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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

Form 10-K

(Mark One)

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012

or

 

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

For the transition period from              to             

Commission file number 1-584

FERRO CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Ohio   34-0217820
(State of Corporation)   (IRS Employer Identification No.)

6060 Parkland Blvd.

Mayfield Heights, OH

  44124
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 216-875-5600

Securities Registered Pursuant to section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class

 

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered

Common Stock, par value $1.00   New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    YES   ¨         NO   x

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    YES   ¨         NO   x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    YES   x         NO   ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    YES   x         NO   ¨

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

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

 

Large accelerated filer   ¨

  Accelerated filer   x   Non-accelerated filer   ¨   Smaller reporting company   ¨
  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)                

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    YES   ¨         NO   x

The aggregate market value of Ferro Corporation Common Stock, par value $1.00, held by non-affiliates and based on the closing sale price as of June 30, 2012, was approximately $408,872,000.

On February 28, 2013, there were 86,559,660 shares of Ferro Corporation Common Stock, par value $1.00 outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Proxy Statement for Ferro Corporation’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

     PART I   

Item 1

     Business      Page     3   

Item 1A

     Risk Factors      Page     8   

Item 1B

     Unresolved Staff Comments      Page   16   

Item 2

     Properties      Page   16   

Item 3

     Legal Proceedings      Page   17   

Item 4

     Mine Safety Disclosures      Page   17   
     PART II   

Item 5

     Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities      Page   19   

Item 6

     Selected Financial Data      Page   20   

Item 7

     Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations      Page   20   

Item 7A

     Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk      Page   41   

Item 8

     Financial Statements and Supplementary Data      Page   43   

Item 9

     Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure      Page 101   

Item 9A

     Controls and Procedures      Page 101   

Item 9B

     Other Information      Page 103   
     PART III   

Item 10

     Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance      Page 104   

Item 11

     Executive Compensation      Page 104   

Item 12

     Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters      Page 104   

Item 13

     Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence      Page 105   

Item 14

     Principal Accountant Fees and Services      Page 105   
     PART IV   

Item 15

     Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules      Page 106   

 

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PART I

Item 1 —  Business

History, Organization and Products

Ferro Corporation was incorporated in Ohio in 1919 as an enameling company. When we use the terms “Ferro,” “we,” “us” or “the Company,” we are referring to Ferro Corporation and its subsidiaries unless we indicate otherwise. Today, we are a leading producer of specialty materials and chemicals that are sold to a broad range of manufacturers who, in turn, make products for many end-use markets. We operate approximately 40 facilities around the world that manufacture the following types of products:

 

   

Electronic, Color and Glass Materials — Conductive metal powders, polishing materials, glazes, enamels, pigments, decoration colors, and other performance materials; and

 

   

Polymer and Ceramic Engineered Materials — Polymer additives, engineered plastic compounds, pigment dispersions, glazes, frits, porcelain enamel, pigments, inks, and high-potency pharmaceutical active ingredients.

We refer to our products as performance materials and chemicals because we formulate them to perform specific functions in the manufacturing processes and end products of our customers. The products we develop often are delivered to our customers in combination with customized technical service. The value of our products stems from the benefits they deliver in actual use. We develop and deliver innovative products to our customers through our key strengths in:

 

   

Particle Engineering — Our ability to design and produce very small particles made of a broad variety of materials, with precisely controlled characteristics of shape, size and size distribution. We understand how to disperse these particles within liquid, paste and gel formulations.

 

   

Color and Glass Science — Our understanding of the chemistry required to develop and produce pigments that provide color characteristics ideally suited to customers’ applications. We have a demonstrated ability to provide glass-based coatings with properties that precisely meet customers’ needs in a broad variety of applications.

 

   

Surface Chemistry and Surface Application Technology — Our understanding of chemicals and materials used to develop products and processes that involve the interface between layers and the surface properties of materials.

 

   

Product Formulation — Our ability to develop and manufacture combinations of materials that deliver specific performance characteristics designed to work within customers’ particular products and manufacturing processes.

 

   

Polymer Science/Organic Synthesis — Our ability to develop and produce polymers and supporting additives by utilizing organic synthesis expertise to create and modify materials with a variety of innovative characteristics and desired capabilities. We understand how to craft and transform resin systems to fulfill customer requirements.

We deliver these key technical strengths to our customers in a way that creates additional value through our integrated applications support. Our applications support personnel provide assistance to our customers in their material specification and evaluation, product design and manufacturing process characterization in order to help them optimize the efficient and cost-effective application of our products.

 

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We divide our operations into eight business units, which comprise six reportable segments. We have grouped these units by their product group below:

 

Polymer and Ceramic Engineered Materials

  

Electronic, Color and Glass Materials

•Polymer Additives

  

•Electronic Materials

•Specialty Plastics

  

•Glass Systems(2)

•Pharmaceuticals

  

•Performance Pigments and Colors(2)

•Tile Coating Systems(1)

  

•Porcelain Enamel(1)

  

 

  (1) Tile Coating Systems and Porcelain Enamel are combined into one reportable segment, Performance Coatings, for financial reporting purposes.
  (2) Glass Systems and Performance Pigments and Colors are combined into one reportable segment, Color and Glass Performance Materials, for financial reporting purposes.

Financial information about our segments is included herein in Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Markets and Customers

Ferro’s products are used in a variety of product applications in markets including:

 

•Appliances    •Household furnishings

•Automobiles

  

•Industrial products

•Building and renovation

  

•Packaging

•Electronics

  

•Pharmaceuticals

Many of our products are used as coatings on our customers’ products, such as glazes and decorations on tile, glass and dinnerware. Other products are supplied to customers as powders that are used to manufacture electronic components and other products. Still other products are added during our customers’ manufacturing processes to provide desirable properties to their end product. Often, our products are a small portion of the total cost of our customers’ products, but they can be critical to the appearance or functionality of those products.

Our leading customers include manufacturers of ceramic tile, major appliances, construction materials, automobile parts, glass, bottles, vinyl flooring and wall coverings, and pharmaceuticals. Many of our customers, including makers of major appliances and automobile parts, purchase materials from more than one of our business units. Our customer base is well diversified both geographically and by end market.

We generally sell our products directly to our customers. However, a portion of our business uses indirect sales channels, such as agents and distributors, to deliver products to market. In 2012, no single customer or related group of customers represented more than 10% of net sales. In addition, none of our reportable segments is dependent on any single customer or related group of customers.

Backlog of Orders and Seasonality

Generally, there is no significant lead time between customer orders and delivery in any of our business segments. As a result, we do not consider that the dollar amount of backlogged orders believed to be firm is material information for an understanding of our business. We also do not regard any material part of our business to be seasonal. However, customer demand has historically been higher in the second quarter when building and renovation markets are particularly active, and this quarter is normally the strongest for sales and operating profit.

 

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Competition

In most of our markets, we have a substantial number of competitors, none of which is dominant. Due to the diverse nature of our product lines, no single competitor directly matches all of our product offerings. Our competition varies by product and by region, and is based primarily on price, product quality and performance, customer service and technical support, and our ability to develop custom products to meet specific customer requirements.

We are a worldwide leader in the production of glass enamels, porcelain enamels, and ceramic glaze coatings. There is strong competition in our markets, ranging from large multinational corporations to local producers. While many of our customers purchase customized products and formulations from us, our customers could generally buy from other sources, if necessary.

Raw Materials and Supplier Relations

Raw materials widely used in our operations include:

 

Metal Oxides:    Other Inorganic Materials:

•  Aluminum oxide(2)(3)

  

•  Boric acid(2)

•  Cerium oxide(3)

  

•  Clay(2)

•  Cobalt oxide(1)(2)

  

•  Feldspar(2)

•  Nickel oxide(1)(2)

  

•  Fiberglass(4)

•  Titanium dioxide(1)(2)(3)(4)

  

•  Lithium(2)

•  Zinc oxide(2)

  

•  Silica(2)

•  Zirconium dioxide(2)

  

•  Zircon(2)

  
Precious and Non-precious Metals:    Other Organic Materials: (5)

•  Aluminum(2)(3)

  

•  Butanol

•  Bismuth(1)

  

•  Phenol

•  Chrome(1)(2)

  

•  Phthalic anhydride

•  Copper(1)(3)

  

•  Soybean oil

•  Gold(1)(3)

  

•  Tallow

•  Palladium(3)

  

•  Toluene

•  Platinum(3)

  

•  Silver(3)

   Energy:
  

•  Electricity

Polymers: (4)

  

•  Natural gas

•  Polyethylene

  

•  Polypropylene

  

•  Polystyrene

  

•  Unsaturated polyester

  

 

  (1) Primarily used by Glass Systems and Performance Pigments and Colors.
  (2) Primarily used by Tile Coating Systems and Porcelain Enamel.
  (3) Primarily used by Electronic Materials.
  (4) Primarily used by Specialty Plastics.
  (5) Primarily used by Polymer Additives.

These raw materials make up a large portion of our product costs in certain of our product lines, and fluctuations in the cost of raw materials may have a significant impact on the financial performance of the related businesses. We attempt to pass through to our customers raw material cost increases, including those related to precious metals.

 

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We have a broad supplier base and, in many instances, multiple sources of essential raw materials are available worldwide if problems arise with a particular supplier. We maintain many comprehensive supplier agreements for strategic and critical raw materials. We did not encounter raw material shortages in 2012 that significantly affected our manufacturing operations, but we are subject to volatile raw material costs that can affect our results of operations.

Environmental Matters

As part of the production of some of our products, we handle, process, use and store hazardous materials. As a result, we operate manufacturing facilities that are subject to a broad array of environmental laws and regulations in the countries in which we operate, particularly for plant wastes and emissions. In addition, some of our products are subject to restrictions under laws or regulations such as California Proposition 65 or the European Union’s (“EU”) chemical substances directive. The costs to comply with complex environmental laws and regulations are significant and will continue for the industry and us for the foreseeable future. These routine costs are expensed as they are incurred. While these costs may increase in the future, they are not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations. We believe that we are in substantial compliance with the environmental regulations to which our operations are subject and that, to the extent we may not be in compliance with such regulations, non-compliance will not have a materially adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations.

Our policy is to operate our plants and facilities in a manner that protects the environment and the health and safety of our employees and the public. We intend to continue to make expenditures for environmental protection and improvements in a timely manner consistent with available technology. Although we cannot precisely predict future environmental spending, we do not expect the costs to have a material impact on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations. Capital expenditures for environmental protection were $0.9 million in 2012, $2.0 million in 2011, and $1.5 million in 2010.

We also accrue for environmental remediation costs when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and we can reasonably estimate the amount. We determine the timing and amount of any liability based upon assumptions regarding future events, and inherent uncertainties exist in such evaluations primarily due to unknown conditions, changing governmental regulations and legal standards regarding liability, and evolving technologies. We adjust these liabilities periodically as remediation efforts progress, the nature and extent of contamination becomes more certain, or as additional technical or legal information becomes available.

Research and Development

We are involved worldwide in research and development activities relating to new and existing products, services and technologies required by our customers’ continually changing markets. Our research and development resources are organized into centers of excellence that support our regional and worldwide major business units. We also conduct research and development activities at our Posnick Center of Innovative Technology in Independence, Ohio. These centers are augmented by local laboratories that provide technical service and support to meet customer and market needs in various geographic areas.

Total expenditures for product and application technology, including research and development, customer technical support and other related activities, were $39.5 million in 2012, $42.4 million in 2011, and $37.2 million in 2010. These amounts include expenditures for company-sponsored research and development activities of approximately $30.0 million in 2012, $30.4 million in 2011, and $27.3 million in 2010.

Patents, Trademarks and Licenses

We own a substantial number of patents and patent applications relating to our various products and their uses. While these patents are of importance to us and we exercise diligence to ensure that they are valid, we do not believe that the invalidity or expiration of any single patent or group of patents would have a material adverse

 

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effect on our businesses. Our patents will expire at various dates through the year 2032. We also use a number of trademarks that are important to our businesses as a whole or to a particular segment. We believe that these trademarks are adequately protected.

Employees

At December 31, 2012, we employed 4,948 full-time employees, including 3,360 employees in our foreign consolidated subsidiaries and 1,588 in the United States (“U.S.”). Total employment decreased by 72 in our foreign subsidiaries and by 100 in the U.S. from the prior year end due to the net effect of reductions made in areas where sales activity declined and additions related to new business opportunities.

Collective bargaining agreements cover approximately 19% of our U.S. workforce. Approximately 5% of all U.S. employees are affected by labor agreements that expire in 2013, and we expect to complete renewals of these agreements with no significant disruption to the related businesses. We consider our relations with our employees, including those covered by collective bargaining agreements, to be good.

Our employees in Europe have protections afforded them by local laws and regulations through unions and works councils. Some of these laws and regulations may affect the timing, amount and nature of restructuring and cost reduction programs in that region.

Domestic and Foreign Operations

We began international operations in 1927. Our products are manufactured and/or distributed through our consolidated subsidiaries and unconsolidated affiliates in the following countries:

 

Consolidated Subsidiaries:          

•  Argentina

  

•  France

  

•  Malaysia

  

•  Taiwan

•  Australia

  

•  Germany

  

•  Mexico

  

•  Thailand

•  Belgium

  

•  India

  

•  Netherlands

  

•  United Kingdom

•  Brazil

  

•  Indonesia

  

•  Portugal

  

•  United States

•  China

  

•  Italy

  

•  Russia

  

•  Venezuela

•  Egypt

  

•  Japan

  

•  Spain

  
Unconsolidated Affiliates:      

•  Italy

  

•  Spain

  

•  South Korea

  

•  Thailand

Financial information for geographic areas is included in Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. More than 50% of our net sales are outside of the U.S. Our customers represent more than 30 industries and operate in approximately 100 countries.

Our U.S. parent company receives technical service fees and/or royalties from many of its foreign subsidiaries. As a matter of corporate policy, the foreign subsidiaries have historically been expected to remit a portion of their annual earnings to the U.S. parent company as dividends. To the extent earnings of foreign subsidiaries are not remitted to the U.S. parent company, those earnings are indefinitely re-invested in those subsidiaries.

Available Information

Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K, including any amendments, will be made available free of charge on our Web site, www.ferro.com, as soon as reasonably practical, following the filing of the reports with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Our Corporate Governance Principles, Legal and Ethical Policies, Guidelines for Determining Director

 

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Independence, and charters for our Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, and Governance and Nomination Committee are available free of charge on our Web site or to any shareholder who requests them from the Ferro Corporation Investor Relations Department located at 6060 Parkland Blvd., Mayfield Heights, Ohio, 44124.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements contained here and in future filings with the SEC reflect our expectations with respect to future performance and constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements are subject to a variety of uncertainties, unknown risks and other factors concerning our operations and the business environment, which are difficult to predict and are beyond our control.

Item 1A  — Risk Factors

Many factors could cause our actual results to differ materially from those suggested by statements contained in this filing and could adversely affect our future financial performance. Such factors include the following:

We sell our products into industries where demand has been unpredictable, cyclical or heavily influenced by consumer spending, and such demand and our results of operations may be further impacted by macro economic circumstances and uncertainty in credit markets.

We sell our products to a wide variety of customers who supply many different market segments. Many of these market segments, such as building and renovation, major appliances, transportation, and electronics, are cyclical or closely tied to consumer demand. Consumer demand is difficult to accurately forecast and incorrect forecasts of demand or unforeseen reductions in demand can adversely affect costs and profitability due to factors such as underused manufacturing capacity, excess inventory, or working capital needs. Our forecasting systems and modeling tools may not accurately predict changes in demand for our products or other market conditions.

Our results of operations are materially affected by conditions in capital markets and economies in the U.S. and elsewhere around the world. General economic conditions around the world deteriorated sharply at the end of 2008, and difficult economic conditions continue to exist in some locations. Concerns over fluctuating prices, energy costs, geopolitical issues, government deficits and debt loads, the availability and cost of credit, the U.S. mortgage market and a weakened real estate market have contributed to increased volatility, diminished expectations, and uncertainty regarding economies around the world. These factors, combined with reduced business and consumer confidence, increased unemployment, and volatile raw materials costs, precipitated an economic slowdown and recession in a number of markets around the world. As a result of these conditions and the continuing effects, our customers may experience cash flow problems and may modify, delay, or cancel plans to purchase our products. Additionally, if customers are not successful in generating sufficient revenue or are precluded from securing financing, they may not be able to pay, or may delay payment of, accounts receivable that are owed to us. A reduction in demand or inability of our current and/or potential customers to pay us for our products may adversely affect our earnings and cash flow.

We have undertaken cost-savings initiatives, including restructuring programs, to improve our operating performance, but we may not be able to implement and/or administer these initiatives in the manner contemplated and these initiatives may not produce the desired results.

We have undertaken cost-savings initiatives, including restructuring programs, and may undertake additional cost-savings initiatives in the future. These initiatives involve, among other things, restructuring programs that involve plant closures and staff reductions. Although we expect these initiatives to help us achieve

 

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incremental cost savings and operational efficiencies, we may not be able to implement and/or administer these initiatives, including plant closures and staff reductions, in the manner contemplated, which could cause the initiatives to fail to achieve the desired results. Additionally, the implementation of these initiatives may result in impairment charges, some of which could be material. Even if we do implement and administer these initiatives in the manner contemplated, they may not produce the desired results. Accordingly, the initiatives that we have implemented and those that we may implement in the future may not improve our operating performance and may not help us achieve cost savings. Failure to successfully implement and/or administer these initiatives could have an adverse effect on our financial performance.

We are subject to a number of restrictive covenants under our credit facilities and the indenture governing our senior notes, which could affect our flexibility to fund ongoing operations and strategic initiatives, and, if we are unable to maintain compliance with such covenants, could lead to significant challenges in meeting our liquidity requirements.

Our credit facilities and the indenture governing our senior notes contain a number of restrictive covenants, including those described in more detail in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. These covenants include customary operating restrictions that limit our ability to engage in certain activities, including additional loans and investments; prepayments, redemptions and repurchases of debt; and mergers, acquisitions and asset sales. We are also subject to customary financial covenants under our credit facilities, including a leverage ratio and an interest coverage ratio. These covenants under our credit facilities restrict the amount of our borrowings, reducing our flexibility to fund ongoing operations and strategic initiatives. These facilities and our senior notes are described in more detail in “Capital Resources and Liquidity” under Item 7 and in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The most critical of these ratios is the leverage ratio. As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with our maximum leverage ratio covenant of 4.25x as our actual ratio was 3.34x, providing $22.6 million of EBITDA, as defined within our credit facilities and senior notes indenture, cushion on the leverage ratio. Our leverage ratio covenants decrease in 2013 to 3.50x. To the extent that economic conditions in key markets deteriorate or we are unable to meet our business projections and EBITDA falls below approximately $100 million for rolling four quarters, based on reasonably consistent debt levels with those as of December 31, 2012, could make us unable to maintain compliance with our leverage ratio covenant , in which case, our lenders could demand immediate payment of outstanding amounts and we would need to seek alternate financing sources to pay off such debts and to fund our ongoing operations. Such financing may not be available on favorable terms, if at all.

We depend on external financial resources, and the economic environment and credit market uncertainty could interrupt our access to capital markets, borrowings, or financial transactions to hedge certain risks, which could adversely affect our financial condition.

At December 31, 2012, we had approximately $346.8 million of short-term and long-term debt with varying maturities and approximately $121.9 million of off balance sheet arrangements, including consignment arrangements for precious metals, bank guarantees, and standby letters of credit. These arrangements have allowed us to make investments in growth opportunities and fund working capital requirements. In addition, we may enter into financial transactions to hedge certain risks, including foreign exchange, commodity pricing, and sourcing of certain raw materials. Our continued access to capital markets, the stability of our lenders, customers and financial partners and their willingness to support our needs are essential to our liquidity and our ability to meet our current obligations and to fund operations and our strategic initiatives. An interruption in our access to external financing or financial transactions to hedge risk could adversely affect our business prospects and financial condition. See further information regarding our liquidity in “Capital Resources and Liquidity” under Item 7 and in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

We strive to improve operating margins through sales growth, price increases, productivity gains, and improved purchasing techniques, but we may not achieve the desired improvements.

We work to improve operating profit margins through activities such as growing sales to achieve increased economies of scale, increasing prices, improving manufacturing processes, and adopting purchasing techniques

 

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that lower costs or provide increased cost predictability to realize cost savings. However, these activities depend on a combination of improved product design and engineering, effective manufacturing process control initiatives, cost-effective redistribution of production, and other efforts that may not be as successful as anticipated. The success of sales growth and price increases depends not only on our actions but also on the strength of customer demand and competitors’ pricing responses, which are not fully predictable. Failure to successfully implement actions to improve operating margins could adversely affect our financial performance.

We depend on reliable sources of energy and raw materials, including petroleum-based materials, minerals and other supplies, at a reasonable cost, but the availability of these materials and supplies could be interrupted and/or their prices could escalate and adversely affect our sales and profitability.

We purchase energy and many raw materials, including petroleum-based materials and other supplies, which we use to manufacture our products. Changes in their availability or price could affect our ability to manufacture enough products to meet customers’ demands or to manufacture products profitably. We try to maintain multiple sources of raw materials and supplies where practical, but this may not prevent unanticipated changes in their availability or cost and, for certain raw materials, there may not be alternative sources. We may not be able to pass cost increases through to our customers. Significant disruptions in availability or cost increases could adversely affect our manufacturing volume or costs, which could negatively affect product sales or profitability of our operations.

The global scope of our operations exposes us to risks related to currency conversion rates, new and different regulatory schemes and changing economic, regulatory, social and political conditions around the world.

More than 50% of our net sales during 2012 were outside of the U.S. In order to support global customers, access regional markets and compete effectively, our operations are located around the world. We may encounter difficulties expanding into additional growth markets around the world. Our operations have additional complexity due to economic, regulatory, social and political conditions in multiple locations and we are subject to risks relating to currency conversion rates. Other risks inherent in international operations include the following:

 

   

New and different legal and regulatory requirements and enforcement mechanisms in local jurisdictions;

 

   

U.S. and other export licenses may be difficult to obtain and we may be subject to export duties or import quotas or other trade restrictions or barriers;

 

   

Increased costs, and decreased availability, of transportation or shipping;

 

   

Credit risk and financial conditions of local customers and distributors;

 

   

Risk of nationalization of private enterprises by foreign governments or restrictions on investments;

 

   

Potentially adverse tax consequences, including imposition or increase of withholding and other taxes on remittances and other payments by subsidiaries; and

 

   

Local political, economic and social conditions, including the possibility of hyperinflationary conditions, deflation, and political instability in certain countries.

We have subsidiaries in Venezuela, a country that has established rigid controls over the ability of foreign companies to repatriate cash, and in Egypt, a country with recent political instability. Such conditions could potentially impact our ability to recover both the cost of our investments and earnings from those investments. While we attempt to anticipate these changes and manage our business appropriately in each location where we do business, these changes are often beyond our control and difficult to forecast.

The consequences of these risks may have significant adverse effects on our results of operations or financial position, and if we fail to comply with applicable laws and regulations, we could be exposed to civil and criminal penalties, reputational harm, and restrictions on our operations.

 

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We have a growing presence in the Asia-Pacific region where it can be difficult for a multi-national company, such as Ferro, to compete lawfully with local competitors, which may cause us to lose business opportunities.

Many of our most promising growth opportunities are in the Asia-Pacific region, including the People’s Republic of China. Although we have been able to compete successfully in those markets to date, local laws and customs can make it difficult for a multi-national company such as Ferro to compete on a “level playing field” with local competitors without engaging in conduct that would be illegal under U.S. or other countries’ anti-bribery laws. Our strict policy of observing the highest standards of legal and ethical conduct may cause us to lose some otherwise attractive business opportunities to local competition in the region.

Regulatory authorities in the U.S., European Union and elsewhere are taking a much more aggressive approach to regulating hazardous materials and other substances, and those regulations could affect sales of our products.

Legislation and regulations concerning hazardous materials and other substances can restrict the sale of products and/or increase the cost of producing them. Some of our products are subject to restrictions under laws or regulations such as California Proposition 65 or the EU’s chemical substances directive. The EU “REACH” registration system requires us to perform studies of some of our products or components of our products and to register the information in a central database, increasing the cost of these products. As a result of such regulations, customers may avoid purchasing some products in favor of less hazardous or less costly alternatives. It may be impractical for us to continue manufacturing heavily regulated products, and we may incur costs to shut down or transition such operations to alternative products. These circumstances could adversely affect our business, including our sales and operating profits.

Our businesses depend on a continuous stream of new products, and failure to introduce new products could affect our sales, profitability and liquidity.

One way that we remain competitive is by developing and introducing new and improved products on an ongoing basis. Customers continually evaluate our products in comparison to those offered by our competitors. A failure to introduce new products at the right time that are price competitive and that provide the features and performance required by customers could adversely affect our sales, or could require us to compensate by lowering prices. In addition, when we invest in new product development, we face risks related to production delays, cost over-runs and unanticipated technical difficulties, which could impact sales, profitability and/or liquidity.

Our strategy includes seeking opportunities in new growth markets, and failure to identify or successfully enter such markets could affect our ability to grow our revenues and earnings.

Certain of our products are sold into mature markets and part of our strategy is to identify and enter into markets growing more rapidly. These growth opportunities may involve new geographies, new product lines, new technologies, or new customers. We may not be successful capitalizing on such opportunities and our ability to increase our revenue and earnings could be impacted.

Sales of our products to certain customers or into certain industries may expose us to different and complex regulatory regimes.

We seek to expand our customer base and the industries into which we sell. Selling products to certain customers or into certain industries, such as governments or the defense industry, requires compliance with regulatory regimes that do not apply to sales involving other customers or industries and that can be complex and difficult to navigate. Our failure to comply with these regulations could result in liabilities or damage to our reputation with customers, which could negatively impact our business, financial condition, or results of operations.

 

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We have limited or no redundancy for certain of our manufacturing facilities, and damage to those facilities could interrupt our operations, increase our costs of doing business and impair our ability to deliver our products on a timely basis.

If certain of our existing production facilities become incapable of manufacturing products for any reason, we may be unable to meet production requirements, we may lose revenue and we may not be able to maintain our relationships with our customers. Without operation of certain existing production facilities, we may be limited in our ability to deliver products until we restore the manufacturing capability at the particular facility, find an alternative manufacturing facility or arrange an alternative source of supply. Although we carry business interruption insurance to cover lost revenue and profits in an amount we consider adequate, this insurance does not cover all possible situations. In addition, our business interruption insurance would not compensate us for the loss of opportunity and potential adverse impact on relations with our existing customers resulting from our inability to produce products for them.

We may not be able to complete future acquisitions or successfully integrate future acquisitions into our business, which could adversely affect our business or results of operations.

As part of our strategy, we intend to pursue acquisitions. Our success in accomplishing growth through acquisitions may be limited by the availability and suitability of acquisition candidates and by our financial resources, including available cash and borrowing capacity. Acquisitions involve numerous risks, including difficulty determining appropriate valuation, integrating operations, technologies, services and products of the acquired product lines or businesses, personnel turnover and the diversion of management’s attention from other business matters. In addition, we may be unable to achieve anticipated benefits from these acquisitions in the time frame that we anticipate, or at all, which could adversely affect our business or results of operations.

The markets for our products are highly competitive and subject to intense price competition, which could adversely affect our sales and earnings performance.

Our customers typically have multiple suppliers from which to choose. If we are unwilling or unable to provide products at competitive prices, and if other factors, such as product performance and value-added services do not provide an offsetting competitive advantage, customers may reduce, discontinue, or decide not to purchase our products. If we could not secure alternate customers for lost business, our sales and earnings performance could be adversely affected.

If we are unable to protect our intellectual property rights or to successfully resolve claims of infringement brought against us, our product sales and financial performance could be adversely affected.

Our performance may depend in part on our ability to establish, protect and enforce intellectual property rights with respect to our products, technologies and proprietary rights and to defend against any claims of infringement, which involves complex legal, scientific and factual questions and uncertainties. We may have to rely on litigation to enforce our intellectual property rights. In addition, we may face claims of infringement that could interfere with our ability to use technology or other intellectual property rights that are material to our business operations. If litigation that we initiate is unsuccessful, we may not be able to protect the value of some of our intellectual property. In the event a claim of infringement against us is successful, we may be required to pay royalties or license fees to continue to use technology or other intellectual property rights that we have been using or we may be unable to obtain necessary licenses from third parties at a reasonable cost or within a reasonable time.

Our operations are subject to operating hazards and, as a result, to stringent environmental, health and safety regulations, and compliance with those regulations could require us to make significant investments.

Our production facilities are subject to hazards associated with the manufacture, handling, storage, and transportation of chemical materials and products. These hazards can cause personal injury and loss of life, severe damage to, or destruction of, property and equipment and environmental contamination and other environmental damage and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

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We strive to maintain our production facilities and conduct our manufacturing operations in a manner that is safe and in compliance with all applicable environmental, health and safety regulations. Compliance with changing regulations may require us to make significant capital investments, incur training costs, make changes in manufacturing processes or product formulations, or incur costs that could adversely affect our profitability, and violations of these laws could lead to substantial fines and penalties. These costs may not affect competitors in the same way due to differences in product formulations, manufacturing locations or other factors, and we could be at a competitive disadvantage, which might adversely affect financial performance.

If we are unable to manage our general and administrative expenses, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be harmed.

The level of our administrative expenses can affect our profitability, and we may not be able to manage our administrative expense in all circumstances. While we attempt to effectively manage such expenses, including through projects designed to create administrative efficiencies, increases in staff-related and other administrative expenses may occur from time to time. Recently, we have made significant efforts to achieve general and administrative cost savings and improve our operational performance. As a part of these initiatives, we have and will continue to consolidate business and management operations and enter into arrangements with third parties offering additional cost savings. It cannot be assured that our strategies to reduce our general and administrative costs and improve our operation performance will be successful or achieve the anticipated savings.

Our multi-jurisdictional tax structure may not provide favorable tax efficiencies.

We conduct our business operations in a number of countries and are subject to taxation in those jurisdictions. While we seek to minimize our worldwide effective tax rate, our corporate structure may not optimize tax efficiency opportunities. We develop our tax position based upon the anticipated nature and structure of our business and the tax laws, administrative practices and judicial decisions now in effect in the countries in which we have assets or conduct business, all of which are subject to change or differing interpretations. In addition, our effective tax rate could be adversely affected by several other factors, including: increases in expenses that are not deductible for tax purposes, the tax effects of restructuring charges or purchase accounting for acquisitions, changes related to our ability to ultimately realize future benefits attributed to our deferred tax assets, including those related to other-than-temporary impairment, and a change in our decision to indefinitely reinvest foreign earnings. Further, we are subject to review and audit by both domestic and foreign tax authorities, which may result in adverse decisions. Increased tax expense could have a negative effect on our operating results and financial condition.

We have significant deferred tax assets, and if we are unable to utilize these assets, our results of operations may be adversely affected.

To fully realize the carrying value of our net deferred tax assets, we will have to generate adequate taxable profits in various tax jurisdictions. At December 31, 2012, we had $27.8 million of net deferred tax assets, after valuation allowances. If we do not generate adequate profits within the time periods required by applicable tax statutes, the carrying value of the tax assets will not be realized. If it becomes unlikely that the carrying value of our net deferred tax assets will be realized, the valuation allowances may need to be increased in our consolidated financial statements, adversely affecting results of operations. Further information on our deferred tax assets is presented in Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

We may not be successful in implementing our strategies to increase our return on invested capital.

We are taking steps to generate a higher return on invested capital. There are risks associated with the implementation of these steps, which may be difficult to implement and may not generate the intended returns. To the extent we are unsuccessful in achieving these strategies, our results of operations may be adversely affected.

 

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We are subject to stringent labor and employment laws in certain jurisdictions in which we operate, we are party to various collective bargaining arrangements, and our relationship with our employees could deteriorate, which could adversely impact our operations.

A majority of our full-time employees are employed outside the U.S. In certain jurisdictions where we operate, labor and employment laws are relatively stringent and, in many cases, grant significant job protection to certain employees, including rights on termination of employment. In addition, in certain countries where we operate, our employees are members of unions or are represented by works councils. We are often required to consult and seek the consent or advice of these unions and/or works councils. These regulations and laws, coupled with the requirement to consult with the relevant unions or works councils, could have a significant impact on our flexibility in managing costs and responding to market changes.

Furthermore, approximately 19% of our U.S. employees as of December 31, 2012, are subject to collective bargaining arrangements or similar arrangements, and approximately 5% are subject to labor agreements that expire in 2013. While we expect to complete renewal of these agreements without significant disruption to our business, there can be no assurance that we will be able to negotiate labor agreements on satisfactory terms or that actions by our employees will not be disruptive to our business. If these workers were to engage in a strike, work stoppage or other slowdown or if other employees were to become unionized, we could experience a significant disruption of our operations and/or higher ongoing labor costs, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Employee benefit costs, especially postretirement costs, constitute a significant element of our annual expenses, and funding these costs could adversely affect our financial condition.

Employee benefit costs are a significant element of our cost structure. Certain expenses, particularly postretirement costs under defined benefit pension plans and healthcare costs for employees and retirees, may increase significantly at a rate that is difficult to forecast and may adversely affect our financial results, financial condition or cash flows. Declines in global capital markets may cause reductions in the value of our pension plan assets. Such circumstances could have an adverse effect on future pension expense and funding requirements. Further information regarding our retirement benefits is presented in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Our implementation of new business information systems and processes could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flow.

We have been designing and implementing a new information system and related business processes to consolidate our legacy operating systems into an integrated system, an objective of which is to standardize and streamline business processes. The first stage of implementation occurred during 2012. We may be unable or choose not to complete the implementation in certain locations or in accordance with our timeline and we could incur additional costs. Decisions or constraints related to implementation could result in operating inefficiencies and could impact our ability to perform business transactions. These risks could adversely impact our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

We rely on information systems to conduct our business and interruption, or damage to, or failure or compromise of, these systems may adversely affect our business and results of operations.

We rely on information systems to obtain, process, analyze and manage data to forecast and facilitate the purchase and distribution of our products; to receive, process, and ship orders on a timely basis; to account for other product and service transactions with customers; to manage the accurate billing and collections for thousands of customers; to process payments to suppliers; and to manage data and records relating to our employees, contractors, and other individuals. Our business and results of operations may be adversely affected if these systems are interrupted, damaged, or compromised or if they fail for any extended period of time, due to events including but not limited to programming errors, computer viruses and security breaches. Information

 

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privacy and security risks have generally increased in recent years because of the proliferation of new technologies and the increased sophistication and activities of perpetrators of cyber attacks. Although we believe that we have appropriate information privacy and security controls in place, prevention of information and privacy security breaches cannot be assured, particularly as cyber threats continue to evolve. We may be required to expend additional resources to continue to enhance our information privacy and security measures and/or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities. In addition, third-party service providers are responsible for managing a significant portion of our information systems, and we are subject to risk as a result of possible information privacy and security breaches of those third parties. The consequences of these risks could adversely impact our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

There are risks associated with the manufacture and sale of our products into the pharmaceutical industry.

The manufacture and sale of products into the pharmaceutical industry involves the risk of injury to consumers, as well as commercial risks. Injury to consumers could result from, among other things, tampering by unauthorized third parties or the introduction into the product of foreign objects, substances, chemicals and other agents during the manufacturing, packaging, storage, handling or transportation phases. Shipment of adulterated products may be a violation of law and may lead to an increased risk of exposure to product liability or other claims, product recalls and increased scrutiny by federal and state regulatory agencies. Such claims or liabilities may not be covered by our insurance or by any rights of indemnity or contribution that we may have against third parties. In addition, the negative publicity surrounding any assertion that our products caused illness or injury could have a material adverse effect on our reputation with existing and potential customers, which could negatively impact our business, operating results or financial condition.

We are exposed to lawsuits in the normal course of business, which could harm our business.

We are from time to time exposed to certain legal proceedings, which may include claims involving product liability, infringement of intellectual property rights of third parties and other claims. Due to the uncertainties of litigation, we can give no assurance that we will prevail on claims made against us in the lawsuits that we currently face or that additional claims will not be made against us in the future. We do not believe that lawsuits we currently face are likely to have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results or financial condition. Future claims or lawsuits, if they were to result in a ruling adverse to us, could give rise to substantial liability, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results or financial condition.

We are exposed to intangible asset risk, and a write down of our intangible assets could have an adverse impact to our operating results and financial position.

We have recorded intangible assets, including goodwill, in connection with business acquisitions. We are required to perform goodwill impairment tests on at least an annual basis and whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable from estimated future cash flows. As a result of our annual and other periodic evaluations, we may determine that the intangible asset values need to be written down to their fair values, which could result in material charges that could be adverse to our operating results and financial position. See further information regarding our goodwill and other intangible assets in “Critical Accounting Policies” under Item 7 and in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Interest rates on some of our borrowings are variable, and our borrowing costs could be adversely affected by interest rate increases.

Portions of our debt obligations have variable interest rates. Generally, when interest rates rise, our cost of borrowings increases. We estimate, based on the debt obligations outstanding at December 31, 2012, that a one percent increase in interest rates would cause interest expense to increase by $0.5 million annually. Continued interest rate increases could raise the cost of borrowings and adversely affect our financial performance. See

 

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further information regarding our interest rates on our debt obligations in “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” under Item 7A and in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Many of our assets are encumbered by liens that have been granted to lenders, and those liens affect our flexibility to dispose of property and businesses.

Certain of our debt obligations are secured by substantially all of our assets. These liens could reduce our ability and/or extend the time to dispose of property and businesses, as these liens must be cleared or waived by the lenders prior to any disposition. These security interests are described in more detail in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

We may not pay dividends on our common stock at any time in the foreseeable future.

Holders of our common stock are entitled to receive such dividends as our Board of Directors from time to time may declare out of funds legally available for such purposes. Our Board of Directors has no obligation to declare dividends under Ohio law or our amended Articles of Incorporation. We may not pay dividends on our common stock at any time in the foreseeable future. Any determination by our Board of Directors to pay dividends in the future will be based on various factors, including our financial condition, results of operations and current, anticipated cash needs and any limits our then-existing credit facility and other debt instruments place on our ability to pay dividends.

We are exposed to risks associated with acts of God, terrorists and others, as well as fires, explosions, wars, riots, accidents, embargoes, natural disasters, strikes and other work stoppages, quarantines and other governmental actions, and other events or circumstances that are beyond our control.

Ferro is exposed to risks from various events that are beyond our control, which may have significant effects on our results of operations. While we attempt to mitigate these risks through appropriate loss prevention measures, insurance, contingency planning and other means, we may not be able to anticipate all risks or to reasonably or cost-effectively manage those risks that we do anticipate. As a result, our operations could be adversely affected by circumstances or events in ways that are significant and/or long lasting.

The risks and uncertainties identified above are not the only risks that we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial also may adversely affect us. If any known or unknown risks and uncertainties develop into actual events, these developments could have material adverse effects on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Item 1B —  Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2 —  Properties

We lease our corporate headquarters offices, which are located at 6060 Parkland Blvd., Mayfield Heights, Ohio. The Company owns other corporate facilities, including a centralized research and development facility, which is located in Independence, Ohio. We own principal manufacturing plants that range in size from 29,000 sq. ft. to over 800,000 sq. ft. Plants we own with more than 250,000 sq. ft. are located in: Spain; Germany; Cleveland, Ohio; Penn Yan, New York; and Mexico. The locations of our principal manufacturing plants by reportable segment are as follows:

Electronic Materials — U.S.: Penn Yan, New York; and South Plainfield, New Jersey. Outside the U.S.: China.

Performance Coatings — U.S.: Cleveland, Ohio. Outside the U.S.: Argentina, Brazil, China, Egypt, France, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Spain, Thailand and Venezuela.

 

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Color and Glass Performance Materials — U.S.: Washington, Pennsylvania, and Orrville, Ohio. Outside the U.S.: Brazil, China, France, Germany, Mexico, Spain, the United Kingdom and Venezuela.

Polymer Additives — U.S.: Bridgeport, New Jersey; Cleveland, Ohio; Walton Hills, Ohio; and Fort Worth, Texas. Outside the U.S.: Belgium and the United Kingdom.

Specialty Plastics — U.S.: Evansville, Indiana; Plymouth, Indiana; Edison, New Jersey; and Stryker, Ohio. Outside the U.S.: Spain.

Pharmaceuticals — U.S.: Waukegan, Illinois.

Ferro’s revolving credit facility has a security interest in the real estate of the parent company and its domestic material subsidiaries.

In addition, we lease manufacturing facilities for the Electronic Materials segment in Germany, Japan, South Plainfield, New Jersey, and Vista, California; for the Color and Glass Performance Materials segment in Japan and Italy; and for the Specialty Plastics segment in Carpentersville, Illinois. In some instances, the manufacturing facilities are used by two or more segments. Leased facilities range in size from 18,000 sq. ft. to over 100,000 sq. ft. at the plant located in Carpentersville, Illinois.

Item 3 —  Legal Proceedings

There are various lawsuits and claims pending against the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries. We do not currently expect the ultimate liabilities, if any, and expenses related to such lawsuits and claims to materially affect the consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of the Company.

Item 4 —  Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

 

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Executive Officers of the Registrant

The executive officers of the Company as of March 5, 2013, are listed below, along with their ages and positions held during the past five years. The year indicates when the individual was named to the indicated position. No family relationship exists between any of Ferro’s executive officers.

Peter T. Thomas — 57

Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, 2012

Vice President, Polymer and Ceramic Engineered Materials, 2009

Vice President, Organic Specialties, 2006

Mark H. Duesenberg — 51

Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, 2008

Executive Director, Legal and Government Affairs, Lenovo Group Ltd., a global manufacturer of personal computers and electronic devices, 2008

Legal Director — Europe, Middle East and Africa, Lenovo Group Ltd., 2005

Ann E. Killian — 58

Vice President, Human Resources, 2005

Jeffrey L. Rutherford — 52

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, 2012

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Park-Ohio Holdings Corp., an industrial supply chain logistics and diversified manufacturing business, 2008

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, UAP Holding Corp., an independent distributor of agricultural inputs and professional non-crop products, 2007

 

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PART II

Item 5 —  Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol FOE. On February 28, 2013, we had 1,319 shareholders of record for our common stock, and the closing price of the common stock was $5.10 per share.

The chart below compares Ferro’s cumulative total shareholder return for the five years ended December 31, 2012, to that of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index and the Standard & Poor’s MidCap Specialty Chemicals Index. In all cases, the information is presented on a dividend-reinvested basis and assumes investment of $100.00 on December 31, 2007. At December 31, 2012, the closing price of our common stock was $4.18 per share.

COMPARISON OF FIVE-YEAR

CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURNS

 

LOGO

The quarterly high and low intra-day sales prices and dividends declared per share for our common stock during 2012 and 2011 were as follows:

 

     2012      2011  
           High                  Low                  Dividends                  High                  Low                  Dividends        

First Quarter

   $ 7.50       $ 4.84       $       $ 17.02       $ 13.40       $   

Second Quarter

     5.96         4.02                 17.84         11.62           

Third Quarter

     5.06         2.65                 14.28         6.00           

Fourth Quarter

     4.28         2.38                 7.36         4.27           

If we pay cash dividends in excess of a base dividend amount in any single quarterly period, the conversion rate on our 6.50% Convertible Senior Notes will be increased by formula. The base dividend amount is $0.145 per share, subject to adjustment in certain events.

The restrictive covenants contained in our credit facility limit the amount of dividends we can pay on our common stock. For further discussion, see Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations under Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

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The following table summarizes purchases of our common stock by the Company and affiliated purchasers during the three months ended December 31, 2012:

 

     Total Number
of Shares
Purchased (1)
     Average
Price Paid
per Share
     Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs
     Maximum
Number of
Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs
 
     (In thousands, except for per share amounts)  

October 1, 2012 to October 31, 2012

           $  —                   

November 1, 2012 to November 30, 2012

                               

December 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012

                     —                     —                 —   

Total

                 —                             

Item 6 —  Selected Financial Data

The following table presents selected financial data for the last five years ended December 31st:

 

     2012     2011      2010      2009     2008  
     (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)  
Net sales    $   1,768,631      $   2,155,792       $   2,101,865       $   1,657,569      $   2,245,152   
Income (loss) from continuing operations      (373,034     5,134         15,403         (17,796     (123,428
Basic earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders      (4.34     0.05         0.15         (0.41     (2.91
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders      (4.34     0.05         0.15         (0.41     (2.91
Cash dividends declared per common share                             0.01        0.58   
Total assets      1,079,103        1,440,651         1,434,355         1,526,355        1,544,117   
Long-term debt, including current portion, and redeemable preferred stock      298,177        300,769         303,269         409,231        577,290   

In 2008, we sold our Fine Chemicals business, which is presented as discontinued operations in 2008 and 2009.

In 2012, we changed our method of recognizing defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit expense. Under the new method, we recognize actuarial gains and losses in our operating results in the year in which the gains or losses occur. All prior periods have been adjusted to apply the new method retrospectively.

Item 7 —  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

During 2012, we experienced continued decline in the performance of our Electronic Materials segment, specifically our solar pastes, metal powders and surface finishing products businesses, which ultimately led us to begin exploring strategic options for the solar pastes business during the third quarter of 2012. We also

 

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experienced weak demand in Europe, with our Color and Glass Performance Materials, Performance Coatings and Polymer Additives segments the most significantly impacted. On February 6, 2013, we sold assets related to solar pastes and exited the product line.

To further address the challenges that we are facing, in the second quarter of 2012, we initiated cost cutting initiatives to reduce the cost structure of the Performance Coatings business in Europe. We have also taken action to improve Electronic Materials results through actions to restructure the management team and significantly reduce operating costs. Additionally, we have announced cost savings initiatives that are aimed at driving efficiencies across our global footprint. We expect to achieve $25 million to $30 million of cost savings in 2013 and more than $50 million in 2014 through a combination of improved manufacturing efficiency and consolidation of certain global commercial and support functions.

For the year ended December 31, 2012, Ferro’s net loss was $373.0 million, compared with net income of $5.1 million in 2011, and net loss attributable to common shareholders was $374.3 million, compared with net income attributable to common shareholders of $4.2 million in 2011. Our total segment operating income for 2012 was $65.5 million, compared with $160.7 million in 2011. During 2012, we incurred charges totaling $214.8 million related to impairment of the goodwill and certain property, plant and equipment in our Electronic Materials reporting unit, as well as impairments of real estate assets related to certain idled facilities in Europe. Further, we initiated restructuring activities that resulted in total charges of $10.4 million and primarily consisted of actions related to our Performance Coatings business in Europe and certain corporate actions, including exiting the lease of our corporate aircraft.

Outlook

For the full year 2013, we expect organic sales volume growth to approximate global GDP growth, with sales revenue growth expected to track below volume growth primarily due to expected changes in foreign currency rates, including the Euro. The expected improvements in the Company’s cost structure are expected to be partially offset by inflationary pressures on expenditures.

The sale of assets related to our solar pastes business during the first quarter of 2013 is expected to improve segment operating income in Electronic Materials by approximately $16 million annually compared with 2012 results.

Factors that could adversely affect our future financial performance are described under the heading “Risk Factors” in Item 1A.

Results of Operations - Consolidated

Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011

For the year ended December 31, 2012, Ferro net loss was $373.0 million, compared with net income of $5.1 million in 2011. For the year ended December 31, 2012, Ferro net loss attributable to common shareholders was $374.3 million, or $4.34 per share, compared with Ferro net income attributable to common shareholders of $4.2 million, or $0.05 per share, reflecting $0.2 million of preferred stock dividends, in 2011.

Net Sales

 

     2012      2011      $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Net sales excluding precious metals

   $   1,595,881       $   1,756,721       $   (160,840     (9.2 )% 

Sales of precious metals

     172,750         399,071         (226,321     (56.7 )% 

Net sales

     1,768,631         2,155,792         (387,161     (18.0 )% 

Cost of sales

     1,470,769         1,743,560         (272,791     (15.6 )% 

Gross profit

   $ 297,862       $ 412,232       $ (114,370     (27.7 )% 

 

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Net sales decreased by 18.0% in the year ended December 31, 2012, compared with the prior year. Lower sales volumes in our Electronic Materials segment, specifically for solar pastes and metal powders, in combination with unfavorable price and mix, and weakness in Europe due to macro economic conditions, were the primary drivers of the decrease. Further, as a result of the decrease in Electronic Materials volumes, precious metals sales decreased 56.7% from 2011, or 58.5% of the overall decrease in sales in 2012. Across our segments, changes in product prices and mix accounted for approximately 8% of sales decline, lower sales volumes reduced sales by approximately 8% and changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced sales an additional 2%.

Gross Profit

Gross profit decreased 27.7% in 2012 to $297.9 million, compared with $412.2 million in 2011. The most significant driver was the performance of the Electronic Materials segment, which accounted for approximately 80% of the total decline. Weakness in Europe also contributed to the reduction in gross profit, particularly in the Color and Glass Performance Materials, Performance Coatings and Polymer Additives segments. Gross profit percentage declined to 16.8% of net sales from 19.1% of net sales in 2011.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense

Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses were $302.7 million in 2012 and $335.3 million in 2011, $32.7 million lower in 2012 compared with 2011; however, as a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses increased 1.5% to 17.1% in 2012, compared with 15.6% in 2011. The most significant driver of the decline in SG&A expenses in 2012 was the change in accounting principle that was elected during the third quarter of 2012, under which we now recognize actuarial gains and losses on our defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans in the year in which the gains or losses occur. Also contributing to the reduction from 2011 were favorable foreign currency exchange impacts, reduced depreciation and amortization expense, and lower stock-based compensation expense driven by certain personnel actions during the year. Partially offsetting the favorability were increased severance costs, higher bad debt expense, and increased costs related to an initiative to streamline and standardize business processes and improve management information systems tools.

The following represent the components with significant changes between 2012 and 2011:

 

     2012     2011      $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Pension and other postretirement benefits

   $       29,065      $       57,611       $       (28,546     (49.5 )% 

Foreign currency exchange

     (6,244             (6,244     NM   

Depreciation and amortization

     11,184        15,093         (3,909     (25.9 )% 

Stock-based compensation

     3,057        4,462         (1,405     (31.5 )% 

Idle sites

     2,077        2,612         (535     (20.5 )% 

Severance

     5,578        451         5,127        NM   

Bad debt

     5,217        2,349         2,868        122.1

Management information systems tools

     8,977        6,461         2,516        38.9

Other

            1,914         (2,525     NM   

Total change

                    $ (32,653        

 

NM — Not meaningful

Restructuring and Impairment Charges

 

     2012      2011      $ Change      % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)         

Goodwill

   $   153,566       $   3,881       $   149,685         NM   

Property, plant and equipment

     46,800         4,436         42,364         NM   

Assets held for sale

     14,913         3,809         11,104         NM   

Corporate aircraft

     3,214                 3,214         NM   

Restructuring

     7,326         4,904         2,422         49.4

Restructuring and impairment

   $ 225,819       $ 17,030       $ 208,789         NM   

 

NM — Not meaningful

 

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Table of Contents

Restructuring and impairment charges increased significantly in 2012 compared with 2011. The primary driver of the impairment charges taken against goodwill and property, plant and equipment in the current year was the decline in profitability of our solar pastes business and the related impact on the forecast for Electronic Materials. In addition to the impacts related to Electronic Materials, we continued to aggressively liquidate our portfolio of real estate related to idled facilities that is classified as held for sale, which drove incremental impairment charges during the year. Our idled facilities are principally located in Europe, which continued to experience difficult economic conditions. Idled assets in France, the Netherlands and the U.S. were sold in 2012. The restructuring charges incurred in 2012 primarily related to our Performance Coatings business in Europe and the disposal of the leased corporate aircraft.

Interest Expense

Interest expense in 2012 did not change significantly from 2011. The components of interest expense are as follows:

 

     2012     2011     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Interest expense

   $     26,808      $     27,025      $       (217     (0.8 )% 

Interest capitalization

     (780     (499     (281     56.3

Amortization of bank fees

     1,951        1,883        68        3.6

Interest expense

   $ 27,979      $ 28,409      $ (430     (1.5 )% 

Income Tax Expense

In 2012, income tax expense was $109.5 million, while in the prior year, we recorded income tax expense of $19.3 million. The current year tax expense was driven by a $182.7 million charge to increase the valuation allowances to more accurately measure the portion of the deferred tax assets that more likely than not will be realized, a $4.1 million charge related to the expiration of certain tax credits, and the tax impact of the goodwill impairment. The prior year expense was also affected by an $11.3 million charge to increase the valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets.

Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010

For the year ended December 31, 2011, Ferro net income was $5.1 million, compared with net income of $15.4 million in 2010. For the year ended December 31, 2011, Ferro net income attributable to common shareholders was $4.2 million, or $0.05 per share, reflecting $0.2 million of preferred stock dividends, compared with Ferro net income attributable to common shareholders of $13.2 million, or $0.15 per share, reflecting $0.7 million of preferred stock dividends, in 2010.

Net Sales

 

     2011      2010      $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Net sales excluding previous metals

   $     1,756,721       $     1,723,431       $     33,290        1.9

Sales of precious metals

     399,071         378,434         20,637        5.5

Net sales

     2,155,792         2,101,865         53,927        2.6

Cost of sales

     1,743,560         1,643,733         99,827        6.1

Gross profit

   $ 412,232       $ 458,132       $ (45,900         (10.0)

 

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Table of Contents

Net sales increased by 2.6% in the year ended December 31, 2011, compared with the prior year. Changes in product prices and mix, together with changes in foreign currency exchange rates, were the primary drivers of the increased sales. Increased sales of precious metals, driven by higher prices for silver, also contributed to the overall sales growth. Lower sales volume had a negative effect on sales, particularly in the Electronic Materials segment. The lower sales volume also was the result of decisions we made in 2010 to exit certain markets served by the Color and Glass Performance Materials and Electronic Materials segments. For the year, changes in product prices and mix accounted for approximately 10% of sales growth, and changes in foreign currency exchange rates contributed an additional 2% to higher sales. Lower sales volume reduced sales by approximately 9%. Higher precious metal prices contributed approximately 1 % to the overall sales increase during the year, including effects from changes in volume and prices of the precious metals.

Gross Profit

Gross profit declined during 2011 primarily as a result of reduced sales volume of conductive pastes used in solar cell applications. In addition, increased raw material costs and product mix changes combined to reduce gross profit or to limit the growth in gross profit in certain business segments where sales increased. In aggregate, raw material costs increased by approximately $113 million during 2011 and these increased costs were offset by increased product prices. Gross profit percentage declined to 19.1% of net sales from 21.8% of net sales in the prior-year period. Charges that were primarily related to residual costs at closed manufacturing sites involved in earlier restructuring initiatives reduced gross profit by $4.8 million during 2011. Gross profit was reduced by charges of $9.0 million during 2010, primarily due to costs related to manufacturing rationalization activities.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense

Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses were $335.3 million in 2011 and $279.7 million in 2010, $55.6 million higher in 2011 compared with 2010. As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses increased 2.3% to 15.6% in 2011, compared with 13.3% in 2010. The most significant driver of the increase in SG&A expenses in 2011 was a result of the retrospective application of the change in accounting principle that was elected during the third quarter of 2012, under which we now recognize actuarial gains and losses on our defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans in the year in which the gains or losses occur. Also contributing to the increase from 2010 were increased costs related to an initiative to streamline and standardize business processes and improve management information systems tools, unfavorable foreign currency exchange impacts, costs at idled sites that were closed as part of historical restructuring actions, and higher stock-based compensation expense. Partially offsetting the increased costs were lower depreciation and severance in 2011.

The following represent the components with significant changes between 2011 and 2010:

 

     2011      2010      $Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Pension and other postretirement benefits

   $         57,611       $         15,835       $         41,776        263.8

Management information systems tools

     6,461                 6,461        NM   

Foreign currency exchange

     5,952                 5,952        NM   

Idle sites

     2,612                 2,612        NM   

Stock-based compensation

     4,462         1,903         2,559        134.5

Depreciation and amortization

     11,184         16,310         (5,126     (31.4 )% 

Severance

     451         2,386         (1,935     (81.1 )% 

Bad debt

     2,349         2,935         (586     (20.0 )% 

Other

     3,930                 3,930        NM   

Total change

                     $ 55,643           

 

NM — Not meaningful

 

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Table of Contents

Restructuring and Impairment Charges

 

     2011      2010      $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Goodwill

   $     3,881       $       $ 3,881        NM   

Property, plant and equipment

     4,436                 4,436        NM   

Assets held for sale

     3,809                 3,809        NM   

Restructuring

     4,904           63,732             (58,828         (92.3)

Restructuring and impairment

   $ 17,030       $ 63,732       $ (46,702     (73.3)

 

NM — Not meaningful

Restructuring and impairment charges were $17.0 million, down from $63.7 million in 2010. The lower charges reflected the winding down of certain multi-year manufacturing rationalization activities. Included in restructuring and impairment charges during 2011 were impairment charges of $12.1 million resulting from an impairment of goodwill in the Performance Coatings segment and fixed asset impairment charges related to property, plant and equipment and property held for sale. The impaired property related to sites that were closed due to prior-period restructuring actions, and the impairments reflect ongoing deterioration in commercial real estate markets.

Interest Expense

 

     2011     2010      $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Interest expense

   $     27,025      $   36,295       $     (9,270     (25.5 )% 

Interest capitalization

     (499     (28)         (471     NM   

Amortization of bank fees

     1,883        8,301         (6,418     (77.3 )% 

Interest expense

   $ 28,409      $ 44,568       $ (16,159     (36.3 )% 

 

NM — Not meaningful

Interest expense declined by $16.2 million during 2011 compared with 2010. Lower average borrowing levels, reduced interest rates on borrowings and reduced amortization of debt issuance costs contributed to the decline in interest expense. Interest expense in 2010 included nonrecurring charges of $2.3 million for a noncash write-off of debt issuance costs related to prepayments of our term loans prior to their scheduled repayment.

Income Tax Expense

In 2011, income tax expense was $19.3 million, or 79.0% of income before income taxes. In 2010, we recorded income tax expense of $21.9 million, or 58.7% of income before income taxes. The 2011 effective tax rate was greater than the statutory income tax rate of 35% primarily as a result of an $11.3 million charge to increase the valuation allowances to more accurately measure the portion of the deferred tax assets that more likely than not will be realized. The 2010 tax expense was also affected by a $9.6 million increase to valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets, a tax expense of $1.5 million related to the 2010 passage of the U.S. Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, partially offset by a decrease in tax expense of $2.1 million related to a tax benefit resulting from a domestic production activity deduction in the United States.

 

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Table of Contents

Results of Operations — Segment Information

Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011

Electronic Materials

 

     2012     2011     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Net sales excluding precious metals

   $     149,182      $     257,991      $ (108,809     (42.2 )% 

Precious metal sales

     144,658        364,986            (220,328     (60.4 )% 

Segment net sales

     293,840        622,977        (329,137     (52.8 )% 

Segment (loss) income

     (16,122     68,024        (84,146     (123.7 )% 

Segment (loss) income as a % of net sales excluding precious metals

     (10.8 )%      26.4    

Sales declined in Electronic Materials primarily as a result of reduced demand for conductive pastes used in solar cells and metal powders used in other electronics applications. Further, sales of our polishing materials declined in 2012 compared with 2011 due to significantly lower costs for the key raw material used in the manufacture of the products. Unfavorable product pricing and mix accounted for approximately $174 million of the decrease in sales, while volumes drove approximately $154 million of the decline. Sales of precious metals also declined significantly in 2012, in line with the overall reduction in volumes year over year, as the costs of precious metals are passed through to our customers. While sales and gross profit declined, SG&A increased slightly, further driving the operating loss. Electronic Materials operates principally in North America and Asia-Pacific, and both regions experienced significant declines in performance during 2012.

Performance Coatings

 

     2012     2011     $ Change      % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)         

Segment net sales

   $         587,698      $     602,566        $      (14,868)         (2.5 )% 

Segment income

     26,306        34,033        (7,727)         (22.7 )% 

Segment income as a % of net sales

     4.5     5.6     

Sales in Performance Coatings declined in 2012 primarily due to unfavorable foreign currency exchange impacts of approximately $24 million. This was partially offset by increased volume impacts of approximately $6 million and slightly favorable price and mix of approximately $3 million. We experienced volume growth in Europe and Latin America. However, price was adversely impacted in Europe by overall European economic conditions and the highly price-competitive end markets into which Performance Coatings sells. This was partially mitigated by favorable pricing in Latin America. Gross margin declined in 2012 compared with 2011, and in addition to the unfavorable impacts on net sales, higher raw material costs also significantly impacted the Performance Coatings segment. SG&A was relatively flat year over year and consistent as a percentage of net sales.

Color and Glass Performance Materials

 

     2012     2011     $ Change      % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)         

Net sales excluding precious metals

   $         343,631      $         362,232        $      (18,601)         (5.1 )% 

Precious metal sales

     28,092        34,085        (5,993)         (17.6 )% 

Segment net sales

     371,723        396,317        (24,594)         (6.2 )% 

Segment income

     26,115        29,672        (3,557)         (12.0 )% 

Segment income as a % of net sales excluding precious metals

     7.6     8.2     

 

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Table of Contents

Color and Glass Performance Materials sales were affected by significant unfavorable impacts in volume and foreign currency exchange. Volumes accounted for approximately $15 million of the reduction, declining most significantly in Europe, with Asia-Pacific and Latin America also down. The foreign currency exchange impact was approximately $15 million unfavorable. Partially offsetting the volume and foreign currency impacts were favorable price and mix of approximately $5 million. In addition to reduced sales, gross margin was also impacted unfavorably by higher costs of raw materials in 2012 compared with 2011. SG&A was approximately $4 million lower year over year, which partially mitigated the unfavorable impacts on sales and gross margin.

Polymer Additives

 

     2012     2011     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Segment net sales

   $     320,635      $     336,965      $ (16,330     (4.8 )% 

Segment income

     12,711        15,784            (3,073     (19.5 )% 

Segment income as a % of net sales

     4.0     4.7    

Sales in Polymer Additives were significantly impacted by declines in volume and price compared with 2011. The lower volume was primarily in Europe and North America, which are the principal markets for our Polymer Additives products, and driven by reduced demand for certain plasticizer products resulting from changing environmental regulations, as well as overall economic conditions in Europe. Partially offsetting the negative effects of volume and price on sales and gross margin was reduced SG&A, which was approximately $1 million lower in 2012 compared with 2011.

Specialty Plastics

 

     2012     2011     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Segment net sales

   $     170,717      $     172,028      $ (1,311     (0.8 )% 

Segment income

     14,057        9,428            4,629        49.1

Segment income as a % of net sales

     8.2     5.5    

Sales in Specialty Plastics were relatively flat in 2012 compared with 2011. Reduced volumes in North America and Europe lowered sales by approximately $7 million, however we were able to mitigate the majority of the shortfall through pricing actions, which were favorable by approximately $6 million. Partially offsetting the favorable impact of price on gross margin were slightly higher raw material costs in 2012 compared with 2011. SG&A expenses were down approximately $1 million in 2012 compared with 2011.

Pharmaceuticals

 

     2012     2011     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Segment net sales

   $     24,018      $     24,939      $ (921     (3.7 )% 

Segment income

     2,409        3,744            (1,335     (35.7 )% 

Segment income as a % of net sales

     10.0     15.0    

Sales in Pharmaceuticals declined in 2012 compared with 2011 due to changes in product pricing and mix. Additionally, Pharmaceuticals incurred higher manufacturing costs in 2012, which negatively impacted gross profit and segment income.

 

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Table of Contents
     2012      2011      $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Geographic Revenues

          

United States

   $ 764,596       $ 1,022,120       $ (257,524     (25.2 )% 

International

     1,004,035         1,133,672             (129,637     (11.4 )% 

Total geographic revenues

   $     1,768,631       $     2,155,792       $ (387,161     (18.0 )% 

The primary driver of the decrease in net sales, both in the United States and in international regions, was the underperformance of Electronic Materials. Electronic Materials net sales were down approximately $329 million in 2012 compared with 2011, of which approximately $264 million was in the United States and approximately $65 million was in international regions, principally Asia-Pacific. The decline in Electronic Materials in the United States was partially mitigated by higher sales in Color and Glass Performance Materials. In addition to the impact of Electronic Materials, the balance of the international sales decline was due to lower sales emanating from Europe in other segments. Sales that are recorded in each region include products exported to customers located in other regions.

Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010

Electronic Materials

 

     2011     2010     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Net sales excluding precious metals

   $     257,991      $     321,990      $ (63,999     (19.9 )% 

Precious metal sales

     364,986        353,411        11,575        3.3

Segment net sales

     622,977        675,401        (52,424     (7.8 )% 

Segment income

     68,024        132,009            (63,985     (48.5 )% 

Segment income as a % of net sales excluding precious metals

     26.4     41.0    

Sales declined in Electronic Materials primarily as a result of reduced demand for conductive pastes used in solar cell applications. The decline in demand for these products was a consequence of lower end-market demand and excess inventory of completed solar power modules. Due to the excess inventory and reduced demand, solar cell production was significantly reduced by our customers. We decided to exit the market for commodity dielectric materials during 2010. As a result, the absence of sales of these products in 2011 also contributed to the lower sales volume in Electronic Materials during the year. Lower sales volume reduced sales by approximately $124 million compared with the prior year. Changes in product pricing and mix offset approximately $60 million of the sales decline during the year, and changes in foreign currency exchange rates increased sales by an additional $12 million. Sales of precious metals increased by $12 million within the Electronic Materials business, including the effects of increased metal prices and reduced sales volume. The costs of precious metals are passed through to our customers as an element of our product prices. Sales of products produced in the U.S. and Europe declined, while sales of products produced in Asia increased during 2011. Operating income declined primarily due to a $53 million reduction in gross profit driven by the lower sales volume of conductive pastes, which was only partially offset by increased sales volume of other Electronic Materials products.

Performance Coatings

 

     2011     2010     $ Change      % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)         

Segment net sales

   $     602,566      $     555,023      $     47,543         8.6

Segment income

     34,033        31,403        2,630         8.4

Segment income as a % of net sales

     5.6     5.7     

 

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Table of Contents

Sales increased in Performance Coatings primarily due to higher product prices and changes in foreign currency exchange rates, partially offset by reduced sales volume. The higher product prices were largely due to higher raw material costs compared with the prior year. Changes in product prices and mix accounted for approximately $49 million of the sales growth during the year. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates added an additional $15 million to the sales growth. Lower sales volume offset approximately $16 million of the growth in sales. Sales increased in the Europe-Middle East-Africa region, with additional sales growth contributions from Latin America, the U.S., and Asia-Pacific. Operating profit increased as a result of an approximately $3 million increase in gross profit.

Color and Glass Performance Materials

 

     2011     2010     $ Change      % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)         

Net sales excluding precious metals

   $     362,232      $     357,359      $     4,873         1.4

Precious metal sales

     34,085        24,796        9,289         37.5

Segment net sales

     396,317        382,155        14,162         3.7

Segment income

     29,672        26,032        3,640         14.0

Segment income as a % of net sales excluding precious metals

     8.2     7.3     

Sales increased in Color and Glass Performance Materials as a result of higher product prices, changes in product mix and changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Partially offsetting the increases was a decline in sales volume. Sales volume of certain metal oxide products was curtailed as a result of the closing of a manufacturing plant in Portugal, and sales volume was also lower due to reduced precious metal preparations sales as a result of a business divestiture during 2010. Changes in product prices and mix increased sales by approximately $38 million, and changes in foreign currency exchange rates contributed an additional $14 million to sales growth during the year. Lower sales volume reduced sales growth by approximately $38 million. The sales growth was primarily driven by increased sales in Europe-Middle East-Africa. Operating profit increased as a result of a $4 million increase in gross profit. The increase in gross profit was driven by the benefits from manufacturing rationalization activities completed in prior periods. During the second half of 2011, both gross profit and SG&A expenses were negatively impacted by costs associated with consolidating production from a plant in Austria to one of our existing plants in Germany.

Polymer Additives

 

     2011     2010     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Segment net sales

   $     336,965      $     302,352      $     34,613        11.4

Segment income

     15,784        16,027        (243     (1.5 )% 

Segment income as a % of net sales

     4.7     5.3    

Sales increased in Polymer Additives primarily as a result of higher product prices. The higher product prices largely reflected higher raw material costs compared with the prior year. Changes in product prices and mix increased sales by approximately $37 million during 2011. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates increased sales by approximately $4 million, while lower sales volume reduced sales by $6 million. Sales increased in the U.S. and Europe-Middle East-Africa, the primary regions where we market our polymer additives. Operating income declined as a result of a $3 million decline in gross profit caused by changes in product mix, increased manufacturing costs, and increased SG&A expense, which was approximately $1 million unfavorable to the prior year.

 

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Table of Contents

Specialty Plastics

 

     2011     2010     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Segment net sales

   $     172,028      $     163,058      $ 8,970        5.5

Segment income

     9,428        13,413            (3,985     (29.7 )% 

Segment income as a % of net sales

     5.5     8.2    

Sales increased in Specialty Plastics primarily as a result of changes in product prices and mix, which were partially offset by the effects of lower sales volume. Changes in product price and mix contributed approximately $17 million to the overall sales growth, and changes in foreign currency exchange rates increased sales by an additional $3 million. Lower sales volume reduced sales by approximately $11 million. Sales growth was primarily driven by increased sales in the United States. Operating profit declined primarily as a result of reduced gross profit that resulted from reduced production volume.

Pharmaceuticals

 

     2011     2010     $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Segment net sales

   $     24,939      $     23,876      $     1,063        4.5

Segment income

     3,744        4,699        (955     (20.3 )% 

Segment income as a % of net sales

     15.0     19.7    

Sales increased in Pharmaceuticals primarily as a result of changes in product mix compared with the prior year. Operating income decreased primarily due to higher SG&A expense compared with prior years.

 

     2011      2010      $ Change     % Change  
     (Dollars in thousands)        

Geographic Revenues

          

United States

   $ 1,022,120       $ 1,039,457       $ (17,337     (1.7 )% 

International

     1,133,672         1,062,408         71,264        6.7

Total geographic revenues

   $ 2,155,792       $ 2,101,865       $ 53,927        2.6

International sales increased during 2011 while sales in the United States declined. The decline in sales in the United States was primarily driven by lower sales of Electronic Materials that were shipped from our U.S. manufacturing locations. This decline was partially offset by higher U.S. sales in each of our other business segments. During 2011, sales originating in the United States were 47% of total net sales, down from 49% of net sales during 2010. Sales increased in all international regions during 2011, led by increased sales in Europe-Middle East-Africa. Sales that are recorded in each region include products exported to customers that are located in other regions.

Summary of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

 

     2012     2011     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Net cash provided by operating activities

   $     23,658      $     53,233      $     198,865   

Net cash used for investing activities

     (55,308     (65,127     (33,322

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

     36,457        5,904        (157,264

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

     1,778        (54     2,249   

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   $ 6,585      $ (6,044   $ 10,528   

 

30


Table of Contents

Operating activities.  Cash flows from operating activities decreased $29.6 million from 2011 to 2012. Cash flows decreased $378.2 million due to lower net income, $28.1 million due to the return of precious metal deposits, and $23.1 million due to changes in accounts payable. These decreases were mostly offset by increases of $214.1 million in non-cash restructuring and impairment charges, $87.0 million due to changes in deferred taxes, $52.1 million due to changes in inventories, $35.6 million due to changes in accrued expenses and other current liabilities, and $32.9 million due to changes in other receivables and other current assets.

We recorded a net loss in 2012 compared with net income in 2011, primarily as a result of restructuring and impairment charges and additional income tax expense. Restructuring and impairment charges included a $153.6 million impairment of goodwill associated with the Electronic Materials segment and a $38.9 million impairment of long-lived assets, primarily in the Electronic Materials segment. These impairments were the result of reduced forecasts for future profitability in Electronic Materials. In addition, impairment charges included a $14.9 million impairment to reduce the value of assets held for sale, primarily properties and buildings related to manufacturing sites that were closed as part of earlier restructuring activities. We also recorded a charge of $182.7 million to reserve for a significant portion of our deferred tax assets. The reserve for the deferred tax assets was primarily driven by the significant impairment charges that were incurred during 2012.

Inventories, other receivables and other current assets, and accounts payable increased in 2011 as a result of higher production activity driven by improved customer demand compared with the final months of 2010. They decreased in 2012 due to lower production activity driven by lower customer demand compared with the final months of 2011. The return of precious metal deposits provided $28.1 million of cash in 2011 due to additional credit lines not requiring collateral. Changes in accrued expenses and other current liabilities were relatively flat in 2012, but used $31.2 million of cash in 2011, primarily from the payment of 2010 year-end incentive compensation.

Cash flows from operating activities decreased $145.6 million from 2010 to 2011. Cash flows declined $68.0 million from decreases in accrued expenses, primarily from the payment of 2010 year-end incentive compensation. The return of precious metal deposits provided $28.1 million in 2011 and $84.3 million in 2010 due to additional credit lines not requiring collateral. Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities include noncash losses on extinguishment of debt, depreciation and amortization, and deferred income taxes, as well as payments toward retirement benefits greater than the expenses recognized. The net positive effects of adjustments for these items declined by $27.8 million from 2010 to 2011. Partially offsetting these decreases was an improvement of $10.3 million in net income as a result of reduced restructuring and impairment charges, reduced losses on extinguishment of debt and lower interest expense.

Investing activities.  Capital expenditures decreased $14.0 million from 2011 to 2012 and increased $28.0 million from 2010 to 2011. In 2010, we continued capital spending on manufacturing rationalization programs, but we made a concerted effort to defer or scale back new projects in order to conserve cash during a period of reduced customer demand associated with the global economic downturn. In 2011, our capital spending increased to support a higher level of business activity and also included certain deferred projects. In 2012, we again deferred or scaled back new projects in response to another period of reduced customer demand. In 2012, we received proceeds of $3.0 million from the sale of assets, primarily property, plant and equipment in Toccoa, Georgia; Uden, Netherlands; and Limoges, France. In 2011, we received proceeds of $6.4 million from the sale of assets, primarily property, plant and equipment in Australia and our former corporate headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. In 2010, we received proceeds of $11.4 million from the sale of assets and businesses, primarily property, plant and equipment in the Netherlands and our business operations in precious metal preparations in Asia.

Financing activities.  In 2011, we entered into several international programs to sell with recourse trade accounts receivable to financial institutions. Advances under these programs are accounted for as borrowings

 

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secured by the receivables. We also redeemed in cash all outstanding Series A Preferred Stock for $9.4 million. In 2010, we entered into a $350.0 million multi-currency senior revolving credit facility, maturing in 2015. We also issued $250.0 million of 7.875% Senior Notes in a high yield bond offering, repurchased $136.7 million of our 6.50% Convertible Senior Notes through a tender offer and subsequent market purchases, and repaid all outstanding term loans totaling $231.4 million and our revolving credit line of a net $1.7 million associated with the 2009 Amended and Restated Credit Facility.

We had net proceeds from all credit facilities of $34.8 million in 2012 and $15.6 million in 2011, for a net increase in 2012 of $19.2 million in our rate of borrowing. In 2010, we had net repayments of $144.3 million, for a net increase in 2011 of $159.9 million in our rate of borrowing. In 2010, we paid $5.7 million to issue the 7.875% Senior Notes and $4.1 million to enter into our 2010 Credit Facility.

We have paid no dividends on our common stock since 2009. Dividends paid on our preferred stock totaled $0.2 million in 2011 and $0.7 million in 2010.

Capital Resources and Liquidity

Major debt instruments that were outstanding during 2012 are described below.

7.875% Senior Notes

In 2010, we issued $250 million of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2018 (the “Senior Notes”). We used portions of the proceeds from the offering to repay all of the remaining term loans and revolving borrowings outstanding under a credit facility originally entered into in 2006 and as amended and restated through November 2009 (the “2009 Amended and Restated Credit Facility”). We also used portions of the proceeds from the offering to repurchase the 6.50% Convertible Senior Notes that were tendered pursuant to a related tender offer. The Senior Notes were issued at par and bear interest at a rate of 7.875% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on February 15 and August 15 of each year. The Senior Notes mature on August 15, 2018, and are unsecured. The principal amount outstanding was $250.0 million at December 31, 2012. At December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with the covenants under the Senior Notes’ indenture.

6.50% Convertible Senior Notes

In 2008, Ferro issued $172.5 million of 6.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 (the “Convertible Notes”). The Convertible Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.5% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on February 15 and August 15 of each year. The Convertible Notes mature on August 15, 2013. In 2010, we purchased $136.7 million of the Convertible Notes through a tender offer or on the open market. In 2011, we purchased an additional $0.7 million of the Convertible Notes on the open market. In connection with these transactions, we recognized losses on extinguishment of debt of $13.1 million in 2010 and less than $0.1 million in 2011, consisting of unamortized debt issuance costs and the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of these notes. The principal amount outstanding was $35.1 million at December 31, 2012. We separately account for the liability and equity components of the Convertible Notes in a manner that will reflect our nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. The effective interest rate on the liability component is 9.5%. At December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with the covenants under the Convertible Notes’ indenture.

Revolving Credit Facility

In 2010, we entered into the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with a group of lenders for a five-year, $350 million multi-currency senior revolving credit facility (the “2010 Credit Facility”). In 2012, we amended the 2010 Credit Facility (the “2012 Amended Credit Facility”) primarily to provide additional operating flexibility. Under this facility, we had borrowed $2.6 million at at December 31, 2012. After reductions for

 

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standby letters of credit secured by this facility, we had $343.2 million available at December 31, 2012. The interest rate under the 2010 Credit Facility is the sum of (A) either (1) LIBOR or (2) the higher of the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, the Prime Rate, or LIBOR plus 1.0% and (B) a variable margin based on the Company’s leverage. At December 31, 2012, the interest rate was 3.7%.

The 2012 Amended Credit Facility matures on August 24, 2015, and is secured by substantially all of Ferro’s assets, generally including 100% of the shares of the parent company’s domestic subsidiaries and 65% of the shares of the foreign subsidiaries directly owned by the parent company, but excluding trade receivables legally sold pursuant to our accounts receivable sales programs.

