As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 31, 2013.
Registration No. 333-189753
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE
COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Amendment No. 4
to
FORM S-1
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
Under
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware | 2870 | 20-5137161 | ||
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization) |
(Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number) |
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number) |
2121 Second St. Suite A-107
Davis, CA 95618
(530) 750-2800
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of registrants principal executive offices)
Pamela G. Marrone, Ph.D.
President and Chief Executive Officer
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
2121 Second St. Suite A-107
Davis, CA 95618
(530) 750-2800
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)
Copies to:
Charles S. Farman, Esq. John W. Campbell, Esq. Alfredo B. D. Silva, Esq. Morrison & Foerster LLP 425 Market Street San Francisco, CA 94105 Tel: (415) 268-7000 Fax: (415) 268-7522 |
Christopher M. Kelly, Esq. Boris Dolgonos, Esq. Jones Day 222 East 41st Street New York, NY 10017 Tel: (212) 326-3939 Fax: (212) 755-7306 |
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this registration statement.
If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933 check the following box. ¨
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ¨
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ¨
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ¨
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 | ¨ | Accelerated filer | ¨ | |||
Non-accelerated filer | x (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company | ¨ |
The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.
The information in this preliminary prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED JULY 31, 2013.
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS
4,200,000 Shares
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
Common Stock
This is an initial public offering of shares of common stock of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. All of the shares of common stock are being sold by the company.
Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for the common stock. It is currently estimated that the initial public offering price per share will be between $14.00 and $17.00. We have applied to have our shares of common stock listed on the Nasdaq Global Market, subject to notice of issuance, under the symbol MBII.
We are an emerging growth company as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act and, as such, may elect to comply with certain reduced reporting requirements after this offering.
Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. Please read Risk Factors beginning on page 17 of this prospectus.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
PER SHARE | TOTAL | |||||||
Public Offering Price |
$ | $ | ||||||
Underwriting Discounts and Commissions (1) |
$ | $ | ||||||
Proceeds to Marrone (Before Expenses) |
$ | $ |
(1) |
See the section of this prospectus entitled Underwriting. |
Delivery of the shares of common stock is expected to be made on or about , 2013. We have granted the underwriters an option for a period of 30 days to purchase an additional 630,000 shares of our common stock. If the underwriters exercise the option in full, the total underwriting discounts and commissions payable by us will be $ , and the total proceeds to us, before expenses, will be $ .
Jefferies | Piper Jaffray |
Stifel |
Roth Capital Partners |
Preliminary Prospectus dated , 2013.
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We and the underwriters have not authorized anyone to provide any information or to make any representations other than those contained in this prospectus or in any free writing prospectuses we have prepared. We and the underwriters take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. This prospectus is an offer to sell only the shares offered hereby, but only under circumstances and in jurisdictions where it is lawful to do so. The information contained in this prospectus is current only as of its date.
Neither we nor any of the underwriters have done anything that would permit a public offering of the shares of our common stock or possession or distribution of this prospectus in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required, other than in the United States. Persons outside the United States who come into possession of this prospectus must inform themselves about, and observe any restrictions relating to, the offering of the shares of common stock and the distribution of this prospectus outside of the United States.
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This summary highlights information contained in greater detail elsewhere in this prospectus and does not contain all of the information that you should consider in making your investment decision. Before investing in our common stock, you should carefully read this entire prospectus, including our consolidated financial statements and the related notes included in this prospectus and the information set forth under the headings Risk Factors and Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Unless otherwise indicated in this prospectus, MBI, our company, we, us and our refer to Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
Our Company
We make bio-based pest management and plant health products. Bio-based products are comprised of naturally occurring microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, and plant extracts. We target the major markets that use conventional chemical pesticides, including certain agricultural and water markets, where our bio-based products are used as substitutes for, or in conjunction with, conventional chemical pesticides. We also target new markets for which there are no available conventional chemical pesticides, the use of conventional chemical pesticides may not be desirable or permissible because of health and environmental concerns or the development of pest resistance has reduced the efficacy of conventional chemical pesticides. All of our current products are approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, and registered as biopesticides, or biological pesticides based on microorganisms, plants and other natural products. We believe our current portfolio of products and our pipeline address the growing global demand for effective, efficient and environmentally responsible products.
Our three currently commercialized product lines target two core end markets: crop protection and water treatment. Crop protection products consist of herbicides (for weed control), fungicides (for plant disease control), nematicides (for parasitic roundworm control), insecticides (for insect and mite control) and plant growth regulators that growers use to increase crop yields, improve plant health, manage pest resistance and reduce chemical residues. Our products can be used in both conventional and organic crop production. We currently sell two crop protection product lines, Regalia, for plant disease control and plant health, and Grandevo, for insect and mite control, to growers of specialty crops such as grapes, citrus, tomatoes, vegetables, nuts, leafy greens and ornamental plants. We have also initiated targeted sales of Regalia for large-acre row crops such as corn, cotton and soybeans. Water treatment products target invasive water pests across a broad range of applications, including hydroelectric and thermoelectric power generation, industrial applications, drinking water, aquaculture, irrigation and recreation. Our current water treatment product line, Zequanox, which is being marketed and sold directly to U.S. power and industrial companies, selectively kills invasive mussels that cause significant infrastructure and ecological damage.
In addition to our current two core end markets, we are also taking steps through strategic collaborations to commercialize products for other non-crop pest management markets. These products may be different formulations of our crop protection products that are specifically targeted for industrial and institutional, turf and ornamental, home and garden and animal health uses such as controlling grubs, cockroaches, flies and mosquitoes in and around schools, parks, golf courses and other public-use areas.
The agricultural industry is increasingly dependent on effective and sustainable pest management practices to maximize yields and quality in a world of increased demand for agricultural products, rising consumer awareness of food production processes and finite land and water resources. Although we have only recently begun commercializing our products, we believe that our competitive strengths, including our commercially available products, robust pipeline of novel product candidates, proprietary technology and product development process, commercial relationships and industry experience, position us for rapid growth by providing solutions for these global trends.
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Our Technology and Product Development Process
Our proprietary technology comprises a sourcing process for microorganisms and plant extracts, an extensive proprietary microorganism collection, microbial fermentation technology, screening technology and a process to identify and characterize natural compounds with pesticidal, or pest controlling, activity. Our technology enables us to isolate and screen naturally occurring microorganisms and plant extracts in a highly efficient manner and to identify those that may have novel, effective and safe pest management or plant health promoting characteristics. We then analyze and characterize the structures of compounds either produced by selected microorganisms or found in plant extracts to identify product candidates for further development and commercialization. As of June 30, 2013, we have screened more than 18,000 microorganisms and 350 plant extracts, and we have identified multiple product candidates that display activity against insects, nematodes, weeds, plant diseases and invasive species such as zebra and quagga mussels, aquatic weeds and algae. We also have produced a collection of microorganisms from taxonomic groups that research suggests may enhance nutrient uptake in plants, reduce stress and otherwise increase plant growth. Our product candidates come from our own discovery and development as well as in-licensed technology from universities, corporations and governmental entities.
Our proprietary product development process includes several important components. For all our product candidates, we develop an analytical method to detect the quantity of the active natural product compounds that are produced by the microorganism or that are extracted from plants. For microbial products, we develop unique proprietary fermentation processes that increase the active natural compounds produced by the microorganisms. We also scale-up fermentation volumes to maximize yields consistently in each batch. Similarly, for our plant extract-based products, we develop a manufacturing process that increases the amount of active natural compounds extracted from plant materials. Our deep understanding of natural product chemistry allows us to develop formulations that optimize the efficacy and stability of compounds produced by microorganisms or plants. Products are not released for sale unless the quantity of the compounds meets our desired efficacy specifications. These methods allow us to produce products that are highly effective and of a consistent quality on a commercial scale.
These product formulations are tailored to meet customers needs and display enhanced performance characteristics such as effectiveness, shelf life, compatibility with other pesticides and ease of use. Our senior managements numerous years of experience in the development of commercial products and formulations have resulted in a highly efficient product development process, which allows us to rapidly commercialize new products.
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Our Products
The table below summarizes our current portfolio of EPA-approved bio-based pest management and plant health products, as well as products submitted to the EPA for registration.
NAME |
MARKET |
TARGET |
USE |
STAGE |
||||
Regalia | Crop Protection | Plant Disease/ Plant Health | Protects against fungal and bacterial diseases and enhances yields. | Commercially Available | ||||
Grandevo | Crop Protection | Insects and Mites | Kills a broad range of sucking and chewing insects through feeding. | Commercially Available | ||||
Zequanox | Water Treatment | Invasive Mussels | Kills invasive mussels that restrict critical in-pipe water flow in industrial and power facilities and harm recreational open waters. | Commercially Available for In-Pipe; Submitted for EPA Registration for Open Water | ||||
Opportune | Crop Protection, Home, Turf | Weeds | Controls weeds non-selectively pre-emergence and selectively post- emergence. | EPA-Approved; Not Yet Commercially Available | ||||
Venerate | Crop Protection, Home, Turf, Animal Health | Insects and Mites | Kills a broad range of sucking and chewing insects on contact. | Submitted for EPA Registration | ||||
MBI-011 | Crop Protection, Home, Turf | Weeds | Kills a broad range of weeds and acts as a burndown herbicide (controls weed foliage) | Submitted for EPA Registration |
In addition to the above products, our pipeline consists of product candidates in various stages of development, those close to EPA submission and early-stage discoveries.
The Value Proposition of Our Pest Management Products
Our products are highly effective and generally designed to be compatible with existing pest control equipment and infrastructure. This allows them to be used as substitutes for, or in conjunction with, conventional chemical pesticides. We believe that compared with conventional chemical pesticides, our products:
n |
Are competitive in both price and efficacy; |
n |
Provide viable alternatives where conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops are subject to regulatory restrictions; |
n |
Comply with market-imposed requirements for pest management programs by food processors and retailers; |
n |
Are environmentally friendly; |
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n |
Meet stringent organic farming requirements; |
n |
Improve worker productivity by shortening field re-entry times after spraying and allowing spraying up to the time of harvest; |
n |
Are exempt from residue restrictions applicable to conventional chemical pesticides in both the agriculture and water markets; and |
n |
Are less likely to result in the development of pest resistance. |
In addition, our experience has shown that when our products are used in conjunction with conventional chemical pesticides, they can:
n |
Increase the effectiveness of conventional chemical pesticides while reducing their required application levels; |
n |
Increase levels of pest control and consistency of control; |
n |
Increase crop yields; |
n |
Increase crop quality, including producing crops with higher levels of protein, better taste and color and more attractive flowers; and |
n |
Delay the development of pest resistance to conventional chemical pesticides. |
Our Sales and Distribution Platform
We are currently selling our crop protection product lines, Regalia and Grandevo, in the United States through leading agricultural distributors such as Crop Production Services, Helena and Wilbur Ellis. These are the same distributors that the major agrichemical companies use for distributing conventional chemical pesticides.
We have entered into various strategic agreements to facilitate the distribution of our products in international markets. We have signed exclusive international distribution agreements for Regalia with FMC (for markets in Latin America) and Syngenta (for markets in Africa, Europe and the Middle East). We have also signed a technology evaluation and development agreement with Scotts Miracle-Gro under which we have granted Scotts Miracle-Gro first rights to negotiate for exclusive worldwide commercialization rights with respect to bio-based pest management and plant health products we jointly develop for the consumer lawn and garden market.
Our water treatment product line, Zequanox, is currently being marketed and sold directly to U.S. power and industrial companies. We are also in discussions with several leaders in water treatment technology and applications regarding potential arrangements to sell Zequanox in international markets.
Our Competitive Strengths
Commercially Available Products. We have three commercially available product lines, Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox. We believe these product lines provide us the foundation for continuing to build one of the leading portfolios of bio-based pest management products.
Robust Pipeline of Novel Product Candidates. Our pipeline of early stage discoveries and new product candidates extends across a variety of product types for different end markets, including herbicides, fungicides, nematicides, insecticides, algaecides (for algae control), molluscicides (for mussel and snail control) and plant growth regulators. Our product candidates are both developed internally and sourced from third parties.
Rapid and Efficient Development Process. We believe we can develop and commercialize novel and effective products faster and at a lower cost than many other developers of pest management products. For example, we have moved each of Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox through development, EPA approval and U.S. market launch in approximately four years at a cost of $6 million or less. In comparison, a report from Phillips McDougall, an independent research firm, shows that the average cost for major agrichemical companies to bring a new crop protection product to market is over $250 million, and those products have historically taken an average of nearly ten years to move through development, regulatory approval and market launch.
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Proprietary Discovery Process . Our discovery process allows us to efficiently discover microorganisms and plant extracts that produce or contain compounds that display a high level of pesticidal activity against various pests. We then use various analytical chemistry techniques to identify and characterize the natural product chemistry of the compounds, which we optimize and patent. As of June 30, 2013, we have identified over 25 candidates for product development from the more than 18,000 microorganisms and 350 plant extracts in our database. Five of our product candidates, one of which is EPA-approved and one of which has been submitted to the EPA for approval, are what we believe to be newly identified microorganism species. We believe that three of our product candidates produce novel compounds that we identified, and four of our product candidates have been found to have, or produce compounds with, a novel mode of action. Our proprietary discovery process is protected by patents on the microorganisms, their natural product compounds and their uses for pest management, as well as a patent application we have filed on a screening process to identify enzyme-inhibiting herbicides. We also maintain trade secrets related to the discovery, formulation, process development and manufacturing capabilities.
Sourcing and Commercialization Expertise. We use our technical and commercial development expertise to evaluate early-stage discoveries by third parties to determine commercial viability, secure promising technologies through in-licensing and add considerable value to these in-licensed product candidates. Our efficient development process and significant experience in applying natural product chemistry has led universities, corporations and government entities to collaborate with us to develop or commercialize a number of their early-stage discoveries. As with our internally discovered products, early-stage products we source and commercialize are subject to our own patents and trade secrets related to our added value in characterizing, formulating, developing and manufacturing marketable products.
Existing Agreements with Global Market Leaders. We have strategic agreements with global market leaders across agricultural and consumer retail markets. We have signed exclusive international distribution agreements for Regalia with Syngenta in Africa, Europe and the Middle East and with FMC in Latin America. We also have a technology evaluation and development agreement with Scotts Miracle-Gro, which grants it a right of first access to the active ingredients in our full portfolio of bio-based pest management and plant health products for use in its consumer lawn and garden products.
Management Team with Significant Industry Experience. Over the last seven years, we have built a management team that has deep experience in bio-based pest management products and the broader agriculture industry. Our executive officers and key employees average 28 years of experience and include individuals who have led sales and marketing organizations, top scientists and industry experts, some of whom have served in leadership roles at large multinational corporations and governmental agencies, commercialized multiple products, brought multiple products through EPA, state and foreign regulatory processes, filed and received patents, led groundbreaking research studies and published numerous scientific articles.
Our Growth Strategy
We are an early stage company, having commenced operations in June 2006. We have invested, and will continue to invest, significant resources to develop our commercially available products and product pipeline, and to develop the manufacturing capabilities to produce these products at commercial levels. Although we have incurred substantial losses in recent periods as a result of these expenditures and expect to incur additional losses for the next several years, we believe the following strategies position us for long-term growth.
Continue to Develop and Commercialize New Products in Both Existing and New Markets. Our goal is to rapidly and efficiently develop, register and commercialize new products each year, with the goal of developing a full suite of pest management and plant health products. For example, while our current crop protection products address plant diseases and insects, we intend to provide products that can also control nematodes and weeds as well as products for improving fertilizer efficiency and reducing drought stress. We are also currently screening for water treatment products that control algae and aquatic weeds to complement Zequanox, our invasive mussel control product line.
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Expand Applications of Our Existing Product Lines. We have identified opportunities to broaden the commercial applications and expand the use of our existing product lines into several key end markets, including large-acre row crop applications, seed treatment, irrigation, aquaculture and animal health. We believe these opportunities could help to drive significant growth for our company.
Accelerate Adoption of New Products, Product Applications and Product Lines . Our goal is to provide growers with complete and effective solutions to a broad range of pest management needs that can be used individually, together and in conjunction with conventional chemical pesticides to maximize yield and quality. We believe we will be able to leverage relationships with existing distributors as well as growers positive experiences using our Regalia and Grandevo product lines to accelerate adoption of new products, product applications and product lines. We will also continue to target early adopters of new pest management technologies with controlled product launches and to educate growers and water resource managers about the benefits of bio-based pest management products through on-farm and in-facility demonstrations to accelerate commercial adoption of our products. We believe that these strategies and the strength of our products have led to an adoption rate for Grandevo for use in U.S. specialty crops that would outpace that of leading chemical insecticides.
Leverage Existing Distribution Arrangements and Develop New Relationships. To expand the availability of our products, we intend to continue to use relationships with conventional chemical pesticide distributors in the United States and leverage the international distribution capabilities under our existing strategic collaboration and distribution agreements. We intend to form new strategic relationships with other market-leading companies in our target markets and regions to expand the supply of our products globally. For example, we have engaged new distributors to launch Regalia in Canada for specialty crops, in the United States for turf and ornamental plants and in parts of the Midwest United States for row crops. We have also engaged a distributor to launch Grandevo in the United States for turf and ornamental plants.
Develop and Expand Manufacturing Capabilities. We currently use third-party manufacturers to produce our products on a commercial scale. To date, these arrangements have allowed us to focus our time and direct our capital towards discovering and commercializing new product candidates. We are repurposing a manufacturing facility that we purchased in July 2012 and plan to further expand capacity at this facility using a portion of the proceeds from this offering. While expenses incurred relating to the manufacturing facility have and will continue to contribute to losses in the near term, we believe there are considerable advantages in having our own manufacturing capabilities such as allowing us to better manage scale-up processes and institute process changes more efficiently, protecting our intellectual property and helping to lower our manufacturing costs.
Pursue Strategic Collaborations and Acquisitions. We intend to continue collaborating with chemical manufacturers to develop products that combine our bio-based pest management products with their technologies, delivering more compelling product solutions to growers. We also may pursue acquisition and in-licensing opportunities to gain access to later-stage products and technologies that we believe would be a good strategic fit for our business and would create additional value for our stockholders.
Industry Overview
Pest management is an important global industry serving the crop protection and water treatment markets that we currently target and the other non-crop markets that we plan to target such as industrial and institutional, professional turf and ornamental, home and garden and animal health. Today, most markets rely on conventional chemical pesticides. In agricultural markets, particularly large-acre row crops, conventional chemical pesticides are supplemented by the use of genetically modified crops that contain herbicide tolerance and pesticidal properties. Agranova, an independent market research firm, estimated that global agrichemical sales for the crop protection market were $50.0 billion in 2012, which represented an increase of 8.2% from 2011. The market for treatment of fruits and vegetables, the largest current users of bio-based pest management and plant health products, accounted for $16.2 billion of this total. Other agricultural applications, notably crops such as corn, soybeans, rice, cotton and cereals, which we expect will become increasingly important users of bio-based products,
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accounted for $24.7 billion of the total. In addition, Agrow, an independent market research firm, estimated that the global non-crop market for pesticides was $21.0 billion in 2009.
While conventional chemical pesticides are often effective in controlling pests, some of these chemicals are acutely toxic, some are suspected carcinogens and the use of some chemical pesticides has been shown to have other harmful effects on the environment, humans, animals and beneficial insects. These health and environmental concerns have prompted stricter legislation around the use of conventional chemical pesticides, particularly in Europe, where the use of some highly toxic chemical pesticides is banned or severely limited and the importation of produce is subject to strict regulatory standards on pesticide residues. In addition, the European Union has passed the Sustainable Use Directive, which requires EU-member countries to reduce the use of conventional chemical pesticides and to use alternative pest management methods, including bio-based pest management products. Over the past two decades, U.S. regulatory agencies have also developed stricter standards and regulations. Furthermore, a growing shift in consumer preference towards organic and sustainable food production has led many large, global food retailers to require their supply chains to implement these practices, including the use of bio-based pest management and fertilizer solutions, water and energy efficiency practices, and localized food product sourcing. For example, in 2010, Wal-Mart announced its global sustainable agriculture goals to require sustainable best practices throughout its global food supply chain. Aside from the health and environmental concerns, conventional chemical pesticide users face additional challenges such as pest resistance and reduced worker productivity, as workers may not return to the fields for a certain period of time after treatment. Similar risks and hazards are also prevalent in the water treatment market, as chlorine and other chemicals used to control invasive water pests contaminate and endanger natural waterways.
As the use of conventional chemical pesticides meets increased opposition from government agencies and consumers, and the efficacy of bio-based pest management products becomes more widely recognized among growers, bio-based pest management products are gaining popularity and represent a strong growth sector within the global pesticide market. Bio-based pest management products include biopesticides, which the EPA registers in two major categories: (1) microbial pesticides, which contain a microorganism such as a bacterium or fungus as the active ingredient; and (2) biochemical pesticides, which are naturally occurring substances with a non-toxic mode of action such as insect sex pheromones, certain plant extracts and fatty acids.
We believe many bio-based pest management products perform as well as or better than conventional chemical pesticides. When used in alternation or in spray tank mixtures with conventional chemical pesticides, bio-based pest management products can increase crop yields and quality over chemical-only programs. Agricultural industry reports, as well as our own research, indicate that bio-based pest management products can affect plant physiology and morphology in ways that may improve crop yield and can increase the efficacy of conventional chemical pesticides. In addition, pests rarely develop resistance to bio-based pest management products due to their complex modes of action. Likewise, bio-based pest management products have been shown to extend the product life of conventional chemical pesticides and limit the development of pest resistance, a key issue facing users of conventional chemical pesticides, by eliminating pests that survive conventional chemical pesticide treatments. Most bio-based pest management products are listed for use in organic farming, providing those growers with compelling pest control options to protect yields and quality. Given their generally lower toxicity compared with many conventional chemical pesticides, bio-based pest management products can add flexibility to harvest timing and worker re-entry times and improve worker safety. Many bio-based pest management products are also exempt from conventional chemical residue tolerances, which are permissible levels of chemical residue at time of harvest set by governmental agencies. Bio-based pest management products may not be subject to restrictions by food retailers and governmental agencies limiting chemical residues on produce, which enables growers to export to wider markets.
In addition to performance attributes, bio-based pest management products registered with the EPA as biopesticides can offer other advantages over conventional chemical pesticides. From an environmental perspective, biopesticides have low toxicity, posing low risk to most non-target organisms, including humans, other mammals, birds, fish and beneficial insects. Biopesticides are biodegradable, resulting in less risk to surface water and groundwater, and generally have low air-polluting volatile organic compounds content.
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Because biopesticides tend to pose fewer risks than conventional pesticides, the EPA offers a more streamlined registration process for these products, which generally requires significantly less toxicological and environmental data and a lower registration fee.
Recent Developments
We expect total revenues for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 to be between $4.2 million and $4.5 million, compared to total revenues of $1.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2012. We also expect total revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2013 to be between $6.9 million and $7.2 million, compared to total revenues of $3.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2012. These increases in total revenues are due primarily to the increased acceptance of our products.
We expect cost of product revenues for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 to be between $3.3 million and $3.5 million, compared to cost of product revenues of $0.7 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2012. We also expect cost of product revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2013 to be between $5.1 million and $5.3 million, compared to cost of product revenues of $1.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2012. These increases in cost of product revenues are due primarily to an increase in product sales.
We expect the gross margin percentage for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 to be between 10% and 20%, compared to a gross margin percentage of 55% for the quarter ended June 30, 2012. We also expect the gross margin percentage for the six months ended June 30, 2013 to be between 20% and 25%, compared to a gross margin percentage of 56% for the six months ended June 30, 2012. These decreases in the gross margin percentage are due primarily to a change in product mix, with Grandevo representing an increased percentage of total sales. We launched the most popular formulation of Grandevo in the summer of 2012. Since Grandevo is early in its life cycle, our gross margins have been negatively affected. However we expect to see a gradual increase in gross margin over the life cycle of each of our products, including Grandevo, as we improve production processes, gain efficiencies and increase product yields.
The preceding estimates of total revenues, cost of product revenues and gross margins for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2013 are preliminary, based upon our estimates as a result of our review of the preliminary calculations of actual product sales and other revenues and the costs of product sales during the quarter ended June 30, 2013 and are subject to completion of our quarter-end financial closing procedures. We are in the process of performing our quarter-end close, including reviewing such calculations and finalizing monthly accruals, including those relating to share-based compensation. In addition, we are analyzing the effect on our financial position and results of operations of the receipt of $10.2 million in cash proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes and promissory notes, the issuance of warrants to purchase shares of common stock, and the conversion of $1.25 million of an existing convertible note into a promissory note, all events that occurred subsequent to March 31, 2013 as disclosed in Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements. Certain of these analyses will require fair value measurements, which we do not expect to complete until August 2013, at which time we will then finalize our closing process.
These preliminary estimates have been prepared by and are the responsibility of management and have not been reviewed or audited by our independent registered public accounting firm. Accordingly, our independent registered public accounting firm does not express an opinion or any other form of assurance with respect to these preliminary estimates. Our actual results may differ from these preliminary estimates, which should be read in conjunction with Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in particular Key Components of Our Results of Operations and Results of Operations therein, and our consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus.
Summary of Risk Factors
Our business is subject to numerous risks, which are described in the section entitled Risk Factors immediately following this prospectus summary on page 16. You should carefully consider these risks before
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making an investment. In particular, the following considerations, among others, may offset our competitive strengths or have a negative effect on our growth strategy, which could cause a decline in the price of our common stock and result in a loss of all or a portion of your investment:
n |
We have a limited operating history and number of commercialized products, have incurred significant losses to date and anticipate continuing to incur losses in the future, and we may not achieve or maintain profitability. |
n |
Our products are in the early stages of commercialization, and our business may fail if we are not able to successfully generate significant revenues from these products. |
n |
Adverse weather conditions and other natural conditions can reduce acreage planted or incidence of crop disease or pest infestations, which can adversely affect our results of operations. |
n |
If our ongoing or future field trials are unsuccessful, we may be unable to obtain regulatory approval of, or commercialize, our products on a timely basis. |
n |
Our inability to obtain regulatory approvals, or to comply with ongoing and changing regulatory requirements, could delay or prevent sales of the products we are developing and commercializing. |
n |
Customers may not adopt our bio-based pest management and plant health products as quickly as we are projecting. |
n |
The high level of competition in the market for pest management products may result in pricing pressure, reduced margins or the inability of our products to achieve market acceptance. |
n |
Our product sales are expected to be seasonal and subject to weather conditions and other factors beyond our control, which may cause our operating results to fluctuate significantly quarterly and annually. |
n |
We rely on third parties for the production of our products. If these parties do not produce our products at a satisfactory quality, in a timely manner, in sufficient quantities or at an acceptable cost, our development and commercialization efforts could be delayed or otherwise negatively impacted. |
n |
We rely on a single supplier based in China for a key ingredient of Regalia. |
n |
If we are unable to maintain and further establish successful relations with the third-party distributors that are our principal customers, or they do not focus adequate resources on selling our products or are unsuccessful in selling them to end users, sales of our products would decline. |
n |
Our intellectual property is integral to our business. If we are unable to protect our patents and proprietary rights in the United States and foreign countries, our business could be adversely affected. |
Corporate Information
We were originally incorporated in the State of Delaware in June 2006 as Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. Our principal executive offices are located at 2121 Second St. Suite A-107, Davis, CA 95618. Our telephone number is (530) 750-2800. Our website address is www.marronebioinnovations.com. The information that can be accessed through our website is not part of this prospectus, and investors should not rely on any such information in deciding whether to purchase our common stock.
Emerging Growth Company Status
We are an emerging growth company, as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, which we refer to as the JOBS Act. For as long as we are an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies, including, but not limited to, not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements and exemptions from the requirements of holding advisory say-on-pay votes on executive compensation and shareholder advisory votes on golden parachute compensation.
9
Under the JOBS Act, we will remain an emerging growth company until the earliest of:
n |
the last day of the fiscal year during which we have total annual gross revenues of $1 billion or more; |
n |
the last day of the fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the completion of this offering; |
n |
the date on which we have, during the previous three-year period, issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt; and |
n |
the date on which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or the Exchange Act (we will qualify as a large accelerated filer as of the first day of the first fiscal year after we have (i) more than $700 million in outstanding common equity held by our non-affiliates and (ii) been public for at least 12 months; the value of our outstanding common equity will be measured each year on the last day of our second fiscal quarter). |
The JOBS Act also provides that an emerging growth company can utilize the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act of 1933, or the Securities Act, for complying with new or revised accounting standards. However, we are choosing to opt out of such extended transition period, and, as a result, we will comply with new or revised accounting standards on the relevant dates on which adoption of such standards is required for companies that are not emerging growth companies. Section 107 of the JOBS Act provides that our decision to opt out of the extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards is irrevocable.
Trade Names
Except as context otherwise requires, references in this prospectus to our product lines, such as Regalia, refer collectively to all formulations of the respective product line, such as Regalia Maxx or Regalia SC, and all trade names under which our distributors sell such product lines internationally, such as Sakalia.
Our logos, Grandevo ® , Opportune TM , Regalia ® , Venerate TM , Zequanox ® and other trade names, trademarks or service marks of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. appearing in this prospectus are the property of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. This prospectus contains additional trade names, trademarks and service marks of other companies. We do not intend our use or display of other companies trade names, trademarks or service marks to imply relationships with, or endorsement or sponsorship of us by, these other companies.
10
Common stock offered by us |
4,200,000 shares |
Common stock to be outstanding after this offering |
16,918,560 shares (or 17,548,560 shares if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full) |
Use of proceeds |
We intend to use the net proceeds from this offering primarily for capital expenditures, including to further expand capacity at our manufacturing facility, working capital and other general corporate purposes. See Use of Proceeds. |
Directed share program |
The underwriters have reserved for sale, at the initial public offering price, up to approximately 300,000 shares of our common stock being offered for sale to certain persons and entities that have relationships with us. We will offer these shares to the extent permitted under applicable regulations in the United States and in various countries. The number of shares available for sale to the general public in this offering will be reduced to the extent these persons purchase reserved shares. These shares will not be subject to any lock-up arrangement with any underwriters, except to the extent purchased by our officers or directors, who have already entered into lock-up agreements. See Shares Eligible for Future SaleLock-Up and Market Stand-Off Agreements. Any reserved shares not purchased will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same terms as the other shares. |
Risk factors |
See Risk Factors and the other information included in this prospectus for a discussion of the factors you should consider carefully before deciding to invest in our common stock. |
Proposed Nasdaq symbol |
MBII |
The number of shares of our common stock to be outstanding after this offering is based on 12,718,560 shares outstanding as of March 31, 2013, on an as-converted basis, and excludes:
n |
2,040,406 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options with a weighted-average exercise price of $3.98 per share; |
n |
137,324 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding warrants with an exercise price of $10.85 per share, based upon an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the range set forth on the cover of this prospectus; and |
n |
1,975,640 shares of common stock that will be available for future grant under our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan, which will become effective prior to the completion of this offering, including options to purchase 65,440 shares of common stock we intend to grant to our employees and management effective as of the date of this offering at an exercise price per share equal to the initial public offering price, and additional shares of common stock that will be available for future grant under the automatic increase provisions of our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan (see Executive CompensationEmployee Benefit and Stock Plans2013 Stock Incentive Plan). |
Except as otherwise indicated, all information in this prospectus assumes:
n |
a 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split effective prior to the completion of the offering; |
n |
the filing of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation prior to the completion of this offering; |
11
n |
the automatic conversion into an aggregate of 8,513,473 shares of common stock prior to the completion of this offering of all outstanding shares of our preferred stock, including shares of Series B convertible preferred stock issued upon the full exercise of warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2013; |
n |
the issuance of 99,187 shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the net exercise of all outstanding warrants to purchase shares of Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock, which have been exercised effective upon the completion of this offering; |
n |
the issuance of 31,100 shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the net exercise of outstanding warrants to purchase common stock will be automatically exercised upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms; |
n |
the issuance of 2,805,859 shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the conversion of all outstanding convertible notes, including principal and interest, to the extent accrued as of March 31, 2013, will be automatically converted upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms; |
n |
no other issuance or exercise of options or warrants subsequent to March 31, 2013; and |
n |
no exercise of the underwriters option to purchase up to 630,000 additional shares of common stock from us at the initial public offering price. |
In addition, all information in this prospectus assumes the receipt of $10.2 million in cash proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes and promissory notes, the issuance of warrants to purchase shares of common stock, and the conversion of $1.25 million of an existing convertible note into a promissory note, all occurring after March 31, 2013, excluding the effects of the initial accounting for these transactions. We are in the process of determining the accounting impacts of these transactions on our consolidated financial position and results of operations, and certain analyses, which have not been completed, will require fair value measurements of applicable components of these transactions. See Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements for further detail regarding these transactions.
12
The following tables summarize the financial data for our business. You should read this summary financial data in conjunction with Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and our Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes, all included elsewhere in this prospectus.
We have derived the statements of operations data for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 from our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. We have derived the statements of operations data for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010 from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this prospectus. We have derived the statements of operations data for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 and the balance sheet data as of March 31, 2013 from our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected in the future.
13
Statements of Operations Data:
FISCAL YEAR |
THREE MONTHS
ENDED MARCH 31, |
|||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2013 | 2012 | ||||||||||||||||
(In thousands, except per share data) |
||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Product |
$ | 6,961 | $ | 5,194 | $ | 3,697 | $ | 2,649 | $ | 1,956 | ||||||||||
License (1) |
179 | 57 | | 81 | 43 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total revenues |
7,140 | 5,251 | 3,697 | 2,730 | 1,999 | |||||||||||||||
Cost of product revenues |
4,333 | 2,172 | 1,738 | 1,795 | 860 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Gross profit |
2,807 | 3,079 | 1,959 | 935 | 1,139 | |||||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Research and development |
12,741 | 9,410 | 5,563 | 3,283 | 2,733 | |||||||||||||||
Non-cash charge associated with a convertible note |
|
3,610
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
Selling, general and administrative |
10,294 | 6,793 | 4,353 | 2,847 | 2,322 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total operating expenses |
26,645 | 16,203 | 9,916 | 6,130 | 5,055 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Loss from operations |
(23,838 | ) | (13,124 | ) | (7,957 | ) | (5,195 | ) | (3,916 | ) | ||||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
16 | 22 | 22 | 1 | 2 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(2,466 | ) | (88 | ) | (102 | ) | (1,985 | ) | (56 | ) | ||||||||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments (2) |
(12,461 | ) | 1 | | (3,563 | ) | (15 | ) | ||||||||||||
Other income (expense) |
(45 | ) | 9 | 1 | (7 | ) | 1 | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total other income (expense), net |
(14,956 | ) | (56 | ) | (79 | ) | (5,554 | ) | (68 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Income taxes |
| | | | | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (38,794 | ) | $ | (13,180 | ) | $ | (8,036 | ) | $ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (3,984 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Deemed dividend, convertible notes |
(2,039 | ) | | | | (1,253 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss attributable to common shareholders |
$ | (40,833 | ) | $ | (13,180 | ) | $ | (8,036 | ) | $ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (5,237 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss per common share (3) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted |
$ | (32.48 | ) | $ | (10.64 | ) | $ | (6.58 | ) | $ | (8.48 | ) | $ | (4.20 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Weighted-average shares outstanding in computing net loss per common share (3) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted |
1,257 | 1,239 | 1,221 | 1,268 | 1,247 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Pro forma net loss per common share (4) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted |
$ | (2.45 | ) | $ | (0.51 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Weighted-average shares outstanding pro forma (4) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted |
11,162 | 12,756 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
(1) |
We receive payments under strategic collaboration and distribution agreements under which we provide third parties with exclusive development, marketing and distribution rights. These payments are initially classified as deferred revenues and recognized as revenues over the exclusivity period. Please see Note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements for an explanation of the method used to calculate license revenues. |
(2) |
We account for the outstanding warrants exercisable into shares of our Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock and the outstanding warrants exercisable into a variable number of shares of common stock as liability instruments, as |
14
the Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock and the common stock into which these warrants are convertible are contingently redeemable upon the occurrence of certain events or transactions. In addition, we account for our convertible notes at estimated fair value. We adjust the warrant instruments and convertible notes to fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value recorded in the consolidated statements of operations. We do not expect these charges to continue after the completion of this offering because the Series B convertible preferred stock warrants have been exercised, the Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants will have been exercised effective as of the completion of this offering, the convertible notes will automatically convert into common stock in accordance with their terms upon the completion of this offering, and the common stock warrants will, in accordance with their terms upon the completion of this offering, either automatically be exercised for shares of common stock or will represent the right to purchase a fixed number of shares. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of OperationsKey Components of Our Results of OperationsChange in Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Deemed Dividend on Convertible Notes. |
( 3) |
Includes the effect of a 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split, effective prior to the completion of this offering. |
(4) |
The pro forma net loss per common share data is computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding, after giving effect to the following using the treasury method: |
n |
a 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split, effective prior to the completion of this offering, |
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method as adjusted for the reverse stock split) of all shares of our convertible preferred stock into 8,513,473 shares of common stock, including 9,590 shares issued upon the full exercise of Series B convertible preferred stock warrants outstanding as of the first date of the period, |
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method) of all outstanding principal and accrued interest of convertible notes into 2,242,000 shares of common stock, including the effect of the cancellation of a portion of a convertible note in April 2013, as though the cancellation had occurred on the original date of issuance, |
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method) of all convertible notes issued subsequent to March 31, 2013 into 601,742 shares of common stock, as though the conversion had occurred on the first date of the period, |
n |
the net exercise of common stock warrants into 31,100 shares of common stock that will be automatically exercised upon completion of this offering, and |
n |
the net exercise of the Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants into 99,187 shares of common stock, which have been exercised effective upon completion of this offering as adjusted for the reverse stock split. |
Additionally, the net loss used to compute pro forma net loss per common share includes: (i) adjustments related to changes in fair value of financial instruments and (ii) adjustment to reflect the automatic conversion of all outstanding convertible notes into shares of our common stock and excludes the effects of the initial accounting related to the issuance of $6.5 million of convertible notes and warrants to purchase shares of common stock and the conversion of $1.25 million of a convertible note into a promissory note all occurring after March 31, 2013. See Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements for further detail regarding these transactions. We are in the process of determining the accounting impacts of these transactions on our consolidated financial position and results of operations, and certain analyses, which have not been completed, will require fair value measurements of applicable components of these transactions.
As we have losses in all periods presented, all potentially dilutive common shares, comprised of stock options and certain warrants, are anti-dilutive.
Balance Sheet Data:
The balance sheet data as of March 31, 2013 in the table below is presented on an actual basis and on a pro forma basis, giving effect to (i) the automatic conversion into shares of our common stock of all outstanding shares of our preferred stock including shares issued upon the cash exercise of all Series B convertible preferred stock warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2013, (ii) the issuance of shares of common stock upon the net exercise, at the completion of this offering and based upon an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, of all outstanding Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants, which have been exercised effective upon the completion of this offering, (iii) the receipt of $10.2 million in cash proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes and promissory notes with warrants to purchase shares of common stock, and the conversion of $1.25 million of an existing convertible note into a promissory note, all occurring after March 31, 2013, excluding the effects of the initial accounting for these transactions, (iv) the issuance of shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this
15
prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the net exercise of outstanding warrants to purchase common stock which will be automatically exercised upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms, (v) the issuance of shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the conversion of all outstanding convertible notes, including principal and interest, to the extent accrued as of March 31, 2013, will be automatically converted upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms, and (vi) the reclassification of the preferred stock and common stock warrant liabilities to total stockholders (deficit) equity, as if each of the above had occurred at March 31, 2013. We are in the process of determining the accounting impacts of the transactions discussed in the foregoing clause (iii) on our consolidated financial position and results of operations, and certain analyses, which have not been completed, will require fair value measurements of applicable components of these transactions. See Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements for further detail regarding these transactions.
AS OF MARCH 31, 2013 | ||||||||
ACTUAL | PRO FORMA | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 1,791 | $ | 12,067 | ||||
Working capital (deficit) (1) |
(21,582 | ) | 16,660 | |||||
Total assets |
17,839 | 28,022 | ||||||
Debt and capital leases, net of unamortized debt discount of $237 actual and pro forma |
8,358 | 13,308 | ||||||
Convertible notes |
46,037 | | ||||||
Common stock warrant liability |
316 | | ||||||
Preferred stock warrant liability |
1,883 | | ||||||
Total liabilities |
62,972 | 19,686 | ||||||
Convertible preferred stock |
39,612 | | ||||||
Total stockholders (deficit) equity |
(84,745 | ) | 8,336 |
(1) |
Working capital (deficit) is defined as total current assets minus total current liabilities. |
16
Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the following risk factors, as well as other information in this prospectus, before deciding whether to invest in shares of our common stock. The occurrence of any of the events described below could harm our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects. In such an event, the trading price of our common stock may decline and you may lose all or part of your investment.
Risks Relating to Our Business and Strategy
We have a limited operating history and number of commercialized products, have incurred significant losses to date and anticipate continuing to incur losses in the future, and we may not achieve or maintain profitability.
We are an early stage company with a limited operating history, and we only recently began commercializing our products. We have incurred operating losses since our inception in June 2006, and we expect to continue to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future. At March 31, 2013, we had an accumulated deficit of $86.3 million. For the year ended December 31, 2012 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, we had a net loss of $38.8 million and $10.7 million, respectively. As a result, we will need to generate significant revenues to achieve and maintain profitability. If our revenues grow slower than anticipated, or if operating expenses exceed expectations, then we may not be able to achieve profitability in the near future or at all, which may depress our stock price.
Through March 31, 2013, we have derived substantially all of our revenues from sales of Regalia and Grandevo. In addition, we have derived revenues from strategic collaboration and development agreements for the achievement of testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events, and from sales of other products. Accordingly, there is only a limited basis upon which to evaluate our business and prospects. Our future success depends, in part, on our ability to market and sell other products, as well as our ability to increase sales of Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox. An investor in our stock should consider the challenges, expenses, and difficulties we will face as a company seeking to develop and manufacture new types of products in a relatively established market. We expect to derive future revenues primarily from sales of Regalia, Grandevo, Zequanox and other products, but we cannot guarantee the magnitude of such sales, if any. We expect to continue to devote substantial resources to expand our research and development activities, further increase manufacturing capabilities and expand our sales and marketing activities for the further commercialization of Regalia, Grandevo, Zequanox and other product candidates. We expect to incur additional losses for the next several years and may never become profitable.
Our products are in the early stages of commercialization, and our business may fail if we are not able to successfully generate significant revenues from these products.
Our future success will depend in part on our ability to commercialize the bio-based pest management and plant health product candidates we are developing. Our initial sales of our latest formulation of Regalia and our initial formulation of Grandevo occurred in the fourth quarter of 2009 and the fourth quarter of 2011, respectively, and we began selling Zequanox in the second half of 2012. Our near-term development focus is on Opportune, which received EPA approval in April 2012, and Venerate, which has been submitted for EPA registration. In addition, as of June 30, 2013, we have identified over 25 additional product candidates using our proprietary discovery process, and we currently are focusing our development and commercialization efforts on three of these product candidates.
Successful development of our product candidates will require significant additional investment, including costs associated with research and development, completing field trials and obtaining regulatory approval, as well as the ability to manufacture our products in large quantities at acceptable costs while also preserving high product quality. Difficulties often encountered in scaling up production include problems involving production yields, quality control and assurance, shortage of qualified personnel, production costs and process controls. In addition, we are subject to inherent risks associated with new products and technologies. These risks include the possibility that any product candidate may:
n |
be found unsafe; |
n |
be ineffective or less effective than anticipated; |
n |
fail to receive necessary regulatory approvals; |
17
n |
be difficult to competitively price relative to alternative pest management solutions; |
n |
be harmful to consumers, growers, farm workers or the environment; |
n |
be harmful to crops when used in conjunction with conventional chemical pesticides; |
n |
be difficult or impossible to manufacture on an economically viable scale; |
n |
be subject to supply chain constraints for raw materials; |
n |
fail to be developed and accepted by the market prior to the successful marketing of similar products by competitors; |
n |
be impossible to market because it infringes on the proprietary rights of third parties; or |
n |
be too expensive for commercial use. |
Adverse weather conditions and other natural conditions can reduce acreage planted or incidence of crop disease or pest infestations, which can adversely affect our results of operations.
Production of the crops on which our products are typically applied is vulnerable to extreme weather conditions such as heavy rains, hurricanes, hail, floods, tornadoes, freezing condition, drought, fires and floods. Weather conditions can be impacted by climate change resulting from global warming, including changes in precipitation patterns and the increased frequency of extreme weather events, or other factors. Unfavorable weather conditions can reduce both acreage planted and incidence (or timing) of certain crop diseases or pest infestations, each of which may reduce demand for our products. For example, in 2012, the United States experienced nationwide abnormally low rainfall or drought, reducing the incidence of fungal diseases such as mildews, and these conditions have been present in some of our key markets in 2013 as well. We believe these conditions have reduced industry-wide sales of fungicides in 2012 and 2013 relative to prior years, inhibiting growth in sales of Regalia, a biofungicide. These factors have created and can continue to create substantial volatility relating to our business and results of operations.
If our ongoing or future field trials are unsuccessful, we may be unable to obtain regulatory approval of, or commercialize, our products on a timely basis.
The successful completion of multiple field trials in domestic and foreign locations on various crops and water infrastructures is critical to the success of our product development and marketing efforts. If our ongoing or future field trials are unsuccessful or produce inconsistent results or unanticipated adverse side effects on crops or on non-target organisms, or if we are unable to collect reliable data, regulatory approval of our products could be delayed or we may be unable to commercialize our products. In addition, more than one growing or treatment season may be required to collect sufficient data and we may need to collect data from different geographies to prove performance for customer adoption. Although we have conducted successful field trials on a broad range of crops, we cannot be certain that additional field trials conducted on a greater number of acres, or on crops for which we have not yet conducted field trials, will be successful. Moreover, the results of our ongoing and future field trials are subject to a number of conditions beyond our control, including weather-related events such as drought or floods, severe heat or frost, hail, tornadoes and hurricanes. Generally, we pay third parties such as growers, consultants and universities, to conduct field tests on our behalf. Incompatible crop treatment practices or misapplication of our products by these third parties could impair the success of our field trials.
Our inability to obtain regulatory approvals, or to comply with ongoing and changing regulatory requirements, could delay or prevent sales of the products we are developing and commercializing.
The field testing, manufacture, sale and use of pest management products, including Regalia, Grandevo, Zequanox and other products we are developing, are extensively regulated by the EPA and state, local and foreign governmental authorities. These regulations substantially increase the time and cost associated with bringing our products to market. If we do not receive the necessary governmental approvals to test, manufacture and market our products, or if regulatory authorities revoke our approvals, do not grant approvals in a timely manner or grant approvals subject to restrictions on their use, we may be unable to sell our products in the United States or other jurisdictions, which would result in our future revenues being less than anticipated.
We have received approval from the EPA for the active ingredients and certain end product formulations for Regalia, Grandevo, Zequanox and Opportune. As we introduce new formulations of and applications for our products, we will need to seek EPA approval prior to commercial sale. For any such approval, the EPA may require us to fulfill certain conditions within a specified period of time following initial approval. We are also required to obtain regulatory approval from other state and foreign regulatory authorities before we market our products in their jurisdictions.
18
Some of these states and foreign countries may apply different criteria than the EPA in their approval processes. Although federal pesticide law preempts separate state and local pesticide registration requirements to some extent, state and local governments retain authority to control pesticide use within their borders.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain regulatory approval for marketing our additional products or new product formulations and applications we are developing. Although the EPA has in place a registration procedure for biopesticides like Regalia and Grandevo that is streamlined in comparison to the registration procedure for conventional chemical pesticides, there can be no assurance that all of our products or product extensions will be eligible for this streamlined procedure or that additional requirements will not be mandated by the EPA that could make the procedure more time consuming and costly for our future products.
Additionally, for California state registration and registration in jurisdictions outside of the United States, all products need to be proven efficacious, which can require costly field trial testing and a favorable result is not assured. Because many of the products that may be sold by us must be registered with one or more government agencies, the registration process can be time consuming and expensive, and there is no guarantee that the product will obtain all needed registrations. We have intentionally obtained registration in some jurisdictions and not in others. California is one of the largest and most important producers of agricultural products in the world. Because of its stringent regulation of pesticides and environmental focus, we also view California as one of the most natural and attractive markets for our products. Given Californias stringent regulations, it is possible that we may have products that have been registered by the EPA, in other states and in foreign countries, but which may not be sold in California. If this were to occur, our business would be harmed.
Even if we obtain all necessary regulatory approvals to market and sell our products, they will be subject to continuing review and extensive regulatory requirements, including periodic re-registrations. The EPA, as well as state and foreign regulatory authorities, could withdraw a previously approved product from the market upon receipt of newly discovered information, including an inability to comply with their regulatory requirements or the occurrence of unanticipated problems with our products, or for other reasons.
Customers may not adopt our bio-based pest management and plant health products as quickly as we are projecting.
Customers in the crop production sector and the water treatment sector are generally cautious in their adoption of new products and technologies. Growers often require on-farm demonstrations of a given pest management or plant health product. Initial purchases of the product tend to be conservative, with the grower testing on a small portion of their overall crop. As the product is proven, growers incorporate the product into their rotational programs and deploy it on a greater percentage of their operations. As a result, large scale adoption can take several growing seasons. Water treatment products must also pass efficacy and ecological toxicity tests. In addition, given the relative novelty of our water treatment products, consumers of those products will continue to require education on their use, which may delay their adoption.
The high level of competition in the market for pest management products may result in pricing pressure, reduced margins or the inability of our products to achieve market acceptance.
The markets for pest management products are intensely competitive, rapidly changing and undergoing consolidation. We may be unable to compete successfully against our current and future competitors, which may result in price reductions, reduced margins and the inability to achieve market acceptance for our products.
Many entities are engaged in developing pest management products. Our competitors include major multinational agrichemical companies such as BASF, Bayer, Dow Chemical, DuPont, Monsanto, Sumitomo Chemical, Syngenta and specialized biopesticide businesses such as Arysta, AgraQuest (now a part of Bayer), Certis USA (now a part of Mitsui) and Valent Biosciences (now a part of Sumitomo). Many of these organizations have longer operating histories, significantly greater resources, greater brand recognition and a larger base of customers than we do. As a result, they may be able to devote greater resources to the manufacture, promotion or sale of their products, receive greater resources and support from independent distributors, initiate or withstand substantial price competition or more readily take advantage of acquisition or other opportunities. Further, many of the large agrichemical companies have a more diversified product offering than we do, which may give these companies an advantage in meeting customers needs by enabling them to offer a broader range of pest management solutions.
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The market for our bio-based pest management and plant health products is underdeveloped, which may make it difficult to effectively market or price our products.
The market for bio-based pest management products is underdeveloped when compared with conventional chemical pesticides. Certain of our product lines, such as Zequanox, currently have few or no competitors, making it difficult to determine how we should determine their pricing. We may not be able to charge as much for such products as we currently plan. In addition, customers have historically perceived bio-based pest management products as more expensive and less effective than conventional chemical pesticides. To succeed, we will need to continue to change that perception. To the extent that the market for bio-based pest management products does not further develop or customers elect to continue to purchase and rely on conventional chemical pesticides, our market opportunity will be limited.
Public perception of consuming food with microbial residues and public perception of releasing microorganisms into the environment could damage our reputation and adversely impact sales of our microbial products.
We believe maintaining our strong reputation and favorable image with distributors, direct customers and end users will be a key component in our success. Although there has been a long history of safe use of bio-based pest management products based on microorganisms, adverse public reaction to the microbial nature of our products could harm our potential sales. In addition, perceptions that the products we produce and market are not safe could adversely affect us and contribute to the risk we will be subjected to legal action. For example, companies are frequently subject to litigation and negative press related to the release of chemicals into water systems, and our Zequanox water treatment product line may be subject to public scrutiny. Public perception that our products are not safe, whether justified or not, could impair our reputation, involve us in litigation, damage our brand names and have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our product sales are expected to be seasonal and subject to weather conditions and other factors beyond our control, which may cause our operating results to fluctuate significantly quarterly and annually.
Sales of our individual products are generally expected to be seasonal. Weather conditions and natural disasters affect decisions by our distributors, direct customers and end users about the types and amounts of pest management products to purchase and the timing of use of such products. In addition, disruptions that cause delays by growers in harvesting or planting can result in the movement of orders to a future quarter, which would negatively affect the quarter and cause fluctuations in our operating results. For example, we expect that Regalia, a fungicide, will be sold and applied to crops in greater quantity in the second and fourth quarters. These seasonal variations may be especially pronounced because sales of Regalia accounted for 84%, 95%, and 47% of our total revenues in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, respectively. In addition, sales of products for treatment of invasive mussels are concentrated during periods of increased mussel growth and feeding activity, which occurs from June through September in the eastern United States, Canada and Europe and from April through October in the southwestern United States. However, planting and growing seasons, climatic conditions and other variables on which sales of our products are dependent vary from year to year and quarter to quarter. As a result, we have historically experienced substantial fluctuations in quarterly sales.
The level of seasonality in our business overall is difficult to evaluate, particularly as a result of our relatively early stage of development, our relatively limited number of commercialized products, our expansion into new geographical territories, the introduction of new products and the timing of introductions of new formulations and products. It is possible that our business may be more seasonal, or experience seasonality in different periods, than anticipated. For example, if sales of Zequanox become a more significant component of our revenue, the separate seasonal sales cycles of that product could cause further shifts in our quarterly revenue. Other factors may also contribute to the unpredictability of our operating results, including the size and timing of significant distributor transactions, the delay or deferral of use of our products and the fiscal or quarterly budget cycles of our distributors, direct customers and end users. Customers may purchase large quantities of our products in a particular quarter to store and use over long periods of time or time their purchases to manage their inventories, which may cause significant fluctuations in our operating results for a particular quarter or year. For example, we believe that we experienced higher sales of Regalia in the first quarter of 2011 than in the second as a result of distributors ordering in advance of the application season.
Our expense levels are based in part on our expectations regarding future sales. As a result, any shortfall in sales relative to our expectations could cause significant fluctuations in our operating results from quarter to quarter, which could result in uncertainty surrounding our level of earnings and possibly a decrease in our stock price.
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If we are unable to identify new product candidates through our product development process, we may not achieve or maintain profitability.
Our future success will depend in part on our ability to improve our existing products and to utilize our product development process to identify and commercialize natural compounds with pesticidal activity. As of June 30, 2013, we have screened more than 18,000 microorganisms and 350 plant extracts, and we have identified multiple product candidates that display activity against insects, nematodes, weeds, plant diseases and invasive species such as zebra and quagga mussels, aquatic weeds and algae. Only a small number of these candidates are likely to provide viable commercial candidates and an even more limited number, if any, are likely to be commercialized by us. A failure by us to continue identifying natural compounds with pesticidal or plant health promoting activity could make it difficult to grow our business. In addition, we may continue to expand our product offerings through in-licensing of microorganisms and plant extracts. There is no assurance that these attempts will be successful. Licensing of products requires identification of new products or determination of new applications for existing products and a willingness on the product owner to license the product. If we are unable to identify or in-license additional microorganisms, natural product compounds or product candidates, we may be unable to develop new products or generate revenues.
Our results of operations will be affected by the level of royalty payments that we are required to pay to third parties.
We are a party to license agreements that require us to remit royalty payments related to in-licensed microorganisms and plant extracts for certain of our product lines such as Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox. The amount of royalties that we could owe under these license agreements ranges from 2% to 5% of net product revenues. We cannot precisely predict the amount, if any, of royalties we will owe in the future, and if our calculations of royalty payments are incorrect, we may owe more royalties, which could negatively affect our results of operations. As our product sales increase, we may, from time-to-time, disagree with our third-party collaborators as to the appropriate royalties owed and the resolution of such disputes may be costly and may consume managements time. Furthermore, we may enter into additional license agreements in the future, which may also include royalty payments.
We rely on third parties for the production of our products. If these parties do not produce our products at a satisfactory quality, in a timely manner, in sufficient quantities or at an acceptable cost, our development and commercialization efforts could be delayed or otherwise negatively impacted.
We cannot currently produce our microbial and plant extract-based products other than at a small scale using our own facilities. As such, we rely on third parties for the production of our products. While we intend to develop our own internal commercial-scale manufacturing capacity, we may from time to time utilize third-party manufacturers for supplemental production capacity of our products. Our reliance on third parties to manufacture our products presents significant risks to us, including the following:
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reduced control over delivery schedules, yields and product reliability; |
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price increases; |
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manufacturing deviations from internal and regulatory specifications; |
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the failure of a key manufacturer to perform its obligations to us for technical, market or other reasons; |
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challenges presented by introducing our fermentation processes to new manufacturers or deploying them in new facilities; |
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difficulties in establishing additional manufacturers if we are presented with the need to transfer our manufacturing process technologies to them; |
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misappropriation of our intellectual property; and |
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other risks in potentially meeting our product commercialization schedule or satisfying the requirements of our distributors, direct customers and end users. |
We have not yet entered into any long-term manufacturing or supply agreements for any of our products, and we will need to enter into additional agreements for the commercial development, manufacturing and sale of our products. There can be no assurance that we can do so on favorable terms, if at all.
Our products have been produced in quantities sufficient to meet commercial demand. However, our current dependence upon others for the production of all of our products, and our anticipated future dependence upon others for the production of a portion of our products, may adversely affect our ability to develop and commercialize
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any products on a timely and competitive basis. If manufacturing capacity is reduced or eliminated at one or more of our third-party manufacturers facilities, we could have difficulties fulfilling our customer orders, and our net revenues and results of operations could decline.
We must accurately forecast demand for our products to obtain adequate and cost-effective capacity from our third-party manufacturers and to purchase certain of the raw materials used in our products at cost-effective rates. Our third-party manufacturers are not required to supply us products until we place and they accept our purchase orders, which generally occurs approximately one month prior to the anticipated product delivery date based on our own rolling forecasts. Our purchase orders may not be accepted and our third-party manufacturers may not be willing to provide us with additional products on a timely basis if they prioritize orders placed by other companies, many of whom are more established than us and order larger volumes of products. In addition, while raw material orders are generally placed one month in advance, because certain of the raw materials used in our products are in short supply or are subject to capacity demands, we place some raw material orders approximately six months in advance to avoid paying higher prices. Accordingly, if we inaccurately forecast demand for our products, we may be unable to meet our customers delivery requirements, or we may accumulate excess inventories of products and raw materials.
We may experience significant delays in financing or completing the repurpose of our commercial manufacturing facility for producing some of our bio-based pest management and plant health products, which could result in harm to our business and prospects.
We acquired a manufacturing facility in July 2012, and our business plan contemplates completing an initial repurpose and upgrade of this facility to develop significant internal commercial manufacturing capacity. We commenced production of our bio-based pest management and plant health products using this facility in the first half of 2013. After this initial repurpose, we intend to use a portion of the proceeds from this offering to further expand capacity at this facility. If we are unable to complete the repurpose, upgrade and expansion of this facility in a timely manner, we will need to otherwise secure access to capacity significantly greater than what we have previously used as we commercialize our products.
In order to bring our facility fully on line, we will need to complete design and other plans needed for the repurpose of the facility and secure the requisite permits, licenses and other governmental approvals, and we may not be successful in doing so. The repurpose will have to be completed on a timely basis and within an acceptable budget, which we currently anticipate will require approximately $5.0 million to $7.0 million of capital expenditures for the nine months ending December 31, 2013. In addition, to expand our facility to accommodate forecasted volumes and sales growth, we anticipate we will need to spend approximately $19.0 million to $21.0 million of additional funds in 2014. If we encounter significant delays, cost overruns, engineering problems, equipment supply constraints or other serious challenges in bringing the facility online, we may be unable to meet our production goals in the time frame we have planned. We may not be successful in producing the amount and quality of product we anticipate in the facility and our results of operations may suffer as a result. Further, we intend to continue to utilize various third-party contract manufacturers, which will reduce our ability to control product quality and the speed and timing of manufacturing, protect our proprietary position in our products and lower our manufacturing costs.
Failure to achieve expected manufacturing yields for our products could negatively impact our operating results.
Low yields may result from product design, development stage or process technology failures. We do not know whether a yield problem exists until our products are manufactured based on our design. When a yield issue is identified, the product is analyzed and tested to determine the cause. As a result, yield deficiencies may not be identified until well into the production process. We are repurposing our manufacturing facility acquired in July 2012 for high volume production and anticipate further expanding capacity at this facility using a portion of the proceeds from this offering, and we may experience delays or product yield issues as this facility comes online. In the event we continue to rely on third-party manufacturers, resolution of yield problems requires cooperation among, and communication between us and our manufacturers. We have limited experience producing a number of our products at commercial scale, and we will not succeed if we cannot maintain or decrease our production costs and effectively scale our technology and manufacturing processes.
We rely on a single supplier based in China for a key ingredient of Regalia.
The active ingredient in our Regalia product line is derived from the giant knotweed plant, which we obtain from China. Our single supplier acquires raw knotweed from numerous regional sources and performs an extraction
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process on this plant, creating a dried extract that is shipped to our third-party manufacturer in the United States. A disruption at our suppliers manufacturing site or a disruption in trade between the United States and China could negatively impact sales of Regalia. We currently use one supplier and do not have a long-term supply contract with this supplier. There can be no assurance that we will continue to be able to obtain dried extract from China at a competitive price point.
We have limited experience in marketing and selling our products and will need to expand our sales and marketing infrastructure.
We currently have limited sales and marketing experience and capabilities. As of June 30, 2013, we employed 34 full-time sales and marketing personnel, 11 of which focus on technical support and demonstration and research field trials. We will need to further develop our sales and marketing capabilities in order to successfully commercialize Zequanox, Opportune, Venerate and other products we are developing, which may involve substantial costs. Our internal sales and marketing staff consists primarily of sales and marketing specialists and field development specialists who are trained to educate growers and independent distributors on the uses and benefits of our products. These specialists require a high level of technical expertise and knowledge regarding the capabilities of our products compared with other pest management products and techniques. There can be no assurance that our specialists and other members of our sales and marketing team will successfully compete against the sales and marketing teams of our current and future competitors, many of which may have more established relationships with distributors and growers. Our inability to recruit, train and retain sales and marketing personnel or their inability to effectively market and sell the products we are developing could impair our ability to gain market acceptance of our products and cause our sales to suffer.
If we are unable to maintain and further establish successful relations with the third-party distributors that are our principal customers, or they do not focus adequate resources on selling our products or are unsuccessful in selling them to end users, sales of our products would decline.
In the United States, we rely on independent distributors of agrichemicals such as Crop Production Services and Wilbur Ellis to distribute and assist us with the marketing and sale of Regalia, Grandevo and other products we are developing. These distributors are our principal customers, and our future revenues growth will depend in large part on our success in establishing and maintaining this sales and distribution channel. If our distributors are unable to sell our products, or receive negative feedback from end users, they may not continue to purchase or market our products. In addition, our products are often combined with other pesticides. If our products are improperly combined with other pesticides they may damage the treated plants, and, even when properly combined, our products may be blamed for damage caused by these other pesticides. Any such issues could damage our brands or reputation.
In addition, there can be no assurance that our distributors will focus adequate resources on selling our products to end users or will be successful in selling them. Many of our potential distributors are in the business of distributing and sometimes manufacturing other, possibly competing, pest management products. As a result, these distributors may perceive our products as a threat to various product lines currently being distributed or manufactured by them. In addition, these distributors may earn higher margins by selling competing products or combinations of competing products. If we are unable to establish or maintain successful relationships with independent distributors, we will need to further develop our own sales and distribution capabilities, which would be expensive and time-consuming and the success of which would be uncertain.
We depend on a limited number of distributors.
Our current revenues are derived from a limited number of key customers, each of which serves as a third-party distributor to our products end users. For the year ended December 31, 2012, our top three distributors accounted for 58% of our total revenues, with Crop Production Services, Engage Agro and Helena Chemical accounting for 33%, 13% and 12% of our total revenues, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2013, our top four distributors accounted for 56% of our total revenues, with Chem Nut, Engage Agro, Crop Production Services and Wilbur Ellis accounting for 17%, 15%, 13% and 11% of our total revenues, respectively. We expect a limited number of distributors to continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues for the foreseeable future. This customer concentration increases the risk of quarterly fluctuations in our revenues and operating results. The loss or reduction of business from one or a combination of our significant distributors could materially adversely affect our revenues, financial condition and results of operations.
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We rely on the experience and expertise of our senior management team and other key personnel, and if we are unable to recruit or retain qualified personnel, our development and commercialization efforts may be significantly delayed.
We depend heavily on the principal members of our management, particularly Dr. Pamela G. Marrone, our founder, President and Chief Executive Officer, the loss of whose services might significantly delay or prevent the achievement of our scientific or business objectives. Although we maintain and are the beneficiary of $5.0 million in key person life insurance policies for the life of Dr. Marrone, we do not believe the proceeds would be adequate to compensate us for her loss.
As we expand our operations, we will need to hire additional qualified research and development and management personnel to succeed. The process of hiring, training and successfully integrating qualified personnel into our operation is a lengthy and expensive one. The market for qualified personnel such as experienced fermentation engineers and formulation chemists is very competitive because of the limited number of people available with the necessary technical skills and understanding of our technology and anticipated products. Our failure to hire and retain qualified personnel could impair our ability to meet our research and development and business objectives and adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
We also have relationships with scientific collaborators at academic and other institutions, some of whom conduct research at our request or assist us in formulating our research and development strategy. These scientific collaborators are not our employees and may have commitments to, or consulting or advisory contracts with, other entities that may limit their availability to us. We have limited control over the activities of these scientific collaborators and can generally expect these individuals to devote only limited amounts of time to our activities. The inability of any of these persons to devote sufficient time and resources to our programs could harm our business. In addition, these collaborators may have arrangements with other companies to assist those companies in developing technologies that may compete with our products.
Our intellectual property is integral to our business. If we are unable to protect our patents and proprietary rights in the United States and foreign countries, our business could be adversely affected.
Our success depends in part on our ability to obtain and maintain patent and other proprietary rights protection for our technologies and products in the United States and other countries. If we are unable to obtain or maintain these protections, we may not be able to prevent third parties from using our proprietary rights. It is also possible that we will fail to identify patentable aspects of our research and development output before it is too late to obtain patent protection. As of June 30, 2013, we owned 2 and in-licensed 5 U.S. patents and we owned 30 and in-licensed 2 pending provisional and non-provisional U.S. patent applications relating to microorganisms and natural product compounds, uses and related technologies. Also, as of June 30, 2013, we had acquired ownership of 1 and in-licensed 23 foreign patents and owned 201 and in-licensed 6 pending foreign patent applications. We also rely on trade secrets, proprietary know-how and continuing technological innovation to remain competitive.
The patent position of biotechnology and biochemical companies generally is highly uncertain, involves complex legal and factual questions and has in recent years been the subject of much litigation. As a result, the issuance, scope, validity, enforceability and commercial value of our patent rights are highly uncertain. Our pending and future patent applications may not result in patents being issued which protect our technology or products, in whole or in part, or which effectively prevent others from commercializing competitive technologies and products. Changes in either the patent laws or interpretation of the patent laws in the United States and other countries may diminish the value of our patents or narrow the scope of our patent protection. The laws of some foreign countries do not protect proprietary rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States, and we may encounter significant problems and costs in protecting our proprietary rights in these foreign countries.
Our patents and those patents for which we have license rights may be challenged, narrowed, invalidated or circumvented. In addition, our issued patents may not contain claims sufficiently broad to protect us against third parties with similar technologies or products or provide us with any competitive advantage. We are not certain that our pending patent applications will be issued. Moreover, our competitors could challenge or circumvent our patents or pending patent applications. It is also not possible to patent and protect all knowledge and know-how associated with our products so there may be areas that are not protected such as certain formulations and manufacturing processes. Costly and time-consuming litigation could be necessary to enforce and determine the scope of our proprietary rights, and failure to obtain or maintain trade secret protection could adversely affect our competitive business position.
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For certain of our products, we hold co-exclusive licenses to certain of the intellectual property related to these products. Although our products that are derived from intellectual property licensed to us on a co-exclusive basis also include our own proprietary technology, the third parties with whom we share co-exclusive rights may develop products based on the same underlying intellectual property. This could adversely affect the sale of our products.
Intellectual property litigation could cause us to spend substantial resources and could distract our personnel from their normal responsibilities.
Even if resolved in our favor, litigation or other legal proceedings relating to intellectual property claims may cause us to incur significant expenses, and could distract our technical and management personnel from their normal responsibilities. In addition, there could be public announcements of the results of hearings, motions or other interim proceedings or developments. If securities analysts or investors perceive these results to be negative, it could have a substantial adverse effect on the price of our common stock. Such litigation or proceedings could substantially increase our operating losses and reduce the resources available for development, sales, marketing or distribution activities. We may not have sufficient financial or other resources to adequately conduct such litigation or proceedings. Some of our competitors may be able to sustain the costs of such litigation or proceedings more effectively than we can because of their greater financial resources. Uncertainties resulting from the initiation and continuation of patent litigation or other proceedings could have a material adverse effect on our ability to compete in the marketplace.
If we are unable to protect the confidentiality of our trade secrets, our business and competitive position could be harmed.
We have taken measures to protect our trade secrets and know-how, including the use of confidentiality agreements with our employees, consultants, advisors and third-party manufacturers. It is possible that these agreements may be breached and that any remedies for a breach will not make us whole. In addition, some courts inside and outside of the United States are less willing or unwilling to protect trade secrets. We generally control and limit access to, and the distribution of, our product documentation and other proprietary information. Despite our efforts to protect these proprietary rights, our trade secret-protected know-how could fall into the public domain, unauthorized parties may copy aspects of our products and obtain and use information that we regard as proprietary. We also cannot guarantee that other parties will not independently develop our knowhow or otherwise obtain access to our technologies.
Third parties may misappropriate our microbial strains.
Third parties, including contract manufacturers, often have custody or control of our microbial strains. If our microbial strains were stolen, misappropriated or reverse engineered, they could be used by other parties who may be able to reproduce the microbial strains for their own commercial gain. If this were to occur, it would be difficult for us to challenge and prevent this type of use, especially in countries with limited intellectual property protection.
Other companies may claim that we infringe their intellectual property or proprietary rights, which could cause us to incur significant expenses or prevent us from selling our products.
Our success depends in part on our ability to operate without infringing the patents and proprietary rights of third parties. Product development is inherently uncertain in a rapidly evolving technological environment such as ours in which there may be numerous patent applications pending, many of which are confidential when filed, with regard to similar technologies. Patents issued to third parties may contain claims that conflict with our patents and that may place restrictions on the commercial viability of our products and technologies. Third parties could assert infringement claims against us in the future. We may become party to, or threatened with, future adversarial proceedings or litigation regarding intellectual property rights with respect to our products, product candidates and technology. We may not be aware of all such third-party intellectual property rights potentially relevant to our products and product candidates.
Any litigation, adversarial proceeding or proceeding before governmental authorities regarding intellectual property rights, regardless of its outcome, would probably be costly and require significant time and attention of our key management and technical personnel. Litigation adversarial proceedings or proceedings before governmental authorities could also force us to:
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stop or delay using our proprietary screening technology; |
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stop or delay selling, manufacturing or using products that incorporate the challenged intellectual property; |
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pay damages; and/or |
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enter into licensing or royalty agreements which, if available at all may only be available on unfavorable terms. |
Claims that we have misappropriated the confidential information or trade secrets of third parties could have a similar negative impact on our business.
If we fail to maintain and successfully manage our existing, or enter into new, strategic collaborations and other relationships, we may not be able to expand commercial development and sales of many of our products.
Our ability to enter into, maintain and manage collaborations and other relationships in our markets is fundamental to the success of our business. We currently have entered into various license agreements, research and development agreements, supply agreements and distribution agreements. We currently rely on our third parties for manufacturing and sales or marketing services and intend to continue to do so for the foreseeable future, and we intend to enter into other strategic agreements to produce, market and sell other products we develop. However, we may not be successful in entering into new arrangements with third parties for the production, sale and marketing of other products. Any failure to enter into new strategic arrangements on favorable terms or to maintain or manage our existing strategic arrangements could delay or hinder our ability to develop and commercialize our products and could increase our costs of development and commercialization.
We expect to derive a portion of our revenues from markets outside the United States, including Europe and Latin America, which will subject us to additional business risks.
Our success depends in part on our ability to expand internationally as we obtain regulatory approvals to market and sell our products in foreign countries. For the year ended December 31, 2012 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, international sales comprised 20% and 14% of total revenues, respectively, and we expect to increase the relative percentage of international sales in the future. We have been conducting field trials in Europe, Latin America, Africa and elsewhere. International expansion of our operations could impose substantial burdens on our resources, divert managements attention from domestic operations and otherwise harm our business. Furthermore, international operations are subject to several inherent risks, especially different regulatory requirements and reduced protection of intellectual property rights that could adversely affect our ability to compete in international markets and have a negative effect on our operating results. Revenues generated outside the United States could also result in increased difficulty in collecting delinquent or unpaid accounts receivables, adverse tax consequences and currency fluctuations.
Our Zequanox product line requires additional development, and during the initial commercialization of Zequanox, we will be relying on successful bidding for government contracts, which could require a longer sales cycle than the private sector.
Our Zequanox product line is principally designed to kill invasive mussels that restrict critical water flow in industrial and power facilities and impinge on access to recreational waters. This product requires additional development to improve ease of application, and because this product will be used in open waters, it may also require additional ecological testing. We expect our near-term sales of Zequanox will continue to be to governmental agencies and regulated industries, which typically take longer to negotiate and approve contracts than the private sector. Further, we currently expect that our governmental sales may be subject to bidding procedures as well as uncertainties surrounding these agencies budget approval processes. Therefore, we anticipate that the sales cycle for Zequanox will continue to be longer than that for our pest management products sold into agricultural markets.
We may require additional financing in the future and may not be able to obtain such financing on favorable terms, if at all, which could force us to delay, reduce or eliminate our research and development activities.
We may need to raise more money to continue our operations, and we may make significant capital expenditures in connection with scaling up our operations, including, for example, the repurpose of our manufacturing facility. We may seek additional funds from public and private stock offerings, corporate collaborations and licenses, borrowings under lease lines of credit or other sources. Additional capital may not be available on terms acceptable to us, or at all. Any additional equity financing may be dilutive to stockholders, and debt financing, if available, may include restrictive covenants. If we cannot raise more money when needed, we may have to reduce our capital expenditures, scale back our development of new products, reduce our workforce or license to others products that we otherwise would seek to commercialize ourselves. Moreover, our cash used in operations has exceeded cash generated from operations in each period since our inception. We used approximately $22.4 million and $7.7 million of net cash
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used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2012 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, respectively. In addition, for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, we incurred expenses of $12.7 million, $9.4 million and $3.3 million, respectively, for research and development. We expect that our current resources, together with the proceeds from this offering and future operating revenue, will be sufficient to fund operations for at least the next 24 months. We may attempt to raise additional capital due to market conditions or strategic considerations even if we have sufficient funds for planned operations.
We use hazardous materials in our business and are subject to potential liability under environmental laws. Any claims relating to improper handling, storage or disposal of hazardous materials could be time consuming and costly to resolve.
We are subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations governing the use, manufacture, storage, handling, disposal and release of hazardous materials and certain waste products. Our research and development and manufacturing activities involve the controlled use of hazardous materials and biological waste. Some of these materials may be novel, including bacteria with novel properties and bacteria that produce biologically active compounds. We cannot eliminate the risk of accidental contamination or discharge and any injury resulting from these materials. In addition, although we have not currently identified any environmental liabilities, the manufacturing facility we purchased in July 2012 may have existing environmental liabilities associated with it that may also result in successor liabilities for us, and we will be subject to increased exposure to potential environmental liabilities as we manufacture our products on a larger scale. We may also be held liable for hazardous materials brought onto the premises of our manufacturing facility before we acquired title, without regard for fault for, or knowledge of, the presence of such substances, as well as for hazardous materials that may be discovered after we no longer own the property if we sell it in the future. In the event of an accident, or if any hazardous materials are found within our operations or on the premises of our manufacturing facility in violation of the law at any time, we may be liable for all cleanup costs, fines, penalties and other costs. This liability could exceed our resources, and, if significant losses arise from hazardous substance contamination, our financial viability may be substantially and adversely affected.
In addition, we may have to incur significant costs to comply with future environmental laws and regulations. In addition, we cannot predict the impact of new governmental regulations that might have an adverse effect on the research, development, production and marketing of our products. We may be required to incur significant costs to comply with current or future laws or regulations. Our business may be harmed by the cost of compliance.
Our collaborators may use hazardous materials in connection with our collaborative efforts. To our knowledge, their work is performed in accordance with applicable biosafety regulations. In the event of a lawsuit or investigation, however, we could be held responsible for any injury caused to persons or property by exposure to, or release of, hazardous materials used by these parties. Further, we may be required to indemnify our collaborators against all damages and other liabilities arising out of our development activities or products produced in connection with these collaborations.
Any decline in U.S. agricultural production could have a material adverse effect on the market for pesticides and on our results of operations and financial.
Conditions in the U.S. agricultural industry significantly impact our operating results. The U.S. agricultural industry can be affected by a number of factors, including weather patterns and field conditions, current and projected grain inventories and prices, domestic and international demand for U.S. agricultural products and U.S. and foreign policies regarding trade in agricultural products. State and federal governmental policies, including farm subsidies and commodity support programs, as well as the prices of fertilizer products and the prices at which produce may be sold, may also directly or indirectly influence the number of acres planted, the mix of crops planted and the use of pesticides for particular agricultural applications. There are various proposals pending before the U.S. congress to cut or eliminate various agricultural subsidies. If such proposals are implemented, they may adversely impact the U.S. agricultural industry and suppliers to that industry such as us.
Our headquarters and facility and certain manufacturers and suppliers are located in regions that are subject to natural disasters, as well as in some cases geopolitical risks and social upheaval.
Our Davis, California headquarters and facility is located near a known earthquake fault. The impact of a major earthquake or other natural disaster, including floods, on our facilities, infrastructure and overall operations is difficult to predict and any natural disaster could seriously disrupt our entire business process. In addition, Regalia is produced by a third-party manufacturer in Florida in a location that could be impacted by hurricane activity, and certain of our raw
materials are sourced in China, which is subject to risks associated with uncertain political, economic and other
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conditions such as the outbreak of contagious diseases, such as avian flu, swine flu and SARS, and natural disasters. The insurance we maintain may not be adequate to cover our losses resulting from natural disasters or other business interruptions. Although these risks have not materially adversely affected our business, financial condition or results of operations to date, there can be no assurance that such risks will not do so in the future.
Inability to comply with regulations applicable to our facilities and procedures could delay, limit or prevent our research and development or manufacturing activities.
Our research and development and manufacturing facilities and procedures are subject to continual review and periodic inspection. We must spend funds, time and effort in the areas of production, safety and quality control and assurance to ensure full technical compliance with the regulations applicable to these facilities and procedures. If the EPA or another regulatory body determines that we are not in compliance with these regulations, regulatory approval of our products could be delayed or we may be required to limit or cease our research and development or manufacturing activities or pay a monetary fine. If we are required to limit or cease our research and development activities, our ability to develop new products would be impaired. In addition, if we are required to limit or cease our manufacturing activities, our ability to produce our products in commercial quantities would be impaired or prohibited, which would harm our business.
We may be exposed to product liability and remediation claims, which could harm our business.
The use of certain bio-based pest management and plant health products is regulated by various local, state, federal and foreign environmental and public health agencies. These regulations may include requirements that only certified or professional users apply the product or that certain products be used only on certain types of locations, may require users to post notices on properties to which products have been or will be applied, may require notification to individuals in the vicinity that products will be applied in the future or may ban the use of certain ingredients. Even if we are able to comply with all such regulations and obtain all necessary registrations, we cannot provide assurance that our products will not cause injury to crops, the environment or people under all circumstances. For example, our products may be improperly combined with other pesticides or, even when properly combined, our products may be blamed for damage caused by these other pesticides. The costs of remediation or products liability could materially adversely affect our future quarterly or annual operating results.
We may be held liable for, or incur costs to settle, liability and remediation claims if any products we develop, or any products that use or incorporate any of our technologies, cause injury or are found unsuitable during product testing, manufacturing, marketing, sale or use. These risks exist even with respect to products that have received, or may in the future receive, regulatory approval, registration or clearance for commercial use. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to avoid product liability exposure.
We currently maintain product liability insurance at levels we believe are sufficient and consistent with industry standards for companies at our stage of development. We cannot guarantee that our product liability insurance is adequate and, at any time, it is possible that this insurance coverage may not be available on commercially reasonable terms or at all. A product liability claim could result in liability to us greater than our assets or insurance coverage. Moreover, even if we have adequate insurance coverage, product liability claims or recalls could result in negative publicity or force us to devote significant time and attention to those matters, which could harm our business.
Our ability to use our net operating loss carry-forwards to offset future taxable income may be subject to certain limitations.
As of March 31, 2013, we had approximately $56.4 million of federal and $54.7 million state operating loss carry-forwards available to offset future taxable income, which expire in varying amounts beginning in 2026 for federal and 2016 for state purposes if unused. It is possible that we will not generate taxable income in time to use these loss carry-forwards before their expiration.
In addition, it is possible that this offering may cause a reduction in the value of our net operating loss carryforwards realizable for income tax purposes. Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code imposes restrictions on the use of a corporations net operating losses, as well as certain recognized built-in losses and other carryforwards, after an ownership change occurs. A Section 382 ownership change occurs if one or more stockholders or groups of stockholders who own at least 5% of our stock increase their ownership by more than 50 percentage points over their lowest ownership percentage within a rolling three-year period. Even if this offering does not cause an ownership change, other future issuances or sales of our stock (including certain transactions involving our stock that are
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outside of our control) could also result in an ownership change under Section 382. If an ownership change occurs, Section 382 would impose an annual limit on the amount of pre-change net operating losses and other losses we can use to reduce our taxable income generally equal to the product of the total value of our outstanding equity immediately prior to the ownership change (subject to certain adjustments) and the applicable federal long-term tax-exempt interest rate for the month of the ownership change. The applicable rate for ownership changes occurring in the month of July 2013 is 2.80%.
Because U.S. federal net operating losses generally may be carried forward for up to 20 years, the annual limitation may effectively provide a cap on the cumulative amount of pre-ownership change losses, including certain recognized built-in losses, that may be utilized. Such pre-ownership change losses in excess of the cap may be lost. In addition, if an ownership change were to occur, it is possible that the limitations imposed on our ability to use pre-ownership change losses and certain recognized built-in losses could cause a net increase in our U.S. federal income tax liability and U.S. federal income taxes to be paid earlier than otherwise would be paid if such limitations were not in effect. Further, if the amount or value of these deferred tax assets is reduced, such reduction would have a negative impact on the book value of our common stock.
We completed a Section 382 analysis as of May 1, 2013 and concluded that approximately $0.5 million in federal net operating losses are expected to expire prior to utilization as a result of our previous ownership changes and corresponding annual limitations. Although an analysis has not been completed, we believe that a similar amount of state net operating losses would also expire prior to utilization. We have not updated our Section 382 analysis to consider events since May 1, 2013, including the effect of issuing common stock pursuant to this offering, the automatic conversion of all outstanding convertible notes as a result of this offering, and any other related transactions. Our existing net operating loss carry-forwards or credits may be subject to significant limitations due to these events. Our inability to use these net operating loss carry-forwards as a result of the Section 382 limitations could harm our financial condition.
Our business is subject to various governmental regulations, and compliance with these regulations may cause us to incur significant expenses. If we fail to maintain compliance with applicable regulations, we may be forced to recall products and cease their manufacture and distribution, which could subject us to civil or criminal penalties.
The complex legal and regulatory environment exposes us to compliance and litigation costs and risks that could materially affect our operations and financial results. These laws and regulations may change, sometimes significantly, as a result of political or economic events. They include environmental laws and regulations, tax laws and regulations, import and export laws and regulations, government contracting laws and regulations, labor and employment laws and regulations, securities and exchange laws and regulations, and other laws such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. In addition, proposed laws and regulations in these and other areas could affect the cost of our business operations. We face the risk of changes in both domestic and foreign laws regarding trade, potential loss of proprietary information due to piracy, misappropriation or foreign laws that may be less protective of our intellectual property rights. Violations of any of these laws and regulations could subject us to criminal or civil enforcement actions, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Risks Related to this Offering and Ownership of our Common Stock
The concentration of our capital stock ownership with our executive officers and directors, and their respective affiliates, will limit your ability to influence corporate matters.
We anticipate that immediately following the completion of this offering, based on share ownership as of March 31, 2013, our executive officers and directors and their affiliates will beneficially own or control, directly or indirectly, an aggregate of 9.1 million shares, or 52.8%, of our common stock. This concentrated control will limit your ability to influence some corporate matters and could result in some corporate actions that our other stockholders do not view as beneficial such as failure to approve change of control transactions that could offer holders of our common stock a premium over the market value of our company. As a result, the market price of our common stock could be adversely affected.
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Our common stock may experience extreme price and volume fluctuations, and you may not be able to resell shares of our common stock at or above the price you paid.
Prior to this offering, our common stock has not been traded in a public market. In addition, we are an early stage company with a limited operating history and a history of losses. As a result, we cannot predict the extent to which a trading market will develop following this offering or how liquid that market might become. The trading price of our common stock following this offering is therefore likely to be highly volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations in price in response to various factors, some of which are beyond our control. These factors include:
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quarterly variations in our results of operations, those of our competitors or those of our customers; |
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announcements of technological innovations, new products or services or new commercial relationships by us or our competitors; |
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our ability to develop and market new products on a timely basis; |
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disruption to our operations; |
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media reports and publications about pest management products; |
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announcements concerning our competitors or the pest management industry in general; |
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our entry into, modification of or termination of key license, research and development or collaborative agreements; |
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new regulatory pronouncements and changes in regulatory guidelines or the status of our regulatory approvals; |
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general and industry-specific economic conditions; |
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any major change in our board of directors or management; |
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commencement of, or our involvement in, litigation; |
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changes in financial estimates, including our ability to meet our future net revenues and operating profit or loss projections; and |
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changes in earnings estimates or recommendations by securities analysts. |
In the past, securities class action litigation has often been brought against companies that experience volatility in the market price of their securities. Whether or not meritorious, litigation brought against us could result in substantial costs, divert managements attention and resources and harm our business.
If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports about our business or our industry, or publish negative reports about our business or our industry, our stock price and trading volume could decline.
The trading market for our common stock will be influenced by the research and reports that securities or industry analysts publish about us, our business, our industry or our competitors. If one or more of the analysts who cover us change their recommendation regarding our stock adversely, change their opinion of the prospects for our company in a negative manner, or provide more favorable relative recommendations about our competitors, our stock price would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts cease coverage of our company or fail to regularly publish reports on us, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which could cause our stock price or trading volume to decline.
Substantial future sales of our common stock, or the perception in the public markets that these sales may occur, may depress our stock price.
Sales of substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market after this offering, or the perception that these sales could occur, could adversely affect the price of our common stock and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of additional shares. Upon completion of this offering, we will have 16.9 million shares of common stock outstanding. The shares of common stock offered in this offering will be freely tradable without restriction under the Securities Act, except for any shares of our common stock that may be held or acquired by our directors, executive officers and other affiliates, as that term is defined in the Securities Act, which will be restricted securities under the Securities Act. Restricted securities may not be sold in the public market unless the sale is registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from registration is available. If our existing stockholders sell substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, or if the public perceives that such sales could occur, this could have an adverse impact on the market price of our common stock, even if there is no relationship between such sales and the performance of our business.
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We, our executive officers and directors, and all other holders of at least 5% of the shares of our common stock have agreed, subject to certain exceptions, not to sell or transfer any common stock, or securities convertible into, exchangeable for, exercisable for, or repayable with common stock, for 180 days after the date of this prospectus, without first obtaining written consent of each of Jefferies LLC and Piper Jaffray & Co., representatives of the underwriters. See Underwriting. In addition, we have entered into market stand-off agreements that impose restrictions on the ability of certain security holders to offer, sell or transfer our equity securities for a period of 180 days after the date of the prospectus.
All of our shares of common stock outstanding as of the date of this prospectus may be sold in the public market by existing stockholders 180 days after the date of this prospectus, subject to applicable limitations imposed under federal securities laws. See Shares Eligible for Future Sale for a more detailed description of the restrictions on selling shares of our common stock after this offering.
Approximate Number of Shares and % of Total Outstanding |
Date Available for Sale into Public Market |
|
4.3 million or 25.4% |
Immediately after completion of this offering | |
12.0 million or 71.1% |
180 days after the date of this prospectus | |
0.6 million or 3.6% |
From time to time after the date 180 days after the date of this prospectus |
In the future, we may also issue our securities in connection with a capital raise or acquisitions. The amount of shares of our common stock issued in connection with a capital raise or acquisition could constitute a material portion of our then-outstanding shares of our common stock, which would result in dilution.
We will have broad discretion in how we use the net proceeds from this offering.
We currently intend to use the net proceeds from this offering for capital expenditures, including to further expand capacity at the manufacturing facility we acquired in July 2012, working capital and other general corporate purposes, including sales, general and administrative and research and development matters as described in the Use of Proceeds section of this prospectus. We may also use a portion of our net proceeds to repay certain outstanding debt, acquire or invest in other businesses or products or to obtain rights to other technologies. However, we do not have more specific plans for the net proceeds from this offering and will have broad discretion in how we use the net proceeds of this offering. These proceeds could be applied in ways that do not improve our operating results or increase the value of your investment. You may not have the opportunity to influence our decisions on how to use the net proceeds from this offering.
Purchasers in this offering will experience immediate and substantial dilution in the book value of their investment.
The initial public offering price of our common stock is substantially higher than the net tangible book value per share of our common stock immediately after this offering. Therefore, investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering will contribute 47.8% of the total amount invested to date to fund us, but will own only 24.8% of the shares of common stock outstanding, based on the assumed initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, which is the mid-point of the range listed on the cover of this prospectus. The exercise of outstanding options and warrants will result in further dilution. For a further description of the dilution that you will experience immediately after this offering, see Dilution.
Because we have no plans to pay dividends on our common stock, investors must look solely to stock appreciation for a return on their investment in us.
We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our capital stock, and we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. We currently intend to retain all future earnings to fund the development and growth of our business. Any payment of future dividends will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on, among other things, our earnings, financial condition, capital requirements, level of indebtedness, statutory and contractual restrictions applying to the payment of dividends and other considerations that the board of directors deems relevant. Investors must rely on sales of their common stock after price appreciation, which may never occur, as the only way to realize a return on their investment. Investors seeking cash dividends should not purchase our common stock.
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We are an emerging growth company and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies will make our common stock less attractive to investors.
We are an emerging growth company as defined in the JOBS Act. For as long as we continue to be an emerging growth company we may choose to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements applicable to other public companies but not to emerging public companies, which includes, among other things:
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exemption from the auditor attestation requirements under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002; |
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reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements; |
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exemption from the requirements of holding non-binding stockholder votes on executive compensation arrangements; and |
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exemption from any rules requiring mandatory audit firm rotation and auditor discussion and analysis and, unless the SEC otherwise determines, any future audit rules that may be adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. |
We could be an emerging growth company until the last day of the fiscal year following the fifth anniversary after our initial public offering, or until the earliest of (i) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have annual gross revenues of $1 billion or more, (ii) the date on which we have, during the previous three year period, issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt or (iii) the date on which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the federal securities laws. We will qualify as a large accelerated filer as of the first day of the first fiscal year after we have (i) more than $700 million in outstanding common equity held by our non-affiliates and (ii) been public for at least 12 months. The value of our outstanding common equity will be measured each year on the last day of our second fiscal quarter.
Under the JOBS Act, emerging growth companies are also permitted to elect to delay adoption of new or revised accounting standards until companies that are not subject to periodic reporting obligations are required to comply, if such accounting standards apply to non-reporting companies. We have made an irrevocable decision to opt out of this extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards.
We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive if we rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be more volatile.
We will incur significant increased costs as a result of operating as a public company, and our management will be required to devote substantial time to comply with the laws and regulations affecting public companies, particularly after we are no longer an emerging growth company.
We have never operated as a public company. As a public company, particularly after we cease to qualify as an emerging growth company, we will incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company, including costs associated with public company reporting and corporate governance requirements, in order to comply with the rules and regulations imposed by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as rules implemented by the SEC and Nasdaq. Our management and other personnel will need to devote a substantial amount of time to these compliance initiatives and our legal and accounting compliance costs will increase. It is likely that we will need to hire additional staff in the areas of investor relations, legal and accounting to operate as a public company. We also expect that these new rules and regulations may make it more difficult and expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced policy limits and coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain the same or similar coverage. As a result, it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified individuals to serve on our board of directors or as executive officers. We are currently evaluating and monitoring developments with respect to these rules, and we cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional costs we may incur or the timing of such costs.
For example, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. In particular, as a public company, we will be required to perform system and process evaluations and testing of our internal control over financial reporting to allow management and our independent registered public accounting firm to report on the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. As described above, as an emerging growth company, we will not need to comply with the auditor attestation provisions of Section 404 for
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several years. Our testing, or the subsequent testing by our independent registered public accounting firm, may reveal deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses. Our compliance with Section 404 will require that we incur substantial accounting expense and management time on compliance-related issues. Moreover, if we are not able to comply with the requirements of Section 404 in a timely manner, or if we or our independent registered public accounting firm identify deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, which could cause our stock price to decline.
When the available exemptions under the JOBS Act, as described above, cease to apply, we expect to incur additional expenses and devote increased management effort toward ensuring compliance with them. We cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional costs we may incur as a result of becoming a public company or the timing of such costs.
Provisions in our charter documents and under Delaware law could discourage a takeover that stockholders may consider favorable.
Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as amended and restated in connection with this offering, may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control or changes in our management. These provisions include the following:
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the right of our board of directors to elect directors to fill a vacancy created by the expansion of our board of directors or the resignation, death or removal of a director, which prevents stockholders from being able to fill vacancies on our board of directors; |
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the establishment of a classified board of directors requiring that only a subset of the members of our board of directors be elected at each annual meeting of stockholders; |
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the prohibition of cumulative voting in our election of directors, which would otherwise allow less than a majority of stockholders to elect director candidates; |
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the requirement that stockholders provide advance notice to nominate individuals for election to our board of directors or to propose matters that can be acted upon at a stockholders meeting. These provisions may discourage or deter a potential acquiror from conducting a solicitation of proxies to elect the acquirors own slate of directors or otherwise attempting to obtain control of our company; |
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the ability of our board of directors to issue, without stockholder approval, shares of undesignated preferred stock with terms set by the board of directors, which rights could be senior to those of our common stock. The ability to authorize undesignated preferred stock makes it possible for our board of directors to issue preferred stock with voting or other rights or preferences that could impede the success of any attempt to acquire us; |
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the ability of our board of directors to alter our bylaws without obtaining stockholder approval; |
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the inability of our stockholders to call a special meeting of stockholders and to take action by written consent in lieu of a meeting; |
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the required approval of the holders of at least two-thirds of the shares entitled to vote at an election of directors to adopt, amend, or repeal our bylaws; |
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the required approval of the holders of at least two-thirds of the shares entitled to vote at an election of directors to repeal or adopt any provision of our certificate of incorporation regarding the election of directors; |
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the required approval of the holders of at least 80% of such shares to amend or repeal the provisions of our bylaws regarding the election and classification of directors; and |
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the required approval of the holders of at least two-thirds of the shares entitled to vote at an election of directors to remove directors without cause. |
As a Delaware corporation, we are also subject to certain Delaware anti-takeover provisions. Under Delaware law, a corporation may not engage in a business combination with any holder of 15% or more of its capital stock unless the holder has held the stock for three years or, among other things, the board of directors has approved the transaction. Our board of directors could rely on Delaware law to prevent or delay an acquisition of us. For a description of our capital stock, see Description of Capital Stock.
