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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

 

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

For the fiscal year ended March 2, 2013 .

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 No. 001-07832

PIER 1 IMPORTS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

DELAWARE

   75-1729843

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

  

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

100 Pier 1 Place

Fort Worth, Texas

   76102

(Address of principal executive offices)

   (Zip Code)

Company’s telephone number, including area code: (817) 252-8000

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

  

Name of each exchange

on which registered

Common Stock, $0.001 par value

   New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes   X     No       

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes            No   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 Regulation S-T 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 herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the 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.  [X]

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.

 

Large accelerated filer   X

      Accelerated filer                                 

Non-accelerated filer         

   (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    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 the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant, computed by reference to the closing price as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, August 25, 2012, was approximately $1,894,825,000. The registrant has no non-voting common stock.

As of April 23, 2013, there were outstanding 106,998,203 shares of the registrant’s common stock, all of one class.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the following documents have been incorporated herein by reference:

 

  1) Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2013 Annual Meeting in Part III hereof.


Table of Contents

PIER 1 IMPORTS, INC.

FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT

Fiscal Year Ended March 2, 2013

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

         PART I    PAGE  

Item

  1.    Business.      1   

Item

  1A.    Risk Factors.      5   

Item

  1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments.      12   

Item

  2.    Properties.      12   

Item

  3.    Legal Proceedings.      13   

Item

  4.    Mine Safety Disclosures.      13   
         PART II       

Item

  5.    Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.      14   

Item

  6.    Selected Financial Data.      17   

Item

  7.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.      18   

Item

  7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.      31   

Item

  8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.      32   

Item

  9.    Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.      56   

Item

  9A.    Controls and Procedures.      56   

Item

  9B.    Other Information.      59   
         PART III       

Item

  10.    Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.      59   

Item

  11.    Executive Compensation.      59   

Item

  12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.      59   

Item

  13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.      59   

Item

  14.    Principal Accounting Fees and Services.      59   
         PART IV       

Item

  15.   

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.

     60   


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PART I

 

Item 1. Business .

 

(a) General Development of Business.

Pier 1 Imports, Inc. was incorporated as a Delaware corporation in 1986. Throughout this report, references to the “Company” include Pier 1 Imports, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries. References to “Pier 1 Imports” relate to the Company’s retail locations and e-Commerce operations conducting business under the name Pier 1 Imports ® .

As of March 2, 2013, the Company had 1,062 stores in the United States and Canada. In fiscal 2013, the Company opened 22 new Pier 1 Imports stores and closed 12 stores. Subject to changes in the retail environment, availability of suitable store sites, and lease renewal negotiations, the Company plans to open approximately 30 new Pier 1 Imports stores and close 14 stores during fiscal 2014. During fiscal 2013, the Company also refurbished approximately 100 stores with a new merchandise fixture package and lighting upgrades, completed major remodels at four locations, and added some new fixtures throughout all stores. The Company operates regional distribution center facilities in or near Baltimore, Maryland; Columbus, Ohio; Fort Worth, Texas; Ontario, California; Savannah, Georgia; and Tacoma, Washington. At the end of July 2012, the Company successfully executed the launch of its new e-Commerce enabled website, Pier1.com.

The Company has an arrangement to supply Grupo Sanborns, S.A. de C.V. (“Grupo Sanborns”) with Pier 1 Imports merchandise to be sold primarily in a “store within a store” format in certain stores operated by Grupo Sanborns’ subsidiaries, Sears Operadora de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (“Sears Mexico”) and Corporacion de Tiendas Internationales, S.A. de C.V. (“Sears El Salvador”). The agreements with Grupo Sanborns will expire January 1, 2017. The agreements are structured in a manner which substantially insulates the Company from currency fluctuations in the value of the Mexican peso. As of March 2, 2013, Pier 1 Imports merchandise was offered in 49 Sears Mexico stores and one Sears El Salvador store. Since Sears Mexico and Sears El Salvador operate these locations, the Company has no employees or real estate obligations in Mexico or El Salvador.

 

(b) Financial Information about Industry Segments .

In fiscal 2013, the Company conducted business as one operating segment consisting of the retail sales of decorative home furnishings, gifts and related items.

Financial information with respect to the Company’s business is found in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements, which are set forth in Item 8 herein.

 

(c) Narrative Description of Business .

The specialty retail operations of the Company consist of retail stores and e-Commerce operations conducting business under the name “Pier 1 Imports,” which sell a wide variety of furniture, decorative home furnishings, dining and kitchen goods, candles, gifts and other specialty items for the home.

As of March 2, 2013, the Company operated 982 Pier 1 Imports stores in the United States and 80 Pier 1 Imports stores in Canada. During fiscal 2013, the Company supplied merchandise and licensed the Pier 1 Imports name to Grupo Sanborns, which sold Pier 1 Imports merchandise primarily in a “store within a store” format in 49 Sears Mexico stores and one store in El Salvador. Pier 1 Imports stores in the United States and Canada average approximately 9,900 gross square feet, which includes an average of approximately 7,900 square feet of retail selling space. The stores consist of freestanding units located near shopping centers or malls and in-line

 

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positions in major shopping centers. Pier 1 Imports operates in all major U.S. metropolitan areas and many of the primary smaller markets. Pier 1 Imports stores generally have their highest sales volumes during November and December as a result of the holiday selling season. In fiscal 2013, net sales of the Company totaled $1.7 billion.

Pier 1 Imports offers a unique selection of merchandise consisting of items imported from many countries around the world. While the broad categories of Pier 1 Imports’ merchandise remain fairly constant, individual items within these merchandise categories change frequently in order to meet the changing demands and preferences of customers. The principal categories of merchandise include the following:

DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES – This merchandise group constitutes the broadest category of merchandise in Pier 1 Imports’ sales mix and has remained constant at 61% of Pier 1 Imports’ total U.S. and Canadian retail sales in fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011. These items are imported primarily from Asian and European countries, as well as some domestic sources. This merchandise group includes decorative accents, lamps, vases, dried and artificial flowers, baskets, ceramics, dinnerware, bath and fragrance products, candles, seasonal and gift items.

FURNITURE – This merchandise group consists of furniture and furniture cushions to be used in living, dining, office, kitchen and bedroom areas, sunrooms and on patios. Also included in this group are wall decorations and mirrors. This group has remained constant at 39% of Pier 1 Imports’ total U.S. and Canadian retail sales in fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011. These goods are imported from a variety of countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Brazil, Thailand, China, the Philippines, India and Indonesia, and are also obtained from domestic sources. This merchandise group is generally made of metal or handcrafted natural materials, including rattan, pine, beech, rubberwood and selected hardwoods with either natural, stained, painted or upholstered finishes.

Pier 1 Imports merchandise largely consists of items that feature a significant degree of handcraftsmanship and are mostly imported directly from foreign suppliers. For the most part, the imported merchandise is handcrafted in cottage industries and small factories. Pier 1 Imports has enjoyed long-standing relationships with many vendors and agents and is not dependent on any particular supplier. The Company believes alternative sources of merchandise could be procured over a reasonable period of time, if necessary. In selecting the source of merchandise, Pier 1 Imports considers quality, dependability of delivery, and cost. During fiscal 2013, Pier 1 Imports sold merchandise imported from many different countries with approximately 58.6% of its sales derived from merchandise produced in China, approximately 12.8% derived from merchandise produced in India, and approximately 19.3% collectively derived from merchandise produced in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the United States. The remainder of its merchandise is sourced from other countries around the world.

Imported and domestic merchandise is delivered to the Company’s distribution centers, where merchandise is received, allocated and shipped to the various stores in each distribution center’s region, and/or shipped directly to customers.

The Company owns a number of federally registered trademarks and service marks under which Pier 1 Imports stores conduct business. Additionally, the Company has registered and has applications pending for the registration of certain other Pier 1 Imports trademarks and service marks in the United States, Canada and other foreign countries. The Company believes that its marks have significant value and are important in its marketing efforts. The Company maintains a policy of pursuing registration of its marks and opposing any infringement of its marks.

The Company operates in the highly competitive specialty home retail business, both in its stores and e-Commerce business, and competes primarily with specialty sections of large department stores, furniture and decorative home furnishings retailers, small specialty stores and mass merchandising discounters.

 

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The Company allows customers to return merchandise within a reasonable time after the date of purchase without limitation as to reason. Most returns occur within 30 days of the date of purchase. The Company monitors the level of returns and maintains a reserve for future returns based on historical experience and other known factors.

On March 2, 2013, the Company employed approximately 21,400 associates in the United States and Canada, of which approximately 3,700 were full-time employees and 17,700 were part-time employees.

 

(d) Financial Information about Geographic Areas.

Information required by this Item is found in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements .

 

(e) Available Information .

The Company makes available free of charge through its Internet website address ( www.pier1.com ) its annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as soon as reasonably practicable after it electronically files such material with, or furnishes such material to, the SEC.

Certain statements contained in Item 1, Item 1A, Item 7, Item 7A, Item 8 and elsewhere in this report may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company may also make forward-looking statements in other reports filed with the SEC and in material delivered to the Company’s shareholders. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations of future events based on management’s assumptions and assessments in light of past experience and trends, current economic and industry conditions, expected future developments, and other relevant factors. These statements encompass information that does not directly relate to any historical or current fact and often may be identified with words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects” and other similar expressions. Management’s expectations and assumptions regarding planned store openings and closings, financing of Company obligations from operations, success of its marketing, merchandising and store operations strategies, its e-Commerce business, and other future results are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties that may affect Company operations and performance include, among others, the effects of terrorist attacks or other acts of war, conflicts or war involving the United States or its allies or trading partners, labor strikes, weather conditions or natural disasters, volatility of fuel and utility costs, the actions taken by the United States and other countries to stimulate the economy, the general strength of the economy and levels of consumer spending, consumer confidence, suitable store sites and distribution center locations, the availability of a qualified labor force and management, the availability and proper functioning of technology and communications systems supporting the Company’s key business processes, the ability of the Company to import merchandise from foreign countries without significantly restrictive tariffs, duties or quotas, and the ability of the Company to source, ship and deliver items of acceptable quality to its U.S. distribution centers at reasonable prices and rates and in a timely fashion. The foregoing risks and uncertainties are in addition to others discussed elsewhere in this report which may also affect Company operations and performance. The Company assumes no obligation to update or otherwise revise its forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied will not be realized.

 

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Executive Officers of the Company

ALEXANDER W. SMITH, age 60, joined the Company as President and Chief Executive Officer in February 2007. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Smith served as group president of the TJX Companies, Inc., where he oversaw the operations and development of Home Goods, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and a number of corporate functions. He was instrumental in the development of the TK Maxx stores in Great Britain and also ran their international operations.

CHARLES H. TURNER, age 56, was named Senior Executive Vice President of the Company in April 2012 and has served as Chief Financial Officer of the Company since August 1999. Mr. Turner has served the Company for twenty-one years in key executive capacities within the organization including Executive Vice President, Senior Vice President of Stores and Controller. Mr. Turner first became an officer of the Company in 1992 when he was named Principal Accounting Officer. Prior to joining the Company, he was Group Controller for JC Penney and a Senior Manager for KPMG Peat Marwick.

CATHERINE DAVID, age 49, joined the organization in August 2009 as Executive Vice President of Merchandising. Prior to her current role, Ms. David served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Kirkland’s Inc. and Vice President and General Manager with Sears Essential, Sears Grand and The Great Indoors. Ms. David also previously served the Target Corporation for thirteen years in various positions including Vice President and General Manager of target.direct and various positions in the buying, planning and stores divisions.

GREGORY S. HUMENESKY, age 61, was named Executive Vice President of Human Resources of the Company in February 2005. Prior to his current position, he served in various human resource positions for other retailers, including ten years as Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Zale Corporation and twenty-one years in various positions of increasing importance at Macy’s.

SHARON M. LEITE, age 50, joined the organization in August 2007 as Executive Vice President of Stores. Prior to joining the Company, she spent eight years at Bath & Body Works, six years as Vice President of Store Operations and two years in other leadership roles. Before joining Bath & Body Works, Ms. Leite held various operations positions with several prominent retailers, including Gap, Inc., The Walt Disney Company, and Limited, Inc.

MICHAEL R. BENKEL, age 44, was named Executive Vice President of Planning and Allocations in April 2012. He joined the organization in September 2008 as Senior Vice President of Planning and Allocations. Prior to joining the Company, he spent eleven years at Williams-Sonoma Inc. in continuously advancing positions in the Pottery Barn Retail Stores division, including Vice President of Inventory Management, Director – Inventory Management, and as a home furnishings and furniture buyer.

MICHAEL A. CARTER, age 54, was named Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of the Company in December 2005. Mr. Carter has served within the organization for twenty-three years in various leadership capacities, including Vice President – Legal Affairs, and Corporate Counsel. Mr. Carter first became an officer of the Company in 1991 when he was named Assistant Secretary. Mr. Carter is a licensed attorney in the State of Texas. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Carter practiced law with the Fort Worth, Texas law firm of Brackett and Ellis, LLP.

LAURA A. COFFEY, age 46, was named Senior Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Planning in January 2011. Ms. Coffey has served within the organization for sixteen years in various capacities, including most recently as Senior Vice President of Finance. Ms. Coffey first became an officer of the Company in 2005 and was named Principal Accounting Officer in 2008. Prior to joining the Company, she held various positions with Alcon Laboratories and KPMG, LLP.

 

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DONALD L. KINNISON, age 55, was named Senior Vice President of Marketing and Visual Merchandising in March 2008. Mr. Kinnison has served within the organization for twenty-three years in various capacities, including Vice President of Visual Merchandising and Merchandise Support and Director, Visual Merchandising. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Kinnison held various positions with May Company and Federated Department Stores.

The executive officers of the Company are elected by the Board of Directors and hold office until their successors are elected or appointed and qualified or until their earlier resignation or removal. None of the above executive officers has any family relationship with any other of such officers or with any director of the Company. None of such officers was selected pursuant to any arrangement or understanding between her or him and any other person, except for Mr. Smith, who pursuant to his employment agreement with the Company, serves as President and Chief Executive Officer.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors .

Strategic Risks and Strategy Execution Risks

The Company must be able to anticipate, identify and respond to changing trends and customer preferences for home furnishings.

The success of the Company’s specialty retail business depends largely upon its ability to predict trends in home furnishings consistently and to provide merchandise that satisfies consumer demand in a timely manner. Consumer preferences often change and may not be reasonably predicted. A majority of the Company’s merchandise is manufactured, purchased and imported from countries around the world and may be ordered well in advance of the applicable selling season. Extended lead times may make it difficult to respond rapidly to changes in consumer demand, and as a result, the Company may be unable to react quickly and source needed merchandise. In addition, the Company’s vendors may not have the ability to handle its increased demand for product. The seasonal nature of the business leads the Company to purchase, and requires it to carry, a significant amount of inventory prior to its peak selling season. As a result, the Company may be vulnerable to evolving home furnishing trends, changes in customer preferences, and pricing shifts, and may misjudge the timing and selection of merchandise purchases. The Company’s failure to anticipate, predict and respond in a timely manner to changing home furnishing trends could lead to lower sales and additional discounts and markdowns in an effort to clear merchandise, which could have a negative impact on merchandise margins and, in turn, the results of operations.

Failure by the Company to identify and successfully implement strategic initiatives could have a negative impact on the Company.

The Company’s long-term growth, strategic plans and capital allocation strategies are dependent on the Company’s ability to identify and successfully implement those initiatives. If they are not properly developed and successfully executed, the implementation of such initiatives may negatively impact the Company’s business operations and financial results. While the Company believes these disruptions would be short-term, it is unknown whether the impact would be material.

The success of the business is dependent on factors affecting consumer spending that are not controllable by the Company.

Consumer spending, including spending for the home and home-related furnishings, are dependent upon factors other than general economic conditions (both domestic and international), and include, among others, levels of employment, disposable consumer income, prevailing interest rates, consumer debt, costs of fuel, inflation, recession and fears of recession or actual recession periods, war and fears of war, pandemics, inclement

 

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weather, tax rates and rate increases, consumer confidence in future economic conditions and political conditions (including the possibility of a governmental shut down), and consumer perceptions of personal well-being and security. Unfavorable changes in factors affecting discretionary spending could reduce demand for the Company’s products and therefore lower sales and negatively impact the business and its financial results.

The Company outsources certain business processes to third-party vendors and has certain business relationships that subject the Company to risks, including disruptions in business and increased costs.

The Company outsources some business processes to third parties including gift card tracking and authorization, credit card authorization and processing, store scheduling and time and attendance, store maintenance services, maintenance and support of the Company’s website and e-Commerce platform, certain marketing services, insurance claims processing, customs filings and reporting, ocean freight processing, shipment and delivery of e-Commerce orders, certain payroll processing and various tax filings, record keeping for retirement plans, and third party vendor auditing. In addition, the Company also has business relationships with third parties to provide essential services such as the extension of credit to its customers and maintenance of the Company’s private-label credit card and rewards program. The Company makes a diligent effort to ensure that all providers of these services are observing proper internal control practices, such as redundant processing facilities; however, there are no guarantees that failures will not occur. Failure of third parties to provide adequate services or the Company’s inability to arrange for alternative providers on favorable terms in a timely manner could have a negative effect on the Company’s financial results.

An overall decline in the health of the United States economy and its impact on consumer confidence and spending could negatively impact the Company’s results of operations.

The recession experienced by the United States in recent years resulted in a significant decline in the market value of domestic and foreign companies, adversely affecting the savings and investments of United States consumers. The resulting deterioration in consumer confidence and spending during that recessionary period resulted in consumers sacrificing purchases of discretionary items, including the Company’s merchandise, which negatively impacted the Company’s financial results during those years. Such a recession could occur again and could have a similar, if not worse, impact on the Company’s financial results.

Failure to control merchandise returns could negatively impact the business.

The Company has established a provision for estimated merchandise returns based upon historical experience and other known factors. If actual returns are greater than those projected by management, additional reductions of revenue could be recorded in the future. Also, to the extent that returned merchandise is damaged, the Company may not receive full retail value from the resale of the returned merchandise. Introductions of new merchandise, changes in merchandise mix, associate selling behavior, merchandise quality issues, changes to the Company’s return policy, e-Commerce return behavior, changes in consumer confidence, or other competitive and general economic conditions may cause actual returns to exceed the provision for estimated merchandise returns. An increase in merchandise returns that exceeds the Company’s current provisions could negatively impact the business and financial results.

A disruption in the operation of the domestic portion of the Company’s supply chain, including the e-Commerce business, could impact its ability to deliver merchandise to its stores and customers, which could impact its sales and results of operations.

The Company maintains regional distribution centers in Maryland, Ohio, Texas, California, Georgia and Washington. At these distribution centers, merchandise is received, allocated, and shipped to the Company’s stores, and/or e-Commerce orders are fulfilled. Major catastrophic events such as natural disasters, fire or flooding, malfunction or disruption of the information systems, a disruption in telephone/internet service or

 

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power outages, or shipping problems could result in distribution delays of merchandise to the Company’s stores and customers. Such disruptions could have a negative impact on the Company’s sales and results of operations.

Factors that may or may not be controllable by the Company may negatively affect the Company’s financial results.

Increases in the Company’s costs that are beyond the Company’s control, including items such as increases in fuel and transportation costs, higher interest rates, increases in losses from damaged merchandise, inflation, fluctuations in foreign currency rates, higher costs of labor, labor disputes around the world, increases in the costs of insurance and healthcare, increases in postage and media costs, higher tax rates and complying with changes in laws and regulations, including accounting standards, may negatively impact the Company’s financial results.

Failure to successfully manage and execute the Company’s marketing initiatives could have a negative impact on the business.

The success and growth of the Company is partially dependent on generating customer traffic in order to gain sales momentum in its stores and drive traffic to the Company’s website. Successful marketing efforts require the ability to reach customers through their desired mode of communication utilizing various media outlets. Media placement decisions are generally made months in advance of the scheduled release date. The Company’s inability to accurately predict its consumers’ preferences, to utilize the desired mode of communication, or to ensure availability of advertised products may negatively impact the business and operating results.

Changes to estimates related to the Company’s property and equipment, or financial results that are lower than its current estimates at certain store locations, may cause the Company to incur impairment charges on certain long-lived assets.

The Company makes certain estimates and projections with regards to individual store operations as well as overall Company performance in connection with its impairment analyses for long-lived assets in accordance with applicable accounting guidance. An impairment charge is required when the carrying value of the asset exceeds the estimated fair value or undiscounted future cash flows of the asset. The projection of future cash flows used in this analysis requires the use of judgment and a number of estimates and projections of future operating results. If actual results differ from the Company’s estimates, additional charges for asset impairments may be required in the future. If impairment charges are significant, the Company’s financial results could be negatively affected.

Risks Related to Profitability

The Company’s success depends, in part, on its ability to operate in desirable locations at reasonable rental rates and to close underperforming stores at or before the conclusion of their lease terms.

The profitability of the business is dependent on operating the current store base at a reasonable profit, opening and operating new stores at a reasonable profit, and identifying and closing underperforming stores. For a majority of the Company’s current store base, a large portion of a store’s operating expense is the cost associated with leasing the location. Management actively monitors individual store performance and attempts to negotiate rent reductions to ensure stores can remain profitable or have the ability to rebound to a profitable state. Current locations may not continue to be desirable as demographics change, and the Company may choose to close an underperforming store before its lease expires and incur lease termination costs associated with that closing. The Company cannot give assurance that opening new stores or an increase in closing underperforming stores will result in greater profits.

 

 

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Failure to attract and retain an effective management team or changes in the costs or availability of a suitable workforce to manage and support the Company’s stores, distribution facilities and e-Commerce business could negatively affect the business.

The Company’s success is dependent, in a large part, on being able to successfully attract, motivate and retain a qualified management team and employees. Sourcing qualified candidates to fill important positions within the Company, especially management, in the highly competitive retail environment may prove to be a challenge. The inability to recruit and retain such individuals could result in turnover in the home office, stores and the distribution facilities, which could have a negative effect on the business. Management will continue to assess the Company’s compensation and benefit program in an effort to attract future qualified candidates and retain current experienced management team members. The Company does not believe that its compensation policies, principles, objectives and practices are structured to promote inappropriate risk taking by its executives nor inappropriate risk-taking by its employees whose behavior would be most affected by performance-based incentives. The Company believes that the focus of its overall compensation program encourages its employees to take a balanced approach that focuses on increasing and sustaining Pier 1 Imports’ profitability.

Occasionally the Company experiences union organizing activities in non-unionized distribution facilities. Similar activities could also occur in the stores. These types of activities may result in work slowdowns or stoppages and higher labor costs. Any increase in costs associated with labor organization at distribution facilities could result in higher costs to distribute inventory and could negatively impact merchandise margins.

Failure to successfully manage the Company’s e-Commerce operations could negatively affect the business.

The Company successfully executed the launch of its e-Commerce operations in the United States during fiscal 2013. Successful operation of the e-Commerce initiatives are dependent on the Company’s ability to maintain uninterrupted availability of the Company’s website and supporting applications, adequate inventory levels, timely fulfillment of customer orders, and accurate shipping of undamaged product. In addition, the Company’s call center must maintain a high standard of customer care. Failure to successfully manage this process may negatively impact sales, result in the loss of customers, and damage the Company’s reputation.

The Company operates in a highly competitive retail environment with companies offering similar merchandise, and if customers are lost to the Company’s competitors, sales could decline.

The Company operates in the highly competitive specialty retail business, both in its stores and e-Commerce business, competing with specialty sections of large department stores, home furnishing retailers, small specialty stores and mass merchandising discounters. Management believes that as it is competing for sales, it does so on the basis of pricing and quality of products, constantly changing merchandise assortment, visual presentation of its merchandise and customer service. The Company could also experience added short-term competition when other retailers are liquidating merchandise for various reasons. If the Company is unable to maintain a competitive position, it could experience negative pressure on retail prices and loss of customers, which in turn could result in reduced merchandise margins and operating results.

The Company’s business is subject to seasonal variations, with a significant portion of its sales and earnings occurring during two months of the year.

Approximately 25% of the Company’s sales generally occur during the November-December holiday selling season. Failure to predict consumer demand correctly during these months could result in lost sales or gross margin erosion if merchandise must be marked down significantly to clear inventory.

The Company’s business may be harmed by adverse weather conditions and natural disasters.

Extreme or undesirable weather can negatively affect customer traffic in retail stores as well as customer shopping behavior. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, weather phenomena, and events causing infrastructure

 

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failures could negatively affect any of the Company’s retail locations, distribution centers, administrative facilities, ports, or locations of its suppliers domestically and in foreign countries.

Risks Associated with Dependence on Technology

The Company is heavily dependent on various kinds of technology in the operation of its business.

Failure of any critical software applications, technology infrastructure, telecommunications, data communications, data storage equipment, or networks could have a negative effect, including additional expense, on the Company’s ability to manage the merchandise supply chain, sell merchandise, accomplish payment functions, report financial data or manage labor and staffing. Although the Company maintains off-site data backups, a concentration of technology-related risk exists in the Company’s headquarters located in Fort Worth, Texas.

Failure to protect the integrity and security of individually identifiable data of the Company’s customers and employees could expose the Company to litigation and damage the Company’s reputation.

The Company receives and maintains certain personal information about its customers, vendors and employees. The collection and use of this information by the Company is regulated at the international, federal and state levels, and is subject to certain contractual restrictions in third party contracts. Although the Company has implemented processes to collect and protect the integrity and security of personal information, there can be no assurance that this information will not be obtained by unauthorized persons, or collected or used inappropriately. If the security and information systems of the Company or of its internal or external business associates are compromised or its internal or external business associates fail to comply with these laws and regulations and this information is obtained by unauthorized persons, or collected or used inappropriately, it could negatively affect the Company’s reputation, as well as operations and financial results, and could result in litigation against the Company or the imposition of penalties. As privacy and information security laws and regulations change, the Company may incur additional costs to remain in compliance.

Failure to successfully implement new information technology systems and enhance existing systems could negatively impact the business and its financial results.

As part of the Company’s growth plan, the Company is investing in new information technology systems and implementing modifications and upgrades to existing systems. These investments include replacing legacy systems, making changes to existing systems, building redundancies, and acquiring new systems and hardware with updated functionality. The Company is taking appropriate actions to ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives, including the testing of new systems and the transfer of existing data, with minimal disruptions to the business. However, there can be no assurance the Company has anticipated all potential risks and failure to successfully implement these initiatives could negatively impact the business and its financial results.

The expansion of the Company’s e-Commerce business has inherent cybersecurity risks that may disrupt its business.

The Company’s full e-Commerce functionality in the United States has increased the Company’s exposure to cybersecurity risks. A compromise of its security systems could result in a service disruption, or customers’ personal information or the Company’s proprietary information being obtained by unauthorized users. Although the Company has implemented processes to mitigate the risks of security breaches and cyber incidents, there can be no assurance that such an attack will not occur. Any breach of the Company’s security could result in violation of privacy laws, potential litigation, and a loss of confidence in its security measures, all of which could have a negative impact on the Company’s financial results and its reputation.

 

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Failure to maintain positive brand perception and recognition could have a negative impact on the business.

Maintaining a good reputation is critical to the business. The considerable expansion in the use of social media over recent years has increased the risk that the Company’s reputation could be negatively impacted in a short amount of time. If the Company is unable to quickly and effectively respond to such incidents, it may suffer declines in customer loyalty and traffic, vendor relationship issues, and other factors, all of which could negatively impact the Company’s financial results and its reputation.

Regulatory Risks

The Company is subject to laws and regulatory requirements in many jurisdictions. Changes in these laws and requirements, or interpretations of them, may result in additional costs to the Company, including the costs of compliance as well as potential penalties for non-compliance.

Legislation on a local, regional, state or national level has the potential to have a negative effect on the Company’s profitability or ability to operate its business. Compliance with certain legislation carries with it significant costs. The Company is subject to oversight by many governmental agencies in the course of operating its business because of its numerous locations, large number of employees, contact with consumers and importation and exportation of product. In addition, the Company is subject to regulations regarding consumer product quality and safety standards. Complying with regulations may cause the Company to incur significant expenses, including the costs associated with periodic audits. Failure to comply may also result in additional costs in the form of penalties.

The Company operates in many taxing jurisdictions, including foreign countries. In most of these jurisdictions, the Company is required to collect state and local sales taxes at the point of sale and remit them to the appropriate taxing authority. The Company is also subject to income taxes, excise taxes, franchise taxes, payroll taxes and other special taxes. The Company is also required to maintain various kinds of business and commercial licenses to operate its stores and other facilities. Rates of taxation are beyond the Company’s control, and increases in such rates or taxation methods and rules could have a negative impact on the Company’s financial results. Failure to comply with laws concerning the collection and remittance of taxes and with licensing requirements could also subject the Company to financial penalties or business interruptions.

Risks Associated with International Trade

As a retailer of imported merchandise, the Company is subject to certain risks that typically do not affect retailers of domestically produced merchandise.

The Company may order merchandise well in advance of delivery and generally takes title to the merchandise at the time it is loaded for transport to designated U.S. destinations. Global political unrest, war, threats of war, terrorist acts or threats, especially threats to foreign and U.S. ports and piracy, disruption in the operation of the international portion of the Company’s supply chain, or natural disasters could affect the Company’s ability to import merchandise from certain countries. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and the relative value of the U.S. dollar, restrictions on the convertibility of the dollar and other currencies, duties, taxes and other charges on imports, rising labor costs and cost of living in foreign countries, dock strikes, worker strikes, import quota systems and other restrictions sometimes placed on foreign trade can affect the price, delivery and availability of imported merchandise as well as exports to the Company’s stores in other countries. The inability to import merchandise from China and other countries, unavailability of adequate shipping capacity at reasonable rates, or the imposition of significant tariffs could have a negative effect on the financial results of the Company. Freight costs contribute a substantial amount to the cost of imported merchandise. Monitoring of foreign vendors’ compliance with applicable laws and Company standards, including quality and safety standards and social compliance issues, is more difficult than monitoring of domestic vendors.