We are subject to a number of financial covenants under our 2012 Amended Credit Facility. The covenants include requirements for a leverage ratio, an interest coverage ratio, and capital expenditures. The leverage ratio must be less than (i) 4.25 to 1.00 on the last day of the third and fourth quarters of 2012 and (ii) 3.50 to 1.00 on the last day of any subsequent quarter, each calculated using the last four fiscal quarters. In the leverage ratio, the numerator is total debt, which consists of borrowings and certain letters of credit outstanding on the 2012 Amended Credit Facility and our international facilities, the principal amount outstanding on our senior notes and convertible notes, capitalized lease obligations, and amounts outstanding on our domestic and international receivables sales programs, and the denominator is the sum of earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”), and special charges. The interest coverage ratio must be not less than (i) 2.50 for the second and third quarters of 2012, (ii) 2.75 for the fourth quarter of 2012, and (iii) 3.00 thereafter. In the interest coverage ratio, the numerator is EBITDA and the denominator is cash paid for interest expense and certain other financing expenses. Capital expenditures are limited to (i) $20.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2012, (ii) $35.0 million for the six months ended September 30, 2012, (iii) $50.0 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2012, (iv) $65.0 million for the twelve months ended March 31, 2013, and (v) $65.0 million for the 2013 fiscal year and each fiscal year thereafter. Certain unused capital expenditures will be permitted to be carried forward to the following fiscal year. Our ability to meet these covenants is primarily driven by our net income before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization; our total debt; our interest payments; and our capital expenditures. Our total debt is primarily driven by cash flow items, including net income before amortization, depreciation, and other noncash charges; our capital expenditures; requirements for deposits from participants in our precious metals consignment program; our customers’ ability to make payments for purchases and the timing of such payments; and our ability to manage inventory and other working capital items. Our interest payments are driven by our debt level, external fees, and interest rates, primarily the Prime rate and LIBOR. Our capital expenditures are driven by our desire to invest in growth opportunities, to maintain existing property, plant and equipment, and to meet environmental, health and safety requirements. At December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with the covenants of the 2012 Amended Credit Facility.

Our ability to pay common stock dividends is limited by certain covenants in our 2012 Amended Credit Facility and the bond indenture governing the Senior Notes. The covenant in our 2012 Amended Credit Facility is the more limiting of the two covenants and limits our ability to make restricted payments, which include, but are not limited to, common stock dividends and the repurchase of equity interests. We are not permitted to make restricted payments in excess of $30 million in any calendar year. However, if we make less than $30 million of restricted payments in any calendar year, the unused amount can be carried over for restricted payments in future years, provided that the maximum amount of restricted payments in any calendar year does not exceed $60 million.

Domestic Receivable Sales Program

We have an asset securitization program for Ferro’s U.S. trade accounts receivable. This program accelerates cash collections at favorable financing costs and helps us manage the Company’s liquidity requirements. We sell undivided variable percentage interests in our domestic receivables to various purchasers, and we may obtain up to $50.0 million in the form of cash or letters of credit. Advances received under this program are accounted for as borrowings secured by the receivables and included in net cash provided by

 

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financing activities. The purchasers have no recourse to Ferro’s other assets for failure of payment of the receivables as a result of the lack of creditworthiness, or financial inability to pay, of the related obligor. In May 2012, we extended the maturity of this credit facility through May 2013. At December 31, 2012, we had borrowed $40.0 million under this facility. After reductions for non-qualifying receivables, we had $9.0 million of additional borrowings available under the program at December 31, 2012. At December 31, 2012, the interest rate was 0.6%.

International Receivable Sales Programs

We have several international programs to sell with recourse trade accounts receivable to financial institutions. Advances received under these programs are accounted for as borrowings secured by the receivables and included in net cash provided by financing activities. At December 31, 2012, the commitments supporting these programs totaled $18.5 million, the advances received of $6.1 million were secured by $9.3 million of accounts receivable, and no additional borrowings were available under the programs. The interest rates under these programs are based on EURIBOR rates plus 1.75%. At December 31, 2012, the weighted-average interest rate was 1.9%.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

Consignment and Customer Arrangements for Precious Metals.  We use precious metals, primarily silver, in the production of some of our products. We obtain most precious metals from financial institutions under consignment agreements (generally referred to as our precious metals consignment program). The financial institutions retain ownership of the precious metals and charge us fees based on the amounts we consign and the period of consignment. These fees were $6.5 million for 2012. At December 31, 2012, we had on hand precious metals owned by participants in our precious metals consignment program of $112.2 million, measured at fair value based on market prices for identical assets and net of credits. We also process precious metals owned by our customers.

The consignment agreements under our precious metals program involve short-term commitments that typically mature within 30 to 90 days of each transaction and are typically renewed on an ongoing basis. As a result, the Company relies on the continued willingness of financial institutions to participate in these arrangements to maintain this source of liquidity. On occasion, we have been required to deliver cash collateral. While no deposits were outstanding at December 31, 2012, we may be required to furnish cash collateral in the future based on the quantity and market value of the precious metals under consignment and the amount of collateral-free lines provided by the financial institutions. The amount of cash collateral required is subject to review by the financial institutions and can be changed at any time at their discretion, based in part on their assessment of our creditworthiness.

Bank Guarantees and Standby Letters of Credit.  At December 31, 2012, the Company and its subsidiaries had bank guarantees and standby letters of credit issued by financial institutions that totaled $9.7 million. These agreements primarily relate to Ferro’s insurance programs, foreign energy purchase contracts and foreign tax payments.

Other Financing Arrangements

We maintain other lines of credit to provide global flexibility for Ferro’s short-term liquidity requirements. These facilities are uncommitted lines for our international operations and totaled $9.1 million at December 31, 2012. We had $9.1 million of additional borrowings available under these lines at December 31, 2012.

Liquidity Requirements

Our liquidity requirements primarily include debt service, purchase commitments, labor costs, working capital requirements, restructuring expenditures, capital investments, precious metals cash collateral requirements, and postretirement obligations. We expect to meet these requirements in the long term through cash provided by

 

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operating activities and availability under existing credit facilities or other financing arrangements. Cash flows from operating activities are primarily driven by earnings before noncash charges and changes in working capital needs. In 2012, cash flows from financing and operating activities were used to fund our investing activities. We had additional borrowing capacity of $361.5 million at December 31, 2012, available under various credit facilities, primarily our revolving credit facility. We have taken a variety of actions to enhance liquidity and to ensure short-term covenant compliance, including ongoing restructuring activities, suspension of dividend payments on our common stock in 2009, and sale of assets related to our solar pastes business in 2013.

Our level of debt, debt service requirements, and ability to access credit markets could have important consequences to our business operations and uses of cash flows. The Company has recently accessed credit markets for the following transactions. In 2010, we issued 7.875% Senior Notes, which mature in 2018, and entered into the 2010 Credit Facility, which matures in 2015. In 2011, we entered into several international accounts receivable sales programs. In 2012, we extended our domestic asset securitization facility and amended the 2010 Credit Facility to provide additional operating flexibility.

Our credit facilities and the indenture governing our senior notes contain a number of restrictive covenants, including those described in more detail in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. These covenants include customary operating restrictions that limit our ability to engage in certain activities, including additional loans and investments; prepayments, redemptions and repurchases of debt; and mergers, acquisitions and asset sales. We are also subject to customary financial covenants under our credit facilities, including a leverage ratio and an interest coverage ratio. These covenants under our credit facilities restrict the amount of our borrowings, reducing our flexibility to fund ongoing operations and strategic initiatives. These facilities and our senior notes are described in more detail in “Capital Resources and Liquidity” under Item 7 and in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The most critical of these ratios is the leverage ratio. As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with our maximum leverage ratio covenant of 4.25x as our actual ratio was 3.34x, providing $22.6 million of EBITDA, as defined within our credit facilities and senior notes indenture, cushion on the leverage ratio. Our leverage ratio covenants decrease in 2013 to 3.50x. To the extent that economic conditions in key markets deteriorate or we are unable to meet our business projections and EBITDA falls below approximately $100 million for rolling four quarters, based on reasonably consistent debt levels with those as of December 31, 2012, could make us unable to maintain compliance with our leverage ratio covenant, in which case, our lenders could demand immediate payment of outstanding amounts and we would need to seek alternate financing sources to pay off such debts and to fund our ongoing operations. Such financing may not be available on favorable terms, if at all.

We may from time to time seek to retire or repurchase our outstanding debt through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, or otherwise. Such repurchases, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions, and other factors. The amounts involved may be material.

Difficulties experienced in global capital markets could affect the ability or willingness of counterparties to perform under our various lines of credit, receivable sales programs, forward contracts, and precious metals program. These counterparties are major, reputable, multinational institutions, all having investment-grade credit ratings, except for one, which is not rated. Accordingly, we do not anticipate counterparty default. However, an interruption in access to external financing could adversely affect our business prospects and financial condition.

We assess on an ongoing basis our portfolio of businesses, as well as our financial and capital structure, to ensure that we have sufficient capital and liquidity to meet our strategic objectives. As part of this process, from time to time we evaluate the possible divestiture of businesses that are not critical to our core strategic objectives and, where appropriate, pursue the sale of such businesses. A reduced forecast for our solar pastes sales and a

 

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diminished outlook for our future opportunities in the solar market led to our decision to sell assets related to our solar pastes business in 2013. We also evaluate and pursue acquisition opportunities that we believe will enhance our strategic position. Generally, we publicly announce divestiture and acquisition transactions only when we have entered into definitive agreements relating to those transactions.

The Company’s aggregate amount of contractual obligations for the next five years and thereafter is set forth below:

 

    2013     2014     2015     2016     2017     Thereafter     Totals  
    (Dollars in thousands)  
Short-term debt   $ 48,599      $      $      $      $      $      $ 48,599   
Long-term debt(1)     37,650        1,503        4,124        1,215        1,182        255,748        301,422   
Interest(2)     21,967        19,688        19,688        19,688        19,688        19,688        120,407   
Operating lease obligations     13,463        10,521        8,303        5,700        4,694        21,745        64,426   
Purchase commitments(3)     18,475        2,664        2,145        588                      23,872   
Taxes(4)     2,510                                           2,510   
Retirement and other postemployment benefits(5)     29,328        34,358                                    63,686   
    $     171,992      $     68,734      $     34,260      $     27,191      $     25,564      $     297,181      $     624,922   

 

(1) Long-term debt excludes unamortized discounts on the Convertible Notes and imputed interest and executory costs on capitalized lease obligations.
(2) Interest represents only contractual payments for fixed-rate debt.
(3) Purchased commitments are non-cancelable contractual obligations for raw materials and energy.
(4) We have not projected payments past 2013 due to uncertainties in estimating the amount and period of any payments. We have $28.7 million in gross liabilities related to unrecognized tax benefits, including $1.0 million of accrued interest and penalties, that are not included in the above table since we cannot reasonably predict the timing of cash settlements with various taxing authorities.
(5) The funding amounts are based on the minimum contributions required under our various plans and applicable regulations in each respective country. We have not projected contributions past 2014 due to uncertainties regarding the assumptions involved in estimating future required contributions.

Critical Accounting Policies

When we prepare our consolidated financial statements we are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts we report in the consolidated financial statements and footnotes. We consider the policies discussed below to be more critical than other policies because their application requires our most subjective or complex judgments. These estimates and judgments arise because of the inherent uncertainty in predicting future events. Management has discussed the development, selection and disclosure of these policies with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

Revenue Recognition

We recognize sales typically when we ship goods to our customers and when all of the following criteria are met:

 

   

Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;

 

   

The selling price is fixed or determinable;

 

   

Collection is reasonably assured; and

 

   

Title and risk of loss has passed to our customers.

 

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In order to ensure the revenue recognition in the proper period, we review material sales contracts for proper cut-off based upon the business practices and legal requirements of each country. For sales of products containing precious metals, we report revenues gross along with their corresponding cost of sales to arrive at gross profit. We record revenues this way because we act as the principal in the transactions into which we enter.

Restructuring and Cost Reduction Programs

In recent years, we have developed and initiated several restructuring programs across a number of our business segments with the objectives of leveraging our global scale, realigning and lowering our cost structure, and optimizing capacity utilization. The programs are primarily associated with North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. Management continues to evaluate our businesses, and therefore, there may be additional provisions for new plan initiatives, as well as changes in estimates to amounts previously recorded, as payments are made or actions are completed.

Restructuring charges include both termination benefits and asset writedowns. We estimate accruals for termination benefits based on various factors including length of service, contract provisions, local legal requirements, projected final service dates, and salary levels. We also analyze the carrying value of long-lived assets and record estimated accelerated depreciation through the anticipated end of the useful life of the assets affected by the restructuring or record an asset impairment. In all likelihood, this accelerated depreciation will result in reducing the net book value of those assets to zero at the date operations cease. While we believe that changes to our estimates are unlikely, the accuracy of our estimates depends on the successful completion of numerous actions. Changes in our estimates could increase our restructuring costs to such an extent that it could have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial position, or cash flows. Other events, such as negotiations with unions and work councils, may also delay the resulting cost savings.

Goodwill

We review goodwill for impairment each year using a measurement date of October 31st or more frequently in the event of an impairment indicator. We estimate the fair values of the reporting units associated with these assets using the average of both the income approach and the market approach, which we believe provides a reasonable estimate of the reporting units’ fair values, unless facts and circumstances exist that indicate more representative fair values. The income approach uses projected cash flows attributable to the reporting units over their useful lives and allocates certain corporate expenses to the reporting units. We use historical results, trends and our projections of market growth, internal sales efforts and anticipated cost structure assumptions to estimate future cash flows. Using a risk-adjusted, weighted-average cost of capital, we discount the cash flow projections to the measurement date. The market approach estimates a price reasonably expected to be paid by a market participant in the purchase of similar businesses. If the fair value of any of the reporting units were determined to be less than its carrying value, we would proceed to the second step and obtain comparable market values or independent appraisals of its assets to determine the amount of any impairment.

The significant assumptions and ranges of assumptions we used in our impairment analyses of goodwill at July 31, 2012, and October 31, 2012 and 2011, were as follows:

 

Significant Assumptions

   2012     2011  

Weighted-average cost of capital

     12.0% - 15.5     13.0% - 14.0

Residual growth rate

     3.0     3.0

Our estimates of fair value can be adversely affected by a variety of factors. Reductions in actual or projected growth or profitability at our reporting units due to unfavorable market conditions or significant increases in cost structure could lead to the impairment of any related goodwill. Additionally, an increase in inflation, interest rates or the risk-adjusted, weighted-average cost of capital could also lead to a reduction in the fair value of one or more of our reporting units and therefore lead to the impairment of goodwill.

 

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In the third quarter of 2012, deterioration in our forecast for our Electronic Materials reporting unit indicated that an interim assessment of the goodwill recorded in the Electronic Materials segment was necessary. We performed the analysis required under ASC Topic 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other, and concluded under Step 1 that the carrying value of the Electronic Materials reporting unit exceeded its fair value. We estimated this fair value using the average of both the income approach and the market approach. Further analysis under Step 2 resulted in the goodwill with a carrying amount of $153.6 million being written down to a preliminary estimate of its implied fair value of $6.3 million, with the impairment charge of $147.3 million being included in restructuring and impairment charges in our statements of operations for the third quarter of 2012. During the fourth quarter, we finalized our estimate of the implied fair value of the Electronic Materials goodwill and concluded that it was zero, resulting in an incremental impairment charge of $6.3 million.

Based on our 2012 annual impairment test performed as of October 31, 2012, the fair values of the remaining reporting units tested for impairment exceeded the carrying values of the respective reporting units by amounts ranging from 8% to 41% at the 2012 measurement date. The lowest headroom relates to the Performance Pigments and Colors reporting unit, which had a goodwill balance of $25 million at December 31, 2012. A future potential impairment is possible for any of these reporting units if actual results are materially less than forecasted results. Some of the factors that could negatively affect our cash flows and, as a result, not support the carrying values of our reporting units are: new environmental regulations or legal restrictions on the use of our products that would either reduce our product revenues or add substantial costs to the manufacturing process, thereby reducing operating margins; new technologies that could make our products less competitive or require substantial capital investment in new equipment or manufacturing processes; and substantial downturns in economic conditions.

Income Taxes

The breadth of our operations and complexity of income tax regulations require us to assess uncertainties and make judgments in estimating the ultimate amount of income taxes we will pay. Our income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities and reserves for unrecognized tax benefits reflect management’s best assessment of estimated current and future taxes to be paid. The final income taxes we pay are based upon many factors, including existing income tax laws and regulations, negotiations with taxing authorities in various jurisdictions, outcomes of tax litigation, and resolution of disputes arising from federal, state, and international income tax audits. The resolution of these uncertainties may result in adjustments to our income tax assets and liabilities in the future.

Deferred income taxes result from differences between the financial and tax basis of our assets and liabilities. We adjust our deferred income tax assets and liabilities for changes in income tax rates and income tax laws when changes are enacted. We record valuation allowances to reduce deferred income tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized. Significant judgment is required in evaluating the need for and the magnitude of appropriate valuation allowances against deferred income tax assets. The realization of these assets is dependent on generating future taxable income, our ability to carry back or carry forward net operating losses and credits to offset tax liabilities in a prior year, as well as successful implementation of various tax strategies to generate tax where net operating losses or credit carryforwards exist. In evaluating our ability to realize the deferred income tax assets, we rely principally on the reversal of existing temporary differences, the availability of tax planning strategies, and forecasted income.

We recognize a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits. Our estimate of the potential outcome of any uncertain tax positions is subject to management’s assessment of relevant risks, facts, and circumstances existing at that time. We record a liability for the difference between the benefit recognized and measured based on a more-likely-than-not threshold and the tax position taken or expected to be taken on the tax return. To the extent that our assessment of such tax positions changes, the change in estimate is recorded in the period in which the determination is made. We report tax-related interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense.

 

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Derivative Financial Instruments

We use derivative financial instruments in the normal course of business to manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, and precious metal prices. The accounting for derivative financial instruments can be complex and can require significant judgment. Generally, the derivative financial instruments that we use are not complex, and observable market-based inputs are available to measure their fair value. We do not engage in speculative transactions for trading purposes. Financial instruments, including derivative financial instruments, expose us to counterparty credit risk for non-performance. We manage our exposure to counterparty credit risk through minimum credit standards and procedures to monitor concentrations of credit risk. We enter into these derivative financial instruments with major, reputable, multinational financial institutions. Accordingly, we do not anticipate counter-party default. We continuously evaluate the effectiveness of derivative financial instruments designated as hedges to ensure that they are highly effective. In the event the hedge becomes ineffective, we discontinue hedge treatment. Except as noted below, we do not expect any changes in our risk policies or in the nature of the transactions we enter into to mitigate those risks.

Our exposure to interest rate changes arises from our debt agreements with variable market interest rates. To reduce our exposure to interest rate changes on variable-rate debt, we had entered into interest rate swap agreements. These swaps effectively converted a portion of our variable-rate debt to a fixed rate. In 2010, in conjunction with repayment of our remaining outstanding term loans, we settled these swaps.

We manage foreign currency risks in a wide variety of foreign currencies principally by entering into forward contracts to mitigate the impact of currency fluctuations on transactions arising from international trade. Our objective in entering into these forward contracts is to preserve the economic value of non-functional currency cash flows. Our principal foreign currency exposures relate to the Euro, the British Pound Sterling, the Japanese Yen, and the Chinese Yuan. We mark these forward contracts to fair value based on market prices for comparable contracts and recognize the resulting gains or losses as other income or expense from foreign currency transactions.

Precious metals (primarily silver, gold, platinum and palladium) represent a significant portion of raw material costs in our Electronic Materials products. We also use precious metals in our Color and Glass Performance Materials products. When we enter into a fixed price sales contract at the customer’s request to establish the price for the precious metals content of the order, we also enter into a forward purchase arrangement with a precious metals supplier to completely cover the value of the precious metals content. Our current precious metal contracts are designated as normal purchase contracts, which are not marked to market.

We also purchase portions of our energy requirements, including natural gas and electricity, under fixed price contracts to reduce the volatility of cost changes. Our current energy contracts are designated as normal purchase contracts, which are not marked to market.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

We sponsor defined benefit plans in the U.S. and many countries outside the U.S., and we also sponsor retiree medical benefits for a segment of our salaried and hourly work force within the U.S. The U.S. pension plans represent approximately 81% of pension plan assets, 77% of benefit obligations and 63% of net periodic pension cost.

During the third quarter of 2012, we changed our method of recognizing defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefits expense. Historically, we recognized actuarial gains and losses in accumulated other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity on our consolidated balance sheets on an annual basis and amortized them into our operating results over the remaining service period of plan participants to the extent such gains and losses were outside of a corridor. We have elected to recognize actuarial gains and losses in operating results in the year in which the gains and losses occur. While the historical method

 

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of recognizing expense was acceptable, we believe the new method is preferable because it results in recognition in our operating results of actuarial gains and losses as they arise. This change will improve the transparency in our operating results by more quickly recognizing the effects of economic and interest rate trends on plan obligations, investments and assumptions. These gains and losses are generally only measured annually as of December 31 and, accordingly, will be recorded during the fourth quarter of each year. In accordance with ASC Topic 250, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections, all prior periods presented in this Annual Report on Form 10-K have been adjusted to apply the new method retrospectively.

The assumptions we use in actuarial calculations for these plans have a significant impact on benefit obligations and annual net periodic benefit costs. We meet with our actuaries annually to discuss key economic assumptions used to develop these benefit obligations and net periodic costs.

We determine the discount rate for the U.S. pension and retiree medical plans based on a bond model. Using the pension plans’ projected cash flows, the bond model considers all possible bond portfolios that produce matching cash flows and selects the portfolio with the highest possible yield. These portfolios are based on bonds with a quality rating of AA or better under either Moody’s Investor Services, Inc. or Standard & Poor’s Rating Group, but exclude certain bonds, such as callable bonds, bonds with small amounts outstanding, and bonds with unusually high or low yields. The discount rates for the non-U.S. plans are based on a yield curve method, using AA-rated bonds applicable in their respective capital markets. The duration of each plan’s liabilities is used to select the rate from the yield curve corresponding to the same duration.

For the market-related value of plan assets, we use fair value, rather than a calculated value that recognizes changes in fair value in a systematic and rational manner over several years. We calculate the expected return on assets at the beginning of the year for defined benefit plans as the weighted-average of the expected return for the target allocation of the principal asset classes held by each of the plans. In determining the expected returns, we consider both historical performance and an estimate of future long-term rates of return. The Company consults with and considers the opinion of its actuaries in developing appropriate return assumptions. Our target asset allocation percentages are 35% fixed income, 60% equity, and 5% other investments for U.S. plans and 75% fixed income, 24% equity, and 1% other investments for non-U.S. plans. In 2012, investment returns on average plan assets were approximately 14% within U.S. plans and 14% within non-U.S. plans. Future actual pension expense will depend on future investment allocation and performance, changes in future discount rates and various other factors related to the population of participants in the Company’s pension plans.

All other assumptions are reviewed periodically by our actuaries and us and may be adjusted based on current trends and expectations as well as past experience in the plans.

The following table provides the sensitivity of net annual periodic benefit costs for our pension plans, including a U.S. nonqualified retirement plan, and the retiree medical plan to a 25-basis-point decrease in both the discount rate and asset return assumption:

 

     25-Basis-Point Decrease
in Discount Rate
    25-Basis-Point Decrease in
Asset Return Assumption
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

U.S. pension plans

     $    (487   $   756   

U.S. retiree medical plan

     (51       

Non-U.S. pension plans

     (33     155   

Total

   $ (571   $ 911   

 

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The following table provides the rates used in the assumptions and the changes between 2012 and 2011:

 

             2012                     2011                     Change          

Discount rate used to measure benefit cost:

      

U.S. pension plans

     5.10     5.85     (0.75 )% 

U.S. retiree medical plan

     4.85     5.45     (0.60 )% 

Non-U.S. pension plans

     5.01     5.51     (0.50 )% 

Discount rate used to measure benefit obligations:

      

U.S. pension plans

     4.30     5.10     (0.80 )% 

U.S. retiree medical plan

     3.85     4.85     (1.00 )% 

Non-U.S. pension plans

     4.00     5.01     (1.01 )% 

Expected return on plan assets:

      

U.S. pension plans

     8.20     8.50     (0.30 )% 

Non-U.S. pension plans

     4.86     5.60     (0.74 )% 

Our overall net periodic benefit cost for all defined benefit plans decreased $28.7 million to $29.1 million in 2012 from $57.6 million in 2011. The change is the result of higher returns on plan assets than in the prior year and current year curtailment gains, which more than offset higher actuarial losses than in the prior year from a larger reduction in the discount rate in 2012 than in 2011.

For 2013, assuming expected returns on plan assets and no actuarial gains or losses, we expect our overall net periodic benefit cost to be a benefit of approximately $2 million, compared with a cost of approximately $2 million in 2012 on a comparable basis. The change is the result of higher expected returns from a larger asset base and lower interest costs due to lower discount rates, partially offset by the effects of 2012 curtailment gains.

Inventories

We value inventory at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined utilizing the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. We periodically evaluate the net realizable value of inventories based primarily upon their age, but also upon assumptions of future usage in production, customer demand and market conditions. Inventories have been reduced to the lower of cost or realizable value by allowances for slow moving or obsolete goods. If actual circumstances are less favorable than those projected by management in its evaluation of the net realizable value of inventories, additional write-downs may be required. Slow moving, excess or obsolete materials are specifically identified and may be physically separated from other materials, and we rework or dispose of these materials as time and manpower permit.

Environmental Liabilities

Our manufacturing facilities are subject to a broad array of environmental laws and regulations in the countries in which they operate. The costs to comply with complex environmental laws and regulations are significant and will continue for the foreseeable future. We expense these recurring costs as they are incurred. While these costs may increase in the future, they are not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations.

We also accrue for environmental remediation costs when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and we can reasonably estimate the amount. We determine the timing and amount of any liability based upon assumptions regarding future events. Inherent uncertainties exist in such evaluations primarily due to unknown conditions, changing governmental regulations and legal standards regarding liability, and evolving technologies. We adjust these liabilities periodically as remediation efforts progress or as additional technical or legal information becomes available.

 

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Impact of Newly Issued Accounting Pronouncements

Refer to Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of accounting standards we recently adopted or will be required to adopt.

Item 7A — Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

The primary objective of the following information is to provide forward-looking quantitative and qualitative information about our exposure to instruments that are sensitive to fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, and costs of raw materials and energy.

Our exposure to interest rate risk arises from our debt portfolio. We manage this risk by controlling the mix of fixed versus variable-rate debt after considering the interest rate environment and expected future cash flows. Our objective is to limit variability in earnings, cash flows and overall borrowing costs caused by changes in interest rates, while preserving operating flexibility.

We operate internationally and enter into transactions denominated in foreign currencies. These transactions expose us to gains and losses arising from exchange rate movements between the dates foreign currencies are recorded and the dates they are settled. We manage this risk by entering into forward currency contracts that substantially offset these gains and losses.

We are subject to cost changes with respect to our raw materials and energy purchases. We attempt to mitigate raw materials cost increases through product reformulations, price increases, and other productivity improvements. We enter into forward purchase arrangements with precious metals suppliers to completely cover the value of the precious metals content of fixed price sales contracts. These agreements are designated as normal purchase contracts, which are not marked to market, and had purchase commitments totaling $4.9 million at December 31, 2012. In addition, we purchase portions of our natural gas and electricity requirements under fixed price contracts to reduce the volatility of these costs. These energy contracts are designated as normal purchase contracts, which are not marked to market, and had purchase commitments totaling $16.6 million at December 31, 2012.

The notional amounts, carrying amounts of assets (liabilities), and fair values associated with our exposure to these market risks and sensitivity analyses about potential gains (losses) resulting from hypothetical changes in market rates are presented below:

 

             2012                     2011          
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Variable-rate debt and utilization of asset securitization program:

    

Change in annual interest expense from 1% change in interest rates

   $ 543      $ 163   

Fixed-rate debt:

    

Carrying amount

         289,148            288,604   

Fair value

     270,240        292,523   

Change in fair value from 1% increase in interest rate

     (10,113     (13,071

Change in fair value from 1% decrease in interest rate

     10,668        13,902   

Foreign currency forward contracts:

    

Notional amount

     250,680        249,337   

Carrying amount and fair value

     (4,758     6,225   

Change in fair value from 10% appreciation of U.S. dollar

     13,205        12,216   

Change in fair value from 10% depreciation of U.S. dollar

     (16,140     (14,930

 

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Item 8 —  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data  

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Ferro Corporation

Cleveland, Ohio

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Ferro Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive (loss) income, equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

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

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Ferro Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

As discussed in Note 2 to the financial statements, the Company elected to change their method of recognizing defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit expenses.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated March 5, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Cleveland, Ohio

March 5, 2013

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 

     Years Ended December 31,  
     2012     2011     2010  
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Net sales

   $   1,768,631      $   2,155,792      $   2,101,865   

Cost of sales

     1,470,769        1,743,560        1,643,733   

Gross profit

     297,862        412,232        458,132   

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     302,658        335,311        279,668   

Restructuring and impairment charges

     225,819        17,030        63,732   

Other expense (income):

      

Interest expense

     27,979        28,409        44,568   

Interest earned

     (311     (285     (651

Losses on extinguishment of debt

            45        23,001   

Foreign currency losses, net

     2,186        4,758        4,724   

Miscellaneous expense, net

     3,080        2,492        5,814   

(Loss) income before income taxes

     (263,549     24,472        37,276   

Income tax expense

     109,485        19,338        21,873   

Net (loss) income

     (373,034     5,134        15,403   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     1,234        730        1,577   

Net (loss) income attributable to Ferro Corporation

     (374,268     4,404        13,826   

Dividends on preferred stock

            (165     (660
Net (loss) income attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders    $ (374,268   $ 4,239      $ 13,166   

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

     86,288        86,119        85,823   
Incremental common shares attributable to convertible preferred stock, performance shares, deferred stock units, and stock options             659        716   

Weighted-average diluted shares outstanding

     86,288        86,778        86,539   
(Loss) earnings per share attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders:       

Basic (loss) earnings per share

   $ (4.34   $ 0.05      $ 0.15   

Diluted (loss) earnings per share

     (4.34     0.05        0.15   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME

 

     Years Ended December 31,  
             2012                     2011                     2010          
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Net (loss) income

   $     (373,034   $       5,134      $       15,403   

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:

      

Foreign currency translation

     (4,253     (3,473     (1,115

Postretirement benefit liabilities

     (910     (220     (3,668

Raw material commodity swaps

                   (107

Interest rate swaps

                   6,121   

Other

     (25              

Total comprehensive (loss) income

     (378,222     1,441        16,634   

Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     3,295        930        1,740   

Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Ferro Corporation

   $ (381,517   $ 511      $ 14,894   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

       December 31,  
     2012     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  
ASSETS   

Current assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 29,576      $ 22,991   

Accounts receivable, net

     306,463        306,775   

Inventories

     207,091        228,813   

Deferred income taxes

     7,995        17,395   

Other receivables

     31,554        37,839   

Other current assets

     10,824        17,086   

Total current assets

     593,503        630,899   

Other assets

    

Property, plant and equipment, net

     324,720        379,336   

Goodwill

     62,975        215,601   

Amortizable intangible assets, net

     14,410        11,056   

Deferred income taxes

     21,554        117,658   

Other non-current assets

     61,941        86,101   

Total assets

   $ 1,079,103      $ 1,440,651   
LIABILITIES and EQUITY   

Current liabilities

    

Loans payable and current portion of long-term debt

   $ 85,152      $ 11,241   

Accounts payable

     182,904        214,460   

Accrued payrolls

     31,690        31,055   

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     76,757        67,878   

Total current liabilities

     376,503        324,634   

Other liabilities

    

Long-term debt, less current portion

     261,624        298,082   

Postretirement and pension liabilities

     216,167        215,732   

Other non-current liabilities

     18,135        19,709   

Total liabilities

     872,429        858,157   

Equity

    

Ferro Corporation shareholders’ equity:

    

Common stock, par value $1 per share; 300.0 million shares authorized; 93.4 million shares issued and outstanding in 2012 and 2011

     93,436        93,436   

Paid-in capital

     321,652        320,882   

Retained (deficit) earnings

     (86,606     287,662   

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     16,650        23,899   

Common shares in treasury, at cost

     (151,605     (153,617

Total Ferro Corporation shareholders’ equity

     193,527        572,262   

Noncontrolling interests

     13,147        10,232   

Total equity

     206,674        582,494   

Total liabilities and equity

   $ 1,079,103      $ 1,440,651   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

 

    Ferro Corporation Shareholders              
    Common Shares
In Treasury
    Common
Stock
    Paid-in
Capital
    Retained
Earnings
(Deficit)
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)(a)
    Non-
controlling
Interests
    Total Equity  
    Shares     Amount              
    (In thousands, except per share data)  

Balances at December 31, 2009, as originally reported

    7,375      $ (171,567   $ 93,436      $ 331,376      $ 357,128      $ (60,147   $ 10,269      $ 560,495   

Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle (Refer to Note 2)

                                    (86,871     86,871                  

Balances at December 31, 2009, as adjusted

    7,375        (171,567     93,436        331,376        270,257        26,724        10,269        560,495   

Net income

            13,826          1,577        15,403   

Other comprehensive income

              1,068        163        1,231   
Cash dividends on preferred shares(b)             (660         (660
Redemption of Convertible Notes           (4,925           (4,925
Stock-based compensation transactions     (133     7,310          (3,436           3,874   
Distributions to noncontrolling interests                                                     (1,238     (1,238

Balances at December 31, 2010

    7,242        (164,257     93,436        323,015        283,423        27,792        10,771        574,180   

Net income

            4,404          730        5,134   
Other comprehensive (loss) income               (3,893     200        (3,693
Cash dividends on preferred shares(b)             (165         (165
Stock-based compensation transactions     (377     10,640          (2,133           8,507   
Distributions to noncontrolling interests                                                     (1,469     (1,469

Balances at December 31, 2011

    6,865        (153,617     93,436        320,882        287,662        23,899        10,232        582,494   

Net (loss) income

            (374,268       1,234        (373,034
Other comprehensive (loss) income               (7,249     2,061        (5,188
Stock-based compensation transactions     97        2,012          770              2,782   
Distributions to noncontrolling interests                                                     (380     (380

Balances at December 31, 2012

    6,962      $ (151,605   $ 93,436      $ 321,652      $ (86,606   $ 16,650      $ 13,147      $ 206,674   

  

 

(a) Accumulated translation adjustments were $14,080, $20,394, and $24,129 and accumulated postretirement benefit liability adjustments were $2,647, $3,557, and $3,715 at December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively, all net of tax.
(b) Dividends per share of convertible preferred stock were $0.8125 in 2011 and $3.25 in 2010.

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

     Years Ended December 31,  
     2012     2011     2010  

Cash flows from operating activities

      

Net (loss) income

   $ (373,034   $ 5,134      $ 15,403   
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:       

Loss (gain) on sale of assets and businesses

     505        (244     (2,330

Depreciation and amortization

     57,384        63,493        76,936   

Restructuring and impairment charges

     221,596        7,472        3,174   

Losses on extinguishment of debt

            45        23,001   

Provision for allowance for doubtful accounts

     5,217        2,349        2,935   

Retirement benefits

     339        8,337        (9,760

Deferred income taxes

     107,575        20,575        (5,258

Changes in current assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:

      

Accounts receivable

     (5,258     (13,444     (24,697

Inventories

     22,287        (29,790     (22,654

Deposits for precious metals

            28,086        84,348   

Other receivables and other current assets

     13,192        (19,673     (890

Accounts payable

     (18,359     4,715        12,618   

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     4,409        (31,205     36,750   

Other operating activities

     (12,195     7,383        9,289   

Net cash provided by operating activities

     23,658        53,233        198,865   

Cash flows from investing activities

      
Capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment and other long-lived assets      (58,685     (72,713     (44,737

Expenditures for acquisitions, net of cash acquired

                   (6,938

Proceeds from sale of assets and businesses

     3,043        6,441        18,214   

Other investing activities

     334        1,145        139   

Net cash used for investing activities

     (55,308     (65,127     (33,322

Cash flows from financing activities

      

Net borrowings (repayments) under loans payable

     39,934        8,661        (21,495

Proceeds from long-term debt

     395,576        646,834        632,299   

Principal payments on long-term debt

     (400,687     (639,128     (392,061

Extinguishment of debt

            (725     (362,997

Debt issue costs

                   (9,848

Redemption of convertible preferred stock

            (9,427       

Cash dividends

            (165     (660

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     107        1,053        137   

Other financing activities

     1,527        (1,199     (2,639

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

     36,457        5,904        (157,264

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     1,778        (54     2,249   

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     6,585        (6,044     10,528   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     22,991        29,035        18,507   

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 29,576      $ 22,991      $ 29,035   

Cash paid during the period for:

      

Interest

   $ 26,468      $ 25,920      $ 31,881   

Income taxes

     4,657        22,060        20,379   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

 

1. Our Business

Ferro Corporation (“Ferro,” “we,” “us” or “the Company”) produces performance materials for a broad range of manufacturers in diversified industries throughout the world. Our products are classified as performance materials, rather than commodities, because they are formulated to perform specific and important functions both in the manufacturing processes and in the finished products of our customers. We use inorganic and organic chemical processes, polymer science and materials science to develop and produce these performance materials. Performance materials require a high degree of technical service on an individual customer basis. The value of our products stems from the results and performance they achieve in actual use. We manage our diverse businesses through eight business units that are differentiated from one another by product type. We have grouped these units by their product group below:

 

Polymer and Ceramic Engineered Materials

  

Electronic, Color and Glass Materials

• Polymer Additives

  

• Electronic Materials

• Specialty Plastics

  

• Glass Systems

• Pharmaceuticals

  

• Performance Pigments and Colors

• Tile Coating Systems

  

• Porcelain Enamel

  

We produce our products primarily in the United States (“U.S.”), Europe-Middle East-Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, and Latin America.

We sell our products directly to customers and through the use of agents or distributors throughout the world. Our products are sold principally in the U.S., Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, and Latin America. Our customers manufacture products to serve a variety of end markets, including building and renovation, solar power, electronics, automobiles, appliances, household furnishings, packaging, industrial products, and pharmaceuticals.

 

2. Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the parent company and the accounts of its subsidiaries. When we consolidate our financial statements, we eliminate intercompany transactions, accounts and profits. When we exert significant influence over an investee but do not control it, we account for the investment and the investment income using the equity method. These investments are reported in the other non-current assets section of our balance sheet. When we acquire a subsidiary, its financial results are included in our consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. When we dispose of a subsidiary, its financial results are included in our consolidated financial statements until the date of the disposition.

Use of Estimates and Assumptions in the Preparation of Financial Statements

We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, which requires us to make estimates and to use judgments and assumptions that affect the timing and amount of assets, liabilities, equity, revenues and expenses recorded and disclosed. The more significant estimates and judgments relate to revenue recognition, restructuring and cost reduction programs,

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

goodwill, income taxes, derivative financial instruments, pension and other postretirement benefits, inventories, and environmental liabilities. Actual outcomes could differ from our estimates, resulting in changes in revenues or costs that could have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Foreign Currency Translation

The financial results of our operations outside of the U.S. are recorded in local currencies, which generally are also the functional currencies for financial reporting purposes. The results of operations outside of the U.S. are translated from these functional currencies into U.S. dollars using the average monthly currency exchange rates. We use the average currency exchange rate for these results of operations as a reasonable approximation of the results had specific currency exchange rates been used for each individual transaction. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are recorded as incurred as other expense (income) in the consolidated statements of operations. Assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates at the balance sheet dates, and we record the resulting foreign currency translation adjustment as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive loss in equity.

Revenue Recognition

We typically recognize sales when we ship goods to our customers and when all of the following criteria are met:

 

   

Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;

 

   

The selling price is fixed or determinable;

 

   

Collection is reasonably assured; and

 

   

Title and risk of loss has passed to our customers.

In order to ensure the revenue recognition in the proper period, we review material sales contracts for proper cut-off based upon the business practices and legal requirements of each country. For sales of all products, including those containing precious metals, we report revenues gross along with their corresponding cost of sales to arrive at gross profit. We record revenues this way because we act as the principal in the transactions into which we enter.

The amount of shipping and handling fees invoiced to our customers at the time our product is shipped is included in net sales. Credit memos issued to customers for sales returns, discounts allowed and sales adjustments are recorded when they are incurred as a reduction of sales.

Additionally, we provide certain of our customers with incentive rebate programs to promote customer loyalty and encourage greater product sales. We accrue customer rebates over the rebate periods based upon estimated attainments of the provisions in the rebate agreements using available information and record these rebate accruals as reductions of sales.

Research and Development Expenses

Research and development expenses are expensed as incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Expenditures for company-sponsored research and development activities were approximately $30.0 million for 2012, $30.4 million for 2011, and $27.3 million for 2010.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Restructuring Programs

We expense costs associated with exit and disposal activities designed to restructure operations and reduce ongoing costs of operations when we incur the related liabilities or when other triggering events occur. After the appropriate level of management having the authority approves the detailed restructuring plan and the appropriate criteria for recognition are met, we establish accruals for employee termination costs. The accruals are estimates that are based upon factors including statutory and union requirements, affected employees’ lengths of service, contract provisions, salary level, and health care benefit choices. We also analyze the carrying value of affected long-lived assets for impairment and reductions in their remaining estimated useful lives. In addition, we record the fair value of any new or remaining obligations when existing operating lease contracts are terminated or abandoned as a result of our exit and disposal activities.

Asset Impairment

The Company’s long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment, goodwill, and amortizable intangible assets. We review property, plant and equipment and amortizable intangible assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that their carrying values may not be recoverable. The following are examples of such events or changes in circumstances:

 

   

An adverse change in the business climate or market price of a long-lived asset or asset group;

 

   

An adverse change in the extent or manner in which a long-lived asset or asset group is used or in its physical condition;

 

   

Current operating losses for a long-lived asset or asset group combined with a history of such losses or projected or forecasted losses that demonstrate that the losses will continue; or

 

   

A current expectation that, more likely than not, a long-lived asset or asset group will be sold or otherwise disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life.

The carrying amount of property, plant and equipment and amortizable intangible assets is not recoverable if the recorded value of the asset group exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset group. In the event of impairment, we recognize a loss for the excess of the recorded value over fair value. The long-term nature of these assets requires the estimation of cash inflows and outflows several years into the future and only takes into consideration technological advances known at the time of review.

We review goodwill for impairment annually using a measurement date of October 31st, primarily due to the timing of our annual budgeting process, or more frequently in the event of an impairment indicator. The fair value of each reporting unit that has goodwill is estimated using the average of both the income approach and the market approach, which we believe provides a reasonable estimate of the reporting unit’s fair value, unless facts or circumstances exist which indicate a more representative fair value. The income approach is a discounted cash flow model, which uses projected cash flows attributable to the reporting unit, including an allocation of certain corporate expenses based primarily on a proportional gross profit method. We use historical results, trends and our projections of market growth, internal sales efforts and anticipated cost structure assumptions to estimate future cash flows. Using a risk-adjusted, weighted-average cost of capital, we discount the cash flow projections to the measurement date. The market approach estimates a price reasonably expected to be paid by a market participant in the purchase of the reporting units based on a comparison to similar businesses. If the fair value of any of the reporting units were determined to be less than its carrying value, we would obtain comparable market values or independent appraisals of its net assets.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

As part of our risk management activities, we employ derivative financial instruments, primarily foreign currency forward contracts, to hedge certain anticipated transactions, firm commitments, or assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. We also purchase portions of our energy and precious metal requirements under fixed price forward purchase contracts designated as normal purchase contracts.

We record derivatives on our balance sheet as either assets or liabilities that are measured at fair value. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedges, the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of other comprehensive income and reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion, if any, in the change in value of these derivatives is immediately recognized in earnings. For derivatives that are not designated as hedges, the gain or loss on the derivative is recognized in current earnings. We use derivatives only to manage well-defined risks and do not use derivatives for speculative purposes.

Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits

We recognize postretirement and other employee benefits as employees render the services necessary to earn those benefits. We determine defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit costs and obligations with the assistance of actuarial calculations performed by third parties. The calculations and the resulting amounts recorded in our consolidated financial statements are affected by assumptions including the discount rate, expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, the annual rate of change in compensation for plan-eligible employees, estimated changes in costs of healthcare benefits, and other factors. We evaluate the assumptions used on an annual basis.

Income Taxes

We account for income taxes in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 740, Income Taxes, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax effects of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

We record deferred tax assets to the extent we believe these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determination, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future income, tax planning strategies, and recent financial operations.

We recognize a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits.

We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the income tax expense line in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid instruments with original maturities of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. These instruments are carried at cost.

Accounts Receivable and the Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Ferro sells its products to customers in diversified industries throughout the world. No customer or related group of customers represents greater than 10% of net sales or accounts receivable. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and generally do not require collateral. We provide for uncollectible accounts based on historical experience and specific circumstances, as appropriate. Customer accounts we deem to be uncollectible or to require excessive collection costs are written off against the allowance for doubtful accounts. Historically, write-offs of uncollectible accounts have been within our expectations. Detailed information about the allowance for doubtful accounts is provided below:

 

     2012      2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   $     14,368       $     10,443           $ 11,156   

Bad debt expense

     5,217         2,349         2,935   

Inventories

We value inventory at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined utilizing the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. We periodically evaluate the net realizable value of inventories based primarily upon their age, but also upon assumptions of future usage in production, customer demand and market conditions. Inventories have been reduced to the lower of cost or realizable value by allowances for slow moving or obsolete goods.

We maintain raw material on our premises that we do not own, including precious metals consigned from financial institutions and customers, and raw materials consigned from vendors. Although we have physical possession of the goods, their value is not reflected on our balance sheet because we do not have title.

We obtain precious metals under consignment agreements with financial institutions for periods of one year or less. These precious metals are primarily silver, gold, platinum, and palladium and are used in the production of certain products for our customers. Under these arrangements, the financial institutions own the precious metals, and accordingly, we do not report these precious metals as inventory on our consolidated balance sheet although they physically are in our possession. These agreements are cancelable by either party at the end of each consignment period, however, because we have access to a number of consignment arrangements with available capacity, our consignment needs can be shifted among the other participating institutions in order to ensure our supply. In certain cases, these financial institutions require cash deposits to provide additional collateral beyond the value of the underlying precious metals. The financial institutions charge us fees for these consignment arrangements, and these fees are recorded as cost of sales.

Property, Plant and Equipment

We record property, plant and equipment at historical cost. In addition to the original purchased cost, including transportation, installation and taxes, we capitalize expenditures that increase the utility or useful life of existing assets. For constructed assets, we capitalize interest costs incurred during the period of construction. We

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

expense repair and maintenance costs, including the costs of major planned overhauls of equipment, as incurred. We depreciate property, plant and equipment on a straight-line basis, generally over the following estimated useful lives of the assets:

 

Buildings      20 to 40 years   
Machinery and equipment      5 to 15 years   

Other Capitalized Costs

We capitalize the costs of computer software developed or obtained for internal use after the preliminary project stage has been completed and management, with the relevant authority, authorizes and commits to funding a computer software project, and it is probable that the project will be completed and the software will be used to perform the function intended. External direct costs of materials and services consumed in developing or obtaining internal-use computer software, payroll and payroll-related costs for employees who are directly associated with the project, and interest costs incurred when developing computer software for internal use are capitalized within other non-current assets. Capitalization ceases when the project is substantially complete, generally after all substantial testing is completed. We expense training costs and data conversion costs as incurred. We amortize software on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life, which has historically been in a range of 1 to 12 years.

Environmental Liabilities

As part of the production of some of our products, we handle, process, use and store hazardous materials. As part of these routine processes, we expense recurring costs associated with control and disposal of hazardous materials as they are incurred. Occasionally we are subject to ongoing, pending or threatened litigation related to the handling of these materials or other matters. If, based on available information, we believe that we have incurred a liability and we can reasonably estimate the amount, we accrue for environmental remediation and other contingent liabilities. We disclose material contingencies if the likelihood of the potential loss is reasonably possible but the amount is not reasonably estimable.

In estimating the amount to be accrued for environmental remediation, we use assumptions about:

 

   

Remediation requirements at the contaminated site;

 

   

The nature of the remedy;

 

   

Existing technology;

 

   

The outcome of discussions with regulatory agencies;

 

   

Other potentially responsible parties at multi-party sites; and

 

   

The number and financial viability of other potentially responsible parties.

We actively monitor the status of sites, and, as assessments and cleanups proceed, we update our assumptions and adjust our estimates as necessary. Because we are uncertain about the timing of related payments, we do not discount the estimated remediation costs.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

On December 31, 2010, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2010-29, Disclosure of Supplementary Pro Forma Information for Business Combinations , (“ASU 2010-29”), which is codified in ASC

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Topic 805, Business Combinations. This pronouncement provides guidance on pro forma revenue and earnings disclosure requirements for business combinations. Adoption of ASU 2010-29 did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2011, we prospectively adopted ASU 2009-13, Multiple Deliverable Revenue Arrangements , (“ASU 2009-13”) and ASU 2010-17, Revenue Recognition — Milestone Method , (“ASU 2010-17”). ASU 2009-13 applies to all deliverables in contractual arrangements in which a vendor will perform multiple revenue-generating activities. ASU 2010-17 defines a milestone and determines when it may be appropriate to apply the milestone method of revenue recognition for research or development transactions. These pronouncements are codified in ASC Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. Adoption of these pronouncements did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2012, we adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2011-04, Fair Value Measurement: Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs , (“ASU 2011-04”), which is codified in ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement. This pronouncement changes certain fair value measurement guidance and expands certain disclosure requirements. Adoption of this pronouncement did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2012, we adopted ASU 2011-05, Presentation of Comprehensive Income , (“ASU 2011-05”) and ASU 2011-12, Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05 , (“ASU 2011-12”), which are codified in ASC Topic 220, Comprehensive Income. ASU 2011-05 requires companies to present items of net income, items of other comprehensive income and total comprehensive income in one continuous statement or two separate but consecutive statements. ASU 2011-12 indefinitely defers certain provisions of ASU 2011-05 that required companies to present reclassification adjustments out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component in both the statement in which net income is presented and the statement in which other comprehensive income is presented. Adoption of these pronouncements did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2012, we adopted ASU 2011-08, Testing Goodwill for Impairment , (“ASU 2011-08”), which is codified in ASC Topic 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other. This pronouncement permits companies testing goodwill for impairment to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the two-step impairment test is required. Adoption of this pronouncement did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Change in Accounting Principle

During the third quarter of 2012, we elected to change our method of recognizing defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit expense. Historically, we recognized actuarial gains and losses in accumulated other comprehensive loss within equity on our consolidated balance sheets annually, and these gains and losses were amortized into our operating results over the average remaining service period of plan participants, to the extent such gains and losses were in excess of a corridor.

Under our new method, we will recognize actuarial gains and losses in our operating results in the year in which the gains or losses occur. These gains and losses are generally measured annually as of December 31 and recorded during the fourth quarter, unless an interim remeasurement is required. The remaining components of benefit expense, primarily service and interest costs and the expected return on plan assets, will be recorded quarterly as ongoing benefit expense or benefit. While the historical method of recognizing expense was

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

acceptable, we believe the new method is preferable because it results in recognition in our operating results of actuarial gains and losses as they arise. In accordance with ASC Topic 250, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections, all prior periods have been adjusted to apply the new method retrospectively. The effect of the change on retained earnings as of January 1, 2010, was a reduction of $86.9 million with a corresponding offset to accumulated other comprehensive loss.

We have presented the effects of the change in accounting principle on our consolidated financial statements for 2012, 2011 and 2010 below. The following tables present the significant effects of the change on our historical consolidated statements of operations, statements of comprehensive (loss) income, balance sheets, and statements of cash flows.

Consolidated Statements of Operations Information

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2012  
     Prior
accounting
method
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As reported  
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Net sales

   $     1,768,631      $      $     1,768,631   

Cost of sales

     1,467,643        3,126        1,470,769   

Gross profit

     300,988        (3,126     297,862   

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     298,259        4,399        302,658   

Restructuring and impairment charges

     225,819               225,819   

Other expense (income):

      

Interest expense

     27,979               27,979   

Interest earned

     (311            (311

Foreign currency losses, net

     2,186               2,186   

Miscellaneous expense, net

     3,080               3,080   

Loss before income taxes

     (256,024     (7,525     (263,549

Income tax expense (benefit)

     111,985        (2,500     109,485   

Net loss

     (368,009     (5,025     (373,034

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     1,234               1,234   

Net loss attributable to Ferro Corporation

     (369,243     (5,025     (374,268

Dividends on preferred stock

                     
Net loss attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders    $ (369,243     $    (5,025   $ (374,268
Loss per share attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders:       

Basic loss per share

   $ (4.28   $ (0.06   $ (4.34

Diluted loss per share

     (4.28     (0.06     (4.34

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2011  
     As originally
reported
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As adjusted  
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Net sales

   $     2,155,792      $      $     2,155,792   

Cost of sales

     1,742,605        955        1,743,560   

Gross profit

     413,187        (955     412,232   

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     294,802            40,509        335,311   

Restructuring and impairment charges

     17,030               17,030   

Other expense (income):

      

Interest expense

     28,409               28,409   

Interest earned

     (285            (285

Losses on extinguishment of debt

     45               45   

Foreign currency losses, net

     4,758               4,758   

Miscellaneous expense, net

     2,492               2,492   

Income (loss) before income taxes

     65,936        (41,464     24,472   

Income tax expense (benefit)

     33,569        (14,231     19,338   

Net income (loss)

     32,367        (27,233     5,134   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     730               730   

Net income (loss) attributable to Ferro Corporation

     31,637        (27,233     4,404   

Dividends on preferred stock

     (165            (165
Net income (loss) attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders    $ 31,472      $ (27,233   $ 4,239   
Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders:       

Basic earnings (loss) per share

   $ 0.37      $ (0.32   $ 0.05   

Diluted earnings (loss) per share

     0.36        (0.31     0.05   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2010  
     As originally
reported
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As adjusted  
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Net sales

   $     2,101,865      $      $     2,101,865   

Cost of sales

     1,643,200        533        1,643,733   

Gross profit

     458,665        (533     458,132   

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     293,736        (14,068     279,668   

Restructuring and impairment charges

     63,732               63,732   

Other expense (income):

      

Interest expense

     44,568               44,568   

Interest earned

     (651            (651

Losses on extinguishment of debt

     23,001               23,001   

Foreign currency losses, net

     4,724               4,724   

Miscellaneous expense, net

     5,814               5,814   

Income before income taxes

     23,741            13,535        37,276   

Income tax expense

     16,468        5,405        21,873   

Net income

     7,273        8,130        15,403   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     1,577               1,577   

Net income attributable to Ferro Corporation

     5,696        8,130        13,826   

Dividends on preferred stock

     (660            (660
Net income attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders    $ 5,036      $ 8,130      $ 13,166   
Earnings per share attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders:       

Basic earnings per share

   $ 0.06      $ 0.09      $ 0.15   

Diluted earnings per share

     0.06        0.09        0.15   

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income Information

 

    Year Ended December 31, 2012  
    Prior
accounting
method
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As reported  
    (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Net loss

    $    (368,009     $    (5,025)        $    (373,034

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:

     

Foreign currency translation

    (3,812     (441     (4,253

Postretirement benefit liabilities

    (6,376     5,466        (910

Other

    (25            (25

Total comprehensive loss

    (378,222            (378,222

Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    3,295               3,295   

Comprehensive loss attributable to Ferro Corporation

  $ (381,517   $      $ (381,517

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2011  
     Prior
accounting
method
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As
reported
 
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Net income (loss)

   $ 32,367        $    (27,233   $     5,134   

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:

      

Foreign currency translation

     (3,473            (3,473

Postretirement benefit liabilities

     (27,453     27,233        (220

Total comprehensive income

     1,441               1,441   

Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     930               930   

Comprehensive income attributable to Ferro Corporation

   $     511      $      $ 511   

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2010  
     Prior
accounting
method
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As reported  
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Net income

   $ 7,273      $     8,130      $     15,403   

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:

      

Foreign currency translation

     (1,971     856        (1,115

Postretirement benefit liabilities

     5,318        (8,986     (3,668

Raw material commodity swaps

     (107            (107

Interest rate swaps

     6,121               6,121   

Total comprehensive income

     16,634               16,634   

Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     1,740               1,740   

Comprehensive income attributable to Ferro Corporation

   $     14,894      $      $ 14,894   

Consolidated Balance Sheets Information

 

     December 31, 2012  
     Prior
accounting
method
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As reported  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Assets

      

Total assets

   $     1,079,103      $      $     1,079,103   

Liabilities and Equity

      

Total liabilities

   $ 872,429      $      $ 872,429   

Equity

      

Retained earnings (deficit)

     24,393        (110,999     (86,606

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income

     (94,349         110,999        16,650   

Other equity accounts

     276,630               276,630   

Total equity

     206,674               206,674   

Total liabilities and equity

   $ 1,079,103      $      $ 1,079,103   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

     December 31, 2011  
     As originally
reported
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As adjusted  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Assets

      

Total assets

   $     1,440,651      $      $ 1,440,651   

Liabilities and Equity

      

Total liabilities

   $ 858,157      $      $ 858,157   

Equity

      

Retained earnings (deficit)

     393,636        (105,974     287,662   

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income

     (82,075         105,974        23,899   

Other equity accounts

     270,933               270,933   

Total equity

     582,494               582,494   

Total liabilities and equity

   $     1,440,651      $      $     1,440,651   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Information

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2012  
     Prior
accounting
method
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As reported  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Cash flows from operating activities

      

Net loss

   $ (368,009     $    (5,025   $ (373,034
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:       

Retirement benefits

     (4,686     5,025        339   

Other adjustments

     396,353               396,353   

Net cash provided by operating activities

     23,658               23,658   

Net cash used for investing activities

     (55,308            (55,308

Net cash provided by financing activities

     36,457               36,457   

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     1,778               1,778   

Increase in cash and cash equivalents

     6,585               6,585   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     22,991               22,991   

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $     29,576      $      $     29,576   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2011  
     As originally
reported
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As adjusted  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Cash flows from operating activities

      

Net income (loss)

   $     32,367      $     (27,233   $     5,134   
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:       

Retirement benefits

     (18,896     27,233        8,337   

Other adjustments

     39,762               39,762   

Net cash provided by operating activities

     53,233               53,233   

Net cash used for investing activities

     (65,127            (65,127

Net cash provided by financing activities

     5,904               5,904   

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     (54            (54

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents

     (6,044            (6,044

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     29,035               29,035   

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 22,991      $      $ 22,991   

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2010  
     As originally
reported
    Effect of
accounting
change
    As adjusted  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Cash flows from operating activities

      

Net income

   $ 7,273        $    8,130      $ 15,403   
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:       

Retirement benefits

     (1,630     (8,130     (9,760

Other adjustments

     193,222               193,222   

Net cash provided by operating activities

     198,865               198,865   

Net cash used for investing activities

     (33,322            (33,322

Net cash used for financing activities

     (157,264            (157,264

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     2,249               2,249   

Increase in cash and cash equivalents

     10,528               10,528   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     18,507               18,507   

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $     29,035      $      $     29,035   

New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

The FASB issued ASU 2011-11, Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities , (“ASU 2011-11”) in December 2011 and ASU 2013-01, Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities , (“ASU 2013-01”) in January 2013. These pronouncements are codified in ASC Topic 210, Balance Sheet, and

 

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contain new disclosure requirements about a company’s right of setoff and related arrangements associated with its financial and derivative instruments. They will be effective for our fiscal year that begins January 1, 2013, and are to be applied retrospectively. We do not expect that adoption of these pronouncements will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02, Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income , (“ASU 2013-02”), which is codified in ASC Topic 220, Comprehensive Income. This pronouncement adds new disclosure requirements for items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. We do not expect that adoption of this pronouncement will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

 

3. Inventories

 

     December 31,  
     2012      2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Raw materials

   $ 67,065       $ 78,199   

Work in process

     37,353         42,111   

Finished goods

     102,673         108,503   

Total

   $ 207,091       $ 228,813   

In the production of some of our products, we use precious metals, some of which we obtain from financial institutions under consignment agreements with terms of one year or less. The financial institutions retain ownership of the precious metals and charge us fees based on the amounts we consign. These fees were $6.5 million for 2012, $9.5 million for 2011, and $5.3 million for 2010. We had on hand precious metals owned by participants in our precious metals consignment program of $112.2 million at December 31, 2012, and $187.9 million at December 31, 2011, measured at fair value based on market prices for identical assets and net of credits.

In 2012, we recorded inventory write-downs of $5.4 million to reflect inventories related to our solar pastes business at the lower of cost or market in accordance with ASC Topic 330, Inventory. The inventory write-downs are classified as cost of sales in our statements of operations and charged to our Electronic Materials segment.

 

4. Property, Plant and Equipment

 

     December 31,  
     2012     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Land

   $ 14,441      $ 18,394   

Buildings

     242,465        236,871   

Machinery and equipment

     717,635        677,616   

Construction in progress

     19,173        45,577   

Total property, plant and equipment

     993,714        978,458   

Total accumulated depreciation

     (668,994     (599,122

Property, plant and equipment, net

   $ 324,720      $ 379,336   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Depreciation expense was $51.5 million for 2012, $55.8 million for 2011, and $60.5 million for 2010. Noncash investing activities for capital expenditures, consisting of new capital leases during the year and unpaid capital expenditure liabilities at year end, were $5.6 million for 2012, $19.0 million for 2011, and $11.1 million for 2010.

In 2012, due to deterioration in our forecast for our Electronic Materials business, we tested certain property, plant, and equipment held for use for impairment under ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment. We estimated the fair value of these assets using discounted cash flow models, Level 3 measurements within the fair value hierarchy. As a result, assets held for use with a carrying value of $38.9 million were written off, and the impairment charge of $38.9 million is included in restructuring and impairment charges in our statements of operations. Further, additional assets with a carrying value of $12.5 million were written down to $4.6 million under ASC Topic 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other. The $7.9 million impairment charge is included in restructuring and impairment charges in our statements of operations.

In 2011, assets held for use with a carrying value of $4.4 million were written off, and the impairment charge of $4.4 million is included in restructuring and impairment charges in our statements of operations. Various operational challenges indicated possible impairment of the property, plant and equipment at our facilities in Argentina and Belgium. The impairment charges by segment were $2.6 million in Performance Coatings and $1.8 million in Polymer Additives. We estimated the fair values of these assets using discounted cash flow models.

There were no impairments of assets held for use in 2010.

 

      

Fair Value

  

Fair Value Measurements Using

  

Total Gains
(Losses)

Description

     

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  
     (Dollars in thousands)

Assets held for use:

              

2012

   $    —    $    —    $    —    $    —    $    (38,942)

2011

               (4,436)

The inputs to the valuation techniques used to measure fair value are classified into the following categories:

Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2: Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

 

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5. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Details and activity of goodwill by segment follow:

 

    Electronic
Materials
    Performance
Coatings
    Color and
Glass
Performance
Materials
    Polymer
Additives
    Specialty
Plastics
    Pharmaceuticals     Total  
    (Dollars in thousands)  

Balance at December 31, 2010:

             

Gross goodwill

  $     152,595      $     46,000      $     62,509      $     73,447      $     16,973      $     40,431      $     391,955   

Accumulated impairment losses

           (41,388            (73,447     (16,973     (40,431     (172,239
    152,595        4,612        62,509                             219,716   

Impairments

           (3,881                                 (3,881

Other adjustments

    (2            (46                          (48
Foreign currency adjustment     357        (159     (384                          (186

Balance at December 31, 2011:

             

Gross goodwill

    152,950        45,841        62,079        73,447        16,973        40,431        391,721   

Accumulated impairment losses

           (45,269            (73,447     (16,973     (40,431     (176,120
    152,950        572        62,079                             215,601   

Impairments

    (153,566                                   (153,566

Other adjustments

    (1            (21                          (22
Foreign currency adjustment     617        3        342                             962   

Balance at December 31, 2012:

             

Gross goodwill

    153,566        45,844        62,400        73,447        16,973        40,431        392,661   

Accumulated impairment losses

    (153,566     (45,269            (73,447     (16,973     (40,431     (329,686
    $      $ 575      $ 62,400      $      $      $      $ 62,975   

The significant assumptions and ranges of assumptions we used in our impairment analysis of goodwill follow:

 

Significant Assumptions

   2012     2011  

Weighted-average cost of capital

           12.0% - 15.5 %           13.0% - 14.0

Residual growth rate

     3.0     3.0

In the third quarter of 2012, deterioration in our forecast for our Electronic Materials reporting unit indicated that an interim assessment of the goodwill recorded in the Electronic Materials segment was necessary. We performed the analysis required under ASC Topic 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other, and concluded under Step 1 that the carrying value of the Electronic Materials reporting unit exceeded its fair value. We estimated this fair value using the average of both the income approach and the market approach,

 

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Level 3 measurements within the fair value hierarchy. Further analysis under Step 2 resulted in the goodwill with a carrying amount of $153.6 million being written down to a preliminary estimate of its implied fair value of $6.3 million, with the impairment charge of $147.3 million being included in restructuring and impairment charges in our statements of operations. During the fourth quarter, we finalized our estimate of the implied fair value of the Electronic Materials goodwill and concluded that it was zero, resulting in an incremental impairment charge of $6.3 million.

During 2011, our Tile Coating Systems reporting unit in our Performance Coatings segment experienced a decline in profitability, as well as a reduction in anticipated profitability levels, thereby decreasing the reporting unit’s fair value below its carrying value. As a result of these indicators, a remeasurement of the reporting unit’s fair value indicated a full impairment of its goodwill. We estimated its fair value using the average of both the income approach and the market approach. An impairment loss of $3.9 million for the Performance Coatings segment has been included in restructuring and impairment charges in the consolidated statements of operations.

 

      

Fair Value

   Fair Value Measurements Using      Total Gains
(Losses)
 

Description

      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3     
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Goodwill:

              

2012

   $     —      $     —         $     —         $     —         $    (153,566)   

2011

        —           —              —              —                 (3,881)   

Details of amortizable intangible assets follow:

 

     Estimated
Economic Life
     December 31,  
        2012     2011  
            (Dollars in thousands)  

Gross amortizable intangible assets:

       

Patents

     10-16 years       $ 5,560      $ 5,653   

Land rights

     20-40 years         5,078        5,036   

Technological know-how and other

     5-30 years         16,710        11,514   

Total gross amortizable intangible assets

        27,348        22,203   

Accumulated amortization:

       

Patents

        (4,659     (4,607

Land rights

        (2,391     (2,272

Technological know-how and other

              (5,888     (4,268

Total accumulated amortization

              (12,938     (11,147

Amortizable intangible assets, net

            $       14,410            $ 11,056   

We amortize amortizable intangible assets on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Amortization expense related to amortizable intangible assets was $1.9 million for 2012, $1.0 million for 2011, and $0.9 million for 2010. Aggregate amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets is expected to be approximately $1.5 million annually for 2013 through 2015 and approximately $1.0 million annually for 2016 through 2017.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

6. Debt and Other Financing

Loans payable and current portion of long-term debt at December 31st consisted of the following:

 

     2012      2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Loans payable to banks

   $ 2,477       $ 404   

Domestic accounts receivable asset securitization program

     40,000           

International accounts receivable sales programs

     6,122         8,150   

Current portion of long-term debt

     36,553         2,687   

Total loans payable and current portion of long-term debt

   $       85,152       $       11,241   

Long-term debt at December 31st consisted of the following:

 

     2012     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

7.875% Senior Notes

   $ 250,000      $ 250,000   

6.50% Convertible Senior Notes, net of unamortized discounts

     34,417        33,537   

Revolving credit facility

     2,596        7,706   

Capitalized lease obligations (see Note 14)

     6,433        4,459   

Other notes

     4,731        5,067   

Total long-term debt

     298,177        300,769   

Current portion

     (36,553     (2,687

Long-term debt, less current portion

   $       261,624      $       298,082   

The annual maturities of long-term debt for each of the five years after December 31, 2012, were as follows:

 

     (Dollars in
thousands)
 

2013

   $ 37,650   

2014

     1,503   

2015

     4,124   

2016

     1,215   

2017

     1,182   

Thereafter

     255,748   

Total maturities of long-term debt

     301,422   

Unamortized discounts on 6.50% Convertible Senior Notes

     (649
Imputed interest and executory costs on capitalized lease obligations      (2,596

Total long-term debt

   $       298,177   

 

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Receivable Sales Programs

We have an asset securitization program for Ferro’s U.S. trade accounts receivable. We sell undivided variable percentage interests in our domestic receivables to various purchasers, and we may obtain up to $50.0 million in the form of cash or letters of credit. Advances received under this program are accounted for as borrowings secured by the receivables and included in net cash provided by financing activities. The purchasers have no recourse to Ferro’s other assets for failure of payment of the receivables as a result of the lack of creditworthiness, or financial inability to pay, of the related obligor. In May 2012, we extended the maturity of this credit facility through May 2013. At December 31, 2012, advances received of $40.0 million were secured by $77.1 million of accounts receivable. After reductions for any non-qualifying receivables and outstanding letters of credit, we had additional borrowings available under the program of $9.0 million at December 31, 2012, and $50.0 million at December 31, 2011. At December 31, 2012, the interest rate was 0.6%.

Ferro Finance Corporation (“FFC”), a wholly-owned, consolidated subsidiary, holds Ferro’s U.S. trade accounts receivable. The program contains operating covenants that limit FFC’s ability to engage in certain activities, including borrowings, creation of liens, mergers, and investing in other companies. The program also requires FFC and Ferro to provide periodic financial statements and reports on the accounts receivable and limits our ability to make significant changes in receivable collection practices. In addition, FFC is required to maintain a minimum tangible net worth. The program is subject to customary termination events, including non-performance, deterioration in the quality of the accounts receivable pool, and cross-default provisions with Ferro’s 2012 Credit Facility (described below) and other debt obligations with principal outstanding of at least $5 million. If a termination event occurs and is not cured, the program may be terminated or a third party may be selected to act as administrator in collecting the accounts receivable.

In 2011, we entered into several international programs to sell with recourse trade accounts receivable to financial institutions. Advances received under these programs are accounted for as borrowings secured by the receivables and included in net cash provided by financing activities. Commitments supporting these programs totaled $18.5 million at December 31, 2012, and $18.1 million at December 31, 2011. Advances received of $6.1 million at December 31, 2012, and $8.2 million at December 31, 2011, were secured by accounts receivable of $9.3 million at December 31, 2012, and $11.7 million at December 31, 2011. Additional borrowings available under the programs were $0.2 million at December 31, 2012, while no additional borrowings were available under the programs at December 31, 2011. The interest rates under these programs are based on EURIBOR rates plus 1.75%. At December 31, 2012, the weighted-average interest rate was 1.9%.

Prior to 2011, we maintained several international programs to sell without recourse trade accounts receivable to financial institutions. Advances received under these programs were accounted for as proceeds from the sales of receivables and included in net cash provided by operating activities. In 2011, these programs expired or were terminated. Ferro provided normal collection and administration services for the trade accounts receivable sold to certain financial institutions. Servicing fees were not material. Activity from these programs is detailed below:

 

     2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Trade accounts receivable sold to financial institutions

   $       $       91,233   

Cash proceeds from financial institutions

             92,528   

Trade accounts receivable collected and remitted to financial institutions

             2,512         12,177   

 

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Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

7.875% Senior Notes

In 2010, we issued $250 million of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2018 (the “Senior Notes”). We used portions of the proceeds from the offering to repay all of the remaining term loans and revolving borrowings outstanding under a credit facility originally entered into in 2006 and as amended and restated through November 2009 (the “2009 Amended and Restated Credit Facility”). We also used portions of the proceeds from the offering to repurchase the 6.50% Convertible Senior Notes that were tendered pursuant to a related tender offer. The Senior Notes were issued at par and bear interest at a rate of 7.875% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on February 15 and August 15 of each year.

The Senior Notes mature on August 15, 2018. Through August 15, 2013, we may redeem up to 35% of the Senior Notes at a price equal to 107.875% of the principal amount using proceeds of certain equity offerings. We may also redeem some or all of the Senior Notes prior to August 15, 2014, at a price equal to the principal amount plus a defined applicable premium. The applicable premium on any redemption date is the greater of 1.0% of the principal amount of the note or the excess of (1) the present value at such redemption date of the redemption price of the note at August 15, 2014, plus all required interest payments due on the note through August 15, 2014, computed using a discount rate equal to the Treasury Rate as of the redemption date plus 50 basis points; over (2) the principal amount of the note. In addition, we may redeem some or all of the Senior Notes beginning August 15, 2014, at prices ranging from 100% to 103.938% of the principal amount.

The Senior Notes are unsecured obligations and rank equally in right of payment with any other unsecured, unsubordinated obligations. The Senior Notes contain certain affirmative and negative covenants customary for high-yield debt securities, including, without limitation, restrictions on our ability to incur additional debt, create liens, pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase our common stock and sell assets outside the ordinary course of business. At December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with the covenants under the Senior Notes’ indenture.

6.50% Convertible Senior Notes

In 2008, Ferro issued $172.5 million of 6.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 (the “Convertible Notes”). The Convertible Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.5% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on February 15th and August 15th of each year. The Convertible Notes mature on August 15, 2013. Under certain circumstances, holders of the Convertible Notes may convert their notes prior to maturity.

The initial base conversion rate is 30.9253, equivalent to an initial base conversion price of $32.34 per share of our common stock. If the price of our common stock at conversion exceeds the base conversion price, the base conversion rate is increased by an additional number of shares. The base conversion rate and the additional number of shares are adjusted in certain events. Upon conversion of Convertible Notes, we will pay the conversion value in cash up to the aggregate principal amount of the Convertible Notes being converted and in shares of our common stock, for the remainder, if any. Upon a fundamental change, holders may require us to repurchase Convertible Notes for cash equal to the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The Convertible Notes are unsecured obligations and rank equally in right of payment with any other unsecured, unsubordinated obligations. At December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with the covenants under the Convertible Notes’ indenture.

In 2010, we purchased $136.7 million of the Convertible Notes through a tender offer or on the open market. In 2011, we purchased an additional $0.7 million of the Convertible Notes on the open market. In connection with these transactions, we recognized losses on extinguishment of debt of $13.1 million in 2010 and

 

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less than $0.1 million in 2011, consisting of unamortized debt issuance costs and the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of these notes. The principal amount outstanding was $35.1 million at December 31, 2012 and 2011.

We separately account for the liability and equity components of the Convertible Notes in a manner that will reflect our nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. The effective interest rate on the liability component is 9.5%. Contractual interest was $2.3 million in 2012, $2.3 million in 2011, and $9.0 million in 2010, and amortization of the liability discount was $0.9 million in 2012, $0.9 million in 2011, and $3.0 million in 2010. At December 31, 2012, the remaining period over which the liability discount will be amortized was 0.6 years, the unamortized liability discount was $0.6 million, and the carrying amount of the equity component was $7.5 million. At December 31, 2011, the unamortized liability discount was $1.6 million, and the carrying amount of the equity component was $7.5 million.

Revolving Credit Facilities

Our 2009 Amended and Restated Credit Facility included a senior term loan facility and a senior revolving credit facility. In 2010, we made early principal payments of $83.6 million on our outstanding term loans and wrote off $2.3 million of related unamortized debt issuance costs to interest expense. Subsequently in 2010, we amended the 2009 Amended and Restated Credit Facility and paid the remaining $147.8 million on our outstanding term loans and the remaining $75.5 million on our outstanding revolving borrowings. As a result of changes in the creditors, we treated the amendment as an extinguishment of the 2009 Amended and Restated Credit Facility and recognized losses on extinguishment of debt of $9.9 million, consisting of unamortized debt issuance costs related to this facility.

In 2010, we entered into the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with a group of lenders for a five-year, $350 million multi-currency senior revolving credit facility (the “2010 Credit Facility”). In 2012, we amended the 2010 Credit Facility (the “2012 Amended Credit Facility”) primarily to provide additional operating flexibility. After reductions for outstanding letters of credit secured by these facilities, we had $343.2 million of additional borrowings available at December 31, 2012, and $335.9 million at December 31, 2011. The interest rate under the 2012 Amended Credit Facility is the sum of (A) either (1) LIBOR or (2) the higher of the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, the Prime Rate, or LIBOR plus 1.0% and (B) a variable margin based on the Company’s leverage. At December 31, 2012, the interest rate was 3.7%.

The 2012 Amended Credit Facility matures on August 24, 2015, and is secured by substantially all of Ferro’s assets, generally including 100% of the shares of the parent company’s domestic subsidiaries and 65% of the shares of the foreign subsidiaries directly owned by the parent company, but excluding trade receivables legally sold pursuant to our accounts receivable sales programs.

We are subject to a number of financial covenants under our 2012 Amended Credit Facility. The covenants include requirements for a leverage ratio, an interest coverage ratio, and capital expenditures. The leverage ratio must be less than (i) 4.25 to 1.00 on the last day of the third and fourth quarters of 2012 and (ii) 3.50 to 1.00 on the last day of any subsequent quarter, each calculated using the last four fiscal quarters. In the leverage ratio, the numerator is total debt, which consists of borrowings and certain letters of credit outstanding on the 2012 Amended Credit Facility and our international facilities, the principal amount outstanding on our senior notes and convertible notes, capitalized lease obligations, and amounts outstanding on our domestic and international receivables sales programs, and the denominator is the sum of earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”), and special charges. The interest coverage ratio must be not less

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

than (i) 2.50 for the second and third quarters of 2012, (ii) 2.75 for the fourth quarter of 2012, and (iii) 3.00 thereafter. In the interest coverage ratio, the numerator is EBITDA and the denominator is cash paid for interest expense and certain other financing expenses. Capital expenditures are limited to (i) $20.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2012, (ii) $35.0 million for the six months ended September 30, 2012, (iii) $50.0 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2012, (iv) $65.0 million for the twelve months ended March 31, 2013, and (v) $65.0 million for the 2013 fiscal year and each fiscal year thereafter. Certain unused capital expenditures will be permitted to be carried forward to the following fiscal year. Our ability to meet these covenants is primarily driven by our net income before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization; our total debt; our interest payments; and our capital expenditures. Our total debt is primarily driven by cash flow items, including net income before amortization, depreciation, and other noncash charges; our capital expenditures; requirements for deposits from participants in our precious metals consignment program; our customers’ ability to make payments for purchases and the timing of such payments; and our ability to manage inventory and other working capital items. Our interest payments are driven by our debt level, external fees, and interest rates, primarily the Prime rate and LIBOR. Our capital expenditures are driven by our desire to invest in growth opportunities, to maintain existing property, plant and equipment, and to meet environmental, health and safety requirements. At December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with the covenants of the 2012 Amended Credit Facility.