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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus, particularly in the sections titled Prospectus Summary, Risk Factors, Use of Proceeds, Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Business, contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this prospectus, including statements regarding our future financial position, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as believe, may, estimate, continue, anticipate, intend, should, plan, expect, predict, potential, or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. The statements we make regarding the following subject matters are forward-looking by their nature:
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our plans to target our existing products for new markets and for new uses and applications; |
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our plans with respect to growth in sales of new product lines, including Grandevo and Zequanox; |
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our ability and plans to screen, source, in-license develop, register and commercialize additional new product candidates and bring new products to market across multiple categories faster and at a lower cost than other developers of pest management products, and in particular products that are allowed for use by organic farmers; |
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our expectations regarding registering new products and new formulations and expanded use labels for existing products, including submitting new products to the EPA; |
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our belief that challenges facing the use of conventional chemical pesticides will continue to grow; |
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our beliefs regarding the growth of markets for, and unmet demand for, biopesticides, and in particular, our beliefs that the current trends will continue and that Zequanox presents a unique opportunity for generating long term revenue; |
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our beliefs regarding market adoption for our products; |
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our intention to maintain existing and develop new, supply, sales and distribution channels and extend market access; |
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our anticipation that we will receive future payments under our strategic collaboration and development agreements for the achievement of testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events; |
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our plans regarding repurposing and expanding capacity at our manufacturing facility; |
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our plans to collaborate with chemical manufacturers to develop products that combine our bio-based pest management solutions with their technologies; |
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our plans to grow our business and expand operations, including plans to hire additional qualified personnel and expectations that we will generate a significant portion of our revenues from international sales of our products and that our revenues stream will be increasingly diversified; |
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our intention to continue to devote significant resources toward our proprietary technology and research and development and the potential for pursuing acquisition and collaboration opportunities to gain access to third-party products and technologies; |
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our expectations that sales will be seasonal and the impact of continued drought conditions; |
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our ability to protect our intellectual property in the United States and abroad; |
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our expectations regarding market risk, including interest rate changes, foreign currency fluctuations and commodity price changes; |
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our belief in the sufficiency of our cash flows to meet our needs for 24 months following completion of this offering; and |
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our future financial and operating results. |
The preceding list is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all of our forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions and expectations of future performance, taking into account the information currently available to us. These statements are only predictions based upon our current expectations and projections about future events. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or
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achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Other sections of this prospectus may include additional factors that could adversely impact our business and financial performance. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. Before investing in our common stock, investors should be aware that the occurrence of the events described under the caption Risk Factors and elsewhere in this prospectus could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that the future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this prospectus to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.
This prospectus contains statistical data that we obtained from industry publications and reports. These publications generally indicate that they have obtained their information from sources believed to be reliable, but do not guarantee the accuracy and completeness of their information. Although we believe the publications are reliable, we have not independently verified their data.
You should read this prospectus and the documents that we reference in this prospectus and have filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part with the understanding that our actual future results, levels of activity, performance and achievements may be materially different from what we expect. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.
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We estimate that the net proceeds we will receive from this offering will be $56.5 million, at an assumed initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, which is the mid-point of the range listed on the cover of this prospectus, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. A $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, which is the midpoint of the range reflected on the cover of this prospectus, would increase or decrease the net proceeds from this offering by $3.9 million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover of this prospectus, remains the same and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full, we estimate that our net proceeds will be approximately $65.6 million, assuming an initial public offering price of $15.50 per share and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. An increase or decrease of 100,000 shares in the number of shares sold in this offering by us would increase or decrease the net proceeds to us from this offering, after deducting assumed underwriting discounts and commissions, by $1.4 million, assuming an initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, which is the midpoint of the range reflected on the cover of this prospectus.
We intend to use up to approximately $28 million of the net proceeds from this offering through 2014 to expand capacity at the manufacturing facility we acquired in July 2012, as described further below. In addition, we intend to use a portion of the net proceeds from this offering for other capital expenditures, including purchasing equipment to facilitate our research and development efforts, working capital and other general corporate purposes. We may also use a portion of the net proceeds to acquire complementary businesses, products or technologies. However, as of the date of this prospectus, we cannot estimate the amount of net proceeds that will be used for the other purposes described above, and we do not have agreements reached or commitments made for any specific acquisitions of businesses, products or technologies. See Risk FactorsWe have broad discretion in how we will use the net proceeds from this offering.
Based on forecasted volumes and sales growth, we currently anticipate making aggregate capital expenditures of $5.0 million to $7.0 million for the nine months ending December 31, 2013, in addition to using $19.0 million to $21.0 million to expand capacity at our manufacturing facility in 2014. We expect to fully fund such expenditures using both available cash and a portion of the net proceeds from this offering.
The amounts and timing of our actual expenditures, including expenditures related to our manufacturing facility, will depend on numerous factors, including the status of our product development efforts, our sales and marketing activities, the amount of cash generated or used by our operations and competitive pressures. We expect that our current resources, together with the proceeds from this offering and future operating revenue, will be sufficient to fund operations, including the expenditures described above, for at least the next 24 months.
Some of the other principal purposes of this offering are to create a public market for our common stock, increase our visibility in the marketplace and provide liquidity to existing stockholders. Creating a public market for our common stock will facilitate our ability to raise additional equity in the future and to use our common stock as a means of attracting and retaining key employees and as consideration for acquisitions.
We will have broad discretion in the way that we use the net proceeds of this offering. The amounts that we actually spend for the purposes described above may vary significantly and will depend, in part, on the timing and amount of our future revenues, our future expenses and any potential acquisitions that we may propose. Pending any use, as described above, we plan to invest the net proceeds in a variety of capital preservation instruments, including short- and long-term interest-bearing investments, direct or guaranteed obligations of the U.S. government, certificates of deposit and money market funds. We cannot predict whether the proceeds invested will yield a favorable return for us.
36
We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our capital stock. We currently anticipate that we will retain all of our future earnings for use in the expansion and operation of our business and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Any future determination to declare cash dividends will be made at the discretion of our board of directors, subject to applicable law and will depend on our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, general business conditions and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant. In addition, an existing loan agreement restricts our ability to pay dividends on our capital stock in certain cases.
37
The following table sets forth our capitalization as of March 31, 2013 on an actual basis and on a pro forma basis, giving effect to (i) a 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split prior to the completion of this offering, (ii) the filing of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, (iii) the automatic conversion into shares of our common stock of all outstanding shares of our preferred stock, including shares issued upon the cash exercise of all Series B convertible preferred stock warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2013, (iv) the issuance of shares of common stock upon the net exercise, at the completion of this offering and based upon an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, of all outstanding Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants, which have been exercised effective upon the completion of this offering, (v) the receipt of $10.2 million in cash proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes and promissory notes with warrants to purchase shares of common stock, and the conversion of $1.25 million of an existing convertible note into a promissory note, all occurring after March 31, 2013, excluding the effect of the initial accounting for these transactions, (vi) the issuance of shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the net exercise of outstanding warrants to purchase common stock will be automatically exercised upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms, (vii) the issuance of shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the conversion of all outstanding convertible notes, including principal and interest, to the extent allowed as of March 31, 2013, will be automatically converted upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms, (viii) the reclassification of the preferred stock and common stock warrant liabilities to additional paid-in capital, and (ix) the sale by us of 4,200,000 shares of common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, the mid-point of the range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us, as if each of the above had occurred at March 31, 2013. We are in the process of determining the accounting impacts of the transactions discussed in the foregoing clause (v) on our consolidated financial position and results of operations, and certain analyses, which have not been completed, will require fair value measurements of applicable components of these transactions. See Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements for further detail regarding these transactions.
You should read this table together with Selected Financial Data and Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and our consolidated financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.
38
(1) |
A $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus would increase or decrease, as applicable, cash and cash equivalents, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders (deficit) equity and total capitalization by $3.9 million, assuming the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same and after deducting assumed underwriting discounts and commissions and the estimated offering expenses payable by us. An increase or decrease of 100,000 shares in the number of shares sold in this offering by us would increase or decrease, as applicable, cash and cash equivalents, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders (deficit) equity and total capitalization by $1.4 million, assuming an initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, and after deducting assumed underwriting discounts and commissions and the estimated offering expenses payable by us. |
(2) |
The number of shares of our common stock to be issued upon the exercise of our common stock warrants and the conversion of all of our convertible notes depends on the initial public offering price in this offering. As further described in Description of Capital StockWarrants, certain warrants will be automatically exercised by net exercise in connection with this offering, and as described in Description of Certain Indebtedness, the terms of the convertible notes provide that the convertible notes automatically convert into shares of our common stock in connection with a qualified initial public offering. |
The pro forma share information in the table above includes the issuance of 2,936,146 additional shares of common stock in connection with the conversion of our convertible notes and net exercise of certain warrants based on an assumed initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus. In addition: |
n |
A $0.50, $1.00 or $1.50 increase in the assumed initial public offering price would decrease the total number of shares issued upon the completion of this offering by 25,774, 49,985 or 72,774 shares, respectively; and |
n |
A $0.50, $1.00 or $1.50 decrease in the assumed initial public offering price would increase the total number of shares issued upon the completion of this offering by 27,497, 56,884 or 88,375 shares, respectively. |
The number of shares of our common stock to be outstanding after this offering is based on 12,718,560 shares outstanding as of March 31, 2013, on an as-converted basis, and excludes: |
n |
2,040,406 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options with a weighted-average exercise price of $3.98 per share; |
n |
137,324 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding warrants with an exercise price of $10.85 per share, based upon an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the range set forth on the cover of this prospectus; and |
n |
1,975,640 shares of common stock that will be available for future grant under our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan, which will become effective prior to the completion of this offering, including options to purchase 65,440 shares of common stock we intend to grant to our employees and management effective as of the date of this offering at an exercise price per share equal to the initial public offering price, and additional shares of common stock that will be available for future grant under the automatic increase provisions of our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan (see Executive CompensationEmployee Benefit and Stock Plans2013 Stock Incentive Plan). |
39
If you invest in our common stock, your interest will be diluted to the extent of the difference between the amount per share paid by purchasers of shares of our common stock in this offering and the pro forma net tangible book value per share of our common stock immediately after completion of this offering.
As of March 31, 2013, our pro forma net tangible book value was approximately $64.9 million, or $3.83 per share of common stock. Pro forma net tangible book value per share represents the amount of our tangible assets less our liabilities, divided by the pro forma shares of common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2013, including the effect of (i) a 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split prior to the completion of this offering, (ii) the automatic conversion into shares of our common stock of all outstanding shares of our preferred stock, including shares issued upon the cash exercise of all Series B convertible preferred stock warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2013, (iii) the issuance of shares of common stock upon the net exercise, at the completion of this offering and based upon an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, of all outstanding Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants, which have been exercised effective upon the completion of this offering, (iv) the receipt of $10.2 million in cash proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes and promissory notes with warrants to purchase shares of common stock, and the conversion of $1.25 million of an existing convertible note into a promissory note, all occurring after March 31, 2013, excluding the effects of the initial accounting for these transactions, (v) the issuance of shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the net exercise of outstanding warrants to purchase common stock will be automatically exercised upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms, (vi) the issuance of shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the conversion of all outstanding convertible notes, including principal and interest, to the extent accrued as of March 31, 2013, will be automatically converted upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms, (vii) the reclassification of the preferred stock and common stock warrant liabilities to additional paid-in capital, as if each of the above had occurred at March 31, 2013 and (viii) the impact of our sale of 4,200,000 shares of common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, the mid-point of the price range set forth on the front cover of this prospectus, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. We are in the process of determining the accounting impacts of the transactions discussed in the foregoing clause (iii) on our consolidated financial position and results of operations, and certain analyses, which have not been completed, will require fair value measurements of applicable components of these transactions. See Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements for further detail regarding these transactions.
Without giving effect to the sale of stock in this offering, our pro forma net tangible book value at March 31, 2013 would have been $8.3 million, or $0.66 per share of common stock. This represents an immediate increase in pro forma net tangible book value of $3.18 per share to existing stockholders and an immediate dilution of $11.67 per share to new investors:
Assumed initial public offering price per share of common stock |
$ | 15.50 | ||||||
Pro forma net tangible book value per share as of March 31, 2013, before giving effect to this offering |
$ | 0.66 | ||||||
Increase in pro forma net tangible book value per share attributable to investors purchasing shares in this offering |
$ | 3.18 | ||||||
|
|
|||||||
Pro forma net tangible book value per share after giving effect to this offering |
$ | 3.83 | ||||||
|
|
|||||||
Dilution in pro forma net tangible book value per share to investors purchasing shares in this offering |
$ | 11.67 | ||||||
|
|
40
A $0.50, $1.00 or $1.50 increase in the initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, would increase our pro forma net tangible book value per share after this offering by approximately $0.12, $0.23 or $0.35, respectively, and would decrease dilution per share to new investors by approximately $0.12, $0.23 or $0.35, respectively, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover of this prospectus, remains the same.
A $0.50, $1.00 or $1.50 decrease in the initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, would decrease our pro forma net tangible book value per share after this offering by approximately $0.12, $0.23 or $0.34, respectively, and would increase dilution per share to new investors by approximately $0.12, $0.23 or $0.34, respectively, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover of this prospectus, remains the same.
If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full, the pro forma net tangible book value per share after giving effect to this offering would be $4.21 per share, and the dilution in pro forma net tangible book value per share to investors in this offering would be $11.29 per share. Further, if all outstanding options and warrants were also exercised in full, the pro forma net tangible book value per share after giving effect to this offering would be $3.90 per share, and the dilution in pro forma net tangible book value per share to investors in this offering would be $11.60 per share.
The following table summarizes on a pro forma basis as of March 31, 2013:
n |
the total number of shares of common stock purchased from us by our existing stockholders and by new investors purchasing shares in this offering; |
n |
the total consideration paid to us by our existing stockholders and by new investors purchasing shares in this offering, assuming an initial public offering price of $15.50 per share (before deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us in connection with this offering); and |
n |
the average price per share paid by existing stockholders and by new investors purchasing shares in this offering. |
SHARES PURCHASED | TOTAL CONSIDERATION |
AVERAGE PRICE
PER SHARE |
||||||||||||||||||
NUMBER | PERCENT | AMOUNT | PERCENT | |||||||||||||||||
Existing stockholders |
12,718,560 | 75.2 | % | $ | 71,156,461 | 52.2 | % | $ | 5.59 | |||||||||||
New investors |
4,200,000 | 24.8 | 65,100,000 | 47.8 | $ | 15.50 | ||||||||||||||
|
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|
|
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|
|
|
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Total |
16,918,560 | 100.0 | % | $ | 136,256,461 | 100.0 | % | $ | 8.05 | |||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
A $0.50, $1.00 or $1.50 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, would increase or decrease the total consideration paid to us by new investors by $2.1 million, $4.2 million or $6.3 million, respectively, and increase or decrease the percent of total consideration paid to us by new investors by approximately 1.5%, 3.0% or 4.4%, respectively, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover of this prospectus, remains the same.
If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full, the number of shares held by the existing stockholders after this offering would be reduced to 72.5% of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding, and the number of shares held by new investors would be or 27.5% of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding. In addition, if all outstanding options and warrants were also exercised in full, the number of shares held by the existing stockholders after this offering would be or 78.0% of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding, and the number of shares held by new investors would be or 22.0% of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding.
41
Except as otherwise indicated, the amounts set forth above are based on 12,718,560 shares of common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2013, on an as-converted basis, and excludes:
n |
2,040,406 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options with a weighted-average exercise price of $3.98 per share; |
n |
137,324 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding warrants with an exercise price of $10.85 per share, based upon an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the range set forth on the cover of this prospectus; and |
n |
1,975,640 shares of common stock that will be available for future grant under our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan, which will become effective prior to the completion of this offering, including options to purchase 65,440 shares of common stock we intend to grant to our employees and management effective as of the date of this offering at an exercise price per share equal to the initial public offering price, and additional shares of common stock that will be available for future grant under the automatic increase provisions of our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan (see Executive CompensationEmployee Benefit and Stock Plans2013 Stock Incentive Plan). |
42
We have derived the selected statement of operations data for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the selected balance sheet data as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 from our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. We have derived the selected statements of operations data for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010 and the selected balance sheet data as of December 31, 2010 from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this prospectus. We have derived the statements of operations data for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 and the balance sheet data as of March 31, 2013 from our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period. The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and our consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus.
43
Statements of Operations Data:
FISCAL YEAR |
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, |
|||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2013 | 2012 | ||||||||||||||||
(In thousands, except per share data) | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Product |
$ | 6,961 | $ | 5,194 | $ | 3,697 | $ | 2,649 | $ | 1,956 | ||||||||||
License (1) |
179 | 57 | | 81 | 43 | |||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total revenues |
7,140 | 5,251 | 3,697 | 2,730 | 1,999 | |||||||||||||||
Cost of product revenues |
4,333 | 2,172 | 1,738 | 1,795 | 860 | |||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Gross profit |
2,807 | 3,079 | 1,959 | 935 | 1,139 | |||||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Research and development |
12,741 | 9,410 | 5,563 | 3,283 | 2,733 | |||||||||||||||
Non-cash charge associated with a convertible note |
|
3,610
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|
|
|||||
Selling, general and administrative |
10,294 | 6,793 | 4,353 | 2,847 | 2,322 | |||||||||||||||
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|
|
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Total operating expenses |
26,645 | 16,203 | 9,916 | 6,130 | 5,055 | |||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
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Loss from operations |
(23,838 | ) | (13,124 | ) | (7,957 | ) | (5,195 | ) | (3,916 | ) | ||||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
16 | 22 | 22 | 1 | 2 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(2,466 | ) | (88 | ) | (102 | ) | (1,985 | ) | (56 | ) | ||||||||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments (2) |
(12,461 | ) | 1 | | (3,563 | ) | (15 | ) | ||||||||||||
Other income (expense) |
(45 | ) | 9 | 1 | (7 | ) | 1 | |||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total other income (expense), net |
(14,956 | ) | (56 | ) | (79 | ) | (5,554 | ) | (68 | ) | ||||||||||
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|
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Income taxes |
| | | | | |||||||||||||||
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|
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|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (38,794 | ) | $ | (13,180 | ) | $ | (8,036 | ) | $ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (3,984 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Deemed dividend, convertible notes |
(2,039 | ) | | | | (1,253 | ) | |||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss attributable to common stockholders |
$ | (40,833 | ) | $ | (13,180 | ) | $ | (8,036 | ) | $ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (5,237 | ) | |||||
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|
|
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Net loss per common share (3) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted |
$ | (32.48 | ) | $ | (10.64 | ) | $ | (6.58 | ) | $ | (8.48 | ) | $ | (4.20 | ) | |||||
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|
|
|
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Weighted-average shares outstanding in computing net loss per common share (3) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted |
1,257 | 1,239 | 1,221 | 1,268 | 1,247 | |||||||||||||||
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|
|
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Pro forma net loss per common share (4) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted |
$ | (2.45 | ) | $ | (0.51 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Weighted-average shares outstanding pro forma (4) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted |
11,162 | 12,756 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
(1) |
We receive payments under strategic collaboration and distribution agreements under which we provide third parties with exclusive development, marketing and distribution rights. These payments are initially classified as deferred revenues and recognized as revenues over the exclusivity period. Please see Note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements for an explanation of the method used to calculate license revenues. |
(2) |
We account for the outstanding warrants exercisable into shares of our Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock and the outstanding warrants exercisable into a variable number of shares of common stock as liability instruments, as the Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock and the common stock into which these warrants are convertible are contingently redeemable upon the occurrence of certain events or transactions. In addition, we account for our convertible notes at estimated fair value. We adjust the warrant instruments and convertible notes to fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value |
44
recorded in the consolidated statements of operations. We do not expect these charges to continue after the completion of this offering because the Series B convertible preferred stock warrants will have been exercised, the Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants have been exercised effective as of the completion of this offering, the convertible notes will automatically convert into common stock in accordance with their terms upon the completion of this offering, and the common stock warrants will, in accordance with their terms upon the completion of this offering, either automatically be exercised for shares of common stock or will represent the right to purchase a fixed number of shares. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of OperationsKey Components of Our Results of OperationsChange in Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Deemed Dividend on Convertible Notes. |
(3) |
Includes the effect of a 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split, effective prior to the completion of this offering. |
(4) |
The pro forma net loss per common share data is computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding, after giving effect to the following using the treasury method: |
n |
a 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split, effective prior to the completion of this offering, |
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method as adjusted for the reverse stock split) of all shares of our convertible preferred stock into 8,513,473 shares of common stock, including 9,590 shares issued upon the full exercise of Series B convertible preferred stock warrants outstanding as of the first date of the period, |
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method) of all outstanding principal and accrued interest of convertible notes into 2,242,000 shares of common stock, including the effect of the cancellation of a portion of a convertible note in April 2013, as though the cancellation had occurred on the original date of issuance, |
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method) of all of convertible notes issued subsequent to March 31, 2013 into 601,742 shares of common stock, as though the conversion had occurred on the first date of the period, |
n |
the net exercise of common stock warrants into 31,100 shares of common stock that will be automatically exercised upon completion of this offering, and |
n |
the net exercise of the Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants into 99,187 shares of common stock, which have been exercised effective upon completion of this offering as adjusted for the reverse stock split. |
Additionally, the net loss used to compute pro forma net loss per common share includes: (i) adjustments related to changes in fair value of financial instruments and (ii) adjustment to reflect the automatic conversion of all outstanding convertible notes into shares of our common stock and excludes the effects of the initial accounting related to the issuance of $6.5 million of convertible notes and warrants to purchase shares of common stock and the conversion of $1.25 million of a convertible note into a promissory note all occurring after March 31, 2013. See Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements for further detail regarding these transactions. We are in the process of determining the accounting impacts of these transactions on our consolidated financial position and results of operations, and certain analyses, which have not been completed, will require fair value measurements of applicable components of these transactions. |
As we have losses in all periods presented, all potentially dilutive common shares, comprised of stock options and certain warrants, are anti-dilutive. |
Balance Sheet Data:
AS OF DECEMBER 31, | AS OF MARCH 31, | |||||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2013 | |||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 10,006 | $ | 2,215 | $ | 4,287 | $ | 1,791 | ||||||||
Short-term investments |
| 2,000 | | | ||||||||||||
Working capital (deficit) (1) |
(11,468 | ) | 5,030 | 4,935 | (21,582 | ) | ||||||||||
Total assets |
33,778 | 9,818 | 7,937 | 17,839 | ||||||||||||
Debt and capital leases (net of unamortized discount) |
16,740 | 806 | 1,106 | 8,358 | ||||||||||||
Convertible notes |
41,860 | | | 46,037 | ||||||||||||
Preferred stock warrant liability |
1,884 | 27 | 28 | 1,883 | ||||||||||||
Common stock warrant liability |
301 | | | 316 | ||||||||||||
Total liabilities |
68,413 | 4,306 | 2,689 | 62,972 | ||||||||||||
Convertible preferred stock |
39,612 | 39,612 | 26,452 | 39,612 | ||||||||||||
Total stockholders deficit |
(74,247 | ) | (34,100 | ) | (21,204 | ) | (84,745 | ) |
(1) |
Working capital (deficit) is defined as total current assets minus total current liabilities. |
45
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and the other financial information appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those discussed below and those discussed in the section entitled Risk Factors included elsewhere in this prospectus.
Overview
We make bio-based pest management and plant health products. Bio-based products are comprised of naturally occurring microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi, and plant extracts. We target the major markets that use conventional chemical pesticides, including agricultural and water markets, where our bio-based products are used as substitutes for, or in conjunction with, conventional chemical pesticides. We also target new markets for which there are no available conventional chemical pesticides, the use of conventional chemical pesticides may not be desirable or permissible because of health and environmental concerns or the development of pest resistance has reduced the efficacy of conventional chemical pesticides. Our current portfolio of EPA-approved and registered biopesticide products and our pipeline address the growing global demand for effective, efficient and environmentally responsible products.
Our goal is to provide growers with solutions to a broad range of pest management needs by adding new products to our product portfolio, continuing to broaden the commercial applications of our existing product lines, leveraging relationships with existing distributors and growers positive experiences with existing product lines, and educating growers with on-farm product demonstrations and controlled product launches with key target customers and other early adopters. We believe this approach enables us to stay ahead of our competition in providing innovative pest management solutions, enhances our sales process at the distributor level and helps us to capture additional value from our products.
The agricultural industry is increasingly dependent on effective and sustainable pest management practices to maximize yields and quality in a world of increased demand for agricultural products, rising consumer awareness of food production processes and finite land and water resources. In addition, our research has shown that the global market for biopesticides is growing substantially faster than the overall market for pesticides. This demand is in part a result of conventional growers acknowledging that there are tangible benefits to adopting natural pest management products into integrated pest management (IPM) programs. We believe that our competitive strengths, including our commercially available products, robust pipeline of novel product candidates, proprietary technology and product development process, commercial relationships and industry experience, position us for rapid growth by providing solutions for these global trends.
We currently offer three product lines for commercial sale: Regalia, an initial formulation of which we began selling in the fourth quarter of 2008, Grandevo, an initial formulation of which we began selling in the fourth quarter of 2011, and Zequanox, which we began selling in the second half of 2012. In addition, we have one product candidate, Opportune, an herbicide, which received EPA approval in April 2012, and we submitted Venerate, an insecticide, and MBI-011, another herbicide to the EPA for registration. A large portion of our sales are currently attributable to conventional growers who use our natural pest management products either to replace conventional chemical pesticides or enhance the efficacy of their IPM programs. In addition, a portion of our sales are attributable to organic farmers, who cannot use conventional pesticides and have few alternatives for pest management. We intend to continue to develop and commercialize natural pest management and plant health products that are allowed for use by organic farmers.
We sell our crop protection products to leading agrichemical distributors while also working directly with growers to increase existing and generate new product demand. To date, we have marketed our bio-based pest management and plant health products for agricultural applications to U.S. growers, through distributors and our own sales force, and we have focused primarily on high value specialty crops such as grapes, citrus, tomatoes, leafy greens and ornamental plants. As we continue to demonstrate the efficacy of our bio-based pest management and plant health
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products on new crops or for new applications, we may either continue to sell our product through our in-house sales force or collaborate with third parties for distribution to select markets. For example, we anticipate that there may be a significant opportunity for selling Regalia as a yield enhancer for large-acre row crop markets such as corn, cotton and soybeans, and we have engaged third-party distributors for these sales.
We have historically sold the significant majority of our products in the United States, although we have strategically launched Regalia in select international markets. For example, we launched Regalia in the United Kingdom in 2009, Turkey in 2010, Mexico in 2011 and Canada in 2012. We are continuing to form strategic collaborations with major agrichemical companies such as FMC (for markets in Latin America) and Sygnenta (for markets in Africa, Europe and the Middle East) to accelerate our entry into certain international markets where these distributors are already selling Regalia, as well as in Asia Pacific markets. In addition to engaging these large-scale international distributors, we intend to form new strategic collaborations with other market-leading companies in our target markets and regions to expand the supply of our products globally, particularly in markets for which our products fall under exemptions from registration. In the longer term, when we launch Grandevo and other products internationally, we expect to generate a significant portion of our revenues from international sales of our products.
We currently market our water treatment product, Zequanox, through our sales and technical workforce to hydroelectric power generation companies, combustion power generation companies and industrial facilities at various geographical sites. We are also in discussions with several potential leaders in water treatment technology and applications regarding potential arrangements to sell Zequanox in the United States and international markets to supplement the efforts of our sales force. We intend to enter into distribution arrangements with third parties to market Zequanox internationally. We may enter into similar arrangements for distribution of Zequanox for use in certain applications such as treatment of lakes, aqueducts and drinking water facilities in the United States. We believe that Zequanox presents a unique opportunity for generating long-term revenue, as there are limited water treatment options available to date, most of which are time-consuming, costly or subject to high levels of regulation.
Our biopesticide products cannot be sold in the United States except under an EPA-approved use label. As such, we launch early formulations of our products to targeted customers under EPA-approved use labels, which list a limited number of crops and applications, to gather field data, gain product knowledge and get feedback to our research and development team while the EPA reviews new product formulations and expanded use labels for already approved formulations covering additional crops and applications. Based on these initial product launches, sales and demonstrations in additional regions and other tests and trials, we continue to enhance our products and submit product formulations and expanded use labels to the EPA and other regulatory agencies. For example, we began sales of Regalia SC, an earlier formulation of Regalia, in the Florida fresh tomatoes market in 2008, while a more effective formulation of Regalia with an expanded use label, including listing for use in organic farming, was under review by the EPA. When approved, we launched this new formulation into the Southeast United States in 2009 and nationally in 2010. In 2011, we received EPA approval of a newly expanded Regalia label covering hundreds of crops and various new uses for applications to soil and through irrigation systems. Likewise, in May 2013, we received approval for an improved Grandevo label, and have submitted the revised label for individual U.S. state approval.
Our total revenues were $7.1 million and $5.3 million in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 respectively, and have risen as growers have increasingly adopted our products. We generate our revenues primarily from product sales, which historically were principally attributable to sales of Regalia and are now increasingly attributable to Grandevo. Since 2011, we have also recognized revenues from our strategic collaboration and distribution agreements, which amounted to $0.2 million and $0.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
We currently sell our crop protection products through the same leading agricultural distributors used by the major agrichemical companies. Three of these distributors accounted for 58% and 66% of our total revenues in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. While we expect product sales to a limited number of distributors to continue to be our primary source of revenues, as we continue to develop our pipeline and introduce new products to the marketplace, we anticipate that our revenues stream will be diversified over a broader product portfolio and customer base.
Our cost of product revenues was $4.3 million and $2.2 million in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Cost of product revenues consists principally of the cost of raw materials, including inventory costs and
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third-party services related to procuring, processing, formulating, packaging and shipping our products. We expect our cost of product revenues to increase as we expand sales of Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox.
Our research and development expenses have historically comprised a significant portion of our operating expenses, amounting to $12.7 million and $9.4 million in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. We intend to continue to devote significant resources toward our proprietary technology and adding to our pipeline of natural pest management and plant health products using our proprietary discovery process, sourcing and commercialization expertise and rapid and efficient development process.
Selling, general and administrative expenses incurred to establish and build our market presence and business infrastructure have generally comprised the remainder of our operating expenses, amounting to $10.3 million and $6.8 million in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. We expect that in the future, our selling, general and administrative expenses will increase due to our expanded product portfolio.
In addition, in the year ended December 31, 2012, in connection with a convertible note, we incurred a non-recurring, non-cash charge of $3.6 million as operating expenses. We also recognized a $12.5 million non-cash charge attributable to a change in estimated fair value of financial instruments.
Historically, we have funded our operations from the issuance of shares of common stock, preferred stock, warrants and convertible notes, the issuance of debt and entry into financing arrangements, product sales, payments under strategic collaboration and distribution agreements and government grants, but we have experienced significant losses as we invested heavily in research and development. We expect to incur additional losses related to our investment in the continued development, expansion and marketing of our product portfolio.
Key Components of Our Results of Operations
Product Revenues
Product revenues consist of revenues generated from sales to distributors and from sales of our products to direct customers, net of rebates and cash discounts. Our product revenues historically were primarily derived from sales of Regalia, but now are increasingly attributable to Grandevo. We elected to discontinue marketing GreenMatch, our first product, an organic herbicide in 2011 to focus on more attractive opportunities and products. We continued to sell our remaining inventory of GreenMatch to a limited number of existing customers, but terminated such sales upon the exhaustion of product inventory in July 2012. Product revenues in the United States constituted 80%, 93% and 86% of our total product revenues in years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, respectively. Product revenues constituted 97%, 99% and 97% of our total revenues in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, respectively.
License Revenues
License revenues generally consist of revenues recognized under our strategic collaboration and distribution agreements for exclusive distribution rights, either for Regalia or for our broader pipeline of products, for certain geographic markets or for market segments that we are not addressing directly through our internal sales force. Our strategic collaboration and distribution agreements generally outline overall business plans and include payments we receive at signing and for the achievement of testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events. As these activities and payments are associated with exclusive rights that we provide over the term of the strategic collaboration and distribution agreements, revenues related to the payments received are deferred and recognized as revenues over the term of the exclusive period of the respective agreements, which we estimate to be between 5 and 17 years based on the terms of the contract and the covered products and regions. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, license revenues constituted 3%, 1% and 3% of total revenues, respectively. As of March 31, 2013, we had received an aggregate of $2.4 million in payments under these agreements, and there were up to $4.9 million in payments under these agreements that we could potentially receive if the testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events occur. See BusinessStrategic Collaborations and Relationships.
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Cost of Product Revenues and Gross Profit
Cost of product revenues consists principally of the cost of raw materials, including inventory costs and third-party services related to procuring, processing, formulating, packaging and shipping our products. Cost of product revenues also may include charges due to inventory adjustments. Gross profit is the difference between total revenues and the cost of product revenues. Gross margin is the gross profit as expressed as a percentage of revenues.
We have entered into in-license technology agreements with respect to the use and commercialization of our three commercially available product lines, including Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox, and certain products under development. Under these licensing arrangements, we typically make royalty payments based on net product revenues, with royalty rates varying by product and ranging between 2% and 5% of net sales, subject in certain cases to aggregate dollar caps. These royalty payments are included in cost of product revenues, but they have historically not been significant. In addition, costs associated with license revenues have been included in cost of product revenues, as they have not been significant. The exclusivity and royalty provisions of these agreements are generally tied to the expiration of underlying patents. The in-licensed patents for Regalia and Zequanox will expire in 2017 and the in-licensed currently issued U.S. patent for Grandevo is expected to expire in 2024. There is, however, a pending in-licensed patent application relating to Grandevo which could expire later than 2024. After the termination of these provisions, we may continue to produce and sell these products. While third parties thereafter may develop products using the technology under the expired patents, we do not believe that they can produce competitive products without infringing other aspects of our proprietary technology, and we therefore do not expect the expiration of the patents or the related exclusivity obligations to have a significant adverse financial or operational impact on our business. See BusinessIntellectual Property Rights for a more detailed description of these in-license agreements.
We expect to see increases in gross profit over the life cycle of each of our products because gross margin will be increased over time as production processes improve and gain efficiencies and we increase product yields. While we expect margins to improve on a product-by-product basis, our overall gross margins may vary from time to time as we introduce new products. In particular, we are experiencing and expect further near-term declines in overall gross margins as we expand sales of Grandevo and Zequanox and if we introduce Opportune, our EPA-approved bioherbicide. Gross profit has been and will continue to be affected by a variety of factors, including product manufacturing yields, changes in product production processes, new product introductions, product mix and average selling prices.
To date, we have relied on third parties for the production of our products. This production arrangement has allowed us to achieve attractive gross margins for Regalia, a plant extract-based product. However, we believe reliance on third parties have resulted in lower gross margins for Grandevo, a fermentation-based product. Accordingly, in July 2012, we acquired a manufacturing facility, which we are repurposing for manufacturing operations, and we plan to further expand capacity at this facility using a portion of the proceeds from this offering.
Research and Development
Research and development expenses principally consist of personnel costs, including wages, benefits and share-based compensation, related to our research and development staff in support of product discovery and development activities. Research and development expenses also include costs incurred for laboratory supplies, field trials and toxicology tests, quality control assessment, consultants and facility and related overhead costs. We have received grants and funding for our research from federal governmental entities. We recognize amounts under these grants as an offset to our overall research and development expenses as services under the grant are performed. These grant offsets totaled $0.2 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, and there were no grants for the three months ended March 31, 2013.
We expect to increase our investments in research and development by hiring additional research and development staff, increasing the number of third-party field trials and toxicology tests for developing additional products and expanding uses for existing products. As a result, we expect that our research and development expenses will increase in absolute dollars for the foreseeable future. As our sales increase, we expect our research and development expenses to decrease as a percentage of total revenues, although, we could experience quarterly fluctuations.
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Non-Cash Charge Associated with a Convertible Note
In December 2012, we issued a $12.5 million convertible note to Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD., an affiliate of one of our distributors, and incurred charges of $3.9 million representing the excess of the estimated fair value of the convertible note on the date of issuance compared to the cash received. Because the holder of this convertible note is an affiliate of one of our distributors, we recorded $0.3 million of the charges as a reduction of revenues recognized under our agreements with the affiliated distributor through the date of issuance of the convertible note in December 2012. We recorded the remaining $3.6 million of the charges in operating expenses as a non-recurring non-cash charge associated with a convertible note. See Note 7 in the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements for further discussion.
Selling, General and Administrative
Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of personnel costs, including wages, benefits and share-based compensation, related to our executive, sales, marketing, finance and human resources personnel, as well as professional fees, including legal and accounting fees, and other selling costs incurred related to business development and to building product and brand awareness. We create brand awareness through programs such as speaking at industry events, trade show displays and hosting local-level grower and distributor meetings. In addition, we dedicate significant resources to technical marketing literature, targeted advertising in print and online media, webinars and radio advertising. Costs related to these activities, including travel, are included in selling expenses. Our administrative expenses have increased in recent periods in preparation for becoming a public company.
We expect our selling expenses to increase in the near term, both in absolute dollars and as a percent of revenue, particularly as we market and sell new products or product formulations to the marketplace. In the long term, we expect our selling, general and administrative expenses to decline as a percent of revenue. We expect our overall selling, general and administrative expenses to increase in absolute dollars in order to drive product sales, and we will incur significant additional expenses associated with operating as a public company. Such increases may include increased insurance premiums, investor relations expenses, legal and accounting fees associated with the expansion of our business and corporate governance, financial reporting expenses, expenses related to Sarbanes-Oxley and other regulatory compliance obligations. We expect to hire additional personnel, particularly in the area of general and administrative activities to support the growth of the business.
Interest Expense
We recognize interest expense on notes payable, convertible notes and other debt obligations. During 2012, we entered into a $0.5 million term loans and issued $24.1 million in convertible notes and $17.5 million in promissory notes, including a $10 million promissory note paid off prior to its maturity date. Accordingly, our interest expense increased both in absolute terms and as a percentage of revenues. In October 2012, we issued a $2.5 million convertible note, and we incurred $0.2 million of interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2012 as a result of the excess in the $2.7 million estimated fair value of the convertible note on the date of issuance compared to the cash received. Immediately following the completion of this offering, the convertible notes will convert into shares of our common stock. Accordingly, we will cease to incur the interest expense associated with these convertible notes. Please see Liquidity and Capital Resources for a discussion of the term loan, convertible notes and promissory notes.
Interest Income
Interest income consists primarily of interest earned on investments and cash balances. Our interest income will vary each reporting period depending on our average investment and cash balances during the period and market interest rates.
Change in Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Deemed Dividend on Convertible Notes
We account for the outstanding warrants exercisable into shares of our Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock as liability instruments, as the Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock into which these warrants are convertible upon the occurrence of certain events or transactions. We also account for the outstanding warrants exercisable into a variable number of common shares at a fixed monetary amount as liability instruments. Our convertible notes are recorded at estimated fair value on a recurring basis as the predominant settlement feature of the convertible notes is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares. We adjust the warrants and the convertible notes to fair value at each reporting period with the change in estimated fair value recorded in the consolidated statements of operations. See Critical Accounting Policies for further detail.
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Based on our operating performance (including the closing of several debt financings) and the increased likelihood of completing an initial public offering or a merger between April 18, 2012 (the issuance date of the warrants to purchase shares of Series C convertible preferred stock) and December 31, 2012, the estimated fair value of the warrant liability increased by $1.6 million, which was recognized as a loss in the change in estimated fair value of financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2012. There were no material changes to the estimated fair value of warrants for the three months ended March 31, 2013.
We issued $24.1 million in convertible notes during the year ended December 31, 2012. Based on our operating performance and the increased likelihood of completing an initial public offering or a merger between the issuance dates of these convertible notes and the respective fiscal period ends, we recognized a loss due to the change in estimated fair value of financial instruments of $10.9 million and $3.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 and for the three months ended March 31, 2013, respectively. In addition to the ongoing adjustments to the estimated fair value of our convertible notes, we also recognized a one-time deemed dividend in connection with the issuance of certain convertible notes to preferred shareholders because we estimated the fair value of the convertible notes as of the issuance dates to be $11.1 million whereas we received cash proceeds of $9.1 million. Accordingly, we determined that the $2.0 million excess of the estimated fair value of the convertible notes on the dates of issuance over cash proceeds to us represents a deemed dividend to preferred stockholders, and this amount was reflected in the net loss attributable to common stockholders during the year ended December 31, 2012.
We do not expect any adjustments relating to these warrants and convertible notes to continue upon the completion of this offering because the Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock warrants, the common stock warrants and the convertible notes will automatically convert into common stock in accordance with their terms at such time, and the Series C convertible preferred stock warrants will, if not otherwise exercised, automatically convert into warrants to purchase common stock.
Income Tax Provision
Since our inception, we have been subject to income taxes principally in the United States. We anticipate that as we further expand our sales into foreign countries, we will become subject to taxation based on the foreign statutory rates and our effective tax rate could fluctuate accordingly.
Income taxes are computed using the asset and liability method, under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. As of March 31, 2013, based on the available information, it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will not be realized, and accordingly we have taken a full valuation allowance against all of our United States deferred tax assets.
As of March 31, 2013, we had net operating loss carry-forwards for federal income tax reporting purposes of $56.4 million, which begin to expire in 2026, and state net operating loss carry-forwards of $54.7 million, which begin to expire in 2016. Additionally, as of March 31, 2013, we had federal research and development tax credits carry-forwards of $1.0 million, which begin to expire in 2026, and state research and development tax credit carry-forwards of $1.0 million, which have no expiration date.
Federal and state laws impose substantial restrictions on the utilization of net operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards in the event of an ownership change, as defined in Section 382 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. We have completed a Section 382 analysis as of May 1, 2013, and have concluded that $0.5 million in limitations are expected to be placed on these carry-forwards as a result of our previous ownership changes. We have not updated our Section 382 analysis to consider events since May 1, 2013, including the effect of issuing common stock pursuant to this offering, the automatic conversion of all outstanding convertible notes as a result of this offering, and any other related transactions. Our existing net operating loss carry-forwards or credits may be subject to significant limitations due to these events. Our inability to use these net operating loss carry-forwards as a result of the Section 382 limitations could harm our financial condition.
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Results of Operations
The following table sets forth certain statements of operations data as a percentage of total revenues:
FISCAL YEAR |
THREE MONTHS
ENDED MARCH 31, |
|||||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | 2013 | 2012 | |||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||||||
Product |
97 | % | 99 | % | 97 | % | 98 | % | ||||||||
License |
3 | 1 | 3 | 2 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total revenues |
100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | ||||||||||||
Cost of product revenues |
61 | 41 | 66 | 43 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Gross profit |
39 | 59 | 34 | 57 | ||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||
Research and development |
178 | 179 | 120 | 137 | ||||||||||||
Non-cash charge associated with a convertible note |
51 | | | | ||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
144 | 129 | 104 | 116 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total operating expenses |
373 | 308 | 224 | 253 | ||||||||||||
Loss from operations |
(334 | ) | (249 | ) | (190 | ) | (196 | ) | ||||||||
Other income (expense) |
||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(34 | ) | (2 | ) | (73 | ) | (3 | ) | ||||||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
(175 | ) | | (131 | ) | | ||||||||||
Other income (expense) |
| | | | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total other income (expense), net |
(209 | ) | (2 | ) | (204 | ) | (3 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Income taxes |
| | | | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net loss |
(543 | )% | (251 | )% | (394 | )% | (199 | )% | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comparison of Three Months Ended March 31, 2013 and 2012
Product Revenues
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Product revenues |
$ | 2,649 | $ | 1,956 | ||||
% of total revenues |
97 | % | 98 | % |
Product revenues increased by approximately $0.7 million, or 35%, due to increased acceptance of our products, offset by a negative impact on Regalia sales of unseasonal widespread drought in the three months ended March 31, 2013 compared to same period in 2012.
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License Revenues
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
License revenues |
$ | 81 | $ | 43 | ||||
% of total revenues |
3 | % | 2 | % |
License revenues related to certain strategic collaboration and distribution agreements increased by 88% but do not comprise a significant portion of our total revenues.
Cost of Product Revenues and Gross Profit
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Costs of product revenues |
$ | 1,795 | $ | 860 | ||||
% of total revenues |
66 | % | 43 | % | ||||
Gross profit |
$ | 935 | $ | 1,139 | ||||
% of total revenues (gross margin) |
34 | % | 57 | % |
Our cost of product revenues increased by $0.9 million, or 109%, and our gross margins declined from 57% to 34%, in each case primarily due to an increase in sales of Grandevo products, which have lower gross margins than our Regalia products, and a decrease in sales of Regalia products.
Research and Development
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Research and development |
$ | 3,283 | $ | 2,733 | ||||
% of total revenues |
120 | % | 137 | % |
Research and development expense increased by $0.6 million, or 20%, attributable primarily to an increase of $0.4 million in employee-related expenses, which consisted primarily of salaries and wages, and $0.2 million in expenses related primarily to outside expenses, fixed expenses and general expenses, which are made up of items such as depreciation, rent and laboratory fees.
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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
$ | 2,847 | $ | 2,322 | ||||
% of total revenues |
104 | % | 116 | % |
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $0.5 million, or 23%. Of the increase, $0.3 million was employee-related, driven by increased headcount, which primarily related to salaries and wages, and $0.2 million was attributable to outside services such as consulting, accounting and tax fees, as well as other professional services.
Other Expense, Net
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Interest income |
$ | 1 | $ | 2 | ||||
Interest expense |
(1,985 | ) | (56 | ) | ||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
(3,563 | ) | (15 | ) | ||||
Other income (expense) |
(7 | ) | 1 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total other expense, net |
$ | (5,554 | ) | $ | (68 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
Interest expense increased primarily as a result of the increased borrowings under notes payable, convertible notes and capital lease agreements.
The change in the estimated fair value of financial instruments was associated with outstanding warrants and convertible notes issued subsequent to March 31, 2012. After such date, we issued $16.1 million in convertible notes, warrants to purchase 191,177 shares of Series C convertible preferred stock and warrants for the issuance of a variable number of shares of common stock based on a fixed monetary amount. See Critical Accounting Policies below for further discussion.
Comparison of Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012 and 2011
Product Revenues
FISCAL YEAR | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
Product revenues |
$ | 6,961 | $ | 5,194 | ||||
% of total revenues |
97 | % | 99 | % |
Product revenues increased by approximately $1.8 million, or 34%, as a result of a $1.9 million increase in Regalia and Grandevo sales, including $0.9 million related to an increase in international sales. Grandevo was introduced in 2011, and the year ended December 31, 2012 represented the first full year of sales of this product. The increased revenues due to sales of Regalia and Grandevo were partially offset by a $0.1 million decrease in sales of our GreenMatch product, which we elected to discontinue marketing in mid-2011 to focus on more attractive opportunities and products.
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License Revenues
FISCAL YEAR | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
License revenues |
$ | 179 | $ | 57 | ||||
% of total revenues |
3 | % | 1 | % |
License revenues increased by $0.1 million related to certain strategic collaboration and distribution agreements which were in effect for only a portion of 2011.
Cost of Product Revenues and Gross Profit
FISCAL YEAR | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
Costs of product revenues |
$ | 4,333 | $ | 2,172 | ||||
% of total revenues |
61 | % | 41 | % | ||||
Gross profit |
$ | 2,807 | $ | 3,079 | ||||
% of total revenues (gross margin) |
39 | % | 59 | % |
Our cost of product revenues increased by $2.2 million, or 99%, due to a $0.9 million charge in 2012 due to inventory write-off of an early formulation of our Zequanox line of products that was not suitable for sale, and a $1.4 million increase in product costs, consisting of $0.4 million and $0.6 million associated with higher revenues from Regalia and Grandevo, respectively, $0.3 million associated with increased royalties and purchase incentives and $0.1 million of other product costs, primarily associated with Zequanox. These higher product costs were offset by a $0.1 million decrease in GreenMatch product costs.
Gross profit decreased by $0.3 million, or 9%, due primarily to the inventory write-off on Zequanox.
Research and Development
FISCAL YEAR | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
Research and development |
$ | 12,741 | $ | 9,410 | ||||
% of total revenues |
178 | % | 179 | % |
Research and development expense increased by $3.3 million, or 35%, attributable to an increase of approximately $1.3 million in direct testing costs, $1.1 million in employee-related expenses driven by increased headcount, $0.2 million in supplies and materials, $0.2 million in fixed expenses primarily related to rent and depreciation, $0.2 million in outside consulting services and $0.3 million in travel expenses and general costs. Our direct testing costs in fiscal year 2012 were primarily driven by testing of Regalia and Zequanox for foreign markets.
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Non-Cash Charge Associated with a Convertible Note
FISCAL YEAR | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
Non-cash charge associated with a convertible note |
$ | 3,610 | $ | | ||||
% of total revenues |
51 | % | | % |
This charge was associated with the issuance of a convertible note during 2012 for which the estimated fair value at the date of issuance was greater than the proceeds received from the convertible note. Because the holder of this convertible note is one of our existing preferred stockholders and is an affiliate of one of our distributors as of the date of issuance, we recorded $0.3 million of the expense as a reduction to the revenues associated with the affiliated distributor from inception through the date of issuance, and the remaining $3.6 million was recorded in operating expenses as a non-recurring non-cash charge associated with a convertible note.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
FISCAL YEAR | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
$ | 10,294 | $ | 6,793 | ||||
% of total revenues |
144 | % | 129 | % |
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $3.5 million, or 52%. Of the increase, $2.0 million was employee-related driven by increased headcount, $1.1 million was attributable to marketing and professional services and overhead costs and $0.4 million was travel-related.
Total Other Expense, Net
FISCAL YEAR | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
Interest income |
$ | 16 | $ | 22 | ||||
Interest expense |
(2,466 | ) | (88 | ) | ||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
(12,461 | ) | 1 | |||||
Other income (expense) |
(45 | ) | 9 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total other expense, net |
$ | (14,956 | ) | $ | (56 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
Interest income for fiscal year 2012 and fiscal year 2011, consisting primarily of interest on cash and short-term investments, was largely unchanged. Interest expense increased significantly in fiscal year 2012 due to the issuance of new debt totaling $18.0 million and convertible notes totaling $24.1 million.
The change in estimated fair value of financial instruments was associated with outstanding warrants and convertible notes. In fiscal year 2012, we issued $24.1 million in convertible notes, warrants to purchase 191,177 shares of Series C convertible preferred stock and warrants for the issuance of a variable number of shares of common stock based on a fixed monetary amount. We are required to assess the fair value of the outstanding financial instruments at every reporting period. The change in estimated fair value of the financial instruments is the result of the changing probability weighted expected returns associated with the specific financial instrument. See Critical Accounting Policies below for further discussion.
56
Other expense in 2012 primarily reflects foreign currency transaction expenses incurred during the year.
Seasonality and Quarterly Results
Our sales of individual products are generally expected to be seasonal. For example, we expect that Regalia, a fungicide, will be sold and applied to crops in greater quantity in the second and fourth quarters. These seasonal variations may be especially pronounced because sales of Regalia accounted for 84%, 95%, and 47% of our total revenues in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, respectively. As we expand the registration and commercialization of Regalia into the southern hemisphere, where seasonality of sales should be counter cyclical to the northern hemisphere, we expect Regalias worldwide sales volatility to decrease over time. In addition, we expect that our sales of Zequanox will be seasonal. Invasive zebra and quagga mussels typically feed and reproduce at water temperatures above 59°F. Treatments to kill these mussels are therefore most effective from June through September in the eastern United States, Canada and Europe and from April through October in the southwestern United States along the mussel-infested lower Colorado River. We expect that until we initiate sales of Zequanox in the southern hemisphere, sales of Zequanox will not be significant during the months of November through March.
However, planting and growing seasons, climatic conditions and other variables on which sales of our products are dependent vary from year to year and quarter to quarter. As a result, we have historically experienced substantial fluctuations in quarterly sales. In particular, weather conditions and natural disasters such as heavy rains, hurricanes, hail, floods, tornadoes, freezing conditions, drought or fire, affect decisions by our distributors, direct customers and end users about the types and amounts of pest management products to purchase and the timing of use of such products. For example, in 2012, the United States experienced nationwide abnormally low rainfall or drought, reducing the incidence of fungal diseases such as mildews, and these conditions have been present in some of our key markets in 2013 as well. We believe these conditions have reduced industry-wide sales of fungicides in 2012 and 2013 relative to prior years, inhibiting growth in sales of Regalia, a biofungicide. On the other hand, drought may increase the incidence of pest insect infestations, and therefore we believe sales of insecticides, including Grandevo, which we introduced in 2012, are likely to increase if these current drought conditions persist. In addition, disruptions that cause delays by growers in harvesting or planting can result in the movement of orders to a future quarter, which would negatively affect the quarter and cause fluctuations in our operating results.
The level of seasonality in our business overall is difficult to evaluate as a result of our relatively early stage of development, our relatively limited number of commercialized products, our expansion into new geographical territories, the introduction of new products and the timing of introductions of new formulations and products. It is possible that our business may be more seasonal, or experience seasonality in different periods, than anticipated. For example, if sales of Zequanox become a more significant component of our revenue, the separate seasonal sales cycles could cause further shifts in our quarterly revenue. Other factors may also contribute to the unpredictability of our operating results, including the size and timing of significant distributor transactions, the delay or deferral of use of our products and the fiscal or quarterly budget cycles of our distributors, direct customers and end users. Customers may purchase large quantities of our products in a particular quarter to store and use over long periods of time or time their purchases to manage their inventories, which may cause significant fluctuations in our operating results for a particular quarter or year. For example, we believe that we experienced higher sales of Regalia in the first quarter of 2011 than in the second as a result of distributors ordering in advance of the application season.
The following tables set forth our unaudited consolidated statements of operations for the first quarter of fiscal year 2013 and for each of the four quarters covering fiscal year 2012 and fiscal year 2011, both in terms of dollars and as a percentage of revenues. The quarterly data have been prepared on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus and include all adjustments consisting only of normal recurring adjustments that we consider necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial information set forth below. You should read this information together with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. Historical results are not necessarily indicative of the operating results expected in future reporting periods.
57
Fiscal Year 2011:
MARCH 31,
2011 |
JUNE 30,
2011 |
SEPTEMBER 30,
2011 |
DECEMBER 31,
2011 |
|||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||||||
Product |
$ | 1,934 | $ | 1,070 | $ | 993 | $ | 1,197 | ||||||||
License |
| | 13 | 44 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total revenues |
1,934 | 1,070 | 1,006 | 1,241 | ||||||||||||
Cost of product revenues |
777 | 462 | 401 | 532 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Gross profit |
1,157 | 608 | 605 | 709 | ||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||
Research and development |
1,641 | 2,547 | 2,542 | 2,680 | ||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
1,471 | 1,642 | 1,699 | 1,981 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total operating expenses |
3,112 | 4,189 | 4,241 | 4,661 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Loss from operations |
(1,955 | ) | (3,581 | ) | (3,636 | ) | (3,952 | ) | ||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
1 | 2 | 7 | 12 | ||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(23 | ) | (25 | ) | (15 | ) | (25 | ) | ||||||||
Change in estimated fair value financial instruments |
4 | 2 | (2 | ) | (3 | ) | ||||||||||
Other income, net |
1 | 2 | 2 | 4 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total other expense, net |
(17 | ) | (19 | ) | (8 | ) | (12 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Income taxes |
| | | | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (1,972 | ) | $ | (3,600 | ) | $ | (3,644 | ) | $ | (3,964 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MARCH 31,
2011 |
JUNE 30,
2011 |
SEPTEMBER 30,
2011 |
DECEMBER 31,
2011 |
|||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||||||||||
Product |
100 | % | 100 | % | 99 | % | 96 | % | ||||||||
License |
| | 1 | 4 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total revenues |
100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | ||||||||||||
Cost of product revenues |
40 | 43 | 40 | 43 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Gross profit |
60 | 57 | 60 | 57 | ||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||
Research and development |
85 | 238 | 253 | 216 | ||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
76 | 154 | 169 | 160 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total operating expenses |
161 | 392 | 422 | 376 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Loss from operations |
(101 | ) | (335 | ) | (362 | ) | (319 | ) | ||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
| | 1 | 1 | ||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(1 | ) | (2 | ) | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | ||||||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
| 1 | | | ||||||||||||
Other income, net |
| | | | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total other expense, net |
(1 | ) | (1 | ) | | | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Income taxes |
| | | | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net loss |
(102 | )% | (336 | )% | (362 | )% | (319 | )% | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
58
Fiscal Year 2012 and First Quarter of Fiscal Year 2013:
THREE MONTHS ENDED | ||||||||||||||||||||
MARCH 31,
2012 |
JUNE 30,
2012 |
SEPTEMBER 30,
2012 |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
MARCH 31,
2013 |
||||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues (1) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Product |
$ | 1,956 | $ | 1,421 | $ | 662 | $ | 2,922 | $ | 2,649 | ||||||||||
License |
43 | 88 | 76 | (28 | ) | 81 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total revenues |
1,999 | 1,509 | 738 | 2,894 | 2,730 | |||||||||||||||
Cost of product revenues |
860 | 684 | 521 | 2,268 | 1,795 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Gross profit |
1,139 | 825 | 217 | 626 | 935 | |||||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Research and development |
2,733 | 2,415 | 3,350 | 4,243 | 3,283 | |||||||||||||||
Non-cash financing costs associated with a convertible note |
| | | 3,610 | | |||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
2,322 | 2,166 | 2,617 | 3,189 | 2,847 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total operating expenses |
5,055 | 4,581 | 5,967 | 11,042 | 6,130 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Loss from operations |
(3,916 | ) | (3,756 | ) | (5,750 | ) | (10,416 | ) | (5,195 | ) | ||||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
2 | 4 | 10 | | 1 | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(56 | ) | (601 | ) | (593 | ) | (1,216 | ) | (1,985 | ) | ||||||||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments (2) |
(15 | ) | 435 | (7,473 | ) | (5,408 | ) | (3,563 | ) | |||||||||||
Other income (expense), net |
1 | 6 | 4 | (56 | ) | (7 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total other expense, net |
(68 | ) | (156 | ) | (8,052 | ) | (6,680 | ) | (5,554 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Income taxes |
| | | | | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (3,984 | ) | $ | (3,912 | ) | $ | (13,802 | ) | $ | (17,096 | ) | $ | (10,749 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
59
THREE MONTHS ENDED | ||||||||||||||||||||
MARCH 31,
2012 |
JUNE 30,
2012 |
SEPTEMBER 30,
2012 |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
MARCH 31,
2013 |
||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues (1) : |
||||||||||||||||||||
Product |
98 | % | 94 | % | 90 | % | 101 | % | 97 | % | ||||||||||
License |
2 | 6 | 10 | (1 | ) | 3 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total revenues |
100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | |||||||||||||||
Cost of product revenues |
43 | 45 | 71 | 78 | 66 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Gross profit |
57 | 55 | 29 | 22 | 34 | |||||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Research and development |
137 | 160 | 454 | 147 | 120 | |||||||||||||||
Non-cash financing charges associated with a convertible note |
| | | 125 | | |||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
116 | 143 | 355 | 110 | 104 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total operating expenses |
253 | 303 | 809 | 382 | 224 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Loss from operations |
(196 | ) | (248 | ) | (780 | ) | (360 | ) | (190 | ) | ||||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
| | 1 | | | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(3 | ) | (40 | ) | (80 | ) | (42 | ) | (73 | ) | ||||||||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments (2) |
| 29 | (1,013 | ) | (187 | ) | (131 | ) | ||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net |
| | 1 | (2 | ) | | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total other income (expense), net |
(3 | ) | (11 | ) | (1,091 | ) | (231 | ) | (204 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Income taxes |
| | | | | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss |
(199 | )% | (259 | )% | (1,871 | )% | (591 | )% | (394 | )% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
We also receive payments under strategic collaboration and distribution agreements under which we provide third parties with exclusive development, marketing and distribution rights. These payments are initially classified as deferred revenues and recognized as revenues over the exclusivity period. During the three months ended December 31, 2012, we recorded a reduction of revenue of $0.3 million associated consideration provided to an affiliate of a distributor. Of this, $0.2 million related to product and $0.1 million related to license. Please see Note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements for an explanation of the method used to calculate license revenues and Note 7 to our audited consolidated financial statements related to the reduction of revenues. |
(2) |
Refers to the change in fair value of financial instruments. We account for the outstanding warrants exercisable into shares of our Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock as liability instruments, as the Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock into which these warrants are convertible upon the occurrence of certain events or transactions. We also account for the outstanding warrants exercisable into a variable number of common shares at a fixed monetary amount as liability instruments. In addition, we account for our convertible notes at estimated fair value. We adjust the warrant instruments and convertible notes to fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value recorded in the statements of operations. We do not expect these expenses to continue after the completion of this offering because the Series B convertible preferred stock warrants have been exercised, the Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants will have been exercised effective as of the completion of this offering, the convertible notes will automatically convert into common stock in accordance with their terms upon the completion of this offering, and the common stock warrants will, in accordance with their terms upon the completion of this offering, either automatically be exercised for shares of common stock or will represent the right to purchase a fixed number of shares. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of OperationsKey Components of Our Results of OperationsChange in Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Deemed Dividend on Convertible Notes. |
60
Liquidity and Capital Resources
From our inception through March 31, 2013, our operations have been financed primarily by net proceeds from the private placements of convertible preferred stock, convertible notes, promissory notes, term loans, as well as proceeds from the sale of our products and payments under strategic collaboration and distribution agreements and government grants. As of March 31, 2013, our cash and cash equivalents totaled $1.8 million. In addition, subsequent to March 31, 2013, we received gross proceeds of $10.2 in connection with the sale of convertible notes and promissory notes, and entered into a credit facility with a group of lenders under which such lenders have committed to permit us to draw an aggregate of up to $5.0 million (subject to our obtaining additional commitments from lenders, such amount may be increased to up to $7.0 million). We believe our current cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, along with the proceeds from this offering and cash from revenues, will be sufficient to satisfy our liquidity requirements for the next 24 months.
Since our inception, we have incurred significant net losses, and, as of March 31, 2013, we had an accumulated deficit of $86.3 million, and we expect to incur additional losses related to the continued development and expansion of our business. Our liquidity may be negatively impacted as a result of slower than expected adoption of our products and higher than anticipated costs incurred in connection with repurposing our manufacturing facility acquired in July 2012. We have certain strategic collaboration and distribution agreements under which we receive payments for the achievement of testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events. As of March 31, 2013, we had received an aggregate of $2.4 million in payments under these agreements, and there were up to $4.9 million in payments under these agreements that we could potentially receive if the testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events occur.
For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, we used $2.8 million, $0.4 million, and $0.4 million, respectively, in cash to fund capital expenditures. In July 2012, we acquired a manufacturing facility, including associated land, property and equipment, located in Bangor, Michigan, for approximately $1.5 million. Our business plan contemplates developing significant internal commercial manufacturing capacity using this facility, and we are repurposing the facility and commenced manufacturing our natural pest management and plant health products in the first half of 2013. We currently anticipate that this upgrade and preparation of the facility will require between $5.0 million and $7.0 million of capital expenditures during the nine months ending December 31, 2013. In addition, should we expand our facility to accommodate higher volumes, we anticipate we will need to spend $19.0 million to $21.0 million of additional funds in 2014. We anticipate that these additional expenditures will be in part funded using a portion of the proceeds from this offering.
We had various convertible note and debt arrangements in place as of March 31, 2013, in each case as discussed further in Description of Certain Indebtedness and below, consisting of the following (dollars in thousands):
DESCRIPTION |
STATED ANNUAL
INTEREST RATE |
PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
BALANCE (INCLUDING ACCRUED INTEREST) |
PAYMENT/MATURITY |
|||||||
Promissory Note (1) |
6.25 | % | $ | 13 | Monthly/May 2013 | |||||
Promissory Note (1) |
7.00 | % | $ | 231 | Monthly/November 2014 | |||||
Term Loan (1) |
7.00 | % | $ | 397 | Monthly/April 2016 | |||||
Convertible Notes (2) |
10.00 | % | $ | 9,999 | September 2013 | |||||
Promissory Notes (3) |
12.00 | % | $ | 7,500 | Monthly (6) /October 2015 | |||||
Convertible Note (4) |
12.00 | % | $ | 2,639 | October 2015 | |||||
Convertible Note (5) |
10.00 | % | $ | 12,903 | October 2015 |
(1) |
See Five Star Bank. |
(2) |
See March and October 2012 Convertible Notes. |
(3) |
See October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes. |
(4) |
See October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note. |
(5) |
See December 2012 Convertible Note. |
(6) |
Monthly payments are interest only until maturity. |
61
Five Star Bank:
We have entered into two promissory notes with Five Star Bank: in May 2008, we entered into a promissory note that we repaid at a rate of approximately $8,000 per month through maturity in May 2013, and in March 2009, we entered into a promissory note that we repay at a rate of approximately $13,000 per month through maturity in November 2014. In addition, in March 2012, we entered into a term loan agreement with Five Star Bank, which replaced our existing revolving line of credit with the bank. Under the term loan agreement, we are obligated to repay the loan at a rate of approximately $12,000 per month through maturity.
Under the terms of the promissory notes and the term loan agreement, all of our outstanding debt to Five Star Bank is secured by all of our inventory, chattel paper, accounts, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and any intellectual property). Among other things, a payment default with respect to each of the promissory notes and the term loan, as well as other events such as a default under other loans or agreements that would materially affect us, constitute events of default. Upon an event of default, Five Star Bank may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable.
March and October 2012 Convertible Notes:
From March 2012 through October 2012, we completed the sale of convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $9.1 million to 38 existing investors, including certain holders of more than 5% of our capital stock, in a private placement. We are not obligated to pay interest or principal on the convertible notes, but all principal and accrued interest become convertible into a new class of preferred stock at maturity in September 2013, unless the convertible notes have previously converted into other equity securities. The convertible notes and all principal and accrued interest will automatically convert into shares of our common stock upon completion of this offering at a conversion price equal to 70% of the initial public offering price, with respect to $8.1 million in principal of the notes, and 80% of the initial public offering price, with respect to $1.0 million in principal of the notes. Among other things, an acceleration of the maturity of our other indebtedness, if not cured, may result in an event of default.
October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes:
In October 2012, we completed the sale of promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $7.5 million to 12 lenders in a private placement. We are only obligated to pay interest on the promissory notes on a monthly basis until maturity, when the remaining interest and all principal become due. Maturity, currently October 2015, may be extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases to 13% in the first year of the extension and the note matures in October 2016, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of extension and the note matures in October 2017. These promissory notes are secured by a security interest in all of our present and future accounts, chattel paper, commercial tort claims, goods, inventory, equipment, personal property, instruments, investment properties, documents, letter of credit rights, deposit accounts, general intangibles, records, real property, appurtenances and fixtures, tenant improvements and intellectual property, which consists in part of its patents, copyrights and other intangibles.
October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note:
In October 2012, we completed the sale of a convertible note in the amount of $2.5 million to a lender in a private placement. We are not obligated to pay interest or principal on the convertible note until maturity, when all interest and principal become due. Maturity, currently October 2015, may be extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 12% to 13% in the first year of the extension and the notes mature in October 2016, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of extension and the notes mature in October 2017. The convertible note and all principal and accrued interest will automatically convert into shares of our common stock upon completion of this offering at a conversion price equal to 85% of the initial public offering price.
The convertible note is subordinate to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes and is secured by a security interest in all of our present and future accounts, chattel paper, commercial tort claims, goods, inventory, equipment, personal property, instruments, investment properties, documents, letter of credit rights, deposit accounts, general intangibles, records, real property, appurtenances and fixtures, tenant improvements and intellectual property, which consists in part of its patents, copyrights and other intangibles.
62
December 2012 Convertible Note:
In December 2012, we completed the sale of a convertible note in the amount of $12.5 million in a private placement to Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD., a holder of more than 5% of our capital stock. We are not obligated to pay interest or principal on the convertible note until maturity, when all interest and principal become due. Maturity, currently October 2015, may be extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 10% to 12% in the first year of the extension and the note matures in October 2016, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of extension and the note matures in October 2017. The convertible note and all principal and accrued interest will automatically convert into shares of our common stock upon completion of this offering at a conversion price equal to 70% of the initial public offering price.
See also Description of Certain Indebtedness for a summary of the material terms of our term loan, promissory notes credit facility and convertible notes outstanding as of June 30, 2013, including those issued subsequent to March 31, 2013.
In addition, on June 13, 2013, we entered into a factoring and security agreement with a third-party that will enable us to sell the entire interest in certain accounts receivable up to $5.0 million. Under the agreement, 15% of the sales proceeds will be held back by the purchaser until collection of such receivables. Upon the sale of the receivable, we will not maintain servicing, but the purchaser may require us to repurchase accounts receivable if (i) the payment is disputed by the account debtor, with the purchaser being under no obligation to determine the bona fides of such dispute, (ii) the account debtor has become insolvent or (iii) upon the effective date of the termination of the agreement. The agreement is secured by all of our personal property and fixtures, and proceeds thereof, including accounts, inventory, equipment and general intangibles other than intellectual property, and the purchaser will retain its security interest in any accounts repurchased by us.
The following table sets forth a summary of our cash flows for the periods indicated:
FISCAL YEAR |
THREE MONTHS
ENDED MARCH 31, 2013 |
|||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||
Net cash used in operating activities |
$ | (22,425 | ) | $ | (12,425 | ) | $ | (7,675 | ) | |||
Net cash used in investing activities |
(757 | ) | (2,423 | ) | (432 | ) | ||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities |
30,973 | 12,776 | (108 | ) | ||||||||
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Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 7,791 | $ | (2,072 | ) | $ | (8,215 | ) | ||||
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Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net cash used in operating activities of $22.4 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 primarily resulted from our net loss of $38.8 million, which included non-cash charges of $12.5 million in connection with a change in fair value of financial instruments, $3.9 million in connection with the issuance of a convertible note, $1.2 million of interest expense, $0.7 million in share-based compensation and $0.6 million in depreciation and amortization. In addition, net cash used in operating activities resulted from net changes in operating assets and liabilities of $2.5 million, primarily due to increases in inventory of $1.6 million, $2.5 million in accounts receivable and $2.1 million in prepaid expenses and other assets, offset by increase of $1.2 million in deferred revenue and $2.6 million in accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other liabilities.
Net cash used in operating activities of $12.4 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2011 primarily resulted from our net loss of $13.2 million and increases in inventory of $1.7 million and net increases in prepaid expenses and other assets and other liabilities of $0.6 million. This was offset by $0.5 million in depreciation and amortization expense, $0.3 million in share-based compensation expense, an increase of $0.8 million in deferred revenue, an increase of $0.7 million in accrued liabilities, an increase of $0.4 million in accounts payable and a decrease $0.4 million in accounts receivable.
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Net cash used in operating activities of $7.7 million during the three months ended March 31, 2013 primarily resulted from our net loss of $10.7 million and increases of $0.5 million in prepaid expenses and other assets, inventory of $0.5 million, a decrease in deferred revenues of $0.1 million and a decrease of $1.2 million in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. This was offset by $3.6 million in change in fair value of financial instruments, $1.5 million in non-cash interest expense, $0.2 million in share-based compensation expense, and $0.2 million in depreciation and amortization expense.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities was $0.8 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2012, consisting of approximately $2.8 million used for purchase of property, plant and equipment, primarily associated with a manufacturing plant and its subsequent improvement, offset by $2.0 million provided from the maturity of a short term investment.
Net cash used in investing activities was $2.4 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2011. Of these amounts, we used $0.4 million for the purchases of property and equipment to support growth in our operations. We used $2.0 million in cash for the purchase of short-term investments.
Net cash used by investing activities was $0.4 million during the three months ended March 31, 2013, and was comprised of the purchase of property and equipment to support growth in our operations.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities of $31.0 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 consisted primarily of $24.1 million from the issuance of convertible notes, $17.4 million from the issuance of debt, net of financial costs and $0.5 million in draws on our line of credit, partially offset by $9.1 million transferred from cash to restricted cash as part of our obligations under a debt agreement to repay a then-outstanding note payable and $1.9 million in payments on our line of credit, debt and capital lease obligations.
Net cash provided by financing activities of $12.8 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2011 consisted primarily of $13.2 million from the issuance of preferred stock and $0.5 million in draws on our line of credit, partially offset by $0.9 million in payments on our line of credit, debt and capital lease obligations.
Net cash used by financing activities of $0.1 million during the three months ended March 31, 2013 consisted primarily of $9.2 million in payments on our debt and capital lease obligations, $9.1 million of which was funded with restricted cash.
Contractual Obligations
The following is a summary of our contractual obligations as of March 31, 2013:
TOTAL | 2013 | 2014-2015 | 2016-2017 |
2018
AND BEYOND |
||||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Operating lease obligations |
$ | 947 | $ | 350 | $ | 554 | $ | 43 | $ | | ||||||||||
Debt and capital leases |
8,596 | 397 | 8,144 | 55 | | |||||||||||||||
Interest payments relating to debt and capital leases |
2,380 | 736 | 1,643 | 1 | | |||||||||||||||
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Total |
$ | 11,923 | $ | 1,483 | $ | 10,341 | $ | 99 | $ | | ||||||||||
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Operating leases consist of contractual obligations from agreements for non-cancelable office space and leases used to finance the acquisition of equipment. Debt and capital equipment leases and the interest payments relating thereto include promissory notes and capital lease obligations.
Since March 31, 2013, we have not added any leases that would qualify as operating leases, and there have been no material changes to our contractual obligations except the issuance of $10.2 million of additional debt in April and May 2013. See Description of Certain Indebtedness.
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Inflation
We believe that inflation has not had a material impact on our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2012 through 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have not been involved in any material off-balance sheet arrangements.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market (net of realizable value or replacement cost) and include the cost of material and external labor and manufacturing costs. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out basis. We provide for inventory reserves when conditions indicate that the selling price may be less than cost due to physical deterioration, obsolescence, changes in price levels, or other factors. Additionally, we provide reserves for excess and slow-moving inventory to its estimated net realizable value. The reserves are based upon estimates about future demand from our customers and distributors and market conditions.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair value is defined as an exit price that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. A three-tier fair value hierarchy has been established, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows: Level 1, observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, inputs other than the quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly; and Level 3, unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which requires that we develop our own assumptions. This hierarchy requires the use of observable data, when available, and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs when determining fair value.
We account for the outstanding warrants exercisable into shares of our Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock as liability instruments, as the Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock into which these warrants are convertible upon the occurrence of certain events or transactions. We also account for the outstanding warrants exercisable into a variable number of shares of common stock at a fixed monetary amount as liability instruments. Our convertible notes are recorded at estimated fair value on a recurring basis as the predominant settlement feature of the convertible notes is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares. We adjust the warrants and the convertible notes to estimated fair value at each reporting period with the change in estimated fair value recorded in the consolidated statements of operations.
For the year ended December 31, 2011, we estimated the fair value of our financial instruments, including our outstanding warrants, utilizing the option pricing method, which we refer to as the option method. The option method treats each class of equity securities as if it were an option to purchase common stock, with an exercise price based on the value of the enterprise and based further on the liquidation preference and rights of the relevant class of equity. While this method relies on certain key assumptions, it is best used when the range of possible future outcomes and the corresponding time frames are highly uncertain.
Starting with fiscal year 2012, due to our closing several debt financings and an initial public offering becoming more probable as we began investing significant time and resources into the initial public offering process, we changed our valuation methodology to estimate the fair value of our financial instruments, including our outstanding warrants and convertible notes, from the option method to the probability weighted expected return method, which we refer to as the expected return method. The expected return method analyzes the returns afforded to common equity holders under multiple possible future scenarios. Under the expected return method, share value is based upon the probability-weighted present value of expected future net cash flows (distributions to shareholders) under each of the possible scenarios, giving consideration to the rights and preferences of each share class. This method is most appropriate when the long-term outlook for an enterprise is largely known and multiple possible future scenarios can be reasonably estimated. As the expected return method estimates the fair value of our warrants and convertible notes using unobservable inputs, they are both considered to be Level 3 fair value measurements. Changes in the probability weights and discount rates used in the expected return method valuation model and the estimated time to a liquidity event may have a significant impact on the estimated fair value of the preferred and common stock warrant liabilities and the convertible notes.
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Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenues when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery and transfer of title has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured, unless contractual obligations, acceptance provisions or other contingencies exist. If such obligations or provisions exist, revenues is recognized after such obligations or provisions are fulfilled or expire.
Product revenues consist of revenues generated from sales to distributors and from sales of our products to direct customers, net of rebates and cash discounts. For sales of products made to distributors, we consider a number of factors in determining whether revenue is recognized upon transfer of title to the distributor, or when payment is received. These factors include, but are not limited to, whether the payment terms offered to the distributor are considered to be non-standard, the distributor history of adhering to the terms of its contractual arrangements with us, whether we have a pattern of granting concessions for the benefit of the distributor and whether there are other conditions that may indicate that the sale to the distributor is not substantive. We currently recognize revenues primarily on the sell-in method with our distributors. Distributors do not have price protection or return rights.
We offer certain product rebates, which are recorded as reductions to product revenues. An accrued liability for these product rebates is recorded at the time the revenues are recorded.
We recognize license revenues pursuant to strategic collaboration and distribution agreements under which we receive fees for the achievement of testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events. As these activities and payments are associated with exclusive rights that we provide in connection with strategic collaboration and distribution agreements over the term of the agreements, revenues related to the payments received are deferred and recognized as revenues over the term of the exclusive period of the respective agreement.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, we received payments under these agreements totaling $1.5 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, we received no payments under these agreements. For the year ended December 31, 2012 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, we recognized $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively, as license revenues in the consolidated statements of operations from these payments. At December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2013, we had recorded current deferred license revenues of $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively, and noncurrent deferred license revenues of $1.7 million and $1.6 million, respectively, related to payments received under these agreements.
Share-Based Compensation
We recognize share-based compensation expense for all stock options made to employees and directors based on estimated fair values.
We estimate the fair value of stock options on the date of grant using an option-pricing model. The value of the portion of the stock options that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods using the straight-line method. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.
The estimated fair value of options vested during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the three months ended March 31, 2013 was $0.5 million, $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively. The weighted-average estimated fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013 was $4.24, $0.78, and $7.88, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, we recorded share-based compensation expense of $0.7 million, $0.3 million, and $0.2 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2013, the total share-based compensation expense related to unvested stock options granted to employees under our share-based compensation plans but not yet recognized was $3.3 million. These costs will be amortized to expense on a straight-line basis over a weighted-average remaining term of 3.4 years. We expect that $0.8 million of these compensation costs will be amortized during the remaining nine months ending December 31, 2013.
For purposes of determining our historical share-based compensation expense, we used the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model to calculate the estimated fair value of stock options on the measurement date (generally, the grant date). This model requires inputs for the expected life of the stock option, estimated volatility factor, risk-free interest rate and expected dividend yield. Our estimates of forfeiture rates also affect the amount of aggregate
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compensation expense. These inputs are subjective and generally require significant judgment. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, we calculated the fair value of stock options granted using the following assumptions:
FISCAL YEAR |
THREE MONTHS
ENDED MARCH 31, 2013 |
|||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||
Expected life (years) |
5.00-6.08 | 5.00-6.28 | 7.71 | |||||||||
Estimated volatility factor |
.72-.76 | .70 | .75 | |||||||||
Risk-free interest rate |
0.74-1.16 | % | 0.86-2.40 | % | 1.42-1.43 | % | ||||||
Expected dividend yield |
0 | % | 0 | % | 0 | % |
Expected Life Our expected life represents the period that our share-based payment awards are expected to be outstanding. We use the simplified method in accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 107, Share-Based Payment, and SAB No. 110, Simplified Method for Plain Vanilla Share Options, to develop the expected term of an employee stock option. Under this approach, the expected term is presumed to be the midpoint between the vesting date and the contractual end of the option grant. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, stock options were granted with an exercise price not equal to the determined fair market value. For these options, we estimated the expected life based on historical data and managements expectations about exercises and post-vesting termination behavior.
Estimated Volatility Factor We use the calculated volatility based upon the trading history and calculated volatility of the common stock of comparable but publicly traded agricultural biotechnology companies in determining an estimated volatility factor.
Risk-Free Interest Rate We base the risk-free interest rate on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury constant-maturity securities with the same or substantially equivalent remaining term.
Expected Dividend Yield We have not declared dividends nor do we expect to in the foreseeable future. Therefore, a zero value was assumed for the expected dividend yield.
Estimated Forfeitures When estimating forfeitures, we consider voluntary and involuntary termination behavior and actual option forfeitures.
If in the future we determine that other methods are more reasonable, or other methods for calculating these assumptions are prescribed by authoritative guidance, the fair value calculated for our stock options could change significantly. Higher volatility and longer expected lives result in an increase to share-based compensation expense determined at the grant date. Share-based compensation expense affects our research and development expense and selling, general and administrative expense.
The Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferrable, characteristics not present in our stock options. Existing valuation models, including the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model, may not provide reliable measures of the fair values of our stock options. Consequently, there is a risk that our estimates of the fair values of our stock options on the grant dates may bear little resemblance to the actual values realized upon exercise. Stock options may expire or otherwise result in zero intrinsic value as compared to the fair values originally estimated on the grant date and reported in our consolidated financial statements. Alternatively, value may be realized from these instruments is significantly higher than the fair values originally estimated on the grant date and reported in our consolidated financial statements.
Income Taxes
We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to the differences between the financial statement
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carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. To the extent deferred tax assets cannot be recognized under the preceding criteria, we establish valuation allowances as necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and March 31, 2013, all deferred tax assets were fully offset by a valuation allowance. Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon future federal, state and foreign taxable income. Our judgments regarding deferred tax assets may change as we expand into international jurisdictions, due to future market conditions, changes in U.S. or international tax laws and other factors. These changes, if any, may require possible material adjustments to these deferred tax assets, resulting in a reduction in net income or an increase in net loss in the period when such determinations are made.
We recognize liabilities for uncertain tax positions based upon a two-step process. To the extent a tax position does not meet a more-likely-than-not level of certainty, no benefit is recognized in the consolidated financial statements. If a position meets the more-likely-than-not level of certainty, it is recognized in the consolidated financial statements at the largest amount that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Our policy is to analyze our tax positions taken with respect to all applicable income tax issues for all open tax years (in each respective jurisdiction). As of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and March 31, 2013, we have concluded that no uncertain tax positions were required to be recognized in our consolidated financial statements. It is our practice to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. No amounts were recognized for interest and penalties during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013.
Significant Factors, Assumptions and Methodologies Used in Determining the Fair Market Value of our Common Stock
Given the absence of a public market for our common stock, the fair values of our common stock underlying stock option grants were estimated by our board of directors, which intended all stock options granted to be exercisable at a price per share not less than the per share fair market value of our common stock underlying those options on the date of grant. Our board of directors estimated the fair value of our common stock utilizing methodologies, approaches and assumptions consistent with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Practice Aid, Valuation of Privately-Held-Company Equity Securities Issued as Compensation , or the AICPA Practice Aid, based upon several factors, including its consideration of input from management and, beginning in May 2011, reports of a third-party valuation firm, along with other relevant objective and subjective factors it deemed important in each valuation, exercising significant judgment and reflecting the board of directors best estimates at the time of each grant. These factors included:
n |
the nature and history of our business; |
n |
EPA approvals and introductions of new products; |
n |
our operating and financial performance; |
n |
general economic conditions and the specific outlook for our industry; |
n |
the lack of liquidity and marketability for our common stock; |
n |
the market price of companies engaged in the same or similar businesses with equity securities that are publicly traded; |
n |
the differences between the terms of our preferred and common stock related to liquidation preferences, conversion rights, dividend rights, voting rights and other features; and |
n |
the likelihood of achieving, and timing and pricing with respect to, various exit scenarios, including an initial public offering and sale liquidity events. |
In these valuations, our aggregate equity value was estimated first and then allocated to our outstanding classes of equity securities. Aggregate equity value was estimated using a combination of the income approach, which incorporated a discounted cash flow valuation, and the market approach. Until March 2012, the option method was used to allocate our aggregate equity value to the underlying classes of equity securities for all valuations, as discrete exit scenarios were unknown at the time of valuation. An allocation utilizing the option method was performed because the preferred stockholders are entitled to certain rights and preferences over common stockholders, which resulted in a greater percentage of the aggregate equity value being allocated to the preferred stockholders than common stockholders. In early 2012, we began to significantly increase efforts in preparation for a potential initial
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public offering. Accordingly, beginning with our March 2012 common stock valuation, we have used an expected return method to allocate our aggregate equity value to the underlying classes of equity securities.
The table below sets forth information regarding stock option grants between January 1, 2012 and the date of this prospectus:
GRANTS BY MONTH |
NUMBER OF
SHARES |
EXERCISE
PRICE ($) |
ESTIMATED
FAIR VALUE OF COMMON STOCK ($) |
|||||||||
January 2012 |
23,897 | 1.41 | 1.41 | |||||||||
February 2012 |
222,428 | 3.11 | 2.98 | |||||||||
April 2012 |
43,333 | 6.28 | 6.28 | |||||||||
May 2012 |
36,642 | 6.28 | 6.28 | |||||||||
June 2012 |
52,892 | 6.28 | 6.28 | |||||||||
July 2012 |
33,456 | 6.28 | 6.28 | |||||||||
August 2012 |
25,172 | 6.28 | 6.28 | |||||||||
September 2012 |
132,868 | 6.28 | 6.28 | |||||||||
October 2012 |
267,249 | 12.08 | 12.08 | |||||||||
November 2012 |
22,941 | 12.08 | 12.08 | |||||||||
December 2012 |
40,784 | 12.08 | 12.08 | |||||||||
January 2013 |
19,755 | 13.34 | 13.34 | |||||||||
February 2013 |
15,294 | 10.58 | 10.58 | |||||||||
March 2013 |
14,020 | 10.58 | 10.58 |
The table below sets forth the estimated fair value of our common stock at each valuation date since December 31, 2011:
DATE |
ESTIMATED
FAIR VALUE OF COMMON STOCK($) |
|||
December 31, 2011 |
1.41 | |||
March 16, 2012 |
2.98 | |||
July 2, 2012 |
5.37 | |||
September 30, 2012 |
7.94 | |||
December 31, 2012 |
10.58 | |||
March 31, 2013 |
11.80 |
Valuation as of December 31, 2011
We obtained the assistance of a third-party valuation firm in estimating the fair market value of $1.41 per share of our common stock as of December 31, 2011 using an option method. We first estimated our aggregate equity value of $55 million, based on equal weightings of valuations derived from a comparable public company analysis and a discounted cash flow analysis. We then allocated the aggregate equity value to the underlying classes of equity using the option method, estimating a time until liquidity event of one year, a risk-free rate of 0.1% and a volatility input of 55%, applying a 20% adjustment for the lack of marketability of our common stock. The increase in our valuation was due to increased long-term revenues and cash flow projections, as compared to our prior forecasts, as a result of execution of exclusive distribution agreements in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011 and an increase in revenues from the sale of our Regalia products.
Valuation as of March 16, 2012
We obtained the assistance of a third-party valuation firm in estimating the fair market value of $2.98 per share of our common stock as of March 16, 2012 using a probability-weighted expected return method, under which we estimated
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the probability of six future scenarios for our business. We utilized the expected return method to estimate the fair value of our common stock as of March 16, 2012 instead of the option method because we believe the probability-weighted expected return method is more appropriate when discrete future scenarios become more certain. The scenarios that we used in the expect return method, and the associated probabilities, consisted of the following: executing an initial public offering prior to December 31, 2012 at a high and a lower valuation (2% and 5% probabilities, respectively), executing an initial public offering prior to December 31, 2013 (30% probability), high and low valuation merger scenarios (35% and 23% probabilities, respectively) and a dissolution scenario (5% probability). The results from the probability-weighted expected return method were then discounted by a 20% marketability discount to determine the fair value of our common stock. The increase in the fair value of our common stock from December 31, 2011 was attributable to a number of factors. During the period from January 1, 2012 through March 16, 2012, an initial public offering scenario became more probable as we began investing significant time and resources into the initial public offering process. In addition, we achieved significant business milestones, including EPA approval of our new formulation of Zequanox, we closed on a substantial portion of our $8.1 million convertible note financing, putting us in an improved capital position, and our board considered the fact that we were proceeding in negotiations with other investors for additional financings, which would support our longer term capital requirements.
In April, May and June 2012, our board of directors determined the fair value of our common stock with input from management and based on prior third-party valuations up to and including the March 16, 2012 valuation. Based on factors following the date of this valuation, including increased sales, the closing of our $10.0 million promissory note financing and the remainder of our $8.1 million convertible note financing, our anticipation that the EPA would approve a new label for Grandevo (subsequently approved in May 2012), and the commencement of marketing Zequanox, our board of directors determined that our fair value had increased compared to March 16, 2012, and granted options in April, May and June 2012 at an exercise price of $6.28 per share.
Valuation as of July 2, 2012
We obtained the assistance of a third-party valuation firm in estimating the fair value of $5.37 per share of our common stock as of July 2, 2012 using an expected return method, under which we estimated the probability of six future scenarios for our business. The scenarios that we used in the expected return method, and the associated probabilities, consisted of the following: executing an initial public offering in 2012, in early 2013 and in the middle of 2013 (2%, 30% and 20% probabilities, respectively), high and low valuation merger scenarios (20% and 23% probabilities, respectively) and a sale of intellectual property scenario (5% probability). The results from the expected return method were then discounted by a 20% marketability discount to determine the fair value of our common stock. The increase in the third-party valuation of our common stock from March 16, 2012 was attributable to a number of factors. During the period from March 16, 2012 through July 2, 2012, an initial public offering scenario became more probable as we confidentially submitted a draft registration statement to the Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, we achieved significant business milestones, including receiving the EPA approvals discussed above, the closings of debt financings discussed above, and negotiations with other investors for additional financings, which would support our longer term capital requirements, and progress in negotiations regarding the acquisition of a manufacturing facility.
Although the estimated fair value of our common stock under this expected return scenario was determined as of July 2, 2012 to be $5.37, the report was not available at the time of our July and August 2012 grant dates. Our board of directors therefore decided, based on the March 16, 2012 third-party valuation, the factors discussed above and additional input from management regarding the impact of the closing of the acquisition of our manufacturing facility and commencement of commercial sales of Grandevo to issue options in July and August 2012 with an exercise price of $6.28 per share. In addition, based on these factors, and the July 2, 2012 third-party valuation, our board of directors granted options in September 2012 at an exercise price of $6.28 per share.
Valuation as of September 30, 2012
We obtained the assistance of a third-party valuation firm in estimating the fair value of $7.94 per share of our common stock as of September 30, 2012 using an expected return method, under which we estimated the probability of six future scenarios for our business. The scenarios that we used in the expected return method, and the associated probabilities, consisted of the following: executing an initial public offering in 2012, in the latter half of 2013 and in the early in 2014 (2%, 20% and 30% probabilities, respectively), high and low valuation merger scenarios (30% and 15% probabilities, respectively) and a sale of intellectual property scenario (3% probability).
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The results from the expected return method were then discounted by a 20% marketability discount to determine the fair value of our common stock. The increase in the third-party valuation of our common stock from July 2, 2012 was attributable to a number of factors. During the period from July 2, 2012 through September 30, 2012, we achieved significant business milestones, including the closing of the acquisition of our manufacturing facility and the commencement of commercial sales of Grandevo, as discussed above, as well as the negotiation of term sheets for various debt financings to support our longer term capital requirements and the submission of a first amended confidential draft registration statement to the Securities and Exchange Commission.
In October, November and December 2012, our board of directors determined the fair value of our common stock with input from management and based on prior third-party valuations up to and including the September 30, 2012 valuation. Based on factors following the date of this valuation, including the closing of $3.5 million of convertible notes and $7.5 million of promissory notes during October 2012 and the negotiation of term sheets for an additional $12.5 million in financing, our board of directors determined that our fair value had increased compared to September 30, 2012, and granted options in October, November and December 2012 at an exercise price of $12.08 per share.
Valuation as of December 31, 2012
We obtained the assistance of a third-party valuation firm in estimating the fair value of $10.58 per share of our common stock as of December 31, 2012 using an expected return method, under which we estimated the probability of six future scenarios for our business. The scenarios that we used in the expected return method, and the associated probabilities, consisted of the following: executing an initial public offering in the first half of 2013, in the latter half of 2013 and in the early in 2014 (2%, 20% and 30% probabilities, respectively), high and low valuation merger scenarios (30% and 15% probabilities, respectively) and a sale of intellectual property scenario (3% probability). The results from the expected return method were then discounted by an 18% marketability discount to determine the fair value of our common stock. The increase in the third-party valuation of our common stock from September 30, 2012 was attributable to a number of factors. During the period from September 30, 2012 through December 31, 2012, we achieved significant business milestones, including the closing of $23.5 million of debt financing to support our longer term capital requirements as discussed above, as well as above-plan sales during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 and the submission of a second amended confidential draft registration statement to the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Although the estimated fair value of our common stock under this expected return scenario was determined as of December 31, 2012 to be $10.58, the report was not available at the time of our January 2013 grant dates. Our board of directors therefore decided, based on the September 30, 2012 third-party valuation and additional input from management regarding the business milestones achieved subsequent to September 30, 2012, discussed above to issue options in January 2013 with an exercise price of $13.34 per share. In addition, based on these factors but also including their review of the December 31, 2012 third party valuation, our board of directors granted options in February and March 2013 at an exercise price of $10.58 per share.
Valuation as of March 31, 2012
We obtained the assistance of a third-party valuation firm in estimating the fair value of $10.58 per share of our common stock as of March 31, 2013 using an expected return method, under which we estimated the probability of six future scenarios for our business. The scenarios that we used in the expected return method, and the associated probabilities, consisted of the following: executing an initial public offering in the first half of 2013, in the latter half of 2013 and in the early in 2014 (30%, 20% and 30% probabilities, respectively), high and low valuation merger scenarios (2% and 15% probabilities, respectively) and a sale of intellectual property scenario (3% probability). The results from the expected return method were then discounted by 18% marketability discount to determine the fair value of our common stock.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We currently have minimal exposure to the effect of interest rate changes, foreign currency fluctuations and changes in commodity prices. We are exposed to changes in the general economic conditions in the countries where we conduct business, which currently is substantially all in the United States. Our current investment strategy is to invest in financial instruments that are highly liquid, readily convertible into cash and which mature within three months from the date of purchase. To date, we have not used derivative financial instruments to manage any of our market risks or entered into transactions using derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
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We do not believe our cash equivalents have significant risk of default or illiquidity. While we believe our cash equivalents do not contain excessive risk, we cannot provide absolute assurance that in the future our investments will not be subject to adverse changes in market value.
Interest Rate Risk
We had cash and cash equivalents of $10.0 million at December 31, 2012, which was held for working capital purposes. We do not enter into investments for trading or speculative purposes. We do not have any variable debt and a 10% change in market interest rates will not have a significant impact on our future interest expense.
Foreign Currency Risk
Revenue and expenses have been primarily denominated in U.S. dollars and foreign currency fluctuations have not had a significant impact on our historical results of operations. In addition, our strategic collaboration and distribution agreements for current products provide for payments in U.S. dollars. As we market new products internationally, our product revenues and expenses may be in currencies other than U.S. dollars, and accordingly, foreign currency fluctuations may have a greater impact on our financial position and operating results.
