating leases and future minimum

The Company enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to manage exposure to

capital lease payments as of December 31, 2001, are as follows (in thousands):

fluctuations in foreign exchange rates to the funding of its United Kingdom operations.

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

Thereafter

Total minimum lease payments 

Less amount representing interest

Present value of minimum payments

Less current portion of obligation under capital lease

Capital
Lease

Operating
Leases 

$ 106

$ 3,742

3,107

2,643

2,636

2,604

19,972

$ 34,704

106

91

91

91

105

$ 590

(103)

487

(79)

Long-term portion of obligation under capital lease

$  408

Rent expense for operating leases charged to operations for the years ended

December 31, 2001, 2000, and 1999 was $4,917,000, $4,833,000, and $4,317,000,

respectively. 

Letter of credit. In connection with the lease agreements described above, the Company

has guaranteed Unique’s full and prompt payment under Unique’s letter of credit

agreement with a bank. The contingent liability of the Company under this guaranty

as of December 31, 2001, is $700,000, which is the limit of the Company’s guaranty

throughout the term of the IRB.

The Company accounts for such contracts by recording any unrealized gains or

losses in income each reporting period. The notional principal amounts of outstanding
forward contracts were €16,391,000 and £6,019,000 at December 31, 2001, and
€15,000,000 at December 31, 2000. The realized loss was $661,000 in 2001 and the

realized gain was $367,000 in 2000. 

Note 12 Segment Data and Export Sales

The Company operates in one industry segment. Information regarding the Company’s

operations by geographic area for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000, and

1999 is contained in the following table. These amounts (in thousands) are reported

in the geographic area where the final sale originates. 

United States United Kingdom

Other

Total

2001

2000

1999

Net sales 
Long-lived assets

Net sales 
Long-lived assets

Net sales 
Long-lived assets

$ 325,003
107,491

$ 357,412
103,957

$ 284,462
39,370

$ 111,577
5,755

$ 100,988
6,526

$ 97,426
6,799

$13,428
1,071

$23,169
1,258

$20,325
1,695

$ 450,008
114,317

$ 481,569
111,741

$ 402,213
47,864

Note 13 Shareholders’ Equity 

Holders of Class A Common Stock are entitled to one vote per share. Holders of

Derivative Instruments. In the normal course of business, portions of the Company’s

Class B Common Stock are entitled to 10 votes per share. Holders of Class A and

operations are subject to fluctuations in currency values. The Company addresses

Class B Common Stock vote together as a single class on all actions submitted to a

these risks through a controlled program of risk management that includes the use

vote of shareholders, except in certain circumstances. If at any time the number of

of derivative financial instruments. 

34 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock represents less than 10% of the total

number of outstanding shares of both classes of common stock, then at that time

such outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock will automatically convert into

an equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock. 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

Class A Common Stock has no conversion rights. A holder of Class B Common Stock

may convert the Class B Common Stock into Class A Common Stock, in whole or in

part, at any time and from time to time. Shares of Class B Common Stock convert

into shares of Class A Common stock on a share-for-share basis. 

The Board of Directors and stockholders adopted an employee stock purchase plan

(Stock Purchase Plan) and reserved 300,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for

issuance thereunder. Under this plan, employees who work a minimum of 20 hours

per week may elect to withhold up to 10% of their cash compensation through regular

payroll deductions to purchase shares of Class A Common Stock from the Company

Holders of Class A and Class B Common Stock are entitled to receive cash dividends

over a period not to exceed 12 months at a purchase price per share equal to the

equally on a per-share basis, if and when the Company’s Board of Directors declares

lesser of: (1) 85% of the fair market value of the shares as of the date of the grant, or

such dividends. In the case of any stock dividend paid, holders of Class A Common

(2) 85% of the fair market value of the shares as of the date of purchase. A total of

Stock are entitled to receive the same percentage dividend (payable in shares of

248,411 shares were purchased under this plan, which terminated on July 11, 2001.

Class A Common Stock) as the holders of Class B Common Stock receive (payable

in shares of Class B Common Stock). 

The Board of Directors adopted the 1997 Stock Option Plan, effective February 11,

1997, and reserved 4,250,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for issuance under

Holders of Class A and Class B Common Stock share with each other on a ratable

the plan. The 1997 Stock Option Plan is a flexible plan that provides the committee

basis as a single class in the net assets of the Company in the event of liquidation. 

that administers the Plan broad discretion to fashion the terms of the awards to

Note 14 Stock Option and Purchase Plans

As of December 31, 2001, the Company had four active stock option and stock

purchase plans, described below. 

provide eligible participants with stock-based incentives, including: (i) nonqualified

and incentive stock options for the purchase of the Company’s Class A Common

Stock and (ii) dividend equivalents. The persons eligible to participate in the 1997

Stock Option Plan are directors, officers, and employees of the Company or any

subsidiary of the Company who, in the opinion of the committee administering the

The Board of Directors and stockholders adopted the Zebra Technologies Corporation

plan, are in a position to make contributions to the growth, management, protection

Stock Option Plan (the 1991 Plan), effective as of August 1, 1991. A total of 400,000

and success of the Company or its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2001, 1,916,098

shares of Class A Common Stock was authorized and reserved for issuance under the

shares were available under the plan. 