 

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Governmental agencies have the authority to enforce trade agreements, resolve trade disputes, and control market access to goods and services. Governments may also impose trade sanctions on foreign countries that are deemed to violate trade agreements or maintain laws or practices that are unjustifiable and restrict commerce. In these situations, governments may increase duties on imports from one or more foreign countries. In this event, the Company could be negatively affected by the imposition of trade sanctions.

In addition, the governments of the countries in which the Company does business maintain a variety of additional international trade laws under which the Company’s ability to import may be affected from time to time, including antidumping laws, countervailing duty laws, safeguards laws, and laws designed to protect intellectual property rights. Although the Company may not be directly involved in a particular trade dispute under any of these laws, its ability to import, or the terms and conditions under which it can continue to import, may be affected by the outcome of such disputes.

In particular, because the Company imports merchandise from countries around the world, the Company may be affected from time to time by antidumping petitions filed with the United States and international agencies by U.S. producers of competing products alleging that foreign manufacturers are selling their own products at prices in the United States that are less than the prices that they charge in their home country market or in third country markets or at less than their cost of production. Such petitions, if successful, could significantly increase the United States import duties on those products. In that event, the Company might decide to pay the increased duties, thereby possibly increasing the Company’s price to consumers. Alternatively, the Company might decide to source the product or a similar product from a different country not subject to increased duties or else discontinue the importation and sale of the product.

In recent years, dispute resolution processes have been utilized to resolve disputes regarding market access between the European Union, China, the United States and other countries. In some instances, these trade disputes can lead to threats by countries of sanctions against each other, which can include import prohibitions and increased duty rates on imported items. The Company considers any agreement that reduces tariff and non-tariff barriers in international trade to be beneficial to its business. Any type of sanction on imports is likely to increase the Company’s import costs or limit the availability of merchandise purchased from sanctioned countries. In that case, the Company may be required to seek similar merchandise from other countries.

Risks Relating to Liquidity

A disruption in the global credit and equity markets could negatively impact the Company’s ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms.

In the future, the Company could become dependent on the availability of adequate capital to fund its operations. Disruption in the global credit and equity markets and future disruptions in the financial markets could negatively affect the Company’s ability to enter into new financing agreements or obtain funding through the sale of Company securities. A decline in economic conditions could also result in difficulties for financial institutions and other parties that the Company does business with, which could potentially affect the Company’s ability to access financing under existing arrangements or to otherwise recover amounts as they become due under the Company’s contractual agreements. The inability of the Company to obtain financing as needed on acceptable terms to fund its operations may have a negative impact on the Company’s business and financial results.

Insufficient cash flows from operations could result in the substantial utilization of the Company’s secured credit facility, which may limit the Company’s ability to conduct certain activities.

The Company maintains a secured credit facility to enable it to issue merchandise and special purpose standby letters of credit as well as to fund working capital requirements. Borrowings under the credit facility are

 

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subject to a borrowing base calculation consisting of a percentage of certain eligible assets of the Company and is subject to advance rates and commercially reasonable reserves. Substantial utilization of the availability under the borrowing base will result in various restrictions on the Company, including restrictions on the ability of the Company to repurchase its common stock or pay dividends and dominion over the Company’s cash accounts. See Note 4 to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion regarding the Company’s secured credit facility. Significant decreases in cash flow from operations and investing could result in the Company borrowing increased amounts under the credit facility to fund operational needs and increased utilization of letters of credit. These could result in the Company being subject to the above restrictions.

 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments .

None.

 

Item 2. Properties .

The Company leases its corporate headquarters and the majority of its retail stores and warehouses. The Company has an operating lease for its corporate headquarters located in Fort Worth, Texas, which included approximately 280,000 square feet of office space as of March 2, 2013. On January 28, 2013, the Company entered into an amendment to the current lease that expanded its leased square footage. During fiscal 2014 the Company’s leased office space will expand to a total of approximately 308,000 square feet. As of March 2, 2013, the present value of the Company’s minimum future operating lease commitments discounted at 10% totaled approximately $798.7 million. The following table sets forth the distribution of Pier 1 Imports’ U.S. and Canadian stores by state and province as of March 2, 2013:

 

United States

                                 

Alabama

    13         Louisiana      15         Ohio      29   

Alaska

    2         Maine      1         Oklahoma      8   

Arizona

    24         Maryland      22         Oregon      14   

Arkansas

    8         Massachusetts      23         Pennsylvania      38   

California

    111         Michigan      32         Rhode Island      3   

Colorado

    15         Minnesota      18         South Carolina      16   

Connecticut

    20         Mississippi      6         South Dakota      2   

Delaware

    4         Missouri      18         Tennessee      18   

Florida

    74         Montana      6         Texas      79   

Georgia

    27         Nebraska      4         Utah      9   

Hawaii

    5         Nevada      9         Virginia      34   

Idaho

    6         New Hampshire      6         Washington      28   

Illinois

    39         New Jersey      35         West Virginia      5   

Indiana

    17         New Mexico      5         Wisconsin      19   

Iowa

    9         New York      48         Wyoming      1   

Kansas

    9         North Carolina      34           
Kentucky     11         North Dakota      3           

Canada

                                 

Alberta

    11         New Brunswick      2         Ontario      33   

British Columbia

    14         Newfoundland      1         Quebec      13   

Manitoba

    2         Nova Scotia      2         Saskatchewan      2   

 

 

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The Company currently owns or leases distribution center space of approximately 3.6 million square feet. The Company also acquires temporary distribution center space from time to time through short-term leases. As of March 2, 2013, the Company owned or leased under operating leases the following warehouse properties in or near the following cities:

 

Location

    

Approx. Sq. Ft.

   Owned/Leased
Facility

Baltimore, Maryland (1)

     634,000 sq. ft.    Leased

Columbus, Ohio

     527,000 sq. ft.    Leased

Fort Worth, Texas

     460,000 sq. ft.    Owned

Ontario, California

     747,000 sq. ft.    Leased

Savannah, Georgia

     784,000 sq. ft.    Leased

Tacoma, Washington

     451,000 sq. ft.    Leased

 

(1) Subsequent to year end, the Company leased an additional 350,000 square feet in Baltimore, Maryland.

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings .

The Company is a party to various legal proceedings and claims in the ordinary course of its business. The Company believes that the outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures .

Not applicable.

 

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PART II

 

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

Market Prices of Common Stock

The following table shows the high and low closing sale prices of the Company’s common stock on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”), as reported in the consolidated transaction reporting system for each quarter of fiscal 2013 and 2012.

 

         Market Price  

Fiscal 2013

       High          Low  

First quarter

     $     18.80         $     15.21   

Second quarter

       18.25           15.24   

Third quarter

       21.10           18.04   

Fourth quarter

       22.79           19.08   

Fiscal 2012

       High          Low  

First quarter

     $ 12.42         $ 9.04   

Second quarter

       12.25           8.90   

Third quarter

       13.75           9.17   

Fourth quarter

       17.00           12.65   

Number of Holders of Record

The Company’s common stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol “PIR”. As of April 23, 2013, there were approximately 8,000 shareholders of record of the Company’s common stock.

Dividends

The Company declared cash dividends of $0.04 per share in each of the first three quarters of fiscal 2013, and declared a cash dividend of $0.05 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, which totaled $17,989,000 in cash dividends paid during fiscal 2013. The Company did not pay any cash dividends in fiscal years 2012 or 2011. On April 4, 2013, subsequent to year end, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a $0.05 per share quarterly cash dividend on the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock. The $0.05 quarterly cash dividend will be paid on May 8, 2013 to shareholders of record on April 24, 2013. The Company’s dividend policy depends upon the earnings, financial condition and capital needs of the Company and other factors deemed relevant by the Company’s Board of Directors.

As of March 2, 2013, the Company was not precluded under its secured credit facility from paying cash dividends or repurchasing the Company’s common stock. The Company’s secured credit facility may limit certain investments and, in some instances, limit payment of cash dividends and repurchases of the Company’s common stock. The Company will not be restricted from paying certain dividends unless credit extensions on the line result in availability over a specified period of time that is projected to be less than 20% of the lesser of either $300,000,000 or the calculated borrowing base, subject to the Company meeting a fixed charge coverage requirement when availability over the same specified period of time is projected to be less than 50% of the lesser of either $300,000,000 or the calculated borrowing base. See Note 4 to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the Company’s secured credit facility.

 

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Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

On April 7, 2011, the Board of Directors announced an initial $100.0 million for repurchases of the Company’s common stock. On September 6, 2011, the Company had completed this $100.0 million initial share repurchase program and had purchased a total of 9,498,650 shares of its common stock at a weighted average cost of $10.53 per share. On October 14, 2011, the Board of Directors announced a second $100.0 million share repurchase program. On December 14, 2012, the Company completed this second program, with total repurchases of 5,822,142 shares at a weighted average cost of $17.18 per share. On December 13, 2012, the Company announced a third $100.0 million share repurchase program and $100.0 million remained available for repurchase at the end of fiscal 2013.

The following table provides information with respect to purchases of common stock of the Company made during the three months ended March 2, 2013, by Pier 1 Imports, Inc. or any “affiliated purchaser” of Pier 1 Imports, Inc., as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Period

   Total Number of
Shares Purchased
     Average Price
Paid per Share
(including
fees)
     Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs (1)
     Approximate
Dollar Value of
Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs (1)
 

Nov 25, 2012 – Dec 29, 2012

     523,192       $ 19.60         523,192       $ 100,000,000   

Dec 30, 2012 – Jan 26, 2013

     —           —           —         $ 100,000,000   

Jan 27, 2013 – Mar 2, 2013

     —           —           —         $ 100,000,000   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     523,192       $ 19.60         523,192       $ 100,000,000   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
(1)

On December 14, 2012, the Company completed a $100.0 million share repurchase program, which was announced in October 2011. On December 13, 2012, the Company announced a new $100.0 million share repurchase program.

Subsequent to year end, the Company utilized a total of $5.0 million to repurchase 226,700 shares of the Company’s common stock at a weighted average price per share, including fees, of $22.24 and as of April 23, 2013, $95.0 million remained available for repurchase under the December 2012 program. There is no expiration date on the current authorization and no determination has been made by the Company to suspend or cancel purchases under the program.

During fiscal 2013, 263,464 shares of the Company’s common stock were acquired from employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations that arose upon vesting of restricted stock granted pursuant to approved plans.

 

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Performance Graph

The following graph compares the five-year cumulative total shareholder return for the Company’s common stock against the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index and the Standard & Poor’s Retail Stores Composite Index. The annual changes for the five-year period shown on the graph are based on the assumption, as required by the SEC’s rules, that $100 had been invested in the Company’s stock and in each index on March 1, 2008, and that dividends were reinvested. The total cumulative dollar returns shown on the graph represent the value that such investments would have had on March 2, 2013. The information used in the graph below was obtained from Bloomberg L.P.

PIER 1 IMPORTS, INC. STOCK PERFORMANCE GRAPH

 

LOGO

 

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Item 6. Selected Financial Data .

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

 

     Year Ended  
     2013 (1)          2012          2011           2010          2009  
     ($ in millions except per share amounts)   

SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS:

                       

Net sales

   $   1,704.9           1,533.6           1,396.5            1,290.9           1,320.7   

Gross profit

   $ 743.1           651.2           555.4            440.4           363.5   

Selling, general and administrative expenses

   $ 513.1           475.2           431.9            421.2           453.5   

Depreciation and amortization

   $ 31.0           21.2           19.7            22.5           30.6   

Operating income (loss)

   $ 199.0           154.8           103.7            (3.3        (120.6

Operating income (loss) as a % of sales

     11.7%           10.1%           7.4%            (0.3%        (9.1%

Nonoperating (income) and expenses, net (2)

   $ (2.0        (9.3        0.2            (35.3        8.1   

Income (loss) before income taxes

   $ 201.0           164.1           103.5            32.1           (128.6

Net income (loss) (3)

   $ 129.4           168.9           100.1            86.8           (129.3

PER SHARE AMOUNTS:

                       

Basic earnings (loss)

   $ 1.22           1.50           .86            .86           (1.45

Diluted earnings (loss)

   $ 1.20           1.48           .85            .86           (1.45

Cash dividends declared

   $ .17           -           -            -           -   

Shareholders’ equity - diluted

   $ 4.96           4.31           3.51            3.01           1.62   

OTHER FINANCIAL DATA:

                       

Working capital

   $ 410.8           404.9           415.6            316.7           299.9   

Current ratio

     2.7           2.7           2.8            2.3           2.3   

Total assets

   $ 857.2           823.4           743.6            643.0           655.5   

Long-term debt (4)

   $ 9.5           9.5           9.5            19.0           184.0   

Shareholders’ equity

   $ 537.1           493.6           412.9            303.1           144.3   

Weighted average diluted shares outstanding (millions) (5)

     108.3           114.4           117.5            100.7           88.9   

Effective tax rate (%)  (3)

     35.6           (2.9        3.3            (171.0        (0.5

 

(1)  

Fiscal 2013 consisted of a 53-week year. All other fiscal years presented reflect 52-week years.

 

(2)  

Nonoperating income for fiscal 2010 included a gain of $49.6 million related to the debt transactions during the year. This gain was partially offset by $18.3 million in related expenses. Nonoperating income in fiscal 2010 also included a $10.0 million payment received as a result of a foreign litigation settlement.

 

(3)  

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company was able to conclude that given its improved performance, the realization of its deferred tax assets was more likely than not and accordingly reversed substantially all of its valuation allowance. In fiscal 2010, the Company recorded and received a $55.9 million tax benefit as a result of a tax law change allowing additional carryback of the Company’s net operating losses. In fiscal years 2011, 2010, and 2009, the Company recorded minimal state and foreign tax provisions and provided a valuation allowance on the deferred tax asset arising during those periods.

 

(4)  

The Company’s consolidated long-term debt was reduced significantly during fiscal 2011 and 2010 as a result of multiple debt transactions.

 

(5)  

The increase in shares outstanding in fiscal 2011 and 2010 was primarily the result of the Company issuing approximately 24.5 million shares of common stock related to the conversion of its convertible debt during fiscal 2010. The decrease in shares outstanding during fiscal 2012 and 2013 was primarily the result of the Company’s Board approved share repurchase program. Under this program, the Company repurchased 9,498,650 and 5,822,142 shares in fiscal 2012 and 2013, respectively.

 

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

MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW

Introduction

Pier 1 Imports, Inc is one of North America’s largest specialty retailers of imported decorative home furnishings and gifts. The Company directly imports merchandise from many countries, and sells a wide variety of decorative accessories, furniture, candles, housewares, gifts and seasonal products in its stores and through the Company’s website, Pier1.com. The Company conducts business as one operating segment and operates stores in the United States and Canada under the name Pier 1 Imports. As of March 2, 2013, the Company operated 1,062 stores in the United States and Canada. Fiscal 2013 consisted of a 53-week year and fiscal 2012 and 2011 were 52-week years.

In April 2012, the Company announced a new three-year growth plan designed to drive profitable top and bottom-line growth, expand market share, and increase shareholder value as the Company continues evolving into a multi-channel retailer. The plan includes building a best-in-class e-Commerce platform; strengthening the Company’s infrastructure through investments in technology, processes and systems; improving the Company’s store portfolio through refurbishments, remodels, new store openings and strategic relocations; investing $200 million in capital over a three-year period; and returning value to shareholders through share repurchases and quarterly cash dividends. In conjunction with the three-year growth plan, the Company established financial targets which include achieving sales per retail square foot of $225 and operating margins of at least 12% of sales by the end of fiscal 2015. The Company also expects an online sales contribution of at least 10% of total revenues by the end of fiscal 2016. During fiscal 2013, the Company delivered on a number of long-term strategic projects, which are the foundations and building blocks for long term success. One of the most significant achievements was the successful launch of its new e-Commerce enabled website, Pier1.com, at the end of July 2012. The website has a brand new, fully redesigned look, feel and functionality. Traffic to the website has increased significantly compared to last year with more than one million unique visits per week.

Fiscal 2013 total sales (on a 53-week basis) increased 11.2% and comparable store sales (on a 52-week basis) increased 7.5% compared to the prior year. The increases were primarily attributable to increases in store traffic and average ticket versus last year. Sales per retail square foot were $198 at the end of fiscal 2013, compared to $184 at the end of fiscal 2012. Management believes that the Company’s sales will continue to improve as a result of its unique and special merchandise assortments and superior in-store experience.

Merchandise margins at the store level for the fiscal 2013 were 60.0% compared to 59.8% in the same period last year. Merchandise margins, including the direct-to-consumer business, were 59.8% of sales, which was flat compared to fiscal 2012. Store occupancy costs during fiscal 2013 were $276.5 million, or 16.2% of sales, compared to $265.9 million, or 17.3% of sales, during fiscal 2012. Gross profit for fiscal 2013 was 43.6% as a percentage of sales, compared to 42.5% in fiscal 2012, an improvement of 110 basis points.

Operating income for fiscal 2013 was 11.7% of sales, compared to 10.1% of sales in fiscal 2012. The year-over-year improvement was primarily due to increases in sales and merchandise margins.

The Company also continues working diligently towards completing the implementation of its new point-of-sale system. The Company commenced an all store rollout of the new point-of-sale system in March 2013 and expects to have it rolled out to all stores by summer of 2013. After the roll out is complete, the Company will begin to fully integrate its e-Commerce site with the new point-of-sale system, further strengthening the foundation on which to build its multi-channel capabilities. The Company’s vision for the future, “1 Pier 1”, is a multi-channel, multi-brand, fully integrated and seamless organization and shopping experience. The Company’s retail store locations and e-Commerce channel will operate as mutually supportive, integrated and interdependent businesses.

 

 

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Capital expenditures for the year totaled $80.4 million. Of that amount, approximately $52 million was deployed toward the opening of 22 new Pier 1 Imports stores, the refurbishment of approximately 100 locations, major remodels at four locations, the rollout of new merchandise fixtures to all stores and the implementation of other leasehold improvements and equipment. The Company’s three-year growth plan includes $100 million in investments to enhance the quality of its real estate through new store openings, relocations, remodels and refurbishments. To date, the Company has refurbished 253 stores to varying degrees, of which 200 are top volume stores, and all stores have received some new fixtures. The remaining $28 million of capital spend was utilized for technology and infrastructure initiatives, including e-Commerce and the new point-of-sale system. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2014 are expected to be approximately $75 million, with approximately half allocated to stores and other leasehold improvements and the balance being deployed toward technology and infrastructure.

The Company’s share repurchase program announced in October 2011 was completed in December 2012, resulting in the repurchase of approximately 5.3% of the Company’s common stock outstanding. A total of 5,822,142 shares of its common stock were repurchased at a weighted average cost of $17.18 per share for a total cost of $100.0 million. As a result of the Company’s continued strong financial performance during fiscal 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors announced a new $100 million share repurchase program on December 13, 2012. As of March 2, 2013, no shares had been repurchased under the Company’s current share repurchase program and $100 million remained available for repurchase. Subsequent to year end, the Company utilized a total of $5.0 million to repurchase 226,700 shares of the Company’s common stock at a weighted average price per share, including fees, of $22.24 and as of April 23, 2013, $95.0 million remained available for repurchase under the December 2012 program. In addition, on April 4, 2013, subsequent to year end, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a $0.05 per share quarterly cash dividend on the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock as of April 24, 2013, which is payable on May 8, 2013.

The following discussion and analysis of financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity and capital resources should be read in conjunction with the accompanying audited Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto which can be found in Item 8 of this report.

Overview of Business

The Company’s key financial and operational indicators used by management to evaluate the performance of the business include the following (trends for these indicators are explained in the comparative discussions of this section):

 

Key Performance Indicators    2013      2012      2011  

Total sales growth

     11.2%         9.8%         8.2%   

Comparable stores sales growth (1)

     7.5%         9.5%         10.9%   

Sales per average retail square foot (1)

   $ 198       $ 184       $ 168   

Merchandise margins as a % of sales

         59.8%             59.8%             58.6%   

Gross profit as a % of sales

     43.6%         42.5%         39.8%   

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a % of sales

     30.1%         31.0%         30.9%   

Operating income as a % of sales

     11.7%         10.1%         7.4%   

Net income as a % of sales

     7.6%         11.0%         7.2%   

Total retail square footage (in thousands)

     8,358         8,271         8,232   

Total retail square footage increase (decline)

     1.1%         0.5%         (0.7%)   

 

(1)  

Includes orders placed online for store pick-up. All fiscal years were calculated on a 52-week basis.

Stores included in the comparable store sales calculation are those stores that have been open since the beginning of the preceding fiscal year. In addition, orders placed online for store pick-up were included in the

 

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calculation. Remodeled or relocated stores are included if they meet specific criteria. Those criteria include the following: the new store is within a specified distance serving the same market, no significant change in store size, and no significant overlap or gap between the closing and reopening. Such stores are included in the comparable store sales calculation in the first full month after the re-opening. If a relocated or remodeled store does not meet the above criteria, it is excluded from the calculation until it meets the Company’s established definition of a comparable store.

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 2, 2013 AND FEBRUARY 25, 2012

Net Sales

Net sales consisted almost entirely of sales to retail customers, net of discounts and returns, but also included delivery revenues and wholesale sales and royalties. Sales by retail concept during fiscal years 2013 and 2012 were as follows (in thousands):

 

     2013           2012  

Stores

   $ 1,676,293          $ 1,518,200   

Other (1)

     28,592            15,411   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Net sales

   $     1,704,885          $     1,533,611   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

  (1)  

Other sales consisted primarily of wholesale sales and royalties received from subsidiaries of Grupo Sanborns, S.A. de C.V., gift card breakage, and direct-to-consumer sales.

Net sales during fiscal 2013 were $1.705 billion for the 53-week period, an increase of 11.2%, from $1.534 billion for the prior fiscal year. The increase in sales for the fiscal year was comprised of the following components (in thousands):

 

     Net Sales  

Net sales for fiscal 2012

   $ 1,533,611   

Incremental sales growth (decline) from:

  

New stores opened during fiscal 2013 (1)

     31,093   

Stores opened during fiscal 2012

     13,511   

Comparable stores (2)

     112,077   

Other, including closed stores (3)

     14,593   
  

 

 

 

Net sales for fiscal 2013

   $     1,704,885   
  

 

 

 

 

  (1) Includes direct-to-consumer sales.

 

  (2) Includes orders placed online for store pick-up.

 

  (3) Includes comparable store sales for the 53rd week of fiscal 2013.

The total sales growth for fiscal 2013 was primarily the result of an increase in store traffic and average ticket compared to the prior year. Comparable store sales increased 7.5% for the year. As of March 2, 2013, the Company operated 1,062 stores in the United States and Canada, compared to 1,052 stores at the end of fiscal 2012. The Company’s net sales from Canadian stores were subject to fluctuation in currency conversion rates. These fluctuations contributed to a ten basis point decrease in the comparable store calculation in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012. Sales on the Pier 1 credit card comprised 25.7% of U.S. store sales compared to 21.2% last year.

 

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A summary reconciliation of the Company’s stores open at the beginning of fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 to the number open at the end of each period is as follows (openings and closings include relocated stores):

 

    United States            Canada          Total  

Open at February 27, 2010

    973             81           1,054   

Openings

    3             -           3   

Closings

    (9          (2        (11
 

 

 

        

 

 

      

 

 

 

Open at February 26, 2011

    967             79           1,046   

Openings

    13             2           15   

Closings

    (9          -           (9
 

 

 

        

 

 

      

 

 

 

Open at February 25, 2012

    971             81           1,052   

Openings

    22             -           22   

Closings

    (11          (1        (12
 

 

 

        

 

 

      

 

 

 

Open at March 2, 2013 (1)

    982             80           1,062   
 

 

 

        

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

  (1)  

The Company supplies merchandise and licenses the Pier 1 Imports name to Grupo Sanborns, S.A. de C.V. which sells Pier 1 Imports merchandise primarily in a “store within a store” format. At the end of fiscal 2013, there were 49 of these locations in Mexico and one in El Salvador. These locations are excluded from the table above.

Cost of Sales and Gross Profit

Cost of sales were 56.4% expressed as a percentage of sales in fiscal 2013, compared to 57.5% of sales in fiscal 2012. Gross profit, which is calculated by deducting store occupancy costs from merchandise margin dollars, was 43.6% expressed as a percentage of sales in fiscal 2013, compared to 42.5% a year ago. Merchandise margins at the store level for the fiscal 2013 were 60.0% compared to 59.8% in the same period last year. Merchandise margins, including the direct-to-consumer business, were 59.8% of sales this year. During fiscal 2013, the Company maintained strong input margins, which resulted from the Company’s continued focus on maximizing margins through negotiating advantageous vendor costs and ensuring an efficient supply chain. In addition, the Company also continued to execute its disciplined and analytical buying strategies in an effort to maintain the right balance of regular, promotional, and clearance pricing.

Store occupancy costs during fiscal 2013 were $276.5 million or 16.2% of sales, compared to $265.9 million, or 17.3% of sales during fiscal 2012. For the fiscal year, all occupancy expenses decreased as a percentage of sales compared to last year, with the exception of property insurance which remained relatively constant. Overall, rent expense increased in dollars primarily due to the increase in new store openings, but decreased as a percentage of sales during fiscal 2013.

Operating Expenses and Depreciation

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $513.1 million, or 30.1% of sales in fiscal 2013, compared to $475.2 million, or 31.0% of sales in fiscal 2012. The 90 basis point improvement was due to the leveraging of store payroll and fixed expenses, and was slightly offset by increases in marketing expense.

Depreciation and amortization for fiscal 2013 was $31.0 million, representing an increase of $9.8 million from last year’s depreciation and amortization expense of $21.2 million. This increase was primarily the result of capital expenditures in fiscal 2013, partially offset by certain assets becoming fully depreciated and store closures.

In fiscal 2013, the Company recorded operating income of $199.0 million, or 11.7% of sales, compared to $154.8 million, or 10.1% of sales, for fiscal 2012.

 

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Nonoperating Income and Expense

Nonoperating income for fiscal 2013 was $2.0 million, compared to $9.3 million in fiscal 2012. The decrease was primarily the result of the completion of deferred gain recognition related to transactions with the Company’s former proprietary credit card provider. During the second quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company reversed a portion of its reserve for uncertain income tax positions for which the statute of limitations had expired. This adjustment resulted in the reversal of $2.8 million of accrued interest expense, which partially offset the decrease in deferred gain recognition compared to the prior year.

Income Taxes

The Company recorded an effective tax rate of 35.6% and an income tax provision of $71.6 million in fiscal 2013, which included the impact of the Company reversing a portion of its reserve for uncertain income tax positions during the second quarter. During fiscal 2012, the Company recorded a benefit of $4.8 million. The increase over prior year was due to the Company reporting increased income in fiscal 2013. In addition, the Company reversed its valuation allowance during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 and recorded a tax benefit during the period.

Net Income

Net income in fiscal 2013 was $129.4 million, or $1.20 per share. Net income for fiscal 2012 was $168.9 million, or $1.48 per share, which included the tax benefit resulting from the change in the Company’s tax valuation allowance during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012. Before non-recurring tax benefits of $61.5 million, primarily resulting from the change in the Company’s tax valuation allowance, earnings per share were $0.94 for fiscal 2012.

FISCAL YEARS ENDED FEBRUARY 25, 2012 AND FEBRUARY 26, 2011

Net Sales

Net sales consisted primarily of sales to retail customers, net of discounts and returns, but also included delivery revenues and wholesale sales and royalties. Sales by retail concept during fiscal years 2012 and 2011 were as follows (in thousands):

 

    2012          2011  

Stores

  $ 1,518,200         $ 1,381,944   

Other (1)

    15,411           14,526   
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Net sales

  $     1,533,611         $     1,396,470   
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

  (1)  

Other sales consisted primarily of wholesale sales and royalties received from subsidiaries of Grupo Sanborns, S.A. de C.V. and gift card breakage.

 

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Net sales during fiscal 2012 were $1.534 billion, an increase of $137.1 million or 9.8%, from $1.396 billion for the prior fiscal year. The increase in sales for the fiscal year was comprised of the following components (in thousands):

 

     Net Sales  

Net sales for fiscal 2011

   $ 1,396,470   

Incremental sales growth (decline) from:

  

New stores

     9,329   

Comparable stores

     131,008   

Closed stores and other

     (3,196
  

 

 

 

Net sales for fiscal 2012

   $     1,533,611   
  

 

 

 

The total sales growth for fiscal 2012 was primarily the result of an increase in traffic and average ticket compared to the prior year. As of February 25, 2012, the Company operated 1,052 stores in the United States and Canada, compared to 1,046 stores at the end of fiscal 2011. The Company’s net sales from Canadian stores were subject to fluctuation in currency conversion rates. These fluctuations contributed to a 30 basis point increase in both the net sales and comparable store calculations in fiscal 2012 compared to fiscal 2011. Net sales during fiscal 2012 and the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011 included amortization of the deferred gain related to the renegotiation of the Company’s propriety credit card agreement with Chase Bank USA, N.A. (“Chase”) during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011. The gain amortization in fiscal 2012 was consistent with the treatment of amounts received from Chase during the same period of fiscal 2011 for transaction level incentives. During both periods, the amounts were mostly offset by costs associated with the credit card program. As a result of its new agreement with a subsidiary of Alliance Data Systems Corporation (“ADS”) during the third quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company revised the amortization period for any remaining deferred gains related to prior transactions with Chase as appropriate.