Our ability to pay common stock dividends is limited by certain covenants in our 2012 Amended Credit Facility and the bond indenture governing the Senior Notes. The covenant in our 2012 Amended Credit Facility is the more limiting of the two covenants and limits our ability to make restricted payments, which include, but are not limited to, common stock dividends and the repurchase of equity interests. We are not permitted to make restricted payments in excess of $30 million in any calendar year. However, if we make less than $30 million of restricted payments in any calendar year, the unused amount can be carried over for restricted payments in future years, provided that the maximum amount of restricted payments in any calendar year does not exceed $60 million.

Other Financing Arrangements

We maintain other lines of credit to provide global flexibility for Ferro’s short-term liquidity requirements. These facilities are uncommitted lines for our international operations and totaled $21.5 million at December 31, 2012, and $16.4 million at December 31, 2011. The unused portions of these lines provided additional liquidity of $9.1 million at December 31, 2012, and $11.7 million at December 31, 2011.

 

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7. Financial Instruments

The following financial instrument assets (liabilities) are presented at carrying amount, fair value and classification within the fair value hierarchy:

 

     December 31, 2012      December 31, 2011  
     Carrying
Amount
    Fair Value      Carrying
Amount
    Fair Value  
     Total     Level 1      Level 2     Level 3       
     (Dollars in thousands)  
Cash and cash equivalents    $     29,576      $     29,576      $     29,576       $      $     —       $     22,991      $     22,991   

Loans payable

     (48,599     (48,599             (48,599             (8,554     (8,554

7.875% Senior Notes

     (250,000     (231,500             (231,500             (250,000     (253,750
6.50% Convertible Senior Notes, net of unamortized discounts      (34,417     (34,803             (34,803             (33,537     (34,589

Revolving credit facility

     (2,596     (2,634             (2,634             (7,706     (7,973

Other long-term notes

     (4,731     (3,937             (3,937             (5,067     (4,184
Foreign currency forward contracts, net      (4,758     (4,758             (4,758             6,225        6,225   

The fair values of cash and cash equivalents are based on the fair values of identical assets. The fair values of loans payable are based on the present value of expected future cash flows and approximate their carrying amounts due to the short periods to maturity. The fair values of the Senior Notes and the Convertible Notes are based on third-party estimated bid prices. The fair values of the revolving credit facility and the other long-term notes are based on the present value of expected future cash flows and assumptions about current interest rates and the creditworthiness of the Company that market participants would use in pricing the debt.

Derivative Instruments

Interest rate swaps.  To reduce our exposure to interest rate changes on variable-rate debt, we entered into interest rate swap agreements in 2007. These swaps effectively converted $150 million of our variable-rate term loan facility to a fixed interest rate. These swaps were designated and qualified as cash flow hedges. In 2010, in conjunction with repayment of our remaining outstanding term loans, we settled these swaps and reclassified $6.8 million from accumulated other comprehensive loss to miscellaneous expense.

Foreign currency forward contracts.  We manage foreign currency risks principally by entering into forward contracts to mitigate the impact of currency fluctuations on transactions. These forward contracts are not formally designated as hedges. The fair value of these contracts is based on market prices for comparable contracts. The notional amount of foreign currency forward contracts was $250.7 million at December 31, 2012, and $249.3 million at December 31, 2011.

The following table presents the effect on our consolidated statements of operations of foreign currency forward contracts:

 

     Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Income
     Location of Gain (Loss) in Income
             2012                      2011             
     (Dollars in thousands)       

Foreign currency forward contracts

   $     474       $     (6,693)       Foreign currency losses, net

 

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The following table presents the fair value on our consolidated balance sheets at December 31st of foreign currency forward contracts:

 

         2012             2011         Balance Sheet Location
     (Dollars in thousands)      

Asset derivatives:

      

Foreign currency forward contracts

   $      $     6,491      Other current assets

Foreign currency forward contracts

     213             Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

Total fair value

   $ 213      $ 6,491       

Liability derivatives:

      

Foreign currency forward contracts

   $      $ (266   Other current assets

Foreign currency forward contracts

     (4,971          Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

Total fair value

   $       (4,971)      $ (266    

 

8. Income Taxes

Income tax expense (benefit) is based on our (losses) earnings before income taxes as presented in the following table:

 

     2012     2011     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

U.S.

   $         (216,523   $         27,244      $         77,867   

Foreign

     (47,026     (2,772     (40,591

Total

   $ (263,549   $ 24,472      $ 37,276   

Our income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following components:

 

     2012     2011     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Current:

      

U.S. federal

   $         (1,190   $         (10,477   $         11,110   

Foreign

     2,525        8,704        15,647   

State and local

     575        536        374   

Total current

     1,910        (1,237     27,131   

Deferred:

      

U.S. federal

     77,875        18,787        13,693   

Foreign

     21,399        2,944        (11,321

State and local

     8,301        (1,156     (7,630

Total deferred

     107,575        20,575        (5,258

Total income tax expense

   $ 109,485      $ 19,338      $ 21,873   

 

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In addition, income tax expense (benefit) we allocated directly to Ferro Corporation shareholders’ equity is detailed in the following table:

 

     2012     2011     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Foreign currency translation adjustments

   $ 144      $ 38      $ 1,717   

Postretirement benefit liability adjustments

     (140     (139     (1,123

Raw material commodity swap adjustments

                   83   

Interest rate swap adjustments

                   3,396   

Stock options exercised

     249        (1,184       

Total income tax expense (benefit) allocated to Ferro Corporation shareholders’ equity

   $     253      $     (1,285   $       4,073   

A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and our effective tax rate follows:

 

             2012                     2011                     2010          

U.S. federal statutory income tax rate

     35.0     35.0     35.0

State taxes

     2.0        3.3        4.7   

Research and development credit

     0.2        (9.4     (1.0

Adjustment of valuation allowances

     (69.3     45.5        24.8   

Goodwill dispositions and impairments

     (4.4     3.0        0.6   

Expired tax credits

     (1.5              

Foreign tax rate difference

     (1.0     0.2        2.3   

Net adjustment of prior-year accrual

     (0.8     (1.6     (2.9

U.S. tax cost of foreign dividends

     (0.2     (0.1     0.5   

Uncertain tax positions

     (0.1     2.8        (2.1

Domestic production activities deduction

            (5.0     (5.5

Stock options

            (0.4     0.1   

Medicare subsidy

                   3.9   

Foreign exchange on loan settlement

                   (2.6

Miscellaneous

     (1.4     5.7        0.9   

Effective tax rate

     (41.5 )%      79.0     58.7

We have refundable income taxes of $9.8 million at December 31, 2012, and $11.6 million at December 31, 2011, classified as other receivables on our balance sheets. We also have income taxes payable of $2.5 million at December 31, 2012, and $2.5 million at December 31, 2011, classified as accrued expenses and other current liabilities on our balance sheets.

 

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The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31st were:

 

             2012                     2011          
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Deferred tax assets:

    

Pension and other benefit programs

   $ 68,522      $ 65,362   

Foreign operating loss carryforwards

     66,993        58,333   

Foreign tax credit carryforwards

     29,188        27,113   

Property, equipment and intangibles — depreciation and amortization

     21,659          

Accrued liabilities

     16,418        16,335   

Other credit carryforwards

     14,259        15,373   

Inventories

     6,245        4,460   

Capitalized research costs

     6,142        8,210   

Capitalized interest

     4,712          

State operating loss carryforwards

     4,258        2,626   

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     2,937        2,143   

Other

     10,103        11,623   

Total deferred tax assets

           251,436              211,578   

Deferred tax liabilities:

    

Unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries

     1,363        1,837   

Convertible debt instruments

     227        553   

Property, equipment and intangibles — depreciation and amortization

            35,279   

Other

     767        3,228   

Total deferred tax liabilities

     2,357        40,897   

Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance

     249,079        170,681   

Valuation allowance

     (221,254     (37,060

Net deferred tax assets

   $     27,825      $     133,621   

The amounts of foreign operating loss carryforwards, foreign tax credit carryforwards, and other credit carryforwards included in the table of temporary differences are net of reserves for unrecognized tax benefits.

 

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Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

At December 31, 2012, we had $4.3 million of tax benefits from state operating loss carryforwards and $66.2 million from foreign operating loss carryforwards, some of which can be carried forward indefinitely and others expire in one to twenty years. At December 31, 2012, we had $64.7 million of tax benefits from tax credit carryforwards, some of which can be carried forward indefinitely. These operating loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards expire as follows:

 

     Operating Loss
Carryforwards
     Tax Credit
Carryforwards
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Expiring in:

     

2013

   $ 125       $ 6,866   

2014-2018

     18,038         30,536   

2019-2023

     9,587         12,417   

2024-2028

     7,368         9,919   

2029-2033

     1,516         2,499   

2034-Indefinitely

     33,822         2,503   

Total

   $           70,456       $           64,740   

We assess the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to utilize the existing deferred tax assets. A significant piece of objective negative evidence evaluated by jurisdiction was the cumulative loss incurred over the three-year period ended December 31, 2012. Such objective evidence limits the ability to consider other subjective evidence, such as our projections for future growth.

Based on this assessment, the Company has recorded a valuation allowance of $221.3 million in order to measure only the portion of the deferred tax asset that more likely than not will be realized. The more significant items that increased the valuation allowance in 2012 primarily related to additions to deferred tax assets for current year operating losses in certain jurisdictions where it is not more likely than not that these assets will be realized.

We classified net deferred income tax assets as of December 31st as detailed in the following table:

 

             2012                     2011          
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Current assets

   $ 7,995      $ 17,395   

Non-current assets

     21,554        117,658   

Current liabilities

     (950     (524

Non-current liabilities

     (774     (908

Net deferred tax assets

   $           27,825      $           133,621   

 

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Activity and balances of unrecognized tax benefits are summarized below:

 

     2012     2011     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Balance at beginning of year

   $ 32,131      $ 33,455      $ 36,399   

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

     4,567        1,886        3,619   

Additions for tax positions of prior years

     560        487        78   

Reductions for tax positions of prior years

     (354     (167     (1,029

Reductions as a result of expiring statutes of limitations

     (5,272     (2,455     (3,644

Foreign currency translation of non-U.S. dollar denominated reserves

     222        (449     (1,968

Settlements with taxing authorities

     (3,168     (626       

Balance at end of year

   $           28,686      $           32,131      $           33,455   

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective rate was $12.9 million at December 31, 2012, and $12.8 million at December 31, 2011. The Company recognizes interest accrued and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as part of income tax expense. The Company recognized $0.3 million of benefit in 2012, $0.3 million of benefit in 2011, and $0.5 million of expense in 2010 for interest, net of tax, and penalties. The Company accrued $1.0 million at December 31, 2012, and $1.3 million at December 31, 2011, for payment of interest, net of tax, and penalties.

We anticipate that $1.0 million of liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest and penalties, may be reversed within the next 12 months. These liabilities relate to international tax issues and are expected to reverse due to the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations periods.

The Company conducts business globally, and, as a result, the U.S. parent company or one of its subsidiaries files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. In the normal course of business, the U.S. parent company and its subsidiaries are subject to examination by taxing authorities throughout the world. With few exceptions, we are not subject to U.S. federal, foreign, or state and local income tax examinations for years before 2004.

At December 31, 2012, we provided $1.4 million for deferred income taxes on $10.3 million of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries. We have not provided deferred income taxes on undistributed earnings of approximately $93.7 million, since we intend to indefinitely reinvest the earnings and it is not practicable to estimate the additional taxes that might be payable on the eventual remittance of such earnings.

 

9. Contingent Liabilities

The Company had bank guarantees and standby letters of credit issued by financial institutions that totaled $9.7 million at December 31, 2012, and $12.4 million at December 31, 2011. These agreements primarily relate to Ferro’s insurance programs, foreign energy purchase contracts and foreign tax payments. If the Company fails to perform its obligations, the guarantees and letters of credit may be drawn down by their holders, and we would be liable to the financial institutions for the amounts drawn.

We have recorded environmental liabilities of $9.6 million at December 31, 2012, and $11.6 million at December 31, 2011, for costs associated with the remediation of certain of our properties that have been

 

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contaminated, primarily a non-operating facility in Brazil. The costs include legal and consulting fees, site studies, the design and implementation of remediation plans, post-remediation monitoring and related activities. The ultimate liability could be affected by numerous uncertainties, including the extent of contamination found, the required period of monitoring and the ultimate cost of required remediation.

There are various lawsuits and claims pending against the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries. We do not currently expect the ultimate liabilities, if any, and expenses related to such lawsuits and claims to materially affect the consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of the Company.

 

10. Retirement Benefits

Defined Benefit Pension Plans

 

     U.S. Plans     Non-U.S. Plans  
     2012     2011     2010     2012     2011     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Net periodic benefit cost:

            

Service cost

   $ 16      $ 16      $ 21        1,995      $ 2,095      $ 3,289   

Interest cost

     19,469        20,468        20,545        5,344        5,525        10,122   

Expected return on plan assets

     (20,631     (20,601     (18,138     (3,022     (3,137     (6,908

Amortization of prior service cost (credit)

     48        73        95        2        (142     (308

Mark-to-market actuarial net losses

     20,125        49,866        5,913        9,529        4,578        11,886   

Curtailment and settlement effects

                          (2,524     23        (5,796

Special termination benefits

                          2        3        38   

Total net periodic benefit cost

   $     19,027      $     49,822      $     8,436        11,326      $     8,945      $     12,323   

Weighted-average assumptions:

            

Discount rate

     5.10     5.85     6.20     5.01     5.51     5.88

Rate of compensation increase

     N/A        N/A        N/A        3.03     3.44     3.42

Expected return on plan assets

     8.20     8.50     8.50     4.86     5.60     5.28

In 2012, the mark-to-market actuarial net loss for U.S. plans consisted of actuarial losses of $39.0 million primarily due to a decrease in the discount rate, partially offset by $18.9 million of gains from actual returns on plan assets exceeding expectations. The mark-to-market actuarial net loss for non-U.S. plans consisted of actuarial losses of $15.7 million primarily due to a decrease in the discount rate, partially offset by $6.2 million of gains from actual returns on plan assets exceeding expectations. Also in 2012, we recorded curtailment gains related to the cessation of retirement benefit accumulations in the Netherlands. The affected employees in the Netherlands now receive benefits through a defined contribution plan.

For U.S. plans in 2011, the improvement through December 2010 in the valuation of pension investments increased the amount of our expected return on plan assets. The mark-to-market actuarial net loss consisted of actuarial losses of $32.6 million primarily due to a decrease in the discount rate and $17.3 million of losses from expected returns exceeding actual returns on plan assets. For non-U.S. plans in 2011, curtailments and settlements in 2010 decreased benefit obligations, which reduced interest cost. These curtailments and settlements also decreased plan assets, which reduced expected returns. The mark-to-market actuarial net loss

 

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consisted of actuarial losses of $5.7 million primarily due to a decrease in the discount rate, partially offset by $0.9 million of gains from actual returns on plan assets exceeding expectations.

In 2010, the mark-to-market actuarial net loss for U.S. plans consisted of actuarial losses of $17.3 million primarily due to a decrease in the discount rate, partially offset by $11.4 million of gains from actual returns on plan assets exceeding expectations. The mark-to-market actuarial net loss for non-U.S. plans consisted of actuarial losses of $14.8 million primarily due to a decrease in the discount rate, partially offset by $2.9 million of gains from actual returns on plan assets exceeding expectations. Also in 2010, we recorded curtailment gains related to terminations in the Netherlands, Portugal and Germany.

 

     U.S. Plans     Non-U.S. Plans  
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Change in benefit obligation:

        

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

   $ 392,820      $ 360,484      $ 110,674      $ 104,100   

Service cost

     16        16        1,995        2,095   

Interest cost

     19,469        20,468        5,344        5,525   

Amendments

                          106   

Curtailments

                   (1,617       

Settlements

                   (2,984     (723

Special termination benefits

                   2        3   

Plan participants’ contributions

                   133        228   

Benefits paid

     (22,693     (20,785     (5,176     (3,781

Actuarial loss

     38,972        32,637        15,691        5,697   

Exchange rate effect

                   2,905        (2,576

Benefit obligation at end of year

   $ 428,584      $ 392,820      $ 126,967      $ 110,674   

Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year

   $ 428,584      $ 392,820      $ 119,777      $ 103,571   

Change in plan assets:

        

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

   $ 261,715      $ 257,937      $ 62,554      $ 55,297   

Actual return on plan assets

     39,479        3,372        9,309        4,074   

Employer contributions

     24,074        21,191        3,903        8,502   

Plan participants’ contributions

                   133        228   

Benefits paid

     (22,693     (20,785     (5,176     (3,781

Effect of settlements

                   (2,984     (723

Exchange rate effect

                   2,265        (1,043

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

   $ 302,575      $ 261,715      $ 70,004      $ 62,554   

Amounts recognized in the balance sheet:

        

Other non-current assets

   $      $      $ 5,024      $ 4,597   

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     (365     (372     (1,906     (1,751

Postretirement and pension liabilities

     (125,644     (130,733     (60,082     (50,966

Funded status

   $     (126,009   $     (131,105   $     (56,964   $     (48,120

 

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     U.S. Plans     Non-U.S. Plans  
     2012     2011     2012     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Weighted-average assumptions as of December 31:

        

Discount rate

     4.30     5.10     4.00     5.01

Rate of compensation increase

     N/A        N/A        2.83     3.03
Pension plans with benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:         

Benefit obligations

   $ 428,584      $ 392,820      $ 89,017      $ 79,392   

Plan assets

     302,575        261,715        27,029        26,675   
Pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:         

Projected benefit obligations

   $     428,584      $     392,820      $     88,783      $     76,375   

Accumulated benefit obligations

     428,584        392,820        82,462        70,106   

Plan assets

     302,575        261,715        26,824        24,041   

Activity and balances in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to defined benefit pension plans are summarized below:

 

    U.S. Plans     Non-U.S. Plans  
    2012     2011     2012     2011  
    (Dollars in thousands)  

Prior service (cost) credit:

       

Balance at beginning of year

    $           (103     $           (176   $            954      $            986   

Cost arising during the year

                         (106

Amounts recognized as net periodic benefit costs

    48        73        (780     (148

Exchange rate effects

                  (277     222   

Balance at end of year

  $ (55   $ (103   $ (103   $ 954   

Estimated amounts to be amortized in 2013

  $ (13     $ (17  

The overall investment objective for defined benefit pension plan assets is to achieve the highest level of investment return that is compatible with prudent investment practices, asset class risk and current and future benefit obligations of the plans. Based on the potential risks and expected returns of various asset classes, the Company establishes asset allocation ranges for major asset classes. For U.S. plans, the target allocations are 35% fixed income, 60% equity, and 5% other investments. For non-U.S. plans, the target allocations are 75% fixed income, 24% equity, and 1% other investments. The Company invests in funds and with asset managers that track broad investment indices. The equity funds generally capture the returns of the equity markets in the U.S., Europe, Japan, and Asia-Pacific and also reflect various investment styles, such as growth, value, and large or small capitalization. The fixed income funds generally capture the returns of government and investment-grade corporate fixed income securities in the U.S. and Europe and also reflect various durations of these securities.

We base the expected return on plan assets at the beginning of the year on the weighted-average expected return for the target asset allocations of the major asset classes held by each plan. In determining the expected

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

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return, the Company considers both historical performance and an estimate of future long-term rates of return. The Company consults with and considers the opinion of its actuaries in developing appropriate return assumptions.

The fair values of our pension plan assets at December 31, 2012, by asset category are as follows:

 

     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

U.S. plans:

           

Fixed income:

           

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 7       $       $       $ 7   

Guaranteed deposits

             2,208                 2,208   

U.S. government agencies

     18,256                         18,256   

Mutual funds

     84,041                         84,041   

Commingled funds

             1,400         675         2,075   

Equities:

           

U.S. common stocks

     1,775                         1,775   

Mutual funds

     184,528                         184,528   

Commingled funds

             1,710                 1,710   

Real estate

                     7,975         7,975   

Total

   $ 288,607       $ 5,318       $ 8,650       $ 302,575   

Non-U.S. plans:

           

Fixed income:

           

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 1,071       $       $       $ 1,071   

Guaranteed deposits

             3,561         20,589         24,150   

Mutual funds

     373                         373   

Commingled funds

             22,218                 22,218   

Other

     3,636                         3,636   

Equities:

           

Mutual funds

     403                         403   

Commingled funds

             17,152                 17,152   

Real estate

                     605         605   

Other assets

     177                 219         396   

Total

   $             5,660       $             42,931       $             21,413       $             70,004   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

The fair values of our pension plan assets at December 31, 2011, by asset category are as follows:

 

     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

U.S. plans:

           

Fixed income:

           

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 4,569       $       $       $ 4,569   

Guaranteed deposits

             2,456                 2,456   

Mutual funds

     76,360                         76,360   

Commingled funds

             1,286         647         1,933   

Equities:

           

U.S. common stocks

     60,082                         60,082   

Commingled funds

             116,315                 116,315   

Total

   $         141,011       $         120,057       $             647       $         261,715   

Non-U.S. plans:

           

Fixed income:

           

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 728       $       $       $ 728   

Guaranteed deposits

             20,371                 20,371   

Mutual funds

     572                         572   

Commingled funds

             20,319                 20,319   

Other

     3,046                         3,046   

Equities:

           

Mutual funds

     334                         334   

Commingled funds

             15,884                 15,884   

Real estate

                     831         831   

Other assets

     106                 363         469   

Total

   $ 4,786       $ 56,574       $ 1,194       $ 62,554   

The Company’s U.S. pension plans held 0.4 million shares of the Company’s common stock with a market value of $1.8 million at December 31, 2012, and $2.1 million at December 31, 2011.

Level 3 assets consist primarily of guaranteed deposits and real estate investments. The guaranteed deposits in Level 3 are in the form of contracts with insurance companies that secure the payment of benefits and are valued based on discounted cash flow models using the same discount rate used to value the related plan liabilities. The real estate investments in Level 3 are in the form of commingled funds invested in non-public real estate development and investment companies and are valued based on estimated capitalization factors applied to the earnings streams from portfolio properties and fee income, discounted cash flows of development projects, and estimated market values of undeveloped land, all of which are reduced by reported liabilities and appropriate taxes.

 

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Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

A rollforward of Level 3 assets is presented below. Transfers into Level 3 during 2012 represent the correction of the classification within the fair value hierarchy of certain guaranteed deposits that were previously classified within Level 2. Unrealized gains included in earnings were $5.1 million in 2012 and $0.1 million in 2011.

 

     Guaranteed
deposits
    Real estate     Commingled
funds
     Other assets     Total  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Balance at December 31, 2010

   $      $ 679      $ 602       $ 352      $ 1,633   

Purchases

            72                44        116   

Sales

            (24             (11     (35

Gains (losses) included in earnings

            109        45         (21     133   

Exchange rate effect

            (5             (1     (6

Balance at December 31, 2011

            831        647         363        1,841   

Transfers into Level 3

     16,520                              16,520   

Purchases

     598        8,072                48        8,718   

Sales

     (1,977     (349             (170     (2,496

Gains (losses) included in earnings

     5,057        11        28         (28     5,068   

Exchange rate effect

     391        15                6        412   

Balance at December 31, 2012

   $         20,589      $         8,580      $           675       $           219      $         30,063   

We expect to contribute approximately $16.6 million to our U.S. pension plans and $2.8 million to our non-U.S. pension plans in 2013.

We estimate that future pension benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, will be as follows:

 

     U.S. Plans      Non-U.S. Plans  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

2013

   $ 21,899       $ 5,112   

2014

     22,551         5,175   

2015

     22,932         5,157   

2016

     23,324         5,114   

2017

     24,027         6,178   

2018-2022

         126,586             33,951   

 

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Postretirement Health Care and Life Insurance Benefit Plans

 

     2012     2011     2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Net periodic benefit cost:

      

Interest cost

   $ 1,585      $ 1,929      $ 2,426   

Amortization of prior service credit

     (130     (401     (1,395

Mark-to-market actuarial net losses

     (2,743     (2,684     (5,955

Total net periodic benefit cost

   $     (1,288   $     (1,156   $     (4,924

Weighted-average assumptions:

      

Discount rate

     4.85     5.45     5.85

Current trend rate for health care costs

     7.70     7.90     8.10

Ultimate trend rate for health care costs

     4.50     4.50     4.50

Year that ultimate trend rate is reached

     2028        2028        2028   

A one-percentage-point change in the assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effect:

 

     1-Percentage-
Point
Increase
     1-Percentage-
Point
Decrease
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Effect on total of service and interest cost components

   $     93       $     (107

Effect on postretirement benefit obligation

     2,027         (1,770

 

     2012     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Change in benefit obligation:

    

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

   $     34,286      $     37,193   

Interest cost

     1,585        1,929   

Benefits paid

     (2,185     (2,152

Actuarial gain

     (2,743     (2,684

Benefit obligation at end of year

   $ 30,943      $ 34,286   

Change in plan assets:

    

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

   $      $   

Employer contributions

     2,185        2,152   

Benefits paid

     (2,185     (2,152

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

   $      $   

Amounts recognized in the balance sheet:

    

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

   $ (2,735   $ (3,247

Postretirement and pension liabilities

     (28,208     (31,039

Funded status

   $ (30,943   $ (34,286

Weighted-average assumptions as of December 31:

    

Discount rate

     3.85     4.85

Current trend rate for health care costs

     7.50     7.70

Ultimate trend rate for health care costs

     4.50     4.50

Year that ultimate trend rate is reached

     2028        2028   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Activity and balances in accumulated other comprehensive income related to our postretirement health care and life insurance benefit plans are summarized below:

 

             2012                     2011          
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Prior service credit:

    

Balance at beginning of year

   $     1,260      $     1,661   

Amounts recognized as net periodic benefit costs

     (130     (401

Balance at end of year

   $ 1,130      $ 1,260   

Estimated amounts to be amortized in 2013

   $ 115     

The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 provides subsidies for certain drug costs to companies that provide coverage that is actuarially equivalent to the drug coverage under Medicare Part D. We estimate that future postretirement health care and life insurance benefit payments will be as follows:

 

     Before Medicare
Subsidy
     After Medicare
Subsidy
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

2013

   $ 2,735       $       2,429   

2014

     2,645         2,343   

2015

     2,561         2,263   

2016

     2,469         2,180   

2017

     2,378         2,100   

2018-2022

         10,370         9,182   

Other Retirement Plans

We also have defined contribution retirement plans covering certain employees. Our contributions are determined by the terms of the plans and are limited to amounts that are deductible for income taxes. Generally, benefits under these plans vest gradually over a period of five years from date of employment. The largest plan covers salaried and most hourly employees in the U.S. In this plan, the Company contributes a percentage of eligible employee basic compensation and also a percentage of employee contributions. For part of 2010, contributions as a percentage of employee contributions were suspended. The expense applicable to these plans was $7.6 million in 2012, $8.1 million in 2011, and $7.2 million in 2010.

 

11. Serial Convertible Preferred Stock

We are authorized to issue up to 2,000,000 shares of serial convertible preferred stock without par value. In 1989, Ferro issued 1,520,215 shares of 7% Series A ESOP Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series A Preferred Stock”) to the Trustee of the Ferro Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) at a price of $46.375 per share for a total consideration of $70.5 million. Subsequently, all shares of the Series A Preferred Stock were allocated to participating individual employee accounts, and most of the shares were redeemed or converted by the Trustee to provide for distributions to, loans to, or withdrawals by participants or to satisfy an investment election provided to participants. In the first quarter of 2011, we redeemed in cash all outstanding Series A Preferred Stock for $9.4 million plus earned but unpaid dividends. The number of shares redeemed was 203,282 in 2011. No shares were redeemed in 2010.

 

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12. Stock-based Compensation

In 2010, our shareholders approved the 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Plan”). The Plan’s purpose is to promote the Company’s and the shareholders’ long-term financial interests and growth by attracting, retaining and motivating high-quality executives and directors and aligning their interests with those of our shareholders. The Plan reserved 5,000,000 shares of common stock to be issued for grants of several different types of long-term incentives including stock options, stock appreciation rights, deferred stock units, restricted shares, performance shares, other common stock-based awards, and dividend equivalent rights. Unissued authorized shares or treasury stock may be issued under the Plan. Generally, Ferro has issued treasury stock to satisfy the common stock requirements of its long-term incentive plans.

Previous plans authorized various types of long-term incentives. No further grants may be made under these previous plans. However, any outstanding awards or grants made under these plans will continue until the end of their specified terms.

Stock options, performance share units, deferred stock units, and restricted share awards were the only grant types outstanding at December 31, 2012. Stock options and performance share units are discussed below. Activities in other grant types were not significant.

Stock Options

General Information

Stock options outstanding at December 31, 2012, have a term of 10 years, vest evenly over three or four years on the anniversary of the grant date, and have an exercise price equal to the per share fair market value of our common stock on the grant date. Accelerated vesting is used for options held by employees who meet both the age and years of service requirements to retire prior to the end of the vesting period. In the case of death, retirement or change in control, the stock options become 100% vested and exercisable.

Stock Option Valuation Model and Method Information

We estimate the fair value of each stock option on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. We use judgment in selecting assumptions for the model, which may significantly impact the timing and amount of compensation expense, and we base our judgments primarily on historical data. When appropriate, we adjust the historical data for circumstances that are not likely to occur in the future. We adjust the assumptions each year based upon new information.

The following table details the determination of the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of stock options:

 

Assumption

  

Estimation Method

Expected life, in years    Historical stock option exercise experience
Risk-free interest rate    Yield of U.S. Treasury Bonds with remaining maturity equal to expected life of the stock option
Expected volatility    Historical daily price observations of the Company’s common stock over a period equal to the expected life of the stock option
Expected dividend yield    Historical dividend rate at the date of grant

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

The following table details the weighted-average grant-date fair values and the assumptions used for estimating the fair values:

 

     2012     2011     2010  

Weighted-average grant-date fair value

     $4.68        $10.55        $5.64   

Expected life, in years

     6.0        6.9        7.2   

Risk-free interest rate

     1.20%—1.67     2.67%—3.07     1.94%—3.12

Expected volatility

     81.1%—83.9     71.9%—73.3     69.7%—71.6

Expected dividend yield

     0     0     0

Stock Option Activity Information

A summary of stock option activity follows:

 

     Number of
Options
    Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
     Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
     Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 
                  (In years)      (Dollars in
thousands)
 

Outstanding at December 31, 2011

     4,423,106      $     17.40         

Granted

     693,152        6.75         

Exercised

     (77,959     1.37         

Forfeited or expired

     (1,277,659     14.90                     

Outstanding at December 31, 2012

     3,760,640        16.62         4.6       $       505   

Exercisable at December 31, 2012

     2,922,004      $ 21.38         3.5       $ 348   

Vested or expected to vest at December 31, 2012

     3,681,460      $ 16.74         4.5       $ 502   

We calculated the aggregate intrinsic value in the table above by taking the total pretax difference between our common stock’s closing market value per share on the last trading day of the year and the stock option exercise price for each grant and multiplying that result by the number of shares that would have been received by the option holders had they exercised all their in-the-money stock options.

Information related to stock options exercised follows:

 

         2012              2011              2010      
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Proceeds from the exercise of stock options

   $         107       $         1,053       $ 137   

Intrinsic value of stock options exercised

     122         2,060                 1,169   

Income tax benefit related to stock options exercised

     43         721         409   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Stock-Based Compensation Expense Information

A summary of amounts recorded and to be recorded for stock-based compensation related to stock options follows:

 

         2012              2011              2010      
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Compensation expense recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses

   $         2,446       $         4,462       $         1,903   

Deferred income tax benefits related to compensation expense

     856         1,562         666   

Total fair value of stock options vested

     3,973         7,736         1,620   

Unrecognized compensation cost

     1,976         6,117         3,616   
Expected weighted-average recognition period for unrecognized compensation, in years      1.6         1.2         2.8   

Performance Share Units

General Information

Performance share units, expressed as shares of the Company’s common stock, are earned only if the Company meets specific performance targets over a three-year period. The grants have a duration of three years. No performance share units were granted in 2010 or 2011.

The Plan allows us to pay up to 200% of the vesting-date fair value. We pay half of the earned value in cash and half in unrestricted shares of common stock. The portions of the grants that will be paid in cash are treated as liabilities, and therefore, we remeasure our liability and the related compensation expense at the balance sheet date, based on fair value. We treat the portions of the grants that will be settled with common stock as equity awards, and therefore, the amount of stock-based compensation we record over the performance period is based on the fair value on the grant date. The compensation expense and number of shares expected to vest for all performance share units are adjusted for the achievement of the performance share units’ performance conditions, based upon our best estimate using available facts and circumstances.

Performance Share Unit Valuation Model and Method Information

We estimate the fair value of each performance share unit on the date of grant using assumptions underlying the Black-Scholes methodology to produce a Monte-Carlo simulation model. We use judgment in selecting assumptions for the model, which may significantly impact the timing and amount of compensation expense, and we base our judgments primarily on historical data. When appropriate, we adjust the historical data for circumstances that are not likely to occur in the future. We adjust the assumptions each year based upon new information.

The following table details the determination of the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of performance share units:

 

Assumption

  

Estimation Method

Expected life, in years    Performance period for the performance share units
Risk-free interest rate    Yield of U.S. Treasury Bonds with remaining maturity equal to expected life of the performance share units
Expected volatility    A blend of historical prices and implied volatility of the Company’s common stock over a period equal to the expected life of the performance share units

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

The following table details the weighted-average grant-date fair values and the assumptions used for estimating the fair values:

 

     2012  

Weighted-average grant-date fair value

   $         10.22   

Expected life, in years

     3.0   

Risk-free interest rate

     0.41

Expected volatility

     78

Performance Share Unit Activity Information

A summary of performance share unit activity follows:

 

     Number of
Units
    Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
     Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 
           (In years)      (Dollars in
thousands)
 

Outstanding at December 31, 2011

            

Granted

     599,622        

Forfeited or expired

     (294,422                 

Outstanding at December 31, 2012

     305,200        2.0       $ 1,276   

Expected to vest at December 31, 2012

     305,200        2.0       $ 1,276   

Stock-Based Compensation Expense Information

A summary of amounts recorded and to be recorded for stock-based compensation related to performance share units follows:

 

     2012  
     (Dollars in
thousands)
 

Compensation expense recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses

   $ 611   

Deferred income tax benefits related to compensation expense

     214   

Unrecognized compensation cost

     1,584   

Expected weighted-average recognition period for unrecognized compensation, in years

     2.0   

Directors’ Deferred Compensation

Separate from the Plan, the Company has established the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-employee Directors, permitting its non-employee directors to voluntarily defer all or a portion of their compensation. The voluntarily deferred amounts are placed in individual accounts in a benefit trust known as a “rabbi trust” and invested in the Company’s common stock with dividends reinvested in additional shares. All disbursements from the trust are made in the Company’s common stock. The stock held in the rabbi trust is classified as treasury stock in shareholders’ equity and the deferred compensation obligation that is required to be settled in shares of Company’s common stock is classified as paid-in capital. The rabbi trust held 0.3 million shares, valued at $3.9 million, at December 31, 2012, and 0.3 million shares, valued at $3.8 million, at December 31, 2011.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

13. Restructuring and Cost Reduction Programs

Our restructuring and cost reduction programs were developed and initiated across a number of our segments with the objectives of leveraging our global scale, realigning and lowering our cost structure and optimizing capacity utilization. Through 2012, we have substantially completed all of our existing restructuring projects, except for the recently initiated Performance Coatings restructuring program, which is expected to be completed in 2013.

In 2012, 2011, and 2010, total charges resulting from these activities were $25.5 million, $9.0 million, and $67.8 million, respectively, of which zero, $0.3 million, and $4.1 million, respectively, were recorded in cost of sales as they relate primarily to accelerated depreciation of assets to be disposed. The remainder were reported as restructuring and impairment charges. Descriptions of these restructuring programs follow:

Performance Coatings Restructuring Program

In 2012, we developed and initiated restructuring programs related to our Performance Coatings business in Europe. As a result of these programs, the Company expects to eliminate positions within the Performance Coatings sales, technical service, product development, manufacturing, supply chain and general administration organizations throughout Europe. The programs are subject to required consultations with employee representatives at the affected sites and other local legal requirements.

European Manufacturing Restructuring Program

In July 2006, we announced a multi-year, multi-phase program to restructure our Performance Coatings, Color and Glass Performance Materials, and Specialty Plastics segments in Europe. Major activities are listed below:

Color and Glass Performance Materials:

 

   

Manufacturing facilities in Casiglie, Italy, and Castanheira do Ribatejo, Portugal, were closed. Manufacturing capacity was transferred to Almazora, Spain, and Aveiro, Portugal.

 

   

Manufacturing facility in Limoges, France, was closed, and the site was sold in 2012.

 

   

Manufacturing facility in Burslem, United Kingdom, was partially closed, and production was transferred to Frankfurt, Germany, and Almazora, Spain.

Performance Coatings:

 

   

Porcelain Enamel manufacturing facility in Rotterdam, Netherlands, was closed.

 

   

Tile Coating Systems manufacturing facilities in Casiglie, Italy; Castanheira do Ribatejo, Portugal; and Nules, Spain, were closed. Manufacturing capacity was transferred to Almazora, Spain, and Aveiro, Portugal.

Specialty Plastics:

 

   

Manufacturing facilities in Castanheira do Ribatejo, Portugal, and Rotterdam, Netherlands, were closed. The Rotterdam site was sold. Manufacturing capacity was transferred to Almazora, Spain.

Electronic Materials Restructuring Program

In 2010, we announced the closure of the Uden, Netherlands, facility due to excess capacity for production of dielectric and industrial ceramic products. Major activities are listed below:

 

   

Manufacturing facility in Uden, Netherlands, was closed, and the site was sold in 2012.

 

   

Certain production from Uden, Netherlands, was transferred to Penn Yan, New York, and St. Dizier, France.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Other Restructuring Programs

Since 2008, we have initiated a number of restructuring activities as part of a series of actions to respond to economic and market conditions. These activities reduced our fixed cost structures in manufacturing facilities in the U.S. and in our Latin America and Asia-Pacific regions and affected the Color and Glass Performance Materials, Performance Coatings, Specialty Plastics, and Polymer Additives segments, as well as corporate functions. Major activities are listed below:

 

   

Color and Glass Performance Materials and Performance Coatings manufacturing facilities in Moorabbin and Geelong, Australia, were closed. The Moorabbin facility in Australia was sold.

 

   

Color and Glass Performance Materials manufacturing facility in Toccoa, Georgia, was closed, and the site was sold in 2012.

 

   

Color and Glass Performance Materials manufacturing facility in Vienna, Austria, was closed. Manufacturing capacity was transferred to Colditz, Germany.

 

   

Selling, general, and administration costs were reduced through position eliminations.

We have summarized the charges associated with these restructuring programs by major type of charges below:

 

     Employee
Severance
    Other Costs     Asset
Impairment
     Total  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Expected restructuring charges:

         

European manufacturing restructuring

   $     58,401      $     12,333      $     39,827       $     110,561   

Electronic Materials restructuring

     8,342        6,011        2,318         16,671   

Performance Coatings restructuring

     5,701                       5,701   

Other restructuring programs

     10,763        6,637        95         17,495   

Total expected restructuring charges

   $ 83,207      $ 24,981      $ 42,240       $ 150,428   

Restructuring charges incurred:

         

European manufacturing restructuring

   $ 27,662      $ 13,696      $ 5,582       $ 46,940   

Electronic Materials restructuring

     7,460        2,241        4,572         14,273   

Other restructuring programs

     (164     188        2,495         2,519   

Charges incurred in 2010

   $ 34,958      $ 16,125      $ 12,649       $ 63,732   

European manufacturing restructuring

   $ 3,222      $ 3,317      $ 2,352       $ 8,891   

Electronic Materials restructuring

            (1     1,439         1,438   

Other restructuring programs

            (1,640     18         (1,622

Charges incurred in 2011

   $ 3,222      $ 1,676      $ 3,809       $ 8,707   

European manufacturing restructuring

   $ 272      $ 101      $ 14,294       $ 14,667   

Performance Coatings restructuring

     5,701                       5,701   

Other restructuring programs

     1,252        3,214        619         5,085   

Charges incurred in 2012

   $ 7,225      $ 3,315      $ 14,913       $ 25,453   

Cumulative restructuring charges incurred:

         

European manufacturing restructuring

   $ 58,401      $ 12,333      $ 39,827       $ 110,561   

Electronic Materials restructuring

     8,342        6,011        2,318         16,671   

Performance Coatings restructuring

     5,701                       5,701   

Other restructuring programs

     10,763        6,637        95         17,495   

Cumulative restructuring charges incurred as of December 31, 2012

   $ 83,207      $ 24,981      $ 42,240       $ 150,428   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

We have summarized the charges associated with the restructuring programs by segments below:

 

     Total
Expected
Charges
     2012      2011      2010      Cumulative
Charges To
Date
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Electronic Materials

   $ 20,504       $ 3,833       $ 1,438       $ 14,273       $ 20,504   

Performance Coatings

     54,836         16,481         715         3,464         54,836   

Color and Glass Performance Materials

     51,820         1,139         5,071         31,910         51,820   

Polymer Additives

     1,236                 8                 1,236   

Specialty Plastics

     18,032                 1,475         14,085         18,032   

Pharmaceuticals

                                       

Segment Total

     146,428         21,453         8,707         63,732         146,428   

Corporate Restructuring Charges

     4,000         4,000                         4,000   

Total Restructuring Charges

   $     150,428       $     25,453       $     8,707       $     63,732       $     150,428   

We have summarized the activities and accruals related to our restructuring and cost reduction programs below:

 

     Employee
Severance
    Other
Costs
    Asset
Impairment
    Total  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Balance at December 31, 2009

   $       3,081      $      1,518      $       —      $      4,599   

Restructuring charges

     34,958        16,125        12,649        63,732   

Cash payments

     (36,132     (8,109            (44,241

Non-cash items

     522        (3,671     (12,649     (15,798

Balance at December 31, 2010

     2,429        5,863               8,292   

Restructuring charges

     3,222        1,676        3,809        8,707   

Cash payments

     (5,461     (3,983            (9,444

Non-cash items

     28        (137     (3,809     (3,918

Balance at December 31, 2011

     218        3,419               3,637   

Restructuring charges

     7,225        3,315        14,913        25,453   

Cash payments

     (3,423     (811            (4,234

Non-cash items

     73        216        (14,913     (14,624

Balance at December 31, 2012

   $ 4,093      $ 6,139      $      $ 10,232   

In 2012, we reevaluated in accordance with ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment, certain property, plant, and equipment that was already classified as assets held for sale. As a result, assets held for sale with a carrying value of $19.8 million were written down to their fair value of $4.9 million, and the impairment charge of $14.9 million is included in restructuring and impairment charges in our statements of operations. We estimated the fair value of these assets based on third-party appraisals. During 2012, we sold our Toccoa, Georgia, facility; our Uden, Netherlands, facility; and our Limoges, France, facility. At December 31, 2012, total assets held for sale were $3.1 million and are classified as other non-current assets due to the nature of the

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

underlying assets, although we expect to sell these assets within the next twelve months. The assets include land and buildings at our Casiglie, Italy, facility; our Nules, Spain, facility; and our Rotterdam, Netherlands, facility. The impairment charges by segment were $10.9 million in Performance Coatings, $3.4 million in Electronic Materials and $0.6 million in Color and Glass Performance Materials.

Other costs in the 2012 restructuring charges include $3.2 million related to lease termination costs for the corporate plane.

In 2011, we recorded asset impairments of $3.8 million related to assets held for sale. Our review of certain idled assets in the Netherlands and France indicated that the carrying values were in excess of the respective fair values, less cost to sell, due to ongoing poor local economic conditions. We estimated the fair value of the Netherlands assets based on third-party appraisals and the fair value of the France assets using discounted cash flow models. The impairment charges by segment were $2.4 million in Color and Glass Performance Materials and $1.4 million in Electronic Materials.

 

                    Fair Value Measurements Using               Total Gains
(Losses)
 

Description

   Fair Value      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3     
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Assets held for sale:

              

2012

   $     3,000       $     —       $     —       $     3,000       $     (14,913

2011

     6,303                         6,303         (3,809

In 2010, we shut down manufacturing activities and closed a number of facilities as a result of restructuring programs. The restructuring actions and plant closures indicated a possible impairment of these facilities’ property, plant, and equipment. We estimated the fair value of these assets based on third-party appraisals (a Level 3 measurement within the fair value hierarchy) and recorded impairments of $12.6 million in restructuring and impairment charges, of which $7.3 million related to our Color and Glass Performance Materials segment, $4.5 million related to our Electronic Materials segment, and $0.8 million related to our Performance Coatings segment.

Other costs in the 2010 restructuring charges include a pension settlement loss of $12.2 million related to Rotterdam, Netherlands.

We expect to make cash payments to settle the remaining liability for employee termination benefits and other costs primarily over the next twelve months, except where legal or contractual restrictions prevent us from doing so.

 

14. Leases

Rent expense for all operating leases was $23.1 million in 2012, $21.2 million in 2011, and $20.7 million in 2010. Amortization of assets recorded under capital leases is recorded as depreciation expense.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

The Company has a number of capital lease arrangements relating primarily to buildings and production equipment. Assets held under capital leases and included in property, plant and equipment at December 31st follow:

 

     2012     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Gross amounts capitalized:

    

Buildings

   $         3,100      $         3,100   

Equipment

     8,987        8,906   
     12,087        12,006   

Accumulated amortization:

    

Buildings

     (3,100     (1,899

Equipment

     (5,245     (5,586
       (8,345     (7,485

Net assets under capital leases

   $ 3,742      $ 4,521   

At December 31, 2012, future minimum lease payments under all non-cancelable leases follow:

 

     Capital Leases      Operating Leases  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

2013

   $         1,209       $         13,463   

2014

     1,173         10,521   

2015

     1,110         8,303   

2016

     797         5,700   

2017

     797         4,694   

Thereafter

     3,943         21,745   

Total minimum lease payments

     9,029       $ 64,426   

Less amount representing executory costs

     10      

Net minimum lease payments

     9,019      

Less amount representing imputed interest

     2,586      

Present value of net minimum lease payments

     6,433      

Less current portion

     762      

Long-term obligations at December 31, 2012

   $ 5,671      

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

15. Miscellaneous Expense, Net

Components of miscellaneous expense (income), net follow:

 

     2012      2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Loss for Brazil environmental contingency

   $       $       $ 9,160   

Loss on settlement of interest rate swaps

                     6,849   

Gain from Heraeus business combination

                     (8,255

Gain on sale of business

                     (1,247

Other, net

     3,080         2,492         (693

Total miscellaneous expense, net

   $     3,080       $     2,492       $     5,814   

In 2010, Ferro Corporation and W.C. Heraeus GmbH (“Heraeus GmbH”) acquired from each other certain business lines related to decoration materials for ceramic and glass products. We acquired Heraeus GmbH’s ceramic color business, which advanced our position in the ceramic colors industry, while Heraeus GmbH acquired assets related to our business operations in precious metal preparations and lustres for the decoration of glass, ceramics, porcelain, and tile. Ferro recognized a pre-tax gain of $8.3 million consisting of a $5.6 million gain from remeasuring to fair value the assets transferred to Heraeus GmbH and a $6.1 million bargain purchase gain from the fair value of the net assets acquired exceeding the fair value of the consideration transferred, less a $3.4 million write-off of related goodwill.

 

16. Earnings (Loss) per Share

Details of the calculations of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share follow:

 

             2012                     2011                      2010          
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Basic earnings (loss) per share computation:

       

Net income (loss) attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders

   $ (374,268   $ 4,239       $ 13,166   

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

     86,288        86,119         85,823   

Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders

   $ (4.34   $ 0.05       $ 0.15   

Diluted earnings (loss) per share computation:

       

Net income (loss) attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders

   $ (374,268   $ 4,239       $ 13,166   

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

     86,288        86,119         85,823   

Assumed exercise of stock options

            225         319   

Assumed satisfaction of deferred stock unit conditions

            44         74   

Assumed satisfaction of restricted share conditions

            390         323   

Assumed conversion of convertible notes

                      

Weighted-average diluted shares outstanding

     86,288        86,778         86,539   

Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Ferro Corporation common shareholders

   $ (4.34   $ 0.05       $ 0.15   

The number of anti-dilutive or unearned shares, including shares related to contingently convertible debt, was 6.4 million, 5.2 million, and 6.8 million common shares for 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

17. Reporting for Segments

The Company has six reportable segments: Performance Coatings, Electronic Materials, Color and Glass Performance Materials, Polymer Additives, Specialty Plastics, and Pharmaceuticals. We have aggregated our Tile Coating Systems and Porcelain Enamel operating segments into one reportable segment, Performance Coatings, and aggregated our Glass Systems and Performance Pigments and Colors operating segments into one reportable segment, Color and Glass Performance Materials, based on their similar economic and operating characteristics.

Net sales to external customers by segment are presented in the table below. Sales between segments were not material.

 

     2012      2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Electronic Materials

   $ 293,840       $ 622,977       $ 675,401   

Performance Coatings

     587,698         602,566         555,023   

Color and Glass Performance Materials

     371,723         396,317         382,155   

Polymer Additives

     320,635         336,965         302,352   

Specialty Plastics

     170,717         172,028         163,058   

Pharmaceuticals

     24,018         24,939         23,876   

Total net sales

   $ 1,768,631       $ 2,155,792       $ 2,101,865   

We measure segment income (loss) for internal reporting purposes by excluding unallocated corporate expenses, restructuring and impairment charges, other expenses (income) and income taxes. During the first quarter of 2012, we refined the allocation of certain corporate expenses to the Company’s reportable segments, which aligns segment reporting to the current manner in which performance is evaluated, strategic decisions are made and resources are allocated. Unallocated corporate expenses consist primarily of executive employment costs, legacy pension and other benefit costs, certain professional fees, and costs associated with our global headquarters facility.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Each segment’s income (loss) and reconciliations to (loss) income before income taxes follow. For 2011 and 2010, each segment’s income (loss) has been adjusted for the effects of applying retrospectively the refined allocations, with the offset in unallocated corporate expenses. For these periods, unallocated corporate expenses also have been adjusted for the effects of applying retrospectively the change in accounting principle as described in Note 2, Recent Accounting Pronouncements and Change in Accounting Principle.

 

           2011      2010  
     2012     As
adjusted
     Adjustments     As
originally
reported
     As
adjusted
     Adjustments     As
originally
reported
 
           (Dollars in thousands)        

Electronic Materials

   $ (16,122   $ 68,024       $ (6,845   $ 74,869       $ 132,009       $ (576   $ 132,585   

Performance Coatings

     26,306        34,033         (3,955     37,988         31,403         (8,013     39,416   
Color and Glass Performance Materials      26,115        29,672         (2,655     32,327         26,032         (5,482     31,514   

Polymer Additives

     12,711        15,784         563        15,221         16,027         (2,360     18,387   

Specialty Plastics

     14,057        9,428         (93     9,521         13,413         2,065        11,348   

Pharmaceuticals

     2,409        3,744         694        3,050         4,699         3,885        814   

Total segment income

     65,476        160,685         (12,291     172,976         223,583         (10,481     234,064   
Unallocated corporate expenses      70,272        83,764         29,173        54,591         45,119         (24,016     69,135   
Restructuring and impairment charges      225,819        17,030                17,030         63,732                63,732   

Other expense, net

     32,934        35,419                35,419         77,456                77,456   

(Loss) income before income taxes

   $ (263,549   $ 24,472       $ (41,464   $ 65,936       $ 37,276       $ 13,535      $ 23,741   

The following table details depreciation and amortization expense by segment:

 

     2012      2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Electronic Materials

   $ 7,009       $ 10,092       $ 11,586   

Performance Coatings

     18,761         17,415         17,004   

Color and Glass Performance Materials

     4,053         6,088         7,012   

Polymer Additives

     10,979         10,999         10,776   

Specialty Plastics

     1,858         2,014         2,369   

Pharmaceuticals

     2,036         2,039         2,073   

Total segment depreciation and amortization

     44,696         48,647         50,820   

Unallocated depreciation and amortization

     12,688         14,846         26,116   

Total depreciation and amortization

   $         57,384       $         63,493       $         76,936   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Segment assets primarily consist of trade accounts receivable; inventories; property, plant and equipment; and intangible assets. Unallocated assets primarily include cash and cash equivalents, other receivables, corporate property, plant and equipment, other non-current assets, and deferred income taxes. Total assets at December 31st by segment are detailed below:

 

     2012      2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Electronic Materials

   $ 86,388       $ 320,071   

Performance Coatings

     366,068         366,329   

Color and Glass Performance Materials

     257,722         254,813   

Polymer Additives

     110,865         127,280   

Specialty Plastics

     48,327         48,372   

Pharmaceuticals

     25,441         28,294   

Total segment assets

     894,811         1,145,159   

Unallocated assets

     184,292         295,492   

Total assets

   $     1,079,103       $     1,440,651   

Each segment’s expenditures for long-lived assets, including acquisitions, are detailed below:

 

     2012      2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Electronic Materials

   $ 10,154       $ 15,887       $ 9,308   

Performance Coatings

     14,237         24,115         19,748   

Color and Glass Performance Materials

     15,906         11,873         19,472   

Polymer Additives

     6,310         8,703         5,404   

Specialty Plastics

     546         1,235         968   

Pharmaceuticals

     383         870         860   

Total segment expenditures for long-lived assets

     47,536         62,683         55,760   

Unallocated corporate expenditures for long-lived assets

     11,149         10,030         1,905   

Total expenditures for long-lived assets

   $           58,685       $           72,713       $           57,665   

We sell our products throughout the world and we attribute sales to countries based on the country where we generate the customer invoice. No single country other than the U.S. and Spain represents greater than 10% of our net sales. We have detailed net sales by geographic region in the table below:

 

     2012      2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

United States

   $ 764,596       $ 1,022,120       $ 1,039,457   

Spain

     258,210         340,588         319,711   

Other international

     745,825         793,084         742,697   

Total net sales

   $ 1,768,631       $ 2,155,792       $ 2,101,865   

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

None of our operations in countries other than the U.S. and Spain owns greater than 10% of consolidated long-lived assets. We have detailed long-lived assets that consist of property, plant and equipment, goodwill, and amortizable intangible assets by geographic region at December 31st in the table below:

 

     2012      2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

United States

   $ 169,951       $ 378,884   

Spain

     70,707         84,789   

Other international

     161,447         142,320   

Total long-lived assets

   $         402,105       $         605,993   

 

18. Unconsolidated Affiliates Accounted For Under the Equity Method

We participate in several joint ventures that are located in Spain, Italy, South Korea, and Thailand through investments in the common stock of affiliated companies. At December 31, 2012, our percentage of ownership interest in these affiliates ranged from 36% to 50%. Because we exert significant influence over these affiliates, but we do not control them, our investments have been accounted for under the equity method. Investment income from these equity-method investments, which is reported in miscellaneous expense (income), net was $0.9 million in 2012, $3.0 million in 2011, and $1.1 million in 2010. The balance of our equity-method investments, which is reported in other non-current assets, was $18.0 million at December 31, 2012, and $17.5 million at December 31, 2011.

The income that we record for these investments is equal to our proportionate share of the affiliates’ income and our investments are equal to our proportionate share of the affiliates’ shareholders’ equity based on our ownership percentage. We have summarized below condensed income statement and balance sheet information for the combined equity method investees:

 

     2012      2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Net sales

   $         91,545       $         104,377       $         75,582   

Gross profit

     21,328         26,206         19,277   

Income from continuing operations

     3,510         7,735         3,429   

Net income

     2,388         5,644         2,774   

 

     2012     2011  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Current assets

   $         57,962      $         59,185   

Non-current assets

     26,483        26,697   

Current liabilities

     (19,027     (21,759

Non-current liabilities

     (554     (948

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

We had the following transactions with our equity-method investees:

 

     2012      2011      2010  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Sales

   $         4,630       $         8,893       $         8,928   

Purchases

     8,093         9,655         5,048   

Dividends and interest received

     1,324         1,162         636   

Commissions and royalties received

     436         402         173   

Commissions and royalties paid

     77         77         88   

 

19. Quarterly Data (Unaudited)

 

    Net Sales     Gross Profit     Net Income
(Loss)
    Net Income
(Loss)
Attributable
to Ferro
Corporation
    Earnings (Loss) Attributable to
Ferro Corporation Common
Shareholders Per Common
Share
 
                    Basic                     Diluted          
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)  

2011

           

Quarter 1 as originally reported

  $ 573,009      $ 120,326      $ 23,191      $ 22,890      $ 0.26      $ 0.26   

Effect of accounting change

                  2,043        2,043        0.03        0.02   

Quarter 1 as adjusted

    573,009        120,326        25,234        24,933        0.29        0.28   

Quarter 2 as originally reported

    593,974        114,347        19,621        19,389        0.23        0.22   

Effect of accounting change

                  1,736        1,736        0.02        0.02   

Quarter 2 as adjusted

    593,974        114,347        21,357        21,125        0.25        0.24   

Quarter 3

    546,114        103,810        19,348        19,308        0.22        0.22   

Quarter 4

    442,695        73,749        (60,805     (60,962     (0.71     (0.71

Total

  $ 2,155,792      $ 412,232      $ 5,134      $ 4,404      $ 0.05      $ 0.05   

2012

           

Quarter 1 as originally reported

  $ 466,390      $ 88,323      $ 1,414      $ 1,290      $ 0.01      $ 0.01   

Effect of accounting change

                  2,556        2,556        0.03        0.03   

Quarter 1 as adjusted

    466,390        88,323        3,970        3,846        0.04        0.04   

Quarter 2 as originally reported

    481,505        87,845        (2,518     (2,848     (0.03     (0.03

Effect of accounting change

                  4,724        4,724        0.05        0.05   

Quarter 2 as adjusted

    481,505        87,845        2,206        1,876        0.02        0.02   

Quarter 3

    414,840        62,339        (315,738     (316,114     (3.66     (3.66

Quarter 4

    405,896        59,355        (63,472     (63,876     (0.74     (0.74

Total

  $   1,768,631      $   297,862      $   (373,034   $   (374,268   $   (4.34   $   (4.34

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 — (Continued)

 

Quarterly data for the first two quarters of 2011 and 2012 have been adjusted for the effects of applying retrospectively the change in accounting principle as described in Note 2, Recent Accounting Pronouncements and Change in Accounting Principle. Quarterly earnings per share amounts do not always add to the full-year amounts due to the averaging of shares.

Pre-tax restructuring and impairment charges in 2011 were $1.6 million in the first quarter, $1.5 million in the second quarter, $0.9 million in the third quarter and $13.0 million in the fourth quarter. Pre-tax restructuring and impairment charges in 2012 were $0.3 million in the first quarter, $4.7 million in the second quarter, $198.8 million in the third quarter, and $22.0 million in the fourth quarter. Mark-to-market actuarial net losses were $51.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2011 and $26.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2012.

 

20. Subsequent Event

On February 6, 2013, we sold assets related to our solar pastes business to Heraeus Precious Metals North America Conshocken LLC (“Heraeus LLC”). The assets sold included, among other things, certain machinery and equipment, certain open orders, raw materials and silver paste required for purchased open orders, and intellectual property. The cash consideration for the assets sold was $10.9 million. The gain from the sale is estimated to be approximately $10 million. In addition, Heraeus LLC provided approximately $12 million of precious metals, which was used to reduce amounts outstanding under our precious metal consignment arrangements. As part of the sale, certain Ferro employees are expected to transfer to Heraeus LLC.

 

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Item 9 —  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A —  Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Ferro is committed to maintaining disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in its Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to its management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

The Company’s management, under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e), as of December 31, 2012. Based on that evaluation, management concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2012.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). The Company’s internal control system is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the Company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the Company’s board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”).

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of assets; provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with the authorization of its management and directors; and provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012. In making this assessment, the Company used the control criteria framework of the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission published in its report entitled Internal Control — Integrated Framework . Management concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2012.

Deloitte & Touche LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements, has issued an attestation report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, which is included below.

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Ferro Corporation

Cleveland, Ohio

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Ferro Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

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

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 of the Company and our report dated March 5, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule and includes an explanatory paragraph regarding the Company’s election to change their method of recognizing defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit expense.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Cleveland, Ohio

March 5, 2013

 

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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting and Other Remediation

During the fourth quarter of 2012, there were no changes in our internal controls or in other factors that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

Item 9B —  Other Information

None.

 

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PART III

Item 10 —  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

The information on Ferro’s directors is contained under the heading “Election of Directors” of the Proxy Statement for Ferro Corporation’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated here by reference. The information about the Audit Committee and the Audit Committee financial expert is contained under the heading “Corporate Governance — Board Committees — Audit Committee” of the Proxy Statement for Ferro Corporation’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated here by reference. Information on Ferro’s executive officers is contained under the heading “Executive Officers of the Registrant” in Part 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Section 16(a) filing information is contained under the heading “Shareholdings — Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” of the Proxy Statement for Ferro Corporation’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated here by reference.

Ferro has adopted a series of policies dealing with business and ethics. These policies apply to all Ferro Directors, officers and employees. A summary of these policies may be found on Ferro’s Web site and the full text of the policies is available in print, free of charge, by writing to: General Counsel, Ferro Corporation, 6060 Parkland Blvd., Mayfield Heights, Ohio, 44124, USA. Exceptions, waivers and amendments of those policies may be made, if at all, only by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, and, in the event any such exceptions, waivers or amendments are granted, a description of the change or event will be posted on Ferro’s Web site ( www.ferro.com ) within four business days. Ferro maintains a worldwide hotline that allows employees throughout the world to report confidentially any detected violations of these legal and ethical conduct policies consistent with local legal requirements and subject to local legal limitations.

Item 11 —  Executive Compensation

The information on executive compensation is contained under the headings “Executive Compensation Discussion & Analysis” and “2012 Executive Compensation” of the Proxy Statement for Ferro Corporation’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated here by reference.

Item 12 —  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

The information on security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management is contained under the headings “Shareholdings — Stock Ownership by Other Major Shareholders” and “Shareholdings — Stock Ownership by Director, Executive Officers and Employees” of the Proxy Statement for Ferro Corporation’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated here by reference.

The numbers of shares issued and available for issuance under Ferro’s equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2012, were as follows:

 

Equity Compensation Plan

   Number of Shares to Be
Issued on Exercise of
Outstanding Options,
and Other Awards
    Weighted-Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding
Options, and
Other Awards
    Number of  Shares
Remaining Available for
Future Issuance Under
Equity Compensation
Plans(1)
 

Approved by Ferro Shareholders

     4,663,362  shares (2)    $ 13.40        2,856,014  shares (3) 

Not Approved by Ferro Shareholders

     98,760 shares               0  shares   

Total

     4,762,122  shares      $ 13.40 (4)      2,856,014  shares   

 

  (1) Excludes shares listed in the second column.
  (2) Includes options and other awards issued under the Company’s 2010 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan and prior equity compensation plans.

 

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  (3) Shares are only available under the 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan and may be issued as stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, performance shares, and other common stock-based awards.
  (4) Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options and other awards; excludes phantom units.

A description follows of the material features of each plan that was not approved by Ferro shareholders:

 

   

Executive Employee Deferred Compensation Plan . The Executive Employee Deferred Compensation Plan allows participants to defer up to 75% of annual base salary and up to 100% of incentive cash bonus awards and cash performance share payouts. Participants may elect to have all or a portion of their deferred compensation accounts deemed to be invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock and credited with hypothetical appreciation, depreciation, and dividends. When distributions are made from this Plan in respect of such shares, the distributions are made in actual shares of Ferro Common Stock.

 

   

Supplemental Executive Defined Contribution Plan . The Supplemental Executive Defined Contribution Plan allows participants to be credited annually with matching and basic pension contributions that they would have received under the Company’s 401(k) plan except for the applicable IRS limitations on compensation and contributions. Contributions vest at 20% for each year of service, are deemed invested in Ferro Common Stock and earn dividends. Distributions are made in Ferro Common Stock or in cash.

Item 13 —  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

There are no relationships or transactions that are required to be reported. The information about director independence is contained under the heading “Corporate Governance — Director Independence” of the Proxy Statement for Ferro Corporation’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated here by reference.

Item 14 —  Principal Accountant Fees and Services

The information contained under the heading “Other Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Information — Fees” of the Proxy Statement for Ferro Corporation’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is incorporated here by reference.

 

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PART IV

Item 15 —  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

 

  (a) The consolidated financial statements of Ferro Corporation and subsidiaries contained in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

 

   

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010;

 

   

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010;

 

   

Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2012 and 2011;

 

   

Consolidated Statements of Equity for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010;

 

   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010; and

 

   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

  (b) Schedule II — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, contained on page 108 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. All other schedules have been omitted because the material is not applicable or is not required as permitted by the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements.

 

  (c) The exhibits listed in the Exhibit Index beginning on page 109 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Annual Report on Form 10-K to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

FERRO CORPORATION

 

By   /s/    Peter T. Thomas
  Peter T. Thomas
  Interim President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 5, 2013

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Annual Report on Form 10-K has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in their indicated capacities as of the 5th day of March 2013.

 

/s/    Peter T. Thomas    

Interim President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

        Peter T. Thomas    
/s/    Jeffrey L. Rutherford    

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

        Jeffrey L. Rutherford    
/s/    Sandra Austin     Director
        Sandra Austin    
/s/    Richard C. Brown     Director
        Richard C. Brown    
/s/    Richard J. Hipple     Director
        Richard J. Hipple    
/s/    Jennie S. Hwang     Director
        Jennie S. Hwang    
/s/    Gregory E. Hyland     Director
        Gregory E. Hyland    
/s/    Peter T. Kong     Director
        Peter T. Kong    
/s/    William B. Lawrence     Acting Chairman
        William B. Lawrence    
/s/    Timothy K. Pistell     Director
        Timothy K. Pistell    
/s/    Ronald P. Vargo     Director
        Ronald P. Vargo    

 

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FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

SCHEDULE II — VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES

Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

 

     Balance at
Beginning of

Period
     Additions Charged
(Reductions Credited) to
     Deductions     Adjustment for
Differences in
Exchange Rates
    Balance at
End of
Period
 
        Costs and
Expenses
     Other
Accounts
        
     (Dollars in thousands)  
Allowance for Possible Losses on Collection of Accounts Receivable:                

Year ended December 31, 2012

   $ 10,443         5,217                 (1,487     195      $ 14,368   

Year ended December 31, 2011

   $ 11,156         2,349                 (2,782     (280   $ 10,443   

Year ended December 31, 2010

   $ 10,685         2,935                 (2,091     (373   $ 11,156   
Valuation Allowance on Net Deferred Tax Assets:                

Year ended December 31, 2012

   $ 37,060         182,722                        1,472      $ 221,254   

Year ended December 31, 2011

   $ 26,815         11,335                        (1,090   $ 37,060   

Year ended December 31, 2010

   $ 17,969         9,608                        (762   $ 26,815   

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

The following exhibits are filed with this report or are incorporated here by reference to a prior filing in accordance with Rule 12b-32 under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Exhibit:   
3    Articles of Incorporation and by-laws
3.1    Eleventh Amended Articles of Incorporation of Ferro Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Registration Statement on Form S-3, filed March 5, 2008).
3.2    Certificate of Amendment to the Eleventh Amended Articles of Incorporation of Ferro Corporation filed December 29, 1994 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Ferro Corporation’s Registration Statement on Form S-3, filed March 5, 2008).
3.3    Certificate of Amendment to the Eleventh Amended Articles of Incorporation of Ferro Corporation filed June 23, 1998 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Ferro Corporation’s Registration Statement on Form S-3, filed March 5, 2008).
3.4    Certificate of Amendment to the Eleventh Amended Articles of Incorporation of Ferro Corporation filed October 14, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 17, 2011).
3.5    Ferro Corporation Amended and Restated Code of Regulations (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed December 14, 2011).
4    Instruments defining rights of security holders, including indentures
4.1    Senior Indenture, dated as of March 5, 2008, by and between Ferro Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to Ferro Corporation’s Registration Statement on Form S-3, filed March 5, 2008).
4.2    First Supplemental Indenture, dated August 19, 2008, by and between Ferro Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (with Form of 6.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed August 19, 2008).
4.3    Form of Indenture, by and between Ferro Corporation and Wilmington Trust FSB (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Registration Statement on Form S-3ASR, filed July 27, 2010).
4.4    First Supplemental Indenture, dated August 24, 2010, by and between Ferro Corporation and Wilmington Trust FSB (with Form of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2018) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed August 24, 2010).
   The Company agrees, upon request, to furnish to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission a copy of any instrument authorizing long-term debt that does not authorize debt in excess of 10% of the total assets of the Company and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.
10    Material contracts
10.1    Second Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated June 15, 2012, by and among Ferro Corporation, certain of Ferro Corporation’s subsidiaries, PNC Bank, National Association, as the Administrative Agent and the collateral Agent, and various financial institutions as Lenders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 19, 2012).
10.2    First Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, Amended and Restated Pledge and Security Agreement and Amended and Restated Subsidiary Guaranty (Domestic) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2011).

 

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10.3    Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated August 24, 2010, by and among Ferro Corporation, PNC Bank, National Association, as the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and the Issuer, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Bank of America, N.A., as the Syndication Agents (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed August 24, 2010).
10.4    First Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated July 26, 2010, by and among Ferro Corporation, the several banks and other financial institutions or entities listed on the signature pages hereto as Lenders, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as Original Term Loan Administrative Agent, and PNC Bank, National Association, as New Term Loan Administrative Agent and as Revolving Loan Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed July 27, 2010).
10.5    Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated October 26, 2009, among Ferro Corporation and certain of its subsidiaries; various financial institutions; Credit Suisse, Cayman Islands Branch; PNC Bank, National Association; National City Bank; KeyBank National Association; and Citigroup Global Markets, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 27, 2009).
10.6    Amendment and Restatement and Resignation and Appointment Agreement, dated October 26, 2009, among Ferro Corporation; the several banks and other financial institutions or entities listed on the signature pages thereto; Credit Suisse, Cayman Islands Branch,; National City Bank; and PNC Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 27, 2009).
10.7    First Amendment to Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 31, 2011, between Ferro Corporation and Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 3, 2011).
10.8    Purchase Agreement, dated June 2, 2009, among Ferro Corporation, Ferro Color & Glass Corporation, and Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 3, 2009).
10.9    First Amendment to Purchase and Contribution Agreement, dated as of May 31, 2011, between Ferro Corporation and Ferro Finance Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 3, 2011).
10.10    Purchase and Contribution Agreement, dated June 2, 2009, between Ferro Corporation and Ferro Finance Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 3, 2009).
10.11    First Amendment to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 29, 2012, among Ferro Finance Corporation, Ferro Corporation, Market Street Funding, LLC, and PNC Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed May 31, 2012).
10.12    Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 31, 2011, among Ferro Finance Corporation, Ferro Corporation, Market Street Funding, LLC, and PNC Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 3, 2011).
10.13    Ferro Corporation Employee Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011).*
10.14    Ferro Corporation 2003 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).*
10.15    Form of Terms of Incentive Stock Option Award Grants under the Ferro Corporation 2003 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).*

 

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10.16    Form of Terms of Performance Share Awards under the Ferro Corporation 2003 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).*
10.17    Ferro Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011).*
10.18    Form of Terms of Incentive Stock Option Award Grants under the Ferro Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).*
10.19    Form of Terms of Nonstatutory Stock Option Grants under the Ferro Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).*
10.20    Form of Terms of Performance Share Awards under the Ferro Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).*
10.21    Form of Terms of Restricted Share Awards under the Ferro Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).*
10.22    Form of Terms of Deferred Stock Unit Awards under the Ferro Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).*
10.23    Ferro Corporation 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed May 6, 2010).*
10.24    Form of Terms of Nonstatutory Stock Option Grants under the Ferro Corporation 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012).*
10.25    Form of Terms of Performance Share Unit Awards under the Ferro Corporation 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Ferro Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012).*
10.26    Form of Terms of Restricted Share Unit Awards under the Ferro Corporation 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Ferro Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012).*
10.27    Amendment to the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009).*
10.28    Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees.*
10.29    Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors.*
10.30    Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors Trust Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011).*
10.31    Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Benefit Plan for Executive Employees.*
10.32    Amendment to the Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan for Executive Employees (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009).*
10.33    Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan for Executive Employees.*
10.34    Form of Indemnification Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 27, 2012).*

 

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10.35    Form of Change in Control Agreement, dated January 1, 2009 (Mark H. Duesenberg, Ann E. Killian, Jeffrey L. Rutherford, and Peter T. Thomas have entered into this form of change in control agreement.) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed January 7, 2009).*
10.36    Terms of Forfeited Bonus Reimbursement for Mr. Jeffrey L. Rutherford (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Ferro Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012).*
10.37    Ferro Corporation Executive Separation Policy (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 28, 2010).*
10.38    Separation and Release Agreement, dated as of July 14, 2010, between Sallie B. Bailey and Ferro Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed July 20, 2010).*
10.39    Separation and Release Agreement, dated as of October 16, 2012, between Michael J. Murry and Ferro Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Ferro Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 19, 2012).*
10.40    Separation and Release Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2012, between James F. Kirsch and Ferro Corporation.*
10.41    Letter Agreement, dated November 12, 2012, between Peter T. Thomas and Ferro Corporation.*
10.42    Letter Agreement, dated November 12, 2012, between Jeffry L. Rutherford and Ferro Corporation.*
10.43    Annual Incentive Plan (AIP) Summary Document (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 to Ferro Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010).*
12    Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Ratio of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividends.
21    List of Subsidiaries.
23.1    Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
31.1    Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a).
31.2    Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a).
32.1    Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350.
32.2    Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350.
101    XBRL Documents:
101.INS    XBRL Instance Document.**
101.SCH    XBRL Schema Document.**
101.CAL    XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document.**

 

112


Table of Contents
101.LAB    XBRL Labels Linkbase Document.**
101.PRE    XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document.**
101.DEF    XBRL Definition Linkbase Document.**

 

* Indicates management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement in which one or more Directors and/or executives of Ferro Corporation may be participants.

 

** In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the XBRL related information in Exhibit 101 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, and shall not be part of any registration statement or other document filed under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.

 

113

EXHIBIT 10.28

 

 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Amended and Restated

As of January 1, 2005


F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

I NTRODUCTION

This document (this “Plan”) is the F ERRO C ORPORATION D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES . This Plan was originally adopted and effective as of January 1, 1998, and was most recently amended and restated effective June 30, 2004.

This Plan is now amended and restated generally effective January 1, 2005, for the purpose of complying with new Code Section 409A. Code Section 409A permits deferred compensation which is earned and vested in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2005 to be exempt from Code Section 409A if the plan under which the deferral is made is not materially modified after October 3, 2004.

Ferro elects and intends to exempt from Code Section 409A the deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004. Consistent with this election, the Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2005, is comprised of two parts:

 

   

Part A , which contains the terms of the Plan as in effect on October 4, 2004 which govern deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004 (the “ Pre-2005 Plan ”), and

 

   

Part B , which contains the terms of the Plan which govern deferred compensation which was earned and vested after December 31, 2004 (the “ 2005 Plan ”).


T ABLE OF C ONTENTS

 

             Page  
Part A:  

Pre-2005 Plan

     A-1   
Part B:  

2005 Plan

     B-1   
Execution Page      C-1   


F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

F OR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

P ART A: P RE -2005 P LAN

O VERVIEW

E STABLISHMENT OF C OMPONENT P LAN

The terms of the Plan as it existed on October 4, 2004, and which have not been materially modified thereafter, constitute the Pre-2005 Plan (the “Pre-2005 Plan”).

The Pre-2005 Plan is reproduced, as of January 1, 2005, in this Part A. It consists of the Plan as it was amended and restated effective June 30, 2004. It has not been modified or amended after that date.

E XEMPT FROM C ODE S ECTION 409A

Deferred compensation which is earned and vested in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2005 is permitted to be exempt from Code Section 409A if the plan under which the deferral is made is not materially modified after October 3, 2004.

Ferro elects and intends to exempt from Code Section 409A the deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004, pursuant to the terms of the Pre-2005 Plan.

G OVERNS O NLY P RE -2005 A MOUNTS

The Pre-2005 Plan governs only those amounts that were earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004 (the “Pre-2005 Amounts”).

Amounts under the Plan are fully vested at all times and deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock, or in Treasury instruments yielding a rate of interest equal to three hundred (300) basis points over the Ten-Year Constant Treasury Maturity Yield reported by the Federal Reserve Board, or a combination of both, as elected by the Participant. A Participant’s Pre-2005 Amounts equal the Participant’s account balance as of December 31, 2004 (i.e., the amount of the payment available if the Participant exercised a right to distribution from the Plan on December 31, 2004 plus any income attributable to that amount or to such income). Income includes increases after December 31, 2004 due to the interest earned on the portion invested in Treasury instruments, and the appreciation and accrual of other earnings, such as dividends, on the underlying Ferro Stock.

T ERMINOLOGY

As used in the Pre-2005 Plan, the term “Plan” refers to the Pre-2005 Plan or to the Plan, as appropriate.