Commodity Risk
Our exposure to market risk for changes in commodity prices currently is minimal. As our commercial operations grow, our exposure will relate mostly to the demand side as our end users are exposed to fluctuations in prices of agricultural commodities.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued additional guidance on fair value disclosures. This guidance contains certain updates to the measurement guidance as well as enhanced disclosure requirements. The most significant change in disclosures is an expansion of the information required for Level 3 measurements including enhanced disclosure for: (1) the valuation processes used by the reporting entity; and (2) the sensitivity of the fair value measurement to changes in unobservable inputs and the interrelationships between those unobservable inputs, if any. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2011, with early adoption prohibited. We adopted this guidance for fiscal year 2012 and have enhanced our fair value disclosures in Note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements.
In September 2011, the FASB issued guidance on the presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance eliminates the current option to report other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of changes in equity. The guidance allows two presentation alternatives: (1) present items of net income and other comprehensive income in one continuous statement, referred to as the statement of comprehensive income; or (2) in two separate, but consecutive, statements of net income and other comprehensive income. This guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011 and interim periods within that year. Early adoption is permitted, but full retrospective application is required under both sets of accounting standards. The guidance also previously required the presentation of adjustments for items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income in the statement where the components of net income and the components of other comprehensive income are presented; however, this portion of the guidance has been deferred. We adopted this guidance for fiscal year 2012 and have presented the net income and other comprehensive income in two separate consecutive statements.
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We make bio-based pest management and plant health products. Bio-based products are comprised of naturally occurring microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, and plant extracts. We target the major markets that use conventional chemical pesticides, including certain agricultural and water markets, where our bio-based products are used as substitutes for, or in conjunction with, conventional chemical pesticides. We also target new markets for which there are no available conventional chemical pesticides, the use of conventional chemical products may not be desirable or permissible because of health and environmental concerns or the development of pest resistance has reduced the efficacy of conventional chemical pesticides. All of our current products are EPA-approved and registered as biopesticides. We believe our current portfolio of products and our pipeline address the growing global demand for effective, efficient and environmentally responsible products.
Our products currently target two core end markets: crop protection and water treatment. Crop protection products consist of herbicides (for weed control), fungicides (for plant disease control), nematicides (for parasitic roundworm control), insecticides (for insect and mite killers) and plant growth regulators that growers use to increase crop yields, improve plant health, manage pest resistance and reduce chemical residues. Our products can be used in both conventional and organic crop production. We currently sell our crop protection product lines, Regalia, for plant disease control and plant health, and Grandevo, for insect and mite control, to growers of specialty crops such as grapes, citrus, tomatoes, vegetables, nuts, leafy greens and ornamental plants. We have also initiated targeted sales of Regalia for large-acre row crops such as corn, cotton and soybeans. Water treatment products target invasive water pests across a broad range of applications, including hydroelectric and thermoelectric power generation, industrial applications, drinking water, aquaculture, irrigation and recreation. Our current water treatment product line, Zequanox, which we began selling in the second half of 2012, selectively kills invasive mussels that cause significant infrastructure and ecological damage.
In addition to our current two core end markets, we are also taking steps through strategic collaborations to commercialize products for other non-crop pest management markets. These products will be different formulations of our crop protection products that are specifically targeted for industrial and institutional, turf and ornamental, home and garden and animal health uses such as controlling grubs, cockroaches, flies and mosquitoes in and around schools, parks, golf courses and other public-use areas.
The agricultural industry is increasingly dependent on effective and sustainable pest management practices to maximize yields and quality in a world of increased demand for agricultural products, rising consumer awareness of food production processes and finite land and water resources. We believe that our competitive strengths, including our commercially available products, robust pipeline of novel product candidates, proprietary technology and product development process, commercial relationships and industry experience, position us for rapid growth by providing solutions for these global trends.
Industry Overview
Pest management is an important global industry. Most of the markets we currently target or plan to target primarily rely on conventional chemical pesticides, supplemented in certain agricultural markets by the use of genetically modified crops. Conventional chemical pesticides are generally synthetic materials that directly kill or inactivate pests. Agranova estimated that global agrichemical sales for the crop protection market were $50.0 billion in 2012, which represented an increase of 8.2% from 2011. The market for treatment of fruits and vegetables, the largest current users of bio-based pest management and plant health products, accounted for $16.2 billion of this total. Other agricultural applications, notably crops such as corn, soybeans, rice, cotton and cereals, which we expect will become increasingly important users of bio-based products, accounted for $24.7 billion of the total. In addition, Agrow estimated that the global non-crop market for pesticides was $21.0 billion in 2009.
Demand for effective and environmentally responsible bio-based products for crop protection and water treatment continues to increase. The global market for biopesticides, which control pests by non-toxic mechanisms such as attracting pests to traps or interfering with their ability to digest food, was valued at $1.6 billion for 2009 and is expected to reach $3.3 billion by 2014, with a 15.6% compound annual growth projected during that period, according to BCC Research, an independent market research firm. In comparison, global agrichemical sales were valued at $42.5 billion for 2010, with a 5.5% compound annual growth projected during the period from 2011
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through 2016, according to AgroPages, an independent market research firm. We believe these trends will continue as the benefits of using bio-based pest management and plant health products become more widely known.
Crop Protection
Conventional Production . Growers are constantly challenged to supply the escalating global demand for food, while reducing the negative impact of crop protection practices on consumers, farm workers and the environment. The dominant technologies for crop protection are conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops. Major agrichemical companies have invested billions of dollars to develop genetically modified crops that resist pests or have high tolerance to conventional chemical pesticides. The market for genetically modified crops was estimated at $12 billion in 2011 and is predicted to grow 5% annually through 2015, according to Phillips McDougall, an independent advisory firm. In addition, according to the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications, a third-party not-for-profit organization, in 2012, 170 million hectares (420 million acres) were planted with genetically modified crops. Soybean, corn and cotton plantings have made the greatest inroads, accounting for 47%, 32% and 15% respectively of genetically modified seeds planted globally, respectively.
Conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops have historically been effective in controlling pests. However, there are increasing challenges facing the use of conventional chemical pesticides such as pest resistance and environmental, consumer and worker safety concerns. Governmental agencies are further pressuring growers by restricting or banning certain forms of conventional chemical pesticide usage, particularly in the European Union, as some conventional chemical pesticide products are being phased out. At the same time, a number of supermarket chains and food processors, key purchasers of specialty fruits, nuts and vegetables, are imposing synthetic chemical residue restrictions, limiting options available to growers close to harvest. Consumers, scientists and environmental groups have also voiced concerns about the unintended effects of genetically modified crops, including pest resistance and contamination of non-genetically modified crops. In response to consumer and environmental group concerns and restrictions by importing countries, several large-scale food purchasers have demanded that their contracted growers supply them only non-genetically modified crops.
These factors are significant market drivers for conventional producers, and their impact is continuing to grow. An increasing number of growers are implementing integrated pest management (IPM) programs that, among other things, combine bio-based pest management products and crop cultivating practices and techniques such as crop rotation, with conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops. Bio-based pest management products are becoming a larger component of IPM programs due in part to the challenges associated with conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops.
Organic Production. Certified organic crops such as food, cotton and ornamental plants, are produced without the use of synthetic chemicals, genetic modification or any other bioengineering or adulteration. As such, organic growers are limited in the number of alternatives for pest management. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, or the USDA, approved national production and labeling standards for organic food marketed in the United States in late 2000. These standards have contributed to the growth of organic food consumption in the United States, and other countries have implemented similar programs. The global market for organic food and beverages is projected to grow to $105 billion by 2015, a 67% increase from 2011, according to the United Nations Environment Program. We believe this growth is primarily driven by concerns about food safety and the adverse environmental effects of conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops. Large food processors and agricultural businesses such as Dole, General Mills, Gerber, H.J. Heinz and Kellogg have developed products aimed at organic food consumers. Major supermarket chains in the United States such as Krogers, Safeway and Wal-Mart and in Europe such as Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury and Tesco offer a wide selection of organic food products.
Water Treatment
Global demand for water treatment products was estimated to be $48 billion in 2012, according to Freedonia, and the global market for specialty biocide chemicals for water treatment is projected to be $5.2 billion in 2013, according to BCC Research, an independent market research firm. Invasive and native pest species are increasingly a concern in diverse applications such as hydroelectric and thermoelectric power generation, industrial applications, drinking water, aquaculture, irrigation and recreation. However, discharge of water treatment chemicals to target these pests is highly regulated, and in many cases, such as with management of open waters and sensitive environmental habitats, use of conventional chemicals is prohibited.
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One particular area of concern has been the damage caused by invasive zebra and quagga mussels, which clog pipes, disrupt ecosystems, encrust infrastructure and blanket beaches with razor-sharp shells. These species initially infested the Great Lakes region and spread across the United States. Industry reports estimate that these mussels cause approximately $1 billion in damage and associated control costs annually in parts of the United States alone. There are limited treatment options available, many of which are toxic to aquatic flora and fauna. To date, most treatment options have been focused either on manual removal of the mussels, which is time consuming and costly, or conventional chemical treatments, which potentially jeopardize the environment and are thus controlled tightly by regulatory agencies.
The water treatment market also includes products to control algae, aquatic weeds and unwanted microorganisms. For example, one of the most effective and popular methods for controlling algae and unwanted microorganisms is chlorination. One of the major concerns in using chlorination in surface water supplies is that chlorine combines with various organic compounds to form by-products, some of which are considered possible carcinogens.
Other Target Markets
Although conventional chemical pesticides have traditionally serviced the industrial and institutional, professional turf and ornamental, home and garden and animal health markets, governmental regulations are restricting their use, and reports indicate that end users increasingly value environmentally friendly products; with some households willing to forego pest control treatments entirely if alternatives to conventional chemical pesticides are not available.
Industrial and Institutional . Significant amounts are spent annually worldwide on conventional chemical pesticide products to control pests such as cockroaches, flies and mosquitoes in the institutional market, including in and around schools, parks, golf courses and other public-use areas.
Professional Turf and Ornamental. Manufacturer sales of pesticides for use on turf and ornamental plants in the United States rose by 4.9% to $737 million in 2012, continuing a 3.1% sales growth trend for 2011, according to Specialty Products Consultants. Insecticides and pre-emergence herbicides were the fastest growing product category within this market. Historically, nearly half of sales for this market have been fungicides, herbicides, insecticides and plant growth regulators for use in golf courses.
Home and Garden . U.S. demand for home and garden pesticides is projected to be $1.7 billion in 2013, according to The Freedonia Group. The number of U.S. households that use only all-natural or organic fertilizer, insect controls and weed controls increased from an estimated 5 million households in 2004 to 12 million in 2008, according to the National Gardening Association. We believe this trend reflects the increasing importance people attribute today to maintaining lawns and gardens in an environmentally friendly way.
Animal Health . Homes with pets and producers of livestock such as cattle, swine and poultry use pest management products to control fleas, ticks and other pests and parasites.
Benefits of Bio-Based Pest Management
While conventional chemical pesticides are often effective in controlling pests, some of these chemicals are acutely toxic, some are suspected carcinogens and some can have other harmful effects on the environment and other animals. Health and environmental concerns have prompted stricter legislation around the use of conventional chemical pesticides, particularly in Europe, where the use of some highly toxic or endocrine-disrupting chemical pesticides is banned or severely limited and the importation of produce is subject to strict regulatory standards on pesticide residues. In addition, the European Union has passed the Sustainable Use Directive, which requires EU-member countries to reduce the use of conventional chemical pesticides and to use alternative pest management methods, including bio-based pest management products. Over the past two decades, U.S. regulatory agencies have also developed stricter standards and regulations. Furthermore, a growing shift in consumer preference towards organic and sustainable food production has led many large, global food retailers to require their supply chains to implement these practices, including the use of bio-based pest management and fertilizer solutions, water and energy efficiency practices, and localized food product sourcing. For example, in 2010, Wal-Mart announced its global sustainable agriculture goals to require sustainable best practices throughout its global food supply chain.
Aside from the health and environmental concerns, conventional chemical pesticide users face additional challenges such as pest resistance and reduced worker productivity, as workers may not return to the fields for a certain period
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of time after treatment. Similar risks and hazards are also prevalent in the water treatment market, as chlorine and other chemicals used to control invasive water pests contaminate and endanger natural waterways. Costs of using conventional chemical pesticides are also increasing due to a number of factors, including raw materials costs such as rising costs of petroleum, stringent regulatory requirements and pest resistance to conventional chemical pesticides, which requires increasing application rates or the use of more expensive substitute products.
As the cost of conventional chemical pesticides increases and the use of conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops meets increased opposition from government agencies and consumers, and the efficacy of bio-based pest management products becomes more widely recognized among growers, bio-based pest management products are gaining popularity and represent a strong growth sector within the market for pest management technologies. Growers are increasingly incorporating bio-based pest management products into IPM programs, and bio-based pest management products help create the type of sustainable agriculture programs that growers and food companies increasingly emphasize.
Bio-based pest management products include biopesticides, as well as minerals such as copper and sulfur. The EPA registers biopesticides in two major categories: (1) microbial pesticides, which contain a microorganism such as a bacterium or fungus as the active ingredient; and (2) biochemical pesticides, which are naturally occurring substances such as insect sex pheromones, certain plant extracts and fatty acids.
We believe many bio-based pest management products perform as well as or better than conventional chemical pesticides. When used in alternation or in spray tank mixtures with conventional chemical pesticides, bio-based pest management products can increase crop yields and quality over chemical-only programs. Agricultural industry reports, as well as our own research, indicate that bio-based pest management products can affect plant physiology and morphology in ways that may improve crop yield and can increase the efficacy of conventional chemical pesticides. In addition, pests rarely develop resistance to bio-based pest management products due to their complex modes of action. Likewise, bio-based pest management products have been shown to extend the product life of conventional chemical pesticides and limit the development of pest resistance, a key issue facing users of conventional chemical pesticides, by eliminating pests that survive conventional chemical pesticide treatments. Most bio-based pest management products are listed for use in organic farming, providing those growers with compelling pest control options to protect yields and quality. Given their generally lower toxicity compared with many conventional chemical pesticides, bio-based pest management products can add flexibility to harvest timing and worker re-entry times and can improve worker safety. Many bio-based pest management products are also exempt from conventional chemical residue tolerances, which are permissible levels of chemical residue at time of harvest set by governmental agencies. Bio-based pest management products may not be subject to restrictions by food retailers and governmental agencies limiting chemical residues on produce, which enables growers to export to wider markets.
In addition to performance attributes, bio-based pest management products registered with the EPA as biopesticides can offer other advantages over conventional chemical pesticides. From an environmental perspective, biopesticides have low toxicity, posing low risk to most non-target organisms, including humans, other mammals, birds, fish and beneficial insects. Biopesticides are biodegradable, resulting in less risk to surface water and groundwater and generally have low air-polluting volatile organic compounds content. Because biopesticides tend to pose fewer risks than conventional pesticides, the EPA offers a more streamlined registration process for these products, which generally requires significantly less toxicological and environmental data and a lower registration fee. As a result, both the time and money required to bring a new product to market are reduced.
Our Solution
Our technology platform produces bio-based pest management and plant health products that are highly effective and generally designed to be compatible with existing pest control equipment and infrastructure. This allows them to be used as substitutes for, or in conjunction with, conventional chemical pesticides, as well as in markets for which there are no available conventional chemical pesticides or the use of conventional chemical products may not be desirable or permissible because of health and environmental concerns. We believe that compared with conventional chemical pesticides, our products:
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Are competitive in both price and efficacy; |
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Provide viable alternatives where conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops are subject to regulatory restrictions; |
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Comply with market-imposed requirements for pest management programs by food processors and retailers; |
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Are environmentally friendly; |
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Meet stringent organic farming requirements; |
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Improve worker productivity by shortening field re-entry times after spraying and allowing spraying up to the time of harvest; |
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Are exempt from residue restrictions applicable to conventional chemical pesticides in both the agriculture and water markets; and |
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Are less likely to result in the development of pest resistance. |
In addition, our experience has shown that when our products are used in conjunction with conventional chemical pesticides, they can:
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Increase the effectiveness of conventional chemical pesticides while reducing their required application levels; |
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Increase levels of pest control and consistency of control; |
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Increase crop yields; |
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Increase crop quality, including producing crops with higher levels of protein, better taste and color and more attractive flowers; and |
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Delay the development of pest resistance to conventional chemical pesticides. |
We believe that the benefits of our products will encourage sustained adoption by end users. For example, we have seen that growers that have used our products on a trial basis in one year have generally continued to use our products in higher levels in subsequent years.
Our Competitive Strengths
Commercially Available Products. We have three commercially available product lines, Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox. We believe these product lines provide us the foundation for continuing to build one of the leading portfolios of bio-based pest management products. In conjunction with our progress in solving the issues facing growers of conventional and organic crops, our products aimed at solving pest issues for water treatment provide us with access to several distinct multibillion dollar markets subject to different market forces, diversifying our revenues portfolio.
Robust Pipeline of Novel Product Candidates. Our pipeline of early-stage discoveries and new product candidates extends across a variety of product types for different end markets, including herbicides, fungicides, nematicides, insecticides, algaecides (for algae control), molluscicides (for mussel and snail control) and plant growth regulators. Our product candidates are both developed internally and sourced from third parties. Our research and development process enables us to discover, source and develop multiple products in parallel, which keeps our pipeline robust. For example, we received EPA approval for Opportune, an herbicidal biopesticide, or bioherbicide, in April 2012. Venerate, an insecticidal biopesticide, or bioinsecticide, and MBI-011, a weed-controlling bioherbicide, have been submitted for EPA registration. These products are still undergoing commercialization, and we have additional product candidates at various other stages of development. In addition, while we expect individual product sales to remain seasonal and impacted by weather as a result of certain of our products being targeted to specific pests and geographic areas, as we develop and commercialize additional product candidates we believe these effects will have a reduced impact on our overall operating results. For example, during periods of hot, dry weather, sales of biofungicides such as Regalia, may decline, but we expect that our revenues may be offset by increased sales of bioinsecticides such as Grandevo.
Rapid and Efficient Development Process. We believe we can develop and commercialize novel and effective products faster and at a lower cost than many other developers of pest management products. For example, we have moved each of Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox through development, EPA approval and U.S. market launch in approximately four years at a cost of $6 million or less. In comparison, a report from Phillips McDougall shows that
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the average cost for major agrichemical companies to bring a new crop protection product to market is over $250 million, and these products have historically taken an average of nearly ten years to move through development, regulatory approval and market launch.
Proprietary Discovery Process . Our discovery process allows us to efficiently discover microorganisms and plant extracts that produce or contain compounds that display a high level of pesticidal activity against various pests. We then use various analytical chemistry techniques to identify and characterize the natural product chemistry of the compounds, which we optimize and patent. Our research has shown that on average, major agrichemical companies synthesize approximately 108 thousand chemicals to yield each candidate for crop protection product development. In contrast, with 25 candidates identified for product development, we have identified more than one potential bio-based pest management product for every thousand microorganisms or plant extracts in our database. Five of our product candidates, one of which is EPA-approved and one of which has been submitted to the EPA, are what we believe to be newly identified microorganism species. We believe that three of our product candidates produce novel compounds that we identified, and four of our product candidates have been found to have, or produce compounds with, a novel mode of action. Our proprietary discovery process is protected by patents on the microorganisms, their natural product compounds and their uses for pest management, as well as a patent application we have filed on a screening process to identify enzyme-inhibiting herbicides. We also maintain trade secrets related to the discovery, formulation, process development and manufacturing capabilities. By conducting our own discovery as well as working with outside collaborators, we are able to access the broadest range of products for commercialization, giving us an advantage over other natural bio-based pest management companies.
Sourcing and Commercialization Expertise. We use our technical and commercial development expertise to evaluate early-stage discoveries by third parties to determine commercial viability, secure promising technologies through in-licensing and add considerable value to these in-licensed product candidates. Our efficient development process and significant experience in applying natural product chemistry has led universities, corporations and government entities to collaborate with us to develop or commercialize a number of their early-stage discoveries. As with our internally discovered products, early-stage products we source and commercialize are subject to our own patents and trade secrets related to our added value in characterizing, formulating, developing and manufacturing marketable products. For example, we developed an analytical method to measure and characterize the major compounds in the extract we licensed to produce Regalia, and we enhanced these compounds several times in new formulations, providing Regalia with a broader spectrum of activity and better efficacy than the original licensed product.
Existing Agreements with Global Market Leaders. The markets for pest management products are intensely competitive. This has presented a significant challenge for biopesticide companies looking to enter these markets, which are typically dominated by major multinational agrichemical companies with significant resources, brand recognition and established customer bases. To help address this challenge, we have entered into strategic agreements with global market leaders across agricultural and consumer retail markets. For example, we have signed exclusive international distribution agreements for Regalia with Syngenta in Africa, Europe and the Middle East and with FMC in Latin America. We also have a technology evaluation and development agreement with Scotts Miracle-Gro, which grants it a right of first access to the active ingredients in our full portfolio of bio-based pest management and plant health products for use in its consumer lawn and garden products. We believe we will be able to further leverage these distribution channels to gain robust geographic market penetration, particularly in the highly competitive European and Latin American markets, with modest sales and marketing expenditures.
Management Team with Significant Industry Experience. Our management team has deep experience in bio-based pest management products and the broader agriculture industry. Our executive officers and key employees average 28 years of experience and include individuals who have led agrichemical sales and marketing organizations, top scientists and industry experts, some of whom have served in leadership roles at large multinational corporations and governmental agencies, commercialized multiple products, brought multiple products through EPA, state and foreign regulatory processes, filed and received patents, led groundbreaking research studies and published numerous scientific articles.
Our Growth Strategy
Continue to Develop and Commercialize New Products in Both Existing and New Markets. Our goal is to rapidly and efficiently develop, register and commercialize new products each year, with the goal of developing a full suite of pest management and plant health products. For example, while our current crop protection products address plant
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diseases and insects, we intend to provide products that can also control nematodes and weeds as well as products for improving fertilizer efficiency and reducing drought stress. We are also currently screening for water treatment products that control algae and aquatic weeds to complement Zequanox, our invasive mussel control product line.
Expand Applications of Our Existing Product Lines. Biopesticide products, including our bio-based pest management and plant health products, are generally initially approved for use in a limited number of applications. However, we have identified opportunities to broaden the commercial applications and expand the use of our existing products lines into several key end markets, including large-acre row crop applications, seed treatment, irrigation, aquaculture and animal health. We believe these opportunities could help to drive significant growth for our company.
Accelerate Adoption of New Products, Product Applications and Product Lines . Our goal is to provide growers with complete and effective solutions to a broad range of pest management needs that can be used individually, together and in conjunction with conventional chemical pesticides to maximize yield and quality. We believe we will be able to leverage relationships with existing distributors as well as growers positive experiences using our Regalia and Grandevo product lines to accelerate adoption of new products, product applications and product lines. We will also continue to target early adopters of new pest management technologies with controlled product launches and to educate growers and water resource managers about the benefits of bio-based pest management products through on-farm and in-facility demonstrations to accelerate commercial adoption of our products. We believe that these strategies and the strength of our products have led to an adoption rate for Grandevo for use in U.S. specialty crops that would outpace that of leading chemical insecticides.
Leverage Existing Distribution Arrangements and Develop New Relationships. To expand the availability of our products, we intend to continue to use relationships with conventional chemical pesticide distributors in the United States and leverage the international distribution capabilities under our existing strategic collaboration and distribution agreements. We intend to form new strategic relationships with other market-leading companies in our target markets and regions to expand the supply of our products globally. For example, we have engaged new distributors to launch Regalia in Canada for specialty crops, in the United States for turf and ornamental plants and in parts of the Midwest United States for row crops. We have also engaged a distributor to launch Grandevo in the United States for turf and ornamental plants.
Develop and Expand Manufacturing Capabilities. We currently use third-party manufacturers to produce our products on a commercial scale. To date, these arrangements have allowed us to focus our time and direct our capital towards discovering and commercializing new product candidates. We are repurposing a manufacturing facility that we purchased in July 2012 and plan to further expand capacity at this facility using a portion of the proceeds from this offering. We believe there are considerable advantages in having our own manufacturing capabilities such as allowing us to better manage scale-up processes and institute process changes more efficiently, protecting our intellectual property and helping to lower our manufacturing costs.
Pursue Strategic Collaborations and Acquisitions. We intend to continue collaborating with chemical manufacturers to develop products that combine our bio-based pest management products with their technologies, delivering more compelling product solutions to growers. We also may pursue acquisition and in-licensing opportunities to gain access to later-stage products and technologies that we believe would be a good strategic fit for our business and would create additional value for our stockholders.
Our Products
We produce both microorganism-based and plant extract-based products. Our technology platform enables us to develop bio-based pest management and plant health products that offer customers an attractive value proposition when compared against conventional chemical pesticide and genetically modified crop alternatives alone. We are focused on producing bio-based products that we sell into the crop protection, water treatment and other target markets. We believe that we should be able to continue to develop products in our product pipeline in a manner consistent with our historical experience. We have historically been able to move our products through development, EPA approval and U.S. market launch in four years or less and at a cost of under $6 million. We currently believe that we can obtain similar results for our other product candidates, such as Opportune, Venerate, MBI-011, MBI-010, MBI-302, MBI-303, MBI-601 and MBI 110, but we cannot assure you that this will be true for each product and that we will not encounter unexpected delays or cost overruns.
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Regalia
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Biofungicide |
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Crop Protection: Targets Plant Disease, Improves Plant Health |
n |
Commercially Available |
Regalia, a plant extract-based fungicidal biopesticide, or biofungicide, is EPA-registered for crop and non-crop uses and approved for use on foliage and roots in all states in the United States, including California and Florida, where the majority of the specialty crops are grown. It is also approved for sale in Ecuador (flowers), Mexico (vegetables and grapes), Turkey (covered vegetables) and Canada (tomatoes, grapes, strawberries, cucurbits, ornamental plants and wheat) and Panama (cane, tobacco, rice, coffee, avocado, dried beans, cucurbits, citrus and papaya). University researchers have extensively tested the product against several important plant diseases, especially against mildews. We have also conducted hundreds of trials in the United States and abroad, including four years of crop trials in Europe. The data show that Regalia is an effective addition to a disease management program against a broad range of diseases and can increase yields in crops such as strawberries, tomatoes, potatoes, soybeans and corn.
Regalia is made from an extract of the giant knotweed plant and acts by turning on a plants immune system, a process called induced systemic resistance. Regalia also enhances the efficacy of major conventional chemical fungicides, and we have filed a patent on this synergism. Regalia is also effective for seed treatment of soybean, corn and cotton, for which we have filed a patent, and we have filed a patent on the effects on root growth and yield when Regalia is applied to the seed or as a root stimulant. For example, in field tests and in actual grower use, Regalia has shown significant yield increases on strawberries, tomatoes, potatoes, soybeans and corn.
We obtained an exclusive license relating to the technology used in our Regalia product line while Regalia was in the process development and formulation stage of product development. In addition to developing the supply chain to commercially market the product, using our natural product chemistry expertise, we developed an analytical method to measure and characterize the major compounds in the plant extract, and we enhanced these compounds several times in new formulations, providing Regalia with a broader spectrum of activity and better efficacy than the original licensed product. In addition, we improved the physical properties of our Regalia formulations and developed four formulations that meet organic farming standards. We have filed several patent applications with respect to these innovations.
We launched Regalia SC, an earlier formulation of Regalia, into the Florida fresh tomatoes market in December 2008. This formulation had a limited label with a few crops and uses on the label and it was not compliant for organic listing. In 2009, we began sales of Regalia in the United Kingdom and Ecuador, and we received a revised, broader label with hundreds of crops for a new organic formulation, which we subsequently launched into the Florida vegetables and Arizona leafy greens markets. In January 2010, we received state approval in California and immediately launched Regalia into the leafy greens and walnuts markets. Key markets include vegetables in the southeast, citrus in Florida, leafy greens and vegetables in California and Arizona, walnuts and stone fruit in California and pome fruit and grapes in California and the Pacific Northwest. In December 2011 and August 2012, we received EPA approval and California regulatory approval, respectively, for an expanded label that includes new soil applications, instructions for yield improvement in corn and soybeans and additional crops and target pathogens. We submitted Regalia for registration in the European Union, which according to our research has recently been the largest fungicide market in the world, and in Brazil, and we received completeness checks with respect to such submissions in March 2012 and May 2012, respectively. In June 2013, we received regulatory approval for Regalia in South Africa.
Grandevo
n |
Bioinsecticide |
n |
Crop Protection: Targets Insects and Mites |
n |
Commercially Available |
Grandevo is based on a new species of microorganism, Chromobacterium substugae , which was discovered by a scientist at the USDA in Beltsville, Maryland, and which we have licensed and commercialized. Grandevo is a powerful feeding inhibitor: insects and mites become agitated when encountering it and will not feed and starve, or,
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if they do ingest it, die from disruption to their digestive system. Grandevo also has repellent effects on and reduces egg hatching and reproduction of target insects and mites. Grandevo is particularly effective against chewing insects (such as caterpillars and beetles) and sucking insects (such as stinkbugs and mealybugs, as well as thrips and psyllids, which are respectively known as corn lice and plant lice). Field trials are in progress to further characterize Grandevos efficacy. Trials to date and reports from grower use have shown instances of commercial levels of efficacy as good as the leading conventional chemical pesticides on a range of chewing and sucking insect and mite pests, including two invasive species of psyllid affecting citrus and potato crops, and indicate that the length of control is as long as three weeks, matching leading conventional chemical pesticides. Grandevo has also shown significant control of other pests such as plant-feeding fly larvae, mosquitoes, white grubs in turf grass, leafmining caterpillar larvae and other leaf-eating caterpillars.
We obtained a co-exclusive license for the bacterial strain used in our Grandevo product line while Grandevo was undergoing primary screening as a potential product candidate. At the time we entered into this agreement, the licensor had produced no toxicology or field efficacy data; all of these data were subsequently created by us. In addition, since licensing the microorganism, we completed the testing and development necessary to produce and commercialize an EPA-approved product and have filed our own patent applications with respect to the microorganism, including its genome, as well as the chemistry produced by the microorganism upon which Grandevo is based, including a novel compound produced by the bacteria, synergistic combinations with conventional chemical pesticides, product formulations containing the bacterial strain and novel insecticidal and nematicidal uses.
We launched a liquid formulation of Grandevo on a targeted basis under a limited label into the Florida citrus crop market in 2011. Commencing in the summer of 2012, we launched a dry formulation of Grandevo in markets across the United States where state registrations have been approved, targeting key markets, including citrus, tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, potatoes, leafy greens and other fruits and vegetables. This dry formulation has improved shelf life and efficacy, can be used on more crops and pests than the original liquid formulation, was approved by the EPA in May 2012 and has been registered in 49 of 50 states (Hawaii pending) as well as Puerto Rico. In May 2013, the EPA permitted MBI to remove a honey bee toxicity warning on the Grandevo label, and we are currently submitting a revised label, with the warning removed, to all U.S. states and Puerto Rico.
Zequanox
n |
Biomolluscicide |
n |
Water Treatment: Targets Invasive Mussels |
n |
Commercially Available |
Zequanox is a biopesticide targeted at mussels, or biomolluscicide, derived from a common microbe found in soil and water bodies, Pseudomonas fluorescens , which we licensed from the University of the State of New York and subsequently developed and commercialized. Zequanox is an environmentally friendly bio-based pest management product that is designed to kill over 75% of invasive mussels in treated pipe systems without causing collateral ecological damage. In July 2012, we conducted an open water trial in Deep Quarry Lake, Illinois, where the Zequanox treatment killed more than 90% of the invasive mussels on the lake bed.
At recommended application rates, Zequanox is not toxic to other aquatic life, including ducks, fish, crustaceans and other bivalve species such as native clams or mussels.
Invasive zebra mussels and quagga mussels are having a billion-dollar impact on the North American economy and major negative impacts on freshwater ecosystems. Introduced into North America from Eastern Europe in the 1980s, mussels damage freshwater ecosystems and clog the intake pipes of industrial facilities that draw water from infested lakes and rivers. Power plants and other water-dependent facilities currently use nonselective, polluting chemicals to reduce densities of fouling mussels. For open water habitats such as rivers and lakes, because there is no cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution, invasive mussels continue to spread, causing economic damage to industry, recreational users and waterfront property and substantial ecological harm.
We believe Zequanox has significant benefits over conventional chemical pesticide treatments, which can be toxic to beneficial species and pollute waterways. Zequanox is safer to workers, less labor intensive and requires shorter
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treatment times compared with conventional chemical pesticides. Zequanox can be used by power plants and raw water treatment facilities as an alternative to conventional chemical treatments such as chlorine, or as a complement to those products.
We entered into a license agreement with The University of the State of New York pursuant to which we were granted an exclusive license under the Universitys rights relating to the bacterial strain used in our Zequanox product line while the products natural product chemistry was still under investigation. Since then, we have developed dry powder formulations, significantly improved the fermentation process for higher cell yield, allowing us to increase manufacturing scale, and we have filed patents relating to natural product compounds in the Zequanox cells we have identified and product formulations we have developed.
We collaborated with the U.S. Bureau of Recreation and Ontario Power Generation in Canada, two organizations seeking ways to treat issues they continuously face with mussel damage in their hydroelectric plants to test early and improved versions of Zequanox we developed. In 2011 and 2012, we successfully treated the cooling water of a hydroelectric facility managed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on the lower Colorado River and achieved a commercial level of mussel control. In 2012, we achieved a commercial level of control in two cooling water treatments of an Ontario Power Generation facility along the Niagara River, and we generated revenues for treating an Oklahoma Gas & Electric facility. In addition, we have received $1.1 million in grants from the National Science Foundation for work needed to commercialize the bacterial strain in Zequanox, which is currently being marketed and sold directly to U.S. power and industrial companies.
Opportune
n |
Bioherbicide |
n |
Crop Protection, Home, Turf: Targets Weeds |
n |
EPA Approved |
Opportune is based on a Streptomyces species. Opportune demonstrates a novel mode of herbicidal action, producing a compound, thaxtomin, which disrupts the production of cellulose in certain plants, killing weeds before they emerge and selectively killing broad-leaved weeds after they have emerged. This product, in its initial testing, has been shown not to be harmful to crops such as rice, wheat, corn, sorghum and turf. It controls sedges and broadleaf weeds in rice, for which there are few solutions, either for conventional or organic growers. Based on field trials, we believe that Opportune provides longer duration of weed control than other bioherbicides. Opportune has also demonstrated synergistic activity with several conventional chemical pesticides, resulting in better weed control than either Opportune or the conventional chemical pesticides when used alone.
We entered into an agreement with DuPont and Instituto Biomar for ownership of certain technology related to our Opportune product line. At the time we entered into this agreement, DuPont and Instituto Biomar had produced no toxicology and minimal efficacy data; all of these data were subsequently created by us. We have conducted field trials on rice, wheat, turf and other crops, improved the fermentation process and developed a commercial formulation, and we have filed patent applications with respect to synergistic and other uses of the product. We received EPA approval for Opportune in April 2012.
Venerate
n |
Bioinsecticide |
n |
Crop Protection, Home, Turf, Animal Health: Targets Insects and Mites |
n |
Submitted for EPA Registration |
Venerate is based on a microbial fermentation of a new bacterial species we isolated using our proprietary discovery process. We have identified compounds produced by the microorganism in Venerate that kill a broad range of chewing and sucking insects and mites, as well as flies and plant parasitic nematodes, on contact, which is complementary to the anti-feeding effects of Grandevo. We submitted Venerate for EPA registration and for the Canadian Pest Management Regulatory Agency registration in August 2010. We have conducted field trials on several crops and insects and mites, many of which show efficacy as good as leading conventional chemical pesticides. We have filed patent applications on the microorganism and the natural product compounds that demonstrate insecticidal and nematicidal activity, as well as product formulations containing the microorganism.
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MBI-010
n |
Bioherbicide |
n |
Crop Protection, Home, Turf: Targets Weeds |
n |
Under Development |
MBI-010 is based on the same species of bacteria that we isolated to produce Venerate using our proprietary discovery process that identifies herbicides that inhibit a certain plant enzyme. MBI-010 produces several herbicidal compounds, some of which are novel, that are rapidly taken up by germinating seeds and by the roots of seedling and mature weeds. MBI-010 has demonstrated effectiveness against a range of weeds either after or before the weeds emergence. MBI-010 has also demonstrated a novel mode of action, in which it is transmitted systemically through the vascular structure of a weed. We have filed a patent application with respect to the MBI-010 formulation uses, and its associated natural product compounds as an herbicide. We expect to submit MBI-010 to the EPA in 2013.
MBI-110
n |
Biofungicide |
n |
Crop Protection, Home: Targets Plant Disease, Improves Plant Health |
n |
Under Development |
MBI-110 is based on a microbial fermentation of a newly identified Bacillus strain we isolated using our proprietary screening platform, targeting difficult to control plant diseases such as gray mold and downy mildews (such as potato late blight). We have identified compounds, some of which are novel, produced by the microorganism in MBI-110 that control a broad range of plant diseases. MBI-110 has also been shown to increase plant growth in absence of plant disease. This product has demonstrated increased efficacy in disease control when used synergistically with Regalia, and as a result, we expect to market this product both separately and in combination with Regalia. We expect to submit this product to the EPA in 2014.
MBI-302 and MBI-303
n |
Bionematicides |
n |
Crop Protection, Home, Turf: Targets Nematodes |
n |
Under Development |
We isolated MBI-302 and MBI-303, nematicidal biopesticides, or bionematicides, using our proprietary discovery process. MBI-302 is based on a new species of bacteria that produces natural fermentation products, some of which are novel. MBI-303 is based on a novel strain of a known species of bacteria that produces natural fermentation products that we discovered have nematicidal properties. MBI-302 and MBI-303 kill juvenile root knot and sting nematodes, serious global pests of many crops, and reduce the number of eggs produced by the female nematodes. These products have also been shown to improve plant growth in absence of the pest nematodes. We have filed a patent application on the bacterial strains and the compounds produced by the bacteria in these products, and we plan to submit one of these to the EPA in 2013.
MBI-601
n |
Biofumigant |
n |
Crop Protection, Home, Industrial: Targets Plant Disease, Nematodes and Insects |
n |
Under Development |
MBI-601, a biopesticide that produces gaseous natural compounds, or biofumigant, is based on a novel and proprietary genus of fungus, Muscodor , which was discovered by a scientist at Montana State University. We obtained a co-exclusive license for several strains and species of this fungus, which produces a suite of gaseous natural product compounds that have been shown to kill certain species of harmful fungi and bacteria that cause plant diseases and to kill nematodes and some insect species. We believe that MBI-601 may be used for agricultural and industrial applications, including post-harvest control of fruit and flower decay and pre-planting control of plant diseases and nematodes, as a viable alternative to methyl bromide, which is subject to significant regulatory restrictions and for which few effective, non-toxic alternatives are available. We expect to submit this product to the EPA in 2013 or 2014.
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MBI-011
n |
Bioherbicide |
n |
Crop Protection, Home, Turf: Targets Weeds |
n |
Under Development |
MBI-011 is based on an herbicidal compound, sarmentine, extracted from a Chinese pepper plant we screened using our proprietary discovery process. MBI-011 kills a broad range of weeds and acts as a burndown herbicide (controls weed foliage). We have filed a patent application with respect to the use of sarmentine as an herbicide and weed killer and a patent application disclosing and claiming a synergistic composition with Opportune. We submitted MBI-011 to the EPA in December 2012.
Other Candidates
We have also discovered MBI-701, an algaecide, and over 25 additional algaecide, fungicide, herbicide, insecticide and nematicide candidates using our proprietary screening platform. We also have produced a collection of microorganisms from taxonomic groups that research suggests may enhance nutrient uptake in plants, reduce stress and otherwise increase plant growth such as MBI-506, a plant yield and drought tolerance enhancer, and MBI-505, an anti-transpirant, which helps prevent plants from drying out.
Our Technology and Product Development Process
Our proprietary technology comprises a sourcing process for microorganisms and plant extracts, an extensive proprietary microorganism collection, microbial fermentation technology, screening technology and a process to identify and characterize natural compounds with pesticidal activity. Our technology enables us to isolate and screen naturally occurring microorganisms and plant extracts in an efficient manner and to identify those that may have novel, effective and safe pest management or plant health promoting characteristics. We then analyze and characterize the structures of compounds either produced by selected microorganisms or found in plant extracts to identify product candidates for further development and commercialization. As of June 30, 2013, we have screened more than 18,000 microorganisms and 350 plant extracts, and we have identified multiple product candidates that display significant levels of activity against insects, nematodes, weeds, plant diseases and invasive species such as zebra and quagga mussels, aquatic weeds and algae. We also have produced a collection of microorganisms from taxonomic groups that may enhance nutrient uptake in plants, reduce stress and otherwise increase plant growth. Our product candidates come from our own discovery and development as well as in-licensed technology from universities, corporations and governmental entities.
Our proprietary product development process includes several important components. For all our product candidates, we develop an analytical method to detect the quantity of the active natural product compounds that are produced by the microorganism or that are extracted from plants. For microbial products, we develop unique proprietary fermentation processes that increase the active natural compounds produced by the microorganisms. We also scale-up fermentation volumes to maximize yields consistently in each batch. Similarly, for our plant extract-based products, we develop a manufacturing process that increases the amount of active natural compounds extracted from plant materials. Our deep understanding of natural product chemistry allows us to develop formulations that optimize the efficacy and stability of compounds produced by microorganisms or plants. Products are not released for sale unless the quantity of the compounds meets our desired efficacy specifications. These methods allow us to produce products that are highly effective and of a consistent quality on a commercial scale.
These product formulations are tailored to meet customers needs and display enhanced performance characteristics such as effectiveness, shelf life, compatibility with other pesticides and ease of use. Our senior managements numerous years of experience in the development of commercial products and formulations have resulted in a highly efficient product development process, which allows us to rapidly commercialize new products.
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Our discovery and development process is illustrated in the following diagram:
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Discovery
We have found over 25 candidates for commercial development from our proprietary discovery process, including Venerate, a new bacterial species and bioinsecticide, MBI-011, a burndown bioherbicide, MBI-010, a non-selective bioherbicide, MBI-302 and MBI-303, bionematicides, MBI-110 biofungicide, as well as several bioalgaecides, additional biofungicides, bioherbicides and bionematicides and plant growth enhancers. Key aspects of our discovery process include:
Collection and isolation . Using our years of experience, we target selected habitats and niches of high biodiversity to collect soil, compost, insects, flowers, or other biological matter from which we isolate our proprietary microorganisms on proprietary media. We capture information in a microorganism database such as taxonomic groups, geographical locations, types of samples, niches and habitats where collected and biological activity. We also isolate microorganisms that improve the efficiency of plants to uptake nitrogen and phosphorous. In addition to isolating our own microorganisms, which make up approximately 90% of our collection, we have collaborations with three companies plus the Scripps Institution of Oceanography to diversify our sourcing of microorganisms.
Fermentation . For our microbial products, before testing the selected microorganisms for activity against pests, we ferment them to produce sufficient quantities for testing. We grow the selected microorganisms in proprietary media, which maximizes their pesticidal properties. In addition, we use proprietary fermentation processes that are designed to replicate those that would be required for large-scale fermentation and commercial production, avoiding the time and expense of an unsuccessful scale-up.
Primary screening . We use automated, miniaturized biological assays to test the selected microorganisms or plant extracts effectiveness against several weed, insect and nematode pests and plant pathogens and algae. We compare those results to conventional chemical pesticide standards. When a microorganism shows a high level of pesticidal activity, we conduct further tests to determine the spectrum of activity, mode of action, stability and activity on plants.
Novel and proprietary screening methods for weeds and nematodes . We have proprietary assays based on specific enzymes that find systemic herbicidal compounds from microorganisms, one of which is subject of a pending patent application covering identification of compounds that act systemically through plants vascular systems. We have developed a rapid, efficient method to find microorganisms that produce compounds with a high level of activity against plant parasitic nematodes.
Natural product chemistry . Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with diode array detection technology, liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (LCMS), and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), we compare the natural product compounds produced by each of the selected microorganisms with known compounds. This allows us to eliminate those microorganisms that produce known toxins and to select those that we believe are novel and safe. From the selected microorganisms, we identify and characterize the natural product compounds responsible for their pesticidal activity by using HPLC, LCMS, GC-MS and NMR equipment. We then develop analytical methods to measure the quantity of these compounds in individual fermentation batches, determine the quantities needed to maximize efficacy and to insure consistent levels of these compounds from batch to batch.
Genetic identification . After confirming pesticidal activity during our primary screen, we perform the initial genetic identification of the microorganisms. Further characterization of the genome of our early stage candidates is contracted with one of several genome sequencing service companies. This characterization allows us to determine novelty compared to discoveries from others, the relatedness to human or animal pathogens, genes for compounds that are not expressed in fermentation or detected by our chemists, and information about the possible mode of action on the target pest. We also file additional patents based on the results of these genetic identification processes.
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Product Development
We believe that by maintaining a strong reputation in the industry, many opportunities come to us for development in addition to our own discoveries from our in-house efforts. Once we discover or are brought an opportunity, we make a preliminary assessment of the commercial potential of a natural product determined through laboratory, greenhouse and initial field tests. We then select product candidates we have discovered in-house or in-licensed for further development. Key aspects of our product development include:
Development of the manufacturing process that maximizes the active natural product compounds. For our microbial products, we develop proprietary processes that increase the yield of both the microorganism and the active natural product compounds produced by the microorganism during fermentation. Similarly, for our plant extract-based products, we develop proprietary processes that increase the amount of active natural compounds extracted from plant materials. This process development allows us to produce products that have superior performance. For our microbial products, we then scale up these proprietary processes in progressively larger fermentation tanks. We develop quality control methods based on the active natural product compounds rather than just the microorganisms or plant extracts. This approach results in a more consistent and effective product.
Formulation. We are able to develop proprietary water-soluble powder, liquid and granule formulations that allow us to tailor our products to customers needs. This allows us to develop product formulations with enhanced performance characteristics such as effectiveness, value, shelf life, suitability for organic agriculture, water solubility, rain resistance, compatibility with other pesticides and ease of use. Formulation is critical to ensuring a bio-based pest management and plant health products performance. Our understanding of the natural product chemistry allows us to develop formulations that maximize the effectiveness and stability of the compounds produced by the microorganisms or plants.
Field testing. We conduct numerous field trials for each product candidate that we develop. These field trials are conducted in small plots on commercial farms or research stations by our own field development specialists as well as private and public researchers to determine large-scale effectiveness, use rates, spray timing and crop safety. We conduct crop protection product field trials globally in both hemispheres to accelerate the results of our field trials and provide alternate season learning opportunities. As the crop protection product candidate nears commercialization, we conduct demonstration trials on the farm. These trials are conducted with distributors, influential growers and food processors on larger acreages. For Zequanox, we have been working with large power and industrial customers both in the United States and Canada to obtain field trial data to help with product commercialization efforts and obtain efficacy data.
Sales, Marketing and Distribution
In the United States, we sell our products through our internal sales force, which consists of 21 employees dedicated to our distributor relationships and our domestic sales and marketing. Our internal sales force is organized into five geographic sales territories for crop protection in the major specialty crops regions of California, Pacific Northwest, Southeast, Northeast and Great Lakes. We currently sell our crop protection product lines, Regalia and Grandevo, through leading agricultural distributors such as Crop Production Services, Helena and Wilbur Ellis. These are the same distributors that the major agrichemical companies use for distributing conventional chemical pesticides. For our water treatment product line, Zequanox, we employ a product manager, a national sales manager, an open-water development manager and several technical support specialists. Zequanox is currently being marketed and sold directly to U.S. power and industrial companies.
With respect to sales outside of the United States, we have signed exclusive international distribution agreements for Regalia with FMC (for markets in Latin America) and Syngenta (for markets in Africa, Europe and the Middle East) and Engage Agro (for markets in Canada and professional turf and ornamental plants in the United States). We are also in discussions with several leaders in water treatment technology and applications regarding potential arrangements to distribute Zequanox in international markets.
In addition, we have signed a technology evaluation and development agreement with Scotts Miracle-Gro under which we have granted Scotts Miracle-Gro first rights to negotiate for exclusive worldwide distribution rights with respect to bio-based pest management and plant health products we jointly develop for the consumer lawn and garden market.
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We derived approximately 84%, 95% and 47% of our revenues from Regalia in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, respectively. In addition, we currently rely, and expect to continue to rely, on a limited number of distributors for a significant portion of our revenues since we sell through highly concentrated, traditional distribution channels. We currently sell our crop protection products through the same leading agricultural distributors used by the major agrichemical companies. For the year ended December 31, 2012, our top three distributors accounted for 58% of our total revenues, with Crop Production Services, Engage Agro and Helena Chemical accounting for 33%, 13% and 12% of our total revenues, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2013, our top four distributors accounted for 56% of our total revenues, with Chem Nut, Engage Agro, Crop Production Services and Wilbur Ellis accounting for 17%, 15%, 13% and 11% of our total revenues, respectively.
While the biopesticide industry has been growing, customers in the crop production sector and the water treatment sector are generally cautious in their adoption of new products and technologies and may perceive bio-based pest management products as less effective than conventional chemical pesticides. Growers often require on-farm demonstrations of a given pest management or plant health product, and given the relative novelty of our water treatment products, consumers of those products will continue to require education on their use. We anticipate adding additional sales and marketing personnel in the United States and in international territories, and we are implementing the following strategies to accelerate adoption rates and promote sales of our bio-based pest management and plant health products:
Target early adopters of new pest management technologies. For crop protection products, we target large commercial growers in the United States, who generally set industry standards through early adoption of new pest management technologies. We plan to continue to recruit leading growers and their consultants to participate in field trials, enabling them to become familiar with our bio-based pest management and plant health products and to experience their benefits firsthand. For Zequanox, we have developed strategic relationships with early adopters in the power generation business to do efficacy demonstrations while perfecting the formulations and application of the product.
Educate growers and water resource managers about the benefits of our bio-based pest management products. We will continue to perform on-farm and in-facility demonstrations and provide field data packages to support and validate our products claims. We will also continue to participate in trade shows and conferences to educate growers, their licensed pest control advisors and water resource managers about the benefits of our bio-based pest management products. We have provided a free application for mobile phones users to assist in calculating tank mix quantities as well as a webinar, and an online course on bio-based pest management products, which can be taken by growers for continuing education credit to maintain crop protection product applicator licenses. We intend to continue and expand our efforts to work with utilities such as Ontario Power Generation, which we believe will create increased demand for Zequanox in adjacent market spaces beyond the current power and industrial treatment opportunities we are currently targeting.
Enhance distribution relationships. We will continue using established agrichemical distribution channels to distribute Regalia, Grandevo and our future crop protection products. We intend to provide distributors with a portfolio of products that we believe will offer attractive profit margins and growth potential. In addition, we will continue to provide distributors access to innovative alternative pest management solutions, which we believe will provide them additional value that chemical pesticides do not provide.
Develop and leverage relationships with key industry influencers. We will continue to develop relationships early in the product development process with influential members within our target markets, including large innovative growers, technical experts at leading agricultural universities, licensed pest control advisors, wineries, food processors, produce packers, retailers and power facilities. We believe that educating industry influencers about the benefits of Regalia, Grandevo, Zequanox and our future products increases the likelihood that they will recommend our products to our distributors and end users.
Focus our own sales and marketing on the United States and Canada, while signing strategic agreements for international markets, turf, ornamental plants and consumer retail. Because of the concentration of large growers and large power and industrial customers in the United States and Canada, we can access these customers through
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our own sales force. For international markets for Zequanox, we intend to develop strategic partnerships with large water companies. For Regalia, we have signed distribution agreements with leading agrichemical companies. For Grandevo and future products, distribution agreements will be developed with regional and national distributors or large multinationals on a case by case basis, depending on their expertise in the regions. We have engaged new distributors to launch Regalia in Canada for specialty crops, in the United States for turf and ornamental plants, and in parts of the Midwest United States for row crops. We have also engaged a distributor to launch Grandevo in the United States for turf and ornamental plants. We have an exclusive relationship with Scotts Miracle-Gro for the consumer retail market.
Strategic Collaborations and Relationships
We will continue to pursue strategic collaborations and relationships with agrichemical, water treatment and industrial and consumer retail companies to support the development and commercialization of bio-based pest management and plant health product candidates identified through our proprietary technology platform and those which we obtain through in-licensing efforts. We collaborate with chemical manufacturers to develop products that combine our bio-based pest management products with their technologies, to deliver more compelling products to growers. We also use relationships with conventional chemical pesticide distributors to expand the availability of our products. The terms of the strategic collaborations and relationships we undertake depend on the nature and stage of development of the particular product candidate. We believe these strategic collaborations and relationships can allow us to maximize the potential value and reinforce the credibility of our proprietary technology platform, as well as enhance our market presence and revenues growth.
We have entered into the following key strategic collaboration and distribution agreements:
Syngenta . In February 2011, we entered into a commercial agreement with Syngenta Crop Protection AG, referred to as Syngenta, whereby we have designated Syngenta as our exclusive distributor for Regalia in specialty crop markets in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Syngentas exclusive rights under this agreement will terminate with respect to each country identified on the earlier to occur of five years after the date of Syngentas first sale of Regalia under the agreement in such country or 15 years after the date of the first registration of Regalia completed in these regions. In addition to buying Regalia products from us, under this agreement, Syngenta will pay us upon achievement of testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events, and Syngenta is committed to making upfront investments to prepare the platform for launching Regalia and other development- and marketing-related costs.
FMC. In August 2011, we entered into an exclusive development and distribution agreement with FMC Corporation, referred to as FMC, whereby we have designated FMC as our exclusive distributor for Regalia in specialty crop and large-acre row crop markets in certain Latin American countries. This agreement expires 10 years from the date of the first registration to be completed in Argentina, Brazil or Colombia. FMC remitted an initial payment to us upon signing the agreement, and, in addition to buying Regalia products from us, FMC will pay us additional amounts upon achievement of regulatory progress events.
Scotts Miracle-Gro. In September 2011, we entered into a technology evaluation and master development agreement with The Scotts Company LLC, a subsidiary of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and referred to as Scotts Miracle-Gro, a world-leading marketer of branded consumer lawn and garden products. Under the agreement, we have granted Scotts Miracle-Gro a right of first refusal to evaluate, develop and serve as our exclusive distributor for existing and future pipeline products for consumer markets until 2016, and we will enter into separate supply and license agreements with Scotts Miracle-Gro for each of our technologies that they elect to commercialize. Scotts Miracle-Gro made payments to us in 2011, and we anticipate receiving future payments to maintain exclusivity and for the achievement of a commercialization event under this agreement.
As of March 31, 2013, we had received an aggregate of $2.4 million in payments under our strategic collaboration and distribution agreements, and there were $4.9 million in payments under these agreements that we could potentially receive if the testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events occur.
Manufacturing
The active ingredient in our Regalia product line is derived from the giant knotweed plant, which we obtain from China. We have scaled production of Regalia using a single supplier to acquire raw knotweed from numerous regional
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sources and perform an extraction process on this plant and create a dried extract that is shipped to our third-party manufacturers in the United States for production and packaging to our product specifications. We do not maintain a long-term supply contract with this supplier. While there can be no assurance that we will continue to be able to obtain dried giant knotweed plant extract from our supplier in China at a competitive price point, we estimate that our current supply of the ingredient will be sufficient to manufacture product to meet the next 12 months demand. Should we elect to do so, we do not believe we would face substantial difficulty in finding an alternative supplier, as we believe knotweed is widely available from a variety of other suppliers.
For Grandevo and Zequanox, we are currently using third-party manufacturers for fermentation production and downstream processing and formulation of liquids, freeze dried and spray-dried powders. In order to control product quality and the speed and timing of manufacturing for these products and new fermentation-based products we may introduce to market, we acquired a manufacturing facility, formerly used as a biodiesel plant, in July 2012. This facility has adequate utilities, including steam generation and cooling capacity, to support the fermentation and harvest tanks we initially intend to install. However, only a small portion of the plants processing equipment is appropriate for our purposes. Our business plan therefore contemplates using $10.0 to $12.0 million of available cash to complete an initial upgrade and repurpose of this facility to develop significant internal commercial manufacturing capacity, and we commenced production of our products using this facility in the first half of 2013. After this initial repurposing, based on forecasted volumes and sales growth, we intend to spend approximately $4.0 million to $6.0 million, consisting of available cash and a portion of the net proceeds from this offering, to further expand capacity at this facility in 2014, including by adding additional steam and cooling capacity to support larger tank volume.
While we intend ultimately to produce the majority of our products using our own manufacturing capacity, we expect to continue primarily to rely on third-party manufacturers through 2013, and thereafter we may from time to time continue to utilize third-party manufacturers for supplemental production capacity to meet excess seasonal demand.
Based on our current management teams extensive experience in operating fermentation-based production facilities, greater control of our own manufacturing capacity should allow us to scale-up processes and institute process changes more quickly and efficiently and lower manufacturing costs over time to achieve the desired margins, while protecting the proprietary position of our products.
Research and Development
As of June 30, 2013, we had 71 full-time employees dedicated to research and development, 19 of whom hold Ph.D. degrees, plus 11 sales and field development personnel who focus on technical support and demonstration and research field trials. Our research and development team has technical expertise in microbiology, natural product and analytical chemistry, biochemistry, fermentation, entomology, nematology, weed science, plant physiology, plant pathology and aquatic sciences. Our research and development activities are principally conducted at our Davis, California facility as well as by our field development specialists on crops and mussel-infested facilities in their respective regions. We have made, and will continue to make, substantial investments in research and development. Our research and development expenses were $12.7 million, $9.4 million and $3.3 million in fiscal years 2012 and 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2013, respectively.
Intellectual Property Rights
We rely on patents and other proprietary right protections, including trade secrets and proprietary know-how, to preserve our competitive position. As of June 30, 2013, we owned 2 and in-licensed 5 U.S. patents and we owned 30 and in-licensed 2 pending provisional and non-provisional U.S. patent applications relating to microorganisms and natural product compounds, uses and related technologies. Also, as of June 30, 2013, we had acquired ownership of 1 and in-licensed 23 foreign patents and owned 201 and in-licensed 6 pending foreign patent applications. As of June 30, 2013, we had received 11 trademark registrations and had 5 trademark applications pending in the United States. As of June 30, 2013, we also had received 15 trademark registrations and had 17 trademark applications pending in various other countries.
When we find a microbial product in our screen that kills or inhibits one or more pests or pathogens in at least three replicated tests and identify the microorganism and its associated chemistry, we file a patent claiming any one or more of the following:
n |
the microorganism, its gene sequences, as well as mutations and other derivatives; |
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n |
the use of the microorganism for pest management; |
n |
novel natural product compounds, their analogs and unique mixtures of compounds produced by the microorganism; |
n |
the new use of known natural product compounds for pest management; |
n |
formulations of the microorganism or compounds; and |
n |
synergistic mixtures of the microorganism or compounds with conventional chemical or other pesticides. |
We have also entered into in-license and research and development agreements with respect to the use and commercialization of our three commercially available product lines and certain products under development, including Regalia, Grandevo and Zequanox. Under these licensing arrangements, we are obligated to pay royalty fees between 2% and 5% of net sales of these products, subject in certain cases to aggregate dollar caps. The exclusivity and royalty provisions of these agreements are generally tied to the expiration of underlying patents. The in-licensed patents for Regalia and Zequanox will expire in 2017 and the in-licensed currently issued U.S. patent for Grandevo is expected to expire in 2024. There is, however, a pending in-licensed patent application relating to Grandevo which could expire later than 2024. After the termination of these provisions, we may continue to produce and sell these products. While third parties thereafter may develop products using the technology under the expired patents, we do not believe that they can produce competitive products without infringing other aspects of our proprietary technology, and we therefore do not expect the expiration of the patents or the related exclusivity obligations to have a significant adverse financial or operational impact on our business.
Regalia . We entered into an exclusive license agreement with a company co-founded by Dr. Hans von Amsberg, a former employee of German chemical producer BASF, in May 2007 for U.S. and limited international use of a U.S. patent and technology used in our Regalia product line. We have also filed patent applications with respect to new formulations of Regalia, synergistic combinations with biopesticides and conventional chemical pesticides and new uses for soil and roots.
Grandevo . We entered into a co-exclusive license agreement with the USDA in November 2007 for the use in the United States of a U.S.-issued patent and a U.S. patent application relating to the Chromobacterium substugae bacteria used in our Grandevo product line. We have filed patent applications on the compounds produced in the bacterial cells, gene sequences, new uses for the Chromobacterium substugae bacteria and for new uses and new formulations of our Grandevo product line. While a second company has licensed the USDAs patent with respect to the Chromobacterium substugae bacteria and could develop products based on the same underlying intellectual property, we have not provided this company access to the proprietary technology we have developed relating to Grandevo.
Zequanox . We entered into a license agreement with The University of the State of New York in December 2009 pursuant to which we were granted an exclusive license under the Universitys rights for the worldwide use of a U.S.-issued patent and a Canadian-issued patent relating to the Pseudomonas fluorescens bacteria used in our Zequanox product line. We have filed patent applications on the natural, mussel-killing compounds in the bacteria, as well as applications relating to various Zequanox formulations.
Regulatory Considerations
Our activities are subject to extensive federal, state, local and foreign governmental regulations. These regulations may prevent us or our collaborators from developing or commercializing products in a timely manner or under technically or commercially feasible conditions and may impose expenses, delays and other impediments to our product development and registration efforts. In the United States, the EPA regulates our bio-based pest management products under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act and the Food Quality Protection Act. In addition, our plant health products are regulated as fertilizers in each of the fifty states. In 2004, the United States Congress passed the Pesticide Registration Improvement Renewal Act, which was reauthorized in 2007 and 2012, a result of efforts from an industry coalition of pesticide companies and environmental groups, to codify pesticide approval times in return for user fees. This law made biopesticide approval times faster, with EPA approvals typically received between 16 and 24 months, compared with 36 months or longer for conventional chemical pesticides. Registration processes for state and foreign governments vary between jurisdictions and can take up to 12 months for state governments such as California and New York and up to 36 months for foreign governments. Because registration processes for California and foreign governments can
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be concurrent with EPA registrations, we generally expect to complete federal, state and foreign registration between two and three years after our initial EPA submission.
To register a crop protection product with the EPA, companies must demonstrate the product is safe to mammals, non-target organisms, endangered species and the environment. To demonstrate the bio-based pest management products safety, required studies must be conducted that evaluate mammalian toxicology, toxicological effects to non-target organisms in the environment (ecotoxicological exposures) and physical and chemical properties of the product. The registration dossier is subject to both scientific and administrative reviews by EPA scientists and management before registration approval. The scientific review involves thorough evaluation of submitted data and completion of risk assessments for human dietary and ecotoxicological exposures. Upon completion of this process, the registration package, including the proposed label, is sent to the Office of General Council for legal review. The final step in the registration process is administrative sign-off by the EPA director of the Biopesticides and Pollution Prevention Division.
In addition to EPA approval, we are required to obtain regulatory approval from the appropriate state regulatory authority in individual states and foreign regulatory authorities before we can market or sell any pest management product in those jurisdictions. California and foreign jurisdictions also require us to submit product efficacy data, which the EPA historically has not required, but may request.
While these regulations substantially increase the time and cost associated with bringing our products to market, we believe that our management teams significant experience in bringing our and other companies technologies through EPA, state and foreign regulatory approval, efficient development process, and ability to leverage our strategic collaborations to assist with registrations, particularly in Europe and Latin America, will enable us to overcome these challenges,
Regalia . The EPA granted approval for the Regalia SC formulation in August 2008, for the Regalia Maxx 5% formulation in May 2009, for the Regalia 20% formulation in January 2010 and for a ready to use consumer formulation in January 2010. Regalia is currently registered in all U.S. states. We have also registered Regalia in Ecuador, Mexico, Turkey, Panama and Canada, and we have submitted an Annex 1 registration dossier to the European Union. Our Regalia dossier for the European Union has been declared complete, and the registration package is under review by regulatory authorities in the United Kingdom, which will serve as lead for conducting the Annex 1 listing of Regalia for the European Union. In addition to obtaining the Annex 1 listing, we must obtain Annex 3 authorization approval from each country in which we plan to market and sell products. Regalia dossiers are also under review by Brazil and South Africa.
Grandevo . In August 2011 and May 2012, the EPA granted approval for the Grandevo insecticide technical grade active ingredient and a dry flowable formulation, respectively. This dry flowable formulation is registered in 49 of 50 states (Hawaii pending) as well as Puerto Rico. In May 2013, we received EPA approval for a revised label reflecting Grandevos safety for bees. In addition, a dossier has been submitted to Brazil, and we expect to submit dossiers for Grandevo registration in Europe, Canada and Mexico in the second half of 2013.
Zequanox . In August 2010, the EPA granted the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation a Section 18 emergency use for Zequanox for three western states for use in pipe treatments in power facilities. Under this emergency use, we are allowed to sell various formulations of Zequanox. In July 2011, the EPA granted a conditional approval of the technical grade active ingredient in and an early formulation of Zequanox, which allows us to market this product line once commercial production processes have been concluded. We plan to submit additional data to expand the label to open water uses. A spray dried powder formulation, which is improved over the end product approved in July 2011, was approved in March 2012, and this formulation is now commercially available. We have also received approval for Zequanox use in hydroelectric plants in Canada.
As with any pesticide, our pest management products will continue to be subject to review by the EPA and state regulatory agencies. The EPA has the authority to revoke the registration or impose limitations on the use of any of our pest management products if we do not comply with the regulatory requirements, if unexpected problems occur with a product or the EPA receives other newly discovered adverse information. See Risk FactorsRisks Relating to Our Business and StrategyOur inability to obtain regulatory approvals, or to comply with ongoing and changing
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regulatory requirements, could delay or prevent sales of the products we are developing and commercializing. Our research and development activities are also subject to federal, state and local worker safety, air pollution, water pollution and solid and hazardous waste regulatory programs and periodic inspection. We believe that our facilities are in substantial compliance with all applicable environmental regulatory requirements.
Competition
For pest management products, performance and value are critical competitive factors. To compete against manufacturers of conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified crops, we need to demonstrate the advantages of our products over these more established pest management products. Many large agrichemical companies are developing and have introduced new conventional chemical pesticides and genetically modified products that they believe are safer and more environmentally friendly than older conventional chemical products.
The pest management market is very competitive and is dominated by multinational chemical and life sciences companies such as BASF, Bayer, Dow Chemical, DuPont, Monsanto, Sumitomo Chemical and Syngenta. Universities, research institutes and government agencies may also conduct research, seek patent protection and, through collaborations, develop competitive pest management products. Other companies, including bio-specialized biopesticide businesses such as Arysta, AgraQuest (now a part of Bayer), Certis USA (now a part of Mitsui) and Valent Biosciences (now a part of Sumitomo) may prove to be significant competitors in the bio-based pest management and plant health market.
In many instances, agrichemical companies have substantially greater financial, technical, development, distribution and sales and marketing resources than we do. Moreover, these companies may have greater name recognition than we do and may offer discounts as a competitive tactic. There can be no assurance that our competitors will not succeed in developing pest management products that are more effective or less expensive than ours or that would render our products obsolete or less competitive. Our success will depend in large part on our ability to maintain a competitive position with our technologies and products.
Employees
As of June 30, 2013, we had 109 full-time employees, of whom 19 hold Ph.D. degrees. Approximately 71 employees are engaged in research and development, 34 in sales and marketing (including 11 sales and field development personnel who focus on technical support and demonstration and research field trials) and 14 in management, operations, accounting/finance and administration. None of our employees are represented by a labor union.
Facilities
Our corporate headquarters are located at 2121 Second St. Suite A-107 in Davis, California, in a facility consisting of approximately 24,500 square feet of office and laboratory space under a lease, as amended, that expires with respect to various portions of the covered premises between February 2014 and October 2016. This facility accommodates our research, development, sales, marketing, operations, finance and administrative activities. We also purchased an 11,400 square-foot manufacturing facility in Bangor, Michigan, in July 2012, which we are repurposing to accommodate large-scale manufacturing of our products, and we intend to further expand capacity at this facility using a portion of the proceeds from this offering. We also lease approximately 3,000 square feet of greenhouse space located at 21538 C.R.99 in Woodland, California. We believe that our leased facilities and our manufacturing facility are adequate to meet our short-term needs, but expect we will need to lease additional space within 12 months to expand our research and development laboratories.
Legal Proceedings
From time to time we may be involved in litigation that we believe is of the type common to companies engaged in our line of business, including intellectual property and employment issues. As of the date of this filing, we are not involved in any pending legal proceedings.
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Executive Officers and Directors
The following table sets forth certain information about our executive officers, directors and key employees as of June 30, 2013:
NAME |
AGE |
POSITION |
||||
Board of Directors: |
||||||
Pamela G. Marrone, Ph.D. |
56 | President, Chief Executive Officer and Director | ||||
Elin Miller |
53 | Chair of the Board | ||||
Ranjeet Bhatia (2) |
42 | Director | ||||
Timothy Fogarty (2) |
52 | Director | ||||
Lawrence A. Hough (1) |
69 | Director | ||||
Joseph Hudson (1) |
41 | Director | ||||
Richard Rominger (1) |
85 | Director | ||||
Sean Schickedanz |
46 | Director | ||||
Shaugn Stanley (2) |
53 | Director | ||||
Other Executive Officers and Key Employees: |
||||||
Donald J. Glidewell |
56 | Chief Financial Officer and Secretary | ||||
Hector Absi |
44 | Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations | ||||
Phyllis Himmel, Ph.D. |
61 | Vice President of Biological Research | ||||
Keith Pitts |
49 | Vice President of Regulatory and Government Affairs | ||||
Alison Stewart |
56 | Chief Science Officer |
(1) |
Member of the Compensation Committee |
(2) |
Member of the Audit Committee |
Board of Directors
Pamela G. Marrone, Ph.D. is our founder and has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer and been a member of our board of directors since our inception in 2006. Prior to founding MBI, in 1995 Dr. Marrone founded AgraQuest, Inc. (acquired by Bayer), where she served as Chief Executive Officer until May 2004 and as President or Chairman from such time until March 2006, and where she led teams that discovered and commercialized several bio-based pest management products. She served as founding president and business unit head for Entotech, Inc., a biopesticide subsidiary of Denmark-based Novo Nordisk A/S (acquired by Abbott Laboratories) from 1990 to 1995, and held various positions at the Monsanto Company from 1983 until 1990, where she led the Insect Biology Group, which was involved in pioneering projects in transgenic crops, natural products and microbial pesticides. Dr. Marrone is an author of over a dozen invited publications, is in demand as a speaker and has served on the boards and advisory councils of numerous professional and academic organizations. Dr. Marrone earned a B.S. in Entomology from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in Entomology from North Carolina State University. We believe Dr. Marrones qualifications to sit on our board of directors include the fact that, as our founder, Dr. Marrone is uniquely familiar with the business, structure, culture and history of our company and that she also brings to the board of directors considerable expertise based on her management and technical and commercialization experience in the biopesticide industry.
Elin D. Miller has served on our board of directors since June 2011 and was appointed the Chair of our board in 2013. Ms. Miller is the principal of Elin Miller Consulting, LLC and she also currently serves on the board of directors of Vestaron Corporation, a venture-backed agricultural biotechnology firm. Appointed by the President of the United States, Ms. Miller assumed regional management of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in the Pacific Northwest from 2006 to 2009. Prior to serving at the EPA, Ms. Miller led Arysta Lifescience Corporation as President and Chief Executive Officer of North America and Australasia from 2004 to 2006. Ms. Miller also served at various positions at Dow Agroscienses/Dow Chemical from 1996 to 2004, including Vice President, Pest Management, Vice President Asia Pacific, and Global Vice President of Public Affairs. Ms. Millers career also includes directing the California Department of Conservation and serving as Chief Deputy Director of the Department
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of Pesticide Regulation at the California Environmental Protection Agency. Ms. Miller earned a B.S. in Agronomy and Plant Protection from the University of Arizona and is a graduate of INSEADs Advanced Management Program. We believe Ms. Millers qualifications to sit on our board of directors include her years of regulatory experience and her perspective gained in management of companies in the life sciences, pesticide and agricultural industries.
Ranjeet Bhatia has served on our board of directors since 2007. He is the Managing Director of Saffron Hill Ventures, which he co-founded in 2000. He is currently on the boards of Agilyx, Coyuchi, Image Metrics, Faceware Technologies and Optasia Medical. Prior to founding Saffron Hill Ventures, from 1999 to 2000, Mr. Bhatia served as Advisor to the Chairman of Loot Ltd, a media company, where he advised on strategy and investment. Mr. Bhatia has also worked in the environment and energy consulting groups at Booz-Allen & Hamilton, a consulting firm, and Dyncorp-Meridian, a consulting firm. Mr. Bhatia earned an M.B.A. from UCLAs Anderson School of Business, an M.A. in International Relations and Economics from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and a B.A. in Environmental Science from Occidental College. We believe Mr. Bhatias qualifications to sit on our board of directors include his extensive experience in investment management and his perspective gained as a board member of various early-stage companies.
Timothy Fogarty has served on our board of directors since 2010. As the Chief Financial Officer and a Partner of The Contrarian Group, Inc., a private equity fund where he has worked since May 2006, Mr. Fogarty is also currently on the boards of TeachTown, Amanzi and Bellwether Marine Acquisition Corporation. From December 2003 to March 2006, Mr. Fogarty worked for Cypress Reinsurance, a startup Bermuda reinsurer, as President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Fogarty is a Certified Public Accountant in good standing in California and earned a B.S. in Accounting from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. We believe Mr. Fogartys qualifications to sit on our board of directors include his extensive experience in investment management and accounting and his perspective gained as a board member of various early-stage companies.
Lawrence A. Hough has served on our board of directors since 2008. As a Managing Director of Stuart Mill Venture Partners and Chairman of Stuart Mill Capital, Inc., a management firm he founded in 1998, Mr. Hough is also currently on the boards of GeoEye, Inc. and Appistry, Inc. Mr. Hough is a trustee for the Shakespeare Theatre Company and the Levine School of Music. Prior to founding Stuart Mill Capital, Mr. Hough worked with Sallie Mae for 25 years, where he served as President and Chief Executive Officer from 1990 to 1997. Mr. Hough earned a B.S. in Engineering from Stanford University and a S.M. in Management from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. We believe Mr. Houghs qualifications to sit on our board of directors include his experience in investment management, his experience as an executive of a multi-billion dollar public company and his perspective gained as a board member of various public and technology orientated companies.
Joseph Hudson has served on our board of directors since 2007. Mr. Hudson has primarily worked as a strategic consultant in the financial, wireless and environmental industries, and his clients have included Barclays Global Investors, Sprint and the Walton Foundation, as well as dozens of smaller companies across six continents. As a Principal of One Earth Capital, which focuses on sustainable technology in agriculture, water and energy sectors and where he has worked since 2007, Mr. Hudson is also currently on the board of PureSense. Prior to joining One Earth Capital, Mr. Hudson worked with and consulted for many companies, including Wells Fargo Bank, Environmental Defense Fund and the Bureau of Reclamation. Mr. Hudson graduated valedictorian from Marylands Public Honors College. We believe Mr. Hudsons qualifications to sit on our board of directors include extensive experience in investment management in and consulting for companies in the agricultural, water and environmental sectors and his perspective gained as a board member of various for profit and non-profit companies.
Richard Rominger has served on our board since our inception in 2006 and was Chair of our board from 2008 until 2013. Mr. Rominger is a fourth generation Yolo County, California farmer and is active in farm organizations and cooperatives. Mr. Rominger served as Director (Secretary) of the California Department of Food and Agriculture from 1977 to 1982 and was the Deputy Secretary at the U. S. Department of Agriculture in Washington, DC from 1993 to 2001. Mr. Rominger has served as a production agriculture advisor at University of California Davis, University of California Riverside, California State University Fresno and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He continues to serve on the advisory committee of the Agricultural Sustainability Institute at University of California Davis and as a special advisor to the Chancellor at University of California Davis. He is a member of the University of California Presidents Advisory Commission on Agriculture and Natural Resources and the California Roundtable on Agriculture and the
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Environment and serves on the board of directors of Oryzatech, Inc., a plant based building material company. Mr. Rominger earned a B.S. in Plant Science from University of California Davis summa cum laude. We believe Mr. Romingers qualifications to sit on our board of directors include his years of government experience and his perspective gained as a leader in keeping American agriculture healthy and sustainable.
Sean Schickedanz has served on our board of directors since 2007. As a General Partner of Clean Pacific Ventures, which he co-founded in 2006, he is also currently on the boards of American Efficient and Lumigrow. Prior to founding Clean Pacific Ventures, Mr. Schickedanz served as Managing Partner at Sunflower Capital Partners, an early-stage venture fund, from 2000 to 2005, and as Managing Director and group head within the consumer investment banking practice of Montgomery Securities (now Bank of America Merrill Lynch) from 1996 to 2000. Mr. Schickedanz earned a J.D. and an M.B.A. from Duke University and a B.A. in English from Brigham Young University. We believe Mr. Schickedanzs qualifications to sit on our board of directors include his extensive experience in investment management and his perspective gained as a board member of various early-stage companies.
Shaugn Stanley has served on our board of directors since 2012. Mr. Stanley currently serves as Senior Managing Director at Stifel Financial Corp., which in 2010 purchased Thomas Weisel Partners, an investment firm that Mr. Stanley co-founded in 1998 and at which Mr. Stanley served in a number of senior positions, including Chief Financial Officer, Chief Administrative Officer and Director of Private Client Services. Prior to that, from 1997 to 1998, Mr. Stanley served as Chief Financial Officer for Montgomery Securities and in various executive financial roles at Fidelity Investments Brokerage Group from 1991 to 1997. Mr. Stanley earned a B.B.A. in Accounting from Stephen F. Austin State University and is a certified public accountant. We believe Mr. Stanleys qualifications to sit on our board of directors include his extensive experience in financial services and his expertise and experience in corporate accounting and financial reporting processes.
Executive Officers and Key Employees
Donald J. Glidewell has served as our Chief Financial Officer since April 2011 and as Secretary since September 2012. Prior to joining MBI, from July 2007 to March 2011, he served as Director of Finance and Senior Director of Finance at Valent USA Corporation, a subsidiary of Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd., where he oversaw financial analysis for strategic acquisitions and divestitures and oversaw significant reductions in financial reporting time and costs. From 2000 to 2006, he served as Chief Financial Officer of AgraQuest, Inc. (acquired by Bayer), where he was responsible for the negotiation, purchase and operational startup of that companys fermentation facility and oversaw its venture and debt financings. From 1994 to 2000, he served as the Chief Financial Officer of Bio-Trends International, Inc., a global companion animal vaccine research and development and manufacturing company, until its sale to Intervet Inc. (acquired by Merck Animal Health). Mr. Glidewell holds a California Certified Public Accountant license and a B.S. in Business Administration/Accounting from Arizona State University.
Hector Absi has served as our Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations since October 2012. Previously, from 2005 to 2012, Mr. Absi served as Vice President of Global Sales and Director of Sales and Marketing for Suterra, a leading provider of environmentally friendly products for agricultural crop protection and commercial pest control, where he was responsible for leading the Suterras global and U.S. sales organizations. Prior to his position at Suterra, from 1993 to 2005, Mr. Absi served in various sales executive roles at Monsanto. Mr. Absi holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Valparaiso University and a Masters of Business Administration from Washington University.
Phyllis Himmel, Ph.D. has served as our Vice President of Biological Research since September 2010. Prior to joining MBI, from 1991 to 2010, Dr. Himmel served as Director of Research Pathology at Monsanto Vegetable Seeds, ultimately leading a global team of 64 scientists and staff. From 1989 to 1991, Dr. Himmel specialized in disease resistance to soil-borne wheat mosaic virus in soft red winter wheat during a three year U.S. Department of Agriculture post-doctoral study based at the University of Illinois. Dr. Himmel started her agricultural career as a scientist at Asgrow Seed Company (currently Monsanto Vegetable Seeds) developing and running programs to identify viral disease resistance in vegetables. Dr. Himmel earned a B.S. in Biology, a M.S. in Plant Pathology and a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology all from the University of Arizona.
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Keith Pitts has served as our Vice President of Regulatory Affairs since July 2008. Prior to joining MBI, from January 2001 to June 2007, Mr. Pitts served as Director of Public Policy at the Pew Initiative on Food and Biotechnology, a nonpartisan research and policy organization based in Washington, D.C. From 1986 to 2001, Mr. Pitts worked in senior legislative, administrative, regulatory and public policy roles in both the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the House Committee on Agriculture. Mr. Pitts earned a B.A. in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina.
Alison Stewart, Ph.D. , and Professor Emeritus of Lincoln University, New Zealand, has served as our Chief Science Officer since April 2013. Prior to joining MBI, from 2012 to 2013, Dr. Stewart served as a Distinguished Professor of Plant Pathology in the Bio-Protection Research Centre of Lincoln University, New Zealand, where her work concentrated on beneficial strains of Trichoderma that resulted in four commercial products. In addition, for eight years, Dr. Stewart served as the Director of the Centre, assisting scientists in moving technology discovered in New Zealand out into commercial enterprises to enhance New Zealand agriculture and farmers livelihoods. Dr. Stewart is an author of approximately 200 peer-reviewed journal publications and a contributor to more than 300 other client reports, conference presentations, industry workshops and other significant research outputs. In addition, Dr. Stewart has served as Deputy Chair of the Board of Plant & Food Research in New Zealand, a board member of the Waite Research Institute in Adelaide, Australia, Vice President of the Australasian Plant Pathology Society and of the New Zealand Plant Protection Society, a senior editor of Australasian Plant Pathology and an editor of Phytopathologia Mediterranea .
Board of Directors
Our board of directors currently consists of nine members.
In accordance with our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws to become effective prior to the completion of this offering, our board of directors will be divided into three classes with staggered three-year terms. At each annual general meeting of stockholders, the successors to directors whose terms then expire will be elected to serve from the time of election and qualification until the third annual meeting following election. Our directors will be divided among the three classes as follows:
n |
The Class I directors will be Ranjeet Bhatia, Lawrence Hough and Joseph Hudson and their terms will expire at the annual general meeting of stockholders to be held in 2014; |
n |
The Class II directors will be Timothy Fogarty, Richard Rominger and Shaugn Stanley and their terms will expire at the annual general meeting of stockholders to be held in 2015; and |
n |
The Class III directors will be Elin Miller and Dr. Pamela G. Marrone and their terms will expire at the annual general meeting of stockholders to be held in 2016. |
Voting Arrangements
Pursuant to our certificate of incorporation and bylaws in effect prior to this offering and our second amended and restated voting agreement that we entered into with certain holders of our common stock and certain holders of our preferred stock, who together have substantial control of the total voting power of our outstanding capital stock, such holders voted together to cause the election of our directors as follows:
n |
Timothy Fogarty, who was elected as the designee of CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. and its affiliated entities; |
n |
Lawrence A. Hough, who was elected as the designee of Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. and its affiliated entities; |
n |
Ranjeet Bhatia, who was elected as the designee of Saffron Hill Ventures and its affiliated entities; |
n |
Sean Schickedanz, who was elected as the designee of Clean Pacific Ventures LP and its affiliated entities; |
n |
Joseph Hudson, who was elected as the designee of One Earth Capital, LLC and its affiliated entities; |
n |
Dr. Pamela G. Marrone, our Chief Executive Officer, and Richard Rominger, who were elected as designees of certain holders of our common stock; and |
n |
Elin Miller, our Chair of the Board, and Shaugn Stanley, who were elected by the holders of our convertible preferred stock and holders of common stock, voting together as a single class and on an as-converted basis and approved by our board of directors. |
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Our second amended and restated voting agreement will terminate in its entirety upon the completion of this offering, and there will be no further contractual obligations regarding the election of our directors. Our directors hold office until their successors have been elected and qualified or appointed, or the earlier of their death, resignation or removal.
Director Independence
Upon the completion of this offering, we expect that our common stock will be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market. Under Nasdaq rules, independent directors must comprise a majority of a listed companys board of directors within a specified period of the completion of this offering. In addition, Nasdaq rules require that, subject to specified exceptions, each member of a listed companys audit, compensation and nominating and governance committees be independent. Audit committee members must also satisfy the independence criteria set forth in Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Under Nasdaq rules, a director will only qualify as an independent director if, in the opinion of that companys board of directors, that person does not have a relationship that would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director. In order to be considered to be independent for purposes of Rule 10A-3, a member of an audit committee of a listed company may not, other than in his or her capacity as a member of the audit committee, the board of directors, or any other board committee: (1) accept, directly or indirectly, any consulting, advisory, or other compensatory fee from the listed company or any of its subsidiaries; or (2) be an affiliated person of the listed company or any of its subsidiaries.
Prior to the completion of this offering, our board of directors will undertake a review of its composition, the composition of its committees and the independence of each director and consider whether any director has a material relationship with us that could compromise his or her ability to exercise independent judgment in carrying out his or her responsibilities. Our board of directors will also review whether the directors that will comprise our Audit Committee and Compensation Committee, respectively, at the time of the completion of this offering satisfy the independence standards for those committees established by the applicable SEC rules and Nasdaq rules. In making this determination, our board of directors will consider the relationships that each of these non-employee directors has with our company and all other facts and circumstances our board of directors deem relevant in determining their independence, including the beneficial ownership of our capital stock held by each non-employee director.
Board Committees
Our board of directors has established an audit committee and a compensation committee, which have the composition and responsibilities described below. In addition, prior to completion of this offering, our board of directors intends to establish one additional committee, a nominating and corporate governance committee, which will have the responsibilities described below.
Audit Committee
Our audit committee is comprised of Mr. Bhatia, Mr. Fogarty and Mr. Stanley, each of whom is a non-employee member of our board of directors. Mr. Stanley is our audit committee chairman and is our audit committee financial expert, as currently defined under the SEC rules. Our board of directors has determined that each of Mr. Bhatia, Mr. Fogarty and Mr. Stanley is independent within the meaning of the applicable SEC rules and the listing standards of Nasdaq.
Our audit committee oversees our corporate accounting and financial reporting process. Among other matters, the audit committee evaluates the independent registered public accounting firms qualifications, independence and performance; determines the engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm; reviews and approves the scope of the annual audit and the audit fee; discusses with management and the independent registered public accounting firm the results of the annual audit and the review of our quarterly consolidated financial statements; approves the retention of the independent registered public accounting firm to perform any proposed permissible non-audit services; monitors the rotation of partners of the independent registered public accounting firm on our engagement team as required by law; reviews our critical accounting policies and estimates; and will annually review the audit committee charter and the committees performance. Effective upon the completion of this offering, the audit committee will operate under a written charter adopted by the board that satisfies the applicable standards of Nasdaq.
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Compensation Committee
Our compensation committee is comprised of Mr. Hough, Mr. Hudson and Mr. Rominger, each of whom is a non-employee member of our board of directors. Mr. Hough is our compensation committee chairman.
Our compensation committee reviews and recommends policies relating to the compensation and benefits of our officers and employees. The compensation committee reviews and approves corporate goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of our chief executive officer and other executive officers, evaluates the performance of these officers in light of those goals and objectives and sets the compensation of these officers based on such evaluations. The compensation committee will administer the issuance of stock options and other awards under our stock plans. The compensation committee will review and evaluate, at least annually, the performance of the compensation committee and its members. Effective upon the completion of this offering, the compensation committee will operate under a written charter adopted by the board that satisfies the applicable standards of Nasdaq.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
Our nominating and corporate governance committee will be comprised of Ms. Miller, Mr. Rominger and Mr. Stanley, each of whom is a non-employee member of our board of directors. Ms. Miller will be our nominating and corporate governance committee chairman. Our nominating and corporate governance committee will be responsible for making recommendations regarding candidates for directorships and the size and the composition of our board of directors. In addition, the nominating and corporate governance committee will be responsible for overseeing our corporate governance principles and making recommendations concerning governance matters. Effective upon the completion of this offering, the nominating and corporate governance committee will operate under a written charter adopted by the board that satisfies the applicable standards of Nasdaq.
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
None of our executive officers currently serves or in the past year has served as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of any other entity that has one or more executive officers serving on our board of directors.
Director Compensation
Directors who are employees of ours do not receive any compensation for their service on our board of directors. Our board of directors has adopted the following compensation policy that, effective upon the completion of this offering, will be applicable to all of our non-employee directors:
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Initial Equity Grants. Each non-employee director who joins the board after the completion of this offering will receive an option to purchase 16,000 shares of our common stock. In addition, upon completion of this offering, Ms. Miller, Mr. Rominger and Mr. Stanley will each receive an additional option to purchase 3,200 shares of our common stock, which will vest in accordance with the schedules applicable to their existing stock options, discussed below, and all of such directors existing and initial options grants will accelerate fully in the event of their removal from the board of directors prior to completion of vesting. |
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Annual Retainers. Each non-employee director will receive an annual retainer for service on the board valued at $50,000, consisting, at each directors option, of up to $25,000 in cash and the remainder in options, in addition to annual retainers for service as chair of our board of directors, or committees of our board of directors, valued as follows, consisting in each case, at each directors option, of up to 50% in cash and the remainder in options. Each director who is an affiliate of an investor holding more than 5% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of the completion of this offering will receive the entire value of their eligible retainers in options. |
Annual retainer fee for services on the board of directors: |
$ | 50,000 | ||
Additional annual retainer fees for service as chair of: |
||||
Board of Directors: |
$ | 15,000 | ||
Audit Committee: |
$ | 10,000 | ||
Compensation Committee: |
$ | 7,500 | ||
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee: |
$ | 7,500 |
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Director Compensation Table
The following presents information regarding compensation earned by or awards to our directors during fiscal year 2012.
NAME (1) |
FEES
EARNED OR PAID IN CASH ($) |
OPTION
AWARDS ($) (2) |
TOTAL
($) |
|||||||||
Elin Miller |
15,000 | | 15,000 | |||||||||
Shaugn Stanley |
| 47,692 | 47,692 |
(1) |
No other non-employee directors were paid cash fees or have received equity awards for the period presented. |
(2) |
This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of option awards granted to our directors estimated pursuant to FASB ASC 718, CompensationShare-based compensation (ASC 718). Valuation assumptions are described under Note 2 of the accompanying notes to our audited consolidated financial statements. |
Pursuant to an agreement dated June 23, 2011, we agreed to pay Elin Miller $15,000 per year in equal monthly installments for her participation on our board of directors. In fiscal 2012, we paid Ms. Miller an aggregate of $15,000. On June 24, 2011, we granted Ms. Miller an option to purchase 12,745 shares of our common stock with a per share exercise price of $1.19, which our board of directors determined equaled the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. One-quarter of the total shares subject to her option vest one year from her vesting commencement date of July 1, 2011, and 1/48th of the total shares subject to her option vest monthly for 36 months thereafter, such that all of the shares subject to the option will be fully vested upon the fourth anniversary of her vesting commencement date.
On December 15, 2011, we granted Richard Rominger an option to purchase 12,745 shares of our common stock with a per share exercise price of $1.41, which our board of directors determined equaled the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. One-half of the total shares subject to the option vested as of the vesting commencement date of November 1, 2011, with 1/120th of the grant vesting monthly thereafter for 60 months, such that all of the shares subject to the option will be fully vested upon the fifth anniversary of his vesting commencement date.
On August 21, 2012, we granted Shaugn Stanley an option to purchase 12,745 shares of our common stock with a per share exercise price of $6.28, which our board of directors determined equaled the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. One-quarter of the total shares subject to his option vest one year from his vesting commencement date of May 1, 2012, and 1/48th of the total shares subject to his option vest monthly for 36 months thereafter, such that all of the shares subject to the option will be fully vested upon the fourth anniversary of his vesting commencement date.
No other non-employee directors were paid cash fees in the year ended December 31, 2012 or have received equity awards.
Consideration and Determination of Executive and Director Compensation
Because compensation decisions for executive officers are made by our entire board of directors, Dr. Pamela G. Marrone, our President and Chief Executive Officer, participates in the determination of compensation policy, including by making recommendations and participating in the voting with respect to the compensation of executive officers, other than with respect to her own compensation.
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We refer to our chief executive officer and our two other most highly compensated executive officers discussed below as our named executive officers. Our named executive officers for fiscal year 2012 were as follows:
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Pamela G. Marrone, Ph. D., President and Chief Executive Officer |
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Donald J. Glidewell, Chief Financial Officer |
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Hector Absi, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations |
Summary Compensation Table
The following table presents information regarding compensation earned by or awards to our named executive officers during fiscal year 2012.
(1) |
This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of option awards granted to our named executive officers estimated pursuant to FASB ASC 718, Compensation Share-based compensation (ASC 718). Valuation assumptions are described under Note 2 of the accompanying notes to our audited consolidated financial statements. |
(2) |
This column includes our companys 401(k) retirement savings plan matching, payment of life insurance premiums, long-term disability and other insurance-related reimbursements. |
(3) |
Dr. Marrone elected to defer $4,167 of her non-equity incentive plan compensation related to 2011. |
(4) |
Represents a signing bonus. |
Non-Equity Incentive Awards
We structure our annual non-equity incentive awards to reward named executive officers for the successful performance of our company as a whole and of each participating named executive officer as an individual. For the 2012 fiscal year, our compensation committee established a bonus plan available to all of our executive officers and other key employees. The bonus plan provides for a target cash award of up to 30% of the named executive officers salary, with 75% of the target award based upon the achievement of company-wide goals, and 25% of the target award based upon the achievement of individual goals. The progress of the goals is tracked by the compensation committee on a quarterly basis, and our full board of directors and our Chief Executive Officer do not have discretion to adjust the award amounts. Each company-wide goal and individual goal received a weighting, such that a named executive officer would receive a portion of the target non-equity incentive award for each goal achieved. The company-wide goals were based on our forecasts and plans for fiscal year 2012 and took into account factors, including net revenues objectives, based on anticipated timing and volume of new customer activity, and product development events such as completion of development work and EPA submissions for new products, processing international registrations and introduction of products into new market. The individual goals for each named executive officer were based on the following factors:
Pamela G. Marrone, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Marrone was evaluated on the basis of the overall performance of our company, including the extent to which we were successful in achieving net revenues goals, developing strategic collaborations, product development,
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commercialization targets, geographical expansion, organizational development and growth. For fiscal year 2012, Dr. Marrone achieved 74% of her target non-equity incentive award, with 66% of the award (or 49% of her target) based on company-wide performance and 34% of the award (or 25% of her target) based on individual performance.
Donald J. Glidewell, Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Glidewell was evaluated on his management of our financial operations, manufacturing site procurement, participation in the IPO process, implementation of enhanced controls and procedures, development of our financial planning and analysis capabilities and management of our Zequanox business. For fiscal year 2012, Mr. Glidewell achieved 74% of his target non-equity incentive award, with 66% of the award (or 49% of his target) based on company-wide performance and 34% of the award (or 25% of his target) based on individual performance.
Hector Absi, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations
Mr. Absi was not eligible evaluated on the achievement of certain revenues and business development goals. For fiscal year 2012, Mr. Absi achieved 74% of his target non-equity incentive award, with 66% of the award (or 49% of his target) based on company-wide performance and 34% of the award (or 25% of his target) based on individual performance.
The non-equity incentive award can either be paid out or deferred to a future payout time at the discretion of the board of directors. Payments are not guaranteed and are subject to approval by the board of directors. In addition, the determination of goal achievement (full or partial) is made by the compensation committee and approved by the board of directors.
Outstanding Equity Awards at the End of Fiscal Year 2012
The following table provides information regarding unexercised stock options held by each of the named executive officers as of the end of fiscal year 2012.