A summary reconciliation of the Company’s stores open at the beginning of fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010 to the number open at the end of each period is as follows (openings and closings include relocated stores):

 

     United States           Canada               Total      

Open at February 28, 2009

     1,011            81            1,092   

Openings

     -            -            -   

Closings

     (38         -            (38
  

 

 

       

 

 

       

 

 

 

Open at February 27, 2010 (1)

     973            81            1,054   

Openings

     3            -            3   

Closings

     (9         (2         (11
  

 

 

       

 

 

       

 

 

 

Open at February 26, 2011

     967            79            1,046   

Openings

     13            2            15   

Closings

     (9         -            (9
  

 

 

       

 

 

       

 

 

 

Open at February 25, 2012 (2)

     971            81            1,052   
  

 

 

       

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

  (1)  

During the third quarter of fiscal 2010, the Company ended its relationship with Sears Roebuck de Puerto Rico, Inc. and closed all seven “store within a store” locations in Puerto Rico. These locations are excluded from the table above.

 

  (2)  

The Company supplies merchandise and licenses the Pier 1 Imports name to Grupo Sanborns, S.A. de C.V. which sells Pier 1 Imports merchandise primarily in a “store within a store” format. At the end of fiscal 2012, there were 47 of these locations in Mexico and one in El Salvador. These locations are excluded from the table above.

 

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Gross Profit

Gross profit, which is calculated by deducting store occupancy costs from merchandise margin dollars, was 42.5% expressed as a percentage of sales in fiscal 2012, compared to 39.8% a year ago. Merchandise margins were 59.8% as a percentage of sales, an increase of 120 basis points over 58.6% in fiscal 2011. This improvement was the result of strong input margins, the right balance of regular and promotional pricing, and well-managed inventory levels.

Store occupancy costs during fiscal 2012 were $265.9 million or 17.3% of sales, compared to $262.4 million, or 18.8% of sales during fiscal 2011. Rent, property taxes, utilities and repair and maintenance expenses were all lower as a percentage of sales.

Operating Expenses and Depreciation

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $475.2 million, or 31.0% of sales in fiscal 2012, compared to $431.9 million, or 30.9% of sales in fiscal 2011. The increase was primarily due to increases in payroll resulting from the planned hiring of incremental headcount in support of e-Commerce and other growth initiatives, additional associate hours at the stores to support the higher sales volume, and additional expense for performance related pay and other items.

Depreciation and amortization for fiscal 2012 was $21.2 million, representing an increase of approximately $1.5 million from fiscal 2011. This increase was primarily the result of capital expenditures in fiscal 2012, partially offset by certain assets becoming fully depreciated and store closures.

In fiscal 2012, the Company recorded operating income of $154.8 million, or 10.1% of sales, compared to $103.7 million, or 7.4% of sales, for fiscal 2011.

Nonoperating Income and Expense

Nonoperating income for fiscal 2012 was $9.3 million, compared to expense of $0.2 million in fiscal 2011. The increase in net interest income was primarily the result of an increase in deferred gain recognition related to the renegotiation of the Company’s proprietary credit card agreement with Chase during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011. As a result of its agreement with ADS during the third quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company also revised the amortization period for any remaining deferred gains related to prior transactions with Chase as appropriate. In addition, interest expense decreased primarily as a result of a lower debt balance in fiscal 2012.

Income Taxes

The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $4.8 million in fiscal 2012 compared to a provision of $3.4 million in fiscal 2011. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company was able to conclude that given its improved performance, the realization of its deferred tax assets was more likely than not and accordingly reversed its valuation allowance and recorded a tax benefit during the period. This benefit was partially offset by tax expense. During fiscal 2012, the Company recognized federal income tax expense compared to only minimal amounts of state and foreign tax during fiscal 2011 due to the full valuation allowance.

 

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Net Income

Net income in fiscal 2012 was $168.9 million, or $1.48 per share, which included the tax benefit resulting from the change in the Company’s tax valuation allowance during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012. Before non-recurring tax benefits of $61.5 million, primarily resulting from the change in the Company’s tax valuation allowance, earnings per share were $0.94 for fiscal 2012. Net income for fiscal 2011 was $100.1 million, or $0.85 per share.

Net income for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 was $115.2 million, or $1.04 per share. Before non-recurring tax benefits of $61.5 million, primarily resulting from the change in the Company’s tax valuation allowance, earnings per share were $0.48 for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012. Net income for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011 was $57.1 million, or $0.48 per share.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company’s cash and cash equivalents totaled $231.6 million at the end of fiscal 2013, a decrease of $56.3 million from the fiscal 2012 year-end balance of $287.9 million. The decrease was primarily the result of the utilization of cash to support the Company’s three-year growth plan, including capital expenditures of $80.4 million, $100.0 million to repurchase shares of the Company’s common stock, and cash dividends of $18.0 million. These expenditures were mostly offset by cash provided by operating activities of $124.0 million.

The Company’s cash and cash equivalents totaled $287.9 million at the end of fiscal 2012, a decrease of $13.6 million from the fiscal 2011 year-end balance of $301.5 million. The decrease was primarily the result of the utilization of cash to support the Company’s three-year growth plan, including capital expenditures of $62.3 million and $100.0 million to repurchase shares of the Company’s common stock. These expenditures were mostly offset by cash provided by operating activities of $142.2 million.

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Operating activities provided $124.0 million of cash in fiscal 2013, primarily as a result of $129.4 million of net income, and a $5.7 million increase in income taxes payable, partially offset by a $31.6 million increase in prepaid expenses and other assets, primarily due to timing of rent payments, and a $33.6 million increase in inventory. Inventory increased 10.4% from the end of fiscal 2012 due to additional inventory to support the new e-Commerce business and slightly larger purchases of select merchandise to support higher sales in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. The Company continues to focus on strategically managing inventory levels and closely monitoring merchandise purchases to keep inventory in line with consumer demand.

During fiscal 2012, operating activities provided $142.2 million of cash, primarily as a result of $168.9 million of net income, partially offset by increases in inventory. Inventory levels at the end of fiscal 2012 were $322.5 million, an increase of $10.7 million, or 3.4%, from the end of fiscal 2011, due to increased inventory purchases to support higher sales.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

During fiscal 2013, the Company’s investing activities used $82.4 million, compared to $62.1 million during fiscal 2012. Total capital expenditures were $80.4 million, which included approximately $48.5 million for the opening of 22 new stores, four major remodels, new merchandise fixtures and lighting, and other leasehold improvements and equipment. The Company also invested in the build-out of the e-Commerce fulfillment space located in one of the Company’s distribution centers. The remaining capital expenditures were for technology and infrastructure initiatives, including e-Commerce and the new point-of-sale system.

 

 

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During fiscal 2012, the Company’s investing activities used $62.1 million, compared to $13.7 million during fiscal 2011, primarily as a result of increased capital expenditures during fiscal 2012. Capital expenditures were $62.3 million in fiscal 2012, and consisted primarily of $33.8 million for new and existing stores. The majority of the remaining capital expenditures were for information systems enhancements.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Financing activities for fiscal 2013 used $97.9 million, primarily related to the Company using $100.0 million to repurchase the Company’s common stock and paying quarterly cash dividends of $0.04 per share per quarter for the first three quarters and $0.05 per share for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, totaling $18.0 million. The cash outflows were partially offset by the receipt of $20.1 million in proceeds related primarily to employee stock option exercises and the Company’s employee stock purchase plan.

For fiscal 2012, financing activities used $93.8 million, compared to $21.1 million in fiscal 2011. The increased utilization of cash for financing activities during fiscal 2012 primarily related to the Company using $100.0 million to repurchase shares of the Company’s common stock and $3.1 million in debt issuance costs for an amendment to the Company’s secured credit facility. The cash outflows were offset by the receipt of $9.3 million in proceeds related primarily to employee stock option exercises and the Company’s employee stock purchase plan.

Secured Credit Facility

The Company has a $300 million credit facility with a $100 million accordion feature. This facility matures in April 2016 and is secured by the Company’s eligible merchandise and third-party credit card receivables. As of March 2, 2013, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under this facility and had approximately $41.5 million in letters of credit and bankers acceptances outstanding. The calculated borrowing base was $300 million, of which approximately $258.5 million remained available for additional borrowings. At the end of fiscal 2013, the Company was in compliance with all required covenants stated in the agreement.

The Company’s secured credit facility may limit certain investments and, in some instances, limit payment of cash dividends and repurchases of the Company’s common stock. The Company will not be restricted from paying certain dividends unless credit extensions on the line result in availability over a specified period of time that is projected to be less than 20% of the lesser of either $300 million or the calculated borrowing base, subject to the Company meeting a fixed charge coverage requirement when availability over the same specified period of time is projected to be less than 50% of the lesser of either $300 million or the calculated borrowing base. See Note 4 to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the Company’s secured credit facility.

Share Repurchase Program

During fiscal 2013, the Company repurchased approximately 5.3% of the Company’s common stock outstanding under the share repurchase program approved by the Board in October 2011. A total of 5,822,142 shares of its common stock were repurchased at a weighted average cost of $17.18 per share for a total cost of $100.0 million. On December 13, 2012, the Company’s Board of Directors announced a new $100 million share repurchase program. As of March 2, 2013, no shares had been repurchased under the new program and $100 million remained available for share repurchase. The timing of the repurchases will depend on several factors including, among others, prevailing market conditions and prices.

During fiscal 2012, the Company repurchased approximately 8% of the Company’s common stock outstanding under a Board approved share repurchase program. A total of 9,498,650 shares of its common stock were repurchased at a weighted average cost of $10.53 per share for a total cost of $100.0 million.

 

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Dividends Payable

On April 4, 2013, subsequent to year end, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a $0.05 per share quarterly cash dividend on the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock. The $0.05 quarterly cash dividend will be paid on May 8, 2013 to shareholders of record on April 24, 2013.

Contractual Obligations

A summary of the Company’s contractual obligations and other commercial commitments as of March 2, 2013 is listed below (in thousands):

 

                Amount of Commitment per Period  
                Less Than          1 to 3          3 to 5          More Than  
     Total          1 Year          Years          Years          5 Years  

Operating leases

   $ 1,098,514         $ 224,430         $ 352,321         $ 233,406         $ 288,357   

Assets retirement obligation

     3,165           432           1,059           990           684   

Purchase obligations (1)

     218,131           218,131           -           -           -   

Standby letters of credit (2)

     28,957           28,957           -           -           -   

Industrial revenue bonds (2)

     9,500           -           -           -           9,500   

Interest on industrial revenue bonds (3)

     196           14           29           29           124   

Interest and related fees on secured credit facility (4)

     5,172           1,671           3,341           160           -   

Other obligations (5) (6)

     49,025           3,465           18,474           4,042           23,044   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

   $     1,412,660         $     477,100         $     375,224         $     238,627         $     321,709   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

(1)  

As of March 2, 2013, the Company had approximately $218.1 million of outstanding purchase orders, which were primarily related to merchandise inventory, and included $2.8 million in merchandise letters of credit and bankers’ acceptances. Such orders are generally cancelable at the discretion of the Company until the order has been shipped. The table above excludes certain executory contracts for goods and services that tend to be recurring in nature and similar in amount year over year.

 

(2)  

The Company also has an outstanding standby letter of credit totaling $9.7 million related to the Company’s industrial revenue bonds. This amount is excluded from the table above as it is not incremental to the Company’s total outstanding commitments.

 

(3)  

The interest rates on the Company’s industrial revenue bonds are variable and reset weekly. The estimated interest payments included in the table were calculated based upon the rate in effect at fiscal 2013 year end and exclude fees for the related standby letter of credit which are included elsewhere in this table.

 

(4)  

Represents estimated commitment fees for trade and standby letters of credit, and unused fees on the Company’s $300 million secured credit facility. Fees are calculated based upon balances at fiscal 2013 year end and the applicable rates in effect under the terms of the Company’s $300 million secured credit facility.

 

(5)  

Other obligations include the Company’s liability under various unfunded retirement plans. See Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the Company’s employee benefit plans.

 

(6)  

Excluded from this table, but recorded on the Company’s balance sheet, is the portion of reserves for uncertain tax positions of $1.4 million for which the Company is not reasonably able to estimate when or if cash settlement with the respective taxing authority will occur.

The present value of the Company’s minimum future operating lease commitments discounted at 10% was $798.7 million at fiscal 2013 year end, compared to $638.6 million at fiscal 2012 year end. As part of the sale of the Company’s home office building and accompanying land during fiscal 2009, the Company entered into a lease agreement to rent office space in the building. The lease was amended on January 28, 2013 to increase the Company’s leaseable square footage and to extend the term of the lease to expire on June 30, 2022. The lease includes one option to extend the lease by five years. The Company plans to fund its lease commitments from cash generated from the operations of the Company and, if needed, from borrowings on its secured credit facility.

 

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The Company has an umbrella trust, currently consisting of five sub-trusts, which was established for the purpose of setting aside funds to be used to settle certain benefit plan obligations. Two of the sub-trusts are restricted to satisfy obligations to certain participants in the Company’s supplemental retirement plans. These trusts consisted of interest bearing investments of less than $0.1 million at both March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, and were included in other noncurrent assets. The remaining three sub-trusts are restricted to meet the funding requirements of the Company’s non-qualified deferred compensation plans. These trusts’ assets consisted of investments totaling $3.7 million and $1.2 million at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, respectively, and were included in other noncurrent assets. The investments were held in money market funds and mutual funds and are stated at fair value. Some of these trusts also own and are the beneficiaries of life insurance policies with cash surrender values of approximately $6.6 million at March 2, 2013 and death benefits of approximately $13.1 million. In addition, the Company owns and is the beneficiary of a number of insurance policies on the lives of current and former key executives that are unrestricted as to use. The cash surrender value of these unrestricted policies was approximately $17.6 million at March 2, 2013, and was included in other noncurrent assets. These policies had a death benefit of approximately $26.0 million at March 2, 2013. At the discretion of the Board of Directors, contributions of cash or unrestricted life insurance policies could be made to the trusts.

Sources of Working Capital

The Company’s sources of working capital for fiscal 2013 were primarily from operations. The Company has a variety of sources for liquidity, which include available cash balances and available lines of credit. The Company’s current plans for fiscal 2014 include a capital expenditure budget of approximately $75 million, cash dividends and share repurchases as discussed above. The Company does not presently anticipate any other significant cash outflows in fiscal 2014 other than those discussed herein or those occurring in the normal course of business.

The Company’s key drivers of cash flows are sales, management of inventory levels, vendor payment terms, management of expenses, and capital expenditures. The Company’s focus remains on making conservative inventory purchases, managing those inventories, and continuing to evolve the Company’s merchandise offering while at the same time maximizing its revenues, seeking out ways to make its cost base more efficient and effective and preserving liquidity. While there can be no assurance that the Company will sustain positive cash flows or profitability over the long-term, given the Company’s cash position and the various liquidity options available, the Company believes it has sufficient liquidity to fund its obligations, capital expenditure requirements, cash dividends and share repurchases through fiscal 2014.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Other than the operating leases, letters of credit and purchase obligations discussed above, the Company has no off-balance sheet arrangements.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires the use of estimates that affect the reported value of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. These estimates are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for the Company’s conclusions. The Company continually evaluates the information used to make these estimates as the business and the economic environment changes. Historically, actual results have not varied materially from the Company’s estimates, with the exception of the early retirement of participants in its defined benefit plans, and income taxes as discussed below. The Company does not currently anticipate a significant change in its assumptions related to these estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different

 

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assumptions or conditions. The Company’s significant accounting policies can be found in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements . The policies and estimates discussed below include the financial statement elements that are either judgmental or involve the selection or application of alternative accounting policies and are material to the Company’s financial statements. Unless specifically addressed below, the Company does not believe that its critical accounting policies are subject to market risk exposure that would be considered material, and, as a result, has not provided a sensitivity analysis. The use of estimates is pervasive throughout the consolidated financial statements, but the accounting policies and estimates considered most critical are as follows:

Revenue recognition – The Company recognizes revenue from retail sales, net of sales tax and third-party credit card fees, upon customer receipt or delivery of merchandise. The Company records an allowance for estimated merchandise returns based upon historical experience and other known factors. Should actual returns differ from the Company’s estimates and current provision for merchandise returns, revisions to the estimated merchandise returns may be required.

Gift cards – Revenue associated with gift cards is recognized when merchandise is sold and a gift card is redeemed as payment. Gift card breakage is estimated and recorded as income based upon an analysis of the Company’s historical data and expected trends in redemption patterns and represents the remaining unused portion of the gift card liability for which the likelihood of redemption is remote. If actual redemption patterns vary from the Company’s estimates or if regulations change, actual gift card breakage may differ from the amounts recorded. For all periods presented, estimated gift card breakage was recognized 30 months after the original issuance and was $4.3 million, $3.8 million, and $4.2 million in fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

Inventories – The Company’s inventory is comprised of finished merchandise and is stated at the lower of weighted average cost or market value. Cost is calculated based upon the actual landed cost of an item at the time it is received in the Company’s warehouse using vendor invoices, the cost of warehousing and transporting product to the stores and other direct costs associated with purchasing products. Carrying values of inventory are analyzed and to the extent that the cost of inventory exceeds the expected selling prices less reasonable costs to sell, provisions are made to reduce the carrying amount of the inventory. The Company reviews its inventory levels in order to identify slow-moving merchandise and uses merchandise markdowns to sell such merchandise. Markdowns are recorded to reduce the retail price of such slow-moving merchandise as needed. Since the determination of carrying values of inventory involves both estimation and judgment with regard to market values and reasonable costs to sell, differences in these estimates could result in ultimate valuations that differ from the recorded asset. The majority of inventory purchases and commitments are made in U.S. dollars in order to limit the Company’s exposure to foreign currency fluctuations.

The Company recognizes known inventory losses, shortages and damages when incurred and makes a provision for estimated shrinkage. The amount of the provision is estimated based on historical experience from the results of its physical inventories. Inventory is physically counted at substantially all locations at least once in each 12-month period, at which time actual results are reflected in the financial statements. Physical counts were taken at substantially all stores and distribution centers during each period presented in the financial statements. Although inventory shrinkage rates have not fluctuated significantly in recent years, should actual rates differ from the Company’s estimates, revisions to the inventory shrinkage expense may be required.

Insurance provision – The Company maintains insurance for workers’ compensation and general liability claims with deductibles of $1,000,000 per occurrence. The liability recorded for such claims is determined by estimating the total future claims cost for events that occurred prior to the balance sheet date. The estimates consider historical claims loss development factors as well as information obtained from and projections made by the Company’s broker, actuary, insurance carriers and third party claims administrators. The recorded liabilities for workers’ compensation and general liability claims include claims occurring in prior years

 

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but not yet settled and reserves for fees. The recorded liability for workers’ compensation claims and fees was $21.4 million and $17.4 million at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, respectively. The recorded liability for general liability claims and fees was $5.9 million and $6.0 million at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, respectively.

The assumptions made in determining the above estimates are reviewed monthly and the liability adjusted accordingly as new facts are developed. Changes in circumstances and conditions affecting the assumptions used in determining the liabilities could cause actual results to differ from the Company’s recorded amounts.

Defined benefit plans – The Company maintains supplemental retirement plans (the “Plans”) for certain of its current and former executive officers. The Plans provide that upon death, disability, reaching retirement age or certain termination events, a participant will receive benefits based on highest compensation, years of service and years of plan participation. These benefit costs are dependent upon numerous factors, assumptions and estimates. Benefit costs may be significantly affected by changes in key actuarial assumptions such as the discount rate, compensation rates, or retirement dates used to determine the projected benefit obligation. Additionally, changes made to the provisions of the Plans may impact current and future benefit costs.

Stock-based compensation – For restricted stock awards, compensation expense is measured and recorded using the closing price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant. If the date of grant occurs on a day when the Company’s stock is not traded, then the closing price on the last trading day before the date of grant is used. Restricted stock grants include time-based and performance-based shares. The time-based awards typically vest ratably over a three-year period beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date provided that the participant is employed on the vesting date. The total fair market value of the grant of the restricted stock shares is expensed over the requisite service period. A portion of the performance-based shares vests upon the Company satisfying certain performance targets. Performance based shares are considered granted for accounting purposes on the date the performance targets are set, and the fair market value at that date is expensed over the requisite service period. The remaining performance-based shares are based on a market condition and will vest if certain annual equivalent returns of total shareholder return targets are achieved in comparison to a peer group. The fair value for these performance-based shares was determined using a lattice valuation model in accordance with accounting guidelines, and will be expensed on a straight-line basis over the performance period.

Income taxes – The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related assets or liabilities for financial reporting purposes. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets unless it is more likely than not that such assets will be realized. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, all available evidence is considered including past operating results, estimates of future income, and tax planning strategies. The Company is subject to income tax in many jurisdictions, including the United States, various states and localities, and foreign countries. At any point in time, multiple tax years are subject to audit by various jurisdictions and the Company records reserves for uncertain tax benefits for foreign and domestic tax audits. The timing of these audits and negotiations with taxing authorities may affect the ultimate settlement of these issues. If different assumptions had been used, the Company’s tax expense or benefit, assets and liabilities could have varied from recorded amounts. If actual results differ from estimated results or if the Company adjusts these assumptions in the future, the Company may need to adjust its deferred tax assets or liabilities, which could impact its effective tax rate.

 

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IMPACT OF INFLATION AND CHANGING PRICES

Inflation has not had a significant impact on the operations of the Company during the preceding three years. However, the Company’s management cannot be certain of the effect inflation may have on the Company’s operations in the future.

 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk .

Market risks relating to the Company’s operations result primarily from changes in foreign exchange rates and interest rates. The Company has only limited involvement with derivative financial instruments, does not use them for trading purposes and is not a party to any leveraged derivatives. Collectively, the Company’s exposure to market risk factors is not significant and has not materially changed from February 25, 2012.

Foreign Currency Risk

Though the majority of the Company’s inventory purchases are made in U.S. dollars in order to limit its exposure to foreign currency fluctuations, the Company, from time to time, enters into forward foreign currency exchange contracts. The Company uses such contracts to hedge exposures to changes in foreign currency exchange rates associated with purchases denominated in foreign currencies, primarily euros. The Company operates stores in Canada and is subject to fluctuations in currency conversion rates related to those operations. On occasion, the Company may consider utilizing contracts to hedge its exposure associated with repatriation of funds from its Canadian operations. Changes in the fair value of the derivatives are included in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations as such contracts are not designated as hedges under the applicable accounting guidance. Forward contracts that hedge merchandise purchases generally have maturities not exceeding six months. Changes in the fair value and settlement of these forwards are included in cost of sales and the impact was immaterial. At March 2, 2013, there were no material outstanding contracts to hedge exposure associated with the Company’s merchandise purchases denominated in foreign currencies or the repatriation of Canadian funds.

Interest Rate Risk

The Company manages its exposure to changes in interest rates by optimizing the use of variable and fixed rate debt. The interest rate exposure on the Company’s secured credit facility and industrial revenue bonds is based upon variable interest rates and therefore is affected by changes in market interest rates. As of March 2, 2013, the Company had $9.5 million in long-term debt outstanding related to its industrial revenue bonds and no cash borrowings outstanding on its secured credit facility. A hypothetical 10% adverse change in the interest rates applicable to either or both of these variable rate instruments would have a negligible impact on the Company’s earnings and cash flows.

 

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data .

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors of Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. as of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 2, 2013. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the 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, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 2, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Pier 1 Imports, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 2, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated April 30, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Fort Worth, Texas

April 30, 2013

 

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Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands except per share amounts)

 

     Year Ended  
     2013          2012          2011  

Net sales

   $     1,704,885         $     1,533,611         $     1,396,470   

Cost of sales

     961,826           882,449           841,083   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Gross profit

     743,059           651,162           555,387   

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     513,085           475,162           431,900   

Depreciation and amortization

     30,988           21,240           19,739   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Operating income

     198,986           154,760           103,748   

Nonoperating (income) and expenses:

            

Interest, investment income and other

     (2,757        (12,434        (5,164

Interest expense

     743           3,087           5,368   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 
     (2,014        (9,347        204   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

     201,000           164,107           103,544   

Income tax provision (benefit)

     71,556           (4,831        3,419   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Net income

   $ 129,444         $ 168,938         $ 100,125   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Earnings per share:

            

Basic

   $ 1.22         $ 1.50         $ 0.86   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Diluted

   $ 1.20         $ 1.48         $ 0.85   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Average shares outstanding during period:

            

Basic

     106,222           112,534           116,466   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Diluted

     108,259           114,390           117,484   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

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Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(in thousands)

 

     Twelve Months Ended  
     March 2,
2013
         February 25,
2012
         February 26,
2011
 

Net income

   $     129,444         $     168,938         $     100,125   

Other comprehensive income (loss)

            

Foreign currency translation adjustments

     (918        (2,050        1,841   

Pension adjustments

     563           (1,639        (1,926
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

     (355        (3,689        (85
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Comprehensive income

   $ 129,089         $ 165,249         $ 100,040   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

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Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands except share amounts)

 

     March 2,
2013
          February 25,
2012
 

ASSETS

  

Current assets:

        

Cash and cash equivalents, including temporary investments
of $191,568 and $248,624, respectively

   $ 231,556          $ 287,868   

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
doubtful accounts of $497 and $502, respectively

     22,309            16,282   

Inventories

     356,053            322,482   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     49,016            23,682   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Total current assets

     658,934            650,314   

Properties, net

     150,615            103,640   

Other noncurrent assets

     47,666            69,409   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 
   $ 857,215          $ 823,363   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

LIABILITES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

  

Current liabilities:

        

Accounts payable

   $ 58,701          $ 63,827   

Gift cards and other deferred revenue

     51,740            53,123   

Accrued income taxes payable

     25,249            16,759   

Other accrued liabilities

     112,437            111,679   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     248,127            245,388   

Long-term debt

     9,500            9,500   

Other noncurrent liabilities

     62,457            74,832   

Shareholders’ equity:

        

Common stock, $0.001 par, 500,000,000 shares authorized
125,232,000 issued

     125            125   

Paid-in capital

     233,518            231,919   

Retained earnings

     574,206            462,751   

Cumulative other comprehensive loss

     (4,828         (4,473

Less - 18,906,000 and 15,512,000 common shares in
treasury, at cost, respectively

     (265,890         (196,679
  

 

 

       

 

 

 
     537,131            493,643   

Commitments and contingencies

     -            -   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 
   $ 857,215          $ 823,363   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

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Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

 

     Year Ended  
     2013          2012          2011  

Cash flow from operating activities:

            

Net income

   $     129,444         $     168,938         $     100,125   

Adjustments to reconcile to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

            

Depreciation and amortization

     38,431           30,949           33,806   

Stock-based compensation expense

     12,337           6,199           4,706   

Deferred compensation

     6,192           5,612           4,237   

Deferred income taxes

     19,928           (41,915        -   

Amortization of credit card deferred revenue

     (2,986        (22,706        (2,855

Amortization of deferred gains

     (3,931        (13,938        (8,498

Change in reserve for uncertain tax positions

     (6,252        629           905   

Other

     (2,087        3,888           4,935   

Change in cash from:

            

Inventories

     (33,571        (10,712        1,726   

Proprietary credit card receivables

     (2,019        171           100   

Prepaid expenses and other assets

     (31,620        (8,245        (8,050

Proceeds from an adjustment to the proprietary credit card agreement

     -           -           28,326   

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

     (5,516        6,824           (8,112

Accrued income taxes payable, net of payments

     5,699           16,527           (2,966
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

     124,049           142,221           148,385   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Cash flow from investing activities:

            

Capital expenditures

     (80,363        (62,316        (31,049

Proceeds from disposition of properties

     217           1,350           11,146   

Proceeds from sale of restricted investments

     1,290           471           3,876   

Purchase of restricted investments

     (3,567        (1,575        (3,944

Collection of note receivable

     -           -           6,250   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

     (82,423        (62,070        (13,721
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Cash flow from financing activities:

            

Cash dividends

     (17,989        -           -   

Purchases of treasury stock

     (100,000        (100,000        -   

Proceeds from stock options exercised, stock purchase plan and other, net

     20,051           9,343           4,972   

Repayment of long-term debt

     -           -           (26,077

Debt issuance costs

     -           (3,097        -   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Net cash used in financing activities

     (97,938        (93,754        (21,105
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Change in cash and cash equivalents

     (56,312        (13,603        113,559   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     287,868           301,471           187,912   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 231,556         $ 287,868         $ 301,471   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 
   

Supplemental cash flow information:

            

Interest paid

   $ 3,563         $ 4,812         $ 6,015   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Income taxes paid

   $ 43,740         $ 18,751         $ 7,342   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

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Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(in thousands)

 

                                            Cumulative                      
    Common Stock                       Other                   Total  
    Outstanding                   Paid-in         Retained         Comprehensive         Treasury         Shareholders’  
    Shares         Amount         Capital         Earnings         Income (Loss)         Stock         Equity  

Balance February 27, 2010

    115,587        $     125        $     264,477        $     193,688        $     (699)        $     (154,457)        $     303,134   

Net income

        -          -          100,125          -          -          100,125   

Other comprehensive income

    -          -          -          -          (85           (85

Stock-based compensation expense

    979          -          (10,970       -          -          15,676          4,706   

Exercise of stock options, directors deferred, stock purchase plan and other

    918          -          (10,456       -          -          15,428          4,972   
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Balance February 26, 2011

    117,484        $ 125        $ 243,051        $ 293,813        $ (784     $ (123,353     $ 412,852   
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net income

        -          -          168,938          -          -          168,938   

Other comprehensive income

    -          -          -          -          (3,689       -          (3,689

Purchases of treasury stock

    (9,499       -          -          -          -          (100,000       (100,000

Stock-based compensation expense

    820          -          (6,859       -          -          13,058          6,199   

Exercise of stock options,

                         

stock purchase plan, and other

    915          -          (4,273       -          -          13,616          9,343   
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Balance February 25, 2012

    109,720        $ 125        $ 231,919        $ 462,751        $ (4,473     $ (196,679     $ 493,643   
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net income

        -          -          129,444          -          -          129,444   

Other comprehensive income

    -          -          -          -          (355       -          (355

Purchases of treasury stock

    (5,822       -          -          -          -          (100,000       (100,000

Stock-based compensation expense

    809          -          2,128          -          -          10,209          12,337   

Exercise of stock options,

                         

stock purchase plan, and other

    1,619          -          (529       -          -          20,580          20,051   

Cash dividends ($.17 per share)

    -          -          -          (17,989       -          -          (17,989
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Balance March 2, 2013

    106,326        $ 125        $ 233,518        $ 574,206        $ (4,828     $ (265,890     $ 537,131   
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1 – DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Organization – Pier 1 Imports, Inc. (together with its consolidated subsidiaries, the “Company”) is a global importer and is one of North America’s largest specialty retailers of imported decorative home furnishings and gifts, with retail stores located in the United States and Canada. Additionally, the Company has merchandise primarily in “store within a store” locations in Mexico and El Salvador that are operated by Sears Operadora de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. and Corporacion de Tiendas Internationales, S.A. de C.V., respectively. During fiscal 2013, the Company executed the launch of its new e-Commerce enabled website, Pier1.com.

