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As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 16, 2021.

Registration No. 333-                

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM S-1

REGISTRATION STATEMENT

Under

The Securities Act of 1933

 

 

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   2834   27-2877253

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(Primary Standard Industrial

Classification Code Number)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification Number)

152 W. 57th Street

New York, New York 10019

(929) 251-6321

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of Registrant’s principal executive offices)

 

 

Paul Jacobson

Chief Executive Officer

Thorne HealthTech Inc.

152 W. 57th Street

New York, New York 10019

(929) 251-6321

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)

 

 

Copies to:

Philip H. Oettinger

Jesse F. Schumaker

Jeffrey E. Nagashima

Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati

Professional Corporation

650 Page Mill Road

Palo Alto, California 94304

(650) 493-9300

 

Stelios G. Saffos

Alison A. Haggerty

Scott W. Westhoff

Latham & Watkins LLP

885 Third Avenue

New York, New York 10022

(212) 906-1200

 

 

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, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company.” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  ☐

 

Large accelerated filer      Accelerated filer  
Non-accelerated filer      Smaller reporting company  
     Emerging growth company  

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act.  ☐

 

 

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

 

 

Title of Each Class of

Securities to be Registered

 

Proposed

Maximum

Aggregate

Offering Price(1)(2)

 

Amount of

Registration Fee

Common Stock $0.01 par value

  $200,000,000   $21,820

 

 

(1)

Includes offering price of any additional shares of common stock that the underwriters have the option to purchase.

(2)

Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

 

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, as amended, or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

 

 

 


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The information in this 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 prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

Subject to Completion

Preliminary Prospectus dated                , 2021

PROSPECTUS

                Shares

 

LOGO

Common Stock

 

 

This is the initial public offering of shares of common stock of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. We are offering                shares of our common stock.

We expect the public offering price to be between $         and $         per share. Prior to this offering there has been no public market for our common stock. We have applied to list our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, stock exchange under the symbol “THRN.”

We are an “emerging growth company” and a “smaller reporting company” as defined under the federal securities laws and, as such, have elected to comply with certain reduced reporting requirements.

Investing in our common stock involves risks that are described in the ‘‘Risk Factors’’ section beginning on page 16 of this prospectus.

 

 

 

    

Per Share

    

Total

Public offering price

   $      $

Underwriting discounts and commissions(1)

   $      $

Proceeds, before expenses, to us

   $      $

 

  (1)

See “Underwriting” for additional information regarding total underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses.

We have granted the underwriters the option to purchase up to an additional              shares from us, at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount, for 30 days after the date 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.

The shares will be ready for delivery on or about                , 2021.

 

BofA Securities   Cowen   Evercore ISI

RBC Capital Markets

The date of this prospectus is                     , 2021.


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LOGO

A total sytem for well being. Personalized scientific wellness.


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LOGO

thorne thorne stress test


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Thorne HealthTech Ecosystem Thorne Personalized Testing Innovative testing platform Rx Thorne Consumer Health Data+Molecular/Clinical Data Product Innovation New indications, novel formulations, and chemical compound structures Rx Thorne Onegevity


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LOGO

Thorne HealthTech by the Numbers 31% Net sales compound annual growth rate from 2018 to 2020 47% Gross profit for 2020 7.6x Lifetime value to customer acquisition ratio for direct-to-consumer (DTC) customers in 2020 155k Number of active subscriptions as of March 31, 2021 3m+ Estimated total customers from 2018 to 2020* 42k Number of health professionals in our network 272k Square feet in our new Summerville, SC manufacturing facility 300+ Innovative supplements and tests in our portfolio 37 Number of countries we shipped to in 2020 *This is estimated based off of total units sold from 2018 to 2020 and DTC average basket size and order frequency.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

     Page  

LETTER FROM THE CO-FOUNDER AND CEO

     ii  

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

     1  

THE OFFERING

     12  

RISK FACTORS

     16  

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     63  

MARKET, INDUSTRY AND OTHER DATA

     65  

USE OF PROCEEDS

     66  

DIVIDEND POLICY

     68  

CAPITALIZATION

     69  

DILUTION

     71  

SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

     74  

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

     76  

BUSINESS

     102  

MANAGEMENT

     137  

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

     148  

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

     164  

PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

     169  

DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

     171  

SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

     177  

MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-U.S. HOLDERS OF OUR COMMON STOCK

     179  

UNDERWRITING

     184  

LEGAL MATTERS

     193  

EXPERTS

     193  

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

     193  

FINANCIALS

     F-1  

 

 

Neither we nor the underwriters have authorized anyone to provide you any information or make any representations other than that contained in this prospectus or in any free writing prospectus prepared by or on behalf of us or to which we have referred you. 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. We and the underwriters are not making an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should assume that the information appearing in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date on the front cover of this prospectus. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

For investors outside of the United States: we have not, and the underwriters have not, done anything that would permit this offering or possession or distribution of this prospectus in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required, other than the United States. Persons outside of 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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LETTER FROM PAUL JACOBSON, CO-FOUNDER AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

In the early 2000s, I served on the board of a public biotech company, along with the former Chairman of a major pharma company. He was tired of me asking how big pharma could turn compounds that barely outperformed placebo or natural products into multi-billion-dollar drugs, and one day turned to me and said, “If you think you’re so smart, go start a natural products company. Natural products probably work, but you need proof, and we hate them because you cannot secure patents. Consumers would probably prefer them, and if someone ever does it right, they could be very successful.”

This sparked my interest to determine whether he was correct, driving me to spend several years researching the natural product industry. Finally, in 2010, together with my partners Tom McKenna and Will McCamy, we identified and purchased Thorne. At the time, Thorne was a small company located in Sandpoint, Idaho, that specialized in manufacturing high-quality nutritional supplement products sold directly to healthcare practitioners. With a large percentage of Americans taking supplements of one form or another, the market was ripe for growth – although our ambitions were and continue to be bigger than just expanding the reach of another supplement company. We saw the potential for unparalleled quality, rigorous science and, eventually, an integrated, comprehensive system for wellness.

Ultimately, we knew that we had the ability to go beyond supplements in ways that would enable us to help people get and stay healthier longer – whether they were professional athletes, members of the Armed Forces, working professionals, or individuals seeking to live their best lives. We set our sights on creating a comprehensive system for wellness – taking what we had built with Thorne and our steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality, rigorously tested supplements and moving beyond. We got to the root of the question: “What do I take to improve my health and why?” through Onegevity. Co-founded by leading scientists from Mount Sinai and Weill Cornell, Onegevity was created to offer the benefits of precision wellness and scientific-based evidence, focused on diseases neglected by mainstream, traditional medicine, such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Onegevity is also working with companies to study connections between cognitive functioning and bacterial gut health as well as the largest risk factor to health – aging – which is a fundamental root cause across all diseases.

Together, our vertically integrated brands, Thorne and Onegevity, provide actionable insights and personalized data, products and services that help individuals take a proactive approach to improve and maintain their health. Today, we are a trusted luxury consumer brand recommended and used by more than 42,000 healthcare professionals, three million customers, thousands of professional athletes and more than 100 professional sports and 11 U.S. Olympic teams. This trust is a direct result of our unwavering commitment to high-quality, clinically validated products and services designed to help people live their best lives. We continue to be guided by the tenets that have been important to us for the last 11 years, and which remain core to everything we do:

 

   

We seek to bring products with the highest quality and purity, which are clinically validated, to market. Our products are created completely in-house by a highly sophisticated team of 23 scientists and engineers utilizing proprietary technologies, health intelligence systems and Onegevity Discovery. These products are subject to up to four rounds of testing in our two state-of-the-art, in-house laboratories.

 

   

We invest in our employees and our culture. We believe that a company’s internal culture reflects its products in many ways. Our culture is rooted in a focus on our employees because we believe motivated and happy employees lead to satisfied customers. Our employees are the touchpoint for everything we do as a company. By creating a meritocracy built around hiring and rewarding the best people we have been able to recruit some of the best scientific minds in the country. We have built a team that is reflective of our values – our employees value quality, science, and data over short-term monetary decisions, and they understand that prioritizing the needs of our customers always leads to the best outcomes. We place a high priority on taking care

 

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of our hourly workers who provide the backbone of our manufacturing staff. We compensate our people at the high end of the hourly wage scale while offering full healthcare benefits and wellness programs because preventive health is not a product or commodity – it is security and dignity that everyone deserves.

 

   

We do whats right for our business, our community and the environment. We value vertical integration because we know it is the only way to ensure the quality of our products and guarantee our supply chain. By manufacturing in the United States, we retain control over our operations, and, at the same time, we serve our community by providing high-quality, green manufacturing jobs. In 2018, we completed and moved into a new, high-tech manufacturing facility just outside Charleston, South Carolina, which is where we make nearly all of our products. We remain committed to expanding our manufacturing footprint in the United States as we grow. We are very proud of the fact that we made it through COVID-19 without significant supply chain interruptions to date and were able to guarantee a “no backorder” policy for our customers. We also believe that the environment should not be compromised for the sake of profits and we take pride in being a steward of the botanical ingredients we use in our products. If we learn a botanical ingredient is becoming endangered or over-sourcing is diminishing its supply, we look to discontinue its use in our product lines.

Despite all prevailing evidence and studies showing that many chronic diseases are preventable if early action is taken, our healthcare system has chosen to focus on the most expensive way to treat people – a focus on sick-care rather than well-care. The COVID-19 pandemic shone a bright light on the inefficiencies and inadequacies of our healthcare system. Relying on treating disease rather than trying to prevent it in the first place resulted in hundreds of thousands of potentially preventable deaths, as so many people had comorbidities that dramatically heightened the risk and impact of COVID-19. Yet, at the same time, the pandemic has also resulted in a heightened focus on, and a greater commitment to, proactive efforts to maintain health for more people. We are encouraged by this trend and are excited about the opportunity to support more people in their journey to better health and wellness.

Our organization has never been more excited about the future growth potential for and impact of our company as we are today. With the strength of both Thorne and Onegevity, Thorne HealthTech is uniquely positioned to deliver data to help healthcare practitioners, consumers and athletes re-focus on prevention – ultimately delivering the solutions, products and services that offer a comprehensive system of wellness designed to keep people healthier, for longer. We invite you to follow along on our journey as we strive to change the paradigm and create a future focused on better health for more people.

Paul Jacobson

 

LOGO

 

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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this prospectus. This summary does not contain all of the information you should consider before investing in our common stock. You should read this entire prospectus carefully, especially the section in this prospectus titled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus, before making an investment decision. As used in this prospectus, unless the context otherwise requires, references to “we,” “us,” “our,” “our company” and “Thorne” refer to Thorne HealthTech, Inc. and our subsidiaries.

Overview

Our Purpose

We believe that a personalized and scientific approach to wellness can lead to happier and healthier lives. Our goal is to transform the consumer’s approach to health and wellness and empower our customers to live healthier longer, which we refer to as increased health span, through testing, teaching and proactive measures that help our customers avoid chronic health conditions before they occur and achieve peak performance.

Who We Are

We are a science-driven wellness company pioneering innovative solutions and personalized approaches to health and well-being. We are building a new health category to deliver better health outcomes through a proactive, empowered approach. Our unique, vertically integrated brands, Thorne and Onegevity, provide actionable insights and personalized data, products and services that help individuals take a proactive approach to improve and maintain their health over their lifetime. By combining our proprietary multi-omics database, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital health content with our science-backed nutritional supplements, we deliver a total system for wellness. We believe our integrated solution will redefine the expectations for good health and peak performance.

Founded in 1984, Thorne Research was a small company dedicated to being a “thorn” in the side of the traditional supplement industry by making the purest and highest quality nutritional supplements to sell to health professionals. With a vision for an unparalleled health ecosystem fueled by innovation and technology, our current Chief Executive Officer, Paul Jacobson, and his management team, acquired Thorne Research in 2010 and co-founded Onegevity. In early 2021, we completed our acquisition of Onegevity and combined these two complementary companies. During the past ten years, we have evolved to become a transformative consumer brand, trusted by more than 3,000,000 customers, 42,000 healthcare professionals, thousands of professional athletes, more than 100 professional sports teams and 11 U.S. Olympic teams.

We utilize testing and data to create improved product quality and deliver personalized solutions to consumers, health professionals and professional sports teams. We also help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies repurpose existing drugs and compounds, improve existing medications and develop new products. Today, consumers are faced with a healthcare system that is focused on the treatment of disease rather than a proactive approach to health and wellness. The supplement market is crowded with confusing products that lack clinical validation or brand equity. We have positioned our brands as a paradigm shift from a focus on the treatment of disease to a proactive approach to health and wellness. The benefits of focusing on health can include enhanced performance in daily life, longer health spans, younger biological ages and reduced reliance on the healthcare system and its associated costs. We have developed a subscription platform that seamlessly combines convenient and comprehensive testing methods, proprietary data, personalized wellness education and premium nutritional solutions to focus on the human body and its unique needs. Through our platform of innovative health solutions and proprietary technology, we are building a new category within the health and


 

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wellness market. Our total addressable market consists of the $167.8 billion global nutritional supplement market (as of 2019 and projected to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.0% through 2026, according to FNF Research), the $84.1 billion global digital health market (as of 2019 and projected to have a CAGR of 14.8% through 2026, according to FNF Research), the $69.8 billion drug discovery technology and service market (as of 2020 and projected to have a CAGR of 9.6% through 2025, according to BCC Research) and the $29.5 billion global clinical testing market (as of 2020 and projected to have a CAGR of 11.4% through 2025, according to TechSci Research).

Our novel approach seeks to resolve key pain points in the consumer health journey. Our model of test, teach, transform and iterate ensures that consumers are not only active participants in their healthcare, but also educated and empowered to navigate an overwhelming nutritional supplement marketplace. We are able to personalize nutritional supplement recommendations and protocols because we understand there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Our relentless focus on building a new model of health has resulted in a robust portfolio of science-driven products and high customer satisfaction, as demonstrated by our favorable Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 78 during the first three months of 2021. Our success is not limited to the U.S. market; our Thorne brand was sold in 37 countries in 2020, and we expect to continue to expand internationally.

Our unique go-to-market strategy combines our direct-to-consumer (DTC) and subscription model with an ecosystem of health professionals. We provide customers with direct access to our brand through our mobile, web and Amazon channels. In addition to the DTC channel, our broad range of connected health professionals provides another channel for our products to be marketed and distributed to consumers. We have built our active and growing network to more than 42,000 health professionals, which includes medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, registered dieticians, pharmacists, chiropractors, nutritionists, trainers, acupuncturists and other accredited health professionals.

Our Platform

Our Technology

We seek to transform the health and wellness market by combining our proprietary technology platform, Onegevity, a comprehensive multi-omics database that uses AI and machine learning to provide actionable insights, with our premium nutritional supplements and actionable insights.

We use our Onegevity platform to map, integrate and understand the billions of dynamic biological features that precisely describe the state of an individual’s health to improve our product formulations and make our recommendations to customers more precise. Using Onegevity across our product portfolio creates an unparalleled ecosystem where data collected from customers and our network of health professionals strengthens our AI model.

Thorne Products

Our Thorne products support the optimization of health and include health tests, education and nutritional supplement products support the optimization of health. Customers uncover insights about their health through our tests and we turn those insights into a personalized plan for how to eat, exercise, and choose supplements based on unique test results.

We offer health tests to generate comprehensive, personalized, molecular portraits for our customers. Our extensive portfolio of health tests includes tests focused on sleep, stress, weight management, gut health, heavy metals, biological age and more. Customers can have our tests delivered to their doorstep, collect biological samples at home, and then can drop their free return envelope in nearly any mailbox. Alternatively, customers can go to a diagnostic laboratory, such as Quest Diagnostics, to have their samples collected and tests performed. Onegevity uses the results


 

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of these tests to create personalized recommendations, which we believe provides individuals with greater conviction about what actions they need to take, such as consulting with their physician or nutritionist, making a lifestyle change, or using nutritional supplements. All of our tests are performed by reputable third-party clinical laboratories, and the test results and comprehensive Onegevity-powered analysis and evidence-based recommendations are reviewed by board-certified physicians prior to being delivered to the customer through our website and app.

We have also developed premium, high-quality nutritional supplements that are developed with rigorous science and comprehensive testing from start to finish. Our formulas are of the highest quality offered in the nutritional supplement market, and our manufacturing processes have received among the highest possible ratings in the industry, which is aligned with our unparalleled commitment and adherence to U.S. and international current Good Manufacturing Practice requirements (cGMPs) and quality throughout our entire supply chain. We manage nearly all product formulations, ingredients, production processes, documentation, testing and product release activities at our 272,000 square foot facility in Summerville, South Carolina, which is third-party certified.

Our distinguished science and medical teams are advancing an innovative pipeline of Thorne products, including a series of next-generation products with nicotinamide riboside (NR). We believe NR contains properties that support healthy aging at the cellular level.

Onegevity Services

Onegevity is AI for health. Onegevity combines AI with professional human assistance to map, integrate and understand the billions of dynamic biological features that illustrate the state of an individual’s health. Onegevity’s platform and technology are used by customers to manage their own health and by practitioners and professionals to support patient health and advance their scope of practice. Onegevity’s portfolio of enterprise-ready models coupled with its proprietary multi-omics database is also designed to improve outcomes and reduce the difficulties and costs of AI adoption in health and wellness and can be used in the development of nutritional supplements and pharmaceuticals by our business-to-business (B2B) customers. We separate our Onegevity services into three categories:

Onegevity Health Intelligence: Our platform leverages AI models to provide insights and personalized health recommendations as a part of an individual’s health tests results. Onegevity uses pattern recognition, deep neural networks, bioinformatics and our multi-omics database to provide these personalized recommendations. Designed as a multi-tenant capable service, Onegevity Health Intelligence powers our testing and nutritional supplement channel and also has third-party applications. Pharmacies, health professionals and lifestyle companies can integrate testing and Onegevity Health Intelligence to engage, educate and empower their patients and users to make smarter decisions about their health, all while staying within the third party’s own web portal.

Onegevity Discovery: We have combined AI models with our multi-omics database to create a platform that can be used to develop new nutritional and pharmaceutical products at faster speeds and with higher efficiency than traditional development methods. This capability is achieved through predictive algorithms, informed by an array of biological and chemical factors, that can identify pharmaceutical agents or natural products likely to have the targeted result. Our Onegevity Discovery fuels our product development as well as that of clients in diverse fields, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, consumer packaged goods (CPGs) and research clinics. We have helped clients repurpose existing drugs and compounds, improve existing medications and develop new products.

Onegevity Lab: Our Onegevity Lab assessments are being developed to provide an in-person clinical experience powered by AI that embodies the personalized scientific wellness paradigm. We believe that by enabling individuals to obtain a 360-degree snapshot of their health, Onegevity Lab, the potential clinic of the


 

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future, will empower individuals to identify opportunities that preserve their health and optimize performance. As part of the session, a trained independent clinician will guide the patient through a personalized health assessment and consultation that includes highly-validated but understudied modules of health, such as cognitive function, grip strength and balance, which are all leading indicators in long-term health, but rarely evaluated when a patient is healthy.

Vertically Integrated Product Development

We have built our brand on the core pillars of safety, credibility, quality and user experience. The foundation for these pillars comes from our vertically integrated capabilities. We believe that we are one of the only vertically integrated science-based wellness companies in the world, which enables us to provide our customers with premium quality products with ingredient integrity that are manufactured in the United States.

Our vertical integration spans from sourcing the highest quality ingredients, research and development activities, product delivery and continued customer engagement. Our product formulation is driven completely in-house by a team of 23 scientists and engineers utilizing proprietary technologies, health intelligence systems and Onegevity Discovery.

We also believe it is crucial to form relationships with leading industry participants in order to continue to provide innovative products to our customers. Our development ecosystem is comprised of research partners Mayo Clinic, Unilever, Tetra Biopharma, Kyowa Hakko and a global pharmaceutical company; sponsorship of UFC, USA Rugby, Penske Racing, Roush Fenway Racing and the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program; and high-profile customers such as individual Navy SEALs, teams in the NFL, MLB and NBA and other major athletic organizations.

Our Compelling Value Proposition

Our Value Proposition to Consumers

We believe our personalized approach to health and scientific wellness empowers our customers to improve and extend their health span and enjoy happier and healthier lives. Our customers trust the Thorne brand to meet the highest standards of quality and safety. With our history of continued innovation, consumers have access to new ways to measure how biological age and well-being are calculated and controlled. We have created an intuitive and convenient health testing experience and our tests are designed to produce results that are easy to understand and actionable. Our approach, paired with our emphasis on data and AI, consistently delivers further refined insights, which provides our customers with enhanced information to support and maintain their health.

Our Value Proposition to Professional Athletes

We collaborate with sports organizations and professional athletes to ensure they have the tools and information necessary to help individuals improve health and performance through science-backed education and best-in-class products. The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International evaluates product and ingredient safety through its accredited certification and testing services. We currently have one of the most comprehensive lines of NSF Certified for Sports products on the market, with an NSF-Certified manufacturing facility and 23 products in the NSF Certified for Sport program in the United States and 11 products in the NSF Certified for Sport program in Canada, each of which certifies dietary supplements to be free from substances banned by major sporting organizations and helps athletes, dietitians, coaches and consumers make more informed decisions when choosing sports supplements. We believe professional athletes, coaches and teams love and have complete confidence in our NSF Certified for Sport product line because of the thorough testing methods that screen for more than 200 banned substances. Our dedication to science and quality has earned us the trust of


 

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more than 100 professional sports teams and 11 U.S. Olympic Teams. It is our ongoing support and collaboration with these professional organizations that has led to our position as one of the most comprehensive NSF Certified for Sport supplement manufacturers in the United States.

Our Value Proposition to Health Professionals

Our mission is to help health professionals improve patient outcomes by encouraging product use, supplying proper patient education materials and providing a consumer-friendly service. We believe this is increasingly valuable in the current competitive landscape of the health industry where physicians and other health professionals are more transparently reviewed by their peers and patients based on patient outcomes. Our value proposition is demonstrated by our active and growing professional network of more than 42,000 health professionals, including medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, registered dieticians, pharmacists, chiropractors, nutritionists, trainers, acupuncturists and other accredited health professionals who recommend our products and services.

Our B2B Value Proposition

Our Onegevity longitudinal multi-omics database is proprietary, difficult to replicate and generates data insights that can be used for further innovation in the fields of health and wellness. We have the opportunity to monetize our database and our unique analysis model to a variety of interested parties, including:

 

   

corporations benefiting from insights on population health;

 

   

pharmaceutical companies and biotechnology companies seeking additional data for new drug discovery and patient identification for clinical trials;

 

   

CPG companies; and

 

   

health intelligence services for consumers and health professionals.

Our Industry and Opportunity

Industry

We participate in the large and growing multi-billion dollar global wellness industry. The market is highly fragmented, and no company holds more than 5% market share. We are redefining consumer health and building a brand with science-backed personalized products that meet the highest standards of quality, safety and efficacy.

Opportunity

We have a significant opportunity to continue to penetrate the product categories and channels we compete in today. In addition, we believe we benefit from several consumer trends, including:

 

   

consumerization of healthcare and an increase of healthcare in the home;

 

   

a shift to personalized health;

 

   

increased demand for safe nutritional supplements driven by increased consumer education and expanding datasets; and

 

   

increased demand for convenience.


 

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What Sets Us Apart

Our Differentiated Consumer Journey

We believe that we provide consumers with one of the world’s most innovative solutions for a personalized approach to health, delivered through our integrated platform of testing, supplements and digital health content. Our proprietary platform is redefining consumer health through a model of test, teach, transform and iterate to address the consumer pain points that exist in the market today. Consumers struggle to navigate confusing supplement categories and the market is crowded with ineffective, low-grade products. Personalization has been shown to deliver better health outcomes, yet current health solutions continue a “one-size-fits-all” approach. The healthcare system focuses on treatment of disease, but consumers need and want a proactive, empowered approach to health focused on maintaining and supporting health and promoting wellness.

Test: The first step in addressing these consumer pain points is personalized testing and recommendations. We begin with convenient and comprehensive test collections using multi-omics data, which can be for a range of health areas including sleep, stress, weight management, gut health and heavy metals. The testing phase is concluded with a personalized, AI-driven, actionable health plan with diet, activity and supplement recommendations based on the individual’s test results.

Teach: We then build on the testing phase by teaching consumers through an education platform designed to empower and engage consumers through their health journey. The education occurs through both general and personal methods. The general education includes our daily online magazine Take 5 Daily, which includes podcasts, videos and articles, wellness guides and ingredients. The personalized education includes supplemental quizzes, connecting with health professionals in our network and analyzing test results.

Transform: We provide customers with premium nutritional solutions to optimize their body and its unique needs, including products to maintain and support heart health, healthy aging and gut health, among many others.

Iterate: The Onegevity platform uses molecular biology and AI to deliver continuous improvement of the test, teach, and transform model. The sophisticated AI system utilizes pattern recognition, deep neural networks, and bioinformatics to deliver unparalleled molecular insight and personalization. In addition, this technology informs our product development and reformulation process. Together, the data and AI consistently provide further refined insights, which provides our customers with enhanced information and more effective products to improve their health.

We teach individuals about their health and what is occurring in their bodies and why we recommend specific supplement choices. We aim to address an individual’s health needs and deficiencies with our nutritional supplements, as needed. This is an iterative process and provides a differentiated and simplified journey for our customers to navigate the complicated supplement market and improve their health over time.

Trusted Brand, Products and Services

We believe we are a leader in developing high-quality nutritional supplements in a variety of unique form factors. We presently sell over 300 supplements and test SKUs. Our network of tens of thousands of health professionals, trainers, and world-class athletes deepens the credibility of our product portfolio. Our offering is further differentiated by conducting all manufacturing and quality management in the United States. We have strong relationships with our suppliers, predominantly located in Europe and United States, who assist in our product innovation cycle and share our commitment to bringing the highest quality products to our customers. This


 

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commitment has contributed to our position as one of the most comprehensive NSF Certified for Sport supplement manufacturers in the United States.

Powerful Data and AI engine

Our AI model and multi-omics database improve our product formulations and make our recommendations to consumers more precise. We collect and process approximately 600 personalized tests, evaluations and surveys per day and are able to develop actionable insights from that data with our Onegevity platform. The data collected from customers, combined with a powerful AI engine, enhances our ability to provide personalized recommendations and education to our customers, thereby driving higher conversion and retention. Our platform captures this information which is utilized by our algorithms to create better nutritional supplements with optimal safety and quality and also helps our B2B customers develop more personalized solutions. The availability of this data may open further opportunities for us in the future to drive revenue by providing data services as a health intelligence provider.

Scalable Platform

The large number of highly engaged consumers who trust our Thorne brand and Onegevity platform provide a strong foundation for developing new products that extend across the health and wellness markets. This ecosystem uniquely positions us to create and capture value along the continuum of a consumer’s life with safe and innovative formulas that provide support for prenatal development, healthy adult lifestyles and healthy aging. We have achieved a demonstrated ability to develop innovative new products and successfully integrate acquired companies and assets.

Founder-Led, Science-Oriented Team

Our team of pioneers brings unrivaled expertise in science-backed wellness, precision health, systems biology and AI-for-health, and has a proven track record of driving profitable growth. Co-founder Paul Jacobson built this team with a commitment to redefine what it means to be healthy and to push the limits of human potential. Our experienced and highly regarded team of scientists consists of 40 science degrees, including doctorate degrees in 15 specialties, spanning fields such as molecular medicine, neuroscience, immunology and genetics.

Our Growth Strategies

We intend to leverage multiple growth strategies to continue to build our brand and increase our revenue and subscription base, including:

 

   

grow brand awareness;

 

   

launch new products and expand content offerings;

 

   

leverage our multi-omics database and AI with B2B partners;

 

   

continue to improve personalization for a better consumer experience;

 

   

invest in our platform;

 

   

further expand into international markets; and

 

   

selectively pursue acquisitions.


 

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Our Results

We are a fast-growing and scaling health and wellness platform and have experienced significant recent growth. Our compelling financial profile is characterized by accelerated year-over-year growth, improving gross margins, recurring revenue, strong customer retention and efficient customer acquisition.

For the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2021:

 

   

we generated net sales of $33.1 million and $44.5 million, respectively, representing 34.2% growth from the same period in 2020;

 

   

we generated gross profit of $15.2 million and $23.2 million, respectively, representing 45.9% and 52.1% of net sales, respectively;

 

   

our net loss was $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020, and our net income was $4.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021; and

 

   

our Adjusted EBITDA was $4.5 million and $8.3 million, respectively.

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 and 2020:

 

   

we generated net sales of $102.5 million and $138.5 million, respectively, representing 23.0% and 35.0% year-over-year growth, respectively;

 

   

we generated gross profit of $44.7 million and $64.8 million, respectively, representing 43.6% and 46.8% of net sales, respectively;

 

   

our net loss was $18.2 million and $4.0 million, respectively; and

 

   

our Adjusted EBITDA was $8.0 million and $14.4 million, respectively.

See the section titled “Selected Consolidated Financial and Other Data — Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin” for information regarding our use of Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of net loss to Adjusted EBITDA.

Our recent key customer metrics, as defined in the Management Discussion and Analysis section, includes:

 

   

customer acquisition costs (CAC) of $30 and life-time value (LTV) of $136 with 4.5x LTV to CAC in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, a CAC of $22 and LTV of $170 with 7.6x LTV to CAC in the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, a CAC of $18 and LTV of $130 with 7.1x LTV to CAC in the three months ended March 31, 2020, a CAC of $26 and LTV of $158 with 6.2x LTV to CAC in the three months ended March 31, 2021;

 

   

active subscriptions of 98,809 and 168,483, as of March 31, 2020 and 2021, respectively; and

 

   

orders per customer per year of 2.6 and 2.7, in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively and 1.9 and 1.8 in the three months ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2021, respectively.

See the section titled “Management Discussion and Analysis” for information regarding our calculation of CAC, LTV, active subscriptions and orders per customer.

 


 

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Risks Associated with Our Business

Our ability to execute on our business strategy is subject to a number of risks, which are discussed more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors.” You should carefully consider these risks before making an investment in our common stock. These risks include, among others, the following:

 

   

we have a history of operating losses and can provide no assurance that we will achieve profitability;

 

   

our operating results may fluctuate significantly in the future, which makes our future operating results difficult to predict and could cause our operating results to fall below expectations or any guidance we may provide;

 

   

if the market for our products and services does not continue to grow, grows more slowly than we expect, or fails to grow as large as we expect, our business, financial condition, and operating results may be adversely affected;

 

   

if we fail to maintain adequate quality standards for our products and services, or if we fail to comply with applicable regulatory requirements or receive allegations of noncompliance with regulatory requirements, our business may be adversely affected and our reputation harmed;

 

   

our success depends on our ability to maintain the value and reputation of our brand;

 

   

unfavorable publicity or consumer perception of our products and any similar products distributed by other companies could have a material adverse effect on our business;

 

   

we may fail to attract, acquire or retain health professionals and consumers as customers at our current or anticipated future growth rate, or may fail to do so in a cost-effective manner, which would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations;

 

   

our business depends on the effectiveness of our advertising and marketing programs, including the strength of our social media presence, to attract and retain customers;

 

   

if we are unable to anticipate health professional and consumer preferences and successfully develop new and innovative products and services in a timely manner or effectively manage the introduction of new or enhanced products and services, then our business may be adversely affected; and

 

   

if we are unable to sustain pricing levels for our products and services, our business could be adversely affected.

Corporate Information

We were formed in Delaware as a corporation on June 17, 2010 under the name Thorne Holding Corp. On November 13, 2020, we changed our name to Thorne HealthTech, Inc. Our principal executive offices are located at 152 W. 57th Street, New York, New York 10019. Our telephone number is (929) 251-6321. Our website address is www.thorne.com. Information contained on the website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus and should not be considered to be part of this prospectus.

We use the Thorne logo and other marks, including NSF Certified for Sport, NiaCel, ResveraCel as trademarks in the United States and other countries. This prospectus contains references to our trademarks and


 

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service marks and to those belonging to other entities. Solely for convenience, trademarks and trade names referred to in this prospectus, including logos, artwork and other visual displays, may appear without the TM symbol, but such references are not intended to indicate in any way that we will not assert, to the fullest extent possible under applicable law, our rights or the rights of the applicable licensor to these trademarks and trade names. We do not intend our use or display of other entities’ trade names, trademarks or service marks to imply a relationship with, or endorsement or sponsorship of us by, any other entity.

Implications of Being an Emerging Growth Company and a Smaller Reporting Company

We are an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012, as amended (JOBS Act). We will remain an emerging growth company until the earliest to occur of: (i) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have more than $1.07 billion in annual revenue; (ii) the date we qualify as a “large accelerated filer,” with at least $700 million of equity securities held by non-affiliates; (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt securities during the prior three-year period; and (iv) the last day of the fiscal year ending after the fifth anniversary of our initial public offering.

An emerging growth company may take advantage of relief from certain reporting requirements and other burdens that are otherwise applicable generally to public companies. These provisions include:

 

   

presenting only two years of audited financial statements and only two years of selected financial data;

 

   

an exemption from compliance with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Sarbanes-Oxley Act);

 

   

reduced disclosure about our executive compensation arrangements in our periodic reports, proxy statements and registration statements; and

 

   

exemptions from the requirements of holding non-binding advisory votes on executive compensation or golden parachute arrangements.

As a result of this status, we have taken advantage of reduced reporting requirements in this prospectus and may elect to take advantage of other reduced reporting requirements in our future filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In particular, in this prospectus, we have provided only two years of audited financial statements and have not included all of the executive compensation related information that would be required if we were not an emerging growth company.

In addition, the JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards, delaying the adoption of these accounting standards until they would apply to private companies. We have elected to avail ourselves of this exemption from new or revised accounting standards, and, therefore, we will not be subject to the same new or revised accounting standards at the same time as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies or those that have opted out of using such extended transition period, which may make comparison of our financial statements with such other public companies more difficult. We may take advantage of these reporting exemptions until we no longer qualify as an emerging growth company, or, with respect to adoption of certain new or revised accounting standards, until we irrevocably elect to opt out of using the extended transition period. As a result, our financial statements may not be comparable to companies that comply with new or revised accounting standards as of public company effective dates.

We are also a “smaller reporting company,” meaning that the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates plus the proposed aggregate amount of gross proceeds to us as a result of this offering is less than


 

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$700 million and our annual revenue was less than $100 million during the most recently completed fiscal year. We may continue to be a smaller reporting company after this offering if either (i) the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates is less than $250 million or (ii) our annual revenue was less than $100 million during the most recently completed fiscal year and the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates is less than $700 million. If we are a smaller reporting company at the time we cease to be an emerging growth company, we may continue to rely on exemptions from certain disclosure requirements that are available to smaller reporting companies. Specifically, as a smaller reporting company we may choose to present only the two most recent fiscal years of audited financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and, similar to emerging growth companies, smaller reporting companies have reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation.


 

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THE OFFERING

 

Common stock offered by us

                 shares (or                 shares if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full).

 

Option to purchase additional shares

We have granted the underwriters an option for a period of 30 days to purchase up to                  additional shares of our common stock.

 

Common stock to be outstanding immediately after this offering

             shares (or                  shares if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full).

 

Use of proceeds

We estimate that the net proceeds from this offering will be approximately $         million (or $         million if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full), assuming an initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

 

  The principal purposes of this offering are to obtain additional capital to support our operations, establish a public market for our common stock and facilitate our future access to the public capital markets.

 

  We currently intend to use the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing cash to fund (i) additional nutritional supplement product and test development activities, including investment in our Onegevity platform, (ii) expansion of our sales and marketing activities, including expansion into additional international markets, and costs associated with additional warehousing space; (iii) the repayment of current indebtedness, and (iv) working capital, and other general corporate purposes.

 

  We may use a portion of the net proceeds to repay any debt we incur in the future or acquire complimentary products, technologies, intellectual property or businesses; however, we currently do not have any agreements or commitments to complete any such transactions and are not involved in negotiations regarding such transactions.

 

  See the section titled “Use of Proceeds” for more information.

 

Risk factors

See the section titled “Risk Factors” for a discussion of factors you should carefully consider before deciding to invest in shares of our common stock.

 

Reserved share program

At our request, an affiliate of BofA Securities, Inc., a participating underwriter, has reserved for sale, at the initial public offering price, up to 5% of the shares offered by this prospectus for sale to our directors, officers and selected senior managers. If these persons purchase reserved shares, it will reduce the number of shares


 

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available for sale to the general public. Any reserved shares that are not so purchased will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same terms as the other shares offered by this prospectus, see “Underwriting—Reserved Share Program.”

 

Proposed Nasdaq trading symbol

“THRN”

The number of shares of our common stock to be outstanding after this offering is based on                  shares of our common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2021 (including our convertible preferred stock on an- as-converted basis), and excludes:

 

   

                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options outstanding as of March 31, 2021 with a weighted-average exercise price of $         per share;

 

   

                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted after March 31, 2021 with a weighted-average exercise price of $         per share;

 

   

                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2021;

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2010 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended (2010 Plan);

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our Restated 2020 Onegevity Health Equity Plan, as amended (Onegevity Plan);

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2021 Equity Incentive Plan (2021 Plan), which will become effective in connection with this offering, as well as any automatic increases in the number of shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under this plan; and

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), which will become effective in connection with this offering, as well as any automatic increases in the number of shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under this plan.

Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, this prospectus assumes or gives effect to the following:

 

   

no exercise of outstanding options described above after March 31, 2021;

 

   

no exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares of common stock from us in this offering;

 

   

the conversion of all outstanding shares of our Class B non-voting common stock into shares of a single class of voting common stock;

 

   

the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock as of March 31, 2021 on a          basis into an aggregate of                  shares of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering; and

 

   

an initial public offering price of $         per share, the midpoint of the estimated public offering price range on the cover of this prospectus.


 

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SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

The following tables set forth a summary of certain of our consolidated financial data for the periods and as of the dates indicated. We have derived the summary statements of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, from our audited financial statements appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. We also derived the following summary statements of our unaudited consolidated statement of operations data for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2021, and our summary balance sheet data as of March 31, 2021, from our unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. Our interim unaudited financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP) on the same basis as the annual audited financial statements and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for the fair statement of our financial position as of March 31, 2021 and our results of our operations for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2021. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that should be expected for any future period, and our interim results are not necessarily indicative of our results for the full fiscal year. You should read the following summary consolidated financial data together with our financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus and the information in the sections titled “Selected Consolidated Financial Data” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

     Twelve Months
Ended December 31,
    Three months
Ended March 31,
 

Consolidated Statements of Operations

   2019     2020     2020     2021  
     (in thousands except per share amounts)  

Net Sales

   $ 102,532     $ 138,455     $ 33,144     $ 44,484  

Cost of sales

     57,789       73,667       17,964       21,247  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit

     44,743       64,788       15,180       23,237  

Operating expenses:

        

Research and development

     3,899       4,225       990       907  

Selling, general, and administrative

     54,751       59,548       13,981       15,476  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

     (13,907     1,015       209       6,854  

Other expense (income):

        

Interest expense, net

     406       1,125       618       283  

Guarantee fees

     298       243       86       139  

Change in fair value of warrant liability

     1,992       1,912       478       1,628  

Other expense (income), net

     (44     2       —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expense, net

     2,652       3,282       1,182       2,050  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes and loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (16,559     (2,267     (973     4,804  

Income tax expense

     33       177       1       41  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) before loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (16,592     (2,444     (974     4,763  

Loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates(1)

     1,625       1,510       203       57  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

     (18,217     (3,954     (1,177     4,706  

Net loss - non-controlling interest(2)

     (1,492     (596     (489      
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

     (16,725     (3,358     (688     4,706  

Deemed Dividends

     (4,813     —         —          

Undistributed earnings attributable to Series E convertible preferred stockholders

     —         —         —         (4,706
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders

     (21,538     (3,358     (688     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) per share:(3)

        

Basic

   $ (1,221   $ (150   $ (39     —    

Diluted

   $ (1,221   $ (150   $ (39     —    

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

        

Basic

     17,638       22,440       17,638       39,663  

Diluted

     17,638       22,440       17,638       39,663  

 

(1)

Represents our proportionate loss arising from our equity interest in Drawbridge and Tecton. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, our portion of Drawbridge’s loss was $0.1 million and for Tecton it was $0. For the three months ended March 31, 2020, our


 

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  portion of Drawbridge’s loss was $0.2 million and for Tecton was $0. For 2020, our portion of Drawbridge’s loss was $0.9 million and for Tecton was $0.5 million. For 2019, our portion of Drawbridge’s loss was $1.2 million and for Tecton was $0.8 million.
(2)

Represents the net loss attributable to the minority shareholders of Onegevity for the three months ended March 31, 2021, and to the minority shareholders of Onegevity and Health Elements for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and for the twelve months ended December 2020 and 2019.

(3)

See Notes to our consolidated financial statements appearing at the end of this prospectus for details on the calculation of basic and diluted net loss per share.

 

     As of March 31, 2021  

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data

   Actual      Pro
Forma(1)
     Pro forma As
Adjusted(2)(3)
 
     (in thousands)  

Cash

   $ 23,334                             

Working capital(4)

     18,025        

Total assets

     133,775        

Total debt

     21,460        

Total liabilities

     81,910        

Series E convertible preferred stock

     133,485        

Total stockholders’ deficit

   $ (81,619      

 

(1)

The pro forma balance sheet data gives effect to the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of                shares of our common stock which will occur immediately prior to the completion of this offering, resulting in an aggregate of                outstanding shares of our common stock.

(2)

The pro forma as adjusted column in the balance sheet data gives effect to (i) the pro forma adjustments described in footnote (1) above and (ii) the issuance and sale of                shares of common stock in this offering at the initial public offering price of $        per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

(3)

Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $        per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease, as applicable, the pro forma as adjusted amount of each of our cash, working capital, total assets and stockholders’ equity by $         million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Similarly, each increase or decrease of 1.0 million shares in the number of shares offered by us at the assumed initial public offering price would increase or decrease, as applicable, each of our cash, working capital, total assets, and stockholders’ equity by $         million. The pro forma as adjusted information set forth above is illustrative only and will depend on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing.

(4)

Working capital is defined as current assets less current liabilities. See our financial statements appearing elsewhere in this prospectus for further details regarding our current assets and current liabilities.

 

     Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2019     2020     2020     2021  
     (dollars in thousands)  

Net income (loss)

   $ (18,216   $ (3,954   $ (1,177   $ 4,706  

Adjusted EBITDA (unaudited)

     8,034       14,433       4,515       8,293  

Adjusted EBITDA margin (unaudited)

     7.8     10.4     13.6     18.6

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

     (7,621     17,107       2,986       8,787  

Free cash flow (unaudited)

   $ (10,526   $ 14,784     $ 2,515     $ 8,198  

See subsection “Key Financial and Operating Data” in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for further details.


 

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RISK FACTORS

Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below, together with all of the other information in this prospectus, including the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our consolidated financial statements and related notes, before making a decision to invest in our common stock. Our business, financial condition, results of operations, or prospects could also be harmed by risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently do not believe are material. If any of the risks actually occur, our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects could be adversely affected. In that event, the market price of our common stock could decline, and you could lose part or all of your investment.

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry

We have a history of operating losses and can provide no assurance that we will achieve profitability.

We have a history of operating losses, including net losses of $18.2 million and $4.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively. We have an accumulated deficit of $134.7 million as of March 31, 2021. We expect our operating expenses to increase in the future as we increase our sales and marketing efforts, continue to invest in research and development, expand our operating and manufacturing infrastructure and expand into new geographies. Further, as a public company, we will incur additional legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. These efforts and additional expenses may be more costly than we expect, and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to increase our revenue to offset our operating expenses. As a result, we may need additional financing to meet our future capital requirements. Our revenue growth may slow or our revenue may decline for a number of other reasons, including reduced demand for our products and services, increased competition, a decrease in the growth or reduction in size of our overall market or if we cannot capitalize on growth opportunities. If our revenue does not grow at a greater rate than our operating expenses, we will not be able to maintain profitability.

Our operating results may fluctuate significantly in the future, which makes our future operating results difficult to predict and could cause our operating results to fall below expectations or any guidance we may provide.

Our quarterly and annual operating results may fluctuate significantly, which makes it difficult for us to predict our future operating results. These fluctuations may occur due to a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our control, including, but not limited to:

 

   

our ability to successfully commercialize our products and services on our anticipated timelines;

 

   

the timing and cost of, and level of investment in, new marketing initiatives, research and development and commercialization activities relating to our products and services, which may change from time to time;

 

   

our ability to drive adoption of our products and services in our health and wellness market and our ability to expand into any future target markets or geographies;

 

   

the prices at which we will be able to sell our products and services;

 

   

the timing and amount of expenditures that we may incur to develop, commercialize or acquire additional products or expand our facilities or enter into different geographies;

 

   

seasonal spending patterns of our customers;

 

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any new laws and regulations that become applicable to us;

 

   

future accounting pronouncements or changes in our accounting policies;

 

   

the outcome of any future litigation or governmental investigations involving us, our industry or both;

 

   

the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, investment in the health and wellness industry, our business operations, and resources and operations of our customers, suppliers and distributors; and

 

   

general industry, economic and market conditions and other factors, including factors unrelated to our operating performance or the operating performance of our competitors.

The cumulative effects of the factors discussed above could result in large fluctuations and unpredictability in our quarterly and annual operating results. As a result, comparing our operating results on a period-to-period basis may not be meaningful. Investors should not rely on our past results as an indication of our future performance.

The variability and unpredictability of our operating results could also result in our failing to meet the expectations of industry or financial analysts or investors for any period. If our operating results fall below the expectations of analysts or investors or below any guidance we may provide, or if the guidance we provide is below the expectations of analysts or investors, it could cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

If the market for our products and services does not continue to grow, grows more slowly than we expect, or fails to grow as large as we expect, our business, financial condition and operating results may be adversely affected.

Our success depends substantially on the continued willingness of consumers to adopt health and wellness products and, in particular, to place value in the personalized nature of our platform and scientific evidence we use to market our products and services. To be successful, we will have to continue to significantly invest in educating consumers about our products and services, and provide high-quality products and services that are superior to those offered by our competitors. For example, our customers use our Onegevity platform and take our tests in order to benefit from our nutritional supplement product offerings. The personalized health and wellness market has only recently adopted the use of digital platforms like Onegevity, and it is uncertain whether such service models will sustain high levels of demand or achieve widespread market acceptance. If our customers do not have confidence in our Onegevity platform or the results of the tests they take, they may not act on our recommendations or purchase our products and our revenues will be negatively impacted as a result. In addition, the health and wellness market is heavily saturated, and the demand for and market acceptance of new products and services in the market is uncertain. While we predict that the overall health and wellness market will continue to grow, it is difficult to predict the future growth rates, if any, to the size of our market. We cannot assure you that our market will continue to develop, that the public’s interest in personalized health and wellness will continue or that our products and services will become widely adopted. If our market does not further develop, develops more slowly than expected or becomes saturated with competitors or if our products and services do not achieve market acceptance, our business, financial condition and operating results could be adversely affected.

If we fail to maintain adequate quality standards for our products and services, our business may be adversely affected and our reputation harmed.

Our products, including nutritional supplements and health tests, may contain defects or errors may not perform as intended. These defects or errors could result in a product recall, market withdrawal, negative

 

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publicity or other events that would result in harm to our reputation, loss of customers or revenue, refunds, order cancellations, subscription terminations and lack of market acceptance of our products and services. In addition, Onegevity offers health-related services through Thorne’s digital platform as well as directly to business customers. Our Onegevity engine relies on third-party testing facilities to process the customer tests and generate patient data and physicians to interpret these results. These services may contain undetected defects, errors or vulnerabilities currently or when new versions or enhancements are released. These defects and errors may also result in Onegevity’s engine providing inaccurate recommendations to our customers. As the use of our Onegevity technology grows and we add new features, we may be subject to increased scrutiny, reputational risk and liability should there be a data breach or if our platform fails to perform as anticipated. Any such defects, errors or vulnerabilities would require us to take remedial action, which could require us to allocate significant research and development and customer support resources to address any such problems. Further, as we make acquisitions, we may encounter difficulties in integrating acquired technologies into our services and in augmenting those technologies to meet the quality standards that are consistent with our brand and reputation.

Our agreements with customers, distribution partners and other third parties may include indemnification provisions under which we agree to indemnify or otherwise be liable to them for losses suffered or incurred in connection with any such defects or errors of our products or services, or other liabilities relating to or arising from our products or services. Some of these indemnity agreements provide for uncapped liability for which we would be responsible, and some indemnity provisions survive termination or expiration of the applicable agreement. Large indemnity payments could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations. Although we attempt to contractually limit our liability with respect to such indemnity obligations, we are not always successful and may still incur substantial liability related to such claims. In addition, although we carry general liability insurance, our insurance against this liability may not be adequate to cover a potential claim, and such coverage may not be available to us on acceptable terms, or at all. Any dispute with a customer or other third party with respect to such obligations could have adverse effects on our relationship with such customer or other third party, our reputation and demand for our platform. Any of the foregoing could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our success depends on our ability to maintain the value and reputation of our brand.

We believe that our customers associate our name with quality products and services and that the strength of our brand is important to attracting and retaining customers. We rely on our trusted brand to differentiate our products and services from those of our competitors in a crowded and saturated market for nutritional supplements and personalized health services. Maintaining, protecting and enhancing our brand depends largely on the success of our marketing efforts, ability to provide consistent, high-quality products, services, features, content and support, and our ability to successfully secure, maintain and defend our rights to use the “Thorne” and “Onegevity” marks and other trademarks important to our brand. We believe that the importance of our brand will increase as competition further intensifies. Accordingly, brand promotion activities aimed at bolstering our brand may require substantial expenditures. Our brand could be harmed if we fail to achieve these objectives or if our public image were to be tarnished by negative publicity. Our brand could also be harmed if any of our key influencers or professional athlete endorsers receive negative publicity, or if our products and services do not perform as intended.

Adulterated or counterfeit products appearing on the market under the Thorne brand may subject us to costs or liabilities or damage our reputation and brand.

We recently became aware of a limited number of adulterated or counterfeit supplement products sold under our brand that did not contain the labeled ingredients intended to be present, did not perform as intended, and may have been placed on the market in an attempt to damage our reputation and brand. Although the ingredients contained in the supplements were harmless, adulterated or counterfeit supplements sold under our brand in the future could contain harmful ingredients or may not perform as intended. Furthermore, a counterfeit test sold may not produce accurate test results. In the future, we could become involved in investigations with the

 

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FDA or other federal and state agencies as a result of adulterated or counterfeit supplements or tests. We may incur costs or liabilities resulting from an investigation or become involved in product liability litigation resulting from adulterated or counterfeit supplements or tests. Even if there is no customer harm, adulterated or counterfeit products that do not perform as intended could damage our reputation and brand and lead to a loss of customer sales as a result.

Unfavorable publicity or customer perception of our products and any similar products distributed by other companies could have a material adverse effect on our business.

We believe the nutritional supplement market is highly dependent upon customer perception regarding the safety, efficacy and quality of nutritional supplements generally, as well as of products distributed by us specifically. Customer perception of our products can be significantly influenced by scientific research or findings, regulatory investigations, litigation, national media attention and other publicity regarding the consumption of nutritional supplements. We cannot assure you that future scientific research, findings, regulatory proceedings, litigation, media attention or other research findings or publicity will be favorable to the nutritional supplement market or any product, or consistent with earlier publicity. Future research reports, findings, regulatory proceedings, litigation, media attention or other publicity that are perceived as less favorable than, or that question, such earlier research reports, findings or publicity could diminish confidence in our products and services and could result in a material decrease in the demand for our products and consequently harm our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Our dependence upon customer perceptions means that adverse scientific research reports, findings, regulatory proceedings, litigation, media attention or other publicity could have a material adverse effect on the demand for our products, the availability and pricing of our ingredients and our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. Further, adverse public reports or other media attention regarding the safety, efficacy and quality of nutritional supplements in general, or our products specifically, or associating the consumption of nutritional supplements with illness, could have a material adverse effect on our business. Any such adverse public reports or other media attention could arise even if the adverse effects associated with such products resulted from consumers’ failure to use such products as directed and the content of such public reports and other media attention may be beyond our control.

We may fail to attract, acquire or retain health professionals and consumers as customers at our current or anticipated future growth rate, or may fail to do so in a cost-effective manner, which would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our continued growth depends, in part, on our ability to attract, acquire and retain consumers and health professionals as customers in a cost-effective manner. Numerous factors, however, may impede our ability to attract, acquire or retain consumers and health professionals as customers, including our failure to attract, effectively train, retain and motivate sales and marketing personnel, our failure to educate customers and health professionals about the benefits of our products, our failure to develop or expand relationships with our distribution partners, our inability to convert initial adoption into ongoing recurring revenue and our failure to provide customer support once products are delivered.

Our DTC success depends, in part, on our existing customers continuing to purchase our products and purchase our subscription services. Our customers have no obligation to purchase our products or renew their subscriptions, and in the normal course of business, some customers may decide to purchase less or none of our products or may decide not to renew their product subscriptions. If we acquire fewer customers than expected, or fewer customers purchase our existing products, try our new products or renew their subscriptions, then our business, financial condition and results of operations would be adversely affected.

In addition, our ability to expand our relationship with our health professional customers depends in large part on our ability to provide new and innovative products and train these professionals on the utility of

 

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such products. We believe that our health professional customers place a premium on the efficacy of our products and may not continue to recommend our products to their patients if we do not continue to provide scientific evidence of efficacy for new products and services or if our products fail to achieve the intended patient results. If we are unable to successfully develop new products, educate and train our health professional customers on the benefits of our products and demonstrate a successful value proposition for these health professional customers, then our business, financial condition and results of operations would be adversely affected.

Our business depends on the effectiveness of our advertising and marketing programs, including the strength of our social media presence, to attract and retain customers.

Our business success depends on our ability to attract and retain customers. Our ability to attract and retain customers depends significantly on the effectiveness of our advertising and marketing practices. From time-to-time, we use the success stories of our customers, and utilize brand ambassadors, spokespersons and social media influencers, including in some cases celebrities, in our advertising and marketing programs to communicate on a personal level with consumers. Any actions taken by these individuals that harm their personal reputation or image, or their decision to stop using our products and services, could have an adverse impact on the advertising and marketing campaigns in which they are featured. We and our brand ambassadors, spokespersons and social media influencers also use social media channels as a means of communicating with customers. Unauthorized or inappropriate use of these channels could result in harmful publicity or negative consumer experiences, which could have an adverse impact on the effectiveness of our marketing in these channels. In addition, substantial negative commentary by others on social media platforms could have an adverse impact on our brand, reputation and ability to attract and retain customers. If our advertising and marketing campaigns do not generate a sufficient number of customers, our business, financial condition and results of operations will be adversely affected.

If we are unable to anticipate health professional and consumer preferences and successfully develop new and innovative products and services in a timely manner or effectively manage the introduction of new or enhanced products and services, then our business may be adversely affected.

Part of our success is our ability to innovate and introduce new products focused on our health professional and consumer demands. To maintain our success and increase our customer base, we must continue to develop products and services and anticipate and react to changing health professional and consumer demands in a timely manner. Our products and services are subject to changing consumer preferences that cannot be predicted with certainty. If we are unable to introduce new or enhanced products in a timely manner, or our new or enhanced products are not accepted by our customers, then our competitors may introduce competitive products faster than us, which could negatively affect our rate of growth. Moreover, our new products may not receive customer acceptance because preferences could shift rapidly to alternative nutritional supplements, and our future success depends in part on our ability to anticipate and respond to these changes. Failure to anticipate and respond in a timely manner to changing customer preferences could lead to, among other things, lower sales and subscriptions, pricing pressure, lower gross margins, and excess inventory. Even if we are successful in anticipating consumer preferences, our ability to adequately react to and address them will partially depend upon our continued ability to develop and introduce innovative, high-quality product and services offerings. Development of new or enhanced products and services may require significant time and financial investment, which could result in increased costs and a reduction in our profit margins.

If we are unable to sustain pricing levels for our products and services, our business could be adversely affected.

The prices for our nutritional supplement products reflect their high quality, safety and efficacy. If we are unable to sustain pricing levels for our products and services, whether due to competitive pressure or otherwise, then our gross profits could be reduced. Further, our decisions regarding the development of new products and services are based on assumptions about future pricing. If there is price compression in the market

 

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after these decisions are made, then it could lower our gross profits and have a negative effect on our results of operations.

We operate in a highly competitive market and we may be unable to compete successfully against existing and future competitors.

We face significant competition in the health and wellness market. Due to our comprehensive approach to health and wellness, we currently compete with different health and wellness companies in different markets, such as Nestle Health Science and Metagenics in the nutritional supplement market, Hims, 23andMe and Livongo in the health services and online testing market, and companies like Schrodinger and SEMA4 in the AI-driven healthcare market. We believe that the principal competitive factors in our market are product quality, consumer experience, brand awareness and loyalty, reliability and trust in the quality of our products and services.

Some of our current competitors are large publicly-traded companies, or are divisions of large publicly-traded companies, and may enjoy a number of competitive advantages over us, including:

 

   

greater name and brand recognition;

 

   

greater financial and human resources;

 

   

broader and deeper product lines and services;

 

   

larger sales forces and more established distributor networks;

 

   

substantial intellectual property portfolios;

 

   

larger and more established customer bases and relationships; and

 

   

better established, larger scale and lower cost manufacturing capabilities.

Our competitors may develop, or have already developed, products, features, services and technologies that are similar to ours or that achieve greater acceptance. They may undertake more successful product development efforts, create more compelling employment opportunities or marketing campaigns and may adopt more aggressive pricing policies. Our competitors may also develop or acquire, or have already developed or acquired, intellectual property rights that significantly limit or prevent our ability to compete effectively in the public marketplace. In addition, our competitors may have significantly greater resources than us, allowing them to identify and capitalize more efficiently upon opportunities in new markets and consumer preferences and trends, quickly transition and adapt their products and services, devote greater resources to marketing and advertising and be better positioned to withstand substantial price competition. We cannot assure investors that our products will compete favorably or that we will be successful in the face of increasing competition from products, services and technologies introduced by our existing or future competitors, or developed by our distributors or healthcare professionals. In addition, we cannot assure investors that our competitors do not have or will not develop products or services with better outcomes or at lower costs than ours. Any failure to compete effectively could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results.

We have grown rapidly in recent years and have limited operating experience at our current scale of operations. If we are unable to manage our growth effectively, our brand, company culture and financial performance may suffer.

We have expanded our operations rapidly and have limited operating experience at our current size. We have never had an investor relations function and we expect we will need to hire new personnel or train existing personnel to support that function or outsource those activities. We also expect to hire additional personnel to support our finance, legal and compliance department as we adapt to operating as a public company.

 

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As we grow, our business will become increasingly complex. To effectively manage and capitalize on our growth, we must also continue to expand our sales and marketing capabilities, focus on innovative products and services, upgrade our information management systems and other processes and expand our facilities. Our continued growth could strain our existing resources, and we could experience ongoing operating difficulties in managing our business across numerous geographies, including difficulties in hiring, training and managing a decentralized and growing employee base. Failure to scale and preserve our company culture during this high-growth period could harm our future success, including our ability to retain and recruit personnel and to effectively focus on and pursue our corporate objectives. Moreover, the vertically integrated nature of our business, where we design and manufacture most of our products, develop our own software services and sell our products through our own sales teams and e-commerce sites, exposes us to risk and disruption at many points that are critical to successfully operating our business and may make it more difficult for us to scale our business. If we do not adapt to meet these evolving challenges, or if our management team does not effectively scale with our growth, we may experience erosion to our brand, the quality of our products and services may suffer, and our company culture may be harmed.

Our growth strategy anticipates a significant increase in our advertising and other marketing costs. Successful implementation of our growth strategy will require significant expenditures and we cannot guarantee that these increased investments will result in corresponding and offsetting revenue growth. Because we have a limited history operating our business at its current scale, it is difficult for us to evaluate our current business and future prospects, including our ability to plan for and model future growth. Our limited operating experience at this scale, combined with the rapidly evolving nature of the health and wellness market in which we sell our products and services, substantial uncertainty concerning how these markets may develop, and other economic factors beyond our control, reduces our ability to accurately forecast quarterly or annual revenue. Failure to manage our future growth effectively could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

We may choose to raise additional funding in order to develop future products, acquire other companies or technologies or expand into other geographies.

We expect that the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing cash as of the date of this prospectus, will be sufficient to fund our operating expenses and capital expenditures for at least the next 12 months. Our future capital requirements will depend on and could increase significantly as a result of many factors, including:

 

   

the number and type of products we develop and commercialize;

 

   

the cost of intellectual property proceedings and any intellectual property litigation involving us;

 

   

the success of any collaborations and joint ventures that we enter into with third parties and the ability to maintain them thereafter;

 

   

the extent to which we acquire or invest in businesses, products and technologies;

 

   

the rate at which we expand internationally and offer our products in additional geographies;

 

   

our headcount growth and associated costs as we expand our business operations and our research and development and manufacturing activities;

 

   

the impact of any business interruptions to our operations or to operations of our manufacturers, suppliers or other vendors resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic or a similar public health crisis or other force majeure event; and

 

   

the costs of operating as a public company.

 

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We may need to access additional financing to achieve our business objectives and additional financing may or may not be available to us at the time we need it. The inability to raise additional capital when needed would have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Any additional fundraising efforts may divert our management from day-to-day activities, which may adversely affect our ability to develop and commercialize our products and services, and we can provide no assurance that such funding will be available on terms that are acceptable to us, or at all.

If we need additional financing in the future, we cannot guarantee that it will be available in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us, if at all. Moreover, the terms of any financing may adversely affect the holdings or the rights of our stockholders and the issuance of additional securities, whether equity or debt, by us, or the possibility of such issuance, may cause the market price of our common stock to decline. To the extent that we raise additional capital through the sale of common stock or securities convertible or exchangeable into common stock, your ownership interest will be diluted, and the terms of those securities may include liquidation or other preferences that materially adversely affect your rights as a common stockholder. The incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased fixed payment obligations and we may be required to agree to certain restrictive covenants, such as limitations on our ability to incur additional debt, limitations on our ability to acquire, sell or license intellectual property rights and other operating restrictions that could adversely impact our ability to make capital expenditures, declare dividends or otherwise conduct our business. If we are unable to obtain any funding we need on a timely basis, we may be required to significantly curtail, delay or discontinue research or development of new products or our digital platform and the commercialization of our products or expansion into new geographies, any of which could materially affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Unfavorable U.S. or global economic conditions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, or otherwise, could adversely affect our ability to raise capital and our business, results of operations and financial condition.

While the potential economic impact brought by, and the duration of, the COVID-19 pandemic is difficult to assess or predict, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in, and may continue to result in, extreme volatility and disruptions in the capital and credit markets, reducing our ability to raise additional capital through equity, equity-linked or debt financings, which could negatively impact our short-term and long-term liquidity and our ability to operate in accordance with our operating plan, or at all. Additionally, our results of operations could be adversely affected by general conditions in the global economy and financial markets. A severe or prolonged economic downturn could result in a variety of risks to our business, including weakened demand for our products and services our ability to raise additional capital when needed on favorable terms, if at all. A weak or declining economy could strain our customers’ budgets or cause delays in their payments to us. Any of the foregoing could harm our business, and we cannot anticipate all of the ways in which the current economic climate and financial market conditions could adversely impact our ability to raise capital, business, results of operations and financial condition.

An economic downturn or economic uncertainty may adversely affect customer discretionary spending and demand for our products and services.

Some customers may consider our products and services to be discretionary. Factors affecting the level of consumer spending for such discretionary items include current economic conditions, customer confidence in future economic conditions, fears of recession, the availability and cost of customer credit, levels of unemployment and tax rates. In recent years, the United States and other significant economic markets have experienced cyclical downturns and worldwide economic conditions remain uncertain. As global economic conditions continue to be volatile or economic uncertainty remains, trends in customer discretionary spending also remain unpredictable and subject to reductions. To date, our business has operated almost exclusively in a relatively strong economic environment or in the COVID-19 pandemic where healthcare is a priority and, therefore, we cannot be sure the extent to which we may be affected by recessionary conditions without a

 

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pandemic. Unfavorable economic conditions may lead customers to delay or reduce purchases of our products and services and customer demand for our products and services may not grow as we expect. Sensitivity to economic cycles and any related fluctuation in customer demand for our products and services could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

Our nutrition-oriented educational activities may be impacted by government regulation or our inability to secure adequate professional liability insurance.

We provide nutrition-oriented education and supplement plans to our customers, and these activities may be subject to state and federal regulation and oversight by professional organizations. In the past, the FDA has expressed concerns regarding summarized health and nutrition-related information that (i) does not, in the FDA’s view, accurately present such information, (ii) diverts a consumer’s attention and focus from FDA-required nutrition labeling and information or (iii) impermissibly promotes drug-type disease-related benefits. If our employees, consultants or the other third parties we engage to provide this information do not act in accordance with regulatory requirements, we may become subject to penalties that could have a material adverse effect on our business. We believe we are currently in compliance with relevant regulatory requirements, and we maintain professional liability insurance in order to mitigate risks associated with this nutrition-oriented education. However, we cannot predict the nature of future government regulation and oversight, including the potential impact of any such regulation on this activity. Furthermore, the availability of professional liability insurance or the scope of such coverage may change, or our insurance coverage may prove inadequate, which may adversely impact the ability of our customer educators to provide some information to our customers. The occurrence of any such developments could negatively impact the perception of our brand, our sales and our ability to attract new customers.

We may initiate product recalls or withdrawals, may be subject to regulatory enforcement actions or incur material product liability claims, any of which could increase our costs and adversely affect our reputation and our results of operations.

As a manufacturer, marketer and retailer of products designed for human consumption, we may initiate product recalls or withdrawals, or may be subject to seizures and adverse public relations if our products are contaminated, adulterated, mislabeled, misbranded or fail to achieve expected stability or shelf life, are alleged to cause injury or illness, or if we are alleged to have violated governmental regulations in the manufacture, labeling, promotion, sale or distribution of any of our products, whether caused by us or someone in our manufacturing or supply chain. Our products primarily consist primarily of nutritional supplements and, in most cases, are not necessarily subject to pre-market regulatory review or approval in the United States. The raw materials used to make certain of our products may be vulnerable to spoilage and contamination by naturally occurring molds and pathogens. Additionally, some of our products contain ingredients that do not have long histories of human consumption. Previously unknown adverse reactions resulting from human consumption of these ingredients could occur. Some of the products we sell are produced by third-party manufacturers.

A product recall, withdrawal or seizure could result in destruction of product inventory and inventory write-off, negative publicity, temporary facility closings for us or our contract manufacturers, supply chain interruption, fines and substantial and unexpected expenditures, any of which would reduce operating profit and cash flow. In addition, a product recall, withdrawal or seizure may require significant management attention. Product recalls may materially and adversely affect consumer confidence in our brands, hurt the value of our brands and lead to decreased demand for our products. Product recalls, withdrawals or seizures also may lead to increased scrutiny by federal, state or international regulatory agencies of our operations and increased litigation and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

We have been in the past, and may be in the future, be subject to various product liability claims, including, among others, that our products include inadequate instructions for use or inadequate warnings

 

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concerning possible side effects and interactions with other substances. Any such product liability claims may also include allegations of defects in manufacturing, defects in design, a failure to warn of dangers inherent in the product, negligence, strict liability or a breach of warranties. Claims could also be asserted under state consumer protection laws. If we cannot successfully defend ourselves against product liability claims, we may incur substantial liabilities or be required to limit commercialization of our existing products. As a marketer of products manufactured by third parties, we also may be liable for various product liability claims for products we do not manufacture. Even successful defense would require significant financial and management resources.

Regardless of the merits or eventual outcome, liability claims may result in any of the following:

 

   

decreased demand for our products or products that we may develop in the future;

 

   

decline in price charged for our products;

 

   

loss of revenue;

 

   

injury to our reputation;

 

   

initiation of investigations by regulators;

 

   

costs to defend the related litigation;

 

   

a diversion of management’s time and our resources;

 

   

substantial monetary awards to trial participants;

 

   

product recalls or withdrawals;

 

   

labeling, packaging, marketing or promotional modifications or restrictions;

 

   

exhaustion of any available insurance and our capital resources;

 

   

the inability to commercialize our existing or future products; and

 

   

a decline in our stock price.

The cost of any product liability litigation or other proceeding, even if resolved in our favor, could be substantial. In addition, our inability to obtain or maintain sufficient insurance coverage at an acceptable cost or to otherwise protect against potential product liability claims could prevent or inhibit the development and commercial production and sale of our products, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects. Insurance policies may also have various exclusions, and we may be subject to a product liability claim for which we have no or inadequate coverage. We may have to pay any amounts awarded by a court or negotiated in a settlement that exceed our coverage limitations or that are not covered by our insurance, and we may not have, or be able to obtain, sufficient capital to pay such amounts. Even if our agreements with any future corporate collaborators entitle us to indemnification against losses, such indemnification may not be available or adequate should any claim arise.

If our products do not have the effects intended or cause undesirable side effects, our business may suffer.

Although many of the ingredients in our current dietary supplement products are vitamins, minerals and other substances for which there is a long history of human consumption, they also contain innovative ingredients or combinations of ingredients. Although we believe all of such products and the combinations of

 

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ingredients in them are safe when taken as directed, the products could have certain undesirable side effects if not taken as directed or if taken by a consumer that has certain medical conditions. In addition, such products may not have the effect intended if they are not taken in accordance with certain instructions, which include certain dietary restrictions. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that any of the products, even when used as directed, will have the effects intended or will not have harmful side effects in an unforeseen way or affect populations differently. If any of our products or products we develop or commercialize in the future are shown to be harmful or generate negative publicity from perceived harmful effects, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects would be harmed significantly.

Increases in ingredient costs, long lead times, supply shortages and supply changes could disrupt our supply chain and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

Meeting customer demand partially depends on our ability to obtain timely and adequate delivery of ingredients for our nutritional supplement products. Certain ingredients that get incorporated into our nutritional supplement products are sourced from a limited number of third-party suppliers, and some of these ingredients are provided by a single supplier. These suppliers may breach or otherwise terminate our supply agreements, or their capabilities to deliver adequate ingredients to us may be affected by other factors such as fluctuations in the market, litigation or regulatory issues or force majeure events, and in any of the cases, the sourcing and commercialization of our products can be adversely affected. For example, there is considerable patent and other intellectual property development activity in the personalized health and wellness products industry, and litigation, based on allegations of infringement or other violations of intellectual property, is frequent in this industry. If our suppliers are sued, their capabilities to deliver adequate ingredients to us may be adversely affected. We are therefore subject to the risk of shortages and long lead times in the supply of these ingredients and the risk that our suppliers discontinue or modify ingredients. In addition, the lead times associated with certain ingredients are lengthy and preclude rapid changes in quantities and delivery schedules. We have experienced supply shortages and resulting longer lead-times in the past and may in the future experience ingredient shortages, and the predictability of the availability of these ingredients may be limited. In the event of an ingredient shortage or a supply interruption from suppliers of these ingredients, we may not be able to develop alternate sources of supply in a timely manner. Developing alternate sources of supply for these ingredients may be time-consuming, difficult and costly and we may not be able to source these ingredients on terms that are acceptable to us, or at all, which may undermine our ability to fill our orders in a timely manner. Any interruption or delay in the supply of any of these ingredients, or the inability to obtain these ingredients from alternate sources at acceptable prices and within a reasonable amount of time, would harm our ability to meet our scheduled product deliveries to our customers. In addition, increases in our ingredient costs could have a material effect on our gross margins. The loss of a significant supplier, an increase in ingredient costs, or delays or disruptions in the delivery of ingredients, could adversely impact our ability to generate future revenue and earnings and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

Our operating results could be adversely affected if we are unable to accurately forecast customer demand for our products and services and adequately manage our inventory.

To ensure adequate inventory supply, we must forecast inventory needs and expenses and place orders sufficiently in advance with our suppliers, based on our estimates of future demand for particular products and services. Failure to accurately forecast our needs may result in manufacturing delays or increased costs. Our ability to accurately forecast demand could be affected by many factors, including changes in customer demand for our products and services, changes in demand for the products and services of our competitors, widespread acceptance of personalized health recommendations and nutritional supplements, unanticipated changes in general market conditions and the weakening of economic conditions or consumer confidence in future economic conditions. This risk may be exacerbated by the fact that we may not carry a significant amount of inventory and may not be able to satisfy short-term demand increases. If we fail to accurately forecast customer demand, we may experience excess inventory levels or a shortage of products available for sale. Inventory levels in excess of customer demand may result in inventory write-downs or write-offs and the sale of excess inventory at

 

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discounted prices, which would cause our gross margins to suffer and could impair the strength and our brand. Further, lower than forecasted demand could also result in excess manufacturing capacity or reduced manufacturing efficiencies, which could result in lower margins. Conversely, if we underestimate customer demand, our suppliers and manufacturers may not be able to deliver products to meet our requirements or we may be subject to higher costs in order to secure the necessary production capacity. An inability to meet customer demand and delays in the delivery of our products to our customers could result in reputational harm and damaged customer relationships and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

We acquire ingredients for our products from foreign suppliers and may be negatively affected by the risks associated with international trade and importation issues.

We acquire ingredients for a number of our products from suppliers outside of the United States. Accordingly, the acquisition of these ingredients is subject to the risks generally associated with importing raw materials, including, among other factors, delays in shipments, changes in economic and political conditions, quality assurance, health pandemics affecting the region of such suppliers, including COVID-19, nonconformity to specifications or laws and regulations, tariffs, trade disputes and foreign currency fluctuations. While we audit and inspect our suppliers’ and manufacturers’ facilities as necessary both in the United States and internationally, we cannot assure you that raw materials received from suppliers or finished products from manufacturers outside of the United States will conform to all specifications, laws and regulations or our internal standards. There have in the past been quality and safety issues in our industry with certain items imported from overseas. We may incur additional expenses and experience shipment delays due to preventative measures adopted by the U.S. governments, our suppliers and our company.