NAME |
GRANT DATE |
SECURITIES
UNDERLYING UNEXERCISED OPTIONS EXERCISABLE (#) (1) |
SECURITIES
UNDERLYING UNEXERCISED OPTIONS UNEXERCISABLE (#) |
OPTION
EXERCISE PRICE ($) |
OPTION
EXPIRATION DATE |
|||||||||||||||
Pamela G. Marrone, Ph. D. |
5/1/2007 | 53,378 | (2) | | 0.47 | 5/1/2017 | ||||||||||||||
10/22/2008 | 47,794 | (3) | | 1.19 | 10/22/2018 | |||||||||||||||
1/28/2009 | 9,559 | (4) | | 1.19 | 1/28/2019 | |||||||||||||||
1/11/2010 | 4,779 | (5) | | 1.19 | 1/11/2020 | |||||||||||||||
1/24/2011 | 19,092 | (6) | | 1.19 | 1/24/2021 | |||||||||||||||
1/24/2011 | 31,863 | (7) | | 1.19 | 1/24/2021 | |||||||||||||||
12/15/2011 | 6,904 | (8) | 24,959 | 1.41 | 12/15/2021 | |||||||||||||||
2/20/2012 | 15,390 | (11) | | 3.11 | 2/20/2022 | |||||||||||||||
10/29/2012 | | (12) | 63,726 | 12.08 | 10/18/2022 | |||||||||||||||
Donald J. Glidewell |
4/27/2011 | 95,588 | (9) | | 1.19 | 4/27/2021 | ||||||||||||||
12/15/2011 | 3,452 | (8) | 12,480 | 1.41 | 12/15/2021 | |||||||||||||||
2/20/2012 | 10,706 | (11) | | 3.11 | 2/20/2022 | |||||||||||||||
5/11/2012 | 12,614 | (13) | 19,249 | 6.28 | 5/11/2022 | |||||||||||||||
10/29/2012 | | (12) | 31,863 | 12.08 | 10/18/2022 | |||||||||||||||
Hector Absi |
9/28/2012 | | (10) | 79,657 | 6.28 | 9/28/2022 |
(1) |
Options granted under the Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. Stock Option Plan, which we refer to as the 2006 Plan, are immediately exercisable in full, regardless of vesting. Any unvested shares issued upon the exercise to these options are subject to a right of repurchase. |
(2) |
The option vested with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on the first anniversary of the vesting commencement date of May 1, 2007, and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares were fully vested upon the fourth anniversary of the options vesting commencement date. |
(3) |
The option vested with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on the first anniversary of the vesting commencement date of November 1, 2008, and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares will be fully vested upon the fourth anniversary of the options vesting commencement date. |
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(4) |
Includes 199 unvested shares underlying exercisable options. The option vests with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on the first anniversary of the vesting commencement date of January 1, 2009, and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares will be fully vested upon the fourth anniversary of the options vesting commencement date. |
(5) |
The option vested with respect to 100% of the total shares subject to the option on the vesting commencement date of January 1, 2010. |
(6) |
The options vested with respect to 100% of the total shares subject to the option on the vesting commencement date of January 1, 2011. |
(7) |
Includes 16,593 shares underlying exercisable options that are unvested. The options vest with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on the first anniversary of the vesting commencement date of January 1, 2011, and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the options monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares will be fully vested upon the fourth anniversary of the options vesting commencement date. |
(8) |
The options vest with respect to 1/60th of the total shares subject to the option one month after the vesting commencement date of November 1, 2011, and with respect to 1/60th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares will be fully vested upon the fifth anniversary of the options vesting commencement date. |
(9) |
Includes 57,747 shares underlying exercisable options that are unvested. The option vests with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on the first anniversary of the vesting commencement date of May 1, 2011, and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares will be fully vested upon the fourth anniversary of the options vesting commencement date. |
(10) |
The option vests with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on September 28, 2013, and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares will be fully vested on September 28, 2016. |
(11) |
The options vested with respect to 100% of the total shares subject to the option on the vesting commencement date of February 20, 2012. |
(12) |
The option vests with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on October 18, 2013, and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares will be fully vested on October 18, 2016. |
(13) |
The option vests with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on May 1, 2013, and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all the shares will be fully vested on May 1, 2016. |
Option Exercises and Stock Vested
No options were exercised by named executive officers in fiscal year 2012.
Employment Agreements
We have entered into employment offer letters with each of our named executive officers described below, and employee proprietary information and inventions assignment agreements, under which each of our named executive officers has agreed not to disclose our confidential information or induce us to use proprietary information or trade secrets of others at any time.
Pamela G. Marrone, Ph.D.
Effective as of June 29, 2006, we entered into an offer letter with Dr. Pamela G. Marrone, our President and Chief Executive Officer. Under the offer letter, Dr. Marrone is entitled to an annual base salary, which is currently $250,000, and is eligible for our benefit programs on the same terms as our other executives. In addition, in accordance with the terms of the offer letter, our board of directors granted Dr. Marrone a restricted stock award of 97,424 shares, which completely vested on June 29, 2010, and an option to purchase 53,378 shares of our common stock on May 1, 2007, which completely vested on May 1, 2011.
The letter agreement provides that either party may terminate the employment arrangement for any reason or no reason, but four weeks notice is requested if the agreement is terminated by Dr. Marrone. In addition, the agreement provides that if we actively or constructively terminate Dr. Marrones employment without cause (whether or not in connection with a change of control), Dr. Marrone will be eligible to receive:
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an amount equal to twelve months of her then-current annual base salary payable in the form of salary continuation; and |
n |
medical and dental coverage, plus disability and life insurance premiums, for a period of twelve months following her termination. |
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Donald J. Glidewell
Effective as of March 24, 2011, we entered into an offer letter with Donald J. Glidewell, our Chief Financial Officer. Under the offer letter, Mr. Glidewell is entitled to an annual base salary, which is currently $180,000, and is eligible for our benefit programs, vacation benefits, medical benefits and 401(k) plan participation. In addition, in satisfaction of obligations to Mr. Glidewell in the offer letter with respect to option awards, our board of directors granted Mr. Glidewell an option to purchase 95,588 shares of our common stock on April 27, 2011 and an option to purchase 15,931 shares of our common stock on December 15, 2011, each of which vests, subject to continued employment on each vesting date, with respect to 1/4 th of the total shares subject to the option on the first anniversary of the options vesting commencement date of May 1, 2011 and November 1, 2011, respectively, and with respect to 1/48 th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months, such that all shares subject to the option will be fully vested on the fourth anniversary of such options vesting commencement date.
The letter provides that either party may terminate the employment arrangement for any reason or no reason, but four weeks notice is requested if the agreement is terminated by Mr. Glidewell. In addition, the agreement provides that if we actively or constructively terminate Mr. Glidewells employment without cause (whether or not in connection with a change of control), Mr. Glidewell will be eligible to receive:
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an amount equal to six months of his then-current annual base salary payable in the form of salary continuation; and |
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medical and dental coverage, plus disability and life insurance premiums, for a period of six months following his termination. |
Hector Absi
Effective as of August 7, 2012, we entered into an offer letter with Hector Absi, our Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations. Under the offer letter, Mr. Absi is entitled to a base annual salary, which is currently $205,000, and is eligible for our benefit programs, including our non-equity incentive program, vacation benefits, medical benefits and 401(k) plan participation, and was granted an option for the right to purchase 79,675 shares of our common stock on September 28, 2012, each of which vests, subject to continued employment on each vesting date, with respect to 1/4th of the total shares subject to the option on the first anniversary of the options vesting commencement date of September 28, 2012 and with respect to 1/48th of the total shares subject to the option monthly thereafter for 36 months. The letter agreement provides that either party may terminate the employment arrangement for any reason or no reason, but four weeks notice is requested if Mr. Absi terminates his employment. The offer letter also provided for a $10,000 signing bonus upon Mr. Absis acceptance and relocation expenses of $2,000 per month for a period of 24 months starting in September 2012. Both the signing bonus and the relocation expenses are recoupable in part if Mr. Absi terminates his employment prior to the second anniversary of his commencement of employment with us.
Compensation Risk Management
We have considered the risk associated with our compensation policies and practices for all employees, and we believe we have designed our compensation policies and practices in a manner that does not create incentives that could lead to excessive risk taking that would have a material adverse effect on our Company.
Employee Benefit and Stock Plans
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. Stock Option Plan
We established the Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. Stock Option Plan, which we refer to as the 2006 Plan, effective as of July 26, 2006. The 2006 Plan was amended as of February 25, 2010, at which time a total of 1,433,825 shares of our common stock had been authorized for issuance thereunder, and as of March 31, 2013, 1,011,415 shares of our common stock were issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options granted under the 2006 Plan. We ceased granting options under our 2006 Plan after, and the 2006 Plan terminated upon, the adoption of our 2011 Plan on July 19, 2011. Our 2006 Plan provided for the grant of incentive stock options, within the meaning of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code), to our employees and any parent and subsidiary corporations employees, and for the grant of non-qualified stock options to our employees, outside directors and consultants and our parent and subsidiary corporations employees and consultants.
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Administration. Our board of directors administered our 2006 Plan. The administrators powers include the power to: determine the fair market value of our common stock; select the individuals to whom options may be granted; determine the number of shares of stock covered by each option; approve forms of award agreement; determine the terms and conditions of options granted to employees and consultants (e.g., the exercise price, the times when options may be exercised (which may be based on performance criteria), any vesting acceleration or waiver of forfeiture restrictions, and any restriction or limitation regarding any option or the underlying shares of stock); reduce the exercise price of any option granted to employees and consultants to the then current fair market value of our common stock if such fair market value has declined since the date of grant; prescribe, amend and rescind rules and regulations relating to our 2006 Plan; modify or amend each option; institute an option exchange program; and make all other determinations deemed necessary or advisable for administering our 2006 Plan.
Transferability of Options. Our 2006 Plan allows for the transfer of options only (i) by will, and (ii) by the laws of descent and distribution. Only the recipient of an option may exercise such option during his or her lifetime.
Certain Adjustments. In the event of certain changes in our capitalization our board of directors will make adjustments to one or more of (i) the number of shares that are covered by outstanding options, (ii) the exercise price of outstanding options, and (iii) the numerical share limits contained in our 2006 Plan. In the event of our complete liquidation or dissolution, recipients must be notified at least ten (10) days prior to the proposed transaction and may exercise all vested and unvested options until ten (10) days prior to such transaction; all outstanding options will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such transaction.
Corporate Transactions. Our 2006 Plan provides that in the event of a corporate transaction, as defined in our 2006 Plan, each outstanding option will become immediately vested. In the event of a corporate transaction involving a merger or sale of assets, options will be exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date that notice of the transaction is provided; the option will then terminate upon the expiration of that period.
2011 Stock Plan
We established our 2011 Stock Plan, which we refer to as the 2011 Plan, effective as of July 19, 2011. Our 2011 Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options, within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, to our employees and any parent and subsidiary corporations employees, and for the grant of non-qualified stock options and stock purchase rights to our employees, directors and consultants and any parent and subsidiary corporations employees, directors and consultants.
Shares. As of March 31, 2013, a total of 1,408,176 shares of our common stock, plus any additional shares which are subject to options granted under our 2006 Plan but are forfeited or otherwise terminate or expire subsequent to March 31, 2013, were authorized for issuance under our 2011 Plan. In addition, as of March 31, 2013, under the 2011 Plan, 1,208,978 shares of our common stock were issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options granted, and 375,640 additional shares of common stock were reserved for issuance pursuant to future grants. Any shares allocable to the unexercised portion of an award that is cancelled, terminated or expires, or shares that are repurchased pursuant to our repurchase option will be returned to the 2011 plan and shall be available for grant. The number of shares that may be delivered upon the exercise of incentive stock options granted under the 2011 Plan may not exceed 2,446,252 shares.
Administration. Our board of directors administers our 2011 Plan. Their powers include the power to: determine the persons to whom, and the times at which, awards shall be granted and the number of shares of our common stock subject to each award; determine the fair market value of our common stock; determine the terms, conditions and restrictions applicable to each award (e.g. the exercise price, the method of payment, the method for satisfaction of any tax withholding obligation, the timing, terms and conditions of the exercisability and vesting of the award, the time of the expiration of the award, and the effect of the recipients termination of service); approve forms of award agreement; amend, modify, extend, cancel or renew any award or waive any restrictions or conditions applicable to any award; accelerate, continue, extend or defer the exercisability of any award; prescribe, amend or rescind rules guidelines and policies relating to the 2011 Plan; and make all other determinations and take such other actions with respect to the 2011 Plan or any award as it deems advisable and that is consistent with applicable law, regulations and rules.
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Stock Options. Our 2011 Plan allows for the grant of incentive stock options that qualify under Section 422 of the Code only to our employees and employees of any parent or subsidiary of ours. Non-qualified stock options may be granted to our employees, directors, and consultants and those of any parent or subsidiary of ours. The exercise price of all options granted under our 2011 Plan must at least be equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. The term of an option may not exceed ten (10) years, except that with respect to any employee who owns more than ten percent (10%) of the voting power of all classes of our outstanding stock or the outstanding stock of any parent or subsidiary corporation as of the grant date (i) the term of an incentive stock option must not exceed five (5) years, and (ii) the exercise price of an incentive stock option must equal at least one hundred ten percent (110%) of the fair market value of our common stock on the grant date.
After the continuous service of an employee, director or consultant terminates, he or she may exercise his or her option, to the extent vested, for the period of time specified in the award agreement. If his or her continuous service terminates for cause, however, the option shall immediately terminate. An option may not be exercised later than the expiration of its term.
Stock Purchase Rights. Our 2011 Plan allows for the grant of stock purchase rights. Stock purchase rights are rights to purchase our common stock for at least one hundred percent (100%) of the fair market value of our common stock and which are exercisable for thirty (30) days from the date of grant. The purchase price of a stock purchase right may be paid in cash or in the form of services rendered. The board of directors may subject a stock purchase right to vesting conditions.
Transferability of Awards. Our 2011 Plan allows for the transfer of awards only (i) by will, (ii) by the laws of descent and distribution and (iii) for non-qualified stock options, to the extent authorized by the board of directors. Only the recipient of an award may exercise such award during his or her lifetime except that non-qualified stock options may be transferred to certain trusts and certain family members.
Certain Adjustments. In the event of certain changes in our capitalization, to prevent diminution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits available under the 2011 Plan, the board of directors will make adjustments to one or more of (i) the number and class of shares subject to the 2011 Plan and that are covered by outstanding awards, (ii) the exercise price of outstanding awards, and (iii) the incentive stock option share limit contained in the 2011 Plan.
Changes in Control. Our 2011 Plan provides that in the event of a change in control, as defined in the 2011 Plan, the board of directors, in its discretion may provide that (i) the vesting and exercisability of any outstanding awards shall accelerate; or (ii) that each outstanding award (including, at the board of directors discretion, unvested awards) shall be cashed out; payment due with respect to unvested awards would then be payable in accordance with the existing vesting schedule. Further, the successor corporation may assume or substitute an equivalent award for each outstanding award; if the successor corporation does not do so, awards held by recipients who have not terminated employment with us will vest in full as of the change in control.
Plan Amendments and Termination. Our 2011 Plan will automatically terminate ten (10) years following its effective date, unless we terminate it sooner. In addition, our board of directors has the authority to amend, suspend or terminate the 2011 Plan provided such action does not adversely affect any outstanding award without the consent of the recipient.
2013 Stock Incentive Plan
We anticipate that prior to the completion of this offering, our board of directors will adopt, and our stockholders will approve, our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan, which we refer to as the 2013 Plan. The 2013 Plan will become effective prior to the completion of this offering, and will serve as the successor to our 2011 Plan. Our 2013 Plan will provide for the grant of incentive stock options, within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, to our employees and any parent and subsidiary corporations employees, and for the grant of non-qualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units and dividend equivalent rights to our employees, directors and consultants and our parent and subsidiary corporations employees, directors and consultants.
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Shares. We will authorize a total of 1,600,000 shares of our common stock for issuance pursuant to the 2013 Plan, in addition to any shares of common stock reserved for issuance pursuant to future grants under the 2011 Plan upon the adoption of the 2013 Plan. In addition, the number of shares authorized for issuance pursuant to the 2013 Plan will be increased by any additional shares that would otherwise return to the 2011 Plan after the date of adoption of the 2013 Plan as a result of the forfeiture, termination or expiration of awards previously granted under the 2011 Plan. Further, our 2013 Plan will provide for annual increases in the number of shares available for issuance thereunder on the first business day of each fiscal year, beginning with our fiscal year following the year of this offering, equal to 3.5% of the number of shares of our common stock outstanding as of such date.
Administration. Our board of directors or a committee of our board of directors will administer our 2013 Plan. In the case of awards intended to qualify as performance based compensation within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code the committee will consist of two (2) or more outside directors within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code. The administrator will have the power to determine and interpret the terms and conditions of the awards, including the employees, directors and consultants who will receive awards, the exercise price, the number of shares subject to each such award, the vesting schedule and exercisability of the awards, the restrictions on transferability of awards and the form of consideration payable upon exercise. The administrator also will have the authority to institute an exchange program whereby the exercise prices of outstanding awards may be reduced or outstanding awards may be surrendered or cancelled in exchange for other awards of the same type (which may have higher or lower exercise prices) or awards of a different type.
Stock Options. Our 2013 Plan will allow for the grant of incentive stock options that qualify under Section 422 of the Code only to our employees and employees of any parent or subsidiary of ours. Non-qualified stock options may be granted to our employees, directors and consultants and those of any parent or subsidiary of ours. The exercise price of all options granted under our 2013 Plan must at least be equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. The term of an incentive stock option may not exceed ten (10) years, except that with respect to any employee who owns more than ten percent (10%) of the voting power of all classes of our outstanding stock or any parent or subsidiary corporation as of the grant date, the term must not exceed five (5) years and the exercise price must equal at least one hundred ten percent (110%) of the fair market value on the grant date.
After the continuous service of an employee, director or consultant terminates, he or she may exercise his or her option, to the extent vested, for the period of time specified in the option agreement. However, an option may not be exercised later than the expiration of its term.
Stock Appreciation Rights. Our 2013 Plan will allow for the grant of stock appreciation rights. Stock appreciation rights allow the recipient to receive the appreciation in the fair market value of our common stock between the date of grant and the exercise date. The administrator will determine the terms of stock appreciation rights, including when such rights become exercisable and whether to pay the increased appreciation in cash or with shares of our common stock, or a combination thereof, except that the base appreciation amount for the cash or shares to be issued pursuant to the exercise of a stock appreciation right will be no less than one hundred percent (100%) of the fair market value per share on the date of grant. After the continuous service of an employee, director or consultant terminates, he or she may exercise his or her stock appreciation right, to the extent vested, only to the extent provided in the stock appreciation right agreement.
Restricted Stock Awards. Our 2013 Plan will allow for the grant of restricted stock. Restricted stock awards are shares of our common stock that vest in accordance with terms and conditions established by the administrator. The administrator will determine the number of shares of restricted stock granted to any employee, director or consultant. The administrator may impose whatever conditions on vesting it determines to be appropriate. For example, the administrator may set restrictions based on the achievement of specific performance goals. Shares of restricted stock that do not vest are subject to our right of repurchase or forfeiture.
Restricted Stock Units. Our 2013 Plan will allow for the grant of restricted stock units. Restricted stock units are awards that will result in payment to a recipient at the end of a specified period only if the vesting criteria established by the administrator are achieved or the award otherwise vests. The administrator may impose whatever conditions to vesting, restrictions and conditions to payment it determines to be appropriate. The administrator may set restrictions based on the achievement of specific performance goals or on the continuation of service or employment. Payments of earned restricted stock units may be made, in the administrators discretion, in cash, with shares of our common stock or other securities, or a combination thereof.
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Dividend Equivalent Rights. Our 2013 Plan will allow for the grant of dividend equivalent rights. Dividend equivalent rights are awards that entitle the recipients to compensation measured by the dividends we pay with respect to our common stock.
Transferability of Awards. Our 2013 Plan will allow for the transfer of awards under the 2013 Plan only (i) by will, (ii) by the laws of descent and distribution and (iii) for awards other than incentive stock options, to the extent authorized by the administrator. Only the recipient of an incentive stock option may exercise such award during his or her lifetime.
Certain Adjustments. In the event of certain changes in our capitalization, to prevent diminution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits available under the 2013 Plan, the administrator will make adjustments to one or more of the number or class of shares that are covered by outstanding awards, the exercise or purchase price of outstanding awards, the numerical share limits contained in the 2013 Plan and any other terms that the administrator determines require adjustment. In the event of our complete liquidation or dissolution, all outstanding awards will terminate immediately upon the consummation of such transaction.
Corporate Transactions and Changes in Control. Our 2013 Plan will provide that in the event of a corporate transaction, as defined in the 2013 Plan, each outstanding award will terminate upon the consummation of the corporate transaction to the extent that such awards are not assumed by the acquiring or succeeding corporation. Prior to or upon the consummation of a corporate transaction or a change in control, as defined in the 2013 Plan, an outstanding award may vest, in whole or in part, to the extent provided in the award agreement or as determined by the administrator in its discretion. The administrator may condition the vesting of an award upon the subsequent termination of the recipients service or employment within a specified period of time following the consummation of a corporate transaction or change in control. The administrator will not be required to treat all awards similarly in the event of a corporate transaction or change in control.
Plan Amendments and Termination. Our 2013 Plan will automatically terminate ten (10) years following the date it becomes effective, unless we terminate it sooner. In addition, our board of directors has the authority to amend, suspend or terminate the 2013 Plan provided such action does not impair the rights under any outstanding award unless mutually agreed to in writing by the recipient and us.
401(k) Plan
We maintain a 401(k) retirement savings plan. Each participant who is a U.S. employee may contribute to the 401(k) plan, through payroll deductions, up to a statutorily prescribed annual limit imposed by the Internal Revenue Service (which limit was $17,500 in 2013). All amounts contributed by employee participants and earnings on these contributions are fully vested at all times and are not taxable to participants until withdrawn. Employee participants may elect to invest their contributions in various established funds. We may make contributions to the accounts of plan participants.
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The following table sets forth information regarding beneficial ownership of our securities on a pro forma, as-converted into common stock basis, as of March 31, 2013 and as adjusted to reflect the shares of common stock to be issued and sold in this offering assuming no exercise of the underwriters option to purchase additional shares, by:
n |
each person or group of affiliated persons known by us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of our common stock; |
n |
each of our named executive officers; |
n |
each of our directors; and |
n |
all current executive officers and directors as a group. |
We have determined beneficial ownership in accordance with SEC rules. The information does not necessarily indicate beneficial ownership for any other purpose. Under these rules, the number of shares of common stock deemed outstanding includes shares issuable upon exercise of options held by the respective person or group that may be exercised or converted within 60 days after March 31, 2013. For purposes of calculating each persons or groups percentage ownership, stock options and warrants exercisable within 60 days after March 31, 2013 are included for that person or group but not the stock options of any other person or group.
Applicable percentage ownership is based on 12,718,560 shares of common stock outstanding at March 31, 2013, assuming (i) the automatic conversion into 8,513,473 shares of common stock of all outstanding shares of our preferred stock, including shares issued upon the full exercise of Series B convertible preferred stock warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2013, (ii) the issuance of 99,187 shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, upon the net exercise, at the completion of this offering, of outstanding warrants, which have been exercised effective upon the completion of this offering, to purchase shares of Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock, (iii) the issuance of convertible promissory notes and warrants to purchase shares of common stock and the conversion of a portion of a convertible note into a promissory note after March 31, 2013, (iv) the issuance of 31,100 shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the net exercise of outstanding warrants to purchase common stock will be automatically exercised upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms, and (v) the issuance of 2,805,859 shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, at the completion of this offering, upon the conversion of all outstanding convertible notes, including principal and interest, to the extent accrued as of March 31, 2013, automatically convertible upon the completion of this offering in accordance with their terms. For purposes of the table below, we have assumed that 16,918,560 shares of common stock will be outstanding upon completion of this offering, based on (i) 12,718,560 shares outstanding as of March 31, 2013 and (ii) 4,200,0000 shares that will be sold by us in this offering.
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Unless otherwise indicated and subject to applicable community property laws, to our knowledge, each stockholder named in the following table possesses sole voting and investment power over the shares listed. Unless otherwise noted below, the address of each person listed on the table is c/o Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., 2121 Second St. Suite A-107, Davis, CA 95618.
SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED
PRIOR TO THE OFFERING |
SHARES
BENEFICIALLY
OWNED AFTER THE OFFERING |
|||||||||||||||
NAME AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNER |
SHARES
(#) |
PERCENTAGE
(%) |
SHARES
(#) |
PERCENTAGE
(%) |
||||||||||||
5% Stockholders: |
||||||||||||||||
CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. (1) |
1,235,574 | 9.7 | 1,235,574 | 7.3 | ||||||||||||
5 San Joaquin Plaza, Suite 330 Newport Beach, CA 92660 |
||||||||||||||||
One Earth Capital, LLC (2) |
1,385,768 | 10.9 | 1,385,768 | 8.2 | ||||||||||||
201 Entrada Drive Santa Monica, CA 90402 |
||||||||||||||||
Entities affiliated with Saffron Hill Ventures (3) |
1,232,509 | 9.7 | 1,232,509 | 7.3 | ||||||||||||
130 Wood Street London EC2V 6DL United Kingdom |
||||||||||||||||
Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. (4) |
1,286,636 | 10.1 | 1,286,636 | 7.6 | ||||||||||||
252 North Washington Street Falls Church, VA 22046 |
||||||||||||||||
Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD. (5) |
1,804,500 | 14.2 | 1,804,500 | 10.7 | ||||||||||||
1, Harbourfront Avenue 098632 Singapore |
||||||||||||||||
Entities affiliated with CPV Partners GP, LLC (6) |
939,127 | 7.4 | 939,127 | 5.6 | ||||||||||||
Two Transamerica Center 505 Sansome, Suite 1200 San Francisco, CA 94111 |
||||||||||||||||
Directors and Named Executive Officers: |
||||||||||||||||
Pamela G. Marrone, Ph.D. (7) |
961,890 | 7.6 | 961,890 | 5.7 | ||||||||||||
Elin Miller (8) |
12,745 | * | 12,745 | * | ||||||||||||
Ranjeet Bhatia (9) |
12,770 | * | 12,770 | * | ||||||||||||
Tim Fogarty (10) |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Lawrence Hough (11) |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Joseph Hudson (12) |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Richard Rominger (13) |
111,643 | * | 111,643 | * | ||||||||||||
Sean Schickedanz (14) |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Shaugn Stanley (15) |
3,059 | * | 3,059 | * | ||||||||||||
Donald J. Glidewell (16) |
123,685 | * | 123,685 | * | ||||||||||||
Hector Absi (17) |
| | | | ||||||||||||
All current directors and executive officers as a group (11 persons) (18) |
1,225,792 | 9.6 | 1,225,792 | 7.2 |
* | Represents beneficial ownership of less than 1% of our outstanding common stock. |
(1) |
Peter V. Ueberroth and Joseph Ueberroth are Partners of CGI Opportunity Gen Par II, LLC, the sole General Partner of CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over the securities held by CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. Does not include warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, which will be first exercisable for 1,843 shares of common stock, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, after 60 days, held by Peter V. Ueberroth and Virginia M. Ueberroth, Trustees of Ueberroth Family Trust. |
(2) |
Does not include warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, which will be first exercisable for 6,912 shares of common stock, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, after 60 days, held by One Earth Capital, LLC. David H. Jacobs, Jr., the sole member and the sole manager of Henry Street LLC, the sole managing member of One |
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Earth Capital, LLC, and therefore may be deemed to have sole voting control and investment power over the securities held by of One Earth Capital, LLC. See also note 11 to this section. |
(3) |
Includes 191,782 shares of common stock held by Saffron Hill Ventures L.P. and 1,040,727 shares of common stock held by Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. Shawn Luetchens and Ranjeet Bhatia are Directors of Saffron Hill MGP Ltd and Saffron Hill MGP2 Ltd, the General Partners of Saffron Hill Ventures L.P. and Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. respectively, and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over the securities held by Saffron Hill Ventures L.P. and Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. See also note 9 to this section. |
(4) |
Does not include warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, which will be first exercisable for 6,912 shares of common stock, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, after 60 days, held by Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. Lawrence Hough is the Managing Director and Walter Lubsen, Jeffrey Salinger and Jana Hernandes are the Managing Partners of Stuart Mill Partners, LLC, the general partner of Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P., and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over the securities held by Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. See also note 10 to this section. |
(5) |
Syngenta AG, the ultimate parent of Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD., is a public company traded on both the SIX Swiss Exchange and the NYSE. |
(6) |
Includes 191,782 shares of common stock held by CPV Partners Pledge Fund, L.P. Series (A-2), 185,623 shares of common stock held by CPV Partners Pledge Fund, L.P. Series (A-5), 169,280 shares of common stock held by CPV Partners Pledge Fund, L.P. Series (A-8), 311,831 shares of common stock held by CPV Partners Pledge Fund, LP Series (A-15) and 80,611 shares held by CPV Partners Pledge Fund, L.P. (A-21) (such stockholders together, the CVP Affiliates). Jeff Barnes, Dave Herron and Sean Schickedanz are managing members of CPV Partners GP, LLC, the sole General Partner of each of the CVP Affiliates, and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over the securities held by the CVP Affiliates. See also note 14 of this section. |
(7) |
Includes 712,375 shares of common stock held by Dr. Marrone, 191,414 shares of common stock issuable to Dr. Marrone upon the exercise of outstanding options exercisable within 60 days, 6,268 shares of common stock held by Florence H. Marrone TOD Pamela G. Marrone and 51,833 shares of common stock held by Dr. Marrone and Michael Rogers. Does not include 86,030 shares of common stock issuable to Dr. Marrone upon the exercise of outstanding options not exercisable within 60 days. |
(8) |
Includes 12,745 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options exercisable within 60 days. |
(9) |
Ranjeet Bhatia is a Director of Saffron Hill MGP Ltd and Saffron Hill MGP2 Ltd, the General Partners of Saffron Hill Ventures L.P. and Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. respectively, and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over the securities held by Saffron Hill Ventures L.P. and Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. See also note 3 to this section. |
(10) |
Does not include warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, which will be first exercisable for 922 shares of common stock, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, after 60 days, held by Timothy and Patricia Fogarty 2011 Trust, Dated August 1, 2011. Tim Fogarty is a Partner of the Contrarian Group, an affiliate of CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P., and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over the securities held by CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. with the other Partners of the Contrarian Group. See also note 1 to this section. |
(11) |
Does not include warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, which will be first exercisable for 2,765 shares of common stock, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, after 60 days, held by Lawrence Hough. Lawrence Hough is the Managing Director of Stuart Mill Partners, LLC, the general partner of Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P., and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over the securities held by Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. See also note 4 to this section. |
(12) |
Joseph Hudson is a member of One Earth Capital, LLC and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over the securities held by One Earth Capital, LLC. See also note 2 to this section. |
(13) |
Includes 99,522 shares of common stock held by The Richard and Mary Rominger Community Trust and 12,121 shares of common stock usable to Mr. Rominger upon the exercise of outstanding options exercisable within 60 days. Does not include 4,461 shares of common stock issuable to Mr. Rominger upon the exercise of outstanding options not exercisable within 60 days. |
(14) |
Sean Schickedanz is a managing member of CPV Partners GP, LLC and therefore may be deemed to share voting control and investment power over an aggregate of 939,127 securities held by the CPV Affiliates. See also note 1 to this section. |
(15) |
Includes 3,059 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options exercisable within 60 days. Does not include 6,541 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options not exercisable within 60 days. |
(16) |
Includes 123,685 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options exercisable within 60 days. Does not include 62,266 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options not exercisable within 60 days. |
(17) |
Does not include 79,657 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options not exercisable within 60 days. |
(18) |
Includes 882,768 shares of common stock, 343,024 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options held by current directors and executive officers exercisable within 60 days. Does not include 260,622 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options held by current directors and executive officers not exercisable within 60 days or warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, which will be first exercisable for 3,687 shares of common stock, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, after 60 days, held by our current directors and executive officers. See also notes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 to this section. |
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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
We describe below the transactions and series of similar transactions, since December 31, 2009, to which we were a participant or will be a participant, in which:
n |
the amounts involved exceeded or will exceed $120,000; and |
n |
any of our directors, executive officers, holders of more than 5% of our capital stock (which we refer to as 5% stockholders) or any member of their immediate family had or will have a direct or indirect material interest, other than compensation arrangements with directors and executive officers, which are described where required under the section titled Executive Compensation. |
June 2013 Credit Facility
In June 2013, we entered into a credit facility agreement with a group of lenders under which such lenders have committed to permit us to draw, in exchange for promissory notes that accrue interest at a rate of 10% per annum, an aggregate of up to $5.0 million. In addition, in connection with our entry into the credit facility agreement, we have agreed to pay each lender a fee of 2% of such lenders commitment amount, and we issued warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock to the lenders, which upon completion of this offering, will represent the right to purchase an aggregate of up to 46,080 shares of common stock with the exercise price of $10.85 per share, 70% of the mid-point of the range on the cover of this prospectus. See Description of Certain IndebtednessTerm Loan, Promissory Notes and Credit Facility and Description of Capital StockWarrants.
The table below sets forth, for each lender under the credit facility agreement that is a director, executive officer or 5% stockholder, and their respective affiliates, the aggregate principal amount committed under the credit facility agreement, the fee paid to such lender in respect of such commitment, and the number of shares of common stock into which the warrants issuable to such lender are convertible following this offering based on an initial public offering price of $15.50 per share, the mid-point of the range on the cover of this prospectus.
NAME |
AGGREGATE
COMMITMENT AMOUNT ($) |
CREDIT
FEE ($) |
WARRANT
SHARES ISSUABLE |
|||||||||
One Earth Capital, LLC (1) |
750,000 | 15,000 | 6,912 | |||||||||
Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. (2) |
2,000,000 | 40,000 | 18,433 | |||||||||
Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. (3) |
750,000 | 15,000 | 6,912 | |||||||||
Timothy and Patricia Fogarty 2011 Trust, Dated August 1, 2011 (4) |
100,000 | 2,000 | 922 | |||||||||
Lawrence Hough (5) |
300,000 | 6,000 | 2,765 |
(1) |
One Earth Capital, LLC is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Joseph Hudson, is a member of our board of directors. |
(2 ) |
Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P., is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Ranjeet Bhatia, is a member of our board of directors. |
(3) |
Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P., is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Lawrence Hough is a member of our board of directors. See also note 5 to this section. |
(4) |
Timothy Fogarty is a member of our board of directors as a representative of CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P., and its related affiliates. |
(5) |
Lawrence Hough is a member of our board of directors as a representative of Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. See also note 3 to this section. |
Issuance of Syngenta Convertible Note
In December 2012, we issued and sold to Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD a convertible note in the aggregate principal amount of $12.5 million under a convertible note purchase agreement. The convertible note accrues interest at a rate of 10.00% per annum and matures on October 16, 2015, unless extended, but the convertible note and all principal and accrued interest will automatically convert into 1,189,196 shares of common stock in this offering, based on interest accrued as of March 31, 2013 and at an assumed conversion price of $10.85 per share, 70% of the mid-point of the range on the cover of this prospectus. See Description of Certain IndebtednessConvertible NotesDecember 2012 Convertible Note.
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Issuance of Insider Convertible Notes
From March through October 2012, we issued and sold in a series of closings convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of approximately $9.1 million under a convertible note purchase agreement. The convertible notes all accrue interest at a rate of 10.0% per annum and mature on September 30, 2013, but the convertible notes and all principal and accrued interest will automatically convert into shares of our common stock upon completion of this offering. See Description of Certain IndebtednessConvertible NotesMarch and October 2012 Convertible Notes.
The table below sets forth, for each purchaser of the convertible notes that is a director, executive officer or 5% stockholder, and their respective affiliates, the aggregate principal amount and purchase price of convertible notes purchased and the number of shares of common stock into which such convertible notes are convertible in this offering, based on interest accrued as of March 31, 2013 and at an assumed conversion price of $10.85 per share, 70% of the mid-point of the range on the cover of this prospectus.
NAME |
AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AND
AGGREGATE PURCHASE PRICE OF CONVERTIBLE NOTES ($) |
SHARES OF
COMMON STOCK ISSUABLE |
||||||
CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. (1) |
1,000,000 | 102,207 | ||||||
One Earth Capital, LLC (2) |
1,000,000 | 102,151 | ||||||
Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. (3) |
1,474,960 | 153,267 | ||||||
Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. (4) |
1,500,000 | 153,269 | ||||||
Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD. (5) |
500,000 | 51,034 | ||||||
Entities affiliated with Clean Pacific Ventures (6) |
790,000 | 80,611 | ||||||
Ranjeet Bhatia (7) |
150,000 | 12,770 | ||||||
Dr. Pamela G. Marrone (8) |
30,049 | 3,068 |
(1) |
CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Tim Fogarty, is a member of our board of directors. |
(2) |
One Earth Capital, LLC is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Joseph Hudson, is a member of our board of directors. |
(3) |
Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Ranjeet Bhatia, is a member of our board of directors. See also note 7 to this section. |
(4) |
Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Lawrence Hough, is a member of our board of directors. |
(5) |
Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD. is a 5% stockholder. |
(6) |
Clean Pacific Ventures is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Sean Schickedanz, is a member of our board of directors. |
(7) |
Ranjeet Bhatia is a member of our board of directors as a representative of Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. See also note 3 to this section. |
(8) |
Pamela G. Marrone is our Chief Executive Officer, a member of our board of directors and a 5% stockholder. The convertible notes purchased by Pamela G. Marrone and Michael J. Rogers and those purchased by Florence H. Marrone TOD Pamela G. Marrone are aggregated with those purchased by Pamela G. Marrone for purposes above. |
113
Issuance of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock
During 2010 and 2011, we issued and sold in a series of closings an aggregate of 4,778,494 shares of our Series C convertible preferred stock at a price per share of $5.317, for an aggregate consideration of approximately $25.4 million. In connection with Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD.s participation in the financing, we agreed not to issue or sell any shares of preferred stock to any material direct competitor of Syngenta AG or its affiliates, provided that this provision will terminate upon completion of this offering. The table below sets forth the number of shares of Series C convertible preferred stock purchased and aggregate purchase price for each purchaser that is a director, executive officer or 5% stockholders, and their affiliates.
NAME |
SHARES OF
SERIES C PREFERRED STOCK (#) |
AGGREGATE
PURCHASE PRICE ($) |
||||||
CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. (1) |
617,749 | 3,284,324 | ||||||
One Earth Capital, LLC (2) |
564,271 | 3,000,003 | ||||||
Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. (3) |
578,090 | 3,073,474 | ||||||
Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. (4) |
617,749 | 3,284,324 | ||||||
Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD. (5) |
564,270 | 2,999,998 | ||||||
Entities affiliated with Clean Pacific Ventures (6) |
481,114 | 2,557,892 | ||||||
Dr. Pamela G. Marrone (7) |
16,125 | 85,732 |
(1) |
CGI Opportunity Fund II, L.P. is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Tim Fogarty, is a member of our board of directors. |
(2) |
One Earth Capital, LLC is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Joseph Hudson, is a member of our board of directors. |
(3) |
Saffron Hill Ventures 2, L.P. is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Ranjeet Bhatia, is a member of our board of directors. |
(4) |
Stuart Mill Venture Partners, L.P. is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Lawrence Hough, is a member of our board of directors. |
(5) |
Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD. is a 5% stockholder. |
(6) |
Clean Pacific Ventures is a 5% stockholder whose representative, Sean Schickedanz, is a member of our board of directors. |
(7) |
Pamela G. Marrone is our Chief Executive Officer, a member of our board of directors and a 5% stockholder. The shares of Series C preferred stock are held by Pamela G. Marrone and Michael J. Rogers. |
Investor Rights Agreement
We are party to a second amended and restated investor rights agreement which provides that the holders of common stock (including those issuable upon conversion of our preferred stock), including Dr. Pamela G. Marrone, our Chief Executive Officer, and Richard Rominger, our Chairman of the Board, have certain rights relating to the registration of shares of such common stock. For a description of these registration rights, see the section titled Description of Capital StockRegistration Rights. In addition to such registration rights, the investor rights agreement provides for certain information rights, board observer rights and rights of first refusal. The provisions of the investor rights agreement, other than those relating to registration rights, will terminate upon the completion of this offering.
Voting Agreement
We have entered into a second amended and restated voting agreement with certain holders of our common stock and certain holders of our preferred stock which will terminate upon completion of this offering. For a description of the third amended and restated voting agreement, see the section titled ManagementVoting Arrangements.
Executive Compensation and Employment Arrangements
Please see Executive Compensation for information on compensation arrangements with our executive officers and agreements with, and offer letters to, our executive officers containing compensation and termination provisions, among others.
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Director and Officer Indemnification and Insurance
We have entered into indemnification agreements with certain of our directors and executive officers, and we purchase directors and officers liability insurance. Effective upon the completion of this offering, we intend to enter into new indemnification agreements with our directors and certain of our executive officers. The indemnification agreements and our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws will require us to indemnify our directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. See Description of Capital StockLimitations of Liability and Indemnification Matters.
Syngenta Commercial Agreement
In February 2011, we entered into an agreement with Syngenta Crop Protection AG, an affiliate of a 5% stockholder, whereby we have designated Syngenta as our exclusive distributor for Regalia in specialty crop markets in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. See Issuance of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, and, for a description of the agreement, see the section titled BusinessStrategic Collaborations and Relationships.
Policies and Procedures Regarding Related Party Transactions
Our board of directors reviews related party transactions for potential conflict of interest issues. Our board of directors intends to adopt a written related person transaction policy to be effective upon or prior to the completion of this offering to set forth the policies and procedures for the review and approval or ratification of related person transactions. This policy will cover any transaction, arrangement or relationship, or any series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships in which we were or are to be a participant, the amount involved exceeds $120,000 and a related person had or will have a direct or indirect material interest, including, without limitation, purchases of goods or services by or from the related person or entities in which the related person has a material interest, indebtedness, guarantees of indebtedness or employment by us or a related person.
Director Independence
For a discussion of the independence of our directors, please see ManagementDirector Independence above.
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DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS
Term Loan, and Promissory Notes and Credit Facility
The following is a summary of the material terms of our term loan, promissory notes and credit facility outstanding as of June 30, 2013, all of which will remain outstanding upon completion of this offering. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the agreements which are filed as exhibits to the registration statement, of which this prospectus forms a part.
Five Star Bank
In March 2009, we entered into a promissory note with Five Star Bank in the aggregate of $0.65 million, which accrues interest at a rate of 7.0% per annum and which we repay at a rate of approximately $13,000 per month through maturity on November 1, 2014. As of June 30, 2013, the outstanding principal amount of the promissory note was $0.2 million.
In addition, in March 2012, we entered into a term loan agreement with Five Star Bank for $0.5 million, which replaced a prior revolving line of credit with the bank. Under the term loan agreement, interest accrues at a rate of 7.0% per annum, and we are obligated to repay the loan at a rate of approximately $12,000 per month through maturity on April 1, 2016. As of June 30, 2013, the outstanding principal amount of the term loan was $0.4 million.
Under the terms of the promissory notes and the term loan agreement, all our outstanding debt to Five Star Bank is secured by all of our inventory, chattel paper, accounts, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and any intellectual property). Among other things, a payment default with respect to each of the promissory notes and the term loan, as well as other events such as a default under other loans or agreements that would materially affect us, constitute events of default. Upon an event of default, Five Star Bank may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable.
October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes
In October 2012, we completed the sale of promissory notes under a note purchase agreement in the aggregate principal amount of $7.5 million to 12 investors in a private placement. The promissory notes accrue interest at a rate of 12% per annum and mature on October 2, 2015, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 12% to 13% in the first year of the extension to October 2, 2016, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to October 2, 2017. We are only obligated to pay interest on the promissory notes on a monthly basis until maturity, when remaining interest and all principal becomes due. In addition, in connection with the promissory notes, each note holder received a warrant to purchase a variable number of common shares, which will be automatically exercisable by net exercise, at the completion of this offering, with warrant coverage equal to a number of shares determined by multiplying the purchase price paid by each holder for the respective note by 15% and dividing such product by 70% of the initial public offering price per share, and with the exercise price for the warrants equal to 70% of the initial public offering price per share. See Description of Capital StockWarrants.
In addition, in April 2013, we completed the sale of an additional $4.95 million of promissory notes to 10 investors in a private placement under an amendment to the note purchase agreement in exchange for $3.7 million in cash and $1.25 million in cancellation of indebtedness under an outstanding convertible note. See Convertible NotesOctober 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note. The additional promissory notes bear interest at the same rates, mature on the same schedule, and are subject to substantially the same terms as the promissory notes issued in October 2012, but the warrants issued in connection with additional notes have coverage based on 20% of the purchase price paid (including consideration in the form of cancellation of indebtedness) and may not be exercised until the earlier to occur of 18 months following the completion of this offering or a sale of our company.
As of June 30, 2013, the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the promissory notes was $12.45 million.
Under the terms of the note purchase agreement entered into in connection with the issuance of the promissory notes, we have agreed to certain covenants, including certain restrictions on the incurrence of additional
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indebtedness. The promissory notes are secured by a security interest in all of our present and future accounts, chattel paper, commercial tort claims, goods, inventory, equipment, personal property, instruments, investment properties, documents, letter of credit rights, deposit accounts, general intangibles, records, real property, appurtenances and fixtures, tenant improvements and intellectual property, which consists in part of its patents, copyrights and other intangibles.
June 2013 Credit Facility
On June 14, 2013, we entered into a credit facility agreement with a group of lenders. Under the credit agreement, the lenders have committed to permit us to draw an aggregate of up to $5.0 million, and, subject to our obtaining additional commitments from lenders, such amount may be increased to up to $7.0 million. The credit facility expires on June 30, 2014. During the term of the credit facility, we may request from the lenders up to four advances, with each advance equal to one quarter of each lenders aggregate commitment amount. We will issue promissory notes in the principal amount of each such advance that will accrue interest at rate of 10% per annum. We are not obligated to pay principal or interest on the promissory notes until their maturity on June 30, 2014, at which point all principal and unpaid interest will become due. In addition, we may not prepay the promissory notes prior to their maturity date without consent of at least a majority in interest of the aggregate principal amount of the promissory notes then outstanding under the credit facility. In addition, in connection with our entry into the credit facility agreement, we have agreed to pay each lender a fee of 2% of such lenders commitment amount, and we issued to each lender a warrant to purchase a variable number of common shares, with warrant coverage equal to a number of shares determined by multiplying such lenders commitment amount by 10% and dividing such product by 70% of the initial public offering price per share, and with the exercise price for the warrants equal to 70% of the initial public offering price per share. See Description of Capital StockWarrants.
As of June 30, 2013, we have not drawn on the credit facility, and accordingly have issued no promissory notes and have no outstanding indebtedness thereunder. If we obtain additional commitments from existing or new lenders under the credit agreement, we will pay to such lenders a fee of 2% of such additional commitment amount and issue to such lender a warrant on the same terms discussed above.
Convertible Notes
The following is a summary of the material terms of our convertible notes outstanding as of June 30, 2013, all of which will, in accordance with their terms, automatically convert into shares of our common stock upon completion of this offering. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the agreements which are filed as exhibits to the registration statement, of which this prospectus forms a part.
March and October 2012 Convertible Notes
From March 2012 through October 2012, we completed the sale of convertible notes under a convertible note purchase agreement, as amended, in the aggregate principal amount of $9.1 million to 38 investors, including certain holders of more than 5% of our capital stock, in a private placement. The convertible notes all accrue interest at a rate of 10.0% per annum and mature on September 30, 2013.
As of June 30, 2013, the outstanding amount of the convertible notes was $10.2 million including accrued interest of $1.1 million.
We are not obligated to pay interest or principal on the convertible notes, but under the terms of the convertible notes, if we close an initial public offering prior to the maturity date in which we receive gross cash proceeds, before underwriting discounts, commissions and fees, of at least $30 million (referred to as a qualified initial public offering), the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible notes will be automatically converted into the number of shares of our common stock determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 70% of the per share price of our common stock sold in such qualified initial public offering, with respect to $8.1 million in principal of the notes, and 80% of the initial public offering price, with respect to $1.0 million in principal of the notes. Therefore, immediately after completion of this offering, based on assumed conversion prices of $10.85 per share and $12.40 per share, which are 70% and 80% of an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, respectively, all principal and accrued interest under the convertible notes will be automatically converted into an aggregate of 909,481 shares of common stock (without giving effect to interest accrued after March 31, 2013), and the convertible notes shall no longer be outstanding.
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Alternatively, the convertible notes will be automatically converted into other new securities, as follows, if prior to closing a qualified initial public offering, we close an equity financing for an aggregate consideration of at least $5.0 million (referred to as a qualified equity financing) or a debt financing for an aggregate consideration of at least $5.0 million (referred to as a qualified debt financing, provided that the closing of certain financings under consideration at the time of the issuance of the convertible notes will not be considered qualified debt financings). If prior to closing a qualified initial public offering, we close a qualified equity financing, the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible notes will convert into the number of equity securities issued in the equity financing determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 80% of the purchase price of such securities, with respect to $8.1 million in principal of the notes, and 85% of the purchase price of such securities, with respect to $1.0 million in principal of the notes. If prior to closing a qualified initial public offering or a qualified equity financing, we close a qualified debt financing, the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible notes will, subject to certain exceptions, convert into the equivalent dollar amount of debt securities issued in the debt financing. In addition, if prior to closing a qualified initial public offering, but after June 15, 2012, we close a qualified debt financing, we will be obligated to issue, to the holders of the convertible notes, warrants to purchase either shares of our Series C convertible preferred stock or, if we close a qualified equity financing by September 30, 2013, the preferred stock issued in such a qualified equity financing. Any such warrants would be exercisable for a number of shares of the applicable preferred stock determined by dividing 20% of outstanding principal and accrued interest under the convertible notes at the time of exercise by the applicable purchase price per share of such preferred stock.
Further, if prior to their maturity on September 30, 2013, the convertible notes have not previously converted into shares of our common stock or other equity securities in connection with a qualified initial public offering, qualified equity financing or qualified debt financing, as described above, the convertible notes will automatically convert into a new series of preferred stock, to be authorized immediately prior to the convertible notes maturity, at a rate of $7.846 per share.
The convertible notes are unsecured, and may become due and payable upon an event of default, which may occur as a result of, among other things, an acceleration of the maturity of our other indebtedness, if not cured.
October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note
In October 2012, we completed the sale of a convertible note under a convertible note purchase agreement in the amount of $2.5 million to an investor in a private placement. The convertible note accrues interest at a rate of 12% per annum and matures on October 16, 2015, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 12% to 13% in the first year of the extension to October 16, 2016, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to October 16, 2017. In April 2013, $1.25 million of principal indebtedness under the convertible note was cancelled in exchange for delivery of a promissory note and related warrant. See Term Loan, Promissory Notes and Credit FacilityOctober 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes. As of June 30, 2013, the outstanding amount of the convertible note was $1.4 million including accrued interest of $0.2 million.
We are not obligated to pay interest or principal on the convertible note until maturity, when all interest and principal become due, but under the terms of the convertible note, if we close an initial public offering prior to the maturity date, the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible notes will be automatically converted into the number of shares of our common stock determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 85% of the per share price of our common stock sold in the initial public offering, if the initial public offering occurs on or before April 16, 2014, or 80% of the per share price of our common stock sold in the initial public offering, if the initial public offering occurs after April 16, 2014, or. Therefore, immediately after completion of this offering, based on an assumed conversion price of $13.18 per share, which is 85% of an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, all principal and accrued interest under the convertible notes will be automatically converted into an aggregate of 105,440 shares of common stock (without giving effect to interest accrued after March 31, 2013), and the convertible notes shall no longer be outstanding.
Alternatively, the convertible note will be automatically converted into other new securities, as follows. If prior to closing an initial public offering, we close a financing of equity securities for an aggregate consideration of at least $5.0 million, the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible note will convert into the number of
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equity securities issued in the financing determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 85% of the purchase price of such securities if the financing occurs on or prior to April 16, 2014, or 80% of the purchase price of such securities if the financing occurs thereafter. In addition, if prior to closing an initial public offering, we close a sale of the Company, the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible note will convert into the number of shares of common stock determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 85% of the fair value of our common stock, if the sale occurs on or prior to April 16, 2014, or 80% of the fair value of our common stock if the sale occurs thereafter.
Under the terms of the convertible note purchase agreement entered into in connection with the issuance of the convertible note, we have agreed to certain covenants, including certain restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness. The convertible note is subordinate to our $12.45 million in outstanding October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes and is secured by a security interest in all of our present and future accounts, chattel paper, commercial tort claims, goods, inventory, equipment, personal property, instruments, investment properties, documents, letter of credit rights, deposit accounts, general intangibles, records, real property, appurtenances and fixtures, tenant improvements and intellectual property, which consists in part of its patents, copyrights and other intangibles.
December 2012 Convertible Note
In December 2012, we completed the sale of a convertible note under a convertible note purchase agreement in the amount of $12.5 million in a private placement to Syngenta Ventures Pte. LTD., a holder of more than 5% of our capital stock. The convertible note accrues interest at a rate of 10% per annum and matures on October 16, 2015, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 10% to 12% in the first year of the extension to October 16, 2016, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to October 16, 2017. In addition, if there is an event of default, which may occur as a result of, among other things, an uncured default under the terms of another debt instrument in an aggregate principal amount in excess of $100,000, the then-applicable interest rate shall be increased by 4%. As of June 30, 2013, the outstanding amount of the convertible note was $13.2 million including accrued interest of $0.7 million.
No payments are due under the convertible note until maturity, but under the terms of the convertible note, if we close an initial public offering prior to the maturity date in which we receive gross cash proceeds, before underwriting discounts, commissions and fees, of at least $20.0 million where at least 50% of the amount invested comes from sources other than existing holders of the our equity, strategic investors or affiliates (referred to as a qualified initial public offering), the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible notes will be automatically converted into the number of shares of our common stock determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 70% of the per share price of our common stock sold in such qualified initial public offering. Therefore, immediately after completion of this offering, based on an assumed conversion price of $10.85 per share, which is 70% of an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, all principal and accrued interest under the notes will be automatically converted into an aggregate of 1,189,196 shares of common stock (without giving effect to interest accrued after March 31, 2013), and the convertible notes shall no longer be outstanding.
Alternatively, the convertible notes will be automatically converted into other new securities, as follows, if prior to closing a qualified initial public offering, we close an equity financing for an aggregate consideration of at least $20.0 million where at least 50% of the amount invested comes from sources other than existing holders of the our equity, strategic investors or affiliates (referred to as a qualified financing). If prior to closing a qualified initial public offering, we close a qualified financing, the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible notes will convert into the number of equity securities issued in the financing determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 75% of the purchase price of such securities if the financing occurs on or prior to June 30, 2013, or 70% of the purchase price of such securities if the financing occurs thereafter. In addition, in the earlier event of a non-qualified financing of equity or debt securities the convertible note may be converted, at the option of the holder, into the same type of securities issued in such financing, and in the earlier event of a transaction or series of transactions that result in the transfer of more than 50% of the voting power of the Company or that result in gross proceeds of at least $120.0 million, the convertible note may be either, at the option of the holder, repaid at a premium or converted at a discount into shares of our common stock.
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Under the terms of the convertible note purchase agreement entered into in connection with the issuance of the convertible note, we have agreed to certain covenants, including certain restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, payment of distributions on our capital stock and entry into certain transactions with affiliates. The convertible notes are unsecured.
First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes
In May 2013, we completed the sale of convertible notes under a convertible note purchase agreement in the amount of $3.5 million in a private placement to 22 investors, including Valley Oak Investments, LP. The convertible note accrues interest at a rate of 10% per annum and matures on May 22, 2016, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 10% to 12% in the first year of the extension to May 22, 2017, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to May 22, 2018. In addition, if there is an event of default, which may occur as a result of, among other things, an uncured default under the terms of another debt instrument in an aggregate principal amount in excess of $0.1 million, the then-applicable interest rate shall be increased by 4%. As of June 30, 2013, the outstanding amount of the convertible notes was $3.6 million including accrued interest of $0.04 million.
In addition, in May 2013, we completed the sale of a convertible note under a separate convertible note purchase agreement in the amount of $3.0 million in a private placement to DSM Venturing BV. The convertible note accrues interest at a rate of 10% per annum and matures on May 30, 2016, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 10% to 12% in the first year of the extension to May 30, 2017, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to May 30, 2018. In addition, if there is an event of default, which may occur as a result of, among other things, an uncured default under the terms of another debt instrument in an aggregate principal amount in excess of $100,000, the then-applicable interest rate shall be increased by 4%. As of June 30, 2013, the outstanding amount of the convertible note was $3.03 million including accrued interest of $0.03 million.
No payments are due under the convertible notes until maturity, but under the terms of the convertible notes, if we close an equity financing, including an initial public offering, prior to the maturity date in which we receive immediately available gross cash proceeds of at least $20.0 million where at least 50% of the amount invested comes from sources other than existing holders of the our equity, strategic investors or affiliates (referred to as a qualified financing), the principal and accrued interest due under the convertible notes will be automatically converted into the number of shares of our common stock determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 70% of the per share price of our common stock sold in such qualified financing. Therefore, immediately after completion of this offering, based on an assumed conversion price of $10.85 per share, which is 70% of an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, all principal and accrued interest under the notes will be automatically converted into an aggregate of 601,742 shares of common stock (without giving effect to accrued interest), and the convertible notes shall no longer be outstanding.
Alternatively, in the earlier event of a non-qualified financing of equity or debt securities the convertible note may be converted, at the option of the holder, into the same type of securities issued in such financing, and in the earlier event of a transaction or series of transactions that result in the transfer of more than 50% of the voting power of the Company, the convertible notes may be either, at the option of the holder, repaid at a premium or converted at a discount into shares of our common stock.
Under the terms of the convertible note purchase agreements entered into in connection with the issuance of the convertible notes, we have agreed to certain covenants, including certain restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, payment of distributions on our capital stock and entry into certain transactions with affiliates. The convertible notes are unsecured.
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General
The following is a summary of the rights of our common stock and preferred stock and of certain provisions of our restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as they will be in effect upon the completion of this offering. For more detailed information, please see our restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws, which are filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.
Our certificate of incorporation as in effect upon the consummation of this offering will provide for one class of common stock. In addition, our certificate of incorporation will authorize shares of undesignated preferred stock, the rights, preferences and privileges of which may be designated from time to time by our board of directors.
Upon the completion of this offering, our authorized capital stock will consist of shares, all with a par value of $0.00001 per share, of which:
n |
250,000,000 shares will be designated as common stock; and |
n |
20,000,000 shares will be designated as preferred stock. |
As of March 31, 2013, we had outstanding 1,268,941 shares of common stock. In addition, we had outstanding 1,483,458 shares of Series A preferred stock, 2,242,013 shares of Series B preferred stock and 4,778,494 shares of Series C preferred stock. As of March 31, 2013 outstanding capital stock was held by 126 stockholders of record. As of March 31, 2013, we also had outstanding options to acquire 2,040,406 shares of common stock held by employees, directors and consultants, and as of March 31, 2013, there were warrants outstanding for the purchase of 5,753 shares of Series A preferred stock, 9,590 shares of Series B preferred stock and 191,177 shares of Series C preferred stock, on an as-converted to common stock basis, with a weighted-average exercise price of $8.25 per equivalent share of common stock, all of which have been exercised as discussed further below. In addition, we also have outstanding warrants to purchase a variable number of common shares, which will be exercisable at or after the completion of this offering for a total of 241,009 shares of common stock, with coverage based on, and an exercise price of, $10.85 per share, which is 70% of an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, provided that certain of such warrants will be exercised by net exercise upon completion of this offering as discussed further below.
Common Stock
Voting Rights
Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to be in effect upon completion of this offering, each share of common stock entitles the holder to one vote with respect to each matter presented to our stockholders on which the holders of common stock are entitled to vote. Subject to any rights that may be applicable to any then outstanding preferred stock, our common stock votes as a single class on all matters relating to the election and removal of directors on our board of directors and as provided by law. Holders of our common stock will not have cumulative voting rights. Except in respect of matters relating to the election and removal of directors on our board of directors and as otherwise provided in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or required by law, all matters to be voted on by our stockholders must be approved by a majority of the shares present in person or by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter. In the case of election of directors, all matters to be voted on by our stockholders must be approved by a plurality of the votes entitled to be cast by all shares of common stock.
Dividends
Subject to preferences that may apply to any shares of preferred stock outstanding at the time, the holders of our common stock will be entitled to share equally, identically and ratably in any dividends that our board of directors may determine to issue from time to time.
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Liquidation Rights
In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs, holders of our common stock would be entitled to share ratably in our assets that are legally available for distribution to stockholders after payment of our debts and other liabilities. If we have any preferred stock outstanding at such time, holders of the preferred stock may be entitled to distribution and/or liquidation preferences. In either such case, we must pay the applicable distribution to the holders of our preferred stock before we may pay distributions to the holders of our common stock.
Other Rights
Our stockholders will have no preemptive, conversion or other rights to subscribe for additional shares. All outstanding shares are, and all shares offered by this prospectus will be, when sold, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable. The rights, preferences and privileges of the holders of our common stock will be subject to, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of shares of any series of our preferred stock that we may designate and issue in the future.
Preferred Stock
Though we currently have no plans to issue any shares of preferred stock, upon the closing of this offering and the filing of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, our board of directors will have the authority, without further action by our stockholders, to designate and issue up to 20,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series. Our board of directors may also designate the rights, preferences and privileges of the holders of each such series of preferred stock, any or all of which may be greater than or senior to those granted to the holders of common stock. Though the actual effect of any such issuance on the rights of the holders of common stock will not be known until our board of directors determines the specific rights of the holders of preferred stock, the potential effects of such an issuance include:
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diluting the voting power of the holders of common stock; |
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reducing the likelihood that holders of common stock will receive dividend payments; |
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reducing the likelihood that holders of common stock will receive payments in the event of our liquidation, dissolution, or winding up; and |
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delaying, deterring or preventing a change-in-control or other corporate takeover. |
Warrants
As of March 31, 2013, we had warrants outstanding to purchase 5,753 shares of Series A preferred stock, 9,590 shares of Series B preferred stock and 191,177 shares of Series C preferred stock. The Series B convertible preferred stock warrants have all been exercised in cash for 9,590 shares of common stock, and the Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants have been exercised by net exercise, effective as of the completion of this offering, for an aggregate of 99,187 shares of common stock, based on an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the range set forth on the cover of this prospectus. Each warrant contains provisions for the adjustment of the exercise price and the number of shares issuable upon exercise upon the occurrence of certain events, including stock dividends, reorganizations, reclassifications and consolidations.
In October 2012, we issued outstanding warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, which will be automatically exercisable by net exercise, at the completion of this offering, for 31,100 shares of common stock, with coverage based on, and an exercise price of, $10.85 per share, which is 70% of an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus. The warrants were issued in connection with outstanding promissory notes issued in October 2012. The warrant coverage such for warrants is equal to a number of shares determined by multiplying the purchase price paid by each holder for the respective note by 15% (or, based on a total of $7.5 million paid for the notes, $1.125 million) and dividing such product by 70% of the initial public offering price per share, and with the exercise price for the warrants equal to 70% of the initial public offering price per share.
In April 2013, we issued outstanding warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock. The warrants will terminate upon the earlier to occur of 18 months following the completion of this offering or the acquisition of the Company (as defined in the warrants). Following the completion of this offering, the warrants will be exercisable for 91,244 shares of common stock with coverage based on, and an exercise price per share of, $10.85, which is 70% of an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth
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on the cover of this prospectus. The warrants were issued in connection with outstanding promissory notes issued in April 2013, and the coverage is equal to a number of shares determined by multiplying the purchase price paid by each holder for the respective note by 20% (or, based on a total $4.95 million paid for the notes, $0.99 million) and dividing such product by 70% of the initial public offering price per share, and with the exercise price for the warrants equal to 70% of the initial public offering price per share. See Description of Certain IndebtednessTerm Loans, Promissory Notes and Credit FacilityOctober 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes.
In June 2013, we issued outstanding warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, which will terminate upon the earlier to occur of June 2023 and the acquisition of the Company (as defined in the warrants). Following the completion of this offering, the warrants will be exercisable for 46,080 shares of common stock, with coverage price based on, and an exercise price of, $10.85 per share, which is 70% of an assumed initial public offering price equal to the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus. The warrants were issued in connection with a credit facility, and the coverage is equal to a number of shares determined by multiplying the amounts committed under the credit facility by 10% (or, based on the $5.0 million committed under the credit facility as of June 17, 2013, $0.5 million) and dividing such product by 70% of the initial public offering price per share, with the exercise price for the warrant equal to 70% of the initial public offering price per share. See Description of Certain IndebtednessTerm Loan, Promissory Notes and Credit FacilityJune 2013 Credit Facility.
Registration Rights
In March 2010, we entered into the second amended and restated investor rights agreement, referred to as the investor rights agreement, with certain holders of our preferred stock and certain holders of our common stock, pursuant to which we agree to provide certain rights relating to registration of common stock (i) held by such holders of common stock, (ii) issuable upon conversion of preferred stock held by such holders and (iii) issuable upon conversion or exercise of any warrant held by such holder, and issued as a dividend or a distribution with respect to, in exchange for or in replacement of these securities described above. Subject to certain exceptions, we will generally bear the expenses incurred in connection with such registration and compliance with the relevant provisions of the investor rights agreement.
In addition, the holder of an outstanding warrant to purchase shares of Series A preferred stock, which has been exercised by net exercise effective upon the completion of this offering, is also entitled to certain rights relating to the registration of the common stock issuable upon conversion of the Series A preferred stock purchasable upon exercise of the warrant.
Substantially all of our stockholders with rights relating to registration of our common stock have executed agreements with the representatives of the underwriters pursuant to which they are prohibited from exercising their registration rights for 180 days following the date of this prospectus (subject to extension under certain circumstances), as described in the section titled Underwriting.
Demand Registration Rights
Pursuant to the investor rights agreement, after the completion of this offering, the holders of approximately 10.5 million shares of our common stock will be entitled to certain demand registration rights. At any time after the earlier of 180 days following the date of this prospectus or March 5, 2013, the holders of at least 40% of these shares can request that we register all or a portion of the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of their shares, provided that we are not required to effect a registration in certain circumstances, including if we have already effected two registrations that were declared effective pursuant to such demand registration rights. Such request for registration must cover that number of shares with an anticipated aggregate offering price of at least $10 million. Additionally, we will not be required to effect a demand registration during the 180 days following the effectiveness of a company-initiated registration statement relating to an initial public offering of our securities, and if we give notice to requesting holders that we intend to file a registration statement for an initial public offering within 90 days, provided that we use reasonable good faith efforts to cause such registration statement to be filed and become effective.
If an underwriter in the underwritten offering advises us that marketing factors would require a limitation of the number of securities to be underwritten, then subject to certain exceptions, the number of shares of registrable securities that may be included in the underwriting will be allocated to all holders of registrable securities in proportion to the number of registrable securities held by such holders of registrable securities.
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Piggyback Registration Rights
After the completion of this offering, in the event that we propose to register any of our securities under the Securities Act, either for our own account or for the account of other security holders, the holders of approximately 11.9 million shares of our common stock will be entitled to certain piggyback registration rights allowing such holders to include these shares of common stock (including those issuable upon conversion of shares of preferred stock) in such registration, provided that, if the underwriters in the underwritten offering determines that marketing factors require a limitation of number of shares to be underwritten, the number of shares such holders are entitled to include in the registration may be subject to certain cutbacks based on the priority set forth in the investor rights agreement. As a result, whenever we propose to file a registration statement under the Securities Act, the holders of these shares are entitled to receive notice of the registration and have the right, subject to limitations described above, to include their shares in the registration.
Form S-3 Registration Rights
After the completion of this offering, the holders of approximately 11.9 million shares of our common stock will be entitled to certain Form S-3 registration rights. The holders of more than 10% of these shares can make a written request that we register the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of their shares on Form S-3 if we are eligible to file a registration statement on Form S-3 and if the aggregate price to the public of the shares offered, including those of holders that are entitled to inclusion in such registration, is at least $1.5 million. These stockholders may make an unlimited number of requests for registration on Form S-3. However, we will not be required to effect a registration on Form S- 3 if we have previously effected two such registrations in the 12-month period preceding the request for registration.
We will pay the registration expenses of the holders of the shares registered pursuant to the demand, piggyback and Form S-3 registrations described above. The demand, piggyback and Form S-3 registration rights described above will expire upon the earlier of (i) five years after our initial public offering in which the public offering price per share is at least $10.633 and the proceeds to us before deduction of underwriters commissions and expenses are at least $30 million, (ii) with respect to any particular stockholder, when that stockholder can sell all of its shares under Rule 144 of the Securities Act during any 90 day period, or (iii) the closing of a change of control event or the sale of substantially all of our assets.
Anti-Takeover Provisions
Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws to be in Effect Upon the Completion of this Offering
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to be in effect upon the completion of this offering will provide for our board of directors to be divided into three classes with staggered three-year terms. Only one class of directors will be elected at each annual meeting of our stockholders, with the other classes continuing for the remainder of their respective three-year terms. Because our stockholders do not have cumulative voting rights, our stockholders holding a majority of the shares of common stock outstanding will be able to elect all of our directors. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws to be in effect upon the completion of this offering will provide that all stockholder actions must be effected at a duly called meeting of stockholders and not by a consent in writing, and that only our board of directors, chairman of the board, chief executive officer or president (in the absence of a chief executive officer) may call a special meeting of stockholders.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws will require a 66 2 / 3 % stockholder vote for the removal of a director without cause or the rescission, alteration, amendment or repeal of the bylaws by stockholders, and our amended and restated bylaws will require an 80% stockholder vote to amend the provisions of our bylaws relating to the election and classification of directors. The combination of the classification of our board of directors, the lack of cumulative voting and the 66 2 / 3 % and 80% stockholder voting requirements will make it more difficult for our existing stockholders to replace our board of directors as well as for another party to obtain control of us by replacing our board of directors. Since our board of directors has the power to retain and discharge our officers, these provisions could also make it more difficult for existing stockholders or another party to effect a change in management. In addition, the authorization of undesignated preferred stock makes it possible for our board of directors to issue preferred stock with voting or other rights or preferences that could impede the success of any attempt to change our control.
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These provisions may have the effect of deterring hostile takeovers or delaying changes in our control or management. These provisions are intended to enhance the likelihood of continued stability in the composition of our board of directors and its policies and to discourage certain types of transactions that may involve an actual or threatened acquisition of us. These provisions are designed to reduce our vulnerability to an unsolicited acquisition proposal. The provisions also are intended to discourage certain tactics that may be used in proxy fights. However, such provisions could have the effect of discouraging others from making tender offers for our shares and, as a consequence, they also may inhibit fluctuations in the market price of our stock that could result from actual or rumored takeover attempts.
Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law
We are subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which prohibits a Delaware corporation from engaging in any business combination with any interested stockholder for a period of three years after the date that such stockholder became an interested stockholder, with the following exceptions:
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before such date, the board of directors of the corporation approved either the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder; |
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upon completion of the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of the corporation outstanding at the time the transaction began, excluding for purposes of determining the voting stock outstanding (but not the outstanding voting stock owned by the interested stockholder) those shares owned (i) by persons who are directors and also officers and (ii) employee stock plans in which employee participants do not have the right to determine confidentially whether shares held subject to the plan will be tendered in a tender or exchange offer; or |
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on or after such date, the business combination is approved by the board of directors and authorized at an annual or special meeting of the stockholders, and not by written consent, by the affirmative vote of at least 66 2 / 3 % of the outstanding voting stock that is not owned by the interested stockholder. |
In general, Section 203 defines business combination to include the following:
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any merger or consolidation involving the corporation and the interested stockholder; |
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any sale, transfer, pledge or other disposition of 10% or more of the assets of the corporation involving the interested stockholder; |
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subject to certain exceptions, any transaction that results in the issuance or transfer by the corporation of any stock of the corporation to the interested stockholder; |
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any transaction involving the corporation that has the effect of increasing the proportionate share of the stock or any class or series of the corporation beneficially owned by the interested stockholder; or |
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the receipt by the interested stockholder of the benefit of any loans, advances, guarantees, pledges or other financial benefits by or through the corporation. |
In general, Section 203 defines an interested stockholder as an entity or person who, together with the persons affiliates and associates, beneficially owns, or within three years prior to the time of determination of interested stockholder status did own, 15% or more of the outstanding voting stock of the corporation.
Limitations of Liability and Indemnification Matters
We have adopted provisions in our current certificate of incorporation and our certificate of incorporation as amended and restated prior to the closing of this offering that limit or eliminate the liability of our directors for monetary damages for breach of their fiduciary duties, except for liability that cannot be eliminated under the Delaware General Corporation Law. Accordingly, our directors will not be personally liable for monetary damages for breach of their fiduciary duties as directors, except with respect to of the following:
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any breach of their duty of loyalty to us or our stockholders; |
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acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law; |
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unlawful payments of dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions as provided in Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law; or |
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any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. |
This limitation of liability does not apply to liabilities arising under the federal securities laws and does not affect the availability of equitable remedies such as injunctive relief or rescission. If Delaware law is amended to authorize the further elimination or limiting of director liability, then the liability of our directors will be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law as so amended.
Our certificate of incorporation and our bylaws, as currently in effect and as will be amended and restated prior to the closing of this offering, also provide that we shall indemnify our directors and executive officers and shall indemnify our other officers and employees and other agents to the fullest extent permitted by law. We believe that indemnification under our bylaws covers at least negligence and gross negligence on the part of indemnified parties. Our bylaws, as currently in effect and as will be amended and restated immediately prior to the closing of this offering, also permit us to secure insurance on behalf of any officer, director, employee or other agent for any liability arising out of his or her actions in this capacity, regardless of whether our bylaws would permit indemnification.
We have entered and intend to continue to enter into separate indemnification agreements with certain of our directors and executive officers that are, in some cases, broader than the specific indemnification provisions provided by Delaware law and our charter documents, and may provide additional procedural protection. These agreements will require us, among other things, to:
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indemnify officers and directors against certain liabilities that may arise because of their status as officers and directors; |
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advance expenses, as incurred, to officers and directors in connection with a legal proceeding subject to limited exceptions; and |
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cover officers and directors under any general or directors and officers liability insurance policy maintained by us. |
We believe that these provisions and agreements are necessary to attract and retain qualified persons as directors and executive officers. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling our company pursuant to the foregoing provisions, the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission is that such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.
In addition, we maintain standard policies of insurance under which coverage is provided to our directors and officers against loss arising from claims made by reason of breach of duty or other wrongful act, and to us with respect to payments which may be made by us to such directors and officers pursuant to the above indemnification provisions or otherwise as a matter of law. We also make available standard life insurance and accidental death and disability insurance policies to our employees.
Transfer Agent and Registrar
The transfer agent and registrar for our common stock is American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC.
Exchange Listing
We have applied to have our common stock listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol MBII.
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SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock and there can be no assurance that a market for our common stock will develop or be sustained after this offering. Future sales of our common stock in the public market, including shares issued upon exercise of outstanding or options, or the availability of such shares for sale in the public market, could adversely affect the trading price of our common stock. As described below, only a limited number of shares will be available for sale by our existing stockholders shortly after this offering due to contractual and legal restrictions on resale. Sales of our common stock in the public market after such restrictions lapse, or the perception that those sales may occur, could adversely affect the trading price of our common stock at such time and our ability to raise equity capital in the future.
Based on 12,718,560 shares of common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2013, upon completion of this offering, 16,918,560 shares of common stock will be outstanding, reflecting 4,200,000 shares of common stock sold in this offering and assuming no exercise of the underwriters option to purchase additional shares of common stock. All of the shares sold in this offering (including any shares sold upon the underwriters exercise of their option to purchase additional shares) will be freely tradable, except that any shares purchased in this offering by our affiliates, as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act, generally may be sold in the public market only in compliance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act. The remaining shares of common stock will be deemed restricted securities as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. These restricted securities are eligible for public sale only if they are registered under the Securities Act or if they qualify for an exemption from registration under Rule 144 or Rule 701 under the Securities Act, which are summarized below. In addition, substantially all of these restricted securities will be subject to the lock-up or market stand-off agreements described below.
Subject to the lock-up and market stand-off agreements described below and the provisions of Rules 144 and 701 under the Securities Act, these restricted securities will be available for sale in the public market as follows:
DATE |
NUMBER OF
SHARES |
|||
Immediately after completion of this offering |
4.3 million | |||
180 days after the date of this prospectus |
12.0 million | |||
From time to time after the date 180 days after the date of this prospectus |
0.6 million |
In addition, of the 2,040,406 shares of our common stock that were subject to stock options outstanding as of March 31, 2013, options to purchase 1,085,827 shares of common stock were vested as of March 31, 2013 and will be eligible for sale 180 days following the effective date of this offering, subject to extension as described in the section entitled Underwriting.
Rule 144
In general, under Rule 144 under the Securities Act, as in effect on the date of this prospectus, a person who is one of our affiliates and has beneficially owned shares of our common stock for at least six months would be entitled to sell within any three-month period, beginning on the date 90 days after the date of this prospectus, a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of:
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one percent of the number of shares of common stock then outstanding, which will equal approximately shares immediately after the completion of this offering; or |
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the average weekly trading volume of our common stock on Nasdaq during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to the sale. |
Sales under Rule 144 by our affiliates or persons selling shares on behalf of our affiliates are also subject to a certain manner of sale provisions and notice requirements and to the availability of current public information about us.
In general, under Rule 144 under the Securities Act, as in effect on the date of this prospectus, a person who is not deemed to have been one of our affiliates at any time during the three months preceding a sale, and who has
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beneficially owned the shares proposed to be sold for at least six months, including the holding period of any prior owner other than an affiliate, is entitled to sell the shares beginning on the 91st day after the date of this prospectus without complying with the manner of sale, volume limitation or notice provisions of Rule 144, and will be subject only to the public information requirements of Rule 144. If such person has beneficially owned the shares proposed to be sold for at least one year, including the holding period of any prior owner other than our affiliates, then such person is entitled to sell such shares without complying with any of the requirements of Rule 144.
Rule 701
Any of our employees, officers, directors or consultants who purchased shares under a written compensatory plan or contract may be entitled to sell them in reliance on Rule 701. Rule 701 permits affiliates to sell their Rule 701 shares under Rule 144 without complying with the holding period requirements of Rule 144. Rule 701 further provides that non-affiliates may sell these shares in reliance on Rule 144 without complying with the holding period, public information, volume limitation or notice provisions of Rule 144. All holders of Rule 701 shares are required to wait until 90 days after the date of this prospectus before selling those shares. However, substantially all of the shares issued under Rule 701 are subject to the lock-up agreements described below and will only become eligible for sale when the lock-up period expires.
As of March 31, 2013, 53,333 shares of our outstanding common stock had been issued in reliance on Rule 701 as a result of exercises of stock options and stock awards.
Lock-Up and Market Stand-Off Agreements
We and all of our directors and officers, as well as the other holders of at least 5% of the shares of our common stock (including securities exercisable or convertible into our common stock) outstanding immediately prior to this offering, have agreed that, without the prior written consent of each of Jefferies LLC and Piper Jaffray & Co. on behalf of the underwriters, during the period from the date of this prospectus and ending on the date 180 days after the date of this prospectus (as such period may be extended under certain circumstances), we and they will not, among other things:
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offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, grant any option to purchase, make any short sale or otherwise dispose of any shares of common stock, options or warrants to purchase shares of our common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of our common stock; or |
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in our case, file any registration statement with the SEC relating to the offering of any shares of common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock; or |
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in the case of our directors, officers and other holders of our securities, make any demand for exercise of any rights with respect to the registration of any securities. |
This agreement is subject to certain exceptions. See Underwriting below for additional information.
In addition to the restrictions contained in the lock-up agreements described above, we have entered into agreements with certain security holders, including our second amended and restated investors rights agreement, our standard form of option agreement under our 2011 Plan, and certain agreements under which our convertible promissory notes and common stock warrants were acquired, that contain market stand-off provisions imposing restrictions on the ability of such security holders to offer, sell or transfer our equity securities for a period of 180 days following the date of this prospectus.
Registration Rights
We are party to an investor rights agreement which provides that certain stockholders have the right to demand that we file a registration statement or request that their shares of our common stock be covered by a registration statement that we are otherwise filing. See Description of Capital StockRegistration Rights in this prospectus. Registration of their shares under the Securities Act would result in these shares becoming freely tradable without restriction under the Securities Act immediately upon effectiveness of the registration statement, subject to the expiration of the lock-up period described above and under Underwriting in this prospectus.
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Registration Statements
We intend to file a registration statement on Form S-8 under the Securities Act covering all of the shares of our common stock subject to options outstanding or reserved for issuance under our stock plans and shares of our common stock issued upon the exercise of options by employees. We expect to file this registration statement as soon as practicable after the completion of this offering. However, the shares registered on Form S-8 will be subject to Rule 144 limitations applicable to our affiliates and will not be eligible for resale until expiration of the lock up agreements to which they are subject.
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MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL TAX CONSEQUENCES TO NON-U.S. HOLDERS
The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences applicable to non-U.S. holders (as defined below) with respect to the ownership and disposition of shares of our common stock, but does not purport to be a complete analysis of all potential tax considerations related thereto. This summary is based on current provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, final, temporary or proposed Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, administrative rulings and judicial opinions, all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. We have not sought any ruling from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, with respect to the statements made and the conclusions reached in the following summary, and there can be no assurance that the IRS will agree with such statements and conclusions.
This summary is limited to non-U.S. holders who purchase our common stock issued pursuant to this offering and who hold shares of our common stock as capital assets (within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code).
This discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be important to a particular non-U.S. holder in light of that non-U.S. holders individual circumstances, the Medicare surtax on net investment income, or any aspects of U.S. federal estate or gift tax laws, U.S. alternative minimum tax, or tax considerations arising under the laws of any non-U.S., state or local jurisdiction. This discussion also does not address tax considerations applicable to a non-U.S. holder subject to special treatment under the U.S. federal income tax laws, including without limitation:
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banks, insurance companies or other financial institutions; |
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brokers; |
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partnerships or other pass-through entities, or investors therein; |
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tax-exempt organizations; |
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tax-qualified retirement plans; |
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dealers in securities or currencies; |
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traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings; |
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U.S. expatriates and certain former citizens or long-term residents of the United States; |
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investors subject to the alternative minimum tax; |
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controlled foreign corporations; |
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passive foreign investment companies; |
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persons that own, or have owned, actually or constructively, more than 5% of our common stock; and |
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persons that will hold common stock as a position in a hedging transaction, straddle, conversion or other integrated transaction for tax purposes. |
Accordingly, we urge prospective investors to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. income and other tax considerations of acquiring, holding and disposing of shares of our common stock.
If a partnership (or entity classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) is a beneficial owner of our common stock, the tax treatment of a partner in the partnership (or member in such other entity) will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Any partner in a collaboration holding shares of our common stock should consult its own tax advisors.
PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS WITH RESPECT TO THE APPLICATION OF THE U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX LAWS TO THEIR PARTICULAR SITUATIONS AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE PURCHASE, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF OUR CLASS A COMMON STOCK ARISING UNDER THE U.S. FEDERAL ESTATE OR GIFT TAX RULES, THE MEDICARE SURTAX ON NET INVESTMENT INCOME, THE U.S. ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX RULES, OR UNDER THE LAWS OF ANY STATE, LOCAL, NON-U.S. OR OTHER TAXING JURISDICTION OR UNDER ANY APPLICABLE TAX TREATY.
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Definition of Non-U.S. Holder
In general, a non-U.S. holder is any beneficial owner of our common stock that is not a U.S. person. A U.S. person is any of the following:
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an individual citizen or resident of the United States; |
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a corporation created or organized in or under the laws of the United States any state thereof or the District of Columbia (or entity treated as such for U.S. federal income tax purposes); |
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an estate, the income of which is includible in gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes regardless of its source; or |
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a trust if (a) a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (b) it has a valid election in effect under applicable Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person. |
Distributions on Our Common Stock
As described in the section titled Dividend Policy, we currently do not anticipate paying dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. If, however, we make cash or other property distributions on our common stock, other than certain pro rata distributions of common stock, such distributions will constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent paid from our current earnings and profits for that taxable year or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. Amounts not treated as dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes will constitute a return of capital and will first be applied against and reduce a holders adjusted tax basis in our common stock, but not below zero. Any excess will be treated as gain realized on the sale or other disposition of our common stock and will be treated as described under the section titled Gain on Sale or Other Taxable Disposition of Our Common Stock below.
Dividends on our common stock generally will be subject to United States withholding tax at a gross rate of 30%, subject to any exemption or lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty, except to the extent that the dividends are effectively connected dividends, as described below. We may withhold up to 30% of the gross amount of the entire distribution even if greater than the amount constituting a dividend, as described above, to the extent provided for in the Treasury Regulations. If tax is withheld on the amount of a distribution in excess of the amount constituting a dividend, then a refund of any such excess amounts may be obtained if a claim for refund is timely filed with the IRS.
If a non-U.S. holder holds our common stock in connection with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States, and dividends paid on our common stock are effectively connected with such holders U.S. trade or business (and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, are attributable to a permanent establishment or fixed base maintained by the non-U.S. holder in the United States), the non-U.S. holder will be exempt from the aforementioned U.S. federal withholding tax. To claim the exemption, the non-U.S. holder must furnish to us or our paying agent a properly executed IRS Form W-8ECI (or applicable successor form).
Such effectively connected dividends generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis at the regular graduated U.S. federal income tax rates in the same manner as if such holder were a resident of the United States. A non-U.S. holder that is a non-U.S. corporation also may be subject to an additional branch profits tax equal to 30% (or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty) of a portion of its effectively connected earnings and profits for the taxable year. Non-U.S. holders should consult any applicable income tax treaties that may provide for different rules.
A non-U.S. holder that claims exemption from withholding or the benefit of an applicable income tax treaty generally will be required to satisfy applicable certification (generally, IRS Form W-8BEN) and other requirements prior to the distribution date. Non-U.S. holders that do not timely provide us or our paying agent with the required certification may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by timely filing an appropriate claim for refund with the IRS. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding their entitlement to benefits under a relevant income tax treaty or applicability of other exemptions from withholding. A non-U.S. holder that is eligible for a reduced rate of United States withholding tax pursuant to an income tax treaty may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by filing an appropriate claim for refund with the IRS.
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Gain on Sale or Other Taxable Disposition of Our Common Stock
Subject to the discussion below regarding backup withholding, a non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on any gain realized upon the sale or other taxable disposition of our common stock unless:
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the gain is effectively connected with a trade or business carried on by the non-U.S. holder in the United States and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, the gain is attributable to a permanent establishment or fixed base of the non-U.S. holder maintained in the United States; |
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the non-U.S. holder is an individual present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of disposition and certain other requirements are met; or |
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we are or have been a U.S. real property holding corporation, or a USRPHC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes at any time within the shorter of the five-year period preceding the disposition and the non-U.S. holders holding period for our common stock, and our common stock has ceased to be traded on an established securities market prior to the beginning of the calendar year in which the sale or other disposition occurs. The determination of whether we are a USRPHC depends on the fair market value of our U.S. real property interests relative to the fair market value of our other trade or business assets and our foreign real property interests. |
We believe we currently are not, and we do not anticipate becoming, a USRPHC for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Gain described in the first bullet point above will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis at regular graduated U.S. federal income tax rates generally in the same manner as if such holder were a resident of the United States. A non-U.S. holder that is a non-U.S. corporation also may be subject to an additional branch profits tax equal to 30% (or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty) of a portion of its effectively connected earnings and profits for the taxable year. Non-U.S. holders should consult any applicable income tax treaties that may provide for different rules.
Gain described in the second bullet point above will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at a flat 30% rate (or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty) but may be offset by U.S. source capital losses (even though the individual is not considered a resident of the United States), provided that the non-U.S. holder has timely filed U.S. federal income tax returns with respect to such losses. Non-U.S. holders should consult any applicable income tax treaties that may provide for different rules.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
Generally, we must report annually to the IRS and to each non-U.S. holder the amount of dividends paid to, and the tax withheld with respect to, each non-U.S. holder. This information also may be made available under a specific treaty or agreement with the tax authorities in the country in which the non-U.S. holder resides or is established. Backup withholding, currently at a 28% rate, generally will not apply to distributions to a non-U.S. holder of our common stock provided the non-U.S. holder furnishes to us or our paying agent the required certification as to its non-U.S. status such as by providing a valid IRS Form W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8ECI (or other applicable form), or certain other requirements are met. Notwithstanding the foregoing, backup withholding may apply if either we or our paying agent has actual knowledge, or reason to know, that the holder is a U.S. person that is not an exempt recipient.
Information reporting and, depending on the circumstances, backup withholding will apply to the proceeds of a sale of our common stock within the United States or conducted through certain United States-related financial intermediaries, unless the beneficial owner furnishes to us or our paying agent the required certification as to its non-U.S. status such as by providing a valid IRS Form W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8ECI (or other applicable form) (and the payor does not have actual knowledge or reason to know that the beneficial owner is a United States person as defined under the Code), or such owner otherwise establishes an exemption.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be allowed as a refund or a credit against a non-U.S. holders U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is timely furnished to the IRS.
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Foreign Accounts
Pursuant to the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, or FATCA, foreign financial institutions (which term includes most foreign hedge funds, private equity funds, mutual funds, securitization vehicles and other investment vehicles) and certain other foreign entities must comply with certain new information reporting rules with respect to their U.S. account holders and investors or confront a new withholding tax on U.S.-source payments made to them (whether received as a beneficial owner or as an intermediary for another party). More specifically, a foreign financial institution or other foreign entity that does not comply with the FATCA reporting requirements will generally be subject to a new 30% withholding tax with respect to any withholdable payments. For this purpose, withholdable payments include generally U.S.-source payments otherwise subject to nonresident withholding tax (e.g., U.S.-source dividends) and also include the entire gross proceeds from the sale of any equity or debt instruments of U.S. issuers, even if the payment would otherwise not be subject to U.S. nonresident withholding tax (e.g., because it is capital gain). Final Treasury regulations and IRS Notice 2013-43 defer this withholding obligation until July 1, 2014 for payments of U.S.-source dividends and until January 1, 2017 for gross proceeds from dispositions of stock in a U.S. corporation.
We will not pay any additional amounts to non-U.S. holders in respect of any amounts withheld pursuant to FATCA. Under certain circumstances, a non-U.S. holder might be eligible for refunds or credits of such taxes. Non-U.S. holders are urged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the effect, if any, of the FATCA provisions to them based on their particular circumstances.
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Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the underwriting agreement, dated , 2013, among us, and Jefferies LLC and Piper Jaffray & Co., as the representatives of the underwriters named below and the joint book-running managers of this offering, we have agreed to sell to the underwriters, and each of the underwriters has agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase from us, the respective number of shares of common stock shown opposite its name below:
UNDERWRITER |
NUMBER OF
SHARES |
|||
Jefferies LLC. |
||||
Piper Jaffray & Co. |
||||
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated |
||||
Roth Capital Partners, LLC |
||||
|
|
|||
Total |
4,200,000 | |||
|
|
The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the several underwriters are subject to certain conditions precedent such as the receipt by the underwriters of officers certificates and legal opinions and approval of certain legal matters by their counsel. The underwriting agreement provides that the underwriters will purchase all of the shares of common stock if any of them are purchased. If an underwriter defaults, the underwriting agreement provides that the purchase commitments of the nondefaulting underwriters may be increased or the underwriting agreement may be terminated. We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters and certain of their controlling persons against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, and to contribute to payments that the underwriters may be required to make in respect of those liabilities.
The underwriters have advised us that, following the completion of this offering, they currently intend to make a market in the common stock as permitted by applicable laws and regulations. However, the underwriters are not obligated to do so, and the underwriters may discontinue any market-making activities at any time without notice in their sole discretion. Accordingly, no assurance can be given as to the liquidity of the trading market for the common stock, that you will be able to sell any of the common stock held by you at a particular time or that the prices that you receive when you sell will be favorable.
The underwriters are offering the shares of common stock subject to their acceptance of the shares of common stock from us and subject to prior sale. The underwriters reserve the right to withdraw, cancel or modify offers to the public and to reject orders in whole or in part.
Commission and Expenses
The underwriters have advised us that they propose to offer the shares of common stock to the public at the initial public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and to certain dealers, which may include the underwriters, at that price less a concession not in excess of $ per share of common stock. The underwriters may allow, and certain dealers may reallow, a discount from the concession not in excess of $ per share of common stock to certain brokers and dealers. After the offering, the initial public offering price, concession and reallowance to dealers may be reduced by the representatives. No such reduction will change the amount of proceeds to be received by us as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus.
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The following table shows the public offering price, the underwriting discounts and commissions that we are to pay the underwriters and the proceeds, before expenses, to us in connection with this offering. Such amounts are shown assuming both no exercise and full exercise of the underwriters option to purchase additional shares .
PER SHARE | TOTAL | |||||||||||||||
WITHOUT
OPTION TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL SHARES |
WITH
OPTION TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL SHARES |
WITHOUT
OPTION TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL SHARES |
WITH
OPTION TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL SHARES |
|||||||||||||
Public offering price |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Underwriting discounts and commissions paid by us |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Proceeds to us, before expenses |
$ | $ | $ | $ |
We estimate expenses payable by us in connection with this offering, other than the underwriting discounts and commissions referred to above, will be approximately $ . We have agreed to reimburse the underwriters for certain expenses, including legal expenses and expenses relating to the clearance of this offering with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., up to $25,000.
Determination of Offering Price
Prior to this offering, there has not been a public market for our common stock. Consequently, the initial public offering price for our common stock will be determined by negotiations between us and the representatives. Among the factors to be considered in these negotiations will be prevailing market conditions, our financial information, market valuations of other companies that we and the underwriters believe to be comparable to us, estimates of our business potential, the present state of our development and other factors deemed relevant.
We offer no assurances that the initial public offering price will correspond to the price at which the common stock will trade in the public market subsequent to the offering or that an active trading market for the common stock will develop and continue after the offering.
Listing
We have applied to have our common stock listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the trading symbol MBII.
Stamp Taxes
If you purchase shares of common stock offered in this prospectus, you may be required to pay stamp taxes and other charges under the laws and practices of the country of purchase, in addition to the offering price listed on the cover page of this prospectus.
Option to Purchase Additional Shares
We have granted to the underwriters an option, exercisable for 30 days from the date of this prospectus, to purchase, from time to time, in whole or in part, up to an aggregate of 630,000 shares from us at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, less underwriting discounts and commissions. If the underwriters exercise this option, each underwriter will be obligated, subject to specified conditions, to purchase a number of additional shares proportionate to that underwriters initial purchase commitment as indicated in the table above. This option may be exercised only if the underwriters sell more shares than the total number set forth on the cover page of this prospectus.
No Sales of Similar Securities
We, our officers, directors and holders of all or substantially all our capital stock have agreed, subject to specified exceptions, not to directly or indirectly:
n |
sell, offer, contract or grant any option to sell (including any short sale), pledge, transfer, establish an open put equivalent position within the meaning of Rule 16a-l(h) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or |
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n |
otherwise dispose of any shares of common stock, options or warrants to acquire shares of common stock, or securities exchangeable or exercisable for or convertible into shares of common stock currently or hereafter owned either of record or beneficially, or |
n |
publicly announce an intention to do any of the foregoing for a period of 180 days after the date of this prospectus. |
This restriction terminates after the close of trading of the common stock on and including the 180th day after the date of this prospectus.
The representatives may, in their sole discretion and at any time or from time to time before the termination of the 180-day period, release all or any portion of the securities subject to lock-up agreements. There are no existing agreements between the underwriters and any of our shareholders who will execute a lock-up agreement, providing consent to the sale of shares prior to the expiration of the lock-up period.