Basis of consolidation – The consolidated financial statements of the Company include the accounts of all subsidiary companies, and all intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

Segment information – The Company is a specialty retailer that offers a broad range of products in its stores and on its website and conducts business as one operating segment. The Company’s domestic operations provided 91.4%, 91.1% and 90.5% of its net sales, with 7.9%, 8.2% and 8.8% provided by stores in Canada, and the remainder from royalties primarily received from Sears Operadora de Mexico S.A. de C.V. during fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of March 2, 2013, February 25, 2012 and February 26, 2011, $5,344,000, $5,061,000 and $1,709,000, respectively, of the Company’s long-lived assets were located in Canada. There were no long-lived assets in Mexico or El Salvador during any period.

Use of estimates – Preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Reclassifications – Certain reclassifications have been made in the prior years’ consolidated statements of cash flows to conform to the fiscal 2013 presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on the major categories within the cash flow statement.

Fiscal periods – The Company utilizes 5-4-4 (week) quarterly accounting periods with the fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to February 28th. Fiscal 2013 ended March 2, 2013, fiscal 2012 ended February 25, 2012 and fiscal 2011 ended February 26, 2011. Fiscal 2013 consisted of a 53-week year and fiscal 2012 and 2011 were 52-week years.

Cash and cash equivalents, including temporary investments – The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity date of three months or less to be cash equivalents, except for those investments that are restricted and have been set aside in a trust to satisfy retirement obligations and are classified as non-current assets. As of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, the Company’s short-term investments classified as cash equivalents included investments in money market mutual funds totaling $191,568,000 and $248,624,000, respectively. The effect of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on cash was not material.

Translation of foreign currencies – Assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at fiscal year-end exchange rates. Income and expense items are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the year. Translation adjustments arising from differences in exchange rates from period to period are included as a separate component of shareholders’ equity and are included in other comprehensive income (loss). As of March 2, 2013, February 25, 2012 and February 26, 2011, the Company had cumulative other comprehensive income (loss) balances of ($1,304,000), ($386,000) and $1,664,000, respectively, related to cumulative translation adjustments. The adjustments for currency translation during fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011

 

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resulted in other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, as applicable, of ($918,000), ($2,050,000) and $1,841,000, respectively. Taxes on the portion of its cumulative currency translation adjustment considered not to be permanently reinvested abroad were insignificant in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011.

Concentrations of risk – The Company has risk of concentration with respect to sourcing the Company’s inventory purchases. However, the Company believes alternative merchandise sources could be procured over a reasonable period of time. Pier 1 Imports sells merchandise imported from many countries, with approximately 58.6% of its sales derived from merchandise produced in China, approximately 12.8% derived from merchandise produced in India, and approximately 19.3% collectively derived from merchandise produced in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the United States. The remaining sales were from merchandise produced in various other countries around the world.

Financial instruments – The fair value of financial instruments is determined by reference to various market data and other valuation techniques as appropriate. There were no assets or liabilities with a fair value significantly different from the recorded value as of March 2, 2013 or February 25, 2012.

Risk management instruments : The Company may utilize various financial instruments to manage interest rate and market risk associated with its on- and off-balance sheet commitments.

From time to time, the Company hedges certain commitments denominated in foreign currencies through the purchase of forward contracts. The forward contracts are purchased to cover a portion of commitments to buy merchandise for resale. The Company also, on occasion, uses contracts to hedge its exposure associated with the repatriation of funds from its Canadian operations. At March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, there were no material outstanding contracts to hedge exposure associated with the Company’s merchandise purchases denominated in foreign currencies or the repatriation of Canadian funds. For financial accounting purposes, the Company does not designate such contracts as hedges. Thus, changes in the fair value of both types of forward contracts would be included in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. The changes in fair value and settlement of these contracts were not material and were included in cost of sales for forwards related to merchandise purchases, and in selling, general and administrative expense for the contracts associated with the repatriation of Canadian funds.

When the Company enters into forward foreign currency exchange contracts, it enters into them with major financial institutions and monitors its positions with, and the credit quality of, these counterparties to such financial instruments.

Accounts Receivable – The Company’s accounts receivable are stated at carrying value less an allowance for doubtful accounts. These receivables consist largely of third-party credit card receivables for which collection is reasonably assured. The remaining receivables are periodically evaluated for collectability, and an allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded as appropriate.

Inventories – The Company’s inventory is comprised of finished merchandise and is stated at the lower of weighted average cost or market value. Cost is calculated based upon the actual landed cost of an item at the time it is received in the Company’s warehouse using vendor invoices, the cost of warehousing and transporting merchandise to the stores and other direct costs associated with purchasing merchandise.

The Company recognizes known inventory losses, shortages and damages when incurred and maintains a reserve for estimated shrinkage since the last physical count, when actual shrinkage was recorded. The reserves for estimated shrinkage at the end of fiscal 2013 and 2012 were $7,156,000 and $7,016,000, respectively.

 

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Properties, maintenance and repairs – Buildings, equipment, furniture and fixtures, and leasehold improvements are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over estimated remaining useful lives of the assets, generally thirty years for buildings and three to ten years for equipment, furniture and fixtures. Depreciation of improvements to leased properties is based upon the shorter of the remaining primary lease term or the estimated useful lives of such assets. Depreciation related to the Company’s distribution centers is included in cost of sales. All other depreciation costs are included in depreciation and amortization and were $30,988,000, $21,240,000 and $19,739,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Expenditures for maintenance, repairs and renewals that do not materially prolong the original useful lives of the assets are charged to expense as incurred. In the case of disposals, assets and the related depreciation are removed from the accounts and the net amount, less proceeds from disposal, is credited or charged to income.

Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment at least annually and whenever an event or change in circumstances indicates that their carrying values may not be recoverable. If the carrying value exceeds the sum of the expected undiscounted cash flows, the assets are considered impaired. Impairment, if any, is recorded in the period in which the impairment occurred. The Company recorded no impairment charges in fiscal 2013 and 2012, and $0.5 million in impairment charges in fiscal 2011. Impairment charges were included in selling, general and administrative expenses.

Insurance provision – The Company maintains insurance for workers’ compensation and general liability claims with deductibles of $1,000,000 per occurrence. The liability recorded for such claims is determined by estimating the total future claims cost for events that occurred prior to the balance sheet date. The estimates consider historical claims loss development factors as well as information obtained from and projections made by the Company’s broker, actuary, insurance carriers and third party claims administrators. The recorded liabilities for workers’ compensation and general liability claims include claims occurring in prior years but not yet settled and reserves for fees. The recorded liability for workers’ compensation claims and fees was $21,356,000 and $17,363,000 at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, respectively. The recorded liability for general liability claims and fees was $5,916,000 and $5,977,000 at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, respectively.

Revenue recognition – Revenue is recognized upon customer receipt or delivery for retail sales. A reserve has been established for estimated merchandise returns based upon historical experience and other known factors. The reserves for estimated merchandise returns at the end of fiscal 2013 and 2012 were $2,927,000 and $2,570,000, respectively. The Company’s revenues are reported net of discounts and returns, net of sales tax and third-party credit card fees, and include wholesale sales and royalties received from Sears Operadora de Mexico S.A. de C.V. and Corporacion de Tiendas Internationales, S.A. de C.V. Amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling are included in net sales.

Cost of sales – Cost of sales includes the cost of the merchandise, buying expenses, costs related to the Company’s distribution network (including depreciation), and store occupancy expenses. The costs incurred by the Company for shipping and handling are recorded in cost of sales.

Gift cards – Revenue associated with gift cards is recognized when merchandise is sold and a gift card is redeemed as payment. Gift card breakage is estimated and recorded as income based upon an analysis of the Company’s historical data and expected trends in redemption patterns and represents the remaining unused portion of the gift card liability for which the likelihood of redemption is remote. If actual redemption patterns vary from the Company’s estimates or if regulations change, actual gift card breakage may differ from the amounts recorded. For all periods presented, estimated gift card breakage was recognized 30 months after the original issuance and was $4,348,000, $3,785,000 and $4,169,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

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Leases – The Company leases certain property consisting principally of retail stores, warehouses, its home office and material handling and office equipment under operating leases expiring through fiscal 2029. Most retail store locations were leased for primary terms of ten years with varying renewal options and rent escalation clauses. Escalations occurring during the primary terms of the leases are included in the calculation of the minimum lease payments, and the rent expense related to these leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over this lease term, including free rent periods prior to the opening of its stores. The portion of rent expense applicable to a store before opening is included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Once opened for business, rent expense is included in cost of sales. Certain leases provide for additional rental payments based on a percentage of sales in excess of a specified base. This additional rent is accrued when it appears that the sales will exceed the specified base. Construction allowances received from landlords are initially recorded as lease liabilities and amortized as a reduction of rental expense over the primary lease term.

Advertising costs – Advertising production costs are expensed the first time the advertising takes place. Advertising costs were $71,214,000, $62,405,000 and $55,723,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Prepaid advertising at the end of fiscal years 2013 and 2012 was $2,426,000 and $2,008,000, respectively.

Defined benefit plans – The Company maintains supplemental retirement plans (the “Plans”) for certain of its current and former executive officers. The Plans provide that upon death, disability, reaching retirement age or certain termination events, a participant will receive benefits based on highest compensation, years of service and years of plan participation. These benefit costs are dependent upon numerous factors, assumptions and estimates. Benefit costs may be significantly affected by changes in key actuarial assumptions such as the discount rate, compensation increase rates, or retirement dates used to determine the projected benefit obligation. Additionally, changes made to the provisions of the Plans may impact current and future benefit costs. In accordance with accounting rules, changes in benefit obligations associated with these factors may not be immediately recognized as costs in the statement of operations, but recognized in future years over the remaining average service period of plan participants. See Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.

Income taxes – The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet and are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related assets or liabilities for financial reporting purposes. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets unless it is more likely than not that such assets will be realized. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, all available evidence is considered including past operating results, estimates of future income, and tax planning strategies. The Company is subject to income tax in many jurisdictions, including the United States, various states and localities, and foreign countries. At any point in time, multiple tax years are subject to audit by various jurisdictions and the Company records estimated reserves for uncertain tax benefits for foreign and domestic tax audits. However, negotiations with taxing authorities may yield results different from those currently estimated. See Note 8 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.

Earnings per share – Basic earnings per share amounts were determined by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share amounts were similarly computed, and have included the effect, if dilutive, of the Company’s weighted average number of stock options outstanding and shares of unvested restricted stock.

 

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Earnings per share amounts were calculated as follows (in thousands except per share amounts):

 

     2013          2012          2011  

Net Income

   $     129,444         $     168,938         $     100,125   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding:

            

Basic

     106,222           112,534           116,466   

Effect of dilutive stock options

     1,337           1,214           454   

Effect of dilutive restricted stock

     700           642           564   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Diluted

     108,259           114,390           117,484   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Earnings per share:

            

Basic

   $ 1.22         $ 1.50         $ 0.86   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Diluted

   $ 1.20         $ 1.48         $ 0.85   
  

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

A total of 961,575, 2,968,250 and 3,903,875 outstanding stock options and shares of unvested restricted stock were excluded from the computation of the fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 earnings per share, respectively, as the effect would be antidilutive.

Stock-based compensation – The Company’s stock-based compensation relates to stock options, restricted stock awards and director deferred stock units. Accounting guidance requires all companies to measure and recognize compensation expense at an amount equal to the fair value of share-based payments granted. Compensation expense is recognized for any unvested stock option awards and restricted stock awards on a straight-line basis or ratably over the requisite service period. Stock option exercise prices equal the fair market value of the shares on the date of the grant. The fair value of stock options is calculated using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. For time-based and certain performance-based restricted stock awards, compensation expense is measured and recorded using the closing price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant. If the date of grant for stock options or restricted stock awards occurs on a day when the Company’s stock is not traded, the closing price on the last trading day before the date of grant is used. A portion of the performance-based shares vests upon the Company satisfying certain performance targets. The Company records compensation expense for these awards with a performance condition when it is probable that the condition will be achieved. The compensation expense ultimately recognized, if any, related to these awards will equal the grant date fair value for the number of shares for which the performance condition has been satisfied. The remaining performance-based shares are based on a market condition and will vest if certain annual equivalent returns of total shareholder return targets are achieved in comparison to a peer group. The fair value for these performance-based shares was determined using a lattice valuation model in accordance with accounting guidelines.

The Company estimates forfeitures based on its historical forfeiture experience, and adjusts forfeiture estimates based on actual forfeiture experience for all awards with service conditions. The effect of any forfeiture adjustments was insignificant.

Adoption of new accounting standards – In June 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2011-05, “ Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income,” which amends current comprehensive income guidance. This accounting update eliminates the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of shareholders’ equity. Instead, the Company must report comprehensive income in either a single continuous statement of comprehensive income which contains two sections, net income and other comprehensive income, or in two separate but consecutive statements . The Company adopted ASU 2011-05 in the first quarter of fiscal 2013 and included two separate but consecutive statements.

 

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NOTE 2 – PROPERTIES

Properties are summarized as follows at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012 (in thousands):

 

     2013          2012  

Land

   $ 4,256         $ 4,256   

Buildings

     12,394           12,396   

Equipment, furniture, fixtures and other

     306,094           277,247   

Leasehold improvements

     192,562           176,069   

Computer software

     112,755           87,821   

Projects in progress

     5,621           7,241   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 
     633,682           565,030   

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

     483,067               461,390   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Properties, net

   $     150,615         $ 103,640   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

NOTE 3 – OTHER ACCRUED LIABILITIES AND NONCURRENT LIABILITIES

The following is a summary of other accrued liabilities and noncurrent liabilities at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012 (in thousands):

 

     2013          2012  

Accrued payroll and other employee-related liabilities

   $ 60,867         $ 65,758   

Accrued taxes, other than income

     22,608           19,965   

Rent-related liabilities

     9,973           10,064   

Other

     18,989           15,892   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Other accrued liabilities

   $     112,437         $     111,679   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Rent-related liabilities

   $ 18,057         $ 19,090   

Deferred gains

     4,788           7,574   

Retirement benefits

     37,502           31,754   

Other

     2,110           16,414   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Other noncurrent liabilities

   $ 62,457         $ 74,832   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

NOTE 4 – LONG-TERM DEBT AND AVAILABLE CREDIT

Long-term debt consisted entirely of industrial revenue bonds at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012. The Company’s industrial revenue bond loan agreements have been outstanding since fiscal 1987. Proceeds were used to construct warehouse/distribution facilities. The loan agreements and related tax-exempt bonds mature in the year 2026. During fiscal 2011, the Company repaid $9,500,000 of industrial revenue bonds related to the distribution center near Chicago, Illinois with proceeds received from the sale of that facility earlier in the year. The Company’s interest rates on the loans are based on the bond interest rates, which are market driven, reset weekly and are similar to other tax-exempt municipal debt issues. The Company’s weighted average effective interest rate, including standby letter of credit fees, was 2.4%, 2.7% and 3.8% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

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In February 2006, the Company issued $165,000,000 of convertible debt. As of the end of fiscal 2011, all remaining convertible debt and any accrued interest were paid in full. As of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, the Company had no outstanding convertible debt.

The Company has a $300,000,000 secured credit facility with a $100,000,000 accordion feature. Provided that there is no default and no default would occur as a result thereof, the Company may request that the facility be increased to an amount not to exceed $400,000,000. This facility matures in April 2016 and is secured by the Company’s eligible merchandise inventory and third-party credit card receivables. At the Company’s option, borrowings will bear interest, payable quarterly or, if earlier, at the end of each interest period, at either (a) the LIBOR rate plus a spread varying from 175 to 225 basis points per year, depending on the amount then borrowed under the facility, or (b) the prime rate plus a spread varying from 75 to 125 basis points per year, depending on the amount then borrowed under the facility The Company pays a fee ranging from 175 to 225 basis points per year for standby letters of credit depending on the average daily availability as defined by the agreement, 87.5 to 112.5 basis points per year for trade letters of credit, and a commitment fee of 37.5 basis points per year for any unused amounts. As of March 2, 2013, the fee for standby letters of credit was 175 basis points per year and 87.5 basis points per year for trade letters of credit. In addition, the Company will pay, when applicable, letter of credit fronting fees on the amount of letters of credit outstanding.

The facility includes a requirement that the Company maintain minimum availability equal to the greater of 10% of the line cap, as defined by the facility, or $20,000,000. The Company’s secured credit facility may limit certain investments and, in some instances, limit payment of cash dividends and repurchases of the Company’s common stock. The Company will not be restricted from paying certain dividends unless credit extensions on the line result in availability over a specified period of time that is projected to be less than 20% of the lesser of either $300,000,000 or the calculated borrowing base, subject to the Company meeting a fixed charge coverage requirement when availability over the same specified period of time is projected to be less than 50% of the lesser of either $300,000,000 or the calculated borrowing base.

During fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company had no cash borrowings under this facility. As of March 2, 2013, the Company’s borrowing base, as defined by the agreement, was $300,000,000. This borrowing base calculation was subject to advance rates and commercially reasonable availability reserves. As of March 2, 2013, the Company utilized approximately $41,471,000 in letters of credit and bankers’ acceptances against the secured credit facility. Of the outstanding balance, approximately $2,800,000 related to trade letters of credit and bankers acceptances for merchandise purchases, $19,975,000 related to a standby letter of credit for the Company’s workers’ compensation and general liability insurance policies, $9,715,000 related to a standby letter of credit related to the Company’s industrial revenue bonds, and $8,981,000 related to other miscellaneous standby letters of credit. After excluding the $41,471,000 in utilized letters of credit and bankers’ acceptances from the borrowing base, $258,529,000 remained available for cash borrowings.

NOTE 5 – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The Company offers a qualified defined contribution employee retirement plan to all its full- and part-time personnel who are at least 18 years old and have been employed for a minimum of six months. During fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, employees contributing 1% to 5% of their compensation received a matching Company contribution of up to 3%. Company contributions to the plan were $2,119,000, $1,869,000 and $2,286,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

In addition, the Company offers non-qualified deferred compensation plans for the purpose of providing deferred compensation for certain employees whose benefits under the qualified plan may be limited under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Company’s expense for these non-qualified plans was

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

$1,051,000, $744,000 and $576,000 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company has trusts established for the purpose of setting aside funds to be used to settle certain obligations of these non-qualified deferred compensation plans, and contributed $2,773,000 and used $497,000 to satisfy a portion of retirement obligations during fiscal 2013. The Company also contributed $1,526,000 and used $423,000 to satisfy a portion of retirement obligations during fiscal 2012. As of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, the trusts’ assets included investments with an aggregate value of $3,732,000 and $1,215,000, respectively. The investments were held in money market funds and mutual funds. All investments held in the trusts are valued at fair value using Level 1 Inputs, which are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. The Company has accounted for these restricted investments as trading securities. The trust assets also consisted of life insurance policies, which were classified as non-current assets, with cash surrender values of $6,556,000 as of March 2, 2013 and $6,333,000 as of February 25, 2012, and death benefits of $13,090,000 for both periods. The trust assets are restricted and may only be used to satisfy obligations to plan participants. The Company owns and is the beneficiary of a number of insurance policies on the lives of current and former key executives that are unrestricted as to use. At the discretion of the Board of Directors such policies could be contributed to these trusts or to the trusts established for the purpose of setting aside funds to be used to satisfy obligations arising from supplemental retirement plans described below. The cash surrender value of these unrestricted policies was $17,634,000 at March 2, 2013, and the death benefit was $25,980,000. These cash surrender values are carried in the Company’s consolidated financial statements in other non-current assets.

The Company maintains supplemental retirement plans (the “Plans”) for certain of its executive officers. The Plans provide that upon death, disability, reaching retirement age or certain termination events, a participant will receive benefits based on highest compensation, years of service and years of plan participation. The Company recorded expenses related to the Plans of $3,423,000, $2,759,000 and $2,458,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

The Plans are not funded and thus have no plan assets. However, a trust has been established for the purpose of setting aside funds to be used to settle the defined benefit plan obligations upon retirement or death of certain participants. The trust assets are consolidated in the Company’s financial statements and consist of interest bearing investments in the amount of $17,000 that are included in other noncurrent assets at both March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012. These investments are restricted and may only be used to satisfy retirement obligations to certain participants. The Company has accounted for these restricted investments as available-for-sale securities. Cash contributions of $794,000 and $0 were made to the trust in fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively. Any future contributions will be made at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Restricted investments from the trust were sold to fund retirement benefits of $794,000 and $0 in fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively. Funds from the trust will be used to fund or partially fund benefit payments. The Company expects to pay $129,000 during fiscal 2014, $129,000 during fiscal 2015, $17,719,000 during fiscal 2016, $3,475,000 during fiscal 2017, $128,000 during fiscal 2018 and $7,332,000 during fiscal years 2019 through 2023.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Measurement of obligations for the Plans is calculated as of each fiscal year end. The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations and funded status of the Plans as of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012 (in thousands):

 

     2013          2012  

Change in projected benefit obligation:

       

Projected benefit obligation, beginning of year

   $ 23,519         $ 18,377   

Service cost

     1,353           1,118   

Interest cost

     740           779   

Actuarial loss

     854           3,363   

Benefits paid (including settlements)

     (893        (118
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation, end of year

   $ 25,573         $ 23,519   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Reconciliation of funded status:

       

Projected benefit obligation

   $     25,573         $     23,519   

Plan assets

     -           -   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Funded status

   $ (25,573      $ (23,519
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Accumulated benefit obligation

   $ 25,573         $ (23,519
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Amounts recognized in the balance sheets:

       

Current liability

   $ (129      $ (897

Noncurrent liability

     (25,444        (22,622

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax

     6,714           7,189   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Net amount recognized

   $ (18,859      $ (16,330
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Cumulative other comprehensive loss, net of taxes of $4,033 and $4,266 in fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively

   $ 2,681         $ 2,923   
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Weighted average assumptions used to determine:

       

Benefit obligation, end of year:

       

Discount rate

     3.00%           3.25%   

Lump-sum conversion discount rate

     5.00%           5.00%   

Rate of compensation increase (1)

     3.00%           0.00%   

Net periodic benefit cost for years ended:

       

Discount rate

     3.25%           4.25%   

Lump-sum conversion discount rate

     5.00%           5.00%   

Rate of compensation increase (1)

     0.00%           0.00%   

 

  (1)  

The rate of compensation increase shown above reflects an increase of 3.0% for fiscal years 2014 and thereafter for all participants except for the Company’s CEO. The CEO’s rate of compensation is set forth in his employment agreement.

Net periodic benefit cost included the following actuarially determined components during fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):

 

     2013           2012           2011  

Service cost

   $ 1,353          $ 1,118          $ 1,121   

Interest cost

     740            779            674   

Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost

     410            410            410   

Amortization of net actuarial loss

     1,408            452            108   

Settlement

     (488         -            145   
  

 

 

       

 

 

       

 

 

 

Net periodic benefit cost

   $     3,423          $     2,759          $     2,458   
  

 

 

       

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

As of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, accumulated other comprehensive loss included amounts that had not been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost related to prior service cost of $1,146,000 and $1,555,000, and net actuarial loss of $5,568,000 and $5,634,000, respectively. During fiscal 2013, $854,000 was recognized in other comprehensive income related to net actuarial loss for the period. The estimated prior service cost and net actuarial loss that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic cost in fiscal 2014 are $410,000 and $1,392,000, respectively.

NOTE 6 – MATTERS CONCERNING SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

On March 23, 2006, the Board of Directors approved the adoption of the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”). The 2006 Plan was approved by the shareholders on June 22, 2006. The aggregate number of shares available for issuance under the 2006 Plan included a new authorization of 1,500,000 shares, plus shares (not to exceed 560,794 shares) that remained available for grant under the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 1999 Stock Plan (the “1999 Stock Plan”) and the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Management Restricted Stock Plan, increased by the number of shares (not to exceed 11,186,150 shares) subject to outstanding awards on March 23, 2006, under these prior plans that cease to be subject to such awards. As of March 2, 2013, there were a total of 4,399,094 shares available for issuance under the 2006 Plan.

Restricted stock awards – On December 15, 2009, upon the recommendation of the Compensation Committee, the Board of Directors approved the first renewal and extension of the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer’s (the “CEO”) initial employment agreement dated February 19, 2007. The first renewal and extension provided that a total of 1,500,000 shares of restricted stock would be awarded over a period of more than three years, provided the CEO is employed by the Company at designated times during the period covered by the employment agreement. 937,500 of the shares were time-based and the remaining 562,500 share were performance-based. On December 18, 2009 the CEO received 375,000 time-based awards that vest equally over a three-year period on the anniversary date of the grant, and on the first day of the 2011, 2012 and 2013 fiscal years the CEO received 187,500 time-based awards that vest equally over a three-year period on the last day of each respective fiscal year. In accordance with the accounting guidance on equity compensation, all 937,500 shares of the time-based restricted stock included in the first renewed and extended employment agreement had a grant date as of the date of the employment agreement, which was December 15, 2009. On the date the employment agreement was signed, December 15, 2009, both the Company and the CEO had a mutual understanding of all key terms and conditions related to the time-based restricted stock awards and the Company became obligated to issue the restricted stock awards to the CEO, subject only to his continued employment. In addition, all necessary approvals from both the Company’s Compensation Committee and Board of Directors were obtained on December 15, 2009 for the restricted stock awards. Therefore, the Company began expensing the time-based shares on December 15, 2009.

On the first day of the 2011, 2012 and 2013 fiscal years the Company’s CEO received 187,500 performance-based shares of restricted stock that vest equally over a period of three fiscal years if the Company achieves certain fiscal year targeted levels of a performance measure for each year as defined by the renewed and extended agreement. Shares that do not vest because the performance target is not met during one fiscal year may vest in future fiscal years if certain aggregate levels of the performance measure are achieved. The vesting of performance-based shares will occur on the date the Company’s Form 10-K is filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for each respective fiscal year. In accordance with accounting guidelines, one-third of the fiscal 2013 performance-based shares had a grant date in fiscal 2013 and the Company began expensing these shares during fiscal 2013. The remaining two-thirds of the fiscal 2013 performance shares did not have a grant date in fiscal 2013 because the performance targets for future fiscal years, which are a key term of the award, have not been established and, therefore, both parties did not have a mutual understanding of all key terms of the award. The CEO must be employed by the Company on the last day of each respective fiscal year in order for the performance-based shares to vest. These shares could also vest under certain termination events. During fiscal

 

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2013, the Company also began expensing performance-based restricted shares awarded in previous fiscal years that were based on the fiscal 2013 performance target. The performance-based shares expensed during fiscal 2013 had a grant date fair value of $18.29 per share.

On June 13, 2012, upon the recommendation of the Compensation Committee, the Board of Directors approved a second renewal and extension of the CEO’s employment agreement. The second renewal and extension provides that a total of 1,125,000 shares of restricted stock will be awarded during fiscal years 2014, 2015, and 2016 provided the CEO is employed by the Company at designated times during the period covered by the employment agreement. 540,000 of the shares are time-based and the remaining 585,000 share are performance-based. In accordance with the accounting guidance on equity compensation, all 540,000 shares of the time-based restricted stock included in the second renewed and extended employment agreement had a grant date as of the date of the employment agreement, which was June 13, 2012. On the date the employment agreement was signed, June 13, 2012, both the Company and the CEO had a mutual understanding of all key terms and conditions related to the time-based restricted stock awards and the Company became obligated to issue the restricted stock awards to the CEO, subject only to his continued employment. In addition, all necessary approvals from both the Company’s Compensation Committee and Board of Directors were obtained on June 13, 2012 for the restricted stock awards. Therefore, on June 13, 2012 the Company began expensing these time-based shares, which had a grant date fair value of $15.58 per share. The Company did not begin expensing any of the performance-based awards during fiscal 2013 because the performance-based metrics, which are a key term of the awards, had not been established and, therefore, both parties did not have a mutual understanding of all key terms of the award. The Company will begin expensing the performance-based awards in fiscal years 2014, 2015, and 2016 when the respective performance metrics are established and communicated to the CEO.