Our success will depend on our ability to use the data our Onegevity platform collects and the ability of our proprietary algorithm and network of medical doctors to interpret test results accurately and consistently, and our failure to do so would have an adverse effect on our operating results and business, harm our reputation and could result in substantial liabilities that exceed our resources.

Our success depends on our ability to provide reliable, high-quality tests that incorporate rapidly evolving information about the role of various risk factors in disease and aging. Errors, including if our tests fail to perform with high accuracy, or mistakes in the interpretation of those results, could have a significant adverse impact on our business. A substantial amount of judgment is required in order to interpret testing results for an individual patient and to develop appropriate, customized customer recommendations. We also rely on medical doctors to interpret the data that we collect and to incorporate specific information about an individual customer into their profile.

We do not provide recommendations regarding disease. The marketing, sale and use of our Onegevity platform testing service could subject us to liability for errors in, misunderstandings of, or inappropriate reliance on information we provide, and could lead to claims against us if someone were to allege that our tests failed to perform as it was designed or if our medical doctors failed to correctly interpret the data. A product liability or professional liability claim could result in substantial damages and be costly and time-consuming for us to defend. Although we maintain liability insurance, including for errors and omissions, we cannot assure you that our insurance would fully protect us from the financial impact of defending against these types of claims or any judgments, fines or settlement costs arising out of any such claims. Any liability claim, including an errors and omissions liability claim, brought against us, with or without merit, could increase our insurance rates or prevent us from securing insurance coverage in the future. Additionally, any liability lawsuit could cause injury to our reputation or cause us to suspend the use of the Onegevity platform or sales of our products and tests. The occurrence of any of these events could have an adverse effect on our business, reputation and results of operations.

 

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We depend on key personnel, the loss of any of which could negatively affect our business.

We depend greatly on our executive team, including Paul F. Jacobson, our Chief Executive Officer, Will C. McCamy, our President, Tom P. McKenna, our Chief Operating Officer, Michelle L. Crow, our Chief Marketing Officer, Stephen M. Phipps, our Chief Innovation Officer, Bodi Zhang, our Chief Science Officer for Onegevity, Nathan D. Price, Chief Executive Officer for Onegevity, Scott R. Hurth, our Chief Technology Officer and Daniel McEvoy, our President of Onegevity. We rely heavily on the continued service and performance of our senior management team, which provides leadership, contributes to the core areas of our business and helps us to efficiently execute our business. We also depend greatly on other key employees, including key scientific personnel and health professionals. In general, only highly qualified and trained scientists and health professionals have the necessary skills to develop and market our products and provide our services. In addition, some of our manufacturing, quality control, safety and compliance, information technology, sales and e-commerce related positions are highly technical as well. Also imperative to our success are our influencers, who we rely on to market our products and services, and who act as brand ambassadors. If the senior management team, including any new hires that we make, fails to work together effectively and to execute our plans and strategies on a timely basis, then our business and future growth prospects could be harmed.

Additionally, the loss of any key personnel could make it more difficult to manage our operations and research and development activities, reduce our employee retention and revenue, and impair our ability to compete. Although we have entered into employment offer letters with our key personnel, these agreements have no specific duration and constitute at-will employment. We do not maintain key person life insurance policies on any of our employees. The loss of services of our senior management team or key employees that may be hired in the future may have a material and adverse effect on our business.

Our future success depends on our ability to attract and retain highly skilled personnel and senior management.

Our future success depends, in part, on our ability to continue to identify, attract, develop, integrate and retain qualified and highly skilled personnel, including senior management, engineers, scientists, product managers, logistics and supply chain and quality control personnel. Competition for highly skilled personnel is often intense. We may not be successful in attracting, integrating or retaining qualified personnel to fulfill our current or future needs. We have from time to time experienced, and we expect to continue to experience, difficulty in hiring highly skilled employees with appropriate qualifications. In addition, job candidates and existing employees often consider the value of the equity awards they receive in connection with their employment. If the perceived value of our common stock declines, it may adversely affect our ability to hire or retain highly skilled employees. In addition, we may periodically change our equity compensation practices, which may include reducing the number of employees eligible for equity awards or reducing the size of equity awards granted per employee. If we are unable to attract, integrate, or retain the qualified and highly skilled personnel required to fulfill our current or future needs, our business and future growth prospects could be harmed.

We face intense competition for these professionals from our competitors, customers, marketing partners and other companies throughout the industries in which we compete. Our success will depend, in part, upon our ability to attract and retain additional skilled personnel, which may require substantial additional funds. There can be no assurance that we will be able to find and attract additional qualified employees or retain any such personnel. Our inability to hire qualified personnel may have a material and adverse effect on our business.

Our passion and focus on delivering a high-quality consumer experience may not maximize short-term financial results, which may yield results that conflict with the market’s expectations and could result in our stock price being negatively affected.

We are committed to our focus on producing high-quality products and engaging our customers through personalized recommendations and investment in our platform, which may not necessarily maximize short-term

 

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financial results. We frequently make business decisions that may reduce our short-term financial results, such as sourcing higher quality ingredients and investing substantially in product research and development, if we believe that the decisions are consistent with our goals. We believe this will improve our financial results over the long term as we deliver actionable recommendations and quality products to our customers. These decisions may not be consistent with managing costs and the short-term expectations of our stockholders and may not produce the long-term benefits that we expect, in which case our growth and consumer engagement, and our business, financial condition and operating results could be harmed.

We plan to expand into international markets, which will expose us to significant risks.

We are currently expanding our operations to other countries, which requires significant resources and management attention and subjects us to regulatory, economic, and political risks in addition to those we already face in our primary markets of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, China, and the European Union. There are significant risks and costs inherent in doing business in international markets, including:

 

   

difficulty establishing and managing international operations and the increased operations, travel, infrastructure, including establishment of local delivery service and customer service operations and legal compliance costs associated with locations in different countries or regions;

 

   

the need to vary pricing and margins to effectively compete in international markets;

 

   

the need to adapt and localize products for specific countries, including obtaining rights to third-party intellectual property used in each country;

 

   

increased competition from local providers of similar products and services;

 

   

the ability to protect and enforce intellectual property rights abroad;

 

   

the need to offer customer support in various languages;

 

   

the challenges of negotiating with foreign distributors;

 

   

difficulties in understanding and complying with local laws, regulations and customs in other jurisdictions;

 

   

compliance with anti-bribery laws, such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), and the U.K. Bribery Act 2010 (U.K. Bribery Act), by us, our employees and our business partners;

 

   

complexity and other risks associated with current and future legal requirements in other countries, including legal requirements related to consumer protection, consumer product safety and data privacy and data protection frameworks, such as the E.U. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR);

 

   

tariffs and other non-tariff barriers, such as quotas and local content rules, as well as tax consequences;

 

   

fluctuations in currency exchange rates and the requirements of currency control regulations, which might restrict or prohibit conversion of other currencies into U.S. dollars; and

 

   

political or social unrest or economic instability in a specific country or region in which we operate, including, for example, the effects of “Brexit,” which could have an adverse impact on our operations in the United Kingdom and E.U.

 

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We have limited experience with international regulatory environments and market practices and may not be able to penetrate or successfully operate in the markets we choose to enter. In addition, we may incur significant expenses as a result of our international expansion, and we may not be successful. We may face limited brand recognition in certain parts of the world that could lead to non-acceptance or delayed acceptance of our products and services by customers in new markets. We may also face challenges to acceptance of our health and wellness content in new markets. Our failure to successfully manage these risks could harm our international operations and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

A substantial portion of our sales are through distributors and health professionals, and we do not have direct control over the efforts these distributors and health professionals may use to sell our products. If our relationships with these third-party distributors or health professionals deteriorate, or if these third-party distributors or health professionals fail to sell our products or engage in activities that harm our reputation, or fail to adhere to applicable regulations, our financial results may be adversely affected.

Our sales model depends on our ability to sell our products through health professionals and through distributors. Our network of health professionals typically receive a discount from list price or rebate on the products their patients purchase from us. We can provide no assurance that these health professionals will continue to recommend our products at their current levels, or at all. Additionally, we may be unable to continue to grow our network of health professionals and therefore may not continue to achieve revenue growth through this channel.

In the United States, we have select strategic distributors in addition to our DTC and health professional channels. We also rely on a third-party reseller to manage our sales and fulfillment through the Amazon platform for operational convenience. The loss of these third-party providers in the United States may result in delayed revenue as we seek alternative providers or transition those activities to a direct model.

A significant portion of our international sales are through distributors. We believe that our reliance on distributors internationally improves the economics of our business, as we do not carry the high fixed costs of a direct sales force in any of the countries in which our products are sold, with the exception of Canada. It is part of our strategy to partner with local distributors in foreign countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, among others, to resell our products as those distributors are most familiar with the local market and regulations.

If we are unable to maintain or enter into such distribution arrangements on acceptable terms, or at all, we may not be able to successfully commercialize our products in certain countries. Furthermore, distributors can choose the level of effort that they apply to selling our products relative to others in their portfolio. The selection, training and compensation of employees of our distributors are within their control rather than our own and may vary significantly in quality from distributor to distributor.

In addition, although our contract terms require our distributors to comply with all applicable laws regarding the sale of our products, including anti-competition, anti-money laundering, sanctions laws and FDA regulations, we may not be able to ensure proper compliance. If our distributors fail to effectively market and sell our products to our expectations or in full compliance with applicable laws, our results of operations and business may suffer.

Our business depends on network and mobile infrastructure and our ability to maintain and scale our technology. Any significant interruptions or delays in service on our apps or websites or any undetected errors or design faults, including flaws in security design, could result in limited capacity, reduced demand, processing delays and loss of customers.

A key element of our strategy is to generate a significant number of visitors to, and increase their use of, our apps and websites. Our reputation and ability to acquire, retain and serve our customer are dependent upon

 

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the reliable performance of our apps and websites and the underlying network infrastructure. As our base of customer and the amount of information shared on our apps and websites continue to grow, we will need an increasing amount of network capacity and computing power. We have spent and expect to continue to spend substantial amounts on computing, including cloud computing and the related infrastructure, to handle the traffic on our apps and websites. The operation of these systems is complex and could result in operational failures. In the event that the traffic of our consumers exceeds the capacity of our current network infrastructure or in the event that our base of consumers or the amount of traffic on our apps and websites grows more quickly than anticipated, we may be required to incur significant additional costs to enhance the underlying network infrastructure. Interruptions or delays in these systems, whether due to system failures, computer viruses, physical or electronic break-ins, undetected errors, design faults or other unexpected events or causes, could affect the security or availability of our apps and websites and prevent our consumers from accessing our apps and websites. If sustained or repeated, these performance issues could reduce the attractiveness of our product and service offerings. In addition, the costs and complexities involved in expanding and upgrading our systems may prevent us from doing so in a timely manner and may prevent us from adequately meeting the demand placed on our systems. Any internet or mobile platform interruption or inadequacy that causes performance issues or interruptions in the availability of our apps or websites could reduce customer satisfaction and result in a reduction in the number of customers using our offerings.

We depend on the development and maintenance of the internet and mobile infrastructure. This includes maintenance of reliable internet and mobile infrastructure with the necessary speed, data capacity and security, as well as timely development of complementary offerings, for providing reliable internet and mobile access. Our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected if for any reason the reliability of our internet and mobile infrastructure is compromised.

We currently rely upon third-party data storage providers, including cloud storage solution providers, such as Amazon Web Services. Nearly all of our data storage and analytics are conducted on, and the data and content we create associated with sales on our apps and websites are processed through, servers hosted by these providers, particularly Amazon Web Services. We also rely on email service providers, bandwidth providers, internet service providers and mobile networks to deliver email and “push” communications to consumers and to allow consumers to access our websites. If our third-party vendors are unable or unwilling to provide the services necessary to support our business, or if our agreements with such vendors are terminated, our operations could be significantly disrupted. Some of our vendor agreements may be unilaterally terminated by the licensor for convenience, including our agreement with Amazon Web Services, and if such agreements are terminated, we may not be able to enter into similar relationships in the future on reasonable terms or at all.

Any damage to, or failure of, our systems or the systems of our third-party data centers or our other third-party providers could result in interruptions to the availability or functionality of our apps and websites. As a result, we could lose consumer data and miss opportunities to acquire and retain consumers, which could result in decreased revenue. If for any reason our arrangements with our data centers or third-party providers are terminated or interrupted, such termination or interruption could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. We exercise little control over these providers, which increases our vulnerability to problems with the services they provide. We could experience additional expense in arranging for new facilities, technology, services and support. In addition, the failure of our third-party data centers or any other third-party providers to meet our capacity requirements could result in interruption in the availability or functionality of our apps and websites.

The satisfactory performance, reliability and availability of our apps, websites, transaction processing systems and technology infrastructure are critical to our reputation and our ability to acquire and retain customers, as well as to maintain adequate customer service levels. If the interface on our app is not considered user friendly by our customers or our app does not function correctly our customers may become frustrated and not order our products. Our revenue depends in part on the number of customers that visit and use our apps and websites in fulfilling their health and wellness needs. Unavailability of our apps or websites could materially and adversely affect consumer perception of our brand.

 

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The occurrence of a natural disaster, power loss, telecommunications failure, data loss, computer virus, an act of terrorism, cyberattack, vandalism or sabotage, act of war or any similar event, or a decision to close our third-party data centers on which we normally operate or the facilities of any other third-party provider without adequate notice or other unanticipated problems at these facilities could result in lengthy interruptions in the availability of our apps and websites. Cloud computing, in particular, is dependent upon having access to an internet connection in order to retrieve data. If a natural disaster, blackout or other unforeseen event were to occur that disrupted the ability to obtain an internet connection, we may experience a slowdown or delay in our operations. While we have disaster recovery arrangements in place, our preparations may not be adequate to account for disasters or similar events that may occur in the future and may not effectively permit us to continue operating in the event of any problems with respect to our systems or those of our third-party data centers or any other third-party facilities. Our disaster recovery and data redundancy plans may be inadequate, and our business interruption insurance may not be sufficient to compensate us for the losses that could occur. If any such event were to occur to our business, our operations could be impaired and our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

Covenants in the loan documents governing our revolving credit facility and our letter of credit facility may restrict our operations, and if we do not effectively manage our business to comply with these covenants, our financial condition could be adversely impacted.

We entered into an uncommitted and revolving credit line agreement (Credit Agreement), with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) on February 12, 2021, providing for an unsecured revolving credit facility of $20 million. The revolving credit facility is guaranteed by each of Kirin Holdings Company, Limited and Mitsui & Co., Ltd., each a holder of 5% or more of our common stock, for which we pay each guarantor an annual fee equal to $120,000. We are also party to a Reimbursement Agreement with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (LC Reimbursement Agreement), under which we may request SMBC to issue up to $4.9 million in letters of credit in the aggregate and we agree to reimburse SMBC for any drawings under such letters of credit. Kirin and Mitsui guarantee our obligations under the LC Reimbursement Agreement in exchange for fees that are more fully described in the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Letter of Credit Reimbursement Agreement”. The Credit Agreement and the LC Reimbursement Agreement contain various restrictive covenants, including, among other things, restrictions on our ability to merge or consolidate with any other entity, dispose of all or substantially all of our assets, dissolve or liquidate and incur liens. These restrictions may restrict our current and future operations, particularly our ability to respond to certain changes in our business or industry or take future actions.

Our ability to meet these restrictive covenants can be impacted by events beyond our control and we may be unable to do so. Our Credit Agreement and LC Reimbursement Agreement provide that our breach or failure to satisfy certain covenants constitutes an event of default. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, our lenders could elect to declare all amounts outstanding under our Credit Agreement and LC Reimbursement Agreement, as applicable, to be immediately due and payable. If the outstanding debt under our Credit Agreement or LC Reimbursement Agreement was to be accelerated, we may not have sufficient cash on hand to repay it, which would have an immediate adverse effect on our business and operating results. This could potentially cause us to cease operations and result in a complete loss of your investment in our common stock.

We are subject to payment processing risk.

Our customers pay for our products and services using a variety of different payment methods, including credit and debit cards, gift cards and online wallets. We rely on internal systems as well as those of third parties to process payment. Acceptance and processing of these payment methods are subject to certain rules and regulations and require payment of interchange and other fees. To the extent there are disruptions in our payment processing systems, increases in payment processing fees, material changes in the payment ecosystem, such as large re-issuances of payment cards, delays in receiving payments from payment processors, or changes

 

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to rules or regulations concerning payment processing, our revenue, operating expenses and results of operation could be adversely impacted. Compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard and implementing related procedures, technology and information security measures requires significant resources and ongoing attention, and any security incident involving cardholder data could subject us to significant penalties and liability. We leverage our third party payment processors to bill customers on our behalf. If these third parties become unwilling or unable to continue processing payments on our behalf, we would have to find alternative methods of collecting payments, which could adversely impact customer acquisition and retention. In addition, from time to time, we encounter fraudulent use of payment methods, which could impact our results of operations and if not adequately controlled and managed could create negative customer perceptions of our service.

Our ability to use our net operating loss to offset future taxable income may be subject to certain limitations.

As of December 31, 2020, we had U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards (NOLs) and state NOLs of approximately $50.1 million and $51.3 million, respectively, due to prior period losses that if not utilized will begin to expire for federal and state purposes beginning in 2035. Realization of these NOLs depends on future income, and there is a risk that our existing NOLs could expire unused and be unavailable to offset future income tax liabilities, which could adversely affect our operating results.

In general, under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code), a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” is subject to limitations on its ability to utilize its NOLs to offset future taxable income. We may have undergone an ownership change in connection with our 2018 series E convertible stock financing. In addition, this offering, as well as future changes in our stock ownership, the causes of which may be outside of our control, could result in an additional ownership change under Section 382 of the Code. If we underwent an ownership change in 2018 or if we undergo an ownership change in connection with or after this offering, our NOLs arising before such an ownership change may be subject to one or more Section 382 limitations that materially limit the use of such NOLs to offset our taxable income. While we have not undertaken a Section 382 study to determine whether we have undergone any ownership changes in the past, we expect to complete one following this offering. Our ability to utilize NOLs of companies that we have acquired or may acquire in the future may also be subject to limitations. Further, our NOLs may be impaired under state laws. In addition, under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Tax Act), as modified by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), NOLs arising in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2020 may not be carried back, and NOLs generated in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 may be carried forward indefinitely, but the deductibility of such NOLs generally will be limited in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2020 to 80% of the current year taxable income. This change may require us to pay federal income taxes in future years even if our NOLs were otherwise sufficient to offset our federal taxable income in such years. There is also a risk that due to regulatory changes, such as suspensions on the use of NOLs, or other unforeseen reasons, our existing NOLs could expire or otherwise be unavailable to offset future income tax liabilities. For these reasons, we may not be able to realize, in whole or in part, a tax benefit from the use of our NOLs, whether or not we attain profitability.

We may engage in merger and acquisition activities, which could require significant management attention, disrupt our business, dilute stockholder value and adversely affect our operating results.

As part of our business strategy, we may periodically acquire or make investments in companies that we believe will enhance our products, services or technology in the future. We may not be able to find suitable acquisition candidates and we may not be able to complete acquisitions on favorable terms, if at all, in the future. If we do complete acquisitions, we may not ultimately strengthen our competitive position or achieve our goals, and any acquisitions we complete could be viewed negatively by customers or investors. An acquisition, investment or business relationship may result in unforeseen operating difficulties and expenditures, including disrupting our ongoing operations, diverting management from their primary responsibilities, subjecting us to additional liabilities, increasing our expenses and adversely impacting our business, financial condition and

 

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operating results. In addition, we may be exposed to unknown liabilities and the anticipated benefits of any acquisition, investment or business relationship may not be realized, if, for example, we fail to successfully integrate such acquisitions, or the technologies associated with such acquisitions, into our company.

To pay for any such acquisitions, we would have to use cash, incur debt, or issue equity securities, each of which may affect our financial condition or the value of our capital stock and could result in dilution to our stockholders. If we incur more debt it would result in increased fixed obligations and could also subject us to covenants or other restrictions that would impede our ability to manage our operations.

Additionally, we may receive indications of interest from other parties interested in acquiring some or all of our business. The time required to evaluate such indications of interest could require significant attention from management, disrupt the ordinary functioning of our business, and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

We have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. If our remediation measures are ineffective, or if we experience additional material weaknesses in the future or otherwise fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls in the future, we may not be able to report our financial condition or results of operations accurately or on a timely basis, which may adversely affect investor confidence in us and, as a result, the value of our common stock.

To date, we have never conducted a review of our internal control for the purpose of providing the reports required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. During our review and testing, we may identify deficiencies and be unable to remediate them before we must provide the required reports. In connection with the audit of our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020, we identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting related to an insufficient complement of personnel possessing the appropriate accounting and financial reporting knowledge and experience and we did not maintain effective controls relating to revenue recognition, accounting for significant and unusual transactions and our financial statement close process, which have not been remediated.

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

We have begun to take certain actions to address the control deficiencies in our financial reporting, including by hiring additional qualified accounting and financial reporting personnel, and the development and implementation of processes and controls. We have also begun to review and document our accounting and financial processes and internal controls, build out our financial management and reporting systems infrastructure, and further develop and formalize our accounting policies and financial reporting procedures, which includes ongoing senior management review and establishing our audit committee oversight. While we have begun taking measures and plan to continue to take measures to design and implement an effective control environment, we cannot assure you that the measures we have taken to date and other remediation and internal control measures we implement in the future will be sufficient to remediate our current material weaknesses or prevent future material weaknesses. We may discover additional weaknesses in our system of internal financial and accounting controls and procedures that could result in a material misstatement of our financial statements. Our internal control over financial reporting will not prevent or detect all errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system’s objectives will be met. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud will be detected.

If we are unable to successfully maintain internal control over financial reporting, or identify any additional material weaknesses, the accuracy and timing of our financial reporting may be adversely affected. In

 

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addition, if we are unable to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to express an opinion as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, when required, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, we may face restricted access to the capital markets, and our stock price may be materially adversely affected. Moreover, we could become subject to investigations by regulatory authorities, which could require additional financial and management resources.

If we fail to maintain an effective system of disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results in a timely manner or prevent fraud, which would harm our business.

Effective internal controls over financial reporting are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and, together with adequate disclosure controls and procedures, are designed to prevent fraud. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations in a timely manner, or at all. In addition, any testing by us conducted in connection with Section 404(a) of SOX or any subsequent testing by our independent registered public accounting firm in connection with Section 404(b) of SOX, may reveal deficiencies in our internal controls over financial reporting that are deemed to be significant deficiencies or material weaknesses or that may require prospective or retroactive changes to our financial statements or identify other areas for further attention or improvement. As discussed above, we have identified material weaknesses in the past which we are in the process of remedying. However, our efforts to remediate previous material weaknesses may not be effective or prevent any future deficiency in our internal control over financial reporting. Ineffective internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock.

We will be required to disclose material changes made in our internal controls over financing reporting and procedures on a quarterly basis and our management will be required to assess the effectiveness of these controls annually. Beginning with our second annual report on Form 10-K after we become a public company, we will be required to make a formal assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, and once we cease to be an emerging growth company, we will be required to include an attestation report on internal control over financial reporting issued by our independent registered public accounting firm. However, for as long as we are an “emerging growth company” under the JOBS Act, our independent registered public accounting firm will not be required to attest to the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404(b).

To achieve compliance with Section 404(a) within the prescribed period, we will be engaging in a process to document and evaluate our internal control over financial reporting, which is both costly and challenging. In this regard, we will need to continue to dedicate internal resources, potentially engage outside consultants and adopt a plan to assess and document the adequacy of our internal control over financial reporting, continue steps to improve control processes as appropriate, validate through testing that controls are designed and operating effectively and implement a continuous reporting and improvement process for internal control over financial reporting.

We could be an “emerging growth company” for up to five years. An independent assessment of the effectiveness of our internal controls could detect problems that our management’s assessment might not identify. Undetected material weaknesses in our internal controls could lead to financial statement restatements and require us to incur the expense of remediation.

 

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If our estimates or judgments relating to our critical accounting policies are based on assumptions that change or prove to be incorrect, our results of operation could fall below our publicly announced guidance or the expectations of securities analysts and investors, resulting in a decline in the market price of our common stock.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our financial statements and accompanying notes. We base our estimates on historical experience and estimates and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets, liabilities, equity, revenue and expenses that are not readily apparent from other sources. For example, in connection with the implementation of the new revenue accounting standard, management makes judgments and assumptions based on our interpretation of the new standard. The new standard is principle-based and interpretation of those principles may vary from company to company based on their unique circumstances. It is possible that interpretation, industry practice and guidance may evolve as we apply the new standard. If our assumptions underlying our estimates and judgements relating to our critical accounting policies change or if actual circumstances differ from our assumptions, estimates or judgements, our operating results may be adversely affected and could fall below our publicly announced guidance or the expectations of securities analysts and investors, resulting in a decline in the market price of our common stock.

Risks Related to Regulation

We are subject to regulation by various federal, state and foreign agencies that require us to comply with a wide variety of regulations, including those regarding the manufacture of products, advertising and product label claims, the distribution of our products and environmental matters. Failure to comply with these regulations could subject us to fines, penalties and additional costs.

Some of our operations are subject to regulation by various United States federal agencies and similar state and international agencies, including the Department of Commerce, the FDA, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Department of Transportation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These regulations govern a wide variety of product activities, from design and development to labeling, manufacturing, handling, sales and distribution of products. If we fail to comply with any of these regulations, we may be subject to fines or penalties, have to recall products or cease their manufacture and distribution, any of which would increase our costs and reduce our sales.

For example, the FDA may regulate medical or health-related software, including machine learning functionality and predictive algorithms, if such software falls within the definition of a “medical device” under the federal Drug Food and Cosmetic Act (FDCA). However, the FDA exercises enforcement discretion for certain low-risk software, as described in its guidance documents for Mobile Medical Applications, General Wellness: Policy for Low Risk Devices, and Medical Device Data Systems, Medical Image Storage Devices, and Medical Image Communications Devices. In addition, the 21st Century Cures Act includes exemptions for certain medical-related software, including software used for administrative support functions at a healthcare facility, software intended for maintaining or encouraging a healthy lifestyle, EHR software, software for transferring, storing, or displaying medical device data or in vitro diagnostic data, and certain clinical decision support software. The FDA has also issued guidance documents to clarify how it intends to interpret and apply the exemptions under the 21st Century Cures Act. Although we believe that our software products are currently not subject to active FDA regulation, we continue to follow the FDA’s developments in this area. There is a risk that the FDA could disagree with our determination or that the FDA could develop new final guidance documents that would subject our products to active FDA oversight. If FDA determines that any of our current or future software products are regulated as medical devices, we would become subject to various requirements under the FDCA and the FDA’s implementing regulations, including the potential for both premarket and post-market requirements, and we would need to bring our software offerings into compliance with such requirements. Depending on the functionality and FDA classification of our software products, we may be required to register and list our products with the FDA and seek marketing authorization from FDA through a 510(k) clearance, De Novo classification, or Premarket Approval application pathway prior to marketing our software.

 

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We are also subject to various federal, state, local and international laws and regulations that govern the handling, transportation, manufacture, use and sale of substances that are or could be classified as toxic or hazardous substances. Some risk of environmental damage is inherent in our operations and the products we manufacture, sell or distribute. Any failure by us to comply with the applicable government regulations could also result in product recalls, market withdrawals or impositions of fines and restrictions on our ability to carry on with or expand in a portion or possibly all of our operations. If we fail to comply with any or all of these regulations, we may be subject to fines or penalties, have to recall or withdraw products or cease their manufacture and distribution, which would increase our costs and reduce our sales.

Changes in the way that the FDA and other agencies regulate the tests and other products and services we offer, or FDA’s disagreement as to the regulatory classification of our tests or other products, could result in the delay or additional expense in offering the tests or products, or otherwise impact our business.

Governmental agencies throughout the world, including in the United States, strictly regulate the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, medical device, food and cosmetic industries. Our business involves manufacturing dietary supplements, developing health and wellness products, and offering testing performed by independent laboratories certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) and accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP). Changes in regulation or application of regulatory requirements that we have difficulty satisfying or that make our services less competitive, could eliminate or substantially reduce the demand for our tests, products and services or could impact our marketing practices relating to the relevant tests or products, which in turn may have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Laboratory-developed tests (LDTs) are in vitro diagnostic tests that are intended for clinical use and are designed, manufactured and used within a single laboratory. Although LDTs are classified as medical devices and the FDA has statutory authority to ensure that medical devices are safe and effective for their intended uses, the FDA has historically exercised enforcement discretion and has not enforced certain applicable FDA requirements, including premarket review, with respect to LDTs. Moreover, in August 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), announced that FDA will not require premarket review of LDTs absent notice-and-comment rulemaking.

Legislative and administrative proposals proposing to amend the FDA’s oversight of LDTs have been introduced in recent years and we expect that new legislative and administrative proposals will continue to be introduced from time to time. It is possible that legislation could be enacted into law or regulations or guidance could be issued by the FDA which may result in new or increased regulatory requirements for us to continue to offer our tests or to develop and introduce new tests as LDTs. For example, the FDA could modify its current approach to LDTs in a way that would subject our tests that we market as LDTs to the enforcement of additional regulatory requirements. In recent years, the FDA has stated its intention to modify its enforcement discretion policy with respect to LDTs. Specifically, on July 31, 2014, the FDA notified Congress of its intent to modify, in a risk-based manner, its policy of enforcement discretion with respect to LDTs. On October 3, 2014, the FDA issued two draft guidance documents entitled “Framework for Regulatory Oversight of Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs),” or the Framework Guidance, and “FDA Notification and Medical Device Reporting for Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs),” or the Reporting Guidance. The FDA halted finalization of the guidance in November 2016 to allow for further public discussion on an appropriate oversight approach to LDTs and to give congressional authorizing committees the opportunity to develop a legislative solution, and FDA issued a discussion paper on possible approaches to LDT regulation in January 2017.

In addition, the FDA and Congress have considered a number of proposals to end the FDA’s enforcement discretion policy for LDTs and subject LDTs to additional regulatory requirements. For example, Congress has recently been working on legislation to create an LDT and in vitro diagnostic regulatory framework for all in vitro clinical tests (IVCTs), that would be separate and distinct from the existing medical device regulatory framework. In March 2020, members of the U.S. House of Representatives formally introduced the

 

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Verifying Accurate Leading-edge IVCT Development Act of 2020 (the VALID Act) in the House and an identical version of the bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate. The VALID Act would create a new category of medical products separate from IVCTs, and subject all such products to FDA oversight. As proposed, the bill grandfathers many existing tests from the proposed premarket approval, quality systems, and labeling requirements, but would require such tests to comply with other regulatory requirements (for example, registration and notification, adverse event reporting). The bill also provides for IVCTs introduced before the effective date, drafted to be approximately four years after the enactment date, to be transitional and remain on the market subject to certain conditions. It is unclear whether the VALID Act or any other legislative proposals would be passed by Congress or signed into law by the President. Depending on the approach adopted under any legislation, certain LDTs, likely those of higher risk, could become subject to some form of premarket review, potentially with a transition period for compliance and a grandfathering provision.

Even if the FDA does not modify its policy of enforcement discretion, whether due to changes in FDA policy or legislative action, the FDA may disagree that our tests are properly classified as LDTs within the scope of its policy of enforcement discretion and may impose significant regulatory requirements, including the requirement for premarket review and clearance or approval. We may also be required to conduct clinical studies to support our currently marketed products or planned product launches.

If this were to happen, we or our suppliers may be required to obtain premarket clearance or approval of the tests we offer, or our marketing practices relating to the relevant tests may be impacted. The process of obtaining regulatory clearances or approvals to market a medical device can be costly and time consuming, and our suppliers may not be able to obtain these clearances or approvals on a timely basis, if at all. If we or our suppliers are required to conduct clinical trials, delays in the commencement or completion of clinical testing could significantly increase our test development costs and delay commercialization of any currently-marketed tests that we may be required to cease selling or the commercialization of any future tests that we may develop. Many of the factors that may cause or lead to a delay in the commencement or completion of clinical trials may also ultimately lead to delay or denial of regulatory clearance or approval. The commencement of clinical trials may be delayed due to insufficient patient enrollment, which is a function of many factors, including the size of the patient population, the nature of the protocol, the proximity of patients to clinical sites and the eligibility criteria for the clinical trial.

Even if regulatory clearance or approval of a product is required and granted, such clearance or approval may be subject to limitations on the intended uses for which the product may be offered and reduce our potential to successfully commercialize and generate revenue from the test results. If the FDA determines that our promotional materials, labeling, training or other marketing or educational activities constitute promotion of an uncleared or unapproved use, it could request that we cease or modify our training or promotional materials or subject us to regulatory enforcement action.

We and our suppliers are also subject to other federal, state, and foreign regulation concerning the manufacture and sale of the tests we offer. Failure to comply with U.S. federal, state and foreign governmental regulations could lead to the issuance of warning letters or untitled letters, the imposition of injunctions, suspensions or loss of regulatory clearance or approvals, product recalls, termination of distribution, product seizures or civil penalties. In the most extreme cases, criminal sanctions or closure of our suppliers’ manufacturing facilities are possible. The occurrence of any of these events may have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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We and our suppliers are subject to numerous laws and regulations that apply to the manufacture, sale and marketing of nutritional supplements, and compliance with these laws and regulations, as they currently exist or as modified in the future, may increase our costs, limit or eliminate our ability to sell certain products, subject us or our suppliers to the risk of enforcement action, or otherwise adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

As a manufacturer of nutritional supplements, we are subject to numerous health and safety laws and regulations. Our suppliers are also subject to such laws and regulations. These laws and regulations apply to many aspects of our business, including the manufacturing, packaging, labeling, distribution, advertising, sale, quality and safety of products we sell, as well as the health and safety of our team members and the protection of the environment. We are subject to regulation by various government agencies, including the FDA, the USDA, the FTC, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as well as various state and local agencies. For example, our products are subject to numerous and extensive laws and regulations governing the type of claims we can make regarding our products, the product constituents that can be used to manufacture our products, and whether our product constituents or the products themselves require pre-market review or pre-market notification. Outside the United States, our activities and products are also subject to numerous similar statutes and regulations. Many of these laws and regulations involve a high level of subjectivity, are inherently fact-based and subject to interpretation, and vary significantly from market to market.

Dietary supplements are regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), a statute which is administered by the FDA which amended the FDCA. DSHEA expressly permits supplements to bear statements describing how a product affects the structure, function or general well-being of the body. However, no statement may expressly or implicitly represent that a supplement will diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent a disease. DSHEA has not been materially amended since it was enacted in 1994 but the newly constituted U.S. Congress or executive branch could decide to revisit whether changes are necessary to modernize this legislation.

Our dietary supplement products are required to be manufactured in compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) requirements. As a result, the facilities used by us or any of our current or future suppliers must be compliant with cGMPs. Our manufacturing facilities are subject to ongoing periodic unannounced inspections by the FDA and corresponding state and international authorities for compliance with cGMPs and similar regulatory requirements. If we or our manufacturers cannot successfully manufacture material that conforms to our specifications and the strict regulatory requirements of the FDA and any applicable foreign regulatory authority, our products may be deemed noncompliant, and we could face sanctions being imposed on us, including fines, injunctions, civil penalties, delays, operating restrictions, interruptions in supply, recalls, withdrawals, issuance of safety alerts and criminal prosecutions, any of which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Finally, we also could experience manufacturing delays if our contractors give greater priority to the manufacture and supply of other products over our products or otherwise do not satisfactorily perform according to the terms of their agreements with us.

The FDA has broad authority to enforce the provisions of the FDCA applicable to the safety, labeling, manufacturing and promotion dietary supplements, including powers to issue a public warning letter to a company, publicize information about illegal products, institute an administrative detention, request or order a recall of illegal products from the market and request the Department of Justice to initiate a seizure action, an injunction action or a criminal prosecution in the U.S. courts. Pursuant to the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), the FDA also has the power to refuse the import of dietary supplement from a foreign supplier that is not appropriately verified as in compliance with all FDA laws and regulations. Moreover, the FDA has the authority to administratively suspend the registration of any facility producing dietary supplements, deemed to present a reasonable probability of causing serious adverse health consequences.

 

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In connection with the marketing and advertisement of products we sell, we could be the target of claims relating to false or deceptive advertising, including under the auspices of the FTC and the consumer protection statutes of some states. Furthermore, in recent years, the FDA has been aggressive in enforcing its regulations with respect to nutrient content claims, unauthorized “health claims,” which are defined as claims that characterize the relationship between a food or food ingredient and a disease or health condition, and other claims that impermissibly suggest therapeutic benefits for certain products including dietary supplements. These events could interrupt the marketing and sales of our products, severely damage our brand reputation and public image, increase the cost of our products, result in product recalls, market withdrawals or litigation and impede our ability to deliver our products, any of which could result in a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

As is common in our industry, we rely on our suppliers to ensure that the products they manufacture and sell to us comply with all applicable regulatory and legislative requirements. In general, we seek certifications of compliance, representations and warranties, indemnification and insurance from our suppliers. However, even with adequate insurance and indemnification, any claims of non-compliance could significantly damage our reputation and consumer confidence in our products.