 

A-1


 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Part A: Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated

June 30, 2004

 

A-2


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

P RE -2005 P LAN

I NTRODUCTION

This document (this “Plan”) is the F ERRO C ORPORATION D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES . This Plan was originally adopted and effective as of January 1, 1998. This Plan was later amended by the adoption of First, Second and Third Amendments.

This Plan is now amended and restated effective June 30, 2004, as follows.

ARTICLE I

NAME AND PURPOSE

 

1.1 Name . The name of this Plan is the “Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees.”

 

1.2 Plan Sponsor . The sponsor of this Plan is Ferro Corporation (“Ferro”), an Ohio corporation.

 

1.3 Purpose . The purpose of this Plan is to provide unfunded deferred compensation to certain management and highly compensated employees of the Ferro Group Companies under the conditions set forth in this Plan.

 

1.4 Plan for a Select Group . This Plan covers only employees of a Ferro Group Company who are members of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” as provided in Sections 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) and 4021(b)(6) of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered and its benefits limited in a manner to comply with the above cited sections of ERISA.

 

1.5 Not a Funded Plan . Ferro intends that this Plan be deemed to be “unfunded” for tax purposes as well as for purposes of Title I of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered in a manner so that it is deemed “unfunded.”

 

A-3


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION

 

2.1 Definitions . Appendix A sets forth the definitions of certain terms used in this Plan. Those terms shall have the meanings set forth on Appendix A where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters.

 

2.2 General Rules of Construction . For purposes of interpreting this Plan,

 

  (A) the masculine gender will include the feminine and neuter, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (B) the singular number will include the plural, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (C) the present tense of a verb will include the past and future tenses, and vice versa, as the context requires; and

 

  (D) as provided under Article VII, the Administrator will retain the power and duty to interpret this Plan and resolve ambiguities.

ARTICLE III

PARTICIPATION; DEFERRALS AND ACCOUNTS

 

3.1 Eligibility . In order to be eligible to participate in this Plan, an individual must –

 

  (A) be an Executive Employee of a Ferro Group Company, and

 

  (B) be selected by the Administrator to participate in this Plan for all or part of an Election Year.

 

3.2 Participation . Generally, an Eligible Employee may become a Participant and actively participate for an Election Year only by completing and filing a Deferred Compensation Agreement described in Section 3.3 below with his or her Ferro Group Company before January 1 of an Election Year. If, however, an employee first becomes an Eligible Employee after January 1 of an Election Year, then that employee may become a Participant and actively participate for a portion of the Election Year beginning on the first day of the month coincident with or immediately after the date the Eligible Employee completes and files a Deferred Compensation Agreement described in Section 3.3 below with his or her Ferro Group Company.

 

3.3 Deferral Elections . With respect to each Election Year, each Eligible Employee may elect, under his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement for such Election Year, to make one or more of the deferrals described below.

 

  (A) Salary Deferral : Deferral of any whole percentage of up to 75% of his or her Base Annual Salary for the Election Year which is payable each payroll period commencing on or after the Eligible Employee’s Entry Date.

 

A-4


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (B) Bonus Deferral : Deferral of any whole percentage up to 100% of the Bonus which is earned on or after his or her Entry Date in the Election Year.

 

  (C) Performance Share Award : Deferral of any whole percentage up to 100% of payments with respect to Performance Shares which are earned on or after the Eligible Employee’s Entry Date in the Election Year.

A Participant’s election to defer will be effective only for the Election Year(s) indicated in his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement. The amount of a Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus and Performance Share Award will be determined in accordance with the information contained in the payroll records of the Ferro Group Company.

 

3.4 Salary Reductions and Deferral Amounts .

 

  (A) A Participant’s election to defer pursuant to 3.3(A) above will cause an equivalent reduction in the Participant’s Base Annual Salary at the time the Base Annual Salary would otherwise be payable.

 

  (B) A Participant’s election to defer pursuant to 3.3(B) above will cause an equivalent reduction in the Participant’s Bonus at the time the Bonus would otherwise be payable.

 

  (C) A Participant’s election to defer in accordance with 3.3(C) above will cause an equivalent reduction in the payment in respect of the Participant’s Performance Shares at the time the Performance Share Award would otherwise be payable.

An amount equal to the reductions in a Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus and Performance Share Award pursuant to 3.1(A), 3.1(B) and 3.1(C) above will constitute an Elective Amount and will be credited to the Participant’s Elective Account at the time of the reductions.

 

3.5 Alteration of Deferrals . A Participant’s deferral election made pursuant to Section 3.3 will be irrevocable except that, if the Participant receives a distribution on account of a Financial Hardship, then the Administrator may, at its option, discontinue the Participant’s deferral election for the remainder of the current Election Year, and preclude the Participant from making any deferrals for all or part of the succeeding Election Year.

 

3.6 Establishment of Accounts . Each Ferro Group Company will establish an Account in the name of each Participant who is employed by it on the books and records of the Ferro Group Company. All amounts credited to the Account of any Participant or former Participant will constitute a general, unsecured liability of such Ferro Group Company to the Participant.

 

3.7 Allocation of Elective Amounts . At the time a Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award are reduced pursuant to Section 3.4, the Ferro Group Company employing the Participant will credit the Participant’s Account with the Participant’s Elective Amount with respect to such Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award.

 

A-5


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

3.8 Pre-1999 Elective Amounts . The Ferro Group Company will maintain separate Accounts for the Elective Amounts deferred by the Participant before 1999 and after 1998, to enable the Participant to elect for the deemed investment of the Elective Amounts as provided under Section 5.4 below.

 

3.9 Crediting of Earnings . The Ferro Group Company will credit the Account of each Participant who is or was its employee with earnings, gains and losses in accordance with the deemed investment of the Elective Amounts elected by the Participant under Section 5.4 below.

ARTICLE IV

BENEFITS; PAYMENT OF BENEFITS

 

4.1 Date of Distribution . Distribution of the amounts credited to the Participant’s Account will be made as soon as practicable after the earlier of:

 

  (A) the date elected by the Participant in his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement, or

 

  (B) the Participant’s death, Disability, or Termination of Employment before the Participant’s Retirement Date.

If the Participant has a Termination of Employment on or after the Participant’s Retirement Date, the amounts credited to the Account will be distributed as soon as practicable after the date elected by the Participant in the Deferred Compensation Agreement.

 

4.2 Distribution on Change in Control . If the Participant has elected in his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement to receive a distribution of the amounts credited to his or her Account if a Change in Control occurs, then if a Change in Control occurs, the Ferro Group Company will distribute to the Participant (or, in the event of the Participant’s death, the Participant’s Beneficiary) a lump sum payment of the amount credited to the Participant’s Account within thirty (30) days after the Change in Control. The amount credited to the Participant’s Account will be determined as of the end of the calendar month immediately preceding the month in which the Change in Control occurs, with such date being the Valuation Date for purposes of the distribution. The lump sum payment will be made in the form of cash as regards the portion of the Participant’s Account deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments, and in the form of Ferro Common Stock as regards the portion of the Participant’s Account deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock.

 

4.3 Hardship Distribution . At any time before payment in full of the amounts credited to a Participant’s Account, a Participant may submit a written request to the Administrator for the distribution of all or a portion of the Participant’s Account because of a Financial Hardship. In response, the Administrator has the authority to determine, in its sole discretion, that payments should be made in any manner the Administrator deems appropriate, in whole or in part, on any other date or dates in order to alleviate a Financial Hardship of a Participant.

 

4.4 Form of Distribution . Except as provided in Section 4.2 and 4.3, payment will be made of the Participant’s Account as follows.

 

A-6


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (A) Treasury Instruments . Unless the Participant elects otherwise in the Deferred Compensation Agreement, the portion of the Participant’s Account deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments will be distributed in the form of cash in a single lump sum payment or installment payments, or a combination of both, as determined by the Administrator.

 

  (B) Ferro Common Stock . The portion of the Participant’s Account deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock will be distributed in the form of Ferro Common Stock in a single lump sum payment.

 

4.5 Valuation of Distributions . All distributions under this Plan will be based upon the amount credited to the Participant’s Account as of the Valuation Date immediately preceding the date of distribution.

 

4.6 Death Prior to Distribution . If the Participant dies before receiving complete distribution of the Account under Section 4.1, 4.2 or 4.3 above, then the Beneficiary of the deceased Participant will be entitled to a death benefit equal to the balance of the Participant’s Account.

 

  (A) Death Prior to Retirement Date . In the event the Participant has not incurred a Termination of Employment and dies prior to his or her Retirement Date, the Ferro Group Company will distribute the balance of the Participant’s Account to the Beneficiary as soon as practicable after the Participant’s death in the form provided in Section 4.4.

 

  (B) Death After Retirement Date . In the event the Participant has incurred a Termination of Employment after reaching his or her Retirement Date (or the Participant has reached his or her Retirement Date and has not incurred a Termination of Employment) and dies, the Ferro Group Company will distribute the balance of the Participant’s Account to the Beneficiary at the time and in the form elected in the Deferred Compensation Agreement or, if no form is elected, in the form provided under Section 4.4.

 

4.7 Change in Date or Form of Distribution . The Administrator, with the consent of the Chief Executive Officer of Ferro, may establish procedures to permit some or all Participants to request to change their prior Deferred Compensation Agreements regarding the date or form in which all or a portion of the Account will be distributed. Any procedures to change the elected date or form will require that the Participant’s request be made a reasonable period of time before the portion of the Account affected by the request will otherwise be distributed, or require a forfeiture of a significant percentage of the portion of the Account affected by the request. In the case of a request to change the distribution date to a date which is later than that elected in the Deferred Compensation Agreement, the procedures will require that the Participant make such a request at least one year prior to the original distribution date unless special circumstances apply. The Administrator may, but is not required to, grant any such requests. The Administrator, with the consent of the Chief Executive Officer of Ferro, may establish similar procedures to permit some or all Beneficiaries of deceased Participants to request, where distribution to the Beneficiary is deferred or to be made in installment payments, to accelerate all or a portion of the distribution in the form of an immediate lump sum payment.

 

A-7


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

4.8 Administration of Distributions . Distributions under this Plan will be made as soon as administratively possible following receipt of notice by the Administrator of an event that entitles a Participant or a Beneficiary to payments under this Plan and completion by the Participant or Beneficiary of any forms required by the Administrator.

 

4.9 Designation of Beneficiary . Subject to the rules and procedures promulgated by the Administrator, a Participant may sign a document designating a Beneficiary or Beneficiaries. If a Participant fails to designate any Beneficiary in accordance with the provisions of this Section, then the Beneficiary will be deemed to be the Participant’s spouse, or if no spouse is then living, the Participant’s estate.

 

4.10 Protective Distributions . If the Administrator determines, in its sole discretion, that a Participant is not, or may not be, a member of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” within the meaning of Section 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) or 4021(b)(6) of ERISA, then the Administrator may, in its sole discretion, terminate the Participant’s participation in this Plan, and distribute all amounts credited to the Participant’s Account in a single lump sum payment. Any distribution under this Section 4.10 will be made at the time the Administrator determines in its sole discretion.

 

4.11 Tax Withholding . A Ferro Group Company may withhold, from any payment made by it under this Plan, the amount or amounts as may be required for purposes of complying with the tax withholding or other provisions of the Code or the Social Security Act or any state or local income or employment tax act or for purposes of paying any estate, inheritance or other tax attributable to any amounts payable hereunder.

 

4.12 Inability to Locate Participant . If a Ferro Group Company or the Administrator notifies a Participant or Beneficiary of an entitlement to an amount under this Plan and the Participant or Beneficiary fails to claim the amount or to disclose the location of the Participant or Beneficiary within three years thereafter, then, except as otherwise required by law, if the location of one or more of the next of kin of the Participant or Beneficiary is known to the Ferro Group Company or the Administrator, the Administrator may direct distribution of the amount to any one or more or all of the next of kin, and in such proportions as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, determines. If the location of none of the foregoing persons can be determined, the Administrator will direct that the amount payable to the Participant or Beneficiary be forfeited. If, after the forfeiture, the Participant or Beneficiary later claims the benefit under this Plan, then the benefit will be reinstated without interest or earnings from the date of forfeiture. If a benefit payable to a Participant or Beneficiary that cannot be located is subject to escheat under state law, then no further benefit will be payable with respect to any Participant for whom payment was made by the Administrator according to the escheat provisions of state law.

ARTICLE V

RIGHTS OF PARTICIPANTS

 

5.1

Creditor Status of Participants . The Elective Amounts of a Participant shall be merely unfunded, unsecured promises of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed) to make benefit payments in the future and shall be liabilities solely against the general assets of such Ferro Group Company. Except as provided

 

A-8


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  in Section 5.6, Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies shall not be required to segregate, set aside or escrow the Elective Amounts nor any earnings, gains and losses credited thereon. With respect to amounts credited to any Account hereunder and any benefits payable hereunder, a Participant and Beneficiary will have the status of general unsecured creditors of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed), and may look only to that Ferro Group Company and its general assets for payment of the Account and benefits.

 

5.2 Rights with Respect to the Trust . Any trust, and any assets held thereby to assist Ferro or other Ferro Group Company in meeting its obligations under this Plan, will in no way be deemed to controvert the provisions of Section 5.1 above.

 

5.3 Investments . In Ferro’s sole discretion, the Ferro Group Companies may acquire insurance policies, annuities or other financial vehicles for the purpose of providing future assets of Ferro Group Companies to meet their anticipated liabilities under this Plan. Such policies, annuities or other investments, shall at all times be and remain unrestricted general property and assets of the Ferro Group Companies or property of a trust established pursuant to Article VI of this Plan. Participants and Beneficiaries will have no rights, other than as general creditors, with respect to any such policies, annuities or other acquired assets.

 

5.4 Method for Crediting Investment Return . As described in Section 3.8 above, the Ferro Group Companies will maintain separate Accounts for the Elective Amounts deferred by the Participant before 1999 and after 1998.

 

  (A) Post-1998 Account . As elected by the Participant in his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement, the Elective Amounts deferred after 1998 will, in the portions specified by the Participant in the Deferred Compensation Agreement, be deemed to be invested in either Ferro Common Stock or Treasury instruments, as described below.

 

  (1) Ferro Stock . The Elective Amounts will be deemed to be invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock as of the date the Elective Amounts would have been paid to the Participant if they were not deferred. The Account will be deemed to receive all dividends (whether in stock or cash) and stock splits which would be received if the Account was actually invested shares of Ferro Common Stock, and such dividends and stock splits will be deemed to be reinvested in shares of Ferro Common Stock as of the date of their receipt. The investment in Ferro Common Stock will be deemed to be made at the closing sale price of Ferro Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Tape (as reported in The Wall Street Journal) on the trading day of the deemed investment.

 

  (2) Treasury Instruments . The Elective Amounts will be deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments yielding a rate of interest equal to three hundred (300) basis points over the Ten-Year Constant Treasury Maturity Yield as reported by the Federal Reserve Board.

 

  (B)

Pre-1999 Account . Each Participant with an Account credited with Elective Amounts deferred before 1999 will be deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments as described in Section 5.4(A)(2) above, except to the extent the Participant elected, in writing during the special election period provided in

 

A-9


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  1999, for all or a portion of the Account to be deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock. Under any such election, the portion of the Account designated by the Participant to be deemed invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock will be deemed invested as of the date the Elective Amounts would have been paid to the Participant if they were not deferred, and otherwise will be valued and credited with dividends and stock splits, in the same manner as described in Section 5.4(A)(1) above.

 

  (C) Periodic Adjustment of Accounts . As of each Valuation Date, the Participant’s Account will be adjusted to reflect earnings and losses on the deemed investments. To the extent the Account is deemed to be invested in Ferro stock, it will be credited as of each Valuation Date with hypothetical appreciation and depreciation and earnings, as computed and determined by the Administrator based on the value of Ferro Common Stock and its dividends as provided in Section 5.4(A)(1) above. To the extent the Participant’s Account is deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments, it will be credited as of each Valuation Date with hypothetical earnings, as computed and determined by the Administrator using a rate of interest equal to three hundred (300) basis points over the Ten-Year Constant Treasury Maturity Yield as provided in Section 5.4(A)(2) above. The Administrator will provide each Participant annually with a statement showing the balance credited to the Participant’s Account as of the last day of the preceding Election Year.

 

5.5 Bookkeeping Account Only . A Participant’s Account is solely for the purpose of measuring the amounts to be paid under this Plan. The Ferro Group Companies will not fund or secure, and will not be permitted to fund or secure, the Account in any way, and the Ferro Group Companies’ obligation to the Participants under this Plan is solely contractual.

 

5.6 Escrow Upon a Change in Control . Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, within five days after the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, the Ferro Group Companies will establish an irrevocable escrow account at a financial institution satisfactory to Ferro and the Participants (or, in the case of death, the Participants’ Beneficiaries), determined by a majority vote of such Participants and Beneficiaries, to keep on deposit in the escrow account an amount at least equal to the total balances of the Accounts in the Plan determined as of the end of the calendar month immediately preceding the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, with such date being the Valuation Date for this purpose. The amount required to be kept on deposit in the escrow account by the Ferro Group Companies will be recalculated as of each Valuation Date. The escrow account will remain subject to the claims of creditors of the Ferro Group Companies and will have the other characteristics required to preserve the unfunded status of this Plan as provided under Section 1.5. Subject to the later provisions of this Section, the escrow amount will be kept on deposit at all times after the expiration of five days following the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, or a Change in Control, whichever occurs earlier.

If a Change in Control does not occur within twelve months after the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, Ferro may request the escrow agent to return to the Ferro Group Companies the amounts in escrow. Otherwise, amounts deposited in the escrow account will be paid out by the escrow agent only to:

 

  (A) the Participant or Beneficiary, in such amounts as the Participant or Beneficiary certify to the escrow agent as amounts that the Ferro Group Company is in default in paying under the terms of this Plan or a related Deferred Compensation Agreement; or

 

A-10


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  (B) the Ferro Group Companies, to the extent that the amount on deposit exceeds the total balances of the Accounts in the Plan determined as of the end of the calendar month immediately preceding the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, reduced by any payments made, and as specified in joint written instructions from the affected Participants and Beneficiaries and Ferro to the escrow agent or in a final arbitral award.

Ferro will have the right to instruct the escrow agent to invest all or any portion of the escrow account in time deposits or certificates of deposit with, or repurchase or other obligations of, any “bank” (as determined by Ferro), or obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, provided that no investment will be for a period of more than ninety (90) days. The escrow agent will have no liability for following the instructions of Ferro regarding any such investment, or for any loss in the value of the escrow account as a consequence of any such investment or its liquidation.

The Ferro Group Companies may meet their obligation to keep amounts on deposit in the escrow account through deposits of assets, one or more letters of credit deposited in escrow, any combination of the foregoing. The Ferro Group Companies will have the right to substitute one form of permitted deposit in the escrow account for another form of permitted deposit at any time.

ARTICLE VI

TRUST

 

6.1 Establishment of Trust . Notwithstanding any other provision or interpretation of this Plan, Ferro may establish a Trust in which to hold cash, insurance policies or other assets that may be used to make, or reimburse Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for, payments to the Participants or Beneficiaries of all or part of the benefits under this Plan. Any Trust assets shall at all times remain subject to the claims of general creditors of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company in the event of the insolvency of Ferro or such other Ferro Group Company as more fully described in the Trust.

 

6.2 Obligation of the Ferro Group Companies . Notwithstanding the fact that a Trust may be established under Section 6.1, the Ferro Group Companies shall remain liable for paying the benefits under this Plan. However, any payment of benefits to a Participant or Beneficiary made by a Trust will satisfy the appropriate Ferro Group Company’s obligation to make payment to such person under this Plan.

 

6.3 Trust Terms . A Trust established under Section 6.1 may contain any terms as Ferro may determine to be necessary or desirable. Ferro may terminate or amend a Trust established under Section 6.1 at any time, and in any manner it deems necessary or desirable, subject to the terms of any agreement under which any Trust is established or maintained.

 

A-11


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

ARTICLE VII

ADMINISTRATION AND CLAIMS PROCEDURE

 

7.1 Administrator . The Administrator will be Ferro, acting by and through Ferro’s Corporate Human Resources Department, unless the Board of Directors, acting itself or through an appropriate committee, designates otherwise.

 

7.2 General Rights, Powers, and Duties of Administrator . The Administrator will be the Plan administrator under ERISA. The Administrator will be responsible for the general administration of this Plan and will have all powers as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Plan and may, from time to time, establish rules for the administration of this Plan and the transaction of this Plan’s business. In addition to any powers, rights and duties set forth elsewhere in this Plan, it will have the following powers and duties:

 

  (A) To enact rules, regulations, and procedures and to prescribe the use of such forms as it deems advisable;

 

  (B) To appoint or employ agents, attorneys, actuaries, accountants, assistants or other persons (who may also be Participants in this Plan or be employed by or represent a Ferro Group Company) at the expense of the Ferro Group Companies, as it deems necessary to keep its records or to assist it in taking any other action authorized or required under this Plan;

 

  (C) To interpret this Plan, and to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan and resolve all questions arising under this Plan;

 

  (D) To administer this Plan in accordance with its terms and any rules and regulations it establishes;

 

  (E) To maintain records concerning this Plan as it deems sufficient to prepare reports, returns and other information required by this Plan or by law; and

 

  (F) To direct a Ferro Group Company to pay benefits under this Plan, and to give other directions and instructions as may be necessary for the proper administration of this Plan.

Any decision, interpretation or other action made or taken by the Administrator arising out of or in connection with this Plan, will be within the absolute discretion of the Administrator, and will be final, binding and conclusive on Ferro, all other Ferro Group Companies, and all Participants and Beneficiaries and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns. The Administrator’s determinations under this Plan need not be uniform, and may be made selectively among Participants, whether or not they are similarly situated.

 

7.3 Information to Be Furnished to the Administrator . A Ferro Group Company will furnish the Administrator with such data and information as it may reasonably require. The records of a Ferro Group Company will be determinative of each Participant’s period of employment, termination of employment, personal data, and data regarding Base Annual Salary, Bonus and Performance Share Award, and all deferrals under this Plan. Participants and their Beneficiaries will furnish to the Administrator such evidence, data or information and execute such documents as the Administrator requests.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

7.4 Claim for Benefits . A Participant or Beneficiary will make all claims for payment under his Plan in writing to the Administrator in the manner prescribed by the Administrator. The Administrator will process each claim and determine entitlement to benefits within 90 days after the Administrator receives a completed application for benefits. If the Administrator needs an extension of time for processing, then the Administrator will notify the claimant before the end of the initial 90-day period. The extension notice will indicate the special circumstances requiring an extension of time and the date as of which the Administrator expects to render the final decision. In no event will such an extension exceed 90 days from the end of the initial period.

 

7.5 Denial of Benefit . If a claim is wholly or partially denied by the Administrator, then the Administrator will notify the claimant of the denial of the claim in a writing delivered in person or mailed by first class mail to the claimant’s last known address. The notice of denial will contain:

 

  (A) the specific reason or reasons for denial of the claim;

 

  (B) a reference to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the denial is based;

 

  (C) a description of any additional material or information necessary for the claimant to perfect the claim, together with an explanation of why the material or information is necessary; and

 

  (D) an explanation of this Plan’s claim review procedure.

If no notice is provided, the claim will be deemed denied. The interpretations, determinations and decisions of the Administrator will be final and binding upon all persons with respect to any right, benefit and privilege hereunder, subject to the review procedures set forth in this Article.

 

7.6 Request for Review of a Denial of a Claim for Benefits . Any claimant or any authorized representative of the claimant whose claim for benefits under this Plan has been denied or deemed denied, in whole or in part, may upon written notice to the Appeals Committee request a review by the Appeals Committee of the denial of the claim. The claimant will have 60 days from the date the claim is deemed denied or 60 days from receipt of the notice denying the claim, as the case may be, in which to request a review by written application delivered to the Appeals Committee, which must specify the relief requested and the reason such claimant believes the denial should be reversed.

 

7.7 Appeals Procedure . The Appeals Committee will review the facts and relevant documents including this Plan, and interpret the facts and relevant documents including this Plan to render a decision on the claim. The review may be of written briefs submitted by the claimant, or at a hearing, or by both, as deemed necessary or appropriate by the Appeals Committee. Any hearing will be held in the main office of Ferro, or such other location as the Appeals Committee may select, on the date and at the time as the Appeals Committee designates by giving at least 15-days’ notice to the claimant, unless the claimant accepts shorter notice. The notice will specify that the claimant must indicate in writing, at least five days in advance of the

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  hearing, the claimant’s intention to appear at the appointed time and place, or the hearing will be automatically cancelled. The reply will specify any other persons who will accompany the claimant to the hearing, or such other persons will not be admitted to the hearing. The Appeals Committee will make every effort to schedule the hearing on a day and at a time that is convenient to both the claimant and the Appeals Committee. The claimant, or his duly authorized representative, may review all pertinent documents relating to the claim in preparation for the hearing and may submit issues and comments in writing before or during the hearing.

 

7.8 Decision Upon Review of Denial of Claim for Benefits . In making its decision, the Appeals Committee will have full power and discretion to interpret this Plan, to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, and to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan. The Appeals Committee will render a decision on the claim reviewed no more than 60 days after the receipt of the claimant’s request for review, unless special circumstances (such as the need to hold a hearing) require an extension of time, in which case the 60-day period may be extended up to 120 days. The Appeals Committee will provide written notice of its decision to the claimant within the time frame specified. The notice will include the specific reasons for the decision and contain specific references to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the decision is based. If notice of the decision is not provided within the time frame specified, the claim will be deemed denied on review. The decision of the Appeals Committee will be final and binding in all respects on the Administrator, the Ferro Group Company and claimant involved.

 

7.9 Establishment of Appeals Committee . The Chief Executive Officer of Ferro will appoint three or more persons to serve as members of the Appeals Committee. The Chief Executive Officer may appoint one Appeals Committee to hear all appeals of denied benefits that arise under this Plan, or may appoint a new Appeals Committee each time an Appeals Committee is needed to hear an appeal of denied benefits that arises under this Plan. The members of the Appeals Committee will remain in office at the will of the Chief Executive Officer, and the Chief Executive Officer may remove any of the members with or without cause. A member of the Appeals Committee may resign upon written notice to the remaining member or members of the Appeals Committee and to the Chief Executive Officer, respectively. The fact that a person is a Participant or a former Participant or a prospective Participant will not disqualify that person from acting as a member of the Appeals Committee. No member of the Appeals Committee will be disqualified from acting on any question because of the member’s interest in the question, except that no member of the Appeals Committee may act on any claim which the member has brought as a Participant, former Participant, or Beneficiary under this Plan. In case of the death, resignation or removal of any member of the Appeals Committee, the remaining members will act until a successor-member is appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. At the Administrator’s request, the Chief Executive Officer will notify the Administrator in writing of the names of the members of the Appeals Committee, of any and all changes in the membership of the Appeals Committee, of the member designated as Chairman, and the member designated as Secretary, and of any changes in either office. Until notified of a change, the Administrator will be protected in assuming that there has been no change in the membership of the Appeals Committee or the designation of Chairman or of Secretary since the last notification was filed with it. The Administrator will be under no obligation at any time to inquire into the membership of the Appeals Committee or its officers. All communications to the Appeals Committee will be addressed to its Secretary at the address of the Company.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

7.10 Operation of the Appeals Committee . On all matters and questions, the decision of a majority of the members of the Appeals Committee will govern and control. A meeting need not be called or held to make any decision. The Appeals Committee will appoint one of its members to act as its Chairman and another member to act as Secretary. The terms of office of these members will be determined by the Appeals Committee, and the Secretary and/or Chairman may be removed by the other members of the Appeals Committee for any reason which such other members may deem just and proper. The Secretary will do all things directed by the Appeals Committee. Although the Appeals Committee will act by decision of a majority of its members as provided above, in the absence of written notice to the contrary, every person may deal with the Secretary and consider the Secretary’s acts as having been authorized by the Appeals Committee. Any notice served or demand made on the Secretary will be deemed to have been served or made upon the Appeals Committee.

 

7.11 Limitation of Duties . Ferro, the other Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, and their respective officers, members, employees and agents will have no duty or responsibility under this Plan other than the duties and responsibilities expressly assigned or delegated to them pursuant to this Plan. None of them will have any duty or responsibility with respect to those duties or responsibilities assigned or delegated to another.

 

7.12 Agents . The Administrator and the Appeals Committee may hire any attorneys, accountants, actuaries, agents, clerks, and secretaries as it may deem desirable in the performance of its duties, any of whom may also be advisors to any Ferro Group Company or any subsidiary or affiliated company.

 

7.13 Expenses of Administration . No fee or compensation will be paid to the Administrator or any member of the Appeals Committee for their performance of services as such. Ferro will bear all other expenses incurred in the administration of this Plan except to the extent Ferro determines that the expenses are allocable to, and should be paid by, one or more of the Ferro Group Companies.

 

7.14 Indemnification . In addition to whatever rights of indemnification any member or employee of the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, Ferro or other Ferro Group Company under this Plan may be entitled to under the articles of incorporation, regulations or bylaws of the Ferro Group Companies, under any provision of law or under any other agreement, the Ferro Group Companies will satisfy any liability actually incurred by any member or employee including reasonable expenses and attorneys’ fees, and any judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement, in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding which is related to the exercise or failure to exercise by any member or employee any powers, authority, responsibilities or discretion provided under this Plan or reasonably believed by a member or employee to be provided under this Plan, and any action taken by a member or employee in connection with such exercise or failure to exercise. This indemnification for all such acts taken or omitted is intentionally broad, but will not provide indemnification for embezzlement or diversion of Plan funds for the benefit of any member or employee. This indemnification will not be provided for any claim by a Ferro Group Company or a subsidiary or affiliated company thereof against any member or employee. No indemnification will be provided to any person who is not an individual.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

7.15 Limitation of Administrative Liability . Neither Ferro, any Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, nor any of their members or employees will be liable for any act taken by such person or entity pursuant to any provision of this Plan except for gross abuse of the discretion given them under this Plan. No member of the Administrator or Appeals Committee will be liable for the act of any other member. No member of the Board of Directors will be liable to any person for any action taken or omitted in connection with the administration of this Plan.

 

7.16 Limitation of Sponsor Liability . Any right or authority exercisable by Ferro or Board of Directors pursuant to any provision of this Plan will be exercised in Ferro’s capacity as sponsor of this Plan, or on behalf of Ferro in such capacity, and not in a fiduciary capacity, and may be exercised without the approval or consent of any person in a fiduciary capacity. Neither Ferro, nor the Board of Directors, nor any of their respective officers, members, employees, agents and delegates, will have any liability to any party for its exercise of any such right or authority.

ARTICLE VIII

AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

 

8.1 Amendment, Modification and Termination . Subject to Section 8.4 below, this Plan may be amended, modified or terminated by Ferro at any time, or from time to time, by action of an appropriate Ferro officer authorized or ratified by the Board of Directors. No amendment, modification or termination will be effective if it:

 

  (A) causes this Plan to be for a purpose other than the exclusive benefit of the Participants, or

 

  (B) reduces the amounts credited to any Participant’s Account or adversely affects the right of any Participant or Beneficiary to receive payment of the Account as provided under this Plan, determined as of the date of the amendment.

The prior provisions notwithstanding, this Plan may be amended to:

 

  (1) reduce or eliminate the ability for Participants to defer future Elective Amounts under this Plan;

 

  (2) reduce or eliminate the future deemed interest or earnings credited to the amounts held in a Participant’s Account;

 

  (3) comply with any law; or

 

  (4) preserve the intended deferral of taxation for the benefit of all Participants Accounts.

 

8.2 Effect of Amendment on Distributions . If this Plan is amended to prohibit future Elective Amounts, then the amounts credited to Participants’ Accounts will be distributed as provided in Article IV above. If this Plan is terminated, then the Participants will receive distribution of the amounts credited to their Accounts:

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (A) in a single lump sum cash payment with respect to the portion of the Account deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments, and

 

  (B) in a single lump sum distribution of shares of Ferro Common Stock with respect to the portion of the Account deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock.

If this Plan is terminated, then the amounts credited to the Participant’s Accounts will be determined as of the Valuation Date on or immediately preceding the date of Plan termination.

 

8.3 Actions Binding on Ferro Group Companies . Any amendments made to this Plan will be binding on all the Ferro Group Companies without the approval or consent of the Ferro Group Companies other than Ferro. Ferro may, by amendment, also terminate this Plan on behalf of all or any one of the other Ferro Group Companies in its sole discretion.

 

8.4 Termination or Amendment After Change in Control . If a Change in Control occurs, then, for a period of two (2) calendar years following such Change in Control, Ferro may not amend or terminate this Plan without the prior written consent of all Participants.

ARTICLE IX

FERRO GROUP COMPANIES

 

9.1 List of Ferro Group Companies . The Ferro Group Companies as of the Amendment and Restatement Date are Ferro and the subsidiaries and affiliates of Ferro listed on Appendix B to this Plan. Ferro may from time to time add or remove Ferro subsidiaries and affiliates from the list of Ferro Group Companies by written action of its Chief Executive Officer. The addition or deletion will not require a formal amendment to this Plan.

 

9.2 Delegation of Authority . Ferro is fully empowered to act on behalf of itself and the other Ferro Group Companies as it may deem appropriate in maintaining this Plan and any Trust. The adoption by Ferro of any amendment to this Plan or any Trust, or the termination of this Plan or any Trust, will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the approval, adoption, ratification or confirmation by each Ferro Group Company of any amendment or termination. In addition, the appointment of or removal by Ferro of any Administrator, any trustee or other person under this Plan or any Trust will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the appointment or removal by each Ferro Group Company of such person.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

ARTICLE X

MISCELLANEOUS

 

10.1 No Implied Rights . Neither the establishment of this Plan nor any amendment of this Plan will be construed as giving any Participant, Beneficiary or any other person any legal or equitable right unless the right is specifically provided for in this Plan or conferred by specific action of Ferro in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Plan. Except as expressly provided in this Plan, neither Ferro nor any other Ferro Group Company will be required or be liable to make any payment under this Plan.

 

10.2 No Right to Ferro Group Company Assets . Neither the Participant nor any other person will acquire by reason of this Plan any right in or title to any assets, funds or property of a Ferro Group Company whatsoever including, without limitation, any specific funds, assets or other property which a Ferro Group Company, in its sole discretion, may set aside in anticipation of a liability hereunder. Any benefits which become payable under this Plan will be paid from the general assets of the appropriate Ferro Group Company. No assets of the Ferro Group Companies will be held in any way as collateral security for the fulfilling of the obligations of the Ferro Group Companies under this Plan. No assets of the Ferro Group Companies will be pledged or otherwise restricted in order to meet the obligations of this Plan. The Participant will have only a contractual right to the amounts, if any, payable hereunder unsecured by any asset of a Ferro Group Company. Nothing contained in this Plan constitutes a guarantee by a Ferro Group Company that the assets of a Ferro Group Company will be sufficient to pay any benefit to any person.

 

10.3 No Employment Rights Created . This Plan will not be deemed to constitute a contract of employment between any of the Ferro Group Companies and any Participant, or to confer upon any Participant or employee the right to be retained in the service of any Ferro Group Company for any period of time, nor shall any provision of this Plan restrict the right of any Ferro Group Company to discharge or otherwise deal with any Participant or other employees, with or without cause. Nothing in this Plan will be construed as fixing or regulating the Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award payable to any Participant or other employee of a Ferro Group Company.

 

10.4 Offset . If at the time payment is to be made under this Plan the Participant or the Beneficiary or both are indebted or obligated to a Ferro Group Company, then the payment to be made to the Participant or the Beneficiary or both may, at the discretion of the Administrator at the request of the Ferro Group Company, be reduced by the amount of the indebtedness or obligation, provided, however, that an election by the Ferro Group Company not to request a reduction will not constitute a waiver of the Ferro Group Company’s claim for such indebtedness or obligation.

 

10.5 No Assignment . Neither the Participant nor any other person will have any voluntary or involuntary right to commute, sell, assign, pledge, anticipate, mortgage or otherwise encumber, transfer, hypothecate or convey, in advance of actual receipt of the amount, if any, payable under this Plan, or any part of the amount payable from this Plan, and any attempt to do so will be void. All benefits or amounts credited to Accounts under this Plan are expressly declared to be unassignable and non-transferable. No part of the benefits or amounts credited to Accounts under this Plan will be, before actual payment, subject to seizure or sequestration for the payment of any debts, judgments, alimony or separate maintenance owed by the Participant or any other person, or be transferable by operation of law in the event of the Participant’s or any other person’s bankruptcy or insolvency.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

10.6 Notice . Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Plan will be sufficient if in writing and hand delivered, or sent by registered or certified mail or by overnight delivery service, and:

 

  (A) if given to a Ferro Group Company, delivered to the principal office of Ferro, directed to the attention of the General Counsel; or

 

  (B) if given to a Participant or Beneficiary, delivered to the last post office address as shown on the Ferro Group Company’s or the Administrator’s records.

Notice will be deemed given as of the date of delivery or, if delivery is made by mail, as of the date shown on the postmark or the receipt for registration or certification.

 

10.7 Governing Laws . This Plan will be construed and administered according to the internal substantive laws of the State of Ohio to the extent not preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

 

10.8 Incapacity . If the Administrator determines that any Participant or Beneficiary entitled to payment under this Plan is a minor, a person declared incompetent or a person incapable of handling his or her property, the Administrator may direct any payment to the guardian, legal representative or person having the care and custody of the minor, incompetent or incapable person. The Administrator may require proof of minority, incompetence, incapacity or guardianship, as it may deem appropriate before making any payment. The Administrator will have no obligation thereafter to monitor or follow the application of amounts so paid. Payments made pursuant to this Section will completely discharge this Plan, any Trust, the Administrator, and the Ferro Group Companies with respect to the payments.

 

10.9 Court Ordered Distributions . The Administrator is authorized to make any payments directed by court order in any action in which this Plan or the Administrator is named as a party. In addition, if a court determines that a spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent of a Participant has an interest in the Participant’s Account under this Plan in connection with a property settlement or otherwise, the Administrator, in its sole discretion, will have the right, notwithstanding any election made by a Participant, to immediately distribute the spouse’s or former spouse’s or dependent’s or former dependent’s interest in the Participant’s Account under this Plan to that spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent.

 

10.10  Administrative Forms . All applications, elections and designations in connection with this Plan made by a Participant or Beneficiary will become effective only when duly executed on forms provided by the Administrator and filed with the Administrator.

 

10.11  Independence of Plan . Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Plan will be independent of, and in addition to, any other employee benefit agreement or plan or any rights that may exist from time to time under any other agreement or plan.

 

10.12  Responsibility for Legal Effect . Neither Ferro, any other Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, nor any officer, member, delegate or agent of any of them, makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, or assumes any responsibility concerning the legal, tax, or other implications or effects of this Plan.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

10.13   Successors . The terms and conditions of this Plan will inure to the benefit of and bind Ferro, the Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator and its members, the Participants, their Beneficiaries, and the successors, assigns, and personal representatives of any of them.

 

10.14   Headings and Titles . The Section headings and titles of Articles used in this Plan are for convenience of reference only and are not to be considered in construing this Plan.

 

10.15  Appendices . The Appendices to this Plan constitute an integral part of this Plan and are hereby incorporated into this Plan by this reference.

 

10.16   Severability . If any provision or term of this Plan, or any agreement or instrument required by the Administrator, is determined by a judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative body to be void or not enforceable for any reason, all other provisions or terms of this Plan or the agreement or instrument will remain in full force and effect and will be enforceable as if the void or nonenforceable provision or term had never been a part of this Plan, or the agreement or instrument.

 

10.17   Actions by Ferro . Except as otherwise provided in this Plan, all actions of Ferro under this Plan will be taken by the Board of Directors, and be evidenced in a writing executed by an appropriate officer duly authorized.

 

10.18   Spousal Consent and Release . If, in the opinion of Ferro, any present, former or future spouse of an employee entitled to benefits from this Plan shall by reason of law appear to have any interest in the Plan benefits that may be or become payable hereunder to such employee, Ferro may as a condition precedent to the making of a benefit payment hereunder, require such written consent or release as in its discretion it shall determine to be necessary, desirable or appropriate either to prevent or avoid any conflict or multiplicity of claims, or to protect the rights of any such present, former or future spouse with respect to the payment of any benefits under this Plan.

 

10.19   Overpayments and Repayments . In the event that Ferro determines that the benefits actually paid under this Plan exceed the benefits that were properly payable to a Participant or Beneficiary pursuant to this Plan, Ferro may exercise any legal remedies available.

 

10.20   References to Sections of Law . References herein to the Code are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provision of subsequent federal law. References herein to ERISA are to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provisions of subsequent law.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

D EFINITIONS

For purposes of this Plan, the following terms have the meanings set forth below where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters:

 

Term    Meaning
Account or Elective Account            For each Participant the bookkeeping account maintained by the Ferro Group Company to reflect the Participant’s Elective Amounts for an Election Year and all earnings, gains and losses thereon. A Participant’s Account shall not constitute or be treated as a trust fund of any kind.
Administrator    As defined in Section 7.1 of this Plan.

Amendment and

Restatement Date

   June 30, 2004.
Base Annual Salary    For any Participant the gross base salary payable during an Election Year by a Ferro Group Company, unreduced by any amounts deferred under the Ferro Corporation Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, this Plan, or any other plan maintained by the Ferro Group Company. “Base Annual Salary” does not include bonuses, commissions, incentive compensation, any extraordinary compensation of a recurring or nonrecurring nature, compensation paid in a form other than cash, or contributions, accruals, or benefits under the Ferro Corporation Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, this Plan, or any other plan maintained by the Ferro Group Company (other than amounts elected to be deferred by the Participant).
Beneficial Owner    “Beneficial owner” within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act.
Beneficiary    As defined in 4.9 of this Plan.
Board of Directors    Ferro’s Board of Directors.
Bonus    The gross monies awarded and payable to a Participant during an Election Year under the Ferro Annual Incentive Compensation Plan, as it may be amended from time to time, unreduced by any amounts deferred under the Ferro SSOP, this Plan, or any other plan maintained by the Ferro Group Company.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning

 

Change in Control                    

  

 

A change in the control of Ferro that is required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act. For purposes of this definition, a Change in Control will be deemed to have occurred if and when:

  

(a)    any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d)(3) and 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of Ferro representing twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the combined voting power of Ferro’s outstanding voting securities; or

  

(b)    during any period of two consecutive years, the individuals set forth below in sub-paragraph (1) and (2) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors:

  

(1)    the individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors, and

  

(2)    any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement or arrangement with Ferro to effect a transaction described in clause (a) or (c) of this definition) whose appointment, election, or nomination for election by Ferro’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose appointment, election or nomination for election was previously so approved; or

  

(c)    a merger or consolidation of Ferro or one of its subsidiaries is consummated with or into any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the holders of the voting securities of Ferro outstanding immediately prior thereto holding securities which represent immediately after such merger or consolidation more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of either Ferro or the other entity which survives such merger or consolidation or the parent of the entity which survives such merger or consolidation; or

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
   (d) a sale or disposition by Ferro of all or substantially all Ferro’s assets is consummated.
Code    The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any lawful regulations or other pronouncements promulgated under that Code.

Deferred Compensation                    

Agreement

   An agreement executed between a Participant and the Ferro Group Company whereby a Participant agrees to defer a portion of the Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award as provided under this Plan, and the Ferro Group Company agrees to make benefit payments in accordance with the provisions of this Plan.
Dependent    Any of the following persons who receives over half of their financial support from the Participant: a spouse, a son or daughter (or the descendent of either); a stepson or stepdaughter; a brother, sister, stepbrother or stepsister; a father or mother (or ancestor of either); a stepfather or stepmother; a nephew or niece; an uncle or aunt; a son-in-law, daughter-in-law, father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law or sister-in-law; or any other person whose principal place of residence is the Participant’s home and who is a member of the household.
Disability    Any disability that qualifies a Participant for payment of benefits under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan. The determination of whether a Participant suffers a Disability will be made by the Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan.
Election Year    A calendar year in respect of which a Participant makes an election under this Plan.
Elective Amount    An amount equal to the amount by which a Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award are reduced pursuant to Section 3.4 of this Plan in respect of a given Election Year.
Eligible Employee    An Executive Employee of a Ferro Group Company who has satisfied the eligibility requirement of Section 3.1 of this Plan.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
Entry Date    With respect to a given Election Year, January 1 of such Election Year or, with respect to an employee who first becomes an Eligible Employee after January 1 of that Election Year, the first day of the month on or after the date the Eligible Employee completes a Deferred Compensation Agreement pursuant to Section 3.2 of this Plan.
ERISA    The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.
Exchange Act    The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.
Executive Employee    A management employee of a Ferro Group Company who is in Grade 22 or higher in the Executive Payroll Group and who is eligible to participate in the Ferro Annual Incentive Compensation Plan.
Ferro    As defined in Section 1.2 of this Plan. Such term also includes any successor corporation or business organization that subsequently assumes Ferro’s duties and obligations under this Plan.
Ferro Common Stock    The Common Stock of Ferro, par value $1.00, per share.
Ferro Group Companies                        As defined in Section 9.1 of this Plan.
Ferro SSOP    Ferro’s Savings and Stock Ownership Plan.
Financial Hardship    A severe financial hardship and unexpected need for cash resulting from:
  

(a)    a sudden and unexpected illness or accident of the Participant or a Dependent of the Participant,

  

(b)    loss of the Participant’s property due to casualty, or

  

(c)    such other similar extraordinary and unforeseeable circumstances or emergencies arising as a result of events beyond the control of the Participant, as determined in the sole discretion of the Administrator.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning

Long-Term Incentive

Compensation Plan

   Ferro’s 2003 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, as the same may be amended from time to time.
Participant    An Executive Employee of a Ferro Group Company who is designated to be an Eligible Employee pursuant to Section 3.2 of this Plan, who enters into a Deferred Compensation Agreement, and who has commenced Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award reductions pursuant to that Deferred Compensation Agreement. A Participant will cease to be a Participant, and shall become a former Participant, upon the earliest of the following:
  

(a)    Termination of Employment,

  

(b)    the date the employee ceases to be an Eligible Employee, or

  

(c)    the date the employee’s participation in this Plan is terminated by the Administrator pursuant to Section 4.10 of this Plan or otherwise.

Performance Share Award                        The gross monies awarded and payable to a Participant during an Election Year in respect of Performance Shares awarded under the Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan or the prior Performance Share Plan, unreduced by any amounts deferred under the Ferro SSOP, this Plan, or any other plan maintained by the Ferro Group Company.
Performance Share Plan    Ferro’s 1997 Performance Share Plan, as amended.
Person   

A “person” as defined under Section 3(a)(9) of the Exchange Act as modified and used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, excluding:

 

(a)    Ferro or any of its subsidiaries;

  

(b)    a trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company (or of any of its affiliates as defined under Rule 12b-2 under Section 12 of the Exchange Act);

  

(c)    an underwriter temporarily holding securities pursuant to an offering of such securities; or

 

A-25


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

(d)     a corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the shareholders of Ferro in substantially the same proportion as their ownership of the stock of Ferro.

this Plan   

As defined in the Introduction to this Plan.

 

Potential Change in Control                   

The occurrence of any of the following events:

(a)     Ferro enters into an agreement which, if consummated, would result in a Change in Control;

 

(b)     Ferro or any Person publicly announces an intention to take, or to consider taking, actions which, if consummated, would constitute a Change in Control;

 

(c)     any Person becomes the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of Ferro representing 20% or more of the then outstanding shares of Ferro Common Stock or the  combined voting power of Ferro’s then outstanding securities;

 

(d)     any Person commences a solicitation (as defined under Rule 14a-1 of the Exchange Act) of proxies or consents which has the purpose of effecting or would, if successful, result in a Change in Control;

 

(e)     a tender or exchange offer for voting securities of Ferro, made by a Person, is first published or sent or given (within the meaning of Rule 14d-2(a) of the Exchange Act); or

 

(f)      the Board of Directors adopts a resolution that a Potential Change in Control has occurred.

Retirement Date    The date a Participant first becomes eligible for an early retirement benefit or a normal retirement benefit as defined under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan. Alternatively, in the case of a Participant who is not covered under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan, “Retirement Date” means the date a Participant would first become eligible for an early retirement benefit or a normal retirement benefit if the Participant were covered under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan.

 

A-26


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
Termination of Employment                    A Participant’s cessation of service with Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies, including subsidiaries and affiliates of the foregoing, for any reason whatsoever, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, including by reason of retirement, death, or Disability.
Trust    The trust, if any, established pursuant to Section 7.1 of this Plan.
Valuation Date    The last day of each quarter in the Election Year and any other date or dates Ferro, in its sole discretion, designates from time to time.

 

 

A-27


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

F ERRO G ROUP C OMPANIES

The following are the Ferro Group Companies:

Ferro Corporation

FEM Inc.

Ferro Glass & Color Corporation

Ferro International Services, Inc.

Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc.

 

A-28


F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

F OR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

P ART B: 2005 P LAN

O VERVIEW

E STABLISHMENT OF 2005 P LAN

The provisions of the 2005 Plan are set forth in this Part B (the “2005 Plan”), which is adopted and made a part of the Plan generally effective January 1, 2005.

G OVERNS BENEFITS S UBJECT TO C ODE S ECTION 409A

The 2005 Plan governs all amounts under the Plan which are not pre-2005 benefits (the “409A Benefits”). Generally, this means that the 2005 Plan governs amounts earned and/or vested as of December 31, 2004, plus any earnings with respect to such amounts.

The 409A Benefits are subject to the requirements of Code Section 409A, and Ferro intends for the 2005 Plan to comply with Code Section 409A. The 2005 Plan shall be interpreted and administered so as to comply with Code Section 409A.

T ERMINOLOGY

As used in the 2005 Plan, the term “Plan” refers to the 2005 Plan or to the Plan, as appropriate.

 

B-1


 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Part B: 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

B-2


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

2005 P LAN

I NTRODUCTION

This 2005 Plan is the portion of the F ERRO C ORPORATION D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES which governs 409A Benefits. The purpose for the adoption of this 2005 Plan is to comply with the requirements of Code Section 409A.

The 2005 Plan is hereby added to the Plan generally effective January 1, 2005, as follows:

ARTICLE I

NAME AND PURPOSE

 

1.1 Name . The name of this Plan is the “Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees.”

 

1.2 Plan Sponsor . The sponsor of this Plan is Ferro Corporation (“Ferro”), an Ohio corporation.

 

1.3 Purpose . The purpose of this Plan is to provide unfunded deferred compensation to certain management and highly compensated employees of the Ferro Group Companies under the conditions set forth in this Plan.

 

1.4 Plan for a Select Group . This Plan covers only employees of a Ferro Group Company who are members of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” as provided in Sections 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) and 4021(b)(6) of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered and its benefits limited in a manner to comply with the above cited sections of ERISA.

 

1.5 Not a Funded Plan . Ferro intends that this Plan be deemed to be “unfunded” for tax purposes as well as for purposes of Title I of ERISA.

 

1.6 409A Compliance . It is the intention and purpose of Ferro and the Participants that this Plan shall be deemed to be at all relevant times in compliance with Section 409A of the Code and all other applicable laws in order to have the Federal income tax effect sought for such plans, and this Plan shall be so interpreted and is intended to be so administered.

 

B-3


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION

 

2.1 Definitions . Appendix A sets forth the definitions of certain terms used in this Plan. Those terms shall have the meanings set forth on Appendix A where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters.

 

2.2 General Rules of Construction . For purposes of interpreting this Plan,

 

  (A) the masculine gender will include the feminine and neuter, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (B) the singular number will include the plural, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (C) the present tense of a verb will include the past and future tenses, and vice versa, as the context requires; and

 

  (D) as provided under Article VII, the Administrator will retain the power and duty to interpret this Plan and resolve ambiguities.

ARTICLE III

PARTICIPATION; DEFERRALS AND ACCOUNTS

 

3.1 Eligibility . In order to be eligible to participate in this Plan, an individual must –

 

  (A) be an Executive Employee of a Ferro Group Company, and

 

  (B) be selected by the Administrator to participate in this Plan for all or part of an Election Year.

 

3.2 Participation . Generally, an Eligible Employee may become a Participant and actively participate for an Election Year only by completing and filing a Deferred Compensation Agreement described in Section 3.3 below with his or her Ferro Group Company before January 1 of an Election Year.

 

3.3 Deferral Elections . With respect to each Election Year, each Eligible Employee may elect, under his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement for such Election Year, to make one or more of the deferrals described below.

 

  (A) Salary Deferral : Deferral of any whole percentage of up to 75% of his or her Base Annual Salary for the Election Year which is payable each payroll period commencing on or after the Eligible Employee’s Entry Date.

 

  (B) Bonus Deferral : Deferral of any whole percentage up to 100% of the Bonus which is earned on or after his or her Entry Date in the Election Year.

 

  (C) Performance Share Award : Deferral of any whole percentage up to 100% of payments with respect to Performance Shares which are earned for a performance period commencing on or after the Eligible Employee’s Entry Date in the Election Year.

 

B-4


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

3.4 Salary Reductions and Deferral Amounts .

 

  (A) A Participant’s election to defer pursuant to 3.3(A) above will cause an equivalent reduction in the Participant’s Base Annual Salary at the time the Base Annual Salary would otherwise be payable.

 

  (B) A Participant’s election to defer pursuant to 3.3(B) above will cause an equivalent reduction in the Participant’s Bonus at the time the Bonus would otherwise be payable.

 

  (C) A Participant’s election to defer in accordance with 3.3(C) above will cause an equivalent reduction in the payment in respect of the Participant’s Performance Shares at the time the Performance Share Award would otherwise be payable.

An amount equal to the reductions in a Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus and Performance Share Award pursuant to 3.4(A), 3.4(B) and 3.4(C) above will constitute an Elective Amount and will be credited to the Participant’s Elective Account at the time of the reductions.

 

3.5 Alteration of Deferrals . A Participant’s deferral election made pursuant to Section 3.3 will be irrevocable except as provided in this Section. In the event a Participant receives a hardship distribution from a qualified cash or deferred arrangement maintained by Ferro or its Affiliates under Code Section 401(k), and the distribution is made under the “deemed necessary to satisfy immediate and heavy financial need” standards set forth under Treasury Regulation Section 1.401(k)-1(d)(3)(iv)(E), the Participant’s deferral election made pursuant to Section 3.3 shall be cancelled as of the date the hardship distribution is received. Provided that the employee remains an Eligible Employee under the Plan, the Eligible Employee may again become a Participant beginning with the Election Year that commences immediately after the six-month anniversary of the date of the hardship distribution (or any subsequent Election Year) if a timely Deferred Compensation Agreement is completed and filed prior to the January 1 of such Election Year pursuant to Section 3.2.

 

3.6 Establishment of Accounts . Each Ferro Group Company will establish an Account in the name of each Participant who is employed by it on the books and records of the Ferro Group Company. All amounts credited to the Account of any Participant or former Participant will constitute a general, unsecured liability of such Ferro Group Company to the Participant.

 

3.7 Allocation of Elective Amounts . At the time a Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award are reduced pursuant to Section 3.4, the Ferro Group Company employing the Participant will credit the Participant’s Account with the Participant’s Elective Amount with respect to such Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award.

 

3.8 Separate Accounting for Certain Elective Amounts . The Ferro Group Company will maintain separate Accounts for the Elective Amounts deferred by the Participant (i) before 1999; (ii) after 1998 and before 2005; and (iii) after 2004, to enable the Participant to elect for the deemed investment of the Elective Amounts as provided under Section 5.4 below.

 

B-5


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

3.9 Crediting of Earnings . The Ferro Group Company will credit the Account of each Participant who is or was its employee with earnings, gains and losses in accordance with the deemed investment of the Elective Amounts elected by the Participant under Section 5.4 below.

ARTICLE IV

BENEFITS; PAYMENT OF BENEFITS

 

4.1 Date of Distribution . In general, distribution of the amounts credited to the Participant’s Account under this Part B will be made or begin on the earlier of:

 

  (A) the date elected by the Participant in his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement; or

 

  (B) the date which is six (6) months following the Participant’s Termination of Employment and in any event the Time Required By Law.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of the Participant’s death (either as the cause for the Termination of Employment or following Termination of Employment), or Total and Permanent Disability, distribution shall be made on the date of death or Total and Permanent Disability and in any event by the Time Required By Law.

 

4.2 Distribution on Change in Control . If the Participant has elected in his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement to receive a distribution of the amounts credited to his or her Account if a Change in Control occurs, then if a Change in Control occurs, the Ferro Group Company will distribute to the Participant (or, in the event of the Participant’s death, the Participant’s Beneficiary) a lump sum payment of the amount credited to the Participant’s Account within thirty (30) days after the Change in Control. The amount credited to the Participant’s Account will be determined as of the end of the calendar month immediately preceding the month in which the Change in Control occurs, with such date being the Valuation Date for purposes of the distribution. The lump sum payment will be made in the form of cash.

 

4.3 Distribution upon Unforeseeable Emergency . At any time before payment in full of the amounts credited to a Participant’s Account, a Participant may submit a written request to the Administrator for the distribution of all or a portion of the Participant’s Account because of an Unforeseeable Emergency. In response, the Administrator has the authority to determine, in its sole discretion, that distribution should be made in any manner the Administrator deems appropriate, in whole or in part, on any other date or dates in order to alleviate the emergency need of such Participant, provided, however, that the Administrator shall not authorize distribution of any amount in excess the amount reasonably necessary to satisfy the emergency need (which amount may include amounts necessary to pay Federal, state or local income taxes or penalties reasonably anticipated as a result of the distribution).

 

4.4 Form and Method of Distribution . Except as provided in Sections 4.2 and 4.3, payment will be made of the Participant’s Account under this Part B as follows.

 

B-6


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (A) Form of Distribution . A Participant’s Account shall be paid in a single lump sum payment. However, the Administrator, in its sole discretion, pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, may allow a Participant to elect in his or her annual Deferred Compensation Agreement, to have his Elective Amount for such Election Year be distributed in the form of installment payments providing for the payment in substantially equal annual installments over a period of five (5) years. Such an election shall be made in a writing filed with the Administrator at the time of the Deferred Compensation Agreement. In the event no election is made at the time the Participant’s Deferred Compensation Agreement is filed, a Participant shall be deemed to have elected at that time a single lump sum payment. A Participant may have in effect, for each Election Year, one election regarding the form of payment of the amounts deferred with respect to such Election Year.

 

  (B) Method of Distribution . The Participant’s Account under this Part B will be distributed in the form of cash.

 

4.5 Valuation of Distributions . All distributions under this Part B will be based upon the Amount credited to the Participant’s Account as of the last day of the month in which occurs the Participant’s Termination of Employment, death or commencement of long-term disability benefits on account of a determination of Total and Permanent Disability under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan. Such date shall be the Valuation Date for this purpose. No adjustment shall be made for any delay in payment, including the six (6) month delay set forth in Section 4.1.

 

4.6 Death Prior to Distribution . If the Participant dies before receiving complete distribution of the Account under Sections 4.1, 4.2 or 4.3 above, then the Beneficiary of the deceased Participant will be entitled to a death benefit equal to the balance of the Participant’s Account. The Ferro Group Company will distribute the balance of the Participant’s Account to the Beneficiary as soon as practicable after the Participant’s death in the form provided in Section 4.4.

 

4.7 Change in Date or Form of Distribution . [Intentionally blank.]

 

4.8 Administration of Distributions . Distributions under this Plan will be made as soon as administratively possible following receipt of notice by the Administrator of an event that entitles a Participant or a Beneficiary to payments under this Plan and completion by the Participant or Beneficiary of any forms required by the Administrator, subject to the time restrictions described in Section 4.1 above.

 

4.9 Designation of Beneficiary . Subject to the rules and procedures promulgated by the Administrator, a Participant may sign a document designating a Beneficiary or Beneficiaries. If a Participant fails to designate any Beneficiary in accordance with the provisions of this Section, then the Beneficiary will be deemed to be the Participant’s spouse, or if no spouse is then living, the Participant’s estate.

 

4.10 Protective Distributions . If the Administrator determines that a Participant is not a member of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” within the meaning of Section 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) or 4021(b)(6) of ERISA, then the Administrator may, as it deems necessary to satisfy the exclusions from ERISA coverage contemplated by Section 1.4, terminate the Participant’s participation in this Plan, and forfeit any amounts erroneously credited under this Part B with respect to a Participant.

 

B-7


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

4.11 Tax Withholding and Acceleration of Payment for Payment of Taxes . A Ferro Group Company may withhold, from any payment made by it under this Plan, the amount or amounts as may be required for purposes of complying with the tax withholding or other provisions of the Code, the Social Security Act, or any state or local income or employment tax act or for purposes of paying any estate, inheritance or other tax attributable to any amounts payable hereunder. Further, distribution shall be made from the Plan at such time or times as the Administrator, in its sole discretion pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, shall determine that amounts are due for the payment of Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes imposed under Code Sections 3101, 3121(a), or 3121(v)(2) on the 409A Benefits. Such distribution, if any, shall be made for the exclusive purpose of paying such Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes. In addition, distribution shall be made from the Plan at such time or times as the Administrator, in its sole discretion pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, shall determine that amounts are due for the payment of income tax at source on wages imposed under Code Section 3401 (or the corresponding withholding provisions of applicable state, local or foreign tax laws) as a result of the payment of the Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes, or are due for the payment of additional income tax at source on wages attributable to the pyramiding Code Section 3401 wages and taxes. Such distribution, if any, shall be made for the exclusive purpose of paying such taxes. In no event shall the amounts distributed pursuant to this Section exceed the amounts owed for the payment of Federal Insurance Contribution Act taxes and the income tax withholding related to such amounts.

 

4.12 Lost or Uncooperative Participant . If a Ferro Group Company or the Administrator notifies a Participant or Beneficiary of an entitlement to an amount under this Plan and the Participant or Beneficiary fails to request payment, to provide information or to take any other action to receive payment of such amount, the Administrator shall, to the extent administratively possible, direct distribution to be made on an involuntary basis to such person or persons by the Time Required by Law. If the location of a Participant or Beneficiary cannot be determined after a prompt, reasonable good faith effort by the Administrator, the Administrator will direct that the amount payable to the Participant or Beneficiary be forfeited by the Time Required by Law, and no further benefit will be payable with respect to any Participant or Beneficiary.

 

4.13 Distribution upon Income Inclusion under Code Section 409A and Other Acceleration Events . The prior provisions of this Article IV notwithstanding, in the event the Plan fails to meet the requirements of Code Section 409A, a Participant’s 409A Benefits shall be distributed in an amount equal to the amount which is included in income on account of the failure to comply with Code Section 409A.

 

4.14 General Restriction on Distribution and Acceleration of Payment . Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, a Participant’s 409A Benefits shall not be distributed earlier than the time permitted under Code Section 409A. Consistent with Code Section 409A, this Part B provides that distribution shall not be made before the earliest of Termination of Employment, death or Total and Permanent Disability, and imposes a restriction on distributions made on account of Termination of Employment by which no distribution is made until the six (6) month anniversary of the Termination of Employment.

 

B-8


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE V

RIGHTS OF PARTICIPANTS

 

5.1 Creditor Status of Participants . The Elective Amounts of a Participant shall be merely unfunded, unsecured promises of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed) to make benefit payments in the future and shall be liabilities solely against the general assets of such Ferro Group Company. Except as provided in Section 5.6, Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies shall not be required to segregate, set aside or escrow the Elective Amounts nor any earnings, gains and losses credited thereon. With respect to amounts credited to any Account hereunder and any benefits payable hereunder, a Participant and Beneficiary will have the status of general unsecured creditors of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed), and may look only to that Ferro Group Company and its general assets for payment of the Account and benefits.

 

5.2 Rights with Respect to the Trust . Any trust, and any assets held thereby to assist Ferro or other Ferro Group Company in meeting its obligations under this Plan, will in no way be deemed to controvert the provisions of Section 5.1 above.

 

5.3 Investments . In Ferro’s sole discretion, the Ferro Group Companies may acquire insurance policies, annuities or other financial vehicles for the purpose of providing future assets of Ferro Group Companies to meet their anticipated liabilities under this Plan. Such policies, annuities or other investments, shall at all times be and remain unrestricted general property and assets of the Ferro Group Companies or property of a trust established pursuant to Article VI of this Plan. Participants and Beneficiaries will have no rights, other than as general creditors, with respect to any such policies, annuities or other acquired assets.

 

5.4 Method for Crediting Investment Return . As described in Section 3.8 above, the Ferro Group Companies will maintain separate Accounts for the Elective Amounts deferred by the Participant before 1999 and after 1998.

 

  (A) Post-1998 Account . As elected by the Participant in his or her Deferred Compensation Agreement, the Elective Amounts deferred after 1998 will, in the portions specified by the Participant in the Deferred Compensation Agreement, be deemed to be invested in either Ferro Common Stock or Treasury instruments, as described below.

 

  (1) Ferro Stock . The Elective Amounts will be deemed to be invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock as of the date the Elective Amounts would have been paid to the Participant if they were not deferred. The Account will be deemed to receive all dividends (whether in stock or cash) and stock splits which would be received if the Account was actually invested shares of Ferro Common Stock, and such dividends and stock splits will be deemed to be reinvested in shares of Ferro Common Stock as of the date of their receipt. The investment in Ferro Common Stock will be deemed to be made at the closing sale price of Ferro Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Tape (as reported in The Wall Street Journal) on the trading day of the deemed investment.

 

B-9


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (2) Treasury Instruments . The Elective Amounts will be deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments yielding a rate of interest equal to three hundred (300) basis points over the Ten-Year Constant Treasury Maturity Yield as reported by the Federal Reserve Board.

 

  (B) Pre-1999 Account . Each Participant with an Account credited with Elective Amounts deferred before 1999 will be deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments as described in Section 5.4(A)(2) above, except to the extent the Participant elected, in writing during the special election period provided in 1999, for all or a portion of the Account to be deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock. Under any such election, the portion of the Account designated by the Participant to be deemed invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock will be deemed invested as of the date the Elective Amounts would have been paid to the Participant if they were not deferred, and otherwise will be valued and credited with dividends and stock splits, in the same manner as described in Section 5.4(A)(1) above.

 

  (C) Periodic Adjustment of Accounts . As of each Valuation Date, the Participant’s Account will be adjusted to reflect earnings and losses on the deemed investments. To the extent the Account is deemed to be invested in Ferro stock, it will be credited as of each Valuation Date with hypothetical appreciation and depreciation and earnings, as computed and determined by the Administrator based on the value of Ferro Common Stock and its dividends as provided in Section 5.4(A)(1) above. To the extent the Participant’s Account is deemed to be invested in Treasury instruments, it will be credited as of each Valuation Date with hypothetical earnings, as computed and determined by the Administrator using a rate of interest equal to three hundred (300) basis points over the Ten-Year Constant Treasury Maturity Yield as provided in Section 5.4(A)(2) above. The Administrator will provide each Participant annually with a statement showing the balance credited to the Participant’s Account as of the last day of the preceding Election Year.

 

5.5 Bookkeeping Account Only . A Participant’s Account is solely for the purpose of measuring the amounts to be paid under this Plan. The Ferro Group Companies will not fund or secure, and will not be permitted to fund or secure, the Account in any way, and the Ferro Group Companies’ obligation to the Participants under this Plan is solely contractual.

 

5.6 Escrow Upon a Change in Control . Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, within five days after the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, the Ferro Group Companies will establish an irrevocable escrow account at a financial institution satisfactory to Ferro and the Participants (or, in the case of death, the Participants’ Beneficiaries), determined by a majority vote of such Participants and Beneficiaries, to keep on deposit in the escrow account an amount at least equal to the total balances of the Accounts in the Plan determined as of the end of the calendar month immediately preceding the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, with such date being the Valuation Date for this purpose. The amount required to be kept on deposit in the escrow account by the Ferro Group Companies will be recalculated as of each Valuation Date. The escrow account will remain subject to the claims of creditors of the Ferro Group Companies and will have the other characteristics required to preserve the unfunded status of this Plan as provided under Section 1.5. Subject to the later provisions of this Section, the escrow amount will be kept on deposit at all times after the expiration of five days following the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, or a Change in Control, whichever occurs earlier.

 

B-10


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

If a Change in Control does not occur within twelve months after the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, Ferro may request the escrow agent to return to the Ferro Group Companies the amounts in escrow. Otherwise, amounts deposited in the escrow account will be paid out by the escrow agent only to:

 

  (A) the Participant or Beneficiary, in such amounts as the Participant or Beneficiary certify to the escrow agent as amounts that the Ferro Group Company is in default in paying under the terms of this Plan or a related Deferred Compensation Agreement; or

 

  (B) the Ferro Group Companies, to the extent that the amount on deposit exceeds the total balances of the Accounts in the Plan determined as of the end of the calendar month immediately preceding the occurrence of a Potential Change in Control, reduced by any payments made, and as specified in joint written instructions from the affected Participants and Beneficiaries and Ferro to the escrow agent or in a final arbitral award.

Ferro will have the right to instruct the escrow agent to invest all or any portion of the escrow account in time deposits or certificates of deposit with, or repurchase or other obligations of, any “bank” (as determined by Ferro), or obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, provided that no investment will be for a period of more than ninety (90) days. The escrow agent will have no liability for following the instructions of Ferro regarding any such investment, or for any loss in the value of the escrow account as a consequence of any such investment or its liquidation.

The Ferro Group Companies may meet their obligation to keep amounts on deposit in the escrow account through deposits of assets, one or more letters of credit deposited in escrow, any combination of the foregoing. The Ferro Group Companies will have the right to substitute one form of permitted deposit in the escrow account for another form of permitted deposit at any time.

ARTICLE VI

TRUST

 

6.1 Establishment of Trust . Notwithstanding any other provision or interpretation of this Plan, Ferro may establish a Trust in which to hold cash, insurance policies or other assets that may be used to make, or reimburse Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for, payments to the Participants or Beneficiaries of all or part of the benefits under this Plan. Any Trust assets shall at all times remain subject to the claims of general creditors of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company in the event of the insolvency of Ferro or such other Ferro Group Company as more fully described in the Trust.

 

6.2 Obligation of the Ferro Group Companies . Notwithstanding the fact that a Trust may be established under Section 6.1, the Ferro Group Companies shall remain liable for paying the benefits under this Plan. However, any payment of benefits to a Participant or Beneficiary made by a Trust will satisfy the appropriate Ferro Group Company’s obligation to make payment to such person under this Plan.

 

B-11


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

6.3 Trust Terms . A Trust established under Section 6.1 may contain any terms as Ferro may determine to be necessary or desirable; provided, however, that, no terms shall provide for or permit funding that would result in income inclusion under Code Section 409A(b) including, but not limited to, terms that allow for the transfer or set aside of assets offshore in a Trust, or which provide for assets to become restricted to the provision of benefits in connection with a change in the financial health of Ferro and Affiliates, and any terms which so provide shall be deemed null and void. Consistent with the foregoing, Ferro may terminate or amend a Trust established under Section 6.1 at any time, and in any manner it deems necessary or desirable, subject to the terms of any agreement under which any Trust is established or maintained.

ARTICLE VII

ADMINISTRATION AND CLAIMS PROCEDURE

 

7.1 Administrator . The Administrator will be Ferro, acting by and through Ferro’s Corporate Human Resources Department, unless the Board of Directors, acting itself or through an appropriate committee, designates otherwise.

 

7.2 General Rights, Powers, and Duties of Administrator . The Administrator will be the Plan administrator under ERISA. The Administrator will be responsible for the general administration of this Plan and will have all powers as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Plan and may, from time to time, establish rules for the administration of this Plan and the transaction of this Plan’s business. In addition to any powers, rights and duties set forth elsewhere in this Plan, it will have the following powers and duties:

 

  (A) To enact rules, regulations, and procedures and to prescribe the use of such forms as it deems advisable;

 

  (B) To appoint or employ agents, attorneys, actuaries, accountants, assistants or other persons (who may also be Participants in this Plan or be employed by or represent a Ferro Group Company) at the expense of the Ferro Group Companies, as it deems necessary to keep its records or to assist it in taking any other action authorized or required under this Plan;

 

  (C) To interpret this Plan, and to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan and resolve all questions arising under this Plan;

 

  (D) To administer this Plan in accordance with its terms and any rules and regulations it establishes;

 

  (E) To maintain records concerning this Plan as it deems sufficient to prepare reports, returns and other information required by this Plan or by law; and

 

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  (F) To direct a Ferro Group Company to pay benefits under this Plan and to give other directions and instructions as may be necessary for the proper administration of this Plan.

Any decision, interpretation or other action made or taken by the Administrator arising out of or in connection with this Plan, will be within the absolute discretion of the Administrator, and will be final, binding and conclusive on Ferro, all other Ferro Group Companies, and all Participants and Beneficiaries and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns. Except as may be required for compliance with Code Section 409A, the Administrator’s determinations under this Plan need not be uniform, and may be made selectively among Participants, whether or not they are similarly situated.

 

7.3 Information to Be Furnished to the Administrator . A Ferro Group Company will furnish the Administrator with such data and information as it may reasonably require. The records of a Ferro Group Company will be determinative of each Participant’s period of employment, termination of employment, personal data, and data regarding Base Annual Salary, Bonus and Performance Share Award, and all deferrals under this Plan. Participants and their Beneficiaries will furnish to the Administrator such evidence, data or information and execute such documents as the Administrator requests.

 

7.4 Claim for Benefits . A Participant or Beneficiary must make a claim for payment under this Plan in writing to the Administrator in the manner prescribed by the Administrator as soon as administratively practicable following the distribution event. The Administrator will process each claim and determine entitlement to benefits within 90 days after the Administrator receives a completed application for benefits (or within such shorter period as may be required to ensure that payment is made by the Time Required by Law). If the Administrator needs an extension of time for processing because calculation of the benefit amount is not administratively practicable, then the Administrator will notify the claimant before the end of the initial period. The extension notice will indicate the special circumstances requiring an extension of time and the date as of which the Administrator expects to render the final decision. In no event will such an extension exceed 90 days from the end of the initial period.

 

7.5 Denial of Benefit . If a claim is wholly or partially denied by the Administrator, then the Administrator will notify the claimant of the denial of the claim in a writing delivered in person or mailed by first class mail to the claimant’s last known address. The notice of denial will contain:

 

  (A) the specific reason or reasons for denial of the claim;

 

  (B) a reference to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the denial is based;

 

  (C) a description of any additional material or information necessary for the claimant to perfect the claim, together with an explanation of why the material or information is necessary; and

 

  (D) an explanation of this Plan’s claim review procedure.

If no notice is provided, the claim will be deemed denied. The interpretations, determinations and decisions of the Administrator will be final and binding upon all persons with respect to any right, benefit and privilege hereunder, subject to the review procedures set forth in this Article.

 

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7.6 Request for Review of a Denial of a Claim for Benefits . Any claimant or any authorized representative of the claimant whose claim for benefits under this Plan has been denied or deemed denied, in whole or in part, may upon written notice to the Appeals Committee request a review by the Appeals Committee of the denial of the claim. The claimant will have 60 days from the date the claim is deemed denied or 60 days from receipt of the notice denying the claim, as the case may be, in which to request a review by written application delivered to the Appeals Committee, which must specify the relief requested and the reason such claimant believes the denial should be reversed.

 

7.7 Appeals Procedure . The Appeals Committee will review the facts and relevant documents including this Plan, and interpret the facts and relevant documents including this Plan to render a decision on the claim. The review may be of written briefs submitted by the claimant, or at a hearing, or by both, as deemed necessary or appropriate by the Appeals Committee. Any hearing will be held in the main office of Ferro, or such other location as the Appeals Committee may select, on the date and at the time as the Appeals Committee designates by giving at least 15-days’ notice to the claimant, unless the claimant accepts shorter notice. The notice will specify that the claimant must indicate in writing, at least five days in advance of the hearing, the claimant’s intention to appear at the appointed time and place, or the hearing will be automatically cancelled. The reply will specify any other persons who will accompany the claimant to the hearing, or such other persons will not be admitted to the hearing. The Appeals Committee will make every effort to schedule the hearing on a day and at a time that is convenient to both the claimant and the Appeals Committee. The claimant, or his duly authorized representative, may review all pertinent documents relating to the claim in preparation for the hearing and may submit issues and comments in writing before or during the hearing.

 

7.8 Decision Upon Review of Denial of Claim for Benefits . In making its decision, the Appeals Committee will have full power and discretion to interpret this Plan, to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, and to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan. The Appeals Committee will render a decision on the claim reviewed no more than 60 days after the receipt of the claimant’s request for review, unless special circumstances (such as the need to hold a hearing) require an extension of time, in which case the 60-day period may be extended up to 120 days. The Appeals Committee will provide written notice of its decision to the claimant within the time frame specified. The notice will include the specific reasons for the decision and contain specific references to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the decision is based. If notice of the decision is not provided within the time frame specified, the claim will be deemed denied on review. The decision of the Appeals Committee will be final and binding in all respects on the Administrator, the Ferro Group Company and claimant involved.

 

7.9

Establishment of Appeals Committee . The Chief Executive Officer of Ferro will appoint three or more persons to serve as members of the Appeals Committee. The Chief Executive Officer may appoint one Appeals Committee to hear all appeals of denied benefits that arise under this Plan, or may appoint a new Appeals Committee each time an Appeals Committee is needed to hear an appeal of denied benefits that arises under this Plan. The members of the Appeals Committee will remain in office

 

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  at the will of the Chief Executive Officer, and the Chief Executive Officer may remove any of the members with or without cause. A member of the Appeals Committee may resign upon written notice to the remaining member or members of the Appeals Committee and to the Chief Executive Officer, respectively. The fact that a person is a Participant or a former Participant or a prospective Participant will not disqualify that person from acting as a member of the Appeals Committee. No member of the Appeals Committee will be disqualified from acting on any question because of the member’s interest in the question, except that no member of the Appeals Committee may act on any claim which the member has brought as a Participant, former Participant, or Beneficiary under this Plan. In case of the death, resignation or removal of any member of the Appeals Committee, the remaining members will act until a successor-member is appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. At the Administrator’s request, the Chief Executive Officer will notify the Administrator in writing of the names of the members of the Appeals Committee, of any and all changes in the membership of the Appeals Committee, of the member designated as Chairman, and the member designated as Secretary, and of any changes in either office. Until notified of a change, the Administrator will be protected in assuming that there has been no change in the membership of the Appeals Committee or the designation of Chairman or of Secretary since the last notification was filed with it. The Administrator will be under no obligation at any time to inquire into the membership of the Appeals Committee or its officers. All communications to the Appeals Committee will be addressed to its Secretary at the address of the Company.