During fiscal 2013, the Company also awarded long-term incentive awards under the 2006 Plan to certain employees. The fiscal 2013 long-term incentive awards were comprised of restricted stock grants that were divided between time-based and two different types of performance-based awards. The time-based shares vest 33%, 33% and 34% each year over a three-year period beginning on the first anniversary of the award date provided that the participant is employed on the vesting date, and in accordance with accounting guidelines, the Company began expensing the time-based shares during fiscal 2013. The first portion of the performance-based shares vest 33% upon the Company satisfying a certain targeted level of a performance measure in fiscal 2013, and will vest 33% and 34% for each of the following two fiscal years, respectively, upon the Company satisfying a certain targeted level of a performance measure for the respective fiscal year, provided that vesting for each fiscal year is conditioned upon the participant being employed on the date of filing of the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K with the SEC for the applicable fiscal year. In accordance with accounting guidelines, one-third of the fiscal 2013 performance-based shares had a grant date in fiscal 2013 because the targeted performance measure for future fiscal years, which are a key term of the award, had not been established and, therefore, both parties did not have a mutual understanding of all key terms of the award. Over each three-year performance (vesting) period, if a targeted performance measure is not satisfied in any fiscal year, those shares that do not vest may still vest if the sum of consecutive years’ actual performance measure results equals or exceeds the sum of the individual consecutive fiscal year performance targets. The second portion of the performance-based shares awarded in fiscal 2013 are based on a market condition and will vest following the end of fiscal 2015 if certain annual equivalent returns of total shareholder return targets are achieved in comparison to a peer group. The fair value for these performance-based shares was determined using a lattice valuation model in accordance with accounting guidelines, and the Company began expensing these shares during fiscal 2013.

As of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, the Company had 2,056,357 and 1,681,278 unvested shares of restricted stock awards outstanding, respectively. During fiscal 2013, 1,183,303 shares of restricted stock were awarded, 786,932 shares of restricted stock vested, and 21,292 shares of restricted stock were forfeited. During

 

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fiscal 2012, 671,600 shares of restricted stock were awarded, 609,581 shares of restricted stock vested, and 38,725 shares of restricted stock were forfeited. The weighted average fair market value at the date of grant of the restricted stock shares awarded during fiscal 2013 was $16.44 and is being expensed over the requisite service period. This amount excludes the value of shares awarded to the Company’s CEO which is disclosed above. This amount also does not include performance-based restricted shares that the Company will begin expensing in future fiscal years when the targeted performance measures are set, but does include performance-based restricted shares awarded in the previous fiscal year that were based on a fiscal 2013 targeted performance measure which the Company began expensing in fiscal 2013.

Compensation expense for restricted stock was $12,167,000, $5,737,000 and $3,802,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of March 2, 2013, there was $13,645,000 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.98 years. The total fair value of restricted stock awards vested was $15,339,000, $8,016,000 and $2,454,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

The Company recognized a tax benefit related to stock-based compensation of $4,814,000 and $1,679,000 during fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively, and no net tax benefit during fiscal 2011 as a result of the Company’s valuation allowance on all deferred tax assets. See Note 8 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of income taxes.

Stock option grants – On January 27, 2007, the Board of Directors approved an employment agreement effective February 19, 2007 for the CEO. Under the employment agreement, the CEO received stock option grants. These options have a term of ten years from the grant date. As of March 2, 2013, outstanding options covering 1,500,000 shares were exercisable. The options were granted as an employment inducement award, and not under any stock option or other equity incentive plan adopted by the Company.

During fiscal 2013, the Board of Directors approved stock options grants under the 2006 Plan of 11,900 shares. As of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, outstanding options covering 607,775 and 932,275 shares were exercisable under the 2006 Plan, respectively. Options were granted at exercise prices equal to the fair market value of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant. Employee options issued under the 2006 Plan vest over a period of four years and have a term of ten years from the grant date. The employee options are fully vested upon death, disability or retirement of the employee. The 2006 Plan’s administrative committee also has the discretion to take certain actions with respect to stock options, such as accelerating the vesting, upon certain corporate changes (as defined in the 2006 Plan).

The 1999 Stock Plan provided for the granting of options to directors and employees with an exercise price not less than the fair market value of the common stock on the date of the grant. The 1999 Stock Plan provided that a maximum of 14,500,000 shares of common stock could be issued under the 1999 Stock Plan, of which not more than 250,000 shares could be issued under the Director Deferred Stock Program. The options issued to employees vest equally over a period of four years, while non-employee directors’ options were fully vested on the date of grant. The options all have a term of ten years from the grant date. The employee options are fully vested upon death, disability, or retirement of an employee, or under certain conditions, such as a change in control of the Company, unless the Board of Directors determines otherwise prior to a change of control event. As of March 2, 2013, there were no shares available for grant under the 1999 Stock Plan. All future stock option grants will be made from shares available under the 2006 Plan. Additionally, outstanding options covering 1,147,500 and 2,430,250 shares were exercisable under the 1999 Stock Plan at fiscal years ended 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Under the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 1989 Employee Stock Option Plan, options vest over a period of four to five years and have a term of ten years from the grant date. As of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012,

 

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outstanding options covering 213,000 and 258,000 shares were exercisable, respectively. As a result of the expiration of the plan during fiscal 2005, no shares are available for future grant.

A summary of stock option transactions related to the Company’s stock option grants during the three fiscal years ended March 2, 2013 is as follows:

 

    Shares         Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
        Weighted
Average
Fair Value
at Date
of Grant
        Exercisable Shares  
              Number
of Shares
        Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
 

Outstanding at February 27, 2010

    9,186,225          12.36              7,440,275          13.62   

Options granted

    6,000          8.64          7.16           

Options exercised

    (588,000       7.77               

Options cancelled or expired

    (1,394,075       15.43               
 

 

 

                 

Outstanding at February 26, 2011

    7,210,150          12.14              6,897,450          12.36   

Options granted

    6,600          11.47          9.43           

Options exercised

    (893,275       7.97               

Options cancelled or expired

    (588,000       18.23               
 

 

 

                 

Outstanding at February 25, 2012

    5,735,475          12.16              5,620,525          12.26   

Options granted

    11,900          18.80          14.75           

Options exercised

    (1,545,500       11.08               

Options cancelled or expired

    (713,750       20.09               
 

 

 

                 

Outstanding at March 2, 2013

    3,488,125          11.05              3,468,275          11.02   
 

 

 

                 

 

For options outstanding at March 2, 2013                                          
     

Ranges of Exercise Prices

       Total
Shares
        Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
        Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (in years)
        Shares
Currently
Exercisable
        Weighted
Average
Exercise Price-
Exercisable
Shares
 
 

$4.24 - $6.69

       1,520,000        $     6.66          3.99          1,520,000        $       6.66   
 

$7.42 - $11.27

       594,125          7.61          4.20          591,125          7.61   
 

$11.47 - $17.25

       842,100          16.12          1.73          837,150          16.15   
 

$18.49 - $20.35

       531,900          19.39          0.74          520,000          19.40   

As of March 2, 2013, the weighted average remaining contractual term for outstanding and exercisable options was 2.99 years and 2.96 years, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value for outstanding and exercisable options was $40,127,000 and $39,986,000, respectively, at fiscal 2013 year end. The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011 was approximately $13,420,000, $3,557,000 and $1,185,000, respectively. The intrinsic value of a stock option is the amount by which the market value of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of the option.

At March 2, 2013, there was approximately $195,000 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested stock option awards, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.8 years. The fair value of the stock options is amortized on a straight-line basis as compensation expense over the vesting periods of the options. The Company recorded stock-based compensation expense related to stock options of approximately $170,000, $462,000 and $904,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Director deferred stock units –The 2006 Plan and the 1999 Stock Plan also authorize director deferred stock unit awards to non-employee directors. During fiscal 2013, directors could elect to defer all or a portion of their director’s cash fees into a deferred stock unit account. The annual retainer fees deferred (other than committee chairman and chairman of the board annual retainers) received a 25% matching contribution from the

 

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Company in the form of director deferred stock units. There were 647,027 shares and 800,670 shares deferred, but not delivered, as of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, respectively, under the 2006 Plan and the 1999 Stock Plan. All future deferred stock unit awards will be from shares available for grant under the 2006 Plan. During fiscal 2013, approximately 39,584 director deferred stock units were granted, 193,227 units were delivered and no units were cancelled. Compensation expense for the director deferred stock awards was $700,000, $642,000 and $579,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Stock purchase plan – Substantially all Company employees and all non-employee directors are eligible to participate in the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan under which the Company’s common stock is purchased on behalf of participants at an average of market prices through regular payroll deductions. Each employee may contribute up to 20% of the eligible portions of compensation, and non-employee directors may contribute up to 100% of their director compensation. The Company contributes an amount equal to 25% of the participant’s contributions. Company contributions to the plan were $431,000, $342,000 and $179,000 in fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. The Company’s stock purchase plan was suspended during a portion of fiscal 2011.

Preferred Stock – As of March 2, 2013, 20,000,000 shares of preferred stock were available for future issuance.

Dividends – The Company paid cash dividends of $17,989,000 in fiscal year 2013. The Company did not pay any cash dividends in fiscal years 2012 or 2011. On April 4, 2013, subsequent to year end, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a $0.05 per share quarterly cash dividend on the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock. The $0.05 quarterly cash dividend will be paid on May 8, 2013 to shareholders of record on April 24, 2013.

Shares reserved for future issuances – As of March 2, 2013, the Company had approximately 8,534,246 shares of common stock reserved for future issuances under the stock plans. This amount includes stock options outstanding, director deferred stock units and shares available for future grant.

Share repurchase plan – On April 7, 2011, the Company announced an initial $100,000,000 for repurchases of the Company’s common stock. On September 6, 2011, the Company completed this $100,000,000 initial share repurchase program and had purchased a total of 9,498,650 shares of its common stock at a weighted average cost of $10.53 per share. On October 14, 2011, the Board of Directors announced a new $100,000,000 share repurchase program and $100,000,000 remained available for repurchase at the end of fiscal 2012. On December 14, 2012, the Company completed this program, with total repurchases of 5,822,142 shares at a weighted average cost of $17.18 per share. On December 13, 2012, the Company announced a third $100,000,000 share repurchase program and $100,000,000 remained available for repurchase at the end of fiscal 2013. Subsequent to year end, the Company utilized a total of $5,043,000 to repurchase 226,700 shares of the Company’s common stock at a weighted average price per share, including fees, of $22.24 and as of April 23, 2013, $94,957,000 remained available for repurchase under the December 2012 program.

NOTE 7 – PRIVATE-LABEL CARD INFORMATION

During the third quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company entered into a private-label credit card plan agreement (“Agreement”) with a subsidiary of Alliance Data Systems Corporation (“ADS”). The transfer of ownership to ADS of the private-label credit accounts issued under the Company’s previous private-label credit card program agreement was completed in the first quarter of fiscal 2013. The Agreement had an initial term of seven years that could be automatically extended to a term of ten years if certain performance targets were achieved. Subsequent to fiscal 2013 year end, the performance target was achieved and the contract was extended to a term of ten years. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company receives payments based on revolving credit card sales and certain other credit and account related matters. These amounts are recognized as a component of net sales.

 

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During fiscal 2007, the Company sold its proprietary credit card operations to Chase Bank USA, N.A. (“Chase”). The sale was comprised of the Company’s proprietary credit card receivables, certain charged-off accounts, and the common stock of Pier 1 National Bank. The Company received cash proceeds for the majority of the sales price and was entitled to receive additional proceeds of $10,750,000, plus any accrued interest, over the life of a long-term program agreement. The Company received no payments related to this agreement in fiscal 2013 or 2012 and received $6,250,000 in fiscal 2011. The net deferred gain associated with the original program agreement with Chase was recognized in nonoperating income. The Company recognized $1,126,000, $10,880,000 and $3,535,000 related to this deferred gain in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. In addition, the Company and Chase entered into a private-label credit card program agreement with an original term of ten years. Under this agreement, the Company continued to support the card through marketing programs and receive additional payments over the life of the agreement for transaction level incentives, marketing support and other program terms.

On December 30, 2010, the Company entered into a new program agreement with Chase, effective January 1, 2011, with an original term of 18 months (the term was subsequently reduced to 15 months when conversion to a new provider was completed). In conjunction with this agreement, the Company and Chase terminated the original program agreement between the Company and Chase in consideration of payment to the Company from Chase of $28,326,000 plus all remaining sums due to the Company by Chase. The Company was entitled to future payments over the term of the new program agreement based on revolving credit card sales, and certain other credit and account related matters. The Company received total payments of $160,000, $1,574,000 and $4,489,000 related to these program agreements during fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively and recognized them as a component of net sales. The $28,326,000 in consideration received from Chase was also deferred and was previously recognized over the new term of the agreement as a component of revenue consistent with the treatment of transaction-based amounts previously received under the original program agreement. The Company recognized approximately $2,715,000, $22,706,000 and $2,905,000 of this amount in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

NOTE 8 – INCOME TAXES

The provision (benefit) for income taxes for each of the last three fiscal years consists of (in thousands):

 

    2013          2012          2011  

Federal:

           

Current

  $     45,797         $     32,734         $     (446)   

Deferred

    15,635           (34,107        -   

State:

           

Current

    4,738           1,659           1,898   

Deferred

    4,293           (7,808        -   

Foreign:

           

Current

    1,093           2,691           1,967   

Deferred

    -           -           -   
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total provision (benefit) for income taxes

  $ 71,556         $ (4,831      $ 3,419   
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has completed its examination of all fiscal years through fiscal 2009. There were no adjustments from this examination which resulted in significant permanent differences. Late in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the IRS initiated an examination of 2010.

At the end of fiscal 2011, the Company had utilized all federal net operating loss carryforwards.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012 were comprised of the following (in thousands):

 

     2013           2012  

Deferred tax assets:

        

Deferred compensation

   $     22,845          $     24,404   

Net operating loss carryforward

     3,544            7,254   

Accrued average rent

     9,088            9,691   

Properties, net

     4,398            14,215   

Self insurance reserves

     10,623            9,310   

Deferred gain on credit card transactions

     665            2,281   

Cumulative foreign currency translation

     2,115            1,860   

Deferred revenue and revenue reserves

     6,506            5,984   

Foreign and other tax credits

     3,104            8,159   

Other

     904            1,811   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Total deferred tax assets

     63,792            84,969   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

        

Inventory

     (20,982         (20,561

Deferred gain on debt repurchase

     (19,273         (19,636

Other

     (235         (315
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Total deferred tax liabilities

     (40,490         (40,512
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Valuation allowance

     (1,944         (2,978
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets (1)

   $ 21,358          $ 41,479   
  

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

  (1)  

The current portion of $6,880 and $2,690 for fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively, was included in the balance sheet with prepaid expenses and other current assets. The remainder was included in other noncurrent assets.

During fiscal 2007, the Company recorded a valuation allowance against all deferred tax assets. Taxes arising from the earnings in fiscal 2011 were offset by utilization of the Company’s federal net operating loss carryforwards. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company was able to conclude that given its improved performance, the realization of its deferred tax assets was more likely than not and accordingly reversed substantially all of its valuation allowance. The remaining valuation allowance related to certain states net operating loss carryforwards. State net operating losses at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012 were $3,544,000 and $7,254,000, respectively. State losses vary as to carryforward position and will expire from fiscal 2014 through fiscal 2029.

 

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The difference between income taxes at the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, and income tax reported in the consolidated statements of operations is as follows (in thousands):

 

    2013         2012         2011  

Tax provision at statutory federal

         

income tax rate

  $ 70,350        $ 57,437        $ 36,240   

State income taxes, net of

         

federal provision

    6,838          6,408          3,893   

Decrease in valuation allowance

    (1,034       (60,751       (38,687

Foreign income taxes

    1,093          2,691          1,967   

Foreign and other tax credits

    (1,785       (3,429       -   

Other, net

    (3,906       (7,187       6   
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

  $ 71,556        $ (4,831     $ 3,419   
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

The accounting guidance on uncertainty in income taxes prescribes the minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. It also provides guidance on derecognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. On a quarterly and annual basis, the Company accrues for the effects of open uncertain tax positions. A summary of amounts recorded for unrecognized tax benefits at the beginning and end of fiscal 2013 and 2012 are presented below, in thousands:

 

Unrecognized Tax Benefits - February 26, 2011

   $ 8,811   

Gross increases - tax positions in prior period

     -   

Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period

     (80

Settlements

     -   

Expiration of statute of limitations

     -   
  

 

 

 

Unrecognized Tax Benefits - February 25, 2012

   $ 8,731   
  

 

 

 

Gross increases - tax positions in prior period

     1,171   

Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period

     (1,054

Settlements

     (1,965

Expiration of statute of limitations

     (4,689
  

 

 

 

Unrecognized Tax Benefits - March 2, 2013

   $ 2,194   
  

 

 

 

If the Company were to prevail on all unrecognized tax benefits recorded, the majority of this reserve for uncertain tax positions would have a favorable impact on the effective tax rate. It is reasonably possible that slightly less than half of the Company’s gross unrecognized tax benefits could decrease within the next twelve months primarily due to audit settlements.

Interest associated with unrecognized tax benefits is recorded in nonoperating (income) and expenses. Penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits are recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. During the second quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company reversed a portion of its reserve for uncertain tax positions, resulting in the reversal of $2,758,000 of accrued interest expense. Excluding this reversal of accrued interest, the Company recorded expenses of $1,119,000 related to penalties and interest in fiscal 2013, compared to $711,000 and $424,000 in fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company had accrued penalties and interest of $2,035,000 and $5,685,000 at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012, respectively.

 

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NOTE 9 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Leases At March 2, 2013, the Company had the following minimum lease commitments and future subtenant receipts in the years indicated (in thousands):

 

Fiscal Year

       Operating
Leases
     Subtenant
Income
      

2014

     $     225,088       $     658      

2015

       192,990         458      

2016

       160,013         224      

2017

       133,551         224      

2018

       100,215         136      

Thereafter

       288,404         47      
    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total lease commitments

     $ 1,100,261       $ 1,747      
    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Rental expense incurred was $231,481,000, $223,188,000 and $217,988,000, including contingent rentals of $674,000, $356,000 and $205,000, based upon a percentage of sales, and net of sublease incomes totaling $278,000, $269,000 and $272,000 in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

During fiscal 2009, the Company sold its corporate headquarters building and accompanying land to Chesapeake Plaza, L.L.C., an affiliate of Chesapeake Energy Corporation. The Company also entered into a lease agreement to rent office space in the building. The lease had a primary term of seven years, which began on June 9, 2008. This lease was amended on January 28, 2013, extending the term of the lease to expire on June 30, 2022. The related gain on the sale of the property was approximately $23,300,000. As of March 2, 2013, the Company’s remaining deferred gain was $5,838,000, approximately half of which is included in other noncurrent liabilities, and will be recognized over the remaining original lease term.

Legal matters There were no significant legal matters in fiscal years 2013, 2012 or 2011.

There are various claims, lawsuits, investigations and pending actions against the Company and its subsidiaries incident to the operations of its business. The Company considers them to be ordinary and routine in nature. The Company maintains liability insurance against most of these claims. It is the opinion of management, after consultation with counsel, that the ultimate resolution of such litigation will not have a material adverse effect, either individually or in aggregate, on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

NOTE 10 – SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

Summarized quarterly financial data for the years ended March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012 are set forth below (in thousands except per share amounts):

 

        Three Months Ended  

Fiscal 2013

      5/26/2012          8/25/2012          11/24/2012          3/2/2013 (2)  

Net sales

    $     361,119         $     367,615         $     424,527         $     551,625   

Gross profit

      150,275           151,549           186,259           254,977   

Operating income

      27,413           32,314           38,823           100,435   

Net income

      17,825           26,231           23,685           61,704   

Average shares outstanding - basic

      108,597           105,786           105,419           105,168   

Average shares outstanding - diluted

      110,564           107,447           107,308           107,066   

Basic earnings per share

      0.16           0.25           0.22           0.59   

Diluted earnings per share

      0.16           0.24           0.22           0.58   

 

        Three Months Ended  

Fiscal 2012

      5/28/2011          8/27/2011          11/26/2011          2/25/2012  

Net sales

    $     334,603         $     339,552         $     382,699         $     476,757   

Gross profit

      134,067           134,521           165,490           217,083   

Operating income

      19,885           23,734           32,872           78,267   

Net income (1)

      14,098           16,638           22,988           115,213   

Average shares outstanding - basic

      117,300           115,288           108,713           108,835   

Average shares outstanding - diluted

      119,235           117,085           110,306           110,709   

Basic earnings per share (1)

      0.12           0.14           0.21           1.06   

Diluted earnings per share (1)

      0.12           0.14           0.21           1.04   

 

(1)  

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company was able to conclude that given its improved performance, the realization of its deferred tax assets was more likely than not and accordingly reversed substantially all of its valuation allowance. See Note 8 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.

 

(2)  

The quarter ended March 2, 2013 consisted of 14 weeks, compared to 13 weeks for the quarter ended February 25, 2012.

 

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

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “Exchange Act”), that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in its reports filed or furnished under the Exchange Act is (a) recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is (b) accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding the required disclosure.

 

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As required by Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Exchange Act, an evaluation was conducted under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of March 2, 2013. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded, with reasonable assurance, that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of such date.

REPORT OF MANAGEMENT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining a system of internal control over financial reporting designed to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are executed in accordance with management authorization and that such transactions are properly recorded and reported in the financial statements, and that records are maintained so as to permit preparation of the financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Management has assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting utilizing the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control–Integrated Framework. Management concluded that based on its assessment, Pier 1 Imports, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of March 2, 2013. Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 2, 2013, as stated in their report which is included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

/s/ Alexander W. Smith        

Alexander W. Smith

President and

Chief Executive Officer

/s/ Charles H. Turner        

Charles H. Turner

Senior Executive Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 that would have materially affected, or would have been reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors of Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

We have audited Pier 1 Imports, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 2, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). Pier 1 Imports, Inc.’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 Report of Management 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 to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Pier 1 Imports, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 2, 2013, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. as of March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012 and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 2, 2013 of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. and our report dated April 30, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Fort Worth, Texas

April 30, 2013

 

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Item 9B. Other Information .

None.

PART III

 

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance .

Information regarding executive officers of the Company required by this item is contained in Part I of this report under the caption “Executive Officers of the Company.” Information regarding directors of the Company required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the section entitled “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors” set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for its 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2013 Proxy Statement”).

The information regarding compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the section entitled “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” set forth in the 2013 Proxy Statement.

Information regarding the Company’s audit committee financial experts and code of ethics and business conduct required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the section entitled “Matters Relating to Corporate Governance, Board Structure, Director Compensation and Stock Ownership” set forth in the 2013 Proxy Statement.

No director or nominee for director of the Company has any family relationship with any other director or nominee or with any executive officer of the Company.

 

Item 11. Executive Compensation .

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the section entitled “Executive Compensation,” the section entitled “Matters Relating to Corporate Governance, Board Structure, Director Compensation and Stock Ownership – Non-Employee Director Compensation for the Fiscal Year Ended March 2, 2013,” the section entitled “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation; Certain Related Person Transactions,” and the section entitled “Executive Compensation – Compensation Committee Report,” set forth in the 2013 Proxy Statement.

 

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters .

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the section entitled “Matters Relating to Corporate Governance, Board Structure, Director Compensation and Stock Ownership – Security Ownership of Directors and Named Executive Officers,” “Matters Relating to Corporate Governance, Board Structure, Director Compensation and Stock Ownership – Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners,” the table entitled “Executive Compensation – Outstanding Equity Awards Table for the Fiscal Year Ended March 2, 2013,” and the table entitled “Equity Compensation Plan Information” set forth in the 2013 Proxy Statement.

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence .

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the section entitled “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation; Certain Related Person Transactions” and “Matters Relating to Corporate Governance, Board Structure, Director Compensation and Stock Ownership—Director Independence” set forth in the 2013 Proxy Statement.

 

Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.

Information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the sections entitled “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Fees” and “Pre-approval of Nonaudit Fees” set forth in Proposal No. 3 of the 2013 Proxy Statement.

 

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PART IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules .

 

(a)    List of consolidated financial statements, schedules and exhibits filed as part of this report.
   1.    Financial Statements   

 

      Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm  
     

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended March 2, 2013, February  25, 2012 and February 26, 2011

 
     

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended March 2, 2013,  February 25, 2012 and February 26, 2011

 
     

Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 2, 2013 and February 25, 2012

 
     

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended March 2, 2013, February  25, 2012 and February 26, 2011

 
     

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended March 2, 2013,  February 25, 2012 and February 26, 2011

 
      Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements  

 

   2.    Financial Statement Schedules
      Schedules have been omitted because they are not required or are not applicable or because the information required to be set forth therein either is not material or is included in the financial statements or notes thereto.
   3.    Exhibits
      See Exhibit Index.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  PIER 1 IMPORTS, INC.

Date: April 30, 2013

  By:  

/s/ Alexander W. Smith

    Alexander W. Smith, President
    and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Company and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature

    

Title

 

Date

/s/ Terry E. London

Terry E. London

    

Director, Chairman of the Board

  April 30, 2013

/s/ Alexander W. Smith

Alexander W. Smith

    

Director, President and

Chief Executive Officer

  April 30, 2013

/s/ Charles H. Turner

Charles H. Turner

    

Senior Executive Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

  April 30, 2013

/s/ Darla D. Ramirez

Darla D. Ramirez

    

Principal Accounting Officer

  April 30, 2013

/s/ Claire H. Babrowski

Claire H. Babrowski

    

Director

  April 30, 2013

/s/ Cheryl A. Bachelder

Cheryl A. Bachelder

    

Director

  April 30, 2013

/s/ John H. Burgoyne

John H. Burgoyne

    

Director

  April 30, 2013

/s/ Hamish A. Dodds

Hamish A. Dodds

    

Director

  April 30, 2013

/s/ Brendan L. Hoffman

Brendan L. Hoffman

    

Director

  April 30, 2013

/s/ Cece Smith

Cece Smith

    

Director

  April 30, 2013

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit No.

 

Description

3(i)   Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on October 12, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(i) to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 28, 2009 (File No. 001-07832).
3(ii)   Amended and Restated Bylaws of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. (as amended through October 9, 2009), incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(ii) to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on October 16, 2009 (File No. 001-07832).
10.1*   Form of Indemnity Agreement between the Company and the directors and executive officers of the Company dated January 18, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended February 26, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.2*   Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, Restated as of January 1, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 29, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.3*   Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Supplemental Retirement Plan, Restated as of January 1, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 29, 2009 (File No. 001-07832).
10.3.1*   Participation Agreement dated November 9, 2007, by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed November 15, 2007 (File No. 001-07832).
10.3.2*   Participation Agreement Amendment dated April 20, 2008 by and between Charles H. Turner and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed April 24, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.3.3*   Participation Agreement Amendment dated April 20, 2008 by and between Gregory S. Humenesky and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3.6 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended March 1, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.4*   Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 1989 Employee Stock Option Plan, amended and restated as of June 27, 1996, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6.1 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended February 26, 2005 (File No. 001-07832).
10.4.1*   Amendment No. 1 to Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 1989 Employee Stock Option Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6.2 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended February 26, 2005 (File No. 001-07832).
10.5*   Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 1999 Stock Plan, as amended and restated December 31, 2004, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s 8-K filed October 12, 2006 (File No. 001-07832).
10.5.1*   First Amendment to the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 1999 Stock Plan, as amended and restated December 31, 2004, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 1, 2007 (File No. 001-07832).
10.6*   Forms of Director and Employee Stock Option Agreements, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 28, 1999 (File No. 001-07832).
10.7*   Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan, restated as amended June 20, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).


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10.7.1*    Amendment to the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.8.1 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended February 28, 2009 (File No. 001-07832).
10.7.2*    Second Amendment dated July 14, 2009 to Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.8.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 29, 2009 (File No. 001-07832).
10.7.3*    Third Amendment dated June 29, 2010 to Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 29, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.8    Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated April 4, 2011, among Pier 1 Imports (U.S.), Inc., Bank of America, N.A., as administrative and collateral agent, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC as joint lead arrangers and joint lead bookrunners, various other agents and the lenders party thereto, and the facility guarantors party thereto, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.8.4 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended February 26, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.9*    Pier 1 Umbrella Trust, dated December 21, 2005, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed December 21, 2005 (File No. 001-07832).
10.9.1*    Pier 1 Umbrella Trust Amendment No. 1, effective January 1, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 29, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.9.2*    Pier 1 Umbrella Trust Amendment No. 2, effective January 1, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 27, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10*    Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (Omnibus Plan), Restated as Amended through March 25, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended February 26, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.1*    Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement – Non-Employee Director, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed June 23, 2006 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.2*    Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement – Employee Participant, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed June 23, 2006 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.3*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 9, 2010 Performance-Based Award, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 14, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.4*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 9, 2010 Time-Based Award, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 14, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.5*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 8, 2011 Performance-Based Award, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 14, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.6*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 8, 2011 Time-Based Award, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 14, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.7*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 6, 2012 Performance-Based Award, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 12, 2012 (File No. 001-07832).


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10.10.8*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 6, 2012 Time-Based Award, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 12, 2012 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.9*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 6, 2012 Performance-Based Award (“TSR”), incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 12, 2012 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.10*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 12, 2013 Performance-Based Award, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 18, 2013 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.11*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 12, 2013 Time-Based Award, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 18, 2013 (File No. 001-07832).
10.10.12*    Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement – April 12, 2013 Performance-Based Award (“TSR”), incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on April 18, 2013 (File No. 001-07832).
10.11*    Pier 1 Imports Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 26, 2006 (File No. 001-07832).
10.11.1*    Pier 1 Imports Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan, as amended March 4, 2007, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22.1 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended March 3, 2007 (File No. 001-07832).
10.11.2*    Pier 1 Imports Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan, as amended March 25, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.16.2 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended March 1, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.11.3*    Pier 1 Imports Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan, as amended December 15, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 29, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.11.4*    Pier 1 Imports Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan, as amended through October 9, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 28, 2009 (File No. 001-07832).
10.11.5*    Pier 1 Imports Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan, as amended through October 8, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 27, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.12*    Pier 1 Benefit Restoration Plan I, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2005, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed October 12, 2006 (File No. 001-07832).
10.13*    Pier 1 Benefit Restoration Plan II, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 29, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.13.1*    Amendment No. 1, effective January 1, 2011, to Pier 1 Benefit Restoration Plan II, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 27, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.14*    Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed January 30, 2007 (File No. 001-07832).