1991 Plan. Under this plan, the Company has granted only nonqualified stock options.

During 2001, all options expired, and thus, no shares are available under the plan. 

The options granted under the 1997 Stock Option Plan have an exercise price equal

to the closing market price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant. The options

The Board of Directors and stockholders also adopted a Directors’ Stock Option Plan,

generally vest over two- to five-year periods and have a legal life of ten years from

which reserved 80,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for issuance under the plan.

the date of grant. A committee of Board of Directors determines the specific provisions

During 2001, all options expired, and thus, no shares are available under the plan.

of any grant. 

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 35

The Company’s Board of Directors adopted the 1997 Director Plan, effective February

The Company applies APB No. 25 in accounting for its plans. No compensation cost

11, 1997. The 1997 Director Plan provides for the issuance of options to purchase up

has been recognized for its fixed stock option plans and its stock purchase plan. Had

to 77,000 shares of Class A Common Stock, which shares are reserved and available

compensation cost for the Company’s stock option and stock purchase plans been

for purchase upon the exercise of options granted under the 1997 Director Plan. Only

determined consistent with SFAS No. 123, the Company’s net income and diluted

directors who are not employees or officers of the Company are eligible to participate

earnings per share would have been as follows: 

in the 1997 Director Plan. Under the 1997 Director Plan, each non-employee director

was granted, on the effective date of the plan, an option to purchase 15,000 shares

of Class A Common Stock, and each non-employee director subsequently elected to

Net income:

the Board will be granted an option to purchase shares of Class A Common Stock on

the date of his or her election. Options granted under the 1997 Director Plan provide

for the purchase of Class A Common Stock at a price equal to the fair market value

on the date of grant. If there are not sufficient shares remaining and available to all

non-employee directors eligible for an automatic grant at the time at which an auto-

matic grant would otherwise be made, then each eligible non-employee director

shall receive an option to purchase a pro rata number of shares. As of December 31,

2001, 24,500 shares were available under the plan. Unless otherwise provided in an

As reported

Pro forma

Basic earnings per share:

As reported

Pro forma

Diluted earnings per share:

As reported

Pro forma

2001 

2000 

1999

$ 61,529

57,971

$

2.01

1.89

$

1.99

1.88

$ 71,622

67,613

$

$

2.33

2.20

2.30

2.17

$ 69,632

66,569

$

$

2.23

2.14

2.21

2.11

option agreement, options granted under the 1997 Director Plan shall become exer-

For purposes of calculating the compensation cost consistent with SFAS No. 123,

cisable in five equal increments beginning on the date of the grant and on each of

the fair value of each stock option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the

the first four anniversaries thereof. All options expire on the earlier of (a) ten years

Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions

following the grant date or (b) the second anniversary of the termination of the non-

used for stock option grants in 2001, 2000, and 1999, respectively: expected dividend

employee director’s directorship for any reason other than due to death or disability

yield of 0% for each period; expected volatility of 59%, 58%, and 50%; risk free interest

(as defined in the 1997 Director Plan). 

rate of 4.38%, 5.05%, and 6.54%; and expected weighted-average life of five years.

The fair market value of options granted were $11,930,000 in 2001, $24,290,000 in

The Board of Directors and stockholders adopted the 2001 Stock Purchase Plan and

reserved 500,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for issuance thereunder. Under

2000 and $19,774,000 in 1999. 

this plan, employees who work a minimum of 20 hours per week may elect to with-

The fair value of the employees’ purchase rights pursuant to the Stock Purchase

hold up to 10% of their cash compensation through regular payroll deductions to

Plan are estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following

purchase shares of Class A Common Stock from the Company over a period not to

weighted-average assumptions used for purchase rights granted in 2001, 2000, and

exceed 12 months at a purchase price per share equal to the lesser of: (1) 85% of the

1999, respectively: fair market value of $38.18, $44.62, and $30.45; option price of

fair market value of the shares as of the date of the grant, or (2) 85% of the fair market

$32.45, $37.92, and $25.88; expected dividend yield of 0% for each period; expected

value of the shares as of the date of purchase. As of December 31, 2001, 27,547

volatility of 54%, 71%, and 49%; risk-free interest rate of 2.17%, 5.85%, and 6.11%;

shares have been purchased under the plan.

and expected lives of three months to one year.