We cannot predict the nature of future laws, regulations, interpretations or applications, or determine what effect either additional government regulations or administrative orders, when and if promulgated, or disparate federal, state and local regulatory schemes would have on our business in the future. They could, however, increase our costs or require the reformulation of certain products to meet new standards, the recall or discontinuance of certain products not able to be reformulated, additional recordkeeping, expanded documentation of the properties of certain products, expanded or different labeling or scientific substantiation. Another example is that the FDA could require the production of efficacy data for nutritional supplements. Any or all of such requirements could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results or operation.

Our use, disclosure, and other processing of personal information, including health information, is subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and other federal, state, and foreign data privacy and security laws and regulations, and our failure to comply with those laws and regulations or to appropriately secure the information we hold could result in significant liability or reputational harm and, in turn, a material adverse effect on our client base, customer base and revenue.

In the course of offering personalized health and wellness recommendations, we collect a substantial amount of personalized health information. Numerous state and federal laws and regulations govern the collection, dissemination, use, privacy, confidentiality, security, availability, integrity and other processing of protected health information (PHI), and other types of personal information. For example, HIPAA establishes a set of national privacy and security standards for the protection PHI by health plans, healthcare clearinghouses and certain healthcare providers, referred to as covered entities, and the business associates with whom such covered entities contract for services, as well as their covered subcontractors. When we act in the capacity of a business associate under HIPAA, we execute business associate agreements with our clients.

HIPAA requires covered entities and business associates, such as us, to develop and maintain policies and procedures with respect to PHI that is used or disclosed, including the adoption of administrative, physical and technical safeguards to protect such information.

Violations of HIPAA may result in significant civil and criminal penalties. HIPAA also authorizes state attorneys general to file suit on behalf of their residents. Courts may award damages, costs and attorneys’ fees related to violations of HIPAA in such cases. While HIPAA does not create a private right of action allowing individuals to sue us in civil court for violations of HIPAA, its standards have been used as the basis for duty of care in state civil suits such as those for negligence or recklessness in the misuse or breach of duties related to PHI.

 

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In addition, HIPAA mandates that the Secretary of HHS conduct periodic compliance audits of HIPAA covered entities and business associates for compliance with the HIPAA privacy and security rules.

HIPAA further requires that patients be notified of any unauthorized acquisition, access, use or disclosure of their unsecured PHI that compromises the privacy or security of such information, with certain exceptions related to unintentional or inadvertent use or disclosure by employees or authorized individuals. HIPAA requires such notifications to be made “without unreasonable delay and in no case later than 60 calendar days after discovery of the breach.” If a breach affects 500 patients or more, it must be reported to HHS without unreasonable delay, and HHS will post the name of the breaching entity on its public web site. Breaches affecting 500 patients or more in the same state or jurisdiction must also be reported to the local media. If a breach involves fewer than 500 people, the covered entity must record it in a log and notify HHS at least annually.

In addition to HIPAA, numerous other federal, state, and foreign laws and regulations protect the confidentiality, privacy, availability, integrity and security of health-related and other personal information. These laws and regulations in many cases are more restrictive than, and may not be preempted by, HIPAA and its implementing rules. These laws and regulations are often uncertain, contradictory, and subject to changed or differing interpretations, and we expect new laws, rules and regulations regarding privacy, data protection, and to be proposed and enacted in the future. Further, the and many state attorneys general are interpreting existing federal and state consumer protection laws to impose evolving standards for the online collection, use, dissemination and security of health-related and other personal information. Courts may also adopt the standards for fair information practices promulgated by the FTC, which concern consumer notice, choice, security and access. Consumer protection laws require us to publish statements that describe how we handle personal information and choices individuals may have about the way we handle their personal information. If such information that we publish is considered untrue, we may be subject to government claims of unfair or deceptive trade practices, which could lead to significant liabilities and consequences. Furthermore, according to the FTC, violating consumers’ privacy rights or failing to take appropriate steps to keep consumers’ personal information secure may constitute unfair acts or practices in or affecting commerce in violation of Section 5(a) of the FTC Act.

California also has enacted the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), which came into effect on January 1, 2020. Pursuant to the CCPA, certain businesses are required, among other things, to make certain enhanced disclosures related to California residents regarding the use or disclosure of their personal information, allow California residents to opt-out of certain uses and disclosures of their personal information without penalty, provide California residents with other choices related to personal information in our possession, and obtain opt-in consent before engaging in certain uses of personal information relating to California residents under the age of 16. The California Attorney General may seek substantial monetary penalties and injunctive relief in the event of our non-compliance with the CCPA. The CCPA also allows for private lawsuits from Californians in the event of certain data breaches. Moreover, the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), was recently passed in California. The CPRA significantly modifies the CCPA, creating additional data protection obligations relating to consumer data on covered businesses, including additional consumer rights processes, limitations on data uses, new audit requirements for higher risk data, and opt outs for certain uses of sensitive data. It will also create a new California data protection agency authorized to issue substantive regulations and could result in increased privacy and information security enforcement. The majority of the provisions will go into effect on January 1, 2023, with enforcement beginning July 1, 2023. Aspects of the CCPA and CPRA remain uncertain, and we may be required to make modifications to our policies or practices in efforts to comply. Other states are considering similar legislation. A broad range of legislative measures also have been introduced at the federal level.

In Europe, the collection, use, disclosure, transfer or other processing of personal data regarding individuals, including personal health data and employee data, is subject to the GDPR, which took effect in May 2018. The GDPR is wide-ranging in scope and imposes numerous requirements on companies that process personal data of individuals within the European Economic Area (EEA), including requirements relating to processing health and other sensitive data, obtaining consent of the individuals to whom the personal data relates, providing information to individuals regarding data processing activities, implementing safeguards to protect the

 

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security and confidentiality of personal data, providing notification of data breaches, and taking certain measures when engaging third-party processors. In addition, the GDPR imposes strict rules on the transfer of personal data to countries outside the EEA, including the United States and, as a result, increases the scrutiny that such rules should apply to transfers of personal data from the EEA to the United States. The GDPR also permits data protection authorities to require destruction of improperly gathered or used personal information and/or impose substantial fines for violations of the GDPR, which can be up to the greater of four percent of global revenues or €20 million, and confers a private right of action on data subjects and consumer associations to lodge complaints with supervisory authorities, seek judicial remedies, and obtain compensation for damages resulting from violations of the GDPR. In addition, the GDPR provides that European Union member states may make their own further laws and regulations limiting the processing of personal data, including genetic, biometric, or health data.

Further, the United Kingdom exited the EU effective January 31, 2020, subject to a transition period that ended December 31, 2020. Brexit has created uncertainty with regard to the regulation of data protection in the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom has implemented legislation that substantially implements the GDPR, with penalties of up to the greater of four percent of global revenues or £17.5 million. Currently there is a four to six-month grace period agreed in the EU and United Kingdom Trade and Cooperation Agreement, ending June 30, 2021, at the latest, whilst the parties discuss an adequacy decision. The European Commission published a draft of adequacy decision on February 19, 2021. If adopted, the decision will enable data transfers from EU member states to the United Kingdom for a four-year period, subject to subsequent extensions.

This complex, dynamic legal landscape regarding privacy, data protection, and information security creates significant compliance issues for us and our clients and potentially exposes us to additional expense, adverse publicity and liability. While we have implemented data privacy and security measures in an effort to comply with applicable laws and regulations relating to privacy, data protection and information security, PHI and other personal information is processed for us or transmitted to us by third parties, who may not implement adequate security and privacy measures, and it is possible that laws, rules or regulations relating to privacy, data protection, or information security may be interpreted and applied in a manner that is inconsistent with our practices or those of third parties who perform services for us or transmit PHI and other personal information to us. Any failure or perceived failure by us or these third parties to comply with laws, regulations, rules or other obligations relating to privacy, data protection or information security, may result in governmental investigations or enforcement actions, litigation, claims and other proceedings, and could result in significant fines, penalties, and other liability. Additionally, defending against any claims, litigation, regulatory proceedings, or other proceedings can be costly, time-consuming and may require significant financial and personnel resources. Therefore, even if we are successful in defending against any such actions or proceedings that may be brought against us, our business may be impaired, and we may suffer reputational and other harm. Further, complying with these various laws, regulations, and other obligations could cause us to incur substantial costs or require us to change our business practices, systems and compliance procedures in a manner adverse to our business.

Furthermore, the costs of compliance with, and other burdens imposed by, the laws, regulations and policies that are applicable to the businesses of our clients may limit the use and adoption of, and reduce the overall demand for, our platform. Even the perception of privacy concerns, whether or not valid, may harm our reputation and inhibit use and adoption of our platform. Further, if any information that we collect from or otherwise process about our customers is used, accessed or disclosed in an unauthorized manner, or if this is reported or perceived to have occurred, customers may not want to provide such information to us, which could prevent us from providing recommendations, subject us to liability or damage our reputation and brand. Any of the foregoing consequences could have a material adverse impact on our business and our financial results.

 

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From time to time, we may be subject to legal proceedings, regulatory disputes, and governmental inquiries that could cause us to incur significant expenses, divert our management’s attention, and materially harm our business, financial condition and operating results.

From time to time, we may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations and other proceedings involving products liability, competition and antitrust, intellectual property, privacy, data protection, information security, customer protection, securities, tax, labor and employment, commercial disputes and other matters that could adversely affect our business operations and financial condition. Litigation and regulatory proceedings, and particularly the intellectual property infringement matters that we are currently facing or could face, may be protracted and expensive, and the results are difficult to predict. Certain of these matters include speculative claims for substantial or indeterminate amounts of damages and include claims for injunctive relief. Additionally, our litigation costs could be significant. Adverse outcomes with respect to litigation or any of these legal proceedings may result in significant settlement costs or judgments, penalties and fines, or require us to modify our products or services, make content unavailable, or require us to stop offering certain features, all of which could negatively affect our membership and revenue growth.

We are aware of third-party issued U.S. patents with claims relating to compositions of nicotinamide riboside, a component of some of our products, owned by the Trustees of Dartmouth and licensed to ChromaDex Corporation (ChromaDex). We have filed petitions for inter partes review against these patents at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board to seek to invalidate these patents. In May 2021, the Trustees of Dartmouth and ChromaDex initiated infringement proceedings against us. The complaint seeks to enjoin us from selling our nutritional supplement products that contain nicotinamide riboside, including our NiaCel suite of supplements, and further seeks monetary damages for alleged infringement. The results of litigation, investigations, claims, and regulatory proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, and determining reserves for pending litigation and other legal and regulatory matters requires significant judgment. There can be no assurance that our expectations will prove correct, and even if these matters are resolved in our favor or without significant cash settlements, these matters, and the time and resources necessary to litigate or resolve them, could harm our business, financial condition, and operating results.

If we fail to comply with governmental regulations, we could face substantial penalties and our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Although our offerings are not currently covered by any third-party payor, including any commercial payor or government healthcare program, our business activities may nonetheless be subject to regulation and enforcement by the FDA, U.S. Department of Justice, HHS and other federal and state governmental authorities.

Our employees, consultants and commercial partners may engage in misconduct or other improper activities, including non-compliance with regulatory standards and requirements. Federal and state laws and regulations that may affect our ability to conduct business include, without limitation:

 

   

the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, which prohibits, among other things, persons or entities from knowingly and willfully soliciting, offering, receiving or paying any remuneration, directly or indirectly, overtly or covertly, in cash or in kind, to induce or reward either the referral of an individual for, or the purchase, lease, order, or arranging for or recommending the purchase, lease or order of, any item or service, for which payment may be made, in whole or in part, under federal healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. A person or entity does not need to have actual knowledge of the statute or specific intent to violate it in order to have committed a violation;

 

   

the federal civil false claims laws, including without limitation the federal False Claims Act, which can be enforced through “qui tam,” or whistleblower actions, by private citizens, on behalf of the federal government, and civil monetary penalties laws, which prohibit, among other things, individuals or entities from knowingly presenting, or causing to be presented, false or fraudulent

 

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claims for payment of government funds, or knowingly making or using or causing to be made or used, a false record or statement material to an obligation to pay money to the government or knowingly and improperly avoiding, decreasing or concealing an obligation to pay money to the federal government. In addition, the government may assert that a claim including items and services resulting from a violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute constitutes a false or fraudulent claim for purposes of the civil False Claims Act;

 

   

federal criminal laws that prohibit executing a scheme to defraud any healthcare benefit program or making false statements relating to healthcare matters;

 

   

the healthcare fraud statutes under HIPAA, which impose criminal and civil liability for, among other things, knowingly and willfully executing, or attempting to execute, a scheme to defraud any healthcare benefit program, or knowingly and willfully falsifying, concealing or covering up a material fact or making any materially false statement, in connection with the delivery of, or payment for healthcare benefits, items or services by a healthcare benefit program, which includes both government and privately funded benefits programs. Similar to the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, a person or entity does not need to have actual knowledge of the statute or specific intent to violate it in order to have committed a violation;

 

   

the federal Physician Payment Sunshine Act, which require certain manufacturers of drugs, devices, biologicals, and medical supplies for which payment is available under Medicare, Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program to report annually to HHS under the Open Payments Program, information related to payments or other transfers of value made to teaching hospitals, physicians and, effective January 1, 2022, for transfers of value made during the prior year to certain other healthcare practitioners, as well as ownership and investment interests held by such physicians and their immediate family members;

 

   

medical device regulations pursuant to the FDCA, which require, among other things, pre-market clearances, approved labelling, medical device adverse event reporting, and on-going post-market monitoring and quality assurance;

 

   

federal consumer protection and unfair competition laws, which broadly regulate platform activities and activities that potentially harm consumers;

 

   

state law equivalents of each of the above federal laws, such as anti-kickback, self-referral and false claims laws which may apply to items or services reimbursed by any third-party payor, including commercial insurers, and self-pay patients; and

 

   

state laws governing the corporate practice of medicine and other healthcare professions and related fee-splitting laws.

Because of the breadth of these laws and the narrowness of available statutory and regulatory exemptions, it is possible that some of our activities, including our arrangements with our network of health professionals who receive a payment for the products their patients purchase from us, could be subject to challenge under one or more of such laws.

We may face claims and proceedings by private parties, and claims, investigations and other proceedings by governmental authorities, relating to allegations that our business practices do not comply with current or future laws or regulations involving applicable fraud and abuse or other healthcare laws and regulations, and it is possible that courts or governmental authorities may conclude that we have not complied with applicable laws, or that we may find it necessary or appropriate to settle any such claims or other proceedings. The growth of our business and sales organization and our future expansion outside of the

 

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United States may increase the potential of violating these laws or our internal policies and procedures. The risk of our being found in violation of these or other laws and regulations is further increased by the fact that many have not been fully interpreted by the regulatory authorities or the courts, and their provisions are open to a variety of interpretations. Any action brought against us for violation of these or other laws or regulations, even if we successfully defend against it, could cause us to incur significant legal expenses and divert our management’s attention from the operation of our business. If our operations are found to be in violation of any federal, state or foreign laws described above or other laws and regulations that apply to us, we may be subject to claims and proceedings by private parties, investigations and other proceedings by governmental authorities, as well as penalties, including significant criminal, civil and administrative penalties, damages and fines, disgorgement, additional reporting requirements and oversight if we become subject to a corporate integrity agreement or similar agreement to resolve allegations of noncompliance with these laws or regulations, imprisonment for individuals and exclusion from participation in government programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, as well as contractual damages and reputational harm. We could also be required to curtail or cease our operations. We may be required to undertake additional policies or measures in order to comply with these or other applicable laws. Any of the foregoing could seriously harm our business and our financial results.

We are dependent on our relationships with healthcare professionals to provide healthcare services, and our business would be adversely affected if those relationships were disrupted.

Our contractual relationships with our network of healthcare professionals which provide for consulting and other services may implicate certain state laws in the United States that generally prohibit non-physician entities from practicing medicine, exercising control over physicians or engaging in certain practices such as fee-splitting with physicians. Although we believe that we have structured our arrangements to ensure that the healthcare professionals maintain exclusive authority regarding the delivery of medical care and the ordering of our tests when deemed clinically appropriate, there can be no assurance that these laws will be interpreted in a manner consistent with our practices or that other laws or regulations will not be enacted in the future that could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Regulatory authorities, state medical boards of medicine, state attorneys general and other parties, including our affiliated healthcare professionals, may assert that we are engaged in the prohibited corporate practice of medicine, or that our arrangements with our network of healthcare professionals constitute unlawful fee-splitting. If a state’s prohibition on the corporate practice of medicine or fee-splitting law is interpreted in a manner that is inconsistent with our practices, we would be required to restructure or terminate our relationship with our healthcare professionals to bring our activities into compliance with such laws. A determination of non-compliance, or the termination of or failure to successfully restructure these relationships could result in disciplinary action, penalties, damages, fines, and a loss of revenue, any of which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. State corporate practice of medicine doctrines and fee-splitting prohibitions also often impose penalties on healthcare professionals for aiding the corporate practice of medicine, which could discourage physicians and other healthcare professionals from participating in our network of providers.

Failure to comply with anti-corruption and anti-money laundering laws, including the FCPA and similar laws associated with our activities outside of the United States, could subject us to penalties and other adverse consequences.

We operate a global business and may have direct or indirect interactions with officials and employees of government agencies or state-owned or affiliated entities. We are subject to the FCPA, the U.S. domestic bribery statute contained in 18 U.S.C. § 201, the U.S. Travel Act, the USA PATRIOT Act, the U.K. Bribery Act, the Canadian Corruption of Finance Public Officials Act and possibly other anti-corruption and anti-money laundering laws in countries in which we conduct activities. The FCPA prohibits providing, offering, promising, or authorizing, directly or indirectly, anything of value to government officials, political parties, or political candidates for the purposes of obtaining or retaining business or securing any improper business advantage. The provisions of the U.K. Bribery Act extend beyond bribery of government officials and create offenses in relation

 

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to commercial bribery including private sector recipients. The provisions of the U.K. Bribery Act also create offenses for accepting bribes in addition to bribing another person. In addition, U.S. public companies are required to maintain records that accurately and fairly represent their transactions and have an adequate system of internal accounting controls. In many foreign countries, including countries in which we may conduct business, it may be a local custom that businesses engage in practices that are prohibited by the FCPA, U.K. Bribery Act, or other applicable laws and regulations. We face significant risks if we or any of our directors, officers, employees, contractors, agents or other partners or representatives fail to comply with these laws and governmental authorities in the United States, U.K. and elsewhere could seek to impose substantial civil and/or criminal fines and penalties which could have a material adverse effect on our business, reputation, operating results, prospects and financial condition.

We have begun to implement an anti-corruption compliance program and policies, procedures and training designed to foster compliance with these laws, including the FCPA, the U.K. Bribery Act, the Canadian Corruption of Finance Public Officials Act, and others. However, our directors, officers, employees, contractors, agents, and other partners to which we outsource certain of our business operations, may take actions in violation of our policies or applicable law. Any such violation could have an adverse effect on our reputation, business, operating results, prospects and financial conditions.

Any violation of the FCPA, U.K. Bribery Act, the Canadian Corruption of Finance Public Officials Act other applicable anti-corruption laws, or anti-money laundering laws could result in whistleblower complaints, adverse media coverage, investigations, loss of export privileges, severe criminal or civil sanctions and, in the case of the FCPA, suspension or debarment from U.S. government contracts, any of which could have a materially adverse effect on our reputation, business, operating results, prospects and financial condition. In addition, responding to any enforcement action or internal investigation related to alleged misconduct may result in a significant diversion of management’s attention and resources and significant defense costs and other professional fees.

The applicability of sales, use and other tax laws or regulations on our business is uncertain. Adverse tax laws or regulations could be enacted or existing laws could be applied to us or our clients, which could subject us to additional tax liability and related interest and penalties, increase the costs of our solution and adversely impact our business.

The application of tax laws to e-commerce services is evolving. New income, sales, use, value-added or other tax laws, statutes, rules, regulations, or ordinances could be enacted at any time, possibly with retroactive effect, and could be applied solely or disproportionately to services provided over the internet or could otherwise materially affect our financial position and results of operations.

In addition, state, local and foreign tax jurisdictions have differing rules and regulations governing sales, use, value-added and other taxes, and these rules and regulations can be complex and are subject to varying interpretations that may change over time. Existing tax laws, statutes, rules, regulations, or ordinances could be interpreted, changed, modified, or applied adversely to us, possibly with retroactive effect. One or more states may seek to impose incremental or new sales, use, value added or other tax collection obligations on us, including for past sales by us or our resellers and other partners. A successful assertion by a state, country or other jurisdiction that we should have been or should be collecting additional sales, use, value added or other taxes on our solutions could, among other things, result in substantial tax liabilities for past sales, create significant administrative burdens for us, discourage users from utilizing our solutions or otherwise harm our business, results of operations and financial condition. Our resellers are responsible for collecting and paying the taxes on sales of our products to end-users. We are responsible for collecting and paying taxes on product sales made directly to end users. If it is determined that we have not collected and remitted the appropriate amount of taxes to governmental authorities we could be subject to potential sales tax liabilities including interest and penalties, which could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and our cash balance.

 

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Risks Related to our Intellectual Property

Litigation or other proceedings or third-party claims of intellectual property infringement, misappropriation or other violations may require us to spend significant time and money to defend ourselves, and could in the future require us to pay substantial damages or prevent us from selling our products or services or impact our stock price, any of which could have a material adverse effect.

Our commercial success will depend in part on our avoiding infringement of patents and infringement, misappropriation or other violations of other proprietary rights of third parties, including, for example, the intellectual property rights, such as trademarks, trade dress and name and likeness, of competitors, marketing partners and other third parties. The personalized health and wellness industries are in a crowded patent space, and there are numerous U.S. and foreign issued patents and pending patent applications owned by third parties that exist in the fields in which we operate. It may not be clear to us whether our products or methods of manufacturing, or other processes that we use may infringe the patents of third parties. Identification of third-party patent rights that may be relevant to our products and operations can be difficult because patent searching is imperfect due to differences in terminology among patents, incomplete databases and the difficulty in assessing the meaning of patent claims. We also may not have the resources to perform extensive analysis of potentially relevant third party patents, especially given the wide range of our product offerings. Furthermore, there is extensive and frequent intellectual property litigation in the personalized health and wellness products industry. Our activities may be subject to claims that we infringe or otherwise violate patents owned or controlled by third parties. We cannot assure you that our operations do not, or will not in the future, infringe existing or future patents.

For example, we are aware of third-party issued U.S. patents with claims relating to compositions of nicotinamide riboside, a component of some of our products, owned by the Trustees of Dartmouth and licensed to ChromaDex. We have filed petitions for inter partes review against these patents at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board to seek to invalidate the patents, but the outcome of such proceedings is uncertain. In May 2021, the Trustees of Dartmouth and ChromaDex initiated infringement proceedings against us. The complaint seeks to enjoin us from selling our nutritional supplement products that contain nicotinamide riboside, including our NiaCel suite of supplements, and further seeks monetary damages for alleged infringement. If we are unsuccessful in our challenge of the validity of the patent related to compositions of nicotinamide riboside, we could be required to pay damages and ongoing royalty payments or alternatively we may need to delay the sale of certain nutritional supplement products in the U.S. until 2026, when such patents will expire.

There may also be patent applications owned by third parties that, if issued as patents, could be asserted against us. Patent applications in the United States and elsewhere are typically published approximately 18 months after the earliest filing for which priority is claimed, with such earliest filing date being commonly referred to as the priority date. Certain U.S. patent applications that will not be filed outside the United States can remain confidential until patents issue. Therefore, patent applications covering our products and services could have been filed by third parties without our knowledge. Additionally, pending patent applications that have been published can, subject to certain limitations, be later amended in a manner that could cover our products and services, and their use. The scope of a patent claim is determined by an interpretation of the law, the written disclosure in a patent and the patent’s prosecution history and can involve other factors such as expert opinion. Our interpretation of the relevance or the scope of claims in a patent or a pending application may be incorrect, which may negatively impact our ability to market our products and services. Further, we may incorrectly determine that our products or services are not covered by a third-party patent or may incorrectly predict whether a third party’s pending patent application will issue with claims of relevant scope. Our determination of the expiration date of any patent in the United States or abroad that we consider relevant may be incorrect, which may negatively impact our ability to develop and market our products or services. Third-party intellectual property right holders may also actively bring infringement or other intellectual property-related claims against us, even if we have received patent protection for our products and services.

With respect to non-patent intellectual property rights of third parties, such as trademarks, names and likeness, we are at risk of claims by third parties of infringing or misappropriating such intellectual property

 

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rights. For example, we tout our relationships with many third parties, including social influencers, marketing partners, customers, athletes, sports teams, sports leagues, research institutions, universities, consumer products companies, pharmaceutical companies and collaborators to market and promote our products and services, including on our website and in our marketing literature. We do not have formal engagement or agreement with many of these third parties that we characterize as our partners or collaborators, nor do we have agreements with them regarding to the terms or conditions under which we may use their trademarks, name and likeness to market and promote our products and services. These third parties may claim that we infringed their trademarks, or that we misappropriated their name and likeness and mischaracterized our relationships with them. For third parties with whom we have current agreements concerning our rights to use their name and likeness for marketing and promotional purposes, there are restrictions on how we may characterize our relationships with them and other terms and conditions under which we may disclose our relationships with them, such as, for example, their right to pre-approve instances of our use of their names in our promotional and marketing materials. These third parties may claim that we are in violation of our agreements with them and may seek damages or terminate their relationship with us. We could be found liable for significant monetary damages, including potential treble damages, disgorgement of profits, and attorneys’ fees, if we are found to have willfully infringed a trademark or other intellectual property rights of third parties.

Regardless of the merit of third parties claims against us for infringement, misappropriation or violations of their intellectual property rights, such third parties may seek and obtain injunctive or other equitable relief, which could effectively block our ability to sell our products or services or perform our tests. Further, if a patent infringement suit were brought against us, we could be forced to stop or delay our development or sales or other activities that are the subject of such suit. Defense of these claims, even if such claims are resolved in our favor, could cause us to incur substantial expenses and be a substantial diversion of our employee resources even if we are ultimately successful. In addition, there could be public announcements of the results of hearings, motions or other interim proceedings or developments and if securities analysts or investors perceive these results to be negative, it could have a substantial adverse effect on the market price of our common stock. Any adverse ruling or perception of an adverse ruling in defending ourselves could have a material adverse impact on our cash position and stock price. Such litigation or proceedings could substantially increase our operating losses and reduce the resources available for development activities or any future sales, marketing or distribution activities. We may not have sufficient financial or other resources to conduct such litigation or proceedings adequately. 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 and more mature and developed intellectual property portfolios.

As we continue to commercialize our products in their current or an updated form, launch new products and services and enter new markets, other competitors might claim that our products or services infringe, misappropriate or violate their intellectual property rights as part of business strategies designed to impede our successful commercialization and entry into new markets. If such a suit were brought, regardless of merit, there is no assurance that a court would find in our favor on questions of infringement, validity, enforceability or priority. Even if we are successful in defending against such suit, we could incur substantial costs and diversion of the attention of our management and technical personnel in defending ourselves against such claims. A court of competent jurisdiction could hold that third-party patents asserted against us are valid, enforceable, and infringed, which could materially and adversely affect our ability to commercialize any products or services we may develop and any other technologies covered by the asserted third-party patents and any adverse ruling or perception of an adverse ruling in defending ourselves could have a material adverse impact on our cash position and stock price. If we are found to infringe, misappropriate or otherwise violate a third party’s intellectual property rights, and we are unsuccessful in demonstrating that such rights are invalid or unenforceable, we may be required to pay substantial damages, including treble damages and attorneys’ fees for willful infringement; obtain one or more licenses from third parties in order to continue developing and marketing our products and services, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all, or may be non-exclusive, thereby giving our competitors and other third parties access to the same technologies licensed to us; pay substantial royalties and other fees; and redesign any infringing tests or other activities, which may be impossible

 

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or require substantial time and monetary expenditure, or be prohibited from commercializing certain tests, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects.

We may be subject to claims that we have wrongfully hired an employee from a competitor or that our employees, consultants or independent contractors have wrongfully used or disclosed confidential information of third parties.

As is common in the personalized health and wellness products industries, in addition to our employees, we engage the services of consultants, outside scientific collaborators, third-party manufacturers, advisors, potential partners, and other third parties to assist us in the development of our products. We have entered into and may enter in the future into non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements to protect the proprietary positions of these third parties. Many of these third party individuals, and many of our employees, were previously employed at, or may have previously provided or may be currently providing consulting services or other services to, other nutritional supplements companies including our competitors or potential competitors. We could in the future be subject to claims that we or our employees or third parties that we hire to provide consulting or other services have inadvertently or otherwise used or disclosed alleged trade secrets or other confidential information of former employers or competitors. Although we try to ensure that our employees and contractors do not use the intellectual property, proprietary information, know-how or trade secrets of others in their work for us, we may become subject to claims that we caused an employee to breach the terms of his or her non-competition or non-solicitation agreement, that we wrongfully hired an employee from a competitor, or that we or these individuals have, inadvertently or otherwise, used or disclosed the alleged trade secrets or other proprietary information of a former employer or competitor.

In addition, while it is our policy to require our employees and contractors who may be involved in the conception or development of intellectual property to execute agreements assigning such intellectual property to us, we may be unsuccessful in executing such an agreement with each party who, in fact, conceives or develops intellectual property that we regard as our own. The assignment of intellectual property rights may not be self-executing, or the assignment agreements may be breached, and we may be forced to bring claims against third parties, or defend claims that they may bring against us, to determine the ownership of what we regard as our intellectual property. Such claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects.

While we may litigate to defend ourselves against these claims, even if we are successful, litigation could result in substantial costs and could be a distraction to management. If our defenses to these claims fail, in addition to requiring us to pay monetary damages, a court could prohibit us from using technologies or features that are essential to our products, if such technologies or features are found to incorporate or be derived from the trade secrets or other proprietary information of the former employers. Parties making claims against us may be able to sustain the costs of complex litigation more effectively than we can because they have substantially greater resources. Moreover, any such litigation or the threat thereof may adversely affect our reputation, our ability to form strategic alliances or sublicense our rights to collaborators, engage with scientific advisors or hire employees or consultants, any of which would have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects. Even if we are successful in defending against such claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to management.

If we are unable to protect the confidentiality of our trade secrets and know-how, our business and competitive position may be harmed.

Our ability to compete effectively will depend, in part, on our ability to maintain the proprietary nature of our products, manufacturing processes and services. We rely on manufacturing and other know-how, trade secrets, license agreements and contractual provisions to establish our intellectual property rights and protect our products, manufacturing processes and services. If our efforts to protect our intellectual property rights are not

 

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sufficient or effective, or if our licenses are terminated and any of our intellectual property rights are challenged, this could result in those rights being narrowed in scope, terminated or declared invalid or unenforceable and sales of our products or services may suffer as a result and our ability to generate revenue could be severely impacted.

We rely upon unpatented trade secret protection, unpatented or unpatentable know-how and continuing technological innovation to develop and maintain our competitive position. Trade secrets, including unpatented know-know, and other proprietary information, can be difficult to trace, protect and enforce. We seek to protect our proprietary technology and processes, in part, by entering into confidentiality agreements with our vendors, employees, consultants and others who may have access to proprietary information. We may not be able to prevent the unauthorized disclosure or use of information which we consider to be confidential, our technical know-how or other trade secrets by the parties to these agreements, however, despite the existence generally of confidentiality agreements and other contractual restrictions. Monitoring unauthorized uses and disclosures is difficult, and we do not know whether the steps we have taken to protect our proprietary technologies will be effective. If any of the vendors, employees, consultants and others who are parties to these agreements breaches or violates the terms of any of these agreements, we may not have adequate remedies for any such breach or violation, and we could lose our trade secrets as a result. If one of our employees publicly discloses information that we believe to be confidential or a trade secret we may be unable to protect it in the future. Any disclosure, either intentional or unintentional, by our employees, the employees of third parties with whom we share our facilities or outside scientific collaborators, suppliers, third-party manufacturers, consultants, advisors, and vendors that we engage to perform research or manufacturing activities, or misappropriation by third parties, such as through a cybersecurity breach, of our trade secrets or proprietary information could enable competitors to duplicate or surpass our technological achievements, thus eroding our competitive positions in our market. Even where remedies are available, enforcing a claim that a party illegally disclosed or misappropriated our trade secrets, like patent litigation, is expensive and time consuming, and the outcome is unpredictable.

We also try to protect the confidential nature of our trade secrets and other proprietary information by using reasonable physical and technological security measures. Such security measures may not provide adequate protection for our proprietary information. Our security measures may not prevent an employee, outside scientific collaborator, contract research organization, third-party manufacturer, consultant, advisor, potential partner, and other third party from misappropriating our trade secrets and providing them to a competitor.

We may need to share our proprietary information, including trade secrets, with our current and future business partners, collaborators, contractors and others located in countries at heightened risk of theft of trade secrets, including through direct intrusion by private parties or foreign actors, and those affiliated with or controlled by state actors. If any of these events occurs or if we otherwise lose protection for our trade secrets, the value of this information may be greatly reduced, and our competitive position would be harmed. In addition, the criteria for protection of trade secrets can vary among different jurisdictions and courts outside the United States are sometimes less willing to protect trade secrets. Trade secrets may be independently developed by others in a manner that could prevent legal recourse by us. Trade secrets will over time be disseminated within the industry through independent development, the publication of journal articles, and the movement of personnel skilled in the art from company to company or academic to industry scientific positions. If any of our trade secrets were to be lawfully obtained or independently developed by a competitor or other third party, we would have no right to prevent them, or those to whom they communicate it, from using that technology or information to compete with us. Though our agreements with third parties typically restrict the ability of our employees, outside scientific collaborators, suppliers, third-party manufacturers, consultants, advisors, potential partners, and other third parties, to publish data potentially relating to our trade secrets, our agreements may contain certain limited publication rights that may allow disclosure of our trade secrets.

 

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If our trademarks and trade names are not adequately protected, then we may not be able to build name recognition in our markets of interest and our business may be adversely affected.

We rely on trademarks and tradenames to build brand recognition and to promote and market our products. Our current or future trademarks or trade names may be challenged, opposed, infringed, circumvented or declared generic or descriptive, determined to be not entitled to registration, or determined to be infringing on other marks. We may not be able to protect our rights to these trademarks and trade names or may be forced to stop using these names, which we need for name recognition by potential partners or customers in our markets of interest. During trademark registration proceedings, we may receive rejections of our applications by the USPTO or in other foreign jurisdictions. Although we would be given an opportunity to respond to those rejections, we may be unable to overcome such rejections. In addition, in the USPTO and in comparable agencies in many foreign jurisdictions, third parties are given an opportunity to oppose pending trademark applications and to seek to cancel registered trademarks. Opposition or cancellation proceedings may be filed against our trademarks, and our trademarks may not survive such proceedings. If we are unable to establish name recognition based on our trademarks and trade names, we may not be able to compete effectively, and our business may be adversely affected. We may license our trademarks and trade names to third parties, such as distributors. Although these license agreements may provide guidelines for how our trademarks and trade names may be used, a breach of these agreements or misuse of our trademarks and tradenames by our licensees may jeopardize our rights in or diminish the goodwill associated with our trademarks and trade names. Our efforts to enforce or protect our proprietary rights related to trademarks, trade names, and service marks may be ineffective and could result in substantial costs and diversion of resources and could adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations.

Trademark litigation can be expensive and the outcome can be highly uncertain. Furthermore, in many countries, owning and maintaining a trademark registration may not provide an adequate defense against a subsequent infringement claim asserted by the owner of a senior trademark. At times, competitors or other third parties may adopt trade names or trademarks similar to ours, thereby impeding our ability to build brand identity and possibly leading to market confusion. In addition, there could be potential trade name or trademark infringement claims brought by owners of other registered trademarks or trademarks that incorporate variations of our registered or unregistered trademarks or trade names. If we assert trademark infringement claims, a court may determine that the marks we have asserted are invalid or unenforceable, or that the party against whom we have asserted trademark infringement has superior rights to the marks in question. In this case, we could ultimately be forced to cease use of such trademarks.

We may not be able to protect our intellectual property rights throughout the world.

The laws of some foreign countries do not protect intellectual property rights in the same manner and to the same extent as laws in the United States. Consequently, competitors may use our technologies in jurisdictions where we have no meaningful intellectual property protection to develop their own products. These products may compete with our products in these jurisdictions. Many companies have encountered significant problems in protecting and defending intellectual property rights in foreign jurisdictions. The legal systems of certain countries, particularly certain developing countries, do not favor the enforcement of patents, trade secrets, trademarks, and other intellectual property protection, particularly those relating to nutritional supplement products, which could make it difficult for us to enforce our proprietary rights generally. Proceedings to enforce our trade secret rights in foreign jurisdictions could result in substantial costs and divert our efforts and attention from other aspects of our business, or could provoke third parties to assert claims against us. We may not prevail in any lawsuits that we initiate and the damages or other remedies awarded, if any, may not be commercially meaningful. Accordingly, our efforts to enforce our intellectual property rights around the world may be inadequate to obtain a significant commercial advantage from the intellectual property that we develop or license.