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10.15*    Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed January 30, 2007 (File No. 001-07832).
10.15.1*    First Amendment to Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc. dated October 6, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19.4 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 30, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16*    Employment Agreement dated as of December 15, 2009 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on December 17, 2009 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.1*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated December 18, 2009 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2009 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.2*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated February 28, 2010 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed March 4, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.3*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated February 28, 2010 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed March 4, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.4*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated February 27, 2011 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 3, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.5*    Amendment to Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated April 8, 2011 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc , incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14.10 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended February 26, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.6*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated February 27, 2011 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 3, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.7*    Amendment to Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated April 8, 2011 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14.12 to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended February 26, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.8*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated February 26, 2012 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 1, 2012 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.9*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated February 26, 2012 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 1, 2012 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.10*    Employment Agreement dated as of June 13, 2012 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on June 14, 2012 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.11*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated March 3, 2013 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc. (time-based award agreement), incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 7, 2013 (File No. 001-07832).
10.16.12*    Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated March 3, 2013 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc. (performance-based award agreement), incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 7, 2013 (File No. 001-07832).


Table of Contents
10.16.13*   Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated March 3, 2013 by and between Alexander W. Smith and Pier 1 Imports, Inc. (performance-based award [TSR] agreement), incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 7, 2013 (File No. 001-07832).
10.17   Office Lease between Chesapeake Plaza, L.L.C. and Pier 1 Services Company, dated June 9, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.17.1   First Amendment to Office Lease, dated June 20, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1.1 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.17.2   Second Amendment to Office Lease between Chesapeake Plaza, L.L.C. and Pier 1 Services Company, dated July 1, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 28, 2011 (File No. 001-07832).
10.17.3   Third Amendment to Office Lease between Chesapeake Plaza, L.L.C. and Pier 1 Services Company, dated January 28, 2013.
10.18*   Summary Plan Description of Pier 1 Imports Limited Severance Plan, Restated as of January 1, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 29, 2008 (File No. 001-07832).
10.19*   Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 27, 2010 (File No. 001-07832).
10.19.1*   Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan Amendment No. 1, effective January 1, 2013, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 24, 2012 (File No. 001-07832).
10.20   Private Label Credit Card Plan Agreement by and between World Financial Network Bank and Pier 1 Imports (U.S.), Inc., dated October 5, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on October 7, 2011 (File No. 001-07832). Some of the schedules and an exhibit to this agreement have been omitted pursuant to an order granting confidential treatment.
10.21*   ERISA Plan Document and Summary Plan Description for the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Supplemental Individual Disability Income Benefit Plan, effective September 1, 2012, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 24, 2012 (File No. 001-07832).
10.22*   Summary Plan Description for Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Employee Life Insurance (Basic Insurance, Class 1), effective June 1, 2012.
21   Subsidiaries of the Company.
23   Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.
31.1   Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a).
31.2   Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a).
32.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
99.1   Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan Audit Report.
101.INS**+   XBRL Instance Document.
101.SCH**+   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.


Table of Contents
101.CAL**+   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.DEF**+   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
101.LAB**+   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
101.PRE**+   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

*Management Contracts and Compensatory Plans

Exhibit 10.17.3

THIRD AMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

THIS THIRD AMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE (“Third Amendment”) is entered into effective as of January 28, 2013 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Chesapeake Plaza, L.L.C., an Oklahoma limited liability company (“Landlord”) and Pier 1 Services Company, a Delaware statutory trust (“Tenant”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain Office Lease dated June 9, 2008 (the “Original Lease”) for certain space (the “Premises”) in the office building known as Chesapeake Plaza located at 100 Pier 1 Place, Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas (the “Building”); and

WHEREAS, Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain First Amendment to Office Lease dated June 20, 2008 (the “First Amendment”); and

WHEREAS, Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain Second Amendment to Office Lease dated July 1, 2011 (the “Second Amendment”, and together with the Original Lease and the First Amendment, the “Lease”); and

WHEREAS, the parties hereto have now agreed to further modify the Lease in certain respects on the terms and conditions as set forth herein.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing recitals and the mutual covenants herein set forth, and for such other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties hereby agree to amend the Lease as follows:

1. Defined Terms . All initially capitalized terms used but not defined herein will have the same meanings as ascribed to them in the Lease.

2. Term . Landlord and Tenant have agreed to extend the Term through and including 11:59 p.m. on June 30, 2022 for all purposes under the Lease. Accordingly, as of the Effective Date, all references to the length of the Term and/or the Expiration Date shall be modified accordingly.

3. Expansion of Premises . Effective as of the dates set forth below, the Premises will be expanded, as follows:

 

  3.1

Effective as of March 1, 2013 (the “16 th Floor Expansion Date”), the Premises is hereby expanded to include the entire 16 th floor of the Building, which is comprised of a total of 26,507 square feet of Rentable Square Footage (the “16 th Floor Expansion Space”). Accordingly, as of the 16th Floor Expansion Date, all references in the Lease to the Rentable Square Footage of the Premises shall for all purposes under the Lease be deemed to be 281,610 square feet.

 

THIRDAMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

(PIER 1 SERVICES COMPANY)

 


  3.2

Effective as of May 1, 2013 (the “15 th Floor Expansion Date”), the Premises is hereby expanded to include the entire 15 th floor of the Building, which is comprised of a total of 26,763 square feet of Rentable Square Footage (the “15 th Floor Expansion Space”, and together with the 16 th Floor Expansion Space, the “Expansion Space”). Accordingly, as of the 15 th Floor Expansion Date, all references in the Lease to the Rentable Square Footage of the Premises shall for all purposes under the Lease be deemed to be 308,373 square feet.

 

  3.3

Landlord expressly disclaims any and all warranties of any nature, express or implied, in fact or by law with respect to the Expansion Space, including without limitation, the implied warranties of habitability, suitability, merchantability and fitness for any particular purpose. By occupying the 16 th Floor Expansion Space as of the 16 th Floor Expansion Date and the 15 th Floor Expansion Space as of the 15 th Floor Expansion Date, respectively, Tenant accepts the Expansion Space in its “as-is” condition and configuration and shall be deemed to have accepted delivery of the same, and TENANT HEREBY AGREES THAT AS OF THE 16 TH FLOOR EXPANSION DATE AND THE 15 TH FLOOR EXPANSION DATE, RESPECTIVELY, THE EXPANSION SPACE IS OR WILL BE IN GOOD ORDER AND SATISFACTORY CONDITION AND THAT THERE ARE NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, BY LANDLORD REGARDING THE EXPANSION SPACE.

4. Increased Base Rent . Commencing on the dates set forth below and continuing for each calendar month thereafter throughout the remainder of the Term, Tenant’s monthly Base Rent as set forth in Section 1.D of the Lease is hereby amended as follows:

 

Period

   Annual Rate
Per Square Foot
     Monthly
Base Rent
 

16 th Floor Expansion Date through April 30, 2013

   $ 25.00       $ 586,687.50   

May 1, 2013 through June 30, 2015

   $ 25.00       $ 642,443.75   

July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2018

   $ 26.50       $ 680,990.38   

July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2022

   $ 27.50       $ 706,688.13   

5. Grant of Option to Extend Term . Tenant is hereby granted the right and option to extend the Term of this Lease for one (1) renewal period of five (5) years (the “Renewal Period”), which option shall be exercised by delivery of written notice to Landlord given no later than six (6) months prior to the Expiration Date, provided that at the time of such notice and at the commencement of such Renewal Period, (i) Tenant remains in occupancy of at least eighty percent (80%) of the Premises, and (ii) no uncured event of default exists under the Lease. The Base Rent due and payable for the Premises during the Renewal Period shall be as follows: during the first two (2) Lease Years of the Renewal Period, the Base Rent shall be at the annual rate of Thirty and No/100 Dollars ($30.00) multiplied by the Rentable Square Footage of the Premises, and during the last three (3) Lease Years of the Renewal Period, the Base Rent shall be at the annual rate of Thirty-two and 50/100 Dollars ($32.50) multiplied by the Rentable Square Footage of the Premises. In the event Tenant timely exercises the foregoing option, the Renewal Period shall be considered part of the Term of the Lease and all other terms and conditions of this Lease shall continue to apply during the Renewal Period, except that Tenant shall have no further option to extend the Term of the Lease.

 

THIRDAMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

(PIER 1 SERVICES COMPANY)

 

2


6. Cafeteria Covenants . Upon the closing of a sale of the Property from Landlord to a third party, Section 7.A.(11) of the Lease is amended as of such closing date to read as follows:

“(11) A cafeteria offering food for purchase on the terrace level of the Building on Business Days, with products, service and pricing substantially similar to or better than food service operations commonly offered in other corporate cafeterias in the Dallas/Ft. Worth metro area which are operated by companies engaged in the business of offering such services on a contract basis, such as by way of example, Aramark, Sodexo or Compass Group, and which food service operations are reasonably similar to the cafeteria in the Building; provided, however:

 

  (A) In the event the number of total permanent Building occupants falls below 640, Landlord, at its discretion, may terminate such cafeteria or food service for the Building. Landlord’s right to discontinue cafeteria food service on individual days for Holidays or inclement weather is limited as provided in Section 7.A(11)(B) below; and

 

  (B) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Landlord shall not be required to provide such cafeteria or food service on the following days:

 

  (i) Days that Landlord is closed for business due to inclement weather (provided that Landlord delivers notice of such closure to Tenant at the same time such notice is provided to Landlord’s Building employees);

 

  (ii) The Friday immediately before Easter, commonly known as Good Friday; or

 

  (iii) At Landlord’s election, either the day before or the day after New Year’s Day, or, if New Year’s Day falls on a weekend, then, at Landlord’s election, either the day before or the day after the Holiday designated by Landlord in place of New Year’s Day.”

7. Name of Building . Upon the closing of a sale of the Property from Landlord to a third party, the Lease is hereby modified to add the following, effective from and after such closing date: for so long as Tenant occupies at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the Rentable Square Footage of the Building as of the 15 th Floor Expansion Date, (i) the Building shall be designated and named “Pier 1 Imports Building” or other similar name designated by Tenant from time to time which includes the name of Tenant or any Affiliate of Tenant, and (ii) Tenant shall have the right to change the Building’s address to “100 Pier 1 Place”, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense. Notwithstanding anything in Section 28 of the Lease to the contrary, from and after such closing date, Landlord shall not have the right to change the Building’s name, address or signage for so long as Tenant meets the criteria set forth above.

 

THIRDAMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

(PIER 1 SERVICES COMPANY)

 

3


8. Tenant’s Additional Signage Rights . Upon the closing of a sale of the Property from Landlord to a third party, the Lease is hereby modified to add the following, effective from and after such closing date: for so long as Tenant occupies at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the Rentable Square Footage of the Building as of the 15 th Floor Expansion Date, Section 31.P of the Lease is hereby modified to add the following additional signage rights to those already existing rights set forth therein: notwithstanding anything in Section 31.P. of the Lease to the contrary, Tenant shall have the right to modify the current Building signage, monuments and flags and any new Building identification signs, monuments or flags to reflect the Building naming rights described in paragraph 7 of this Third Amendment, including, the right to remove existing signage on the three (3) pedestal directional signs and on the East and South entrance doors of the Building identifying the name of the Building as Chesapeake Plaza or including the Chesapeake Logo, and to display and maintain, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, signage identifying the changed name of the Building on the three (3) pedestal directional signs and on the East and South entrance doors of the Building. Tenant shall pay the costs of the fabrication and installation of such new signage, and the removal of the previous signage, and shall deliver to Landlord the signs removed and replaced by Tenant, for Landlord’s disposition. Landlord and/or its other tenants shall have the right to maintain the existing signage positions on the pedestal sign at the Energy Way entry to the Property and the pedestal sign at Forrest Park and 5 th Street.

9. Guaranty . Landlord has required as a condition to entering into this Third Amendment that Pier 1 Imports, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Guarantor”) provide an unconditional guarantee of the performance of the obligations of Tenant throughout the Term of the Lease, including the payment of all amounts provided for therein. The Guarantor must duly execute a Guaranty in a form reasonably acceptable to both parties and deliver the same to Landlord as a condition to, and prior to the effectiveness of, Landlord’s obligations under this Third Amendment.

10. No Broker . Tenant and Landlord each represent to the other that neither party has executed a written agreement with any broker or agent in connection with this Third Amendment. Tenant and Landlord shall each indemnify the other against all costs, expenses, attorneys’ fees, liens and other liability for commissions or other compensation claimed by any broker or agent claiming the same by, through or under the indemnifying party.

 

THIRDAMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

(PIER 1 SERVICES COMPANY)

 

4


11. Notice Address Change . The notice address for Landlord set forth in section 1.M of the Lease is hereby changed and amended to be the following:

If to Landlord :

Chesapeake Plaza, L.L.C.

c/o Chesapeake Land Development Company, L.L.C.

P.O. Box 54853

Oklahoma City, OK 73154-0496

Attn: Dan LeDonne

Telephone Number:      (405) 935-2532

Telecopy Number:        (405) 849-2532

With copy to :

Chesapeake Plaza, L.L.C.

6100 N.Western Ave.

Oklahoma City, OK 73118

Attn: General Counsel

Telephone Number:      (405) 848-8000

Telecopy Number:        (405) 879-9561

With copy to :

Joe C. Lewallen, Jr.

Commercial Law Group, P.C.

5520 North Francis Avenue

Oklahoma City, OK 73118-6040

Telephone Number:      (405) 232-3001

Telecopy Number:        (405) 232-5553

12. Entire Agreement; Supercession . This Third Amendment shall become effective only upon its full execution and delivery by Landlord and Tenant. This Third Amendment contains the parties’ entire agreement regarding the subject matter covered herein, and supersedes all prior correspondence, negotiations, and agreements, if any, whether oral or written, between the parties concerning such subject matter. There are no contemporaneous oral agreements, and there are no representations or warranties between the parties not contained in this Third Amendment. In all respects, except as specifically amended hereby, the terms and conditions of the Lease remain in full force and effect and unabated and the Lease, as amended by this Third Amendment, shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto, their successors and permitted assigns.

13. Multiple Counterparts . The parties may execute this Third Amendment in counterparts, each of which shall constitute an original and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one and the same instrument. To facilitate execution of this Third Amendment, the parties may execute and exchange, by telephone facsimile or electronic mail PDF, counterparts of the signature pages.

(Signature Pages Follow)

 

THIRDAMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

(PIER 1 SERVICES COMPANY)

 

5


Exhibit 10.17.3

SIGNATURE PAGE TO

THIRD AMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Landlord and Tenant have executed this Third Amendment as of the Effective Date hereof.

 

LANDLORD:

 

CHESAPEAKE PLAZA, L.L.C.,

an Oklahoma limited liability company

By:    
Name: Henry J. Hood
Title: Senior Vice President - Land

 

THIRDAMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

(PIER 1 SERVICES COMPANY)

 


Exhibit 10.17.3

SIGNATURE PAGE TO

THIRD AMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Landlord and Tenant have executed this Third Amendment as of the Effective Date hereof.

 

TENANT :

 

PIER 1 SERVICES COMPANY,

a Delaware statutory trust

By:   Pier 1 Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, its managing trustee
  By:    
  Name: Alexander W. Smith
  Title: President and CEO

 

THIRDAMENDMENT TO OFFICE LEASE

(PIER 1 SERVICES COMPANY)

 

Exhibit 10.22

Employee Group Benefits

UNDERWRITTEN BY

SUN LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY OF CANADA

 

LOGO

THE INSURANCE POLICY UNDER WHICH THIS CERTIFICATE IS ISSUED IS NOT A POLICY OF WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE. YOU SHOULD CONSULT YOUR EMPLOYER TO DETERMINE WHETHER YOUR EMPLOYER IS A SUBSCRIBER TO THE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION SYSTEM.

All Non-Hawaii and Non-Distribution Center Employees

GROUP POLICY NUMBER—65955—001

POLICY EFFECTIVE DATE—April 1, 2001

POLICY AMENDMENT DATE—June 1, 2012

 

 

93C-LH-TX


Exhibit 10.22

Welcome to Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (Sun Life). Sun Life is pleased to be your Employer’s insurance carrier for the benefits provided in the Group Policy. The description of Eligible Classes in the Benefit Highlights will help you determine what benefits apply to you.

The booklet is intended to provide a summarized explanation of the current Group Policy Benefits. However, the Group Policy is the document which forms Sun Life’s contract to provide benefits. If the terms of the booklet and the Group Policy differ, the Group Policy will govern. A complete copy of the Group Policy is in the possession of your Employer and is available for your review. In the event of any changes in benefits or Group Policy provisions, you will be provided with a new booklet or a supplement which describes any changes.

Possession of this booklet does not necessarily mean you are insured under the Group Policy. The requirements for becoming eligible for insurance and the dates your insurance begins or ceases are explained within this booklet.

This booklet uses insurance terms and phrases that are listed in the Definitions Section.

For information, call the Sun Life Group Customer Service Center toll free at 1-800-247-6875.


Exhibit 10.22

NOTE: DEATH BENEFITS WILL BE REDUCED IF AN ACCELERATED BENEFIT IS PAID.

THE ACCELERATED BENEFITS OFFERED UNDER THE GROUP POLICY MAY OR MAY NOT QUALIFY FOR FAVORABLE TAX TREATMENT UNDER THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986. WHETHER SUCH BENEFITS QUALIFY DEPENDS ON FACTORS SUCH AS YOUR LIFE EXPECTANCY AT THE TIME BENEFITS ARE ACCELERATED OR WHETHER YOU USE THE BENEFITS TO PAY FOR NECESSARY LONG TERM CARE EXPENSES, SUCH AS NURSING HOME CARE. IF THE ACCELERATED BENEFITS QUALIFY FOR FAVORABLE TAX TREATMENT, THE BENEFITS WILL BE EXCLUDABLE FROM YOUR INCOME AND NOT SUBJECT TO FEDERAL TAXATION. TAX LAWS RELATING TO ACCELERATED BENEFITS ARE COMPLEX. YOU ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT WITH A QUALIFIED TAX ADVISOR ABOUT CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH YOU COULD RECEIVE ACCELERATED BENEFITS EXCLUDABLE FROM INCOME UNDER FEDERAL TAX LAW.

RECEIPT OF ACCELERATED BENEFITS MAY AFFECT YOU, YOUR SPOUSE OR YOUR FAMILY’S ELIGIBILITY FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS SUCH AS MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (MEDICAID) AID TO FAMILIES WITH DEPENDENT CHILDREN (AFDC), SUPPLEMENTARY SOCIAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI) AND DRUG ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS. YOU ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT WITH A QUALIFIED TAX ADVISOR AND WITH SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES CONCERNING HOW RECEIPT OF SUCH A PAYMENT WILL AFFECT YOU, YOUR SPOUSE AND YOUR FAMILY’S ELIGIBILITY FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE.

IF YOU RECEIVE ACCELERATED BENEFITS, WE WILL PROVIDE ANNUAL STATEMENTS SPECIFYING THE BENEFIT AMOUNT PAID AND THE AMOUNT OF DEATH BENEFIT REMAINING.


Exhibit 10.22

(Applicable to Texas Residents)

IMPORTANT NOTICE

To obtain information or to make a complaint:

You may call Sun Life’s toll-free telephone number for information or to make a complaint at:

1-800-247-6875

You may also write to Sun Life at:

Sun Life Assurance Company Of Canada

Group Customer Service Center SC 1219

1 Sun Life Executive Park

Wellesley Hills, MA 02481

You may contact the Texas Department of Insurance to obtain information on companies, coverages, rights or complaints at:

1-800-252-3439

You may write the Texas Department of Insurance

P.O. Box 149104

Austin, TX 78714-9104

FAX# (512) 475-1771

Web: http://www.tdi.state.tx.us

E-mail: ConsumerProtection@tdi.state.tx.us

PREMIUM OR CLAIM DISPUTES:

Should you have a dispute concerning your premium or about a claim, you should contact Sun Life first. If the dispute is not resolved, you may contact the Texas Department of Insurance.

ATTACH THIS NOTICE TO YOUR POLICY:

This notice is for information only and does not become a part or condition of the attached document.


Exhibit 10.22

AVISO IMPORTANTE

Para obtener informacion o para someter una queja:

Usted puede llamar al numero de telefono gratis de Sun Life’s para informacion o para someter una queja al:

1-800-247-6875

Usted tambien puede escribir a Sun Life:

Sun Life Assurance Company Of Canada Group

Customer Service Center SC 1219

1 Sun Life Executive Park

Wellesley Hills, MA 02481

Puede comunicarse con el Departamento de Seguros de Texas para obtener informacion acerca de companias, coberturas, derechos o quejas al:

1-800-252-3439

Puede escribir al Departamento de Seguros de Texas

P.O. Box 149104

Austin, TX 78714-9104

FAX# (512) 475-1771

Web: http://www.tdi.state.tx.us

E- mail: ConsumerProtection@tdi.state.tx.us

DISPUTAS SOBRE PRIMAS O RECLAMOS:

Si tiene una disputa concerniente a su prima o a un reclamo, debe comunicarse con el Sun Life primero. Si no se resuelve la disputa, puede entonces comunicarse con el departmento (TDI).

UNA ESTE AVISO A SU POLIZA:

Este aviso es solo para proposito de informacion y no se convierte en parte o condicion del documento adjunto.


Exhibit 10.22

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

     Page  

Benefit Highlights

  

Employee Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance

     7   

Dependent Optional Life Insurance

     10   

Eligibility and Effective Dates

     13   

Termination of Insurance

  

Employee

     16   

Dependent

     17   

Benefit Provisions

  

Life Insurance

  

Employee

     18   

Dependent

     25   

Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (AD&D)

     28   

Claim Provisions

  

Notice of Claim

     31   

Proof of Claim

     31   

Payment of Claims

     32   

Change of Beneficiary

     33   

General Provisions

     34   

Definitions

  

General

     35   

Employee Life

     37   

Dependent Optional Life

     38   

Accidental Death and Dismemberment

     39  

 

93C-LH-TAB    Page No. 6   

Table of Contents

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT HIGHLIGHTS

EMPLOYEE LIFE AND ACCIDENTAL DEATH AND DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE

ELIGIBLE CLASSES

Initial Associate Qualifying Period

A qualifying period of eight weeks of continuous employment where an active regular status Employee has averaged at least 32 hours per week.

Ongoing Associate Eligibility

An active regular status Employee’s hours are recalculated semi-annually in March and September. An Employee must average 32 hours per week for the previous six month period, in order to retain coverage.

However, if an Employee was insured prior to January 1, 1991 and averaged at least 20 hours per week, Ongoing Eligibility will be based on 20 hours per week average. If the average drops below 20 hours per week, the Employee will need to meet the Ongoing Eligibility of 32 hours average thereafter.

BASIC INSURANCE

CLASSIFICATION

 

1 All Eligible Executives

 

2 All Other Eligible Employees

 

CLASS    LIFE    AD&D
1   

1.5 times your Basic

Annual Earnings*

   An amount equal to your amount of Basic Life Insurance in force
2    1 times your Basic Annual Earnings*    An amount equal to your amount of Basic Life Insurance in force

 

93C-LH-SCHED    Page No. 7   

Benefit Highlights

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT HIGHLIGHTS

OPTIONAL LIFE INSURANCE

CLASSIFICATION

All Eligible Employees

You may elect one of the following Options:

 

Option I

   $ 25,000   

Option II

   $ 50,000   

Option III

   $ 75,000   

Option IV

   $ 100,000   

Option V

   $ 150,000   

Option VI

   $ 200,000   

Option VII

   $ 250,000   

Option VIII

   $ 300,000   

Option IX

   $ 350,000   

Option X

   $ 400,000   

Option XI

   $ 450,000   

Option XII

   $ 500,000   

Option XIII

   $ 550,000   

Option XIV

   $ 600,000   

Option XV

   $ 650,000   

Option XVI

   $ 700,000   

Option XVII

   $ 750,000   

Option XVIII

   $ 1,000,000   

 

* rounded to the next higher $1,000, if not already a multiple of $1,000

 

The Basic Maximum Benefit for Class 1 is $500,000.

The Basic Maximum Benefit for Class 2 is $100,000.

(Applicable if you were hired on or after April 1, 2001 but prior to April 1, 2004)

The Guaranteed Issue A m ounts for Optional Life Insurance are as follows:

 

AGE

   GUARANTEED
ISSUE
AMOUNT
 

Under age 70

   $ 100,000   

Ages 70 to 74

   $ 45,000   

Ages 75 to 79

   $ 30,000   

Ages 80 to 84

   $ 20,000   

Ages 85 to 89

   $ 15,000   

Age 90 or over

   $ 10,000   

 

93C-LH-SCHED    Page No. 8   

Benefit Highlights

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT HIGHLIGHTS

(Applicable if you were hired on or after April 1, 2004)

The Guaranteed Issue Amounts for Optional Life Insurance are as follows:

 

AGE

   GUARANTEED
ISSUE
AMOUNT
 

Under age 70

   $ 500,000   

Ages 70 to 74

   $ 50,000   

Ages 75 to 79

   $ 30,000   

Ages 80 to 84

   $ 20,000   

Ages 85 to 89

   $ 15,000   

Age 90 or over

   $ 10,000   

(Applicable if you were insured for Optional Life Insurance on March 31, 2001)

The Guaranteed Issue Amount for Optional Life Insurance is the amount of Optional Life Insurance you had in force on March 31, 2001.

Your amount of Basic and Optional Life and Basic Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance reduces to 45% when you reach age 70, to 30% when you reach age 75, to 20% when you reach age 80, to 15% when you reach age 85 and to 10% when you reach age 90.

Your Basic and Optional Life and Basic Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance cancels at your retirement.

Evidence of Insurability, satisfactory to Sun Life, will be required for any of the following reasons:

 

   

you elect an increase in your amount of Optional Life Insurance in excess of one option; or

 

   

your amount of Life Insurance is in excess of the Guaranteed Issue Amount.

Basic Annual Earnings

Your current salary or wage from your Employer. Basic Annual Earnings does not include commissions, bonuses, overtime pay or any other extra compensation.

 

93C-LH-SCHED    Page No. 9   

Benefit Highlights

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT HIGHLIGHTS

DEPENDENT OPTIONAL LIFE INSURANCE

ELIGIBLE CLASSES

CLASSIFICATION

 

1 Employees hired prior to April 1, 2006 who were insured for Dependent Optional Life Insurance on March 31, 2006 and who elect to remain in their current plan option

 

2 Employees hired on or after April 1, 2006, Employees hired prior to April 1, 2006 who newly elect Dependent Optional Life Insurance and Employees who are enrolled in Dependent Optional Life Insurance on March 31, 2006 who elect to change their amount of Dependent Optional Life Insurance

 

CLASS    Spouse    Child under age 25
1    The amount of Dependent Spouse Optional Life Insurance you had in force on March 31, 2006    The amount of Dependent Child Optional Life Insurance you had in force on March 31, 2006

An Employee in Class 1 who elects a change in their amount of Dependent Optional Life Insurance must enroll in Class 2.

 

CLASS         Spouse           Child under age 25  

2

You may elect one of the following Options:

           
   Option I    $ 25,000       Option I    $ 2,500
   Option II    $ 50,000       Option II    $ 5,000
   Option III    $ 75,000       Option III    $ 7,500
   Option IV    $ 100,000       Option IV    $ 10,000
   Option V    $ 150,000       Option V    $ 12,500
   Option VI    $ 200,000       Option VI    $ 15,000
   Option VII    $ 250,000         

 

* the amount of Dependent Optional Life Insurance for your child under 14 days is None.
* the amount of Dependent Optional Life Insurance for your child age 14 days but under 6 months is $500.

 

(Your amount of Dependent Spouse Optional Life Insurance cannot exceed 50% of your amount of Optional Life Insurance)

(Your amount of Dependent Child Optional Life Insurance cannot exceed 10% of your amount of Optional Life Insurance)

 

93C-LH-SCHED    Page No. 10   

Benefit Highlights

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT HIGHLIGHTS

(Applicable if you were hired prior to April 1, 2004)

The Guaranteed Issue Amounts for Dependent Spouse Optional Life Insurance are as follows:

 

 

AGE

   GUARANTEED
ISSUE
AMOUNT
 

Under age 70

   $ 100,000   

Ages 70 to 74

   $ 25,000   

Ages 75 to 79

   $ 15,000   

Ages 80 to 84

   $ 10,000   

Ages 85 to 89

   $ 7,500   

Age 90 or over

   $ 5,000   

Your amount of Dependent Spouse Optional Life reduces to 45% when your Dependent Spouse reaches age 70, to 30% when your Dependent Spouse reaches age 75, to 20% when your Dependent Spouse reaches age 80, to 15% when your Dependent Spouse reaches age 85, and to 10% when your Dependent Spouse reaches age 90.

Evidence of Insurability, satisfactory to Sun Life, will be required for your Dependent for any of the following reasons:

 

   

you elect an amount of Life Insurance for your Dependent in excess of the Guaranteed Issue Amount; or

 

   

you elect an increase in your amount of Dependent Spouse Optional Life Insurance in excess of one option; or

 

   

you elect an increase in your amount of Dependent Child Optional Life Insurance in excess of one option.

 

93C-LH-SCHED    Page No. 11   

Benefit Highlights

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT HIGHLIGHTS

WAITING PERIOD

(The period of time you must be employed in an Eligible Class before you can apply for benefits)

Once you have met your Initial Associate Qualifying Period, coverage may become effective on the first day of the month coincident with or next following the completion of an additional 30 day Waiting Period. (See Eligibility and Effective Dates, When does my insurance start?)

CONTRIBUTIONS

The cost of your Employee Basic Life and Employee Basic Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance is paid for entirely by your Employer. This is your non-contributory insurance.