Stabilization
The underwriters have advised us that they, pursuant to Regulation M under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and certain persons participating in the offering may engage in short sale transactions, stabilizing transactions, syndicate covering transactions or the imposition of penalty bids in connection with this offering. These activities may have the effect of stabilizing or maintaining the market price of the common stock at a level above that which might otherwise prevail in the open market. Establishing short sales positions may involve either covered short sales or naked short sales.
Covered short sales are sales made in an amount not greater than the underwriters option to purchase additional shares of our common stock in this offering. The underwriters may close out any covered short position by either exercising their option to purchase additional shares of our common stock or purchasing shares of our common stock in the open market. In determining the source of shares to close out the covered short position, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of shares available for purchase in the open market as compared to the price at which they may purchase shares through the option to purchase additional shares.
Naked short sales are sales in excess of the option to purchase additional shares of our common stock. The underwriters must close out any naked short position by purchasing shares in the open market. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of the shares of our common stock in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in this offering.
A stabilizing bid is a bid for the purchase of shares of common stock on behalf of the underwriters for the purpose of fixing or maintaining the price of the common stock. A syndicate covering transaction is the bid for or the purchase of shares of common stock on behalf of the underwriters to reduce a short position incurred by the underwriters in connection with the offering. Similar to other purchase transactions, the underwriters purchases to cover the syndicate short sales may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of our common stock or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of our common stock. As a result, the price of our common stock may be higher than the price that might otherwise exist in the open market. A penalty bid is an arrangement permitting the underwriters to reclaim the selling concession otherwise accruing to a syndicate member in connection with the offering if the common stock originally sold by such syndicate member are purchased in a syndicate covering transaction and therefore have not been effectively placed by such syndicate member.
Neither we nor any of the underwriters make any representation or prediction as to the direction or magnitude of any effect that the transactions described above may have on the price of our common stock. The underwriters are not obligated to engage in these activities and, if commenced, any of the activities may be discontinued at any time.
Electronic Distribution
A prospectus in electronic format may be made available by e-mail or on the web sites or through online services maintained by one or more of the underwriters or their affiliates. In those cases, prospective investors may view offering terms online and may be allowed to place orders online. The underwriters may agree with us to allocate a
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specific number of shares of common stock for sale to online brokerage account holders. Any such allocation for online distributions will be made by the underwriters on the same basis as other allocations. Other than the prospectus in electronic format, the information on the underwriters web sites and any information contained in any other web site maintained by any of the underwriters is not part of this prospectus, has not been approved and/or endorsed by us or the underwriters and should not be relied upon by investors.
Directed Share Program
At our request, the underwriters have reserved for sale at the initial public offering price up to approximately 300,000 shares of common stock for employees, directors and other persons associated with us who have expressed an interest in purchasing shares in this offering. The number of shares of common stock available for sale to the general public in this offering will be reduced to the extent these persons purchase the directed shares in the program. Any directed shares not so purchased will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same terms as the other shares. These shares will not be subject to any lock-up arrangement with any underwriters, except to the extent purchased by our officers or directors, who have already entered into lock-up agreements. However, for those participants who have entered into lock-up agreements as contemplated above, the lock-up agreements contemplated therein shall govern with respect to their purchases of shares of common stock in the program. The representatives in their sole discretion may release any of the securities subject to these lock-up agreements at any time. We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities and expenses, including liabilities under the Securities Act, in connection with sales of the directed shares.
Other Activities and Relationships
The underwriters and certain of their affiliates are full service financial institutions engaged in various activities, which may include securities trading, commercial and investment banking, financial advisory, investment management, investment research, principal investment, hedging, financing and brokerage activities. The underwriters and certain of their affiliates have, from time to time, performed, and may in the future perform, various commercial and investment banking and financial advisory services for us and our affiliates, for which they received or will receive customary fees and expenses.
In the ordinary course of their various business activities, the underwriters and certain of their affiliates may make or hold a broad array of investments and actively trade debt and equity securities (or related derivative securities) and financial instruments (including bank loans) for their own accounts and for the accounts of their customers, and such investment and securities activities may involve our securities and/or instruments issued by us and our affiliates. If the underwriters or their respective affiliates have a lending relationship with us, they routinely hedge their credit exposure to us consistent with their customary risk management policies. The underwriters and their respective affiliates may hedge such exposure by entering into transactions which consist of either the purchase of credit default swaps or the creation of short positions in our securities or the securities of our affiliates, including potentially the common stock offered hereby. Any such short positions could adversely affect future trading prices of the common stock offered hereby. The underwriters and certain of their respective affiliates may also communicate independent investment recommendations, market color or trading ideas and/or publish or express independent research views in respect of such securities or instruments and may at any time hold, or recommend to clients that they acquire, long and/or short positions in such securities and instruments.
Shaugn Stanley, one of our directors, currently serves as Senior Managing Director at Stifel Financial Corp., an affiliate of one of the underwriters.
Disclaimers About Non-U.S. Jurisdictions
European Economic Area
In relation to each member state of the European Economic Area which has implemented the Prospectus Directive (each, a Relevant Member State), with effect from and including the date on which the Prospectus Directive is implemented in that Relevant Member State (the Relevant Implementation Date ), no offer of any securities which are the subject of the offering contemplated by this prospectus has been or will be made to the public in that Relevant Member State other than any offer where a prospectus has been or will be published in relation to such securities that has been approved by the competent authority in that Relevant Member State or, where appropriate,
137
approved in another Relevant Member State and notified to the relevant competent authority in that Relevant Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Directive, except that with effect from and including the Relevant Implementation Date, an offer of such securities may be made to the public in that Relevant Member State:
(a) | to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined in the Prospectus Directive; |
(b) | to fewer than 100 or, if the Relevant Member State has implemented the relevant provision of the 2010 PD Amending Directive, 150, natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Directive), as permitted under the Prospectus Directive, subject to obtaining the prior consent of the representatives of the underwriters for any such offer; or |
(c) | in any other circumstances falling within Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive, |
provided that no such offer of securities shall require us or any of the underwriters to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 16 of the Prospectus Directive.
For the purposes of this provision, the expression an offer to the public in relation to any securities in any Relevant Member State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and the securities to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe the securities, as the same may be varied in that Relevant Member State by any measure implementing the Prospectus Directive in that Relevant Member State and the expression Prospectus Directive means Directive 2003/71/EC (and amendments thereto, including the 2010 PD Amending Directive, to the extent implemented in the Relevant Member State), and includes any relevant implementing measure in the Relevant Member State and the expression 2010 PD Amending Directive means Directive 2010/73/EU.
United Kingdom
This prospectus is only being distributed to, and is only directed at, persons in the United Kingdom that are qualified investors within the meaning of Article 2(1)(e) of the Prospectus Directive that are also (i) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the Order) and/or (ii) high net worth entities falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated (each such person being referred to as a relevant person).
This prospectus and its contents are confidential and should not be distributed, published or reproduced (in whole or in part) or disclosed by recipients to any other persons in the United Kingdom. Any person in the United Kingdom that is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.
Hong Kong
No securities have been offered or sold, and no securities may be offered or sold, in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than to persons whose ordinary business is to buy or sell shares or debentures, whether as principal or agent; or to professional investors as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571) of Hong Kong and any rules made under that Ordinance; or in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a prospectus as defined in the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 32) of Hong Kong or which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of the Companies Ordinance (Cap.32) of Hong Kong. No document, invitation or advertisement relating to the securities has been issued or may be issued or may be in the possession of any person for the purpose of issue (in each case whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere), which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public of Hong Kong (except if permitted under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to securities which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to professional investors as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571) of Hong Kong and any rules made under that Ordinance.
This prospectus has not been registered with the Registrar of Companies in Hong Kong. Accordingly, this prospectus may not be issued, circulated or distributed in Hong Kong, and the securities may not be offered for subscription to members of the public in Hong Kong. Each person acquiring the securities will be required, and is deemed by the acquisition of the securities, to confirm that he is aware of the restriction on offers of the securities described in this prospectus and the relevant offering documents and that he is not acquiring, and has not been offered any securities in circumstances that contravene any such restrictions.
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Singapore
This prospectus has not been and will not be lodged or registered with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Accordingly, this prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or the invitation for subscription or purchase of the securities may not be issued, circulated or distributed, nor may the securities be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to the public or any member of the public in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore, or SFA, (ii) to a relevant person as defined under Section 275(2), or any person pursuant to Section 275(1A) of the SFA, and in accordance with the conditions, specified in Section 275 of the SFA, or (iii) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of any other applicable provision of the SFA.
Where the securities are subscribed or purchased under Section 275 of the SFA by a relevant person which is:
(a) | a corporation (which is not an accredited investor as defined under Section 4A of the SFA) the sole business of which is to hold investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an accredited investor; or |
(b) | a trust (where the trustee is not an accredited investor) whose sole purpose is to hold investments and each beneficiary is an accredited investor, |
shares, debentures and units of shares and debentures of that corporation or the beneficiaries rights and interest in that trust shall not be transferable for six months after that corporation or that trust has acquired the Offer Shares under Section 275 of the SFA except:
(i) | to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the SFA or to a relevant person defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA, or to any person pursuant to an offer that is made on terms that such shares, debentures and units of shares and debentures of that corporation or such rights and interest in that trust are acquired at a consideration of not less than $200,000 (or its equivalent in a foreign currency) for each transaction, whether such amount is to be paid for in cash or by exchange of securities or other assets, and further for corporations, in accordance with the conditions, specified in Section 275 of the SFA; |
(ii) | where no consideration is given for the transfer; or |
(iii) | where the transfer is by operation of law. |
Japan
The offering has not been and will not be registered under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan (Law No. 25 of 1948 of Japan, as amended), or FIEL, and the Initial Purchaser will not offer or sell any securities, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to, or for the benefit of, any resident of Japan (which term as used herein means, unless otherwise provided herein, any person resident in Japan, including any corporation or other entity organized under the laws of Japan), or to others for re-offering or resale, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to a resident of Japan, except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of, and otherwise in compliance with, the FIEL and any other applicable laws, regulations and ministerial guidelines of Japan.
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The validity of our common stock offered hereby will be passed upon for us by Morrison & Foerster LLP, San Francisco, California. Certain legal matters in connection with this offering will be passed upon for the underwriters by Jones Day, New York, New York. A partner of Morrison & Foerster LLP, our counsel, beneficially owns less than 1% of our outstanding shares of common stock.
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Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, has audited our consolidated financial statements at December 31, 2012 and 2011, and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2012, as set forth in their report. We have included our consolidated financial statements in the prospectus and elsewhere in the registration statement in reliance on Ernst & Young LLPs report, given on their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act with respect to this offering of our common stock. This prospectus, which constitutes a part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement, some items of which are contained in exhibits to the registration statement as permitted by the rules and regulations of the SEC. For further information with respect to us and our common stock, we refer you to the registration statement, including the exhibits and the consolidated financial statements and notes filed as a part of the registration statement. Statements contained in this prospectus concerning the contents of any contract or any other document are not necessarily complete. If a contract or document has been filed as an exhibit to the registration statement, please see the copy of the contract or document that has been filed. Each statement is this prospectus relating to a contract or document filed as an exhibit is qualified in all respects by the filed exhibit. The exhibits to the registration statement should be referenced for the complete contents of these contracts and documents. You may obtain copies of this information by mail from the Public Reference Section of the SEC, 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates. You may obtain information on the operation of the public reference rooms by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC also maintains an Internet website that contains reports, proxy statements and other information about issuers, like us, that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that website is www.sec.gov.
As a result of this offering, we will become subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act and, in accordance with this law, will file periodic reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. These periodic reports, proxy statements and other information will be available for inspection and copying at the SECs public reference facilities and the website of the SEC referred to above.
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INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
F-1
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive loss, convertible preferred stock and stockholders deficit, and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Companys 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 Companys 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 Companys 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 consolidated financial position of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. at December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Ernst & Young LLP
Sacramento, California
June 17, 2013, except as to Note 17, as to which the date is , 2013
The foregoing report is in the form that will be signed upon the completion of the restatement of capital accounts described in Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Sacramento, California
July 30, 2013
F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In Thousands, Except Par Value)
See accompanying notes.
F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amount)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||
Product |
$ | 6,961 | $ | 5,194 | ||||
License |
179 | 57 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total revenues |
7,140 | 5,251 | ||||||
Cost of product revenues |
4,333 | 2,172 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Gross profit |
2,807 | 3,079 | ||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||
Research and development |
12,741 | 9,410 | ||||||
Non-cash charge associated with a convertible note |
3,610 | | ||||||
Selling, general, and administrative |
10,294 | 6,793 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total operating expenses |
26,645 | 16,203 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Loss from operations |
(23,838 | ) | (13,124 | ) | ||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||
Interest income |
16 | 22 | ||||||
Interest expense |
(2,466 | ) | (88 | ) | ||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
(12,461 | ) | 1 | |||||
Other income (expense), net |
(45 | ) | 9 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total other expense, net |
(14,956 | ) | (56 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Loss before income taxes |
(38,794 | ) | (13,180 | ) | ||||
Income taxes |
| | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net loss |
(38,794 | ) | (13,180 | ) | ||||
Deemed dividend on convertible notes |
(2,039 | ) | | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net loss attributable to common shareholders |
$ | (40,833 | ) | $ | (13,180 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net loss per common share: |
||||||||
Basic and diluted |
$ | (32.48 | ) | $ | (10.64 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Weighted-average shares outstanding used in computing net loss per common share: |
||||||||
Basic and diluted |
1,257 | 1,239 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes.
F-4
MARRONE BIO INNOVATIONS, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss
(In Thousands)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Net loss |
$ | (38,794 | ) | $ | (13,180 | ) | ||
Other comprehensive loss |
| | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Comprehensive loss |
$ | (38,794 | ) | $ | (13,180 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes.
F-5
Consolidated Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders Deficit
(In Thousands)
CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK | STOCKHOLDERS DEFICIT | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
ADDITIONAL
PAID-IN CAPITAL |
ACCUMULATED
DEFICIT |
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS DEFICIT |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
SERIES A | SERIES B | SERIES C | TOTAL | COMMON STOCK | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
SHARES | AMOUNT | SHARES | AMOUNT | SHARES | AMOUNT | SHARES | AMOUNT | SHARES | AMOUNT | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2010 |
1,484 | $ | 3,747 | 2,242 | $ | 10,758 | 2,286 | $ | 11,947 | 6,012 | $ | 26,452 | 1,234 | $ | | $ | 352 | $ | (21,556 | ) | $ | (21,204 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of Series C convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs of $91 |
| | | | 2,492 | 13,160 | 2,492 | 13,160 | | | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercise of stock options |
| | | | | | | | 13 | | 13 | | 13 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
| | | | | | | | | | 271 | | 271 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss and comprehensive loss |
| | | | | | | | | | | (13,180 | ) | (13,180 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Balance at December 31, 2011 |
1,484 | 3,747 | 2,242 | 10,758 | 4,778 | 25,107 | 8,504 | 39,612 | 1,247 | | 636 | (34,736 | ) | (34,100 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercise of stock options |
| | | | | | | | 20 | | 24 | | 24 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
| | | | | | | | | | 662 | | 662 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Deemed dividend, convertible notes |
| | | | | | | | | | | (2,039 | ) | (2,039 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss and comprehensive loss |
| | | | | | | | | | | (38,794 | ) | (38,794 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Balance at December 31, 2012 |
1,484 | $ | 3,747 | 2,242 | $ | 10,758 | 4,778 | $ | 25,107 | 8,504 | $ | 39,612 | 1,267 | $ | | $ | 1,322 | $ | (75,569 | ) | $ | (74,247 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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See accompanying notes.
F-6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In Thousands)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Cash flows from operating activities |
||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (38,794 | ) | $ | (13,180 | ) | ||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: |
||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
613 | 499 | ||||||
Share-based compensation |
662 | 271 | ||||||
Noncash interest expense |
1,224 | 4 | ||||||
Reduction of revenue associated with issuance of a convertible note ( Note 7) |
245 | | ||||||
Non-cash charge associated with a convertible note ( Note 7) |
3,610 | | ||||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
12,461 | (1 | ) | |||||
Gain on equipment sale and leaseback |
| (6 | ) | |||||
Net changes in operating assets and liabilities: |
||||||||
Accounts receivable |
(2,523 | ) | 430 | |||||
Inventories |
(1,625 | ) | (1,703 | ) | ||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
(149 | ) | (191 | ) | ||||
Other assets |
(1,948 | ) | (472 | ) | ||||
Accounts payable |
1,174 | 438 | ||||||
Accrued liabilities |
1,345 | 668 | ||||||
Deferred revenue |
1,244 | 776 | ||||||
Other liabilities |
36 | 42 | ||||||
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Net cash used in operating activities |
(22,425 | ) | (12,425 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from investing activities |
||||||||
Purchases of plant, property and equipment |
(2,757 | ) | (423 | ) | ||||
Purchase of short-term investments |
| (2,000 | ) | |||||
Maturity of short-term investments |
2,000 | | ||||||
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|
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Net cash used in investing activities |
(757 | ) | (2,423 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from financing activities |
||||||||
Proceeds from issuance of convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs |
| 13,160 | ||||||
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes payable |
24,076 | | ||||||
Proceeds from issuance of debt, net of financing costs |
17,375 | | ||||||
Proceeds from line of credit |
500 | 500 | ||||||
Repayment of line of credit |
(500 | ) | (500 | ) | ||||
Repayment of debt |
(1,154 | ) | (206 | ) | ||||
Repayment of capital leases |
(209 | ) | (191 | ) | ||||
Change in restricted cash |
(9,139 | ) | | |||||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options |
24 | 13 | ||||||
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|
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Net cash provided by financing activities |
30,973 | 12,776 | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents |
7,791 | (2,072 | ) | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year |
2,215 | 4,287 | ||||||
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Cash and cash equivalents, end of year |
$ | 10,006 | $ | 2,215 | ||||
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Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information |
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Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized of $106 and $0 for years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. |
$ | 1,136 | $ | 84 | ||||
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Supplemental disclosures of noncash investing and financing activities |
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Interest added to the principal of convertible notes |
$ | 837 | $ | | ||||
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Equipment acquired under capital leases |
$ | 317 | $ | 93 | ||||
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See accompanying notes.
F-7
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2012
1. Summary of Business
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. (Company), formerly Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc., was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on June 15, 2006, and is located in Davis, California. In July 2012, the Company formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, Marrone Michigan Manufacturing LLC (MMM LLC), a Michigan corporation, which holds the assets of a manufacturing plant the Company purchased in July 2012 as discussed in Note 2. The Company makes bio-based pest management and plant health products. The Company targets the major markets that use conventional chemical pesticides, including certain agricultural and water markets where its bio-based products are used as substitutes for, or in conjunction with, conventional chemical pesticides. The Company also targets new markets for which there are no available conventional chemical pesticides, the use of conventional chemical pesticides may not be desirable or permissible, or the development of pest resistance has reduced the efficacy of conventional chemical pesticides. The Company delivers EPA-approved and registered biopesticide products and other bio-based products that address the global demand for effective, safe and environmentally responsible products.
The Company is an early stage company with a limited operating history and has only recently begun commercializing its products. As of December 31, 2012, the Company has an accumulated deficit of $75,569,000 and expects to incur losses for the next several years. Since its inception, the Company has funded operations primarily with the net proceeds from the private placements of convertible preferred stock, convertible notes, promissory notes, term loans, as well as proceeds from the sale of its products and payments under strategic collaboration agreements and government grants. As a result, the Company will need to generate significant revenue to achieve and maintain profitability. As of December 31, 2012, the Company had a working capital deficit of $11,468,000, which includes $22,518,000 of the current portion of convertible notes payable which will be settled via conversion into the Companys equity instruments (see Note 7), and cash and cash equivalents of $10,006,000. Management believes that currently available resources combined with the additional proceeds raised from the issuance of convertible notes in 2013 (see Note 16) will be sufficient to fund the Companys cash requirements through at least December 31, 2013.
The Company participates in a heavily regulated and highly competitive crop protection industry and believes that adverse changes in any of the following areas could have a material effect on the Companys future financial position, results of operations, or cash flows, inability to obtain regulatory approvals, increased competition in the pesticide market, market acceptance of the Companys products, weather and other seasonal factors beyond the Companys control, litigation or claims against the Company based on intellectual property, patent, product, regulatory or other factors, and the Companys ability to support increased growth.
Although management recognizes that it may need to raise additional funds in the future, there can be no assurance that such efforts will be successful or that, in the event that they are successful, the terms and conditions of such financing will not be unfavorable. Any failure to obtain additional financing or fund the operations with cash flows from revenues will have a material effect upon the Company and will likely result in a substantial reduction in the scope of the Companys operations.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
F-8
Subsequent Events
Management has evaluated subsequent events through June 17, 2013 (except for Note 17, as to which the date is , 2013), the date that the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued, and has appropriately accounted for and disclosed all relevant subsequent events through this date.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid financial instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on deposit, money market funds and certificates of deposit accounts with U.S. financial institutions. The Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of default by financial institutions to the extent that cash and cash equivalents balances with financial institutions are in excess of amounts that are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The Company has not experienced any losses on these deposits.
Restricted Cash
The Companys restricted cash consists of cash that the Company was contractually obligated as of December 31, 2012 to use to pay off the entire indebtedness of the promissory note entered into in April 2012 with an original principal balance of $10,000,000. See Notes 6 and 16 for further discussion.
Short-Term Investments
The Companys short-term investments consist of certificates of deposit with original maturities less than one year but greater than three months which are classified as held-to-maturity. Certificates of deposit are stated at their amortized cost with realized gains or losses, if any, reported as other income or expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company routinely evaluates the realizability of its short-term investments and recognizes an impairment charge when a decline in the estimated fair value of a short-term investment is below the amortized cost and determined to be other-than-temporary. The Company considers various factors in determining whether to recognize an impairment charge, including the duration of time and the severity to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost, any adverse changes in the investees financial condition, and the Companys intent and ability to hold the short-term investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value. To date, the Company has not experienced any losses on its short-term investments.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair value is defined as an exit price that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. A three-tier fair value hierarchy has been established, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows: Level 1, observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, inputs other than the quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly; and Level 3, unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which requires that the Company develop its own assumptions. This hierarchy requires the use of observable data, when available, and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs when determining fair value.
The following tables present the Companys financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31, 2012 | ||||||||||||||||
TOTAL | LEVEL 1 | LEVEL 2 | LEVEL 3 | |||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||
Money market funds |
$ | 7,668 | $ | 7,668 | $ | | $ | | ||||||||
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Liabilities |
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Common stock warrant liability |
$ | 301 | $ | | $ | | $ | 301 | ||||||||
Preferred stock warrant liability |
1,884 | | | 1,884 | ||||||||||||
Convertible notes payable |
41,860 | | | 41,860 | ||||||||||||
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Total liabilities at fair value |
$ | 44,045 | $ | | $ | | $ | 44,045 | ||||||||
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F-9
DECEMBER 31, 2011 | ||||||||||||||||
TOTAL | LEVEL 1 | LEVEL 2 | LEVEL 3 | |||||||||||||
Assets |
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Money market funds |
$ | 305 | $ | 305 | $ | | $ | | ||||||||
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Liabilities |
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Preferred stock warrant liability |
$ | 27 | $ | | $ | | $ | 27 | ||||||||
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|
The money market funds held as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, were in active markets and, therefore, measured based on the Level 1 valuation hierarchy.
Starting with fiscal year 2012, the Company changed the valuation methodology to estimate the fair value of the preferred stock warrant liability from the Option Pricing Method (OPM) to the Probability Weighted Expected Return Method (PWERM) due to the increased probability of a successful initial public offering and the closing of additional debt financing. The PWERM analyzes the returns afforded to common equity holders under multiple future scenarios. Under the PWERM, share value is based upon the probability-weighted present value of expected future net cash flows (distributions to shareholders), considering each of the possible future events and giving consideration to the rights and preferences of each share class. This method is most appropriate when the long-term outlook for an enterprise is largely known and multiple future scenarios can be reasonably estimated. The OPM treats each class of equity securities as if it were an option to purchase common stock, with an exercise price based on the value of the enterprise and based further on the liquidation preference and rights of the relevant class of equity. While this method relies on certain key assumptions, it is best used when the range of possible future outcomes and the corresponding time frames are highly uncertain.
The common and preferred stock warrant liabilities were valued by a PWERM valuation using six scenarios, which included three initial public offering scenarios, two merger scenarios and a sale of the Companys intellectual property. An annual discount rate of 35% was applied to the PWERM valuation. The common stock warrants also include an 18% discount for lack of marketability. As the PWERM estimates the fair value of the common and preferred stock warrant liabilities using unobservable inputs, it is considered to be a Level 3 fair value measurement. Changes in the probability weights and discount rates have a significant impact on the fair value of the common and preferred stock warrant liabilities. As a result of the changing probability weights between December 31, 2011, issuance dates and December 31, 2012, the Company recognized a loss from the change in fair value as shown in the table below.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for the common and preferred stock warrant liabilities measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) (in thousands):
COMMON
STOCK WARRANT LIABILITY |
||||
Fair value at December 31, 2011 |
$ | | ||
Warrants issued |
282 | |||
Change in fair value recorded in change in fair value of financial instruments |
19 | |||
|
|
|||
Fair value at December 31, 2012 |
$ | 301 | ||
|
|
F-10
PREFERRED
STOCK WARRANT LIABILITY |
||||
Fair value at December 31, 2010 |
$ | 28 | ||
Warrant issued |
| |||
Change in fair value recorded in change in fair value of financial instruments |
(1 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Fair value at December 31, 2011 |
27 | |||
Series C preferred stock warrant issued |
306 | |||
Change in fair value recorded in change in fair value of financial instruments |
1,551 | |||
|
|
|||
Fair value at December 31, 2012 |
$ | 1,884 | ||
|
|
For the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company issued several convertible notes in a series of transactions as described in Note 7. These convertible notes were valued by a PWERM valuation utilizing inputs similar to those used for estimating fair values of the common and preferred stock warrant liabilities described further above. A discount rate of 25% was used for valuing the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes defined in Note 7. A discount rate of 18% was used for the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note and the December 2012 Convertible Note, both defined in Note 7. These discount rates were applied into the PWERM valuations. Changes in the probability weights and discount rates have a significant impact on the valuation of the convertible notes. As a result of the changing probability weights between the issuance dates of the convertible notes and December 31, 2012, the Company recognized a loss from the change in estimated fair value of the convertible notes as shown in the table below and discussed in Note 7.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for the convertible notes measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) (in thousands):
Fair value at December 31, 2011 |
$ | | ||
Convertible notes issued |
30,132 | |||
Accrued interest |
837 | |||
Change in fair valued recorded in change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
10,891 | |||
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|
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Fair value at December 31, 2012 |
$ | 41,860 | ||
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|
During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, no transfers were made into or out of the Level 1, 2, or 3 categories.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts receivable and debt. The Company deposits its cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments with high credit quality domestic financial institutions. Such deposits may exceed federal deposit insurance limits. The Company believes the financial risks associated with these financial instruments are minimal.
The Companys customer base is dispersed across many different geographic areas, and currently most customers are pest management distributors in the U.S. Generally, receivables are due 30 days from the invoice date and are considered past due after this date.
As of December 31, 2012, four customers accounted for 33%, 17%, 11%, and 11%, respectively, or a total of 72% of the Companys accounts receivable. As of December 31, 2011, five customers accounted for 26%, 17%, 17%, 15%, and 11%, respectively, or a total of 86% of the Companys accounts receivable. Since its inception, the Companys principal source of revenues has been its Regalia product. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, Regalia accounted for 84% and 95%, respectively, of the Companys total revenues. For the year ended
F-11
December 31, 2012, three customers represented 33%, 13%, and 12%, respectively, or a total of 58% of the Companys total revenues. For the year ended December 31, 2011, three customers represented 39%, 17%, and 10%, respectively, or a total of 66% of the Companys revenues. Domestic revenues accounted for 80% and 93% of the Companys total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Concentrations of Supplier Dependence
The active ingredient in the Companys Regalia product line is derived from the giant knotweed plant, which the Company obtains from China. The Companys single supplier acquires raw knotweed from numerous regional sources and performs an extraction process on this plant, creating a dried extract that is shipped to the Companys third- party manufacturer in the U.S. A disruption at this suppliers manufacturing site or a disruption in trade between the U.S. and China could negatively impact sales of Regalia. The Company currently uses one supplier and there can be no assurance that the Company will continue to be able to obtain dried extract from China at a competitive price.
Accounts Receivable
The carrying value of the Companys receivables represents their estimated net realizable values. The Company generally does not require collateral and estimates any required allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical collection trends, the age of outstanding receivables, and existing economic conditions. If events or changes in circumstances indicate that specific receivable balances may be impaired, further consideration is given to the collectibility of those balances and the allowance is recorded accordingly. Past-due receivable balances are written off when the Companys internal collection efforts have been unsuccessful in collecting the amount due.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value (net realizable value or replacement cost) and include the cost of material and external labor and manufacturing costs. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out basis. The Company provides for inventory reserves when conditions indicate that the selling price may be less than cost due to physical deterioration, obsolescence, changes in price levels, or other factors. Additionally, the Company provides reserves for excess and slow-moving inventory on hand that is not expected to be sold to reduce the carrying amount of excess slow-moving inventory to its estimated net realizable value. The reserves are based upon estimates about future demand from the Companys customers and distributors and market conditions. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had no reserves against its inventories. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded $913,000 of inventory write-off primarily due to an early formulation of the Zequanox line of products that was not suitable for sale. No such inventory write-off recorded for the year ended December 31, 2011.
Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31 | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Raw materials |
$ | 3,204 | $ | 1,992 | ||||
Work-in-process |
607 | | ||||||
Finished goods |
1,061 | 1,255 | ||||||
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$ | 4,872 | $ | 3,247 | |||||
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F-12
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. The Company generally uses the following estimate useful lives for each asset category:
ASSET CATEGORY |
ESTIMATED USEFUL LIFE |
|
Building |
30 years | |
Computer equipment |
2-3 years | |
Machinery and equipment |
3-20 years | |
Office equipment |
3-5 years | |
Furniture |
3-5 years | |
Leasehold improvements |
Shorter of lease term or useful life | |
Software |
3 years |
Amortization of assets under capital leases is included in depreciation expense. Maintenance, repairs and minor renewals are expensed as incurred. Expenditures that substantially increase an assets useful life are capitalized.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs, net include fees and costs incurred to obtain long-term financing. The costs are being amortized over the terms of the respective loans on a basis that approximates level yield. Unamortized deferred financing fees are written-off when debt is retired before the maturity date. Upon amendment or termination of a debt, unamortized deferred financing fees are accounted for in accordance with ASC 470-50-40, Modifications and Extinguishments . As of December 31, 2012, $145,000 and $261,000 of the deferred financing costs were recorded as a component of current and non-current other assets, respectively, and being amortized as interest expense. No such deferred financing costs were recorded as of December 31, 2011.
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets
Impairment losses related to long-lived assets are recognized in the event the net carrying value of such assets exceeds fair value. The Company assesses the impairment of its long-lived assets annually or more frequently upon events or changes in circumstances that indicate the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. The Company performs impairment testing at the asset group level that represents the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. In making this determination, the Company considers the specific operating characteristics of the relevant long-lived assets, including (i) the nature of the direct and any indirect revenues generated by the assets; (ii) the interdependency of the revenues generated by the assets; and (iii) the nature and extent of any shared costs necessary to operate the assets in their intended use. An impairment test would be performed when the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset group are less than the carrying amount. Impairment is measured by assessing the usefulness of an asset by comparing its carrying value to its fair value. If an asset is considered impaired, the impairment loss is measured as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset group exceeds its estimated fair value. Fair value is determined based upon estimated discounted future cash flows. To date, the Company has not recognized any such impairment loss associated with its long-lived assets.
Preferred Stock Warrant Liability
The Company accounts for outstanding warrants exercisable into shares of its preferred stock as liability instruments as the preferred stock into which these warrants are convertible are contingently redeemable upon the occurrence of certain events or transactions. The Company adjusts the warrant instruments to fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the consolidated statements of operations.
Common Stock Warrant Liability
The Company issued detachable common stock warrants in conjunction with the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes as defined and discussed in Note 6 to purchase a variable number of the Companys shares of common stock based on a fixed monetary amount. As the predominant settlement feature of these common stock warrants is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, these common stock warrants fall
F-13
within the scope of ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (ASC 480). Accordingly, these common stock warrants were recorded at estimated fair value on their issuance date and are adjusted to their estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenues when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery and transfer of title has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured, unless contractual obligations, acceptance provisions or other contingencies exist. If such obligations or provisions exist, revenue is recognized after such obligations or provisions are fulfilled or expire.
Product revenues consist of revenues generated from sales to distributors and from sales of the Companys products to direct customers, net of rebates and cash discounts. For sales of products made to distributors, the Company considers a number of factors in determining whether revenue is recognized upon transfer of title to the distributor, or when payment is received. These factors include, but are not limited to, whether the payment terms offered to the distributor are considered to be non-standard, the distributor history of adhering to the terms of its contractual arrangements with the Company, whether the Company has a pattern of granting concessions for the benefit of the distributor, and whether there are other conditions that may indicate that the sale to the distributor is not substantive. The Company currently recognizes revenue primarily on the sell-in method with its distributors. Distributors do not have price protection or return rights.
The Company offers certain product rebates, which are recorded as reductions to product revenues. An accrued liability for these product rebates is recorded at the time the revenues are recorded.
The Company recognizes license revenues pursuant to strategic collaboration and distribution agreements under which the Company receives payments for the achievement of testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events. As these activities and payments are associated with exclusive rights that the Company provides in connection with strategic collaboration and distribution agreements over the term of the agreements, revenues related to the payments received are deferred and recognized as revenues over the term of the exclusive distribution period of the respective agreement. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company received payments totaling $1,533,000 and $833,000, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company recognized $179,000 and $57,000, respectively, in license revenues. In addition, in conjunction with the December 2012 Convertible Note issued in December 2012, which is described in Note 7, the Company recorded a reduction of license revenue of $110,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012. At December 31, 2012, the Company had recorded current and non-current deferred revenues of $324,000 and $1,696,000, respectively, related to payments received under these agreements. At December 31, 2011, the Company had recorded current and non-current deferred revenues of $175,000 and $601,000, respectively, related to payments received under these agreements.
As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had no deferred product revenues.
Research and Development
Research and development expenditures, which primarily consist of payroll-related expenses, toxicology costs, regulatory costs, consulting costs and lab costs, are expensed to operations as incurred. Grants received from third parties for research and development activity are recorded as reductions of expense over the term of the agreement as the related activities are conducted.
For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company received payments under grants totaling $140,000 and $164,000, respectively. Of these amounts, $0 and $31,000 are recorded in accrued liabilities as accrued grant proceeds for which the underlying grant services have not been provided as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company reduced research and development expenses by $171,000 and $195,000, respectively, as services were performed under the grants.
Shipping and Handling Costs
Amounts billed for shipping and handling are included as a component of revenues. Related costs for shipping and handling have been included as a component of cost of product revenues.
F-14
Advertising
The Company expenses advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, were $609,000 and $286,000, respectively.
Share-Based Compensation
The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense for all stock options made to employees and directors based on estimated fair values.
The Company estimates the fair value of stock options on the date of grant using an option-pricing model. The value of the portion of the stock options that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods using the straight-line method. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.
For purposes of determining the Companys historical share-based compensation expense, it used the Black-Scholes-Merton (BSM) option-pricing model to calculate the estimated fair value of stock options on the measurement date (generally, the grant date). This model requires inputs for the expected life of the stock options, estimated volatility factor, risk-free interest rate, and expected dividend yield. The Companys estimates of forfeiture rates also affect the amount of aggregate compensation expense. These inputs are subjective and generally require significant judgment. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company calculated the fair value of stock options granted using the following assumptions:
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 | ||||
2012 | 2011 | |||
Expected life (years) |
5.006.08 | 5.006.28 | ||
Estimated volatility factor |
.72.76 | .70 | ||
Risk-free interest rate |
0.74%1.16% | 0.86%2.40% | ||
Expected dividend yield |
| |
Expected Life The Companys expected life represents the period that its share-based payment awards are expected to be outstanding. The Company uses the simplified method in accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 107, Share-Based Payment , and SAB No. 110, Simplified Method for Plain Vanilla Share Options , to develop the expected term of an employee stock option. Under this approach, the expected term is presumed to be the midpoint between the vesting date and the contractual end of the option grant.
Estimated Volatility Factor The Company uses the calculated volatility based upon the trading history and calculated volatility of the common stock of comparable but publicly traded agricultural biotechnology companies in determining an estimated volatility factor.
Risk-Free Interest Rate The Company bases the risk-free interest rate on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury constant-maturity securities with the same or substantially equivalent remaining term.
Expected Dividend Yield The Company has not declared dividends nor does it expect to in the foreseeable future. Therefore, a zero value was assumed for the expected dividend yield.
Estimated Forfeitures When estimating forfeitures, the Company considers voluntary and involuntary termination behavior and actual option forfeitures.
If in the future the Company determines that other methods are more reasonable, or other methods for calculating these assumptions are prescribed by authoritative guidance, the fair value calculated for the Companys stock options could change significantly. Higher volatility and longer expected lives result in an increase to share-based compensation expense determined at the grant date. Share-based compensation expense affects the Companys research and development expense and selling, general, and administrative expense.
The BSM option-pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable characteristics not present in the Companys stock options. Existing
F-15
valuation models, including the BSM option-pricing model, may not provide reliable measures of the fair values of the Companys stock options. Consequently, there is a risk that the Companys estimates of the fair values of the stock options on the grant dates may bear little resemblance to the actual values realized upon exercise. Stock options may expire or otherwise result in zero intrinsic value as compared to the fair values originally estimated on the grant date and reported in the consolidated financial statements. Alternatively, value may be realized from these instruments is significantly higher than the fair values originally estimated on the grant date and reported in the consolidated financial statements.
Other Income (Expense), Net
Other income (expense), net principally included losses resulting from foreign currency transactions in the amount of $54,000 and $0, for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Income Taxes
The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. To the extent deferred tax assets cannot be recognized under the preceding criteria, the Company establishes valuation allowances as necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, all deferred tax assets were fully offset by a valuation allowance. Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon future federal, state, and foreign taxable income. The Companys judgments regarding deferred tax assets may change as the Company expands into international jurisdictions, due to future market conditions, changes in U.S. or international tax laws, and other factors. These changes, if any, may require possible material adjustments to these deferred tax assets, resulting in a reduction in net income or an increase in net loss in the period when such determinations are made.
The Company recognizes liabilities for uncertain tax positions based upon a two-step process. To the extent a tax position does not meet a more-likely-than-not level of certainty, no benefit is recognized in the consolidated financial statements. If a position meets the more-likely-than-not level of certainty, it is recognized in the consolidated financial statements at the largest amount that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The Companys policy is to analyze the Companys tax positions taken with respect to all applicable income tax issues for all open tax years (in each respective jurisdiction). As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company has concluded that no uncertain tax positions were required to be recognized in its consolidated financial statements. It is the Companys practice to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. No amounts were recognized for interest and penalties during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.
Comprehensive Loss
Comprehensive loss represents the net loss for the period plus the results of certain changes to stockholders deficit that are not reflected in the consolidated statements of operations, if applicable. The only component of the Companys comprehensive loss for the periods presented is net loss.
Net Loss Per Share
Basic and diluted net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss attributable to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. The Companys potentially dilutive shares, which include outstanding stock options, convertible notes, convertible preferred stock and warrants, have been excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share for all periods as their effect would be anti-dilutive. Such potentially dilutive shares are excluded when the effect would be to reduce the loss per share.
F-16
The following table sets forth potential shares of common stock that are not included in the calculation of diluted net loss per share because to do so would be anti-dilutive as of the end of each period presented (in thousands):
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Convertible preferred stock |
8,504 | 8,504 | ||||||
Convertible notes (1) |
| | ||||||
Stock options outstanding |
2,065 | 1,384 | ||||||
Warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock |
207 | 36 | ||||||
Warrants to purchase common stock (2) |
| 5 |
(1) |
As of December 31, 2012, the Company had approximately $41,860,000 in contingently convertible notes payable and related accrued interest for which the contingencies related to conversion had not been met as of December 31, 2012. Therefore, it would have no dilutive or anti-dilutive impact for the year ended December 31, 2012. Refer to Note 7 for further discussion. |
(2) |
The warrant to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock was outstanding as of March 31, 2012 and expired in April 2012. In October 2012, the Company issued warrants to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 15% of the funded principal amount of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes as defined in Note 6, divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an initial public offering (IPO), with an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO. These warrants are contingently exercisable for which the contingencies related to exercise had not been met as of December 31, 2012. Therefore, it would have no dilutive or anti-dilutive impact for the year ended December 31, 2012. Refer to Note 6 for further discussion. |
As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the numbers of shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock and upon the conversion of convertible preferred stock were at a ratio of one-to-one.
Segment Information
The Company is organized as a single operating segment, whereby its chief operating decision maker assesses the performance of and allocates resources to the business as a whole.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued additional guidance on fair value disclosures. This guidance contains certain updates to the measurement guidance as well as enhanced disclosure requirements. The most significant change in disclosures is an expansion of the information required for Level 3 measurements including enhanced disclosure for: (1) the valuation processes used by the reporting entity; and (2) the sensitivity of the fair value measurement to changes in unobservable inputs and the interrelationships between those unobservable inputs, if any. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2011, with early adoption prohibited. The Company adopted this guidance for fiscal year 2012 and has enhanced its fair value disclosures in the Fair Value of Financial Instruments sections of this note.
In September 2011, the FASB issued guidance on the presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance eliminates the current option to report other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of changes in equity. The guidance allows two presentation alternatives: (1) present items of net income and other comprehensive income in one continuous statement, referred to as the statement of comprehensive income; or (2) in two separate, but consecutive, statements of net income and other comprehensive income. This guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011 and interim periods within that year. Early adoption is permitted, but full retrospective application is required under both sets of accounting standards. The guidance also previously required the presentation of adjustments for items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income in the statement where the components of net income and the components of other comprehensive income are presented; however, this portion of the guidance has been deferred. The Company adopted this guidance for fiscal year 2012 and has presented the net income and other comprehensive income in two separate consecutive statements.
F-17
3. Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment consist of the following (in thousands):
The Company has granted to third parties interests in specific property and equipment as part of certain financing arrangements (see Note 6).
Depreciation and amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, was $613,000 and $499,000, respectively, which included amortization expense related to capital leases for those periods (see Note 12).
On July 19, 2012 (Acquisition Date), the Company purchased land, building and equipment (Manufacturing Plant) for $1,459,000, including $341,000 of transaction costs. The Manufacturing Plant is located in Bangor, Michigan. Prior to the acquisition, the Manufacturing Plant was owned by a bank and sold in a foreclosure auction. Accordingly, the purchase price for the Manufacturing Plant was less than the estimated fair value of the assets acquired by $257,000. The excess of fair value of the assets acquired over the purchase price is allocated on a relative fair value basis to all assets acquired. The acquisition of the Manufacturing Plant will allow the Company to manufacture certain products internally and improve the overall operating efficiencies and margins of the business as the production of these products historically has been outsourced.
The acquisition was accounted for as an asset acquisition in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations . The assets acquired under the Manufacturing Plant acquisition have been included in the Companys consolidated financial statements from the Acquisition Date. The purchase price was allocated to assets acquired as of the Acquisition Date.
Prior to the allocation of the excess of fair value of the assets acquired over the purchase price, the assets acquired are first measured at their fair values. The Company engaged a third-party valuation firm to assist with its estimated fair value of the assets acquired. The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of each class of asset acquired:
LandMarket approach based on similar, but not identical, transactions in the market. Adjustments to comparable sales are based on both the quantitative and qualitative data.
BuildingThe cost approach, market approach and income approach were used to assess fair value. Cost approach is based on replacement cost new less depreciation adjusted for physical deterioration, functional obsolescence and external/economic obsolescence, as applicable. The market approach is based on similar, but not identical, transactions in the market using both quantitative and qualitative data. The income approach is based on the direct capitalization method using similar but not identical lease rates and making an assessment of net operating income.
EquipmentBoth the cost approach and the market approach were used to assess fair value. Cost approach is based on replacement cost new less depreciation adjusted for physical deterioration, functional obsolescence and external/economic obsolescence, as applicable. The market approach is based on similar, but not identical, transactions in
F-18
the market using both quantitative and qualitative data. The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of the assets acquired as of the Acquisition Date, which were determined using level two and three inputs as described above (in thousands):
JULY 19, 2012 | ||||
Land |
$ | 1 | ||
Building |
314 | |||
Equipment |
1,144 | |||
|
|
|||
Assets acquired |
$ | 1,459 | ||
|
|
As the Manufacturing Plant had not yet been placed in service as of December 31, 2012, the assets acquired, except the land, were recorded as construction in process as a component of property, plant and equipment in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2012.
4. Other Assets
Other assets consist of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31 | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Prepaid initial public offering costs |
$ | 2,257 | $ | 303 | ||||
Prepaid distribution fees |
134 | 157 | ||||||
Deferred financing costs, less current portion |
261 | | ||||||
Other assets |
133 | 53 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 2,785 | $ | 513 | |||||
|
|
|
|
5. Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31 | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Accrued compensation |
$ | 1,342 | $ | 786 | ||||
Accrued expenses |
1,295 | 484 | ||||||
Accrued product rebates |
386 | 408 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 3,023 | $ | 1,678 | |||||
|
|
|
|
F-19
6. Debt
Debt consists of the following (in thousands):
(1) |
The lenders security interest is subordinate to the holders of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note with the exception of its interest in equipment. |
As of December 31, 2012, aggregate contractual future principal payments on the Companys debt, by year, are due as follows (in thousands):
Years ending December 31: |
||||
2013 |
$ | 9,433 | ||
2014 |
251 | |||
2015 |
7,635 | |||
2016 |
47 | |||
|
|
|||
Total future principal payments |
$ | 17,366 | ||
|
|
The Company believes the carrying values of its debt approximate their fair values at December 31, 2012 and 2011 based on the interest rates as of those dates compared to similar debt instruments.
F-20
Promissory Notes, Term Loan and Revolving Line of Credit
In May 2008, the Company borrowed $400,000 pursuant to a promissory note with a bank which bears interest at the rate of 6.25% per annum and is repayable in 60 equal monthly installments of $7,785 commencing June 1, 2008.
In March 2009, October 2010 and October 2011, the Company and the bank agreed to modify the terms of its existing revolving line of credit (Revolver). Under the modified terms of the Revolver, the Companys borrowings under the Revolver are limited to 75% of qualifying accounts receivable with a maximum borrowing limit of $500,000. In March 2012, the Company entered into a change in terms agreement with the bank under which the existing Revolver was replaced by Term Loan in the amount of $500,000 with a rate of 7.00% per annum, maturing April 1, 2016. The Companys inventories, chattel paper, accounts receivable, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and intellectual property) have been pledged as collateral under Term Loan. There was no outstanding balance on the Revolver as of December 31, 2011 and the Revolver was terminated in March 2012.
In March 2009, the Company borrowed $650,000 pursuant to a promissory note with the bank which bears interest at the rate of 7.00% per annum and is repayable in six monthly interest only payments starting May 1, 2009, followed by 60 equal monthly installments of $13,000 commencing November 1, 2009, with the final payment due on November 1, 2014.
All of the Companys inventories, chattel paper, accounts receivable, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and any intellectual property) have been pledged as collateral for the promissory notes.
On April 13, 2012, the Company borrowed $10,000,000 pursuant to a senior secured promissory note (April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note) which bears interest at 15.00% per annum and required the Company to pay the lender non-refundable loan fees of $625,000. The April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note is payable in 59 monthly installments of $238,000 beginning in May 2012 with all unpaid principal and interest due in April 2017. The April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note is secured by a first priority security interest in substantially all of the Companys present and future assets. The Company also issued a warrant (Series C Warrant) to the lender to purchase 191,000 shares of the Companys Series C convertible preferred stock with an exercise price of $7.846 per share. The Series C Warrant will expire, unless exercised, on the earlier to occur of April 2022 or one year after the Company successfully completes its IPO. The Company estimated the fair value of the Series C Warrant using a PWERM valuation based on unobservable inputs, and therefore the Series C Warrant is considered to be a Level 3 liability.
The loan fees and the fair value of the Series C Warrant at the date of issuance of $625,000 and $306,000, respectively, were being recorded as a debt discount to the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the effective interest rate method.
The April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note contains certain covenant requirements which includes a requirement to maintain a minimum cash balance of at least $3,000,000 starting January 1, 2013. In the event of default on the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note, the lender may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable.
Under the terms of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note, the Company may elect to prepay the entire outstanding principal balance upon thirty days written notice to the lender. In the event the Company decides to prepay the entire loan balance, the Company will incur a termination fee that is calculated based on the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Notes outstanding principal balance as of the effective date of termination notice. The termination fee is 0% to 3% of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Notes outstanding balance as of the effective date of termination notice, depending on the timing of the termination.
F-21
Activity related to the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note from its issuance on April 13, 2012 through December 31, 2012 consisted of the following (in thousands):
APRIL 13,
2012 |
AMORTIZATION
OF DEBT DISCOUNT |
PRINCIPAL
PAYMENTS |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
|||||||||||||
Principal |
$ | 10,000 | $ | | $ | (861 | ) | $ | 9,139 | |||||||
Discount related to Series C Warrant (1) |
(306 | ) | 55 | | (251 | ) | ||||||||||
Discount related to financing costs (1) |
(625 | ) | 111 | | (514 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
$ | 9,069 | $ | 166 | $ | (861 | ) | $ | 8,374 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
The amortization of this account is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of operations and noncash interest expense in the consolidated statements of cash flows. |
Under the terms of the December 2012 Convertible Note issued in December 2012 (Note 7), the Company is required to use the proceeds from this convertible note to repay all outstanding balance of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note within 35 days of closing. The Company repaid the outstanding balance of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note in January 2013 (Note 16) and has classified the outstanding balance of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note as of December 31, 2012 as a current liability.
On October 2, 2012, the Company borrowed $7,500,000 pursuant to senior notes (October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes) with a group of lenders. The October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes have an initial term of three years and can be extended for an additional two years in one year increments. During the initial three-year term, the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes bear interest at 12% per annum. If the term of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes is extended an additional year, the interest rate increases to 13% during the fourth year. If the term of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes is extended for an additional two years, the interest rate is 14% during the fifth year. Interest on the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes is payable monthly through the initial maturity date of the loan which is October 2, 2015 or through any extension period. The principal and all unpaid interest are due on the maturity date, as may be extended.
As part of the terms of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, the Company is required to pay a fee of 5% of the funded principal amount to the agent that facilitated the borrowing (Agent Fee). This Agent Fee is payable within 30 days after all interest and principal have been paid. For each year the Company extends the maturity date of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes beyond the initial term, the agent will receive an additional 1% fee based on the funded principal amount. The present value of the unpaid Agent Fee, based on 5% of the funded principal amount, or $261,000 as of the closing date of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes was recorded as both deferred financing costs as a component of current and non-current other assets and non-current other liabilities. The amortization of the deferred financing costs and the accretion of the Agent Fee are recorded to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method. As of December 31, 2012, $270,000 of Agent Fee was recorded under non-current other liabilities. In addition, the Company incurred an additional $66,000 in financing-related costs, primarily legal fees. These costs were recorded as deferred financing costs as a component of current and non-current other assets and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method.
The October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes are secured by the Companys ownership interest in MMM LLC, a security interest in the assets of the Manufacturing Plant, and all of the Companys other assets, subject to certain permitted liens. This security interest is subordinate to the security interest held by the holders of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note as described above, which also have a security interest in MMM LLC.
The Company also issued warrants (Common Stock Warrants) to the group of lenders to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 15% of the funded principal amount of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO, with such Common Stock Warrants to have an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO. The Common Stock Warrants will be automatically exercised immediately prior to expiration on the earlier to occur of an
F-22
IPO or a sale of the Company or the maturity of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes. The October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes can be prepaid six months after the initial funding date or earlier if an IPO or a sale of the Company occurs. As the predominant settlement feature of the Common Stock Warrants is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, the Common Stock Warrants are accounted for under ASC 480. Accordingly, the Common Stock Warrants were recorded at estimated fair value on their issuance date and are adjusted to its estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the Companys consolidated statements of operations. The fair value of the Common Stock Warrants at the date of issuance of $282,000 is recorded as a discount to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes and is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method. The Company estimated the fair value of the Common Stock Warrants using a PWERM valuation based on unobservable inputs, and therefore the Common Stock Warrants are considered to be Level 3 liabilities.
The October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes contain certain covenant requirements which include a requirement to maintain a minimum cash balance of the lesser of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note indebtedness described above or $5,000,000. As discussed above, the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note was fully paid off in January 2013. The Company is also precluded from adding additional debt unless such debt is subordinated to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes and not more than $2,000,000. In the event of default on the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, the lenders may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable.
Activity related to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes from their issuance on October 2, 2012 through December 31, 2012 consisted of the following (in thousands):
OCTOBER 2,
2012 |
AMORTIZATION
OF DEBT DISCOUNT |
PRINCIPAL
PAYMENTS |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
|||||||||||||
Principal |
$ | 7,500 | $ | | $ | | $ | 7,500 | ||||||||
Discount related to issuance of common stock warrants (1) |
(282 | ) | 24 | | (258 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
$ | 7,218 | $ | 24 | $ | | $ | 7,242 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
The amortization of this account is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of operations and as noncash interest expense in the consolidated statements of cash flows. |
The Company is also required to comply with certain affirmative and negative covenants under the debt agreements discussed above. In the event of default on the debt, the lender(s) may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance with all of the affirmative and negative covenants, and there were no events of default as defined in the agreements related to the debt.
F-23
7. Convertible Notes Payable
Convertible notes payable consists of the following (in thousands):
MATURITY
DATE |
DECEMBER 31
2012 |
|||||
Convertible notes (March 2012 Convertible Notes) bearing interest at 10.00% per annum issued in March and April 2012, including accrued interest of $658 |
September
2013 |
$ | 20,204 | |||
Convertible note (October 2012 Convertible Note) bearing interest at 10.00% per annum issued in October 2012, including accrued interest of $25 |
September
2013 |
2,314 | ||||
|
|
|||||
Convertible notes payable, current portion |
22,518 | |||||
Convertible note (October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note) bearing interest at 12.00% per annum issued in October 2012, including accrued interest of $64 |
October
2015 |
2,797 | ||||
Convertible note (December 2012 Convertible Note) bearing interest at 10.00% per annum issued in December 2012, including accrued interest of $90 |
October
2015 |
16,545 | ||||
|
|
|||||
Total convertible notes payable |
$ | 41,860 | ||||
|
|
Convertible Notes
During March 2012 through April 2012, the Company issued and sold in a series of closings $8,076,000 of convertible notes (March 2012 Convertible Notes) to existing preferred stock holders. During October 2012, the Company issued an additional $1,000,000 convertible note (October 2012 Convertible Note) to another existing preferred stock holder. Collectively, the March 2012 Convertible Notes and the October 2012 Convertible Note are referred to as the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes, and they accrue interest at 10% per annum. The principal and accrued interest then outstanding under the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes (Outstanding Balance) matures on September 30, 2013 (Maturity Date) or earlier, at which time all such Outstanding Balance will automatically convert into a new series of preferred stock to be authorized immediately prior to the Maturity Date.
The Outstanding Balance may become due and payable prior to the Maturity Date upon an event of default. The Maturity Date may be extended by six months with the written approval of the holders of at least 80% of the Outstanding Balance, and the Company may not incur any debt senior in preference to the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes without the written consent of holders of 70% of the Outstanding Balance.
If the Company closes an IPO in which the Company receives gross cash proceeds, before underwriting discounts, commissions and fees, of at least $30,000,000 (a Qualified IPO) or a sale of substantially all of the Companys assets or a series of transactions that result in the transfer of more than 50% of the Companys outstanding voting power (an Acquisition), the Outstanding Balance of the March 2012 Convertible Notes will be automatically converted into shares of the Companys common stock at a rate of 70% of the per share price of the Companys common stock sold in the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition. In the event of an Qualified IPO or Acquisition, the Outstanding Balance of the October 2012 Convertible Note will be automatically converted into shares of the Companys common stock at a rate of 80% of the per share price of the Companys common stock sold in the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition.
Alternatively, the Outstanding Balance will be automatically converted into other new securities, as follows, if prior to closing the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition, the Company closes an equity financing for an aggregate consideration of at least $5,000,000 (a Qualified Equity Financing). If prior to closing the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition, the Company closes a Qualified Equity Financing, the Outstanding Balance of the March 2012 Convertible Notes will convert into the equity securities issued in the equity financing at 80% of the purchase price of such securities. In the event of a Qualified Equity Financing, the Outstanding Balance of the October 2012 Convertible Note will convert into the equity securities issued in the equity financing at 85% of the purchase price of such securities.
The Company has assessed the probability of the potential conversion scenarios under the terms of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes and has determined that the predominant settlement feature of the March and
F-24
October 2012 Convertible Notes will be the conversion of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes into shares of the Companys common stock issuable at a 30% or 20% discount to the per share price payable in connection with the completion of the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition during the term of the arrangement. As the predominant settlement feature of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes fall within the scope of ASC 480. Accordingly, the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes were recorded at estimated fair value on their respective issuance dates and are adjusted to their estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
The Company estimated the fair value of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes as of the issuance dates to be $9,343,000 and $1,772,000, respectively. As the Company received total cash proceeds of $9,076,000 through the issuance of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes, the Company determined that $2,039,000 of the excess of the estimated fair value of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes on the issuance dates over cash proceeds to the Company represents a deemed dividend to preferred stockholders, and this amount was reflected in the net loss attributable to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
As of December 31, 2012, the estimated fair value of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes was $22,518,000. Due to changes in the probability and timing of the completion of a Qualified IPO or an Acquisition between the dates of issuance and December 31, 2012, the estimated fair value of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes increased by $10,721,000, which was recognized as additional expense in the change in estimated fair value of financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
As discussed above, the Company is not required to pay interest on the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes, but interest accrues as part of the principal balance under the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes and is convertible, along with the initial principal, into a new series of preferred stock at the Maturity Date or common stock if earlier converted in connection with a Qualified IPO.
October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note
On October 16, 2012, the Company borrowed $2,500,000 pursuant to a convertible note (October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note) from a lender. The October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note has an initial term of three years and can be extended for an additional two years in one-year increments. During the initial three-year term, the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note bears interest at 12% per annum. If the term of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is extended an additional year, the interest rate increases to 13% during the fourth year. If the term of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is extended for an additional two years, the interest rate is 14% during the fifth year. The accrued interest and principal on the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is payable at maturity.
As part of the terms of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note, the Company is required to pay the Agent Fee of 5% of the funded principal amount to the agent that facilitated the borrowing and who also facilitated the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes discussed in Note 6 above. This Agent Fee is payable within 30 days after all interest and principal have been paid. For each year the Company extends the maturity date of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note beyond the initial term, the agent will receive an additional 1% fee based on the funded principal amount. The present value of the unpaid Agent Fee, based on 5% of the funded principal amount, or $87,000 as of the closing date of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note was recorded as both deferred financing costs as a component of current and non-current other assets and non-current other liabilities. The amortization of the deferred financing costs and the accretion of the Agent Fee are recorded to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method. As of December 31, 2012, $89,000 of the Agent Fee was recorded in non-current other liabilities. In addition, the Company incurred an additional $22,000 in financing-related costs, primarily legal fees. These costs were recorded as deferred financing costs as a component of current and non-current other assets and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method.
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The October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note can be prepaid six months after the initial funding date or earlier if an IPO or a sale of the Company occurs.
The October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is secured by certain assets of the Company, subject to certain permitted liens. This security interest is subordinate to the security interest held by the holders of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note and the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Note holders, both described in Note 6.
If the Company closes an IPO or an Acquisition, the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note and any accrued interest will be automatically converted into shares of the Companys common stock at a rate of 85% of the purchase price of common stock sold, provided the closing occurs on or prior to eighteen months from the issuance date of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note. The conversion rate is adjusted to 80% of the purchase price of such securities, if the closing occurs on or after eighteen months from the issuance date of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note through the date of maturity.
The Company has assessed the probability of potential conversion under its terms of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note and has determined that the predominate settlement feature of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note will be the conversion of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note into shares of the Companys common stock issuable at a 15% or 20% discount to the per share price payable upon the completion of an IPO, an Acquisition, or Qualified Equity Financing. As the predominant settlement feature of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note falls within the scope of ASC 480. Accordingly, the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note was recorded at estimated fair value on its issuance date and is adjusted to its estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
The Company estimated the fair value of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note as of the issuance date to be $2,662,000. As the Company received cash proceeds of $2,500,000 through the issuance of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note, $162,000 of the excess of the estimated fair value of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note on the issuance date over cash proceeds was recorded as additional interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
As of December 31, 2012, the estimated fair value of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note was $2,797,000. Due to changes in the probability and timing of the completion of a Qualified IPO or an Acquisition between the date of issuance and December 31, 2012, the estimated fair value of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note increased by $70,000, which was recognized as additional expense in the change in estimated fair value of financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
December 2012 Convertible Note
On December 6, 2012, the Company borrowed $12,500,000 pursuant to a convertible note (December 2012 Convertible Note) from an existing preferred stock holder that also is an affiliate of one of the Companys distributors. The December 2012 Convertible Note has an initial maturity date of October 16, 2015 and can be extended for an additional two years in one year increments. During the initial approximately three-year (two-year and ten-month) term, the December 2012 Convertible Note bears interest at 10% per annum. If the term of the December 2012 Convertible Note is extended an additional year, the interest rate increases to 12% during the fourth year. If the term of the December 2012 Convertible Note is extended for an additional two years, the interest rate is 14% during the fifth year. The maturity date of the December 2012 Convertible Note shall be contemporaneously extended with the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note described above. The accrued interest and principal on the December 2012 Convertible Note is payable at maturity.
The December 2012 Convertible Note may not be pre-paid unless such prepayment is mandated by a sale event. A sale event as defined in the agreement is the transfer of substantially all of the Companys assets, a transaction or series of transactions that result in the transfer of more than 50% voting power of the Company, or transactions that result in gross proceeds of at least $120,000,000 (Sale Event). In the case of a Sale Event, the holder may elect to either convert all outstanding principal and accrued interest into shares of common stock in accordance with the conversion terms of this agreement or receive cash equal to the principal and accrued interest then outstanding
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multiplied by 133.33% if the Sale Event occurs prior to or as of June 30, 2013 or multiplied by 142.86% if the Sale Event occurs after June 30, 2013.
A Qualified Financing means an equity financing for which the gross proceeds are at least $20,000,000 and at least 50% of the amount invested comes from sources other than holders of the Companys equity, strategic investors, or affiliates (Qualified Financing). In the event of a Qualified Financing, all outstanding principal and unpaid interest on the December 2012 Convertible Note will be automatically converted into new securities issued and sold in such qualified financing at a rate of 75% of the purchase price of such new securities provided the closing occurs on or prior to June 30, 2013. The conversion rate is adjusted to 70% of the purchase price of such new securities, if the closing occurs after June 30, 2013.
In the event of a non-qualified financing (Non-Qualified Financing) or the Sale Event, the holder of the December 2012 Convertible Note shall have the right, but not the obligation, to convert all or a part of the outstanding principal and unpaid interest on the December 2012 Convertible Note into the same type of securities issued in the Non-Qualified Financing. A Non-Qualified Financing represents either a convertible note financing or an equity transaction that does not qualify as a Qualified Financing.
If the Non-Qualified Financing relates to an equity financing or Sale Event, the number of shares of common stock or common stock equivalents to be received by the holder of the December 2012 Convertible Note will be calculated by dividing the principal and unpaid accrued interest elected to be converted by the holder by a price per share equal to the price per share paid in the Non-Qualified Financing multiplied by a conversion discount.
If the Non-Qualified Financing relates to a debt financing, the December 2012 Convertible Note holder will receive new convertible notes convertible into the shares of common stock or common stock equivalents at a per share price equal to the conversion price per share applicable to the other convertible debt issued in the Non-Qualified Financing multiplied by a conversion discount. In each case, if the Non-Qualified Financing occurs on or before June 30, 2013, the conversion rate will be equal to 75%, and thereafter the conversion rate will be equal to 70%.
The Company has assessed the probability of the potential conversion scenarios under the terms of the December 2012 Convertible Note and has determined that the predominant settlement feature of the December 2012 Convertible Note will be the conversion of the December 2012 Convertible Note into shares of the Companys common stock issuable at a 25% or 30% discount to the per share price payable in connection with the completion of a Qualified Financing or a Sale Event during the term of the arrangement. As the predominant settlement feature of the December 2012 Convertible Note is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, the December 2012 Convertible Note falls within the scope of ASC 480. Accordingly, the Company determined that the December 2012 Convertible Note should be recorded at estimated fair value on its issuance date and adjusted to its estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
Following the issuance of the December 2012 Convertible Note, the Company estimated the fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note as of the issuance date using a PWERM valuation consisting of six scenarios. This valuation included three initial public offering scenarios, two merger scenarios and a sale of the Companys intellectual property along with the applicable conversion ratios based on the estimated timing of each scenario. Based on this valuation, the Company estimated the fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note to be $16,355,000 as of the issuance date. As the holder of the December 2012 Convertible Note was an affiliate of one of the Companys distributors at the date of issuance, the $3,855,000 excess of the estimated fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note on the date of issuance over gross cash proceeds has been recorded as a reduction of revenue to the extent of revenue recognized from the distributor, $245,000 ($110,000 from license revenue and $135,000 from product revenues), and the remaining excess of $3,610,000 has been recorded separately to an operating expense in accordance with ASC 605-50, Customer Payments and Incentives, in the Companys consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012.
As of December 31, 2012, the estimated fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note was $16,545,000. Due to changes in the probability and timing of the completion of a Qualified IPO or an Acquisition between the dates of issuance and December 31, 2012, the estimated fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note increased by
F-27
$100,000, which was recognized as additional expense in the change in estimated fair value of financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
The December 2012 Convertible Note purchase agreement also requires the Company to use the proceeds from this note to repay all outstanding obligations under the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note within 35 days of closing. See subsequent event Note 16 for further discussion.
In addition to the repayment requirement under the terms of the December 2012 Convertible Note discussed above, the Company is also required to comply with certain other affirmative and negative covenants under the convertible debt agreements discussed above. In the event of default on the convertible debt, the lender may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance with all of such affirmative and negative covenants, and there were no events of default as defined in the December 2012 Convertible Note agreement.
8. Convertible Preferred Stock
The Company sold 1,484,000 shares of its Series A convertible preferred stock in private placements in April 2007 for $2.608 per share, including conversion of certain convertible notes payable, 2,242,000 shares of its Series B convertible preferred stock in August 2008 for $4.849 per share, including conversion of convertible notes payable, and 4,778,000 shares of its Series C convertible preferred stock from March 2010 to June 2011 for $5.317 per share, including conversion of the $514,000 of convertible notes payable plus accrued interest of $5,000. The Company recorded the issuance of its Series A, B, and C convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs.
In May 2012, in connection with the issuance of the Series C Warrant, the Company amended its Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of shares of common stock the Company is authorized to issue from 12,745,000 shares to 12,936,000 shares and to increase the number of shares of convertible preferred stock the Company is authorized to issue from 8,632,000 shares to 8,823,000, of which 1,489,000 shares were designated as Series A convertible preferred stock, 2,252,000 shares were designated as Series B convertible preferred stock, and 5,082,000 shares were designated as Series C convertible preferred stock.
Investors in the Companys Series C convertible preferred stock are entitled to receive noncumulative dividends, before and in preference to any amounts paid to Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock holders and common stockholders, and investors in the Companys Series A and B convertible preferred stock are entitled to receive noncumulative dividends, on a pari passu basis, before and in preference to any amounts paid to common stockholders. Dividends will be paid only when and if declared by the Board of Directors. In addition, these investors are entitled to voting rights equal to the number of shares of the Companys common stock into which the Series A, B and C convertible preferred stock are convertible as of the close of business on the record date fixed for each stockholders meeting. No dividends have been declared during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.
Under certain conditions, including election by the holders and pursuant to an initial public offering, the Series A, B and C convertible preferred stock shall be converted into common stock on a one-for-one basis subject to certain adjustments for dilution, if any, resulting from future stock issuances. As of December 31, 2012, the conversion prices for shares of Series A, B and C convertible preferred stock are the respective issuance prices of $2.608, $4.849 and $5.317 per share, respectively.
In the event of a liquidation event, as defined in the Companys Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the Series C convertible preferred stockholders are entitled to receive an amount per share equal to their original purchase price plus declared, but unpaid, dividends prior to any distribution to the holders of either Series A convertible preferred stock, Series B convertible preferred stock, or the Companys common stock. From any remaining assets and funds legally available for distribution, Series B convertible preferred stockholders are entitled to receive an amount per share equal to their original purchase price plus declared, but unpaid, dividends prior to any distribution to the holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock or the Companys common stock. From any remaining assets and funds legally available for distribution, Series A convertible preferred stockholders are entitled to receive an amount per share equal to their original purchase price plus declared, but unpaid, dividends prior to any distribution to the holders of the Companys common stock. After such distribution, the remaining assets and funds legally available for distribution, if any, shall be distributed ratably among the holders of the Series A
F-28
convertible preferred stock, Series B convertible preferred stock, Series C convertible preferred stock, and the Companys common stock in proportion to the shares of common stock each party would hold assuming conversion of the preferred stock into common stock. At December 31, 2012, the aggregate liquidation preference of the Series A, B and C convertible preferred stock was $3,867,000, $10,870,000 and $25,405,000, respectively.
At any time after August 5, 2016, at the individual option of each Series B convertible preferred or Series C convertible preferred stockholder, the Company shall redeem for cash, from any funds legally available, in three annual installments, commencing on the date specified by such holder in a written request, the outstanding shares of preferred stock that the stockholders have elected to be redeemed. The redemption price for each share of Series B convertible preferred or Series C convertible preferred stock shall be equal to the original issuance price of such share, plus accrued and unpaid dividends.
As the Companys Series A, B and C convertible preferred stock contain redemption features that are outside of the Companys control, all shares of Series A, B and C convertible preferred stock have been presented outside of permanent equity.
9. Warrants
The following tables summarize information about the Companys convertible preferred stock and common stock warrants outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands, except per share amounts):
DESCRIPTION |
ISSUE DATE |
EXPIRATION
DATE |
NUMBER OF
SHARES SUBJECT TO WARRANTS ISSUED |
EXERCISE
PRICE |
ESTIMATED
FAIR VALUE AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2012 |
ESTIMATED
FAIR VALUE AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2011 |
||||||||||||||
In connection with loan agreement (Series A convertible preferred stock) |
April 2007 | April 2014 | 6 | $ | 2.608 | $ | 68 | $ | 10 | |||||||||||
In connection with promissory note and revolving line of credit (Series B convertible preferred stock) |
August 2008 | May 2013 | 3 | $ | 4.849 | 34 | 5 | |||||||||||||
In connection with promissory note (Series B convertible preferred stock) |
March 2009 | March 2014 | 7 | $ | 4.849 | 72 | 12 | |||||||||||||
In connection with the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note (Series C convertible preferred stock) |
April 2012 | April 2022 | 191 | $ | 7.846 | 1,710 | | |||||||||||||
In connection with the Senior notes (Common stock) (1) |
October 2012 | October 2015 | | (1) | | 301 | | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
207 | $ | 2,185 | $ | 27 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
As of December 31, 2012, the Company had issued warrants to purchase shares of common stock equal to 15% of the funded principal amount of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes (Note 6) divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO, with an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or IPO. These warrants are contingently exercisable for which the contingencies related to exercise had not been met as of December 31, 2012. |
All warrants are exercisable and generally expire 310 years from the issuance date. For warrants issued through December 31, 2011, the Company valued these warrants using the option pricing method (OPM), which is typically analyzed using the BSM option-pricing model utilizing inputs similar to those used for estimating the fair values of the stock options described in Note 2. Starting in fiscal year 2012, the Company changed the valuation method used for warrants to the probability expected return model (PWERM) due to the increased probability of a successful initial public offering and closing of additional debt financing. Note 2 describes the probable future events associated with the PWERM used for the warrants.
F-29
The Companys warrants to purchase common and convertible preferred stock were issued in connection with the Companys debt transactions. The fair value of the warrants at the date of issuance was recorded as a debt discount and is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement.
10. Common Stock
The Company is authorized to issue up to 12,936,000 shares of common stock with $0.00001 par value. As of December 31, 2012, the Company had reserved shares of common stock for future issuances as follows (in thousands):
SHARE | ||||
Series A convertible preferred stock outstanding |
1,484 | |||
Series B convertible preferred stock outstanding |
2,242 | |||
Series C convertible preferred stock outstanding |
4,778 | |||
Stock options available for future grant |
352 | |||
Stock options outstanding |
2,065 | |||
Warrants to purchase Series A convertible preferred stock |
6 | |||
Warrants to purchase Series B convertible preferred stock |
10 | |||
Warrants to purchase Series C convertible preferred stock |
191 | |||
Warrants to purchase common stock (1) |
| |||
|
|
|||
11,128 | ||||
|
|
(1) |
As of December 31, 2012, the Company had issued warrants to purchase shares of common stock equal to 15% of the funded principal amount of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes (Note 6) divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO, with an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or IPO. These warrants are contingently exercisable for which the contingencies related to exercise had not been met as of December 31, 2012. |
11. Stock Option Plan
In July 2006, the Company authorized the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, (2006 Plan). The 2006 Plan provided for the issuance of up to 1,434,000 shares of common stock underlying awards. The 2006 Plan was terminated as of December 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, there were no shares available to be granted under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan.
In July 2011 and as amended in September 2012, the Company authorized the 2011 Stock Plan (2011 Plan). Collectively, the 2006 Plan and the 2011 Plan are referred to as the Plans. The 2011 Plan provides for the issuance of up to 1,167,000 shares of common stock underlying awards, plus any shares of common stock underlying awards previously issued under the 2006 Plan that terminate or expire after the date of authorization of the 2011 Plan, subject to certain adjustments. In addition, the 2011 Plan provides that the Company may not deliver more than 2,446,000 shares upon the exercise of incentive stock options issued under both the Plans. The 2011 Plan has a term of 10 years.
Under the Plans, the Company may grant Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) to employees and Nonstatutory Stock Options (NSOs) to officers, directors, employees and consultants. Both ISOs and NSOs are generally exercisable for a period not exceeding 10 years from the date of grant and must be issued at a price at least equal to 100% of the estimated fair value at the date of grant as determined by the Board of Directors, but ISOs granted to any stockholder who owns greater than 10% of the Companys outstanding stock at the time of grant are exercisable for a period not exceeding five years from the date of grant and must be issued at prices not less than 110% of the estimated fair value at the date of grant.
Generally, options vest 25% on the first anniversary from the date of grant and 1/48 per month thereafter; however, options may be granted with different vesting terms as determined by the Companys Board of Directors.
The 2006 Plan allowed holders to exercise stock options prior to their vesting. The common stock received by the employee is restricted and follows the same vesting schedule as the originally granted option. In the event the employee terminates employment from the Company (whether voluntary or involuntary), the Company retains a right to repurchase the unvested common stock at the original option exercise price. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, no options had been exercised that would be subject to repurchase.
F-30
The 2006 Plan provided for the issuance of options to purchase up to 1,434,000 shares of common stock. Options may no longer be granted under this plan. As of December 31, 2012, options to purchase 1,025,000 shares of the Companys common stock at a weighted-average exercise price of $1.04 per share were outstanding under the 2006 Plan, of which 840,000 were vested at December 31, 2012. During the year ended December 31, 2012, 18,000 and 144,000 options were exercised and canceled, respectively.
The 2011 Plan provides for the issuance of options to purchase up to 1,167,000 shares of common stock, plus any shares of common stock underling awards previously issued under the 2006 Plan that terminate or expire after the date of authorization of the 2011 Plan, subject to certain adjustments. As of December 31, 2012, options to purchase 1,040,000 shares of the Companys common stock at a weighted-average exercise price of $6.65 per share were outstanding under the 2011 Plan, of which 190,000 were vested at December 31, 2012. During the year ended December 31, 2012, 2,000 and 56,000 options were exercised and canceled, respectively, under the 2011 Plan.
The following table summarizes the activity under the Plans for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands, except exercise price and remaining contractual life data):
SHARES
AVAILABLE FOR GRANT |
SHARES
OUTSTANDING |
WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE EXERCISE PRICE |
WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE REMAINING CONTRACTUAL LIFE (IN YEARS) |
AGGREGATE
INTRINSIC VALUE |
||||||||||||||||
Balances at December 31, 2010 |
632 | 784 | $ | 0.94 | 7.9 | $ | 202 | |||||||||||||
Options authorized |
319 | | ||||||||||||||||||
Options granted |
(710 | ) | 710 | $ | 1.26 | |||||||||||||||
Options exercised |
| (13 | ) | $ | 0.72 | |||||||||||||||
Options canceled |
96 | (96 | ) | $ | 0.94 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Balances at December 31, 2011 |
337 | 1,385 | $ | 1.10 | 8.1 | $ | 434 | |||||||||||||
Options authorized |
717 | | ||||||||||||||||||
Options granted |
(902 | ) | 902 | $ | 7.50 | |||||||||||||||
Options exercised |
| (20 | ) | $ | 1.16 | |||||||||||||||
Options canceled |
200 | (200 | ) | $ | 1.48 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Balances at December 31, 2012 |
352 | 2,067 | $ | 3.86 | 7.7 | $ | 14,380 | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2012 |
1,945 | $ | 3.70 | 7.6 | $ | 13,814 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Exercisable at December 31, 2012 |
1,029 | $ | 1.35 | 6.3 | $ | 9,505 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
A summary of the status of the Companys non-vested options as of December 31, 2012, and changes during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, is as follows (in thousands, except share amounts):
SHARES |
WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE GRANT DATE FAIR VALUE |
|||||||
Non-vested shares at December 31, 2010 |
344 | $ | 0.69 | |||||
Grants of options |
710 | $ | 0.78 | |||||
Vested |
(331 | ) | $ | 0.66 | ||||
Forfeitures |
(32 | ) | $ | 0.72 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Non-vested shares at December 31, 2011 |
691 | $ | 0.78 | |||||
Grants of options |
902 | $ | 4.24 | |||||
Vested |
(416 | ) | $ | 1.16 | ||||
Forfeitures |
(141 | ) | $ | 0.88 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Non-vested shares at December 31, 2012 |
1,036 | $ | 3.61 | |||||
|
|
|
|
F-31
The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 were $93,000 and $7,000, respectively.
The estimated fair value of options vested during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, was $489,000 and $228,000, respectively. The weighted-average estimated fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $4.24 per share and $0.78 per share, respectively.
During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded share-based compensation expense of $662,000 and $271,000, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company did not realize any tax benefit associated with its share-based compensation expense. No tax benefit was recognized because a portion of the option grants were ISOs for which stock-based compensation expense is not deductible and also due to the full valuation allowance on the Companys deferred tax asset that is further discussed in Note 14.
As of December 31, 2012, the total share-based compensation expense related to unvested options granted to employees under the Companys Plans but not yet recognized was $3,200,000. These costs will be amortized to expense on a straight-line basis over a weighted-average remaining term of 3.5 years.
The following table summarizes information concerning common stock options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2012 (shares in thousands):
OPTIONS OUTSTANDING | OPTIONS EXERCISABLE | |||||||||||||||
EXERCISE PRICES |
NUMBER
OF SHARES |
WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE REMAINING CONTRACTUAL LIFE (IN YEARS) |
NUMBER
OF SHARES |
WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE REMAINING CONTRACTUAL LIFE (IN YEARS) |
||||||||||||
$0.09 |
19 | 3.6 | 19 | 3.6 | ||||||||||||
$0.47 |
204 | 4.7 | 204 | 4.7 | ||||||||||||
$1.19 |
810 | 6.7 | 620 | 6.3 | ||||||||||||
$1.41 |
174 | 8.9 | 43 | 8.9 | ||||||||||||
$3.11 |
207 | 8.7 | 131 | 8.4 | ||||||||||||
$6.28 |
321 | 9.3 | 13 | 9.4 | ||||||||||||
$12.08 |
331 | 9.6 | | 9.8 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
2,066 | 7.7 | 1,030 | 6.3 | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
12. Capital Leases
The Company accounts for certain equipment acquired under financing arrangements as capital leases. This equipment is included in property and equipment and related amortization is included in depreciation expense.
As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the cost of this equipment was $939,000 and $717,000, respectively, and the related accumulated amortization was $465,000 and $344,000, respectively.
Amortization of capital leases for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $175,000 and $143,000, respectively.
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As of December 31, 2012, aggregate contractual future minimum lease payments on the capital leases, are due as follows (in thousands):
CAPITAL
LEASES |
||||
Years ending December 31: |
||||
2013 |
$ | 258 | ||
2014 |
161 | |||
2015 |
45 | |||
2016 |
8 | |||
|
|
|||
Total minimum payments required |
472 | |||
Less: amount representing interest |
(70 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Present value of future payments |
402 | |||
Less: current portion |
(207 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
$ | 195 | |||
|
|
13. Commitments and Contingencies
Operating Leases
The Company has a non-cancelable lease for an aggregate of approximately 24,500 square feet of non-contiguous office space in an office complex in Davis, California under which a portion of the covered space terminates between February 2014 and October 2016. A portion of the lease that terminates in February 2015 provides for an option to extend the term for five years at the then prevailing market rent. The lease includes negotiated annual increases in the monthly rental payments.
The Company recognizes expense under its leases on a straight-line basis over the lease terms. At December 31, 2012, the Companys aggregate commitment under non-cancelable lease agreements is as follows (in thousands):
2013 |
$ | 475 | ||
2014 |
439 | |||
2015 |
115 | |||
2016 |
43 | |||
|
|
|||
Total minimum payments required |
$ | 1,072 | ||
|
|
Rental expense charged to operations for all operating leases was $484,000 and $412,000 for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Contingencies
The Company is subject to legal proceedings and claims that arise in the normal course of business. As of December 31, 2012, there were no current proceedings or litigation involving the Company that management believes would have a material adverse impact on its business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
14. Income Taxes
As of December 31, 2012, the Company had net operating loss carry-forwards for federal income tax reporting purposes of $50,989,000, which begin to expire in 2026, and California and Florida state net operating loss carry-forwards of $46,300,000 and $3,324,000, respectively, which begin to expire in 2016 and 2031, respectively. Additionally, as of December 31, 2012, the Company had federal research and development tax credit carry-forwards of $773,000, which begin to expire in 2026, and state research and development tax credit carry-forwards of $919,000, which have no expiration date.
F-33
As of December 31, 2012, deferred tax assets of $22,400,000, arising principally as a result of the Companys net operating loss carry-forwards, tax credits, and certain costs capitalized for tax purposes during the Companys development stage, were fully offset by a valuation allowance. The valuation allowance increased by $8,134,000 and $5,211,000 for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
The Company performed a Section 382 study of the Internal Revenue Code (and similar state provisions) for the periods from inception (June 15, 2006) through December 31, 2012, and adjusted its deferred tax assets related to its net operating loss carry-forwards and its research and development credits accordingly.
The temporary timing differences that give rise to the deferred tax assets are as follows (in thousands):
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 | ||||||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Components of deferred taxes: |
||||||||
Net operating loss carryforwards |
$ | 19,966 | $ | 12,324 | ||||
Research and development tax credit |
1,002 | 915 | ||||||
Other, net |
1,432 | 1,027 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net deferred tax assets |
22,400 | 14,266 | ||||||
Less valuation allowance |
(22,400 | ) | (14,266 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net deferred tax assets |
$ | | $ | | ||||
|
|
|
|
The Company had no deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2012 and 2011.
The Company recognized no income tax expense, and did not receive a benefit from income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.
The provision for income taxes is different than the amount computed using the applicable statutory federal income tax rate with the difference for each year summarized below:
As of December 31, 2012, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of $340,000. The unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would not impact the Companys effective tax rate as the recognition of these tax benefits would be offset by changes in the Companys valuation allowance. The Company does not believe there will be any material changes in its unrecognized tax position over the next twelve months.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):
2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Balance at January 1 |
$ | 305 | $ | 224 | ||||
Increase (decrease) related to prior year tax positions |
| | ||||||
Increase related to current year tax positions |
35 | 81 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Balance at December 31 |
$ | 340 | $ | 305 | ||||
|
|
|
|
F-34
The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions. The Company is subject to U.S. federal and state examination for the calendar tax years ended 2006 through 2012.
15. Employee Benefit Plan
The Company has a defined contribution plan offered to all eligible employees, which is qualified under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Company currently provides a matching contribution. Matching contributions are based on a formula which provides for an 80% match of the employees 401(k) contribution up to 4% of the employees salary. Each participant is 100% vested in elective contributions and the Companys matching contribution. The Company provided 401(k) matching contributions for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 were $229,000 and $190,000, respectively.
16. Subsequent Events
In January 2013, the Company repaid the indebtedness due under the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note described in Note 6 above entered into in April 2012 with an original principal balance of $10,000,000. The total amount of the payout was $9,451,000 which consisted of $9,139,000 in principal, $34,000 in accrued interest, and an early termination fee of $278,000. The termination fee will be recorded as additional interest expense in the Companys consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013.
On April 10, 2013 (Conversion Date), the Company entered an amendment to increase by up to $5,000,000 the amount available under the terms of the loan agreement with respect to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes described in Note 6 above. Under this amendment, an additional $4,950,000 was issued in partial consideration for $3,700,000 in cash received and in partial conversion for cancellation of $1,250,000 of the total principal balance of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note described in Note 7 (collectively, April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes). The total amount borrowed under the amended loan agreement for the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes and the April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes increased from $7,500,000 to $12,450,000 as of the Conversion Date. The accrued interest of $74,000 for the partially converted October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note as of the Conversion Date shall be paid on the applicable maturity date of the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes.
The amendment to the loan agreement also amended the interest provision applicable to the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes to allow any holder of the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes to request the Company to defer all interest due monthly to the applicable maturity date, and the optional prepayment provision applicable to the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes to allow the Company to repay the outstanding amount of the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, either (i) with the written consent of the lender or the agent on such lenders behalf, or (ii) without such consent provided that the Company pays the interest that would have been due from the prepayment date to the initial maturity date.
In conjunction with the issuance of the April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, the Company issued additional warrants (Additional Common Stock Warrants) to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 20% of the funded principal amount of the April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO, with such Additional Common Stock Warrants to have an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes on the Companys consolidated financial position and results of operations.
On May 22, 2013, the Company completed the sale of convertible notes under a convertible note purchase agreement in the amount of $3,529,000 million in a private placement to 22 investors (First May 2013 Convertible Notes). The First May 2013 Convertible Notes accrue interest at a rate of 10% per annum and mature on May 22, 2016, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 10% to 12% in the first year of the extension to May 22, 2017, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to May 22, 2018. In addition, if there is an event of default, which may occur as a result of, among other things, an uncured default under the terms of another debt instrument in an aggregate principal amount in excess of
F-35
$100,000, the then-applicable interest rate shall be increased by 4%. The First May 2013 Convertible Notes may be pre-paid at any time without penalty.
In addition, on May 28, 2013, the Company completed the sale of a convertible note under a separate convertible note purchase agreement in the amount of $3,000,000 in a private placement (Second May 2013 Convertible Note). The Second May 2013 Convertible Note accrues interest at a rate of 10% per annum and matures on May 30, 2016, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 10% to 12% in the first year of the extension to May 30, 2017, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to May 30, 2018. In addition, if there is an event of default, which may occur as a result of, among other things, an uncured default under the terms of another debt instrument in an aggregate principal amount in excess of $100,000, the then-applicable interest rate shall be increased by 4%. The Second May 2013 Convertible Note may not be pre-paid in whole or in part prior to the maturity date unless in accordance with the Sale Event, as defined in Note 7 above.
No payments are due under the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes until maturity. In an event of the Qualified Financing, as defined in Note 7 above, all outstanding principal and accrued interest due under the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes will be automatically converted into the number of shares of the Companys common stock determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 70% of the per share price of the Companys common stock sold in such Qualified Financing.
Alternatively, in the earlier event of a Non-Qualified Financing of equity or debt securities, the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes may be converted, at the option of the holder, into the same type of securities issued in such financing, and in the earlier the Sale Event, the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes may be either, at the option of the holder, repaid the principal and accrued interest then outstanding multiplied by 142.86% or converted at a discount into shares of the Companys common stock.
If the Qualified Financing, Non-Qualified Financing, or Sale Event has not occurred from the date of issuance of the convertible note through January 14, 2014, the holder of the Second May 2013 Convertible Note may elect to convert all outstanding principal and accrued interest into a number of shares of common stock determined by dividing this amount by the greater of (i) the per share price into which the Outstanding Balance under the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes discussed in Note 7 will be converted at their maturity in the event a Qualified Financing has not occurred as of September 30, 2013, or (ii) the purchase price paid per share for the most recent Non-Qualified Financing that occurs prior to a Sale Event, provided such Non-Qualified Financing is at least $2,000,000 and at least 50% of the proceeds of such Non-Qualified Financing are from persons or entities who were not common shareholders, or common share equivalents or affiliates of the Company.
Under the terms of the convertible note purchase agreements entered into in connection with the issuance of the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes, the Company has agreed to certain covenants, including certain restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, payment of distributions on the Companys capital stock and entry into certain transactions with affiliates. The First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes are unsecured.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes on the Companys consolidated financial position and results of operations.
On June 13, 2013, the Company entered into a factoring and security agreement (Factoring and Security Agreement) with a third party that would enable the Company to sell the entire interest in certain accounts receivable up to $5,000,000. Under the Factoring and Security Agreement, 15% of the sales proceeds will be held back by the purchaser until collection of such receivables. Such holdbacks are not considered legal securities, nor are they certificated. Upon the sale of the receivable, the Company will not maintain servicing. The purchaser may require the Company to repurchase accounts receivable if (i) the payment is disputed by the account debtor, with the purchaser being under no obligation to determine the bona fides of such dispute, (ii) the account debtor has become insolvent or (iii) upon the effective date of the termination of the Factoring and Security Agreement. The purchaser will retain its security interest in any accounts repurchased by the Company. The Factoring and Security Agreement is secured by all of the Companys personal property and fixtures, and proceeds thereof, including accounts, inventory, equipment and general intangibles other than intellectual property.
F-36
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the Factoring and Security Agreement on the Companys consolidated financial position and results of operations.
On June 14, 2013, the Company entered into a credit facility agreement (June 2013 Credit Facility) with a group of lenders that are, or that are affiliated with, existing investors in the Company. Under the June 2013 Credit Facility, the lenders have committed to permit the Company to draw an aggregate of up to $5,000,000, and, subject to the Companys obtaining additional commitments from lenders, such amount may be increased to up to $7,000,000. The June 2013 Credit Facility expires on June 30, 2014. During the term of the June 2013 Credit Facility, the Company may request from the lenders up to four advances, with each advance equal to one quarter of each lenders aggregate commitment amount. The Company will issue a promissory note in the principal amount of each such advance that will accrue interest at a rate of 10% per annum. The principal and all unpaid interest under the promissory notes are due on the maturity date, and the Company may not prepay the promissory notes prior to the maturity date without consent of at least a majority in interest of the aggregate principal amount of the promissory notes then outstanding under the credit facility. In connection with the June 2013 Credit Facility, the Company agreed to pay a fee of 2% of the total commitment amount to the lenders.
In conjunction with the June 2013 Credit Facility, the Company issued warrants (June 2013 Warrants) to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 10% of the total committed amount of the June 2013 Credit Facility divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO, with such June 2013 Common Stock Warrants to have an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO. The June 2013 Common Stock Warrants expire upon the earlier of June 14, 2023 or the sale of the Company.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the June 2013 Credit Facility and the June 2013 Warrants on the Companys consolidated financial position and results of operations.
17. Reverse Stock Split
On , 2013, the Companys board of directors and stockholders approved an amendment to the Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation to effect the conversion of its outstanding convertible preferred stock into common stock on a 1-for-1 basis followed immediately by a reverse split of shares of its common stock (including the common stock issued upon conversion of the convertible preferred stock) at a 1-for-3.138458 ratio (the Reverse Stock Split). The amendment also increased the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance to 250,000,000 shares. The par value of the common stock was not adjusted as a result of the Reverse Stock Split.
All issued and outstanding common stock, preferred stock and warrants for common stock or preferred stock, and the related per share amounts contained in the consolidated financial statements, have been retroactively adjusted to give effect to this Reverse Stock Split for all periods presented.
F-37
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In Thousands, Except Par Value)
MARCH 31,
2013 |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
PRO FORMA
MARCH 31, 2013 |
||||||||||
(Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | |||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||
Current assets: |
||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 1,791 | $ | 10,006 | $ | 12,067 | ||||||
Restricted cash |
| 9,139 | | |||||||||
Accounts receivable |
3,043 | 2,970 | 3,043 | |||||||||
Inventories |
5,367 | 4,872 | 5,367 | |||||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
927 | 478 | 891 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total current assets |
11,128 | 27,465 | 21,368 | |||||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net |
3,853 | 3,528 | 3,853 | |||||||||
Other assets |
2,858 | 2,785 | 2,801 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total assets |
$ | 17,839 | $ | 33,778 | $ | 28,022 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Liabilities, convertible preferred stock and stockholders deficit |
||||||||||||
Current liabilities: |
||||||||||||
Accounts payable |
$ | 2,242 | $ | 2,104 | $ | 2,242 | ||||||
Accrued liabilities |
1,716 | 3,023 | 1,716 | |||||||||
Deferred revenue, current portion |
324 | 324 | 324 | |||||||||
Capital lease obligations, current portion |
245 | 207 | 245 | |||||||||
Debt, current portion |
181 | 8,572 | 181 | |||||||||
Preferred stock warrant liability |
1,883 | 1,884 | | |||||||||
Common stock warrant liability |
316 | 301 | | |||||||||
Convertible notes payable, current portion |
25,803 | 22,518 | | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total current liabilities |
32,710 | 38,933 | 4,708 | |||||||||
Deferred revenue, less current portion |
1,615 | 1,696 | 1,615 | |||||||||
Capital lease obligations, less current portion |
209 | 195 | 209 | |||||||||
Debt, less current portion |
7,723 | 7,766 | 12,673 | |||||||||
Convertible notes payable, less current portion |
20,234 | 19,342 | | |||||||||
Other liabilities |
481 | 481 | 481 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total liabilities |
62,972 | 68,413 | 19,686 | |||||||||
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11) |
||||||||||||
Convertible preferred stockSeries A: $0.00001 par value; 1,489 shares authorized; 1,484 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (aggregate liquidation preference of $3,867 at March 31, 2013); no shares issued or outstanding pro forma |
3,747 | 3,747 | | |||||||||
Convertible preferred stockSeries B: $0.00001 par value; 2,252 shares authorized; 2,242 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (aggregate liquidation preference of $10,870 at March 31, 2013); no shares issued or outstanding pro forma |
10,758 | 10,758 | | |||||||||
Convertible preferred stockSeries C: $0.00001 par value; 5,082 shares authorized; 4,778 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (aggregate liquidation preference of $25,405 at March 31, 2013); no shares issued or outstanding pro forma |
25,107 | 25,107 | | |||||||||
Stockholders deficit: |
||||||||||||
Common stock: $0.00001 par value; 12,936 shares authorized; 1,269 and 1,267 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively; 12,719 shares issued and outstanding pro forma |
| | | |||||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
1,573 | 1,322 | 94,654 | |||||||||
Accumulated deficit |
(86,318 | ) | (75,569 | ) | (86,318 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total stockholders (deficit) equity |
(84,745 | ) | (74,247 | ) | 8,336 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total liabilities, convertible preferred stock and stockholders (deficit) equity |
$ | 17,839 | $ | 33,778 | $ | 28,022 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes.