 

7.10 Operation of the Appeals Committee . On all matters and questions, the decision of a majority of the members of the Appeals Committee will govern and control. A meeting need not be called or held to make any decision. The Appeals Committee will appoint one of its members to act as its Chairman and another member to act as Secretary. The terms of office of these members will be determined by the Appeals Committee, and the Secretary and/or Chairman may be removed by the other members of the Appeals Committee for any reason which such other members may deem just and proper. The Secretary will do all things directed by the Appeals Committee. Although the Appeals Committee will act by decision of a majority of its members as provided above, in the absence of written notice to the contrary, every person may deal with the Secretary and consider the Secretary’s acts as having been authorized by the Appeals Committee. Any notice served or demand made on the Secretary will be deemed to have been served or made upon the Appeals Committee.

 

7.11 Limitation of Duties . Ferro, the other Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, and their respective officers, members, employees and agents will have no duty or responsibility under this Plan other than the duties and responsibilities expressly assigned or delegated to them pursuant to this Plan. None of them will have any duty or responsibility with respect to those duties or responsibilities assigned or delegated to another.

 

7.12 Agents . The Administrator and the Appeals Committee may hire any attorneys, accountants, actuaries, agents, clerks, and secretaries as it may deem desirable in the performance of its duties, any of whom may also be advisors to any Ferro Group Company or any subsidiary or affiliated company.

 

7.13

Expenses of Administration . No fee or compensation will be paid to the Administrator or any member of the Appeals Committee for their performance of

 

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  services as such. Ferro will bear all other expenses incurred in the administration of this Plan except to the extent Ferro determines that the expenses are allocable to, and should be paid by, one or more of the Ferro Group Companies.

 

7.14 Indemnification . In addition to whatever rights of indemnification any member or employee of the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, Ferro or other Ferro Group Company under this Plan may be entitled to under the articles of incorporation, regulations or bylaws of the Ferro Group Companies, under any provision of law or under any other agreement, the Ferro Group Companies will satisfy any liability actually incurred by any member or employee including reasonable expenses and attorneys’ fees, and any judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement, in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding which is related to the exercise or failure to exercise by any member or employee any powers, authority, responsibilities or discretion provided under this Plan or reasonably believed by a member or employee to be provided under this Plan, and any action taken by a member or employee in connection with such exercise or failure to exercise. This indemnification for all such acts taken or omitted is intentionally broad, but will not provide indemnification for embezzlement or diversion of Plan funds for the benefit of any member or employee. This indemnification will not be provided for any claim by a Ferro Group Company or a subsidiary or affiliated company thereof against any member or employee. No indemnification will be provided to any person who is not an individual.

 

7.15 Limitation of Administrative Liability . Neither Ferro, any Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, nor any of their members or employees will be liable for any act taken by such person or entity pursuant to any provision of this Plan except for gross abuse of the discretion given them under this Plan. No member of the Administrator or Appeals Committee will be liable for the act of any other member. No member of the Board of Directors will be liable to any person for any action taken or omitted in connection with the administration of this Plan.

 

7.16 Limitation of Sponsor Liability . Any right or authority exercisable by Ferro or Board of Directors pursuant to any provision of this Plan will be exercised in Ferro’s capacity as sponsor of this Plan, or on behalf of Ferro in such capacity, and not in a fiduciary capacity, and may be exercised without the approval or consent of any person in a fiduciary capacity. Neither Ferro, nor the Board of Directors, nor any of their respective officers, members, employees, agents and delegates, will have any liability to any party for its exercise of any such right or authority.

ARTICLE VIII

AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

 

8.1 Amendment, Modification and Termination . Subject to Sections 8.4 and 8.5 below, this Plan may be amended, modified or terminated by Ferro at any time, or from time to time, by action of an appropriate Ferro officer authorized or ratified by the Board of Directors. No amendment, modification or termination will be effective if it:

 

  (A) causes this Plan to be for a purpose other than the exclusive benefit of the Participants, or

 

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  (B) reduces the amounts credited to any Participant’s Account or adversely affects the right of any Participant or Beneficiary to receive payment of the Account as provided under this Plan, determined as of the date of the amendment, unless an equivalent benefit is provided under another plan or program sponsored by the Company or an Affiliate. Furthermore, no amendment, modification or termination will be effective prior to the date permitted under Code Section 409A, which, in certain circumstances is twelve (12) months following the adoption of such amendment, modification or termination.

The prior provisions notwithstanding, this Plan may be amended to:

 

  (1) reduce or eliminate the ability for Participants to defer future Elective Amounts under this Plan;

 

  (2) reduce or eliminate the future deemed interest or earnings credited to the amounts held in a Participant’s Account;

 

  (3) comply with any law; or

 

  (4) preserve the intended deferral of taxation for the benefit of all Participants Accounts.

 

8.2 Effect of Amendment on Distributions . If this Plan is amended to prohibit future Elective Amounts, then the amounts credited to Participants’ Accounts will be distributed as provided in Article IV above.

 

8.3 Actions Binding on Ferro Group Companies . Any amendments made to this Plan will be binding on all the Ferro Group Companies without the approval or consent of the Ferro Group Companies other than Ferro. Ferro may, by amendment, also terminate this Plan on behalf of all or any one of the other Ferro Group Companies in its sole discretion.

 

8.4 Termination or Amendment After Change in Control . If a Change in Control occurs, then, for a period of two (2) calendar years following such Change in Control, Ferro may not amend or terminate this Plan without the prior written consent of all Participants.

 

8.5 Distribution of Benefits on Plan Termination . In the event Ferro elects to amend, modify or terminate the Plan as provided under Section 8.1, no liquidation and payment of benefits shall occur as a result. The prior provisions notwithstanding, Ferro may, in its discretion, provide by amendment to the Plan for the liquidation and termination of the Plan where:

 

  (A) the termination and liquidation does not occur proximate to a downturn in the financial health of Ferro and Affiliates;

 

  (B) the Plan and all arrangements required to be aggregated with the Plan under Code Section 409A are terminated and liquidated;

 

  (C) no payments, other than those that would be payable under the terms of the Plan and the aggregated arrangements if the termination and liquidation had not occurred, are made within twelve (12) months of the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan;

 

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  (D) all payments are made within twenty-four (24) months of the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan; and

 

  (E) Ferro and Affiliates do not adopt a new arrangement that would be aggregated with any terminated arrangement under Code Section 409A, at any time within three (3) years following the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan.

Similarly, Ferro may, in its discretion, provide by amendment to liquidate and terminate the Plan where the termination and liquidation occur within twelve (12) months of a corporate dissolution taxed under Code Section 331, or with the approval of a bankruptcy court pursuant to 11 United States Code Section 503(b)(1)(A), provided that all amounts deferred under the Plan are included in the Participants’ gross incomes in the latest of the following years (or, if earlier, the taxable year in which the amount is actually or constructively received):

 

  (1) the calendar year in which the termination and liquidation occur;

 

  (2) the first calendar year in which the amount is no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture; or

 

  (3) the first calendar year in which the payment is administratively practicable.

ARTICLE IX

FERRO GROUP COMPANIES

 

9.1 List of Ferro Group Companies . The Ferro Group Companies as of the Amendment and Restatement Date are Ferro and the subsidiaries and affiliates of Ferro listed on Appendix B to this Plan. Ferro may from time to time add or remove Ferro subsidiaries and affiliates from the list of Ferro Group Companies by written action of its Chief Executive Officer. The addition or deletion will not require a formal amendment to this Plan.

 

9.2 Delegation of Authority . Ferro is fully empowered to act on behalf of itself and the other Ferro Group Companies as it may deem appropriate in maintaining this Plan and any Trust. The adoption by Ferro of any amendment to this Plan or any Trust, or the termination of this Plan or any Trust, will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the approval, adoption, ratification or confirmation by each Ferro Group Company of any amendment or termination. In addition, the appointment of or removal by Ferro of any Administrator, any trustee or other person under this Plan or any Trust will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the appointment or removal by each Ferro Group Company of such person.

 

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ARTICLE X

MISCELLANEOUS

 

10.1 No Implied Rights . Neither the establishment of this Plan nor any amendment of this Plan will be construed as giving any Participant, Beneficiary or any other person any legal or equitable right unless the right is specifically provided for in this Plan or conferred by specific action of Ferro in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Plan. Except as expressly provided in this Plan, neither Ferro nor any other Ferro Group Company will be required or be liable to make any payment under this Plan.

 

10.2 No Right to Ferro Group Company Assets . Neither the Participant nor any other person will acquire by reason of this Plan any right in or title to any assets, funds or property of a Ferro Group Company whatsoever including, without limitation, any specific funds, assets or other property which a Ferro Group Company, in its sole discretion, may set aside in anticipation of a liability hereunder. Any benefits which become payable under this Plan will be paid from the general assets of the appropriate Ferro Group Company. No assets of the Ferro Group Companies will be held in any way as collateral security for the fulfilling of the obligations of the Ferro Group Companies under this Plan. No assets of the Ferro Group Companies will be pledged or otherwise restricted in order to meet the obligations of this Plan. The Participant will have only a contractual right to the amounts, if any, payable hereunder unsecured by any asset of a Ferro Group Company. Nothing contained in this Plan constitutes a guarantee by a Ferro Group Company that the assets of a Ferro Group Company will be sufficient to pay any benefit to any person.

 

10.3 No Employment Rights Created . This Plan will not be deemed to constitute a contract of employment between any of the Ferro Group Companies and any Participant, or to confer upon any Participant or employee the right to be retained in the service of any Ferro Group Company for any period of time, nor shall any provision of this Plan restrict the right of any Ferro Group Company to discharge or otherwise deal with any Participant or other employees, with or without cause. Nothing in this Plan will be construed as fixing or regulating the Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award payable to any Participant or other employee of a Ferro Group Company.

 

10.4 Offset . If at the time payment is to be made under this Plan the Participant or the Beneficiary or both are indebted or obligated to a Ferro Group Company, then the payment of the Participant’s 409A Benefits to be made to the Participant or the Beneficiary or both may, at the discretion of the Administrator at the request of the Ferro Group Company, be reduced by the amount of the indebtedness or obligation, but only if:

 

  (A) such debt is incurred in the ordinary course of the service relationship between the Participant and the Ferro Group Company,

 

  (B) in any taxable year of Ferro and Affiliates the entire amount of reduction does not exceed $5,000, and

 

  (C) the reduction is made at the same time and in the same amount as the debt otherwise would have been due and collected from the Participant.

 

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An election by the Ferro Group Company not to request any reduction will not constitute a waiver of the Ferro Group Company’s claim for such indebtedness or obligation.

 

10.5 No Assignment . Neither the Participant nor any other person will have any voluntary or involuntary right to commute, sell, assign, pledge, anticipate, mortgage or otherwise encumber, transfer, hypothecate or convey, in advance of actual receipt of the amount, if any, payable under this Plan, or any part of the amount payable from this Plan, and any attempt to do so will be void. All benefits or amounts credited to Accounts under this Plan are expressly declared to be unassignable and non-transferable. No part of the benefits or amounts credited to Accounts under this Plan will be, before actual payment, subject to seizure or sequestration for the payment of any debts, judgments, alimony or separate maintenance owed by the Participant or any other person, or be transferable by operation of law in the event of the Participant’s or any other person’s bankruptcy or insolvency.

 

10.6 Notice . Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Plan will be sufficient if in writing and hand delivered, or sent by registered or certified mail or by overnight delivery service, and:

 

  (A) if given to a Ferro Group Company, delivered to the principal office of Ferro, directed to the attention of the General Counsel; or

 

  (B) if given to a Participant or Beneficiary, delivered to the last post office address as shown on the Ferro Group Company’s or the Administrator’s records.

Notice will be deemed given as of the date of delivery or, if delivery is made by mail, as of the date shown on the postmark or the receipt for registration or certification.

 

10.7 Governing Laws . This Plan will be construed and administered according to the internal substantive laws of the State of Ohio to the extent not preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

 

10.8 Incapacity . If the Administrator determines that any Participant or Beneficiary entitled to payment under this Plan is a minor, a person declared incompetent or a person incapable of handling his or her property, the Administrator may direct any payment to the guardian, legal representative or person having the care and custody of the minor, incompetent or incapable person. The Administrator may require proof of minority, incompetence, incapacity or guardianship, as it may deem appropriate before making any payment. The Administrator will have no obligation thereafter to monitor or follow the application of amounts so paid. Payments made pursuant to this Section will completely discharge this Plan, any Trust, the Administrator, and the Ferro Group Companies with respect to the payments.

 

10.9 Court Ordered Distributions . If a court issues a domestic relations order as defined in Code Section 414(p)(1)(B) by which a spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent of a Participant is provided an interest in the Participant’s Account under this Plan in connection with a property settlement or otherwise, the Administrator shall, notwithstanding any election made by the Participant or the Participant’s eligibility for distribution, distribute the spouse’s or former spouse’s or dependent’s or former dependent’s interest in the Participant’s Account under this Plan to that spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent, as provided under such domestic relations order.

 

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10.10   Administrative Forms . All applications, elections and designations in connection with this Plan made by a Participant or Beneficiary will become effective only when duly executed on forms provided by the Administrator and filed with the Administrator.

 

10.11   Independence of Plan . Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Plan will be independent of, and in addition to, any other employee benefit agreement or plan or any rights that may exist from time to time under any other agreement or plan.

 

10.12   Responsibility for Legal Effect . Neither Ferro, any other Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, nor any officer, member, delegate or agent of any of them, makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, or assumes any responsibility concerning the legal, tax, or other implications or effects of this Plan.

 

10.13   Successors . The terms and conditions of this Plan will inure to the benefit of and bind Ferro, the Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator and its members, the Participants, their Beneficiaries, and the successors, assigns, and personal representatives of any of them.

 

10.14   Headings and Titles . The Section headings and titles of Articles used in this Plan are for convenience of reference only and are not to be considered in construing this Plan.

 

10.15   Appendices . The Appendices to this Plan constitute an integral part of this Plan and are hereby incorporated into this Plan by this reference.

 

10.16   Severability . If any provision or term of this Plan, or any agreement or instrument required by the Administrator, is determined by a judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative body to be void or not enforceable for any reason, all other provisions or terms of this Plan or the agreement or instrument will remain in full force and effect and will be enforceable as if the void or nonenforceable provision or term had never been a part of this Plan, or the agreement or instrument.

 

10.17   Actions by Ferro . Except as otherwise provided in this Plan, all actions of Ferro under this Plan will be taken by the Board of Directors, and be evidenced in a writing executed by an appropriate officer duly authorized.

 

10.18   Spousal Consent and Release . If, in the opinion of Ferro, any present, former or future spouse of an employee entitled to benefits from this Plan shall by reason of law appear to have any interest in the Plan benefits that may be or become payable hereunder to such employee, Ferro may as a condition precedent to the making of a benefit payment hereunder, require such written consent or release as in its discretion it shall determine to be necessary, desirable or appropriate either to prevent or avoid any conflict or multiplicity of claims, or to protect the rights of any such present, former or future spouse with respect to the payment of any benefits under this Plan.

 

10.19

  Overpayments and Repayments . Benefits are provided only as set forth under the terms of this Plan. Payments at a time or in an amount other than as set forth under the terms of the Plan are not authorized, and Ferro will take all reasonable steps to ensure that the amount and timing of benefit payments are in accordance with the Plan’s terms. In the event Ferro determines that the benefits actually paid under

 

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  this Plan to a Participant, beneficiary or other person exceed the benefits that were properly payable, or were paid prior to the proper time for payment, Ferro shall immediately demand repayment of such excess amounts. The Participant, Beneficiary or other person is obligated to return such excess amounts upon demand from Ferro. In the event the Participant, beneficiary or other person fails to return the excess amounts, Ferro shall exercise any available legal remedies which are consistent with the terms and purpose of the Plan

 

10.20   References to Sections of Law . References herein to the Code are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provision of subsequent federal law. References herein to ERISA are to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provisions of subsequent law.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

D EFINITIONS

For purposes of this Plan, the following terms have the meanings set forth below where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters:

 

Term    Meaning
Account or Elective Account    For each Participant the bookkeeping account maintained by the Ferro Group Company to reflect the Participant’s Elective Amounts for an Election Year and all earnings, gains and losses thereon. A Participant’s Account shall not constitute or be treated as a trust fund of any kind.
Administrator    As defined in Section 7.1 of this Plan.
Affiliate    Any corporation or business entity during any period during which it would be treated, together with the Company, as a single employer for purposes of Section 414(b) or (c).

Amendment and

Restatement Date

   January 1, 2005.
Base Annual Salary    For any Participant the gross base salary payable during an Election Year by a Ferro Group Company, unreduced by any amounts deferred under the Ferro Corporation Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, this Plan, or any other plan maintained by the Ferro Group Company. “Base Annual Salary” does not include bonuses, commissions, incentive compensation, any extraordinary compensation of a recurring or nonrecurring nature, compensation paid in a form other than cash, or contributions, accruals, or benefits under the Ferro Corporation Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, this Plan, or any other plan maintained by the Ferro Group Company (other than amounts elected to be deferred by the Participant).
Beneficial Owner    “Beneficial owner” within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act.
Beneficiary    As defined in 4.9 of this Plan.
Board of Directors    Ferro’s Board of Directors.
Bonus    The gross monies awarded and payable to a Participant during an Election Year under the Ferro Annual Incentive Compensation Plan, as it may be amended from time to time, unreduced by any amounts deferred under the Ferro SSOP, this Plan, or any other plan maintained by the Ferro Group Company.

 

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Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
Change in Control    A change in the control of Ferro that is required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act. For purposes of this definition, a Change in Control will be deemed to have occurred if and when:
  

(a)     any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d)(3) and 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of Ferro representing twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the combined voting power of Ferro’s outstanding voting securities; or

  

(b)     during any period of two consecutive years, the individuals set forth below in sub-paragraph (1) and (2) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors:

  

(1)     the individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors, and

  

(2)     any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement or arrangement with Ferro to effect a transaction described in clause (a) or (c) of this definition) whose appointment, election, or nomination for election by Ferro’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose appointment, election or nomination for election was previously so approved; or

  

(c)     a merger or consolidation of Ferro or one of its subsidiaries is consummated with or into any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the holders of the voting securities of Ferro outstanding immediately prior thereto holding securities which represent immediately after such merger or consolidation more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of either Ferro or the other entity which survives such merger or consolidation or the parent of the entity which survives such merger or consolidation; or

  

(d)     a sale or disposition by Ferro of all or substantially all Ferro’s assets is consummated.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of triggering the lump-sum distribution under Section 4.2, only the occurrence of an above-listed event which also constitutes a “change in the ownership or effective control of the corporation, or in the ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the corporation” under Code Section 409A shall constitute a Change in Control.

Code   

The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any lawful regulations or other pronouncements promulgated under that Code.

Deferred Compensation

Agreement

  

An agreement executed between a Participant and the Ferro Group Company whereby a Participant agrees to defer a portion of the Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award as provided under this Plan, and the Ferro Group Company agrees to make benefit payments in accordance with the provisions of this Plan.

Dependent   

Any of the following persons who receives over half of their financial support from the Participant: a spouse, a son or daughter (or the descendent of either); a stepson or stepdaughter; a brother, sister, stepbrother or stepsister; a father or mother (or ancestor of either); a stepfather or stepmother; a nephew or niece; an uncle or aunt; a son-in-law, daughter-in-law, father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law or sister-in-law; or any other person whose principal place of residence is the Participant’s home and who is a member of the household.

Disability   

See “Total and Permanent Disability.”

Election Year   

A calendar year in respect of which a Participant makes an election under this Plan.

Elective Amount   

An amount equal to the amount by which a Participant’s Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award are reduced pursuant to Section 3.4 of this Plan in respect of a given Election Year.

Eligible Employee   

An Executive Employee of a Ferro Group Company who has satisfied the eligibility requirement of Section 3.1 of this Plan.

Entry Date   

With respect to a given Executive Employee in a given Election Year, the first day such Executive Employee becomes a Participant in such Election Year.

 

B-25


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
ERISA   

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.

Exchange Act   

The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.

Executive Employee   

A management employee of a Ferro Group Company who is in Grade 22 or higher in the Executive Payroll Group and who is eligible to participate in the Ferro Annual Incentive Compensation Plan.

Ferro   

As defined in Section 1.2 of this Plan. Such term also includes any successor corporation or business organization that subsequently assumes Ferro’s duties and obligations under this Plan.

Ferro Common Stock   

The Common Stock of Ferro, par value $1.00, per share.

Ferro Group Companies   

As defined in Section 9.1 of this Plan.

Ferro SSOP   

Ferro’s Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, as the same may be amended from time to time.

409A Benefits   

All benefits under the Plan which are not Pre-2005 Benefits (generally, amounts which are earned or vested under the Plan after December 31, 2004, plus any earnings with respect to such amounts or to such earnings).

2005 Plan   

The provisions of the Plan as set forth in Part B, which govern 409A Benefits.

Long-Term Incentive

Compensation Plan

  

Ferro’s 2003 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended.

Participant   

An Executive Employee of a Ferro Group Company who is designated to be an Eligible Employee pursuant to Section 3.2 of this Plan, who enters into a Deferred Compensation Agreement, and who has commenced Base Annual Salary, Bonus or Performance Share Award reductions pursuant to that Deferred Compensation Agreement. A Participant will cease to be a Participant, and shall become a former Participant, upon the earliest of the following:

  

(a) Termination of Employment,

  

(b) the date the employee ceases to be an Eligible       Employee, or

 

B-26


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

(c)     the date the employee’s participation in this Plan is terminated by the Administrator pursuant to Section 4.10 of this Plan or otherwise.

Performance Share Award    The gross monies awarded and payable to a Participant during an Election Year in respect of Performance Shares awarded under the Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan or the prior Performance Share Plan, unreduced by any amounts deferred under the Ferro SSOP, this Plan, or any other plan maintained by the Ferro Group Company.
Performance Share Plan    Ferro’s 1997 Performance Share Plan, as amended.
Person   

A “person” as defined under Section 3(a)(9) of the Exchange Act as modified and used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, excluding:

 

(a)    Ferro or any of its subsidiaries;

 

(b)     a trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company (or of any of its affiliates as defined under Rule 12b-2 under Section 12 of the Exchange Act);

 

(c)     an underwriter temporarily holding securities pursuant to an offering of such securities; or

 

(d)     a corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the shareholders of Ferro in substantially the same proportion as their ownership of the stock of Ferro.

Pre-2005 Benefits    All benefits under the Plan that were earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004, plus any earnings with respect to such amounts or to such earnings.
Pre-2005 Plan    The provisions of the Plan set forth in Part A, which govern Pre-2005 Benefits.
this Plan    The Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees, or a component plan, as appropriate.
Potential Change in Control   

The occurrence of any of the following events:

 

(a)     Ferro enters into an agreement which, if consummated, would result in a Change in Control;

 

(b)     Ferro or any Person publicly announces an intention to take, or to consider taking, actions which, if consummated, would constitute a Change in Control;

 

B-27


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

(c)     any Person becomes the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of Ferro representing 20% or more of the then outstanding shares of Ferro Common Stock or the combined voting power of Ferro’s then outstanding securities;

 

(d)     any Person commences a solicitation (as defined under Rule 14a-1 of the Exchange Act) of proxies or consents which has the purpose of effecting or would, if successful, result in a Change in Control;

 

(e)     a tender or exchange offer for voting securities of Ferro, made by a Person, is first published or sent or given (within the meaning of Rule 14d-2(a) of the Exchange Act); or

 

(f)      the Board of Directors adopts a resolution that a Potential Change in Control has occurred.

Retirement Date    The date a Participant first becomes eligible for an early retirement benefit or a normal retirement benefit as defined under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan. Alternatively, in the case of a Participant who is not covered under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan, “Retirement Date” means the date a Participant would first become eligible for an early retirement benefit or a normal retirement benefit if the Participant were covered under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan.
Termination of Employment   

Effective Prior to January 1, 2008: A Participant’s cessation of service with Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies, including subsidiaries and affiliates of the foregoing, for any reason whatsoever, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, including by reason of retirement, death, or becoming Totally and Permanently Disabled. Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of triggering payment under Section 4.1, only such cessation of service which constitutes a “separation from service” under Code Section 409A shall constitute a Termination of Employment.

 

Effective January 1, 2008: With respect to any Participant:

 

B-28


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

(a)     the separation from service within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, of such Participant with the Company and all of its Affiliates, for any reason, including without limitation, quit, discharge, or retirement, or a leave of absence (including military leave, sick leave, or other bona fide leave of absence such as temporary employment by the government if the period of such leave exceeds the greater of six months, or the period for which the Participant’s right to reemployment is provided either by statute or by contract), or

 

(b)     a permanent decrease in the level of the Participant‘s service to a level that is no more than twenty percent (20%) of its prior level. For this purpose, whether a Termination of Employment has occurred is determined based on whether it is reasonably anticipated that no further services will be performed by the Participant after a certain date or that the level of bona fide services the Participant will perform after such date (whether as an employee or as an independent contractor) would permanently decrease to no more than twenty percent (20%) of the average level of bona fide services performed (whether as an employee or an independent contractor) over the immediately preceding 36-month period (or the full period of services if the Participant has been providing services less than 36 months).

Time Required by Law   

The date designated for payment under the terms of the Plan or a later date in the same calendar year or, if later, the fifteenth (15th) day of the third calendar month following the date designated for payment. (However, if the Participant’s taxable year is not the calendar year, the date designated for payment under the terms of the Plan or a later date in the Participant’s taxable year or, if later, the fifteenth (15th) day of the third calendar month following the date designated for payment.)

 

If calculation of the amount of the benefit is not administratively practicable due to events beyond the control of the Participant (or the Participant’s Beneficiary), any date within the first taxable year of the Participant in which calculation of the payment is administratively practicable.

 

B-29


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

If making the payment on the date designated under the terms of the Plan would jeopardize the ability of Ferro and Affiliates to continue as a going concern, the first taxable year of the Participant in which making the payment would not have such effect.

 

If there is a delay in payment by the Administrator other than with the express or implied consent of the Participant, the first taxable year of the Participant in which the dispute is resolved. The dispute shall be deemed resolved on the earliest date upon which: (a) the Participant and the Administrator or Ferro enter into a legally binding settlement, (b) the Administrator or Ferro concedes that an amount is payable, or (c) the Administrator or Ferro is required to make payment pursuant to a final non-appealable judgment or other binding decision. The foregoing provisions shall apply only if, during the period of the dispute, the Participant accepts any portion of the payment the Administrator or Ferro willing to make (unless acceptance will result in relinquishment of the claim to any remaining portion), and makes prompt and reasonable good faith efforts to collect the remaining portion of the payment which meet the requirements of Code Section 409A (including the timely notice requirements).

 

In the event the payment fails to fails to comply with Federal securities laws or other laws, the earliest date at which Ferro reasonably anticipates that the making of the payment will not cause such violation.

 

In the event the payment fails to be deductible under Code Section 162(m), or meets other conditions specified by the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, such later date as may be provided under Code Section 409A.

Total and Permanent Disability   

Any disability that qualifies a Participant for payment of benefits under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability program, provided that the definition of disability provided under such long-term disability program meets one of the following requirements:

 

(a)     The Participant is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months; or

 

B-30


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

(b)    The Participant is, by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, receiving income replacement benefits for a period of not less than three months under an accident and health plan covering employees of a Ferro Company Group.

 

The determination of whether a Participant suffers a Total and Permanent Disability will be made by the Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan.

Trust    The trust, if any, established pursuant to Section 7.1 of this Plan.
Unforeseeable Emergency    A severe financial hardship of the Participant resulting from (i) an illness or accident of the Participant, his spouse, Beneficiary or dependent; (ii) the loss of a Participant’s property due to casualty (including the need to rebuild a home following damage to a home not otherwise covered by insurance, for example, not as a result of a natural disaster); or (iii) other similarly extraordinary and unforeseeable circumstances arising as a result of events beyond the control of the Participant.
Valuation Date    The last day of each quarter in the Election Year, as well as any other dates specified in this Part B, and any other date or dates Ferro, in its sole discretion, designates from time to time.

 

B-31


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix B

F ERRO G ROUP C OMPANIES

The following are the Ferro Group Companies:

Ferro Corporation

FEM Inc.

Ferro Color and Glass Corp. (formerly, Ferro Glass & Color Corporation)

Ferro International Services, Inc.

Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc.

 

B -32


E XECUTION P AGE

To evidence this amended and restated F ERRO C ORPORATION D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES , Ferro Corporation, as Plan sponsor, has caused this document to be executed by its duly authorized officer as of the 20th day of September, 2007.

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

By:

   
 

James C. Bays Vice

President, General Counsel

& Secretary

 

C-1

EXHIBIT 10.29

 

 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS

 

 

 

Amended and Restated Effective

January 1, 2005


F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS

I NTRODUCTION

This document (this “Plan”) is the F ERRO C ORPORATION D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS . This Plan was originally adopted and effective as of January 1, 1995, and was most recently amended effective July 1, 2001.

This Plan is now amended and restated effective January 1, 2005, for the purpose of complying with new Code Section 409A. Code Section 409A permits deferred compensation which is earned and vested in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2005 to be exempt from Code Section 409A if the plan under which the deferral is made is not materially modified after October 3, 2004.

The Corporation elects and intends to exempt from Code Section 409A the deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004. Consistent with this election, the Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2005, is comprised of two parts:

 

   

Part A , which contains the terms of the Plan as in effect on October 4, 2004 which govern deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004 (the “ Pre-2005 Plan ”), and

 

   

Part B , which contains the terms of the Plan which govern deferred compensation which was earned and vested after December 31, 2004 (the “ 2005 Plan ”).


T ABLE OF C ONTENTS

 

             Page  
Part A:  

Pre-2005 Plan

     A-1   
Part B:  

2005 Plan

     B-1   
Execution Page      C-1   


F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS

P ART A: P RE -2005 P LAN

O VERVIEW

E STABLISHMENT OF C OMPONENT P LAN

The terms of the Plan as it existed on October 4, 2004, and which have not been materially modified thereafter, constitute the pre-2005 component plan (the “Pre-2005 Plan”).

The Pre-2005 Plan is reproduced, as of December 31, 2004, in this Part A. It consists of the Plan as it was amended and restated effective January 1, 1995, and as it was further amended by the adoption of Amendment No. 1. Amendment No. 1, which was adopted effective July 1, 2001, modified Section 2.3(a) to allow distribution in the form of installments. Prior to July 1, 2001, distribution was provided only in a single sum.

E XEMPT FROM C ODE S ECTION  409A

Deferred compensation which is earned and vested in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2005 is permitted to be exempt from Code Section 409A if the plan under which the deferral is made is not materially modified after October 3, 2004.

The Corporation elects and intends to exempt from Code Section 409A the deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004, pursuant to the terms of the Pre-2005 Plan.

G OVERNS O NLY P RE -2005 A MOUNTS

The Pre-2005 Plan governs only those amounts that were earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004 (the “Pre-2005 Amounts”).

Amounts under the Plan are fully vested at all times, and deemed to be invested in Stock under the Ferro Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan. A Participant’s Pre-2005 Amounts equal the Participant’s account balance as of December 31, 2004 (i.e., the amount of the payment available if the Participant exercised a right to distribution from the Plan on December 31, 2004, excluding any exercise price or other amount that must be paid by the Participant), plus any income attributable to that amount. Income includes increases due to the appreciation, and the accrual of other earnings such as dividends, on the underlying Stock after December 31, 2004.

T ERMINOLOGY

As used in the Pre-2005 Plan, the term “Plan” refers to the Pre-2005 Plan or to the Plan, as appropriate.

 

A-1


 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS

 

 

 

Part A: Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated

July 1, 2001

 

A-2


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated July 1, 2001

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS

WHEREAS, Ferro Corporation desires to establish a deferred compensation plan for non-employee members of its Board of Directors who wish to defer all, or a part of, the fees payable for services as members of such Board of Directors; and

WHEREAS, such deferred compensation plan was approved by Ferro Corporation on December 9, 1994;

NOW, THEREFORE, effective as of January 1, 1995, Ferro Corporation establishes the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors as hereinafter set forth.

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS

For the purposes hereof, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings indicated.

 

1.1 Account ” shall mean the account established in accordance with Article II hereof to which a Participant’s deferred Fees are credited.

 

1.2 Beneficiary ” shall mean any person designated by a Participant in accordance with the Plan to receive distribution of all or a portion of the remaining balance of the Participant’s Account in the event of the death of the Participant prior to receipt by the Participant of the Stock credited to the Participant’s Account.

 

1.3 Corporation ” shall mean Ferro Corporation, an Ohio corporation, and its corporate successors, including the surviving corporation resulting from any merger of Ferro Corporation with any other corporation or corporations.

 

1.4 Deferral Election Agreement ” shall mean (subject to the provisions of Article II hereof) an irrevocable written election to defer Fees signed by the Director in the form provided by the Corporation.

 

1.5 Director ” shall mean any non-employee member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation.

 

1.6 Fees ” shall mean the total fees payable by the Corporation to a Director during a Year for services rendered during such Year as a Director.

 

1.7 Participant ” shall mean any Director who has at any time elected to defer the receipt of Fees in accordance with Article II hereof.

 

1.8 Plan ” shall mean this Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors effective January 1, 1995 as set forth herein, together with all amendments hereto.

 

A-3


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated July 1, 2001

 

 

1.9 Stock ” shall mean common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of the Corporation.

 

1.10 Trust ” shall mean the trust maintained pursuant to the terms of the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors Trust Agreement effective as of January 1, 1995, entered into between the Corporation and the Trustee.

 

1.11 Trustee ” shall mean the trustee of the Trust, initially D. Thomas George, or any successor.

 

1.12 Year ” shall mean the calendar year.

ARTICLE II

DEFERRAL AND PAYMENT OF FEES

 

2.1 Eligibility; Election to Defer . Any Director may elect to defer receipt of all or a specified portion of his or her Fees for any Year in accordance with the provisions of this Article II and become a Participant.

A Director who desires to defer receipt of all or a specified portion of his or her Fees for any Year must complete and deliver to the Corporation a Deferral Election Agreement, no later than the last day of the Year prior to the Year for which the Fees would otherwise be earned and paid; provided, however, that any Director hereafter elected to the Board of Directors of the Corporation who was not a Director on the preceding December 31 may make an election to defer payment of Fees for the Year in which he or she is elected to the Board of Directors by delivering such Deferral Election Agreement to the Corporation within thirty (30) days after becoming a Director. A Director who timely delivers the Deferral Election Agreement to the Corporation shall thereupon become a Participant. A Participant’s Deferral Election Agreement shall continue to be effective from Year to Year until terminated or modified by written notice of the Participant to the Corporation. A termination or modification of an existing Deferral Election Agreement must be delivered prior to the beginning of the Year for which such termination or modification is to be effective; and amounts credited to the Account of a Participant prior to the effective date of such modification or termination shall not be affected thereby.

 

2.2 Accounts . The Corporation shall maintain an Account for each Participant to which the Fees deferred by each Participant shall be credited. The Corporation shall thereafter, at the time when such Fees would have been payable if such Director were not a Participant, contribute an amount of cash equal to such deferred Fees to the Trust to enable the Trustee to invest such cash in Stock under the Ferro Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan. As provided in the Trust, the Trustee shall maintain separate accounts under the Trust attributable to each Participant’s Account and the Trust assets (including earnings thereon) allocated to such separate accounts shall, as provided in the Trust, be separately invested by the Trustee in the Ferro Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan.

 

2.3 Amount Deferred; Duration of Deferral . A Participant shall designate on the Deferral Election Agreement filed pursuant to Section 2.1 the amount of his or her Fees that are to be deferred for a Year. Such deferred Fees shall be held in the general funds of the Corporation and shall be credited to a separate Account established in the name of such Participant in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.2 hereof. Such deferral of Fees shall continue until payment of the amounts credited to the Participant’s Account shall he made in accordance with the following provisions:

 

A-4


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated July 1, 2001

 

 

  (a) The Stock then credited to a Participant’s Account and allocated to the Trust’s separate account thereto shall, as determined by the Compensation and Organization Committee in its sole discretion after consultation with the Participant (or, if applicable, with the Participant’s Beneficiary), be distributed in kind (i.e., in shares of Stock) to the Participant (or, if applicable, to the Participant’s Beneficiary) either (1) in a single distribution as soon as administratively feasible after (i) the nine (9) month anniversary of the date on which the Participant ceases to be a Director, or (ii) the date of the Participant’s death, or (2) in substantially equal monthly, or semiannual, or annual installments over a period not in excess of ten (10) years commencing as soon as administratively feasible.

 

  (b) In the event of the death of a Participant, the Stock then credited to his or her Account, and allocated to the Trust’s separate account attributable thereto, shall be distributed to the Beneficiary or Beneficiaries designated in writing signed by the Participant in the form provided by the Corporation; in the event there is more than one Beneficiary, such form shall include the proportion to be paid to each Beneficiary and indicate the disposition of such share if a Beneficiary does not survive the Participant; in the absence of any such designation, such distribution shall be divided equally among all other Beneficiaries. A Beneficiary designation may be changed at any time prior to the Participant’s death by the Participant’s execution and delivery of a new Beneficiary designation form. The form on file with the Corporation at the time of the Participant’s death which bears the latest date shall govern. In the absence of a Beneficiary designation or the failure of any Beneficiary to survive the Participant, the Stock credited to the Participant’s Account shall be distributed to the Participant’s estate after the appointment of an executor or administrator. In the event of the death of any Beneficiary after the death of a Participant, any remaining amount of the distribution shall be distributed to the estate of such Beneficiary after the appointment of an executor or administrator for such estate.

 

2.4 Statement . Each Participant shall receive a statement of the Stock credited to his or her Account not less often than annually.

 

2.5 Taxes . In the event any taxes are required by law to be withheld or paid from any payments made pursuant to this Plan, the Corporation or the Trustee shall deduct such amounts from such payments and transmit such withheld amounts to the appropriate taxing authorities.

 

A-5


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated July 1, 2001

 

ARTICLE III

ADMINISTRATION

The Plan shall be administered by the Corporation as an unfunded plan that is not intended to meet the qualification requirements of Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; and all assets of the Trust shall be held by the Trustee in the name of the Trust.

The Corporation shall cause the administration of the Plan to be carried out through the person serving as Treasurer of the Corporation from time to time who may also be the person serving as Trustee. The Corporation shall have all such powers as may be necessary to carry out its duties under the Plan, including the power to determine all questions relating to eligibility for and the Stock credited to an Account, all questions pertaining to claims for benefits and procedures for claims review, and the power to resolve all other questions arising under the Plan, including any questions of construction. The Corporation may take such further action as the Corporation shall deem advisable in the administration of the Plan. The actions taken and the decisions made by the Corporation hereunder shall be final and binding upon all Participants and Beneficiaries.

The number of shares of Stock credited to a Participant’s Account (and the separate accounts maintained by the Trustee under the Trust attributable to each Participant’s Account) and the number of shares of Stock to be distributed to a Participant pursuant to the terms of this Plan shall be appropriately adjusted by the Corporation (i) to reflect changes in the separate accounts maintained by the Trustee under the Trust as a result of the Trustee’s investment in Stock pursuant to the Ferro Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan, and (ii) in the event of changes in the outstanding stock of the Corporation by reason of stock dividends, stock splits, recapitalizations, reorganizations, mergers, consolidations, combinations, exchanges or other relevant changes in capitalization, and any such adjustments and determinations made by the Corporation shall be conclusive and binding on all Participants and Beneficiaries.

ARTICLE IV

AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

The Corporation reserves the right to amend or terminate the Plan at any time by action of its Board of Directors or a duly authorized committee thereof; provided, however, that no such action shall adversely affect the rights of any Participant to amounts previously credited to the Participant’s Account.

ARTICLE V

MISCELLANEOUS

 

5.1

Nonalienation of Account . No right or interest of any Participant in the Plan shall, prior to actual distribution to such Participant, be assignable or transferable in whole or in part, either voluntarily or by operation of law or otherwise, or be subject to payment of debts of any Participant or Beneficiary by execution, levy, garnishment, attachment, pledge, bankruptcy or in any other manner. No Participant or Beneficiary shall encumber or dispose of the right to receive any distribution of the shares of Stock credited to his or her Account. If a Participant or Beneficiary attempts to as

 

A-6


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated July 1, 2001

 

  sign, transfer, alienate, or encumber the right to receive the shares of Stock credited to an Account hereunder or permits the same to be subject to alienation, garnishment, attachment, execution, or levy of any kind, then the Corporation, in its discretion, may hold or distribute such shares or any part thereof to or for the benefit of such Participant or Beneficiary, the Participant’s spouse, children, or other dependents or any of them, in such manner and in such proportions as the Corporation may select in its sole discretion. Any such application of the shares in an Account may be made without the intervention of a guardian. The receipt by the distributee of such distributions shall constitute a complete acquittance to the Corporation with respect thereto, and neither the Corporation, nor any officer, member, employee, or agent thereof, shall have responsibility for the proper application thereof.

 

5.2 Plan Noncontractual . Nothing herein contained shall be construed as a commitment to or agreement with any Director to continue such person’s directorship with the Corporation, and nothing herein contained shall be construed as a commitment or agreement on the part of the Corporation to continue the directorship or the rate or amount of Fees of any such person for any period. All Directors shall remain subject to removal to the same extent as if this Plan had never been put in effect.

 

5.3 Interest of Director . The obligation of the Corporation under the Plan to make distribution of shares of Stock credited to an Account merely constitutes the unsecured promise of the Corporation herein, and no Participant or Beneficiary shall have any interest in, or a lien or prior claim upon, any Stock, property or assets of the Corporation or of the Trust. Nothing contained in this Plan shall confer upon any Director or other person any claim or right to any distribution under the Plan except in accordance with the terms of the Plan.

 

5.4 Claims of Other Persons . The provisions of the Plan shall in no event be construed as giving any person, firm, or corporation any legal or equitable rights against the Corporation, or the officers, employees, or directors of the Corporation, except any such rights as are specifically provided for in the Plan or are hereafter created in accordance with the terms and provisions of the Plan.

 

5.5 Delegation of Authority . Any action to be taken by the Corporation under this Plan may be taken by the Treasurer of the Corporation.

 

5.6 Severability . The invalidity and unenforceability of any particular provision of the Plan shall not affect any other provision hereof, and the Plan shall be construed in all respects as if such invalid or unenforceable provisions were omitted hereunder.

 

5.7 Governing Law . The provisions of the Plan shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio.

 

A-7


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS

P ART B: 2005 P LAN

O VERVIEW

E STABLISHMENT OF C OMPONENT P LAN

The provisions of the 2005 Plan are set forth in this Part B (the “2005 Plan”), which is adopted and made a part of the Plan effective January 1, 2005.

G OVERNS A CCRUALS S UBJECT TO C ODE S ECTION  409A

The 2005 Plan governs all amounts under the Plan which are not Pre-2005 Amounts (the “409A Accruals”). Generally, this means that the 2005 Plan governs accruals in excess of the amounts which were earned and vested as of December 31, 2004, as those amounts are increased to include attributable income.

The 409A Accruals are subject to the requirements of Code Section 409A, and the Corporation intends for the 2005 Plan to comply with Code Section 409A. The 2005 Plan shall be interpreted and administered so as to comply with Code Section 409A.

T ERMINOLOGY

As used in the 2005 Plan, the term “Plan” refers to the 2005 Plan or to the Plan, as appropriate.

 

B-1


 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS

 

 

 

Part B: 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

B-2


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN

FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS

2005 P LAN

I NTRODUCTION

This 2005 Plan is the portion of the F ERRO D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS which governs 409A Accruals. The purpose for the adoption of this 2005 Plan is to comply with the requirements of Code Section 409A.

The 2005 Plan is hereby added to the Plan effective January 1, 2005, as follows.

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS

For the purposes hereof, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings indicated.

 

1.1 409A Accruals ” shall mean all amounts under the Plan which are not Pre-2005 Amounts.

 

1.2 2005 Plan ” shall mean the provisions of the Plan set forth in Part B, which govern 409A Accruals.

 

1.3 Account ” shall mean the account established in accordance with Article II hereof to which a Participant’s deferred Fees which constitute 409 Accruals are credited.

 

1.4 Administrator ” shall mean the Corporation.

 

1.5 Beneficiary ” shall mean any person designated by a Participant in accordance with the Plan to receive distribution of all or a portion of the remaining balance of the Participant’s Account in the event of the death of the Participant prior to receipt by the Participant of the Stock credited to the Participant’s Account.

 

1.6 Controlled Group ” shall mean the Corporation and all persons with whom the Corporation would be considered a single employer under Code Section 414(b) or (c).

 

1.7 Corporation ” shall mean Ferro Corporation, an Ohio corporation, and its corporate successors, including the surviving corporation resulting from any merger of Ferro Corporation with any other corporation or corporations.

 

1.8 Deferral Election Agreement ” shall mean (subject to the provisions of Article II hereof) an irrevocable written election to defer Fees signed by the Director in the form provided by the Corporation.

 

B-3


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

1.9 Director ” shall mean any non-employee member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation.

 

1.10 Expiration of the Participant’s Service Contracts ” shall mean the expiration of all contracts under which a Participant performs services as a Director or independent contractor of the Corporation.

 

1.11 Fees ” shall mean the total fees payable, including the award of deferred stock units, by the Corporation to a Director during a Year. Effective January 1, 2007, Fees shall include any deferred stock units awarded to a Director during a Year.

 

1.12 Pre-2005 Amounts ” shall mean amounts that were earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004, as defined in the Overview to the Pre-2005 Plan.

 

1.13 Participant ” shall mean any Director who has at any time elected to defer the receipt of Fees in accordance with Article II hereof.

 

1.14 Plan ” shall mean this Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors, or a component plan, as appropriate.

 

1.15 Separation from Service ” shall mean the Expiration of the Participant’s Service Contracts where the expiration constitutes a good faith and complete termination of the contractual relationship(s). An expiration shall not constitute a good faith and complete termination if the Corporation anticipates a renewal of any such contractual relationship or of the individual becoming an employee of the Corporation. For this purpose, the Corporation shall be considered to anticipate the renewal of a contractual relationship if it intends to contract again for the services provided under the expired contract and neither the Corporation nor the individual has eliminated the individual as a possible provider of services under any such new contract. Further, the Corporation is considered to intend to contract again for the services provided under an expired contract if the Corporation’s doing so is conditioned only upon incurring a need for the services or the availability of funds, or both.

 

1.16 Stock ” shall mean common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of the Corporation.

 

1.17 Time Required by Law ” shall mean the date designated for payment under the terms of the Plan or a later date in the same calendar year or, if later, the fifteenth (15th) day of the third calendar month following the date designated for payment. (However, if the Participant’s taxable year is not the calendar year, the date designated for payment under the terms of the Plan or a later date in the Participant’s taxable year or, if later, the fifteenth (15th) day of the third calendar month following the date designated for payment.) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the deadline for payment shall be extended as provided in the following paragraphs of this Section.

 

  (a) If calculation of the amount of the benefit is not administratively practicable due to events beyond the control of the Participant (or the Participant’s Beneficiary), any date within the first taxable year of the Participant in which calculation of the payment is administratively practicable.

 

  (b) If making the payment on the date designated under the terms of the Plan would jeopardize the ability of Ferro or any member of its Controlled Group to continue as a going concern, the first taxable year of the Participant in which making the payment would not have such effect.

 

B-4


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (c) If there is a delay in payment by the Administrator other than with the express or implied consent of the Participant, the first taxable year of the Participant in which the dispute is resolved. The dispute shall be deemed resolved on the earliest date upon which: (i) the Participant and the Administrator or Ferro enter into a legally binding settlement, (ii) the Administrator or Ferro concedes that an amount is payable, or (iii) the Administrator or Ferro is required to make payment pursuant to a final non-appealable judgment or other binding decision. The foregoing provisions shall apply only if, during the period of the dispute, the Participant accepts any portion of the payment the Administrator or Ferro willing to make (unless acceptance will result in relinquishment of the claim to any remaining portion), and makes prompt and reasonable good faith efforts to collect the remaining portion of the payment which meet the requirements of Code Section 409A (including the timely notice requirements).

 

  (d) In the event the payment fails to comply with Federal securities laws or other laws, the earliest date at which Ferro reasonably anticipates that the making of the payment will not cause such violation.

 

  (e) In the event the payment fails to be deductible under Code Section 162(m), or meets other conditions specified by the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, such later date as may be provided under Code Section 409A.

 

1.18 Trust ” shall mean the trust maintained pursuant to the terms of the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors Trust Agreement effective as of January 1, 1995, entered into between the Corporation and the Trustee.

 

1.19 Trustee ” shall mean the trustee of the Trust, initially Thomas D. George, or any successor.

 

1.20 Year ” shall mean the calendar year.

ARTICLE II

DEFERRAL AND PAYMENT OF FEES

 

2.1 Eligibility; Election to Defer . Any Director may elect to defer receipt of all or a specified portion of his or her Fees for any Year in accordance with the provisions of this Article II and become a Participant.

A Director who desires to defer receipt of all or a specified portion of his or her Fees for any Year must complete and deliver to the Corporation a Deferral Election Agreement, no later than the last day of the Year prior to the Year for which the Fees would otherwise be earned and paid or awarded; provided, however, that any Director hereafter elected to the Board of Directors of the Corporation who was not a Director on the preceding December 31 (and who after such December 31 was not eligible as a Director or independent contractor to participate in any other arrangement required to be aggregated with the Plan under Code Section 409A) may make

 

B-5


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  an election to defer payment of Fees for the Year in which he or she is elected to the Board of Directors by delivering such Deferral Election Agreement to the Corporation within thirty (30) days after becoming a Director. Any such mid-year election by a Director shall be effective only with respect to Fees earned and paid or awarded after the date of such election. A Director who timely delivers the Deferral Election Agreement to the Corporation shall thereupon become a Participant. A Participant’s Deferral Election Agreement shall continue to be effective from Year to Year until terminated or modified by written notice of the Participant to the Corporation. A termination or modification of an existing Deferral Election Agreement must be delivered prior to the beginning of the Year for which such termination or modification is to be effective; and amounts credited to the Account of a Participant prior to the effective date of such modification or termination shall not be affected thereby (i.e., such amounts shall not be retroactively increased or decreased by such modification or termination).

 

2.2 Accounts . The Corporation shall maintain an Account for each Participant to which the Fees deferred by each Participant shall be credited. The Corporation shall thereafter, at the time when such Fees would have been payable if such Director were not a Participant, contribute an amount of cash equal to such deferred Fees to the Trust to enable the Trustee to invest such cash in Stock under the Ferro Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan. As provided in the Trust, the Trustee shall maintain separate accounts under the Trust attributable to each Participant’s Account and the Trust assets (including earnings thereon) allocated to such separate accounts shall, as provided in the Trust, be separately invested by the Trustee in the Ferro Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan.

 

2.3 Amount Deferred; Duration of Deferral . A Participant shall designate on the Deferral Election Agreement filed pursuant to Section 2.1 the amount of his or her Fees that are to be deferred for a Year. Such deferred Fees shall be held in the general funds of the Corporation and shall be credited to a separate Account established in the name of such Participant in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.2 hereof. Such deferral of Fees shall continue until payment of the amounts credited to the Participant’s Accounts shall be made in accordance with the following provisions.

 

  (a) Distribution in Kind; Commencement Date . The Stock then credited to a Participant’s Account and allocated to the Trust’s separate account thereto shall be distributed in kind (i.e., in shares of Stock) to the Participant (or, if applicable, to the Participant’s Beneficiary) on the Participant’s death or, if earlier, on the nine (9) month anniversary of the date on which the Participant incurs a Separation from Service. Distribution shall be made on the date indicated, and in any event no later than the Time Required by Law.

 

  (b)

Form of Distribution; Single Distribution unless Election for Installments Made with Initial Deferral Agreement . A Participant’s Account shall be paid in a single distribution on the date indicated in Section 2.3(a) above. However, at the time a Participant’s initial Deferral Agreement is filed pursuant to Section 2.1, the Participant shall be permitted to alternatively elect distribution in the form of installment payments providing for payment in substantially equal monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual installments over a period not in excess of ten (10) years. Such an election shall be made in a writing filed with the Corporation at the time of the initial Deferral Agreement, and shall specify the frequency of the installment payments and the period over which such payments shall be made. In the event no election is made at the time

 

B-6


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  the Participant’s initial Deferral Agreement is filed, a Participant shall be deemed to have elected at that time a single distribution form of payment. A Participant shall, at any time, have in effect only one election regarding the form of payment of the Participant’s Account, and such election shall govern the payment of the whole of the Participant’s Account.

 

  (c) Special Transition Election in 2006 . Pursuant to the relief granted in IRS Notice 2005-1, Q&A-19(c) and as described in the Proposed Treasury Regulations under Code Section 409A, a Participant shall be permitted to make a new election in 2006 regarding the form of distribution of the Participant’s Account, provided that such election is made in writing and filed with the Corporation no later than December 31, 2006. Such election shall be immediately effective; provided, however, that such election shall not operate to change the form of distribution of amounts that otherwise would be payable in the election year, nor will it operate to make payable in the election year amounts that would not otherwise be payable in that year.

 

  (d) Election to Change Form of Distribution . Except as provided in Section 2.3(c), a Participant may change a previously elected form of distribution only by filing with the Corporation a new written election. Such an election to change the form of distribution:

 

  (i) shall not become effective until the date which is the twelve (12) months after the date on which it is filed with the Corporation;

 

  (ii) shall require that the first payment made under the newly elected form of distribution be deferred for a period of five (5) years from the date the payment otherwise would have been made under the prior election; and

 

  (iii) shall, if related to a payment at a specified time or pursuant to a fixed schedule, be made at least twelve (12) months prior to the date the payment is scheduled to be paid (or, in the case of installment payments treated as a single payment, at least twelve (12) months prior to the date the first amount is scheduled to be paid).

For purposes of applying these provisions, the entitlement to installment payments shall be treated as the entitlement to a single payment. By means of illustration, an election by a Participant to change from a single distribution to installment payments would provide that the installment payments will begin on the fifth (5th) anniversary of the date the Participant’s Account otherwise would have been paid in the single distribution (e.g., the installment payments would begin on the fifth (5th) anniversary of the date which is nine (9) months after the Participant’s Separation from Service). Similarly, an election by a Participant to change from installment payments to a single distribution would provide that the single distribution will be paid on the fifth (5th) anniversary of the date the first installment payment of the Participant’s Account otherwise would have been paid (e.g., the single distribution would be made on the fifth (5th) anniversary of the date which is nine (9) months after the Participant’s Separation from Service). In any case, the election to change the form of distribution will not be effective until twelve (12) months after the new election is filed with the Corporation, and this delayed effective date will operate to apply the Participant’s previously elected form of distribution (and not the newly elected form of distribution) in the event of the Participant’s Separation from Service which causes a payment under the Plan before the expiration of the twelve (12) month period.

 

B-7


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (e) Payment on Death; Designation of Death Beneficiary . In the event of the death of a Participant, the Stock then remaining credited to his or her Account, and allocated to the Trust’s separate account attributable thereto, shall be distributed to the designated Beneficiary or Beneficiaries in the form of a single distribution on the date of death or as soon as administratively feasible thereafter, and in any event no later than the Time Required by Law. Distribution shall be made in such single distribution regardless of the form of distribution elected by the Participant pursuant to Section 2.3(b) or (c) above. A Participant shall designate a Beneficiary or Beneficiaries in a writing signed by the Participant in the form provided by the Corporation. In the event there is more than one Beneficiary, such form shall include the proportion to be paid to each Beneficiary and indicate the disposition of such share if a Beneficiary does not survive the Participant. In the absence of any such designation, such distribution shall be divided equally among all other Beneficiaries. A Beneficiary designation may be changed at any time prior to the Participant’s death by the Participant’s execution and delivery of a new Beneficiary designation form. The form on file with the Corporation at the time of the Participant’s death which bears the latest date shall govern. In the absence of a Beneficiary designation or the failure of any Beneficiary to survive the Participant, the Stock credited to the Participant’s Account shall be distributed to the Participant’s estate after the appointment of an executor or administrator. In the event of the death of any Beneficiary after the death of a Participant, any remaining amount of the distribution shall be distributed to the estate of such Beneficiary after the appointment of an executor or administrator for such estate.

 

2.4 Statement . Each Participant shall receive a statement of the Stock credited to his or her Account not less often than annually.

 

2.5 Taxes . In the event any taxes are required by law to be withheld or paid from any payments made pursuant to this Plan, the Corporation or the Trustee shall deduct such amounts from such payments and transmit such withheld amounts to the appropriate taxing authorities. Further, distribution shall be made from the Plan at such time or times as the Corporation, in its sole discretion pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, shall determine that amounts are due for the payment of Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes imposed under Code Sections 3101, 3121(a), or 3121(v)(2) on the 409A Accruals. Such distribution, if any, shall be made for the exclusive purpose of paying such Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes. In addition, distribution shall be made from the Plan at such time or times as the Corporation, in its sole discretion pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, shall determine that amounts are due for the payment of income tax at source on wages imposed under Code Section 3401 (or the corresponding withholding provisions of applicable state, local or foreign tax laws) as a result of the payment of the Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes, or are due for the payment of additional income tax at source on wages attributable to the pyramiding Code Section 3401 wages and taxes. Such distribution, if any, shall be made for the exclusive purpose of paying such taxes. In no event shall the amounts distributed pursuant to this Section exceed the amounts owed for the payment of Federal Insurance Contribution Act and the income tax withholding related to such amounts.

 

B-8


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

2.6 Inability to Locate Participant or Beneficiary . If the Corporation notifies a Participant or a Beneficiary of an entitlement to an amount under this Plan and such person or persons fail to claim the amount or to disclose their location so that payment can be made by the Time Required by Law, the Corporation shall direct distribution to be made on an involuntary basis to such person or persons by the Time Required by Law. If the location of a Participant or Beneficiary cannot be determined after a prompt, reasonable good faith effort by the Administrator, the Administrator will direct that the amount payable to the Participant or Beneficiary be forfeited by the Time Required by Law, and no further benefit will be payable with respect to such Participant or Beneficiary.

 

2.7 Distribution upon Income Inclusion under Code Section 409A and Other Acceleration Events . The prior provisions of this Article notwithstanding, in the event the Plan fails to meet the requirements of Code Section 409A, a Participant’s 409A Accruals shall be distributed in an amount equal to the amount which is included in income on account of the failure to comply with Code Section 409A.

 

2.8 General Restriction on Distribution and Acceleration of Payment . Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, a Participant’s Account shall not be distributed earlier than the time permitted under Code Section 409A except as provided under Treasury Regulations. Code Section 409A(a)(2) prohibits distribution earlier than a separation from service, the date the Participant becomes disabled, death, a change in the ownership or effective control of the corporation (or in the ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the corporation), or the occurrence of an unforeseeable emergency.

 

2.9 Overpayments and Repayments . Benefits are provided only as set forth under the terms of this Plan. Payments in excess of the amounts owed, or in advance of the time specified for payment, are not authorized under this Plan, and the Corporation will take all reasonable steps to ensure that the amount and timing of benefit payments are in accordance with the Plan’s terms. In the event the Corporation determines that the benefits actually paid under this Plan to a Participant, Beneficiary or other person exceed the benefits that were properly payable, or were paid prior to the proper time for payment, the Corporation shall immediately demand repayment of such excess amounts. The Participant, Beneficiary or other person is obligated to return such excess amounts upon demand from the Corporation. In the event the Participant, beneficiary or other person fails to return the excess amounts, the Corporation shall exercise any available legal remedies which are consistent with the terms and purpose of the Plan. In the event excess amounts have been paid as installment payments, to the extent permitted under Code Section 409A, Ferro shall reduce the amount of the remaining scheduled payments to offset the excess amounts paid.

 

2.10 Offset . If at the time payment is to be made under this Plan the Participant or the Beneficiary or both are indebted or obligated to the Corporation, then the payment of the Participant’s 409A Accruals to be made to the Participant or the Beneficiary or both may, at the discretion of the Corporation, be reduced by the amount of the indebtedness or obligation, but only if:

 

  (a) such debt is incurred in the ordinary course of the service relationship between the Participant and the Corporation,

 

B-9


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (b) in any taxable year of the Corporation the entire amount of reduction does not exceed $5,000, and

 

  (c) the reduction is made at the same time and in the same amount as the debt otherwise would have been due and collected from the Participant.

An election by the Corporation not to reduce the payment of the Participant’s 409A Accruals will not constitute a waiver of the Corporation’s claim for such indebtedness or obligation.

ARTICLE III

ADMINISTRATION

 

3.1 Administration; Unfunded Plan . The Plan shall be administered by the Corporation as an unfunded plan that is not intended to meet the qualification requirements of Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; and all assets of the Trust shall be held by the Trustee in the name of the Trust.

The Corporation shall cause the administration of the Plan to be carried out through the person serving as Treasurer of the Corporation from time to time who may also be the person serving as Trustee. The Corporation shall have all such powers as may be necessary to carry out its duties under the Plan, including the power to determine all questions relating to eligibility for and the Stock credited to an Account, all questions pertaining to claims for benefits and procedures for claims review, and the power to resolve all other questions arising under the Plan, including any questions of construction. The Corporation may take such further action as the Corporation shall deem advisable in the administration of the Plan. The actions taken and the decisions made by the Corporation hereunder shall be final and binding upon all Participants and Beneficiaries.

 

3.2 409A Compliance . It is the intention and purpose of the Corporation and the Participants that this Plan shall be deemed to be at all relevant times in compliance with Section 409A of the Code and all other applicable laws in order to have the Federal income tax effect sought for such plans, and this Plan shall be so interpreted and is intended to be so administered.

 

3.3 Record Keeping . The number of shares of Stock credited to a Participant’s Account (and the separate accounts maintained by the Trustee under the Trust attributable to each Participant’s Account) and the number of shares of Stock to be distributed to a Participant pursuant to the terms of this Plan shall be appropriately adjusted by the Corporation (a) to reflect changes in the separate accounts maintained by the Trustee under the Trust as a result of the Trustee’s investment in Stock pursuant to the Ferro Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan, and (b) in the event of changes in the outstanding stock of the Corporation by reason of stock dividends, stock splits, recapitalizations, reorganizations, mergers, consolidations, combinations, exchanges or other relevant changes in capitalization, and any such adjustments and determinations made by the Corporation shall be conclusive and binding on all Participants and Beneficiaries.

 

B-10


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

3.4 Trust Terms . The agreement establishing the Trust may contain any terms as the Corporation may determine to be necessary or desirable; provided, however, that, no terms shall provide for or permit funding that would result in income inclusion under Code Section 409A(b) including, but not limited to, terms that allow for the transfer or set aside of assets offshore in a Trust, or which provide for assets to become restricted to the provision of benefits in connection with a change in the financial health of the Corporation, and any terms which so provide shall be deemed null and void. Consistent with the foregoing, the Corporation may terminate or amend the Trust at any time, and in any manner it deems necessary or desirable, subject to the terms of any agreement under which the Trust is established or maintained.

ARTICLE IV

AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

 

4.1 Amendment and Termination . The Corporation reserves the right to amend or terminate the Plan at any time by action of its Board of Directors or a duly authorized committee thereof; provided, however, that no such action shall adversely affect the rights of any Participant to amounts previously credited to the Participant’s Account.

 

4.2 Distribution of Benefits on Plan Termination . In the event the Corporation elects to amend, modify or terminate the Plan as provided under Section 4.1, no right to the payment of benefits shall arise as a result. The prior provisions notwithstanding, the Corporation may, in its discretion, provide by amendment to the Plan a right to the payment of all Participants’ 409A Accruals as a result of the liquidation and termination of the Plan where:

 

  (a) the termination and liquidation does not occur proximate to a downturn in the financial health of the Corporation and the Controlled Group;

 

  (b) the Plan and all arrangements required to be aggregated with the Plan under Code Section 409A are terminated and liquidated;

 

  (c) no payments, other than those that would be payable under the terms of the Plan and the aggregated arrangements if the termination and liquidation had not occurred, are made within twelve (12) months of the date the Corporation takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan; all payments are made within twenty-four (24) months of the date the Corporation takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan; and

 

  (d) the Corporation and the members of the Controlled Group do not adopt a new arrangement that would be aggregated with any terminated arrangement under Code Section 409A, at any time within three (3) years following the date the Corporation takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan.

Similarly, the Corporation may, in its discretion, provide by amendment to liquidate and terminate the Plan where the termination and liquidation occurs within twelve (12) months of a corporate dissolution taxed under Code Section 331, or with the

 

B-11


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

approval of a bankruptcy court pursuant to 11 United States Code § 503(b)(1)(A), provided that all amounts deferred under the Plan are included in the Participants’ gross incomes in the latest of the following years (or, if earlier, the taxable year in which the amount is actually or constructively received):

 

  (i) the calendar year in which the termination occurs;

 

  (ii) the calendar year in which the amount is no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture; or

 

  (iii) the first calendar year in which the payment is administratively practicable.

ARTICLE V

MISCELLANEOUS

 

5.1 Nonalienation of Account . No right or interest of any Participant in the Plan shall, prior to actual distribution to such Participant, be assignable or transferable in whole or in part, either voluntarily or by operation of law or otherwise, or be subject to payment of debts of any Participant or Beneficiary by execution, levy, garnishment, attachment, pledge, bankruptcy or in any other manner. No Participant or Beneficiary shall encumber or dispose of the right to receive any distribution of the shares of Stock credited to his or her Account. If a Participant or Beneficiary attempts to assign, transfer, alienate, or encumber the right to receive the shares of Stock credited to an Account hereunder or permits the same to be subject to alienation, garnishment, attachment, execution, or levy of any kind, then the Corporation, in its discretion, may hold or distribute such shares or any part thereof to or for the benefit of such Participant or Beneficiary, the Participant’s spouse, children, or other dependents or any of them, in such manner and in such proportions as the Corporation may select in its sole discretion. Any such application of the shares in an Account may be made without the intervention of a guardian. The receipt by the distributee of such distributions shall constitute a complete acquittance to the Corporation with respect thereto, and neither the Corporation, nor any officer, member, employee, or agent thereof, shall have responsibility for the proper application thereof.

 

5.2 Plan Noncontractual . Nothing herein contained shall be construed as a commitment to or agreement with any Director to continue such person’s directorship with the Corporation, and nothing herein contained shall be construed as a commitment or agreement on the part of the Corporation to continue the directorship or the rate or amount of Fees of any such person for any period. All Directors shall remain subject to removal to the same extent as if this Plan had never been put in effect.

 

5.3 Interest of Director . The obligation of the Corporation under the Plan to make distribution of shares of Stock credited to an Account merely constitutes the unsecured promise of the Corporation herein, and no Participant or Beneficiary shall have any interest in, or a lien or prior claim upon, any Stock, property or assets of the Corporation or of the Trust. Nothing contained in this Plan shall confer upon any Director or other person any claim or right to any distribution under the Plan except in accordance with the terms of the Plan.

 

5.4 Claims of Other Persons . The provisions of the Plan shall in no event be construed as giving any person, firm, or corporation any legal or equitable rights against the Corporation, or the officers, employees, or directors of the Corporation, except any such rights as are specifically provided for in the Plan or are hereafter created in accordance with the terms and provisions of the Plan.

 

B-12


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

5.5 Delegation of Authority . Any action to be taken by the Corporation under this Plan may be taken by the Treasurer of the Corporation.

 

5.6 Severability . The invalidity and unenforceability of any particular provision of the Plan shall not affect any other provision hereof, and the Plan shall be construed in all respects as if such invalid or unenforceable provisions were omitted hereunder.

 

5.7 Governing Law . The provisions of the Plan shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio.

 

B-13


E XECUTION P AGE

To evidence this amended and restated F ERRO C ORPORATION D EFERRED C OMPENSATION P LAN FOR N ON -E MPLOYEE D IRECTORS , Ferro Corporation, as Plan sponsor, has caused this document to be executed by its duly authorized officer as of this 20 th day of September, 2007.

 

    F ERRO C ORPORATION

By:

   
 

James C. Bays

Vice President, General Counsel

& Secretary

 

C-1

EXHIBIT 10.31

 

 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Amended and Restated

As of January 1, 2005


F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

I NTRODUCTION

This document (this “Plan”) is the F ERRO C ORPORATION S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES . This Plan was originally adopted and effective as of January 1, 1983, and was most recently amended and restated effective June 30, 2004. The Plan was frozen effective March 31, 2006.

This Plan is now amended and restated effective January 1, 2005, for the purpose of complying with new Code Section 409A. Code Section 409A permits deferred compensation which is earned and vested in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2005 to be exempt from Code Section 409A if the plan under which the deferral is made is not materially modified after October 3, 2004.

Ferro elects and intends to exempt from Code Section 409A the deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004. Consistent with this election, the Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2005, is comprised of two parts:

 

   

Part A , which contains the terms of the Plan as in effect on October 4, 2004 (and as subsequently amended) which govern deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004 (the “ Pre-2005 Plan ”), and

 

   

Part B , which contains the terms of the Plan which govern deferred compensation which was earned and vested after December 31, 2004 (the “ 2005 Plan ”).

As indicated above, the Plan was frozen effective March 31, 2006.


T ABLE OF C ONTENTS

 

         Page  

Part A:

  Pre-2005 Plan      A-1   

Part B:

  2005 Plan      B-1   
Execution Page      C-1   


F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

P ART A: P RE -2005 P LAN

O VERVIEW

E STABLISHMENT OF C OMPONENT P LAN

The terms of the Plan as it existed on October 4, 2004, and which have not been materially modified thereafter, constitute the Pre-2005 component plan (the “Pre-2005 Plan”).

The Pre-2005 Plan is reproduced, as of December 31, 2004, in this Part A. It consists of the Plan as it was amended and restated effective June 30, 2004, and as it was further amended by the adoption of Amendment No. 1 to freeze accruals effective March 31, 2006. Treasury Regulations under Code Section 409A provide that an amendment to freeze accruals is not a material modification.

E XEMPT FROM C ODE S ECTION  409A

Deferred compensation which is earned and vested in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2005 is permitted to be exempt from Code Section 409A if the plan under which the deferral is made is not materially modified after October 3, 2004.

Ferro elects and intends to exempt from Code Section 409A the deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004, pursuant to the terms of the Pre-2005 Plan.

G OVERNS O NLY P RE -2005 A CCRUALS

The Pre-2005 Plan governs only those accruals that were earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004 (the “Pre-2005 Accruals”).

A Participant’s Pre-2005 Accrual equals the present value, as of December 31, 2004, of the amount to which the Participant would have been entitled under the Plan if the Participant voluntarily terminated services without cause on December 31, 2004, and had received a payment of the benefits in the form with the maximum value available from the Plan on the earliest possible date allowed under the Plan to receive payment following the termination of services. For any subsequent calendar year, the Pre-2005 Accrual shall increase to equal the present value of the benefit the Participant actually becomes entitled to, determined under the terms of the Pre-2005 Plan (including applicable limits under the Code), as in effect on October 3, 2004 and not materially modified thereafter, without regard to any further services rendered by the Participant after December 31, 2004, or any other events affecting the amount of or the entitlement to benefits (other than a Participant election under the terms of the Plan with respect to the time or form of an available benefit).

 

A-1


T ERMINOLOGY

As used in the Pre-2005 Plan, the term “Plan” refers to the Pre-2005 Plan or to the Plan, as appropriate.

 

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F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Part A: Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated

June 30, 2004

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

I NTRODUCTION

This document (this “Plan”) is the F ERRO C ORPORATION S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES . This Plan was originally adopted and effective as of January 1, 1983.

This Plan is now amended and restated effective June 30, 2004, as follows:

ARTICLE I

NAME AND PURPOSE

 

1.1 Name . The name of this Plan is the “Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Benefit Plan for Executive Employees.” (This Plan was previously known as the “Ferro Corporation Nonqualified Retirement Plan.”)

 

1.2 Plan Sponsor . The sponsor of this Plan is Ferro Corporation (“Ferro”), an Ohio corporation.

 

1.3 Purpose . This purpose of this Plan is to provide supplemental retirement benefits for certain management and highly compensated employees of the Ferro Group Companies whose benefits under the Qualified Plan are limited by Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 of the Code, so that the aggregate benefits provided for each such employee by the Qualified Plan and by this Plan will not be less than benefits that would be provided to each such employee by the Qualified Plan but for the limitations contained in the Qualified Plan to effect compliance with Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 of the Code.

 

1.4 Plan for a Select Group . This Plan covers only employees of a Ferro Group Company who are members of a “select group of management or highly compensated Participants” as provided in Sections 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) and 4021(b)(6) of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered and its benefits limited in a manner to comply with the above cited sections of ERISA.

 

1.5 Not a Funded Plan . Ferro intends that this Plan be deemed to be “unfunded” for tax purposes as well as for purposes of Title I of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered in a manner so that it is deemed “unfunded.”

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION

 

2.1 Definitions . Appendix A sets forth the definitions of certain terms used in this Plan. Those terms shall have the meanings set forth on Appendix A where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters.

 

2.2 General Rules of Construction . For purposes of interpreting this Plan,

 

  (A) the masculine gender will include the feminine and neuter, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (B) the singular number will include the plural, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (C) the present tense of a verb will include the past and future tenses, and vice versa, as the context requires; and

 

  (D) as provided under Article VIII, the Administrator retains the power and duty to interpret this Plan and resolve ambiguities.

ARTICLE III

PARTICIPATION

 

3.1 Eligibility . In order to be eligible to participate in this Plan, Ferro must determine that an individual is:

 

  (A) in a select group of management or highly compensated employees as set forth in Section 1.4;

 

  (B) a participant in the Qualified Plan; and

 

  (C) a participant in the Qualified Plan whose benefit payable under the Qualified Plan is limited by the provisions in the Qualified Plan to effect compliance with Sections 401(a)(17) or 415 of the Code or the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan.

 

3.2 Participation . An individual who is eligible to participate in this Plan will become a Participant in this Plan immediately on the date that he satisfies the eligibility requirements in Section 3.1.

ARTICLE IV

PLAN BENEFITS

 

4.1

Plan Benefits Conditioned on Noncompetition Agreement . The Plan benefits set forth in this Article IV payable to Participants whose employment with all Ferro Group

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  Companies terminates on or after January 1, 2001, shall be conditioned upon (i) Ferro’s receipt of a Noncompetition Agreement signed by the Participant, and (ii) the Participant’s continual compliance with the terms and conditions of such Noncompetition Agreement; provided, however, the requirement that a Participant sign and continually comply with the terms and conditions of such Noncompetition Agreement shall not apply to any Participant whose employment terminates either (i) as a result of the Participant’s death prior to the commencement of Plan benefits, or (ii) following a Change in Control. If the Participant fails to so continually comply, then all of the Participant’s benefits (including, without limitation, benefits to such employee’s Participant’s Qualified Spouse or designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) under this Plan shall be automatically forfeited and repaid to Ferro as provided in Section 10.19 hereof.

 

4.2 Normal and Early Retirement . A Participant will receive a normal or early retirement benefit in the amount set forth in Section 4.2(A) and in the manner and form of payment set forth in Section 4.2(B).

 

  (A) Amount. Subject to the provisions of Section 4.4, the Plan benefit payable to a Participant upon termination of employment after eligibility for an early or normal retirement benefit under the Qualified Plan is the excess of (a) the amount of the benefit that would have been payable to the Participant under the Qualified Plan upon normal or early retirement but for the Qualified Plan limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan over (b) the amount of the benefit that is actually paid, or would be payable, to the Participant upon normal or early retirement under the provisions of the Qualified Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the calculation of an early retirement benefit for a Participant who is a Ferro officer elected by Ferro’s Board of Directors shall be determined in accordance with the early retirement factors in the following column labeled “Special Factors” with the result that there shall be no benefit reduction due to age for retirement on or after age 60:

 

Early Retirement Factors

Age

   Special Factors

65

   1.00

64

   1.00

63

   1.00

62

   1.00

61

   1.00

60

   1.00

59

   0.94

58

   0.88

57

   0.82

56

   0.76

55

   0.70

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (B) Manner and Form of Payment. The benefit provided under Section 4.2(A) for each Participant who terminates employment with a Ferro Group Company after eligibility for an early or normal retirement benefit under the Qualified Plan, shall be paid in the form of a lump sum cash payment that is 50% or 100% of the commuted present value as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary using the Present Value Factors of the benefit determined under Section 4.2(A) of this Plan; provided such Participant’s Qualified Spouse consents in writing to such lump sum cash payment. If such Participant’s Qualified Spouse does not consent to the 100% or 50% commuted present value payment or consents to the 50% commuted present value payment, then such Participant’s remaining benefit under this Plan shall be in the form of monthly payments paid under the Qualified Plan commencing with the month in which benefit payments from the Qualified Plan commence and continuing to and including the month in which such employee’s death occurs, with a minimum guarantee of 120 monthly payments with such deceased Participant’s Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) receiving for the number of months left in such 120-month period a monthly benefit under this Plan equal to the benefit the deceased Participant was receiving prior to death under this Plan. If a deceased Participant’s surviving Qualified Spouse under the Qualified Plan is the beneficiary of the 120 monthly payments, a supplemental monthly benefit under this Plan equal to one-half of the monthly benefit under this Plan paid for the 120-month period, shall be payable to the surviving Qualified Spouse commencing with the month following the later of the date of such employee’s death or the end of the 120-month period, and continuing to and including the month in which the surviving Qualified Spouse’s death occurs.