 

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In the future, we may need to obtain licenses of third-party technology that may not be available to us or are available only on commercially unreasonable terms, and which may cause us to operate our business in a more costly or otherwise adverse manner that was not anticipated.

From time to time, we may be required to license technologies or trademarks relating to our promotional and collaborative programs from third parties to further develop or commercialize our products. Should we be required to obtain licenses to any third-party technology or trademarks, including any patents required to manufacture, use or sell our products, such licenses may not be available to us on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. The inability to obtain any third-party license required to develop or commercialize any of our products could cause us to abandon any related efforts, which could seriously harm our business and operations.

Because of the expense and uncertainty of litigation, we may not be in a position to enforce our intellectual property rights against third parties.

Because of the expense and uncertainty of litigation, we may not be in a position to enforce our intellectual property rights against third parties and we may conclude that even if a third party is infringing our intellectual property, the risk-adjusted cost of bringing and enforcing such a claim or action may be too high or not in the best interest of our company or our stockholders. Our competitors or other third parties may be able to sustain the costs of complex patent litigation or proceedings more effectively than we can because of their greater financial resources and more mature and developed intellectual property portfolios. In addition, the uncertainties associated with litigation could compromise our ability to raise the funds necessary to continue our internal research programs, in-license needed technology or other products, or enter into development partnerships that would help us bring our product to market. In such cases, we may decide that the more prudent course of action is to simply monitor the situation or initiate or seek some other non-litigious action or solution.

We may not be able to partner with others for technological capabilities and new products and services.

Our ability to remain competitive may depend, in part, on our ability to seek partners that can offer technological improvements and improve existing products and services offered to our customers. We are committed to attempting to keep pace with changes in the nutritional supplement and health and wellness industries, and to stay abreast of technology changes and to look for partners that will develop new products and services for our customer base. We cannot assure prospective investors that we will be successful in finding partners or be able to continue to incorporate new developments in technology, to improve existing products and services, or to develop successful new products and services. We also cannot be certain that newly-developed products and services will perform satisfactorily or be widely accepted in the marketplace or that the costs involved in these efforts will not be substantial.

Our use of “open source” software could subject our proprietary software to general release, adversely affect our ability to sell our products, and subject us to possible litigation.

A portion of our proprietary software that we use to perform services as part of our product offering incorporate so-called “open source” software and we may incorporate open source software into other products or technologies in the future. Such open source software is generally licensed by its authors or other third parties under open source licenses. Some open source licenses contain requirements that we disclose source code for modifications we make to the open source software and that we license such modifications to third parties at no cost. In some circumstances, distribution of our software in connection with open source software could require that we disclose and license some or all of our proprietary code in that software as well as distribute our products that use particular open source software at no cost to the user. We monitor our use of open source software in an effort to avoid uses in a manner that would require us to disclose or grant licenses under our proprietary source code, however, there can be no assurance that such efforts will be successful. Open source license terms are often ambiguous and such use could inadvertently occur. There is little legal precedent governing the interpretation of many of the terms of certain of these licenses, and the potential impact of these terms on our business may result

 

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in unanticipated obligations regarding our products and technologies. Companies that incorporate open source software into their products have, in the past, faced claims seeking enforcement of open source license provisions and claims asserting ownership of open source software incorporated into their product. If an author or other third party that distributes such open source software were to allege that we had not complied with the conditions of an open source license, we could incur significant legal costs defending ourselves against such allegations. In the event such claims were successful, we could be subject to significant damages or be enjoined from the distribution of our products. In addition, if we combine our proprietary software with open source software in certain ways, under some open source licenses we could be required to release the source code of our proprietary software, which could substantially help our competitors develop products that are similar to or better than ours and otherwise have a material adverse effect on our business.

Risks Related to This Offering

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for shares of our common stock and an active trading market for our common stock may never develop or be sustained.

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for shares of our common stock. We have applied to list our common stock with the Nasdaq Global Select Market (Nasdaq), under the symbol “THRN.” However, we cannot assure you that an active trading market for our common stock will develop on that exchange or elsewhere or, if developed, that any market will be sustained. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that an active trading market for our common stock will develop or be maintained, the liquidity of any trading market, your ability to sell your shares of our common stock when desired, or the prices that you may obtain for your shares of our common stock.

The market price of our common stock may be volatile, and you could lose all or part of your investment.

The initial public offering price of our common stock will be determined through negotiation among us and the underwriters. This price does not necessarily reflect the price at which investors in the market will be willing to buy and sell shares of our common stock following this offering. In addition, the market price of our common stock following this offering is likely to be volatile and could be subject to fluctuations in response to various factors, some of which are beyond our control. These fluctuations could cause you to lose all or part of your investment in our common stock since you might be unable to sell your shares at or above the price you paid in this offering. Factors that could cause fluctuations in the market price of our common stock include the following:

 

   

price and volume fluctuations in the overall stock market from time to time;

 

   

volatility in the market prices and trading volumes of health and wellness stocks;

 

   

changes in operating performance and stock market valuations of other health and wellness companies generally, or those in our industry in particular;

 

   

sales of shares of our common stock by us or our stockholders, as well as the anticipation of lock-up releases;

 

   

failure of securities analysts to maintain coverage of us, changes in financial estimates by securities analysts who follow our company, or our failure to meet these estimates or the expectations of investors;

 

   

the financial projections we may provide to the public, any changes in those projections, or our failure to meet those projections;

 

   

announcements by us or our competitors of new products or services;

 

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the public’s reaction to our press releases, other public announcements, and filings with the SEC;

 

   

rumors and market speculation involving us or other companies in our industry;

 

   

short selling of our common stock or related derivative securities;

 

   

actual or anticipated changes in our results of operations or fluctuations in our results of operations;

 

   

actual or anticipated developments in our business, our competitors’ businesses or the competitive landscape generally;

 

   

announced or completed acquisitions of businesses, offerings or technologies by us or our competitors;

 

   

developments or disputes concerning our intellectual property or other proprietary rights;

 

   

litigation involving us, our industry, or both, or investigations by regulators into our operations or those of our competitors;

 

   

actual or perceived incidents relating to privacy, data protection or information security;

 

   

new laws or regulations, or new interpretations of existing laws or regulations applicable to our business;

 

   

changes in accounting standards, policies, guidelines, interpretations or principles;

 

   

any significant change in our management;

 

   

the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters or major catastrophic events; and

 

   

general economic conditions and slow or negative growth of our markets.

In addition, in the past, following periods of volatility in the overall market and the market price of a particular company’s securities, securities action litigation has often been instituted against these companies. This litigation, if instituted against us, would result in substantial costs and a diversion of our management’s attention and resources.

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research about us, our business, or our market, or if they change their recommendations regarding our common stock adversely, the market price and trading volume of our common stock could decline.

The trading market for our common stock will depend, in part, on the research and reports that securities or industry analysts publish about us, our business, our market or our competitors. The analyst estimates are based upon their own opinions and are often different from our estimates or expectations. If any of the analysts who cover us change their recommendation regarding our common stock adversely, provide more favorable relative recommendations about our competitors, or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, the price of our securities would likely decline. If few securities analysts commence coverage of us, or if one or more of these analysts cease coverage of us or fail to publish reports on us regularly, we could lose visibility in the financial markets and demand for our securities could decrease, which could cause the price and trading volume of our common stock to decline.

 

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We will incur increased costs and demands upon management as a result of complying with the laws and regulations affecting public companies, which could adversely affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

As a public company, we will be subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act), the listing standards of Nasdaq, and other applicable securities rules and regulations. We expect that the requirements of these rules and regulations will continue to increase our legal, accounting and financial compliance costs, make some activities more difficult, time-consuming and costly, and place significant strain on our personnel, systems and resources. For example, the Exchange Act requires, among other things, that we file annual, quarterly and current reports with respect to our business and results of operations. As a result of the complexity involved in complying with the rules and regulations applicable to public companies, our management’s attention may be diverted from other business concerns, which could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition. We may need to hire more personnel in the future or engage outside consultants, which will increase our operating expenses, to assist us in complying with these requirements.

In addition, changing laws, regulations and standards relating to corporate governance and public disclosure are creating uncertainty for public companies, increasing legal and financial compliance costs, and making some activities more time-consuming. These laws, regulations and standards are subject to varying interpretations, in many cases due to their lack of specificity, and, as a result, their application in practice may evolve over time as new guidance is provided by regulatory and governing bodies. This could result in continuing uncertainty regarding compliance matters and higher costs necessitated by ongoing revisions to disclosure and governance practices. We intend to invest substantial resources to comply with evolving laws, regulations and standards, and this investment may result in increased general and administrative expenses and a diversion of management’s time and attention from business operations to compliance activities. If our efforts to comply with new laws, regulations and standards differ from the activities intended by regulatory or governing bodies due to ambiguities related to their application and practice, regulatory authorities may initiate legal proceedings against us, and our business may be harmed.

We also expect that being a public company and these new rules and regulations will make it more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain coverage. These factors could also make it more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified members of our board of directors, particularly to serve on our audit committee and compensation committee, and qualified executive officers.

As a result of disclosure of information in this prospectus and in filings required of a public company, our business and financial condition will become more visible, which may result in an increased risk of threatened or actual litigation, including by competitors and other third parties. If such claims are successful, our business and results of operations could be harmed, and even if the claims do not result in litigation or are resolved in our favor, these claims, and the time and resources necessary to resolve them, could divert the resources of our management and harm our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

We have broad discretion over the use of the net proceeds from this offering and we may not use them effectively.

We cannot specify with any certainty the particular uses of the net proceeds that we will receive from this offering. Our management will have broad discretion in the application of the net proceeds from this offering, including for any of the purposes described in the section titled “Use of Proceeds,” and you will not have the opportunity as part of your investment decision to assess whether the net proceeds are being used appropriately. Because of the number and variability of factors that will determine our use of the net proceeds from this offering, their ultimate use may vary substantially from their currently intended use. The failure by our management to apply these proceeds effectively could adversely affect our business, financial condition and

 

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results of operations. Pending their use, we may invest our proceeds in a manner that does not produce income or that loses value. Our investments may not yield a favorable return to our investors and may negatively impact the price of our common stock.

Upon completion of this offering, our executive officers, directors, and holders of 5% or more of our common stock will collectively beneficially own approximately    % of the outstanding shares of our common stock and continue to have substantial control over us, which will limit your ability to influence the outcome of important transactions, including a change in control.

Upon completion of this offering, our executive officers, directors and each of our stockholders who own 5% or more of our outstanding common stock and their affiliates, in the aggregate, will beneficially own approximately     % of the outstanding shares of our common stock, based on the number of shares outstanding as of March 31, 2021. As a result, these stockholders, if acting together, will be able to influence or control matters requiring approval by our stockholders, including the election of directors and the approval of mergers, acquisitions or other extraordinary transactions. They may also have interests that differ from yours and may vote in a way with which you disagree and which may be adverse to your interests. This concentration of ownership may have the effect of delaying, preventing or deterring a change in control of our company, could deprive our stockholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for their common stock as part of a sale of our company and might ultimately affect the market price of our common stock.

The issuance of additional stock in connection with financings, acquisitions, investments, our equity incentive plans, or otherwise will dilute all other stockholders.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation that will be in effect upon completion of this offering authorizes us to issue up to                  shares of common stock and up to                 shares of preferred stock with such rights and preferences as may be determined by our board of directors. Subject to compliance with applicable rules and regulations, we may issue shares of common stock or securities convertible into shares of our common stock from time to time in connection with a financing, acquisition, investment, our equity incentive plans, or otherwise. Any such issuance could result in substantial dilution to our existing stockholders and cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

Sales, directly or indirectly, of a substantial amount of our common stock in the public markets by our existing security holders may cause the price of our common stock to decline.

Sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock into the public market, particularly sales by our directors, executive officers, and principal stockholders, or the perception that these sales might occur, could cause the market price of our common stock to decline and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of additional equity securities. Many of our existing security holders have substantial unrecognized gains on the value of the equity they hold, and may take, or attempt to take, steps to sell, directly or indirectly, their shares or otherwise secure, or limit the risk to, the value of their unrecognized gains on those shares.

All of the shares of common stock sold in this offering will be freely tradable without restrictions or further registration under the Securities Act except that any shares held by our affiliates, as defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act, would only be able to be sold in compliance with Rule 144 and any applicable lock-up agreements described below. Approximately                  shares of common stock, assuming no exercise of outstanding options, will be immediately available for sale in the public market. Approximately                  shares of our common stock are also subject to the lock-up agreement or market standoff agreements described below.

In connection with this offering, subject to certain customary exceptions, we, all of our directors and executive officers, and substantially all of the holders of our common stock, or securities exercisable for or convertible into our common stock outstanding immediately prior to this offering, have entered into market standoff agreements with us or lock-up agreements with the underwriters that prohibit them from selling,

 

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contracting to sell, granting any option for the sale of, transferring, or otherwise disposing of any shares of common stock, stock options, or any security or instrument related to common stock permission of BofA Securities, Inc., Cowen and Company, LLC and Evercore Group L.L.C. on behalf of the underwriters for a period of 180 days from the date of this prospectus, subject to early termination as described below.

When the applicable lock-up and market standoff periods described above expire, we and our security holders subject to a lock-up agreement or market standoff agreement will be able to sell our shares in the public market. In addition, BofA Securities, Inc., Cowen and Company, LLC and Evercore Group L.L.C., on behalf of the underwriters, may, in their sole discretion, release all or some portion of the shares subject to lock-up agreements prior to the expiration of the lock-up period. Sales of a substantial number of such shares upon expiration of the lock-up and market standoff agreements, or the perception that such sales may occur, or early release of these agreements, could cause our market price to fall or make it more difficult for you to sell your common stock at a time and price that you deem appropriate.

In addition, as of March 31, 2021, we had stock options outstanding that, if fully exercised, would result in the issuance of 22,177 shares of common stock. All of the shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options, and the shares reserved for future issuance under our equity incentive plans, will be registered for public resale under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act). Accordingly, these shares will be able to be freely sold in the public market upon issuance subject to existing lock-up or market standoff agreements and applicable vesting requirements.

Immediately following this offering, the holders of                shares of our common stock will have rights, subject to some conditions, to require us to file registration statements for the public resale of the common stock issuable upon conversion of such shares or to include such shares in registration statements that we may file for us or other stockholders.

We may also issue our shares of common stock or securities convertible into shares of our common stock from time to time in connection with a financing, acquisition, investment, or otherwise. Any further issuance could result in substantial dilution to our existing stockholders and cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

Our amended and restated bylaws designate a state or federal court located within the State of Delaware as the exclusive forum for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders, and also provide that the federal district courts will be the exclusive forum for resolving any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, each of which could limit our stockholders’ ability to choose the judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, stockholders, or employees.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation specifies that, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the sole and exclusive forum for (a) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, (b) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our current or former directors, stockholders, officers, or other employees to us or our stockholders, (c) any action or proceeding asserting a claim arising pursuant to, or seeking to enforce any right, obligation or remedy under, any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, or our amended and restated bylaws, (d) any action or proceeding as to which the Delaware General Corporation Law confers jurisdiction on the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, or (e) any action or proceeding asserting a claim that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine shall be the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, or, if the Court of Chancery does not have jurisdiction, another state court in Delaware or, if no state court in Delaware has jurisdiction, the federal district court for the District of Delaware, and any appellate court therefrom, in all cases subject to the court having jurisdiction over the claims at issue and the indispensable parties; provided that the exclusive forum provision will not apply to suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Exchange Act.

 

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Section 22 of the Securities Act creates concurrent jurisdiction for federal and state courts over all such Securities Act actions. Accordingly, both state and federal courts have jurisdiction to entertain such claims. To prevent having to litigate claims in multiple jurisdictions and the threat of inconsistent or contrary rulings by different courts, among other considerations, our amended and restated bylaws also provide that the federal district courts of the United States of America will be the exclusive forum for resolving any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act.

Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring or holding or owning, or continuing to hold or own, any interest in any of our securities shall be deemed to have notice of and consented to the foregoing bylaw provisions. Although we believe these exclusive forum provisions benefit us by providing increased consistency in the application of Delaware law and federal securities laws in the types of lawsuits to which each applies, the exclusive forum provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum of its choosing for disputes with us or any of our directors, officers, stockholders, or other employees, which may discourage lawsuits with respect to such claims against us and our current and former directors, officers, stockholders, or other employees. Our stockholders will not be deemed to have waived our compliance with the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder as a result of our exclusive forum provisions. Further, in the event a court finds either exclusive forum provision contained in our amended and restated bylaws to be unenforceable or inapplicable in an action, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving such action in other jurisdictions, which could harm our results of operations.

Delaware law and provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws might discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of our company or changes in our management and, therefore, depress the trading price of our common stock.

Our status as a Delaware corporation and the anti-takeover provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law may discourage, delay or prevent a change in control by prohibiting us from engaging in a business combination with an interested stockholder for a period of three years after the person becomes an interested stockholder, even if a change of control would be beneficial to our existing stockholders. In addition, our restated certificate of incorporation and restated bylaws contain provisions that may make the acquisition of our company more difficult, including the following:

 

   

our board of directors is classified into three classes of directors with staggered three-year terms and directors will only be able to be removed from office for cause by the affirmative vote of holders of at least two-thirds of the voting power of our then outstanding capital stock;

 

   

certain amendments to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation require the approval of stockholders holding two-thirds of the voting power of our then outstanding capital stock;

 

   

any stockholder-proposed amendment to our amended and restated bylaws require the approval of stockholders holding two-thirds of the voting power of our then outstanding capital stock;

 

   

our stockholders may only be able to take action at a meeting of stockholders and may not be able to take action by written consent for any matter;

 

   

our stockholders are be able to act by written consent only if the action is first recommended or approved by the board of directors;

 

   

vacancies on our board of directors may be filled only by our board of directors and not by stockholders;

 

   

only the chair of the board of directors, chief executive officer or a majority of the board of directors are authorized to call a special meeting of stockholders;

 

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certain litigation against us can only be brought in Delaware;

 

   

our restated certificate of incorporation authorizes undesignated preferred stock, the terms of which may be established and shares of which may be issued, without the approval of the holders of our capital stock; and

 

   

advance notice procedures apply for stockholders to nominate candidates for election as directors or to bring matters before an annual meeting of stockholders.

These anti-takeover defenses could discourage, delay or prevent a transaction involving a change in control of our company. These provisions could also discourage proxy contests and make it more difficult for stockholders to elect directors of their choosing and to cause us to take other corporate actions they desire, any of which, under certain circumstances, could limit the opportunity for our stockholders to receive a premium for their shares of our capital stock and could also affect the price that some investors are willing to pay for our common stock.

If you purchase our common stock in this offering, you will incur immediate and substantial dilution as a result of this offering.

If you purchase our common stock in this offering, you will incur immediate and substantial dilution of $         per share, representing the difference between the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us, and our pro forma net tangible book value per share after giving effect to (i) the filing and effectiveness of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, (ii) the automatic conversion of all shares of our convertible preferred stock outstanding as of March 31, 2021 into                shares of common stock and (iii) the issuance and sale of                shares of common stock by us in this offering. As of March 31, 2021, there were                shares of our common stock subject to outstanding stock options with a weighted-average exercise price of $         per share. To the extent that these outstanding stock options and warrants are ultimately exercised or the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares of our common stock, you will incur further dilution. See the section titled “Dilution” for more information.

We do not intend to pay dividends for the foreseeable future.

We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock and do not intend to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Additionally, our ability to pay dividends on our common stock is limited by the restrictions under the terms of our loan and security agreement. We anticipate that for the foreseeable future we will retain all of our future earnings for use in the development of our business and for general corporate purposes. Any determination to pay dividends in the future will be at the discretion of our board of directors. Accordingly, investors must rely on sales of their common stock after price appreciation, which may never occur, as the only way to realize any future gains on their investments.

We are an “emerging growth company” and a “smaller reporting company” and the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies and smaller reporting companies may make our common stock less attractive to investors.

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act. For so long as we remain an emerging growth company, we are permitted by SEC rules and plan to rely on exemptions from certain disclosure requirements that are applicable to other SEC registered public companies that are not emerging growth companies. These exemptions include not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the SOX, not being required to comply with any requirement that may be adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding mandatory audit firm rotation or a supplement to

 

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the auditor’s report providing additional information about the audit and the financial statements, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. As a result, the information we provide stockholders will be different than the information that is available with respect to other public companies. In this prospectus, we have not included all of the executive compensation related information that would be required if we were not an emerging growth company. To the extent that we continue to qualify as a “smaller reporting company,” as such term is defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, after we cease to qualify as an emerging growth company, we will continue to be permitted to make certain reduced disclosures in our periodic reports and other documents that we file with the SEC. We cannot predict whether 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.

In addition, the JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards. This allows an emerging growth company to delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. We have elected to avail ourselves of this exemption from new or revised accounting standards and, therefore, we will not be subject to the same new or revised accounting standards as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies. As a result, our financial statements may not be comparable to companies that comply with new or revised accounting pronouncements as of public company effective dates.

Even after we no longer qualify as an emerging growth company, we may still qualify as a “smaller reporting company,” which would allow us to continue to take advantage of many of the same exemptions from disclosure requirements, including not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in this prospectus and our periodic reports and proxy statements. We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive because we may 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.

General Risks

Our business is subject to the risk of hurricanes, earthquakes, fire, power outages, floods, and other catastrophic events, and to interruption by manmade problems such as terrorism.

Our business is vulnerable to damage or interruption from hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, floods, power losses, telecommunications failures, terrorist attacks, acts of war, human errors, break-ins, and similar events. The third-party systems and operations and manufacturers we rely on are subject to similar risks. For example, a significant natural disaster, such as a hurricane affecting our South Carolina facilities, an earthquake affecting our California facilities, or a fire, or flood, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results, and our insurance coverage may be insufficient to compensate us for losses that may occur. Acts of terrorism, which may be targeted at metropolitan areas that have higher population density than rural areas, such as New York City where our corporate headquarters is located, could also cause disruptions in our business or the economy as a whole. We may not have sufficient protection or recovery plans in some circumstances, such as natural disasters affecting locations that store significant inventory of our products, that house our servers, or from which we generate content. As we rely heavily on our computer and communications systems, and the internet to conduct our business and provide high-quality customer service, these disruptions could negatively impact our ability to run our business and either directly or indirectly disrupt suppliers’ and manufacturers’ businesses, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic and widespread shelter-in-place and other governmental restrictions have caused most of our employees to work remotely. Given these widespread remote work arrangements, if a natural disaster, power outage, connectivity issue, or other event occurs that impacts our

 

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employees’ ability to work remotely, it may be difficult or, in certain cases, impossible, for us to continue our business and provide high-quality customer service for a substantial period of time.

Cybersecurity risks could adversely affect our business and disrupt our operations.

We rely, or will rely, on information technology systems to keep financial records and other sensitive business, information, including personal information about our employees, customers and other third parties, facilitate our research and development initiatives, manage our manufacturing operations, maintain quality control, communicate with customers, fulfill customer orders, maintain corporate records, communicate with staff and external parties and operate other critical functions. While we take measures to safeguard and protect this information, including using methods such as multi-layer firewalls, intrusion detection systems, content filtering, endpoint security, centralized logging and alerting, email security mechanisms, and access control mechanisms, threats to network and data security are increasingly diverse and sophisticated. We also continue to pursue independent third-party assessments and validations of our security and compliance capabilities, including through obtaining industry-standard certification like SOC 2. Despite our efforts and processes to prevent security breaches and incidents, our products and services, as well as our servers, computer systems, and those of third parties that we use in our operations are vulnerable to cybersecurity risks, including cyberattacks such as viruses and worms, phishing attacks and other forms of social engineering, denial-of-service attacks, ransomware attacks, physical or electronic break-ins, third-party or employee theft or misuse, and other negligent actions, errors or malfeasance by employees or other third parties, and similar disruptions from unauthorized tampering with our servers and computer systems or those of third parties that we use in our operations, which could lead to interruptions, delays, loss or corruption of critical data, unauthorized access to or acquisition of health-related and other personal information and loss of customer confidence. In addition, we may be the target of email scams and other social engineering attacks that attempt to acquire personal information or company assets or access to our systems. Despite our efforts to create security barriers to such threats, we may not be able to entirely mitigate these risks. Our third-party service providers face similar risks. Any cyberattack that attempts to obtain our or our customers’ data or assets, disrupt our service, or otherwise access our systems, or those of third parties we use, or any other security breach or incident, could adversely affect our business, and financial condition and operating results, be expensive to remedy, and damage our reputation. We and our third-party service providers may face difficulties or delays in identifying or otherwise responding to any attacks or actual or potential security breaches or security incidents. We may incur significant costs and operational consequences of investigating, remediating, eliminating and putting in place additional tools and devices designed to prevent actual or perceived security breaches and other security incidents, including in response to any actual or perceived incident we may suffer, and substantial costs to comply with any notification or other legal obligations resulting from any security breaches or other security incidents. In addition, any such breaches or incidents, or the perception that they have occurred, may result in negative publicity, and adversely affect our brand and market perception of our platform and our company, impacting demand for our products and services, and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

Although we maintain insurance coverage that may cover certain liabilities in connection with security breaches and other security incidents, we cannot be certain our insurance coverage will be adequate for liabilities actually incurred, that insurance will continue to be available to us on commercially reasonable terms, if at all, or that any insurer will not deny coverage as to any future claim. The successful assertion of one or more large claims against us that exceed available insurance coverage, the occurrence of changes in our insurance policies, including premium increases or the imposition of large deductible or co-insurance requirements, or denials of coverage, could have a material adverse effect on our business, including our financial condition, results of operations and reputation.

 

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We rely heavily on third parties for most of our computing, storage, processing, and similar services. Any disruption of or interference with our use of these third-party services could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

We have outsourced our cloud infrastructure to third-party providers, and we currently use these providers to host and stream our customer-facing services and content. We are therefore vulnerable to service interruptions experienced by these providers and we expect to experience interruptions, delays or outages in service availability in the future due to a variety of factors, including infrastructure changes, human, hardware or software errors, hosting disruptions and capacity constraints. Outages and capacity constraints could arise from a number of causes such as technical failures, natural disasters, fraud or security attacks. The level of service provided by these providers, or regular or prolonged interruptions in that service, could also affect the use of, and our customers’ satisfaction with, our products and services and could harm our business and reputation. In addition, hosting costs will increase as our customer base grows, which could harm our business if we are unable to grow our revenue faster than the cost of using these services or the services of similar providers.

Furthermore, our providers have broad discretion to change and interpret the terms of service and other policies with respect to us, and those actions may be unfavorable to our business operations. Our providers may also take actions beyond our control that could seriously harm our business, including discontinuing or limiting our access to one or more services, increasing pricing terms, terminating or seeking to terminate our contractual relationship altogether, or altering how we are able to analyze data in a way that is unfavorable or costly to us. Although we expect that we could obtain similar services from other third parties, if our arrangements with our current providers were terminated, we could experience interruptions of our services, as well as delays and additional expenses in arranging for alternative cloud infrastructure services. Any of these factors could further reduce our revenue, subject us to liability, and cause a loss of customers, any of which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

 

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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This prospectus contains forward-looking statements that are based on our management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to our management. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this prospectus, including, without limitation, statements regarding the conditions of our industry, our future results of operations and financial position, business strategy, development plans, expected research and development costs, regulatory strategy, product and service development, sales and marketing activities, international expansion efforts, timing and likelihood of success, as well as plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “could,” “intend,” “target,” “project,” “contemplate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus include, but are not limited to, statements about:

 

   

our business, business strategy, products and services we may offer in the future;

 

   

our ability to increase brand awareness, attract and retain customers and sell additional products and services to new and existing customers;

 

   

our ability to convert customers into recurring subscribers;

 

   

our ability to develop new products and services or improve existing products and services;

 

   

our future financial performance, including trends in revenue, costs of revenue, gross profit, operating expenses and free cash flow;

 

   

expectations about industry trends, such as a shift towards personalized healthcare and increasing demand for convenience;

 

   

our ability to efficiently spend on advertising and marketing;

 

   

our ability to maintain profitability;

 

   

our ability to compete successfully in competitive markets and expand internationally;

 

   

our ability to maintain relationships with key distributors, ingredient suppliers, influencers and research institutions;

 

   

our ability to respond to rapid technological changes;

 

   

our expectations and management of future growth;

 

   

expectations about legal and regulatory changes;

 

   

our ability to attract and retain key personnel and highly qualified personnel;

 

   

our ability to protect our brand and maintain our NPS score;

 

   

our ability to maintain key certifications, such as our NSF Certified Facility;

 

   

our ability to maintain, protect and enhance our intellectual property, including our multi-omics database and trade secrets;

 

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restrictions and penalties as a result of privacy and data protection laws;

 

   

our ability to successfully identify, acquire and integrate companies, technologies and assets;

 

   

the increased expenses associated with being a public company;

 

   

the outcome and impact of litigation, including litigation associated with the filings of IPRs;

 

   

the timing and results of future regulatory filings;

 

   

our anticipated use of our existing resources and the proceeds from this offering; and

 

   

other risks and uncertainties, including those listed under the caption “Risk Factors.”

We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about our business, the industry in which we operate and financial trends that we believe may affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects, and these forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or development. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this prospectus and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions described in the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus. Because forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. The events and circumstances reflected in our forward-looking statements may not be achieved or occur and actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable law, we do not plan to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein until after we distribute this prospectus, whether as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise.

In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this prospectus, and while we believe such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain and you are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements.

 

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MARKET, INDUSTRY AND OTHER DATA

This prospectus contains estimates, projections and other information concerning our industry, our business and the markets for our products and services, including data regarding the estimated size of such markets. We obtained the industry, market and similar data set forth in this prospectus from our internal estimates and research and from academic and industry research, publications, surveys and studies conducted by third parties, including governmental agencies. In some cases, we do not expressly refer to the sources from which this data is derived. Information that is based on estimates, forecasts, projections, market research or similar methodologies is inherently subject to uncertainties and actual events or circumstances may differ materially from events and circumstances that are assumed in this information. While we believe that the data we use from third parties are reliable, we have not separately verified this data. Any industry forecasts are based on data, including third-party data, models and experience of various professionals and are based on various assumptions, all of which are subject to change without notice. Further, while we believe our internal research is reliable, such research has not been verified by any third party. While we are not aware of any misstatements regarding the market data presented herein, industry forecasts and projections involve risks and uncertainties are subject to change based on various factors, including those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors.”

 

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USE OF PROCEEDS

We estimate that the net proceeds to us from the sale of the shares of our common stock in this offering will be approximately $         million, or approximately $         million if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full, based upon the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share would increase or decrease, as applicable, the net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $         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 the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Similarly, each increase or decrease of 1.0 million shares in the number of shares offered by us would increase or decrease, as applicable, the net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $         million, assuming the assumed initial public offering price remains the same, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

The principal purposes of this offering are to obtain additional capital to support our operations, establish a public market for our common stock and facilitate our future access to the public capital markets.

We currently intend to use the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing cash, as follows:

 

   

approximately $         million to $         million to fund additional nutritional supplement product and test development activities, including investment in our Onegevity platform;

 

   

approximately $         million to $         million to fund expansion of our sales and marketing activities including expansion into additional international markets and costs associated with additional warehousing space;

 

   

approximately $ 20.0 million to repay all outstanding indebtedness under our Credit and Security Agreement with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, which matures in February 2022 and accrues interest on the principal amount outstanding at rate of 0.71% and release the guarantees from two shareholders for which we currently pay an annual fee equal to 1.2%; and

 

   

the remaining amounts to fund working capital, other general corporate purposes.

We may use a portion of the net proceeds to repay debt or acquire complimentary products, technologies, intellectual property or businesses; however, we currently do not have any agreements or commitments to complete any such transactions and are not involved in negotiations regarding such transactions.

Based on our current operating plan, we believe that the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing cash as of the date of this prospectus, will be sufficient to fund our operating expenses and capital expenditures for at least the next 12 months.

Our expected use of the net proceeds from this offering represents our intentions based upon our current plans and business conditions. We cannot predict with certainty all of the particular uses for the net proceeds to be received upon the completion of this offering or the amounts that we will actually spend on the uses set forth above and we may require additional funds in order to fully accomplish the specified uses listed above. As a result, our management will have broad discretion over the use of the net proceeds from this offering.

 

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Pending their use, we intend to invest the net proceeds of this offering in short- and intermediate-term, interest-bearing obligations, investment-grade instruments, certificates of deposit or direct or guaranteed obligations of the U.S. government, subject to applicable regulatory restrictions. We cannot predict whether the proceeds invested will yield a favorable return.

 

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DIVIDEND POLICY

We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock. We currently intend to retain any future earnings and do not expect to pay any 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 laws, and will depend on a number of factors, including our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, general business conditions and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant, including restrictions in our current and future debt instruments, our future earnings, capital requirements, financial condition, prospects, and applicable Delaware law, which provides that dividends are only payable out of surplus or current net profits.

 

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CAPITALIZATION

The following table sets forth our cash and capitalization as of March 31, 2021:

 

   

on an actual basis;

 

   

on a pro forma basis, giving effect to (1) the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock on a          basis into an aggregate of                  shares of common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering and (2) the filing and effectiveness of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation immediately prior to the completion of this offering; and

 

   

on a pro forma as adjusted basis to reflect (1) the pro forma adjustments set forth above and (2) our issuance and sale of                  shares of common stock in this offering at the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

The pro forma as adjusted information set forth below is illustrative only and will depend on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing. You should read this information in conjunction with our financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus, as well as the sections titled “Selected Consolidated Financial Data” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

    

As of March 31, 2021

 

 
    

Actual

 

   

Pro Forma

 

    

Pro Forma
as adjusted

 

 
     (in thousands except per share amounts)  

Cash

   $ 23,334     $                        $                    
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Debt

   $ 21,460       

Convertible preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share; 60,700 shares authorized, 60,700 issued and outstanding, actual;                  shares authorized,                  shares issued and outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     133,485       

Stockholders’ (deficit) equity

       

Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share: no shares authorized, issued and outstanding, actual;                  shares authorized and no shares issued and outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     —         

Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share: 142,000 shares authorized, 27,694 issued and outstanding, actual;                  shares authorized,                  shares issued and outstanding, pro forma; and                  shares authorized,                  shares issued and outstanding, pro forma as adjusted

     —         

Class B common stock, no par value per share: 20,000 shares authorized, 13,886 issued and outstanding, actual; no shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     —         

Additional paid-in capital

     53,085       

Accumulated deficit

     (134,704     

Total stockholders’ (deficit) equity

     (81,619     

Total capitalization

   $ 73,326     $        $    
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease, as applicable, each of our pro forma as adjusted cash,

 

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  additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ (deficit) equity and total capitalization by approximately $         million, assuming that the number of shares of common stock offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Similarly, each increase or decrease of 1.0 million shares in the number of shares of common stock offered by us would increase or decrease, as applicable, each of our pro forma as adjusted cash, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ (deficit) equity and total capitalization by approximately $         million, assuming the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, remains the same, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full, our pro forma as adjusted cash, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ (deficit) equity, and total capitalization as of March 31, 2021, would be $         million, $         million, $         million, and $         million, respectively.

The number of shares of our common stock issued and outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted in the table above is based on                  shares of our common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2021 (including our convertible preferred stock on an as-converted basis), and excludes:

 

   

                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options outstanding as of March 31, 2021, with a weighted-average exercise price of $         per share;

 

   

                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted after March 31, 2021, with a weighted-average exercise price of $         per share;

 

   

                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2021;

 

   

                 shares of common stock available for future issuance under the 2010 Plan, as of March 31, 2021;

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our Onegevity Plan;

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2021 Plan, which will become effective in connection with this offering, as well as any automatic increases in the number of shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under this plan; and

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our ESPP, which will become effective in connection with this offering, as well as any automatic increases in the number of shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under this plan.

 

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DILUTION

Investors purchasing our common stock in this offering will experience immediate and substantial dilution in the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value of their shares of common stock. Dilution in pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value represents the difference between the initial public offering price of our common stock and the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share of our common stock immediately after the offering.

Our historical net tangible book deficit as of March 31, 2021, was $         million, or $         per share of our common stock. Our historical net tangible book value (deficit) is the amount of our total tangible assets less our total liabilities and convertible preferred stock, which is not included within our stockholders’ (deficit) equity. Historical net tangible book value (deficit) per share represents historical net tangible book value (deficit) divided by the number of shares of our common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2021.

Our pro forma net tangible book value as of March 31, 2021, was $         million, or $         per share of our common stock. Pro forma net tangible book value represents the amount of our total tangible assets less our total liabilities. Pro forma net tangible book value per share represents pro forma net tangible book value divided by the total number of shares outstanding as of March 31, 2021, after giving effect to the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock as of March 31, 2021 on a                  basis into an aggregate of                 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering as if such conversion had occurred on March 31, 2021.

After giving further effect to our sale of                 shares of common stock in this offering at the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us, our pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value as of March 31, 2021, would have been approximately $         million, or approximately $         per share. This represents an immediate increase in pro forma net tangible book value per share of approximately $          to our existing stockholders and an immediate dilution in pro forma net tangible book value per share of approximately $         to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering.