F-38
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amount)
(Unaudited)
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31 |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Revenues: |
||||||||
Product |
$ | 2,649 | $ | 1,956 | ||||
License |
81 | 43 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total revenue |
2,730 | 1,999 | ||||||
Cost of product revenues |
1,795 | 860 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Gross profit |
935 | 1,139 | ||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||
Research and development |
3,283 | 2,733 | ||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
2,847 | 2,322 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total operating expenses |
6,130 | 5,055 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Loss from operations |
(5,195 | ) | (3,916 | ) | ||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||
Interest income |
1 | 2 | ||||||
Interest expense |
(1,985 | ) | (56 | ) | ||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
(3,563 | ) | (15 | ) | ||||
Other (expense) income, net |
(7 | ) | 1 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total other expense, net |
(5,554 | ) | (68 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Loss before income taxes |
(10,749 | ) | (3,984 | ) | ||||
Income taxes |
| | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net loss |
(10,749 | ) | (3,984 | ) | ||||
Deemed dividend on convertible notes |
| (1,253 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net loss attributable to common stockholders |
$ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (5,237 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net loss per common share: |
||||||||
Basic and diluted |
$ | (8.48 | ) | $ | (4.20 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Weighted-average shares outstanding used in computing net loss per common share: |
||||||||
Basic and diluted |
1,268 | 1,247 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Pro forma net loss per common share: |
||||||||
Basic and diluted |
$ | (0.51 | ) | |||||
|
|
|||||||
Pro forma weighted-average shares outstanding used in computing pro forma net loss per common share: |
||||||||
Basic and diluted |
12,756 | |||||||
|
|
See accompanying notes.
F-39
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31 |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Net loss |
$ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (3,984 | ) | ||
Other comprehensive loss |
| | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Comprehensive loss |
$ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (3,984 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes.
F-40
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31 |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Cash flows from operating activities |
||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (3,984 | ) | ||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: |
||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
184 | 144 | ||||||
Share-based compensation |
249 | 292 | ||||||
Noncash interest expense |
1,467 | 36 | ||||||
Change in estimated fair value of financial instruments |
3,563 | 15 | ||||||
Net changes in operating assets and liabilities: |
||||||||
Accounts receivable |
(73 | ) | (1,063 | ) | ||||
Inventories |
(495 | ) | (468 | ) | ||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
(449 | ) | (59 | ) | ||||
Other assets |
(109 | ) | (459 | ) | ||||
Accounts payable |
138 | 839 | ||||||
Accrued liabilities |
(1,307 | ) | (539 | ) | ||||
Deferred revenue |
(81 | ) | 457 | |||||
Other liabilities |
(13 | ) | (1 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash used in operating activities |
(7,675 | ) | (4,790 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from investing activities |
||||||||
Purchases of property, plant and equipment |
(432 | ) | (289 | ) | ||||
Maturities of short-term investments |
| 2,000 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities |
(432 | ) | 1,711 | |||||
Cash flows from financing activities |
||||||||
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes payable |
| 7,991 | ||||||
Proceeds from issuance of debt |
| 500 | ||||||
Proceeds from line of credit |
| 500 | ||||||
Repayment of line of credit |
| (500 | ) | |||||
Repayment of debt |
(9,224 | ) | (54 | ) | ||||
Repayment of capital leases |
(25 | ) | (46 | ) | ||||
Change in restricted cash |
9,139 | | ||||||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options |
2 | | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities |
(108 | ) | 8,391 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents |
(8,215 | ) | 5,312 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year |
10,006 | 2,215 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period |
$ | 1,791 | $ | 7,527 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information |
||||||||
Cash paid for interest, net of capitalized interest of $113 and $0 for three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. |
$ | 518 | $ | 20 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing and financing activities |
||||||||
Interest added to the principal of convertible notes |
$ | 628 | $ | 35 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Equipment acquired under capital leases |
$ | 77 | $ | | ||||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes.
F-41
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2013
(Unaudited)
1. Summary of Business
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. (Company), formerly Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc., was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on June 15, 2006, and is located in Davis, California. In July 2012, the Company formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, Marrone Michigan Manufacturing LLC (MMM LLC), a Michigan corporation, which holds the assets of a manufacturing plant the Company purchased in July 2012 as discussed in Note 2. The Company makes bio-based pest management and plant health products. The Company targets the major markets that use conventional chemical pesticides, including certain agricultural and water markets where its bio-based products are used as substitutes for, or in conjunction with, conventional chemical pesticides. The Company also targets new markets for which there are no available conventional chemical pesticides, the use of conventional chemical pesticides may not be desirable or permissible, or the development of pest resistance has reduced the efficacy of conventional chemical pesticides. The Company delivers EPA-approved and registered biopesticide products and other bio-based products that address the global demand for effective, safe and environmentally responsible products.
The Company is an early stage company with a limited operating history and has only recently begun commercializing its products. As of March 31, 2013, the Company has an accumulated deficit of $86,318,000 and expects to incur losses for the next several years. Since its inception, Company has funded operations primarily with the net proceeds from the private placements of convertible preferred stock, convertible notes, promissory notes, term loans, as well as proceeds from the sale of its products and payments under strategic collaboration agreements and government grants. As a result, the Company will need to generate significant revenue to achieve and maintain profitability. As of March 31, 2013, the Company had a working capital deficit of $21,582,000, which includes $22,518,000 of the current portion of convertible notes payable which will be settled via conversion into the Companys equity instruments (see Note 9), and cash and cash equivalents of $1,791,000. Management believes that currently available resources combined with the additional proceeds raised from the issuance of convertible notes in the second quarter of 2013 (see Note 12) will be sufficient to fund the Companys cash requirements through at least March 31, 2014.
The Company participates in a heavily regulated and highly competitive crop protection industry and believes that adverse changes in any of the following areas could have a material effect on the Companys future financial position, results of operations, or cash flows, inability to obtain regulatory approvals, increased competition in the pesticide market, market acceptance of the Companys products, weather and other seasonal factors beyond the Companys control, litigation or claims against the Company based on intellectual property, patent, product, regulatory or other factors, and the Companys ability to support increased growth.
Although management recognizes that it may need to raise additional funds in the future, there can be no assurance that such efforts will be successful or that, in the event that they are successful, the terms and conditions of such financing will not be unfavorable. Any failure to obtain additional financing or fund the operations with cash flows from revenues will have a material effect upon the Company and will likely result in a substantial reduction in the scope of the Companys operations.
Pro Forma Balance Sheet
In May 2012, the Board of Directors authorized management to confidentially submit a registration statement to the Securities and Exchange Commission for the Company to sell shares of its common stock to the public. Assuming the initial public offering is completed under the terms presently anticipated (including the 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split), all of the Series A, Series B and Series C convertible preferred stock outstanding at the time of the offering will automatically convert at a 1-to-1 conversion ratio and adjust for the 1-for-3.13845 reverse stock split into 8,504,000 shares of common stock, all of the principal and accrued interest under convertible notes outstanding at the time of the offering will automatically convert at per share prices that range from 70%85% of the initial public offering price into 2,204,000 shares of common stock, all of the common stock warrants issued in connection with the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes outstanding at the time of the offering will
F-42
automatically net exercise at a per share price of 70% of the initial public offering price into 31,000 of shares of common stock and all of the warrants to purchase shares of Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock outstanding at the time of the offering will be net exercised for 99,000 shares of common stock based on the initial public offering price. In addition, all of the warrants to purchase shares of Series B convertible preferred stock were exercised for cash subsequent to March 31, 2013 in exchange for 10,000 shares of Series B convertible preferred stock. Subsequent to March 31, 2013, the Company issued $6.5 million of additional convertible notes, $3.7 million of promissory notes, warrants to purchase shares of common stock and converted $1.25 million of a convertible note into a promissory note (see Note 12). The pro forma balance sheet is adjusted for the assumed conversion of the convertible preferred stock, conversion of the convertible notes, the net exercise of the Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants, the cash exercise of Series B convertible preferred stock warrants, the net exercise of the warrants to purchase shares of common stock and the $10.2 million in cash proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes and promissory notes with warrants to purchase shares of common stock and the conversion of $1.25 million of a convertible note into a promissory note all occurring subsequent to March 31, 2013, is set forth on the accompanying balance sheets. The pro forma balance sheet reflects the $10.2 million in cash received and debt issued at its face value but does not reflect the initial accounting for the issuance of convertible notes, promissory notes, warrants to purchase shares of common stock and conversion of a portion of a convertible note into a promissory note all occurring subsequent to March 31, 2013. The Company is in the process of determining the accounting impacts of these transactions on its consolidated financial position and results of operations, and certain analyses, which have not been completed, will require fair value measurements of applicable components of these transactions.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation
The accompanying financial information as of March 31, 2013 and for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 has been prepared by the Company, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S.) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. The December 31, 2012 consolidated balance sheet was derived from audited consolidated financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. However, the Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, included elsewhere in this prospectus.
In the opinion of management, the unaudited financial information as of March 31, 2013 and for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 reflects all adjustments, which are normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present a fair statement of financial position, results of operations, comprehensive loss and cash flows. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the full fiscal year or any future periods.
Subsequent Events
Management has evaluated subsequent events through June 17, 2013 (except for Note 13, as to which the date is , 2013), the date that the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued, and has appropriately accounted for and disclosed all relevant subsequent events through this date.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid financial instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on deposit, money market funds and certificates of deposit accounts with U.S. financial institutions. The Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of default by financial institutions to the extent that cash and cash equivalents balances with financial institutions are in excess of amounts that are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The Company has not experienced any losses on these deposits.
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Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts receivable and debt. The Company deposits its cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments with high credit quality domestic financial institutions with locations in the U.S. Such deposits may exceed federal deposit insurance limits. The Company believes the financial risks associated with these financial instruments are minimal.
The Companys customer base is dispersed across many different geographic areas, and currently most customers are pest management distributors in the U.S. Generally, receivables are due 30 days from the invoice date and are considered past due after this date. For the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, 14% and 15%, respectively, of the Companys revenues were generated from international customers.
As of March 31, 2013, five customers accounted for 18%, 15%, 13%, 13%, and 11%, or a total of 70%, of the Companys accounts receivable. As of December 31, 2012, four customers accounted for 33%, 17%, 11%, and 11%, respectively, or a total of 72% of the Companys accounts receivable.
From inception through December 31, 2012, the Companys principal source of revenues was its Regalia product line. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, Grandevo and Regalia were the principal sources of the Companys total revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, Grandevo accounted for 50% and 1%, respectively, of the Companys total revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, Regalia accounted for 47% and 95%, respectively, of the Companys total revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2013, four customers accounted for 17%, 15%, 13% and 11%, or a total of 56%, of the Companys revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2012, three customers represented 31%, 16% and 14%, or a total of 61%, of the Companys total revenues.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value (net realizable value or replacement cost) and include the cost of material and external labor and manufacturing costs. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out basis. The Company provides for inventory reserves when conditions indicate that the selling price may be less than cost due to physical deterioration, obsolescence, changes in price levels, or other factors. Additionally, the Company provides reserves for excess and slow-moving inventory on hand that is not expected to be sold to reduce the carrying amount of excess slow-moving inventory to its estimated net realizable value. The reserves are based upon estimates about future demand from the Companys customers and distributors and market conditions. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had no reserves against its inventories.
Acquisition
On July 19, 2012 (Acquisition Date), the Company purchased land, building and equipment (Manufacturing Plant) for $1,459,000, including $341,000 of transaction costs. The Manufacturing Plant is located in Bangor, Michigan. Prior to the acquisition, the Manufacturing Plant was owned by a bank and sold in a foreclosure auction. Accordingly, the purchase price for the Manufacturing Plant was less than the estimated fair value of the assets acquired by $257,000. The excess of fair value of the assets acquired over the purchase price was allocated on a relative fair value basis to all assets acquired. The acquisition of the Manufacturing Plant will allow the Company to manufacture certain products internally and improve the overall operating efficiencies and margins of the business as the production of these products historically has been outsourced.
The acquisition was accounted for as an asset acquisition in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations . The assets acquired under the Manufacturing Plant acquisition have been included in the Companys consolidated financial statements from the Acquisition Date. The purchase price was allocated to assets acquired as of the Acquisition Date.
Prior to the allocation of the excess of fair value of the assets acquired over the purchase price, the assets acquired are first measured at their fair values. The Company engaged a third-party valuation firm to assist with its estimated fair value of the assets acquired. The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of each class of asset acquired:
LandMarket approach based on similar, but not identical, transactions in the market. Adjustments to comparable sales are based on both the quantitative and qualitative data.
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BuildingThe cost approach, market approach and income approach were used to assess fair value. Cost approach is based on replacement cost new less depreciation adjusted for physical deterioration, functional obsolescence and external/economic obsolescence, as applicable. The market approach is based on similar, but not identical, transactions in the market using both quantitative and qualitative data. The income approach is based on the direct capitalization method using similar but not identical lease rates and making an assessment of net operating income.
EquipmentBoth the cost approach and the market approach were used to assess fair value. Cost approach is based on replacement cost new less depreciation adjusted for physical deterioration, functional obsolescence and external/economic obsolescence, as applicable. The market approach is based on similar, but not identical, transactions in the market using both quantitative and qualitative data.
The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of the assets acquired as of the Acquisition Date, which were determined using level two and three inputs as described above (in thousands):
JULY 19,
2012 |
||||
Land |
$ | 1 | ||
Building |
314 | |||
Equipment |
1,144 | |||
|
|
|||
Assets acquired |
$ | 1,459 | ||
|
|
As the Manufacturing Plant had not yet been placed in service as of March 31, 2013, the assets acquired, except the land, were recorded as construction in process as a component of property, plant and equipment in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenues when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery and transfer of title has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured, unless contractual obligations, acceptance provisions or other contingencies exist. If such obligations or provisions exist, revenue is recognized after such obligations or provisions are fulfilled or expire.
Product revenues consist of revenues generated from sales to distributors and from sales of our products to direct customers, net of rebates and cash discounts. For sales of products made to distributors, the Company considers a number of factors in determining whether revenue is recognized upon transfer of title to the distributor, or when payment is received. These factors include, but are not limited to, whether the payment terms offered to the distributor are considered to be non-standard, the distributor history of adhering to the terms of its contractual arrangements with the Company, whether the Company has a pattern of granting concessions for the benefit of the distributor, and whether there are other conditions that may indicate that the sale to the distributor is not substantive. The Company currently recognizes revenue primarily on the sell-in method with its distributors. Distributors do not have price protection or return rights.
The Company offers certain product rebates, which are recorded as reductions to product revenues. An accrued liability for these product rebates is recorded at the time the revenues are recorded.
The Company recognizes license revenues pursuant to strategic collaboration and distribution agreements under which the Company receives payments for the achievement of testing validation, regulatory progress and commercialization events. As these activities and payments are associated with exclusive rights that the Company provides in connection with strategic collaboration and distribution agreements over the term of the agreements, revenues related to the payments received are deferred and recognized over the term of the exclusive distribution period of the respective agreement. No payments were received under these agreements during the three months ended March 31, 2013, and $500,000 was received during the three months ended March 31, 2012. For the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized $81,000 and $43,000, respectively, as license revenues in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. At March 31, 2013, the Company recorded current and non-current deferred revenues of $324,000 and $1,615,000, respectively, related to payments received
F-45
under these agreements. At December 31, 2012, the Company recorded current and non-current deferred revenues of $324,000 and $1,696,000 respectively, related to payments received under these agreements.
As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had no deferred product revenues.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
There have been no new accounting pronouncements issued during the three months ending March 31, 2013 that are of significance, or potential significance, to the Company. Any recent accounting pronouncements that are of significance, or potential significance, to the Company are set forth in the notes of the annual consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus.
3. Fair Value Measurements
The following table presents the Companys financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
MARCH 31, 2013 | ||||||||||||||||
TOTAL | LEVEL 1 | LEVEL 2 | LEVEL 3 | |||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||
Money market funds |
$ | 262 | $ | 262 | $ | | $ | | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Liabilities |
||||||||||||||||
Common stock warrant liability |
$ | 316 | $ | | $ | | $ | 316 | ||||||||
Preferred stock warrant liability |
1,883 | | | 1,883 | ||||||||||||
Convertible notes payable |
46,037 | | | 46,037 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total liabilities at fair value |
$ | 48,236 | $ | | $ | | $ | 48,236 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2012 | ||||||||||||||||
TOTAL | LEVEL 1 | LEVEL 2 | LEVEL 3 | |||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||
Money market funds |
$ | 7,668 | $ | 7,668 | $ | | $ | | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Liabilities |
||||||||||||||||
Common stock warrant liability |
$ | 301 | $ | | $ | | $ | 301 | ||||||||
Preferred stock warrant liability |
1,884 | | | 1,884 | ||||||||||||
Convertible notes payable |
41,860 | | | 41,860 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total liabilities at fair value |
$ | 44,045 | $ | | $ | | $ | 44,045 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The money market funds held as of March 31, 2013, and December 31, 2012, were in active markets and, therefore, measured based on the Level 1 valuation hierarchy.
The Company estimates the fair value of the common and preferred stock warrant liabilities using the Probability Weighted Expected Return Method (PWERM) which analyzes the returns afforded to common equity holders under multiple future scenarios. Under the PWERM, share value is based upon the probability-weighted present value of expected future net cash flows (distributions to shareholders), considering each of the possible future events and giving consideration to the rights and preferences of each share class. This method is most appropriate when the long-term outlook for an enterprise is largely known and multiple future scenarios can be reasonably estimated.
The common and preferred stock warrant liabilities were valued by a PWERM valuation using six scenarios, which included three initial public offering scenarios, two merger scenarios and a sale of the Companys intellectual property. An annual discount rate of 35% was applied to both the PWERM valuations as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. The common stock warrants also include an 18% discount for lack of marketability as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. As the PWERM estimates the fair value of the common and preferred
F-46
stock warrant liabilities using unobservable inputs, it is considered to be a Level 3 fair value measurement. Changes in the probability weights and discount rates have a significant impact on the fair value of the common and preferred stock warrant liabilities.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for the common and preferred stock warrant liabilities measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) (in thousands):
COMMON
STOCK WARRANT LIABILITY |
||||
Fair value at December 31, 2012 |
$ | 301 | ||
Change in fair value recorded in change in fair value of financial instruments |
15 | |||
|
|
|||
Fair value at March 31, 2013 |
$ | 316 | ||
|
|
PREFERRED
STOCK WARRANT LIABILITY |
||||
Fair value at December 31, 2012 |
$ | 1,884 | ||
Change in fair valued recorded in change in fair value of financial instruments |
(1 | ) | ||
|
|
|||
Fair value at March 31, 2013 |
$ | 1,883 | ||
|
|
Convertible notes were valued by a PWERM valuation utilizing inputs similar to those used for estimating fair values of the common and preferred stock warrant liabilities described above. A discount rate of 23% and 25% was used for valuing the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes, defined in Note 9, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. A discount rate of 16% and 18% was used for valuing the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Notes and the December 2012 Convertible Note, both defined in Note 9, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. These annual discount rates were applied in the PWERM valuation. Changes in the probability weights and discount rates have a significant impact on the valuation of the convertible notes. As a result of the changing probability weights between December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2013, the Company recognized a loss from the change in estimated fair value of the convertible notes as shown in the table below.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for the convertible notes measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) (in thousands):
Fair value at December 31, 2012 |
$ | 41,860 | ||
Accrued interest |
628 | |||
Change in fair valued recorded in change in fair value of financial instruments |
3,549 | |||
|
|
|||
Fair value at March 31, 2013 |
$ | 46,037 | ||
|
|
During the three months ended March 31, 2013, no transfers were made into or out of the Level 1, 2, or 3 categories.
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4. Inventories
Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
MARCH 31,
2013 |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
|||||||
Raw materials |
$ | 3,887 | $ | 3,204 | ||||
Work in progress |
645 | 607 | ||||||
Finished goods |
835 | 1,061 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 5,367 | $ | 4,872 | |||||
|
|
|
|
5. Net Loss Per Share
Basic and diluted net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss attributable to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. The Companys potentially dilutive shares, which include outstanding stock options, convertible notes, convertible preferred stock and warrants, have been excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share for all periods as their effect would be anti-dilutive. Such potentially dilutive shares are excluded when the effect would be to reduce the loss per share.
The following table sets forth potential shares of common stock that are not included in the calculation of diluted net loss per share because to do so would be anti-dilutive as of the end of each period presented (in thousands):
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31 |
||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
Convertible preferred stock |
8,504 | 8,504 | ||||||
Convertible notes (1) |
| | ||||||
Stock options outstanding |
2,040 | 1,598 | ||||||
Warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock |
207 | 36 | ||||||
Warrants to purchase common stock (2) |
| 5 |
(1) |
As of March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had approximately $46,037,000 and $9,280,000, respectively, in contingently convertible notes payable and related accrued interest for which the contingencies related to conversion had not been met as of March 31, 2013 and 2012. Therefore, it would have no dilutive or anti-dilutive impact for the three months ended March 31, 2013 or 2012. Refer to Note 9 for further discussion. |
(2) |
The warrant to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock was outstanding as of March 31, 2012 and expired in April 2012. In October 2012, the Company issued warrants to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 15% of the funded principal amount of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes as defined in Note 6, divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an initial public offering (IPO), with an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO. These warrants are contingently exercisable for which the contingencies related to exercise had not been met as of March 31, 2013. Therefore, it would have no dilutive or anti-dilutive impact for the three months ended March 31, 2013. Refer to Note 8 for further discussion. |
As of March 31, 2013 and 2012, the numbers of shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock and upon the conversion of convertible preferred stock were at a ratio of one-to-one.
The pro forma basic and diluted net loss per common share data is computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding after giving effect to the following using the treasury method:
n |
a 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split, effective prior to the completion of the offering. |
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method as adjusted for the reverse stock split) of all outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into 8,514,000 shares of common stock, including 10,000 shares issued upon the full exercise of Series B convertible preferred stock warrants outstanding as of January 1, 2013, |
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method) of all outstanding principal and accrued interest of the convertible notes into 2,242,000 shares of common stock, including the effect of the conversion of $1.25 million of a convertible note into a promissory note in April 2013, as though the cancellation had occurred on the original date of issuance, |
F-48
n |
the conversion (using the if-converted method) of all convertible notes issued subsequent to March 31, 2013 into 602,000 shares of common stock as though the conversion had occurred on January 1, 2013, |
n |
the net exercise of common stock warrants into 31,000 shares of common stock that will be automatically exercised upon completion of the Companys proposed initial public offering, and |
n |
the net exercise of the Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants, into 99,000 shares of common stock, which have been exercised effective upon completion of the Companys proposed initial public offering as adjusted for the reverse stock split. |
Additionally, the net loss used to compute pro forma basic and diluted net loss per common share includes adjustments related to changes in fair value of financial instruments and adjustments to reflect the automatic conversion of all outstanding convertible notes into shares of the Companys common stock and excludes the effects of the initial accounting related to the issuance of $6.5 million of convertible notes and warrants to purchase shares of common stock and the conversion of $1.25 million of a convertible note into a promissory note all occurring subsequent to March 31, 2013. (See Note 12) The Company is in the process of determining the accounting impacts of these transactions on its consolidated financial position and results of operations, and as certain analyses will require fair value measurements, the Company has engaged a third-party valuation firm to assist with estimating the fair values of applicable components of these transactions. The fair value analyses have not been completed.
As the Company recorded a loss for the three months ended March 31, 2013, all potentially dilutive common shares, comprised of stock options and certain warrants, are anti-dilutive.
THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31 | ||||||||
2013 | 2012 | |||||||
(in thousands, except per share data) | ||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (3,984 | ) | ||
Deemed dividend on convertible notes |
| (1,253 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net loss attributable to common stockholders |
$ | (10,749 | ) | $ | (5,237 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Denominator for historical basic and diluted net loss per share: |
||||||||
Shares used for historical basic and diluted net loss per share |
1,268 | 1,247 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Pro forma adjustments to reflect: |
||||||||
Conversion of preferred stock |
8,504 | |||||||
Conversion of convertible notes |
2,844 | |||||||
Net exercise of common stock warrants |
31 | |||||||
Net exercise of Series A and Series C convertible preferred stock warrants |
99 | |||||||
Cash exercise of Series B convertible preferred stock warrants |
10 | |||||||
|
|
|||||||
Total pro forma adjustments |
11,488 | |||||||
|
|
|||||||
Pro forma weighted-average shares outstanding used to compute pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share |
12,756 | |||||||
|
|
|||||||
Basic and diluted net loss per share |
$ | (8.48 | ) | $ | (4.20 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share |
$ | (0.51 | ) | |||||
|
|
6. Other Assets
Other assets consist of the following (in thousands):
MARCH 31,
2013 |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
|||||||
Prepaid initial public offering costs |
$ | 2,337 | $ | 2,257 | ||||
Prepaid distribution fees |
132 | 134 | ||||||
Deferred financing costs |
225 | 261 | ||||||
Other assets |
164 | 133 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 2,858 | $ | 2,785 | |||||
|
|
|
|
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7. Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
MARCH 31,
2013 |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
|||||||
Accrued compensation |
$ | 871 | $ | 1,342 | ||||
Accrued expenses |
835 | 1,295 | ||||||
Accrued product rebates |
10 | 386 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 1,716 | $ | 3,023 | |||||
|
|
|
|
8. Debt
Debt consists of the following (in thousands):
MARCH 31,
2013 |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
|||||||
Promissory note bearing interest at 6.25% per annum, which is payable monthly through May 2013, collateralized by all of the Companys inventories, chattel paper, accounts receivable, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and intellectual property), net of unamortized debt discount at March 31, 2013 of $1, subordinated (1) |
$ | 12 | $ | 35 | ||||
Term Loan (Term Loan) bearing interest at 7.00% per annum which is payable monthly through April 2016. The Term Loan is collateralized by all the Companys inventories, chattel paper, accounts receivable, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and intellectual property) pledged as collateral under the Term Loan, subordinated (1) |
397 | 426 | ||||||
Promissory note bearing interest at 7.00% per annum which is payable monthly through November 2014, collateralized by all of the Companys inventories, chattel paper, accounts receivable, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and intellectual property), net of unamortized debt discount at March 31, 2013 of $2, subordinated (1) |
229 | 261 | ||||||
Senior secured promissory note (April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note) bearing interest at 15.00% per annum which is payable monthly through April 2017, collateralized by substantially all of the Companys assets. The April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note was repaid in January 2013 |
| 8,374 | ||||||
Junior secured promissory notes (October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes) bearing interest at 12.00% per annum which is payable monthly through October 2015, collateralized by substantially all of the Companys assets, net of unamortized debt discount at March 31, 2013 of $234 (1) |
7,266 | 7,242 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Debt |
7,904 | 16,338 | ||||||
Less current portion |
(181 | ) | (8,572 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 7,723 | $ | 7,766 | |||||
|
|
|
|
(1) |
The lenders security interest is subordinate to the holders of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note with the exception of its interest in equipment. |
The Company believes the carrying values of its debt approximate their fair values at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 based on the interest rates as of those dates compared to similar debt instruments.
Promissory Notes, Term Loan and Revolving Line of Credit
In May 2008, the Company borrowed $400,000 pursuant to a promissory note with a bank which bears interest at the rate of 6.25% per annum and is repayable in 60 equal monthly installments of $7,785 commencing June 1, 2008.
F-50
In March 2009, October 2010 and October 2011, the Company and the bank agreed to modify the terms of its existing revolving line of credit (Revolver). Under the modified terms of the Revolver, the Companys borrowings under the Revolver are limited to 75% of qualifying accounts receivable with a maximum borrowing limit of $500,000. In March 2012, the Company entered into a change in terms agreement with the bank under which the existing Revolver was replaced by Term Loan in the amount of $500,000 with a rate of 7.00% per annum, maturing April 1, 2016. The Companys inventories, chattel paper, accounts receivable, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and intellectual property) have been pledged as collateral under Term Loan. There was no outstanding balance on the Revolver as of December 31, 2011 and the Revolver was terminated in March 2012.
In March 2009, the Company borrowed $650,000 pursuant to a promissory note with the bank which bears interest at the rate of 7.00% per annum and is repayable in six monthly interest only payments starting May 1, 2009, followed by 60 equal monthly installments of $13,000 commencing November 1, 2009, with the final payment due on November 1, 2014.
All of the Companys inventories, chattel paper, accounts receivable, equipment and general intangibles (excluding certain financed equipment and any intellectual property) have been pledged as collateral for the promissory notes.
On April 13, 2012, the Company borrowed $10,000,000 pursuant to a senior secured promissory note (April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note), which bears interest at 15.00% per annum and required the Company to pay the lender non-refundable loan fees of $625,000. The April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note is payable in 59 monthly installments of $238,000 beginning in May 2012 with all unpaid principal and interest due in April 2017. The April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note is secured by a first priority security interest in substantially all of the Companys present and future assets. The Company also issued a warrant (Series C Warrant) to the lender to purchase 191,000 shares of the Companys Series C convertible preferred stock with an exercise price of $7.846 per share. The Series C Warrant will expire, unless exercised, on the earlier to occur of April 2022 or one year after the Company successfully completes its IPO. The Company estimated the fair value of the Series C Warrant using a PWERM valuation based on unobservable inputs, and, therefore, the Series C Warrant is considered to be a Level 3 liability.
The loan fees and the fair value of the Series C Warrant at the date of issuance of $625,000 and $306,000, respectively, were being recorded as a debt discount to the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the effective interest rate method.
Under the terms of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note, the Company may elect to prepay the entire outstanding principal balance upon thirty days written notice to the lender. In the event the Company decides to prepay the entire loan balance, the Company will incur a termination fee that is calculated based on the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Notes outstanding principal balance as of the effective date of termination notice. The termination fee is 0% to 3% of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Notes outstanding balance as of the effective date of termination notice, depending on the timing of the termination.
Under the terms of the December 2012 Convertible Note issued in December 2012 (Note 9), the Company is required to use the proceeds from this convertible note to repay all outstanding balance of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note within 35 days of closing. The Company repaid the outstanding balance of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note in January 2013 and has classified the outstanding balance of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note as of December 31, 2012 as a current liability. The total amount of the payout was $9,451,000 which consisted of $9,139,000 in principal, $34,000 in accrued interest, and an early termination fee of $278,000. The termination fee was recorded as incremental interest expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2013.
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Activity related to the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note from its issuance on December 31, 2012 through March 31, 2013 consisted of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
AMORTIZATION
OF DEBT DISCOUNT |
PRINCIPAL
PAYMENTS |
MARCH 31,
2013 |
|||||||||||||
Principal |
$ | 9,139 | $ | | $ | (9,139 | ) | $ | | |||||||
Discount related to Series C Warrant (1) |
(251 | ) | 251 | | | |||||||||||
Discount related to financing costs (1) |
(514 | ) | 514 | | | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
$ | 8,374 | $ | 765 | $ | (9,139 | ) | $ | | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
The amortization of this account is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of operations and noncash interest expense in the consolidated statements of cash flows. |
On October 2, 2012, the Company borrowed $7,500,000 pursuant to senior notes (October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes) with a group of lenders. The October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes have an initial term of three years and can be extended for an additional two years in one year increments. During the initial three-year term, the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes bear interest at 12% per annum. If the term of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes is extended an additional year, the interest rate increases to 13% during the fourth year. If the term of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes is extended for an additional two years, the interest rate is 14% during the fifth year. Interest on the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes is payable monthly through the initial maturity date of the loan which is October 2, 2015 or through any extension period. The principal and all unpaid interest are due on the maturity date, as may be extended.
As part of the terms of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, the Company is required to pay a fee of 5% of the funded principal amount to the agent that facilitated the borrowing (Agent Fee). This Agent Fee is payable within 30 days after all interest and principal have been paid. For each year the Company extends the maturity date of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes beyond the initial term, the agent will receive an additional 1% fee based on the funded principal amount. The present value of the unpaid Agent Fee, based on 5% of the funded principal amount, or $261,000 as of the closing date of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes was recorded as both deferred financing costs as a component of current and non-current other assets and non-current other liabilities. The amortization of the deferred financing costs and the accretion of the Agent Fee are recorded to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, $280,000 and $270,000, respectively, of the Agent Fee was recorded under non-current other liabilities. In addition, the Company incurred an additional $66,000 in financing-related costs, primarily legal fees. These costs were recorded as deferred financing costs as a component of current and non-current other assets and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method.
The October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes are secured by the Companys ownership interest in MMM LLC, a security interest in the assets of the Manufacturing Plant, and all of the Companys other assets, subject to certain permitted liens. This security interest is subordinate to the security interest held by the holders of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note as described above, which also have a security interest in MMM LLC.
The Company also issued warrants (Common Stock Warrants) to the group of lenders to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 15% of the funded principal amount of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO, with such Common Stock Warrants to have an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO. The Common Stock Warrants will be automatically exercised immediately prior to expiration on the earlier to occur of an IPO or a sale of the Company or the maturity of the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes. The October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes can be prepaid six months after the initial funding date or earlier if an IPO or a sale of the Company occurs. As the predominant settlement feature of the Common Stock Warrants is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, the Common Stock Warrants are accounted for under ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (ASC 480). Accordingly, the Common Stock Warrants were recorded at
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estimated fair value on their issuance date and are adjusted to its estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the Companys consolidated statements of operations. The fair value of the Common Stock Warrants at the date of issuance of $282,000 is recorded as a discount to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes and is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method. The Company estimated the fair value of the Common Stock Warrants using a PWERM valuation based on unobservable inputs, and, therefore, the Common Stock Warrants are considered to be Level 3 liabilities.
The October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes contain certain covenant requirements which include a requirement to maintain a minimum cash balance of the lesser of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note indebtedness described above or $5,000,000. As discussed above, the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note was fully paid off in January 2013. The Company is also precluded from adding additional debt unless such debt is subordinated to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes and not more than $2,000,000. In the event of default on the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, the lenders may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable.
Activity related to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes from December 31, 2012 through March 31, 2013 consisted of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
AMORTIZATION
OF DEBT DISCOUNT |
PRINCIPAL
PAYMENTS |
MARCH 31,
2013 |
|||||||||||||
Principal |
$ | 7,500 | $ | | $ | | $ | 7,500 | ||||||||
Discount related to issuance of common stock warrants (1) |
(258 | ) | 24 | | (234 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
$ | 7,242 | $ | 24 | $ | | $ | 7,266 | |||||||||
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
The amortization of this account is included in interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations and as noncash interest expense in the consolidated statement of cash flows. |
The Company is also required to comply with certain affirmative and negative covenants under the debt agreements discussed above. In the event of default on the debt, the lender(s) may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable. As of March 31, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all of the affirmative and negative covenants, and there were no events of default, as defined in the agreements, related to the debt.
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9. Convertible Notes Payable
Convertible notes payable consists of the following (in thousands):
MATURITY
DATE |
MARCH 31,
2013 |
DECEMBER 31,
2012 |
||||||||||
Convertible notes (March 2012 Convertible Notes) bearing interest at 10.00% per annum issued in March and April 2012, including accrued interest at March 31, 2013 of $873 |
September 2013 | $ | 23,145 | $ | 20,204 | |||||||
Convertible note (October 2012 Convertible Note) bearing interest at 10.00% per annum issued in October 2012, including accrued interest at March 31, 2013 of $50 |
September 2013 | 2,658 | 2,314 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Convertible notes payable, current portion |
25,803 | 22,518 | ||||||||||
Convertible note (October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note) bearing interest at 12.00% per annum issued in October 2012, including accrued interest at March 31, 2013 of $139 |
October 2015 | 2,860 | 2,797 | |||||||||
Convertible note (December 2012 Convertible Note) bearing interest at 10.00% per annum issued in December 2012, including accrued interest at March 31, 2013 of $403 |
October 2015 | 17,374 | 16,545 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total convertible notes payable |
$ | 46,037 | $ | 41,860 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
Convertible Notes
During March 2012 through April 2012, the Company issued and sold in a series of closings $8,076,000 of convertible notes (March 2012 Convertible Notes) to existing preferred stock holders. During October 2012, the Company issued an additional $1,000,000 convertible note (October 2012 Convertible Note) to another existing preferred stock holder. Collectively, the March 2012 Convertible Notes and the October 2012 Convertible Note are referred to as the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes, and they accrue interest at 10% per annum. The principal and accrued interest then outstanding under the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes (Outstanding Balance) matures on September 30, 2013 (Maturity Date) or earlier, at which time all such Outstanding Balance will automatically convert into a new series of preferred stock to be authorized immediately prior to the Maturity Date.
The Outstanding Balance may become due and payable prior to the Maturity Date upon an event of default. The Maturity Date may be extended by six months with the written approval of the holders of at least 80% of the Outstanding Balance, and the Company may not incur any debt senior in preference to the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes without the written consent of holders of 70% of the Outstanding Balance.
If the Company closes an IPO in which the Company receives gross cash proceeds, before underwriting discounts, commissions and fees, of at least $30,000,000 (a Qualified IPO) or a sale of substantially all of the Companys assets or a series of transactions that result in the transfer of more than 50% of the Companys outstanding voting power (an Acquisition), the Outstanding Balance of the March 2012 Convertible Notes will be automatically converted into shares of the Companys common stock at a rate of 70% of the per share price of the Companys common stock sold in the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition. In the event of an Qualified IPO or Acquisition, the Outstanding Balance of the October 2012 Convertible Note will be automatically converted into shares of the Companys common stock at a rate of 80% of the per share price of the Companys common stock sold in the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition.
Alternatively, the Outstanding Balance will be automatically converted into other new securities, as follows, if prior to closing the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition, the Company closes an equity financing for an aggregate consideration of at least $5,000,000 (a Qualified Equity Financing). If prior to closing the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition, the Company closes a Qualified Equity Financing, the Outstanding Balance of the March 2012 Convertible Notes will convert into the equity securities issued in the equity financing at 80% of the purchase price of such securities. In
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the event of a Qualified Equity Financing, the Outstanding Balance of the October 2012 Convertible Note will convert into the equity securities issued in the equity financing at 85% of the purchase price of such securities.
The Company has assessed the probability of the potential conversion scenarios under the terms of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes and has determined that the predominant settlement feature of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes will be the conversion of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes into shares of the Companys common stock issuable at a 30% or 20% discount to the per share price payable in connection with the completion of the Qualified IPO or the Acquisition during the term of the arrangement. As the predominant settlement feature of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes fall within the scope of ASC 480. Accordingly, the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes were recorded at estimated fair value on their respective issuance dates and are adjusted to their estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
The Company estimated the fair value of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes as of the issuance dates to be $9,343,000 and $1,772,000, respectively. As the Company received total cash proceeds of $9,076,000 through the issuance of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes, the Company determined that $2,039,000 of the excess of the estimated fair value of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes on the issuance dates over cash proceeds to the Company represents a deemed dividend to preferred stockholders, and this amount was reflected in the net loss attributable to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
As of December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes was $22,518,000 and $25,083,000, respectively. Due to changes in the probability and timing of the completion of a Qualified IPO or an Acquisition between the dates of issuance and December 31, 2012 and between December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes increased by $10,721,000 and $3,285,000 during these periods respectively, which was recognized as additional expense in the change in estimated fair value of financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2012 and the three months ended March 30, 2013 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
As discussed above, the Company is not required to pay interest on the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes, but interest accrues as part of the principal balance under the March and October 2012 Convertible Notes and is convertible, along with the initial principal, into a new series of preferred stock at the Maturity Date or common stock if earlier converted in connection with a Qualified IPO.
October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note
On October 16, 2012, the Company borrowed $2,500,000 pursuant to a convertible note (October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note) from a lender. The October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note has an initial term of three years and can be extended for an additional two years in one-year increments. During the initial three-year term, the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note bears interest at 12% per annum. If the term of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is extended an additional year, the interest rate increases to 13% during the fourth year. If the term of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is extended for an additional two years, the interest rate is 14% during the fifth year. The accrued interest and principal on the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is payable at maturity.
As part of the terms of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note, the Company is required to pay the Agent Fee of 5% of the funded principal amount to the agent that facilitated the borrowing and who also facilitated the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes discussed in Note 6 above. This Agent Fee is payable within 30 days after all interest and principal have been paid. For each year the Company extends the maturity date of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note beyond the initial term, the agent will receive an additional 1% fee based on the funded principal amount. The present value of the unpaid Agent Fee, based on 5% of the funded principal amount, or $87,000 as of the closing date of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note was recorded as both deferred financing costs as a component of current and non-current other assets and non-current other liabilities. The amortization of the deferred financing costs and the accretion of the Agent Fee are recorded to interest expense
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over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, $92,000 and $89,000, respectively, of the Agent Fee was recorded in non-current other liabilities. In addition, the Company incurred an additional $22,000 in financing-related costs, primarily legal fees. These costs were recorded as deferred financing costs as a component of current and non-current other assets and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the arrangement using the straight-line method.
The October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note can be prepaid six months after the initial funding date or earlier if an IPO or a sale of the Company occurs.
The October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is secured by certain assets of the Company, subject to certain permitted liens. This security interest is subordinate to the security interest held by the holders of the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note and the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Note, both described in Note 8.
If the Company closes an IPO or an Acquisition, the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note and any accrued interest will be automatically converted into shares of the Companys common stock at a rate of 85% of the purchase price of common stock sold, provided the closing occurs on or prior to eighteen months from the issuance date of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note. The conversion rate is adjusted to 80% of the purchase price of such securities, if the closing occurs on or after eighteen months from the issuance date of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note through the date of maturity.
The Company has assessed the probability of potential conversion under its terms of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note and has determined that the predominate settlement feature of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note will be the conversion of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note into shares of the Companys common stock issuable at a 15% or 20% discount to the per share price payable upon the completion of an IPO, an Acquisition, or Qualified Equity Financing. As the predominant settlement feature of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note falls within the scope of ASC 480. Accordingly, the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note was recorded at estimated fair value on its issuance date and is adjusted to its estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
The Company estimated the fair value of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note as of the issuance date to be $2,662,000. As the Company received cash proceeds of $2,500,000 through the issuance of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note, $162,000 of the excess of the estimated fair value of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note on the issuance date over cash proceeds was recorded as additional interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
As of December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note was $2,797,000 and $2,860,000, respectively. Due to changes in the probability and timing of the completion of a Qualified IPO or an Acquisition between the date of issuance and December 31, 2012 and between December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note increased by $70,000 and $63,000 during these periods, respectively, which was recognized as additional expense in the change in estimated fair value of financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
In April 2013, the Company entered an amendment to convert $1,250,000 of the outstanding principal balance of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note and the related accrued interest as of the conversion date to Amended October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, as defined and further discussed in Note 12.
December 2012 Convertible Note
On December 6, 2012, the Company borrowed $12,500,000 pursuant to a convertible note (December 2012 Convertible Note) from an existing preferred stock holder that also is an affiliate of one of the Companys distributors. The December 2012 Convertible Note has an initial maturity date of October 16, 2015 and can be extended for an additional two years in one year increments. During the initial approximately three-year (two-year and ten-month) term, the December 2012 Convertible Note bears interest at 10% per annum. If the term of the December 2012 Convertible Note is extended an additional year, the interest rate increases to 12% during the
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fourth year. If the term of the December 2012 Convertible Note is extended for an additional two years, the interest rate is 14% during the fifth year. The maturity date of the December 2012 Convertible Note shall be contemporaneously extended with the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note described above. The accrued interest and principal on the December 2012 Convertible Note is payable at maturity.
The December 2012 Convertible Note may not be pre-paid unless such prepayment is mandated by a sale event. A sale event as defined in the agreement is the transfer of substantially all of the Companys assets, a transaction or series of transactions that result in the transfer of more than 50% voting power of the Company, or transactions that result in gross proceeds of at least $120,000,000 (Sale Event). In the case of a Sale Event, the holder may elect to either convert all outstanding principal and accrued interest into shares of common stock in accordance with the conversion terms of this agreement or receive cash equal to the principal and accrued interest then outstanding multiplied by 133.33% if the Sale Event occurs prior to or as of June 30, 2013 or multiplied by 142.86% if the Sale Event occurs after June 30, 2013.
A Qualified Financing means an equity financing for which the gross proceeds are at least $20,000,000 and at least 50% of the amount invested comes from sources other than holders of the Companys equity, strategic investors, or affiliates (Qualified Financing). In the event of a Qualified Financing, all outstanding principal and unpaid interest on the December 2012 Convertible Note will be automatically converted into new securities issued and sold in such qualified financing at a rate of 75% of the purchase price of such new securities provided the closing occurs on or prior to June 30, 2013. The conversion rate is adjusted to 70% of the purchase price of such new securities, if the closing occurs after June 30, 2013.
In the event of a non-qualified financing (Non-Qualified Financing) or the Sale Event, the holder of the December 2012 Convertible Note shall have the right, but not the obligation, to convert all or a part of the outstanding principal and unpaid interest on the December 2012 Convertible Note into the same type of securities issued in the Non-Qualified Financing. A Non-Qualified Financing represents either a convertible note financing or an equity transaction that does not qualify as a Qualified Financing.
If the Non-Qualified Financing relates to an equity financing or Sale Event, the number of shares of common stock or common stock equivalents to be received by the holder of the December 2012 Convertible Note will be calculated by dividing the principal and unpaid accrued interest elected to be converted by the holder by a price per share equal to the price per share paid in the Non-Qualified Financing multiplied by a conversion discount.
If the Non-Qualified Financing relates to a debt financing, the December 2012 Convertible Note holder will receive new convertible notes convertible into the shares of common stock or common stock equivalents at a per share price equal to the conversion price per share applicable to the other convertible debt issued in the Non-Qualified Financing multiplied by a conversion discount. In each case, if the Non-Qualified Financing occurs on or before June 30, 2013, the conversion rate will be equal to 75%, and thereafter the conversion rate will be equal to 70%.
The Company has assessed the probability of the potential conversion scenarios under the terms of the December 2012 Convertible Note and has determined that the predominant settlement feature of the December 2012 Convertible Note will be the conversion of the December 2012 Convertible Note into shares of the Companys common stock issuable at a 25% or 30% discount to the per share price payable in connection with the completion of a Qualified Financing or a Sale Event during the term of the arrangement. As the predominant settlement feature of the December 2012 Convertible Note is to settle a fixed monetary amount in a variable number of shares, the December 2012 Convertible Note falls within the scope of ASC 480. Accordingly, the Company determined that the December 2012 Convertible Note should be recorded at estimated fair value on its issuance date and adjusted to its estimated fair value as of each reporting date with the change in estimated fair value recorded as a component of change in estimated fair value of financial instruments in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
Following the issuance of the December 2012 Convertible Note, the Company estimated the fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note as of the issuance date using a PWERM valuation consisting of six scenarios. This valuation included three initial public offering scenarios, two merger scenarios and a sale of the Companys intellectual property along with the applicable conversion ratios based on the estimated timing of each scenario. Based on this valuation, the Company estimated the fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note to be
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$16,355,000 as of the issuance date. As the holder of the December 2012 Convertible Note was an affiliate of one of the Companys distributors at the date of issuance, the $3,855,000 excess of the estimated fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note on the date of issuance over gross cash proceeds has been recorded as a reduction of revenue to the extent of revenue recognized from the distributor, $245,000 ($110,000 from license revenue and $135,000 from product revenues), and the remaining excess of $3,610,000 has been recorded separately to an operating expense in accordance with ASC 605-50, Customer Payments and Incentives, in the Companys consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012.
As of December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note was $16,545,000 and $17,374,000, respectively. Due to changes in the probability and timing of the completion of a Qualified IPO or an Acquisition between the dates of issuance and December 31, 2012 and between December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of the December 2012 Convertible Note increased by $100,000 and $829,000 during these periods, respectively, which was recognized as additional expense in the change in estimated fair value of financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2012 in the Companys consolidated statements of operations.
The December 2012 Convertible Note purchase agreement also required the Company to use the proceeds from this note to repay all outstanding obligations under the April 2012 Senior Secured Promissory Note within 35 days of closing as discussed in Note 8.
In addition to the repayment requirement under the terms of the December 2012 Convertible Note discussed above, the Company is also required to comply with certain other affirmative and negative covenants under the convertible debt agreements discussed above. In the event of default on the convertible debt, the lender may declare the entire unpaid principal and interest immediately due and payable. As of March 31, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all of such affirmative and negative covenants, and there were no events of default as defined in the December 2012 Convertible Note agreement.
10. Stock Option Plans
As of March 31, 2013, there were 2,040,000 options outstanding and 376,000 options available for grant under the outstanding option plans.
The Company recognized $249,000 and $292,000 in compensation for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, the Company granted 49,000 options at a weighted-average exercise price of $12.55 per share.
11. Commitments and Contingencies
Contingencies
The Company is subject to legal proceedings and claims that arise in the normal course of business. As of March 31, 2013, there were no current proceedings or litigation involving the Company that management believes would have a material adverse impact on its business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
12. Subsequent Events
On April 10, 2013 (Conversion Date), the Company entered an amendment to increase by up to $5,000,000 the amount available under the terms of the loan agreement with respect to the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes described in Note 7 above. Under this amendment, an additional $4,950,000 was issued in partial consideration for $3,700,000 in cash received and in partial conversion for cancellation of $1,250,000 of the total principal balance of the October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note described in Note 8 (collectively, April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes). The total amount borrowed under the amended loan agreement for the October 2012 Junior Secured Promissory Notes and the April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes increased from $7,500,000 to $12,450,000 as of the Conversion Date. The accrued interest of $74,000 for the partially converted October 2012 Subordinated Convertible Note as of the Conversion Date shall be paid on the applicable maturity date of the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes.
The amendment to the loan agreement also amended the interest provision applicable to the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes to allow any holder of the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured
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Promissory Notes to request the Company to defer all interest due monthly to the applicable maturity date, and the optional prepayment provision applicable to the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes to allow the Company to repay the outstanding amount of the October 2012 and April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, either (i) with the written consent of the lender or the agent on such lenders behalf, or (ii) without such consent provided that the Company pays the interest that would have been due from the prepayment date to the initial maturity date.
In conjunction with the issuance of the April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes, the Company issued additional warrants (Additional Common Stock Warrants) to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 20% of the funded principal amount of the April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO, with such Additional Common Stock Warrants to have an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the April 2013 Junior Secured Promissory Notes on the Companys consolidated financial position and results of operations.
On May 22, 2013, the Company completed the sale of convertible notes under a convertible note purchase agreement in the amount of $3,529,000 in a private placement to 22 investors (First May 2013 Convertible Notes). The First May 2013 Convertible Notes accrue interest at a rate of 10% per annum and mature on May 22, 2016, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 10% to 12% in the first year of the extension to May 22, 2017, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to May 22, 2018. In addition, if there is an event of default, which may occur as a result of, among other things, an uncured default under the terms of another debt instrument in an aggregate principal amount in excess of $100,000, the then-applicable interest rate shall be increased by 4%. The First May 2013 Convertible Notes may be pre-paid at any time without penalty.
In addition, on May 28, 2013, the Company completed the sale of a convertible note under a separate convertible note purchase agreement in the amount of $3,000,000 in a private placement (Second May 2013 Convertible Note). The Second May 2013 Convertible Note accrues interest at a rate of 10% per annum and matures on May 30, 2016, unless extended in one year increments for a period of no more than two years. In the event the maturity date is extended, the interest rate increases from 10% to 12% in the first year of the extension to May 30, 2017, and if extended for an additional year thereafter, the interest rate increases to 14% in the second year of the extension to May 30, 2018. In addition, if there is an event of default, which may occur as a result of, among other things, an uncured default under the terms of another debt instrument in an aggregate principal amount in excess of $100,000, the then-applicable interest rate shall be increased by 4%. The Second May 2013 Convertible Note may not be pre-paid in whole or in part prior to the maturity date unless in accordance with the Sale Event, as defined in Note 9 above.
No payments are due under the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes until maturity. In an event of the Qualified Financing, as defined in Note 9 above, all outstanding principal and accrued interest due under the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes will be automatically converted into the number of shares of the Companys common stock determined by dividing such unpaid amounts by 70% of the per share price of the Companys common stock sold in such qualified financing.
Alternatively, in the earlier event of a Non-Qualified Financing of equity or debt securities the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes may be converted, at the option of the holder, into the same type of securities issued in such financing, and in the earlier the Sale Event, the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes may be either, at the option of the holder, repaid the principal and accrued interest then outstanding multiplied by 142.86% or converted at a discount into shares of the Companys common stock.
If the Qualified Financing, Non-Qualified Financing, or Sale Event has not occurred from the date of issuance of the convertible note through January 14, 2014, the holder of the Second May 2013 Convertible Note may elect to convert all outstanding principal and accrued interest into a number of shares of common stock determined by dividing this amount by the greater of (i) the per share price into which the Outstanding Balance under the March
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and October 2012 Convertible Notes discussed in Note 9 will be converted at their maturity in the event a Qualified Financing has not occurred as of September 30, 2013, or (ii) the purchase price paid per share for the most recent Non-Qualified Financing that occurs prior to a Sale Event, provided such Non-Qualified Financing is at least $2,000,000 and at least 50% of the proceeds of such Non-Qualified Financing are from persons or entities who were not common shareholders, or common share equivalents or affiliates of the Company.
Under the terms of the convertible note purchase agreements entered into in connection with the issuance of the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes, the Company has agreed to certain covenants, including certain restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, payment of distributions on the Companys capital stock and entry into certain transactions with affiliates. The First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes are unsecured.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the First and Second May 2013 Convertible Notes on the Companys consolidated financial position and results of operations.
On June 13, 2013, the Company entered into a factoring and security agreement (Factoring and Security Agreement) with a third-party that would enable the Company to sell the entire interest in certain accounts receivable up to $5,000,000. Under the Factoring and Security Agreement, 15% of the sales proceeds will be held back by the purchaser until collection of such receivables. Such holdbacks are not considered legal securities, nor are they certificated. Upon the sale of the receivable, the Company will not maintain servicing. The purchaser may require the Company to repurchase accounts receivable if (i) the payment is disputed by the account debtor, with the purchaser being under no obligation to determine the bona fides of such dispute, (ii) the account debtor has become insolvent or (iii) upon the effective date of the termination of the Factoring and Security Agreement. The purchaser will retain its security interest in any accounts repurchased by the Company. The Factoring and Security Agreement is secured by all of the Companys personal property and fixtures, and proceeds thereof, including accounts, inventory, equipment and general intangibles other than intellectual property.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the Factoring and Security Agreement on the Companys consolidated financial position and results of operations.
On June 14, 2013, the Company entered into a credit facility agreement (June 2013 Credit Facility) with a group of lenders that are, or that are affiliated with, existing investors in the Company. Under the June 2013 Credit Facility, the lenders have committed to permit the Company to draw an aggregate of up to $5,000,000, and, subject to the Companys obtaining additional commitments from lenders, such amount may be increased to up to $7,000,000. The June 2013 Credit Facility expires on June 30, 2014. During the term of the June 2013 Credit Facility, the Company may request from the lenders up to four advances, with each advance equal to one quarter of each lenders aggregate commitment amount. The Company will issue a promissory note in the principal amount of each such advance that will accrue interest at a rate of 10% per annum. The principal and all unpaid interest under the promissory notes are due on the maturity date, and the Company may not prepay the promissory notes prior to the maturity date without consent of at least a majority in interest of the aggregate principal amount of the promissory notes then outstanding under the credit facility. In connection with the June 2013 Credit Facility, the Company agreed to pay a fee of 2% of the total commitment amount to the lenders.
In conjunction with the June 2013 Credit Facility, the Company issued warrants (June 2013 Warrants) to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 10% of the total committed amount of the June 2013 Credit Facility divided by 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO, with such June 2013 Common Stock Warrants to have an exercise price of 70% of the value of common stock in a sale of the Company or an IPO. The June 2013 Common Stock Warrants expire upon the earlier of June 14, 2023 or the sale of the Company.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the June 2013 Credit Facility and the June 2013 Warrants on the Companys consolidated financial position and results of operations.
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13. Reverse Stock Split
On , 2013, the Companys board of directors and stockholders approved an amendment to the Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation to effect the conversion of its outstanding convertible preferred stock into common stock on a 1-for-1 basis followed immediately by a reverse split of shares of its common stock (including the common stock issued upon conversion of the convertible preferred stock) at a 1-for-3.138458 ratio (the Reverse Stock Split). The amendment also increased the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance to 250,000,000 shares. The par value of the common stock was not adjusted as a result of the Reverse Stock Split.
All issued and outstanding common stock, preferred stock, and warrants for common stock or preferred stock, and the related per share amounts contained in the consolidated financial statements, have been retroactively adjusted to give effect to this Reverse Stock Split for all periods presented.
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4,200,000 Shares
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
Common Stock
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS
Jefferies
Piper Jaffray
Stifel
Roth Capital Partners
, 2013
Until , 2013 (the expiration date of this prospectus), all dealers effecting transactions in these securities, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This is in addition to a dealers obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as an underwriter and with respect to an unsold allotment or subscription.
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 13. | Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution |
The following table sets forth the costs and expenses, other than the underwriting discount, payable by the registrant in connection with the sale and distribution of the securities being registered. All amounts are estimated except the SEC registration fee, the FINRA filing fee and the Nasdaq listing fee.
AMOUNT
TO BE PAID |
||||
SEC Registration Fee |
$ | 11,200 | ||
FINRA Filing Fee |
12,817 | |||
Initial Nasdaq Listing Fee |
125,000 | |||
Legal Fees and Expenses |
1,700,000 | |||
Accounting Fees and Expenses |
1,500,000 | |||
Printing and Engraving Expenses |
325,000 | |||
Blue Sky Fees and Expenses |
20,000 | |||
Transfer Agent and Registrar Fees |
6,000 | |||
Miscellaneous Expenses |
299,983 | |||
|
|
|||
Total |
$ | 4,000,000 |
Item 14. | Indemnification of Directors and Officers |
Section 102(b)(7) of the Delaware General Corporation Law, or DGCL, provides that a corporation may, in its original certificate of incorporation or an amendment thereto, eliminate or limit the personal liability of a director for violations of the directors fiduciary duty, except (1) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, (2) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (3) pursuant to Section 174 of the DGCL, which provides for liability of directors for unlawful payments of dividends or unlawful stock purchases or redemptions or (4) for any transaction from which a director derived an improper personal benefit.
Section 145 of the DGCL provides that a corporation may indemnify any person, including an officer or director, who is, or is threatened to be made, party to any threatened, pending or completed legal action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, other than an action by or in the right of such corporation, by reason of the fact that such person was an officer, director, employee or agent of such corporation or is or was serving at the request of such corporation as an officer, director, employee or agent of another corporation or enterprise. The indemnity may include expenses (including attorneys fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding, provided such officer, director, employee or agent acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the corporations best interest and, for criminal proceedings, had no reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was unlawful. A Delaware corporation may indemnify any officer or director in an action by or in the right of the corporation under the same conditions, except that no indemnification is permitted without judicial approval if the officer or director is adjudged to be liable to the corporation. Where an officer or director is successful on the merits or otherwise in the defense of any action referred to above, the corporation must indemnify him against the expenses that such officer or director actually and reasonably incurred.
Our certificate of incorporation as currently in effect provides for the indemnification of directors to the fullest extent permissible under Delaware law.
Our bylaws as currently in effect provide for the indemnification of officers and directors acting on our behalf if this person acted in good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in and not opposed to our best interest, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, the indemnified party had no reason to believe his or her conduct was unlawful.
II-1
In addition, we have entered into separate indemnification agreements with each of our executive officers and directors, a form of which will be filed as Exhibit 10.4 hereto. Such agreements may require us, among other things, to advance expenses and otherwise indemnify our executive officers and directors against certain liabilities that may arise by reason of their status or service as executive officers or directors, to the fullest extent permitted by law. We intend to enter into indemnification agreements with any new directors and executive officers in the future.
The underwriting agreement (to be filed as Exhibit 1.1 hereto) provides for indemnification by the underwriters of us for certain liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
We have purchased and intend to maintain insurance on behalf of us and any person who is or was a director or officer against any loss arising from any claim asserted against him or her and incurred by him or her in that capacity, subject to certain exclusions and limits of the amount of coverage.
Item 15. | Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities |
Since December 31, 2009, we have sold the following unregistered securities, giving effect to the 1-for-3.138458 reverse stock split that will be effective prior to the effectiveness of this Registration Statement:
Convertible Preferred Stock.
From March 2010 through June 2011, we sold to accredited investors in a series of closings an aggregate of 4,778,494 shares of Series C convertible preferred stock at a per share price of $5.3165, for aggregate consideration of approximately $25.3 million.
In July 2013, we issued to an accredited investor 9,590 shares of Series B convertible preferred stock at a purchase price of $4.8486 per share, for an aggregate purchase price of $46,501, upon the exercise of an outstanding warrant.
Warrants
In March 2009, we issued to an accredited investor a warrant to purchase 6,497 shares of Series B convertible preferred stock at an exercise price of $4.8486 per share, for an aggregate exercise price of approximately $31,500.
In April 2012, we issued to an accredited investor a warrant to purchase 191,177 shares of Series C convertible preferred stock at an exercise price of $7.8461 per share, for an aggregate exercise price of $1.5 million.
In October 2012, we issued to accredited investors warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, with coverage based on 15% of the aggregate of $7.5 million invested by such investors in promissory notes.
In April 2013, we issued to accredited investors warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, with coverage based on 20% of the aggregate of $4.95 million invested by such investors in promissory notes.
In June 2013, we issued to accredited investors warrants to purchase a variable number of shares of common stock, with coverage based on 10% of the $5.0 million provided by such investors under a credit facility agreement.
Debt Securities
From March 2012 through May 2013, we sold to accredited investors, in a series of closings, convertible notes for an aggregate consideration of approximately $30.6 million.
In April 2012, we sold to an accredited investor a senior secured promissory note for an aggregate consideration of $10.0 million (subsequently repaid).
From October 2012 through April 2013, we sold to accredited investors, in a series of closings, promissory notes for an aggregate consideration of approximately $12.45 million.
Equity Incentive Plans
Since December 31, 2009 pursuant to the 2006 Plan, we granted options to purchase an aggregate of 730,676 shares of common stock to directors, officers, employees and consultants, in each case having an exercise price of $1.1926 per share.
Since December 31, 2009 pursuant to the 2011 Plan, we granted options to purchase an aggregate of 1,306,957 shares of common stock to directors, officers, employees and consultants, with a weighted-average exercise price of $7.2812 per share.
II-2
Item 16. | Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules |
(a) Exhibits
EXHIBIT
|
DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT |
|
1.1* | Form of Underwriting Agreement. | |
3.1.1* | Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
3.1.2* | Certificate of Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., filed April 28, 2011. | |
3.1.3* | Certificate of Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., filed May 4, 2012. | |
3.2* | Form of Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., to be in effect upon completion of this offering. | |
3.3* | Bylaws of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., as amended. | |
3.4* | Form of Amended and Restated Bylaws of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., to be in effect upon completion of this offering. | |
4.1* | Form of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.s common stock certificate. | |
4.2* | Second Amended and Restated Investor Rights Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and certain security holders of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
4.3* | Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant, dated October 26, 2006, issued to VenCore Solutions LLC. | |
4.4* | Series B Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant, dated March 31, 2009, issued to Five Star Bank. | |
4.5* | Series C Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant, dated April 18, 2012, issued to Point Financial, Inc. | |
5.1* | Opinion of Morrison & Foerster LLP. | |
10.1* | Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. Stock Option Plan and related documents. | |
10.2* | Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. 2011 Stock Plan and related documents. | |
10.3* | Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan and related documents. | |
10.4* | Form of Indemnification Agreement by and between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and each of its directors and executive officers. | |
10.5* | Offer letter, dated June 29, 2006, between Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. and Dr. Pamela G. Marrone. | |
10.6* | Offer letter, dated March 16, 2011, between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and Donald J. Glidewell. | |
10.7* | Offer letter, dated August 7, 2012, between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and Hector Absi. | |
10.8* | Standard Multi-Tenant Office Lease, dated August 3, 2007, by and between Davis Commerce Center, LLC and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.9* | First Amendment to Lease, dated January 1, 2008, by and between Davis Commerce Center, LLC and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.10* | Second Amendment to Lease, dated November 13, 2008, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.11* | Third Amendment to Lease, dated September 20, 2010, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. |
II-3
EXHIBIT
|
DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT |
|
10.12* | Fourth Amendment to Lease, dated March 14, 2012, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.13* | Fifth Amendment to Lease, dated March 14, 2012, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.14* | Sixth Amendment to Lease, dated December 21, 2012, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.15* | Convertible Note Purchase Agreement, dated March 15, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the Investors party thereto, including form of convertible promissory note. | |
10.16* | Amendment and Consent, dated August 30, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the Investors party thereto, including form of convertible promissory note. | |
10.17* | Loan Agreement, dated October 2, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., the Investors party thereto and the administrative and collateral agent, including form of promissory note and warrant. | |
10.18* | Security Agreement, dated October 2, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the administrative and collateral agent. | |
10.19* | Loan Agreement, dated October 16, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., the Investor party thereto and the administrative and collateral agent, including form of convertible promissory note. | |
10.20* | Security Agreement, dated October 16, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the administrative and collateral agent. | |
10.21* | Note Purchase Agreement, dated December 6, 2012, by and between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and Syngenta Ventures Pte. Ltd., including convertible promissory note. | |
10.22* | Intercreditor Agreement, dated December 6, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., Syngenta Ventures Pte. Ltd. and the administrative agent and collateral agent. | |
10.23* | Amendment and Consent, dated April 10, 2013, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the administrative agent party thereto. | |
10.24 | License Agreement, dated May 22, 2007, between the KHH Biosci, Inc. and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.25* | License Agreement, dated November 13, 2007, between the U.S. Government, as represented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.26 | License Agreement, dated December 28, 2009, between the University of the State of New York and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.27 | Commercial Agreement, dated February 1, 2011, between Syngenta Crop Protection AG and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.28 | Commercial Agreement, dated August 26, 2011, between FMC Corporation and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.29 | Technology Evaluation and Master Development Agreement, dated September 13, 2011, between The Scotts Company LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.30* | Asset Purchase Agreement, dated May 25, 2012, between Bankruptcy Trustee for Michigan BioDiesel, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.31* |
Convertible Note Purchase Agreement, dated May 22, 2013, by and between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the Investors party thereto, including form of convertible promissory note. |
II-4
EXHIBIT
|
DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT |
|
10.32* | Convertible Note Purchase Agreement, dated May 30, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and DSM Venturing BV, including form of convertible promissory note. | |
10.33* |
Credit Facility Agreement, dated June 14, 2013, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the Investors party thereto, including form of promissory note and warrant. |
|
21.1* | Subsidiary List of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
23.1 | Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. | |
23.2* | Consent of Counsel (included in exhibit 5.1) | |
24.1* | Power of Attorney (included on signature page). |
* | Previously filed. |
| Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement. |
| Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
Item 17. | Undertakings |
The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that:
(1) | For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, the information omitted from the form of prospectus as filed as part of this Registration Statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this Registration Statement as of the time it was declared effective. |
(2) | For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new Registration Statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. |
The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for the purpose of determining liability of the registrant under the Securities Act to any purchaser in the initial distribution of the securities:
The undersigned registrant undertakes that in a primary offering of securities of the undersigned registrant pursuant to this Registration Statement, regardless of the underwriting method used to sell the securities to the purchaser, if the securities are offered or sold to such purchaser by means of any of the following communications, the undersigned registrant will be a seller to the purchaser and will be considered to offer or sell such securities to such purchaser:
(i) | Any preliminary prospectus or prospectus of the undersigned registrant relating to the offering required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424; |
(ii) | Any free writing prospectus relating to the offering prepared by or on behalf of the undersigned registrant or used or referred to by the undersigned registrant; |
(iii) | The portion of any other free writing prospectus relating to the offering containing material information about the undersigned registrant or its securities provided by or on behalf of the undersigned registrant; and |
(iv) | Any other communication that is an offer in the offering made by the undersigned registrant to the purchaser. |
The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the underwriters at the closing specified in the underwriting agreement certificates in such denominations and registered in such names as required by the underwriters to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.
II-5
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, we have duly caused this Registration Statement on Form S-1 to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Davis, State of California, on July 31, 2013.
MARRONE BIO INNOVATIONS, INC. |
/ S / P AMELA G. M ARRONE |
Pamela G. Marrone President and Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement on Form S-1 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE |
TITLE |
DATE |
||||||
/ S / P AMELA G. M ARRONE Pamela G. Marrone |
President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) | July 31, 2013 | ||||||
/ S / D ONALD J. G LIDEWELL Donald J. Glidewell |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
July 31, 2013 |
||||||
* Elin Miller |
Chair of the Board |
July 31, 2013 |
||||||
* Ranjeet Bhatia |
Director |
July 31, 2013 |
||||||
* Tim Fogarty |
Director |
July 31, 2013 |
||||||
* Lawrence Hough |
Director |
July 31, 2013 |
||||||
* Joseph Hudson |
Director |
July 31, 2013 |
||||||
* Richard Rominger |
Director |
July 31, 2013 |
||||||
* Sean Schickedanz |
Director |
July 31, 2013 |
||||||
* Shaugn Stanley |
Director |
July 31, 2013 |
*By: | / S / P AMELA G. M ARRONE | |
Pamela G. Marrone Attorney-In-Fact |
II-6
EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT
|
DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT |
|
1.1* | Form of Underwriting Agreement. | |
3.1.1* | Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
3.1.2* | Certificate of Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., filed April 28, 2011. | |
3.1.3* | Certificate of Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., filed May 4, 2012. | |
3.2* | Form of Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., to be in effect upon completion of this offering. | |
3.3* | Bylaws of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., as amended. | |
3.4* | Form of Amended and Restated Bylaws of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., to be in effect upon completion of this offering. | |
4.1* | Form of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.s common stock certificate. | |
4.2* | Second Amended and Restated Investor Rights Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and certain security holders of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
4.3* | Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant, dated October 26, 2006, issued to VenCore Solutions LLC. | |
4.4* | Series B Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant, dated March 31, 2009, issued to Five Star Bank. | |
4.5* | Series C Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant, dated April 18, 2012, issued to Point Financial, Inc. | |
5.1* | Opinion of Morrison & Foerster LLP. | |
10.1* | Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. Stock Option Plan and related documents. | |
10.2* | Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. 2011 Stock Plan and related documents. | |
10.3* | Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan and related documents. | |
10.4* | Form of Indemnification Agreement by and between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and each of its directors and executive officers. | |
10.5* | Offer letter, dated June 29, 2006, between Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. and Dr. Pamela G. Marrone. | |
10.6* | Offer letter, dated March 16, 2011, between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and Donald J. Glidewell. | |
10.7* | Offer letter, dated August 7, 2012, between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and Hector Absi. | |
10.8* |
Standard Multi-Tenant Office Lease, dated August 3, 2007, by and between Davis Commerce Center, LLC and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. |
|
10.9* | First Amendment to Lease, dated January 1, 2008, by and between Davis Commerce Center, LLC and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.10* | Second Amendment to Lease, dated November 13, 2008, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.11* | Third Amendment to Lease, dated September 20, 2010, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.12* | Fourth Amendment to Lease, dated March 14, 2012, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.13* | Fifth Amendment to Lease, dated March 14, 2012, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. |
10.14* | Sixth Amendment to Lease, dated December 21, 2012, by and between 2121 Second Street Investors, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.15* | Convertible Note Purchase Agreement, dated March 15, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the Investors party thereto, including form of convertible promissory note. | |
10.16* | Amendment and Consent, dated August 30, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the Investors party thereto, including form of convertible promissory note. | |
10.17* | Loan Agreement, dated October 2, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., the Investors party thereto and the administrative and collateral agent, including form of promissory note and warrant. | |
10.18* | Security Agreement, dated October 2, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the administrative and collateral agent. | |
10.19* | Loan Agreement, dated October 16, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., the Investor party thereto and the administrative and collateral agent, including form of convertible promissory note. | |
10.20* | Security Agreement, dated October 16, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the administrative and collateral agent. | |
10.21* | Note Purchase Agreement, dated December 6, 2012, by and between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and Syngenta Ventures Pte. Ltd., including convertible promissory note. | |
10.22* | Intercreditor Agreement, dated December 6, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., Syngenta Ventures Pte. Ltd. and the administrative agent and collateral agent. | |
10.23* | Amendment and Consent, dated April 10, 2013, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the administrative agent party thereto. | |
10.24 | License Agreement, dated May 22, 2007, between the KHH Biosci, Inc. and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.25* | License Agreement, dated November 13, 2007, between the U.S. Government, as represented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, and Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | |
10.26 | License Agreement, dated December 28, 2009, between the University of the State of New York and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.27 | Commercial Agreement, dated February 1, 2011, between Syngenta Crop Protection AG and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.28 | Commercial Agreement, dated August 26, 2011, between FMC Corporation and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.29 | Technology Evaluation and Master Development Agreement, dated September 13, 2011, between The Scotts Company LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.30* | Asset Purchase Agreement, dated May 25, 2012, between Bankruptcy Trustee for Michigan BioDiesel, LLC and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
10.31* |
Convertible Note Purchase Agreement, dated May 22, 2013, by and between Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the Investors party thereto, including form of convertible promissory note. |
|
10.32* | Convertible Note Purchase Agreement, dated May 30, 2012, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and DSM Venturing BV, including form of convertible promissory note. | |
10.33* |
Credit Facility Agreement, dated June 14, 2013, by and among Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. and the Investors party thereto, including form of promissory note and warrant. |
|
21.1* | Subsidiary List of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | |
23.1 | Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. | |
23.2* | Consent of Counsel (included in exhibit 5.1) | |
24.1* | Power of Attorney (included on signature page). |
* | Previously filed. |
| Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement. |
| Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
Exhibit 10.24
LICENSE AGREEMENT
T HIS L ICENSE A GREEMENT (this Agreement ) is made as of May 22, 2007 (the Effective Date ), between KHH B IOSCI , I NC ., a North Carolina corporation, having its principal office at 634 Lake Hogan Lane, North Carolina 27516 United States of America ( KHH ) and M ARRONE O RGANIC I NNOVATIONS , I NC . , a Delaware corporation, having its principal office at 215 Madson Place, Suite B, Davis, California 95618, United States of America ( MOI ).
ARTICLE 1
BACKGROUND
1.1 KHH has conducted research on the extract of Reynoutria sachalinensis and formulations that include this extract and owns a license and various intellectual property rights associated with such extract. KHH is interested in sub-licensing such rights to MOI for further commercial development and marketing.
1.2 MOI is in the business of research, development, registration and commercialization of natural products as biopesticides. MOI is interested in assessing the above described on such extract and related rights of KHH, which MOI may develop, register and bring to market.
1.3 To advance these goals, MOI and KHH have determined to enter into a commercial relationship regarding the future development, registration, commercialization, sales and marketing of products based on such extract and related rights.
ARTICLE 2
DEFINITIONS
2.1 Affiliate means, in relation to a party to this Agreement, a body corporate which from time to time is, directly or indirectly, controlled by, in control of, or under common control with, such party and, for these purposes, control shall consist of the ownership of over 50% of the voting stock of the applicable entity.
2.2 Agro-Kanesho Assignment and License Agreement means that Assignment and License Agreement between KHH and Agro-Kanesho Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation dated 18 September 2000, attached as Exhibit A.
2.3 BASF means BASF Aktiengesellschaft.
2.4 BASF Agreement means the Assignment and License Agreement between KHH and BASF, executed April 20, 1998.
2.5 BASF Technology Rights means the technology rights, including TECHNICAL INFORMATION, as set forth in the BASF Agreement. Attached as Exhibit B.
2.6 BASF Territory means the Territory as defined in the BASF Agreement.
2.7 Confidential Information means, as to either party and without limitation, such partys proprietary or confidential data, know-how, formulas, compositions, processes, documents, designs, sketches, photographs, plans, graphs, drawings, specifications, equipment, samples, reports, findings, inventions, ideas and information, including business information related to Products and the BASF Technology Rights and the KHH Technology Rights.
2.8 Customer means any purchaser of a Product other than KHH, MOI, an Affiliate or a Sublicensee.
2.9 Deductible Expenses means the following items of expense incurred in connection with Sales of Products to the extent paid or allowed by MOI or a Sublicensee, and included in accordance with recognized principles of accounting in the gross sales price billed: (a) sales, use or turnover taxes; (b) excise, value added, importation or other taxes, custom duties or consular fees; (c) transportation, freight, and handling charges, and insurance on shipments to customers; (d) trade, cash or quantity discounts or rebates to the extent actually granted (including government-mandated rebates); (e) rebates, refunds, and credits for any rejected or returned Products or due to billing errors or because of retroactive price reductions, rebates or chargebacks; (f) uncollected accounts receivable attributable to Sales of Products; and (g) sales related fees or commissions paid for efforts in arranging actual Sales of Products.
2.10 Exclusive means that for the term of this Agreement KHH will not use or license to any licensee, other than MOI, the Licensed Patents, the BASF Technology Rights, the Technology Rights, subject to the rights of BASF to Technical Information (as defined in the BASF Agreement) under Section 3.3 of the BASF Agreement, and subject to the Agro-Kanesho Assignment and License Agreement.
2.11 Licensed Patents means: (i) all domestic and foreign patents and patent applications listed in Exhibit C attached hereto; (iii) all divisionals, continuations, and continuations-in-part of such patents and patent applications; (iv) all patents that issue on any of the foregoing patent applications; (v) all foreign counterparts of the foregoing patents and patent applications; and (vi) all reissues, reexaminations, renewals, extensions, and supplementary protection certificates relating to any of the foregoing patents. Exhibit C may be updated from time to time on mutual agreement.
2.12 Licensed Patent Rights means any and all rights under the Licensed Patents.
2.13 Net Revenues means the amount received by MOI or a Sublicensee, in each case for the Sale of a Product to a Customer, less the Deductible Expenses applicable to such Sale. Net revenues shall also include imputed Net Revenues as provided in Section 10.4.
2.14 Product means any product or device that is covered by, or is made by or utilizes a process or material covered by, any Valid Claim or which utilizes any BASF Technology Rights or KHH Technology Rights.
2.15 Registration means approval by the United States Environmental Protection Agency of a microbial, a substance or a mixture of substances, as a biochemical or microbial pesticide.
2.16 Sale means the sale, transfer, exchange or other commercial disposition of a Product. In case of doubt, Sales of Products will be deemed consummated no later than receipt of payment by a Customer for the applicable transaction involving such Product.
2.17 Sublicensee will mean, with respect to a particular Product, a third party to which MOI has granted a license or sublicense under any or all of the Licensed Patent Rights.
2.18 KHH Technology Rights means any and all ideas, inventions, formulae, processes, trade secrets and substantial know-how, intellectual property, techniques, methods, specifications, practices, data and other forms of information relating to the processes, methods and techniques for manufacturing, formulating and using the Licensed Patent Rights or relating to the Products, whether patentable or not and whether or not reduced to practice, including Licensed Patent Rights and registration data in each case owned or licensable by KHH or directly or indirectly derived from the foregoing or from Confidential Information of Licensor at any time during the term of this Agreement, other than BASF Technology Rights.
2.19 Technology Rights means KHH Technology Rights and BASF Technology Rights.
2.20 Territory means:
a) with respect to the Licensed Patents, the United States of America
b) with respect to the BASF Technology Rights, the BASF Territory
c) with respect to the KHH Technology Rights, the world.
2.21 Trademark means all right of KHH to the trademark Milsana ® as well as any unregistered version thereof, and associated goodwill.
2.22 Valid Claim means, with respect to any country, a claim of an issued patent within the Licensed Patents that has not, with respect to such country (a) expired or been canceled, (b) been declared invalid by an unreversed decision of a court or other appropriate body of competent jurisdiction from which there can be no further appeal, (c) been admitted to be invalid or unenforceable through reexamination, reissue, disclaimer or otherwise, and/or (d) been abandoned in accordance with or as permitted by the terms of this Agreement or by mutual written agreement.
ARTICLE 3
REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS OF KHH
KHH hereby represents, warrants and covenants to MOI as follows:
3.1 Corporate Power and Authority . KHH has the corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder. KHH also represents and warrants that, except as set forth in Exhibit C, it has the right and the authority, including ownership or appropriate and valid licenses, to grant the licenses set forth in Article 5 and to grant and perform its other rights and obligations hereunder.
3.2 Compliance with Law . KHH will conduct its activities and operations in material compliance with all applicable laws, statutes, rules or regulations.
3.3 No Conflicting Agreement . KHH represents and warrants that it has not granted to any third party any right or interest in any of the Licensed Patent Rights or other Technology Rights that is inconsistent with the rights granted to MOI herein and will not grant any third party such a right during the term of this Agreement.
3.4 No Litigation . KHH represents and warrants that, as of the date of execution of this Agreement, there are no pending or, to its actual knowledge, threatened actions, suits, investigations, claims, or proceedings in any way relating to the Licensed Patent Rights or other Technology Rights.
3.5 BASF Agreement . KHH represents and warrants that this Agreement is consistent with the relevant terms of the BASF Agreement and that MOI has no direct obligation to BASF under the BASF Agreement. As between KHH and MOI, KHH is solely responsible for performing its obligations under the BASF Agreement.
ARTICLE 4
REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS OF MOI
MOI represents, warrants and covenants the following to KHH:
4.1 Corporate Power and Authority . MOI has the corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder and thereunder.
4.2 Compliance with Law . MOI will conduct its activities and operations in material compliance with all applicable laws, statutes, rules or regulations.
ARTICLE 5
LICENSE GRANT AND APPLICATION ASSIGNMENT
5.1 Grant . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, to the terms and conditions of the BASF Agreement, to the terms and conditions of the Agro-Kanesho Assignment and License Agreement. KHH hereby grants to MOI an Exclusive, royalty-bearing, sublicensable license under the Licensed Patent Rights, BASF Technology Rights and KHH Technology Rights; and Trademarks, to research, develop, make, have made, import, have imported, use, have used, sell, have sold, offer for sale, have offered for sale, and otherwise exploit Products in the Territory.
5.2 Limits on Sublicensing . MOI has the right to grant nonexclusive or exclusive sublicenses hereunder, provided, that: (a) MOI will include all Net Revenues of Sublicensees in MOIs reports to KHH, as provided in Section 7.1 , and MOI will pay royalties thereon to KHH calculated pursuant to Section 6.2 ; and (b) MOI may grant sublicenses of no greater scope than the licenses granted under Section 5.1.
5.3 Assignment of Sublicenses . Any sublicenses granted by MOI of the rights it receives under Section 5.1 , including any nonexclusive sublicenses, will remain in effect and, at
MOIs and KHHs election, may be assigned to KHH if the license in Section 5.1 terminates pursuant to Article 13 , provided the financial obligations of each Sublicensee to KHH will be at least the same as the Sublicensees obligations to MOI with respect to Licensed Patent Rights but, in any event, will not be less than MOIs obligations to KHH for such sublicenses under this Agreement. In such event and subject to the preceding sentence, KHH will assume all the rights and obligations of MOI under such sublicenses with respect to the licenses granted under the Licensed Patents Rights and other Technology Rights to such Sublicensees. In the event of such assignment, unless otherwise agreed by KHH, KHH will not be obligated to assume any obligation of MOI under the license agreement other than the granting of the license rights consistent with the terms hereof.
5.4 Term of License . The license grant in Section 5.1 will continue for the term of this Agreement as set forth in Section 13.1, unless the Agreement is earlier terminated in accordance with Article 13 or otherwise.
ARTICLE 6
ROYALTIES
6.1 License Fee . In consideration for the license rights granted herein, MOI will pay KHH a license fee of [*****] for the licenses granted under this Agreement. Such license fee is payable as follows:
(a) [*****] of such fee is due within 15 days after the execution of this Agreement;
(b) [*****] of such fee is due within 15 days after satisfactory completion by KHH of the Diligence (as defined in Section 8.3 ); provided that, unless this Agreement is sooner terminated, such fee is payable within 60 days of the Effective Date; and
(c) [*****] be paid within 75 days of the Effective Date, contingent on successful due diligence.
6.2 Royalty on Sales of Products; Exclusions . With respect to the Sale of Products by or for MOI, and Affiliate of MOI, a Sublicensee, or and Affiliate of a Sublicensee, MOI will pay KHH [*****] of Net Revenues based on such Sale in such country. No more than one royalty payment will be due with respect to a Sale of a particular Product. No multiple royalties will be payable because any Product, or its manufacture, sale or use is covered by more than one Valid Claim in a given country. No royalty will be payable under this Section with respect to (a) Sales of Products among MOI, its Sublicensees or Affiliates, provided that the Sublicensees or Affiliates are not end users of the Product, or (b) Products distributed for use in research and/or development or as promotional samples or otherwise distributed without charge to Third Parties.
6.3 Maximum Amount; Duration of Royalty Obligation . Notwithstanding any other term of this Agreement, MOI is not obligated to pay KHH any royalties, license fees or other amounts under this Article or Article 10 , including royalties based on MOI or Sublicensee Product Sales, in excess of [*****] (the Maximum Amount ). Subject to the immediately preceding sentence, royalties due under this Article will be payable in U.S. Dollars on a country-by-country and Product-by-Product basis until the expiration of the Term of this Agreement.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
6.4 Minimum Royalties . If MOI pays to KHH, royalties, service fees and other amounts, pursuant to this Article or Article 10, in calendar years 2007, 2008 and 2009, less than [*****] then within 30 days of the end of such year MOI must pay KHH such shortfall. MOI will be entitled to credit the amount of any payment of the shortfall made under this Section against any future actual royalty amounts owed pursuant to Section 6.2 or 10.4.
6.5 Expenses. Independent of the foregoing royalty obligations, MOI shall be responsible for payment of all reasonable and pre-approved expenses of KHH in fulfilling its obligations to MOI under this Agreement.
ARTICLE 7
REPORTS, PAYMENTS AND RECORD
7.1 Reports; Payment . Following the first Sale of a Product, on or before the 30 th day after the end of each MOI fiscal quarter, and for so long as royalties are payable under this Agreement, MOI will render to KHH a report in writing, setting forth Net Revenues and the number of units of Products Sold in each country during such quarter by MOI and Sublicensees. MOI will pay to KHH with each such report any royalties due to KHH as indicated in such report.
7.2 Currency Exchange; Overdue Interest . Net Revenues received by MOI from Sublicensees in currencies other than U.S. dollars will be converted into U.S. dollars according to MOIs reasonable standard internal conversion procedures. Overdue payments under this Agreement will bear interest from the date due until paid at the lower of a per annum rate 1% above the prime rate in effect as published in the Wall Street Journal or at the highest interest rate permissible under applicable law.
7.3 Records; Audit . MOI will keep complete and accurate records and books of account in respect of all Products made and sold by MOI, its Affiliates and Sublicensees, under this Agreement, and, of all payment obligations to KHH under this Agreement. KHH will have the right, during business hours, no more often than annually unless there is breach of this Agreement by MOI to engage a nationally-certified auditing firm reasonably acceptable to MOI to examine such records and books of MOI its Sublicensees and Affiliates to verify the amounts paid to KHH hereunder. MOI will keep the same for at least 3 years after it pays KHH the royalties due for such Products. Such auditors will not disclose to KHH or to any third party any information learned through such examination. However, if MOI challenges any finding of underpayment, the auditors may disclose to KHH such information as is necessary to justify the auditors conclusions. KHH will not use any such information for any purpose other than determining and enforcing its rights under this Agreement. If KHHs examination of such records and books reveals any underpayment greater than 4% of the amount actually paid to KHH in the relevant time period, MOI will promptly pay to KHH the amount of such underpayment, and MOI will pay to KHH the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by KHH in connection with such examination.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
ARTICLE 8
TRANSFER AND DILIGENCE
8.1 Transfer . Within 60 days of the Effective Date, KHH will deliver to MOI the following:
(a) A separate tangible description of all KHH and BASF Technology Rights and copies of all related contracts, including the method of manufacture and formulation of the Products except for Assignee Information as defined in the Agro Kanesho License Agreement.
(b) All original or scanned (electronic) original documents and correspondence related to the Registration application filed by KHH with the United States Environmental Protection Agency with respect to technical registration of Reynoutria sachalinensis (REYSA) /Polygonum sachalinensis (POLSA), the Manufacturing Use Product, and the formulated product Milsana ® bioprotectant Concentrate (collectively, the Registration Application ).
(c) All trademark and patent documents.
(d) Efficacy data.
(e) All documents relating to plant production, formulation experimentation and final formulas
8.2 Consulting Services . MOI will pay KHH $100.00 per hour of expert consulting services by KHH personnel to facilitate the transfer under Section 8.1 and to otherwise assist MOI in the development of the Product; provided that MOI is not obligated to pay KHH more than a combined total of [*****], accumulated in 2007 and 2008 for such services, unless MOI requests more than [*****] hours of services, at which time the parties will mutually agree to a per hour price. The parties will mutually agree on the timing and scope of the services to be provided by KHH under this Section. The fees for such consulting services will be due 30 days after MOIs receipt of the related invoice, which must be accompanied by detailed description of the services. In addition, MOI will be responsible for reimbursing KHH for all reasonable out-of-pocket, pre-approved expenses related to the provision of such services. The foregoing fee represents the entire amount MOI is obligated to pay to KHH for such services.
8.3 Diligence. MOI may perform a due diligence investigation relating to the Technology Rights, the potential Products and the related business prospects (the Diligence ). MOIs start of diligence is when patents, trademarks, EPA registration documents and production information have been received. If within sixty (60) days after receipt of this information, MOI determines that any aspect of the Technology Rights or the potential Products are not satisfactory, then MOI may terminate this Agreement upon 15 days notice to KHH. However, prior to so terminating this Agreement MOI shall first engage in good faith negotiations with KHH to modify the terms of this Agreement in order to reasonably address such unsatisfactory matters. If MOI finds something in its due diligence that requires termination, then MOI will be entitled to a fee refund of its initial [*****].
8.4 Assignment . KHH hereby assigns to MOI all of KHHs right title and interest in and to the Registration Application provided that such rights, title and interest shall revert if this Agreement is terminated for any reason.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
ARTICLE 9
PROPRIETARY RIGHTS
9.1 Registrations; Improvements . MOI is entitled to submit all regulatory filings in its name and shall own all such filings and other registrations, including the Registrations. Any improvements to the Licensed Patent Rights or any other Technology Rights, whether patentable or not, made by MOI shall be the sole property of MOI.
9.2 MOI Trademarks . MOI will obtain and maintain trademarks for the Product as MOI sees fit at MOIs sole discretion and at its own expense. MOI will retain sole and exclusive ownership of such trademarks at all times. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as conferring on KHH the right to use in advertising, publicity or other promotional activities any name, trademark or tradename of MOI or its products.
9.3 Publicity. MOI may publicize the relationship under this Agreement as provided in Section 15.9.
ARTICLE 10
INFRINGEMENT BY THIRD PARTY
10.1 Right to Defend . As between KHH and MOI, MOI will at its expense, have the first right but not the obligation to protect the Licensed Patent Rights and other Technology Rights from infringement and prosecute infringers. If KHH supplies MOI with evidence of infringement of Licensed Patent Rights or other Technology Rights, KHH may by written notice request MOI to take steps to enforce such intellectual property rights. If KHH does so, and MOI does not, within 90 days of the receipt of such notice, either (a) cause the infringement to terminate, or (b) initiate and continue a legal action against the infringer, KHH may, upon written notice to MOI, initiate an action against the infringer at KHHs Notwithstanding the foregoing, MOI will have the right to sublicense any alleged infringer pursuant to Article 5.
10.2 Declaratory Judgment . If a declaratory judgment action or claim or counterclaim alleging invalidity, unenforceability or noninfringement of any of the Licensed Patents or other Technology Rights is brought against KHH or MOI, MOI may elect to have sole control of the action, and if MOI so elects it will bear all the costs of the action.
10.3 Cooperation in an Action . If one party institutes or carries on a legal action pursuant to Section 10.1 or 10.2, the other party will fully cooperate with and supply all assistance reasonably requested by the party instituting or carrying on such action, including, if requested by the party instituting the action and necessary to pursue the action, joining in such action at the expense of the party requesting such joinder. A party instituting or carrying on such an action will keep the other party informed of the progress of such action. Such other party will be entitled to be represented by counsel in connection with such action at its own expense.
10.4 Allocation of Recovery and Expenses. Any amounts paid to KHH or MOI by third parties as the result of an action brought by either party pursuant to Section 10.1 or 10.2 (such as in satisfaction of a judgment or pursuant to a settlement), will first be applied to reimbursement of the unreimbursed expenses (including attorneys fees and expert fees) incurred by each party. If this Agreement has not been terminated and the recovery is in the form of lost
revenues, then any remainder of the recovery after expenses shall be paid first to KHH as provided in Article 6. If this Agreement has not been terminated and the recovery is in the nature of lost profits, then the parties will in good faith impute the amount of Net Revenues which would have generated such profits, and the amounts to be paid under Article 6 shall be paid to KHH with respect to such imputed Net Revenues, with the remainder in either case to be paid to MOI.
ARTICLE 11
CONFIDENTIALITY
11.1 Scope . During the term of this Agreement and for 5 years thereafter, MOI and KHH agree: (a) not to disclose to any third party, except as specifically allowed by this Agreement, any Confidential Information of the other party, and (b) to limit disclosure of Confidential Information within its own organization to individuals whose duties justify the need to know such information and who are legally obligated to comply with the terms of this Agreement; provided , however , that nothing herein will limit disclosures by MOI in connection with MOIs exercise of its license rights as granted in Article 5, so long as the recipient is likewise bound by Confidentiality obligations at least as restrictive as Article 11. T o the extent practical, Confidential Information will be disclosed in tangible form and marked Confidential. Information disclosed in non-tangible form, such as orally or by visual inspection, will be considered confidential when the disclosing party confirms in writing the fact and general nature of the disclosure within 1 month after it is made.
11.2 Exclusions . The recipient of Confidential Information will be under no obligation with respect to any information which: (a) at the time of disclosure is available to the public; (b) after disclosure becomes available to the public through no fault of the recipient, provided that the obligation of the recipient will cease only after the date on which such information has become available to the public; (c) the recipient can demonstrate through tangible evidence was in its possession before receipt from the disclosing party; (d) is disclosed to the recipient without restriction on disclosure by a third party who has the lawful right to disclose such information; or (e) was independently developed by the recipient as proven by contemporaneous documentation made prior to the disclosure to recipient. Confidential Information will not be deemed to be within the foregoing exceptions merely because it is: (i) specific and embraced by more general information in the public domain or the recipients possession or; (ii) a combination which can be pieced together to reconstruct the Confidential Information from multiple sources, none of which shows the whole combination, its principle of operation, or method of use.
11.3 Required Disclosure . It will not be a breach of this Article if the recipient party is required to disclose the other partys Confidential Information pursuant to an order of the government or a court of competent jurisdiction, provided that (a) the recipient party provides the other party with adequate notice of the court or government order and the required disclosure, (b) the recipient party cooperates with the other partys efforts to protect its Confidential Information with respect to such disclosure, and (c) the recipient party takes all reasonable measures requested by the other party to challenge or to modify the scope of such required disclosure.
11.4 Terms of this Agreement . Except as expressly provided herein, MOI and KHH agree not to disclose any terms of this Agreement to any third party without the consent of the other party; provided , however , that disclosures may be made as required by securities or other applicable laws, to actual or prospective investors and corporate partners, and to a partys accountants, attorneys, and other professional advisors who agree to appropriate confidentiality provisions to protect such information from disclosure or improper use, and by MOI to Sublicensees or potential Sublicensees. Also, nothing in this Agreement shall prevent MOI from providing to another customer MOIs standard form agreements.