 

4.3 Disability . A Participant will receive a disability benefit in the amount set forth in Section 4.3(A) and in the manner and form of payment set forth in Section 4.3(B).

 

  (A) Amount. If a Participant becomes totally and permanently disabled and receives a disability retirement benefit from the Qualified Plan, the benefit payable to the Participant under this Plan is a monthly amount equal to the excess of (a) the amount of the monthly disability retirement benefit under the Qualified Plan that would have been payable to the Participant but for the limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan, over (b) the amount of the monthly disability retirement benefit that is actually paid to the Participant under the provisions of the Qualified Plan. The monthly benefit payable under this Plan terminates upon the earlier of the Participant’s recovery from the disability, death, or attainment of age 65; and, thereafter, the applicable provisions of this Article IV shall apply.

 

  (B) Manner and Form of Payment. The benefit provided under this Plan for each Participant who becomes totally and permanently disabled and receives a disability retirement benefit from the Qualified Plan, shall be paid in the form of monthly payments payable under the Qualified Plan commencing with the month in which benefit payments from the Qualified Plan commence and continuing to and including the month in which the earlier of the Participant’s recovery from the disability, his death or attainment of age 65 occurs.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

4.4 Death . A Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) or Beneficiary will receive a death benefit in the amount set forth in Section 4.4(A) and in the manner and form of payment set forth in 4.4(B).

 

  (A) Amount. If a Participant dies before the commencement of Plan benefits under this Plan (other than monthly disability benefits under this Plan) and a Primary Death Benefit is payable from the Qualified Plan as a result of such employee’s death, the benefit payable under this Plan to the Participant’s Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) is the commuted present value of the excess of (a) the amount of the Primary Death Benefit, and supplemental spouse’s benefit if such employee’s Qualified Spouse is the beneficiary, that would have been payable under the Qualified Plan but for the limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan, over (b) the amount of the Primary Death Benefit, and supplemental spouse’s benefit if such employee’s Qualified Spouse is the beneficiary, that is actually payable under the provisions of the Qualified Plan.

 

  (B) Manner and Form of Payment . The benefit provided under this Plan for the deceased Participant’s Qualified Spouse or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries shall be paid in the form of a single lump sum cash payment that is the commuted present value as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary using the Present Value Factors of the benefit determined under Section 4.4(A) of this Plan if the Participant’s Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) consents in writing to such lump sum cash payment. If the Participant’s Qualified Spouse or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries does not or do not so consent, then the deceased Participant’s benefits under this Plan shall be in the form of monthly payments commencing with the month in which benefit payments from the Qualified Plan commence and continuing for 120 monthly payments with the deceased Participant’s Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) receiving such 120 monthly payments. If the deceased Participant’s surviving Qualified Spouse is the beneficiary of the 120 monthly payments, a supplemental monthly benefit under this Plan equal to one-half of the monthly benefit paid for the 120-month period shall be payable to the surviving Qualified Spouse (if the Qualified Spouse is living at the end of the 120-month period) commencing with the month following the end of the 120-month period, and continuing to and including the month in which the surviving Qualified Spouse’s death occurs.

 

4.5 Other Termination of Employment . A participant will receive a deferred vested benefit in the amount set forth in Section 4.5(A) and in the manner and form of payment set forth in 4.5(B).

 

  (A) Amount. If a Participant terminates employment with all Ferro Group Companies other than as provided in Sections 4.2, 4.3, or 4.4 of this Plan, the benefit payable to the Participant under this Plan is the commuted present value (provided the Participant’s Qualified Spouse consents as described in Section 4.5(B)) of the excess of (a) the amount of the Qualified Plan’s deferred vested benefit that the Participant would have accrued but for the limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan over (b) the deferred vested benefit that the Participant actually accrued under the provisions of the Qualified Plan.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (B) Manner and Form of Payment. The benefit provided under this Plan for each Participant shall be paid in the form of a single lump sum cash payment that is the commuted present value as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary using the Present Value Factors of the benefit determined under Section 4.5(A) if the Participant’s Qualified Spouse consents in writing to such lump sum cash payment. If the Participant’s Qualified Spouse does not consent, the Participant’s benefits under this Plan shall be in the form of monthly payments commencing with the month in which benefit payments from the Qualified Plan commence and continuing to and including the month in which the Participant’s death occurs, with a minimum guarantee of 120 monthly payments with the deceased Participant’s Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiaries or beneficiary) receiving for the number of months left in such 120-month period a monthly benefit under this Plan equal to the benefit the deceased Participant was receiving prior to death. If the deceased Participant’s surviving Qualified Spouse under the Qualified Plan is the beneficiary of the 120 monthly payments, a supplemental monthly benefit under this Plan equal to one-half of the monthly benefit under this Plan paid for the 120-month period shall be payable to the surviving Qualified Spouse commencing with the month following the later of the date of the Participant’s death or the end of the 120-month period, and continuing to and including the month in which the surviving Qualified Spouse’s death occurs.

 

4.6 Discretionary Benefit Increases . Ferro reserves the right, in its sole discretion and determination, to increase the amount of benefits payable to any person under this Plan to offset United States federal estate taxes withheld or paid from benefit payments under this Plan to Qualified Spouses who are not citizens of the United States.

 

4.7 Discretionary Commutation of Benefits . Notwithstanding anything contained in this Plan to the contrary, Ferro reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to commute any benefits that are being paid in the form of monthly payments, and to pay, in lieu of the monthly payments, a single, lump sum cash payment equal to the present value of a person’s monthly benefit payments, as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary, using the Present Value Factors.

 

4.8 Change in Control . If a Change in Control occurs, then all of the obligations of Ferro under this Plan shall continue to be enforceable against Ferro and any successor. Notwithstanding any provision of Article IV to the contrary, if any person entitled to benefits under this Plan is not actively employed by a Ferro Group Company at the time a Change in Control occurs, that person shall immediately receive a single, lump sum cash payment equal to the commuted present value of that person’s monthly benefit payments under this Plan (whether or not such are then in pay status), as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary, using the Present Value Factors.

 

4.9

Protective Distributions . If the Administrator determines, in its sole discretion, that a Participant is not, or may not be, a member of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” within the meaning of Section 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) or 4021(b)(6) of ERISA, then the Administrator may, in its sole discretion, terminate the Participant’s participation in this Plan, and distribute all benefit amounts under this Plan in a single lump sum payment equal to the commuted present value of that person’s monthly benefit payments under this Plan (whether or

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  not they are then in pay status), as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary, using the Present Value Factors. Any distribution under this Section will be made at the time the Administrator determines in its sole discretion.

 

4.10 Tax Withholding . A Ferro Group Company may withhold, from any payment made by it under this Plan, the amount or amounts as may be required for purposes of complying with the tax withholding or other provisions of the Code or the Social Security Act or any state or local income or employment tax act or for purposes of paying any estate, inheritance or other tax attributable to any amounts payable hereunder.

 

4.11 Inability to Locate Participant . If a Ferro Group Company or the Administrator notifies a Participant or a Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) of an entitlement to an amount under this Plan and the Participant or the Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) fails to claim the amount or to disclose the location of the Participant or the Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) within three years thereafter, then, except as otherwise required by law, if the location of one or more of the next of kin of the Participant or the Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) is known to the Ferro Group Company or the Administrator, the Administrator may direct distribution of the amount to any one or more or all of the next of kin, and in such proportions as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, determines. If the location of none of the foregoing persons can be determined, the Administrator will direct that the amount payable to the Participant or the Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) be forfeited. If, after the forfeiture, the Participant or the Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) later claims the benefit under this Plan, then the benefit will be reinstated without interest or earnings from the date of forfeiture. If a benefit payable to a Participant or a Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) that cannot be located is subject to escheat under state law, then no further benefit will be payable with respect to any Participant for whom payment was made by the Administrator according to the escheat provisions of state law.

ARTICLE V

RIGHTS OF PARTICIPANTS

 

5.1 Creditor Status of Participants . The benefits payable under this Plan shall be merely an unfunded, unsecured promise of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed) to make benefit payments in the future and shall be liabilities solely against the general assets of such Ferro Group Company. Except as may be provided under the terms of a Trust which may be established pursuant to Article VI, neither Ferro nor any other Ferro Group Company shall be required to segregate, set aside or escrow any corporate assets to meet its obligations under this Plan. With respect to any benefits payable under this Plan, a Participant or a Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) will have the status of general unsecured creditors of the Ferro Group Company by which the Participant is employed, and may look only to that Ferro Group Company and its general assets for payment of the benefits.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

5.2 Rights with Respect to the Trust . Any trust, and any assets held thereby to assist Ferro or other Ferro Group Company in meeting its obligations under this Plan, will in no way be deemed to controvert the provisions of Section 5.1 above.

 

5.3 Investments . In Ferro’s sole discretion, the Ferro Group Companies may acquire insurance policies, annuities or other financial vehicles for the purpose of providing future assets of the Ferro Group Companies to meet their anticipated liabilities under this Plan. Such policies, annuities or other investments, shall at all times be and remain unrestricted general property and assets of the Ferro Group Companies or property of a trust established pursuant to Article VI of this Plan. Participants and Qualified Spouses (or properly designated beneficiaries) will have no rights, other than as general creditors, with respect to any such policies, annuities or other acquired assets.

ARTICLE VI

TRUST

 

6.1 Establishment of Trust . Notwithstanding any other provision or interpretation of this Plan, Ferro may establish a Trust in which to hold cash, insurance policies or other assets that may be used to make, or reimburse Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for, payments to the Participants or Qualified Spouses (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) of all or part of the benefits under this Plan. Any Trust assets shall at all times remain subject to the claims of general creditors of Ferro or the Ferro Group Company in the event of the insolvency of Ferro or the Ferro Group Company as more fully described in the Trust.

 

6.2 Obligation of Ferro . Notwithstanding the fact that a Trust may be established under Section 6.1, the Ferro Group Companies shall remain liable for paying the benefits under this Plan. However, any payment of benefits to a Participant or a Qualified Spouse (or a properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) made by a Trust will satisfy the appropriate Ferro Group Company’s obligation to make payment to such person under this Plan.

 

6.3 Trust Terms . A Trust established under Section 6.1 may contain any terms as Ferro may determine to be necessary or desirable. Ferro may terminate or amend a Trust established under Section 6.1 at any time, and in any manner it deems necessary or desirable, subject to the terms of any agreement under which any Trust is established or maintained.

ARTICLE VII

ADMINISTRATION AND CLAIMS PROCEDURE

 

7.1 Administrator . The Administrator will be Ferro, acting by and through Ferro’s Corporate Human Resources Department, unless the Board of Directors, acting itself or through an appropriate committee designates otherwise.

 

7.2

General Rights, Powers, and Duties of Administrator . The Administrator will be the Plan Administrator under ERISA. The Administrator will be responsible for the general administration of this Plan and will have all powers as may be necessary to carry

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  out the provisions of this Plan and may, from time to time, establish rules for the administration of this Plan and the transaction of this Plan’s business. In addition to any powers, rights and duties set forth elsewhere in this Plan, it will have the following powers and duties:

 

  (A) To enact rules, regulations, and procedures and to prescribe the use of such forms as it deems advisable;

 

  (B) To appoint or employ agents, attorneys, actuaries, accountants, assistants or other persons (who may also be Participants in this Plan or be employed by or represent a Ferro Group Company) at the expense of the Ferro Group Companies, as it deems necessary to keep its records or to assist it in taking any other action authorized or required under this Plan;

 

  (C) To interpret this Plan, and to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan and resolve all questions arising under this Plan;

 

  (D) To administer this Plan in accordance with its terms and any rules and regulations it establishes; and

 

  (E) To maintain records concerning this Plan as it deems sufficient to prepare reports, returns and other information required by this Plan or by law; and

 

  (F) To direct a Ferro Group Company to pay benefits under this Plan, and to give other directions and instructions as may be necessary for the proper administration of this Plan.

Any decision, interpretation or other action made or taken by the Administrator arising out of or in connection with this Plan, will be within the absolute discretion of the Administrator, and will be final, binding and conclusive on Ferro, all other Ferro Group Companies, and all Participants, Qualified Spouses and Beneficiaries and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns. The Administrator’s determinations under this Plan need not be uniform, and may be made selectively among Participants, whether or not they are similarly situated.

 

7.3 Information to Be Furnished to the Administrator . A Ferro Group Company will furnish the Administrator with such data and information as it may reasonably require. The records of a Ferro Group Company will be determinative of each Participant’s period of employment, termination of employment, personal data, and data regarding the Participant’s benefit under the Qualified Plan. Participants, Qualified Spouses (and properly designated beneficiaries) will furnish to the Administrator such evidence, data or information and execute such documents as the Administrator requests.

 

7.4

Claims for Benefits . A Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) will make all claims for payment under his Plan in writing to the Administrator in the manner prescribed by the Administrator. The Administrator will process each claim and determine entitlement to benefits within 90 days after the Administrator receives a completed application for benefits (or within 45 days if the application for benefits is based on Disability). If the Administrator needs an extension of time for processing, then the Administrator will notify the claimant before

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

the end of the initial 90-day or 45-day period (as the case may be). The extension notice will indicate the special circumstances requiring an extension of time and the date as of which the Administrator expects to render the final decision. In no event will such an extension exceed 90 days from the end of the initial period (or exceed 30 days from the end of the initial period if the claim is based on Disability unless notice is again given within the 30-day extended period and the second extended period may not exceed an additional 30 days).

 

7.5 Denial of Benefit . If a claim is wholly or partially denied by the Administrator, then the Administrator will notify the claimant of the denial of the claim in a writing delivered in person or mailed by first class mail to the claimant’s last known address. The notice of denial will contain:

 

  (A) the specific reason or reasons for denial of the claim;

 

  (B) a reference to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the denial is based;

 

  (C) a description of any additional material or information necessary for the claimant to perfect the claim, together with an explanation of why the material or information is necessary; and

 

  (D) an explanation of this Plan’s claim review procedure.

If no notice is provided, the claim will be deemed denied. The interpretations, determinations and decisions of the Administrator will be final and binding upon all persons with respect to any right, benefit and privilege hereunder, subject to the review procedures set forth in this Article.

 

7.6 Request for Review of a Denial of a Claim for Benefits . Any claimant or any authorized representative of the claimant whose claim for benefits under this Plan has been denied or deemed denied, in whole or in part, may upon written notice to the Appeals Committee request a review by the Appeals Committee of the denial of the claim. The claimant will have 60 days from the date the claim is deemed denied or 60 days from receipt of the notice denying the claim, as the case may be (or, in the case of a claim for benefits based upon Disability, 180 days from the date the claim is deemed denied or 180 days from receipt of the notice denying the claim, as the case may be), in which to request a review by written application delivered to the Appeals Committee, which must specify the relief requested and the reason such claimant believes the denial should be reversed.

 

7.7

Appeals Procedure . The Appeals Committee will review the facts and relevant documents including this Plan, and interpret the facts and relevant documents including this Plan to render a decision on the claim. The review may be of written briefs submitted by the claimant, or at a hearing, or by both, as deemed necessary or appropriate by the Appeals Committee. Any hearing will be held in the main office of Ferro, or such other location as the Appeals Committee may select, on the date and at the time as the Appeals Committee designates by giving at least 15-days’ notice to the claimant, unless the claimant accepts shorter notice. The notice will specify that the claimant must indicate in writing, at least five days in advance of the hearing, the claimant’s intention to appear at the appointed time and place, or the hearing will be automatically cancelled. The reply will specify any other persons who will accompany the claimant to the hearing, or such other persons will not be admitted to the hearing. The Appeals Committee will make every effort to schedule the hear

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  ing on a day and at a time that is convenient to both the claimant and the Appeals Committee. The claimant, or his duly authorized representative, may review all pertinent documents relating to the claim in preparation for the hearing and may submit issues and comments in writing before or during the hearing.

 

7.8 Decision Upon Review of Denial of Claim for Benefits . In making its decision, the Appeals Committee will have full power and discretion to interpret this Plan, to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, and to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan. The Appeals Committee will render a decision on the claim reviewed no more than 60 days after the receipt of the claimant’s request for review (or no more than 45 days where the claim is based on Disability), unless special circumstances (such as the need to hold a hearing) require an extension of time, in which case the 60-day period may be extended up to 120 days (or the 45-day period may be extended up to 90 days in the case of a claim based on Disability). The Appeals Committee will provide written notice of its decision to the claimant within the time frame specified. The notice will include the specific reasons for the decision and contain specific references to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the decision is based. If notice of the decision is not provided within the time frame specified, the claim will be deemed denied on review. The decision of the Appeals Committee will be final and binding in all respects on the Administrator, the Ferro Group Company and claimant involved.

 

7.9 Establishment of Appeals Committee . The Chief Executive Officer of Ferro will appoint three or more persons to serve as members of the Appeals Committee. The Chief Executive Officer may appoint one Appeals Committee to hear all appeals of denied benefits that arise under this Plan, or may appoint a new Appeals Committee each time an Appeals Committee is needed to hear an appeal of denied benefits that arises under this Plan. The members of the Appeals Committee will remain in office at the will of the Chief Executive Officer, and the Chief Executive Officer may remove any of the members with or without cause. A member of the Appeals Committee may resign upon written notice to the remaining member or members of the Appeals Committee and to the Chief Executive Officer, respectively. The fact that a person is a Participant or a former Participant or a prospective Participant will not disqualify that person from acting as a member of the Appeals Committee. No member of the Appeals Committee will be disqualified from acting on any question because of the member’s interest in the question, except that no member of the Appeals Committee may act on any claim which the member has brought as a Participant, former Participant, Qualified Spouse or beneficiary under this Plan. In case of the death, resignation or removal of any member of the Appeals Committee, the remaining members will act until a successor-member is appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. At the Administrator’s request, the Chief Executive Officer will notify the Administrator in writing of the names of the members of the Appeals Committee, of any and all changes in the membership of the Appeals Committee, of the member designated as Chairman, and the member designated as Secretary, and of any changes in either office. Until notified of a change, the Administrator will be protected in assuming that there has been no change in the membership of the Appeals Committee or the designation of Chairman or of Secretary since the last notification was filed with it. The Administrator will be under no obligation at any time to inquire into the membership of the Appeals Committee or its officers. All communications to the Appeals Committee will be addressed to its Secretary at the address of the Company.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

7.10 Operation of the Appeals Committee . On all matters and questions, the decision of a majority of the members of the Appeals Committee will govern and control. A meeting need not be called or held to make any decision. The Appeals Committee will appoint one of its members to act as its Chairman and another member to act as Secretary. The terms of office of these members will be determined by the Appeals Committee, and the Secretary and/or Chairman may be removed by the other members of the Appeals Committee for any reason which such other members may deem just and proper. The Secretary will do all things directed by the Appeals Committee. Although the Appeals Committee will act by decision of a majority of its members as provided above, in the absence of written notice to the contrary, every person may deal with the Secretary and consider the Secretary’s acts as having been authorized by the Appeals Committee. Any notice served or demand made on the Secretary will be deemed to have been served or made upon the Appeals Com-mittee.

 

7.11 Limitation of Duties . Ferro, the other Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee and their respective officers, members, employees, and agents will have no duty or responsibility under this Plan other than the duties and responsibilities expressly assigned or delegated to them pursuant to this Plan. None of them will have any duty or responsibility with respect to those duties or responsibilities assigned or delegated to another.

 

7.12 Agents . The Administrator and the Appeals Committee may hire any attorneys, accountants, actuaries, agents, clerks, and secretaries as it may deem desirable in the performance of its duties, any of whom may also be advisors to any Ferro Group Company or any subsidiary or affiliated company.

 

7.13 Expenses of Administration . No fee or compensation will be paid to the Administrator or any member of the Appeals Committee for their performance of services as such. Ferro will bear all other expenses incurred in the administration of this Plan except to the extent Ferro determines that the expenses are allocable to, and should be paid by, one or more of the Ferro Group Companies.

 

7.14 Indemnification . In addition to whatever rights of indemnification any member or employee of the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, Ferro or other Ferro Group Company under this Plan may be entitled to under the articles of incorporation, regulations or bylaws of the Ferro Group Companies, under any provision of law or under any other agreement, the Ferro Group Companies will satisfy any liability actually incurred by any member or employee including reasonable expenses and attorneys’ fees, and any judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement, in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding which is related to the exercise or failure to exercise by any member or employee any powers, authority, responsibilities or discretion provided under this Plan or reasonably believed by a member or employee to be provided under this Plan, and any action taken by a member or employee in connection with such exercise or failure to exercise. This indemnification for all such acts taken or omitted is intentionally broad, but will not provide indemnification for embezzlement or diversion of Plan funds for the benefit of any member or employee. This indemnification will not be provided for any claim by a Ferro Group Company or a subsidiary or affiliated company thereof against any member or employee. No indemnification will be provided to any person who is not an individual.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

7.15 Limitation of Administrative Liability . Neither Ferro, any other Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee nor any of their members or employees, will be liable for any act taken by such person or entity pursuant to any provision of this Plan except for gross abuse of the discretion given them under this Plan. No member of the Administrator or Appeals Committee will be liable for the act of any other member. No member of the Board of Directors will be liable to any person for any action taken or omitted in connection with the administration of this Plan.

 

7.16 Limitation of Sponsor Liability . Any right or authority exercisable by Ferro or Board of Directors pursuant to any provision of this Plan will be exercised in Ferro’s capacity as sponsor of this Plan, or on behalf of Ferro in such capacity, and not in a fiduciary capacity, and may be exercised without the approval or consent of any person in a fiduciary capacity. Neither Ferro, nor the Board of Directors, nor any of their respective officers, members, employees, agents, and delegates, will have any liability to any party for its exercise of any such right or authority.

ARTICLE VIII

AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

 

8.1 Amendment, Modification and Termination . Subject to Section 8.3 below, this Plan may be amended, modified or terminated by Ferro at any time, or from time to time, by action of an appropriate Ferro officer authorized or ratified by the Board of Directors, except that no benefit accrued under this Plan as of any date shall be reduced by any change made on or after such date in either the Qualified Plan or this Plan except to the extent such reduction results from (a) an equivalent increase in the benefits payable from the Qualified Plan as a result of an increase in the limits contained therein to effect compliance with Sections 401(a)(17) or 415 of the Code, (b) an equivalent increase in the benefits payable from the Qualified Plan as a result of the application of a change in the nondiscrimination and permitted disparity regulations under sections 401(a)(4) or 401(1) of the Code or an amendment of the Qualified Plan after December 9, 1994 pertaining thereto, or (c) a decrease in the benefits payable from the Qualified Plan as a result of the termination of the Qualified Plan under Title IV of ERISA, to the extent such decrease is required to comply with the terms of Title IV of ERISA or other applicable law or results from a reallocation of assets provided for in Section 4044(b)(4) of ERISA to prevent the disqualification of the Qualified Plan. Subject to the foregoing limitations, both this Plan and the Qualified Plan may be amended, restated, terminated or replaced by action of the Board of Directors of the Company. It is further understood that any benefits payable hereunder are in addition to and not in diminution of any amounts payable by the Company under any other plan or contract applicable to a Participant.

 

8.2 Actions Binding on Ferro Group Companies . Any amendments made to this Plan will be binding on all the Ferro Group Companies without the approval or consent of the Ferro Group Companies other than Ferro. Ferro may, by amendment, also terminate this Plan on behalf of all or any one of the other Ferro Group Companies in its sole discretion.

 

8.3 Termination or Amendment After Change in Control . If a Change of Control occurs, then, for a period of two (2) calendar years following such Change in Control, Ferro may not amend or terminate this Plan without the prior written consent of all Participants.

 

A-16


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

ARTICLE IX

FERRO GROUP COMPANIES

 

9.1 List of Ferro Group Companies . The Ferro Group Companies as of the Amendment and Restatement Date are Ferro and the Affiliates of Ferro listed on Appendix B to this Plan. Ferro may from time to time add or remove Ferro Affiliates from the list of Ferro Group Companies by written action of its Chief Executive Officer. The addition or deletion will not require a formal amendment to this Plan.

 

9.2 Delegation of Authority . Ferro is fully empowered to act on behalf of itself and the other Ferro Group Companies as it may deem appropriate in maintaining this Plan and any Trust. The adoption by Ferro of any amendment to this Plan or any Trust, or the termination of this Plan or any Trust, will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the approval, adoption, ratification or confirmation by each Ferro Group Company of any amendment or termination. In addition, the appointment of or removal by Ferro of any Administrator, any trustee or other person under this Plan or any Trust will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the appointment or removal by each Ferro Group Company of such person.

ARTICLE X

MISCELLANEOUS

 

10.1 No Implied Rights . Neither the establishment of this Plan nor any amendment of this Plan will be construed as giving any Participant, Beneficiary or any other person any legal or equitable right unless the right is specifically provided for in this Plan or conferred by specific action of Ferro in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Plan. Except as expressly provided in this Plan, neither Ferro nor any other Ferro Group Company will be required or be liable to make any payment under this Plan.

 

10.2 No Right to Ferro Group Company Assets . Neither the Participant nor any other person will acquire by reason of this Plan any right in or title to any assets, funds or property of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company whatsoever including, without limitation, any specific funds, assets or other property which Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company, in its sole discretion, may set aside in anticipation of a liability hereunder. Any benefits which become payable under this Plan will be paid from the general assets of the appropriate Ferro Group Company. No assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be held in any way as collateral security for the fulfilling of the obligations of Ferro or the Ferro Group Companies under this Plan. No assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be pledged or otherwise restricted in order to meet the obligations of this Plan. The Participant will have only a contractual right to the amounts, if any, payable hereunder unsecured by any asset of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company. Nothing contained in this Plan constitutes a guarantee by Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company that the assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be sufficient to pay any benefit to any person.

 

A-17


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

10.3 No Employment Rights Created . This Plan will not be deemed to constitute a contract of employment between Ferro or any of the other Ferro Group Companies and any Participant, or to confer upon any Participant or employee the right to be retained in the service of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for any period of time, nor shall any provision of this Plan restrict the right of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company to discharge or otherwise deal with any Participant or other employees, with or without cause. Nothing in this Plan will be construed as fixing or regulating the compensation or other benefits payable to any Participant or other employee of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company.

 

10.4 Offset . If at the time payment is to be made under this Plan the Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) or all such individuals are indebted or obligated to a Ferro Group Company, then the payment to be made to the Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) or all such individuals may, in the discretion of the Administrator at the request of the Ferro Group Company, be reduced by the amount of the indebtedness or obligation, provided, however, that an election by the Ferro Group Company not to request any reduction will not constitute a waiver of the Ferro Group Company’s claim for such indebtedness or obligation.

 

10.5 No Assignment . Neither the Participant nor any other person will have any voluntary or involuntary right to commute, sell, assign, pledge, anticipate, mortgage or otherwise encumber, transfer, hypothecate or convey, in advance of actual receipt of the amount, if any, payable under this Plan, or any part of the amount payable from this Plan, and any attempt to do so will be void. All benefits under this Plan are expressly declared to be unassignable and non-transferable. No part of the benefits under this Plan will be, before actual payment, subject to seizure or sequestration for the payment of any debts, judgments, alimony or separate maintenance owed by the Participant or any other person, or be transferable by operation of law in the event of the Participant’s or any other person’s bankruptcy or insolvency.

 

10.6 Notice . Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Plan will be sufficient if in writing and hand delivered, or sent by registered or certified mail or by overnight delivery service, and:

 

  (A) if given to a Ferro Group Company, delivered to the principal office of Ferro, directed to the attention of the General Counsel; or

 

  (B) if given to a Participant or Beneficiary, delivered to the last post office address as shown on the Ferro Group Company’s or the Administrator’s records.

Notice will be deemed given as of the date of delivery or, if delivery is made by mail, as of the date shown on the postmark or the receipt for registration or certification.

 

10.7 Governing Laws . This Plan will be construed and administered according to the internal substantive laws of the State of Ohio to the extent not preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

 

10.8

Incapacity . If the Administrator determines that any Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) entitled to payment under this Plan is a minor, a person declared incompetent or a person incapable of handling his or her property, the Administrator may direct any payment to the guardian, legal

 

A-18


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  representative or person having the care and custody of the minor, incompetent or incapable person. The Administrator may require proof of minority, incompetence, incapacity or guardianship, as it may deem appropriate before making any payment. The Administrator will have no obligation thereafter to monitor or follow the application of amounts so paid. Payments made pursuant to this Section will completely discharge this Plan, any Trust, the Administrator, Ferro and all other Ferro Group Companies with respect to the payments.

 

10.9   Court Ordered Distributions . The Administrator is authorized to make any payments directed by court order in any action in which this Plan or the Administrator is named as a party. In addition, if a court determines that a spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent of a Participant has an interest in the Participant’s benefits under this Plan in connection with a property settlement or otherwise, the Administrator, in its sole discretion, will have the right, notwithstanding any election made by a Participant, to immediately distribute the spouse’s or former spouse’s or dependent’s or former dependent’s interest in the Participant’s benefit under this Plan to that spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent.

 

10.10   Administrative Forms . All applications, elections and designations in connection with this Plan made by a Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) will become effective only when duly executed on forms provided by the Administrator and filed with the Administrator.

 

10.11   Independence of Plan . Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Plan will be independent of, and in addition to, any other employee benefit agreement or plan or any rights that may exist from time to time under any other agreement or plan.

 

10.12   Responsibility for Legal Effect . Neither Ferro, any other Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, nor any officer, member, delegate or agent of any of them, makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, or assumes any responsibility concerning the legal, tax, or other implications or effects of this Plan.

 

10.13   Successors . The terms and conditions of this Plan will inure to the benefit of and bind Ferro, the Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator and its members, the Participants, their beneficiaries, and the successors, assigns, and personal representatives of any of them.

 

10.14   Headings and Titles . The Section headings and titles of Articles used in this Plan are for convenience of reference only and are not to be considered in construing this Plan.

 

10.15   Appendices . The Appendices to this Plan constitute an integral part of this Plan and are hereby incorporated into this Plan by this reference.

 

10.16   Severability . If any provision or term of this Plan, or any agreement or instrument required by the Administrator, is determined by a judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative body to be void or not enforceable for any reason, all other provisions or terms of this Plan or the agreement or instrument will remain in full force and effect and will be enforceable as if the void or nonenforceable provision or term had never been a part of this Plan, or the agreement or instrument.

 

A-19


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

10.17   Actions by Ferro . Except as otherwise provided in this Plan, all actions of Ferro under this Plan will be taken by the Board of Directors, and be evidenced in a writing executed by an appropriate officer duly authorized.

 

10.18  Spousal Consent and Release. If, in the opinion of Ferro, any present, former or future spouse of an employee, entitled to benefits from this Plan shall by reason of law appear to have any interest in the Plan benefits that may be or become payable hereunder to such employee, Ferro may as a condition precedent to the making of a benefit payment hereunder, require such written consent or release as in its discretion it shall determine to be necessary, desirable or appropriate either to prevent or avoid any conflict or multiplicity of claims, or to protect the rights of any such present, former or future spouse with respect to the payment of any benefits under this Plan.

 

10.19   Overpayments and Repayments . If Ferro determines that the benefits actually paid under this Plan exceed the benefits that were properly payable to an employee or beneficiary pursuant to this Plan, Ferro may, in addition to exercising any other legal remedies available, reduce or suspend future benefit payments in any manner that Ferro in its sole discretion deems equitable. If a Participant fails to continually comply with the terms and conditions of the Noncompetition Agreement, then such Participant (or, if applicable, such Participant’s Qualified Spouse or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) shall, upon written demand by Ferro, immediately repay to Ferro all payments theretofore received by the Participant (or, if applicable, such Participant’s Qualified Spouse or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) under this Plan.

 

10.20   References to Sections of Law and Certain Defined Terms . For purposes of this Plan:

 

  (A) References in this Plan to the Code are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provision of subsequent federal law.

 

  (B) References in this Plan to ERISA are to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provisions of subsequent law.

 

  (C) References in this Plan to Qualified Spouse refer to the Qualified Plan’s defined term of “Qualified Spouse.”

 

  (D) References in this Plan to Regular Compensation Formula refer to the normal retirement benefit formula set forth in Section 5.5(a) of the Qualified Plan prior to its elimination by amendment to the Qualified Plan executed December 19, 1990 and effective December 31, 1989; however, for purposes of this Plan

 

  (1) the term “regular compensation” under the Regular Compensation Formula shall include

 

  (a) Performance Share Plan awards which are awarded before January 1, 2004,

 

A-20


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (b) amounts payable under other agreements or arrangements by reason of the proration or forfeiture of pre-January 1, 2004 Performance Share Plan awards, and

 

  (c) awards or compensation under any other Company incentive, reward or performance program or plan (which incentive, reward or performance program or plan was in existence prior to January 1, 2001) that was includable in “regular compensation” under the terms of the Plan document in effect prior to January 1, 2001;

 

  (2) amounts of deferred compensation and Performance Share Plan awards shall be included in the year in which such amounts are earned and not in the year to which such Performance Share Plan awards are deferred or in which such Performance Share Plan awards are paid;

 

  (3) amounts payable under clause (b) of item (1) above shall be included in the year paid, and

 

  (4) except as otherwise provided above, unless the Governance, Nomination & Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company determines otherwise, the term “regular compensation” under the Regular Compensation Formula shall not include awards or compensation under any Company incentive, reward or performance program or plan.

 

  (E) References in this Plan to “properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries” means the beneficiary or beneficiaries named in a written beneficiary designation by an employee participant (delivered to the Company prior to such employee’s death in a form acceptable to the Company) with the written consent of the Qualified Spouse thereto; provided, however, that if a deceased employee is not survived by a Qualified Spouse and has not delivered such a written beneficiary designation to the Company prior to death, then the phrase “properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries” means the beneficiary or beneficiaries of such deceased employee’s Qualified Plan benefit or, if none, such deceased employee’s estate.

 

A-21


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

D EFINITIONS

For purposes of this Plan, the following terms have the meanings set forth below where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters:

 

Term    Meaning
Administrator    As defined in Section 7.1 of this Plan.
Affiliate    Any entity which is a member of a controlled group of corporations with the Company under Section 414(b) of the Code, under common control with the Company under Section 414(c) of the Code, a member of an affiliated service group with the Company under Section 414(m) of the Code, or otherwise required to be aggregated with the Company under Section 414(o) of the Code.
Amendment and Restatement Date    June 30, 2004.
Beneficial Owner    “Beneficial owner” within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act.
Board of Directors    Ferro’s Board of Directors.
Change in Control    A change in the control of Ferro that is required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act. For purposes of this definition, a Change in Control will be deemed to have occurred if and when:
  

(a)     any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d)(3) and 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of Ferro representing twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the combined voting power of Ferro’s outstanding voting securities; or

  

(b)     during any period of two consecutive years, the individuals set forth below in sub-paragraph (1) and (2) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors:

  

(1)     the individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors, and

 

A-22


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

 

Term    Meaning
  

(2)     any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement or arrangement with Ferro to effect a transaction described in clause (a) or (c) of this definition) whose appointment, election, or nomination for election by Ferro’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose appointment, election or nomination for election was previously so approved; or

  

(c)     a merger or consolidation of Ferro or one of its subsidiaries is consummated with or into any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the holders of the voting securities of Ferro outstanding immediately prior thereto holding securities which represent immediately after such merger or consolidation more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of either Ferro or the other entity which survives such merger or consolidation or the parent of the entity which survives such merger or consolidation; or

  

(d)     a sale or disposition by Ferro of all or substantially all Ferro’s assets is consummated.

Code    The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any lawful regulations or other pronouncements promulgated under that Code.
Disability    Any disability that qualifies a Participant for payment of benefits under the Qualified Plan.
ERISA    The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.
Exchange Act    The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.
Ferro    As defined in Section 1.2 of this Plan. Such term also includes any successor corporation or business organization that subsequently assumes Ferro’s duties and obligations under this Plan.

 

A-23


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

 

Term    Meaning
Ferro Group Companies    As defined in Section 9.1 of this Plan.
Noncompetition Agreement    A noncompetition, nonsolicitation, nondisparagement and confidentiality agreement in a form specified by Ferro.
Participant    As defined in Section 3.2 of this Plan.
Person   

A “person” as defined under Section 3(a)(9) of the Exchange Act as modified and used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, excluding:

 

(a)     Ferro or any of its subsidiaries;

 

(b)     a trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company (or of any of its affiliates as defined under Rule 12b-2 under Section 12 of the Exchange Act);

 

(c)     an underwriter temporarily holding securities pursuant to an offering of such securities; or

 

(d)     a corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the shareholders of Ferro in substantially the same proportion as their ownership of the stock of Ferro.

this Plan    As defined in the Introduction to this Plan.
Plan Year    The calendar year.
Present Value Factors   

As used in this Plan, the term Present Value Factors means the following:

 

(a)     For so long as the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (“PBGC”) publishes interest rates, present value shall be calculated using the interest rate, in effect on the last day of the calendar quarter preceding the date of the Participant’s termination of employment date with all Ferro Group Companies, that would be used by the PBGC in determining the present value of a lump sum distribution in a termination of a tax-qualified defined benefit pension plan and the UP 1984 Mortality Table; and

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

 

Term    Meaning
  

(b)    When the PBGC ceases to publish interest rates, present value shall be calculated using an interest rate that is one percent (1%) less than the interest rate on 10-year Treasury securities (rounded to the nearest quarter percent) published by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and in effect on the last day of the calendar quarter preceding the date of the Participant’s termination of employment date with all Ferro Group Companies and the applicable mortality table under Code Section 417(e)(3) prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury based on the prevailing insurance commissioners’ standard table used to determine reserves for group annuity contracts issued on the date as of which present value is being determined. Currently, the prevailing insurance commissioners’ standard table is the 1983 Group Annuity Mortality Table.

Primary Death Benefit    The “primary death benefit” provided under the Qualified Plan.
Qualified Plan    The Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan, Plan Number 001, as heretofore amended and as hereafter may be amended or amended and restated, together with any successor plan to which the liabilities thereunder may be transferred
Qualified Spouse    As defined in the Qualified Plan.
Termination of Employment    A Participant’s cessation of service with Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies, including subsidiaries and affiliates of the foregoing, for any reason whatsoever, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, including by reason of retirement, death, or Disability.
Trust    The trust, if any, established pursuant to Section 6.1 of this Plan.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix B

 

F ERRO G ROUP C OMPANIES

The following are the Ferro Group Companies:

Ferro Corporation

FEM Inc.

Ferro Glass & Color Corporation

Ferro International Services, Inc.

Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc.

 

A-26


F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

Part B: 2005 Plan

O VERVIEW

E STABLISHMENT OF C OMPONENT P LAN

The provisions of the Code Section 2005 Plan are set forth in this Part B (the “2005 Plan”), which is adopted and made a part of the Plan effective, except as otherwise specified, January 1, 2005.

G OVERNS A CCRUALS S UBJECT TO C ODE S ECTION 409A

The 2005 Plan governs all accruals under the Plan which are not Pre-2005 Accruals (the “409A Accruals”). Generally, this means that the 2005 Plan governs accruals in excess of those which were earned and vested as of December 31, 2004. As described in the Introduction, all accruals under the Plan were frozen effective March 31, 2006.

The 409A Accruals are subject to the requirements of Code Section 409A, and Ferro intends for the 2005 Plan to comply with Code Section 409A. The 2005 Plan shall be interpreted and administered so as to comply with Code Section 409A.

T ERMINOLOGY

As used in the 2005 Plan, the term “Plan” refers to the 2005 Plan or to the Plan, as appropriate.

 

B-1


 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Part B: 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

B-2


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

2005 P LAN

I NTRODUCTION

This 2005 Plan is the portion of the F ERRO C ORPORATION S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES which governs 409A Accruals. The purpose for the adoption of this 2005 Plan is to comply with the requirements of Code Section 409A.

The 2005 Plan is hereby added to the Plan as follows, effective January 1, 2005, except as otherwise specified.

ARTICLE I

NAME AND PURPOSE

 

1.1 Name . The name of this Plan is the “Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Benefit Plan for Executive Employees.” (This Plan was previously known as the “Ferro Corporation Nonqualified Retirement Plan.”)

 

1.2 Plan Sponsor . The sponsor of this Plan is Ferro Corporation (“Ferro”), an Ohio corporation.

 

1.3 Purpose . This purpose of this Plan is to provide supplemental retirement benefits for certain management and highly compensated employees of the Ferro Group Companies whose benefits under the Qualified Plan are limited by Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 of the Code, so that the aggregate benefits provided for each such employee by the Qualified Plan and by this Plan will not be less than benefits that would be provided to each such employee by the Qualified Plan but for the limitations contained in the Qualified Plan to effect compliance with Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 of the Code.

 

1.4 Plan for a Select Group . This Plan covers only employees of a Ferro Group Company who are members of a “select group of management or highly compensated Participants” as provided in Sections 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) and 4021(b)(6) of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered and its benefits limited in a manner to comply with the above cited sections of ERISA.

 

1.5 Not a Funded Plan . Ferro intends that this Plan be deemed to be “unfunded” for tax purposes as well as for purposes of Title I of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered in a manner so that it is deemed “unfunded.”

 

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Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

1.6 409A Compliance . It is the intention and purpose of Ferro and the Participants that this Plan shall be deemed to be at all relevant times in compliance with Section 409A of the Code and all other applicable laws in order to have the Federal income tax effect sought for such plans, and this Plan shall be so interpreted and is intended to be so administered.

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION

 

2.1 Definitions . Appendix A sets forth the definitions of certain terms used in this Plan. Those terms shall have the meanings set forth on Appendix A where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters.

 

2.2 General Rules of Construction . For purposes of interpreting this Plan,

 

  (A) the masculine gender will include the feminine and neuter, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (B) the singular number will include the plural, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (C) the present tense of a verb will include the past and future tenses, and vice versa, as the context requires; and

 

  (D) as provided under Article VII, the Administrator retains the power and duty to interpret this Plan and resolve ambiguities.

ARTICLE III

PARTICIPATION

 

3.1 Eligibility . In order to be eligible to participate in this Plan, Ferro must determine that an individual is:

 

  (A) in a select group of management or highly compensated employees as set forth in Section 1.4;

 

  (B) a participant in the Qualified Plan; and

 

  (C) a participant in the Qualified Plan whose benefit payable under the Qualified Plan is limited by the provisions in the Qualified Plan to effect compliance with Sections 401(a)(17) or 415 of the Code or the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan.

 

3.2 Participation . An individual who is eligible to participate in this Plan will become a Participant in this Plan immediately on the date that he satisfies the eligibility requirements in Section 3.1.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE IV

PLAN BENEFITS

 

4.1 Plan Benefits Conditioned on Noncompetition Agreement . The Plan benefits set forth in this Article IV payable to Participants whose employment with all Ferro Group Companies terminates on or after January 1, 2001, shall be conditioned upon (i) Ferro’s receipt of a Noncompetition Agreement signed by the Participant within sixty (60) days after the Participant’s Termination of Employment (or such shorter period as may be required to ensure that distribution is made by the Time Required by Law), and (ii) the Participant’s continual compliance with the terms and conditions of such Noncompetition Agreement; provided, however, the requirement that a Participant sign and continually comply with the terms and conditions of such Noncompetition Agreement shall not apply to any Participant whose employment terminates either (i) as a result of the Participant’s death prior to the commencement of Plan benefits, or (ii) following a Change in Control. If the Participant fails to so continually comply, then all of the Participant’s benefits (including, without limitation, benefits to such employee’s Participant’s Qualified Spouse or designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) under this Plan shall be automatically forfeited and repaid to Ferro as provided in Section 10.19 hereof.

 

4.1A Freeze of Accrued Benefits . Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, effective March 31, 2006, the “benefit payable” under Sections 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 and 4.5 shall be calculated with reference to the terms of the Qualified Plan as it was amended effective on and after March 31, 2006 to cease benefit accruals (the “Frozen Qualified Plan”). Pursuant to the foregoing, the amount determined under Paragraph (A)(a) of each such Section shall be calculated based upon the terms of the Frozen Qualified Plan but without regard to the limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula, and the amount determined under Paragraph (A)(b) of each such Section shall be calculated based upon the amount actually paid or payable under terms of the Frozen Qualified Plan.

 

4.2 Normal and Early Retirement . A Participant will receive a normal or early retirement benefit in the amount set forth in Section 4.2(A) and in the manner and form of payment set forth in Section 4.2(B).

 

  (A) Amount . Subject to the provisions of Section 4.4, the Plan benefit payable to a Participant under this Part B upon termination of employment after eligibility for an early or normal retirement benefit under the Qualified Plan is the excess of (a) over (b), further reduced by (c), where: (a) is the amount of the benefit that would have been payable to the Participant under the Qualified Plan upon normal or early retirement but for the Qualified Plan limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan; (b) is the amount of the benefit that is actually paid, or would be payable, to the Participant upon normal or early retirement under the provisions of the Qualified Plan; and (c) is the monthly normal or early retirement benefit that has been paid or is payable under Part A of this Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the calculation of an early retirement benefit under this Part B for a Participant who is a Ferro officer elected by Ferro’s Board of Directors shall be determined in accordance with the early retirement factors in the following column labeled “Special Factors” with the result that there shall be no benefit reduction due to age for retirement on or after age 60:

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

Early Retirement Factors

 

Age

   Special Factors  

65

     1.00   

64

     1.00   

63

     1.00   

62

     1.00   

61

     1.00   

60

     1.00   

59

     0.94   

58

     0.88   

57

     0.82   

56

     0.76   

55

     0.70   

 

  (B) Manner and Form of Payment. The benefit provided under Section 4.2(A) of this Part B for each Participant who terminates employment with a Ferro Group Company after eligibility for an early or normal retirement benefit under the Qualified Plan, shall be paid in the form of a lump sum cash payment that is 100% of the commuted present value as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary using the Present Value Factors of the benefit determined under Section 4.2(A) of this Part B, such commuted present value to be determined as of the date the Participant’s benefits under Part A of this Plan are determined for payment of an immediate lump sum distribution following Termination of Employment (or, in the event an immediate lump sum distribution is not made of the Participant’s benefits under Part A, a date selected by the Administrator within ninety (90) days after the Termination of Employment). The lump sum cash payment shall be made on the date which is six (6) months following the Participant’s Termination of Employment ( provided, however, that in the event of the Participant’s death after Termination of Employment, the lump sum cash payment shall be made on the date of death) and in any event by the Time Required By Law.

 

4.3 Disability . A Participant will receive a disability benefit in the amount set forth in Section 4.3(A) and in the manner and form of payment set forth in Section 4.3(B).

 

  (A)

Amount. If a Participant becomes Totally and Permanently Disabled and receives a disability retirement benefit from the Qualified Plan, the benefit payable to the Participant under this Part B is a monthly amount equal to the excess of (a) over (b), further reduced by (c), where: (a) is the amount of the monthly disability retirement benefit under the Qualified Plan that would have been payable to the Participant but for the limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan; (b) is the amount of the monthly disability

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  retirement benefit that is actually paid to the Participant under the provisions of the Qualified Plan; and (c) is the monthly benefit that is payable under Part A of this Plan. The monthly benefit payable under this Part B terminates upon the earliest of the Participant’s ceasing to be Totally and Permanently Disabled, death, or attainment of age 65; and, thereafter, the applicable provisions of this Article IV shall apply.

 

  (B) Manner and Form of Payment. The benefit provided under Section 4.3(A) of this Part B for each Participant who becomes Totally and Permanently Disabled and receives a disability retirement benefit from the Qualified Plan, shall be paid in the form of monthly payments payable under the Qualified Plan commencing with the month in which benefit payments from the Qualified Plan commence and continuing to and including the month in which the earlier of the Participant’s ceasing to be Totally and Permanently Disabled, death or attainment of age 65.

A Participant’s right to payments under this Section 4.3 of Part B shall, to the extent such payments are considered installment payments under Code Section 409A, constitute a right to a series of separate payments.

 

4.4 Death . A Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) or Beneficiary will receive a death benefit in the amount set forth in Section 4.4(A) and in the manner and form of payment set forth in 4.4(B).

 

  (A) Amount . If a Participant dies before the commencement of Plan benefits under this Part B (other than monthly disability benefits under this Plan) and a Primary Death Benefit is payable from the Qualified Plan as a result of such employee’s death, the benefit payable under this Part B to the Participant’s Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) is the commuted present value of the excess of (a) over (b), further reduced by (c), where: (a) is the amount of the Primary Death Benefit, plus supplemental spouse’s benefit if such employee’s Qualified Spouse is the beneficiary, that would have been payable under the Qualified Plan but for the limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan; (b) is the amount of the Primary Death Benefit, plus supplemental spouse’s benefit if such employee’s Qualified Spouse is the beneficiary, that is actually payable under the provisions of the Qualified Plan; and (c) is the amount of death benefit that is paid or payable under Part A of this Plan.

 

  (B) Manner and Form of Payment . The benefit provided under Section 4.4(A) of this Part B for the deceased Participant’s Qualified Spouse or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries shall be paid in the form of a single lump sum cash payment that is 100% of the commuted present value as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary using the Present Value Factors of the benefit determined under Section 4.4(A) of this Plan. The lump sum cash payment shall be made on the date of death and in any event by the Time Required By Law.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

4.5 Other Termination of Employment . A Participant will receive a deferred vested benefit in the amount set forth in Section 4.5(A) and in the manner and form of payment set forth in 4.5(B).

 

  (A) Amount. If a Participant terminates employment with all Ferro Group Companies other than as provided in Sections 4.2, 4.3, or 4.4 of this Plan, the benefit payable to the Participant under this Part B is the commuted present value of the excess of (a) over (b), further reduced by (c), where: (a) is the amount of the Qualified Plan’s deferred vested benefit that the Participant would have accrued but for the limitations pertaining to Code Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 and the elimination of the Regular Compensation Formula under the Qualified Plan; (b) is the deferred vested benefit that the Participant actually accrued under the provisions of the Qualified Plan; and (c) is the deferred vested benefit that has been paid or is payable under Part A of this Plan.

 

  (B) Manner and Form of Payment. The benefit provided under Section 4.5(A) of this Part B for each Participant shall be paid in the form of a single lump sum cash payment that is 100% of the commuted present value as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary using the Present Value Factors of the benefit determined under Section 4.5(A) of this Part B, such commuted present value to be determined as of the date the Participant’s benefits under Part A of this Plan are determined for payment of an immediate lump sum distribution following Termination of Employment (or, in the event an immediate lump sum distribution is not made of the Participant’s benefits under Part A, a date selected by the Administrator within ninety (90) days after the Termination of Employment). The lump sum cash payment shall be made on the date which is six (6) months following the Participants’ Termination of Employment ( provided, however, that in the event of the Participant’s death after Termination of Employment, the lump sum cash payment shall be made on the date of death) and in any event by the Time Required By Law.

 

4.6 Discretionary Benefit Increases . [Intentionally blank.]

 

4.7 Discretionary Commutation of Benefits . [Intentionally blank.]

 

4.8 Change in Control . If a Change in Control occurs, then all of the obligations of Ferro under this Plan shall continue to be enforceable against Ferro and any successor. Notwithstanding any provision of Article IV to the contrary, if any person entitled to benefits under this Plan is not actively employed by a Ferro Group Company at the time a Change in Control occurs, that person shall immediately receive a single, lump sum cash payment equal to the commuted present value of that person’s monthly benefit payments under this Plan (whether or not such person is then in pay status), as determined by the Qualified Plan’s actuary, using the Present Value Factors.

 

4.9 Protective Distributions . If the Administrator determines that a Participant is not a member of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” within the meaning of Section 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) or 4021(b)(6) of ERISA, then the Administrator may, as it determines necessary to satisfy the exclusions from ERISA coverage contemplated by Section 1.4, terminate the Participant’s participation in this Plan and forfeit any amounts erroneously credited under this Plan with respect to such Participant.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

4.10 Tax Withholding and Acceleration of Payment for Payment of Taxes . A Ferro Group Company may withhold, from any payment made by it under this Plan, the amount or amounts as may be required for purposes of complying with the tax withholding or other provisions of the Code or the Social Security Act or any state or local income or employment tax act or for purposes of paying any estate, inheritance or other tax attributable to any amounts payable hereunder. Further, distribution shall be made from the Plan at such time or times as the Administrator, in its sole discretion pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, shall determine that amounts are due for the payment of Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes imposed under Code Sections 3101, 3121(a) or 3121(v)(2) on the 409A Accruals. Such distribution, if any, shall be made for the exclusive purpose of paying such Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes. In addition, distribution shall be made from the Plan at such time or times as the Administrator, in its sole discretion pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, shall determine that amounts are due for the payment of income tax at source on wages imposed under Code Section 3401 (or the corresponding withholding provisions of applicable state, local or foreign tax laws) as a result of the payment of the Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes, or are due for the payment of additional income tax at source on wages attributable to the pyramiding Code Section 3401 wages and taxes. Such distribution, if any, shall be made for the exclusive purpose of paying such taxes. In no event shall the amounts distributed pursuant to this Section exceed the amounts owed for the payment of Federal Insurance Contribution Act taxes and the income tax withholding related to such amounts.

 

4.11 Inability to Locate Participant . If a Ferro Group Company or the Administrator notifies a Participant or a Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) of an entitlement to an amount under this Plan and such person or persons fail to request payment, to provide information or to take any other action to receive payment of such amount, the Administrator shall to the extent administratively possible, direct distribution to be made on an involuntary basis to such person or persons by the Time Required by Law. If the location of a Participant, Qualified Spouse or other beneficiary cannot be determined after a prompt, reasonable good faith effort by the Administrator, the Administrator will direct that the amount payable to the Participant or the Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) be forfeited by the Time Required by Law, and no further benefit will be payable with respect to any Participant, Qualified Spouse or other beneficiary.

 

4.12 Distribution upon Income Inclusion under Code Section 409A and Other Acceleration Events . The prior provisions of this Article IV notwithstanding, in the event the Plan fails to meet the requirements of Code Section 409A, a Participant’s 409A Accruals shall be distributed in an amount equal to the amount which is included in income on account of the failure to comply with Code Section 409A.

 

4.13 General Restriction on Distribution and Acceleration of Payment . Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, a Participant’s 409A Accruals shall not be distributed earlier than the time permitted under Code Section 409A. Consistent with Code Section 409A, this Part B provides that distribution shall not be made before the earlier of Termination of Employment, death or disability and imposes a restriction on distribution on account of Termination of Employment by which no distribution is made until the six (6) month anniversary of the Termination of Employment.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE V

RIGHTS OF PARTICIPANTS

 

5.1 Creditor Status of Participants . The benefits payable under this Plan shall be merely an unfunded, unsecured promise of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed) to make benefit payments in the future and shall be liabilities solely against the general assets of such Ferro Group Company. Except as may be provided under the terms of a Trust which may be established pursuant to Article VI, neither Ferro nor any other Ferro Group Company shall be required to segregate, set aside or escrow any corporate assets to meet its obligations under this Plan. With respect to any benefits payable under this Plan, a Participant or a Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) will have the status of general unsecured creditors of the Ferro Group Company by which the Participant is employed, and may look only to that Ferro Group Company and its general assets for payment of the benefits.

 

5.2 Rights with Respect to the Trust . Any trust, and any assets held thereby to assist Ferro or other Ferro Group Company in meeting its obligations under this Plan, will in no way be deemed to controvert the provisions of Section 5.1 above.

 

5.3 Investments . In Ferro’s sole discretion, the Ferro Group Companies may acquire insurance policies, annuities or other financial vehicles for the purpose of providing future assets of the Ferro Group Companies to meet their anticipated liabilities under this Plan. Such policies, annuities or other investments, shall at all times be and remain unrestricted general property and assets of the Ferro Group Companies or property of a trust established pursuant to Article VI of this Plan. Participants and Qualified Spouses (or properly designated beneficiaries) will have no rights, other than as general creditors, with respect to any such policies, annuities or other acquired assets.

ARTICLE VI

TRUST

 

6.1 Establishment of Trust . Notwithstanding any other provision or interpretation of this Plan, Ferro may establish a Trust in which to hold cash, insurance policies or other assets that may be used to make, or reimburse Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for, payments to the Participants or Qualified Spouses (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) of all or part of the benefits under this Plan. Any Trust assets shall at all times remain subject to the claims of general creditors of Ferro or the Ferro Group Company in the event of the insolvency of Ferro or the Ferro Group Company as more fully described in the Trust.

 

6.2 Obligation of Ferro . Notwithstanding the fact that a Trust may be established under Section 6.1, the Ferro Group Companies shall remain liable for paying the benefits under this Plan. However, any payment of benefits to a Participant or a Qualified Spouse (or a properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) made by a Trust will satisfy the appropriate Ferro Group Company’s obligation to make payment to such person under this Plan.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

6.3 Trust Terms . A Trust established under Section 6.1 may contain any terms as Ferro may determine to be necessary or desirable; provided, however, that, no terms shall provide for or permit funding that would result in income inclusion under Code Section 409A(b) including, but not limited to, terms that allow for the transfer or set aside of assets offshore in a Trust, or which provide for assets to become restricted to the provision of benefits in connection with a change in the financial health of Ferro and Affiliates, and any terms which so provide shall be deemed null and void. Consistent with the foregoing, Ferro may terminate or amend a Trust established under Section 6.1 at any time, and in any manner it deems necessary or desirable, subject to the terms of any agreement under which any Trust is established or maintained.

ARTICLE VII

ADMINISTRATION AND CLAIMS PROCEDURE

 

7.1 Administrator . The Administrator will be Ferro, acting by and through Ferro’s Corporate Human Resources Department, unless the Board of Directors, acting itself or through an appropriate committee designates otherwise.

 

7.2 General Rights, Powers, and Duties of Administrator . The Administrator will be the Plan administrator under ERISA. The Administrator will be responsible for the general administration of this Plan and will have all powers as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Plan and may, from time to time, establish rules for the administration of this Plan and the transaction of this Plan’s business. In addition to any powers, rights and duties set forth elsewhere in this Plan, it will have the following powers and duties:

 

  (A) To enact rules, regulations, and procedures and to prescribe the use of such forms as it deems advisable;

 

  (B) To appoint or employ agents, attorneys, actuaries, accountants, assistants or other persons (who may also be Participants in this Plan or be employed by or represent a Ferro Group Company) at the expense of the Ferro Group Companies, as it deems necessary to keep its records or to assist it in taking any other action authorized or required under this Plan;

 

  (C) To interpret this Plan, and to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan and resolve all questions arising under this Plan;

 

  (D) To administer this Plan in accordance with its terms and any rules and regulations it establishes;

 

  (E) To maintain records concerning this Plan as it deems sufficient to prepare reports, returns and other information required by this Plan or by law; and

 

  (F) To direct a Ferro Group Company to pay benefits under this Plan and to give other directions and instructions as may be necessary for the proper administration of this Plan.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

Any decision, interpretation or other action made or taken by the Administrator arising out of or in connection with this Plan, will be within the absolute discretion of the Administrator, and will be final, binding and conclusive on Ferro, all other Ferro Group Companies, and all Participants and Beneficiaries and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns. Except as may be required for compliance with Code Section 409A, the Administrator’s determinations under this Plan need not be uniform, and may be made selectively among Participants, whether or not they are similarly situated.

 

7.3 Information to Be Furnished to the Administrator . A Ferro Group Company will furnish the Administrator with such data and information as it may reasonably require. The records of a Ferro Group Company will be determinative of each Participant’s period of employment, termination of employment, personal data, and data regarding the Participant’s benefit under the Qualified Plan. Participants, Qualified Spouses (and properly designated beneficiaries) will furnish to the Administrator such evidence, data or information and execute such documents as the Administrator requests.

 

7.4 Claims for Benefits . A Participant or Beneficiary must make a claim for payment under this Plan in writing to the Administrator in the manner prescribed by the Administrator as soon as administratively practicable following the distribution event. The Administrator will process each claim and determine entitlement to benefits within 90 days after the Administrator receives a completed application for benefits (or within such shorter period as may be required to ensure that payment is made by the Time Required by Law). If the Administrator needs an extension of time for processing because calculation of the benefit amount is not administratively practicable, then the Administrator will notify the claimant before the end of the initial period. The extension notice will indicate the special circumstances requiring an extension of time and the date as of which the Administrator expects to render the final decision. In no event will such an extension exceed 90 days from the end of the initial period.

 

7.5 Denial of Benefit . If a claim is wholly or partially denied by the Administrator, then the Administrator will notify the claimant of the denial of the claim in a writing delivered in person or mailed by first class mail to the claimant’s last known address. The notice of denial will contain:

 

  (A) the specific reason or reasons for denial of the claim;

 

  (B) a reference to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the denial is based;

 

  (C) a description of any additional material or information necessary for the claimant to perfect the claim, together with an explanation of why the material or information is necessary; and

 

  (D) an explanation of this Plan’s claim review procedure.

If no notice is provided, the claim will be deemed denied. The interpretations, determinations and decisions of the Administrator will be final and binding upon all persons with respect to any right, benefit and privilege hereunder, subject to the review procedures set forth in this Article.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

7.6 Request for Review of a Denial of a Claim for Benefits . Any claimant or any authorized representative of the claimant whose claim for benefits under this Plan has been denied or deemed denied, in whole or in part, may upon written notice to the Appeals Committee request a review by the Appeals Committee of the denial of the claim. The claimant will have 60 days from the date the claim is deemed denied or 60 days from receipt of the notice denying the claim, as the case may be (or, in the case of a claim for benefits based upon Disability, 180 days from the date the claim is deemed denied or 180 days from receipt of the notice denying the claim, as the case may be), in which to request a review by written application delivered to the Appeals Committee, which must specify the relief requested and the reason such claimant believes the denial should be reversed.

 

7.7 Appeals Procedure . The Appeals Committee will review the facts and relevant documents including this Plan, and interpret the facts and relevant documents including this Plan to render a decision on the claim. The review may be of written briefs submitted by the claimant, or at a hearing, or by both, as deemed necessary or appropriate by the Appeals Committee. Any hearing will be held in the main office of Ferro, or such other location as the Appeals Committee may select, on the date and at the time as the Appeals Committee designates by giving at least 15-days’ notice to the claimant, unless the claimant accepts shorter notice. The notice will specify that the claimant must indicate in writing, at least five days in advance of the hearing, the claimant’s intention to appear at the appointed time and place, or the hearing will be automatically cancelled. The reply will specify any other persons who will accompany the claimant to the hearing, or such other persons will not be admitted to the hearing. The Appeals Committee will make every effort to schedule the hearing on a day and at a time that is convenient to both the claimant and the Appeals Committee. The claimant, or his duly authorized representative, may review all pertinent documents relating to the claim in preparation for the hearing and may submit issues and comments in writing before or during the hearing.

 

7.8 Decision Upon Review of Denial of Claim for Benefits . In making its decision, the Appeals Committee will have full power and discretion to interpret this Plan, to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, and to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan. The Appeals Committee will render a decision on the claim reviewed no more than 60 days after the receipt of the claimant’s request for review (or no more than 45 days where the claim is based on Disability), unless special circumstances (such as the need to hold a hearing) require an extension of time, in which case the 60-day period may be extended up to 120 days (or the 45-day period may be extended up to 90 days in the case of a claim based on Disability). The Appeals Committee will provide written notice of its decision to the claimant within the time frame specified. The notice will include the specific reasons for the decision and contain specific references to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the decision is based. If notice of the decision is not provided within the time frame specified, the claim will be deemed denied on review. The decision of the Appeals Committee will be final and binding in all respects on the Administrator, the Ferro Group Company and claimant involved.

 

7.9

Establishment of Appeals Committee . The Chief Executive Officer of Ferro will appoint three or more persons to serve as members of the Appeals Committee. The Chief Executive Officer may appoint one Appeals Committee to hear all appeals of denied benefits that arise under this Plan, or may appoint a new Appeals Committee each time an Appeals Committee is needed to hear an appeal of denied benefits that

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  arises under this Plan. The members of the Appeals Committee will remain in office at the will of the Chief Executive Officer, and the Chief Executive Officer may remove any of the members with or without cause. A member of the Appeals Committee may resign upon written notice to the remaining member or members of the Appeals Committee and to the Chief Executive Officer, respectively. The fact that a person is a Participant or a former Participant or a prospective Participant will not disqualify that person from acting as a member of the Appeals Committee. No member of the Appeals Committee will be disqualified from acting on any question because of the member’s interest in the question, except that no member of the Appeals Committee may act on any claim which the member has brought as a Participant, former Participant, Qualified Spouse or beneficiary under this Plan. In case of the death, resignation or removal of any member of the Appeals Committee, the remaining members will act until a successor-member is appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. At the Administrator’s request, the Chief Executive Officer will notify the Administrator in writing of the names of the members of the Appeals Committee, of any and all changes in the membership of the Appeals Committee, of the member designated as Chairman, and the member designated as Secretary, and of any changes in either office. Until notified of a change, the Administrator will be protected in assuming that there has been no change in the membership of the Appeals Committee or the designation of Chairman or of Secretary since the last notification was filed with it. The Administrator will be under no obligation at any time to inquire into the membership of the Appeals Committee or its officers. All communications to the Appeals Committee will be addressed to its Secretary at the address of the Company.

 

7.10 Operation of the Appeals Committee . On all matters and questions, the decision of a majority of the members of the Appeals Committee will govern and control. A meeting need not be called or held to make any decision. The Appeals Committee will appoint one of its members to act as its Chairman and another member to act as Secretary. The terms of office of these members will be determined by the Appeals Committee, and the Secretary and/or Chairman may be removed by the other members of the Appeals Committee for any reason which such other members may deem just and proper. The Secretary will do all things directed by the Appeals Committee. Although the Appeals Committee will act by decision of a majority of its members as provided above, in the absence of written notice to the contrary, every person may deal with the Secretary and consider the Secretary’s acts as having been authorized by the Appeals Committee. Any notice served or demand made on the Secretary will be deemed to have been served or made upon the Appeals Committee.

 

7.11 Limitation of Duties . Ferro, the other Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee and their respective officers, members, employees, and agents will have no duty or responsibility under this Plan other than the duties and responsibilities expressly assigned or delegated to them pursuant to this Plan. None of them will have any duty or responsibility with respect to those duties or responsibilities assigned or delegated to another.

 

7.12 Agents . The Administrator and the Appeals Committee may hire any attorneys, accountants, actuaries, agents, clerks, and secretaries as it may deem desirable in the performance of its duties, any of whom may also be advisors to any Ferro Group Company or any subsidiary or affiliated company.

 

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Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

7.13 Expenses of Administration . No fee or compensation will be paid to the Administrator or any member of the Appeals Committee for their performance of services as such. Ferro will bear all other expenses incurred in the administration of this Plan except to the extent Ferro determines that the expenses are allocable to, and should be paid by, one or more of the Ferro Group Companies.

 

7.14 Indemnification . In addition to whatever rights of indemnification any member or employee of the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, Ferro or other Ferro Group Company under this Plan may be entitled to under the articles of incorporation, regulations or bylaws of the Ferro Group Companies, under any provision of law or under any other agreement, the Ferro Group Companies will satisfy any liability actually incurred by any member or employee including reasonable expenses and attorneys’ fees, and any judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement, in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding which is related to the exercise or failure to exercise by any member or employee any powers, authority, responsibilities or discretion provided under this Plan or reasonably believed by a member or employee to be provided under this Plan, and any action taken by a member or employee in connection with such exercise or failure to exercise. This indemnification for all such acts taken or omitted is intentionally broad, but will not provide indemnification for embezzlement or diversion of Plan funds for the benefit of any member or employee. This indemnification will not be provided for any claim by a Ferro Group Company or a subsidiary or affiliated company thereof against any member or employee. No indemnification will be provided to any person who is not an individual.

 

7.15 Limitation of Administrative Liability . Neither Ferro, any other Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee nor any of their members or employees, will be liable for any act taken by such person or entity pursuant to any provision of this Plan except for gross abuse of the discretion given them under this Plan. No member of the Administrator or Appeals Committee will be liable for the act of any other member. No member of the Board of Directors will be liable to any person for any action taken or omitted in connection with the administration of this Plan.

 

7.16 Limitation of Sponsor Liability . Any right or authority exercisable by Ferro or Board of Directors pursuant to any provision of this Plan will be exercised in Ferro’s capacity as sponsor of this Plan, or on behalf of Ferro in such capacity, and not in a fiduciary capacity, and may be exercised without the approval or consent of any person in a fiduciary capacity. Neither Ferro, nor the Board of Directors, nor any of their respective officers, members, employees, agents, and delegates, will have any liability to any party for its exercise of any such right or authority.

ARTICLE VIII

AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

 

8.1

Amendment, Modification and Termination . Subject to Section 8.3 below, this Plan may be amended, modified or terminated by Ferro at any time, or from time to time, by action of an appropriate Ferro officer authorized or ratified by the Board of Directors, except that no benefit accrued under this Plan as of any date shall be reduced by any change made on or after such date in either the Qualified Plan or this Plan except to the extent such reduction results from (a) an equivalent increase in the

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  benefits payable from the Qualified Plan as a result of an increase in the limits contained therein to effect compliance with Sections 401(a)(17) or 415 of the Code, (b) an equivalent increase in the benefits payable from the Qualified Plan as a result of the application of a change in the nondiscrimination and permitted disparity regulations under sections 401(a)(4) or 401(1) of the Code or an amendment of the Qualified Plan after December 9, 1994 pertaining thereto, or (c) a decrease in the benefits payable from the Qualified Plan as a result of the termination of the Qualified Plan under Title IV of ERISA, to the extent such decrease is required to comply with the terms of Title IV of ERISA or other applicable law or results from a reallocation of assets provided for in Section 4044(b)(4) of ERISA to prevent the disqualification of the Qualified Plan. Subject to the foregoing limitations, both this Plan and the Qualified Plan may be amended, restated, terminated or replaced by action of the Board of Directors of the Company; provided that no amendment, modification or termination of this Plan will be effective prior to the date permitted under Code Section 409A, which, in certain circumstances, is 12 months following the adoption of such amendment, modification or termination. It is further understood that any benefits payable hereunder are in addition to and not in diminution of any amounts payable by the Company under any other plan or contract applicable to a Participant.

 

8.2 Actions Binding on Ferro Group Companies . Any amendments made to this Plan will be binding on all the Ferro Group Companies without the approval or consent of the Ferro Group Companies other than Ferro. Ferro may, by amendment, also terminate this Plan on behalf of all or any one of the other Ferro Group Companies in its sole discretion.

 

8.3 Termination or Amendment After Change in Control . If a Change of Control occurs, then, for a period of two (2) calendar years following such Change in Control, Ferro may not amend or terminate this Plan without the prior written consent of all Participants.

 

8.4 Distribution of Benefits on Plan Termination . In the event Ferro elects to amend, modify or terminate the Plan as provided under Section 8.1, no right to the payment of benefits shall arise as a result. The prior provisions notwithstanding, Ferro may, in its discretion, provide by amendment to the Plan a right to the payment of all Participants’ 409A Accruals as a result of the liquidation and termination of the Plan where:

 

  (A) the termination and liquidation does not occur proximate to a downturn in the financial health of Ferro and Affiliates;

 

  (B) the Plan and all arrangements required to be aggregated with the Plan under Code Section 409A are terminated and liquidated;

 

  (C) no payments, other than those that would be payable under the terms of the Plan and the aggregated arrangements if the termination and liquidation had not occurred, are made within twelve (12) months of the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan;

 

  (D) all payments are made within twenty-four (24) months of the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan; and

 

  (E) Ferro and Affiliates do not adopt a new arrangement that would be aggregated with any terminated arrangement under Code Section 409A, at any time within three (3) years following the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

Similarly, Ferro may, in its discretion, provide by amendment to liquidate and terminate the Plan where the termination and liquidation occurs within twelve (12) months of a corporate dissolution taxed under Code Section 331, or with the approval of a bankruptcy court pursuant to 11 United States Code § 503(b)(1)(A), provided that all amounts deferred under the Plan are included in the Participants’ gross incomes in the latest of the following years (or, if earlier, the taxable year in which the amount is actually or constructively received):

 

  (A) the calendar year in which the termination occurs;

 

  (B) the calendar year in which the amount is no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture; or

 

  (C) the first calendar year in which the payment is administratively practicable.

ARTICLE IX

FERRO GROUP COMPANIES

 

9.1 List of Ferro Group Companies . The Ferro Group Companies as of the Amendment and Restatement Date are Ferro and the Affiliates of Ferro listed on Appendix B to this Plan. Ferro may from time to time add or remove Ferro Affiliates from the list of Ferro Group Companies by written action of its Chief Executive Officer. The addition or deletion will not require a formal amendment to this Plan.

 

9.2 Delegation of Authority . Ferro is fully empowered to act on behalf of itself and the other Ferro Group Companies as it may deem appropriate in maintaining this Plan and any Trust. The adoption by Ferro of any amendment to this Plan or any Trust, or the termination of this Plan or any Trust, will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the approval, adoption, ratification or confirmation by each Ferro Group Company of any amendment or termination. In addition, the appointment of or removal by Ferro of any Administrator, any trustee or other person under this Plan or any Trust will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the appointment or removal by each Ferro Group Company of such person.

ARTICLE X

MISCELLANEOUS

 

10.1 No Implied Rights . Neither the establishment of this Plan nor any amendment of this Plan will be construed as giving any Participant, Beneficiary or any other person any legal or equitable right unless the right is specifically provided for in this Plan or conferred by specific action of Ferro in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Plan. Except as expressly provided in this Plan, neither Ferro nor any other Ferro Group Company will be required or be liable to make any payment under this Plan.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

10.2 No Right to Ferro Group Company Assets . Neither the Participant nor any other person will acquire by reason of this Plan any right in or title to any assets, funds or property of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company whatsoever including, without limitation, any specific funds, assets or other property which Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company, in its sole discretion, may set aside in anticipation of a liability hereunder. Any benefits which become payable under this Plan will be paid from the general assets of the appropriate Ferro Group Company. No assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be held in any way as collateral security for the fulfilling of the obligations of Ferro or the Ferro Group Companies under this Plan. No assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be pledged or otherwise restricted in order to meet the obligations of this Plan. The Participant will have only a contractual right to the amounts, if any, payable hereunder unsecured by any asset of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company. Nothing contained in this Plan constitutes a guarantee by Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company that the assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be sufficient to pay any benefit to any person.

 

10.3 No Employment Rights Created . This Plan will not be deemed to constitute a contract of employment between Ferro or any of the other Ferro Group Companies and any Participant, or to confer upon any Participant or employee the right to be retained in the service of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for any period of time, nor shall any provision of this Plan restrict the right of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company to discharge or otherwise deal with any Participant or other employees, with or without cause. Nothing in this Plan will be construed as fixing or regulating the compensation or other benefits payable to any Participant or other employee of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company.

 

10.4 Offset . If at the time payment is to be made under this Plan the Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) or all such individuals are indebted or obligated to a Ferro Group Company, then the payment of any 409A Accruals to be made to the Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) or all individuals may, at the discretion of the Administrator at the request of the Ferro Group Company, be reduced by the amount of the indebtedness or obligation, but only if:

 

  (A) such debt is incurred in the ordinary course of the service relationship between the Participant and the Ferro Group Company,

 

  (B) in any taxable year of Ferro and Affiliates the entire amount of reduction does not exceed $5,000, and

 

  (C) the reduction is made at the same time and in the same amount as the debt otherwise would have been due and collected from the Participant.

An election by the Ferro Group Company not to request any reduction will not constitute a waiver of the Ferro Group Company’s claim for such indebtedness or obligation.

 

10.5 No Assignment . Neither the Participant nor any other person will have any voluntary or involuntary right to commute, sell, assign, pledge, anticipate, mortgage or otherwise encumber, transfer, hypothecate or convey, in advance of actual receipt of the amount, if any, payable under this Plan, or any part of the amount payable from this Plan, and any attempt to do so will be void. All benefits under this Plan are expressly declared to be unassignable and non-transferable. No part of the benefits under this Plan will be, before actual payment, subject to seizure or sequestration for the payment of any debts, judgments, alimony or separate maintenance owed by the Participant or any other person, or be transferable by operation of law in the event of the Participant’s or any other person’s bankruptcy or insolvency.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

10.6 Notice . Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Plan will be sufficient if in writing and hand delivered, or sent by registered or certified mail or by overnight delivery service, and:

 

  (A) if given to a Ferro Group Company, delivered to the principal office of Ferro, directed to the attention of the General Counsel; or

 

  (B) if given to a Participant or Beneficiary, delivered to the last post office address as shown on the Ferro Group Company’s or the Administrator’s records.

Notice will be deemed given as of the date of delivery or, if delivery is made by mail, as of the date shown on the postmark or the receipt for registration or certification.

 

10.7 Governing Laws . This Plan will be construed and administered according to the internal substantive laws of the State of Ohio to the extent not preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

 

10.8 Incapacity . If the Administrator determines that any Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) entitled to payment under this Plan is a minor, a person declared incompetent or a person incapable of handling his or her property, the Administrator may direct any payment to the guardian, legal representative or person having the care and custody of the minor, incompetent or incapable person. The Administrator may require proof of minority, incompetence, incapacity or guardianship, as it may deem appropriate before making any payment. The Administrator will have no obligation thereafter to monitor or follow the application of amounts so paid. Payments made pursuant to this Section will completely discharge this Plan, any Trust, the Administrator, Ferro and all other Ferro Group Companies with respect to the payments.

 

10.9 Court Ordered Distributions . If a court issues a domestic relations order as defined in Code Section 414(p)(1)(B) by which a spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent of a Participant is provided an interest in the Participant’s benefits under this Plan in connection with a property settlement or otherwise, the Administrator shall, notwithstanding any election made by the Participant or the Participant’s eligibility for distribution, distribute the spouse’s or former spouse’s or dependent’s or former dependent’s interest in the Participant’s benefit under this Plan to that spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent, as provided under such domestic relations order.

 

10.10 Administrative Forms . All applications, elections and designations in connection with this Plan made by a Participant or Qualified Spouse (or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) will become effective only when duly executed on forms provided by the Administrator and filed with the Administrator.