The following table illustrates this dilution on a per share basis to new investors (without giving effect to any exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares):

 

Assumed initial public offering price per share

      $            

Pro forma net tangible book value per share as of March 31, 2021

   $               
     

Increase in pro forma net tangible book value per share attributable to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering

   $       
  

 

 

    

Pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share

     
     

 

 

 

Dilution per share to investors participating in this offering

      $    
     

 

 

 

Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease, as applicable, the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by approximately $         per share and the dilution to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering by approximately $         per share, assuming the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Similarly, each increase of 1.0 million shares in the number of shares offered by us would increase the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by approximately $         and decrease the dilution per share to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this

 

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offering by approximately $        , assuming no change in the assumed initial public offering price and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Each decrease of 1.0 million shares in the number of shares offered by us would decrease the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by approximately $         and increase the dilution per share to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering by approximately $        , assuming no change in the assumed initial public offering price and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase                additional shares of common stock in full at the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and assuming the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us, the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering would be approximately $         per share, and the dilution per share to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering would be approximately $         per share.

The following table summarizes, on the pro forma as adjusted basis described above, as of March 31, 2021, the number of shares of common stock purchased from us, the total consideration paid, or to be paid, and the weighted-average price per share paid, or to be paid, by existing stockholders and by investors purchasing shares in this offering at the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, before deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

 

    

Shares purchased

   

Total consideration

   

Weighted average
price per sale

 

(dollar in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

Number

    

Percent

   

Amount

    

Percent

 

Existing stockholders before this offering

                                                                     $                    

Investors purchasing shares in this offering

                           $    

Total

        100        100  

The table above assumes no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase                 additional shares in this offering. If the underwriters’ exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full, the number of shares of our common stock held by existing stockholders would be reduced to     % of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding after this offering, and the number of shares of common stock held by investors purchasing shares of common stock in the offering would be increased to      % of the total number of shares outstanding after this offering.

Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover          page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease, as applicable, the total consideration paid by investors purchasing shares in this offering by approximately $         million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same. Similarly, each increase or decrease of 1.0 million shares in the number of shares offered by us would increase or decrease, as applicable, the total consideration paid by investors purchasing shares in this offering by approximately $         million, assuming no change in the assumed initial public offering price.

The foregoing tables and calculations (other than the historical net tangible book value calculation) are based on the                shares of our common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2021 (including our convertible preferred stock on an as-converted basis), and excludes:

 

   

                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options outstanding as of March 31, 2021, with a weighted-average exercise price of $         per share;

 

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                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted after March 31, 2021, with a weighted-average exercise price of $         per share;

 

   

                 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2021;

 

   

                 shares of common stock for future issuance under our 2010 Plan as of March 31, 2021;

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our Onegevity Plan as of March 31, 2021;

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2021 Plan, which will become effective in connection with this offering as well as any automatic increases in the number of shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under this plan; and

 

   

                 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our ESPP, which will become effective in connection with this offering as well as any automatic increases in the number of shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under this plan.

To the extent that any outstanding options are exercised or new options are issued under our equity benefit plans, or we issue additional shares of common stock or other securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of our capital stock in the future, there will be further dilution to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering.

 

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SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

The following tables summarize our selected consolidated financial data for the periods and as of the dates indicated. We derived the following summary statements of our operations data for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2021, and our summary balance sheet data as of March 31, 2021 from our unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. Our interim unaudited financial statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP on the same basis as the annual audited financial statements and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for the fair statement of our financial position as of March 31, 2021, and our results of our operations for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2021. We also have derived our selected statements of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, from our audited financial statements appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected in the future, and our interim results are not necessarily indicative of our results for the full fiscal year. You should read the following selected consolidated financial data together with our financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus and the information in the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

     Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
    Three Months Ended
March
 31,
 

Consolidated Statements of Operations

   2019     2020     2020     2021  
     (in thousands except per share amounts)  

Net Sales

   $ 102,532     $ 138,455     $ 33,144     $ 44,484  

Cost of sales

     57,789       73,667       17,964       21,247  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit

     44,743       64,788       15,180       23,237  

Operating expenses:

        

Research and development

     3,899       4,225       990       907  

Selling, general, and administrative

     54,751       59,548       13,981       15,476  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

     (13,907     1,015       209       6,854  

Other expense (income):

        

Interest expense, net

     406       1,125       618       283  

Guarantee fees

     298       243       86       139  

Change in fair value of warrant liability

     1,992       1,912       478       1,628  

Other expense (income), net

     (44     2       —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expense, net

     2,652       3,282       1,182       2,050  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes and loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (16,559     (2,267     (973     4,804  

Income tax expense

     33       177       1       41  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) before loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (16,592     (2,444     (974     4,763  

Loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates(1)

     1,625       1,510       203       57  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

     (18,217     (3,954     (1,177     4,706  

Net income (loss) - non-controlling interest(2)

     (1,492     (596     (489     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

     (16,725     (3,358     (688     4,706  

Deemed Dividends

     (4,813     —         —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed earnings attributable to Series E convertible preferred stockholders

     —         —         —         (4,706

Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders

     (21,538     (3,358     (688     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) per share:(3)

        

Basic

   $ (1,221   $ (150   $ (39     —    

Diluted

   $ (1,221   $ (150   $ (39     —    

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

        

Basic

     17,638       22,440       17,638       39,663  

Diluted

     17,638       22,440       17,638       39,663  

 

(1)

Represents our proportionate loss arising from our equity interest in Drawbridge and Tecton. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, our portion of Drawbridge’s loss was $0.1 million and for Tecton it was $0. For the three months ended March 31, 2020, our

 

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  portion of Drawbridge’s loss was $0.2 million and for Tecton was $0. For 2020, our portion of Drawbridge’s loss was $0.9 million and for Tecton was $0.5 million. For 2019, our portion of Drawbridge’s loss was $1.2 million and for Tecton was $0.8 million.
(2)

Represents the net loss attributable to the minority shareholders of Onegevity for the three months ended March 31, 2021, and to the minority shareholders of Onegevity and Health Elements for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and for the twelve months ended December 2020 and 2019.

(3)

See Note 20 to our consolidated financial statements appearing at the end of this prospectus for details on the calculation of basic and diluted net loss per share.

 

     As of March 31, 2021  

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data

   Actual      Pro Forma      Pro forma As
Adjusted
 
     (in thousands)  

Cash

   $ 23,334                             

Working capital(4)

     18,025        

Total assets

     133,775        

Total debt

     21,460        

Total liabilities

     81,910        

Series E convertible preferred stock

     133,485        

Total stockholders’ deficit

   $ (81,619      

 

(1)

The pro forma balance sheet data gives effect to the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of                 shares of our common stock which will occur immediately prior to the completion of this offering, resulting in an aggregate of                  outstanding shares of our common stock.

(2)

The pro forma as adjusted column in the balance sheet data gives effect to (i) the pro forma adjustments described in footnote (1) above and (ii) the issuance and sale of                  shares of common stock in this offering at the initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

(3)

Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $         per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease, as applicable, the pro forma as adjusted amount of each of our cash, working capital, total assets and stockholders’ equity by $         million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Similarly, each increase or decrease of 1.0 million shares in the number of shares offered by us at the assumed initial public offering price would increase or decrease, as applicable, each of our cash, working capital, total assets, and stockholders’ equity by $         million. The pro forma as adjusted information set forth above is illustrative only and will depend on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing.

(4)

Working capital is defined as current assets less current liabilities. See our financial statements appearing elsewhere in this prospectus for further details regarding our current assets and current liabilities.

 

    

Twelve Months Ended

December 31,

   

Three Months Ended

March 31,

 
     2019     2020     2020     2021  
     (dollars in thousands)  

Net income (loss)

   $ (18,216   $ (3,954   $ (1,177   $ 4,706  

Adjusted EBITDA (unaudited)

     8,034       14,433       4,515       8,293  

Adjusted EBITDA margin (unaudited)

     7.8     10.4     13.6     18.6

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

     (7,621     17,107       2,986       8,787  

Free cash flow (unaudited)

   $ (10,526   $ 14,784     $ 2,515     $ 8,198  

See subsection “Key Financial and Operating Data” in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for further details.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with our financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus and in the section titled “Selected Consolidated Financial Data.” Some of the information contained in this discussion and analysis or set forth elsewhere in this prospectus, includes forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. As a result of many factors, including those factors set forth in the section titled “Risk Factors,” our actual results could differ materially from the results described in or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should carefully read the section titled “Risk Factors” to gain an understanding of the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. Please also see the section titled “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

Overview

We are a science-driven wellness company pioneering innovative solutions and personalized approaches to health and well-being. We are building a new health category to deliver better health outcomes through a proactive, empowered approach. Our unique, vertically integrated brands, Thorne and Onegevity, provide actionable insights and personalized data, products and services that help individuals take a proactive approach to improve and maintain their health over their lifetime. By combining our proprietary multi-omics database, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital health content with our science-backed nutritional supplements, we deliver a total system for wellness. We believe our integrated solution will redefine the expectations for good health and peak performance.

Founded in 1984, Thorne Research was a small company dedicated to being a “thorn” in the side of the traditional supplement industry by making the purest and highest quality nutritional supplements to sell to health professionals. With a vision for an unparalleled health ecosystem fueled by innovation and technology, our current Chief Executive Officer, Paul Jacobson, and his management team, acquired Thorne Research in 2010 and co-founded Onegevity. We completed our acquisition of Onegevity and combined these two complementary companies in early 2021. During the past ten years, we have evolved to become a transformative consumer brand, trusted by more than 3,000,000 customers, 42,000 healthcare professionals, thousands of professional athletes, more than 100 professional sports teams and 11 U.S. Olympic teams.

Key milestones in our growth history include:

 

   

2011: Strategic ingredient and botanical agreement with Indena, a company dedicated to the identification, development and production of high-quality active principles derived from plants, for use in the pharmaceutical and health-food industries;

 

   

2014: Clinical Study Agreement with Mayo Clinic to design and conduct clinical trials of our dietary supplements;

 

   

2017: Launch of NSF Certified for Sport product line;

 

   

2018: Onegevity founded; we expanded capacity by moving to a new, state-of-the-art 272,000 square foot facility in South Carolina;

 

   

2019-2020: Sponsorships of the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, UFC, USA Rugby, and Penske Racing; and

 

   

2020-2021: Thorne HealthTech, Inc. facilitated the merger of Thorne and Onegevity.

 

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Our revenue is generated primarily from the sale of our supplements and health tests. We have experienced significant sales growth of our supplements and health tests through the acquisition of new customers and strong customer retention.

For the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2021:

 

   

we generated net sales of $33.1 million and $44.5 million, respectively, representing 34.2% growth from the same period in 2020;

 

   

we generated gross profit of $15.2 million and $23.2 million, respectively, representing 45.9% and 51.1% of net sales, respectively;

 

   

our net loss was $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020, and our net income was $4.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021; and

 

   

our Adjusted EBITDA was $4.5 million and $8.3 million, respectively.

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 and 2020:

 

   

we generated net sales of $102.5 million and $138.5 million, respectively, representing 23.0% and 35.0% year-over-year growth, respectively;

 

   

we generated gross profit of $44.7 million and $64.8 million, respectively, representing 43.6% and 46.8% of net sales, respectively;

 

   

our net loss was $18.2 million and $4.0 million, respectively; and

 

   

our Adjusted EBITDA was $8.0 million and $14.4 million, respectively.

Our management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP). In this prospectus, we have used certain non-GAAP financial measures, including Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin and free cash flow. These measures are derived on the basis of methodologies other than in accordance with GAAP. The SEC has adopted rules to regulate the use of “non-GAAP financial measures” in filings with the SEC and in other public disclosures. Non-GAAP financial measures used by us may be calculated differently from, and therefore may not be comparable to, similarly titled measures used by other companies. We have provided a reconciliation of each non-GAAP financial measure used in this prospectus to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered along with, but not as alternatives to, the operating performance measure as prescribed by GAAP.

Key Financial and Operating Data

Our financial profile is characterized by high growth, recurring revenue, improving gross margins, efficient customer acquisition, and free cash flow.

We measure our business using both financial and operational data and use the following metrics to assess the near-term and long-term performance of our brands and business. These metrics serve as guidance for identifying trends, formulating financial projections, making strategic decisions, assessing operational efficiencies, and monitoring our business.

Net Sales

We define net sales as sales of our goods and services and related shipping fees less discounts and returns following the accounting guidelines in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB),

 

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Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” (ASC 606). Our net sales consist of sales of our nutritional supplements, health tests and sales associated with our services leveraging our AI and multi-omics databases, such as product development services. We recognize revenues when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services or when a service contract’s term is ended. We consider several factors in determining that control transfers to the customer upon shipment, or upon delivery for certain customers. These factors include when legal title transfers to the customer, if we have a present right to payment and whether the customer has assumed the risks and rewards of ownership at the time of shipment. Shipping and handling costs are considered a fulfillment activity and are expensed as incurred. We view net sales as a key indicator of demand for our products and services.

Gross Profit

We define gross profit as net sales less cost of sales. Cost of sales consists of depreciation and amortization, product and packaging costs, including manufacturing costs, inventory freight, testing costs of all raw materials and finished goods, inventory shrinkage costs and inventory valuation adjustments, offset by reductions for promotions and percentage or volume rebates offered by our vendors.

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin

We calculate Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) adjusted to exclude: interest income (expense), net; guarantee fees; other income (expense), net; provision for income taxes; depreciation and amortization expense; stock-based compensation expense; change in fair value of warrant liability; net loss from non-controlling interest; and the costs of relocating our production facility from Idaho to South Carolina and the associated start-up costs of the new facility. Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated by dividing Adjusted EBITDA by total revenue.

We use Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin as measures of operating performance and the operating leverage in our business. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors for period-to-period comparisons of our business and in understanding and evaluating our operating results for the following reasons:

 

   

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin are widely used by investors and securities analysts to measure a company’s operating performance without regard to items such as stock-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization expense, interest expense, net, other (income) expense, net, loss from non-controlling interest and provision for income taxes, each of which can vary substantially from company to company depending upon their financing, capital structures and the method by which assets are acquired;

 

   

our management uses Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin in conjunction with financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP for planning purposes, including the preparation of our annual operating budget, as a measure of our core operating results and the effectiveness of our business strategy, and in evaluating our financial performance; and

 

   

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin provide consistency and comparability with our past financial performance, facilitate period-to-period comparisons of our core operating results, and also facilitate comparisons with other peer companies, many of which use similar non-GAAP financial measures to supplement their GAAP results.

Our use of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin have limitations as analytical tools, and you should not consider these measures in isolation or as substitutes for analysis of our financial results as reported under GAAP. Some of these limitations are, or may in the future be, as follows:

 

   

although depreciation and amortization expense are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized may have to be replaced in the future, and Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

 

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Margin do not reflect cash capital expenditure requirements for such replacements or for new capital expenditure requirements;

 

   

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin exclude stock-based compensation expense, which is a recurring expense for our business and an important part of our compensation strategy;

 

   

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin do not reflect: (1) changes in, or cash requirements for, our working capital needs; (2) interest expense, or the cash requirements necessary to service interest or principal payments on our debt, which reduces cash available to us; (3) tax payments that may represent a reduction in cash available to us; or (4) the use of net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards and the full valuation reserve against deferred tax assets and liabilities are non-cash items that can have an impact on GAAP performance, but may not reflect the continuing operating results of our business;

 

   

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin do not reflect certain one-time relocation costs from Idaho to South Carolina where significant cash was expended to relocate personnel, relocate equipment, purchase new equipment and start up a newly built facility that has never operated previously; and

 

   

the expenses and other items that we exclude in our calculation of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin may differ from the expenses and other items, if any, that other companies may exclude from Adjusted EBITDA when they report their operating results and we may, in the future, exclude other significant, unusual or non-recurring expenses or other items from these financial measures.

Because of these limitations, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin should be considered along with other operating and financial performance measures presented in accordance with GAAP.

The following table presents a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net loss, the most directly comparable financial measure prepared in accordance with GAAP, for each of the periods indicated (in thousands except margin figures):

 

    

Twelve Months Ended
December 31,

 

   

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

 
    

2019

 

   

2020

 

   

2020

 

   

2021

 

 

EBITDA Calculation

        

Net income (loss)

   $ (18,216   $ (3,954   $ (1,177   $ 4,706  

Depreciation and amortization

     4,598       4,296       947       985  

Interest expense, net

     406       1,125       618       283  

Income tax expense

     33       177       1       41  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

EBITDA

   $ (13,179   $ 1,644     $ 389     $ 6,015  

EBITDA margin

     (12.9 )%      1.2     1.2     13.5

Adjustments:

        

Stock-based compensation

     12,226       10,037       3,073       511  

Change in fair value of warrant liability

     1,992       1,912       478       1,628  

Plant start up costs

     5,044       —         —         —    

Guarantee fees

     298       243       86       139  

Net loss - non-controlling interest

     1,492       596       489       —    

Relocation expenses

     161       —         —         —    

IPO related costs

     —         —         —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

   $ 8,034     $ 14,432     $ 4,515     $ 8,293  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA margin

     7.8     10.4     13.6     18.6

 

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Free Cash Flow

We define free cash flow as net cash provided by (used in) operating activities less capital expenditures, which consist of purchases of property and equipment as well as purchase of licensing agreements. Accordingly, we believe that free cash flow provides useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our operating results in the same manner as our management and board of directors. Free cash flow may be affected in the near-to medium-term by the timing of capital investments, such as purchases of machinery, information technology and other equipment, the launch of new fulfillment centers, customer service centers and new products, fluctuations in our growth and the effect of such fluctuations on working capital and changes in our cash conversion cycle due to increases or decreases of customer and vendor payment terms as well as inventory turnover. We expect free cash flow to increase over the long term as investments made in prior years drive increased profitability. If we experience an unforeseen increase in demand, we may need to make additional capital investments in manufacturing facility expansion.

The following table presents a reconciliation of free cash flow to net cash, the most directly comparable financial measure prepared in accordance with GAAP, for each of the periods indicated (in thousands):

 

     Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2019      2020      2020      2021  

Free Cash flow Calculation

                           

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

   $ (7,621    $ 17,107      $ 2,986      $ 8,787  

Purchase of equipment

     (1,655      (1,194      (371      (589

Purchase of licensing agreements

     (1,250      (1,129      (100      —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Free cash flow

   $ (10,526    $ 14,784      $ 2,515      $ 8,198  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Number of Subscriptions

We define subscriptions as orders resulting from direct-to-consumer (DTC) customers opting into automatic refills or orders that are recurring on Thorne.com and Amazon. Our subscription programs on both platforms offer automatic ordering, payment and delivery of our products to a customer’s doorstep.

Subscription Sales as a Percentage of Net DTC Sales

We define subscription sales as sales generated from retail subscription orders on Thorne.com and Amazon within a given period. Subscription sales are taken as a percentage of net sales from all DTC orders in that same period. We view subscription sales as a percentage of net DTC sales as a key indicator of our recurring sales and customer retention.

Annual LTV to CAC

We define annual life-time value (LTV) to customer acquisition costs (CAC) as LTV from a specific calendar year divided by the CAC of that same year. Annual LTV is defined as the average gross contribution per purchasing DTC customer within a particular calendar year divided by one less the customer retention rate (Churn Rate) during the same period. Average gross contribution is defined as the cumulative revenue from our DTC customers during a calendar year less the cost of goods divided by the number of purchasing DTC customers in the same period. To arrive at the annual LTV for a particular calendar year, we divide the average gross contribution by that year’s Churn Rate. Annual CAC is defined as the total advertising and marketing expenses, less headcount expenses and associated benefit expenses, in a particular calendar year divided by the number of customers who placed their first order during that same year. We view the annual LTV to CAC ratio as a key indicator for marketing efficiency.

 

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Orders per Customer per Year

We define orders per customers per year as the total number of sales orders placed by our DTC customers in a given year divided by the total number of DTC customers who purchased within that same period. We view orders per customer per year as a key indicator of our customers’ purchasing patterns, including their initial and repeat purchase behavior, and as an indication of the desirability of our products to our customers. We expect orders per customer per year to remain steady or increase modestly over the long term as we continue to grow and acquire new customers and as our customers continue to demand our high-quality products.

Factors Affecting Our Performance

Ability to Increase Brand Awareness and Attract New Customers

Our long-term growth will depend on our continued ability to attract new customers. Our historical growth was largely driven by organic customer acquisition. We are still in the early stages of our growth and believe we can significantly expand our customer base as we increase brand awareness. Growing brand awareness through efficient, impactful communications and through building brand equity and loyalty is central to our marketing and growth strategy. We believe optimizing the message of our brand as one that defies expectations of good health differentiates us and is key to our ability to attract customers and retain them within our ecosystem. As our brand awareness grows, we intend to strengthen our reach across demographics and markets.

Growth in Our Subscriptions

We offer our customers the ability to opt into recurring automatic refills on both our website and Amazon. On both platforms, a customer can cancel or modify a subscription at any time at no cost to the customer. On our website, we allow customers to subscribe monthly, every 45 days, every two months, every three months, or every four months. For all these frequencies, we offer a 10% discount on retail refill orders. On Amazon, the discount ranges from 5% to 10% depending on the number of products to which a customer is subscribed, with an average discount of approximately 8%.

We view our growing subscription business on Thorne.com and Amazon as a key driver of profitable future sales growth. The chart below shows active subscription numbers and subscription sales as a percentage of net DTC sales by quarter from 2018 to 2020.

 

 

LOGO

Our total number of subscriptions grew from 61,135 at the end of 2018, to 89,178 at the end of 2019 and to 155,305 at the end of 2020, representing a compounded annual growth rate of 59.4%. Our total number of

 

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subscriptions in the first three months of 2020 was 98,809 and in the first three months of 2021 was 168,483, representing 70.5% year-over-year growth. We expect subscription sales to continue to grow as we continue to invest in brand awareness, innovate new products and market the convenience and savings of our nutritional supplements and tests.

Efficiency of Spending on Advertising and Marketing

We are disciplined in measuring and managing CAC and LTV of our customers. We are consistently looking for new ways to acquire customers more efficiently, grow revenue per customers, and retain our customers for longer periods of time.

Five years ago, we opened our website to consumers to allow them to purchase products directly from us rather than exclusively through health professionals. The years immediately following this shift were marked by significant organic customer acquisition. More recently, to accelerate new DTC customer growth from 18.4% year-over-year in 2017 to 55.3% year-over-year in 2020, we increased our advertising and marketing budget from 1.9% of total sales in 2016, to 9.5% in 2019 and to 8.0% in 2020, directing a significant portion of the spend to direct response and customer acquisition efforts. Since a significant portion of our spending on advertising and marketing is on digital platforms, we are able to manage and track the effectiveness of our spending. In the second half of 2019 and in the second half of 2020, we invested more heavily than prior years in brand response and brand awareness efforts. Although brand awareness spending may result in higher CAC costs during a period, the long-term impact on customer acquisition and net sales is shown in our attractive LTV to CAC ratio. For example, in the second half of 2019 we launched our “Frontier Within” brand campaign, which increased our brand marketing spend and included deploying campaign assets across connected TV, YouTube, influencers, search, and social platforms as well as an experiential live event in New York City. Despite the campaign’s orientation toward longer-term brand objectives, the DTC sales acceleration was evident on our website with a 24.8% increase in average daily consumer sales during the 22-week campaign compared to the prior period.

We experience high retention, repeat purchases and low CAC as seen by our 2019 and 2020 LTV to CAC ratios of 4.5x and 7.6x, respectively, and by our LTV to CAC ratios of 7.1x and 6.2x for the first three months of 2020 and 2021, respectively. This annual LTV is calculated by taking the average gross contribution per purchasing DTC customer in a rolling twelve-month period and dividing it by the same period’s Churn Rate. Our retention rate is calculated by taking the number of customers at the end of the period minus the number of new customers during the period divided by the number of customers at the beginning of the time period. We calculated our 2020 retention rate as the number of total customers at the end of 2020 less the number of customers acquired during the year divided by the number of customers at the end of 2019. We calculated our retention rate for the first three months of 2021 as the number of total customers at March 31, 2021 less the number of customers acquired during the prior twelve-month period divided by the number of customers at March 31, 2020. Average gross profit contribution is defined as cumulative sales from DTC customers during a twelve-month period less cost of goods divided by the number of purchasing DTC customers in the same period. CAC is calculated as total advertising and marketing expenses less advertising and marketing payroll and associated benefit expenses in a period divided by the total number of customers during that same period. For 2019 and 2020 CAC, we calculated it on a calendar year basis, and for the CAC for the first three months of 2021 we calculated it using the same method for the period January 1, 2021 to March 31, 2021. To arrive at the LTV to CAC ratio, we divide LTV by CAC.

 

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To illustrate our successful customer acquisition strategy, we have included charts below that compare the LTV to CAC ratio of the quarterly cohorts we acquired and tracked from January 1, 2019 to March 31, 2021. A cohort refers to the DTC customers grouped in the quarter in which they first placed an order. This cohort analysis tracks those groups by examining their spend in the first quarter they were acquired and their cumulative gross contribution in each calendar quarter thereafter. Each cohort’s spend is multiplied by the gross margins to arrive at the gross contribution of that cohort. This gross contribution is divided by the cohort size LTV which is then divided by the CAC in the respective quarter to arrive at the ratios below.

 

 

LOGO

As shown in the table above, for all quarters across the 2020 and 2021 cohorts, our LTV to CAC ratio is greater than one, making us first quarter profitable on new customer acquisitions. Our more recent cohorts have similar behavior in spending to our prior cohorts. In each cohort, our LTV to CAC consistently grew as our newly acquired customers continued to purchase from us, growing the LTV of our customers. From January 1, 2019 to March 31, 2021, our CAC has fluctuated from quarter-to-quarter based on the timing of our brand campaigns; however, despite fluctuations, our CAC has remained consistently efficient.

 

LOGO

The graph above demonstrates that we have highly efficient customer acquisition with strong, compelling LTV to CAC ratios over time. Our LTV to CAC ratios are a testament to our ability to acquire and retain customers efficiently and profitably. Maintaining our efficient acquisition and strong customer value will be critical to our profitable growth in the future.

 

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Ability to Engage and Retain Our Existing Customers

Our success is impacted not only by efficient and profitable customer acquisition, but also by our ability to retain customers and encourage repeat purchases. In 2020, 45.6% of our DTC sales were generated from new, first-time purchasers versus 54.4% from existing customers. We deepen our relationships with our customers and drive retention by engaging them with digital health content and educational resources. Usage of our products and engaging with our content has resulted in our strong annual DTC retention rate of 68% in 2020. We calculate annual retention rate by subtracting the number of customers acquired during the period from the number of purchasing customers at the end of the period and dividing that number by the number of customers at the start of the period. Out of our total 2020 DTC sales, nearly one-third were recurring subscription sales. We expect the growth in net sales in each year to continue as we generate and grow sales from existing customers and from newly acquired customers.

Health Professionals

Our network of 42,000 health professionals helps serve two key purposes. First, it allows us to distinguish our brand by offering both credibility and validation to patients at times when the industry has struggled with trust. Secondly, health professionals carry, promote and distribute our products to consumers. Based on a 2018 survey conducted with 1,188 consumers, primary care physicians were identified as the most common entry point for supplement category consumers with nearly 60% of patients looking to their primary care providers when considering which supplements to buy. Therefore, retention and expansion of our professional network is important to our strategy.

 

 

LOGO

As seen in the chart above, in 2020, our annual retention rate of health professionals was 85.3%, up from 74.1% in 2018.

Ability to Invest

We expect to continue to make investments across our business to drive growth and therefore we expect expenses to increase. We plan to continue to invest in sales and marketing to drive demand for our products and services. We expect to continue to invest in research and development to enhance our platform, develop new nutritional supplements, expand our testing portfolio, grow our multi-omics database and AI capabilities and improve our brand ecosystem’s infrastructure.

Ability to Grow in New Geographies

Entering new geographic markets requires us to invest in distribution and marketing, infrastructure and personnel. Our international growth will depend on our ability to sell in international markets. In 2020, we shipped to 37

 

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countries. We believe capital investment coupled with our regulatory expertise will lead to promising results. However, international sales are dependent upon local regulations and custom practices, which both change continuously.

Components of our Operating Results

Net Sales

Our net sales consist of sales of our nutritional supplements, health tests and sales associated with our services leveraging our AI and multi-omics databases, such as product development services. We recognize net sales when control over the product has transferred to customers in accordance with our revenue recognition policy.

Cost of Sales

Cost of sales consists of depreciation and amortization, product and packaging costs, including manufacturing costs, inventory freight, testing costs of all raw materials and finished goods, inventory shrinkage costs and inventory valuation adjustments, offset by reductions for promotions and percentage or volume rebates offered by our vendors, which may depend on reaching minimum purchase thresholds. We expect cost of sales to increase on an absolute dollar basis and improve as a percentage of net sales over the long term.

Operating Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses consist of

 

   

sales and marketing;

 

   

research and development;

 

   

payroll and related expenses for employees involved in general corporate functions, including accounting, finance, tax, legal and human resources;

 

   

costs associated with use by these functions, such as depreciation expense and rent relating to facilities and equipment;

 

   

professional fees and other general corporate costs;

 

   

stock-based compensation; and

 

   

fulfillment costs.

Marketing expenses consist of performance marketing media spend, asset creation, and other brand creation, as well as sales and marketing personnel-related expenses. We intend to continue to invest in our sales and marketing capabilities in the future and expect this increase in absolute dollars in future periods as we release new products and expand internationally. Sales and marketing expense as a percentage of net sales may fluctuate from period to period based on net sales and the timing of our investments in our sales and marketing functions as these investments may vary in scope and scale over future periods.

Our research and development expenses support our efforts to add new features to our existing solutions and to ensure the reliability and scalability of our product development and testing. Research and development expenses consist of personnel expenses, including salaries, bonuses, stock-based compensation expense and benefits for employees and contractors for our engineering, product, and design teams and allocated overhead costs. We have expensed our research and development costs as they were incurred, except those costs that have been capitalized as software development costs.

We plan to hire employees for our science and engineering team to support our research and development efforts. We expect that research and development expenses will increase on an absolute dollar basis in the foreseeable future as we continue to increase investments in our technology platform. However, our research and development expenses may fluctuate as a percentage of revenue from period to period due to the timing and amount of these expenses.

 

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Fulfillment costs represent costs incurred in operating, manufacturing, staffing order fulfillment and customer service teams, including costs attributable to buying, receiving, inspecting and warehousing inventories, picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment, payment processing and related transaction costs and responding to inquiries from customers. Included within fulfillment costs are merchant processing fees charged by third parties that provide merchant processing services for credit cards.

We expect to incur additional expenses as a result of operating as a public company, including expenses to comply with the rules and regulations applicable to companies listed on the Nasdaq, expenses related to compliance and reporting obligations pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC, as well as higher expenses for general and director and officer insurance, investor relations and professional services. We also anticipate that fulfillment costs will fluctuate as a percentage of net sales over the long term. Overall, as we continue to grow as a company, we expect that our selling, general and administrative costs will increase on an absolute dollar basis but decrease as a percentage of net sales over the long term.

Interest expense, net

Interest expense, net consists primarily of interest earned on cash we hold. We expect interest expense, net to increase in the future in connection with any borrowings under the new revolving credit facility.

Income Tax Provision

Our income tax provision consists of an estimate of federal and state income taxes based on enacted federal and state tax rates, as adjusted for allowable credits, deductions and uncertain tax positions. Because we have experienced net losses we have fully reserved for all deferred tax assets and liabilities. Our income tax provision consists of cash taxes paid during the year in review.

 

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Results of Operations

The following table summarizes our results of operations for each of the periods indicated:

 

     Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
     Three Months
March 31,
 
     2019      2020      2020      2021  
     (in thousands except per share amounts)  

Net Sales

   $ 102,532      $ 138,455      $ 33,144      $ 44,484  

Cost of sales

     57,789        73,667        17,964        21,247  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross profit

     44,743        64,788        15,180        23,237  

Operating expenses:

           

Research and development

     3,899        4,225        990        907  

Selling, general, and administrative

     54,751        59,548        13,981        15,476  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

     (13,907      1,015        209        6,854  

Other expense (income):

           

Interest expense, net

     406        1,125        618        283  

Guarantee fees

     298        243        86        139  

Change in fair value of warrant liability

     1,992        1,912        478        1,628  

Other expense (income), net

     (44      2                
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other expense, net

     2,652        3,282        1,182        2,050  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes and loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (16,559      (2,267      (973      4,804  

Income tax expense

     33        177        1        41  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss) before loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (16,592      (2,444      (974      4,763  

Loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     1,625        1,510        203        57  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

     (18,217      (3,954      (1,177      4,706  

Net income (loss) - non-controlling interest

     (1,492      (596      (489       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

     (16,725      (3,358      (688      4,706  

Deemed Dividends

     (4,813                     

Undistributed earnings attributable to Series E convertible preferred stockholders

     —          —          —          (4,706
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders

     (21,538      (3,358      (688      —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) per share:

           

Basic

   $ (1,221    $ (150    $ (39      —    

Diluted

   $ (1,221    $ (150    $ (39      —    

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

           

Basic

     17,638        22,440        17,638        39,663  

Diluted

     17,638        22,440        17,638        39,663  

Net sales

Net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by $11.3 million, or 34.2%, to $44.5 million compared to $33.1 million for the same period in 2020. This growth was largely driven by an increase in our DTC customers. The introduction of new innovative products along with a continued increase in demand for our immune suite products helped drive sales and new customers, while the expansion of our health evaluations with quizzes and tests increased the conversion of those participants to new customers.

Net sales for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 increased by $35.9 million, or 35.0%, to $138.5 million compared to $102.5 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This growth was largely driven by growth in our DTC customers. Our DTC sales were $53.7 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 compared to $34.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, which represents 53.9% year-over-year growth. The introduction of new innovative products along with an increase in demand for our immune suite products helped drive sales and new customers, while the expansion of our health evaluations with quizzes and tests increased the conversion of those new customers.

 

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Cost of Sales and Gross Profit

The following table summarizes our cost of goods sold and gross profit for the periods indicated (in thousands except percentage figures):

 

     Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
    Change     Percent
Change
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
    Change     Percent
Change
 
     2019     2020     2020     2021  

Net Sales

   $ 102,532     $ 138,455     $ 35,923       35.0   $ 33,144     $ 44,484     $ 11,340       34.2

Cost of sales

     57,789       73,667       15,878       27.5     17,964       21,247       3,283       18.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Percent of net sales

     56.4     53.2     (3.2 )%      (5.6 )%      54.2     47.8     (6.4 )%      (11.9 )% 

Gross profit

   $ 44,743     $ 64,788     $ 20,045       44.8   $ 15,180     $ 23,237     $ 8,057       53.1

Percent of net sales

     43.6     46.8     3.2     7.2     45.8     52.2     6.4     14.1

Cost of sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by $3.3 million, or 18.3%, to $21.2 million compared to $18.0 million for the same period in 2020. This increase in cost of sales was primarily due to a 34.2% increase in net sales and associated product costs, partially offset by additional efficiencies in our manufacturing processes, including increased capacity, increased batch sizes and improved fixed cost leverage. The increase in cost of sales was lower than the increase in revenues on a percentage basis, primarily due to lower production costs.

Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by $8.1 million, or 53.1%, to $23.2 million compared to $15.2 million for the same period in 2020. This increase was primarily due to the increase in net sales described above and additional efficiencies in our manufacturing processes, including increased capacity, increased batch sizes and improved fixed cost leverage. Gross profit as a percentage of sales for the first three months of 2021 increased by 14.1% compared to the same period of 2020.

Cost of sales for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 increased by $15.9 million, or 27.5%, to $73.7 million compared to $57.8 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This increase in cost of sales was primarily due to a 35.0% increase in net sales and associated product costs, partially offset by a reduction of our cost to manufacture our products. The increase in cost of sales was lower than the increase in revenues on a percentage basis, primarily due to lower production costs.

Gross profit for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 increased by $20.0 million, or 44.8%, to $64.8 million compared to $44.7 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This increase was primarily due to an increase in net sales as described above as well as obtaining efficiencies operating, including increased capacity and increased batch sizes. Gross profit as a percentage of sales for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 increased by 7.2% compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.