36 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

Stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000, and 1999 was as follows:

Fixed Options

Shares

Weighted-Average
Exercise Price

Shares

Weighted-Average
Exercise Price

Shares

Weighted-Average
Exercise Price

Outstanding at beginning of year

1,487,277

$36.08

1,390,588

$27.88 

1,416,138

$26.55

2001

2000

1999

Granted

Exercised

Canceled

Outstanding at end of year

Options exercisable at end of year

287,500

(247,838)

(113,554)

1,413,385

477,385

41.49

28.38

38.02

38.38

31.22

440,000

(195,369)

(147,942)

1,487,277

417,570

55.29 

23.76 

31.57 

36.10 

27.82

720,500

(433,526)

(312,524)

1,390,588

291,485 

27.45

21.28

30.03

27.88

25.24

The following table summarizes information about fixed stock options outstanding at December 31, 2001:

Range of Exercise Prices

$ 4.31

$17.38 – $26.56

$29.25 – $40.88

$43.13 – $54.69

$60.63

Options Outstanding  

Options Exercisable

Number
of Shares

Weighted-Average
Remaining Contractual Life

Weighted-Average
Exercise Price

Number
of Shares

Weighted-Average
Exercise Price

4,500

514,377

445,183

229,825

219,500

1,413,385

2.52 years

6.50 years

7.79 years

8.41 years

8.13 years

$  4.31

$25.88

$37.26

$47.92

$60.63

4,500

266,302

137,758

34,625

34,200

477,385

$ 4.31

$ 25.58

$ 31.51

$ 47.76

$ 60.63

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 37

Note 15 Quarterly Results of Operations (unaudited)

Note 16 Major Customers

No customer accounted for 10% or more of net sales in 2001, 2000 or 1999. 

(Amounts in thousands, 
except per share data)

First

Quarter(1)

Second
Quarter(1)

Third
Quarter(1)

Fourth
Quarter(1)

$115,144

$112,935

$110,318

$ 111,611

On March 13, 2002, the Company’s Board of Directors established a Stockholder

Note 17 Subsequent Event

2001

Net sales

Gross profit

Operating expenses

Operating income

Net income

54,022

29,339

24,683

16,930

52,334

31,069

21,265

14,471

52,037

28,317

23,720

14,882

51,500

28,709

22,791

15,246

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

$

$

0.55

0.55

$

$

0.47

0.47

$

$

0.49

0.48

$

$

0.50

0.49

(Amounts in thousands, 
except per share data)

First

Quarter(1)

Second
Quarter(1)

Third
Quarter(1)

Fourth
Quarter(1)

2000

Net sales

Gross profit

Operating expenses

Operating income

Net income

$ 99,635

$129,995

$129,717

$ 122,222

49,380

25,171

24,209

15,228

62,312

37,369

24,943

16,650

64,180

29,325

34,855

22,590

56,555

31,892

24,663

17,154

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

$

$

0.48

0.48

$

$

0.54

0.53

$

$

0.74

0.73

$

$

0.56

0.56

(1) Reflects pretax charges for merger costs and acquired in-process technology relating to the Company’s
merger with Eltron International, Inc. and acquisition of Comtec Information Systems, Inc. as follows:

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Third Quarter

Fourth Quarter 

2001 

2000 

$   832

$1,009

$   532

$7,685

$   305

$1,651

$169  

$721  

38 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

Rights Plan under which stockholders will receive one Class A Right for each share

of the Company’s Class A Common Stock they own and one Class B Right for each

share of the Company’s Class B Common Stock they own on March 15, 2002

(collectively, the “Rights”). Each Class A Right entitles the holder to purchase from

the Company one ten-thousandth of a share of the Company’s Series A Junior

Participating Preferred Stock and each Class B Right entitles the holder to purchase

from the Company one ten-thousandth of a share of the Company’s Series B Junior

Participating Preferred Stock, each at an exercise price of $300 per one ten-thousandth

of a Preferred Share, subject to adjustment. The Rights will only be exercisable if a

person or group (excluding certain grandfathered persons) acquires, has the right

to acquire, or has commenced a tender offer for 15% or more of the Company’s

outstanding common stock. If any person or group acquires 15% or more of the

Company’s outstanding common stock, each Right not owned by that person or

group or related parties will enable its holder to either purchase, at the Right’s exercise

price, common stock (or, in certain circumstances, cash, property or other securities

of the Company) having double the value of the exercise price, or if so determined

by the Board of Directors, exchange each Right for one share of Common Stock. In

the event of certain merger or asset sale transactions with another party, the Rights

would entitle their holders to purchase that party’s common stock on similar terms. 