 

10.11 Independence of Plan . Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Plan will be independent of, and in addition to, any other employee benefit agreement or plan or any rights that may exist from time to time under any other agreement or plan.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

10.12 Responsibility for Legal Effect . Neither Ferro, any other Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, nor any officer, member, delegate or agent of any of them, makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, or assumes any responsibility concerning the legal, tax, or other implications or effects of this Plan.

 

10.13 Successors . The terms and conditions of this Plan will inure to the benefit of and bind Ferro, the Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator and its members, the Participants, their beneficiaries, and the successors, assigns, and personal representatives of any of them.

 

10.14 Headings and Titles . The Section headings and titles of Articles used in this Plan are for convenience of reference only and are not to be considered in construing this Plan.

 

10.15 Appendices . The Appendices to this Plan constitute an integral part of this Plan and are hereby incorporated into this Plan by this reference.

 

10.16 Severability . If any provision or term of this Plan, or any agreement or instrument required by the Administrator, is determined by a judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative body to be void or not enforceable for any reason, all other provisions or terms of this Plan or the agreement or instrument will remain in full force and effect and will be enforceable as if the void or nonenforceable provision or term had never been a part of this Plan, or the agreement or instrument.

 

10.17 Actions by Ferro . Except as otherwise provided in this Plan, all actions of Ferro under this Plan will be taken by the Board of Directors, and be evidenced in a writing executed by an appropriate officer duly authorized.

 

10.18 Spousal Consent and Release . If, in the opinion of Ferro, any present, former or future spouse of an employee, entitled to benefits from this Plan shall by reason of law appear to have any interest in the Plan benefits that may be or become payable hereunder to such employee, Ferro may as a condition precedent to the making of a benefit payment hereunder, require such written consent or release as in its discretion it shall determine to be necessary, desirable or appropriate either to prevent or avoid any conflict or multiplicity of claims, or to protect the rights of any such present, former or future spouse with respect to the payment of any benefits under this Plan.

 

10.19

Overpayments and Repayments . Benefits are provided only as set forth under the terms of this Plan. Payments at a time or in an amount other than as set forth under the terms of the Plan are not authorized, and Ferro will take all reasonable steps to ensure that the amount and timing of benefit payments are in accordance with the Plan’s terms. In the event Ferro determines that the benefits actually paid under this Plan to a Participant, beneficiary or other person exceed the benefits that were properly payable, or were paid prior to the proper time for payment, Ferro shall immediately demand repayment of such excess amounts. The Participant, Beneficiary or other person is obligated to return such excess amounts upon demand from Ferro. In the event the Participant, beneficiary or other person fails to return the excess amounts, Ferro shall exercise any available legal remedies which are consistent with the terms and purpose of the Plan. In the event excess amounts have been paid as monthly disability payments, to the extent permitted under Code Section 409A, Ferro shall reduce the amount of some or all of the remaining scheduled payments to offset the excess amounts paid. If a Participant fails to continually

 

B-20


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  comply with the terms and conditions of the Noncompetition Agreement, then such Participant (or, if applicable, such Participant’s Qualified Spouse or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) shall, upon written demand by Ferro, immediately repay to Ferro all payments theretofore received by the Participant (or, if applicable, such Participant’s Qualified Spouse or properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries) under this Plan.

 

10.20 References to Sections of Law and Certain Defined Terms .

 

  (A) References in this Plan to the Code are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provision of subsequent federal law.

 

  (B) References in this Plan to ERISA are to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provisions of subsequent law.

 

  (C) References in this Plan to Qualified Spouse refer to the Qualified Plan’s defined term of “Qualified Spouse.”

 

  (D) References in this Plan to Regular Compensation Formula refer to the normal retirement benefit formula set forth in Section 5.5(a) of the Qualified Plan prior to its elimination by amendment to the Qualified Plan executed December 19, 1990 and effective December 31, 1989; however, for purposes of this Plan

 

  (1) the term “regular compensation” under the Regular Compensation Formula shall include

 

  (a) Performance Share Plan awards which are awarded before January 1, 2004,

 

  (b) amounts payable under other agreements or arrangements by reason of the proration or forfeiture of pre-January 1, 2004 Performance Share Plan awards, and

 

  (c) awards or compensation under any other Company incentive, reward or performance program or plan (which incentive, reward or performance program or plan was in existence prior to January 1, 2001) that was includable in “regular compensation” under the terms of the Plan document in effect prior to January 1, 2001;

 

  (2) amounts of deferred compensation and Performance Share Plan awards shall be included in the year in which such amounts are earned and not in the year to which such Performance Share Plan awards are deferred or in which such Performance Share Plan awards are paid;

 

  (3) amounts payable under clause (b) of item (1) above shall be included in the year paid;

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (4) except as otherwise provided above, unless the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (or its predecessor or successor, as applicable) determines otherwise, the term “regular compensation” under the Regular Compensation Formula shall not include awards or compensation under any Company incentive, reward or performance program or plan; and

 

  (5) consistent with the foregoing provisions of this Section 10.20(D) and the terms of the Frozen Qualified Plan, no Participant shall be credited with regular compensation under the Regular Compensation Formula on or after April 1, 2006. In determining a Participant’s regular compensation for the Plan Year ending December 31, 2006, a Participant shall be credited with regular compensation equal to the amount of regular compensation that would have been credited to the Participant pursuant to the foregoing provisions of this Section 10.20(D) for such Plan Year if the Participant had continued to be credited with regular compensation for the remainder of such Plan Year at the rate of regular compensation in effect for such Participant for the period beginning January 1, 2006 and ending on the earlier of March 31, 2006 or the date of the Participant’s termination of employment (the “2006 Compensation Determination Period”). Without limiting the foregoing, in determining the rate of regular compensation in effect for a Participant for the 2006 Compensation Determination Period, regular compensation shall include awards or compensation under any Company incentive, reward, or performance program or plan that was in existence prior to January 1, 2001 and was includable in “regular compensation” under the terms of the Plan document in effect prior to January 1, 2001 (but excluding Performance Share Plan awards which were awarded on or after January 1, 2004) that was earned during the 2006 Compensation Determination Period.

 

  (E) References in this Plan to “properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries” means the beneficiary or beneficiaries named in a written beneficiary designation by an employee participant (delivered to the Company prior to such employee’s death in a form acceptable to the Company) with the written consent of the Qualified Spouse thereto; provided, however, that if a deceased employee is not survived by a Qualified Spouse and has not delivered such a written beneficiary designation to the Company prior to death, then the phrase “properly designated beneficiary or beneficiaries” means the beneficiary or beneficiaries of such deceased employee’s Qualified Plan benefit or, if none, such deceased employee’s estate.

 

B-22


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

D EFINITIONS

For purposes of this Plan, the following terms have the meanings set forth below where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters:

 

Term    Meaning
2005 Plan    The provisions of the Plan set forth in Part B, which govern 409A Accruals.
409A Accruals    All accruals under the Plan which are not Pre-2005 Accruals (generally, amounts which are earned and vested under the Plan after December 31, 2004).
Administrator    As defined in Section 7.1 of this Plan.
Affiliate    Any corporation or business entity during any period during which it would be treated, together with the Company, as a single employer for purposes of Code Section 414(b) or (c).
Amendment and Restatement Date    January 1, 2005
Beneficial Owner    “Beneficial owner” within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act.
Board of Directors    Ferro’s Board of Directors.
Change in Control    A change in the control of Ferro that is required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act. For purposes of this definition, to the extent consistent with the foregoing, a Change in Control will be deemed to have occurred if and when:
  

(a)     any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d)(3) and 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of Ferro representing twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the combined voting power of Ferro’s outstanding voting securities; or

  

(b)     during any period of two consecutive years, the individuals set forth below in sub-paragraph (1) and (2) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors:

 

B-23


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

 

Term    Meaning
  

(1)     the individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors, and

  

(2)     any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement or arrangement with Ferro to effect a transaction described in clause (a) or (c) of this definition) whose appointment, election, or nomination for election by Ferro’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose appointment, election or nomination for election was previously so approved; or

  

(c)     a merger or consolidation of Ferro or one of its subsidiaries is consummated with or into any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the holders of the voting securities of Ferro outstanding immediately prior thereto holding securities which represent immediately after such merger or consolidation more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of either Ferro or the other entity which survives such merger or consolidation or the parent of the entity which survives such merger or consolidation; or

  

(d)     a sale or disposition by Ferro of all or substantially all Ferro’s assets is consummated.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of triggering the lump-sum cash payment under Section 4.8, only the occurrence of an above-listed event which also constitutes a “change in the ownership or effective control of the corporation, or in the ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the corporation” under Code Section 409A shall constitute a Change in Control.

Code    The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any lawful regulations or other pronouncements promulgated under that Code.
ERISA    The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.

 

B-24


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

 

Term    Meaning
Exchange Act    The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.
Ferro    As defined in Section 1.2 of this Plan. Such term also includes any successor corporation or business organization that subsequently assumes Ferro’s duties and obligations under this Plan.
Ferro Group Companies    As defined in Section 9.1 of this Plan.
Noncompetition Agreement    A noncompetition, nonsolicitation, nondisparagement and confidentiality agreement in a form specified by Ferro.
Person   

A “person” as defined under Section 3(a)(9) of the Exchange Act as modified and used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, excluding:

 

(a)     Ferro or any of its subsidiaries;

 

(b)     a trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company (or of any of its affiliates as defined under Rule 12b-2 under Section 12 of the Exchange Act);

 

(c)     an underwriter temporarily holding securities pursuant to an offering of such securities; or

 

(d)     a corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the shareholders of Ferro in substantially the same proportion as their ownership of the stock of Ferro.

this Plan    The Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Benefit Plan for Executive Employees, or a component plan, as appropriate
Plan Year    The calendar year.
Pre-2005 Accruals    Accruals that were earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004, as defined in the Overview to the Pre-2005 Plan.
Pre-2005 Plan    The provisions of the Plan set forth in Part A, which govern Pre-2005 Accruals.

 

B-25


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

 

Term    Meaning
Present Value Factors   

As used in this Plan, the term Present Value Factors means the following:

 

(a)     For so long as the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (“PBGC”) publishes interest rates, present value shall be calculated using the interest rate, in effect on the last day of the calendar quarter preceding the date of the Participant’s termination of employment date with all Ferro Group Companies, that would be used by the PBGC in determining the present value of a lump sum distribution in a termination of a tax-qualified defined benefit pension plan and the UP 1984 Mortality Table; and

  

(b)     When the PBGC ceases to publish interest rates, present value shall be calculated using an interest rate that is one percent (1%) less than the interest rate on 10-year Treasury securities (rounded to the nearest quarter percent) published by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and in effect on the last day of the calendar quarter preceding the date of the Participant’s termination of employment date with all Ferro Group Companies and the applicable mortality table under Code Section 417(e)(3) prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury based on the prevailing insurance commissioners’ standard table used to determine reserves for group annuity contracts issued on the date as of which present value is being determined. Currently, the prevailing insurance commissioners’ standard table is the 1983 Group Annuity Mortality Table.

Primary Death Benefit    The “primary death benefit” provided under the Qualified Plan.
Qualified Plan    The Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan, Plan Number 001, as heretofore amended and as hereafter may be amended or amended and restated, together with any successor plan to which the liabilities thereunder may be transferred.
Qualified Spouse    As defined in the Qualified Plan.
Termination of Employment    Effective prior to January 1, 2008:

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

Term    Meaning
   A Participant’s cessation of service with Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies, including subsidiaries and affiliates of the foregoing, for any reason whatsoever, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, including by reason of retirement, death, or becoming Totally and Permanently Disabled.
   Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of triggering payment under Section 4.2, or 4.5, only such cessation of service which constitutes a “separation from service” under Code Section 409A shall constitute a Termination of Employment.
   Effective January 1, 2008: With respect to any Participant:
  

(a)     the separation from service within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, of such Participant with the Company and all of its Affiliates, for any reason, including without limitation, quit, discharge, or retirement, or a leave of absence (including military leave, sick leave, or other bona fide leave of absence such as temporary employment by the government if the period of such leave exceeds the greater of six months, or the period for which the Participant’s right to reemployment is provided either by statute or by contract), or

  

(b)     a permanent decrease in the level of the Participant‘s service to a level that is no more than twenty percent (20%) of its prior level. For this purpose, whether a Termination of Employment has occurred is determined based on whether it is reasonably anticipated that no further services will be performed by the Participant after a certain date or that the level of bona fide services the Participant will perform after such date (whether as an employee or as an independent contractor) would permanently decrease to no more than twenty percent (20%) of the average level of bona fide services performed (whether as an employee or an independent contractor) over the immediately preceding 36-month period (or the full period of services if the Participant has been providing services less than 36 months).

 

B-27


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

 

Term    Meaning
Time Required by Law    The date designated for payment under the terms of the Plan or a later date in the same calendar year or, if later, the fifteenth (15th) day of the third calendar month following the date designated for payment. (However, if the Participant’s taxable year is not the calendar year, the date designated for payment under the terms of the Plan or a later date in the Participant’s taxable year or, if later, the fifteenth (15th) day of the third calendar month following the date designated for payment.)
   If calculation of the amount of the benefit is not administratively practicable due to events beyond the control of the Participant (or the Participant’s Beneficiary), any date within the first taxable year of the Participant in which calculation of the payment is administratively practicable.
   If making the payment on the date designated under the terms of the Plan would jeopardize the ability of Ferro and Affiliates to continue as a going concern, the first taxable year of the Participant in which making the payment would not have such effect.
   If there is a delay in payment by the Administrator other than with the express or implied consent of the Participant, the first taxable year of the Participant in which the dispute is resolved. The dispute shall be deemed resolved on the earliest date upon which: (a) the Participant and the Administrator or Ferro enter into a legally binding settlement, (b) the Administrator or Ferro concedes that an amount is payable, or (c) the Administrator or Ferro is required to make payment pursuant to a final non-appealable judgment or other binding decision. The foregoing provisions shall apply only if, during the period of the dispute, the Participant accepts any portion of the payment the Administrator or Ferro willing to make (unless acceptance will result in relinquishment of the claim to any remaining portion), and makes prompt and reasonable good faith efforts to collect the remaining portion of the payment which meet the requirements of Code Section 409A (including the timely notice requirements).
   In the event the payment fails to fails to comply with Federal securities laws or other laws, the earliest date at which Ferro reasonably anticipates that the making of the payment will not cause such violation.

 

B-28


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix A

 

 

Term    Meaning
   In the event the payment fails to be deductible under Code Section 162(m), or meets other conditions specified by the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, such later date as may be provided under Code Section 409A.
Totally and Permanently Disabled    Any disability for which the Participant is determined to be totally disabled by the Social Security Administration and that qualifies a Participant for payment of benefits under the Qualified Plan.
Trust    The trust, if any, established pursuant to Section 6.1 of this Plan.

 

B-29


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appendix B

 

F ERRO G ROUP C OMPANIES

The following are the Ferro Group Companies:

Ferro Corporation

FEM Inc.

Ferro Color & Glass Corp. (formerly, Ferro Glass & Color Corporation)

Ferro International Services, Inc.

Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc.

 

B-30


E XECUTION P AGE

To evidence this amended and restated F ERRO C ORPORATION S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED B ENEFIT P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES , Ferro Corporation, as Plan sponsor, has caused this document to be executed by its duly authorized officer as of this 20 th day of September, 2007.

 

    F ERRO C ORPORATION

By:

   
 

James C. Bays

Vice President, General Counsel

& Secretary

 

C-1

EXHIBIT 10.33

 

 

 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Amended and Restated

As of January 1, 2005


F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

I NTRODUCTION

This document (this “Plan”) is the F ERRO C ORPORATION S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES . This Plan was originally adopted and effective as of January 1, 1996, and was most recently amended and restated effective June 30, 2004.

This Plan is now amended and restated generally effective January 1, 2005, for the purpose of complying with new Code Section 409A. Code Section 409A permits deferred compensation which is earned and vested in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2005 to be exempt from Code Section 409A if the plan under which the deferral is made is not materially modified after October 3, 2004.

Ferro elects and intends to exempt from Code Section 409A the deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004. Consistent with this election, the Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2005, is comprised of two parts:

 

   

Part A , which contains the terms of the Plan as in effect on October 4, 2004 (and as subsequently amended) which govern deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004 (the “ Pre-2005 Plan ”), and

 

   

Part B , which contains the terms of the Plan which govern deferred compensation which was earned and vested after December 31, 2004 (the “ 2005 Plan ”).


T ABLE OF C ONTENTS

 

         Page  

Part A:

  Pre-2005 Plan      A-1   

Part B:

  2005 Plan      B-1   

Execution Page

     C-1   


F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

P ART A: P RE -2005 P LAN

O VERVIEW

E STABLISHMENT OF C OMPONENT P LAN

The terms of the Plan as it existed on October 4, 2004, and as modified in this amendment and restatement by the addition of Appendices C and D constitute the Pre-2005 component plan (the “Pre-2005 Plan”).

The Pre-2005 Plan is reproduced in this Part A. It consists of the Plan as it was amended and restated effective June 30, 2004, and as it has been further amended by the addition of Appendices C and D. Appendix C changed the investment measure for crediting deemed interest under the Plan. This change is consistent with Treasury Regulations under Code Section 409A, which provide that it is not a material modification to change an investment measure to one which qualifies as predetermined actual investment or a reasonable rate of interest. Appendix D modified the definition of compensation for calculating non-elective Supplemental Matching Contributions under the Plan (i.e., clarified that contributions are based on compensation which includes only the cash portion of awards under the Performance Share Plan and not the entire award). This change is consistent with Treasury Regulations, which provide that it is not a material modification to reduce an existing benefit or right. Further, the change was a clarification for purposes of bringing the terms of the Plan consistent with past administration, and no other rights or benefits were provided to the Participants in exchange.

As described above, the Pre-2005 Plan has not been materially modified after October 4, 2004.

E XEMPT FROM C ODE S ECTION 409A

Deferred compensation which is earned and vested in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2005 is permitted to be exempt from Code Section 409A if the plan under which the deferral is made is not materially modified after October 3, 2004.

Ferro elects and intends to exempt from Code Section 409A the deferred compensation which was earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004, pursuant to the terms of the Pre-2005 Plan.

G OVERNS O NLY P RE -2005 B ENEFITS

The Pre-2005 Plan governs only those benefits that were earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004 (the “Pre-2005 Benefits”).

A Participant’s Pre-2005 Benefit equals the portion of his account balance which was earned and vested as of December 31, 2004 (including any future contributions to the account, the right to which was earned and vested as of December 31, 2004), plus any income attributable to such amounts or to such income.

 

A-1


T ERMINOLOGY

As used in the Pre-2005 Plan, the term “Plan” refers to the Pre-2005 Plan or to the Plan, as appropriate.

 

A-2


 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Part A: Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated

June 30, 2004

(and as further modified)

 

A-3


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

I NTRODUCTION

This document (this “Plan”) is the F ERRO C ORPORATION S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES . This Plan was originally adopted and effective as of January 1, 1996.

This Plan is now amended and restated effective June 30, 2004, as follows:

ARTICLE I

NAME AND PURPOSE

 

1.1 Name . The name of this Plan is the “Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan for Executives.”

 

1.2 Plan Sponsor . The sponsor of this Plan is Ferro Corporation (“Ferro”), an Ohio corporation.

 

1.3 Purpose . The purpose of this Plan is to replace, under the conditions set forth in this Plan, certain benefits that select management and highly compensated employees of the Ferro Group Companies cannot receive under Ferro Corporation Savings and Stock Ownership Plan due to limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code or by plan design.

 

1.4 Plan for a Select Group . This Plan covers only employees of a Ferro Group Company who are members of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” as provided in Sections 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) and 4021(b)(6) of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered and its benefits limited in a manner to comply with the above cited sections of ERISA.

 

1.5 Not a Funded Plan . Ferro intends that this Plan be deemed to be “unfunded” for tax purposes as well as for purposes of Title I of ERISA. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, this Plan will be administered in a manner so that it is deemed “unfunded.”

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION

 

2.1 Definitions . Appendix A sets forth the definitions of certain terms used in this Plan. Those terms shall have the meanings set forth on Appendix A where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters.

 

2.2 General Rules of Construction . For purposes of interpreting this Plan,

 

A-4


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (A) the masculine gender will include the feminine and neuter, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (B) the singular number will include the plural, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (C) the present tense of a verb will include the past and future tenses, and vice versa, as the context requires; and

 

  (D) as provided under Article VIII, the Administrator retains the power and duty to interpret this Plan and resolve ambiguities.

ARTICLE III

PARTICIPATION

 

3.1 Eligibility . In order to be eligible to participate in this Plan, an individual must be a Highly Compensated Employee.

 

3.2 Participation . A Highly Compensated Employee will become a Participant in this Plan on the January 1 immediately following the date he or she becomes a Highly Compensated Employee.

ARTICLE IV

SUPPLEMENTAL MATCHING CONTRIBUTIONS,

SUPPLEMENTAL BASIC PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS,

AND ACCOUNTS

 

4.1 Eligibility for Supplemental Matching Contributions . Each Plan Year a Supplemental Matching Contribution will be credited to the Account of each Participant who is eligible. A Participant will be eligible if the Participant:

 

  (A) made the maximum 401(k) Contributions permitted under the Ferro SSOP during the Plan Year, and

 

  (B) either:

 

  (1) was employed by a Ferro Group Company on the last day of the Plan Year,

 

  (2) died during the Plan Year,

 

  (3) retired and began receiving pension benefits under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan during the Plan Year (or, if not a participant in the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan, terminated employment after attaining age 55 and 5 Years of Vesting Service during the Plan Year), or

 

  (4) incurred a Disability during the Plan Year.

 

A-5


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

4.2 Amount of Supplemental Matching Contributions . An eligible Participant will receive a Supplemental Matching Contribution on the last day of the Plan Year equal to A minus B, where:

 

  (A) “A” equals the amount of matching contribution that would have been contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year if the Participant elected to make 401(k) Contributions equal to eight percent (8%) of Compensation and the Code provisions allowed and did not impose a limit on such 401(k) Contributions or matching contributions; and

 

  (B) “B” equals the amount of matching contributions actually contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year.

 

4.3 Eligibility for Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions . Each Plan Year a Supplemental Basic Pension Contribution will be credited to the Account of each Participant who is eligible. A Participant will be eligible if the Participant received a Basic Pension Contribution under the Ferro SSOP during the Plan Year.

 

4.4 Amount of Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions . An eligible Participant will receive a Supplemental Basic Pension Contribution on the last day of the Plan Year equal to A minus B, where:

 

  (A) “A” equals the amount of Basic Pension Contribution that would have been contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year on the basis of the Participant’s Compensation not limited by Code provisions; and

 

  (B) “B” equals the amount of Basic Pension Contributions actually contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year.

 

4.5 Establishment of Account . Each Ferro Group Company will establish an Account in the name of each Participant who is employed by it on the books and records of the Ferro Group Company. All amounts credited to the Account of any Participant or former Participant will constitute a general, unsecured liability of such Ferro Group Company to the Participant. The Ferro Group Company will maintain a separate Account for contributions credited to the Participant prior to 2001 as may be necessary for the deemed investment of the Participant’s Account as provided under Section 6.4 below.

 

4.6 Crediting of Earnings . The Ferro Group Company will credit the Account of each Participant who is or was its employee with earnings, gains and losses in accordance with the deemed investment of the Supplemental Matching Contributions and Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions as provided under Section 6.4 below.

 

A-6


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

4.7 Vesting of Account . A Participant will become vested in his or her Account in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Years of Vesting Service

   Percentage
Vested
 

Less than 1 year

     0

1 year, but less than 2

     20

2 years, but less than 3

     40

3 years, but less than 4

     60

4 years, but less than 5

     80

5 years or more

     100

The prior provisions notwithstanding, a Participant who has not incurred a Termination of Employment will be 100% vested in the Account upon the first to occur of: (a) the Participant’s attainment of age 65, (b) the Participant’s incurring a Disability, (c) the Participant’s death, or (d) a Change in Control.

ARTICLE V

BENEFITS; PAYMENT OF BENEFITS

 

5.1 Date of Distribution . Distribution of the vested portion of the Participant’s Account will be made as soon as practicable after the earlier of the Participant’s Termination of Employment, Disability or death.

 

5.2 Form of Distribution . Distribution will be in the form of a single lump sum payment. The portion of the Participant’s Account deemed to be invested in the Ferro Common Stock Account under Section 6.4 will be distributed in the form of Ferro Common Stock unless the Participant elects to receive payment of that portion in cash. The portion of the Participant’s Account deemed to be invested in the cash account under Section 6.4 will be distributed in the form of cash.

 

5.3 Valuation of Distributions . All distributions under this Plan will be based upon the amount credited to the Participant’s Account as of the last day of the month in which occurs the Participant’s Termination of Employment, death, or commencement of long-term disability benefits on account of a determination of Disability under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan. Such date shall be the Valuation Date for this purpose.

 

5.4 Death . In the event of death, the Participant’s remaining vested interest in the Account will be distributed to the Participant’s Beneficiary.

 

5.5 Administration of Distributions . Distributions under this Plan will be made as soon as administratively possible following receipt of notice by the Administrator of an event that entitles a Participant or a Beneficiary to payments under this Plan and completion by the Participant or Beneficiary of any forms required by the Administrator.

 

5.6 Designation of Beneficiary . Subject to the rules and procedures promulgated by the Administrator, a Participant may sign a document designating a Beneficiary or Beneficiaries. If a Participant fails to designate any Beneficiary in accordance with the provisions of this Section, then the Beneficiary will be deemed to be the Participant’s beneficiary under the Ferro SSOP.

 

A-7


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

5.7 Protective Distributions . If the Administrator determines, in its sole discretion, that a Participant is not, or may not be, a member of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” within the meaning of Section 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) or 4021(b)(6) of ERISA, then the Administrator may, in its sole discretion, terminate the Participant’s participation in this Plan, and distribute all amounts credited to the Participant’s Account in a single lump sum payment. Any distribution under this Section will be made at the time the Administrator determines in its sole discretion.

 

5.8 Tax Withholding . A Ferro Group Company may withhold, from any payment made by it under this Plan, the amount or amounts as may be required for purposes of complying with the tax withholding or other provisions of the Code or the Social Security Act or any state or local income or employment tax act or for purposes of paying any estate, inheritance or other tax attributable to any amounts payable hereunder.

 

5.9 Inability to Locate Participant . If a Ferro Group Company or the Administrator notifies a Participant or Beneficiary of an entitlement to an amount under this Plan and the Participant or Beneficiary fails to claim the amount or to disclose the location of the Participant or Beneficiary within three years thereafter, then, except as otherwise required by law, if the location of one or more of the next of kin of the Participant or Beneficiary is known to the Ferro Group Company or the Administrator, the Administrator may direct distribution of the amount to any one or more or all of the next of kin, and in such proportions as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, determines. If the location of none of the foregoing persons can be determined, the Administrator will direct that the amount payable to the Participant or Beneficiary be forfeited. If, after the forfeiture, the Participant or Beneficiary later claims the benefit under this Plan, then the benefit will be reinstated without interest or earnings from the date of forfeiture. If a benefit payable to a Participant or Beneficiary that cannot be located is subject to escheat under state law, then no further benefit will be payable with respect to any Participant for whom payment was made by the Administrator according to the escheat provisions of state law.

ARTICLE VI

RIGHTS OF PARTICIPANTS

 

6.1 Creditor Status of Participants . The Supplemental Matching Contributions and Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions credited to a Participant shall be merely an unfunded, unsecured promise of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed) to make benefit payments in the future and shall be liabilities solely against the general assets of such Ferro Group Company. Except as provided in Section 6.6, Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies shall not be required to segregate, set aside or escrow the Supplemental Matching Contributions, Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions nor any earnings, gains and losses credited thereon. With respect to amounts credited to any Account hereunder and any benefits payable hereunder, a Participant and Beneficiary will have the status of general unsecured creditors of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed), and may look only to that Ferro Group Company and its general assets for payment of the Account

 

A-8


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

6.2 Rights with Respect to the Trust . Any trust, and any assets held thereby to assist Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company in meeting its obligations under this Plan, will in no way be deemed to controvert the provisions of Section 6.1 above.

 

6.3 Investments . In Ferro’s sole discretion, the Ferro Group Companies may acquire insurance policies, annuities or other financial vehicles for the purpose of providing future assets of the Ferro Group Companies to meet their anticipated liabilities under this Plan. Such policies, annuities or other investments, shall at all times be and remain unrestricted general property and assets of the Ferro Group Companies or property of a trust established pursuant to Article VII of this Plan. Participants and Beneficiaries will have no rights, other than as general creditors, with respect to any such policies, annuities or other acquired assets.

 

6.4 Method for Crediting Investment Return . The Ferro Group Company by which the Participant is employed will maintain a separate Account for the Participant. A Participant’s Account is deemed to be invested as follows.

 

  (A) Post-2000 Contributions . The Supplemental Matching and Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions credited to a Participant’s Account after December 31, 2000 will be deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock as of the date the contributions are credited under the Plan. The Account will be deemed to receive all dividends (whether in stock or cash) and stock splits which would be received if the Account was actually invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock, and such dividends and stock splits will be deemed to be reinvested in shares of Ferro Common Stock as of the date of their receipt. Each investment in Ferro Common Stock will be deemed to be made at the closing sale price of Ferro Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Tape (as reported in The Wall Street Journal) on the trading day of the deemed investment.

 

  (B) Pre-2001 Contributions . Only Supplemental Matching Contributions were credited under the Plan prior to 2001. The Supplemental Matching Contributions credited to a Participant’s Account prior to 2001 will be deemed to be invested as of the date the contributions are credited under the Plan in a cash account with a rate of return determined by Ferro. Prior to the beginning of each Plan Year, Ferro will determine the rate of investment credit for the following Plan Year. The prior provisions notwithstanding, the Participant was entitled to elect in writing, during the special election period provided in 2001, for all or a portion of such pre-2001 Supplemental Matching Contributions to be deemed to instead be invested in Ferro Common Stock. Under any such election, the Supplemental Matching Contributions designated by the Participant to be deemed invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock will be deemed invested as of the date the contributions were credited under the Plan, and otherwise will be valued and credited with dividends and stock splits, in the same manner as described in Section 6.4(A) above.

 

  (C)

Periodic Adjustment of Accounts . As of each Valuation Date, the Participant’s Account will be adjusted to reflect earnings and losses on the deemed investments. To the extent the Account is deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock, it will be credited as of each Valuation Date with hypothetical

 

A-9


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  appreciation and depreciation and earnings, as computed and determined by the Administrator based on the value of Ferro Common Stock and its dividends, etc., as provided in Section 6.4(A) above. To the extent the Participant’s Account is deemed to be invested in the cash account, it will be credited as of each Valuation Date with hypothetical earnings, as computed and determined by the Administrator using a rate of interest equal to that determined by Ferro prior to the beginning of the Plan Year as provided in Section 6.4(B) above. The Administrator will provide each Participant with a statement showing the balance credited to the Participant’s Account as of the last day of the preceding Plan Year, and at such other times as the Administrator may elect.

 

  (D) Investment Election Changes . Effective July 1, 2004, a Participant may elect to change the deemed investment of all or a portion of the Participant’s Account from a deemed investment in Ferro Common Stock to a deemed investment in the cash account (as described in Section 6.4(A) and (B) above), and vice versa. As of the effective date of a Participant’s investment election change, the Participant’s Account will be valued and adjusted in accordance with the procedures set forth in the preceding paragraph (C) to reflect the new deemed investment(s). Further, the Participant may elect to change the initial investment of all or a portion of the Participant’s future Supplemental Matching Contributions or future Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions, or both. Any investment election change by a Participant must be made in accordance with, and will be effective as provided in, procedures established by the Plan Administrator. Notwithstanding any provision of this Section to the contrary,

 

  (1) any Participant who is subject to Ferro Common Stock ownership requirements must satisfy those requirements both before and after any change in the deemed investment of the Participant’s Account or of future Supplemental Matching or Basic Pension Contributions, and

 

  (2) no Participant may elect to change the deemed investment of any portion of the Participant’s Account or of future Supplemental Matching or Basic Pension Contributions if the change is prohibited by law or if any liability would result to the Participant or any Ferro Group Company.

Unless and until the Participant elects to change or to direct the investment of the Participant’s Account or future Supplemental Matching or Basic Pension Contributions pursuant to this Section 6.4(D), those amounts will be deemed to be invested as provided in Section 6.4(A) and (B) above.

 

6.5 Bookkeeping Account Only . A Participant’s Account is solely for the purpose of measuring the amounts to be paid under this Plan. The Ferro Group Companies will not fund or secure, and will not be permitted to fund or secure, the Account in any way, and the Ferro Group Companies’ obligation to the Participants under this Plan is solely contractual.

 

A-10


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

ARTICLE VII

TRUST

 

7.1 Establishment of Trust . Notwithstanding any other provision or interpretation of this Plan, Ferro may establish a Trust in which to hold cash, insurance policies or other assets that may be used to make, or reimburse Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for, payments to the Participants or Beneficiaries of all or part of the benefits under this Plan. Any Trust assets shall at all times remain subject to the claims of the general creditors of Ferro or the Ferro Group Company in the event of the insolvency of Ferro or the Ferro Group Company as more fully described in the Trust.

 

7.2 Obligation of the Ferro Group Companies . Notwithstanding the fact that a Trust may be established under Section 7.1, the Ferro Group Companies will remain liable for paying the benefits under this Plan. However, any payment of benefits to a Participant or Beneficiary made by a Trust will satisfy the appropriate Ferro Group Company’s obligation to make payment to such person under this Plan.

 

7.3 Trust Terms . A Trust established under Section 7.1 may contain any terms as Ferro may determine to be necessary or desirable. Ferro may terminate or amend a Trust established under Section 7.1 at any time, and in any manner it deems necessary or desirable, subject to the terms of any agreement under which any Trust is established or maintained.

ARTICLE VIII

ADMINISTRATION AND CLAIMS PROCEDURE

 

8.1 Administrator . The Administrator will be Ferro, acting by and through Ferro’s Corporate Human Resources Department, unless the Board of Directors, acting itself or through an appropriate committee designates otherwise.

 

8.2 General Rights, Powers, and Duties of Administrator . The Administrator will be the Plan administrator under ERISA. The Administrator will be responsible for the general administration of this Plan and will have all powers as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Plan and may, from time to time, establish rules for the administration of this Plan and the transaction of this Plan’s business. In addition to any powers, rights and duties set forth elsewhere in this Plan, it will have the following powers and duties:

 

  (A) To enact rules, regulations, and procedures and to prescribe the use of such forms as it deems advisable;

 

  (B) To appoint or employ agents, attorneys, actuaries, accountants, assistants or other persons (who may also be Participants in this Plan or be employed by or represent a Ferro Group Company) at the expense of the Ferro Group Companies, as it deems necessary to keep its records or to assist it in taking any other action authorized or required under this Plan;

 

  (C) To interpret this Plan, and to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan and resolve all questions arising under this Plan;

 

A-11


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (D) To administer this Plan in accordance with its terms and any rules and regulations it establishes; and

 

  (E) To maintain records concerning this Plan as it deems sufficient to prepare reports, returns and other information required by this Plan or by law; and

 

  (F) To direct a Ferro Group Company to pay benefits under this Plan and to give other directions and instructions as may be necessary for the proper administration of this Plan.

Any decision, interpretation or other action made or taken by the Administrator arising out of or in connection with this Plan, will be within the absolute discretion of the Administrator, and will be final, binding and conclusive on Ferro, all other Ferro Group Companies, and all Participants and Beneficiaries and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns. The Administrator’s determinations under this Plan need not be uniform, and may be made selectively among Participants, whether or not they are similarly situated.

 

8.3 Information to Be Furnished to the Administrator . A Ferro Group Company will furnish the Administrator with such data and information as it may reasonably require. The records of a Ferro Group Company will be determinative of each Participant’s period of employment, termination of employment, personal data, Compensation, and data regarding the contributions made for or on behalf of the Participant under the Ferro SSOP. Participants and their Beneficiaries will furnish to the Administrator such evidence, data or information and execute such documents as the Administrator requests.

 

8.4 Claim for Benefits . A Participant or Beneficiary will make all claims for payment under this Plan in writing to the Administrator in the manner prescribed by the Administrator. The Administrator will process each claim and determine entitlement to benefits within 90 days after the Administrator receives a completed application for benefits. If the Administrator needs an extension of time for processing, then the Administrator will notify the claimant before the end of the initial 90-day period. The extension notice will indicate the special circumstances requiring an extension of time and the date as of which the Administrator expects to render the final decision. In no event will such an extension exceed 90 days from the end of the initial period.

 

8.5 Denial of Benefit . If a claim is wholly or partially denied by the Administrator, then the Administrator will notify the claimant of the denial of the claim in a writing delivered in person or mailed by first class mail to the claimant’s last known address. The notice of denial will contain:

 

  (A) the specific reason or reasons for denial of the claim;

 

  (B) a reference to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the denial is based;

 

  (C) a description of any additional material or information necessary for the claimant to perfect the claim, together with an explanation of why the material or information is necessary; and

 

A-12


Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

  (D) an explanation of this Plan’s claim review procedure.

If no notice is provided, the claim will be deemed denied. The interpretations, determinations and decisions of the Administrator will be final and binding upon all persons with respect to any right, benefit and privilege hereunder, subject to the review procedures set forth in this Article.

 

8.6 Request for Review of a Denial of a Claim for Benefits . Any claimant or any authorized representative of the claimant whose claim for benefits under this Plan has been denied or deemed denied, in whole or in part, may upon written notice to the Appeals Committee request a review by the Appeals Committee of the denial of the claim. The claimant will have 60 days from the date the claim is deemed denied or 60 days from receipt of the notice denying the claim, as the case may be, in which to request a review by written application delivered to the Appeals Committee, which must specify the relief requested and the reason such claimant believes the denial should be reversed.

 

8.7 Appeals Procedure . The Appeals Committee will review the facts and relevant documents including this Plan, and interpret the facts and relevant documents including this Plan to render a decision on the claim. The review may be of written briefs submitted by the claimant, or at a hearing, or by both, as deemed necessary or appropriate by the Appeals Committee. Any hearing will be held in the main office of Ferro, or such other location as the Appeals Committee may select, on the date and at the time as the Appeals Committee designates by giving at least 15-days’ notice to the claimant, unless the claimant accepts shorter notice. The notice will specify that the claimant must indicate in writing, at least five days in advance of the hearing, the claimant’s intention to appear at the appointed time and place, or the hearing will be automatically cancelled. The reply will specify any other persons who will accompany the claimant to the hearing, or such other persons will not be admitted to the hearing. The Appeals Committee will make every effort to schedule the hearing on a day and at a time that is convenient to both the claimant and the Appeals Committee. The claimant, or his duly authorized representative, may review all pertinent documents relating to the claim in preparation for the hearing and may submit issues and comments in writing before or during the hearing.

 

8.8 Decision Upon Review of Denial of Claim for Benefits . In making its decision, the Appeals Committee will have full power and discretion to interpret this Plan, to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, and to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan. The Appeals Committee will render a decision on the claim reviewed no more than 60 days after the receipt of the claimant’s request for review, unless special circumstances (such as the need to hold a hearing) require an extension of time, in which case the 60-day period may be extended up to 120 days. The Appeals Committee will provide written notice of its decision to the claimant within the time frame specified. The notice will include the specific reasons for the decision and contain specific references to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the decision is based. If notice of the decision is not provided within the time frame specified, the claim will be deemed denied on review. The decision of the Appeals Committee will be final and binding in all respects on the Administrator, the Ferro Group Company and claimant involved.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

8.9 Establishment of Appeals Committee . The Chief Executive Officer of Ferro will appoint three or more persons to serve as members of the Appeals Committee. The Chief Executive Officer may appoint one Appeals Committee to hear all appeals of denied benefits that arise under this Plan, or may appoint a new Appeals Committee each time an Appeals Committee is needed to hear an appeal of denied benefits that arises under this Plan. The members of the Appeals Committee will remain in office at the will of the Chief Executive Officer, and the Chief Executive Officer may remove any of the members with or without cause. A member of the Appeals Committee may resign upon written notice to the remaining member or members of the Appeals Committee and to the Chief Executive Officer, respectively. The fact that a person is a Participant or a former Participant or a prospective Participant will not disqualify that person from acting as a member of the Appeals Committee. No member of the Appeals Committee will be disqualified from acting on any question because of the member’s interest in the question, except that no member of the Appeals Committee may act on any claim which the member has brought as a Participant, former Participant, or Beneficiary under this Plan. In case of the death, resignation or removal of any member of the Appeals Committee, the remaining members will act until a successor-member is appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. At the Administrator’s request, the Chief Executive Officer will notify the Administrator in writing of the names of the members of the Appeals Committee, of any and all changes in the membership of the Appeals Committee, of the member designated as Chairman, and the member designated as Secretary, and of any changes in either office. Until notified of a change, the Administrator will be protected in assuming that there has been no change in the membership of the Appeals Committee or the designation of Chairman or of Secretary since the last notification was filed with it. The Administrator will be under no obligation at any time to inquire into the membership of the Appeals Committee or its officers. All communications to the Appeals Committee will be addressed to its Secretary at the address of the Company.

 

8.10 Operation of the Appeals Committee . On all matters and questions, the decision of a majority of the members of the Appeals Committee will govern and control. A meeting need not be called or held to make any decision. The Appeals Committee will appoint one of its members to act as its Chairman and another member to act as Secretary. The terms of office of these members will be determined by the Appeals Committee, and the Secretary and/or Chairman may be removed by the other members of the Appeals Committee for any reason which such other members may deem just and proper. The Secretary will do all things directed by the Appeals Committee. Although the Appeals Committee will act by decision of a majority of its members as provided above, in the absence of written notice to the contrary, every person may deal with the Secretary and consider the Secretary’s acts as having been authorized by the Appeals Committee. Any notice served or demand made on the Secretary will be deemed to have been served or made upon the Appeals Committee.

 

8.11 Limitation of Duties . Ferro, the other Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, and their respective officers, members, employees and agents will have no duty or responsibility under this Plan other than the duties and responsibilities expressly assigned or delegated to them pursuant to this Plan. None of them will have any duty or responsibility with respect to those duties or responsibilities assigned or delegated to another.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

8.12 Agents . The Administrator and the Appeals Committee may hire any attorneys, accountants, actuaries, agents, clerks, and secretaries as it may deem desirable in the performance of its duties, any of whom may also be advisors to any Ferro Group Company or any subsidiary or affiliated company.

 

8.13 Expenses of Administration . No fee or compensation will be paid to the Administrator or any member of the Appeals Committee for their performance of services as such. Ferro will bear all other expenses incurred in the administration of this Plan except to the extent Ferro determines that the expenses are allocable to, and should be paid by, one or more of the Ferro Group Companies.

 

8.14 Indemnification . In addition to whatever rights of indemnification any member or employee of the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, Ferro or other Ferro Group Company under this Plan may be entitled to under the articles of incorporation, regulations or bylaws of the Ferro Group Companies, under any provision of law or under any other agreement, the Ferro Group Companies will satisfy any liability actually incurred by any member or employee including reasonable expenses and attorneys’ fees, and any judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement, in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding which is related to the exercise or failure to exercise by any member or employee any powers, authority, responsibilities or discretion provided under this Plan or reasonably believed by a member or employee to be provided under this Plan, and any action taken by a member or employee in connection with such exercise or failure to exercise. This indemnification for all such acts taken or omitted is intentionally broad, but will not provide indemnification for embezzlement or diversion of Plan funds for the benefit of any member or employee. This indemnification will not be provided for any claim by a Ferro Group Company or a subsidiary or affiliated company thereof against any member or employee. No indemnification will be provided to any person who is not an individual.

 

8.15 Limitation of Administrative Liability . Neither Ferro, any Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, nor any of their members or employees will be liable for any act taken by such person or entity pursuant to any provision of this Plan except for gross abuse of the discretion given them under this Plan. No member of the Administrator or Appeals Committee will be liable for the act of any other member. No member of the Board of Directors will be liable to any person for any action taken or omitted in connection with the administration of this Plan.

 

8.16 Limitation of Sponsor Liability . Any right or authority exercisable by Ferro or Board of Directors pursuant to any provision of this Plan will be exercised in Ferro’s capacity as sponsor of this Plan, or on behalf of Ferro in such capacity, and not in a fiduciary capacity, and may be exercised without the approval or consent of any person in a fiduciary capacity. Neither Ferro, nor the Board of Directors, nor any of their respective officers, members, employees, agents and delegates, will have any liability to any party for its exercise of any such right or authority.

ARTICLE IX

AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

 

9.1

Amendment, Modification and Termination . Subject to Section 9.4 below, this Plan may be amended, modified or terminated by Ferro at any time, or from time to time, by action of an appropriate Ferro officer authorized or ratified by the Board of Directors. No amendment, modification or termination will be effective if it reduces the

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

  amounts credited to any Participant’s Account or adversely affects the right of any Participant or Beneficiary to receive payment of the Account as provided under this Plan, determined as of the date of the amendment, unless an equivalent benefit is provided under another plan or program sponsored by the Company or an Affiliate.

The prior provisions notwithstanding, this Plan may be amended to:

 

  (1) reduce or eliminate the ability for contributions to be credited to Participants under this Plan;

 

  (2) reduce or eliminate the future deemed interest or earnings credited to the amounts held in a Participant’s Account;

 

  (3) comply with any law; or

 

  (4) preserve the intended deferral of taxation for the benefit of all Participants Accounts.

 

9.2 Effect of Amendment on Distributions . If this Plan is amended to terminate the Plan or to prohibit future contributions under the Plan, the Accounts of Participants who have not incurred a Termination of Employment will become will be 100% vested as of the date of the termination of the Plan or prohibition of future contributions under the Plan.

 

9.3 Actions Binding on Ferro Group Companies . Any amendments made to this Plan will be binding on all the Ferro Group Companies without the approval or consent of the Ferro Group Companies other than Ferro. Ferro may, by amendment, also terminate this Plan on behalf of all or any one of the other Ferro Group Companies in its sole discretion.

 

9.4 Termination or Amendment After Change in Control . If a Change in Control occurs, then, for a period of two (2) calendar years following such Change in Control, Ferro may not amend or terminate this Plan without the prior written consent of all Participants.

ARTICLE X

FERRO GROUP COMPANIES

 

10.1 List of Ferro Group Companies . The Ferro Group Companies as of the Amendment and Restatement Date are Ferro and the Affiliates of Ferro listed on Appendix B to this Plan. Ferro may from time to time add or remove Ferro Affiliates from the list of Ferro Group Companies by written action of its Chief Executive Officer. The addition or deletion will not require a formal amendment to this Plan.

 

10.2 Delegation of Authority . Ferro is fully empowered to act on behalf of itself and the other Ferro Group Companies as it may deem appropriate in maintaining this Plan and any Trust. The adoption by Ferro of any amendment to this Plan or any Trust, or the termination of this Plan or any Trust, will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the approval, adoption, ratification or confirmation by each Ferro Group Company of any amendment or termination. In addition, the appointment of or removal by Ferro of any Administrator, any trustee or other person under this Plan or any Trust will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the appointment or removal by each Ferro Group Company of such person.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

ARTICLE XI

MISCELLANEOUS

 

11.1 No Implied Rights . Neither the establishment of this Plan nor any amendment of this Plan will be construed as giving any Participant, Beneficiary or any other person any legal or equitable right unless the right is specifically provided for in this Plan or conferred by specific action of Ferro in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Plan. Except as expressly provided in this Plan, neither Ferro nor any other Ferro Group Company will be required or be liable to make any payment under this Plan.

 

11.2 No Right to Ferro Group Company Assets . Neither the Participant nor any other person will acquire by reason of this Plan any right in or title to any assets, funds or property of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company whatsoever including, without limitation, any specific funds, assets or other property which Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company, in its sole discretion, may set aside in anticipation of a liability hereunder. Any benefits which become payable under this Plan will be paid from the general assets of the appropriate Ferro Group Company. No assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be held in any way as collateral security for the fulfilling of the obligations of Ferro or the Ferro Group Companies under this Plan. No assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be pledged or otherwise restricted in order to meet the obligations of this Plan. The Participant will have only a contractual right to the amounts, if any, payable hereunder unsecured by any asset of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company. Nothing contained in this Plan constitutes a guarantee by Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company that the assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be sufficient to pay any benefit to any person.

 

11.3 No Employment Rights Created . This Plan will not be deemed to constitute a contract of employment between Ferro or any of the other Ferro Group Companies and any Participant, or to confer upon any Participant or employee the right to be retained in the service of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for any period of time, nor shall any provision of this Plan restrict the right of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company to discharge or otherwise deal with any Participant or other employees, with or without cause. Nothing in this Plan will be construed as fixing or regulating the compensation or other benefits payable to any Participant or other employee of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company.

 

11.4 Offset . If at the time payment is to be made under this Plan the Participant or the Beneficiary or both are indebted or obligated to a Ferro Group Company, then the payment to be made to the Participant or the Beneficiary or both may, at the discretion of the Administrator at the request of the Ferro Group Company, be reduced by the amount of the indebtedness or obligation, provided, however, that an election by the Ferro Group Company not to request any reduction will not constitute a waiver of the Ferro Group Company’s claim for such indebtedness or obligation.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

11.5 No Assignment . Neither the Participant nor any other person will have any voluntary or involuntary right to commute, sell, assign, pledge, anticipate, mortgage or otherwise encumber, transfer, hypothecate or convey, in advance of actual receipt of the amount, if any, payable under this Plan, or any part of the amount payable from this Plan, and any attempt to do so will be void. All benefits or amounts credited to Accounts under this Plan are expressly declared to be unassignable and non-transferable. No part of the benefits or amounts credited to Accounts under this Plan will be, before actual payment, subject to seizure or sequestration for the payment of any debts, judgments, alimony or separate maintenance owed by the Participant or any other person, or be transferable by operation of law in the event of the Participant’s or any other person’s bankruptcy or insolvency.

 

11.6 Notice . Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Plan will be sufficient if in writing and hand delivered, or sent by registered or certified mail or by overnight delivery service, and:

 

  (A) if given to a Ferro Group Company, delivered to the principal office of Ferro, directed to the attention of the General Counsel; or

 

  (B) if given to a Participant or Beneficiary, delivered to the last post office address as shown on the Ferro Group Company’s or the Administrator’s records.

Notice will be deemed given as of the date of delivery or, if delivery is made by mail, as of the date shown on the postmark or the receipt for registration or certification.

 

11.7 Governing Laws . This Plan will be construed and administered according to the internal substantive laws of the State of Ohio to the extent not preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

 

11.8 Incapacity . If the Administrator determines that any Participant or Beneficiary entitled to payment under this Plan is a minor, a person declared incompetent or a person incapable of handling his or her property, the Administrator may direct any payment to the guardian, legal representative or person having the care and custody of the minor, incompetent or incapable person. The Administrator may require proof of minority, incompetence, incapacity or guardianship, as it may deem appropriate before making any payment. The Administrator will have no obligation thereafter to monitor or follow the application of amounts so paid. Payments made pursuant to this Section will completely discharge this Plan, any Trust, the Administrator, Ferro and all other Ferro Group Companies with respect to the payments.

 

11.9 Court Ordered Distributions . The Administrator is authorized to make any payments directed by court order in any action in which this Plan or the Administrator is named as a party. In addition, if a court determines that a spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent of a Participant has an interest in the Participant’s Account under this Plan in connection with a property settlement or otherwise, the Administrator, in its sole discretion, will have the right, notwithstanding any election made by a Participant, to immediately distribute the spouse’s or former spouse’s or dependent’s or former dependent’s interest in the Participant’s Account under this Plan to that spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent.

 

11.10 Administrative Forms . All applications, elections and designations in connection with this Plan made by a Participant or Beneficiary will become effective only when duly executed on forms provided by the Administrator and filed with the Administrator.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

 

 

11.11 Independence of Plan . Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Plan will be independent of, and in addition to, any other employee benefit agreement or plan or any rights that may exist from time to time under any other agreement or plan.

 

11.12 Responsibility for Legal Effect . Neither Ferro, any other Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, nor any officer, member, delegate or agent of any of them, makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, or assumes any responsibility concerning the legal, tax, or other implications or effects of this Plan.

 

11.13 Successors . The terms and conditions of this Plan will inure to the benefit of and bind Ferro, the Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator and its members, the Participants, their Beneficiaries, and the successors, assigns, and personal representatives of any of them.

 

11.14 Headings and Titles . The Section headings and titles of Articles used in this Plan are for convenience of reference only and are not to be considered in construing this Plan.

 

11.15 Appendices . The Appendices to this Plan constitute an integral part of this Plan and are hereby incorporated into this Plan by this reference.

 

11.16 Severability . If any provision or term of this Plan, or any agreement or instrument required by the Administrator, is determined by a judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative body to be void or not enforceable for any reason, all other provisions or terms of this Plan or the agreement or instrument will remain in full force and effect and will be enforceable as if the void or nonenforceable provision or term had never been a part of this Plan, or the agreement or instrument.

 

11.17 Actions by Ferro . Except as otherwise provided in this Plan, all actions of Ferro under this Plan will be taken by the Board of Directors, and be evidenced in a writing executed by an appropriate officer duly authorized.

 

11.18 Spousal Consent and Release . If, in the opinion of Ferro, any present, former or future spouse of an employee entitled to benefits from this Plan shall by reason of law appear to have any interest in the Plan benefits that may be or become payable hereunder to such employee, Ferro may as a condition precedent to the making of a benefit payment hereunder, require such written consent or release as in its discretion it shall determine to be necessary, desirable or appropriate either to prevent or avoid any conflict or multiplicity of claims, or to protect the rights of any such present, former or future spouse with respect to the payment of any benefits under this Plan.

 

11.19 Overpayments and Repayments . In the event that Ferro determines that the benefits actually paid under this Plan exceed the benefits that were properly payable to a Participant or Beneficiary pursuant to this Plan, Ferro may exercise any legal remedies available.

 

11.20 References to Sections of Law . References herein to the Code are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provision of subsequent federal law. References herein to ERISA are to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provisions of subsequent law.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

D EFINITIONS

For purposes of this Plan, the following terms have the meanings set forth below where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters:

 

Term    Meaning
Account    For each Participant the bookkeeping account maintained by Ferro to reflect the Participant’s Supplemental Matching Contributions, Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions, and the deemed investment return on those amounts. A Participant’s Account will not constitute nor be treated as a trust fund of any kind.
Administrator    As defined in Section 8.1 of this Plan.
Affiliate    Any entity which is a member of a controlled group of corporations with the Company under Section 414(b) of the Code, under common control with the Company under Section 414(c) of the Code, a member of an affiliated service group with the Company under Section 414(m) of the Code, or otherwise required to be aggregated with the Company under Section 414(o) of the Code.

Amendment and

Restatement Date

   June 30, 2004.
Beneficial Owner    “Beneficial owner” within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act.
Beneficiary    As defined in Section 5.6 of this Plan.
Board of Directors    Ferro’s Board of Directors.
Change in Control    A change in the control of Ferro that is required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act. For purposes of this definition, a Change in Control will be deemed to have occurred if and when:
  

(a)     any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d)(3) and 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of Ferro representing twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the combined voting power of Ferro’s outstanding voting securities; or

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

(b)     during any period of two consecutive years, the individuals set forth below in sub-paragraph (1) and (2) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors:

  

(1)     the individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors, and

  

(2)     any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement or arrangement with Ferro to effect a transaction described in clause (a) or (c) of this definition) whose appointment, election, or nomination for election by Ferro’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose appointment, election or nomination for election was previously so approved; or

  

(c)     a merger or consolidation of Ferro or one of its subsidiaries is consummated with or into any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the holders of the voting securities of Ferro outstanding immediately prior thereto holding securities which represent immediately after such merger or consolidation more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of either Ferro or the other entity which survives such merger or consolidation or the parent of the entity which survives such merger or consolidation; or

  

(d)     a sale or disposition by Ferro of all or substantially all Ferro’s assets is consummated.

Code    The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any lawful regulations or other pronouncements promulgated under that Code.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
Compensation    “Compensation” as defined under the Ferro SSOP, but increased to include amounts deferred under the Ferro Corporation Executive Employee Deferred Compensation Plan [now known as the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees] and decreased to exclude awards paid under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan (except that awards paid prior to January 1, 2007 are included for purposes of determining Supplemental Matching Contributions), and without regard to any provisions of the Code which limit the amount of such compensation that can be taken into account for purposes of determining contributions or benefits.
   Specifically, as of the Amendment and Restatement Date, Compensation under this Plan means compensation (as defined in Section 415(c)(3) of the Code) paid by a Ferro Group Company to or on behalf of a Participant while a Participant in the Ferro SSOP during a Plan Year, including all wages and salary, commissions, bonuses, accrued vacation pay, 401(k) Contributions contributed under the Ferro SSOP, elective employer contributions made on behalf of the Participant that are not includible in gross income under Section 125, 129, 132(f), 402(e)(3), 402(h)(1)(B), 403 and 457 of the Code, and deferred amounts under the Ferro Corporation Executive Employee Deferred Compensation Plan [now known as the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees], but excluding relocation expense reimbursements (including mortgage interest differentials) or other expense allowances or fringe benefits which are paid with respect to a period following termination of employment, automobile allowance income, foreign service premiums, awards paid under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan, and any other extraordinary income, allowance, and welfare benefits. The prior sentence notwithstanding, awards paid prior to January 1, 2007 under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan will be included in Compensation for purposes of determining a Participant’s Supplemental Matching Contribution.
Disability    Any disability that qualifies a Participant for payment of benefits under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan. The determination of whether a Participant suffers a Disability will be made by the Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
ERISA    The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.
Exchange Act    The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.
Ferro    As defined in Section 1.2 of this Plan. Such term also includes any successor corporation or business organization that subsequently assumes Ferro’s duties and obligations under this Plan.
Ferro Common Stock    The Common Stock of Ferro, par value $1.00 per share.
Ferro Group Companies    As defined in Section 10.1 of this Plan.
Ferro SSOP    Ferro’s Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, as the same may be amended from time to time.
401(k) Contributions    Pre-tax contributions made to the Ferro SSOP pursuant to Code Section 401(k).
Highly Compensated Employee    An employee of a Ferro Group Company who is in Salary Grade 22 or higher and for whom contributions under the Ferro SSOP are limited due to the provisions of Section 401(a)(17), 401(k), 401(m), 402(g) or 415 of the Code.
Participant    A Highly Compensated Employee of a Ferro Group Company who becomes a Participant pursuant to Section 3.2 of this Plan. A Participant will cease to be a Participant, and shall become a former Participant, upon the earliest of the following:
  

(a)     Termination of Employment,

  

(b)     the date the employee ceases to be a Highly Compensated Employee, or

  

(c)     the date the employee’s participation in this Plan is terminated by the Administrator pursuant to Section 5.7 of this Plan or otherwise.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix A

 

Term    Meaning
Person   

A “person” as defined under Section 3(a)(9) of the Exchange Act as modified and used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, excluding:

 

(a)     Ferro or any of its subsidiaries;

 

(b)     a trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company (or of any of its affiliates as defined under Rule 12b-2 under Section 12 of the Exchange Act);

 

(c)     an underwriter temporarily holding securities pursuant to an offering of such securities; or

 

(d)     a corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the shareholders of Ferro in substantially the same proportion as their ownership of the stock of Ferro.

this Plan    As defined in the Introduction to this Plan.
Plan Year    The calendar year.
Termination of Employment    A Participant’s cessation of service with Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies, including Affiliates of the foregoing, for any reason whatsoever, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, including by reason of retirement, death, or Disability.
Trust    The trust, if any, established pursuant to Section 7.1 of this Plan.
Valuation Date   

The last day of each quarter in the Plan Year and any other date or dates Ferro, in its sole discretion, designates from time to time.

 

For purposes of determining the value of a Participant’s Account for distribution, the Valuation Date is the last day of the month in which occurs the Participant’s Termination of Employment, death, or commencement of long-term disability benefits on account of a determination of Disability under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan.

Years of Vesting Service    The years of vesting service with which a Participant is credited under the Ferro SSOP.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix B

F ERRO G ROUP C OMPANIES

The following are the Ferro Group Companies:

Ferro Corporation

FEM Inc.

Ferro Glass & Color Corporation

Ferro International Services, Inc.

Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix C

Amendment to Change

Definition of Compensation*

Effective June 30, 2004, the definition of “Compensation” is hereby deleted and a new definition of “Compensation” is substituted in lieu thereof, to read as follows:

 

Compensation    “Compensation” as defined under the Ferro SSOP, but increased to include amounts deferred under the Ferro Corporation Executive Employee Deferred Compensation Plan [now known as the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees] and decreased to exclude the awards paid under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan (except that the cash portion of awards paid prior to January 1, 2007 are included for purposes of determining Supplemental Matching Contributions), and without regard to any provisions of the Code which limit the amount of such compensation that can be taken into account for purposes of determining contributions or benefits.
   Specifically, as of the Amendment and Restatement Date, Compensation under this Plan means compensation (as defined in Section 415(c)(3) of the Code) paid by a Ferro Group Company to or on behalf of a Participant while a Participant in the Ferro SSOP during a Plan Year, including all wages and salary, commissions, bonuses, accrued vacation pay, 401(k) Contributions contributed under the Ferro SSOP, elective employer contributions made on behalf of the Participant that are not includible in gross income under Section 125, 129, 132(f), 402(e)(3), 402(h)(1)(B), 403 and 457 of the Code, and deferred amounts under the Ferro Corporation Executive Employee Deferred Compensation Plan [now known as the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees], but excluding relocation expense reimbursements (including mortgage interest differentials) or other expense allowances or fringe benefits which are paid with respect to a period following termination of employment, automobile allowance income, foreign service premiums, awards paid under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan, and any other extraordinary income, allowance, and welfare benefits. The prior sentence notwithstanding, the cash portion of awards paid prior to January 1, 2007 under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan will be included in Compensation for purposes of determining a Participant’s Supplemental Matching Contribution.

 

* Amendment effective June 30, 2004.

 

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Part A - Pre-2005 Plan

As Amended and Restated June 30, 2004

Appendix D

Amendment to Change

Notional Investment Measure*

ARTICLE VI:

Effective January 1, 2006, a new Paragraph (E) is added to the end of Section 6.4 to read as follows:

 

  (E) Rate of Return of Cash Account . Effective January 1, 2006, notwithstanding any provision of Section 6.4 to the contrary, amounts credited to a cash account under the Plan will be deemed to earn interest at a fixed quarterly percentage, which interest rate shall equal three percent (3%) above the 10-Year Constant Maturity Rate issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for the last month of the preceding calendar quarter, provided that Ferro determines that such rate is reasonable at the time it is established. In the event Ferro determines that such rate is not reasonable at the time it is established, Ferro shall instead establish a lesser fixed quarterly percentage.

 

* Amendment effective January 1, 2006.

 

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F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

P ART B: 2005 P LAN

O VERVIEW

E STABLISHMENT OF C OMPONENT P LAN

The provisions of the Code Section 409A component plan are set forth in this Part B (the “2005 Plan”), which is adopted and made a part of the Plan effective January 1, 2005.

G OVERNS B ENEFITS S UBJECT TO C ODE S ECTION 409A

The 2005 Plan governs all benefits under the Plan which are not Pre-2005 Benefits (the “409A Benefits”). This means that the 2005 Plan governs amounts which are earned or vested under the Plan after December 31, 2004, plus any income attributable to such amounts or to such income.

The 409A Benefits are subject to the requirements of Code Section 409A, and Ferro intends for the 2005 Plan to comply with Code Section 409A. The 2005 Plan shall be interpreted and administered so as to comply with Code Section 409A.

T ERMINOLOGY

The terms of the 2005 Plan are identical to those of the Pre-2005 Plan except to the extent indicated. Where provisions of the 2005 Plan have been left blank, they are identical to those of the Pre-2005 Plan as so modified. Where provisions are not blank, the provided terms substitute in full for the original provisions of the Pre-2005 Plan.

As used in the 2005 Plan, the term “Plan” refers to the 2005 Plan or to the Plan, as appropriate.

 

B-1


 

 

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

 

 

 

Part B: 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

B-2


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION

S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN

FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES

2005 P LAN

I NTRODUCTION

This 2005 Plan is the portion of the F ERRO C ORPORATION S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES which governs 409A Benefits. The purpose for the adoption of this 2005 Plan is to comply with the requirements of Code Section 409A.

Except as indicated below, the terms of the 2005 Plan are identical to those of the Pre-2005 Plan as set forth in Part A of this Plan.

The 2005 Plan is hereby added to the Plan effective January 1, 2005, as follows:

ARTICLE I

NAME AND PURPOSE

 

1.1 Name . The name of this Plan is the “Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan for Executives.”

 

1.2 Plan Sponsor . The sponsor of this Plan is Ferro Corporation (“Ferro”), an Ohio corporation.

 

1.3 Purpose . The purpose of this Plan is to replace, under the conditions set forth in this Plan, certain benefits that select management and highly compensated employees of the Ferro Group Companies cannot receive under Ferro Corporation Savings and Stock Ownership Plan due to limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code or by plan design.

 

1.4 Plan for a Select Group . This Plan is intended to cover only employees of a Ferro Group Company who are members of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” as provided in Sections 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) and 4021(b)(6) of ERISA.

 

1.5 Not a Funded Plan . Ferro intends that this Plan be deemed to be “unfunded” for tax purposes as well as for purposes of Title I of ERISA.

 

1.6 409A Compliance . This Plan is intended to comply with Section 409A of the Code and all other applicable laws in order to have the Federal income tax effect sought for such plans.

 

B-3


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION

 

2.1 Definitions . Appendix A sets forth the definitions of certain terms used in this Plan. Those terms shall have the meanings set forth on Appendix A where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters.

 

2.2 General Rules of Construction . For purposes of interpreting this Plan,

 

  (A) the masculine gender will include the feminine and neuter, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (B) the singular number will include the plural, and vice versa, as the context requires;

 

  (C) the present tense of a verb will include the past and future tenses, and vice versa, as the context requires; and

 

  (D) as provided under Article VIII, the Administrator retains the power and duty to interpret this Plan and resolve ambiguities.

ARTICLE III

PARTICIPATION

 

3.1 Eligibility . In order to be eligible to participate in this Plan, an individual must be a Highly Compensated Employee.

 

3.2 Participation . A Highly Compensated Employee will become a Participant in this Plan on the earlier of the January 1 or January 2 coincident with or next following the date he or she becomes a Highly Compensated Employee.

ARTICLE IV

SUPPLEMENTAL MATCHING CONTRIBUTIONS,

SUPPLEMENTAL BASIC PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS,

AND ACCOUNTS

 

4.1 Eligibility for Supplemental Matching Contributions .

 

  (A) Pre-2006 Eligibility . Each Plan Year a Supplemental Matching Contribution will be credited to the Account of each Participant who is eligible. A Participant will be eligible if the Participant:

 

  (1) made the maximum 401(k) Contributions permitted under the Ferro SSOP during the Plan Year, and

 

B-4


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (2) either:

 

  (a) was employed by a Ferro Group Company on the last day of the Plan Year,

 

  (b) died during the Plan Year,

 

  (c) retired and began receiving pension benefits under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan during the Plan Year (or, if not a participant in the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan, terminated employment after attaining age 55 and 5 Years of Vesting Service during the Plan Year), or

 

  (d) incurred a Disability during the Plan Year.

 

  (B) Post-2005 Eligibility . Each Plan Year a Supplemental Matching Contribution will be credited to the Account of each Participant who is eligible. A Participant will be eligible if the Participant either:

 

  (1) was employed by a Ferro Group Company on the last day of the Plan Year,

 

  (2) died during the Plan Year,

 

  (3) retired and began receiving pension benefits under the Ferro Corporation Retirement Plan during the Plan Year or terminated employment after attaining age 55 and 5 Years of Vesting Service during the Plan Year, or

 

  (4) incurred Disability during the Plan Year.

 

4.2 Amount of Supplemental Matching Contributions .

 

  (A) Pre-2006 Supplemental Matching Contributions . An eligible Participant will receive a Supplemental Matching Contribution on the last day of the Plan Year equal to 1 minus 2, where:

 

  (1) “1” equals the amount of matching contribution that would have been contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year if the Participant elected to make 401(k) Contributions equal to eight percent (8%) of Compensation and the Code provisions allowed and did not impose a limit on such 401(k) Contributions or matching contributions; and

 

  (2) “2” equals the amount of matching contributions actually contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year.

 

  (B) Post-2005 Supplemental Matching Contributions . An eligible Participant will receive a Supplemental Matching Contribution on the last day of the Plan Year equal to 1 minus 2, where:

 

B-5


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (1) “1” equals the amount of matching contribution that would have been contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year if the Participant elected to make 401(k) Contributions equal to eight percent (8%) of Compensation, and the Code provisions allowed and did not impose a limit on such 401(k) Contributions or matching contributions; and

 

  (2) “2” equals the amount of matching contribution that would have been contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year if the Participant elected to make 401(k) Contributions equal to eight percent (8%) of compensation (as defined under the Ferro SSOP), and subject to the Code provisions that impose a limit on such 401(k) Contributions or matching contributions.

 

4.3 Eligibility for Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions . Each Plan Year a Supplemental Basic Pension Contribution will be credited to the Account of each Participant who is eligible. A Participant will be eligible if the Participant received a Basic Pension Contribution under the Ferro SSOP during the Plan Year. The prior provisions of this Section notwithstanding, effective January 1, 2006, a Participant will be eligible for a Supplemental Basic Pension Contribution only if the Participant received a Basic Pension Contribution under the Ferro SSOP during the Plan Year and either:

 

  (A) is in Salary Grade 25 or higher on the last day of the Plan Year, or

 

  (B) is a Pre-2005 Participant in Salary Grade 22 or higher on the last day of the Plan Year.

For purposes of this Section, the term “Pre-2005 Participant” means a Participant who became an employee of a Ferro Group Company on or after July 1, 2003 and before January 1, 2006 at a Salary Grade of 22 or higher.

 

4.4 Amount of Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions .

 

  (A) Pre-2008 Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions . An eligible Participant will receive a Supplemental Basic Pension Contribution on the last day of the Plan Year equal to 1 minus 2, where:

 

  (1) “1” equals the amount of Basic Pension Contribution that would have been contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year on the basis of the Participant’s Compensation not limited by Code provisions; and

 

  (2) “2” equals the amount of Basic Pension Contributions actually contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year.

 

  (B) Post-2007 Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions . An eligible Participant will receive a Supplemental Basic Pension Contribution on the last day of the Plan Year equal to 1 minus 2, where:

 

  (1) “1” equals the amount of Basic Pension Contribution that would have been contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year on the basis of the Participant’s Compensation not limited by Code provisions; and

 

B-6


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (2) “2” equals the amount of Basic Pension Contributions that would have been contributed to the Participant’s account under the Ferro SSOP for the Plan Year on the basis of the Participant’s compensation (defined as base salary or wages and including vacation, and holiday pay, but excluding all forms of extra compensation such as overtime premiums, bonuses, commissions, and incentive compensation, and including elective contributions made by the Participant that are not includible in gross income under Sections 125, 129, 132(f), 402(e)(3), 402(h)(1)(B), 403(b) and 457 of the Code) and subject to the Code provisions which impose limits on such compensation, for the Plan Year.

 

4.5 Establishment of Account . Each Ferro Group Company will establish an Account in the name of each Participant who is employed by it on the books and records of the Ferro Group Company. All amounts credited to the Account of any Participant or former Participant will constitute a general, unsecured liability of such Ferro Group Company to the Participant. The Ferro Group Company will maintain a separate Account for contributions credited to the Participant prior to 2001 as may be necessary for the deemed investment of the Participant’s Account as provided under Section 6.4 below.

 

4.6 Crediting of Earnings . The Ferro Group Company will credit the Account of each Participant who is or was its employee with earnings, gains and losses in accordance with the deemed investment of the Supplemental Matching Contributions and Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions as provided under Section 6.4 below.

 

4.7 Vesting of Account . A Participant will become vested in his or her Account in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Years of Vesting Service

   Percentage Vested  

Less than 1 year

     0

1 year, but less than 2

     20

2 years, but less than 3

     40

3 years, but less than 4

     60

4 years, but less than 5

     80

5 years or more

     100

The prior provisions notwithstanding, a Participant who has not incurred a Termination of Employment will be 100% vested in the Account upon the first to occur of: (a) the Participant’s attainment of age 65, (b) the Participant’s incurring a Disability, (c) the Participant’s death, or (d) a Change in Control.

 

B-7


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE V

BENEFITS; PAYMENT OF BENEFITS

 

5.1 Date of Distribution . Distribution of the vested portion of the Participant’s Account will be made as soon as administratively practicable on or after the earliest of the Participant’s Termination of Employment, Disability or death. The prior provisions notwithstanding, distribution on account a Participant’s Termination of Employment shall not be made until the date which is six (6) months following the Participant’s Termination of Employment ( provided, however, that in the event of the Participant’s death after Termination of Employment, distribution shall be made on the date of death). Distribution shall, in any event, be made by the Time Required by Law.

 

5.2 Form of Distribution . Distribution will be in the form of a single lump sum payment. The portion of the Participant’s Account deemed to be invested in the Ferro Common Stock Account under Section 6.4 will be distributed in the form of Ferro Common Stock unless the Participant elects to receive payment of that portion in cash. The portion of the Participant’s Account deemed to be invested in the cash account under Section 6.4 will be distributed in the form of cash.

 

5.3 Valuation of Distributions . All distributions under this Plan will be based upon the amount credited to the Participant’s Account as of the last day of the month in which occurs the Participant’s Termination of Employment, death, or commencement of long-term disability benefits on account of a determination of Disability under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan. Such date shall be the Valuation Date for this purpose. No adjustment shall be made for any delay in payment, including the six (6) month delay set forth in Section 5.1.

 

5.4 Death . In the event of death, the Participant’s remaining vested interest in the Account will be distributed to the Participant’s Beneficiary.

 

5.5 Administration of Distributions . Distributions under this Plan will be made as soon as administratively possible following receipt of notice by the Administrator of an event that entitles a Participant or a Beneficiary to payments under this Plan and completion by the Participant or Beneficiary of any forms required by the Administrator.

 

5.6 Designation of Beneficiary . Subject to the rules and procedures promulgated by the Administrator, a Participant may sign a document designating a Beneficiary or Beneficiaries. If a Participant fails to designate any Beneficiary in accordance with the provisions of this Section, then the Beneficiary will be deemed to be the Participant’s beneficiary under the Ferro SSOP.

 

5.7 Protective Distributions . If the Administrator determines that a Participant is not a member of a “select group of management or highly compensated employees” within the meaning of Section 201(2), 301(a)(3), 401(a)(1) or 4021(b)(6) of ERISA, then the Administrator may, as it determines necessary to satisfy the exclusions from ERISA coverage contemplated by Section 1.4, terminate the Participant’s participation in this Plan and forfeit any amounts erroneously credited under this Plan with respect to such Participant.

 

B-8


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

5.8 Tax Withholding and Acceleration of Payment for Payment of Taxes . A Ferro Group Company may withhold, from any payment made by it under this Plan, the amount or amounts as may be required for purposes of complying with the tax withholding or other provisions of the Code, the Social Security Act, or any state or local income or employment tax act or for purposes of paying any estate, inheritance or other tax attributable to any amounts payable hereunder. Further, distribution shall be made from the Plan at such time or times as the Administrator, in its sole discretion pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, shall determine that amounts are due for the payment of Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes imposed under Code Sections 3101, 3121(a), or 3121(v)(2) on the 409A Benefits. Such distribution, if any, shall be made for the exclusive purpose of paying such Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes. In addition, distribution shall be made from the Plan at such time or times as the Administrator, in its sole discretion pursuant to uniform and nondiscriminatory procedures, shall determine that amounts are due for the payment of income tax at source on wages imposed under Code Section 3401 (or the corresponding withholding provisions of applicable state, local or foreign tax laws) as a result of the payment of the Federal Insurance Contributions Act taxes, or are due for the payment of additional income tax at source on wages attributable to the pyramiding Code Section 3401 wages and taxes. Such distribution, if any, shall be made for the exclusive purpose of paying such taxes. In no event shall the amounts distributed pursuant to this Section exceed the amounts owed for the payment of Federal Insurance Contribution Act and the income tax withholding related to such amounts.

 

5.9 Lost or Uncooperative Participant . If a Ferro Group Company or the Administrator notifies a Participant or Beneficiary of an entitlement to an amount under this Plan and the Participant or Beneficiary fails to request payment, to provide information or to take any other action to receive payment of such amount, the Administrator shall, to the extent administratively possible, direct distribution to be made on an involuntary basis to such person or persons by the Time Required by Law. If the location of a Participant or Beneficiary can not be determined after a prompt, reasonable good faith effort by the Administrator, the Administrator will direct that the amount payable to the Participant or Beneficiary be forfeited by the Time Required by Law, and no further benefit will be payable with respect to such Participant or Beneficiary.

 

5.10 Distribution upon Income Inclusion under Code Section 409A and Other Acceleration Events . The prior provisions of this Article V notwithstanding, in the event the Plan fails to meet the requirements of Code Section 409A, a Participant’s 409A Benefits shall be distributed in an amount equal to the amount which is included in income on account of the failure to comply with Code Section 409A.

 

5.11 General Restriction on Distribution and Acceleration of Payment . Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, a Participant’s 409A Benefits shall not be distributed earlier than the time permitted under Code Section 409A. Consistent with Code Section 409A, this Plan provides that distribution shall not be made before the earliest of Termination of Employment, death or Disability, and imposes a restriction on distribution made on account of Termination of Employment by which no distribution is made until the (6) month anniversary of the Termination of Employment.