 

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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

The following table summarizes our selling, general and administrative expenses for periods indicated: (in thousands except percentage figures):

 

     Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
                Three Months Ended
March 31,
             
     2019     2020     Change     Percent
Change
    2020     2021     Change     Percent
Change
 

Total operating expenses

   $ 58,650     $ 63,773     $ 5,123       8.7   $ 14,971     $ 16,383     $ 1,412       9.4

Percent of net sales

     57.2     46.1     (11.1 )%      (19.5 )%      45.2     36.8     (8.3 )%      (18.5 )% 

Marketing

   $ 9,792     $ 11,151     $ 1,359       13.9   $ 1,551     $ 4,239     $ 2,688       173.3

Percent of net sales

     9.6     8.1     (1.5 )%      (15.7 )%      4.7     9.5     4.8     103.6

Research and development

   $ 3,899     $ 4,225     $ 326       8.4   $ 990     $ 907     $ (83     (8.4 )% 

Percent of net sales

     3.8     3.1     (0.8 )%      (19.8 )%      3.0     2.0     (0.9 )%      (31.7 )% 

Other operating expenses

     44,959       48,397       3,438       7.6     12,430       11,237       (1,193     (9.6 )% 

Percent of net sales

     43.8     35.0     (8.9 )%      (20.3 )%      37.5     25.3     (12.2 )%      (32.6 )% 

Total selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by $1.4 million, or 9.4%, to $16.4 million compared to $15.0 million for the same period in 2020. This increase was primarily due to an increase in marketing expenses. Marketing expenses for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 increased by $2.7 million, or 173.3%, to $4.2 million, compared to $1.6 million for the same period in 2020. The increase was primarily due to our investment in paid, working media. The increased investment in our paid media efforts is part of our mission to increase brand awareness and spread our message to reach and acquire more consumers, particularly to the Thorne website. Research and development expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 decreased by $0.1 million, or 8.4%, to $0.9 million compared to $1.0 million for the same period in 2020. The decrease was primarily due to the timing associated with spending on new product development and clinical trial investments.

Total selling, general and administrative expenses for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 increased by $5.1 million, or 8.7%, to $63.8 million compared to $58.6 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This increase was primarily due to an increase in marketing expenses, research and development and headcount focused on research and medical support. Marketing expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 increased by $1.4 million, or 13.9%, to $11.2 million, compared to $9.8 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The increase was primarily due to our investment in paid, working media year-over-year. The increased investment in our paid media efforts is part of our mission to increase the brand awareness and spread our message to reach more and acquire more consumers. Research and development expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 increased by $0.3 million, or 8.4%, to $4.2 million compared to $3.9 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The increase was primarily due to an increase in new product development and clinical trial investments.

Interest Expense, Net

The following table summarizes our interest expense, net for the periods indicated: (in thousands except percentage figures):

 

     Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
                Three Months Ended
March 31,
             
     2019     2020     Change     Percent
Change
    2020     2021     Change     Percent
Change
 

Interest expense, net

   $ 406     $ 1,125     $ 719       177.1   $ 618     $ 283     $ (335     (54.2 )% 

Percent of net sales

     0.4     0.8     0.4     105.2     1.9     0.6     (1.2 )%      (65.9 )% 

 

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Interest expense, net for the three months ended March 31, 2021 decreased by $0.3 million, or 54.2%, to $0.3 million compared to $0.6 million for the same period in 2020. This decrease was primarily due to the lower interest rate associated with a $20.0 million loan obtained beginning in February 2020 and repayment of our existing loan.

Interest expense, net for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 increased by $0.7 million, or 175.0%, to $1.1 million compared to $0.4 in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This increase was primarily due to additional borrowing from banks that increased from $11.2 million to $20.0 million beginning in February 2020.

Quarterly Results of Operations and Key Metrics

Quarterly Trends

Since we moved into our new facility and moved nearly all production in-house which, did not fully occur until the first three months of 2020, our financial results have been consistently improving with significant positive growth in earnings, free cash flow and sales. We believe that our 2020 results more accurately reflect our business on a go forward basis now that we are in control of manufacturing, which allows us to focus spending on marketing, new product development and growth opportunities.

Our 2019 financial performance was significantly impacted by the continued efforts dedicated to the move of our manufacturing and distribution facility from Idaho to South Carolina. This move was necessary to meet the significant increase in demand of products. In 2019, the move had a negative impact of $5.2 million on earnings. In connection with the move, we also incurred retention costs and additional expenses with hiring and training. Moving facilities required that we outsource production for up to 30% of our products, which increased our variable cost of sales by $5.0 million in 2019. Due to outsourcing, we spread our fixed production costs across a lower production volume, further impacting margins.

Net Sales

Our revenue is generally not materially impacted by seasonal fluctuations. Our first three months are typically strong because our customers implement New Year’s resolutions. In addition, sales from health professionals tend to slow in the summer months as they go on vacation. Subscription revenue increased in each of the quarters presented above primarily due to new DTC customer growth and high retention rates.

Cost of Sales

Our cost of sales has fluctuated in line with our revenue for all periods presented due primarily to costs associated with sales of our products.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses is relatively stable and tends to increase based on marketing and research and development expenditures. Research and development expense increased primarily due to new product development and clinical trials. We have focused our research and development efforts on fewer products that will have a larger positive impact on net sales, and help maintain manufacturing efficiencies. Sales and marketing expense fluctuate quarterly based on the timing of brand marketing campaign investments; however, generally marketing as a percentage of sales remains relatively constant over time. Variations in quarter-to-quarter expenses are driven by fluctuations in paid media spend.

 

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

Revolving Credit Line.

On February 14, 2020, we entered into an Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement, by and among us as the borrower and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) as the lender (2020 Credit Agreement). Under the 2020 Credit Agreement, we borrowed $20.0 million in loans, the maximum amount available. We used the proceeds of these loans to pay the Series D dividend discussed below, plus accrued interest, totaling approximately $3.3 million, to repay our outstanding $3.1 million loan from Kirin and we used the balance of the proceeds, totaling approximately $13.9 million, to repay the principal and accrued interest on our loan with SunTrust Bank.

Our obligations under the 2020 Credit Agreement were guaranteed by Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin) and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui). We paid each guarantor an annual fee equal to two percent of $10 million for such guarantees annually and upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of our company. Under the Fee Letter dated February 14, 2020 between us and Mitsui (2020 Mitsui Fee Letter), we also agreed to reimburse Mitsui in cash for any amounts that Mitsui paid under its guarantee of the 2020 Credit Agreement. However, if we were not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Mitsui, then we and Mitsui agreed to deem such unreimbursed amount to have been made for the benefit of our company in consideration for our debt or equity securities on terms reasonably satisfactory to Mitsui and us. We paid the Series D dividend plus accrued interest for a total of $3.3 million in February 2020.

Under the Fee Letter dated February 14, 2020 between us and Kirin (2020 Kirin Fee Letter), we agreed to reimburse Kirin in cash for any amounts that Kirin paid under its guarantee of the 2020 Credit Agreement. If we were not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Kirin, however, then we and Kirin agreed to deem such unreimbursed amount to have been made for our benefit in consideration for our debt or equity securities on terms reasonably satisfactory to Kirin and us.

In February 2021, we replaced and refinanced the 2020 Credit Agreement and all loans outstanding thereunder with a new uncommitted revolving credit line from SMBC having substantially similar terms, as further described below and under Note 21 to our consolidated financial statements.

On February 12, 2021, we entered into an Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement, by and among us as the borrower and SMBC as the lender (2021 Credit Agreement), to refinance and replace the 2020 Credit Agreement. The terms of the 2021 Credit Agreement are substantially similar to the terms of the 2020 Credit Agreement. Under the 2021 Credit Agreement, SMBC may in its sole discretion elect to make unsecured loans to us until February 11, 2022, in an aggregate principal amount up to but not exceeding $20.0 million at any time. Each loan made under the 2021 Credit Agreement may have a maturity date that is not less than one day and not more than twelve months after the date that such loan is disbursed, as we and SMBC may mutually agree. SMBC may, in its sole discretion at any time, terminate in whole or partially reduce the unused portion of the credit line under the 2021 Credit Agreement. SMBC is not obligated to make any loan under the 2021 Credit Agreement.

We may prepay any outstanding loans under the 2021 Credit Agreement in whole or in part at any time without penalty, other than customary breakfunding or additional costs as determined by SMBC. As of February 12, 2021, we have fully drawn down $20.0 million under the 2021 Credit Agreement to refinance our outstanding loans under the 2020 Credit Agreement. As a result, under the $20.0 million maximum credit line, no additional amount is available to be borrowed.

A loan under the 2021 Credit Agreement bears interest at a per annum rate quoted by SMBC and agreed to by us when such loan is made. Interest on a loan is payable in arrears on the maturity date of such loan. Principal of a loan is due on such loan’s maturity date. We are also obligated to pay other expenses and indemnities customary for a credit facility of this size and type.

 

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Our obligations under the 2021 Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Kirin and Mitsui. We pay each guarantor an annual fee equal to 1.20% of each of their $10 million guarantees annually and upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of the Company. Under the Fee Letter dated February 12, 2021 between us and Mitsui (2021 Mitsui Fee Letter), we also agree to reimburse Mitsui in cash for any amounts that Mitsui pays under its guarantee of the 2021 Credit Agreement. However, if we are not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Mitsui, then we and Mitsui may agree to deem such unreimbursed amount to be made for our benefit in consideration for our debt or equity securities on terms reasonably satisfactory to Mitsui and us.

Under the Fee Letter dated February 12, 2021 between us and Kirin (2021 Kirin Fee Letter), we agreed to reimburse Kirin in cash for any amounts that Kirin pays under its guarantee of the 2021 Credit Agreement. If we are not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Kirin, however, then we and Kirin may agree to deem such unreimbursed amount to be made for our benefit in consideration for our debt or equity securities on terms reasonably satisfactory to Kirin and us. After the closing of this offering, we intend to negotiate with SMBC to pay off our existing debt under the 2021 Credit Agreement. If we pay off our existing debt under the 2021 Credit Agreement, then the related Mitsui and Kirin guarantees may also be released and terminated. There is no guarantee, however, that our negotiations will be successful.

The 2021 Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative covenants, including covenants regarding the payment of taxes and other obligations, maintenance of insurance, reporting requirements and compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and customary negative covenants limiting our ability, among other things, to merge or consolidate, dispose of all or substantially all of its assets, liquidate or dissolve, and grant liens, subject to certain exceptions. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an event of default, SMBC may declare all outstanding principal of, and accrued and unpaid interest on, loans made under the 2021 Credit Agreement immediately due and payable and may exercise the other rights and remedies provided for under the 2021 Credit Agreement and related loan documents. The events of default under the 2021 Credit Agreement include, subject to grace periods in certain instances, payment defaults, cross defaults with certain other material indebtedness, certain material judgments, breaches of covenants or representations and warranties, change in control of our company, a material adverse change as defined in the 2021 Credit Agreement, and certain bankruptcy and insolvency events.

On June 2, 2020, we entered into an Unconditional Guaranty (the Truist Guaranty), pursuant to which we guaranteed the obligations of our subsidiary, Thorne Research, Inc., owing to Truist Bank. In 2020, this Truist Guaranty was terminated.

The foregoing description of the 2021 and 2020 Credit Agreements, the 2021 and 2020 Mitsui Fee Letters, and 2021 Kirin Fee Letters and Truist Guaranty does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the 2021 and 2020 Credit Agreements, the 2021 and 2020 Mitsui Fee Letters and 2021 Kirin Fee Letters attached hereto as exhibits.

Letter of Credit Reimbursement Agreement.

On October 31, 2018, we entered into a Reimbursement Agreement with SMBC (LC Reimbursement Agreement), under which we may request SMBC to issue up to $4.9 million in letters of credit in the aggregate and we agree to reimburse SMBC for any drawings under such letters of credit. Our obligations under the LC Reimbursement Agreement are guaranteed by Kirin and Mitsui. We pay each guarantor an annual fee equal to twelve-month LIBOR plus 3.0% of $2,450,000 for such guarantees annually and upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of our company. In light of the future cessation of LIBOR interest rates, we are discussing with Kirin and Mitsui shifting to a SOFR based rate on terms yet to be negotiated. The twelve-month LIBOR rate was last set on February 12, 2021. Under the Fee Letter dated November 30, 2018 between us and Mitsui (2018 Mitsui Fee Letter), amounts paid by Mitsui under its guarantee shall be deemed made for our benefit in consideration for our debt or equity securities on terms reasonably satisfactory to Mitsui and us. Under the Fee Letter dated November 30, 2018 between us and Kirin

 

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(2018 Kirin Fee Letter), amounts paid by Kirin under its guarantee shall be deemed made for our benefit in consideration for our debt or equity securities on terms reasonably satisfactory to Kirin and us.

The LC Reimbursement Agreement contains customary affirmative covenants, including covenants regarding the payment of taxes and other obligations, reporting requirements and compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and customary negative covenants limiting our ability, among other things, to merge or consolidate, dispose of all or substantially all of its assets, liquidate or dissolve. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an event of default, SMBC may declare all outstanding obligations owing under the LC Reimbursement Agreement immediately due and payable and may exercise the other rights and remedies provided for under the LC Reimbursement Agreement and related documents. The events of default under the LC Reimbursement Agreement include, subject to grace periods in certain instances, payment defaults, cross defaults with other indebtedness, certain material judgments, breaches of covenants or representations and warranties, a material adverse effect as defined in the LC Reimbursement Agreement and certain bankruptcy and insolvency events.

To support the obligation of our subsidiary, Thorne Research, Inc., to make a security deposit under its lease in Summerville, South Carolina, SMBC has issued an irrevocable standby letter of credit pursuant to the LC Reimbursement Agreement in the amount of $4.9 million with an original expiration date of December 3, 2019 and automatic renewals until October 31, 2037. This letter of credit has an annual fee of $19,946. The guarantee fee expense for this letter of credit under the 2018 Mitsui Fee Letter and the 2018 Kirin Fee Letter for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were $297,920 and $297,920, respectively. All of these guarantee fees are included in the financial expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. After the closing of this offering, we intend to negotiate with the applicable landlord to attempt to remove the requirement for such letter of credit. If we succeed in negotiating such removal or a replacement credit support, then the related supporting Mitsui and Kirin guarantees may also not be required. There is no guarantee, however, that the applicable landlord will agree to remove the letter of credit or to accept an alternative, replacement credit support.

Copies of the LC Reimbursement Agreement, 2018 Mitsui Fee Letter and 2018 Kirin Fee Letter are attached hereto as exhibits. The foregoing description of the LC Reimbursement Agreement, 2018 Mitsui Fee Letter and 2018 Kirin Fee Letter does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the LC Reimbursement Agreement, 2018 Mitsui Fee Letter and 2018 Kirin Fee Letter.

Cash Flows

Operating Activities

Cash provided by operating activities consisted of net loss adjusted for non-cash items, including depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, change in fair value of warrant liability and certain other non-cash items, as well as the effect of changes in working capital and other activities.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, net cash provided by operating activities was $8.8 million, primarily consisting of net income of $4.7 million plus depreciation and amortization expense of $1.0 million, $0.5 million of stock-based compensation expense and a $1.6 million change in fair value of warrant liability. Working capital increased by $0.4 million primary due to an increase in inventory offset by an increase in accounts payable.

For the three months ended March 31, 2020, net cash provided by operating activities was $3.0 million, primarily consisting of a net loss of $1.1 million, depreciation and amortization expense of $1.0 million, $3.1 million of stock-based compensation expense and a $1.0 million change in fair value of warrant liability. Working capital decreased by $1.6 million primarily due to a decrease in accounts receivable of $1.3 million, offset by a decrease in accounts payable of $1.1 million

Net cash provided by operating activities was $17.1 million for 2020, primarily consisting of $4.0 million of net loss adjusted for certain non-cash items, which primarily included depreciation and

 

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amortization expense of $4.3 million and $10.0 million of stock-based compensation expense, non-cash lease expense of $5.3 million, change in fair value of warrant liability of $1.9 million as well as a $2.3 million decrease in cash provided by a reduction in working capital primarily driven by a decrease in our operating lease liabilities and accounts receivable and increase in accounts payable.

Net cash used in operating activities was $7.6 million for 2019, primarily consisting of $18.2 million of net loss, adjusted for certain non-cash items, which primarily included depreciation and amortization expense of $4.6 million and $12.2 million of stock-based compensation expense, as well as a $12.5 million decrease in cash consumed by working capital primarily driven by an increase in our inventory, accounts receivable and payable.

Investing Activities

Our primary investing activities consisted of purchases of property and equipment, mainly to increase our manufacturing and fulfillment capabilities to support our growth, as well as leasehold improvements. Use of cash for investing activities also includes payments to support agreements with non-consolidated subsidiaries and the purchase and use of certain license and research agreements.

Net cash used in investing activities was $3.7 million for 2020, primarily consisting of investing in unconsolidated subsidiary and equity method investments of $1.4 million, capital spending to support our growth of $1.2 million and the entry into certain licensing and research agreements with Mayo Clinic of $1.1 million.

Net cash used in investing activities was $4.2 million for fiscal year 2019, primarily consisting of $1.7 million of capital expenditures to support our growth, investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries of $1.3 million and the purchase of certain licensing and research agreements with Mayo Clinic of $1.3 million.

Financing Activities

Net cash provided by financing activities was $1.4 million for 2020, primarily consisting of a $20.0 million revolving line of credit from SMBC and the exercise of certain warrants by our stockholders, offset by $11.2 million of principal repayments to SunTrust Bank, the exercise of certain stock options that were set to expire, the repurchase of common stock from management, payment of a one-time deal flow dividend of $3.0 million to Mitsui, and a one-time loan from Kirin during plant construction of $3.0 million, both of which are current stockholders.

Net cash provided by financing activities was $11.7 million for 2019, primarily consisting of borrowing $8.8 million on our line of credit and a one-time loan from Kirin of $3.0 million.

Contractual Obligations and Other Commitments

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of March 31, 2021 (in thousands):

 

    

Payments Due by Period

 
    

Total

    

<1 Year

    

1-3 Years

    

3-5 Years

    

>5 Years

 

Operating Lease Obligations

   $ 58,759      $ 3,960      $ 12,208      $ 6,885      $ 35,706  

Finance Lease Obligations

     1,037        295        687        55         

Line of Credit

     20,000        20,000                       

Notes Payable

     1,399        296        1,103                
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 78,755      $ 6,085      $ 28,204      $ 5,849      $ 38,617  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

We lease all of our manufacturing and distribution facilities, corporate offices and certain equipment under non-cancelable operating and finance leases. These leases expire at various dates through 2047.

 

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Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

We currently do not have, and did not have during the periods presented, any off-balance sheet arrangements.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Market Risk Disclosure

We do not hold market risk-sensitive trading instruments, nor do we use financial instruments for trading purposes. All sales, operating items and balance sheet data are denominated in U.S. dollars; therefore, we have no significant foreign currency exchange rate risk.

We use many different commodities such as Vitamin C and Vitamin D. Commodities are subject to price volatility caused by commodity market fluctuations, supply and demand and currency fluctuations. Commodity price increases will result in increases in raw material costs and operating costs.

In the ordinary course of our business, we enter into commitments to purchase raw materials over a period of time, generally six months or less at contracted prices. At December 31, 2020, these future commitments were not at prices in excess of current market, or in quantities in excess of normal requirements. We do not utilize derivative contracts either to hedge existing risks or for speculative purposes.

Interest Rate Risk

We invest excess cash in variable income investments consisting of cash equivalents. The magnitude of the interest income generated by these cash equivalents is affected by market interest rates. We do not use marketable securities or derivative financial instruments in our investment portfolio.

The interest payable on our bank line of credit is based on variable interest rates and therefore is affected by changes in market interest rates.

Currency Risk

During 2020, we did not sell any product or services for payment in currency other than U.S. dollars.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP). The preparation of our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, costs and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities in our financial statements. We base our estimates on historical experience, known trends and events, and various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis. Our actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

While our significant accounting policies are described in more detail in the notes to our consolidated financial statements appearing at the end of this prospectus, we believe that the following accounting policies are those most critical to the judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.

 

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Revenue Recognition

On January 1, 2019 we adopted ASC 606 using the modified retrospective method for all contracts not completed as of the date of adoption. Revenues for 2019 are presented under ASC 606, while 2018 revenues are not adjusted and continue to be reported under the accounting standards for 2018.

Under ASC 606, we account for revenue using the following steps:

 

   

identify the contract, or contracts with a customer;

 

   

identify the performance obligations in the contract;

 

   

determine the transaction price;

 

   

allocate the transaction price to the identified performance obligations; and

 

   

recognize revenue when, or as, we satisfy the performance obligations.

We recognize revenues when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to its customers in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. We consider several factors in determining that control transfers to the customer upon shipment. These factors include that legal title transfers to the customer, we have a present right to payment, and the customer has assumed the risks and rewards of ownership at the time of shipment. Shipping and handling costs are considered a fulfillment activity and are expensed as incurred. Our standard business practice is to collect upfront payment for its products for direct to consumer sales and to recognize a receivable for sales to distributors when the performance obligation is satisfied.

Certain distributors resell our products in online marketplaces, however no inventories are held on consignment; revenue is recognized when control of the goods is transferred to these customers which is typically at the time of shipment. The terms of payment over the recognized receivables from distributors are less than one year and therefore these sales do not have any significant financing components. We use standard business practices and standard price lists in determining the transaction price. Any discounts stated or implied are allocated entirely to the sole performance obligation. We primarily sell to customers throughout the United States but also sell to international markets. Regardless of customer location, all customer payments are required to be made in U.S. dollars. Given the inherent nature of selling to international markets, there is a risk of higher volatility pertaining to collecting payment on account; however, we review each customer account for collectability and provides for probable uncollectible amounts through a charge to earnings and a credit to a valuation allowance based on its assessment. This process of assessing for collectability is performed for all on account customers, both international and domestic.

We have elected to exclude sales tax for non-exempt customers from the transaction price and is therefore excluded from revenue. For certain sales, we incur incremental costs of obtaining the contract through the form of sales commissions. The sales commissions incurred are directly correlated to the sales generated and are therefore expensed as incurred as the amortization period of the asset that otherwise would have been recognized is one year or less.

We also have a variable consideration element related to most of our contracts in the form of product return rights. If a customer is not satisfied for any reason with a product purchased, the customer can return it to the place of purchase to receive a refund, a credit or a replacement product. If the customer purchased the product on Amazon, the product must be returned to Amazon and if purchased through our website, returned to us. The request must be submitted within 60 days of the date of purchase. We analyze all returns and, as of the balance sheet date, and record a sales return accrual within accrued liabilities for the amount we expect to credit back to our customers based on our analysis.

 

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With regard to our subscription offering, we offer our customers the ability to opt into recurring automatic refills on both Thorne.com and Amazon.com. We recognize revenue under our subscription program when product is shipped to the consumer. No funds are collected at the time a consumer signs up for a subscription and the customer can cancel or modify a subscription at any time and no cost. The discount offered under the subscription plan reduces revenue at the time the product ships to the customer. On our website, we allow customers to subscribe monthly, every 45 days, every two months, every three months, or every four months. For all these frequencies, we offer a 10% discount on retail refill orders. On Amazon, the discount ranges from 5% to 10% depending on the number of products to which a customer is subscribed; the average discount on Amazon for our subscriptions is approximately 8%.

There are no material differences in our revenue recognition policy between the DTC subscription program and the DTC transaction program.

Stock-Based Compensation

We measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of stock-based compensation based on the grant-date calculated value of the award. We use historical volatility based on an industry sector index as an input in the Black-Scholes option pricing model. No compensation cost is recognized for awards that are forfeited prior to vesting. Compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the total requisite service period of each award or as performance conditions are met. We did not make any option grants in 2019 or 2020 or in the first three months of 2021.

As recorded in our stock-based compensation expense in our consolidated financial statements, certain members of management entered into an agreement with us whereby certain members of management received a put right from us, in which management could receive cash from the Company for the fair value of 5,704 common stock options, with an exercise price of $380 per share. Per the terms of this agreement, the fair value to be paid in cash equaled the fair value of the underlying common stock less the exercise price of the stock options. These put rights expired in 2020.

Warrant Liability

We determine the accounting classification of a warrant, as either liability or equity, by first assessing whether the warrant meets liability classification in accordance with ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (ASC 480), and then in accordance with ASC 815-40, Accounting for Derivative Financial Instruments Indexed to, and Potentially Settled in, a Company’s Own Stock (ASC 815-40). If the warrant does not meet liability classification under ASC 480, we assess the requirements under ASC 815-40, including whether the warrant is indexed to our common stock and whether the warrant meets the other requirements to be classified as equity under ASC 815-40. After all relevant assessments are made, we conclude whether the warrant should be classified as liability or equity.

We have warrants that are classified as a liability on our consolidated balance sheet. The warrants classified as a liability are measured at fair value using the Black-Scholes pricing model which takes into account, as of the valuation date, factors including the current exercise price, the contractual life of the warrant, the current fair value of the underlying stock, its expected volatility, and the risk-free interest rate for the term of the warrant. The warrant liability is revalued at each reporting period and changes in fair value are recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. The selection of the appropriate valuation model and the inputs and assumptions that are required to determine the valuation requires significant judgment and requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of the related liability and reported amounts of the change in fair value. Actual results could differ from those estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known. As the warrant liability is required to be measured at fair value at each reporting date, it is reasonably possible that these estimates and assumptions could change in the near term.

 

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Equity-Classified Warrants

We have common stock warrants that are equity-classified on our consolidated balance sheet. We concluded that these warrants do not meet the requirements to be accounted for as liability under ASC 480 as they are for a fixed number of shares and do not contain provisions that require us to cash-settle the warrants. Additionally, we determined that these warrants are indexed to our stock as they do not contain exercise contingencies or adjustments to exercise price that are not an input to a fixed-for-fixed model. The warrants also meet the other equity-classification criteria under ASC 815-40. Equity classified warrants are accounted for at fair value on the issuance date and are not remeasured every reporting period.

Common Stock Valuations

The fair value of our equity instruments has historically been determined based on information available at the time of granting. Given the absence of a public trading market for our equity, and in accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Practice Aid, Valuation of Privately Held Company Equity Securities Issued as Compensation, our management has exercised reasonable judgment and considered numerous objective and subjective factors to determine the best estimate of the fair value of our equity instruments at each grant date.

These factors included:

 

   

our operating and financial performance;

 

   

current business conditions and projections;

 

   

the lack of marketability of our shares;

 

   

using third party experts to support the valuation of the shares; and

 

   

the market performance of comparable publicly traded companies.

In valuing our equity instruments, we determined the equity value of our business using a weighted blend of the income and market approaches. The income approach estimates the fair value of a company based on the present value of such company’s future estimated cash flows and the residual value of such company beyond the forecast period. These future values are discounted to their present values to reflect the risks inherent in such company achieving these estimated cash flows.

Significant inputs of the income approach, in addition to our estimated future cash flows themselves, include the long-term growth rate assumed in the residual value, discount rate and normalized long-term operating margin. The terminal value was calculated to estimate our value beyond the forecast period by applying valuation metrics to the final year of our forecasted net sales and discounting that value to the present value using the same weighted average cost of capital applied to the forecasted periods.

Application of these approaches involves the use of estimates, judgment and assumptions that are highly complex and subjective, such as those regarding our expected future revenue, expenses and future cash flows, discount rates, market multiples, the selection of comparable companies and the probability of possible future events. Changes in any or all of these estimates and assumptions or the relationships between those assumptions impact our valuations as of each valuation date and may have a material impact on the valuation of our common stock.

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for using an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the consolidated financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based

 

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on the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets will not be realized. We recognize the tax benefit from uncertain tax positions if it is more likely than not the tax positions will be sustained on examination by the tax authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit is measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. Health Elements, LLC made a previous election to be taxed as a Subchapter C corporation. As such, a provision for income taxes has been made for our investment in this entity and is included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

In general, under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code), a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” is subject to limitations on its ability to utilize its NOLs to offset future taxable income. We may have undergone an ownership change in connection with our 2018 series E convertible stock financing. If we underwent an ownership change in 2018 or if we undergo an ownership change in connection with or after this offering, our NOLs arising before such an ownership change may be subject to one or more Section 382 limitations that materially limit the use of such NOLs to offset our taxable income. While we have not undertaken a Section 382 study to determine whether we have undergone any ownership changes in the past, we expect to complete one following this offering.

As of December 31, 2020, we had U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards (NOLs) and state NOLs of approximately $50.1 million and $51.3 million, respectively, due to prior period losses that if not utilized will begin to expire for federal and state purposes beginning in 2035. Realization of these NOLs depends on future income, and there is a risk that our existing NOLs could expire unused and be unavailable to offset future income tax liabilities, which could adversely affect our operating results.

In general, under Section 382 of the Code, a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” is subject to limitations on its ability to utilize its NOLs to offset future taxable income. We may have undergone an ownership change in connection with our 2018 series E convertible stock financing. In addition, this offering, as well as future changes in our stock ownership, the causes of which may be outside of our control, could result in an additional ownership change under Section 382 of the Code. If we underwent an ownership change in 2018 or if we undergo an ownership change in connection with or after this offering, our NOLs arising before such an ownership change may be subject to one or more Section 382 limitations that materially limit the use of such NOLs to offset our taxable income. While we have not undertaken a Section 382 study to determine whether we have undergone any ownership changes in the past, we expect to complete one following this offering. Our ability to utilize NOLs of companies that we have acquired or may acquire in the future may also be subject to limitations. Further, our NOLs may be impaired under state laws. In addition, under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Tax Act), as modified by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), NOLs arising in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2020 may not be carried back, and NOLs generated in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 may be carried forward indefinitely, but the deductibility of such NOLs generally will be limited in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2020 to 80% of the current year taxable income. This change may require us to pay federal income taxes in future years even if our NOLs were otherwise sufficient to offset our federal taxable income in such years. There is also a risk that due to regulatory changes, such as suspensions on the use of NOLs, or other unforeseen reasons, our existing NOLs could expire or otherwise be unavailable to offset future income tax liabilities. For these reasons, we may not be able to realize, in whole or in part, a tax benefit from the use of our NOLs, whether or not we attain profitability.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recently issued accounting pronouncements that we have adopted or are currently evaluating are included in Note 2, Recent Accounting Pronouncements, of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

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COVID-19 Pandemic

On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced a global health emergency because of a new strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) and the risks to the international community as the virus spreads globally. In March 2020, the WHO classified the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic.

We are a manufacturer of nutritional supplement products, a category of food that is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Based on guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and in particular, specific guidance therein regarding the food and agriculture industries, our manufacturing facility has been designated as “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers” and would therefore be exempt from any “shelter in place” restrictions that might be imposed by the State of South Carolina.

The full impact of the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve as of the date of this report. As such, it is uncertain as to the impact this pandemic on the Company’s financial condition. Management is actively monitoring the impact of this virus on its financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, customers and workforce.

Our consolidated financial statements presented herein reflect the latest estimates and assumptions made by management that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related disclosures as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods presented.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP. As a result of becoming a public company, we will be required, pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as amended, to furnish a report by our management on, among other things, the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting for the first fiscal year beginning after the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part or the date we are no longer an “emerging growth company” (EGC) as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (JOBS Act), if we take advantage (as we expect to do) of the exemptions for EGCs contained in the JOBS Act. This assessment will need to include disclosures of any material weaknesses identified by our management in our internal control over financial reporting.

In connection with the audits of our financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus, we identified material weaknesses related to:

 

   

an insufficient complement of personnel possessing the appropriate accounting and financial reporting knowledge and experience; and

 

   

we did not maintain effective controls relating to revenue recognition, accounting for significant and unusual transactions and our financial statement close process, which have not been remediated.

Under standards established by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, a material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected and corrected on a timely basis.

We are working to remediate the material weaknesses and are taking steps to strengthen our internal control over financial reporting through the hiring of additional finance and accounting personnel. With the

 

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additional personnel, we intend to take appropriate and reasonable steps to remediate these material weaknesses through the implementation of appropriate segregation of duties, formalization of accounting policies and controls and retention of appropriate expertise for complex accounting transactions. However, we cannot assure you that these measures will significantly improve or remediate the material weaknesses described above. As of March 31, 2021, the material weaknesses have not been remediated.

The actions that we are taking are subject to ongoing executive management review, and will also be subject to audit committee oversight. If we are unable to successfully remediate the material weakness, or if in the future, we identify further material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we may not detect errors on a timely basis and our financial statements may be materially misstated.

Emerging Growth Company and Smaller Reporting Company Status

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act. We will remain an emerging growth company until the earlier of (i) December 31, 2026 (the last day of the fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of our initial public offering), (ii) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have total annual gross revenue of at least $1.07 billion, (iii) the last day of the fiscal year in which we are deemed to be a “large accelerated filer,” as defined in the rules under the Exchange Act, and (iv) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt during the prior three-year period.

We have elected to take advantage of certain of the reduced disclosure obligations in this prospectus and may elect to take advantage of other reduced reporting requirements in our future filings with the SEC. As a result, the information that we provide to our stockholders may be different than you might receive from other public reporting companies in which you hold equity interests. In particular, Section 107 of the JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards. Thus, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. We have elected to avail ourselves of this extended transition period and, as a result, we will not adopt new or revised accounting standards on the relevant dates on which adoption of such standards is required for other public companies until required by private company accounting standards.

We are also a “smaller reporting company” meaning that the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates plus the proposed aggregate amount of gross proceeds to us as a result of this offering is less than $700 million and our annual revenue was less than $100 million during the most recently completed fiscal year. We may continue to be a smaller reporting company after this offering if either (i) the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates is less than $250 million or (ii) our annual revenue was less than $100 million during the most recently completed fiscal year and the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates is less than $700 million. If we are a smaller reporting company at the time we cease to be an emerging growth company, we may continue to rely on exemptions from certain disclosure requirements that are available to smaller reporting companies. Specifically, as a smaller reporting company we may choose to present only the two most recent fiscal years of audited financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and, similar to emerging growth companies, smaller reporting companies have reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation and other matters.

 

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BUSINESS

Our Purpose

We believe that a personalized and scientific approach to wellness can lead to happier and healthier lives. Our goal is to transform the consumer’s approach to health and wellness and empower our customers to live healthier longer, which we refer to as increased health span, through testing, teaching and proactive measures that help our customers avoid chronic health conditions before they occur and achieve peak performance.

Who We Are

We are a science-driven wellness company pioneering innovative solutions and personalized approaches to health and well-being. We are building a new health category to deliver better health outcomes through a proactive, empowered approach. Our unique, vertically integrated brands, Thorne and Onegevity, provide actionable insights and personalized data, products and services that help individuals take a proactive approach to improve and maintain their health over their lifetime. By combining our proprietary multi-omics database, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital health content with our science-backed nutritional supplements, we deliver a total system for wellness. We believe our integrated solution will redefine the expectations for good health and peak performance.

Founded in 1984, Thorne Research was a small company dedicated to being a “thorn” in the side of the traditional supplement industry by making the purest and highest quality nutritional supplements to sell to health professionals. With a vision for an unparalleled health ecosystem fueled by innovation and technology, our current Chief Executive Officer, Paul Jacobson, and his management team, acquired Thorne Research in 2010 and co-founded Onegevity. In early 2021, we completed our acquisition of Onegevity and combined these two complementary companies. During the past ten years, we have evolved to become a transformative consumer brand, trusted by more than 3,000,000 customers, 42,000 healthcare professionals, thousands of professional athletes, more than 100 professional sports teams and 11 U.S. Olympic teams.

We utilize testing and data to create improved product quality and deliver personalized solutions to consumers, health professionals and professional sports teams. We also help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies repurpose existing drugs and compounds, improve existing medications and develop new products. Today, consumers are faced with a healthcare system that is focused on the treatment of disease rather than a proactive approach to health and wellness. The supplement market is crowded with confusing products that lack clinical validation or brand equity. We have positioned our brands as a paradigm shift from a focus on the treatment of disease to a proactive approach to health and wellness. The benefits of focusing on health can include enhanced performance in daily life, longer health spans, younger biological ages and reduced reliance on the healthcare system and its associated costs. We have developed a subscription platform that seamlessly combines convenient and comprehensive testing methods, proprietary data, personalized wellness education and premium nutritional solutions to focus on the human body and its unique needs. Through our platform of innovative health solutions and proprietary technology, we are building a new category within the health and wellness market. Our total addressable market consists of the $167.8 billion global nutritional supplement market (as of 2019 and projected to have a CAGR of 9.0% through 2026, according to FNF Research), the $84.1 billion global digital health market (as of 2019 and projected to have a CAGR of 14.8% through 2026, according to FNF Research), the $69.8 billion drug discovery technology and service market (as of 2020 and projected to have a CAGR of 9.6% through 2025, according to BCC Research) and the $29.5 billion global clinical testing market (as of 2020 and projected to have a CAGR of 11.4% through 2025, according to TechSci Research).

Our novel approach seeks to resolve key pain points in the consumer health journey. Our model of test, teach, transform and iterate ensures that consumers are not only active participants in their healthcare, but also educated and empowered to navigate an overwhelming nutritional supplement marketplace. We are able to

 

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personalize nutritional supplement recommendations and protocols because we understand there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Our relentless focus on building a new model of health has resulted in a robust portfolio of science-driven products and high customer satisfaction, as demonstrated by our favorable Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 78 during the first three months of 2021. Our success is not limited to the U.S. market; our Thorne brand was sold in 37 countries in 2020, and we expect to continue to expand internationally.

Our unique go-to-market strategy combines our direct-to-consumer (DTC) and subscription model with an ecosystem of health professionals. We provide customers with direct access to our brand through our mobile, web and Amazon channels. In addition to the DTC channel, our broad range of connected health professionals provides another channel for our products to be marketed and distributed to consumers. We have built our active and growing network to more than 42,000 health professionals, which includes medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, registered dieticians, pharmacists, chiropractors, nutritionists, trainers, acupuncturists and other accredited health professionals.