ARTICLE 12
PATENTS AND PATENT COSTS
12.1 Patent Costs . Subject to the terms of Sections 12.2 and 13.3, from and after the Effective Date, MOI will pay for 100% of the patent costs incurred in connection with the Licensed Patent Rights,
12.2 Responsible Party . MOI will have the sole right to right to apply for, prosecute and maintain, from the Effective Date through the termination of this Agreement, the Licensed Patent Rights and other Technology Rights. The application filings, prosecution, maintenance and payment of all fees and expenses, including legal fees, relating to the Licensed Patent Rights will be the responsibility of MOI during such period, subject to Section 133. At MOIs expense, KHH will provide MOI with all information necessary or useful for the filing and prosecution of such Licensed Patent Rights and other Technology Rights and will cooperate fully with MOI so that MOI may establish and maintain such rights. Patent attorneys chosen by MOI will handle all patent filings and prosecutions, on behalf of KHH, provided , however , KHH will be entitled to review and comment upon and approve, all material actions undertaken in the prosecution of all patents and applications. KHH will be deemed to have approved any such action if it fails to disapprove such action within 10 business days of request for approval. KHH will promptly provide any comments or approvals which it elects to provide hereunder. If MOI declines to apply for, prosecute or maintain any Licensed Patent Rights and other Technology Rights, KHH will have the right to pursue the same at KHHs expense and MOI will have no rights under KHHs interest therein nor any obligation to reimburse KHH for its related prosecution and maintenance fees. If MOI decides not to apply for, prosecute or maintain any Licensed Patent Rights, MOI will give sufficient and timely notice to KHH so as to permit KHH to apply for, prosecute and maintain such Licensed Patent Rights. In such event, MOI will provide KHH with all information necessary or useful for the filing and prosecution of such Licensed Patent Rights and will cooperate fully with KHH so that KHH may establish and maintain such rights.
ARTICLE 13
TERM AND TERMINATION
13.1 Term . The term of this Agreement will commence on the Effective Date and, unless earlier terminated in accordance with this Article, expire on the later of (a) the 10 th anniversary of the Effective Date, or (b) the expiration of the last-to-expire issued Valid Claim and any other patent issued relating to any other Technology Rights.
13.2 Termination by KHH . KHH may terminate this Agreement prior to the date it would otherwise expire pursuant to Section 13.1 if (a) MOI materially breaches this Agreement and fails to cure such breach within 60 days after notice from KHH of such breach, or (b) any proceedings are instituted by or against MOI under any bankruptcy, insolvency, or moratorium law and such remain undismissed for at least 90 days.
13.3 Termination by MOI . MOI may terminate this Agreement prior to the date it would otherwise expire pursuant to Section 13.1 if (a) KHH materially breaches this Agreement and fails to cure such breach within 60 days after notice from MOI of such breach, or (b) any proceedings are instituted by or against KHH under any bankruptcy, insolvency, or moratorium law and such remain undismissed for at least 90 days. Also, MOI may terminate this Agreement as provided in Sections 8.3.
13.4 Rights Regarding Products . Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, following the termination or expiration of the term of this Agreement, MOI will have the right to use or sell Products on hand on the date of such termination or expiration and to complete Products in the process of manufacture at the time of such termination or expiration and use or sell the same, provided that MOI will submit the applicable royalty reports described in Sections 7.1 , along with the royalty payments required above in accordance with Section 6.2 for Sale of such Products. MOI may continue to sell Products to customers beyond the time period of the agreement.
13.5 No Waiver of Claims; Assignment of Sublicenses . Termination of this Agreement for any reason will not release any either party from any liability which had accrued to the other party or which is attributable to a period prior to such termination. Upon any termination of this Agreement, KHH will accept an assignment by MOI of any sublicenses granted by MOI to Sublicensees in accordance with Section 5.3 , and any sublicense so assigned will remain in full force and effect
13.6 Survival . Termination of this Agreement will not relieve MOI of liability for payment of any royalty due for Products made prior to the effective date of such termination. Also, Articles 2, 3, 4, 9, 11, 13, 14 and 15 will survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement for any reason.
13.7 Return of Materials and Confidential Information. Upon termination of this Agreement for any reason, MOI shall return to KHH all materials, Confidential Information, KHH Technology Rights and BASF Technology Rights, and MOI shall not use the same or any part thereof for any purpose whatsoever.
13.8 Consequences of Termination. Subject to its rights under Sections 13.4, if applicable, if MOI terminates this Agreement for any reason prior to 2016, it shall refrain, directly or indirectly, from the growing, production, marketing or distribution of Products anywhere within the Territory for two years after such termination, provided that MOI may retain and continue to use such materials as necessary to exercise rights under Sections 13.4.
ARTICLE 14
INDEMNITY
14.1 MOI Indemnity . MOI hereby agrees to defend, at its own expense, KHH from and against any third party claim alleging, arising out of, or resulting from, (a) any breach of or inaccuracy in any representation or warranty made by MOI herein, or (b) the use or commercialization by MOI, its Sublicensees or assignees of the Licensed Patent Rights or any other Technology Rights to the extent that any such claim arise solely from the actions of MOI. Subject to compliance with Section 14.3, MOI agrees to pay any damage or award finally awarded against KHH in such action or agreed upon in settlement.
14.2 KHH Indemnity . KHH agrees to defend MOI from and against any third party claim alleging, arising out of, or resulting from, any breach of or inaccuracy in any representation or warranty made by KHH herein. Subject to compliance with Section 14.3, KHH agrees to pay any damage or award finally awarded against MOI in such action or agreed upon in settlement.
14.3 Process . Any party obligated to provide indemnity under this Article must be (a) notified promptly of any claims for which indemnity is sought and of which the applicable party has notice, (b) have the sole right to control and defend or settle any litigation within the scope of such partys indemnity, and (c) provided reasonable cooperation be the indemnified party in the defense of any such claims.
ARTICLE 15
MISCELLANEOUS
15.1 This Agreement will be governed by the laws of the State of California.
15.2 Assignment . This Agreement may not be assigned or otherwise transferred by any party without the prior written consent of the other party; provided , however , that either party may assign this Agreement, without the consent of the other party (a) to any of its Affiliates, if the assigning party guarantees the full performance of its Affiliates obligations hereunder, or (b) in connection with the transfer or sale of all or substantially all of the related assets or business or in the event of its merger or consolidation with another company. In all cases the assigning party will provide the other party with prompt notice of any such assignment. No assignment will release a party from responsibility for the performance of any accrued obligation of such party hereunder.
15.3 Notices . All notices, requests or consents required or permitted under this Agreement will be made in writing and will be given to the other party by personal delivery, registered or certified mail (with return receipt), overnight air courier (with receipt signature) or facsimile transmission (with answerback confirmation of transmission), sent to such partys address or telecopy numbers set forth below, or such other addresses or telecopy numbers of which the parties have given notice pursuant to this Section. Each such notice, request or consent will be deemed effective upon the date of actual receipt, receipt signature or confirmation of transmission, as applicable.
If to MOI: | If to KHH: |
Marrone Organic Innovations, Inc. | KHH Biosci, Inc. | |
215 Madson Place, Suites B/C Davis, CA 95618 USA Attn: Dr. Pamela G. Marrone Phone: (530) 750-2800 Facsimile: (530) 750-2808 |
634 Lake Hogan Lane Chapel Hill, NC 27516 USA Attn: Dr. Hans von Amsberg [*****] |
15.4 Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter herein and supersedes all prior agreements with respect thereto. This Agreement may be amended only in writing signed by both parties.
15.5 Severability . If a court or regulatory authority of competent jurisdiction determines that one or more of the paragraphs or provisions of this Agreement are or may be invalid or unenforceable such decision will not affect the remainder of this Agreement.
15.6 Force Majeure . The parties will not be liable for any delay in or failure of performance hereunder due to any contingency beyond its reasonable control including but not limited to an act of God, war, mobilization, insurrection, rebellion, civil commotion, riot, act of extremist or public enemy, sabotage, labor dispute, lockout, strike, explosion, fire, flood, storm, accident, drought, equipment failure, power failure, shortage of cars, delay of carrier, embargo, law, ordinance, rule or regulation, whether valid or invalid, including priority requisition, allocation, or price control.
15.7 Waiver . Failure by either party hereto to exercise or enforce any rights conferred upon it by this Agreement will not be deemed to be a waiver of any such rights or operate so as to bar the exercise or enforcement thereof or of any other rights at any subsequent time or times.
15.8 Status of the Parties . Nothing in this Agreement will be construed as to constitute a partnership or joint venture between the parties or authorize either to represent the other party or contract any liability on behalf of the other party.
15.9 Joint Press Release; Publicity . Upon execution of this Agreement or as soon as practicable thereafter, the parties will issue a joint press release, the text of which will be mutually acceptable to the parties. In addition, from time to time during the term hereof, MOI may issue press releases and other forms of publicity referring to the Products and KHHs role with respect thereto, such to be subject to the consent of KHH (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed).
15.10 No Consequential Damages . Except for claims arising out of breach of Article 11, neither party will be liable to the other for any special, consequential, incidental, or indirect damages arising out of this agreement, however caused, under any theory of liability.
15.11 Construction . This Agreement is the result of negotiations among, and has been reviewed by, KHH and MOI. Accordingly, this Agreement will be deemed to be the product of both parties, and no ambiguity will be construed in favor of, or against, KHH or MOI.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
15.12 Other Interpretive Provisions . References in this Agreement to Articles and Sections are to articles and sections herein unless otherwise indicated. The words include and including and words of similar import when used in this Agreement will not be construed to be limiting or exclusive. Except as provided in a particular context, the word or when used in this Agreement may mean each as well as all alternatives. Headings in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and are not part of the substance hereof. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument.
I N W ITNESS W HEREOF , the parties have caused this Agreement to be executed on the dates indicated below but to be effective as of the Effective Date.
M ARRONE O RGANIC I NNOVATIONS , I NC . | KHH B IOSCI , I NC . | |||||||
By: | /s/ Pamela Marrone | By: | /s/ Hans von Amsberg | |||||
Name: | Pamela Marrone | Name: | Hans von Amsberg | |||||
Title: | President & CEO | Title: | President KHH BioSci, Inc. | |||||
Date: | May 21, 2007 | Date: | May 22, 2007 |
EXHIBIT C
LICENSED PATENTS
Country |
Number |
Status |
Expiring |
|||
USA | 5,989,429 | Granted | [On or around 2016] | |||
USA | 4,863,734 | Granted | Sept. 05, 2006 [Expired] | |||
Canada | 1,292,679 | Granted | Dec. 03, 2008 [Not maintained] | |||
South Africa | 0088/7962 | Granted | Oct. 25, 2008 [Not maintained] | |||
Australia | 746341 | Granted | November 5, 2018 |
Exhibit 10.26
LICENSE AGREEMENT
T HIS L ICENSE A GREEMENT (this Agreement ) is made and entered into effective as of December 28, 2009 (the Effective Date ), by and between THE U NIVERSITY OF THE S TATE OF N EW Y ORK ( USNY ), a New York corporation maintaining offices at State Education Building Room 121, Albany, New York 12234-1000, and M ARRONE B IO I NNOVATIONS , I NC . ( MBI ), a Delaware corporation maintaining offices at 2121 Second Street, Ste. B-107, Davis, California 95618.
ARTICLE 1
BACKGROUND
1.1 USNY has the right and the authority to grant certain licenses to the patents, patent applications and other inventions listed in Exhibit A .
1.2 MBI is desirous of obtaining, and USNY wishes to grant to MBI, an exclusive license to the Licensed Patent Rights (as defined in Section 2.9 ) and the Technology Rights (as defined in Section 2.15 ) under the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
ARTICLE 2
DEFINITIONS
2.1 Affiliates means, with respect to a party, any entity that controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the party. For the avoidance of doubt, Affiliate, with respect to USNY includes without limitation the New York State Education Department (NYSED).
2.2 Confidential Technology means the following: (a) the detailed culturing (e.g., fermentation) protocols related to the Licensed Product; (b) the specific location in North America where [*****]; (c) detailed protocols (dosage, etc.) used for [*****] by either [*****]; and (d) detailed protocols for [*****] to achieve higher [*****] than would be achieved by [*****].
2.3 Confidential Information means, as to either party and without limitation, such partys proprietary or confidential items including: Confidential Technology, data, know-how, formulas, compositions, processes, documents, designs, sketches, photographs, plans, graphs, drawings, specifications, equipment, samples, reports, findings, inventions, ideas and information, including business information related to Licensed Products and the Technology Rights.
2.4 Customer means any purchaser of a Licensed Product other than USNY, MBI, or a Sublicensee.
[*****] |
Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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2.5 Deductible Expenses means the following items of expense incurred in connection with Sales of Licensed Products to the extent paid or allowed by MBI and/or a Sublicensee: (a) sales, use or turnover taxes; (b) excise, value added, importation or other taxes, custom duties or consular fees; (c) transportation, freight, and handling charges, and insurance on shipments to customers; (d) trade, cash or quantity discounts or rebates to the extent actually granted (including government-mandated rebates); (e) rebates, refunds, and credits for any rejected or returned Licensed Products or due to billing errors or because of retroactive price reductions, rebates or chargebacks; and (f) uncollected accounts receivable attributable to Sales of Licensed Products.
2.6 Exclusive means that for the term of this Agreement USNY will not, in the Field, use or license to any licensee, other than MBI, the Licensed Patents or the Technology Rights.
2.7 EPA Registration means a Section 3 approval by the United States Environmental Protection Agency of a Licensed Product as a microbial pesticide.
2.8 Field means applications or uses as a pesticide.
2.9 Licensed Patents means: (i) all domestic and foreign patents and patent applications listed in Exhibit A attached hereto; (ii) all divisionals, continuations, and continuations-in-part of the foregoing patent applications; (iii) all patents that issue on any of the foregoing patent applications; (iv) all foreign counterparts of the foregoing patents and patent applications; and (v) all reissues, reexaminations, renewals, extensions, and supplementary protection certificates relating to any of the foregoing patents. Exhibit A may be updated from time to time on mutual agreement.
2.10 Licensed Patent Rights means any and all rights under the Licensed Patents.
2.11 Licensed Product means any product or device that is covered by, or is made by or utilizes a process or material covered by, the Licensed Patent Rights or based on the Technology Rights.
2.12 Net Revenues means the amount received by MBI or a Sublicensee, in each case for the Sale of a Licensed Product to a Customer, less the Deductible Expenses applicable to such Sale.
2.13 Sale means the sale, transfer, exchange or other commercial disposition of a Licensed Product, which shall include the use of such Licensed Product in a service performed for a Customer. In case of doubt, Sales of Licensed Products shall be deemed consummated no later than receipt of payment from a Customer for the applicable transaction involving such Licensed Product.
2.14 Sublicensee shall mean, with respect to a particular Licensed Product, a third party to which MBI has granted a license or sublicense under any or all of the Licensed Patent Rights and/or any other Technology Rights.
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2.15 Technology Rights means all ideas, inventions, formulae, processes, trade secrets, know-how, intellectual property, techniques, methods, specifications, practices, data and other forms of information, including the Confidential Technology, relating to the processes, methods and techniques for manufacturing, formulating and using the Licensed Patent Rights or relating to the Licensed Products, whether patentable or not and whether or not reduced to practice, including Licensed Patent Rights and registration data, in each case owned or licensable or otherwise controlled by USNY or an Affiliate or directly or indirectly derived from the foregoing at any time during the term of this Agreement. For avoidance of doubt, Technology Rights do not include research results, protocols or the like that relate only to biological strains or organisms other than those disclosed or covered by the Licensed Patents, whether or not such other biological strains or organisms could be used in the Field.
2.16 Territory means the entire world.
2.17 Valid Claim means, with respect to any country, a claim of an issued patent within the Licensed Patents that has not, with respect to such country (a) expired or been canceled, (b) been declared invalid by an unreversed decision of a court or other appropriate body of competent jurisdiction from which there can be no further appeal, (c) been admitted to be invalid or unenforceable through reexamination, reissue, disclaimer or otherwise, and/or (d) been abandoned in accordance with or as permitted by the terms of this Agreement or by mutual written agreement.
ARTICLE 3
REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS OF USNY
3.1 Corporate Power and Authority . USNY has the corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder. USNY also represents and warrants that it has the right and the authority, including ownership or appropriate and valid licenses, to grant the licenses set forth in Article 5 and to grant and perform its other rights and obligations thereunder.
3.2 Compliance with Law . USNY will conduct its activities and operations under this Agreement in compliance with all applicable laws, statutes, rules or regulations.
3.3 Ownership; No Conflicting Agreement . USNY represents and warrants that it has the right to grant the licenses granted under this Agreement, that it has joint title and co-ownership of the Licensed Patent Rights and the Technology Rights with two co-owners, that it has obtained rights in the Field from one such co-owner of the Licensed Patent Rights and the Technology Rights and that to the best of USNYs knowledge neither such co-owner nor any other joint or co-owner has granted to any third party any right or interest in any of the Licensed Patent Rights or other Technology Rights in the Field. USNY represents and warrants that it has not granted, and no Affiliate has granted, to any third party any right or interest in any of the Licensed Patent Rights or other Technology Rights that is inconsistent with the rights granted to MBI herein, and neither USNY or any Affiliate will grant any third party such a right during the term of this Agreement.
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3.4 No Litigation . USNY represents and warrants that, as of the Effective Date, there are no pending or, to its or its Affiliates knowledge, threatened actions, suits, investigations, claims, or proceedings in any way relating to the Licensed Patent Rights or other Technology Rights.
ARTICLE 4
REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS OF MBI
4.1 Corporate Power and Authority . MBI has the corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder.
4.2 Compliance with Law . MBI will conduct its activities and operations under this Agreement in compliance with all applicable laws, statutes, rules or regulations.
4.3 Commercialization . MBI will use its best efforts to commercialize the Licensed Products. MBI will not provide Licensed Products at less than fair market value in order to intentionally avoid the royalties required hereunder or in order to intentionally induce purchase of other products or services of MBI; provided , however , that nothing herein shall prohibit or impair the right of MBI to distribute Licensed Products at other than fair market value for use in research and/or development, as promotional samples, for testing, demonstrations or trials or otherwise to third parties to promote Sales.
4.4 Patent Coverage and Validity . MBI will not contest the validity of the Licensed Patents or the coverage of the Licensed Patents of MBIs Licensed Products as currently planned, nor will MBI intentionally assist any third party, including any Sublicensee, in doing so.
ARTICLE 5
PATENT LICENSE GRANT
5.1 Grant . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, USNY hereby grants to MBI an Exclusive, royalty-bearing, sublicensable license (or sublicense, as applicable) in the Field, under the Licensed Patent Rights and any other Technology Rights, to research, develop, make, have made, import, have imported, use, have used, sell, have sold, offer for sale, have offered for sale, and otherwise exploit Licensed Products in the Territory and in the Field.
5.2 Exceptions . The license grant in Section 5.1 is subject only to the reservation of USNYs and NYSEDs rights: (a) to make, have made or use the Licensed Patent Rights and Technology Rights for USNYs and NYSEDs research and educational purposes only (including such USNY or NYSED research sponsored or funded by non-profit or government entities) but not to assist or support any other party in connection with any commercial use in the Field and not for sale or other distribution to third parties for commercial use in the Field; and (b) to make, have made, use or license the Licensed Patent Rights and Technology Rights for use outside the Field. Consistent with the foregoing limited exception, USNY or NYSED may, and until January 1, 2010 as between themselves and MBI shall have the exclusive right to, submit the results of their research underlying the Licensed Patent Rights and Technology Rights in
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reputable scientific journals or at scientific conferences; provided , however , that, at all times prior to January 1, 2010 and thereafter, MBI shall be furnished with a copy of any proposed publication, paper or any other oral or written disclosure prior to submission for publication or disclosure to a third party and for limitation as provided below. In the case of abstracts, MBI shall be given a copy at least seven (7) days prior to the earlier of submission or disclosure; in all other cases MBI shall be given such material at least fifteen (15) days prior to the earlier of submission or disclosure to third parties. At the end of such 7 or 15 day period USNY or NYSED may proceed with submission or disclosure unless MBI has notified NYSED (or USNY) that in MBIs reasonable opinion, supported by evidence, the submission or disclosure may describe or relate to inventions, materials or discoveries made by MBI or USNY or Affiliates which MBI believes may be patentable and for which no patent application has been filed, or which is a trade secret or other confidential material the disclosure of which may be adverse to MBIs commercialization of the Licensed Product. If MBI has made such notification, then USNY or NYSED shall, as reasonably notified by MBI, edit such submission or disclosure, redact from such submission or disclosure any such material or refrain from making such submission or disclosure; provided , however , that USNY or NYSED may elect to refrain from publishing such confidential material rather than publishing a redacted version. Without limitation to the foregoing, MBI, USNY and NYSED and any of their Affiliates will not publish or otherwise make public the following information: (a) the detailed culturing (e.g., fermentation) protocols related to the Licensed Product; (b) the specific location in North America where the bacterial strain was originally isolated; (c) the detailed protocols (dosage, etc.) used for killing the cells by either e-beaming or gamma ionizing radiation; or (d) the detailed protocols for combining supernatant with cells to achieve higher dreissenid mortality than would be achieved by just cells alone; provided , however , that nothing herein will limit confidential disclosures by MBI in connection with MBIs exercise of its license rights as granted above.
5.3 Limits on Sublicensing . MBI has the right to grant nonexclusive or exclusive sublicenses hereunder, provided , that: (a) MBI shall pay royalties on all Net Revenues of Sublicensees to USNY in accordance with Article 6 ; (b) MBI may grant sublicenses of no greater scope than the licenses granted under Section 5.1 ; (c) MBI shall inform USNY of any proposed sublicenses; and (d) MBI shall not enter into a sublicense with any party that is barred from contracting with the State of New York
5.4 Assignment of Sublicenses . Any sublicenses granted by MBI of the rights it receives under Section 5.1 , including any nonexclusive sublicenses, will remain in effect and, at MBIs election, may be assigned to USNY if the license in Section 5.1 terminates pursuant to Article 12 , provided the financial obligations of each Sublicensee to USNY will be at least the same as the Sublicensees obligations to MBI with respect to Licensed Patent Rights but, in any event, will not be less than MBIs obligations to USNY for such sublicenses under this Agreement and provided that USNY has been provided with a copy of any sublicense agreement, USNY finds the terms of such agreement reasonably acceptable and any Sublicensee to be assigned agrees to comply with all of the terms of this Agreement. For avoidance of doubt, USNY may reject assignment of a sublicense if USNY reasonably concludes that MBI or the Sublicensee has not provided adequate assurance of the capability of the Sublicensee to satisfy the financial obligations of this Agreement. In such event and subject to the preceding
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sentences, and provided that any such Sublicensees are not barred from contracting with the State of New York, USNY will assume all the rights and obligations of MBI under such sublicenses with respect to the licenses granted under the Licensed Patents Rights and other Technology Rights to such Sublicensees. In the event of such assignment, unless otherwise agreed by USNY, USNY will not be obligated to assume any obligation of MBI under the license agreement other than the granting of the license rights consistent with the terms hereof.
5.5 Term of License . The license grant in Section 5.1 shall continue for the term of this Agreement as set forth in Section 12.1 , unless the Agreement is earlier terminated in accordance with Article 12 or otherwise.
ARTICLE 6
ROYALTIES
6.1 Licensee Fee . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, MBI will pay USNY a license fee for the licenses granted under this Agreement. Such license fee shall be payable as follows:
(a) [*****] of such fee is due within [*****] after the Effective Date of this Agreement; and
(b) [*****] of such fee is due within [*****] after satisfactory receipt by MBI of the first EPA Registration.
6.2 Royalty on Sales of Licensed Products; Exclusions . With respect to the Sale after the Effective Date of Licensed Products by or for MBI in the United States or Canada where a Valid Claim in the Field remains in such country ( North American Valid Claims ), MBI shall pay USNY [*****] of Net Revenues based on such Sale in such country. With respect to the Sale after the Effective Date of Licensed Products by or for MBI in any other country, if and to the extent a North American Valid Claim in the Field remains, MBI shall pay USNY [*****] of Net Revenues based on such Sale in such country. With respect to the Sale after the Effective Date of Licensed Products by or for MBI in any country, where no North American Valid Claim in the Field remains, MBI shall pay USNY [*****] of Net Revenues based on such Sale in any such country during the term of this Agreement. No more than one royalty payment will be due with respect to a particular Sale of a Licensed Product. No multiple royalties will be payable because any Licensed Product, or its manufacture, sale or use is covered by more than one Valid Claim in a given country. No royalty will be payable under this Section with respect to (a) Sales of Licensed Products among MBI and its Sublicensees, provided that the Sublicensees are not end users of the Licensed Product and provided MBI pays USNY royalties owing on Net Revenues of such Sublicensees, or (b) Licensed Products distributed for use in research and/or development or as promotional samples or otherwise distributed without charge to third parties to promote Sales of Licensed Products.
6.3 Maximum Amount; Duration of Royalty Obligation . Notwithstanding any other term of this Agreement, MBI is not obligated to pay USNY any royalties, license fees or other amounts under this Article or otherwise, including royalties based on MBI or Sublicensee Licensed Product Sales but excluding the license fees described in Section 6.1, in excess of [*****]. Subject to the immediately preceding sentence, royalties due under this Article will
[*****] |
Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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be payable in U.S. Dollars on a country-by-country and Licensed Product-by-Licensed Product basis until the end of the term of this Agreement.
6.4 Currency Exchange . For the purpose of determining royalties payable under this Agreement, any royalties or other revenues MBI receives in currencies other than U.S. dollars and any Net Revenues denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars shall be converted into U.S. dollars according to MBIs reasonable standard conversion procedures (which shall be based on a readily available published rate).
ARTICLE 7
PROPRIETARY RIGHTS
7.1 Registrations; Improvements . MBI is entitled to submit all regulatory filings in its name and shall own all such filings and other registrations, including the EPA Registrations and Canadian PMRA (Pest Management Regulatory Agency) registrations. USNY and its Affiliates shall provide MBI with all information reasonably necessary or useful for such filings and registrations and shall cooperate with MBI so that MBI may make and maintain such filings and registrations. Prior to March 1, 2010, USNYs and its Affiliates obligations under the preceding sentence shall be at USNYs cost, and from and after March 1, 2010, USNY and its Affiliates shall be reimbursed for reasonable and customary expenses USNY and its Affiliates actually incur thereafter in performing such obligation provided that such expenses are first disclosed to MBI. Any improvements to the Licensed Patent Rights or any other Technology Rights, whether patentable or not, made by MBI shall be the sole property of MBI.
7.2 MBI Trademarks . MBI will obtain and maintain trademarks for the Licensed Products as MBI sees fit at MBIs sole discretion and at its own expense. MBI will retain sole and exclusive ownership of such trademarks at all times. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as conferring on USNY the right to use in advertising, publicity or other promotional activities any name, trademark or tradename of MBI or its products; provided , however ; in the event of an assignment of a sublicense from MBI to USNY in accordance with Section 5.4 of this Agreement, USNY shall have the limited right to use the MBI trademarks solely in connection with a sale, transfer, exchange or other commercial disposition of Licensed Products that use such MBI trademarks and are already manufactured at the time of such assignment of a sublicense if, and only to the extent, necessary to effect such sale, transfer, exchange or other commercial disposition.
ARTICLE 8
INFRINGEMENT BY THIRD PARTY
8.1 Right to Defend . As between USNY and MBI, MBI shall at its expense, have the first right but not the obligation to protect the Licensed Patent Rights and other Technology Rights from infringement and prosecute infringers when, in its sole judgment, such action may be reasonably necessary, proper and justified in order to maintain the value of MBIs rights in the Field. If USNY shall have supplied MBI with evidence of infringement of Licensed Patent Rights, or other Technology Rights. USNY may by written notice request MBI to take steps to enforce such intellectual property rights. If USNY does so, and MBI does not, within one hundred eighty (180) days of the receipt of such notice, either (a) cause the infringement to
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terminate, or (b) initiate and continue a legal action against the infringer, USNY may, upon written notice to MBI, initiate an action against the infringer at USNYs expense. Notwithstanding the foregoing, MBI shall have the right to sublicense any alleged infringer pursuant to Article 5.
8.2 Declaratory Judgment . In the event that a declaratory judgment action or claim or counterclaim alleging invalidity, unenforceability or noninfringement of any of the Licensed Patents or other Technology Rights related to the Field shall be brought against USNY or MBI, MBI may elect to have control of the action, and if MBI so elects it shall bear all the costs of the action; provided, however, that if such action, claim or counterclaim materially and adversely impacts rights outside the Field reserved to USNY or its Affiliates or licensed to a third party, then USNY, the Affiliate, or the licensee shall have the right to participate in the action, claim or counterclaim, to comment on the defense or settlement of any such action, claim or counterclaim and their own expense, and to approve (such approval not be unreasonably withheld or delayed) any settlement of such action, claim or counterclaim that would have a material adverse impact on the Licensed Patent Rights or Technology Rights outside the Field reserved to USNY or its Affiliates.
8.3 Cooperation in an Action . In the event one party shall institute or carry on a legal action pursuant to Section 8.1 or 8.2 , the other party shall fully cooperate with and supply all assistance reasonably requested by the party instituting or carrying on such action, including (a) by using commercially reasonable efforts to have its employees testify when requested and to make available relevant records, papers, information, samples, specimens, and the like, and (b) if requested by the party instituting the action and necessary to pursue the action, joining in such action at the expense of the party requesting such joinder. A party instituting or carrying on such an action shall keep the other party informed of the progress of such action, and said other party shall be entitled to be represented by counsel in connection with such action at its own expense.
8.4 Allocation of Recovery . Any amounts paid to USNY or MBI by third parties as the result of an action brought by either party pursuant to Section 8.1 or 8.2 (such as in satisfaction of a judgment or pursuant to a settlement), shall first be applied to reimbursement of the unreimbursed expenses (including attorneys fees and expert fees) incurred by each party. Any remainder of the amount paid to MBI or USNY shall be divided between the parties as follows: (a) if such amount was paid to USNY, fifty percent (50%) of such remainder shall be retained by USNY and the balance shall be paid to MBI; or (b) if such amount was paid to MBI, such remainder shall be deemed to be Net Revenues for Sale of Licensed Products and MBI shall pay to USNY royalties on such amounts pursuant to Section 6.2 .
ARTICLE 9
RECORDS, REPORTS AND PAYMENTS
9.1 Records; Audit . MBI shall keep complete and accurate records and books of account in respect of all Licensed Products made and sold by MBI and of all payment obligations to USNY hereunder. MBI shall keep the same for at least six (6) years after it pays USNY the royalties due for such Licensed Products. USNY shall have the right, during business hours, no more often than annually, to engage, at its own expense (other than as provided in the last sentence of this Section) a nationally-certified auditing firm reasonably acceptable to MBI to
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examine such records and books to verify the amounts paid to USNY hereunder. Such auditors shall not disclose to USNY or to any third party any confidential information learned through an examination of such records and books, except for any information showing a discrepancy in amounts owed to USNY, and USNY shall not use any such information for any purpose other than determining and enforcing its rights under this Agreement. In the event that USNYs examination of such records and books reveals any underpayment greater than ten percent (10%) of the amount actually paid to USNY in the relevant time period, MBI shall promptly pay to USNY the amount of such underpayment, and MBI shall pay to USNY the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by USNY in connection with such examination.
9.2 Reports; Payment . Following the first Sale of a Licensed Product, on or before the day that is sixty (60) days after the end of each MBI fiscal quarter, and for so long as royalties are payable under this Agreement, MBI shall render to USNY a report in writing setting forth Net Revenues and the number of units of Licensed Products Sold in each country during such quarter by MBI and Sublicensees during the preceding fiscal quarter (to the extent royalties are payable to USNY based on such revenues). Each such report shall also set forth an explanation of the calculation of the royalties payable hereunder and be accompanied by payment of the royalties shown by said report to be due USNY, as well as payment of any underpayment in any prior period revealed by any audit by MBI or USNY. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if (a) USNY materially breaches this Agreement, (b) MBI gives USNY written notice of the breach, and (c) USNY has not cured the breach by the time a payment is due under this Section 9.2 , then MBI may make the required payment into an interest bearing escrow account to be released to USNY when the breach is cured, less any damages that are payable to MBI by virtue of USNYs breach.
ARTICLE 10
CONFIDENTIALITY
10.1 Scop e. During the term of this Agreement and for 5 years thereafter, MBI and USNY agree: (a) not to disclose to any third party, except as specifically allowed by this Agreement, any Confidential Information of the other party, and (b) to limit disclosure of the other partys Confidential Information within its own organization to individuals whose duties justify the need to know such information and who are legally obligated to comply with the terms of this Agreement; provided , however , that nothing herein will limit disclosures by MBI in connection with MBIs exercise of its license rights as granted in Article 5 , and provided , further , that nothing herein will limit disclosures among USNY and NYSED or to persons working with USNY or NYSED on research outside the Field and who have signed a confidentiality statement agreeing to abide by the terms of Article 10 of this Agreement. To the extent practical, Confidential Information will be disclosed in tangible form and marked Confidential. Information disclosed in non-tangible form, such as orally or by visual inspection, will be considered confidential when the disclosing party confirms in writing the fact and general nature of the disclosure within 1 month after it is made.
10.2 Exclusions; Required Disclosure . The recipient of Confidential Information will be under no obligation with respect to any information which: (a) at the time of disclosure is available to the public; (b) after disclosure becomes available to the public through no fault of the recipient, provided that the obligation of the recipient will cease only after the date on which
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such information has become available to the public; (c) the recipient can demonstrate through tangible evidence was in its possession before receipt from the disclosing party; (d) is disclosed to the recipient without restriction on disclosure by a third party who has the lawful right to disclose such information; or (e) was independently developed by the recipient as proven by contemporaneous documentation made prior to the disclosure to recipient. It shall not be a breach of this Article 10 if the recipient party is required to disclose the other partys Confidential Information pursuant to an order of the government or a court of competent jurisdiction or by state or federal law or regulation including but not limited to the Freedom of Information Act, provided that (a) the recipient party provides the other party with adequate notice of the court or government order or legal disclosure request and the required disclosure, (b) the recipient party cooperates with the other partys efforts to protect its Confidential Information with respect to such disclosure, and (c) the recipient party takes all reasonable measures requested by the other party to challenge or to modify the scope of such required disclosure.
10.3 No Third Party Disclosure . Except as expressly provided herein, MBI and USNY agree not to disclose any terms of this Agreement to any third party without the consent of the other party; provided , however , that disclosures may be made as required by securities or other applicable laws, or to actual or prospective investors or corporate partners, or to a partys accountants, attorneys, other professional advisors who agree to appropriate confidentiality provisions to protect such information from disclosure or improper use, and by MBI to Sublicensees or potential Sublicensees.
ARTICLE 11
PATENTS AND PATENT COSTS
11.1 Patent Costs . Subject to the terms of Section 11.2 , with respect to patent costs paid by USNY in connection with the preparation, filing, prosecution, issuance and maintenance of the Licensed Patents in the Territory, MBI shall pay to USNY [*****] of such patent costs that are incurred from and after the Effective Date.
11.2 Responsible Party . MBI shall have the sole right to apply for, prosecute and maintain, from the Effective Date through the termination of this Agreement, the Licensed Patent Rights. The application filings, prosecution, maintenance and payment of all fees and expenses, including legal fees, relating to the Licensed Patent Rights shall be the responsibility of MBI during such period. USNY shall provide MBI with all information necessary or useful for the filing and prosecution of such Licensed Patent Rights and shall cooperate fully with MBI so that MBI may establish and maintain such rights. Patent attorneys chosen by MBI and approved by USNY shall handle all patent filings and prosecutions, on behalf of USNY, provided , however , USNY shall be entitled to review and comment upon and approve, all material actions undertaken in the prosecution of all patents and applications; provided that USNY will be deemed to have approved any such action if it fails to disapprove such action within one month of notice per Section 3.5 of such request for approval. USNY shall promptly provide any comments or approvals which it elects or is required to provide hereunder. If MBI declines to apply for, prosecute or maintain any Licensed Patent Rights, USNY shall have the right to pursue the same at USNYs expense and MBI shall have no rights under USNYs interest therein nor any obligation to reimburse USNY for its related prosecution and maintenance fees. If MBI
[*****] |
Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
10
decides not to apply for, prosecute or maintain any Licensed Patent Rights, MBI shall give sufficient and timely notice to USNY so as to permit USNY to apply for, prosecute and maintain such Licensed Patent Rights. In such event, MBI shall provide USNY with all information necessary or useful for the filing and prosecution of such Licensed Patent Rights and shall cooperate fully with USNY so that USNY may establish and maintain such rights.
ARTICLE 12
TERMINATION
12.1 Term and USNY Termination . The term of this Agreement shall commence upon the Effective Date and, unless earlier terminated in accordance with this Article 12 , expires upon the later of (a) the expiration of the last-to-expire issued Valid Claim or (b) December 31, 2017. USNY shall have the right, subject to Section 12.2 , to terminate this Agreement prior to the date it would otherwise expire pursuant to this Section 12.1 if: (a) MBI materially breaches this Agreement and fails to cure such breach within sixty (60) days after notice from USNY of such breach or (b) any proceedings are instituted by or against MBI under any bankruptcy, insolvency, or moratorium law and such remain undismissed for at least 90 days.
12.2 Cure Right; No Waiver . USNY may exercise its right of termination under Section 12.1 by giving MBI, its trustees or receivers or assigns, sixty (60) days prior written notice of USNYs election to terminate, which notice shall specify the basis for (and facts supporting) USNYs right to terminate. Upon the expiration of such period, this Agreement shall automatically terminate unless MBI has previously cured the breach or condition permitting termination under Section 12.1 , in which case this Agreement shall not terminate; provided, however, that if MBI receives notification from USNY of a material breach and if MBI notifies USNY in writing within thirty (30) days of receipt of such default notice that MBI disputes the asserted default, the matter will be submitted to arbitration as provided in Section 13.4 of this Agreement. In such event, USNY shall not have the right to terminate this Agreement until it has been determined in such arbitration proceeding that MBI materially breached this Agreement and MBI fails to cure such breach within ninety (90) days after the conclusion of such arbitration proceeding. Such notice and termination shall not prejudice USNYs rights to any royalties and other sums due hereunder and shall not prejudice any cause of action or claim of USNY accrued or to accrue on account of any breach or default by MBI. Upon any termination of this Agreement USNY shall accept an assignment by MBI of any sublicenses granted by MBI to Sublicensees, subject to such Sublicensees eligibility to contract with the State of New York and subject to approval by USNY, such approval to not be unreasonably withheld, and any sublicense so assigned shall remain in full force and effect. The failure of USNY at any time, or for any period of time, to enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of such provisions or the right of USNY thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.
12.3 MBI Termination . MBI shall have the right to terminate this Agreement prior to the date it would otherwise expire if USNY materially breaches this Agreement and fails to cure such breach within sixty (60) days after notice from MBI of such breach.
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12.4 No Effect on Accrued Payment Obligations . No termination of this Agreement shall relieve MBI of the liability for payment of any royalty due for Licensed Products made prior to the effective date of such termination.
12.5 Rights Regarding Licensed Products . Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of any termination or expiration of the term of this Agreement, MBI shall have the right to use or sell Licensed Products on hand on the date of such termination or expiration and to complete Licensed Products in the process of manufacture at the time of such termination or expiration and use or sell the same, provided that MBI shall submit the applicable royalty reports described above, along with the royalty payments required above for Sale of such Licensed Products.
12.6 No Waiver of Claims . Termination of this Agreement for any reason shall not release any party hereto from any liability which, at the time of such termination, has already accrued to the other party or which is attributable to a period prior to such termination, nor preclude either party from pursuing any rights and remedies it may have hereunder or at law or in equity which accrued or are based upon any event occurring prior to such termination.
12.7 Survival . Articles 6.3, 7, 9, 10, 12 and 13 of this Agreement shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement for any reason.
ARTICLE 13
MISCELLANEOUS
13.1 Entire Agreement; Amendment . This Agreement sets forth the complete agreement of the parties concerning the subject matter hereof and may not be contradicted by evidence of any prior or contemporaneous agreement between the parties concerning the subject matter of this Agreement. No waiver of or amendment of any of the terms hereof shall have any force or effect unless in writing, signed by duly authorized representatives of the parties.
13.2 Assignment . This Agreement may not be assigned or otherwise transferred by any party without the prior written consent of the other party; provided, that any party may assign this Agreement without the prior written consent of the other, to any successor of such first party (by way of merger, acquisition, reorganization or similar transaction), or purchaser of all or a substantial part of the assets of the business to which this Agreement pertains and provided, further that USNY may assign this Agreement to an Affiliate but only along with an assignment to such Affiliate of all rights and interest in the Licensed Patent Rights and the Technology Rights. Any permitted assignee of MBI shall succeed to all of the rights and obligations of MBI under this Agreement. The Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of any permitted successor or permitted assignee.
13.3 Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and interpreted, in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York without giving effect to any choice of law rules.
13.4 Arbitration . Any dispute, controversy, or claim arising under, out of, or relating to this Agreement (and subsequent amendments thereof), its valid conclusion, binding effect, interpretation, performance, breach or termination, including tort claims, shall be referred to and
12
finally determined by arbitration in accordance with the Rules of Arbitration of the American Arbitration Association under rules for commercial disputes in force at the time when arbitration is initiated. A sole arbitrator shall be appointed. Such arbitration shall be held in New York. In any legal proceeding (including arbitration) between the parties, the prevailing party will be entitled to recover, in addition to any other relief awarded or granted, its costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys and expert witness fees) incurred in any such proceeding.
13.5 Notices . All notices, requests or consents required or permitted under this Agreement will be made in writing and will be given to the other party by personal delivery, registered or certified mail (with return receipt), overnight air courier (with receipt signature) or facsimile transmission (with answerback confirmation of transmission), sent to such partys address or telecopy numbers set forth below, or such other addresses or telecopy numbers of which the parties have given notice pursuant to this Section. Each such notice, request or consent will be deemed effective upon the date of actual receipt, receipt signature or confirmation of transmission, as applicable.
USNY: |
The University of the State of New York |
Regents Research Fund
89 Washington Avenue, Room 2M
State Education Building
Albany, NY 12234
MBI: |
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. |
2121 Second Street, Ste. B-107
Davis, California 95618
Attn: President
Fax: 530-750-2808
13.6 Indemnity . MBI shall, at its expense, defend, indemnify and hold harmless USNY, its directors, officers, managers, employees, representatives, Affiliates and agents (the Indemnified Parties) against any third party claim, suit or proceeding (Claim) brought against USNY or its Affiliates and arising out of a breach of any representation or warranty made by MBI in this Agreement or arising out of any allegation of damages resulting from any Licensed Product offered directly or indirectly by MBI, including without limitation any allegation that such a product or service is defective or has caused damage to person or property, to the extent such Claim arises solely from the actions or inactions of MBI or its Sublicensees; provided that (a) MBI is notified promptly of any claims brought against an Indemnified Party of which such Indemnified Party has notice, (b) MBI has the sole right to control and defend or settle any litigation within the scope of this indemnity, and (c) the Indemnified Parties reasonably cooperate in the defense of any claims.
13.7 No Consequential Damages . SUBJECT TO SECTION 13.6 AND EXCEPT FOR CLAIMS ARISING OUT OF BREACH OF ARTICLE 10 OR SECTION 13.6, NEITHER PARTY SHALL BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER FOR ANY SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR INDIRECT DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT, HOWEVER CAUSED, UNDER ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY.
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13.8 Force Majeure . Neither party shall lose any rights hereunder or be liable to the other party for damages or losses (except for payment obligations) on account of failure of performance by the defaulting party if the failure is occasioned by war, strike, fire, Act of God, earthquake, flood, lockout, governmental acts or orders or restrictions, failure of suppliers, or any other reason where failure to perform is beyond the reasonable control and not caused by the negligence or intentional conduct or misconduct of the nonperforming party.
13.9 Severability . In the event that any provisions of this Agreement are determined to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect without said provision. The parties shall in good faith negotiate a substitute clause for any provision declared invalid or unenforceable, which shall most nearly approximate the intent of the parties in entering this Agreement.
13.10 Counterparts; Facsimile Signatures . This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. This Agreement may be executed and delivered by facsimile and upon such delivery the facsimile signature will be deemed to have the same effect as if the original signature had been delivered to the other party.
13.11 Headings . The headings of the several sections are inserted for convenience of reference only and are not intended to be a part of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.
13.12 Waiver . Failure by either party hereto to exercise or enforce any rights conferred upon it by this Agreement will not be deemed to be a waiver of any such rights or operate so as to bar the exercise or enforcement thereof or of any other rights at any subsequent time or times.
13.13 Status of the Parties . Nothing in this Agreement will be construed as to constitute a partnership or joint venture between the parties or authorize either to represent the other party or contract any liability on behalf of the other party.
13.14 Joint Press Release; Publicity . Upon execution of this Agreement or as soon as practicable thereafter, the parties will issue a joint press release, the text of which will be mutually acceptable to the parties. In addition, from time to time during the term hereof, MBI may issue press releases and other forms of publicity referring to the Licensed Products and USNYs role with respect thereto, such to be subject to the consent of USNY (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed).
[Signature Page Follows]
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[Signature Page to License Agreement]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed as of the Effective Date.
THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK |
MARRONE BIO INNOVATIONS, INC. |
|||||||
By: |
/s/ David M. Steiner |
By: |
/s/ Pamela G. Marrone |
|||||
Name: |
David M. Steiner |
Name: Pamela G. Marrone |
||||||
Title: |
President |
Title: CEO |
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Exhibit A
Patents
Molloy, D. P. 2001. A Method for Controlling Dreissena Species. United States Patent and Trademark Office, U. S. Department of Commerce. Patent No. 6,194,194. (Filed December 17, 1997 & issued February 27, 2001.) 4 pp.
Molloy, D. P. 2004. A Method for Controlling Dreissena Species. Canadian Intellectual Property Office, Industry Canada. Patent No. 2,225,436. (Filed December 22, 1997 & issued December 21, 2004.) 13 pp.
16
Exhibit 10.27
COMMERCIAL AGREEMENT
Dated as of February 1, 2011
by and between
Syngenta Crop Protection AG
Schwarzwaldallee 215
P.O. Box
CH-4002 Basel
Switzerland
(hereinafter referred to as SYT )
and
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
2121 Second Street
Suite B-107
Davis
CA 95618
USA
(hereinafter referred to as MBI )
Each a Party and collectively the Parties
* * * * * * * *
Relating to Biological Crop Protection Products
WHEREAS
MBI has available the biological fungicide Regalia Maxx 20% for agricultural uses and other products under development;
SYT has a broad crop protection product portfolio and a highly developed distribution network all over Europe, Africa and the Middle East;
Gaining access to the Commercial Product of MBI can allow SYT to strengthen innovative crop programs in particular in the area of specialty crops;
Gaining access to the SYT distribution network and sales and marketing expertise can provide a unique possibility for MBI to reach the markets in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
NOW THEREFORE, the Parties agree as follows:
1. | Definitions, Interpretations and Exhibits |
In this Commercial Agreement (including the preamble) the following capitalized terms shall have the meanings assigned to them below:
Additional Countries | shall mean Turkey, Morocco, Israel, South Africa and Egypt; | |
Affiliate |
any business entity which controls, is controlled by or is under common control with either Party; for the purpose of this definition, a business entity shall be deemed to control another business entity if it owns, directly or indirectly, in excess of 50% of the outstanding voting securities or capital stock of such business entity or any other comparable equity or ownership interest with respect to a business entity other than a corporation; |
|
Annual Business Meeting and future business and the |
shall mean a yearly meeting of both Parties to discuss current resolution of any potential operational and contractual issues; |
|
Bulk |
shall mean ISO tanks of [*****] or other substantially similar bulk packaging; |
|
Business Plan |
is an agreed document outlining the yearly SYT sales (in volume) to its customers based on an agreed Registration Plan and is attached hereto as Exhibit 1; |
|
COGS |
of the Commercial Product shall mean all costs and expenses which are directly attributable to the manufacture of the Commercial Product, which include the costs to purchase raw materials or finished or semi-finished products, energy and utilities required to manufacture the Commercial Product and direct labour costs of the employees and toll manufacturing costs, but exclude costs for selling, distribution, advertising or research and development; |
|
Commercial Agreement |
shall mean this supply, distribution and development agreement for the Commercial Product signed between the Parties; |
|
Commercial Product |
shall mean Regalia Maxx 20% and its Product Enhancements, ready for sale; |
|
Contract Year |
shall mean the period of consecutive twelve months from January 1 st in any given year to December 31 of the same calendar year; |
|
Delivery Date |
shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Sections 4.1 and 11; |
|
Effective Date |
shall mean the date of signature of the Commercial Agreement by both Parties; |
|
EPPO Zonal Countries |
shall mean the United Kingdom, France and Poland; |
|
Exclusivity | shall mean the exclusive commercial rights for the Commercial Product in the Field in the Territory granted from Effective Date of the Commercial Agreement by MBI to SYT; |
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
2
Field |
shall mean the use of Commercial Product for agricultural uses in Specialty Crops [*****]; |
|
Force Majeure |
shall mean blockade, civil commotion, earthquake, explosion, fire, flood, general army mobilization, insurrection, lightning, revolution, riot, sabotage, storm, war (declared or undeclared) and any similar cause which is not reasonably within the control of the Party affected. For the avoidance of doubt, events and circumstances within each Partys responsibility, such as breakdown of a plant due to inability to hire sufficient and qualified staff shall not be deemed to constitute Force Majeure; |
|
Forecast |
shall mean [*****] rolling forecast by SYT of quantities to be purchased as further described in Section 4 and Exhibit 4; |
|
Good Faith |
All negotiations between the parties have to be led in Good Faith; |
|
Hardship |
Shall mean the case if either the price of Reference Products drops a specified percent or more in a [*****] (or a specified percent over [*****] consecutive years) and/or the COGS increase by a specified percent or more in a [*****] (or a specified percent over [*****] consecutive years); all as described in Section 6; |
|
Key Crops |
shall mean [*****], |
|
Lead Countries |
shall mean Spain, Italy and France; |
|
Milestone Countries |
shall mean UK, Spain, Italy and France; |
|
Milestone Payments | shall mean payments from SYT to MBI upon reaching milestones in preparation of the Registration of the Commercial Product, as further described herein; | |
Predevelopment Product | shall mean products for agricultural use developed by MBI, which are on the path to being, but are not yet, a development product but for which the following have been completed: 1) rat limit test, 2) initial chemistry, 3) patent filed, 4) positive glasshouse efficacy, and 5) can be fermented consistently at 1 liter scale; | |
Order |
shall mean a written and binding order for the purchase of Commercial Product; |
|
Party |
shall mean any one of the parties hereto and Parties shall mean both of them; |
|
Price | shall mean the price at which MBI sells Commercial Product to SYT as set forth in, and subject to adjustment as provided in, Exhibit 5; | |
Price Adjustments | shall mean the annual adjustment of the Price for the Commercial Product; |
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
3
Product Enhancements | shall mean any improvements and enhancements of the Commercial Product containing Reynoutria plant extract as an active ingredient, with enhanced features and properties including new formulations and other concentrations, that MBI has or obtains the right to Register and sell in the Field in the Territory; but not including combinations with other active ingredients; | |
Reference Products | shall mean three leading products proposed by SYT which are used in the Field in the three Lead Countries, as further described in Exhibit 5; | |
Registration | shall mean the permissions, authorizations, registrations or approvals, from applicable regulatory authorities that are necessary to develop, sell, formulate or distribute a pesticide product for uses in the Field in a specified jurisdiction. For the avoidance of doubt, Registration, in Section 7 of this Commercial Agreement, refers to the Registration of the Commercial Products active ingredient (including, but not limited to, the inclusion of the Commercial Products active ingredient in Annex I of the EU Directive 91/414/EC and EC 1107/2009) as well as of end-use Commercial Product containing such active ingredient. The term to Register shall be construed accordingly; | |
Registration Plan | is an agreed to document outlining the target Registrations by crops and countries and is attached hereto as Exhibit 2; | |
Registration Steering Team |
shall mean a team of regulatory, technical and commercial people from both Parties who meet regularly to discuss status, progress and remedies that may be required towards the goal of achieving desired country Registrations and assessing the potential effects on the Business Plan; |
|
Specifications |
the technical and quality specifications for the Commercial Product set forth in Exhibit 3, as amended from time to time by agreement in writing between the Parties hereto. The Specifications shall adequately describe the physical and chemical properties (such as e.g. particle sizes) of the Commercial Product. Exhibit 3 shall also contain the testing method for ascertaining compliance of the Commercial Product with the Specifications; |
|
SYT Group of Companies |
shall mean any entity under the ultimate common control of Syngenta AG; |
|
Territory |
shall mean EAME as further specified in Exhibit 6; |
|
Trademarks |
shall mean the trademarks of the SYT Group of Companies; |
|
USD | shall mean United States Dollars; |
4
The Section headings contained in this Commercial Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or the interpretation of this Commercial Agreement.
The Exhibits shall constitute an integral part of this Commercial Agreement. In the event of any conflict between any of the Exhibits and the Commercial Agreement, the Commercial Agreement shall prevail.
2. Purpose and Commitment
2.1 Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, MBI intends to collaborate in researching, developing and Registering the Commercial Product and SYT in evaluating, marketing and selling biological crop protection products in Europe, Africa and Middle East (EAME).
2.2 Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, SYT will be the exclusive distributor of the Commercial Product for use in the Field in the Territory and MBI will exclusively supply the Commercial Product for use in the Field in the Territory to SYT.
2.3 SYT is committed to pre-invest a total amount of USD [*****] from 2011 until 2013 to prepare the platform for the launch of the Commercial Product. For the development and for the technical pre-launch and the market research SYT shall invest additionally USD [*****].
2.4 SYT shall invest these amounts directly and in addition to the marketing and sales expenses necessary to reach the Business Plan targets.
2.5 During the year 2010 SYT is already testing the Commercial Product in Key Crops under the terms of the Material Transfer Agreement signed between the Parties in April 29, 2008.
3. Exclusive Distribution
3.1 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI agrees to sell to SYT the Commercial Product and SYT agrees to purchase all of its requirements of the Commercial Product from MBI and distribute the Commercial Product for use in the Field in the Territory.
3.2 Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Italy will be excluded from the Territory until March 1, 2011, and shall be included in the Territory thereafter.
3.3 Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Turkey and Israel will not be included in the Territory for the time being, as MBI has informed SYT about prior existing commitments in Turkey and Israel. Both Parties will agree within 6 months after signing of this Commercial Agreement how SYT exclusive distribution rights in Turkey and Israel can be granted and automatically included in the Territory under the terms of this Commercial Agreement; provided, further, that if after 24 months after signing of this Commercial Agreement such exclusive distribution rights have not been obtained with respect to either country or countries then such country or countries will not be included in the Territory and the Registration and Business Plan will be amended accordingly.
3.4 Upon completion by SYT of initial commercial sales (commercial sales considered to be completed when first invoice to a SYT customer is issued) of the Commercial Product for use in the Field in a country within the Territory hereunder, MBI will discontinue the sales of Rey-
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
5
noutria active ingredient formulations in such respective country; provided, however, that MBI may sell off existing inventory or work in progress of such product in such country.
3.5 SYT shall use commercially reasonable efforts to develop sales and achieve targets agreed in the Business Plan attached hereto as Exhibit 1.
3.6 If at any time the sales targets set forth in the Business Plan are not met by SYT for any [*****] as a whole, MBI shall have the right to [*****] of the Commercial Product and any other Reynoutria active ingredient formulation in the Territory (the Section 3.6 [*****] Right), while all other terms of this Agreement not in conflict with this Section 3.6 shall remain unchanged; provided, however, that if the Section 3.6 [*****] Right is triggered and the right to [*****] is prohibited by law or regulation or judicial order in any country in the Territory, then MBI shall provide SYT with [*****] if MBI [*****] in such country and then SYT`s rights to purchase and distribute Commercial Product and any other Reynoutria active ingredient formulation in such country in the Territory under this Commercial Agreement shall immediately terminate (provided that MBI shall continue to supply the Commercial Product to SYT for a reasonable period of time as necessary to satisfy SYTs obligations to its existing customers).
3.7 If at any time the binding forecasted purchase volumes for the first four quarters as described in Section 4.1 are below [*****] of [*****] of the previous year and sales targets set forth in the Business Plan are not met, MBI shall have the right to [*****] of the Commercial Product and any other Reynoutria active ingredient formulation in the Territory (the Section 3.7 [*****] Right); provided, however, that if the Section 3.7 [*****] Right is triggered and the right to [*****] is prohibited by law or regulation or judicial order in any country in the Territory, then, [*****] from MBI, SYT`s rights to purchase and distribute Commercial Product and any other Reynoutria active ingredient formulation in such country in the Territory under this Commercial Agreement shall immediately terminate (provided that MBI shall continue to supply the Commercial Product to SYT for a reasonable period of time as necessary to satisfy SYTs obligations to its existing customers).
3.8 Both Parties agree to meet annually prior to September 15 of each year, starting in 2011, for the Annual Business Meeting. Participants attending the Annual Business Meeting shall be selected by each Party individually and may be changed at the discretion of such Party.
3.9 SYT shall at all times under this Commercial Agreement be regarded as an independent contractor and shall purchase the Commercial Product on its own account for resale to third parties.
4 Exclusive Supply
4.1 SYT shall submit [*****] rolling Forecasts with a [*****] for the [*****]. SYT shall submit an updated version of the rolling Forecast every quarter of the Contract Year in the first ten working days of the month of the respective quarter. The rolling Forecast submitted shall be confirmed by MBI within 10 working days after receipt. After MBIs confirmation such Forecast shall be binding for the first four quarters for both Parties. The first quarter of each rolling Forecast shall be split into monthly sections. Scheduled Delivery Dates in SYTs Orders for Commercial Product purchased hereunder shall be no less than 60 days before the expected Delivery Date.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
6
4.2 All Orders shall be governed exclusively by the terms and conditions of this Commercial Agreement, and any terms or provisions on any SYT Order forms that are inconsistent with those contained in this Commercial Agreement shall have no force or effect whatsoever as between the Parties. Neither MBIs commencement of performance nor delivery shall be deemed or construed as acceptance of SYTs additional or different terms and conditions. Orders may be sent by facsimile transmission or email or, if approved by MBI, other electronic media and shall set forth the exact quantity of Commercial Product required and the requested Delivery Date. Provided that each Order is given in accordance with this Commercial Agreement, the requested Delivery Date shall be binding on MBI. Orders for the Commercial Product must be in Bulk.
4.3 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI shall manufacture (or have manufactured) and supply Commercial Product in Bulk according to the Specifications and the Orders to SYT. The Commercial Product shall be supplied to SYT FOB delivery port of departure Atlantic Coast of the US in accordance with Incoterms 2010 (as published by the International Chamber of Commerce).
4.4 MBI shall supply such quantity of Commercial Product to SYT as SYT may order, subject to the maximums in the binding Forecasts, in accordance with the terms of this Commercial Agreement. MBI shall make available the required production capacity at MBIs facility or a facility of a third party to comply with SYTs Orders and the requested Delivery Date for the Commercial Product. In the event that Syngenta requires additional volumes above the agreed current quarter Forecast, with respect to Commercial Product supplied, MBI shall use commercially reasonable efforts to supply such volumes, but shall not have any obligation to fill any Order to the extent that it exceeds one hundred twenty five percent (125%) of the forecasted orders for such Commercial Product as set forth in the Forecast. Syngenta retains a right to visit, after mutual agreement, the contracted manufacturing and storage facilities of MBI subject to a reasonable prior notice.
4.5 MBI shall inform SYT immediately when it becomes aware of a possible delay in the supply of Commercial Product. In such case the Parties shall jointly discuss possible solutions to minimize damages caused through late delivery.
4.6 Should MBI not be able to supply the requested capacity of Commercial Product to SYT, in accordance with the Forecasts and Orders duly submitted in accordance with this Commercial Agreement, in the aggregate for a period of one year, then the Parties shall jointly discuss in Good Faith possible commercially reasonable solutions.
4.7 Both Parties shall comply at all times with applicable law regarding the delivery, storage, production, supply etc. of the Commercial Product.
4.8 Transfer of full title as well as risk of loss or damage to the Commercial Product shall occur in accordance with the chosen Incoterm (Incoterms 2010) as specified in this Section 4.
5 Price and Payment
5.1 The Price per unit at which SYT may purchase Commercial Product are set forth on Exhibit 5. All Prices are in United States Dollars.
5.2 Commencing in 2012, the Price shall be [*****], based on publicly available price variation of the [*****] in the jointly agreed three [*****].
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
7
5.3 Price [*****] shall begin with the [*****] of the [*****] and will continue for the duration of the Commercial Agreement in accordance with the Price [*****] process specified in Exhibit 5.
5.4 Invoices may be issued by MBI from any country outside Switzerland at any time after the FOB delivery.
5.6 MBI shall invoice SYT for each delivery made.
5.7 Payment for each delivery shall be due within [*****] of the date of MBIs invoice.
6 Hardship
6.1 In the event of Hardship, the Price shall be adjusted as provided herein. If (a) the price of Reference Products drops by [*****] or more in a [*****] or [*****] or more over [*****] consecutive years, and/or (b) the COGS increases by [*****] or more in a [*****] or by [*****] or more over [*****] consecutive years; then the Price shall be adjusted to reflect such changes in such other prices or COGS and to maintain as near as reasonably possible SYTs competitive status in the market and MBIs margins. The Party claiming the adjustment of the Price due to Hardship shall provide sufficient proof to show the triggering values are reached. Hardship adjustments shall apply also for Product Enhancements.
6.2 In case the adverse Party decides that the proof provided by the Party claiming the adjustment is not satisfactory, an external auditor or appropriate expert, agreeable to both Parties, shall examine the proof and any supporting materials upon request of the adverse Party. If the expert confirms correctness of the claim, the dissenting Party shall have to cover the costs. Should the expert conclude that a price adjustment was due but the claim was not in line with the adjustment due, the costs shall be split between the Parties fifty-fifty. In case the expert concludes that no claim was due the claiming Party shall have to bear the costs of the expertise. The auditors assessment shall be final and binding upon the Parties.
7 Product Registration and Milestone Payments
General
7.1 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI shall Register the Commercial Product for use in the Field in the Territory in the EPPO Zonal Countries, in the Milestone Countries and the Additional Countries, as provided below and according to the agreed Registration Plan and Business Plan.
7.2 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI shall obtain, as provided below, and use its commercially reasonable efforts to maintain Registrations of the Commercial Product, in accordance with the Registration Plan and the Business Plan, until the expiration or termination of this Commercial Agreement. MBI shall solely own such Commercial Product Registrations except as may be otherwise provided in this Commercial Agreement.
7.3 SYT shall make Milestone Payments to MBI. These payments shall be made in consideration of the upfront costs incurred by MBI and for the exclusivity granted to SYT under this Commercial Agreement. SYT shall pay MBI the amount of USD [*****] in each of the [*****] upon reaching the applicable milestones as per Exhibit 2.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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7.4 Should MBI fail to timely achieve the Registrations in accordance with the Registration Plan, the Business Plan shall be amended accordingly. For the avoidance of doubt, failure to obtain or maintain any Registrations of the Commercial Product shall not be a material breach of this Commercial Agreement but shall result in a Business Plan amendment as necessary.
7.5 SYT will provide MBI with Commercial Product trial data that SYT has generated for use to support Registration and commercial decisions for the Commercial Product
7.6 SYT may be consulted on the Registration approach for Registering the Commercial Product. SYT will assist MBI in the Registration process where possible with SYTs existing resources and expertise. For this purpose, a Registration Steering Team will be established by and between both Parties.
Registration in the European Union
7.7 It is understood by MBI and SYT that, consistent with the requirements of the European Union (Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009), that MBI will prepare and submit the active ingredient dossier to obtain the active ingredient approval in the EU and prepare and submit the Commercial Product dossier, which addresses the full regulatory requirements for national authorisation in the three EPPO Zonal Countries including any national specific regulatory studies and risk assessments. This should be useful in achieving in principal the Registration of the Commercial Product in the three respective EPPO zones. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI shall Register the Commercial Product in the three EPPO Zonal Countries.
MBI agrees to prepare and submit 2 additional Commercial Product dossiers with respect to Registration in all four (4) Milestone Countries, in accordance with the Registration Plan and the Business Plan and, subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to Register the Commercial Product in the four Milestone Countries.
In the event additional country specific Registration or other regulatory requirements are required in any EU member states (other than the EPPO Zonal Countries), or other significant costs or efforts are required beyond the ones specified in the Registration Plan and the Business Plan, or herein, SYT and MBI technical and commercial people will discuss in Good Faith options to obtain desired Registration of the Commercial Product. The Parties shall jointly assess and discuss eventual adverse findings and difficult outcomes to obtain and maintain such Registrations. MBI and SYT shall both use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain any such desired Registrations; provided, however, that if MBI, after reasonable time and the previously described consultation decides in writing not to continue or pursue any such Registration, then SYT may take over the cost and responsibility for obtaining such Registration and shall reimburse MBI for incremental costs incurred to date in connection with such efforts by MBI (such costs to be reasonably documented). Incremental costs shall include costs which are incurred with respect to a specific country in connection with Registration. In the event SYT takes over the responsibility from MBI, reimburses MBI and bears the additional Registration costs, SYT will be the owner of the Registration in that EU member state. If SYT does not wish to reimburse MBI for such costs, but decides to pursue Registration in the respective country then SYT and MBI will jointly own the Registration in such EU member state (in recognition of the contribution of both Parties).
Registration in other Countries of the Territory
7.8 In addition, MBI agrees to prepare five (5) Commercial Product dossiers in accordance with the Registration Plan and the Business Plan in connection with the Registration of the
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Commercial Product in the Additional Countries. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to Register the Commercial Product in these five countries. In the event significant costs or efforts are required beyond that specified in the Business Plan, the Registration Plan or herein with respect to any of these Registrations, SYT and MBI technical and commercial people will discuss in Good Faith options to obtain desired Registration of the Commercial Product. The Parties shall jointly assess and discuss eventual adverse findings and difficult outcomes to obtain and maintain such Registrations or amend the list of Additional Countries by mutual agreement. MBI and SYT shall both use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain any such Registrations; provided, however, that if MBI, after reasonable time and the previously described consultation decides in writing not to continue or pursue any such Registration, then SYT may take over the cost and responsibility for obtaining such Registration and shall reimburse MBI for incremental costs incurred to date in connection with such efforts by MBI. In the event SYT takes over the responsibility from MBI, reimburses MBI and bears the additional Registration costs, SYT will be the owner of the Registration in that country. If SYT does not wish to reimburse MBI for such costs, then SYT and MBI will jointly own the Registration in such country (in recognition of the contribution of both Parties).
7.9 Should SYT wish to Register the Commercial Product in [*****] of the Territory [*****], SYT shall inform MBI in writing of its intent. Thereafter MBI shall inform SYT within [*****] whether MBI wishes to undertake commercially reasonable efforts to obtain such Registrations. Should MBI decline to undertake such efforts to Register the Commercial Product in such [*****], SYT may [*****] such Registration and shall [*****] connection with such efforts and SYT [*****] the Registration in that country.
7.10 Should MBI wish to Register the Commercial Product in [*****] of the Territory [*****], MBI shall inform SYT in writing of its intent. Thereafter SYT shall inform MBI within [*****] whether SYT wishes to undertake commercially reasonable efforts to market and sell the Commercial Product in that country based on a business plan. Should SYT decline to undertake such efforts in such [*****], or fail to make substantial steps in furtherance of such efforts, MBI shall have the right to Register the Commercial Product in [*****] and [*****] of the Commercial Product and any other Reynoutria active ingredient formulation in [*****] the Territory. All other terms of the Commercial Agreement shall in this case remain unaffected.
Registration Issues
7.11 In some jurisdictions it may be necessary or desirable for Registrations otherwise to be owned by MBI hereunder to be in the name of SYT, an affiliate of SYT or some local entity that may be affiliated with SYT. In such event, the Parties agree that such Registrations shall nonetheless be transferred to MBI upon MBIs request or otherwise relinquished upon MBIs request.
7.12 All Registrations under this Agreement shall reference the SYT Trademark(s) and MBI as the manufacturer, as further specified in Section 8 below.
8 Trademarks
8.1 SYT will register and solely own the Trademarks under which SYT shall sell the Commercial Product hereunder. SYT will propose such Trademarks for the Commercial Product to MBI, and MBI shall have one month to approve or object to SYTs proposal. Keeping silent shall mean consent. MBI will not withhold its approval without material rea
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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son. In the event of objection by MBI, SYT and MBI shall jointly discuss possible changes or alternatives. All rights and costs related to the registration and maintenance of the Trademarks will be borne by SYT. In case of a discontinuation of the distribution of the Commercial Product, SYT will retain any and all rights related to the Trademarks.
8.2 SYT shall solely be responsible for the labelling of the packed Commercial Product. The labelling shall be done in accordance with the applicable rules for labelling and Registration as well as with the applicable national laws. MBIs company name will be listed on the package in accordance with regulations.
8.3 SYT shall use reasonable efforts to maintain and safeguard its Trademarks and interests and shall take all reasonable steps to defend the Trademarks including, the prosecution of any actions which SYT may reasonably deem desirable to commence for the protection of any of its rights. If necessary, MBI will provide SYT with commercially reasonable assistance in connection with such efforts at SYTs expenses.
8.4 MBI shall promptly bring to the attention of SYT any improper or wrongful use of any of the Trademarks in the Territory that comes to its notice.
8.5 All rights and goodwill relating to the Trademarks owned by SYT Group Companies shall remain the property of SYT Group Companies at all times.
8.6 No Party shall under any circumstances be allowed to use any Trademarks or similar designation of the other Party as part of its corporate name or on its business cards or letterheads.
8.7 Trademarks, service marks or any trade secrets or proprietary information of any kind that are proprietary to one of the Parties are and shall forever remain the sole property of that Party, and may not be used by the other for any purpose other than carrying out its responsibilities hereunder.
8.8 SYT shall sell the Commercial Product in the packaging and with the labels as chosen by SYT and under the Trademarks of a SYT Group Company. MBI shall use commercially reasonable efforts to assist SYT in assuring that the packaging and labels of the Commercial Product conforms to the Commercial Products Registration and all applicable laws and regulations in the Territory.
9 Intellectual Property
9.1 Each Partys rights in its intellectual property shall not be affected by the Commercial Agreement unless otherwise specified herein.
9.2 Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, MBI retains all copyright, patent, trade secret, trademark rights and other intellectual property rights in and to the Commercial Product. Nothing in this Commercial Agreement is intended to create ownership by SYT in the intellectual property rights of MBI.
9.3 Without limitation to any of the rights and obligations elsewhere in this Commercial Agreement, in case a patentable invention made by one party is not severable from confidential Information received from the other Party, that inventing/patenting Party shall grant the other Party a royalty-free, worldwide, non-exclusive license for the use of such patented invention.
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9.4 MBI shall be obliged to inform its licensor KHH Biosci, Inc., North Carolina, about this Commercial Agreement entered with SYT in writing. A copy of the respective letter shall be sent to SYT.
10 Health and Safety - Responsible Care
10.1 MBI shall provide SYT with Material Safety Data Sheets or other similar safety and health information, including, without limitation, warnings, precautionary safety measures, and instructions on proper care, use and handling, storage, and disposal of the Commercial Product.
10.2 MBI and SYT shall abide by sound health, safety and environment (HSE) principles. They agree to communicate openly on HSE issues which may have shown up and to work together to ensure long-term safe and secure handling, storage and disposal of the Commercial Product. Meetings to review business improvement may include HSE assessments.
10.3 Both Parties and its employees and customers shall follow safe handling, storage, transportation, use, and disposal practices with respect to the Commercial Products in accordance with the safety, health and environment standards of the industry and the label requirements.
10.4 In case there is any legislation change regarding the use of the Commercial Product in the Territory, the provisions of this legislation change shall overrule the terms of this Commercial Agreement and SYT shall follow all applicable national and international legislation for the Commercial Product in the Territory. MBI and SYT shall inform each other on new legislation that might affect the use of the Commercial Product in the Territory of which they become aware.
11 Acceptance; Limited Warranty
11.1 SYT shall have fifteen (15) days following receipt of each shipment of the Commercial Product at the FOB point in which to notify MBI in writing of any discrepancies in such shipment as to quantity, quality, weight, loss or damage to the Commercial Product. Such SYT written notice to MBI shall specify in reasonable detail the nature and basis of the claim and cite relevant control numbers or other information to enable identification of the shipment in question. MBI shall use commercially reasonable efforts to correct such discrepancies after being so notified. If SYT fails to give such written notice within fifteen (15) days, such shipment of Commercial Product will be deemed accepted.
11.2 MBI warrants to SYT that all Commercial Product sold to SYT pursuant to this Commercial Agreement shall conform to the Specifications for a period of 24 months from and after the date of delivery to SYT at the FOB point. Conformity with the Specifications shall be determined by reference to the method of analysis set forth in the Specifications.
11.3 Subject to the limitations set forth herein, upon discovery of any failure of any Commercial Products to conform to the Specifications, SYT shall promptly contact MBI, and MBI shall promptly replace or remedy such Products at MBIs expense. MBI shall be responsible for all freight and insurance charges associated with any such replacement (and any reasonable charges in connection with any necessary return or disposal of nonconforming Product); provided, however, that if MBIs inspection discloses that the returned Commercial Products or any other Commercial Products in connection with which a warranty claim is made are not defective within the terms of the warranty provided herein, then SYT shall pay such freight and insurance and disposal charges associated with such replacement, return and disposal. MBI shall not be liable under any warranty set forth herein with respect to any Commercial
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Products that fail to conform to the Specifications if, and to the extent, such failure would have been avoided but for misuse, neglect, alteration, improper storage or improper testing of the Commercial Products by SYT or its customers.
11.4 If SYT and MBI are unable to agree as to whether Commercial Product fails to conform to the Specifications within the terms of the warranty provided herein, the Parties shall cooperate to have Commercial Product in dispute analyzed by an independent testing laboratory of recognized repute selected by MBI and approved by SYT, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. The results of such laboratory testing shall be final and binding on the Parties on the issue of compliance of Commercial Product with Specifications within the terms of the warranty provided herein. If Commercial Products are determined to have complied with such warranty, then SYT shall bear the cost of the independent laboratory testing. If Commercial Product is determined to not to have complied with such warranty, then MBI shall bear the costs of the laboratory testing, and SYT shall have the warranty recourse afforded under Section 11.3.
11.5 The Warranty set forth herein is the only warranty, express or implied, that MBI makes with respect to the Commercial Product.
11.6 MBI shall for a period of at least thirtyy-six (36) months after the manufacture of Commercial Products keep all records and samples concerning each batch of the Commercial Products, except for any such records and samples that MBI reasonably believes would not be relevant for the determination of conformity of the Commercial Products with the Specifications; provided, that in the event Syngenta delivers notice of a defect (including a hidden defect), MBI shall maintain all such records and samples then in MBIs possession related to the applicable batch of Commercial Products until resolution of such claim.
12 Use Extension
12.1 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, SYT shall have the exclusive option to extend the Field of use of the Commercial Product to flowers and ornamentals as well as to the use in seed treatment in the Territory. Such option shall be exercisable by [*****] the Parties [*****] prior to [*****] (within 12 months after signature of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Parties on [*****].
12.2 Should MBI decide to start Registration trials to support the extension of the Field of use of the Commercial Product to agricultural crop uses in the Territory, MBI shall promptly notify SYT of such Registration trials. SYT shall have 30 business days after receipt of such notification to confirm in writing its interest in testing the Commercial Product for such additional agricultural uses in the Territory. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, from the day SYT communicates its interest in such extension, a 12 months exclusive testing period starts during which SYT shall have the exclusive right (along with MBI) to test the Commercial Product for such additional agricultural crop uses in the Territory. Within this 12 months testing period, SYT shall have the exclusive option, exercisable by written notice to MBI, to enter into exclusive commercial negotiations with MBI regarding the extension of the agricultural crop uses of the Commercial Product in the Territory. As soon as SYT exercises this option, a 6 months exclusive commercial negotiation period starts where both Parties negotiate in Good Faith the commercial terms of an extension to SYT of exclusive distribution rights of the Commercial Product for the new crop uses in the Territory. SYT agrees that such distribution shall occur pursuant to a Business Plan and a Registration Plan for the additional crop uses similar to the one covering the use of the Commercial Product herein.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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12.3 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, during a period of 12 months after the Effective Date of this Commercial Agreement SYT shall have a non-exclusive option to negotiate the extension of the Territory of this Agreement. The NAFTA countries are not part of this option. If SYT exercises this non-exclusive option, both Parties agree to negotiate in Good Faith comparable terms to those included in this Commercial Agreement, including possible additional milestone payments for Registrations in the additional Territories.
12.4 Should SYT not timely exercise any of the exclusive options mentioned herein, MBI shall be free to offer the Commercial Product for other uses, for extended agricultural crop uses and in countries which are not part of the Territory to third parties.
13 Product Enhancements
MBI shall notify SYT of any Product Enhancements of the Commercial Product that MBI makes generally commercially available. Such Product Enhancements will be added in writing to this Commercial Agreement as an additional Commercial Product. The other terms of this Commercial Agreement shall remain unchanged, provided, however, prices may change if use rates change.
14 Access to Predevelopment Products
14.1 Prior to becoming a development product, a product must pass through MBIs pre-development stage. During the term of this Commercial Agreement, MBI shall notify SYT of existing Predevelopment Products as of the Effective Date and, as soon as reasonably practical, and not later than any other third party, of each new available Predevelopment Product, its specifics, the crops with which it can be used (if known) and the field of application. SYT shall have [*****] after receipt of such notification to confirm to MBI in writing its interest in testing such Predevelopment Product. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, from the date of SYTs written notice of interest to test, SYT shall have a [*****] testing period with respect to such Predevelopment Product. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Predevelopment Products shall exclude any product or candidate that has proceeded to the Predevelopment Product stage within MBI as a result of a separate discovery and development agreement with another third party.
14.2 Within this [*****] testing period, SYT shall have the opportunity, exercisable by written notice to MBI, to enter into exclusive commercial negotiations (the Negotiation Option) regarding the Predevelopment Product with MBI in the Territory if at the time of receipt of such notice MBI has not entered into exclusive commercial negotiations with any other third party with regard to such Predevelopment Product. As soon as SYT exercises this Negotiation Option, a [*****] commercial negotiation period starts where both Parties negotiate in Good Faith the terms regarding the commercial exploitation of the Predevelopment Product in the Territory. SYT agrees that such exploitation shall occur pursuant to an agreement including a Business Plan and a Registration Plan and Milestone Payments and shall include an exclusivity fee for any exclusive agreement.
14.3 The nonexclusive testing by SYT of the Predevelopment Product terminates upon the earlier of (i) when a Commercial Agreement between the Parties is executed, or (ii) the expiration of the [*****] negotiation period.
15 MBI Liability
15.1 MBI agrees to hold harmless and indemnify SYT against all claims and liabilities (including all costs incident to any suit and judgment including without limitation reasonable attor-
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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neys fees and investigation cost) made against SYT except where and to the extent caused by SYTs gross negligence or wilful misconduct and except where damages sum up to less than USD [*****] as a result of (i) MBIs noncompliance with any applicable law relating to the performance by MBI of the terms of this Commercial Agreement (ii) MBIs breach of the terms of this Commercial Agreement.
15.2 The obligation to provide indemnification in Section 15.1 is contingent upon (a) the indemnified party giving prompt written notice to the indemnifying party of any such claim, action or demand, (b) the indemnified party allowing the indemnifying party to control the defense through an attorney reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party, and related settlement negotiations, and (c) the indemnified party fully assisting in the defense so long as the indemnifying party pays the indemnified partys out-of-pocket expenses.
15.3 Except for a Partys breach of the intellectual property rights under Section 9 or the confidentiality obligations under Section 17 or gross negligence or wilful misconduct, neither Party shall have any liability, whether based in contract or tort, for any punitive, exemplary, consequential, special, indirect or incidental loss of profits or interruption of business, arising from or related to this Commercial Agreement.
15.4 MBI agrees to comply in all respects with the Minimum Requirements for SYT suppliers as further specified in Exhibit 8.
15.5 During the term of this Commercial Agreement MBI shall all times keep up product liability insurance. SYT shall have the right to ask for a written proof that such insurance agreement has been concluded.
16 SYT Responsibilities and Liability
16.1 SYT shall market, sell and distribute the Commercial Products at SYTs risk and on SYTs own account. In correspondence and other dealings relating directly or indirectly to the sale or other disposition of the Commercial Products, SYT shall indicate that it is acting on its own account.
16.2 SYT shall be responsible to sell and distribute Commercial Product only in accordance with the Commercial Product Registrations.
16.3 SYT agrees to hold harmless and indemnify MBI against all claims and liabilities (including all costs incident to any suit and judgment including without limitation reasonable attorneys fees and investigation cost) made against MBI except where and to the extent caused by MBIs gross negligence or wilful misconduct and except where damages sum up to less than USD [*****] as a result of (i) SYTs non-compliance with any applicable law relating to the performance by SYT of the terms of this Commercial Agreement (ii) SYTs breach of the terms of this Commercial Agreement.
16.4 The obligation to provide indemnification in Section 16.3 is contingent upon (a) the indemnified party giving prompt written notice to the indemnifying party of any such claim, action or demand, (b) the indemnified party allowing he indemnifying party to control the defense through an attorney reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party, and related settlement negotiations, and (c) the indemnified party fully assisting in the defense so long as the indemnifying party pays the indemnified partys out-of-pocket expenses.
16.5 Except for a Partys breach of the intellectual property rights under Section 9 or the confidentiality obligations under Section 17 or gross negligence or wilful misconduct, neither Party shall have any liability, whether based in contract or tort, for any punitive, exemplary,
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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consequential, special, indirect or incidental loss of profits or interruption of business, arising from or related to this Commercial Agreement.
16.6 SYT agrees to comply in all respects with the Minimum Requirements for SYT suppliers as further specified in Exhibit 8
17 Confidentiality
17.1 The Parties shall hold in strict confidence all confidential or proprietary information and data disclosed by or on behalf of the other or its Affiliates prior to or after execution of this Commercial Agreement (collectively, Information) and the Parties shall not use such Information for any purpose other than the manufacture, supply and distribution of the Commercial Product and the performance of its other duties under this Commercial Agreement. The Parties shall not disclose such Information to third parties, without the other Partys prior approval in writing.
17.2 The Parties shall only disclose the Information to those of its own and its Affiliates officers, employees, board members and consultants with a need to know for the proper performance of the duties under this Commercial Agreement and shall take all commercially reasonable steps to assure that all members of its staff to whom disclosure is made will observe the above obligations. Neither Party shall disclose such Information to any existing or potential shareholder who is a direct competitor of the other Party.
17.3 The above confidentiality obligations shall not apply to Information which:
(i) |
Parties can prove by written evidence was in its possession prior to disclosure by or on behalf of the other or its Affiliates; or |
(ii) |
on the date of first disclosure to one of the Parties by or on behalf of the other Party or its Affiliates was in the public domain or thereafter becomes part of the public domain by publication or otherwise, except by one Partys breach of this Commercial Agreement; or |
(iii) |
which one of the Parties may receive from a third party, provided, however, that such information was not obtained by such third party, directly or indirectly, from a Party to this Commercial Agreement or its Affiliates; or |
(iv) |
which a Party may have to disclose to the competent regulatory bodies in order to obtain and/or maintain the manufacturing, distribution and other licences and authorisations necessary for the manufacture, supply and distribution of the Commercial Product. |
17.4 The Parties agree that the terms of this Commercial Agreement, its exhibits and all related discussions will be treated as confidential. Provided, however, that nothing herein shall prohibit disclosure of the existence of this Commercial Agreement to existing or potential investors or compliance by MBI with applicable securities laws.
17.5 The obligation to confidentiality shall outlive this Commercial Agreement for a term of six years to be calculated starting from Termination or expiration of this Commercial Agreement.
18 Term and Termination
18.1 This Commercial Agreement shall become effective on the Effective Date.
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18.2 The term of this Commercial Agreement shall be 5 years calculated separately for each country of the Territory, starting from the first sales of Commercial Product in the Field in the respective country. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term of this Commercial Agreement shall expire on the date that is fifteen (15) years after the date of the first Registration of the Commercial Product in the Territory.
18.3 The Commercial Agreement shall not be automatically renewed, but the Parties will meet two years prior to expiration of the Commercial Agreement in order to consider the renewal of the Commercial Agreement in Good Faith.
18.4 Notwithstanding the foregoing, either Party may terminate this Commercial Agreement with immediate effect by giving notice of termination to the other Party:
(i) |
upon any material breach of this Commercial Agreement by the other Party which is not remedied within sixty (60) days from notification thereof; |
(ii) |
upon the other Party committing an act of bankruptcy or compounding with its creditors or being confiscated or sequestrated or nationalised or in any other way transferred into state ownership; |
(iii) |
SYT shall have the right to terminate the Commercial Agreement with a 30 day notice period should Exclusivity hereunder not be granted in Italy, Turkey or Israel within 24 months after the Effective Date of the Commercial Agreement. |
18.5 Either Party may forthwith terminate this Commercial Agreement in writing if the other Party has been prevented from fulfilling its obligations under this Commercial Agreement, in whole or in part, for more than one hundred eighty (180) days due to a Force Majeure event.
18.6 In the event a petition for relief under any bankruptcy law or legislation is filed by or against MBI, or MBI makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors or a receiver is appointed for all or a substantial portion of MBIs assets, and such petition, assignment or appointment is not dismissed or vacated within thirty (30) days, then the Parties shall jointly discuss in Good Faith possible commercially reasonable solutions regarding the supply of Commercial Product to SYT.
18.7 Upon the expiration or termination of this Commercial Agreement, any Registrations (but excluding any Trademarks of SYT) to be owned by MBI hereunder or jointly owned by MBI hereunder that may be in the name of SYT, an affiliate of SYT or some local entity that may be affiliated with SYT, or otherwise not in the name of MBI, shall nonetheless be transferred to MBI upon MBIs request or otherwise relinquished upon MBIs request at no additional cost to MBI.
18.8 Upon the expiration or termination of this Commercial Agreement, any Registrations (but excluding any Trademarks of SYT) to be owned by SYT hereunder or jointly owned by SYT hereunder, shall nonetheless be transferred to MBI upon MBIs request or otherwise relinquished upon MBIs request, and MBI shall pay SYT for such transfer an amount to be negotiated between the Parties in Good Faith reflecting the value of the business including the transferred Registrations at the time of such transfer.
19 Force Majeure
19.1 In the event that either Party is affected by any circumstance that prevents the fulfilment by such Party of its obligations hereunder in whole or in part, then such Party shall notify the other Party of the nature and extent of such circumstance(s), as promptly as possible.
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19.2 Neither Party shall be deemed to be in breach of this Commercial Agreement, or otherwise be liable to the other Party, by reason of any delay in the performance, or non-performance, of any of its obligations hereunder to the extent that such delay or non-performance is due to Force Majeure of which it has notified the other Party and the time for the performance of such obligation shall be extended accordingly. The Party so affected shall take all reasonable steps to minimise the loss occasioned to the other Party and the Parties shall as soon as practicable enter into bona fide discussions with a view to alleviating the effects of said circumstance or to agreeing upon such alternative arrangements as may be fair and reasonable.
19.3 Upon cessation of the Force Majeure, the Party affected by Force Majeure shall resume the performance of its contractual obligation(s), as promptly as possible, unless such performance has been waived in writing by the Party to whom such performance was due.
19.4 Should the Force Majeure event lead to an interruption in the supply of Commercial Product to SYT hereunder for more than ninety (90) days, then the Parties shall jointly discuss possible commercially reasonable solutions.
20 Miscellaneous
20.1 This Commercial Agreement shall supersede all prior oral or written agreements between MBI and SYT or its Affiliates in relation to the subject matter hereof including the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Parties on October 27, 2010 (the MOU) and such MOU shall herewith terminate and be of no further force or effect.
20.2 This Commercial Agreement may be amended only in writing signed by both Parties, and any provision of this Agreement may be waived only in writing signed by the party waiving compliance.
20.3 Any assignment of this Commercial Agreement, in whole or in part, by either Party shall require the written prior consent of the other Party, except that either Party is entitled to assign this Commercial Agreement to an Affiliate, successor in interest or purchaser of all or substantially all of its assets, provided that (i) the assignor undertakes to inform in writing the other Party as soon as reasonably possible and (ii) the assignee undertakes in writing to be bound by the same rights and obligations as contained herein.
20.4 All notices provided required under this Commercial Agreement shall be in the English language and in writing and shall be given by registered letter, facsimile or e-mail to the addresses set forth below, or such other address as either Party may communicate to the other Party in accordance with this Section. A notice shall be deemed to be received upon actual receipt of a registered letter (as evidenced by the respective receipt) or on the first business day following the date of transmission if sent by facsimile or e-mail.
If to SYT:
Syngenta Crop Protection AG
EAME Legal Department
Schwarzwaldallee 215
CH-4002 Basel
Switzerland
Fax: [*****]
If to MBI:
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
Pam Marrone
2121 Second Street
Suite B-107
Davis, California 95618
USA
Fax: 530-750-2808
20.5 The Parties agree that any public press release to announce this Commercial Agreement will be agreed to by both Parties (such agreement not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed).
20.6 In the event any provision of this Commercial Agreement is deemed to be void under any applicable law, the remaining provisions of this Commercial Agreement shall not be affected and the void provision shall be deemed to have been replaced by such valid and enforceable provision which most closely reflects the original intention of the Parties.
20.7 Failure of either Party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Commercial Agreement, irrespective of any previous action or proceeding taken by it, shall in no way be considered:
(i) |
a waiver of such provisions: |
(ii) |
to affect the validity of this Commercial Agreement; or |
(iii) |
to preclude or prejudice the Party from exercising the same or any other rights it may have under this Commercial Agreement. |
21 Governing Law and Jurisdiction
21.1 This Commercial Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Switzerland, excluding the principles of conflict of laws and the United Nations Convention on the International Sale of Goods.
21.2 All disputes arising out of this Commercial Agreement shall be settled by binding arbitration, in accordance with the Rules of the International Chamber of Commerce by an arbitration tribunal consisting of three arbitrators, who are to be appointed in accordance with said rules. The language of the arbitration proceedings shall be English, and the place of arbitration shall be Zurich, Switzerland.
22 Taxes; Import; Export; Exchange Approvals
22.1 All foreign, federal and state taxes based upon SYTs purchase, use, sale, distribution or possession of the Commercial Product, other than United States income or franchise taxes payable by MBI, will be borne and paid by SYT. MBI agrees to furnish any documents to taxing authorities if reasonably requested to do so by SYT.
22.2 SYT shall be responsible for obtaining import licenses, export licenses, currency exchange approvals and any other governmental approvals in or outside the Territory that may be necessary to permit the sale of and payment for the Commercial Product ordered by SYT for distribution and resale within the Territory. SYT shall comply with any and all laws, regulations or orders that govern or affect the ordering, export, shipment, import, sale, deliver and redelivery of Commercial Product in the Territory and shall furnish MBI with such documentation as MBI may request to confirm SYTs compliance with the provisions of this Section 22.
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SYT shall not engage in any course of conduct that would cause SYT or MBI to be in violations of the laws of any jurisdiction, including the US foreign corrupt practices act.
23 Directly Competitive Products
SYT shall notify MBI in writing at least [*****] by SYT in the Territory of any biological product for use in the Field which could be directly competitive to the Commercial Product. Upon receipt of such notice, MBI shall have the option, upon [*****] written notice to SYT, to re-negotiate the terms and conditions of this Commercial Agreement, such re-negotiated terms and conditions not to be less favorable than terms and conditions offered by MBI to any similarly situated third party.
[signature page follows]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this Commercial Agreement to be duly executed as of the date first set forth above.
Place: Davis | Place: Basel | |||||
Marrone Bio Innovations Inc. | Syngenta Crop Protection AG | |||||
/s/ Pam Marrone | /s/ Hans Gut |
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Pamela Marrone President and CEO |
Hans Gut Head Third Party EAME CP |
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Date: | ||||||
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/s/ Sibylle Oser |
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Sibylle Oser Legal Counsel EAME CP |
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Date: February 21 st , 2011 |
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Exhibits to the Commercial Agreement:
1) Business Plan
2) Registration Plan and Milestone Payment Plan
3) Commercial Product Specifications
4) [*****] rolling forecast model (empty)
5) Pricing & Reference Products
6) List of EAME Countries
7) List of Specialty Crops
8) Minimum Requirements for SYT suppliers
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
22
Exhibit 1: Business Plan
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
23
Exhibit 2: Registration Plan and Milestone Payment Plan
a) Registration Plan
[*****]
Every month of delay to reach a Milestone leads to an equal monthly delay in payment of the respective Milestone Payment.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
24
Exhibit 3: Commercial Product Specifications
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
25
Exhibit 4: [*****] Rolling Forecast Model
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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Exhibit 5: Pricing & Reference Products
1) Pricing
a) Initial Price
The initial Price per unit at which SYT may purchase Commercial Product shall be USD [*****].
It is anticipated that the use rate will range from min. [*****], with the assumption that the [*****]. Within one month of the first country regulatory submission, the Price will be determined on the [*****] in the Key Crops of tomatoes, lettuce and cucumber in the first country of Registration. However, the Price will not be less than USD [*****].
Examples:
|
use rate of [*****] the initial Price will be USD [*****] |
|
use rate of [*****] the initial Price will be USD [*****]. |
b) Price Adjustments
[*****]
2) Reference Products
[*****]
Farm prices indicated are the average prices (equally weighted) for the three Lead Countries.
Either of the Parties shall be free to suggest to the other Party at any time in writing a review of the Reference Product list for substantial reasons (e.g. new product concept). If no agreement is reached between the Parties after six (6) months, each Party can ask for arbitration and both Parties agree to accept the final and binding decision of the arbitrator.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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Exhibit 6: List of EAME Countries (the Territory)
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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[*****]
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Territory shall not include any country to which or in which MBI would be prohibited from directly or indirectly selling or shipping Commercial Product under any US law, regulation or order.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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Exhibit 7: List of Specialty Crops
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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Exhibit 8: Minimum Requirements for SYT Suppliers
1) | Introduction |
SYT has committed to upholding the principles set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of the United Nations and the International Labour Organizations Core Conventions. These include: freedom of association; the right to organize and collective bargaining; non-discriminatory remuneration; and minimum working age. The core conventions forbid practices such as unlawful discrimination, child labour, bonded labour and slavery.
This document is based on the key rules and regulations which apply within SYT and which implement the above commitments which are specified in detail in articles 22 to 24 of the SYT Code of Conduct. This document forms an integral and binding part of the contractual relationship between the respective SYT Group Company and your company (the Supplier).
2) | Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining |
Where recognized in accordance with local laws, MBI shall recognize unions and collective worker representations for collective bargaining and negotiation purposes regarding the terms and conditions of employment.
No employee or employee representative of MBI must be subject to discharge, discrimination, harassment, intimidation or retaliation for exercising his or her lawful right to associate or bargain collectively.
3) | Working Hours / Wages & Benefits / Conditions of Work |
The regular working hours of MBIs employees must not exceed any limits defined by local laws. If there are no local laws requiring overtime payments, MBI must follow ILO regulations which require that any working hours in excess of 48 during any workweek must be voluntary and must be compensated at one and one quarter times the employees regular rate.
All employees of MBI must receive a wage no less than the national minimum wage.
MBI shall ensure that all employees work in a safe environment at all premises under MBIs control.
MBI shall comply with all applicable environmental rules, obligations and laws applicable to the operations at MBIs premises.