The cost of your Employee Optional Life and Dependent Optional Life Insurance is paid for by you. This is your contributory insurance.

The following Questions and Answers will help you to better understand your benefits.

Please read them carefully and refer any questions to your Employer or call the Sun Life Group Customer Service Center toll free at 1-800-247-6875.

 

93C-LH-SCHED    Page No. 12   

Benefit Highlights

June 1, 2012


ELIGIBILITY AND EFFECTIVE DATES OF INSURANCE

When am I eligible for insurance?

If you are in an Eligible Class shown in the Benefit Highlights, you are eligible on the later of:

 

   

April 1, 2001; or

 

   

the first day of the month coincident with or next following the date you complete your Waiting Period.

 

   

the day after you complete your Waiting Period

If you are in an Eligible Class shown in the Benefit Highlights and you have a Dependent, you are eligible for Dependent Optional Life Insurance on the latest of:

 

   

the date you are insured for Employee Optional Life Insurance; or

 

   

April 1, 2001; or

 

   

the date you first acquire a Dependent.

When must I apply for insurance?

You must apply for insurance during your Initial Enrollment Period.

When is my Initial Enrollment Period?

If you are eligible for insurance on April 1, 2001, your Initial Enrollment Period is the period from December 1, 2001 through December 31, 2001 as designated by your Employer.

If you first become eligible for insurance after April 1, 2001, your Initial Enrollment Period is the period of time between your Initial Associate Qualifying Period and your effective date of coverage.

When does my insurance start?

For Non-Contributory Insurance:

Your insurance starts on the date you are eligible if you are actively at work on that date.

For Contributory Insurance:

Your insurance starts on the date you are eligible on or after the date you apply for your insurance, if:

 

   

you are Actively at Work on that date; and

 

   

Evidence of Insurability is not required.

If Evidence of Insurability is required for any amount of insurance, your insurance will not start until Sun Life approves your insurance, but you need to be Actively at Work on that date.

What if I am not Actively at Work on the date my insurance starts?

If you are not Actively at Work on the date your insurance would normally start, your insurance will not start until you are Actively at Work.

What happens if I do not apply during the Initial Enrollment Period?

If you do not apply for insurance during your Initial Enrollment Period, you will be insured for basic coverage only.

 

93C-LH-ENROLL    Page No. 13   

Eligibility and Effective

Dates of Insurance

June 1, 2012


ELIGIBILITY AND EFFECTIVE DATES OF INSURANCE

When does my Dependent’s insurance start?

Your Dependent’s insurance starts on the latest of:

 

   

the date you are Eligible for Dependent Optional Life Insurance; or

 

   

the date you apply for Dependent Optional Life Insurance; or

 

   

the date Sun Life approves your Dependent’s Evidence of Insurability (if required); as long as your Dependent is not hospital confined on that date.

If your Dependent is hospital confined on the date your Dependent’s insurance would normally start, your Dependent’s insurance will not start until the Dependent is no longer hospital confined.

If you do not apply for Dependent Optional Life Insurance during your Initial Enrollment Period, your Dependent will not be insured.

Can I make any changes in my Plan Options?

No change can be made to your Plan Options until:

 

   

the Annual Enrollment Period; or

 

   

you have a Family Status Change.

When is the Annual Enrollment Period?

The Annual Enrollment Period is the period during the month of April of each year as designated by your Employer. During this period of time you may make changes to your Plan Options.

When do changes to my Plan Options start?

If you have increased your amount of insurance, the increase starts on the later of:

 

   

the April 1st following the change in your Plan Options; or

 

   

the date Sun Life approves your Evidence of Insurability (if required); as long as you are Actively at Work on that date.

If you are not Actively at Work on the date your insurance would normally increase, the increase in your insurance will not start until you are Actively at Work.

If you have increased your Dependent’s amount of insurance, the increase starts on the later of:

 

   

the April 1st following the change in your Plan Options; or

 

   

the date Sun Life approves your Dependent’s Evidence of Insurability (if required); as long as your Dependent is not hospital confined.

If your Dependent is hospital confined on the date an increase in your Dependent’s insurance would normally start, the increase in your Dependent’s insurance will not start until the Dependent is no longer hospital confined.

Decreases in any amount of insurance will start on the April 1st following the change in your Plan Options.

 

 

93C-LH-ENROLL    Page No. 14   

Eligibility and Effective

Dates of Insurance

June 1, 2012


ELIGIBILITY AND EFFECTIVE DATES OF INSURANCE

What if I do not make any changes during the Annual Enrollment Period?

If you do not make any changes during the Annual Enrollment Period you will continue to be insured for the same Plan Option previously selected.

No change in your Plan Options can be made until the next Annual Enrollment Period unless you have a Family Status Change.

What is considered a Family Status Change?

A Family Status Change is one of the following events:

 

   

your marriage or divorce;

 

   

the birth of your child;

 

   

the adoption of a child by you;

 

   

the death of your spouse or child;

 

   

the commencement or termination of employment of your spouse;

 

   

the change from part-time to full-time employment by you or your spouse;

 

   

the change from full-time to part-time employment by you or your spouse;

 

   

the taking of an unpaid leave of absence by you or your spouse;

 

   

a significant change in your health coverage or your spouse’s health coverage as a result of your spouse’s employment.

These changes must be made within 31 days of the change in your Family Status and be necessary or appropriate as a result of the Family Status Change.

When does insurance due to Family Status Changes start?

If you have increased your amount of insurance, the increase starts on the latest of:

 

   

the date you apply for a change in your Plan Options; or

 

   

the date your Family Status changes; or

 

   

the date Sun Life approves your Evidence of Insurability (if required); as long as you are Actively at Work on that date.

If you are not Actively at Work on the date your insurance would normally increase, the increase in your insurance will not start until you are Actively at Work.

If you have increased your Dependent’s amount of insurance, the increase starts on the latest of:

 

   

the date you apply for a change in your Plan Options; or

 

   

the date your Family Status changes; or

 

   

the date Sun Life approves your Dependent’s Evidence of Insurability (if required); as long as your Dependent is not hospital confined on that date.

If your Dependent is hospital confined on the date an increase in your Dependent’s insurance would normally start, the increase in your Dependent’s insurance will not start until the Dependent is no longer hospital confined.

If due to the Family Status change you decrease any amount of insurance, the decrease will start on the date you apply for the change in your Plan Options.

 

 

93C-LH-ENROLL    Page No. 15   

Eligibility and Effective

Dates of Insurance

June 1, 2012


TERMINATION OF EMPLOYEE INSURANCE

When does my insurance cease?

Your insurance ceases on the earliest of:

 

   

the date the Group Policy terminates.

 

   

the date you are no longer in an Eligible Class.

 

   

the date your class is no longer included for insurance.

 

   

the last day for which any required premium has been paid for your insurance.

 

   

the date you are approved as a Limited Status Employee.

 

   

the date you retire.

 

   

the date you request in writing to terminate your insurance.

 

   

the date you enter active duty in any armed service during a time of war (declared or undeclared).

 

   

the date your employment terminates.

 

   

the date you cease to be Actively at Work.

Are there any conditions under which my insurance can continue?

Yes.

Your insurance will continue during any period the premium for your insurance is waived under the Group Policy.

If you are on temporary layoff, leave of absence or vacation, your Employer may continue your insurance by paying the required premium for the length of time specified below.

Layoff—for up to 6 months

Leave of Absence (including the Family and Medical Leave of Absence)—for up to 6 months Vacation—for up to 3 months

If you are absent from work due to an injury or sickness, your Employer may continue your Life insurance, by paying the required premium, for up to 12 months.

If you are “Totally Disabled” you may be eligible for a longer continuation of Life Insurance. Refer to “What is the Waiver of Premium Provision” in the Life Benefit Section. Please note you need to apply for continued benefits under the Waiver of Premium Provision within 12 months after you cease to be Actively at Work.

If your coverage terminates and you are not eligible for any of the described continuations, you may be eligible for a Conversion Privilege. Refer to the “Conversion Privilege” in the Life Benefit section. Please note that you need to apply for the conversion and pay the required premium within 31 days following your termination of insurance.

You may be eligible to continue your insurance coverage pursuant to the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, as amended or continue coverage pursuant to a state required continuation period (if any). You should contact your Employer for more details.

You may be eligible to continue your insurance coverage pursuant to the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). You should contact your Employer for more details.

 

93C-LH-ETERM.1    Page No. 16   

Termination of

Employee Insurance

June 1, 2012


TERMINATION OF DEPENDENT INSURANCE

When does my Dependent’s insurance cease?

Your Dependent’s insurance ceases on the earliest of:

 

   

the date the Group Policy terminates.

 

   

the date you cease to be insured.

 

   

the date you are no longer in an Eligible Class for Dependent Insurance.

 

   

the date the Dependent does not qualify as a Dependent.

 

   

the last day for which any required premium has been paid for your Dependent’s insurance.

 

   

the date you request in writing to terminate your Dependent’s insurance.

 

   

the date your Dependent enters active duty in any armed service during a time of war (declared or undeclared).

 

   

the date you are approved as a Limited Status Employee.

 

   

the date you retire.

 

   

the date you die.

Are there any conditions under which my Dependent’s insurance can continue?

Yes.

If your Dependent’s coverage terminates, your Dependent may be eligible for a Conversion Privilege. Refer to the “Conversion Privilege” of the Dependent Optional Life Benefit section. Please note that you or your Dependent need to apply for the conversion and pay the required premium within 31 days following termination of the Dependent’s insurance.

 

 

93C-LH-DTERM    Page No. 17   

Termination of

Dependent Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE LIFE INSURANCE

What is the Life Insurance Benefit?

If you die while insured, your Beneficiary will receive the amount of your Life Insurance in force when Sun Life receives written Notice and Proof of Claim.

What is the amount of my Life Insurance?

Basic Life Insurance

The amount of your Basic Life Insurance is the Basic amount of insurance as determined in the Benefit Highlights.

Your Basic Life Insurance cannot exceed the Basic Maximum Benefit shown in the Benefit Highlights.

Your amount of Basic Life Insurance is subject to any age reductions or terminations shown in the Benefit Highlights.

Optional Life Insurance

The amount of your Optional Life Insurance is the lesser of:

 

1. your Optional amount of insurance elected as determined in the Benefit Highlights; or

 

2. the Optional Guaranteed Issue Amount shown in the Benefit Highlights, plus any amount of insurance over your Optional Guaranteed Issue Amount that Sun Life has approved your Evidence of Insurability.

Your amount of Optional Life Insurance is subject to the Exclusions shown below and any Evidence of Insurability requirements, age reductions or terminations shown in the Benefit Highlights.

What are the Exclusions?

If your cause of death is suicide:

 

   

No amount of Optional Life Insurance is payable if the suicide occurs within 24 months after your Optional Life Insurance starts. Any period of time you were insured for the same amount of Optional Life Insurance under your Employer’s prior group Life policy will count towards your completion of the 24 months.

 

   

No increased or additional amount of your Optional Life Insurance is payable if the suicide occurs within 24 months after the increased or additional amount of your Optional Life Insurance starts.

 

   

No amount of your Optional Life Insurance over your Guaranteed Issue Amount is payable if the suicide occurs within 24 months after the amount over your Guaranteed Issue Amount starts.

 

93C-LH-LIFE.2    Page No. 18   

Employee Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE LIFE INSURANCE

What is the Waiver of Premium Provision?

If you become Totally Disabled while insured, the Waiver of Premium Provision may continue your Life Insurance without any further payment of premiums by you or your Employer.

When am I eligible for the Waiver of Premium Provision?

You are eligible if Sun Life receives Notice and Proof of Claim that you became Totally Disabled:

 

   

while insured; and

 

   

before your 60th birthday; and

 

   

before you retire.

What is the amount of Life Insurance that is continued under the Waiver of Premium Provision?

Sun Life will continue the amount of your Life Insurance in force on the last day you were Actively at Work. This amount is subject to the same reductions or terminations that would have been applicable had you not become Totally Disabled.

If you have converted your Life Insurance to an individual policy, the continued insurance will be reduced by that converted amount unless you exchange that individual policy for a full refund of premiums paid.

When does my Waiver of Premium cease?

Your Waiver of Premium ceases on the earliest of:

 

   

the date you are no longer Totally Disabled.

 

   

the date you do not provide Proof that you continue to be Totally Disabled.

 

   

the date you do not submit to an examination by a Physician of Sun Life’s choice.

 

   

the date you are no longer under the regular and continuing care of a Physician providing appropriate treatment by means of examination and testing in accordance with your disabling condition.

 

   

the date you reach age 70 .

 

   

the date you retire.

For the purposes of this Waiver of Premium Provision, you are considered retired when you receive any compensation from a Retirement Plan of your Employer, or when you reach age 70, whichever is earlier.

If your Waiver of Premium ceases and you do not return to work with your Employer, your Life Insurance will terminate. You may be eligible to convert your Life Insurance under the Conversion Privilege.

 

93C-LH-LIFE.2    Page No. 19   

Employee Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE LIFE INSURANCE

Note: Death Benefits will be reduced if an Accelerated Benefit is paid.

What is the Accelerated Benefit?

If Sun Life receives satisfactory proof that you are Terminally Ill, part of your Life Insurance may be payable to you while you are still living.

When am I eligible for an Accelerated Benefit?

(Applicable if you were hired on or before April 1, 2001)

You are eligible if:

 

   

you were Actively at Work on April 1, 2001 and have been insured for Life Insurance for at least 60 days. (This includes any period of time you were insured under the prior insurer’s group life policy); and

(Applicable if you were hired after April 1, 2001)

You are eligible if:

 

   

you have been insured for Life Insurance for at least 60 days; and

(Applicable to All Employees)

 

   

you are certified as Terminally Ill with a life expectancy of 12 months or less; and

 

   

you are insured for at least $10,000 of Life Insurance.

How do I receive an Accelerated Benefit?

You need to submit a written request to Sun Life.

If you have assigned your Life Insurance, named an irrevocable Beneficiary or have a former spouse named as Beneficiary as part of a divorce decree, you must have a signed agreement from those parties.

What is the amount of Accelerated Benefit?

You can request up to 75% of the amount of your Life Insurance currently in force. The maximum amount you can request is $82,500. The minimum amount you may request is $5,000.

If you have received an Accelerated Benefit under the prior insurer’s group life policy, you can request up to 75% of your Life Insurance currently in force reduced by the amount of the Accelerated Benefit you have previously received.

How is the Accelerated Benefit paid?

The Accelerated Benefit is paid in a single lump sum amount.

Can I receive more than one Accelerated Benefit?

You may request the Accelerated Benefit only once under Sun Life’s Group Policy.

 

93C-LH-LIFE.2    Page No. 20   

Employee Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE LIFE INSURANCE

Are there any charges if I request an Accelerated Benefit?

No.

What happens to my Life Insurance if I receive an Accelerated Benefit?

If you have received an Accelerated Benefit from Sun Life or the prior insurer’s group life policy, your Life Insurance will be reduced by the amount of the Accelerated Benefit requested. Annual statements will be provided showing the amount paid and the remaining death benefit. The remaining amount of Life Insurance will be paid to your Beneficiary upon your death.

Some Important Notes about your Accelerated Benefit

Your Accelerated Benefit is not a long term care policy. The amount your Accelerated Benefit would pay may not be enough to cover nursing home expenses or other bills. You may use the money received from the Accelerated Benefit for any purpose.

Receipt of your Accelerated Benefit may affect your Medicaid eligibility.

Benefits payable under this provision MAY be taxable. You should consult your tax advisor. Sun Life does not give tax or legal advice.

What is the Portability Privilege?

If, prior to age 65, your Optional Life insurance ceases because you terminate employment, you may apply for portable coverage, instead of converting to an individual policy.

How does this differ from the Conversion Privilege?

Portable coverage is group term life insurance. This benefit may be continued only for 10 years, to age 65, whichever comes first. At the end of that time, you may convert the coverage then in force to an individual permanent life policy under a Conversion Privilege.

Also, you must provide a statement of good health in order to qualify for portable coverage.

What amounts of insurance are portable?

You may apply for portable coverage up to the amount of Optional Life coverage that ceased, to a maximum of $500,000. If you port your Optional Life coverage, you may also port any Dependent Optional Life Insurance that ceased due to your termination of employment.

When does my portable coverage start?

If your application is approved and the first premium is paid when due, your coverage will start on the day after the 31 day conversion period. If your application is declined, you will be given a 31 day period to apply for an individual permanent life policy under the conversion privilege.

 

93C-LH-LIFE.2    Page No. 21   

Employee Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE LIFE INSURANCE

How do I apply for portable coverage?

You must complete an application for portable coverage, which contains a short medical questionnaire, and send it, with payment of the first premium, to Sun Life within 60 days of the date your Optional Life Insurance terminates.

The application contains a table to calculate the applicable premium, based on your age and the amount of coverage elected.

The application is available from your Employer.

What is the Conversion Privilege?

If your Life Insurance ceases, you may be able to convert your Life Insurance to an individual policy. You need to apply for the Conversion Privilege within 31 days. See question “How do I convert my Life Insurance?”.

When can I convert my Life Insurance?

 

1. You can convert if all or part of your Life Insurance ceases or reduces due to:

 

   

termination of your employment;

 

   

termination of your membership in an Eligible Class;

 

   

your retirement;

 

   

your reaching a specified age; or

 

   

your changing to a different Eligible Class; or

 

   

termination of your Waiver of Premium continuation; or

 

   

your continuation period ending during your layoff or leave of absence.

 

2. You can convert if you have been continuously insured for 5 or more years under Sun Life’s Group Life Policy and all or part of your Life Insurance ceases or reduces due to:

 

   

termination of the Life Insurance Benefit Provision;

 

   

termination of the Group Policy;

 

   

an amendment to the Group Policy to reduce the amount of Life Insurance in your Eligible Class; or

 

   

an amendment to the Group Policy to terminate your Eligible Class.

What amount of Life Insurance can I convert?

The amount of Life Insurance you can convert depends on the reason your Life Insurance ceases.

If your amount of Life Insurance ceased or reduced for the reasons stated in #1 “When can I convert my Life Insurance?”, you can convert up to the amount that ceased or reduced. If your amount of Life Insurance that ceased is $10,000 or more, the minimum amount of your individual policy must be $10,000.

If your amount of Life Insurance ceased or reduced for the reasons stated in #2 “When can I convert my Life Insurance?”, you can convert up to the lesser of:

 

   

$2,000; or

 

   

the amount that ceased or reduced less any amount of group life insurance you may become eligible for within 31 days after your Life Insurance ceased or reduced.

 

93C-LH-LIFE.2    Page No. 22   

Employee Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE LIFE INSURANCE

How do I convert my Life Insurance?

You convert by applying to Sun Life for an individual policy along with sending payment of the first premium within 31 days after any part of your Life Insurance ceases or reduces. This is your 31 day conversion period. However, if you are not notified by your Employer of this conversion privilege, you will have an additional 15 days to exercise this conversion privilege. In no event will this conversion privilege be extended beyond 30 days following your 31 day conversion period.

What type of individual policy is available?

You can convert to any plan of permanent life insurance available by Sun Life for conversion. The individual policy will not include any additional benefits such as disability benefits or accidental death and dismemberment benefits.

You do not have to submit Evidence of Insurability to convert to an individual policy.

When does my individual policy start?

If your application for the individual policy is received and the first premium is paid when due, your individual policy starts on the day after the 31 day conversion period.

What happens if I die during the 31 day conversion period?

If Sun Life receives Notice and Proof of Claim, a death benefit is payable to your Beneficiary, whether or not you had applied for an individual policy or had paid the first premium.

The death benefit is the amount of Life Insurance you would have been eligible to convert.

 

93C-LH-LIFE.2    Page No. 23   

Employee Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE LIFE INSURANCE

What happens when my Employer transfers Insurance Carriers to Sun Life?

In order to prevent losing your insurance, Sun Life will provide the following coverage.

If you are not Actively at Work on April 1, 2001, you will be insured if:

 

1. you were insured under the prior insurer’s group Life policy at the time of the transfer; and

 

2. you are a member of an Eligible Class; and

 

3. premiums for you are paid up to date; and

 

4. you are not receiving or eligible to receive benefits under the prior insurer’s group Life policy.

Any Life benefit payable will be the lesser of:

 

   

the Life benefit payable under the Group Policy; or

 

   

the Life benefit payable under the prior insurer’s group Life policy had it remained in force. All other provisions of Sun Life’s Group Policy will apply.

 

93C-LH-LIFE.2    Page No. 24   

Employee Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

DEPENDENT OPTIONAL LIFE INSURANCE

What is my Dependent Optional Life Insurance Benefit?

If your Dependent dies while insured, you will receive the amount of your Dependent Optional Life Insurance in force when Sun Life receives written Notice and Proof of Claim.

What is the amount of my Dependent Optional Life Insurance?

The amount of your Dependent Optional Life Insurance is the lesser of:

 

1. the amount of Optional Life Insurance you elected for your Dependent as determined in the Benefit Highlights; or

 

2. the Guaranteed Issue Amount shown in the Benefit Highlights, plus any amount of insurance over your Dependent’s Guaranteed Issue Amount for which Sun Life has approved your Dependent’s Evidence of Insurability.

The amount of your Dependent’s Optional Life Insurance is subject to the Exclusions shown below and any Evidence of Insurability requirements shown in the Benefit Highlights.

What are the Exclusions?

If your Dependent Spouse’s cause of death is suicide:

 

   

No amount of Dependent Spouse Optional Life Insurance is payable if your Dependent Spouse’s suicide occurs within 24 months after your Dependent Spouse’s Optional Life Insurance first starts.

 

   

No increased or additional amount of Dependent Spouse Optional Life Insurance is payable if your Dependent Spouse’s suicide occurs within 24 months after your Dependent Spouse’s increased or additional amount of Optional Life Insurance starts.

 

   

No amount of Dependent Spouse Optional Life Insurance over your Dependent Spouse’s Guaranteed Issue Amount is payable if your Dependent Spouse’s suicide occurs within 24 months after the amount over your Dependent Spouse’s Guaranteed Issue Amount starts.

What is the Conversion Privilege?

If your Dependent’s Optional Life Insurance ceases, your Dependent may be able to convert the Optional Life Insurance to an individual policy.

 

93C-LH-DLIFE.2    Page No. 25   

Dependent Optional

Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

DEPENDENT OPTIONAL LIFE INSURANCE

When can my Dependent convert?

 

1. Your Dependent can convert if all or part of your Dependent’s Optional Life Insurance ceases or reduces due to:

 

   

termination of your employment;

 

   

termination of your membership in an Eligible Class;

 

   

your retirement;

 

   

your reaching a specified age;

 

   

your death; or

 

   

your changing to a different Eligible Class; or

 

   

your Dependent no longer qualifying as a Dependent.

 

2. Your Dependent can convert if your Dependent has been continuously insured for 5 or more years under Sun Life’s Group Life Policy and all or part of your Dependent’s Optional Life Insurance ceases due to:

 

   

termination of the Dependent Optional Life Insurance Benefit Provision;

 

   

termination of the Group Policy;

 

   

an amendment to the Group Policy to terminate your Eligible Class.

What amount of Optional Life Insurance can my Dependent convert?

The amount of Optional Life Insurance your Dependent can convert depends on the reason your Dependent’s Optional Life Insurance ceased.

If your Dependent’s amount of Optional Life Insurance ceased or reduced for the reasons stated in #1 “When can my Dependent convert?”, your Dependent can convert up to the amount that ceased or reduced. If your Dependent’s amount of Optional Life Insurance that ceased is $10,000 or more, the minimum amount of your Dependent’s individual policy must be $10,000.

If your Dependent’s amount of Optional Life Insurance ceased for the reasons stated in #2 “When can my Dependent convert?”, your Dependent can convert up to the lesser of:

 

   

$2,000; or

 

   

the amount that ceased, less any amount of group life insurance your Dependent may become eligible for within 31 days after your Dependent’s Optional Life Insurance ceased.

How can my Dependent convert?

You or your Dependent need to apply to Sun Life for an individual policy along with sending payment of the first premium within 31 days after any part of your Dependent’s Optional Life Insurance ceases or reduces. This is your Dependent’s 31 day conversion period. However, if your Dependent is not notified by your Employer of this conversion privilege, your Dependent will have an additional 15 days to exercise this conversion privilege. In no event will this conversion privilege be extended beyond 30 days following your Dependent’s 31 day conversion period.

What type of individual policy is available?

Your Dependent can convert to any plan of permanent life insurance available by Sun Life for conversion. The individual policy will not include any additional benefits such as disability benefits or accidental death and dismemberment benefits.

Your Dependent does not have to submit Evidence of Insurability to convert to an individual policy.

 

93C-LH-DLIFE.2    Page No. 26   

Dependent Optional

Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

DEPENDENT OPTIONAL LIFE INSURANCE

When does my Dependent’s individual policy start?

If your Dependent’s application for the individual policy is received and the first premium paid when due, your Dependent’s individual policy starts on the day after your Dependent’s 31 day conversion period.

What happens if my Dependent dies during the 31 day conversion period?

If Sun Life receives Notice and Proof of Claim, a death benefit is payable to you, whether or not your Dependent had applied for an individual policy or had paid the first premium.

The death benefit is the amount of Optional Life Insurance your Dependent would have been eligible to convert.

 

93C-LH-DLIFE.2    Page No. 27   

Dependent Optional

Life Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE ACCIDENTAL DEATH

AND DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE

What is the Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefit?

If Sun Life receives written Notice and Proof of Claim that you:

 

   

died from an accidental drowning while insured; or

 

   

sustained an Accidental Bodily Injury while insured, which results in your loss of life, sight or limb within 365 days of the date of that Accidental Bodily Injury; or

 

   

sustained a loss of life, sight or limb within 365 days due to an accidental exposure to the elements while insured; an Accidental Death and Dismemberment benefit may be payable to you or to your Beneficiary.

The benefit is a percentage of the amount of Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance in force for your class shown in the Benefit Highlights on the date of the Accidental Bodily Injury. The following is a list of percentages payable for the applicable loss.

 

Life

     100

Sight of one eye

     50

One limb

     50

Speech and hearing

     100

Speech or hearing

     50

Thumb and index finger of the same hand

     25

Quadriplegia

     100

Paraplegia

     75

Hemiplegia

     50

The maximum amount of Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefit payable for losses resulting from any one accident is 100%.

Loss of limb means severance of the hand or foot at or above the wrist or ankle joint. Loss of sight, speech or hearing must be total and irrecoverable. Loss of thumb and index finger means severance through or above the metacarpophalangeal joints.

Quadriplegia means the total and permanent paralysis of both upper and lower limbs. Paraplegia means the total and permanent paralysis of both lower limbs. Hemiplegia means the total and permanent paralysis of the upper and lower limbs on one side of the body.

 

93C-LH-AD&D.2    Page No. 28   

Accidental Death and

Dismemberment Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE ACCIDENTAL DEATH

AND DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE

What happens if I Disappear?

Sun Life will presume, subject to no objective evidence to the contrary, that you are dead and your death is a result of an Accidental Bodily Injury if:

 

   

you disappear as a result of an accidental wrecking, sinking or disappearance of a conveyance in which you were known to be a passenger; and

 

   

your body is not found within 365 days after the date of the conveyance’s disappearance.

What are the Exclusions?

No AD&D benefit will be payable for your loss that is due to or results from:

 

   

suicide while sane or insane.

 

   

intentionally self-inflicted injuries.

 

   

bodily or mental infirmity or disease of any kind, or an infection unless due to an Accidental cut or wound.

 

   

your committing or attempting to commit an assault, felony or other criminal act.

 

   

active participation in a war (declared or undeclared) or active duty in any armed service during a time of war.

 

   

your active participation in a riot, rebellion, or insurrection.

 

   

injury sustained while operating, riding in, descending or falling from or with any kind of aircraft, other than riding as a fare-paying passenger without any duties on-board the aircraft or other than a loss connected with a civilian aircraft operated by a licensed pilot.

 

   

your voluntary use of any controlled substance as defined in Title II of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, as now or hereafter amended, unless administered on the advice of a Physician.

 

93C-LH-AD&D.2    Page No. 29   

Accidental Death and

Dismemberment Insurance

June 1, 2012


BENEFIT PROVISIONS

EMPLOYEE ACCIDENTAL DEATH

AND DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE

What happens when my Employer transfers Insurance Carriers to Sun Life?

In order to prevent losing your insurance, Sun Life will provide the following coverage. If you are not Actively at Work on April 1, 2001 you will be insured if:

 

   

you were insured under the prior insurer’s group AD&D policy at the time of transfer; and

 

   

you are a member of an Eligible Class; and

 

   

premiums for you are paid up to date; and

 

   

you are not receiving or eligible to receive benefits under the prior insurer’s group AD&D policy.

Any AD&D benefit payable will be the lesser of:

 

   

the AD&D benefit payable under the Group Policy; or

 

   

the AD&D benefit payable under the prior insurer’s group AD&D policy had it remained in force.

All other provisions of Sun Life’s Group Policy will apply.

 

93C-LH-AD&D.2    Page No. 30   

Accidental Death and

Dismemberment Insurance

June 1, 2012


CLAIM PROVISIONS

How is a claim submitted?

To submit a claim, you or someone on your behalf must send Sun Life written Notice and Proof of Claim within the time limits specified. Your Employer has the Sun Life Notice and Proof of Claim forms.

When does written Notice of Claim have to be submitted?

for a Death Claim - written notice of claim must be given to Sun Life no later than 30 days after the date of death.

for Life Waiver of Premium - written notice of claim must be given to Sun Life no later than 12 months after you cease to be Actively at Work.

for Accidental Dismemberment - written notice of claim must be given to Sun Life no later than 12 months after the date of your loss.

If notice cannot be given within the applicable time period, Sun Life must be notified as soon as it is reasonably possible.