Upon approval by the Board of Directors, the Rights may be redeemed for $0.001

per Right at any time prior to the time a person or group has acquired 15% of the

Company’s outstanding common stock. The Rights are nonvoting, pay no dividends

and expire on March 14, 2012, unless earlier redeemed or terminated. A committee

of the Board of Directors comprised of the independent directors will review the

Rights Agreement at least every three years and may recommend a modification

or termination of the Rights Agreement. 

Auditors’ Report

Independent Auditors’ Report

Z E B R A   T E C H N O L O G I E S   C O R P O R A T I O N

The Board of Directors and Shareholders 

Zebra Technologies Corporation:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Zebra Technologies

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted

Corporation and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the related

in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform

consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity,

the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are

and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31,

free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence

2001. These consolidated financial statements and the consolidated financial statement

supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also

schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is

includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made

to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and the consolidated

by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.

financial statement schedule based on our audits.

We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present

fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Zebra Technologies Corporation

and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the results of their

operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended

December 31, 2001, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in

the United States of America.

Chicago, Illinois

February 1, 2002, except as to Note 17, which is as of March 13, 2002

Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report | 39

Stockholder

Stockholder Information

Corporate Headquarters
Zebra Technologies Corporation

333 Corporate Woods Parkway

Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061-3109 U.S.A.

Phone: 847-634-6700

Fax: 847-913-8766

Annual Meeting
Zebra’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be held on May 15, 2002, 10:30 A.M.

Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action
It is the policy of Zebra Technologies Corporation to provide equal opportunity and

affirmative action in all areas of its employment practices without regard to race,

religion, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, citizenship, disability, veteran status,

marital status, sexual orientation or any other reason prohibited by law. 

Stock Information: Price Range and Common Stock
The Company’s Class A Common Stock is traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under

the symbol ZBRA. The following table shows the high and low trade prices for each

(Central Time), at The University of Chicago Gleacher Center, 450 North CityFront

quarter in 2001 and 2000, as reported by the Nasdaq Stock Market. No market exists

Plaza Drive, Chicago, Illinois. 

Independent Auditors
KPMG LLP

Chicago, Illinois

Corporate Counsel
Katten Muchin Zavis Rosenman

Chicago, Illinois

Transfer Agent and Registrar
Mellon Investor Services

85 Challenger Road

Ridgefield, New Jersey 07660

Phone: 877-870-2368

www.mellon-investor.com

Investor Relations
For corporate or product information, please contact the Corporate Headquarters.

Form 10-K Report
You may receive a free copy of the Zebra Technologies Corporation Form 10-K Report

filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by contacting the Investor

Relations Department at the Corporate Headquarters.

Web Site
Investors are invited to learn more about Zebra Technologies Corporation by
accessing the Company’s web site at www.zebracorporation.com

40 | Zebra Technologies Corporation 2001 Annual Report 

for the Company’s Class B Common Stock. The shares of Class B Common Stock are

convertible on a one-for-one basis into shares of Class A Common Stock at the

option of the holder.

2001

First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter

2000

First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter

High

$57.00
52.06
49.95
56.50

High

$70.88
58.06
54.75
50.50

Low 

$35.50
34.13
35.15
36.00

Low 

$39.81
42.13
41.88
37.13

Source: The Nasdaq Stock Market

At March 19, 2002, the last reported price for the Class A Common Stock was
$57.97 per share, and there were 440 registered shareholders of record for the
Company’s Class A Common Stock and 31 registered shareholders of record for
the Company’s Class B Common Stock.

Dividend Policy
Since the Company’s initial public offering in 1991, the Company has not declared
any cash dividends or distributions on its capital stock. The Company intends to
retain its earnings to finance future growth and therefore does not anticipate paying
any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.

Number of Employees
The Company had approximately 2,000 associates as of March 20, 2002.

Board of Directors

Officers

Edward Kaplan
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Zebra Technologies Corporation

Gerhard Cless
Executive Vice President and Secretary
Zebra Technologies Corporation

Christopher Knowles (1)
Retired Chief Executive Officer
Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc.

John Paxton
President, Bar Code Business Unit
Zebra Technologies Corporation

David Riley (1)
Retired President and Chief Executive Officer
The Middleby Corporation

Edward Kaplan
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Gerhard Cless
Executive Vice President and Secretary

Veraje Anjargolian
Vice President, General Manager
Card Printer Business Unit

Michael Edicola
Vice President, Human Resources

John Kindsvater
Senior Vice President, 
Business Development

Todd Naughton
Vice President, Controller

Michael Smith (1)
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
FireVision, L.L.C.

(1) Member of Audit Committee

John Paxton
President, Bar Code Business Unit

Charles Whitchurch
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

Zebra Technologies Corporation

International Headquarters

333 Corporate Woods Parkway  |  Vernon Hills, IL  |  60061-3109 U.S.A.

847-634-6700  |  www.zebracorporation.com