 

B-9


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE VI

RIGHTS OF PARTICIPANTS

 

6.1 Creditor Status of Participants . The Supplemental Matching Contributions and Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions credited to a Participant shall be merely an unfunded, unsecured promise of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed) to make benefit payments in the future and shall be liabilities solely against the general assets of such Ferro Group Company. Except as provided in Section 6.6, Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies shall not be required to segregate, set aside or escrow the Supplemental Matching Contributions, Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions nor any earnings, gains and losses credited thereon. With respect to amounts credited to any Account hereunder and any benefits payable hereunder, a Participant and Beneficiary will have the status of general unsecured creditors of the Ferro Group Company (by which the Participant is employed), and may look only to that Ferro Group Company and its general assets for payment of the Account.

 

6.2 Rights with Respect to the Trust . Any trust, and any assets held thereby to assist Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company in meeting its obligations under this Plan, will in no way be deemed to controvert the provisions of Section 6.1 above.

 

6.3 Investments . In Ferro’s sole discretion, the Ferro Group Companies may acquire insurance policies, annuities or other financial vehicles for the purpose of providing future assets of the Ferro Group Companies to meet their anticipated liabilities under this Plan. Such policies, annuities or other investments, shall at all times be and remain unrestricted general property and assets of the Ferro Group Companies or property of a trust established pursuant to Article VII of this Plan. Participants and Beneficiaries will have no rights, other than as general creditors, with respect to any such policies, annuities or other acquired assets.

 

6.4 Method for Crediting Investment Return . The Ferro Group Company by which the Participant is employed will maintain a separate Account for the Participant. A Participant’s Account is deemed to be invested as follows.

 

  (A) Post-2000 Contributions . The Supplemental Matching and Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions credited to a Participant’s Account after December 31, 2000 will be deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock as of the date the contributions are credited under the Plan. The Account will be deemed to receive all dividends (whether in stock or cash) and stock splits which would be received if the Account was actually invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock, and such dividends and stock splits will be deemed to be reinvested in shares of Ferro Common Stock as of the date of their receipt. Each investment in Ferro Common Stock will be deemed to be made at the closing sale price of Ferro Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Tape (as reported in The Wall Street Journal) on the trading day of the deemed investment.

 

  (B)

Pre-2001 Contributions . Only Supplemental Matching Contributions were credited under the Plan prior to 2001. The Supplemental Matching Contributions credited to a Participant’s Account prior to 2001 will be deemed to be invested as of the date the contributions are credited under the Plan in a cash

 

B-10


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  account with a rate of return determined by Ferro. Prior to the beginning of each Plan Year, Ferro will determine the rate of investment credit for the following Plan Year. The prior provisions notwithstanding, the Participant was entitled to elect in writing, during the special election period provided in 2001, for all or a portion of such pre-2001 Supplemental Matching Contributions to be deemed to instead be invested in Ferro Common Stock. Under any such election, the Supplemental Matching Contributions designated by the Participant to be deemed invested in shares of Ferro Common Stock will be deemed invested as of the date the contributions were credited under the Plan, and otherwise will be valued and credited with dividends and stock splits, in the same manner as described in Section 6.4(A) above.

 

  (C) Periodic Adjustment of Accounts . As of each Valuation Date, the Participant’s Account will be adjusted to reflect earnings and losses on the deemed investments. To the extent the Account is deemed to be invested in Ferro Common Stock, it will be credited as of each Valuation Date with hypothetical appreciation and depreciation and earnings, as computed and determined by the Administrator based on the value of Ferro Common Stock and its dividends, etc., as provided in Section 6.4(A) above. To the extent the Participant’s Account is deemed to be invested in the cash account, it will be credited as of each Valuation Date with hypothetical earnings, as computed and determined by the Administrator using a rate of interest equal to that determined by Ferro prior to the beginning of the Plan Year as provided in Section 6.4(B) above. The Administrator will provide each Participant with a statement showing the balance credited to the Participant’s Account as of the last day of the preceding Plan Year, and at such other times as the Administrator may elect.

 

  (D) Investment Election Changes . Effective July 1, 2004, a Participant may elect to change the deemed investment of all or a portion of the Participant’s Account from a deemed investment in Ferro Common Stock to a deemed investment in the cash account (as described in Section 6.4(A) and (B) above), and vice versa. As of the effective date of a Participant’s investment election change, the Participant’s Account will be valued and adjusted in accordance with the procedures set forth in the preceding paragraph (C) to reflect the new deemed investment(s). Further, the Participant may elect to change the initial investment of all or a portion of the Participant’s future Supplemental Matching Contributions or future Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions, or both. Any investment election change by a Participant must be made in accordance with, and will be effective as provided in, procedures established by the Plan Administrator. Notwithstanding any provision of this Section to the contrary,

 

  (1) any Participant who is subject to Ferro Common Stock ownership requirements must satisfy those requirements both before and after any change in the deemed investment of the Participant’s Account or of future Supplemental Matching or Basic Pension Contributions, and

 

  (2)

no Participant may elect to change the deemed investment of any portion of the Participant’s Account or of future Supplemental Matching or Basic Pension Contributions if the change is prohibited by law or if any liability would result to the Participant or any Ferro Group Company.

 

B-11


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  Unless and until the Participant elects to change or to direct the investment of the Participant’s Account or future Supplemental Matching or Basic Pension Contributions pursuant to this Section 6.4(D), those amounts will be deemed to be invested as provided in Section 6.4(A) and (B) above.

 

  (E) Rate of Return of Cash Account . Effective January 1, 2006, notwithstanding any provision of Section 6.4 to the contrary, amounts credited to a cash account under the Plan will be deemed to earn interest at a fixed quarterly percentage, which interest rate shall equal three percent (3%) above the 10-Year Constant Maturity Rate issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for the last month of the preceding calendar quarter, provided that Ferro determines that such rate is reasonable at the time it is established. In the event Ferro determines that such rate is not reasonable at the time it is established, Ferro shall instead establish a lesser fixed quarterly percentage.

 

6.5 Bookkeeping Account Only . A Participant’s Account is solely for the purpose of measuring the amounts to be paid under this Plan. The Ferro Group Companies will not fund or secure, and will not be permitted to fund or secure, the Account in any way, and the Ferro Group Companies’ obligation to the Participants under this Plan is solely contractual.

ARTICLE VII

TRUST

 

7.1 Establishment of Trust . Notwithstanding any other provision or interpretation of this Plan, Ferro may establish a Trust in which to hold cash, insurance policies or other assets that may be used to make, or reimburse Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for, payments to the Participants or Beneficiaries of all or part of the benefits under this Plan. Any Trust assets shall at all times remain subject to the claims of the general creditors of Ferro or the Ferro Group Company in the event of the insolvency of Ferro or the Ferro Group Company as more fully described in the Trust.

 

7.2 Obligation of the Ferro Group Companies . Notwithstanding the fact that a Trust may be established under Section 7.1, the Ferro Group Companies will remain liable for paying the benefits under this Plan. However, any payment of benefits to a Participant or Beneficiary made by a Trust will satisfy the appropriate Ferro Group Company’s obligation to make payment to such person under this Plan.

 

7.3 Trust Terms . A Trust established under Section 7.1 may contain any terms as Ferro may determine to be necessary or desirable; provided, however, that, no terms shall provide for or permit funding that would result in income inclusion under Code Section 409A(b) including, but not limited to, terms that allow for the transfer or set aside of assets offshore in a Trust, or which provide for assets to become restricted to the provision of benefits in connection with a change in the financial health of Ferro and Affiliates, and any terms which so provide shall be deemed null and void. Consistent with the foregoing, Ferro may terminate or amend a Trust established under Section 7.1 at any time, and in any manner it deems necessary or desirable, subject to the terms of any agreement under which any Trust is established or maintained.

 

B-12


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE VIII

ADMINISTRATION AND CLAIMS PROCEDURE

 

8.1 Administrator . The Administrator will be Ferro, acting by and through Ferro’s Corporate Human Resources Department, unless the Board of Directors, acting itself or through an appropriate committee designates otherwise.

 

8.2 General Rights, Powers, and Duties of Administrator . The Administrator will be the Plan administrator under ERISA. The Administrator will be responsible for the general administration of this Plan and will have all powers as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Plan and may, from time to time, establish rules for the administration of this Plan and the transaction of this Plan’s business. In addition to any powers, rights and duties set forth elsewhere in this Plan, it will have the following powers and duties:

 

  (A) To enact rules, regulations, and procedures and to prescribe the use of such forms as it deems advisable;

 

  (B) To appoint or employ agents, attorneys, actuaries, accountants, assistants or other persons (who may also be Participants in this Plan or be employed by or represent a Ferro Group Company) at the expense of the Ferro Group Companies, as it deems necessary to keep its records or to assist it in taking any other action authorized or required under this Plan;

 

  (C) To interpret this Plan, and to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan and resolve all questions arising under this Plan;

 

  (D) To administer this Plan in accordance with its terms and any rules and regulations it establishes; and

 

  (E) To maintain records concerning this Plan as it deems sufficient to prepare reports, returns and other information required by this Plan or by law; and

 

  (F) To direct a Ferro Group Company to pay benefits under this Plan and to give other directions and instructions as may be necessary for the proper administration of this Plan.

Any decision, interpretation or other action made or taken by the Administrator arising out of or in connection with this Plan, will be within the absolute discretion of the Administrator, and will be final, binding and conclusive on Ferro, all other Ferro Group Companies, and all Participants and Beneficiaries and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns. Except as may be required for compliance with Code Section 409A, the Administrator’s determinations under this Plan need not be uniform, and may be made selectively among Participants, whether or not they are similarly situated.

 

B-13


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

8.3 Information to Be Furnished to the Administrator . A Ferro Group Company will furnish the Administrator with such data and information as it may reasonably require. The records of a Ferro Group Company will be determinative of each Participant’s period of employment, termination of employment, personal data, Compensation, and data regarding the contributions made for or on behalf of the Participant under the Ferro SSOP. Participants and their Beneficiaries will furnish to the Administrator such evidence, data or information and execute such documents as the Administrator requests.

 

8.4 Claim for Benefits . A Participant or Beneficiary must make a claim for payment under this Plan in writing to the Administrator in the manner prescribed by the Administrator as soon as administratively practicable following the distribution event. The Administrator will process each claim and determine entitlement to benefits within 90 days after the Administrator receives a completed application for benefits (or within such shorter period as may be required to ensure that payment is made by the Time Required by Law). If the Administrator needs an extension of time for processing because calculation of the benefit amount is not administratively practicable, then the Administrator will notify the claimant before the end of the initial period. The extension notice will indicate the special circumstances requiring an extension of time and the date as of which the Administrator expects to render the final decision. In no event will such an extension exceed 90 days from the end of the initial period.

 

8.5 Denial of Benefit . If a claim is wholly or partially denied by the Administrator, then the Administrator will notify the claimant of the denial of the claim in a writing delivered in person or mailed by first class mail to the claimant’s last known address. The notice of denial will contain:

 

  (A) the specific reason or reasons for denial of the claim;

 

  (B) a reference to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the denial is based;

 

  (C) a description of any additional material or information necessary for the claimant to perfect the claim, together with an explanation of why the material or information is necessary; and

 

  (D) an explanation of this Plan’s claim review procedure.

If no notice is provided, the claim will be deemed denied. The interpretations, determinations and decisions of the Administrator will be final and binding upon all persons with respect to any right, benefit and privilege hereunder, subject to the review procedures set forth in this Article.

 

8.6 Request for Review of a Denial of a Claim for Benefits . Any claimant or any authorized representative of the claimant whose claim for benefits under this Plan has been denied or deemed denied, in whole or in part, may upon written notice to the Appeals Committee request a review by the Appeals Committee of the denial of the claim. The claimant will have 60 days from the date the claim is deemed denied or 60 days from receipt of the notice denying the claim, as the case may be, in which to request a review by written application delivered to the Appeals Committee, which must specify the relief requested and the reason such claimant believes the denial should be reversed.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

8.7 Appeals Procedure . The Appeals Committee will review the facts and relevant documents including this Plan, and interpret the facts and relevant documents including this Plan to render a decision on the claim. The review may be of written briefs submitted by the claimant, or at a hearing, or by both, as deemed necessary or appropriate by the Appeals Committee. Any hearing will be held in the main office of Ferro, or such other location as the Appeals Committee may select, on the date and at the time as the Appeals Committee designates by giving at least 15-days’ notice to the claimant, unless the claimant accepts shorter notice. The notice will specify that the claimant must indicate in writing, at least five days in advance of the hearing, the claimant’s intention to appear at the appointed time and place, or the hearing will be automatically cancelled. The reply will specify any other persons who will accompany the claimant to the hearing, or such other persons will not be admitted to the hearing. The Appeals Committee will make every effort to schedule the hearing on a day and at a time that is convenient to both the claimant and the Appeals Committee. The claimant, or his duly authorized representative, may review all pertinent documents relating to the claim in preparation for the hearing and may submit issues and comments in writing before or during the hearing.

 

8.8 Decision Upon Review of Denial of Claim for Benefits . In making its decision, the Appeals Committee will have full power and discretion to interpret this Plan, to resolve ambiguities, inconsistencies and omissions, to determine any question of fact, and to determine the right to benefits of, and the amount of benefits, if any, payable to, any person in accordance with the provisions of this Plan. The Appeals Committee will render a decision on the claim reviewed no more than 60 days after the receipt of the claimant’s request for review, unless special circumstances (such as the need to hold a hearing) require an extension of time, in which case the 60-day period may be extended up to 120 days. The Appeals Committee will provide written notice of its decision to the claimant within the time frame specified. The notice will include the specific reasons for the decision and contain specific references to the relevant Plan provisions upon which the decision is based. If notice of the decision is not provided within the time frame specified, the claim will be deemed denied on review. The decision of the Appeals Committee will be final and binding in all respects on the Administrator, the Ferro Group Company and claimant involved.

 

8.9

Establishment of Appeals Committee . In the absence of an affirmative appointment otherwise by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to this Section, the Ferro Corporation Retirement Committee shall serve as the Appeals Committee. The Chief Executive Officer of Ferro will appoint three or more persons to serve as members of the Appeals Committee. The Chief Executive Officer may appoint one Appeals Committee to hear all appeals of denied benefits that arise under this Plan, or may appoint a new Appeals Committee each time an Appeals Committee is needed to hear an appeal of denied benefits that arises under this Plan. The members of the Appeals Committee will remain in office at the will of the Chief Executive Officer, and the Chief Executive Officer may remove any of the members with or without cause. A member of the Appeals Committee may resign upon written notice to the remaining member or members of the Appeals Committee and to the Chief Executive Officer, respectively. The fact that a person is a Participant or a former Participant or a prospective Participant will not disqualify that person from acting as a member of the Appeals Committee. No member of the Appeals Committee will be disqualified from acting on any question because of the member’s interest in the question, except that no member of the Appeals Committee may act on any claim which the

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  member has brought as a Participant, former Participant, or Beneficiary under this Plan. In case of the death, resignation or removal of any member of the Appeals Committee, the remaining members will act until a successor-member is appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. At the Administrator’s request, the Chief Executive Officer will notify the Administrator in writing of the names of the members of the Appeals Committee, of any and all changes in the membership of the Appeals Committee, of the member designated as Chairman, and the member designated as Secretary, and of any changes in either office. Until notified of a change, the Administrator will be protected in assuming that there has been no change in the membership of the Appeals Committee or the designation of Chairman or of Secretary since the last notification was filed with it. The Administrator will be under no obligation at any time to inquire into the membership of the Appeals Committee or its officers. All communications to the Appeals Committee will be addressed to its Secretary at the address of the Company.

 

8.10 Operation of the Appeals Committee . On all matters and questions, the decision of a majority of the members of the Appeals Committee will govern and control. A meeting need not be called or held to make any decision. The Appeals Committee will appoint one of its members to act as its Chairman and another member to act as Secretary. The terms of office of these members will be determined by the Appeals Committee, and the Secretary and/or Chairman may be removed by the other members of the Appeals Committee for any reason which such other members may deem just and proper. The Secretary will do all things directed by the Appeals Committee. Although the Appeals Committee will act by decision of a majority of its members as provided above, in the absence of written notice to the contrary, every person may deal with the Secretary and consider the Secretary’s acts as having been authorized by the Appeals Committee. Any notice served or demand made on the Secretary will be deemed to have been served or made upon the Appeals Committee.

 

8.11 Limitation of Duties . Ferro, the other Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, and their respective officers, members, employees and agents will have no duty or responsibility under this Plan other than the duties and responsibilities expressly assigned or delegated to them pursuant to this Plan. None of them will have any duty or responsibility with respect to those duties or responsibilities assigned or delegated to another.

 

8.12 Agents . The Administrator and the Appeals Committee may hire any attorneys, accountants, actuaries, agents, clerks, and secretaries as it may deem desirable in the performance of its duties, any of whom may also be advisors to any Ferro Group Company or any subsidiary or affiliated company.

 

8.13 Expenses of Administration . No fee or compensation will be paid to the Administrator or any member of the Appeals Committee for their performance of services as such. Ferro will bear all other expenses incurred in the administration of this Plan except to the extent Ferro determines that the expenses are allocable to, and should be paid by, one or more of the Ferro Group Companies.

 

8.14

Indemnification . In addition to whatever rights of indemnification any member or employee of the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, Ferro or other Ferro Group Company under this Plan may be entitled to under the articles of incorporation, regulations or bylaws of the Ferro Group Companies, under any provision of law or

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

  under any other agreement, the Ferro Group Companies will satisfy any liability actually incurred by any member or employee including reasonable expenses and attorneys’ fees, and any judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement, in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding which is related to the exercise or failure to exercise by any member or employee any powers, authority, responsibilities or discretion provided under this Plan or reasonably believed by a member or employee to be provided under this Plan, and any action taken by a member or employee in connection with such exercise or failure to exercise. This indemnification for all such acts taken or omitted is intentionally broad, but will not provide indemnification for embezzlement or diversion of Plan funds for the benefit of any member or employee. This indemnification will not be provided for any claim by a Ferro Group Company or a subsidiary or affiliated company thereof against any member or employee. No indemnification will be provided to any person who is not an individual.

 

8.15 Limitation of Administrative Liability . Neither Ferro, any Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, the Appeals Committee, nor any of their members or employees will be liable for any act taken by such person or entity pursuant to any provision of this Plan except for gross abuse of the discretion given them under this Plan. No member of the Administrator or Appeals Committee will be liable for the act of any other member. No member of the Board of Directors will be liable to any person for any action taken or omitted in connection with the administration of this Plan.

 

8.16 Limitation of Sponsor Liability . Any right or authority exercisable by Ferro or Board of Directors pursuant to any provision of this Plan will be exercised in Ferro’s capacity as sponsor of this Plan, or on behalf of Ferro in such capacity, and not in a fiduciary capacity, and may be exercised without the approval or consent of any person in a fiduciary capacity. Neither Ferro, nor the Board of Directors, nor any of their respective officers, members, employees, agents and delegates, will have any liability to any party for its exercise of any such right or authority.

ARTICLE IX

AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

 

9.1 Amendment, Modification and Termination . Subject to Sections 9.4 and 9.5 below, this Plan may be amended, modified or terminated by Ferro at any time, or from time to time, by action of an appropriate Ferro officer authorized or ratified by the Board of Directors. No amendment, modification or termination will be effective if it reduces the amounts credited to any Participant’s Account or adversely affects the right of any Participant or Beneficiary to receive payment of the Account as provided under this Plan, determined as of the date of the amendment, unless an equivalent benefit is provided under another plan or program sponsored by the Company or an Affiliate. Furthermore, no amendment, modification or termination will be effective prior to the date permitted under Code Section 409A, which, in certain circumstances is 12 months following the adoption of such amendment, modification or termination.

The prior provisions notwithstanding, this Plan may be amended to:

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

  (A) reduce or eliminate the ability for contributions to be credited to Participants under this Plan;

 

  (B) reduce or eliminate the future deemed interest or earnings credited to the amounts held in a Participant’s Account;

 

  (C) comply with any law; or

 

  (D) preserve the intended deferral of taxation for the benefit of all Participants Accounts.

 

9.2 Effect of Amendment on Distributions . If this Plan is amended to terminate the Plan or to prohibit future contributions under the Plan, the Accounts of Participants who have not incurred a Termination of Employment will become will be 100% vested as of the date of the termination of the Plan or prohibition of future contributions under the Plan.

 

9.3 Actions Binding on Ferro Group Companies . Any amendments made to this Plan will be binding on all the Ferro Group Companies without the approval or consent of the Ferro Group Companies other than Ferro. Ferro may, by amendment, also terminate this Plan on behalf of all or any one of the other Ferro Group Companies in its sole discretion.

 

9.4 Termination or Amendment After Change in Control . If a Change in Control occurs, then, for a period of two (2) calendar years following such Change in Control, Ferro may not amend or terminate this Plan without the prior written consent of all Participants.

 

9.5 Distribution of Benefits on Plan Termination . In the event Ferro elects to amend, modify or terminate the Plan as provided under Section 9.1, no liquidation and payment of benefits shall occur as a result. The prior provisions notwithstanding, Ferro may, in its discretion, provide by amendment to the Plan for the liquidation and termination of the Plan where:

 

  (A) the termination and liquidation does not occur proximate to a downturn in the financial health of Ferro and Affiliates;

 

  (B) the Plan and all arrangements required to be aggregated with the Plan under Code Section 409A are terminated and liquidated;

 

  (C) no payments, other than those that would be payable under the terms of the Plan and the aggregated arrangements if the termination and liquidation had not occurred, are made within twelve (12) months of the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan;

 

  (D) all payments are made within twenty-four (24) months of the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan; and

 

  (D) Ferro and Affiliates does not adopt a new arrangement that would be aggregated with any terminated arrangement under Code Section 409A, at any time within three (3) years following the date of the date Ferro takes all necessary action to irrevocably terminate and liquidate the Plan.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

Similarly, Ferro may, in its discretion, provide by amendment to liquidate and terminate the Plan where the termination and liquidation occurs within twelve (12) months of a corporate dissolution taxed under Code Section 331, or with the approval of a bankruptcy court pursuant to 11 United States Code Section 503(b)(1)(A), provided that all amounts deferred under the Plan are included in the Participants’ gross incomes in the latest of the following years (or, if earlier, the taxable year in which the amount is actually or constructively received):

 

  (A) the calendar year in which the termination and liquidation occurs;

 

  (B) the first calendar year in which the amount is no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture; or

 

  (C) the first calendar year in which the payment is administratively practicable.

ARTICLE X

FERRO GROUP COMPANIES

 

10.1 List of Ferro Group Companies . The Ferro Group Companies as of the Amendment and Restatement Date are Ferro and the Affiliates of Ferro listed on Appendix B to this Plan. Ferro may from time to time add or remove Ferro Affiliates from the list of Ferro Group Companies by written action of its Chief Executive Officer. The addition or deletion will not require a formal amendment to this Plan.

 

10.2 Delegation of Authority . Ferro is fully empowered to act on behalf of itself and the other Ferro Group Companies as it may deem appropriate in maintaining this Plan and any Trust. The adoption by Ferro of any amendment to this Plan or any Trust, or the termination of this Plan or any Trust, will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the approval, adoption, ratification or confirmation by each Ferro Group Company of any amendment or termination. In addition, the appointment of or removal by Ferro of any Administrator, any trustee or other person under this Plan or any Trust will constitute and represent, without any further action on the part of any Ferro Group Company, the appointment or removal by each Ferro Group Company of such person.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

ARTICLE XI

MISCELLANEOUS

 

11.1 No Implied Rights . Neither the establishment of this Plan nor any amendment of this Plan will be construed as giving any Participant, Beneficiary or any other person any legal or equitable right unless the right is specifically provided for in this Plan or conferred by specific action of Ferro in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Plan. Except as expressly provided in this Plan, neither Ferro nor any other Ferro Group Company will be required or be liable to make any payment under this Plan.

 

11.2 No Right to Ferro Group Company Assets . Neither the Participant nor any other person will acquire by reason of this Plan any right in or title to any assets, funds or property of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company whatsoever including, without limitation, any specific funds, assets or other property which Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company, in its sole discretion, may set aside in anticipation of a liability hereunder. Any benefits which become payable under this Plan will be paid from the general assets of the appropriate Ferro Group Company. No assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be held in any way as collateral security for the fulfilling of the obligations of Ferro or the Ferro Group Companies under this Plan. No assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be pledged or otherwise restricted in order to meet the obligations of this Plan. The Participant will have only a contractual right to the amounts, if any, payable hereunder unsecured by any asset of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company. Nothing contained in this Plan constitutes a guarantee by Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company that the assets of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company will be sufficient to pay any benefit to any person.

 

11.3 No Employment Rights Created . This Plan will not be deemed to constitute a contract of employment between Ferro or any of the other Ferro Group Companies and any Participant, or to confer upon any Participant or employee the right to be retained in the service of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company for any period of time, nor shall any provision of this Plan restrict the right of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company to discharge or otherwise deal with any Participant or other employees, with or without cause. Nothing in this Plan will be construed as fixing or regulating the compensation or other benefits payable to any Participant or other employee of Ferro or any other Ferro Group Company.

 

11.4 Offset . If at the time payment is to be made under this Plan the Participant or the Beneficiary or both are indebted or obligated to a Ferro Group Company, then the payment to be made to the Participant or the Beneficiary or both may, at the discretion of the Administrator at the request of the Ferro Group Company, be reduced by the amount of the indebtedness or obligation, but only if:

 

  (A) such debt is incurred in the ordinary course of the service relationship between the Participant and the Ferro Group Company,

 

  (B) in any taxable year of Ferro and Affiliates the entire amount of reduction does not exceed $5,000, and

 

  (C) the reduction is made at the same time and in the same amount as the debt otherwise would have been due and collected from the Participant.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

An election by the Ferro Group Company not to request any reduction will not constitute a waiver of the Ferro Group Company’s claim for such indebtedness or obligation.

 

11.5 No Assignment . Neither the Participant nor any other person will have any voluntary or involuntary right to commute, sell, assign, pledge, anticipate, mortgage or otherwise encumber, transfer, hypothecate or convey, in advance of actual receipt of the amount, if any, payable under this Plan, or any part of the amount payable from this Plan, and any attempt to do so will be void. All benefits or amounts credited to Accounts under this Plan are expressly declared to be unassignable and non-transferable. No part of the benefits or amounts credited to Accounts under this Plan will be, before actual payment, subject to seizure or sequestration for the payment of any debts, judgments, alimony or separate maintenance owed by the Participant or any other person, or be transferable by operation of law in the event of the Participant’s or any other person’s bankruptcy or insolvency.

 

11.6 Notice . Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Plan will be sufficient if in writing and hand delivered, or sent by registered or certified mail or by overnight delivery service, and:

 

  (A) if given to a Ferro Group Company, delivered to the principal office of Ferro, directed to the attention of the General Counsel; or

 

  (B) if given to a Participant or Beneficiary, delivered to the last post office address as shown on the Ferro Group Company’s or the Administrator’s records.

Notice will be deemed given as of the date of delivery or, if delivery is made by mail, as of the date shown on the postmark or the receipt for registration or certification.

 

11.7 Governing Laws . This Plan will be construed and administered according to the internal substantive laws of the State of Ohio to the extent not preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

 

11.8 Incapacity . If the Administrator determines that any Participant or Beneficiary entitled to payment under this Plan is a minor, a person declared incompetent or a person incapable of handling his or her property, the Administrator may direct any payment to the guardian, legal representative or person having the care and custody of the minor, incompetent or incapable person. The Administrator may require proof of minority, incompetence, incapacity or guardianship, as it may deem appropriate before making any payment. The Administrator will have no obligation thereafter to monitor or follow the application of amounts so paid. Payments made pursuant to this Section will completely discharge this Plan, any Trust, the Administrator, Ferro and all other Ferro Group Companies with respect to the payments.

 

11.9 Court Ordered Distributions . If a court issues a domestic relations order as defined in Code Section 414(p)(1)(B) by which a spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent of a Participant is provided an interest in the Participant’s Account under this Plan in connection with a property settlement or otherwise, the Administrator shall, notwithstanding any election made by the Participant or the Participant’s eligibility for distribution, distribute the spouse’s or former spouse’s or dependent’s or former dependent’s interest in the Participant’s Account under this Plan to that spouse or former spouse or dependent or former dependent, as provided under such domestic relations order.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

11.10 Administrative Forms . All applications, elections and designations in connection with this Plan made by a Participant or Beneficiary will become effective only when duly executed on forms provided by the Administrator and filed with the Administrator.

 

11.11 Independence of Plan . Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Plan will be independent of, and in addition to, any other employee benefit agreement or plan or any rights that may exist from time to time under any other agreement or plan.

 

11.12 Responsibility for Legal Effect . Neither Ferro, any other Ferro Group Company, the Administrator, nor any officer, member, delegate or agent of any of them, makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, or assumes any responsibility concerning the legal, tax, or other implications or effects of this Plan.

 

11.13 Successors . The terms and conditions of this Plan will inure to the benefit of and bind Ferro, the Ferro Group Companies, the Administrator and its members, the Participants, their Beneficiaries, and the successors, assigns, and personal representatives of any of them.

 

11.14 Headings and Titles . The Section headings and titles of Articles used in this Plan are for convenience of reference only and are not to be considered in construing this Plan.

 

11.15 Appendices . The Appendices to this Plan constitute an integral part of this Plan and are hereby incorporated into this Plan by this reference.

 

11.16 Severability . If any provision or term of this Plan, or any agreement or instrument required by the Administrator, is determined by a judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative body to be void or not enforceable for any reason, all other provisions or terms of this Plan or the agreement or instrument will remain in full force and effect and will be enforceable as if the void or nonenforceable provision or term had never been a part of this Plan, or the agreement or instrument.

 

11.17 Actions by Ferro . Except as otherwise provided in this Plan, all actions of Ferro under this Plan will be taken by the Board of Directors, and be evidenced in a writing executed by an appropriate officer duly authorized.

 

11.18 Spousal Consent and Release . If, in the opinion of Ferro, any present, former or future spouse of an employee entitled to benefits from this Plan shall by reason of law appear to have any interest in the Plan benefits that may be or become payable hereunder to such employee, Ferro may as a condition precedent to the making of a benefit payment hereunder, require such written consent or release as in its discretion it shall determine to be necessary, desirable or appropriate either to prevent or avoid any conflict or multiplicity of claims, or to protect the rights of any such present, former or future spouse with respect to the payment of any benefits under this Plan.

 

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Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

 

 

11.19 Overpayments and Repayments . Benefits are provided only as set forth under the terms of this Plan. Payments at a time or in an amount other than as set forth under the terms of the Plan are not authorized, and Ferro will take all reasonable steps to ensure that the amount and timing of benefit payments are in accordance with the Plan’s terms. In the event Ferro determines that the benefits actually paid under this Plan to a Participant, beneficiary or other person exceed the benefits that were properly payable, or were paid prior to the proper time for payment, Ferro shall immediately demand repayment of such excess amounts. The Participant, Beneficiary or other person is obligated to return such excess amounts upon demand from Ferro. In the event the Participant, beneficiary or other person fails to return the excess amounts, Ferro shall exercise any available legal remedies which are consistent with the terms and purpose of the Plan.

 

11.20 References to Sections of Law . References herein to the Code are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provision of subsequent federal law. References herein to ERISA are to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as heretofore and hereafter amended, and to similar provisions of subsequent law.

 

B-23


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix A

 

D EFINITIONS

For purposes of this Plan, the following terms have the meanings set forth below where used in this Plan and identified with initial capital letters:

 

Term    Meaning

Account

   For each Participant the bookkeeping account maintained by Ferro to reflect the Participant’s Supplemental Matching Contributions, Supplemental Basic Pension Contributions, and the deemed investment return on those amounts. A Participant’s Account will not constitute nor be treated as a trust fund of any kind.

Administrator

   As defined in Section 8.1 of this Plan.

Affiliate

   Any corporation or business entity during any period during which it would be treated, together with the Company, as a single employer for purposes of Code Section 414(b) or (c).

Amendment and

Restatement Date

   January 1, 2005.

Beneficial Owner

   “Beneficial owner” within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act.

Beneficiary

   As defined in Section 5.6 of this Plan.

Board of Directors

   Ferro’s Board of Directors.

Change in Control

   A change in the control of Ferro that is required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act. For purposes of this definition, a Change in Control will be deemed to have occurred if and when:
  

(a)    any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d)(3) and 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of Ferro representing twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the combined voting power of Ferro’s outstanding voting securities; or

  

(b)    during any period of two consecutive years, the individuals set forth below in sub-paragraph (1) and (2) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors:

 

B-24


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

(1)    the individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors, and

  

(2)    any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement or arrangement with Ferro to effect a transaction described in clause (a) or (c) of this definition) whose appointment, election, or nomination for election by Ferro’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose appointment, election or nomination for election was previously so approved; or

  

(c)    a merger or consolidation of Ferro or one of its subsidiaries is consummated with or into any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the holders of the voting securities of Ferro outstanding immediately prior thereto holding securities which represent immediately after such merger or consolidation more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of either Ferro or the other entity which survives such merger or consolidation or the parent of the entity which survives such merger or consolidation; or

  

(d)    a sale or disposition by Ferro of all or substantially all Ferro’s assets is consummated.

Code    The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any lawful regulations or other pronouncements promulgated under that Code.
Compensation    “Compensation” as defined under the Ferro SSOP, but increased to include amounts deferred under the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees and decreased to exclude the awards paid under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan (except that the cash portion of awards paid prior to January 1, 2007 are included for purposes of determining Supplemental Matching Contributions), and without regard to any provisions of the Code which limit the amount of such compensation that can be taken into account for purposes of determining contributions or benefits.

 

B-25


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix A

 

Term    Meaning
   Specifically, as of the Amendment and Restatement Date, Compensation under this Plan means compensation (as defined in Section 415(c)(3) of the Code) paid by a Ferro Group Company to or on behalf of a Participant while a Participant in the Ferro SSOP during a Plan Year, including all wages and salary, commissions, bonuses, accrued vacation pay, 401(k) Contributions contributed under the Ferro SSOP, elective employer contributions made on behalf of the Participant that are not includible in gross income under Section 125, 129, 132(f), 402(e)(3), 402(h)(1)(B), 403 and 457 of the Code, and deferred amounts under the Ferro Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Executive Employees, but excluding relocation expense reimbursements (including mortgage interest differentials) or other expense allowances or fringe benefits which are paid with respect to a period following termination of employment, automobile allowance income, foreign service premiums, awards paid under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan, and any other extraordinary income, allowance, and welfare benefits. The prior sentence notwithstanding, the cash portion of awards paid prior to January 1, 2007 under Ferro’s Performance Share Plan will be included in Compensation for purposes of determining a Participant’s Supplemental Matching Contribution. The foregoing definition was effective June 30, 2004.
Disability    Any disability that qualifies a Participant for payment of benefits under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability program, provided that the definition of disability provided under such long-term disability program meets one of the following requirements:
  

(a)    The Participant is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months; or

 

B-26


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

(b)    The Participant is, by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, receiving income replacement benefits for a period of not less than three months under an accident and health plan covering employees of a Ferro Company Group.

   The determination of whether a Participant suffers a Total and Permanent Disability will be made by the Administrator.

ERISA

   The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.

Exchange Act

   The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any lawful regulations or pronouncements issued under that Act.

Ferro

   As defined in Section 1.2 of this Plan. Such term also includes any successor corporation or business organization that subsequently assumes Ferro’s duties and obligations under this Plan.

Ferro Common Stock

   The Common Stock of Ferro, par value $1.00 per share.

Ferro Group Companies

   As defined in Section 10.1 of this Plan.

Ferro SSOP

   Ferro’s Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, as the same may be amended from time to time.

401(k) Contributions

   Pre-tax contributions made to the Ferro SSOP pursuant to Code Section 401(k).

409A Benefits

   All benefits under the Plan which are not Pre-2005 Benefits (generally, amounts which are earned or vested under the Plan after December 31, 2004, plus any earnings with respect to such amounts or to such earnings).

2005 Plan

   The provisions of the Plan as set forth in Part B, which govern 409A Benefits.

Pre-2005 Benefits

   All benefits under the Plan that were earned and vested under the Plan as of December 31, 2004, plus any earnings with respect to such amounts or to such earnings.

 

B-27


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix A

 

Term    Meaning

Pre-2005 Plan

   The provisions of the Plan set forth in Part A, which govern Pre-2005 Benefits.

Highly Compensated Employee

   An employee of a Ferro Group Company who is in Salary Grade 22 or higher and for whom contributions under the Ferro SSOP are limited due to the provisions of Section 401(a)(17), 401(k), 401(m), 402(g) or 415 of the Code.

Participant

   A Highly Compensated Employee of a Ferro Group Company who becomes a Participant pursuant to Section 3.2 of this Plan. A Participant will cease to be a Participant, and shall become a former Participant, upon the earliest of the following:
  

(a)    Termination of Employment,

  

(b)    the date the employee ceases to be a Highly Compensated Employee, or

  

(c)    the date the employee’s participation in this Plan is terminated by the Administrator pursuant to Section 5.7 of this Plan or otherwise.

Person

   A “person” as defined under Section 3(a)(9) of the Exchange Act as modified and used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, excluding:
  

(a)    Ferro or any of its subsidiaries;

  

(b)    a trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company (or of any of its affiliates as defined under Rule 12b-2 under Section 12 of the Exchange Act);

  

(c)    an underwriter temporarily holding securities pursuant to an offering of such securities; or

  

(d)    a corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the shareholders of Ferro in substantially the same proportion as their ownership of the stock of Ferro.

Plan

   The Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan for Executives, or a component plan, as appropriate.

Plan Year

   The calendar year.

 

B-28


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix A

 

Term    Meaning

Termination of Employment

   Effective Prior to January 1, 2008: A Participant’s cessation of service with Ferro and the other Ferro Group Companies, including subsidiaries and affiliates of the foregoing, for any reason whatsoever, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, including by reason of retirement, death, or becoming Totally and Permanently Disabled. Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of triggering payment under Section 5.1, only such cessation of service which constitutes a “separation from service” under Code Section 409A shall constitute a Termination of Employment.
   Effective January 1, 2008: With respect to any Participant:
  

(a)     the separation from service within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, of such Participant with the Company and all of its Affiliates, for any reason, including without limitation, quit, discharge, or retirement, or a leave of absence (including military leave, sick leave, or other bona fide leave of absence such as temporary employment by the government if the period of such leave exceeds the greater of six months, or the period for which the Participant’s right to reemployment is provided either by statute or by contract), or

  

(b)     a permanent decrease in the level of the Participant‘s service to a level that is no more than twenty percent (20%) of its prior level. For this purpose, whether a Termination of Employment has occurred is determined based on whether it is reasonably anticipated that no further services will be performed by the Participant after a certain date or that the level of bona fide services the Participant will perform after such date (whether as an employee or as an independent contractor) would permanently decrease to no more than twenty percent (20%) of the average level of bona fide services performed (whether as an employee or an independent contractor) over the immediately preceding 36-month period (or the full period of services if the Participant has been providing services less than 36 months).

 

B-29


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix A

 

Term    Meaning

Time Required by Law

   The date designated for payment under the terms of the Plan or a later date in the same calendar year or, if later, the fifteenth (15th) day of the third calendar month following the date designated for payment. (However, if the Participant’s taxable year is not the calendar year, the date designated for payment under the terms of the Plan or a later date in the Participant’s taxable year or, if later, the fifteenth (15th) day of the third calendar month following the date designated for payment.)
   If calculation of the amount of the benefit is not administratively practicable due to events beyond the control of the Participant (or the Participant’s Beneficiary), any date within the first taxable year of the Participant in which calculation of the payment is administratively practicable.
   If making the payment on the date designated under the terms of the Plan would jeopardize the ability of Ferro and Affiliates to continue as a going concern, the first taxable year of the Participant in which making the payment would not have such effect.
   If there is a delay in payment by the Administrator other than with the express or implied consent of the Participant, the first taxable year of the Participant in which the dispute is resolved. The dispute shall be deemed resolved on the earliest date upon which: (a) the Participant and the Administrator or Ferro enter into a legally binding settlement, (b) the Administrator or Ferro concedes that an amount is payable, or (c) the Administrator or Ferro is required to make payment pursuant to a final non-appealable judgment or other binding decision. The foregoing provisions shall apply only if, during the period of the dispute, the Participant accepts any portion of the payment the Administrator or Ferro willing to make (unless acceptance will result in relinquishment of the claim to any remaining portion), and makes prompt and reasonable good faith efforts to collect the remaining portion of the payment which meet the requirements of Code Section 409A (including the timely notice requirements).

 

B-30


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix A

 

Term    Meaning
  

In the event the payment fails to fails to comply with Federal securities laws or other laws, the earliest date at which Ferro reasonably anticipates that the making of the payment will not cause such violation.

 

In the event the payment fails to be deductible under Code Section 162(m), or meets other conditions specified by the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, such later date as may be provided under Code Section 409A.

Trust

   The trust, if any, established pursuant to Section 7.1 of this Plan.

Valuation Date

   The last day of each quarter in the Plan Year and any other date or dates Ferro, in its sole discretion, designates from time to time.
   For purposes of determining the value of a Participant’s Account for distribution, the Valuation Date is the last day of the month in which occurs the Participant’s Termination of Employment, death, or commencement of long-term disability benefits on account of a determination of Disability under a Ferro Group Company long-term disability plan.

Years of Vesting Service

   The years of vesting service with which a Participant is credited under the Ferro SSOP.

 

B-31


Part B - 2005 Plan

Effective January 1, 2005

Appeendix B

 

F ERRO G ROUP C OMPANIES

The following are the Ferro Group Companies:

Ferro Corporation

FEM Inc.

Ferro Color & Glass Corp. (formerly, Ferro Glass & Color Corporation)

Ferro International Services, Inc.

Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc.

 

B-32


E XECUTION P AGE

To evidence this amended and restated F ERRO C ORPORATION S UPPLEMENTAL D EFINED C ONTRIBUTION P LAN FOR E XECUTIVE E MPLOYEES , Ferro Corporation, as Plan sponsor, has caused this document to be executed by its duly authorized officer as of this 20th day of September, 2007.

 

F ERRO C ORPORATION
By:        
 

James C. Bays

Vice President, General Counsel

& Secretarys

 

C-1

EXHIBIT 10.40

S EPARATION A GREEMENT AND R ELEASE

This document is a S EPARATION A GREEMENT AND R ELEASE (this “Release Agreement”) and is between F ERRO C ORPORATION (“Ferro”) and James F. Kirsch (“Mr. Kirsch”).

For good and valuable consideration, and intending to be legally bound, Ferro and Mr. Kirsch hereby agree as follows:

1. T ERMINATION OF E MPLOYMENT

 

  A. Ferro has employed Mr. Kirsch since October 18, 2004.

 

  B. Mr. Kirsch and Ferro signed a confidentiality agreement (the “Confidentiality Agreement”) dated October 18, 2004.

 

  C. Ferro and Mr. Kirsch signed a Change in Control Agreement effective as of January 1, 2009 (the “Change in Control Agreement”).

 

  D. Mr. Kirsch has served as President and Chief Executive Officer for Ferro.

 

  E. Mr. Kirsch’s employment relationship with Ferro has ended as of November 12, 2012 (the “Termination Date”) and Mr. Kirsch has no other service relationships with Ferro as of that date, so the Termination Date is also the date of “separation from service” for purposes of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code.

2. N ORMAL P ACKAGE AND O THER M ATTERS

 

  A. Regardless of whether Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement, Mr. Kirsch will be paid for time worked through the Termination Date and will be entitled to receive a payment equal to the value of current year accrued but unused vacation.

 

  B. Regardless of whether Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement, Mr. Kirsch will be permitted to extend existing medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage, if any, at his own expense, consistent with federal COBRA law and any applicable state laws.

 

  C. Regardless of whether Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement, Mr. Kirsch will be entitled to exercise any stock options awarded to him by Ferro (that have vested as of the Termination Date) at any time up to and including February 12, 2013 (or until such earlier date on which such stock options expire by their terms). After February 12, 2013, Mr. Kirsch will not be entitled to exercise any further Ferro stock options. Any stock options that did not vest as of the Termination Date will be forfeited as of the Termination Date.

 

  D. Regardless of whether Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement, in accordance with the terms of Performance Share Awards and Restricted Share Awards under the 2006 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan or the 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan, any Performance Shares or Restricted Shares awarded to Mr. Kirsch that have not yet vested will be forfeited as of the Termination Date.

 

  E. Regardless of whether Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement, Mr. Kirsch’s rights with respect to any benefits payable under the Ferro Corporation Savings and Stock Ownership Plan and the Ferro Corporation Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan for Executive Employees shall be governed by the terms and conditions of such plans.

 

  F. If Mr. Kirsch does not sign this Release Agreement, he shall not be eligible to receive any payment for 2012 or 2013 under the terms of Ferro’s annual incentive plan.


3. E NHANCED P ACKAGE

In consideration of the agreements and promises made by Mr. Kirsch in this Release Agreement, Ferro is prepared to provide Mr. Kirsch with, and Mr. Kirsch hereby elects to receive, the following enhanced separation pay and benefits (the “Enhanced Package”) in addition to the benefits described in paragraph 2 above and subject to the terms and conditions of this Release Agreement:

 

  A. Severance Payments

Ferro will pay Mr. Kirsch the following:

(1) A severance payment totaling One Million Eight Hundred and Sixty Thousand Dollars ($1,860,000), which is equivalent to twenty-four (24) months of Mr. Kirsch’s current base salary; and

(2) A payment of One Million Eight Hundred and Sixty Thousand Dollars ($1,860,000), which is equivalent to two (2.0) times the annual incentive that Mr. Kirsch would have earned under Ferro’s annual incentive plan for 2012, assuming that performance had been attained at the “target” level as based on a percentage of Mr. Kirsch’s current base salary; and

(3) A pro rata payment equal to the annual incentive (if any) that Mr. Kirsch would have earned under Ferro’s annual incentive plan for 2012 if he was employed by Ferro on the last day of 2012, based on the actual level of performance attained for 2012 and prorated by multiplying this amount by a fraction, the numerator of which is equal to the number of days which have elapsed in 2012 through the Termination Date and the denominator of which is 365.

 

  B. Continuation of Benefits

To the extent that Mr. Kirsch is enrolled in Ferro’s medical, dental and/or vision plan as of the Termination Date, Mr. Kirsch and his spouse and dependents (if likewise so-enrolled as of the Termination Date) will continue to participate in those plans (whichever applicable) in accordance with the terms of such plans as they may be amended from time to time, at the same cost to Mr. Kirsch as would be incurred by similarly situated active employees (which may change from time-to-time) until (1) the date Mr. Kirsch becomes eligible for any medical, dental, or vision coverage provided by another employer or, if earlier, (2) twenty-four (24) months following the Termination Date (the parties agree that the COBRA continuation period shall not begin until after the expiration of the periods set forth herein). Mr. Kirsch’s portion of monthly premiums covering the fourth quarter of 2012 will be billed to him in such quarter. Mr. Kirsch’s portion of premiums for subsequent months will be billed to him quarterly, and he agrees to pay such invoices within 30 days of receipt if he wishes to (and remains eligible to) continue coverage.

 

  C. Outplacement Services

Ferro shall make available to Mr. Kirsch reasonable outplacement services by a firm selected by Ferro and acceptable to Mr. Kirsch, at Ferro’s expense, in an amount not to exceed $25,000, for a period lasting not longer than two (2) years after the Termination Date.

 

  D. Form and Timing of Payments

The timing of all payments to Mr. Kirsch under this Release Agreement shall be made in a manner that complies with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and shall be made as follows:

(1) The severance payments under paragraphs 3(A)(1) and 3(A)(2) shall be paid within 30 days after the first day of the seventh month following the Effective Date.


  (2) The payment described in paragraph 3(A)(3) shall be payable to Mr. Kirsch on (a) the date that currently employed executives of Ferro receive their annual incentive payment for 2012, or (b) within 30 days after the first day of the seventh month following the Effective Date, whichever occurs later.

 

  (3) No payment of any kind that would be considered deferred compensation subject to Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code shall be payable to Mr. Kirsch before the first day of the seventh month after the Effective Date. If any portion of this Release Agreement is deemed to be inconsistent with this paragraph 3(D)(3), then this paragraph 3(D)(3) shall prevail.

4. C ONFIDENTIALITY , N ONDISPARAGEMENT , N ONCOMPETITION , AND N ONSOLICITATION

In consideration of the Enhanced Package, Mr. Kirsch promises that:

 

  A. For the period beginning on the date Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement and ending twenty-four (24) months later, Mr. Kirsch will not use or disclose to any persons any proprietary or confidential business information or trade secrets concerning Ferro or any of its affiliated companies (including all subsidiaries), obtained or which came to Mr. Kirsch’s attention during the course of his employment with Ferro.

 

  B. For the period beginning on the date Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement and ending twenty-four (24) months later, Mr. Kirsch will not make any statements or disclose any information concerning Ferro, its directors, officers, management, staff, employees, representatives, or agents (collectively, “Ferro or its management”), which are likely to disparage Ferro or its management, which are likely to damage the reputation or business prospects of Ferro or its management, or which are likely to interfere in any way with the business relations Ferro has with its customers (including potential customers), suppliers, alliance partners, employees, investors, or shareholders.

 

  C. For the period beginning on the date Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement and ending twenty-four (24) months later, Mr. Kirsch will not, directly or indirectly, engage in, or assist or have an ownership interest in, or act as an employee, agent, advisor or consultant of, for, or to any person, firm, partnership, corporation or other entity that is engaged in, the manufacture or sale of products that compete with Ferro’s products or any products which are logical extensions, on a manufacturing or technological basis, of Ferro’s products.

 

  D. For the period beginning on the date Mr. Kirsch signs this Release Agreement and ending twenty-four (24) months later, Mr. Kirsch will not, directly or indirectly, attempt in any way to induce any employee of Ferro or any customer of Ferro to cease employment or cease doing business with Ferro or to commence employment or commence business relations with any competitor of Ferro; and, during the same period, Mr. Kirsch shall not hire or in any way support or encourage or authorize the hire of any then-current Ferro employee at any place of employment other than Ferro.

 

  E. Mr. Kirsch represents and warrants that, from the Termination Date through the date he signed this Release Agreement, he has not engaged in any activity inconsistent with the requirements of paragraph 4.

In addition, Mr. Kirsch hereby reaffirms the commitments made to Ferro in the Confidentiality Agreement, which are in no way diminished or overridden by the restrictions set forth in this paragraph 4. This paragraph 4 is not intended to reduce any of the obligations that the law may impose on former employees, such as any legal obligation not to disclose trade secrets or other types of confidential information.

5. W AIVER

Mr. Kirsch acknowledges that Ferro is providing the Enhanced Package in lieu of all other benefits to which he is or may be entitled arising out of his termination of employment. Mr. Kirsch hereby waives any and all rights to any other severance benefits offered to Ferro employees and any other right or benefit under any


agreement, understanding, or promise, whether written or oral, between Mr. Kirsch and Ferro (or any of the Released Parties, as defined below). This waiver does not affect Mr. Kirsch’s right to continuation of coverage under Ferro’s health insurance plans at his own expense pursuant to any rights Mr. Kirsch may have under federal COBRA law or any applicable state law.

6. R ELEASE

In consideration of the Enhanced Package, Mr. Kirsch hereby releases Ferro Corporation and all of Ferro Corporation’s predecessors, successors, assigns, acquirers, parents, direct and indirect subsidiaries, affiliates, and all such entities’ officers, directors, agents, representatives, partners, shareholders, fiduciaries, insurers, attorneys, and employees (both current and former) (all released entities are collectively referred to as the “Released Parties”) from any and all claims, demands, actions, causes of action, suits, damages, losses, costs, interest, attorneys’ fees, and expenses, known or unknown, which Mr. Kirsch has or may claim to have against any of the foregoing arising from or relating to his employment or termination of employment with Ferro.

Mr. Kirsch acknowledges that the foregoing release includes (but is not limited to) all claims arising under federal, state, or local law in the United States prohibiting employment discrimination or retaliation, including, without limitation, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, the Equal Pay Act, 42 U.S.C. §1981, the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act, Chapters 4112 and 4113 of the Ohio Revised Code, including all amendments to all such laws, and all claims under any other federal or state laws, local ordinances or common law and other laws restricting an employer’s right to terminate the employment relationship. Mr. Kirsch further acknowledges that such release includes (but is not limited to) any claims he may have under any internal grievance procedure at Ferro.

Mr. Kirsch agrees not to assert any such claims, demands, actions, or causes of action in any court of law or other judicial or arbitral forum.

The foregoing release does not waive rights or claims that may arise after the date this Release Agreement is executed. Mr. Kirsch agrees that he will neither seek nor accept, from any source whatsoever, any further benefit, payment, or other consideration relating to any rights or claims that have been released in this Release Agreement.

7. V OLUNTARY E LECTION

Mr. Kirsch acknowledges that:

 

  A. The only consideration being given for signing this Release Agreement is set forth herein. In exchange for signing this Release Agreement, Mr. Kirsch is being provided consideration to which he would not otherwise be entitled.

 

  B. No other promises or agreements have been made to or with Mr. Kirsch by any person or entity to induce Mr. Kirsch to sign this Release Agreement.

 

  C. Mr. Kirsch has been given twenty-one (21) calendar days to consider the effect of this Release Agreement, including the release contained above, before signing this Release Agreement. By signing below, Mr. Kirsch expressly acknowledges that he has been afforded the opportunity to take twenty-one (21) calendar days to consider this Release Agreement and that his execution of this document is with full knowledge of the consequences thereof and is of his own free will.

 

  D. Mr. Kirsch is encouraged to discuss this Release Agreement and any matters related to the termination of his employment with an attorney of his own choosing. Mr. Kirsch acknowledges that, before signing, he has had sufficient opportunity to do so.


  E. Mr. Kirsch may revoke this Release Agreement during the seven-day period beginning immediately after he signs this Release Agreement. Such revocation must be made in writing delivered to Ferro at the address listed below before the end of the seven-day period:

Ferro Corporation

6060 Parkland Boulevard

Mayfield Heights, Ohio 44124

Attention: General Counsel

The “Effective Date” of this Release Agreement will be the day after the seven-day revocation period has expired. This Release Agreement will be neither effective nor enforceable before the Effective Date. If timely revoked, all portions of this Release Agreement will be void.

8. R ETURN OF C OMPANY P ROPERTY

Mr. Kirsch represents that he has (a) returned to Ferro all company property in his possession, custody, or control, including but not limited to all paper documents, electronic documents, physical property, or other materials; and (b) deleted all copies he has of any electronic records or documents of Ferro and agrees that he will not, at any time in the future, seek to recover or permit recovery of any such deleted files unless required by law. Mr. Kirsch certifies that he has not disclosed any Ferro proprietary, confidential, or trade secret information to anyone outside of Ferro and that he will not do so. If Mr. Kirsch has any questions about the scope or applicability of this paragraph, he agrees to contact the General Counsel’s office at Ferro.

9. W ITHHOLDING

All payments and all dollar amounts referenced in this Release Agreement are described in gross, but shall be subject to withholding, deductions and contributions as required by law.

10. E XECUTIVE A VAILABILITY

After the Termination Date, Mr. Kirsch shall provide reasonable assistance and cooperation to Ferro (or its affiliates or subsidiaries) concerning business or legal related matters about which Mr. Kirsch possesses relevant knowledge or information. Such cooperation will be provided only at Ferro’s specific request and will include, but not be limited to, assisting or advising Ferro (or its subsidiaries or affiliates) with respect to any business-related matters or any actual or threatened legal action (including testifying in depositions, hearings, and/or trials). Mr. Kirsch will be reimbursed for the reasonable costs of providing assistance and cooperation, including, without limitation, reasonable travel and lodging expenses.

11. T ERMINATION OF C HANGE IN C ONTROL A GREEMENT

In accordance with the provisions of the Change in Control Agreement, the “Term” of the Change in Control Agreement (as defined therein) expires immediately upon Mr. Kirsch’s Termination Date.

12. G OVERNING L AW

This Release Agreement will be governed by the internal substantive laws of the State of Ohio.

13. B REACH

Ferro’s obligation to provide separation pay and benefits under this Release Agreement will cease immediately if (a) Ferro reasonably determines in good faith that Mr. Kirsch failed to comply with any of his obligations under this Release Agreement and (b) such compliance failure has not been cured (if capable of


being cured) in all substantial respects within thirty (30) days after Ferro has advised Mr. Kirsch in writing of the nature of the compliance failure, and Mr. Kirsch will be required to return to Ferro (with ten (10) days after request by Ferro) any amounts that Ferro has paid to Mr. Kirsch under this Release Agreement other than the payments described in paragraph 2.

Unless there is a risk of imminent harm to Ferro, in which case Ferro will be entitled to immediate injunctive relief and may obtain a temporary order restraining any threatened or further breach, Ferro will provide Mr. Kirsch with at least thirty (30) days written notice of any alleged violation or breach of this Release Agreement, so that he may respond to the allegations and cure the compliance failure (if capable of being cured) prior to Ferro ceasing any payments or benefits, returning any payments, or taking any legal action under this Release Agreement.

Each party will bear its own costs to resolve any dispute arising under this Release Agreement.

14. E NTIRE A GREEMENT

This Release Agreement, together with the Confidentiality Agreement, contains the entire agreement between the parties hereto and replaces any prior agreements, contracts and/or promises, whether written or oral, with respect to the subject matters included herein. This Release Agreement may not be changed orally, but only in writing, signed by each of the parties hereto. This Release Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, successors, and assigns.

15. I NVALIDITY

The parties to this Release Agreement agree that the invalidity or unenforceability of any one provision or part of this Release Agreement will not render any other provision(s) or part(s) hereof invalid or unenforceable and that the other provision(s) or part(s) will remain in full force and effect.

By signing this Release Agreement, Mr. Kirsch affirms that he has read this Release Agreement carefully, that he knows and understands its contents, that he is signing this Release Agreement voluntarily, and that signing this Release Agreement is his own free act and deed.

To evidence their agreement and intention to be bound legally by this document, James F. Kirsch and F ERRO C ORPORATION have signed and dated this S EPARATION A GREEMENT AND R ELEASE .

 

            FERRO CORPORATION
/s/ James F. Kirsch     By:   /s/ Mark H. Duesenberg
J AMES F. K IRSCH      

M ARK H. D UESENBERG

Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary

Date: November 19, 2012     Date:   November 19, 2012

EXHIBIT 10.41

November 12, 2012

Mr. Peter T. Thomas

Vice President, Polymer and Ceramic Engineered Materials

Ferro Corporation

Dear Peter:

On behalf of Ferro Corporation (the “ Company ”), I am pleased to offer you the position of Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company (“ Interim CEO ”) as further described in this offer letter (“ Letter ”).

Term

The term of your service as Interim CEO will be for an initial period of six months commencing if and when the Effective Date occurs (the “ Initial Term ”), and will continue after the Initial Term on a month-to-month basis (the “ Monthly Term ” and, together with the Initial Term, the “ Term ”). The Initial Term is subject to earlier termination upon at least five days’ prior written notice by either you or the Company’s Board of Directors (the “ Board ”), and the Monthly Term is subject to termination upon at least five days’ prior written notice by either you or the Board in advance of either the commencement or a monthly renewal of such Monthly Term. For purposes of this Letter, “ Effective Date ” means the date on which, if at all, the Chief Executive Officer of the Company as of the date of this Letter ceases serving in such capacity prior to December 31, 2012. Notwithstanding anything in this Letter to the contrary, your service as Interim CEO during the Term will be at the pleasure of the Board.

Duties and Transition

As Interim CEO, you will have such duties, responsibilities and authority as are customarily incident to the principal executive officer of a publicly traded corporation, and will also assist the Company with the identification of, hiring of and/or transition of duties, responsibilities and authority (both during and for at least six months after the Term) to the next principal executive officer of the Company (the “ New CEO ”) to the extent reasonably requested by the Board. During your service as Interim CEO, you will report to the Board and will work primarily at the Company’s headquarters at 6060 Parkland Boulevard in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. Your appointment as Interim CEO is subject to approval by the Board, and any changes to your current compensation package as outlined in this Letter are subject to approval of the Compensation Committee of the Board (the “ Compensation Committee ”).

Equity-Based Compensation

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you will receive an award of phantom Common Stock units under Section 4(e) of the Company’s 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”), which phantom Common Stock units will be settled solely in cash (such phantom Common Stock units, the “ Restricted Share Units ” or “ RSUs ”), with a grant date for the award of the Effective Date and as further described in this paragraph (the “ RSU Grant ”) (for purposes of this Letter, “ Common Stock ” refers to shares of the Company’s Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share). The number of RSUs subject to the RSU Grant (rounded down to the nearest whole RSU) will be equal to the quotient of (1) $400,000 divided by (2) the closing price for the Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange as reported for the day immediately prior to the Effective Date (or if there are no sales of Common Stock on the day immediately prior to the Effective Date, on the next preceding trading day during which such sales occurred). The

 

1


RSUs subject to the RSU Grant will become nonforfeitable on, and will be settled in cash within 10 days after, the second anniversary of the Grant Date provided that you continue to be employed by the Company on such date. The RSU Grant will be evidenced by an award agreement that complies with the Plan and that is in substantially the form as approved by the Compensation Committee (the “ RSU Agreement ”), and will be subject to and on such other terms and conditions as required under the Plan or as set forth in the RSU Agreement.

Initial Cash Bonus

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you will be entitled to receive an initial cash bonus equal to $200,000 (the “ Initial Cash Bonus ”), which Initial Cash Bonus will be paid in a lump sum within 10 days of the Effective Date.

Monthly Cash Bonus

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you will be eligible to receive a monthly cash bonus equal in the aggregate to $198,000 (the “ Monthly Cash Bonus ”), which Monthly Cash Bonus will be paid in six equal installments on each of the first six monthly anniversaries of the Effective Date (each, a “ Monthly Vesting Date ”) provided that you continue to be employed by the Company on such Monthly Vesting Date.

Discretionary Cash Bonus

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you will be eligible to receive a discretionary cash bonus (the “ Discretionary Cash Bonus ”) of up to $200,000: (1) which Discretionary Cash Bonus will be payable on the earlier to occur of (A) the first anniversary of the Effective Date, provided that you continue to be employed by the Company on such first anniversary, and (B) the six-month anniversary of the date on which a New CEO commences service to the Company as such, provided that you continue to be employed by the Company on such six-month anniversary; and (2) with the final payout amount of the Discretionary Cash Bonus determined by the Committee based on its subjective assessment of your performance and service to the Company for the initial six-month period after the Effective Date (with the Committee retaining the discretion to reduce the final payout, including to zero, based on such subjective assessment). The Discretionary Cash Bonus will be subject to any applicable Company “clawback” policies that may be in effect from time to time.

Changes to Executive Separation Policy Pay and Benefits

If and when the Effective Date occurs, the Company will take prompt action so that, for purposes of the Company’s Executive Separation Policy adopted June 23, 2010 (the “ Separation Policy ”), you will be entitled to receive severance pay and benefits under Separation Policy Section 3.B at the same level as those to be received by the Company’s “Chief Executive Officer” under Separation Policy Section 3.B (generally entitling you to severance pay and benefits consisting of (1) 24 months of base salary, (2) two times your “target” annual incentive for the year of termination, (3) a pro-rata actual annual incentive for the year of termination, (4) up to 24 months of continued health coverage and (5) up to $25,000 in reasonable outplacement services for up to two years). In addition, if and when the Effective Date occurs, the Company will take prompt action so that, until the first anniversary of the date on which a New CEO commences service to the Company as such, but solely for purposes of your participation under the Separation Policy, “Good Reason” as defined in the Separation Policy will also mean the occurrence of: (1) a reduction in your annual base salary rate or annual or long-term incentive compensation opportunities below your annual base salary rate or annual or long-term incentive compensation opportunities in effect immediately prior to your service as Interim CEO; (2) a change in your reporting duties, authorities or responsibilities such that you do not or no longer report directly to the Company’s principal executive officer; or (3) any relocation of your principal place of employment with the Company. Except as provided in the two immediately preceding sentences, the Separation Policy will continue to cover you as provided for in the Separation Policy.

 

2


Amendment to Change in Control Agreement

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you and the Company agree to execute an amendment to the Change in Control Agreement, dated as of January 1, 2009, by and between the Company and you (the “ Change in Control Agreement ”), so that, until the six-month anniversary of the date on which a New CEO commences service to the Company as such:

 

  Reference in Section 2.2.D(1) of the Change in Control Agreement to “12 times” will be deemed to be “18 times” (generally providing for an amount equal to 18 times (rather than 12 times) your base salary to be deposited into a trust account after a “Potential Change in Control” (as defined in the Change in Control Agreement));

 

  Reference in Section 3.4.B(2) of the Change in Control Agreement to “Two” will be deemed to be “Three” (generally providing you with a termination payment equal to three times (rather than two times) your annual base salary plus a target annual incentive);

 

  Reference in Section 3.4.C of the Change in Control Agreement to “24 months” will be deemed to be “36 months” (generally providing you with three years (rather than two years) of continued welfare benefits, but not providing you with any change in the amount of additional benefits you would receive under the Company’s defined benefit retirement plans or defined contribution retirement plans); and

 

  Except as provided in the three immediately preceding bullet points, the Change in Control Agreement will continue to cover you as provided for in the Change in Control Agreement.

General

The Company may withhold from any amounts payable to you all federal, state, city or other taxes as the Company is required to withhold. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Letter, the Company is not obligated to guarantee any particular tax result for you with respect to any payment or benefit provided to you, and you are responsible for any taxes imposed on you with respect to any such payment or benefit. Nothing in this Letter will be construed as a guarantee of continuing employment for any specified period. Your employment with the Company is at-will and is terminable by you or the Company at any time, with or without cause.

This Letter may be modified or terminated only in a writing signed by both you and an authorized representative of the Company.

To the extent applicable, it is intended that the compensation arrangements described in this Letter comply with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“ Section 409A ”), and this Letter will be interpreted consistent with this intent. This Letter and all questions arising in connection herewith shall be governed by the laws of the State of Ohio, with venue in any court of competent jurisdiction located in the State of Ohio.

 

3


Sincerely,

/s/ Richard J. Hipple

Mr. Richard J. Hipple

Lead Director and Chairman of the Compensation Committee

Ferro Corporation

I accept this offer to serve as Interim CEO of the Company if and when the Effective Date occurs and agree to the terms and conditions outlined in this Letter.

/s/ Peter T. Thomas                                 

Mr. Peter T. Thomas

November 12, 2012                                 

Date

 

4

EXHIBIT 10.42

November 12, 2012

Mr. Jeffrey L. Rutherford

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Ferro Corporation

Dear Jeff:

In connection with the election of Mr. Peter T. Thomas as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer (“ Interim CEO ”) of Ferro Corporation (the “ Company ”), the Company anticipates that you will be asked to shoulder additional workload in your position as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer during Mr. Thomas’s service as Interim CEO. The Company proposes changes to your current compensation package, as further described in this letter (“ Letter ”), to compensate you for this additional workload. For purposes of this Letter, “ Effective Date ” means the date on which the Interim CEO is appointed to succeed Mr. Kirsch. Any changes to your current compensation package as outlined in this Letter are subject to approval of the Compensation Committee (the “ Compensation Committee ”) of the Board of Directors of the Company.

Equity-Based Compensation

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you will receive an award of phantom Common Stock units under Section 4(e) of the Company’s 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”), which phantom Common Stock units will be settled solely in cash (such phantom Common Stock units, the “ Restricted Share Units ” or “ RSUs ”), with a grant date for the award of the Effective Date and as further described in this paragraph (the “ RSU Grant ”) (for purposes of this Letter, “ Common Stock ” refers to shares of the Company’s Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share). The number of RSUs subject to the RSU Grant (rounded down to the nearest whole RSU) will be equal to the quotient of (1) $300,000 divided by (2) the closing price for the Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange as reported for the day immediately prior to the Effective Date (or if there are no sales of Common Stock on the day immediately prior to the Effective Date, on the next preceding trading day during which such sales occurred). The RSUs subject to the RSU Grant will become nonforfeitable on, and will be settled in cash within 10 days after, the second anniversary of the Grant Date provided that you continue to be employed by the Company on such date. The RSU Grant will be evidenced by an award agreement that complies with the Plan and that is in substantially the form as approved by the Compensation Committee (the “ RSU Agreement ”), and will be subject to and on such other terms and conditions as required under the Plan or as set forth in the RSU Agreement.

Initial Cash Bonus

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you will be entitled to receive an initial cash bonus equal to $150,000 (the “ Initial Cash Bonus ”), which Initial Cash Bonus will be paid in a lump sum within 10 days of the Effective Date.

Monthly Cash Bonus

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you will be eligible to receive a monthly cash bonus equal in the aggregate to $150,000 (the “ Monthly Cash Bonus ”), which Monthly Cash Bonus will be paid in six equal installments on each of the first six monthly anniversaries of the Effective Date (each, a “ Monthly Vesting Date ”) provided that you continue to be employed by the Company on such Monthly Vesting Date.

 

1


Discretionary Cash Bonus

If and when the Effective Date occurs, you will be eligible to receive a discretionary cash bonus (the “ Discretionary Cash Bonus ”) of up to $150,000: (1) which Discretionary Cash Bonus will be payable on the earlier to occur of (A) the first anniversary of the Effective Date, provided that you continue to be employed by the Company on such first anniversary, and (B) the six-month anniversary of the date on which the next principal executive officer of the Company (the “ New CEO ”) commences service to the Company as such, provided that you continue to be employed by the Company on such six-month anniversary; and (2) with the final payout amount of the Discretionary Cash Bonus determined by the Committee based on its subjective assessment of your performance and service to the Company for the initial six-month period after the Effective Date (with the Committee retaining the discretion to reduce the final payout, including to zero, based on such subjective assessment). The Discretionary Cash Bonus will be subject to any applicable Company “clawback” policies that may be in effect from time to time.

General

The Company may withhold from any amounts payable to you all federal, state, city or other taxes as the Company is required to withhold. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Letter, the Company is not obligated to guarantee any particular tax result for you with respect to any payment or benefit provided to you, and you are responsible for any taxes imposed on you with respect to any such payment or benefit. Nothing in this Letter will be construed as a guarantee of continuing employment for any specified period. Your employment with the Company is at-will and is terminable by you or the Company at any time, with or without cause.

This Letter may be modified or terminated only in a writing signed by both you and an authorized representative of the Company.

To the extent applicable, it is intended that the compensation arrangements described in this Letter comply with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“ Section 409A ”), and this Letter will be interpreted consistent with this intent. This Letter and all questions arising in connection herewith shall be governed by the laws of the State of Ohio, with venue in any court of competent jurisdiction located in the State of Ohio.

Sincerely,

/s/ Richard J. Hipple

Mr. Richard J. Hipple

Lead Director and Chairman of the Compensation Committee

Ferro Corporation

I hereby agree to and accept the terms and conditions outlined in this Letter if and when the Effective Date occurs.

/s/ Jeffrey L. Rutherford                                 

Mr. Jeffrey L. Rutherford

November 12, 2012                                         

Date

 

2

EXHIBIT 12

FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES

 

     2012     2011      2010      2009     2008  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Earnings:

            

Pretax income from continuing operations before adjustment for income or loss from equity investees

   $ (264,482   $ 21,520       $ 36,212       $ (43,894   $ (57,301

Add:

            

Fixed charges

     30,402        29,967         46,150         66,676        55,528   

Amortization of capitalized interest

     844        551         98         92        133   

Distributed income of equity investees

     1,336        1,146         603         700        721   

Less:

            

Capitalized interest

     1,569        913         1,009         1,607        1,761   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Earnings

   $ (233,469   $ 52,271       $ 82,054       $ 21,967      $ (2,680
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fixed Charges:

            

Interest expense and capitalized interest, including amortization of discounts and capitalized expenses on debt

   $ 29,548      $ 29,322       $ 45,577       $ 65,525      $ 54,577   

Estimate of the interest within rental expense

     854        645         573         1,151        951   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Fixed Charges

   $ 30,402      $ 29,967       $ 46,150       $ 66,676      $ 55,528   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Preference security dividend requirements

     —          336         2,154         767        930   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Combined Fixed Charges & Preference Dividends

   $ 30,402      $ 30,303       $ 48,304       $ 67,443      $ 56,458   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

     —          1.74         1.78         —          —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges & Preference Dividends

     —          1.72         1.70         —          —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Note:

Total earnings were insufficient to cover the fixed charges by $263.9 million, $44.7 million and $58.2 million and were insufficient to cover the combined fixed charges by $263.9 million, $45.5 million and $59.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Accordingly, such ratios are not presented.

Fixed charges are equal to interest expense (including amortization of deferred financing costs and costs associated with the Company’s asset securitization program), plus the portion of rent expense estimated to represent interest. Costs associated with the Company’s asset securitization program were $1.3 million, $1.5 million, $2.3 million, $3.4 million and $5.8 million in the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

EXHIBIT 21

FERRO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2012

 

Name Of Subsidiary Or Affiliate*

  

Sovereign Power Under

The Laws Of Which Organized

Ferro China Holdings Inc    Ohio

Zibo Ferro Performance Materials Company, Limited (70%)

   People’s Republic of China
Ferro Electronic Materials Inc    Delaware
Ferro Finance Corporation    Ohio
Ohio-Mississippi Corporation    Ohio

Ferro Colores SA de CV

   Mexico
Ferro International Services Inc    Delaware
Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories Inc    Delaware
Ferro Argentina SA    Argentina
Ferro Corporation (Aust.) Pty. Ltd    Australia
Ferro Enamel do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda    Brazil
Ferro Industrial Products Ltd    Canada
ESFEL SA (19%)    Ecuador
Ferro Holding GmbH    Germany

Ferro GmbH

   Germany

Ferro Schauer Austria GmbH

   Austria
PT Ferro Mas Dinamika (95%)    Indonesia
Ferro Japan K.K.    Japan
Ferro Far East Ltd    Hong Kong (SAR of PRC)

Ferro Far East Company SDN, BHD

   Malaysia

Ferro Enterprise Management Consulting (Shanghai) Company, Limited

   People’s Republic of China

Ferro - Jin Meng (Suzhou) Polishing Materials Company, Limited (51%)

   People’s Republic of China
Ferro Mexicana SA de CV    Mexico
Ferro B.V.    The Netherlands

Ferro (Belgium) Sprl

   Belgium

Ferro Egypt for Glaze (S.A.E.)

   Egypt

FC France Acquisition Sarl

   France

Ferro Couleurs France SA

   France

PT Ferro Ceramic Colors Indonesia (59%)

   Indonesia

PT Ferro Additives Asia (75.4%)

   Indonesia

Ferro France Sarl

   France

Ferro India Private Limited

   India

Ferro (Italia) SrL

   Italy

Smaltochimica SpA (40%)

   Italy

Ferro (Holland) BV

   The Netherlands

Ferro Investments BV

   The Netherlands

Ferro Industrias Quimicas (Portugal) Lda

   Portugal

Ferro Specialty Materials LLC

   Russia
Ferro (Suzhou) Performance Materials Co. Ltd    People’s Republic of China
Ferro Taiwan Ltd    Republic of China
OCI-Ferro Co. Ltd (50%)    Republic of Korea


Ferro Spain SA    Spain

Gardenia-Quimica SA (36%)

   Spain
Kerajet SA (19.99%)    Spain
Ferro (Thailand) Co. Ltd    Thailand
Ferro Cerdec (Thailand) Co. Ltd (49%)    Thailand
Ferro de Venezuela CA (51%)    Venezuela
Ferro (Great Britain) Ltd    United Kingdom

 

* For entities that are not wholly-owned, percentages in parentheses indicate Ferro’s ownership.

Ferro has a number of sales and warehousing subsidiaries throughout the world that are omitted from the foregoing list because they do not, individually or in the aggregate, constitute a significant subsidiary.

EXHIBIT 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in:

Registration Statement No. 333-91774 on Form S-8 dated July 2, 2002 pertaining to the registration of an additional 25,000 common shares under the Company’s 401 (k) plan;

Registration Statement No. 333-97529 on Form S-8 dated August 1, 2002 pertaining to the registration of an additional 3,550,000 common shares under the Employee Stock Option Plan;

Registration Statement No. 333-108179 on Form S-8 dated August 22, 2003 pertaining to the registration of an additional 3,250,000 common shares under the 2003 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan;

Registration Statement No. 333-141088 on Form S-8 dated March 6, 2007 pertaining to the registration of an additional 3,000,000 common shares under the 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan;

Registration Statement No. 333-172079 on Form S-8 dated February 4, 2011 pertaining to the registration of an additional 5,000,000 common shares under the 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan; and

Registration Statement No. 333-168324 on Form S-3 dated July 27, 2010 pertaining to the shelf registration of an indeterminate amount of debt securities which may be issued from time to time at indeterminate prices

of our report dated March 5, 2013, relating to the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule of Ferro Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”), which expresses an unqualified opinion and includes an explanatory paragraph regarding the Company’s election to change their method of recognizing defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit expense, and our report dated March 5, 2013 relating to the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2012.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Cleveland, Ohio

March 5, 2013

EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)

I, Peter T. Thomas, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-K of Ferro Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects, the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d. Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

  /s/ Peter T. Thomas
 

Peter T. Thomas

Interim President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

Date: March 5, 2013

EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)

I, Jeffrey L. Rutherford, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-K of Ferro Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects, the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d. Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

/s/ Jeffrey L. Rutherford

Jeffrey L. Rutherford

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)

Date: March 5, 2013

EXHIBIT 32.1

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. 1350

In connection with the Form 10-K (the “Report”) of Ferro Corporation (the “Company”) for the period ending December 31, 2012, I, Peter T. Thomas, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

/s/ Peter T. Thomas

Peter T. Thomas

Interim President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 5, 2013

EXHIBIT 32.2

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. 1350

In connection with the Form 10-K (the “Report”) of Ferro Corporation (the “Company”) for the period ending December 31, 2012, I, Jeffrey L. Rutherford, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

/s/ Jeffrey L. Rutherford

Jeffrey L. Rutherford

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Date: March 5, 2013