When Sun Life has received written notice of claim, Sun Life will send the forms for proof of claim. If the forms are not

received within 15 days after written notice of claim is sent, proof of claim may be sent to Sun Life without waiting to receive the proof of claim forms.

When does written Proof of Claim have to be submitted?

for a Death Claim - proof of claim must be given to Sun Life no later than 90 days after date of death.

for Life Waiver of Premium - proof of claim must be given to Sun Life no later than 15 months after you cease to be Actively at Work.

for Accidental Dismemberment - proof of claim must be given to Sun Life no later than 15 months after the date of your loss.

If proof cannot be given within these time limits, proof must be given as soon as reasonably possible. Proof of claim may not be given later than one year after the time proof is otherwise required unless the individual is legally incompetent.

What is considered Proof of Claim?

Proof of Claim must consist of at least the following information:

 

   

a description of the loss or disability;

 

   

the date the loss or disability occurred; and

 

   

the cause of the loss or disability.

(For example: a Death Claim would include at least the Death Certificate for Proof of Claim)

Proof of Claim may include, but is not limited to, police accident reports, autopsy reports, laboratory results, toxicology results, hospital records, x-rays, narrative reports, or other diagnostic testing materials as required.

Proof of Claim for disability must include evidence demonstrating the disability including, but not limited to, hospital records, Physician records, Psychiatric records, x-rays, narrative reports, or other diagnostic testing materials as appropriate for the disabling condition.

Sun Life may require as part of the Proof, authorizations to obtain medical and non-medical information.

 

93C-LH-CLAIM.3    Page No. 31   

Claim Provisions

June 1, 2012


CLAIM PROVISIONS

Proof of your continued disability and regular and continuous care by a Physician must be given to Sun Life within 30 days of the request for proof.

Proof must be satisfactory to Sun Life.

When are benefits payable?

Benefits are payable when Sun Life receives satisfactory Proof of Claim. Payment will be made not later than 60 days after receipt of Proof of Claim.

What if my claim is denied?

If Sun Life denies any part of a claim, you will receive a written notice of denial containing:

the reason for the denial;

 

   

a reference to the parts of the Group Policy on which the decision is based;

 

   

a description of any additional information needed to support the claim; and

 

   

information concerning your right to a review of the denial.

If all or part of your claim is denied, you may request a review in writing within 60 days after receiving notice of denial.

You may submit written comments or other items to support the claim, and may review any non-privileged information that relates to the request for review.

Sun Life will review the claim promptly on receipt of the written request, and will notify you of Sun Life’s decision within 60 days after the request has been received. If an extension of time is required in order to obtain or review relevant information, Sun Life will notify you in writing of the required extension, not to exceed 120 days from the date of the request.

Who are benefits payable to?

Benefits payable upon your death are payable to your Beneficiary living at the time (other than your Employer). You must name your Beneficiary on a form acceptable to Sun Life. Unless you otherwise specify, if more than one Beneficiary survives you, all surviving Beneficiaries will share equally. If no Beneficiary is alive on the date of your death or you do not elect a Beneficiary, payment will be made as follows:

 

   

your surviving spouse; or if none,

 

   

your surviving children, in equal shares; or if none,

 

   

your surviving parents, in equal shares; or if none,

 

   

your surviving sisters and brothers, in equal shares; or if none,

 

   

your estate.

If you named Beneficiaries under your Employer’s Plan prior to the effective date of the Group Policy, that beneficiary designation will remain in effect unless you elect to change Beneficiaries.

All other benefits payable during your lifetime are payable to you.

If a benefit is payable to your estate, if you are a minor, or you are not competent, Sun Life has the right to pay an amount of the benefit up to $5,000 to any of your relatives that Sun Life considers entitled. If Sun Life pays benefits in good faith to a relative, Sun Life will not have to pay those benefits again.

 

93C-LH-CLAIM.3    Page No. 32   

Claim Provisions

June 1, 2012


CLAIM PROVISIONS

If your Beneficiary is a minor or is not competent, Sun Life has the right to pay up to $1,000 to the person or institution that appears to have assumed custody and main support for the minor, until the appointed legal representative makes a formal claim. If Sun Life pays benefits in good faith to a person or institution, Sun Life will not have to pay those benefits again.

Can I change my Beneficiary?

You can change your Beneficiary at any time, unless you have stated your choice of Beneficiary is irrevocable or you have assigned your interest in your Life Insurance to another person. Any request for change of Beneficiary must be in a written form and will take effect on the date you sign and file the change with your Employer. If Sun Life has taken any action or made payment before receiving notice of that change, your change of Beneficiary will not affect any action or payment made by Sun Life. The consent of your Beneficiary is not required to change any Beneficiary unless the Beneficiary designation was irrevocable.

Can I assign my Life Insurance?

You can transfer ownership of your Life Insurance under the Group Policy by means of an absolute assignment. You cannot make an absolute assignment to your Employer. All your rights and duties as owner are transferred to the new owner. The new owner can make any change the Group Policy allows, such as a change of Beneficiary.

If you made an assignment under your Employer’s plan prior to the effective date of the Group Policy, that assignment remains in force with respect to the Group Policy.

Any assignment must be in a written form and will take effect on the date you sign and file the assignment with your Employer. If Sun Life has taken any action or made payment before receiving notice of that change, the assignment will not affect any action or payment made by Sun Life. Sun Life will not be responsible for the legal, tax or other effects of any assignment.

 

93C-LH-CLAIM.3    Page No. 33   

Claim Provisions

June 1, 2012


GENERAL PROVISIONS

How can statements made in any application for insurance be used?

All statements made in any application are considered representations and not warranties. No representation by you in applying for insurance under the Group Policy will be used to reduce or deny a claim unless a copy of your written application for insurance is or has been given to you or to your Beneficiary, if any.

No statement made by you or any of your Dependents, relating to Evidence of Insurability for an initial, increased or additional amount of insurance, will be used in contesting the validity of that insurance, after such initial, increased or additional amount of insurance has been in force for a period of two years during that individual’s lifetime. This statement must be contained in a form signed by that individual.

What happens if facts are misstated?

If relevant facts about you or any one of your Dependents are not accurate:

 

   

an equitable adjustment of premium will be made; and

 

   

the true facts will be used to determine if and in what amount insurance is valid under the Group Policy.

If the amount of benefit depends on your age, the benefit will be the amount you would have been entitled to if your correct age were known.

What are Sun Life’s examination and autopsy rights?

Sun Life, at its own expense, has the right to have any person, whose Injury or Sickness is the basis of a claim:

 

   

examined by a Physician, other health professional or vocational expert of its choice; and/or

 

   

interviewed by an authorized Sun Life representative. This right may be used as often as reasonably required.

Sun Life has the right, in the case of death, to request an autopsy.

What are the time limits for legal proceedings?

No legal action may start:

 

   

until 60 days after Proof of Claim has been given; nor

 

   

more than 3 years after the time Proof of Claim is required.

Do these group benefits affect Workers’ Compensation?

The Group Policy is not in lieu of, and does not affect, any requirement for coverage by Workers’ Compensation Insurance.

Can the Policyholder act as a Sun Life agent?

For all purposes of the Group Policy, the Policyholder acts on its own behalf or as your agent. Under no circumstances will the Policyholder be deemed a Sun Life agent.

 

93C-LH-GENP    Page No. 34   

General Provisions

June 1, 2012


DEFINITIONS

These are some of the general terms you need to know.

Actively at Work means that you perform all the regular duties of your job for a full work day scheduled by your Employer at your Employer’s normal place of business or a site where your Employer’s business requires you to travel.

You are considered Actively at Work on any day that is not your regular scheduled work day (e.g., you are on vacation or holiday) as long as you were Actively at Work on your immediately preceding scheduled work day, and you:

 

   

are not hospital confined; or

 

   

are not disabled due to an injury or sickness.

You are considered Actively at Work if you usually perform the regular duties of your job at your home as long as you can perform all the regular duties of your job for a full work day and could do so at your Employer’s normal place of business, if required, and you:

 

   

are not hospital confined; or

   

are not disabled due to an injury or sickness.

Eligibility Date means the date or dates you become eligible for insurance under the Group Policy. Classes eligible for insurance are shown in the Benefit Highlights.

Employee (You) means a person who is employed by the Employer, scheduled to work at least the number of hours shown in the Benefit Highlights, and paid regular earnings.

Employer means Pier 1 Imports, Inc. and includes any Subsidiary or Affiliated company insured under the Group Policy.

Evidence of Insurability means a statement or records of your or your Dependent’s medical history upon which acceptance for insurance will be determined by Sun Life. In some cases, Sun Life may require that you or your Dependent submit to a paramedical examination, at Sun Life’s expense, as part of the Evidence of Insurability.

Guaranteed Issue Amount means the maximum amount of insurance available to you or your Dependent without Evidence of Insurability.

Injury means bodily impairment resulting directly from an accident and independently of all other causes. Any Injury must occur and Disability must begin while you are insured under the Group Policy.

Physician means an individual who is operating within the scope of his license and is either:

 

   

licensed to practice medicine and prescribe and administer drugs or to perform surgery; or

 

   

legally qualified as a medical practitioner and required to be recognized, under the Group Policy for insurance purposes, according to the insurance regulations of the governing jurisdiction.

The Physician cannot be you, your spouse or the parents, brothers, sisters or children of you or your spouse.

Pregnancy means childbirth, miscarriage, abortion or any disease resulting from or aggravated by the pregnancy.

Retirement Plan means a program which provides retirement benefits to you and is not funded entirely by your contributions. The term does not include a 401(k) plan, a profit sharing plan, a thrift plan, an individual retirement account (IRA), a tax sheltered annuity (TSA), a stock ownership plan, or a nonqualified plan of deferred compensation.

Your Employer’s Retirement Plan will include any Retirement Plan:

 

   

which is part of any federal, state, county, municipal or association retirement system; and

 

   

you are eligible for as a result of your employment with your Employer.

 

93C-LH-DEF.6    Page No. 35   

Life Definitions

June 1, 2012


DEFINITIONS

Sickness means illness, disease or pregnancy. A Disability, because of Sickness, must begin while you are insured under the Group Policy.

Waiting Period means the continuous length of time immediately before your Eligibility Date during which you must be employed in an Eligible Class. Any period of time before the Group Policy Effective Date that you were Actively at Work for your Employer as a full-time Employee or part-time Employee will count towards completion of your Waiting Period. The Waiting Period is shown in the Benefit Highlights.

 

93C-LH-DEF.6    Page No. 36   

Life Definitions

June 1, 2012


DEFINITIONS

These are Life Insurance terms you need to know.

Basic Maximum Benefit means the amount of Basic Life Insurance available to you. The Basic Maximum Benefit is shown in the Benefit Highlights.

Beneficiary means the person (it cannot be your Employer) who is entitled to receive death benefit proceeds as they become due under the Group Policy. A Beneficiary must be named by you on a form acceptable to Sun Life and executed by you.

Retirement for the purposes of your being considered retired means the first of the following dates to occur:

 

1. the effective date of your retirement benefits under:

 

  a. any plan of a federal, state, county, municipal or an association retirement system for which you are eligible as a result of your employment with your Employer;

 

  b. any Retirement Plan your Employer sponsors; or

 

  c. any Retirement Plan your Employer makes or has made contributions to.

 

2. the effective date of your retirement benefits under the Social Security Act or any similar plan or act. However, if you meet the definition of an Employee Actively at Work and you are receiving retirement benefits under the Social Security Act or similar plan or act, you will not be considered retired.

Terminally Ill or Terminal Illness means your Sickness or physical condition that is certified by a Physician to reasonably be expected to result in your death within twelve months or less.

Total Disability or Totally Disabled for purposes of determining eligibility for Waiver of Premium, means because of your Injury or Sickness, you are unable to perform the material and substantial duties of any occupation for which you are or become reasonably qualified for by education, training or experience.

 

93C-LH-DEF.6    Page No. 37   

Life Definitions

June 1, 2012


DEFINITIONS

These are Dependent Optional Life Insurance terms you need to know.

Dependent means your:

 

   

spouse;

 

   

unmarried child from live birth to age 25.

Your unmarried step-child, foster child, adopted child or child under legal guardianship is included as a Dependent if he/she depends on you for 50% or more of his/her support and is living with you in a regular parent-child relationship. A child is considered adopted if in your legal custody under an interim court order of adoption, whether or not a final adoption order is ever issued.

Dependent does not include:

 

   

any person who is insured as an Employee; or

 

   

any person residing outside the United States, Canada or Mexico.

If an unmarried child is:

 

   

incapable of self-sustaining employment because of mental retardation, developmental disability or physical handicap; and

 

   

depends on you for 50% or more of his/her support; that child will continue to be a Dependent for as long as these two conditions exist.

No person may be considered to be a Dependent of more than one Employee.

 

93C-LH-DEF.6    Page No. 38   

Dependent Life Definitions

June 1, 2012


DEFINITIONS

This is an Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance term you need to know .

Accidental Bodily Injury means bodily harm caused solely by external, violent and accidental means which is sustained directly and independently of all other causes.

 

93C-LH-DEF.5    Page No. 39   

AD&D Definitions

June 1, 2012


Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Employee Benefit Plan (The Plan) has been established to provide welfare benefits for its employees.

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) requires that the Plan Administrator provide you with a Summary Plan Description which discloses required information about the employee benefit plan. The following section entitled “Summary Plan Description” is not part of the Group Insurance Policy. The information in the Summary Plan Description is provided by the Policyholder and is included in this Booklet/Certificate for your convenience. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or sufficiency of the information in the Summary Plan Description.

SUMMARY PLAN DESCRIPTION

 

Plan Sponsor:    Pier 1 Imports, Inc.
   100 Pier 1 Place
   Fort Worth, TX 76102
Plan Administrator:    Pier 1 Imports, Inc.
   100 Pier 1 Place
   Fort Worth, TX 76102

The Plan Administrator has authority to control and manage the operation and administration of the Plan.

 

Subsidiaries/Affiliates:    Pier 1 Imports (U.S.), Inc; Pier 1 Services Company; Pier 1 National Bank; Cargo Furniture

Agent for Service of Legal Process:

Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

100 Pier 1 Place

Fort Worth, TX 76102

Employer Identification Number (EIN):                 75-1729843

Plan Number: 501

End of Plan Year:             December 31st

Type of Administration: The Plan is administered by the Plan Administrator. The benefits provided by the Group Insurance Policy issued by Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada are included in the Plan.

Participants: The insured employees described in the Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada Booklet/Certificate.

Plan Changes and Termination: The Plan Administrator may amend, modify or terminate the Plan.

Contributions: The cost of your benefits under the Plan is paid for by your employer and (if applicable) include the cost of any insurance premiums contributed by you.

Funding: Sun Life provides the Plan Administrator with certain insurance benefits in connection with the Plan. Those insurance benefits are described in your Booklet/Certificate.

Claims Procedure: When you or your beneficiary wish to file a claim under the Plan, you should contact your benefits department for claim forms and instructions for filing. Your Booklet/Certificate explains the procedure for filing a claim under the Group Insurance Policy.


If your claim for benefits is denied in whole or in part, you will receive a written notice within 45 days from the date you filed your claim, stating the reasons why your claim was denied. You will then have the right, upon written notice from you or your authorized representative, to review that claim denial. The claim denial notice will include the name and address of the person you may ask for such a review. Additional information about claims submitted and review procedures may be obtained by contacting your Plan Administrator.

ERISA Rights: As a participant in the Plan, you are entitled to certain rights and protections under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). ERISA provides that all plan participants shall be entitled to:

Examine, without charge, at the Plan Administrator’s office, all Plan documents filed by the Plan with the U.S. Department of Labor, such as detailed annual reports and plan descriptions.

Obtain copies of all Plan documents and other plan information upon written request to the Plan Administrator. The Administrator is required under ERISA to furnish each participant with a copy of this summary annual report.

In addition to creating rights for Plan participants, ERISA imposes duties upon the people who are responsible for the operation of the Plan. The people who operate your plan, called “fiduciaries” of the Plan, have a duty to act prudently, in your interest and that of the other Plan participants and beneficiaries.

No one, including your employer, may terminate you or otherwise discriminate against you in any way to prevent you from obtaining a benefit or exercising your rights under ERISA. If your claim for a benefit is denied in whole or in part, you must receive a written explanation of the reason for the denial. You have the right to have the Plan Administrator review and reconsider your claim.

Under ERISA, there are steps you can take to enforce the above rights. For instance, if you request materials from the Plan and do not receive them within 30 days, you may file suit in a federal court. In such a case, the court may require the Plan Administrator to provide the materials and pay you up to $110 a day until you receive the materials, unless the materials were not sent because of reasons beyond the control of the Plan Administrator.

If you have a claim for benefits which is denied or ignored, in whole or in part, you may file suit in a state or federal court. If it should happen that Plan fiduciaries misuse the Plan’s money, or if you are discriminated against for asserting your rights, you may seek assistance of the U.S. Department of Labor, or you may file suit in a federal court. The court will decide who should pay court costs and legal fees. If you are successful the court may order the person you have sued to pay these costs and fees. If you lose, the court may order you to pay these costs and fees, for example, if it finds your claim is frivolous.

If you have questions about your Plan, you should contact the Plan Administrator. If you have any questions about your rights under ERISA, you should contact the nearest office of the Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, listed in your telephone directory or the Division of Technical Assistance and Inquiries, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210.


 

LOGO

Exhibit 21

SUBSIDIARIES OF THE COMPANY AS OF MARCH 2, 2013

Pier 1 Assets, Inc., a Delaware corporation

Pier 1 Licensing, Inc., a Delaware corporation

Pier 1 Imports (U.S.), Inc., a Delaware corporation

Pier 1 Value Services, LLC, a Virginia limited liability company

Pier Lease, Inc., a Delaware corporation

Pier-SNG, Inc., a Delaware corporation

Pier Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation

PIR Trading, Inc., a Delaware corporation

Pier Alliance Ltd., a Bermuda company

Pier 1 Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation

Pier 1 Services Company, a Delaware statutory trust

 

Exhibit 23

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements:

 

(1) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-140860) pertaining to the Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement (Time Based) and the Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement (Performance Based) of Pier 1 Imports, Inc.,

 

(2) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-135241) pertaining to the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan,

 

(3) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-118395) pertaining to the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 1999 Stock Plan,

 

(4) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-167961) pertaining to the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan, and

 

(5) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-13491) pertaining to the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. 1989 Employee Stock Option Plan,

of our reports dated April 30, 2013, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended March 2, 2013.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Fort Worth, Texas

April 30, 2013

Exhibit 31.1

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)

I, Alexander W. Smith, certify that:

 

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Pier 1 Imports, Inc.;

 

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(s) 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 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(s) 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.

 

Date: April 30, 2013     By:   /s/ Alexander W. Smith
      Alexander W. Smith, President
      and Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 31.2

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)

I, Charles H. Turner, certify that:

 

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Pier 1 Imports, Inc.;

 

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(s) 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 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(s) 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.

 

Date: April 30, 2013     By:   /s/ Charles H. Turner
      Charles H. Turner, Senior Executive Vice President
      and Chief Financial Officer

Exhibit 32.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Each of the undersigned officers of Pier 1 Imports, Inc., hereby certifies that:

 

1. The annual report of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. for the period ended March 2, 2013 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 above-mentioned report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. for the period covered by the report.

 

Date: April 30, 2013     By:   /s/ Alexander W. Smith
      Alexander W. Smith, President
      and Chief Executive Officer
Date: April 30, 2013     By:   /s/ Charles H. Turner
      Charles H. Turner, Senior Executive Vice President
      and Chief Financial Officer

A signed original of this written statement has been provided to Pier 1 Imports, Inc. and will be retained by Pier 1 Imports, Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission, or its staff, upon request.

Exhibit 99.1

Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

Stock Purchase Plan

Financial statements as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and

for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012

CONTENTS

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     2   

Statements of Financial Condition

     3   

Statements of Income (Loss) and Changes in Plan Equity

     4   

Notes to Financial Statements

     5   

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     8   


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Audit Committee of Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

We have audited the accompanying statements of financial condition of the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the related statements of income (loss) and changes in plan equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Plan’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the Plan’s internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Plan’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial condition of the Plan as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the income (loss) and changes in plan equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Fort Worth, Texas

April 30, 2013

 

2


Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

Stock Purchase Plan

STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

 

     December 31,  
     2012      2011  

ASSETS

  

Pier 1 Imports common stock, at fair value (cost of $0)

   $ —         $ —     

Receivables:

     

Participants’ contributions

     166,920         201,818   

Company contributions

     41,732         50,457   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     208,652         252,275   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Assets

   $ 208,652       $ 252,275   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND PLAN EQUITY

  

  

Participant withdrawals payable

   $ 15,794       $ 118   

Plan Equity

     192,858         252,157   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Liabilities and Plan Equity

   $ 208,652       $ 252,275   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

3


Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

Stock Purchase Plan

STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS) AND CHANGES IN PLAN EQUITY

 

     For the Year Ended December 31,  
     2012     2011     2010  

Contributions:

      

Participants

   $ 2,251,585      $ 1,941,278      $ 604,863   

Company

     562,916        485,337        150,901   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Contributions

     2,814,501        2,426,615        755,764   

Dividends

     12,239        —          —     

Participant withdrawals

     (3,479,198     (2,965,378     (706,610

Investment Gain (Loss):

      

Net realized gain (loss) on distribution of Pier 1 Imports common stock

     593,159        570,462        171,304   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Change in Plan Equity

     (59,299     31,699        220,458   

Plan Equity:

      

Beginning of year

     252,157        220,458        —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of year

   $ 192,858      $ 252,157      $ 220,458   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

4


Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

Stock Purchase Plan

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

PLAN DESCRIPTION

General

The following description of the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan (the “Plan”) adopted by Pier 1 Imports, Inc. (the “Company”) provides only general information. Participants should refer to the Plan document for a more complete description of the Plan’s provisions.

The Company established the Plan to provide eligible employees and non-employee directors an opportunity to acquire an ownership interest in Pier 1 Imports and, as a result, provide participants with a more direct concern about the Company’s welfare and a common interest with the Company’s other shareholders. The Plan provides a voluntary method of acquiring shares of Pier 1 Imports common stock in convenient installments by payroll and other compensation deductions, supplemented by contributions from the Company.

The Plan is administered by the compensation committee and has been in effect since 1980. On March 28, 2009, the Plan was suspended because a limited number of shares remained in the aggregate amount authorized for issuance under the Plan. Pier 1 Imports’ board of directors approved an amendment of the Plan on March 26, 2010, which was subsequently approved by the shareholders on June 29, 2010, authorizing, among other things, adding an additional 3,500,000 shares to the Plan and extending the term of the Plan for five years. The suspension period ended as soon as administratively practicable after the shareholders’ approval of the amendment. The Plan amendment was applied prospectively.

The Plan is not subject to the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, (“ERISA”) and is not qualified under Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

Eligibility

Employees who have attained the age of majority in their state or province of residence and have completed 60 days of continuous employment with the Company, or one of the designated subsidiaries which has adopted the Plan, are eligible to participate in the Plan. Non-employee members of the board of directors of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. are also eligible to participate in the Plan.

Contributions

A participant must specify the amount to be withheld through payroll deductions, with a minimum of $2.50 per week and a maximum of 20% of compensation. The Plan provides that directors who are not employees may contribute to the Plan all or a portion of cash director fees earned. Subject to the Plan’s limitations, compensation deductions may be increased or decreased by the participant. The Company contributes to the Plan for each participant an amount equal to 25% of such participant’s compensation deduction.

Participant Accounts

The Company maintains a Plan account in the name of each participant. Funds deducted monthly from each participant’s pay as elected and authorized by the participant are credited to each participant’s Plan account plus the Company’s contribution on the participant’s behalf as described above. The Plan allows the Company to administer the Plan and to use the contributed funds to purchase shares of Pier 1 Imports common stock either on the open market through a broker, or directly from the Company. No open market purchase may be made at a price which is greater than the fair market value for Pier 1 Imports common stock on the date of purchase. The Company’s compensation committee has determined that purchases of shares from the Company’s treasury will be based on an average of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) closing prices for Pier 1 Imports common stock on each Friday during the month. Shares purchased are allocated to the accounts of participants in proportion to the funds received from each respective account.

Each participant acquires full and immediate ownership of all shares and fractional shares allocated to his Plan account. All shares are registered in the name of the Plan and remain registered in the Plan’s name until delivery of the shares to the participant pursuant to the Plan. Shares of common stock held by the Plan in a participant’s Plan account may not be sold, assigned, pledged or otherwise encumbered by the participant, but the participant may request that all of his shares be delivered to him at any time. Any such action, however, will result in the automatic withdrawal of the participant from the Plan. All shares in a participant’s Plan account will be automatically

 

5


distributed to the participant pursuant to the Plan at least once each calendar year without affecting the participant’s participation in the Plan. Upon termination of employment, the participant’s participation in the Plan will end and his shares will be distributed upon request or automatically at the same time shares are distributed annually to all participants. Shares are distributed to a book-entry account for each participant at the transfer agent.

A participant’s Plan account is credited with all dividends, if any, paid on full and fractional shares held in his Plan account. Cash dividends are reinvested under the Plan in Pier 1 Imports common stock. Dividends totaled $12,239 in 2012. The Company did not pay dividends in 2011 or 2010.

Vesting

Participants immediately vest in all contributions to their Plan accounts. Excluding the right to sell, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber their Plan accounts, participants have full rights of ownership of Pier 1 Imports common stock held in their Plan accounts, including voting and dividend rights.

Amendment or Termination of the Plan

The Company’s board of directors may amend, suspend or terminate the Plan at any time. An amendment, suspension or termination will not result in the forfeiture of any funds contributed by a participant or the Company, any shares or fractional shares purchased for a participant, or any dividends or other distributions with respect to such shares that were effective before the effective date of the amendment, suspension or termination. Certain material amendments to the Plan must be submitted to the shareholders for approval.

Administration and Expenses

The Company holds and manages the Plan’s assets. The Company pays all administrative expenses related to the purchase, custody and record keeping of Pier 1 Imports common stock held as part of the Plan. These expenses may include brokers’ commissions, transfer fees, administrative costs and other similar expenses. Expenses related to the disposition or transfer of shares after they have been distributed to the participant from his Plan account are borne by the participant.

Income Tax Status

Participants’ contributions are deducted from after-tax earnings and the Company’s contributions are taxable income to the participant in the month accrued; consequently, management believes that the Plan is not subject to income tax under the Internal Revenue Code.

The Plan is not a separate legal entity and, therefore, it is not subject to audits by any taxing jurisdictions.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Accounting

The financial statements of the Plan are presented on the accrual basis of accounting in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

Concentration of Investment – Risks and Uncertainties

All contributions to the Plan are invested in Pier 1 Imports common stock. Accordingly, the underlying value of the Plan assets is dependent upon the performance of the Company and the market’s evaluation of such performance. Changes in the fair value of Pier 1 Imports common stock could materially affect a participant’s account balance and the amounts reported in the Statements of Income (Loss) and Changes in Plan Equity.

Contributions

Participant and Company contributions are accrued in the period in which participants’ contributions are deducted from their pay/fees.

 

6


Pier 1 Imports Common Stock Valuation

Pier 1 Imports common stock held by the Plan in participants’ accounts is stated at fair value using closing prices as quoted by the NYSE. The cost of participant shares distributed or withdrawn is assessed on a first-in-first-out basis to compute realized gains and losses. The Company’s compensation committee has determined that purchases of shares from the Company’s treasury will be based on an average of the NYSE closing prices for Pier 1 Imports common stock on each Friday during the respective month.

Fair Value Measurements

All investments held by the Plan are Level 1 Inputs, which as defined by Accounting Standards Codification 820, Fair Value Measurements, are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Net Appreciation (Depreciation)

In the Statements of Income (Loss) and Changes in Plan Equity, the net appreciation (depreciation) in the fair value of Pier 1 Imports common stock is presented, which consists of realized gains (losses) calculated as the difference between cost and the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of transfer, and the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on those investments not yet distributed to Plan participants, if any. For all periods presented, all shares had been distributed and there were no unrealized gains or losses.

Withdrawals

Participant withdrawals of Pier 1 Imports common stock are recorded at fair value on the date of withdrawal. The majority of withdrawals occurred in December for the plan years ending December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, in conjunction with the annual distributions.

Investments in Pier 1 Imports Common Stock

The following is a summary of the Pier 1 Imports common stock activity for the years ended December 31, 2012, December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010.

 

     Shares     Cost     Fair Value  

Balances at December 31, 2009

   $ —        $ —        $ —     

Purchases

     67,485        534,493        534,493   

Withdrawals

     (67,485     (534,493     (705,797

Changes in fair value:

      

Net unrealized gains

     —          —          —     

Net realized gains

     —          —          171,304   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2010

     —          —          —     

Purchases

     218,823        2,395,611        2,395,611   

Withdrawals

     (218,823     (2,395,611     (2,966,073

Changes in fair value:

      

Net unrealized losses

     —          —          —     

Net realized losses

     —          —          570,462   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2011

     —          —          —     

Purchases

     167,533        2,870,364        2,870,364   

Withdrawals

     (167,533     (2,870,364     (3,463,523

Changes in fair value:

      

Net unrealized gains

     —          —          —     

Net realized gains

     —          —          593,159   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2012

   $ —        $ —        $ —     

Available Common Stock

The Company had 3,928,082 and 4,095,615 shares of registered common stock issuable under the Plan as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The NYSE closing price of Pier 1 Imports common stock was $20.00 and $13.93 as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. No shares were held by the Plan in participants’ accounts at December 31, 2012 and 2011.

 

7


CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-167961) pertaining to the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan of our report dated April 30, 2013, with respect to the financial statements of the Pier 1 Imports, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan included in this Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2012 and included as Exhibit 99.1 in the fiscal 2013 Annual Report (Form 10-K) of Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Fort Worth, Texas

April 30, 2013

 

8