4) | Child Labour |
MBI must not use any child labour. Child labour is considered any work or activity that interferes with the full time schooling of a child and/or is mentally, physically, socially or morally dangerous and harmful to children. In addition, MBI must not employ children younger than the legal minimum working age for children, and must not employ young persons to undertake dangerous or hazardous work.
5) | Discrimination |
MBI shall ensure that hiring, placement, remuneration, advancement, training and disciplinary decisions within MBI are consistent with local law. If there are no local laws prohibiting discrimination in the workplace, Supplier agrees not to make any employment decisions on an individuals gender, age, nationality, ethnicity, race, colour, creed, caste, language, disability, organizational membership, opinion, health status, marital status, maternity, sexual orientation, or the employees civic, social, or political distinctiveness.
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6) | Illegal, Forced, Bonded & Compulsory Labour |
MBI must not use or benefit from any illegal labour, including illegal migrant labour, nor will MBI use or benefit from any forced, compulsory and/or bonded labour.
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Exhibit 10.28
COMMERCIAL AGREEMENT
Dated as of August 26, 2011,
by and between
FMC Corporation
1735 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(hereinafter referred to as FMC )
and
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
2121 Second Street
Suite B-107
Davis
CA 95618
USA
(hereinafter referred to as MBI )
Each a Party and collectively the Parties
* * * * * * * *
Relating to Biological Crop Protection Products
WHEREAS
MBI has available the biological fungicide Regalia Maxx 20% for agricultural uses.
FMC and its Latin America Affiliates (collectively, the FMC Group) have a broad crop protection product portfolio and a highly developed distribution network in certain LATAM Countries;
Gaining access to the Commercial Product of MBI can allow FMC Group to strengthen innovative crop programs;
Gaining access to the FMC Groups distribution network and sales and marketing expertise can provide a unique possibility for MBI to reach the certain markets in certain LATAM Countries.
NOW THEREFORE, the Parties agree as follows:
1. Definitions, Interpretations and Exhibits
In this Commercial Agreement (including the preamble) the following capitalized terms shall have the meanings assigned to them below:
Affiliate |
any business entity which controls, is controlled by or is under common control with either Party; for the purpose of this definition, a business entity shall be deemed to control another business entity if it owns, directly or indirectly, in excess of 50% of the outstanding voting securities or capital stock of such business entity or any other comparable equity or ownership interest with respect to a business entity other than a corporation; |
|
Business Plan | is an agreed to document outlining the target markets and sales targets based on an agreed development and Registration Plan and is attached hereto as Exhibit 1; | |
Commercial Agreement | shall mean this supply, distribution and development agreement for the Commercial Product signed between the Parties; | |
Commercial Product |
shall mean the biological product commonly known as Regalia Maxx 20% as well as any enhancement to the formulation which includes the biological component Reynoutria sachalinesis specifically developed and being commercialized in the Field in the Territory subject to the provisions in Section 10.8; |
|
Delivery Date |
shall mean the date on which MBI is to deliver product to the applicable FMC Affiliate at the nearest US port of departure; |
|
Effective Date | shall mean August 26, 2011; | |
Exclusivity | shall mean the exclusive commercial rights for the Commercial Product in the Field in the Territory granted from Effective Date of the Commercial Agreement by MBI to FMC; | |
Field | shall mean the use of Commercial Product for foliar agricultural and ornamental uses as specified in Exhibit 7; | |
Force Majeure |
shall mean blockade, civil commotion, earthquake, explosion, fire, flood, general army mobilization, insurrection, lightning, revolution, riot, sabotage, storm, war (declared or undeclared) and any similar cause which is not reasonably within the control of the Party affected. For the avoidance of doubt, events and circumstances within each Partys responsibility, such as breakdown of a plant due to inability to hire sufficient and qualified staff shall not be deemed to constitute Force Majeure; |
|
Forecast | shall mean an [*****] rolling forecast as further described in Exhibit 4; |
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
2
Good Faith | All negotiations between the parties have to be led in good faith; | |
LATAM | Latin America region, to be further defined in Territory below; | |
Milestone Payments |
shall mean payments from FMC to MBI upon reaching milestones in preparation of the Registration of the Commercial Product as well as post registration goals, as further described herein. |
|
Order |
shall mean a written and binding order for the purchase of Commercial Product; |
|
Party | shall mean any one of the parties hereto and Parties shall mean both of them; | |
Premixes |
shall mean any combination of (1) Regalia Maxx or any component such as Reynoutria sachalinesis with (2) any other biological or chemical compound |
|
Registration Plan | Plan detailing the timing and scope of registrations for countries within the Territory as defined in Exhibit 1; | |
Specifications |
the technical and quality specifications for the Commercial Product set forth in Exhibit 3, as amended from time to time by agreement in writing between the Parties hereto. The Specifications shall adequately describe the physical and chemical properties (such as particle sizes) of the Commercial Product, as well as a commercially acceptable minimum shelf life and efficacy. The Parties acknowledge that Exhibit 3 shall also contain the testing method for ascertaining compliance of the Commercial Product efficacy; |
|
Territory | shall mean certain LATAM Countries as further specified in Exhibit 6; | |
USD | shall mean United States Dollars. |
The Section headings contained in this Commercial Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or the interpretation of this Commercial Agreement.
The Exhibits shall constitute an integral part of this Commercial Agreement. In the event of any conflict between any of the Exhibits and the Commercial Agreement, the Commercial Agreement shall prevail.
2. Purpose and Commitment
2.1 Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, MBI intends to collaborate in researching, developing and registering the Commercial Product and FMC on behalf of itself and its FMC Group Affiliates intends to collaborate in evaluating, marketing and selling the Commercial Product in certain LATAM Countries
2.2 Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, the FMC Group will be the exclusive distributor of the Commercial Product for use in the Field in the Territory and MBI will exclusively supply the Commercial Product for use in the Field in the Territory to the FMC Group.
2.3 FMC (through itself and its FMC Group Affiliates) is committed to invest a minimum amount of [*****] from 2011 through 2013 to prepare the platform for the launch of the Commercial Product. These amounts are separate from and are in addition to the payments listed in Exhibit 2. For the avoidance of doubt, expenditures constituting such minimum investment shall include but not be limited to FMC Group internal staff man-hours assigned to evaluate, market and sell the product, including reasonable overhead, as well as out-of-pocket costs incurred in engaging third parties on development, marketing, and associated launch activities, as well as any fees or approvals needed for FMC Group to launch the Commercial Product. FMC shall update MBI quarterly on its launch efforts, provided, however, that this update shall not include any right to audit FMC Groups expenditures.
3. Exclusive Distribution
3.1 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof (and the exceptions regarding Eurofert S.A referred to below), MBI agrees to sell exclusively to FMC and its LATAM Affiliates the Commercial Product for use in the Field in the Territory, and FMC, on behalf of itself and its LATAM Affiliates, agrees to purchase all of its requirements of the Commercial Product from MBI and distribute the Commercial Product for use in the Field in the Territory. MBI represents and warrants that it has not granted any distribution rights for the Commercial Product in the Field in the Territory to any third party, with the exception of rights granted to Eurofert S.A. to sell Milsana, a [*****] formulation of Reynoutria sachalinesis, in Ecuador. To the extent FMC or its LATAM Affiliate desires to negotiate with Eurofert S.A. regarding a transfer of registration, FMC will bear all costs associated with that effort; if that registration is not transferred, FMC agrees that MBI may continue to sell Milsana in the current [*****] formulation to Eurofert for sale and use only in Ecuador.
3.2 FMC Group shall use commercially reasonable efforts to develop sales and achieve targets agreed in the Business Plan attached hereto as Exhibit 1. At least once a year, FMC shall provide an updated Business Plan to MBI, which shall address annual target volumes and shall be subject to approval by MBI.
3.3 If in each country in the Territory and after the 3 rd year of registration of a product in such country, MBI shall have the right to appoint additional distributors (with non-exclusive distribution rights should FMC still be committed to selling the product) should FMC or any of its relevant LATAM Affiliates fail, for any given country in the Territory, to purchase at least [*****] of the annual volume targets set forth in the Business Plan. Both parties acknowledge that these annual targets must have reasonable accommodation for weather, macroeconomic market conditions, and competitive and regulatory dynamics which might alter FMCs assumptions and be out of FMCs control.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
4
3.4 FMC Group shall at all times under this Commercial Agreement be regarded as an independent contractor and shall purchase the Commercial Product on its own account for resale to third parties.
4. Exclusive Supply
4.1 FMC shall submit to MBI [*****] rolling Forecast. FMC (through itself or its LATAM Affiliates) has the obligation to purchase the volumes in the first [*****] of the Forecast. For months [*****] of the Forecast, FMC (through itself or its LATAM Affiliates) agrees to purchase the monthly Forecast volume [*****] each month. [*****] of the Forecast are non-binding and indicative only. The rolling Forecast submitted shall be confirmed by MBI within 10 working days after receipt, and MBI commits to supply the Forecast volumes as specified for the [*****], and for months [*****] MBI will make commercially reasonable efforts to supply the volume of up to [*****] above the Forecast volume in each of those months. Should FMC require more than 120% in those months, the Parties will discuss a strategy for meeting FMC demand.
4.2 All Orders shall be governed exclusively by the terms and conditions of this Commercial Agreement, and any terms or provisions on any FMC Order forms or MBI purchase acknowledgements that are inconsistent with those contained in this Commercial Agreement shall have no force or effect whatsoever as between the Parties. Neither MBIs commencement of performance nor delivery shall be deemed or construed as acceptance of FMCs additional or different terms and conditions. Orders may be sent by facsimile transmission or email or, if approved by MBI, other electronic media and shall set forth the exact quantity of Commercial Product required and the requested Delivery Date which shall be no less than 60 days from Order date unless approved by MBI in writing. Provided that each Order is given in accordance with this Commercial Agreement (including the Forecast numbers delivered pursuant to Section 4.1), the requested Delivery Date shall be binding on MBI, with the understanding that MBI shall still follow its usual procedure to issue an order acknowledgement for each order.
4.3 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI shall manufacture (or have manufactured) and supply to FMC the Commercial Product in bulk. Such Commercial Product shall, upon delivery, meet the Specifications and be in compliance with all regulatory requirements applicable in the relevant country. The Commercial Product shall be supplied to FMC or its Affiliate in the Territory according to the Orders submitted by FMC or its Affiliate in the Territory and the terms of this Commercial Agreement, FAS delivery to the nearest US port of departure identified by FMC in accordance with Incoterms 2010 (as published by the International Chamber of Commerce), unless stated otherwise in Exhibit 5. The FMC Group Affiliate shall have fifteen (15) days following receipt of each shipment of the Commercial Product at the FAS point in which to notify MBI in writing of any discrepancies in such shipment as to quantity, quality, weight, loss or damage to the Commercial Product or conformity to the Specifications. Such FMC written notice to MBI shall specify in reasonable detail the nature and basis of the claim and cite relevant control numbers or other information to enable identification of the shipment in questions. MBI shall use commercially reasonable efforts to correct such discrepancies after being so notified. If FMC Group entity fails to give such written notice within fifteen (15) days, such shipment of Commercial Product will be deemed accepted.
4.4 MBI shall supply such quantity of Commercial Product to FMC Group as FMC Group entities may order, subject to the maximums in the binding Forecasts, in accordance with the terms of this Commercial Agreement. MBI shall make available the required production capacity at MBIs facility or a facility of a third party to comply with FMCs Orders and the requested Delivery Date for the Commercial Product. In the event that FMC requires additional volumes above the agreed Forecast, with respect to Commercial Product supplied, MBI shall use commercially reasonable efforts to supply such volumes, but shall not have any obligation
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
5
to fill any Order to the extent that it exceeds one hundred and twenty percent (120%) of the forecasted orders for such Commercial Product as set forth in the Forecast.
4.5 MBI shall inform FMC immediately when it becomes aware of a possible delay in the supply of Commercial Product. In such case the Parties shall jointly discuss possible solutions to minimize damages caused through late delivery.
4.6 Both Parties shall comply at all times with applicable law regarding the delivery, storage, production, supply etc. of the Commercial Product in accordance with Responsible Care Standards of the American Chemistry Council (current version attached as Exhibit 10).
4.7 Transfer of full title as well as risk of loss or damage to the Commercial Product shall occur in accordance with the chosen Incoterm (Incoterms 2010) as specified in this Section 4.
4.8 FMC and its Affiliates shall have complete discretion subject to the terms of this Commercial Agreement in the commercialization of products including price, promotion, distribution channels including sub distribution to 3 rd parties in the Field in the Territory.
5. Price and Payment
5.1 The price per unit at which FMC Group may purchase Commercial Product are set forth on Exhibit 5. All prices are in United States Dollars. Commencing in 2012 (or in the first year of Commercial Product sales, if later), the price may be adjusted [*****] by mutual agreement of the Parties, before [*****]. Price adjustment shall begin with the adjustment of the initial price and will continue for the duration of the Commercial Agreement. The Parties shall meet and discuss such revised prices in good faith.
5.2 MBI shall invoice the relevant FMC Group entity which places the order for each delivery made. Payment for each delivery shall be made by the relevant FMC Group entity to MBI and shall be due [*****] of delivery. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that any such payment is not fully and timely made in accordance with this Agreement, then such failure to pay shall be deemed a material breach of this Agreement by FMC, and FMC shall be fully liable for such breach in the same manner and to the same extent as if the purchase had been made by FMC itself and such payment was originally owed by FMC, and MBI shall have full recourse hereunder to FMC for the full amount of such payment. If such breach becomes the subject of litigation, FMC Corporation shall waive any defence related to the corporate identity of the purchaser being an FMC Group entity rather than FMC itself.
6. Product Registration and Milestone Payments
6.1 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, MBI shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to register the Commercial Product for use in [*****]. FMC Group entities will assist MBI in registering products in [*****] and will lead registration efforts in [*****] as well as in other countries in the Territory all in accordance with the Registration Plan. MBI will work with FMC Agroquimica do Mexico to have the Mexican registration transferred to FMC Mexico. FMC and MBI shall meet at least once annually, or more frequently as needed, to expedite registrations, to update the status of registrations in all relevant countries (the Registration Plan). FMC Group entities shall be responsible for registering the Premix products detailed in the Development Plan described in Article 10 below.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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6.2 Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the Parties shall be obliged to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain and maintain registrations of the Commercial Product, in accordance with the Registration Plan in the Business Plan, until the expiration or termination of this Commercial Agreement. In consideration of the exclusive distribution rights hereunder, FMC and its LATAM Affiliates shall pay for the regulatory expenses, trial expenses and studies related to the labels for all countries in the Territory including additional trials required in [*****] and Mexico for label expansion. MBI shall solely own or through its agents own, such Commercial Product registrations except as may be otherwise provided in this Commercial Agreement.
6.3 Subject to full and timely satisfaction of the conditions described on Exhibit 2, FMC shall pay Milestone Payments to MBI. These payments shall be made in consideration of the upfront costs already incurred by MBI and for the Exclusivity granted to FMC and its LATAM Affiliates under this Commercial Agreement.
6.4 FMC Group entities may be consulted on the registration approach for registering the Commercial Product. FMC Group entities will assist MBI in the registration process where agreed according to the Registration Plan. MBI may be consulted on registration approach for registering the Commercial Product in those countries where an FMC entity is the lead party and MBI will assist that FMC Group entity in the registration process where agreed according to the Registration Plan.
6.5 Development plans for standalone Commercial Product on [*****]
In addition to FMCs work in developing Premixes as provided in Article 10 and in addition to the existing foliar uses identified on Exhibit 7, FMC has presented MBI with an opportunity analysis for developing use of standalone Commercial Product for use in addressing: (a) [*****] and (b) [*****] in the Territory. FMC (though itself and its LATAM Affiliates) proposes to test the Commercial Product to validate assumptions related to efficacy, use rates and overall positioning in these areas.
MBI has considered FMCs analysis and is willing to allow FMC and its LATAM Affiliates to pursue such development of these new uses in the identified regions for the standalone Commercial Product on an exclusive basis subject to the terms and conditions hereof. FMC and its LATAM Affiliates will maintain development exclusivity for these uses in these countries in the Territory as long as it is in full and timely compliance with the following:
1) - FMC continues to diligently develop the product and market applications
2) - FMC submits an application for registration in at least one country with regard to [*****] with respect to [*****] after the first season of field data that show that the Commercial Product is effective enough for submission, if allowed by the Regulatory authority of each country contemplated in this Section 6.5.
3) - FMC agrees (with MBI) to annual purchase targets after the second season of effective field trials or when the registration is granted, whichever is later.
If FMCs assessment of the first season of field data leads FMC to conclude that it does not wish to submit the registration per clause 2 above, but still wishes to continue testing and maintain exclusivity for these markets, then MBI will submit the registration and FMC will reimburse MBI for their costs.
FMC will report at least annually on its development efforts hereunder and present summary trial data of any field trials. All data collected and summarized on field trials will be made available to MBI.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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Should FMC fully comply with this Section 6 and decide to pursue registration and commercialization of the uses referred to herein, such uses shall be automatically added to the uses listed on Exhibit 7, and FMC shall have the right to register and sell Commercial Product for such uses in a manner as provided under, and subject to the terms and conditions of, this Commercial Agreement. Further, if FMC develops the Commercial Product for use on [*****], FMC Groups rights to such use shall extend to other [*****] producing countries in the Territory under, and subject to the terms and conditions of, this Commercial Agreement.
Should the field trials instead indicate that there exists no viable commercial outlook for either of the uses in the above identified areas, FMC will promptly terminate its development and at that time MBI will have the right to appoint additional developers or distributors of Commercial Product in the Territory for these two uses. MBI agrees that, for so long as FMCs termination as per the previous sentence was principally for MBIs proposed supply price-related reasons, such separate distribution shall not have pricing which is more favourable than that presented to FMC Group and, further, in any country where an FMC Group entity is marketing standalone Commercial Product, any such separate distribution shall be under a separate distinct trademark and that the marketing in such other crops shall not adversely and materially impact FMCs distribution of products under this Commercial Agreement.
6.6 The Parties agree that given the unknowns in the registration process in much of the Territory, and restrictions and limitations imposed by many countries, FMC Group and MBI technical and commercial people will regularly discuss in Good Faith options to obtain the desired registrations of the Commercial Product and Premixes, and the Parties will amend the Business Plan and the Registration Plan and this Commercial Agreement as necessary or appropriate to achieve the fastest and most complete registration. Should ownership or title of registrations in a Partys name (or in both Parties names) as provided above prove difficult or unobtainable due to the law or practice of a particular jurisdiction, the Parties agree to work together in good faith to seek to establish relationships or mechanisms to approximate such ownership or title to the best of their ability, including the right of the relevant Party or Parties to maintain or obtain such ownership or title upon expiration or termination of this Commercial Agreement. This may include establishing or contracting with local entities as necessary or appropriate. Without limitation to the foregoing, in some jurisdictions it may be necessary or desirable for registrations otherwise to be owned by MBI hereunder, instead to be in the name of FMC, an Affiliate of FMC or some local entity that may or may not be affiliated with FMC Group. In such event, the Parties agree that such registrations shall nonetheless be transferred to MBI upon MBIs request or otherwise relinquished upon MBIs request and such transfer of registrations will be made in a timely manner.
7. Trademarks
7.1 The Parties intend to market the Commercial Product under the MBI trademark REGALIA to the extent such mark is available in various countries in the Territory. MBI will register and solely own REGALIA in the various countries in the Territory if such mark is available, and shall be responsible for all reasonable costs associated with such registration. If the trademark REGALIA is not available in any country in the Territory, the Parties shall consult and review potentially available alternative marks, including consideration of FMC-owned available marks. FMC will propose such trademarks for the Commercial Product to MBI, and MBI shall have one month to approve or object to FMCs proposal. Keeping silent shall mean consent. MBI will not withhold its approval without material reason. In those countries where the trademark REGALIA is not available and where MBI has not created or registered alternative trademarks, FMC will have the right to create its own trademarks, subject to approval by MBI. FMC will be responsible for creating, and shall own, trademarks related to Premix products.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
8
7.2 Upon receiving the bulk Commercial Product, FMC Group entities shall be responsible for printing and affixing the labelling on the end-use packed Commercial Product in accordance with the applicable rules for labelling and Registration as well as in accordance with the applicable national laws. MBIs company name will be listed on the package to the extent allowed in accordance with national regulations.
7.3 MBI represents that, to the best of its knowledge, the existing trademark REGALIA is owned by MBI in Mexico and does not infringe the rights of any other mark in the Field in Mexico. With regard to any claims of infringement of third party trademarks by MBIs REGALIA trademark in Mexico, MBI agrees to indemnify and hold harmless FMC Group entities against all claims and liabilities in Mexico (including all costs incident to any suit and judgment including reasonable attorneys fees and investigation cost) arising from such infringement; provided that any such indemnification is contingent upon (a) FMC Group entity giving prompt written notice to MBI of any relevant claim, action or demand, (b) FMC Group entity allowing MBI to control the defence through an attorney reasonably satisfactory to FMC Group entity, and related settlement negotiations, and (c) FMC Group entity fully assisting in the defence so long as MBI pays FMC Group entitys out-of-pocket expenses; and provided, further, that nothing in this Commercial Agreement shall limit MBIs ability to enter into any license or other agreement as necessary to make any trademark non-infringing or modify any trademark so as to be non-infringing (and to replace any trademark otherwise used hereunder).
7.4 FMC Group shall promptly bring to the attention of MBI any improper or wrongful use of any of the trademarks in the Territory that comes to its notice.
7.5 Trademarks, service marks or any trade secrets or proprietary information of any kind that are proprietary to one of the Parties are and shall forever remain the sole property of that Party, and may not be used by the other for any purpose other than carrying out its responsibilities hereunder.
7.6 FMC Group shall sell the Commercial Product in the packaging and with the labels as chosen by MBI and under the trademarks of MBI. MBI shall use commercially reasonable efforts to assist FMC Group in assuring that the packaging and labels of the Commercial Product conforms to the Commercial Products Registration and all applicable laws and regulations in the Territory.
8. Intellectual Property
8.1 Each Partys rights in its intellectual property shall not be affected by the Commercial Agreement unless otherwise specified herein.
8.2 Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, MBI retains all copyright, patent, trade secret, trademark rights and other intellectual property rights in and to the Commercial Product. Nothing in this Commercial Agreement is intended to create ownership by FMC Group in the intellectual property rights of MBI.
8.3 The Parties agree that all intellectual property rights involving the Commercial Product and its active ingredients alone shall be owned by MBI. The Parties further agree that intellectual property involving Premixes developed pursuant to Section 10 shall be owned by FMC, except to the extent MBI owns a patent or other intellectual property on such combination, in which case MBI hereby grants FMC a royalty free license to such MBI intellectual property for use in the Field in the Territory; provided, however, that nothing herein shall impair or transfer any intellectual property rights MBI has in the Commercial Product. FMC
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hereby grants MBI a royalty free license to use FMCs intellectual property in any such Premixes outside of the Field in the Territory and outside of the Territory.
9. MBI Liability
9.1 MBI agrees to hold harmless and indemnify FMC Group entities against all claims and liabilities (including all costs incident to any suit and judgment including without limitation reasonable attorneys fees and investigation cost) made against FMC Group entities as a result of (i) MBIs noncompliance with any applicable law relating to the performance by MBI of the supply of Commercial Product hereunder (ii) MBIs breach of the terms of this Commercial Agreement; except where and to the extent caused by a FMC Group entitys gross negligence or wilful misconduct and except for any individual claim or group of claims where damages sum up to less than [*****].
9.2 The obligation to provide indemnification in Section 9.1 is contingent upon (a) the indemnified party giving prompt written notice to the indemnifying party of any such claim, action or demand, (b) the indemnified party allowing the indemnifying party to control the defence through an attorney reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party, and related settlement negotiations, and (c) the indemnified party fully assisting in the defence so long as the indemnifying party pays the indemnified partys out-of-pocket expenses.
9.3 Except for a Partys breach of the intellectual property rights under Section 8 or the confidentiality obligations under Section 12 or gross negligence or wilful misconduct, neither Party shall have any liability, whether based in contract or tort, for any punitive, exemplary, consequential, special, indirect or incidental loss of profits or interruption of business, arising from or related to this Commercial Agreement.
9.4 Other than as specifically set forth in this Commercial Agreement, MBI makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect to the Commercial Product.
10. Development Premixes and New Formulations
10.1 During the term of this Commercial Agreement, and subject to the provisions of this Article 10, FMC shall have exclusive right to develop Premixes in the Field in the Territory. FMC will make proposals for developing Premixes in the Territory. FMC Group shall lead the development program of new products in collaboration with MBI and with reasonably necessary support from MBI. Both parties acknowledge that new product development is subject to multiple risks and there is no guarantee for success.
10.2 MBI shall supply reasonable quantities of Reynoutria sachalinesis free of charge to FMC for development of the Premixes in the Territory and Field. The price for commercial volumes of Reynoutria sachalinesis will be determined when the Premixes are near their development completion according to Exhibit 8; the parties shall also agree on specifications for such commercial Reynoutria sachalinesis (if different from Commercial Product) which shall be added as an appendix hereto.
10.3 FMC shall report to MBI on its development program (as described in Exhibit 8, the Development Plan) at least once per year. Such reporting shall include updates on project status and a summary of any trial reports since the last report as well as a general plan for the upcoming period.
10.4 FMC will be responsible for registration and regulatory study expenses and work associated with the Premixes it develops under the Development Plan, and FMC (or its relevant
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
10
LATAM Affiliate) shall own all data and registrations associated with the Premixes; provided, however, that nothing herein shall impair or transfer any intellectual property rights MBI has in the Commercial Product.
10.5 Upon registration of a Premix, FMC Group shall purchase its entire requirements of Reynoutria sachalinesis for use in such Premix from MBI and such purchases shall be made hereunder under a price and specifications to be agreed by the Parties. All purchase and sale of such Reynoutria sachalinesis shall be according to the terms and conditions of this Commercial Agreement.
10.6 FMC shall complete the first Development Plan for Premixes with detail of Premix concepts within one year of the execution of this Commercial Agreement.
10.7 Should a Premix concept be in the Development Plan for 3 consecutive years without any development action, MBI shall have the right to withdraw FMC Groups rights to exclusively develop that Premix concept and appoint another developer for the Premix in that specific segment or country in the Territory.
10.8 FMC Group will have access during the term of the Commercial Agreement to any formulation improvements made by MBI to the Commercial Product if registration thereof is planned by MBI for the Field and Territory. All expenses for registering any such new formulations will be borne by FMC Group. For the avoidance of doubt, and as an example only, if MBI should determine that a different percentage of Reynoutria sachalinesis should be an effective commercial product (i.e., other than [*****] concentration) if registration thereof is planned for the Field and Territory by MBI then such new formulation shall be provided to FMC exclusively in the Field in the Territory and subject to the terms and conditions of this Commercial Agreement.
10.9 In addition, MBI grants FMC the right to make formulation improvements to the Commercial Product, subject to MBIs prior approval and protocols to be set forth in the Development Plan. MBI retains sole right to determine if these improvements will be included in any Commercial Product. MBI will have exclusive rights to any of these improvements for regions outside the Territory and fields outside the Field.
11. FMC Responsibilities and Liability
11.1 FMC Group shall market, sell and distribute the Commercial Products at FMC Groups risk and on FMC Group entitys own account. In correspondence and other dealings relating directly or indirectly to the sale or other disposition of the Commercial Products, FMC Group shall indicate that it is acting on its own account.
11.2 FMC Group shall be responsible to sell and distribute Commercial Product only in accordance with the product Registrations.
11.3 FMC agrees to hold harmless and indemnify MBI against all claims and liabilities (including all costs incident to any suit and judgment including without limitation reasonable attorneys fees and investigation cost) as a result of (i) FMC Group entitys non-compliance with any applicable law relating to the performance by FMC Group entity of the terms of this Commercial Agreement (ii) FMC Group entitys breach of the terms of this Commercial Agreement and (iii) use of Premixes in the Field in the Territory; except where and to the extent caused by MBIs gross negligence or wilful misconduct and except where damages for any individual claim or group of claims sum up to less than [*****].
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
11
11.4 The obligation to provide indemnification in Section 11.3 is contingent upon (a) the indemnified party giving prompt written notice to the indemnifying party of any such claim, action or demand, (b) the indemnified party allowing he indemnifying party to control the defence through an attorney reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party, and related settlement negotiations, and (c) the indemnified party fully assisting in the defence so long as the indemnifying party pays the indemnified partys out-of-pocket expenses.
11.5 Except for a Partys breach of the intellectual property rights under Section 8 or the confidentiality obligations under Section 12 or gross negligence or wilful misconduct, neither Party shall have any liability, whether based in contract or tort, for any punitive, exemplary, consequential, special, indirect or incidental loss of profits or interruption of business, arising from or related to this Commercial Agreement.
12. Confidentiality
12.1 The Parties shall hold in strict confidence all confidential or proprietary information and data disclosed by or on behalf of the other or its Affiliates prior to or after execution of this Commercial Agreement (collectively, Information) and the Parties shall not use such Information for any purpose other than the manufacture, supply and distribution of the Commercial Product and the performance of its other duties under this Commercial Agreement. The Parties shall not disclose such Information to third parties, without the other Partys prior approval in writing.
12.2 The Parties shall only disclose the Information to those of its own and its Affiliates officers, employees, board members (and observers under obligations of confidentiality) and consultants with a need to know for the proper performance of the duties under this Commercial Agreement and shall take all commercially reasonable steps to assure that all members of its staff to whom disclosure is made will observe the above obligations. Neither Party shall disclose such Information to any existing or potential shareholder who is a direct competitor of the other Party.
12.3 The above confidentiality obligations shall not apply to Information which:
(i) |
Parties can prove by written evidence was in its possession prior to disclosure by or on behalf of the other or its Affiliates; or |
(ii) |
on the date of first disclosure to one of the Parties by or on behalf of the other Party or its Affiliates was in the public domain or thereafter becomes part of the public domain by publication or otherwise, except by one Partys breach of this Commercial Agreement; or |
(iii) |
which one of the Parties may receive from a third party, provided, however, that such information was not obtained by such third party, directly or indirectly, from a Party to this Commercial Agreement or its Affiliates; or |
(iv) |
which a Party may have to disclose to the competent regulatory bodies in order to obtain and/or maintain the manufacturing, distribution and other licences and authorisations necessary for the manufacture, supply and distribution of the Commercial Product. |
12.4 The Parties agree that the terms of this Commercial Agreement, its exhibits and all related discussions will be treated as confidential. Provided, however, that nothing herein shall prohibit disclosure of the existence of this Commercial Agreement or its terms to existing or potential investors or compliance with applicable securities laws.
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12.5 The obligation to confidentiality shall outlive this Commercial Agreement for a term of six years to be calculated starting from Termination or expiration of this Commercial Agreement.
12.6 Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Parties shall jointly issue a press release announcing the signing of the Commercial Agreement and exclusive arrangements granted herein. Such press release shall require the mutual consent of each Party.
13. Term and Termination
13.1 This Commercial Agreement shall become effective on the Effective Date.
13.2 The term of this Commercial Agreement shall be ten (10) years from the date of the first registration of the Commercial Product in any of Brazil, Argentina, or Colombia, unless terminated earlier as provided herein.
13.3 The Commercial Agreement may be renewed for periods of an additional 2 years (each period an Extended Term), provided that both parties agree in writing six months in advance of the end of the Term or any Extended Term. This Commercial Agreement shall not be terminated for failure to meet volume targets but can be modified based on the terms of Section 3.3.
13.4 Notwithstanding the foregoing, either Party may terminate this Commercial Agreement with immediate effect by giving notice of termination to the other Party:
(i) |
upon any material breach of this Commercial Agreement by the other Party which is not remedied within sixty (60) days from notification thereof; |
(ii) |
upon the other Party committing an act of bankruptcy or compounding with its creditors or being confiscated or sequestrated or nationalised or in any other way transferred into state ownership; |
13.5 Either Party may forthwith terminate this Commercial Agreement in writing if the other Party has been prevented from fulfilling its obligations under this Commercial Agreement, in whole or in part, for more than one hundred eighty (180) days due to a Force Majeure event.
13.6 Upon the expiration or termination of this Commercial Agreement, any Registrations to be owned by MBI hereunder or jointly owned by MBI hereunder that may be in the name of FMC, an Affiliate of FMC or some local entity that may or may not be affiliated with FMC Group, or otherwise not in the name of MBI, shall nonetheless be transferred to MBI upon MBIs request or otherwise relinquished upon MBIs request at no additional cost to MBI.
14. Directly Competitive Products
14.1 FMC shall notify MBI in writing (a) [*****] prior to any sale by a FMC Group entity in the Territory of any new product to be developed and launched by or for FMC Group entity, or (b) promptly upon upon FMC Group entitys acquisition of rights of any existing commerical products, where such product(s) is any biological, microbial, Induced Systemic Resistance, or plant extract product for use in the Field in the Territory which would be directly competitive to the Commercial Product. For purposes of the foregoing, a directly competitive product is one whose commercialization would directly reduce the annual target volume of the Commercial Product in that specific country by at least [*****]. Upon receipt of
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
13
such notice, and if FMC fails to meet the previously agreed volume targets in one or more countries, then MBI shall have the option, upon [*****] written notice to FMC, to re-negotiate the terms and conditions with respect to the Commercial Product in each non-performing country and MBI shall have the option to appoint an additional distributor for that specific product in such specific country.
15. Force Majeure
15.1 In the event that either Party is affected by any circumstance that prevents the fulfilment by such Party of its obligations hereunder in whole or in part, then such Party shall notify the other Party of the nature and extent of such circumstance(s), as promptly as possible.
15.2 Neither Party shall be deemed to be in breach of this Commercial Agreement, or otherwise be liable to the other Party, by reason of any delay in the performance, or non-performance, of any of its obligations hereunder to the extent that such delay or non-performance is due to Force Majeure of which it has notified the other Party and the time for the performance of such obligation shall be extended accordingly. The Party so affected shall take all reasonable steps to minimise the loss occasioned to the other Party and the Parties shall as soon as practicable enter into bona fide discussions with a view to alleviating the effects of said circumstance or to agreeing upon such alternative arrangements as may be fair and reasonable.
15.3 Upon cessation of the Force Majeure, the Party affected by Force Majeure shall resume the performance of its contractual obligation(s), as promptly as possible, unless such performance has been waived in writing by the Party to whom such performance was due.
16. Miscellaneous
16.1 This Commercial Agreement shall supersede all prior oral or written agreements between MBI and FMC or its Affiliates in relation to the subject matter contained herein. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Material Transfer Agreement for [*****] and Mexico signed between the Parties on January 18, 2010 and July 29, 2010 shall continue.
16.2 This Commercial Agreement may be amended only in writing signed by both Parties, and any provision of this Agreement may be waived only in writing signed by the party waiving compliance.
16.3 Any assignment of this Commercial Agreement, in whole or in part, by either Party shall require the written prior consent of the other Party, except that either Party is entitled to assign this Commercial Agreement to an Affiliate, successor in interest or purchaser of all or substantially all of its assets, provided that (i) the assignor undertakes to inform in writing the other Party as soon as reasonably possible and (ii) the assignee undertakes in writing to be bound by the same rights and obligations as contained herein.
16.4 All notices provided required under this Commercial Agreement shall be in the English language and in writing and shall be given by registered letter, facsimile or e-mail to the addresses set forth below, or such other address as either Party may communicate to the other Party in accordance with this Section. A notice shall be deemed to be received upon actual receipt of a registered letter (as evidenced by the respective receipt) or on the first business day following the date of transmission if sent by facsimile or e-mail.
If to FMC:
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
14
FMC Corporation
1735 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Attn: | General Manger, APG |
Group Counsel, APG
[*****]
If to MBI:
Attention: SVP Commercial Operations
Marrone Bio Innovations Inc.
2121 Second St., Suite B-107
Davis California 95618
United States
Tel 530 750 2800
Fax 530 750 2808
16.5 In the event any provision of this Commercial Agreement is deemed to be void under any applicable law, the remaining provisions of this Commercial Agreement shall not be affected and the void provision shall be deemed to have been replaced by such valid and enforceable provision which most closely reflects the original intention of the Parties.
16.6 Failure of either Party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Commercial Agreement, irrespective of any previous action or proceeding taken by it, shall in no way be considered:
(i) | a waiver of such provisions: |
(ii) | to affect the validity of this Commercial Agreement; or |
(iii) | to preclude or prejudice the Party from exercising the same or any other rights it may have under this Commercial Agreement. |
17. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
17.1 This Commercial Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, excluding the principles of conflict of laws and the United Nations Convention on the International Sale of Goods.
17.2 The state courts of New Castle County, Delaware shall have exclusive jurisdiction and venue over any dispute arising out of or relating to this Agreement, and each party for itself and on behalf of its Affiliates, hereby irrevocably consents to the jurisdiction and venue of such courts.
18. Taxes; Import; Export; Exchange Approvals
18.1 All foreign, federal and state taxes based upon FMC Group entitys purchase, use, sale, distribution or possession of the Commercial Product, other than United States income or franchise taxes payable by MBI, will be borne and paid by the relevant purchasing FMC Group entity. MBI agrees to furnish any documents to taxing authorities if reasonably requested to do so by a FMC Group entity.
18.2 FMC or its Affiliates shall be responsible for obtaining import licenses, export licenses, currency exchange approvals and any other governmental approvals in or outside the Territory that may be necessary to permit the sale of and payment for the Commercial Product
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
15
ordered by FMC for distribution and resale within the Territory. FMC and its Affiliates shall comply with any and all laws, regulations or orders that govern or affect the ordering, export, shipment, import, sale, deliver and redelivery of Commercial Product in the Territory and shall furnish MBI with such documentation as MBI may reasonably request to confirm FMCs compliance with the provisions of this Section 18. Neither FMC Group nor MBI shall engage in any course of conduct that would cause FMC Group or MBI to be in violations of the laws of any jurisdiction, including the US foreign corrupt practices act.
[The remainder of this page is left intentionally blank.]
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Davis, CA, USA | Philadelphia, PA, USA | |||
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. | FMC Corporation | |||
/s/ Pam Marrone | /s/ Marty Kisliuk | |||
Pamela Marrone | ||||
President and CEO | (title) | |||
Director of Global Operations, Business Development and M&A |
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Exhibits to the Commercial Agreement:
1) Business Plan
2) Milestone Payment Plan
3) Commercial Product Specifications
4) Eight quarters rolling forecast model (empty)
5) Pricing & Packaging
6) List of LATAM Countries
7) List of Agricultural Crops
8) Development Plan for Premixes
9) Pricing for Premixes
10) Responsible Care Standards
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Exhibit 1: Business Plan
Business Plan is defined by country/crop/pest segment and includes:
a) Price
b) Volumes
c) Assumptions
d) Potential Opportunities
e) Premix Development Plans
f) Registration Plan
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
19
Exhibit 2: Milestone Payment Plan
Date targets below are only estimates. Payment amounts are fixed.
a) Milestone Payment Plan
All milestones to be paid by wire transfer to MBI upon the timely and full completion of the relevant milestone event.
1. Milestone 1:
Signing of this agreement [*****] payable within two weeks
2. Milestone 2 (Target date 2012):
[*****]
3. Milestone 3 (Target date 2013):
[*****]
4. Milestone 4:
[*****]
5. Milestone 5 (Target date 2014) :
[*****]
6. Milestone 6 (Target date, 2016):
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
20
Exhibit 3: Commercial Product Specifications Regalia MAXX 20%
[*****]
See attached document for method.
In the event FMC shall register and market other formulations of Commercial Product in any country in the Territory in accordance with the terms and conditions of Section 10.9 of this Commercial Agreement, prior to such commercialization the Parties shall agree on specifications for such other formulation(s) which shall be deemed incorporated herein.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
21
Exhibit 4: Initial Eight Quarters Rolling Forecast Model
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
22
Exhibit 5: Pricing & Packaging
Price:
[*****] includes shipping, taxes, duties delivered to Mexico location of FMC
Rest of countries in Exhibit 6 USD [*****]
Packaging: Product will be supplied in bulk
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
23
Exhibit 6: List of LATAM Countries (the Territory)
1. Mexico
[*****]
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
24
Exhibit 7: List of Agricultural Crops (Field)
Foliar applications :
[*****]
FMC shall have the right to add other crops to the listed crops above, subject to first presenting a Business Plan and obtaining MBIs approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.
Further, MBI agrees that it shall not provide distribution rights for foliar applications of the Commercial Product to another distributor for any crop not listed in this Exhibit 7 in any country in the Territory unless MBI first gives FMC a right of first refusal which FMC must exercise within 60 days of notification. MBI agrees that such separate distribution shall not have pricing which is more favorable than that presented to FMC and shall be under a separate distinct trademark and that the marketing in such other crops shall not adversely and materially impact FMCs distribution of products under this Commercial Agreement.
[*****] | Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
25
Exhibit 8: Development Plan for Premixes (the Development Plan)
Will be developed within one year of signing the agreement.
26
Exhibit 9: Pricing for Premixes
To be determined.
27
Exhibit 10: Responsible Care Standards
Our industry creates products and services that make life better for people around the world both today and tomorrow. The benefits of our industry are accompanied by enduring commitments to Responsible Care ® in the management of chemicals worldwide. We will make continuous progress toward the vision of no accidents, injuries or harm to the environment and will publicly report our global health, safety and environmental performance. We will lead our companies in ethical ways that increasingly benefit society, the economy and the environment while adhering to the following principles:
| To seek and incorporate public input regarding our products and operations. |
| To provide chemicals that can be manufactured, transported, used and disposed of safely. |
| To make health, safety, the environment and resource conservation critical considerations for all new and existing products and processes. |
| To provide information on health or environmental risks and pursue protective measures for employees, the public and other key stakeholders. |
| To work with customers, carriers, suppliers, distributors and contractors to foster the safe use, transport and disposal of chemicals. |
| To operate our facilities in a manner that protects the environment and the health and safety of our employees and the public. |
| To support education and research on the health, safety and environmental effects of our products and processes. |
| To work with others to resolve problems associated with past handling and disposal practices. |
| To lead in the development of responsible laws, regulations and standards that safeguard the community, workplace and environment. |
| To practice Responsible Care ® by encouraging and assisting others to adhere to these principles and practices. |
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FMC implements Responsible Care as a necessary part of all supply agreements. Supplier will at least once annually meet with FMC to discuss and confirm suppliers performance on the following.
1.1. Objectives and Expectations
1.1.1. | Protect people and the environment |
1.1.2. | Meet all local and national regulatory requirements |
1.1.3. | Minimize liabilities |
1.1.4. | Operate as a responsible neighbor and part of the community |
1.1.5. | Continuous improvement |
1.2. Requirements for contractors
1.2.1. | Environmental Impact Assessment Report and approval |
1.2.2. | Pesticide Production Permit (if needed under local law) |
1.2.3. | Management commitment to safety and Responsible Care principles |
1.2.4. | Annual plan for improvement and improvements are evident |
1.2.5. | Process Safety Reviews commensurate with the process risks |
1.2.6. | A Management Of Change process prior approval by FMC |
1.2.7. | Emergency Response Plan |
1.2.8. | Worker training, including hazard recognition |
1.2.9. | Worker exposure assessment and control |
1.2.10. | Flammable liquids management |
1.2.11. | Written & maintained Operating Procedures and Safety Permits |
1.2.12. | Transportation emergency management and Hazmat response plan |
1.2.13. | Build and maintain good community relations |
1.2.14. | Preventive maintenance on critical equipment |
1.2.15. | Procedures to prevent and detect cross-contamination |
1.2.16. | Report all incidents and accident statistics |
1.2.17. | Improvement plan and implementation program |
1.2.18. | Specific accountabilities for all of the above |
1.2.19. | Documentation of all of the above |
1.3. Tools FMC can provide contractors
1.3.1. | Information to foster proper handling, use, recycle and disposal |
1.3.2. | Checklists |
1.3.3. | Guidelines |
1.3.4. | Recommend consultants |
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1.4. Evaluation and Screening of Suppliers and Contract Manufacturers
1.4.1. | FMC will select contract manufacturers who employ appropriate practices |
1.4.1.1. | Ability and willingness to meet requirements above |
1.4.1.2. | Practices result in Acceptable Risks |
1.4.2. | Tools to use |
1.4.2.1. | Checklists |
1.4.2.2. | Risk evaluation techniques/matrix |
1.4.2.3. | Guidelines |
1.4.2.3.1. | Process Safety |
1.4.2.3.2. | Environmental |
1.4.2.3.3. | Waste Disposal |
1.5. Audit of contractor Responsible Care compliance
1.5.1. | Progress tracking mechanism |
1.5.1.1. | Feedback to contractor regarding progress |
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Exhibit 10.29
TECHNOLOGY EVALUATION AND
MASTER DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
This Technology Evaluation and Master Development Agreement (the Agreement ) is made as of the 13th day of September, 2011 (the Effective Date ) by and between The Scotts Company LLC, an Ohio limited liability company, having its principal place of business at 14111 Scottslawn Road, Marysville, Ohio 43041, U.S.A. ( Scotts ), and Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., a Delaware corporation, having its principal place of business at 2121 Second Street, Suite 107B, Davis, California 95618, U.S.A. ( MBI ). Each of Scotts and MBI is sometimes individually referred to as a Party and collectively referred to as the Parties .
WHEREAS , Scotts is a leading provider of high-quality branded consumer lawn, garden, and household pest control products and services.
WHEREAS , MBI is a leading innovator that discovers, develops, and markets effective and environmentally responsible natural products that focus on unmet needs for weed, pest, and plant disease management.
WHEREAS , the Parties desire to enter into this Agreement, under which MBI grants to Scotts certain rights in the Consumer Market (defined below) to the MBI Technology Portfolio (defined below) so that Scotts may evaluate the MBI Technology Portfolio for potential commercialization by Scotts in the Consumer Market; and, in furtherance thereof, the Parties may undertake, as applicable, certain collaborative development activities under one or more Development Projects (defined below) as detailed in a corresponding Project Plan (defined below), each Project Plan being an addendum to this Agreement and incorporated herein by reference.
NOW , THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing, the mutual agreements, covenants and promises contained in this Agreement, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
Article 1.
STRUCTURE; DEFINITIONS
1.1 Agreement Components . The Parties intend to negotiate and potentially enter into one or more related agreements in the form of addenda to this Agreement (each of such executed addenda shall be referred to as a Project Plan ), and such Project Plans, if entered into, will incorporate the terms of this Agreement and will be incorporated herein by reference subject to the terms and conditions hereof.
1.2 Conflicts . In the event of a conflict between this Agreement and a Project Plan, the terms of this Agreement shall govern unless an individual Project Plan expressly and specifically notes the deviations from the terms of this Agreement.
1
1.3 Definitions . The capitalized terms set forth below shall have the meanings indicated. Other capitalized terms defined elsewhere in this Agreement shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms when capitalized.
1.3.1 Ag Market shall mean the market(s) for direct or indirect sale or provision of pest and weed control or plant disease management products or services for use in commercial agriculture, including but not limited to applications for foliar, soil, root, seed, plant health, plant protection and/or fertility, and also including without limitation commercial turf and ornamental markets.
1.3.2 Aquatic Market shall mean the market(s) for direct or indirect sale or provision of aquatic pest control products or services for use in non-residential and non-individual consumer applications, including but not limited to applications in industrial plants, power generation plants, open water, lakes and lake associations, fisheries, golf courses and ballast or containment treatments.
1.3.3 Background IP shall mean any improvement, device, prototype, product, active ingredient, formulation, apparatus, system, method, process, technique, invention, know-how, Trade Secret, Confidential Information, or other technical, industrial, or intellectual property, for which the Intellectual Property Rights became owned or licensed by a Party prior to the Effective Date of this Agreement, or, outside the scope of any Development Project if after the Effective Date of this Agreement, whether protectable or not in the United States or abroad by Intellectual Property Rights.
1.3.4 Commercial Supply and License Agreement shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 5.1 hereof.
1.3.5 Confidential Information shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 7.1 hereof.
1.3.6 Consumer Market shall mean the market(s) for direct or indirect sale or provision of consumer lawn, garden, and outdoor living products, including, without limitation, plants, flowers, trees and shrubs, fertilizer, fertilizer combination products, seed, growing media (including, without limitation, peat and/or coir products, soil conditioning agents, turf dressings, compost, mulches, combination growing media and bark), plant foods, wetting agents, plant protection products, pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides, repellents, bird food, residential outdoor surface cleaners, residential aquatic pest control and related treatments, and durable applicators, through retail channels for end-use by consumers, as will be further narrowed by the Parties by reference to a combination of certain parameters, such as package size, labeling, advertising, positioning and classification within store, price, and targeted end user, as is customary for such consumer lawn, garden, and outdoor living products. For purposes of clarity, the Consumer Market shall expressly exclude the Ag Market, the Aquatic Market, and the Professional Market.
2
1.3.7 Declined MBI Technology shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 3.3.3 hereof.
1.3.8 Development IP shall mean any improvement, device, prototype, product, active ingredient, formulation, apparatus, system, method, process, invention, know-how, Trade Secret, Confidential Information, or other technical, industrial, or intellectual property, that is conceived or first reduced to practice during a Development Project under this Agreement and an executed Project Plan, whether protectable or not in the United States or abroad by Intellectual Property Rights; except that Development IP shall expressly exclude any improvements made anytime by anyone to active ingredient compounds within the Intellectual Property Rights owned or licensed by MBI prior to the Effective Date of this Agreement or outside the scope of any Development Project if owned or licensed by MBI after the Effective Date of this Agreement.
1.3.9 Development Project shall mean any development activities specific to commercialization in the Consumer Market in the Territory that may be required for an MBI Proposed Technology, or, any other collaborative development activities as may be proposed by the Project Management Committee, if mutually agreed by the Parties, which shall be governed by a corresponding Project Plan that is duly executed on behalf of the Parties.
1.3.10 Disputes shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 12.8 hereof.
1.3.11 Exclusivity Fee shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 2.4 hereof.
1.3.12 Exclusivity Grant shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 2.1 hereof.
1.3.13 Exclusivity Period shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 2.3 hereof.
1.3.14 Intellectual Property Rights or IP Rights shall mean any and all: (i) patents, patent applications, copyrights, trademarks, trade names, domain names, goodwill associated with trademarks and trade names, and designs; (ii) rights relating to inventions, innovations, know-how, Trade Secrets, and confidential, technical, and non-technical information; (iii) moral rights, mask work rights, authors rights, and rights of publicity; and (iv) other industrial, proprietary, and intellectual property related rights anywhere in the world, that exist as of the Effective Date or hereafter come into existence, and all applications for, renewals of and extensions of the foregoing, regardless of whether or not such rights have been registered with the appropriate authorities in such jurisdictions in accordance with the relevant laws.
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1.3.15 Joint Development IP shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 8.2.3 hereof.
1.3.16 Legacy Agreement shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 2.6 hereof.
1.3.17 MBI Background IP shall mean Background IP for which the Intellectual Property Rights became owned or licensed by MBI prior to the Effective Date of this Agreement, or, outside the scope of any Development Project if after the Effective Date of this Agreement. Further, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, MBI Background IP shall also include any improvements made anytime by anyone to active ingredient compounds within the Intellectual Property Rights owned or licensed by MBI prior to the Effective Date of this Agreement or outside the scope of any Development Project if owned or licensed by MBI after the Effective Date of this Agreement.
1.3.18 MBI Development IP shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 8.2.2 hereof.
1.3.19 MBI Proposed Technology shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 3.1 hereof.
1.3.20 MBI Technology Portfolio shall mean any and all products or technologies, including but not limited to any improvement, device, prototype, product, active ingredient, formulation, apparatus, system, method, process, invention, know-how, Trade Secret, Confidential Information, or any other technical, industrial, or intellectual property, and the Intellectual Property Rights related thereto, owned or controlled by MBI, whether existing as of the Effective Date or otherwise later conceived during the Exclusivity Period, including but not limited to the MBI Background IP.
1.3.21 MTA shall mean that certain Materials Transfer, Confidentiality and Evaluation Agreement dated May 2, 2011 by and between the Parties.
1.3.22 Professional Market shall mean the market(s) for direct or indirect sale or provision of pest control or plant disease management products or services through non-retail channels for end-use by professional service providers in residential and non-residential applications.
1.3.23 Project Management Committee shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 6.1 hereof.
1.3.24 Project Plan shall mean the specific terms and conditions, as may be agreed upon in writing by the Parties, that govern a corresponding Development Project, and which shall be incorporated by reference into this Agreement pursuant to Section 1.1 hereof.
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1.3.25 Scotts Background IP shall mean Background IP for which the Intellectual Property Rights became owned or licensed by Scotts prior to the Effective Date of this Agreement, or, outside the scope of any Development Project if after the Effective Date of this Agreement.
1.3.26 Scotts Development IP shall have the meaning attributed to it in Section 8.2.1 hereof. Scotts Development IP shall not include improvements to MBI Background IP.
1.3.27 Term shall have the mean attributed to it in Section 10.1 hereof.
1.3.28 Territory shall mean worldwide, except as prohibited by applicable laws or regulations.
1.3.29 Trade Secret shall mean: information including, but not limited to, technical or nontechnical data, a formula pattern, compilation, program, device, method, technique, drawing, process, financial data, or list of actual or potential customers or suppliers which: (i) derives economic value, actual or potential, from not being generally known to other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use; and (2) is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy or confidentiality.
Article 2.
EXCLUSIVITY
2.1 Grant of Exclusivity . MBI hereby grants to Scotts, and Scotts hereby accepts, a first and exclusive right, during the Exclusivity Period, to evaluate, develop, and negotiate with MBI for a separate mutually agreeable Commercial Supply and License Agreement with respect to, the MBI Technology Portfolio, for potential commercialization within the Consumer Market in the Territory, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement (the Exclusivity Grant ).
2.2 Exclusivity . During the Exclusivity Period, MBI hereby covenants and agrees that, except for any Declined MBI Technology, MBI will not grant to a third party any right, during the Exclusivity Period, to evaluate, develop, or negotiate with MBI for any agreement providing rights with respect to, the MBI Technology Portfolio, for potential commercialization within the Consumer Market in the Territory, nor will MBI assign, license, or otherwise transfer to or for the benefit of a third party any right in or to, or otherwise take any action to encumber, in whole or in part, the MBI Technology Portfolio, or any Intellectual Property Rights related thereto, to any extent or in any manner that is inconsistent with or in violation of Scotts exclusive rights under the Exclusivity Grant; provided, that nothing herein shall limit MBIs ability to grant a security interest in any of its property, including the Intellectual Property Rights, in connection with any bank or similar financing.
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2.3 Exclusivity Period . Subject to each Partys right to terminate pursuant to Section 2.5 hereof and provided that Scotts fully and timely pays MBI the Exclusivity Fee according to the payment schedule pursuant to Section 2.4 hereof, the Exclusivity Period shall run from the Effective Date for a period of five (5) years (the Exclusivity Period ).
2.4 Exclusivity Fee . Subject to each Partys right to terminate the Exclusivity Period pursuant to Section 2.5 hereof, and in consideration for the Exclusivity Grant, Scotts shall pay MBI the following payments according to the following schedule and subject to the respective conditions (collectively, the Exclusivity Fee ):
(a) A first and non-refundable payment in the amount of [*****], to be paid [*****].
(b) A second non-refundable payment in the amount of [*****], to be paid [*****] (the Second Exclusivity Fee Payment ).
(c) A third non-refundable payment in the amount of [*****], to be paid [*****] (the Third Exclusivity Fee Payment ).
(d) An additional non-refundable payment in the amount of [*****], to be paid upon the [*****] (the Commercialization Fee Payment ). For purposes of clarity, no additional payment is due under this Section 2.4 for any subsequent commercialization(s) in the Consumer Market of any additional products or technologies within the MBI Technology Portfolio.
2.5 Early Termination of the Exclusivity Period .
2.5.1 Declined MBI Technologies . The Exclusivity Period and the Exclusivity Grant shall automatically terminate with respect to each and every MBI Proposed Technology that becomes a Declined MBI Technology pursuant to Section 3.3.3 hereof.
2.5.2 Scotts Right to Terminate Exclusivity . Scotts may, at its sole discretion and for any or no reason (for example, but not limited to, if an MBI Proposed Technology fails to meet Scotts efficacy criteria, business model expectations, or other performance or success criteria, etc.), terminate the Exclusivity Period and the Exclusivity Grant in its entirety, except for any Legacy Agreements, by giving MBI prior written notice that Scotts will not pay the Second Exclusivity Fee Payment and/or the Third Exclusivity Fee Payment and thereby is terminating the Exclusivity Period and the Exclusivity Grant in its entirety, except for any Legacy Agreements, effective as of the date the first of such payments not paid otherwise would have been due.
[*****] |
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2.5.3 MBIs Right to Terminate Exclusivity . MBI may terminate the Exclusivity Period and the Exclusivity Grant, in its entirety except for any Legacy Agreements, in the event that Scotts materially defaults in performing any obligation under this Agreement or otherwise is in breach of any material provision of this Agreement (for example, but not limited to, failure by Scotts to timely make any payment of the Exclusivity Fee), and such default or breach continues unremedied for a period of thirty (30) days following written notice from MBI to Scotts of such default or breach, such termination being effective as of the end of the thirty (30) day period such default or breach continues unremedied, or if such default or breach is incapable of cure then such termination shall be immediately effective upon such written notice. During the cure period, if any, neither Party may suspend its performance under this Agreement.
2.6 Effect of Early Termination or Expiration of Exclusivity Period; Legacy Agreements . Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Parties, and notwithstanding any other provision herein to the contrary, early termination or expiration of the Exclusivity Period and Exclusivity Grant under this Section 2 shall have no impact or effect on the Parties rights and obligations regarding exclusivity specifically with respect to any Project Plan or Commercial Supply and License Agreement that is entered into by the Parties pursuant to this Agreement prior to the date of such early termination or expiration of the Exclusivity Period and Exclusivity Grant (each, a Legacy Agreement ). Any such Legacy Agreement shall remain in effect and shall continue pursuant to its respective terms and conditions, and any applicable terms and conditions of this Agreement, including any such terms and conditions regarding exclusivity. Moreover, in the event any such Legacy Agreement results in the first commercialization in the Consumer Market by Scotts of an herbicide or insecticide as contemplated under Section 2.4(d) hereof, Scotts shall be obligated to pay MBI the Commercialization Fee Payment, notwithstanding the early termination or expiration of the Exclusivity Period and Exclusivity Grant.
Article 3.
EVALUATION
3.1 Disclosure of MBI Technology Portfolio; Written Notice of MBI Proposed Technology(ies) . During the Exclusivity Period, MBI shall give to Scotts written notice, which may be delivered via electronic mail, indicating that a product or technology within the MBI Technology Portfolio has been determined by MBI to be ready to be commercialized, or is otherwise available for consideration for potential commercialization, in the Consumer Market in the Territory. If MBI, as of the Effective Date, is commercializing (itself or through a third party) any product or technology within the MBI Technology Portfolio in any of the Ag Market, Aquatic Market, or Professional Market, or, subsequently during the Exclusivity Period, determines to commercialize (itself or through a third party) any product or technology within the MBI Technology Portfolio in any of the Ag Market, Aquatic Market, or Professional Market, MBI shall give to Scotts written notice, which may be via electronic mail, indicating that such product or technology within the MBI Technology Portfolio is available for
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evaluation by Scotts for potential commercialization in the Consumer Market in the Territory (inclusive of the preceding sentence in this Section 3.1, each such individual product or technology matter within the MBI Technology Portfolio identified and disclosed to Scotts in writing by MBI under this Section 3.1, an MBI Proposed Technology ).
3.2 Evaluation by Scotts . Scotts shall evaluate each MBI Proposed Technology for potential commercialization in the Consumer Market in the Territory as provided herein.
3.2.1 Evaluation under MTA . The scope and extent of any such evaluation shall be at Scotts sole discretion, subject to Scotts obligation to provide written notice pursuant to Section 3.3 hereof, and provided that any evaluation by Scotts shall be conducted pursuant to the terms and conditions, including without limitation the confidentiality provisions, of that certain Materials Transfer, Confidentiality and Evaluation Agreement dated May 2, 2011 by and between the Parties (the MTA ), which is incorporated herein by reference.
3.2.2 Cooperation by MBI . As may be reasonably requested by Scotts, MBI shall provide Scotts with reasonable assistance and cooperation to facilitate Scotts efforts in carrying out any evaluation pursuant to this Section 3.2. To the extent any evaluation by Scotts is delayed as a direct result of a delay by MBI in providing such reasonable assistance and cooperation after written notice from Scotts detailing its request, Scotts obligation to provide written notice pursuant to Section 3.3 hereof shall extend for a period of time commensurate to such delay, such extension to in no event be for longer than three (3) months.
3.3 Scotts Written Notice of Interest in Commercializing . Within [*****] from receiving written notice from MBI regarding an MBI Proposed Technology, which [*****] period may be extended by mutual written agreement of the Parties for a reasonable period of time to accommodate agronomic requirements or limitations for performing an evaluation pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof, Scotts shall give written notice, which may be delivered via electronic mail, to MBI indicating whether Scotts has interest, or not, in commercializing such MBI Proposed Technology in the Consumer Market in the Territory, and, if so, whether Scotts believes additional development activities specific to commercialization in the Consumer Market in the Territory may be required as specified in Article 4 hereof.
3.3.1 Additional Development Required to Commercialize . If Scotts indicates in such written notice to MBI that Scotts believes additional development activities specific to commercialization in the Consumer Market in the Territory may be required for such MBI Proposed Technology, the Parties shall determine, via the Project Management Committee, whether or not such additional development is required pursuant to Article 4 hereof.
[*****] |
Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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3.3.2 No Additional Development Required to Commercialize . If Scotts indicates in such written notice to MBI, or if the Parties otherwise determine pursuant to Article 4 hereof, that no additional development activities specific to commercialization in the Consumer Market in the Territory are required for such MBI Proposed Technology, the Parties shall proceed with good faith negotiations of a separate mutually agreeable Commercial Supply and License Agreement pursuant to Article 5 hereof.
3.3.3 No Interest in Commercializing; Declined MBI Technology . If Scotts indicates in such written notice that Scotts has no interest in commercializing such MBI Proposed Technology in the Consumer Market in the Territory, or if Scotts fails to timely reply within such [*****] period, then, in each case, such MBI Proposed Technology shall be deemed declined by Scotts and discharged from the rights and obligations of the Exclusivity Grant (each, a Declined MBI Technology ), and, effective immediately, the Exclusivity Period and Exclusivity Grant with respect to such Declined MBI Technology shall terminate, and MBI shall be free to explore the possibility of commercializing any such Declined MBI Technology in the Consumer Market in the Territory with a third party and such Declined MBI Technology shall be free from further restriction or limitation of any kind under this Agreement or otherwise.
Article 4.
DEVELOPMENT
4.1 Development Projects under Project Plans . If Scotts indicates in written notice to MBI, pursuant to Article 3 hereof, that additional development activities specific to commercialization in the Consumer Market may be required for an MBI Proposed Technology, or, if the Project Management Committee otherwise proposes that the Parties undertake any other collaborative development activities, the Parties shall determine, via the Project Management Committee, and if mutually agreed then put in writing in a corresponding Project Plan that is duly executed on behalf of the Parties, the scope and extent of any such development activities that shall be performed as a Development Project under this Agreement.
4.1.1 Requirements for Project Plans . The Parties agree that this Agreement provides the general framework for collaborative development activities between the Parties as one or more Development Projects, and that any special terms for each of such Development Projects shall be set forth in a corresponding Project Plan executed and delivered by the Parties.
4.1.2 Content of Project Plans . In any Project Plan, the Parties shall consider including terms addressing the following:
(a) a statement of the Parties specific responsibilities, deliverables, and obligations.
(b) timelines and milestones for deliverables and obligations.
(c) the financial and other contributions of the Parties and related operating budgets.
[*****] |
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(d) the Parties respective rights in the output of the Parties collaborative development activities.
(e) the agreed upon territory.
(f) the term of the Project Plan and any renewal or termination rights;
(g) any other terms and conditions that the Parties deem necessary or appropriate with respect to the subject of such Project Plan.
(h) any deviations from the terms of this Agreement.
4.2 Development Responsibilities . Each Party shall have responsibility for all development activities attributed to it under a Development Project in the corresponding Project Plan.
4.2.1 General Responsibilities - MBI . Subject at all times to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and of any specific executed Project Plan, it is anticipated that MBI shall have responsibility under this Agreement and under any executed Project Plan for the following:
(a) Development of effective and environmentally responsible natural products that focus on unmet needs for weed, pest, and plant disease management, as well as technologies for the commercially feasible manufacture of such products, that MBI, in its sole discretion, deems suitable for potential commercialization in the Ag Market in one or more countries or regions within the Territory.
(b) Toxicology work and regulatory registrations of active ingredient(s) and final formulation(s) of all MBI Proposed Technology for the Ag Market.
(c) Formulation and stability work of all MBI Proposed Technology for the Ag Market.
(d) Biology / field testing commonly performed for potential commercialization in the Ag Market for all MBI Proposed Technology.
(e) Reasonable support, assistance, and cooperation to facilitate Scotts efforts in carrying out any activities, such as evaluation or development activities, under this Agreement.
(f) Any additional responsibilities in connection with development activities under a Development Project as described in a corresponding Project Plan.
4.2.2 General Responsibilities - Scotts . Scotts shall have responsibility under this Agreement, generally, and under any executed Project Plan, specifically, unless expressly and specifically stated otherwise by the Parties in such executed Project Plan, for at least the following:
(a) All formulation and application work specific to potential commercialization in the Consumer Market of an MBI Proposed Technology.
(b) All toxicology work specific to potential commercialization in the Consumer Market of an MBI Proposed Technology.
(c) All regulatory registration specific to potential commercialization in the Consumer Market of an MBI Proposed Technology.
(d) All biology / field testing specific to potential commercialization in the Consumer Market of an MBI Proposed Technology.
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(e) Any additional responsibilities in connection with development activities under a Development Project as described in a corresponding Project Plan.
4.3 Development Costs and Expenses .
4.3.1 Ag Market Costs Borne by MBI . Unless otherwise agreed by the Parties in an applicable executed Project Plan, MBI, at its sole discretion, shall bear any and all costs and expenses in connection with development of an MBI Proposed Technology for potential commercialization in the Ag Market.
4.3.2 Consumer Market Costs Borne by Scotts . Unless otherwise agreed by the Parties in an applicable executed Project Plan, Scotts shall bear any and all costs and expenses in connection with development of an MBI Proposed Technology for potential commercialization in the Consumer Market.
4.4 Project Duration . The duration of any Development Project shall be defined in the corresponding executed Project Plan. Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Parties, even upon expiration or termination of the Exclusivity Period pursuant to Article 2 above, any Project Plan executed prior to such early termination or expiration of the Exclusivity Period shall remain in effect and shall continue pursuant to the terms and conditions of the corresponding Project Plan.
Article 5.
COMMERCIALIZATION
5.1 Commercial Supply and License Agreement . For any MBI Proposed Technology, which is not a Declined MBI Technology, for which Scotts indicates in writing to MBI pursuant to Section 3.3 above that Scotts has interest in commercializing in the Consumer Market, the Parties shall proceed, in accordance with the provisions of this Article 5, in good faith with negotiations of a separate mutually agreeable commercial supply and license agreement under which MBI would supply a suitable form (e.g., a technical grade active ingredient, a final formulation, etc.) of such MBI Proposed Technology to Scotts for incorporation into a finished product for commercialization by Scotts in the Consumer Market in the Territory on an exclusive basis (each, a Commercial Supply and License Agreement ).
5.2 Negotiation Period . Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Parties, as part of a Project Plan or otherwise, the Parties shall proceed in good faith with negotiations of a separate mutually agreeable Commercial Supply and License Agreement in connection with a specific MBI Proposed Technology for a period of no longer than [*****] from the date of receipt by MBI of the written notice from Scotts pursuant to Section 3.3 above in connection with such MBI Proposed Technology (the Negotiation Period ).
[*****] |
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5.3 Supplied Price . The Parties acknowledge and agree that, as a term of any separate mutually agreeable Commercial Supply and License Agreement, MBI shall supply a suitable form (e.g., a technical grade active ingredient, a final formulation, etc.) of the subject MBI Proposed Technology to Scotts at a price that is: (a) [*****]. In determining [*****], the Parties shall consider any available historical price data for comparable product(s) commercialized in the Ag Market and/or Consumer Market, as applicable, [*****].
5.4 Exclusivity of Supply and Purchase . The Parties acknowledge and agree that, as a term of any separate mutually agreeable Commercial Supply and License Agreement, MBI shall supply a suitable form (e.g., a technical grade active ingredient, final formulation, etc.) of the subject MBI Proposed Technology to Scotts on an exclusive basis in the Consumer Market for an ongoing period under such Commercial Supply and License Agreement [*****]. Under any Commercial Supply and License Agreement, Scotts will agree to exclusively purchase all of its requirements of the subject MBI Proposed Technology from MBI.
5.5 Other Terms of Commercial Supply and License Agreement . The Parties acknowledge and agree that any separate mutually agreeable Commercial Supply and License Agreement may contain certain additional terms and conditions, further to those expressly provided for in this Article 5, as are customary and appropriate for such an agreement.
5.6 Final Approval; Effect of No Agreement . If, upon expiration of the Negotiation Period, the Parties have not executed a Commercial Supply and License Agreement with respect to such MBI Proposed Technology, then, in each case, such MBI Proposed Technology shall be deemed to be a Declined MBI Technology, and, effective immediately, the Exclusivity Period and Exclusivity Grant with respect to such Declined MBI Technology shall terminate, MBI shall be free to explore the possibility of commercializing any such Declined MBI Technology in the Consumer Market in the Territory with a third party and such Declined MBI Technology shall be free from further restriction or limitation of any kind under this Agreement or otherwise.
[*****] |
Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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Article 6.
GOVERNANCE
6.1 Project Management Committee . The Parties shall appoint and maintain a committee, which shall be comprised of one representative of each Party, as an advisory body to manage the Parties collaborative activities under this Agreement and to provide a forum for the Parties to address issues relating to this Agreement and the activities performed hereunder (the Project Management Committee ).
6.2 Meetings . The Project Management Committee shall meet (telephonically or in person) periodically, and in any event no less than once per calendar quarter during the Term of this Agreement, to review and discuss the MBI Technology Portfolio and/or each Partys activities under this Agreement, including but not limited to any MBI Proposed Technology, the status of any evaluations by Scotts regarding any such MBI Proposed Technology, any Development Projects and/or a need therefor, budgets under any Project Plans and expenditures pursuant to such budgets, and the like. In addition, the Project Management Committee shall hold special meetings (telephonically or in person) if requested by any member of the Project Management Committee or either Party.
6.3 Authority . The Parties agree that the Project Management Committee shall be only an advisory body and shall have no authority to bind the Parties. The Parties may only waive, modify, or amend this Agreement or any Project Plan by a written instrument duly executed on behalf of the Parties as set forth in Section 12.16 hereof.
6.4 Responsibilities . The Project Management Committee shall have responsibility for at least the activities identified in this Section 6.4 and its subsections.
6.4.1 New Development Projects . The Project Management Committee shall recommend and advise, pursuant to Article 4 hereof, whether a Development Project shall be established to perform additional development activities specific to commercialization in the Consumer Market in the Territory for an MBI Proposed Technology. Additionally, the Project Management Committee may propose that the Parties undertake any other collaborative development activities as a Development Project under this Agreement. The details of any Development Project shall be mutually agreed by the Parties and described in writing in a corresponding Project Plan that is duly executed on behalf of the Parties pursuant to Article 4 hereof.
6.4.2 Target Range Price Per Unit for the Consumer Market . Prior to commencement of work by either Party in connection with any Development Project, the Project Management Committee shall identify a target range for the price per unit of a suitable form (e.g., a technical grade active ingredient, final formulation, etc.) of the subject MBI Proposed Technology for potential commercialization in the Consumer Market in the Territory, which target range shall be noted in the corresponding Project Plan. In determining any such target range for the price per unit, the Parties shall consider any available historical price data for comparable product(s) commercialized in the Consumer Market in the Territory.
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Article 7.
CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
7.1 Confidential Information . All information related to this Agreement or MBIs or Scotts business or products or technologies, written and oral, furnished, directly or indirectly, by a Party ( Discloser ) or the Disclosers directors, officers, employees, consultants, affiliates, agents or representatives (collectively, Representatives ), to the other Party ( Recipient ) or Recipients Representatives in connection with this Agreement, including all Project Plans attachments hereto, shall be considered Disclosers Confidential Information . Notwithstanding the foregoing, the following shall not be considered Disclosers Confidential Information: (a) information which is or becomes publicly available other than as a result of a disclosure by Recipient or Recipients Representatives, (b) information which is or becomes available to Recipient on a non-confidential basis from a source which, to the best of Recipients knowledge after due inquiry, is not prohibited from disclosing such information to Recipient by a legal, contractual or fiduciary obligation to Discloser, or (c) information which is independently developed by Recipient or Recipients Representatives without use or reference to Disclosers Confidential Information. Disclosers Confidential Information shall include all tangible and electronic copies of Disclosers Confidential Information. Disclosers Confidential Information shall not become non-confidential as a result of being included in documents that also contain non-Confidential Information.
7.2 Non-Disclosure Obligation . Recipient hereby agrees that Recipient and Recipients Representatives (a) will keep the Disclosers Confidential Information confidential and will not (except as required by applicable law, regulation or legal process, and only after compliance with Section 7.3 hereof below), without Disclosers prior written consent, disclose any of Disclosers Confidential Information in any manner whatsoever, and (b) will not use any of Disclosers Confidential Information other than in connection with its performance and/or obligations under this Agreement. Recipient further agrees to provide access to Disclosers Confidential Information only to those of Recipients Representatives who have a need to know such information. Recipient shall inform all of Recipients Representatives who have access to Disclosers Confidential Information of the confidential nature of the Disclosers Confidential Information and will cause Recipients Representatives to observe the terms of this Agreement. Recipient hereby agrees to be responsible for any breach of this Agreement by any of Recipients Representatives. Either Party may disclose the existence and terms of this Agreement in connection with a potential acquisition of substantially the entire business of that Party or a private or public offering of either Partys securities, and each Party may also discuss the terms of this Agreement to its counsel, accountants, directors (including board observers), and agents in accordance with the terms of this Article 7.
7.3 Legally Compelled Disclosures . In the event that Recipient or any of its Representatives are requested pursuant to, or required by, applicable law, regulation or legal process to disclose any of the Disclosers Confidential Information, Recipient will notify Discloser promptly so that Discloser may seek a protective order or other
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appropriate remedy or, in Disclosers sole discretion, waive compliance with the terms of this Agreement. In the event that no such protective order or other remedy is obtained, or that Discloser does not waive compliance with the terms of this Agreement, Recipient will furnish only that portion of the Disclosers Confidential Information which Recipient is advised by counsel is legally required and will exercise all reasonable efforts to obtain reliable assurance that confidential treatment will be accorded the Disclosers Confidential Information.
7.4 Injunctive Relief . Each Party agrees that if a court of competent jurisdiction determines that the other Party has breached, or attempted or threatened to breach, its confidentiality obligations to the other Party, the other Party will be entitled to obtain appropriate injunctive relief and other measures restraining further, attempted or threatened breaches, of such obligations. Such relief or measures shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other rights and remedies available to the other Party.
7.5 Return of Information . Discloser may, for any reason, at any time and from time to time, deliver a written request to Recipient for the return of all, or a portion, of the Disclosers Confidential Information in the possession of Recipient or Recipients Representatives. Upon receiving such written request from Discloser, (a) Recipient shall promptly destroy or deliver to Discloser (as practical) all of Disclosers Confidential Information that is the subject of Disclosers request, and any copies thereof, in Recipients or Recipients Representatives possession, and (b) neither Recipient nor any of Recipients Representatives shall retain any copies thereof. Any oral Confidential Information will continue to be subject to the terms of this Agreement.
Article 8.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
8.1 Background IP .
8.1.1 MBI Background IP . As between the Parties, MBI owns or retains all right, title, and interest in the MBI Background IP.
8.1.2 Scotts Background IP . As between the Parties, Scotts owns or retains all right, title, and interest in the Scotts Background IP.
8.1.3 Limited License to Scotts . Subject to the terms and conditions hereof and the terms and conditions of the MTA, MBI hereby grants to Scotts a limited, non-sublicensable and non-transferable license (or sublicense, as applicable) under the MBI Background IP to the extent necessary for Scotts to perform evaluations under the terms of this Agreement and the MTA of MBI Proposed Technology and any development activities under a Development Project as detailed in a corresponding executed Project Plan. For purposes of clarity, Scotts shall have no rights in the MBI Background IP for purposes of commercialization unless and until the Parties enter into a separate mutually agreeable Commercial Supply and License Agreement. The license
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granted in this Section 8.1.3 will continue for the Term of this Agreement, or, as to any MBI Proposed Technology that is the subject of an executed Project Plan, the term of such Project Plan, unless this Agreement, or such Project Plan, is earlier terminated in accordance with Article 10 or otherwise.
8.1.4 No Other License . Except as expressly provided herein, and unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Parties, neither Party grants to the other Party any right or license under or to its respective Background IP.
8.2 Development IP .
8.2.1 Ownership by Scotts; License to MBI . Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, Scotts shall solely own any and all Development IP that may arise under this Agreement and (A) is derived from solely (i) Scotts Background IP or Scotts Confidential Information, or (ii) contributions by one or more of Scotts employees, and (B) is not an improvement to an active ingredient compound within the MBI Background IP (collectively, the Scotts Development IP ); and, subject to negotiation by the Parties of a separate mutually agreeable reasonable royalty-bearing license agreement, Scotts will grant to MBI an exclusive, reasonable royalty-bearing, worldwide license to such Scotts Development IP, with a right to sublicense, for use solely outside the Consumer Market. For purposes of clarity, MBI shall have no rights to use any Scotts Development IP outside the Consumer Market or otherwise, unless and until the Parties enter into a separate mutually agreeable licensing agreement under which MBI would pay Scotts a reasonable royalty for such rights. Further, during the Term of this Agreement, other than to MBI, Scotts shall not grant to a third party any license or right to any Scotts Development IP outside of the Consumer Market, nor shall Scotts itself use the Scotts Development IP in any market or markets other than the Consumer Market.
8.2.2 Ownership by MBI . MBI shall solely own any and all Development IP that may arise under this Agreement and is derived from solely (i) MBI Background IP or MBIs Confidential Information, or (ii) contributions by one or more of MBIs employees (collectively, the MBI Development IP ); and all such MBI Development IP immediately and automatically becomes part of the MBI Technology Portfolio and subject to Scotts exclusive rights under the Exclusivity Grant. For purposes of clarity, Scotts shall have no rights in the MBI Development IP for purposes of commercialization unless and until the Parties enter into a separate mutually agreeable Commercial Supply and License Agreement.
8.2.3 Joint Ownership . Unless otherwise agreed in a separate written and executed agreement by the Parties, notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 8.2.1 and 8.2.2 above, the Parties shall jointly own any and all Development IP that may arise under this Agreement and (A) is derived from a combination of (i) Scotts Background IP or Scotts Confidential Information and MBI Background IP or MBI Confidential Information, or (ii) contributions by one or more of Scotts employees and contributions by one or more of MBIs employees, and (B) is not an improvement to an active ingredient compound within the MBI Background IP (collectively, the Joint
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Development IP ); provided that neither Party shall have any rights in the Joint Development IP for purposes of commercialization (by itself or via any third party) unless and until the Parties enter into a separate mutually agreeable reasonable royalty-bearing license agreement under which the Parties shall specify rights and obligations as between the Parties with respect to the Joint Development IP.
8.2.4 Patents; Further Assistance . Each Party may, at its sole discretion and at its own expense, file one or more applications for patents directed to its respective Background IP or Development IP. The other Party shall promptly execute and deliver any assignments, descriptions, or other instruments as may be necessary or proper in the reasonable opinion of the first Party to vest in the first Party title to its respective Background IP or Development IP and to enable the first Party to obtain and maintain the entire right and title to its respective Background IP or Development IP throughout the world. The other Party shall also render to the first Party, at the first Partys expense, such assistance as the first Party may reasonably require in the preparation and prosecution of applications for patents in connection with its respective Development IP, and in any litigation in which the first Party may be involved relating to its respective Background IP or Development IP. For any Joint Development IP, each Party shall confer in good faith with the other to decide whether and when to file one or more applications for patents directed to the same, select suitable patent counsel, agree upon how costs shall be handled, and the like. For purposes of clarity, in any event, neither Party shall file an application for patent directed to any Joint Development IP without providing thirty (30) days prior written notice to the other Party. Each Party shall promptly execute and deliver any assignments, descriptions, or other instruments as may be necessary or proper in the reasonable opinion of either Party to vest in each Party joint title to the Joint Development IP and to enable each Party to obtain and maintain the entire joint right and title to the Joint Development IP throughout the world.
Article 9.
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES; DISCLAIMER
9.1 Representations . Each Party represents, warrants and covenants to the other that: (a) it has the full power and authority to enter into and fully perform this Agreement; (b) it has sufficient right and authority to grant all licenses and rights granted or agreed to be granted by it hereunder to the other Party; and (c) at all times, it will comply with all applicable material international, federal, national, state, provincial, and local laws, treaties, directives, and/or regulations.
9.2 Disclaimer of Other Warranties . THE WARRANTIES SET FORTH IN THIS AGREEMENT AND IN ANY EXECUTED PROJECT PLAN, IF ANY, ARE THE EXCLUSIVE WARRANTIES AND ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, AND NEITHER MBI NOR SCOTTS MAKES ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, NONINFRINGEMENT OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, PERFORMANCE, NONINTERRUPTION OF
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OPERATION, OR RESULTS WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED FROM ANY ACTIVITY HEREUNDER. MBI ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITIES WHATSOEVER WITH RESPECT TO THE USE, SALE OR OTHER DISPOSITION BY SCOTTS OF ANY PRODUCTS OR TECHNOLOGY.
9.3 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY . EXCEPT FOR (A) BREACH BY EITHER PARTY OF ARTICLE 7 (CONFIDENTIALITY) OR BREACH BY EITHER PARTY OF ARTICLE 8 (INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY), OR (B) IN CONNECTION WITH ANY INFRINGEMENT OR MISAPPROPRIATION OF THE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OF A PARTY BY THE OTHER PARTY, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, IN NO EVENT AND UNDER NO LEGAL THEORY IN TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING ANY EQUITABLE THEORY, SHALL EITHER PARTY OR ITS AFFILIATES BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER PARTY FOR ANY LOST PROFITS OR REVENUES OR FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, EVEN IF SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, WHETHER ARISING UNDER, OUT OF, IN RELATION TO, OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY PROJECT PLAN, OR ITS NEGOTIATION, PERFORMANCE, TERMINATION, OR ANY OTHER MEANS, AND REGARDLESS OF THE FORM OF ACTION UPON WHICH A CLAIM FOR SUCH DAMAGES MAY BE BASED. WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, BOTH PARTIES AGREE THAT IF ANY REMEDY HEREUNDER IS DETERMINED TO HAVE FAILED OF ITS ESSENTIAL PURPOSE, ALL LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY AND EXCLUSION OF DAMAGES SET FORTH HEREIN SHALL REMAIN IN EFFECT.
Article 10.
TERM AND TERMINATION
10.1 Term . The term of this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and continue until the earlier of: (a) the termination or expiration of the Exclusivity Period, or (b) the termination or expiration of this Agreement in accordance with this Article 10 (the Term ). The Parties may extend the Term on terms mutually agreed upon in writing by the Parties. The provisions of Articles 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 of this Agreement shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement to the extent applicable to any executed Project Plans the terms of which extend beyond the termination or expiration date of this Agreement.
10.2 Termination Upon Default or Breach . Either Party may terminate this Agreement in the event that the other Party materially defaults in performing any obligation under this Agreement or otherwise is in breach of any material provision of this Agreement and such default or breach continues unremedied for a period of thirty (30) days following written notice of such default or breach, such termination being effective as of the end of the thirty (30) day period if such default or breach continues unremedied, or, in the event that the other Party materially defaults or breaches this Agreement in a manner that is incapable of cure, then this Agreement will automatically
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terminate upon notice from the non-defaulting, non-breaching Party. During a cure period, if any, neither Party may suspend its performance under this Agreement.
10.3 Termination Upon Insolvency . Either Party may terminate this Agreement: (a) upon the institution of insolvency, receivership of bankruptcy proceedings or any other proceedings for the settlement of debts of the other Party; (b) upon the making of an assignment for the benefit of creditors by the other Party; or (c) upon the dissolution of the other Party.
Article 11.
INDEMNIFICATION
11.1 Indemnity for MBI; Product Liability . Scotts shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend MBI, its affiliates and subsidiaries, and its and their respective employees, officers, and directors from and against any and all liabilities, losses, claims, judgments, assessments, obligations, penalties, damages, costs, and expenses (including reasonably incurred attorneys fees) (collectively, Damages ), resulting from, or arising out of (i) Scotts material breach of any of its duties or obligations under this Agreement, and/or (ii) the willful misconduct of Scotts, its employees, or agents in the performance of Scotts duties and obligations, including its representations and warranties, under this Agreement. Scotts shall also indemnify, hold harmless and defend MBI, its affiliates and subsidiaries, and its and their respective employees, officers and directors from and against any and all Damages suffered by Scotts, or purchasers or users of any products sold by or for Scotts, or any other party, resulting from, or arising out of, personal injury, death, or property damage related to the manufacture, use, sale or import of such products in the Consumer Market (Product Liability), but only to the extent such Damages are not expressly within the MBI Product Liability Indemnity (as defined below).
11.2 Indemnity for Scotts; Product Liability . MBI shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend Scotts, its affiliates and subsidiaries, and its and their respective employees, officers and directors from and against any and all Damages resulting from or arising out of (i) MBIs material breach of any of its duties or obligations under this Agreement, (ii) the willful misconduct of MBI, its employees or agents in the performance of MBI duties or obligations, including its representations and warranties, under this Agreement, and/or (iii) a claim of infringement by MBIs IP Rights of a valid third party patent, trade secret, or other intellectual property right to the extent such claim is based solely upon Scotts use of MBI Proposed Technology in compliance with this Agreement (and not with any IP Rights of Scotts or any third party); provided that nothing in this Agreement shall limit MBIs ability to enter into any license or other agreement as necessary to make any MBI IP Rights non-infringing or modify any IP Rights so as to be non-infringing (and to replace any such otherwise used hereunder). MBI shall also indemnify, hold harmless and defend Scotts, its affiliates and subsidiaries, and its and their respective employees, officers and directors from and against any and all Damages resulting from, or arising out of Product Liability claims, but only to the extent such Damages are attributable to MBI Proposed Technology used in accordance with the
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terms and conditions of any applicable Commercial Supply and License Agreement and such Damages could not have been avoided by the use of such MBI Proposed Technology in unmodified form or without combination with other technologies or compounds (the MBI Product Liability Indemnity ).
11.3 Notice . In any action covered by the above indemnifications, and to obtain indemnification from the other Party under this Article 11, the Party requesting indemnification must: (i) notify the indemnifying Party in writing promptly after the Party requesting indemnification receives notice of the claim or allegation; (ii) allow the indemnifying Party to have sole control of the defense and all related settlement negotiations; and (iii) provide the indemnifying Party with reasonable assistance, information and authority as necessary to perform its obligations under this Article 11. The indemnifying Party may direct the defense by counsel of its own choice, and the Party requesting indemnification shall be given the opportunity to participate in such defense, and to be represented by counsel of its own choice and to direct its own defense, but in such case, it shall bear its own counsel fees and expenses.
11.4 Exception to Indemnity . The indemnity provisions of this Article 11, and the obligations to provide indemnification hereunder, shall not apply to the extent that the Party requesting indemnification is at fault or the claims at issue are or reasonably likely to be less than [*****]. The indemnity provisions of this Article 11 shall survive any termination of this Agreement.
Article 12.
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
12.1 Survival . The provisions of Sections 2.4(d), 2.6 and 10.1 and Articles 7, 8, 9, 11, and 12 shall survive termination of this Agreement. All other rights and obligations of the Parties shall cease upon termination of this Agreement.
12.2 Relationship of Parties . This Agreement does not create, and shall not be deemed to create, a partnership, joint venture, agency or any similar relationship or arrangement between the Parties hereto. In carrying out its duties and performing its obligations hereunder, each of the Parties hereto is acting as an independent contractor, and the employees, subcontractors, agents, or other representatives of one of them shall not be deemed to be employees, subcontractors, agents, or other representatives of the other.
12.3 Publicity . Upon execution of this Agreement or any Project Plan hereunder, and from time to time with each Partys consent, the Parties shall issue a mutually agreed upon press release or other promotion describing the general nature of such agreement(s) between or activities by the Parties. These shall include joint announcements on discovery and commercialization and joint presentations at company or industry events. Otherwise, neither Party may make public use of the other Partys name, proprietary marks, product names, or otherwise refer to or identify the other Party,
[*****] |
Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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or its divisions and/or subsidiaries, in any advertising, publicity releases, or promotional or marketing correspondence, except to the extent required by law and except as provided in Article 7 above, without securing the prior written consent of such other Party.
12.4 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, all of which constitute one and the same instrument, and any Party may execute this Agreement by signing and delivering one or more counterparts.
12.5 Assignment . Neither Party may, by operation of law or otherwise, assign, sublicense, or otherwise transfer any of its right or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the other Party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. Notwithstanding the preceding, either Party may assign, transfer, or otherwise delegate all of its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor in interest or purchaser of all or substantially all of its assets, provided that the assignor undertakes to inform in writing the other Party as soon as reasonably possible. Any prohibited assignment, sublicense, or transfer shall be null and void. This Agreement shall bind, benefit, and be enforceable by and against both Parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
12.6 Notices . Except as expressly provided otherwise in this Agreement, all notices, consents, and other communications required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and sent via courier, postage prepaid, with a soft copy via electronic mail or transmitted by facsimile transmission, to the address specified below, or such other address as either Party may indicate by notice to the other Party:
If to Scotts: |
If to MBI: |
|
Steve Titko Vice President Global R&D Outdoor Living
The Scotts Company LLC 14111 Scottslawn Road Marysville, Ohio 43041, U.S.A.
[*****] |
Pamela G. Marrone Founder & CEO
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. 2121 Second Street, Suite 107B Davis, California 95618, U.S.A.
PHONE 530-750-2800 FAX 530-750-2808 [*****] |
12.7 Applicable Law . This Agreement shall be governed by the internal substantive laws of the State of Delaware, United States of America, without regard to conflict of laws principles.
12.8 Disputes . Other than as provided in Article 2 or Article 10, any and all disputes arising under, out of, or in relation to this Agreement, its formation, performance or termination ( Disputes ) shall initially be referred to the Project Management
[*****] |
Confidential portions of this document have been redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission |
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Committee. If the Project Management Committee cannot resolve a Dispute within thirty (30) days of referral, the Dispute shall be referred to senior management from both Parties, who shall meet and attempt to resolve the Dispute. If the Dispute has still not been resolved within fourteen (14) days of such referral, either Party may institute legal proceedings in accordance with Sections 12.7, 12.9, and 12.10 hereof. Other than as provided in Article 2 or Article 10, the dispute resolution procedure set forth in this Section 12.8 is mandatory, and neither Party shall institute legal proceedings until it has been exhausted, provided, that either Party may resort to court action for injunctive relief at any time if, in such Partys good faith belief, the delay associated with the dispute resolution processes set forth in this Section 12.8 would permit or cause irreparable injury to such Party or any third party claiming against such Party.
12.9 Jurisdiction and Venue . Disputes that have not been resolved in accordance with the Section 12.8 hereof shall be finally and conclusively determined by a bench trial in a state or federal court sitting in the State of Delaware. MBI and Scotts expressly consent and submit to the personal jurisdiction of any state or federal court sitting in the State of Delaware. Both Parties further consent, submit to, and agree that venue in any such suit, action, proceeding, or claim is proper in said court and further expressly waive any and all personal rights under applicable law or in equity to object to the jurisdiction and venue of said court. MBI and Scotts hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right such Party has to a trial by jury in any litigation between them arising under, out of, or in relation to this Agreement, its formation, performance, or termination.
12.10 Attorneys Fees . If any legal action is necessary to enforce the terms of this Agreement, the prevailing Party will be entitled to reasonable attorneys fees, costs, and expenses in addition to any other relief to which such prevailing Party may be entitled.
12.11 No Waiver . The failure by a Party to exercise any right hereunder shall not operate as a waiver of such Partys right to exercise such right or any other right in the future. No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall constitute a waiver of any other breach of the same or other provisions of this Agreement, and no waiver shall be effective unless made in writing and signed by an authorized representative of the Party waiving the breach.
12.12 Force Majeure . Neither Party shall be considered in default or incur any liability hereunder due to any material failure in its performance of this Agreement should such failure arise out of causes beyond its control, including, without limitation, work stoppages, fires, riots, accidents, floods, storms, or failures of communications or software. The time for performance shall be extended for a period equal to the duration of the conditions preventing performance; provided, however, that such extension may not exceed thirty (30) days without the written consent of the performing Party. In such event, after the 30-day window or such other longer term as may be agreed between the Parties, the performing Party may terminate this Agreement upon written notice to the non-performing Party.
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12.13 Severability . Each of the covenants of the Parties contained in this Agreement shall be deemed and shall be construed as a separate and independent covenant and should any provision of any such covenants be held or declared invalid, illegal or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability shall in no way render invalid or unenforceable any other part or provision thereof or any other covenant of the Parties not held or declared invalid, and this Agreement shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision were not contained herein. Furthermore, it is the intention of the Parties hereto that such provision determined to be illegal, invalid, or otherwise unenforceable, to the extent possible, shall be reformed and construed in a manner which would be valid and enforceable to the maximum extent of the law.
12.14 Section Headings; Attachments . The section and subsection headings used herein are for reference and convenience only, and shall not affect the interpretation hereof.
12.15 Third Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement and the rights and obligations created under it shall be binding upon and inure solely to the benefit of the Parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns, and nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended or should be construed to confer upon any other person any right, remedy or claim under or by virtue of this Agreement.
12.16 Entire Agreement; Amendment and Waiver . Each Party acknowledges that it has read this Agreement, understands it, and agrees to be bound by its terms, and further agrees that this Agreement, any Project Plans, and the MTA, each of which are incorporated herein, constitute the complete and exclusive statement of the agreement between the Parties and supersedes and merges all prior proposals, understandings, and all other agreements, oral and written, between the Parties relating to the subject matter of this Agreement. No purchase order, or other ordering or confirming document or any handwritten or typewritten text issued by either Party which purports to modify or supplement the text of this Agreement shall add to or vary the terms of this Agreement. This Agreement may not be modified or altered, and its terms may not be waived, except by a written instrument duly executed on behalf of the Parties (or, in the case of waiver, by the Party against whom such waiver is to be enforced).
[ Signatures Appear on the Following Page ]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Technology Evaluation and Master Development Agreement to be duly executed by their respective officers duly authorized therefor and to be effective as of the Effective Date.
SCOTTS: |
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The Scotts Company LLC |
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By: |
/s/ Steve Titko |
Name: |
Steve Titko |
Title: |
V.P. Global Innovation |
MBI: |
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Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. |
||
By: |
/s/ Pam Marrone |
Name: |
Pamela G. Marrone |
Title: |
CEO & Founder |
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Exhibit 23.1
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption Experts and to the use of our report dated June 17, 2013 (except Note 17, as to which the date is , 2013), in Amendment No. 4 to the Registration Statement (Form S-1 No. 333-189753) and related Prospectus of Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. for the registration of 4,830,000 shares of its common stock.
Ernst & Young LLP
Sacramento, California
The foregoing consent is in the form that will be signed upon the completion of the restatement of capital accounts described in Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Sacramento, California
July 30, 2013