Thorne: Thorne provides health tests, education, and products that support the optimization of health. We offer health tests to generate comprehensive, personalized molecular portraits for our customers. Our proprietary multi-omic platform, Onegevity, uses the results of these tests to create personalized recommendations, which we believe provide individuals greater conviction about what actions they need to take, such as consulting with their physician or nutritionist, making a lifestyle change, or using nutritional supplements. All of our tests are performed by reputable third-party clinical laboratories, and the test results and Onegevity-powered AI actionable insights are reviewed by board-certified physicians prior to being delivered to the customer through our website and app.

We have also developed premium, high-quality nutritional supplements through our trusted brand, Thorne. We believe that we have established industry leading sourcing, production and testing standards, which are designed to meet or exceed U.S. and international current Good Manufacturing Practice requirements (cGMPs), all of which are subject to third-party certification and audit. We manage nearly all product formulations, ingredients, production processes, documentation, testing and product activities at our facility in Summerville, South Carolina. Our distinguished science and medical teams are advancing an innovative pipeline of products, including a series of next-generation products with nicotinamide riboside (NR), a compound involved in cellular metabolism, which we believe contains properties that support healthy aging at the cellular level.

Onegevity: Onegevity is AI for health. Onegevity combines AI with professional human assistance to map, integrate and understand the billions of dynamic biological features that illustrate the state of an individual’s health. Onegevity’s platform and technology are used by customers to manage their own health, and by practitioners and professionals to support patient health and advance their scope of practice.

Onegevity’s proprietary engine also allows us to offer a business-to-business (B2B) solution that combines our AI models with our multi-omics database to create a platform to be used for both the pharmaceutical and nutritional supplement industries to develop new products at faster speeds and with higher efficiency, repurpose existing drugs and compounds for new and innovative uses and improve existing medications.

These breakthroughs in health and wellness have the potential to translate to better products for our customers, for example:

 

   

a top-tier global pharmaceutical company used our AI platform service to repurpose a drug that had failed clinical trials for a new potential indication;

 

   

a premier global CPG company that is utilizing our services to develop a personalized skin-care testing platform. Upon completion, the platform would provide advanced detection and location prediction of acne breakouts and offer personalized cosmetics; and

 

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we have contracted with Indena S.p.A., an Italian pharmaceutical company, to screen their comprehensive botanical libraries for compounds that could lead to new natural products.

Finally, in the future we plan to offer Onegevity’s insights as a service to physicians and other health professionals in our network to enhance routine in-person clinical evaluations of their patients. We believe that Onegevity can help create a “clinic of the future” and provide a personalized clinical experience to deliver a 360-degree snapshot of personal health in-office.

We have developed an innovative, proprietary platform that provides our customers with a differentiated and personalized journey to better health through our integrated platform of nutritional products and AI-driven services. Our model of test, teach, transform and iterate ensures that consumers are not only active participants in their healthcare, but are also educated and empowered to navigate the crowded and confusing supplement market. We believe our customers can apply our philosophy of continuous improvement to their health by contributing to and benefitting from our multi-omics databases while leveraging our premium products and network of professionals to focus on prevention and wellness.

We are a fast-growing and scaling wellness platform and have experienced significant recent growth. Our compelling financial profile is characterized by accelerated year-over-year growth, improving gross margin, strong customer retention and efficient customer acquisition.

For the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2021:

 

   

we generated net sales of $33.1 million and $44.5 million, respectively, representing 34.2% growth from the same period in 2020;

 

   

we generated gross profit of $15.2 million and $23.2 million, respectively, representing 45.9% and 52.1% of net sales, respectively;

 

   

our net loss was $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020, and our net income was $4.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021; and

 

   

our Adjusted EBITDA was $4.5 million and $8.3 million, respectively.

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 and 2020:

 

   

We generated net sales of $102.5 million and $138.5 million, respectively, representing 23.0% and 35.0% year-over-year growth, respectively;

 

   

We generated gross profit of $44.7 million and $64.8 million, respectively, representing 43.6% and 46.8% of net sales respectively;

 

   

Our net loss was $18.2 million and $4.0 million, respectively; and

 

   

Our Adjusted EBITDA was $8.0 million and $14.4 million, respectively.

See the section titled “Selected Consolidated Financial and Other Data—Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin” for information regarding our use of Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of net loss to Adjusted EBITDA.

The recent key customer metrics of our business included:

 

   

customer acquisition costs (CAC) of $30 and life-time value (LTV) of $136 with 4.5x LTV to CAC In the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, a CAC of $22 and LTV of $170 with 7.6x LTV to

 

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CAC in the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, a CAC of $18 and LTV of $130 with 7.1x LTV to CAC in the three months ended March 31, 2020, a CAC of $26 and LTV of $158 with 6.2x LTV to CAC in the three months ended March 31, 2021;

 

   

active subscriptions of 98,809 and 168,483, as of March 31, 2020 and 2021, respectively; and

 

   

orders per customer per year of 2.6 and 2.7, in the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively and 1.9 and 1.8 in the three months ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2021, respectively.

Our management team has decades of experience in the health and wellness industry and our executive team has been with Thorne for the past ten years. Our scientific team has authored more than 2,800 peer-reviewed publications in top-tier technical journals and has more than 470 years of combined scientific industry and research experience.

Thorne HealthTech Platform

Our Technology

We seek to transform the health and wellness market by combining our proprietary technology platform, Onegevity, a comprehensive multi-omics database that uses powerful AI platform and machine learning to map, integrate, and understand the billions of dynamic biological features that describe the state of an individual’s health with our premium nutritional supplements. Onegevity provides a comprehensive molecular portrait and personalized recommendations for an individual’s health, based on integrated analysis of longitudinal blood, genetics and gut microbiome profiles.

Our AI model and multi-omics database improves our product formulations and makes our recommendations to customers more precise. Using Onegevity across our product portfolio creates an unparalleled ecosystem where data collected from customers and our network of health professionals strengthens our AI model. We collect and analyze approximately 600 personalized tests, evaluations and surveys per day and are able to develop actionable insights from that data on our platform. The data collected from consumers, combined with a powerful AI engine enhances our ability to provide personalized recommendations and education to our customers, driving higher conversion and retention. This system enables us to create better products because we have access to multi-omics datasets, while also helping other businesses, such as those in the pharmaceutical, food and skin care industries, to develop more personalized solutions with our data analytics. The availability of this data may open further opportunities for us in the future to drive revenue by providing data services as a health intelligence provider.

Our Biological Age test, powered by Onegevity, is designed to be a simple, quick and affordable evaluation to determine one’s biological age versus chronological age and to assess the age of an individual’s organs system. The straightforward, easily understood results are designed to guide the recommendations made to optimize wellness and decrease biological age.

Our Products

Nutritional Supplements: We offer premium, high-quality nutritional supplements that are developed with rigorous science and comprehensive testing from start to finish. This includes a suite of nutritional supplement products centered around a novel ingredient, NR, which we believe contains properties that support healthy aging at the cellular level. Onegevity fuels our evidence-based nutritional product development. Our confidence that each product we formulate and manufacture will deliver the intended outcome is based on extensive clinical research and medical literature. All of our research and development for the formulation of new products is conducted in-house, in collaboration with leading research institutions from around the world. We have a robust product pipeline focused on future high market growth indications and personalization.

 

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Our formulas are of the highest quality offered in the nutritional supplement market, and our manufacturing processes have received among the highest possible ratings in the industry, which is aligned with our unparalleled commitment and adherence to cGMPs and quality throughout our entire supply chain. The quality control and quality assurance for all products is done in-house in our two state-of-the-art laboratories. We manufacture our products in our 272,000 square foot Summerville, South Carolina facility which is third-party certified. To ensure supply chain consistency and to meet the highest quality standards we thoroughly and frequently test our ingredients for contaminants. We manufacture more than 20 NSF-Certified for Sport products, which gives athletes complete confidence that our nutritional supplements do not include any banned substances. No single nutritional supplement represented more than 5% of total sales during the trailing twelve months ended March 31, 2021.

We approach the formulation and manufacturing of each product in a scientific, data-driven way, using clinical research and medical literature to support the inclusion of each ingredient in individual formulas. Since our inception, we have built and continue to maintain a database of technical evidence, scientific literature, and industry research that we use to substantiate the structure and function claims we make in support of the indications of use, safety, and efficacy of our nutritional supplement products. We focus on using ingredients in our products that are supported by clinical trial data or other scientific research.

Moreover, we have conducted additional clinical studies on approximately 15% of our product portfolio (45 products) by ourselves or in concert with our strategic partner Indena. This includes studies on botanical extracts and small molecule products, including vitamin analogs, such as nicotinamide riboside, and conjugated materials, such as ketogenic esters. Currently, we are participating in 23 ongoing clinical trials by supplying product, offering technical advisement or participating as the principal investigators. We do not view the clinical studies on any one of our products as being material to our business.

A few key examples of our clinically-studied products include:

 

   

Meriva-500 SF, one of our most studied ingredients, was developed as a phytosome to increase the bioavailability of turmeric. There have been 35 clinical studies to date on Meriva-500 SF itself, alongside studies that we have participated in, which includes five completed studies and three ongoing studies, including one pediatric study on liver health.

 

   

Quercetin Phytosome, a phytosome technology intended to increase bioavailability, is undergoing work through Mayo Clinic, which is currently exploring quercetin in combination as a senolytic for healthy aging. There have been two completed trials and there are six ongoing trials focusing on Quercetin Phytosome.

 

   

Crucera, a patented broccoli extract that delivers glucoraphanin, is a precursor to the NRF2 activator, sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is a compound that reduces cellular oxidative stress, a phenomena which increases in frequency as we age. There has been one completed trial regarding aging and inflammation in the skin and there is one ongoing trial studying sulforaphane’s bioavailability.

 

   

NiaCel, our exclusively developed nicotinamide riboside malate salt, is intended as a platform for aging and as a supporter of Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide levels within the body. Currently, two trials are planned to further understand the ability to increase NAD levels.

 

   

AB-free Kava is intended to reduce the liver risks that are typically associated with whole Kava extract use. We are participating in two ongoing trials in mood and health.

Health Tests: Customers uncover insights about their health through our tests and we turn those insights into a personalized plan for how to eat, exercise and choose supplements, based on unique test results. Customers can have our tests delivered to their doorstep, collect biological samples at home, and then can drop their free

 

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return envelope in nearly any mailbox. Alternatively, customers can go to a diagnostic laboratory, such as Quest Diagnostics, to have their samples collected and tests performed. After a licensed professional reviews the results, customers receive their comprehensive Onegevity-powered results and evidence-based recommendations online. Our extensive portfolio of health tests includes tests focused on sleep, stress, weight management, gut health, heavy metals, biological age and more.

Our health tests’ collection method, measurements and markers are set forth below:

 

Test   

Collection

Method

  

What we

Measure

  

Number of

Markers

Biological Age    Blood Draw    Biological Age, Age Rate, Blood Age, Lipid Age, Liver Age, Kidney Age, Metabolic Age    36
Fertility    Blood Spot & Saliva    Reproductive Hormones, Thyroid Hormones, Adrenal Hormones    12
Gut Health    Stool    Intestinal Permeability, Gut Dysbiosis, Digestion, Inflammation, Enteric Nervous System Imbalance, Diversity, Micronutrients, Short-Chain Fatty Acids, Immune Readiness, Pathogens    90
Heavy Metals    Blood Spot    Heavy Metals, Essential Minerals    8
Menopause    Saliva    Reproductive Hormones, Adrenal Hormones    5
Sleep    Urine    Melatonin, Cortisol    2
Stress    Saliva    Cortisol x4, DHEA    2
Thyroid    Blood Spot    Thyroid Hormones, Thyroid Antibodies    4
Vitamin D    Blood Spot    Vitamin D    1
Weight Management    Blood Spot & Saliva    Reproductive Hormones, Adrenal Hormones, Blood Sugar Metabolism, Vitamin D, Thyroid Hormones    9

As discussed below, our analytical software, powered by Onegevity Health Intelligence, produces medically supervised, AI-driven recommendations, and presents the results in an easy-to-read, consumer-friendly digital dashboard. The insights found on the dashboard help individuals identify health trends and potential future health concerns by providing actionable, meaningful insights about the individual’s results.

Gut Health Test: Our Gut Health Test is a metagenomic-based, fecal sample sequencing test to evaluate gut bacteria and its impact on human health. Based on an individual’s gut microbiome test results, we create a protocol that includes a regimen of our supplements. Our protocols are aimed at addressing common gastrointestinal (GI) issues, including constipation or diarrhea, with product intervention. Based on our protocols,

 

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we conducted a clinical study aiming to investigate the benefit of our protocol to consumers with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) which was published in the peer-reviewed journal Precision Clinical Medicine.

IBS is the most prevalent functional GI disorder worldwide, and the most common reason for referral to gastroenterology clinics. However, the pathophysiology is still not fully understood and consequently current management guidelines are very symptom-specific, leading to mixed results. In our study, we presented our analysis of data from 88 individuals with IBS who had baseline sequencing of their gut microbiome (stool samples), received targeted interventions that included dietary, supplement, prebiotic/probiotic and lifestyle recommendations for a 30-day period, and then a follow-up sequencing of their gut microbiome. The study’s objectives were to demonstrate unique metagenomic signatures across the IBS phenotypes and to validate whether metagenomic-guided interventions could lead to improvement of symptom scores in individuals with IBS. Enrolled subjects also completed a baseline and post-intervention questionnaire that assessed their symptom scores. The average symptom score of an individual with IBS at baseline was 160 and at the endpoint of the study the average symptom score of the cohort was 100.9. The mixed IBS subtype showed the most significant reduction in symptom scores across the different subtypes (average decrease by 102 points, P = 0.005). The investigators found that metagenomics analysis reveals shifts in the microbiome post-intervention that have been cross-validated with the literature as being associated with improvement of IBS symptoms. Given the complex nature of IBS, further studies with larger sample sizes, more targeted analyses and a broader population cohort are needed to explore these results further.

 

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The graph above illustrates symptom score reduction. The difference between day 30 (post-treatment) and day 0 (pre-treatment) demonstrates individual symptom score reduction of participants with IBS.

See Meydan C, et al. Improved gastrointestinal health for irritable bowel syndrome with metagenome-guided interventions. Precis Clin Med. 2020 Jun;3(2):136-146.

Our Services

Onegevity is AI for health. Onegevity combines AI with professional human assistance to map, integrate and understand the billions of dynamic biological features that illustrate the state of an individual’s health. Onegevity’s platform and technology are used by customers to manage their own health, and by practitioners and professionals to support patient health and advance their scope of practice. Onegevity’s portfolio of enterprise-ready models coupled with its proprietary multi-omics database is also designed to improve outcomes and reduce the difficulties and costs of AI adoption in health and wellness and can be used in the development of nutritional supplements and pharmaceuticals by our business-to-business customers.

 

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Onegevity Health Intelligence: Our platform leverages AI models to provide insights and personalized health recommendations as a part of an individual’s health test results. Onegevity uses pattern recognition, deep neural networks, bioinformatics and our multi-omics database to provide these personalized recommendations. Designed as a multi-tenant capable service, Onegevity Health Intelligence powers our testing and nutritional supplement channel and also has third-party applications. Pharmacies, health professionals and lifestyle companies can integrate testing and Onegevity Health Intelligence to engage, educate and empower their patients and users to make smarter decisions about their health, all while staying within the third party’s own web portal. We put individuals at the center of control of their health journey with direct access to convenient molecular diagnostics and intelligent digital analytics to develop personalized and highly

actionable plans to achieve desired health goals.

Onegevity Discovery: We have combined AI models with our multi-omics database to create a platform that can be used to develop new nutritional and pharmaceutical products at faster speeds and with higher efficiency than traditional development methods. This capability is achieved through predictive algorithms, informed by an array of biological and chemical factors, that can identify pharmaceutical agents or natural products likely to have the targeted result. Our Onegevity Discovery fuels our product development as well as that of clients in diverse fields, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, consumer packaged goods (CPGs) and research clinics. We have helped clients repurpose existing drugs and compounds, improve existing medications and develop new products.

Onegevity Lab: Our Onegevity Lab assessments are being developed to provide the an in-person clinical experience powered by AI that embodies the personalized scientific wellness paradigm. We believe that by enabling individuals to obtain a 360-degree snapshot of their health, Onegevity Lab, the potential clinic of the future, will empower individuals to identify opportunities that preserve their health and optimize performance. As part of the session, a trained independent clinician will guide the patient through a personalized health assessment and consultation that includes highly validated but understudied modules of health such as cognitive function, grip strength and balance, which are all leading indicators in long-term health, but rarely evaluated when a patient is healthy.

Powerful Health Professional Network

Our network of 42,000 health professionals includes medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, registered dieticians, pharmacists, chiropractors, nutritionists, trainers, acupuncturists and other accredited health professionals. Our annual retention rate with these health professionals was 85% in 2020. Backed by this strong network, we offer convenient testing and data-driven, personalized nutrition, clinically studied supplements and pre- and pro-biotics designed to lower healthcare costs and improve wellness for health professionals and consumers.

Vertically Integrated Product Development Platform

We have built our brand on the core pillars of safety, credibility, quality and user experience. The foundation for these pillars comes from our vertically integrated capabilities. We believe that we are one of the only vertically integrated science-based wellness companies in the world, which enables us to provide our customers with premium quality products with ingredient integrity that are manufactured in the United States. Our platform also provides fixed-cost leverage on increased volumes and optimizes our ability to efficiently monitor inventory management.

Bringing high-quality products to market starts at the source. Our research and development team searches the globe to find only the highest-quality ingredients to use in our nutritional supplements. We source high-quality ingredients that have been clinically tested, allowing us to better understand each ingredients’ safety and quality. To us, “clean” describes supplements that do not contain any harmful, banned or unnecessary ingredients. Our “No” List guides us every day in choosing which ingredients to source and how to formulate

 

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new products. We have access to Indena’s comprehensive botanical compound libraries which enables throughput functional molecule screening. We partner with suppliers whose practices emphasize quality, science, and environmental responsibility. Our single largest provider of botanical material is Indena S.p.A., a company based in Milan, Italy, which is well-known for its identification, development and production of high-quality actives derived from plants.

Our vertical integration spans from sourcing the highest quality ingredients, research and development activities, product delivery and continued customer engagement. Our product formulation is driven completely in-house by a team of 23 scientists and engineers utilizing proprietary technologies, health intelligence systems and our Onegevity Discovery. This capability drives our data-centric approach to evidence-based nutritional product formulations. The Onegevity Discovery AI Platform delivers molecular insights and personalized health mapping. This system has a one-of-a-kind gene expression library that consists of over 800 unique signatures and is one of the world’s most comprehensive multi-omics databases for precision wellness. It has been used to track one of the largest microbiome datasets from skin and gut health and has resulted in over 18,000 data points covering multiple key diseases. These databases are integrated with product targets and statistical and analytical methods that have been published in top peer reviewed journals, including Nature, Science, and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

We develop the optimal product formula to meet the needs of our customers and have the proper facility to maintain control of the manufacturing process. In 2019, we opened our state-of-the-art 272,000 square-foot facility in Summerville, South Carolina. This facility provides significant enhancements to our manufacturing capacity and production efficiencies, research and development platform and in-house laboratory and testing capabilities. We have substantial capacity to meet near-term production requirements and can expand our facility without the need for substantial capital expenditures. This facility demonstrates our commitment to manufacturing all our products in the United States and ensures a quality product is delivered to our growing and loyal customer base.

Our vertically integrated platform has also enabled the development of a suite of nutritional supplement products centered around a novel ingredient, NR, which we believe contains properties that support healthy aging at the cellular level. Whether it be older consumers looking to stay healthy longer, or younger consumers focusing on their wellness earlier in life, many individuals are seeking new ways to promote healthy aging. This is a concept we refer to as “aging well.” We believe NR addresses these demands and presents a significant market opportunity. Through our integrated platform, we have leveraged the trust and manufacturing expertise of Thorne and the power of Onegevity’s engine and multi-omics database to develop and launch our NR-based NiaCel suite of products.

Our NiaCel suite currently consists of three products: NiaCel 200, which is designed to promote basic healthy aging support; Niacel 400, which is designed for advanced support; and ResveraCel, our premier healthy aging supplements. In addition, using Onegevity’s insight, we intend to develop a NiaCel-based cosmetic product and a NiaCel-based ketone ester beverage product. Unlike other NR products on the market, we believe NiaCel holds several key advantages over our competitors. First, our price point is significantly lower than competitive products. Second, our NR ingredient is exclusively manufactured for our NiaCel suite allowing us more control over product quality and our supply chain. Although we do not typically compete on price, our significant advantages in manufacturing and supply chain in this market allows us to offer a premium product in a price competitive manner. Third, our NR ingredient, as all subsequent formulations in the NiaCel line, is exclusively paired with a complementary ingredient that acts as a methyl donor, allowing for improved quality and safety based off supporting research.

We believe it is crucial to form relationships with leading industry participants in order to continue to provide innovative products to our customers. Our development ecosystem is comprised of research partners Mayo Clinic, Unilever, Tetra Biopharma, Kyowa Hakko and a global pharmaceutical company; sponsorship of UFC, USA Rugby, Penske Racing, Roush Fenway Racing and the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program; and

 

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high-profile customers such as individual Navy SEALs, teams in the NFL, MLB and NBA and other major athletic organizations.

Our products are subject to four rounds of testing in our two state-of-the-art, in-house laboratories. This process includes testing of raw materials and components, which screens for contaminants; in-process testing, which helps to ensure the correct amount of ingredients are used in our formulations; finished product testing, which confirms the identity, potency, purity of the ingredients, and that no microbiological contamination occurred during manufacturing; and in-house stability testing, which confirms each product will meet its label claims at its expiration date.

During the trailing twelve months ended March 31, 2021, over 90% of our sales were generated by products that we manufactured in-house. We make strategic decisions to use outside contract manufacturers for products like probiotics that cannot be made in the same facility as all our other supplements due to the risk of contamination.

Our Compelling Value Proposition

Our Value Proposition to Consumers

We believe our personalized approach to health and scientific wellness empowers our customers to improve and extend their health span and enjoy happier and healthier lives. Our customers trust the Thorne brand to meet the highest standards of quality and safety. With our history of continued innovation, consumers have access to new ways to measure how biological age and well-being are calculated and controlled. We have created an intuitive and convenient health testing experience and our tests are designed to produce results that are easy to understand and actionable. Our approach, paired with our emphasis on data and AI, consistently delivers further refined insights, which provides our customers with enhanced information to support and maintain their health.

Our Value Proposition to Professional Athletes

We collaborate with sports organizations and professional athletes to ensure they have the tools and information necessary to help individuals improve health and performance through science-backed education and best-in-class products. Within our NSF-Certified facility, we manufacture one of the most comprehensive line of NSF Certified for Sport products on the market, with over 20 products. We believe professional athletes, coaches and teams love and have complete confidence in our NSF Certified for Sport product line because of the thorough testing methods that screen for more than 200 banned substances.

Our dedication to science and quality has earned us the trust of 11 U.S. Olympic Teams and more than 100 professional sports teams. We also sponsor world-class performance organizations, such as UFC, USA Rugby, Penske Racing and the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program. It is our ongoing support and collaboration with these professional organizations that has led to our position as one of the most comprehensive NSF Certified for Sport supplement manufacturers in the United States.

Our Value Proposition to Health Professionals

Our mission is to help health professionals improve patient outcomes by encouraging product use, supplying proper patient education materials and providing a consumer-friendly service. We believe this is increasingly valuable in the current competitive landscape of the health industry where physicians and other health professionals are more transparently reviewed by their peers and patients based on patient outcomes. Our value proposition is demonstrated by our active and growing professional network of more than 42,000 health professionals, including medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, registered dieticians, pharmacists, chiropractors, nutritionists, trainers, acupuncturists and other accredited health professionals who recommend our products and services.

 

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Our B2B Value Proposition

Our Onegevity longitudinal multi-omics database is proprietary, difficult to replicate and generates data insights that can be used for further innovation in the fields of health and wellness. We have the opportunity to monetize our database and our unique analysis model to, or partner with, a variety of interested parties, including:

 

   

corporations benefiting from insights on population health;

 

   

pharmaceutical companies and biotechnology companies seeking additional data for new drug discovery and patient identification for clinical trials;

 

   

CPGs companies; and

 

   

health intelligence services for consumers and health professionals.

Our Industry and Opportunity

Industry

We participate in the large and growing multi-billion dollar global wellness industry. The market is highly fragmented, and no company holds more than 5% market share. We are redefining consumer health and building a brand with science-backed personalized products that meet the highest standards of quality, safety and efficacy.

Opportunity

We have a significant opportunity to continue to penetrate the product categories and channels we compete in today. In addition, we believe we benefit from several consumer trends.

Consumerization of Healthcare and an Increase of Healthcare in the Home: We believe that in the last ten years there has been a shift from individuals viewing themselves as patients to viewing themselves as consumers in the healthcare market. This has been demonstrated by the growth of the home healthcare market and increased competition in the healthcare provider marketplace. In an always-connected world of data, individuals expect and demand from healthcare what they are accustomed to in their everyday lives. They demand a personalized and holistic approach to daily wellness and long-term health combined with the convenience of products and services being available at their fingertips, all from the comfort and safety of their home. We believe successfully achieving this approach is only possible through the convergence of medicine and technology. COVID-19 has accelerated the trend of healthcare moving to the home, placing a greater impetus on individuals to find new ways to protect their health and fueling resiliency with limited person-to-person interaction.

Shift to Personalized Health: Personalized health tailors interventions for preventing and treating disease to the individual characteristics of each patient. The complete sequencing of the human genome, which was completed in 2003, ushered in the era of personalized medicine by providing a greater understanding of how an individual’s unique molecular and genetic profile makes him or her predisposed to certain diseases. As demonstrated by the rise in targeted gene therapies and cancer treatments, health care is evolving from a reactive, “one-size-fits-all” approach to a distinctively proactive, personalized and integrative approach. We believe the dietary supplement market can be personalized in the same way. Such an approach will focus on the optimal selection of treatments and preventative measures that best address a patient’s unique medical attributes, vulnerabilities and predispositions.

 

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Increased Demand for Safe Nutritional Supplements Driven by Increased Consumer Education and Expanding Datasets: Physicians and other health professionals are motivated to help patients, and increasingly, are measured by patient outcomes. Traditional practitioners are more likely to study and prescribe nutritional supplements due to growing of evidence of the positive impact of supplement use and their safety profile. For example, traditional medical doctors have become an increased focus and now account for one-third our customer base in 2020, thanks to our continued growth initiatives and increased demand from patients.

Demand for Convenience: Consumers are increasingly placing more value on an exceptional user experience and a demonstrated willingness to invest in bringing premium products and services into their daily lives. Preferences for digital platforms and subscription-based products and services have increased in demand in recent years. Customers want simplicity and an easily available online option from a trusted and clinically validated brand. Our offerings are built to provide an unmatched user experience and provide information to consumers in a way they can easily understand and manage. Consumers can complete personalized testing, create and update their subscription and learn more about their recommended product suite, all from the comfort of their own home. Our omni-channel distribution model can deliver products to most consumers in the U.S. within two days or allow them to leverage our network of health professionals to receive their products at their local doctor’s office. We make our test results and recommendations easy to understand. For example, our Biological Age test and resulting recommendations provide consumers with one easily understood number and an actionable plan with the goal of helping consumers to reduce their biological age and extend their health span.

What Sets Us Apart

Our Differentiated Consumer Journey

We believe that we provide consumers with one of the world’s most innovative solutions for a personalized approach to health, delivered through our integrated platform of testing, supplements and digital health content. Our proprietary platform is redefining consumer health through a model of test, teach, transform and iterate to address the consumer pain points that exist in the market today. Consumers struggle to navigate confusing supplement categories and the market is crowded with ineffective, low-grade products. Personalization has been shown to deliver better health outcomes, yet current health solutions continue a “one-size-fits-all” approach. The healthcare system focuses on treatment of disease, but consumers need and want a proactive, empowered approach to health focused on maintaining and supporting health and promoting wellness.

Test: The first step in addressing these consumer pain points is to test. We begin with convenient and comprehensive test collections using multi-omics data, which can be for a range of health areas including sleep, stress, weight management, gut health and heavy metals. The testing phase is concluded with a personalized, AI-driven, actionable health plan with diet, activity and supplement recommendations based on the individual’s test results.

Teach: We then build on the testing phase by teaching consumers through an education platform designed to empower and engage consumers through their health journey. The education occurs through both general and personal methods. The general education includes our daily online magazine Take 5 Daily, which includes podcasts, videos and articles, wellness guides and ingredients. The personalized education includes supplemental quizzes, connecting with health professionals in our network and analyzing test results.

Transform: We provide customers with premium nutritional solutions to optimize their body and its unique needs, including products to maintain and support heart health, healthy aging and gut health, among many others.

Iterate: The Onegevity platform uses molecular biology and AI to deliver continuous improvement of the test, teach, and transform model. The sophisticated AI system utilizes pattern recognition, deep neural networks, and bioinformatics to deliver unparalleled molecular insight and personalization. In addition, this

 

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technology informs our product development and reformulation process. Together, the data and AI consistently provide further refined insights, which provides our customers with enhanced information and more effective products to improve their health.

We teach individuals about their health and what is occurring in their bodies and why we recommend specific supplement choices. We aim to address an individual’s health needs and deficiencies with our nutritional supplements, as needed. This is an iterative process and provides a differentiated and simplified journey for our customers to navigate the complicated supplement market and improve their health over time.

Trusted Brand, Products and Services

We believe we are a leader in developing high-quality nutritional supplements in a variety of unique form factors. We presently sell over 300 supplements and test SKUs. Our network of tens of thousands of health professionals, trainers, and world-class athletes deepens the credibility of our product portfolio. Our offering is further differentiated by conducting all manufacturing and quality management in the United States. We have strong relationships with our suppliers, predominantly located in Europe and United States, who assist in our product innovation cycle and share our commitment to bringing the highest quality products to our customers.

This commitment to quality has contributed to our position as one of the most comprehensive NSF Certified for Sport supplement manufacturers in the United States. We believe that our line of supplements is one of the most extensive lines of NSF Certified for Sport supplement products based on publicly available data for the number of certified products by manufacturer, regardless of whether the products are currently on the market; however, there is no publicly available volume or revenue data regarding our competitors’ NSF Certified for Sport supplement products. We currently have 23 products in the NSF Certified for Sport program in the United States and 11 products in the NSF Certified for Sport program Canada, each of which certifies dietary supplements to be free from substances banned by major sporting organizations and helps athletes, dietitians, coaches and consumers make more informed decisions when choosing sports supplements. While we plan to continue to seek and maintain NSF certification for certain of our trusted brand of products, we face competition from other manufacturers that have similarly broad lines of NSF Certified for Sport supplement products and target the professional athlete market.

The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International evaluates product and ingredient safety through its accredited certification and testing services. The NSF Dietary Supplement Certification Program certifies dietary supplements that meet the requirements of the official American National Standard for Dietary Supplements (NSF/ANSI Standard 173). The certification process includes a toxicology and label review to verify product formulation, testing to identify and quantify dietary ingredients declared on the product label, testing to ensure the product does not contain unacceptable levels of contaminants and annual current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) facility inspections. Our facility has been cGMP certified through NSF since 2015. As part of this certification, our Quality Management system, which includes onsite and third-party laboratory operations, is audited to ensure compliance to cGMPs.

Powerful Data and AI engine

Our AI model and multi-omics database improve our product formulations and make our recommendations to consumers more precise. We collect and process approximately 600 personalized tests, evaluations and surveys per day and are able to develop actionable insights from that data with our Onegevity platform. The data collected from customers, combined with a powerful AI engine, enhances our ability to provide personalized recommendations and education to our customers, thereby driving higher conversion and retention. Our platform captures this information which is utilized by our algorithms to create better nutritional supplements with optimal safety and quality and also helps our B2B customers develop more personalized solutions. The availability of this data may open further opportunities for us in the future to drive revenue by providing data services as a health intelligence provider.

 

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Scalable Platform

The large number of highly engaged consumers who trust our Thorne brand and Onegevity platform provide a strong foundation for developing new products that extend across the health and wellness markets. This ecosystem uniquely positions us to create and capture value along the continuum of a consumer’s life with safe and innovative formulas that provide support for prenatal development, healthy adult lifestyles and healthy aging. We have achieved a demonstrated ability to develop innovative new products and successfully integrate acquired companies and assets.

Founder-Led, Science-Oriented Team

Our team of pioneers brings expertise in science-backed wellness, precision health, systems biology and AI-for-health, and has a proven track record of driving profitable growth. Co-Founder Paul Jacobson built this team with a commitment to redefine what it means to be healthy and to push the limits of human potential. Our experienced and highly regarded team of scientists consists of 40 science degrees, including doctorate degrees in 15 specialties, spanning fields such as molecular medicine, neuroscience, immunology and genetics.

Growth Strategies

Grow Brand Awareness

We have a significant opportunity to continue to penetrate the product categories and channels we compete in today. We intend to leverage our existing brand strength and reputation among health professionals and consumers, which will drive growth through an integrated, omni-channel marketing strategy.

Launch New Products and Expand Content Offerings

We will innovate and launch new products focused on unmet clinical needs. We will continue to invest in evidence-based nutritional supplement development powered by Onegevity’s engine and multi-omics database. For example, we recently contributed to the development of Effusio, the brand associated with dissolvable discs that enrich any beverage with nutrients. We are also utilizing Onegevity’s engine and multi-omics database to enable innovation in pharmaceutical markets at faster speeds, with potential to produce more effective and safer drugs.

Leverage Our Multi-Omics Database and AI with B2B Partners

Our longitudinal multi-omics database is proprietary, difficult to replicate, and generates unprecedented data insights. We have the opportunity to monetize our database and unique analysis model to, or partner with, a variety of interested parties, including: corporations benefiting from insights on population health; pharmaceutical companies and biotechnology companies seeking additional data for new drug discovery and patient identification for clinical trials; consumer packaged goods companies; and health intelligence services for consumers and healthcare providers.

Continue to Improve Personalization for a Better Consumer Experience

Our personalized approach to health, delivered through a customized platform of testing, supplements and digital health content continues to contribute to our favorable NPS score and subscription retention rates. We will improve our outstanding track record by further enhancing our AI solutions and consumer engagement to provide tailored, personalized solutions to our customers.

Invest in Our Platform

We will continue to invest in technology and the infrastructure to support the growth of our integrated Thorne and Onegevity platform. We will build on our innovative testing system to collect data and better

 

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understand consumer health by investing in our AI system to process more powerful data sets. We will also invest in developing innovative ingredients and compounds that can support our platform and the health of our customers.

Further Expand into International Markets

We will continue to build on our network of distributors across Asia, Europe and South America. We believe that we have the regulatory expertise to execute on this initiative and to accelerate international growth.

Selectively Pursue Acquisitions

Our comprehensive platform will enable us to selectively pursue strategic and complementary assets that support our customers’ needs. We have a track record of successfully identifying and integrating acquisitions. Our March 2021, acquisition of Onegevity Health strategically expanded our testing and education offerings. We intend to augment and scale the breadth of our platform and offerings through continued strong organic growth opportunities and the acquisition of complementary products and services.

Sales and Marketing

Our vertical integration contributes to our sales and marketing strategy. We have built our brand around what is best for the customer. This approach has bolstered customer perception of our products, helping to drive our world class NPS score of 78 during the first three months of 2021, a leading indicator of brand loyalty. Our customers trust that when they purchase our products, they are ingesting naturally derived ingredients that were developed with a science-backed approach. These factors are synergistic to customer acquisition since existing customers tend to recommend our products to new customers.

We take an integrated approach to marketing that spans the entire customer journey. This allows us to build efficient reach, raise awareness to promote acquisition and foster loyalty and retention. Our proprietary data and analytics are at the center of our marketing strategy and efforts. In addition to our brand building activities, such as thought leadership, out-of-home and video advertising, we have sophisticated performance marketing tactics, including retargeting, paid search and product listing ads, affiliate marketing, paid social media, search engine optimization, personalized email marketing and a referral program. All paid media efforts and ad buying are executed in-house, which is more cost-effective and provides the ability to be more agile in optimizing marketing activities based on real-time data. Together these efforts support our efficient customer acquisition cost and our attractive lifetime value and retention metrics.

Net Promoter Score (NPS) is a widely used market research metric that typically takes the form of a single survey question asking respondents to rate the likelihood that they would recommend a company, product, or a service to a friend or colleague on a scale of one to ten. Customers who respond to our survey with a score of nine or ten after they have purchased our Thorne supplement and health test products and health tests are classified as “promoters” and considered loyal enthusiasts who will keep buying and refer others, thereby fueling growth. Those who respond with a score of seven or eight are considered as “passives” and considered satisfied, but unenthusiastic customers who are vulnerable to competitive offerings. Those with response scores of zero to six are classified as “detractors” and considered to be unhappy customers who can impede growth through negative word of mouth. An NPS score is calculated by taking the percent of promoters less the percent of detractors. We consider the NPS score as an important indicator of customer satisfaction. We take pride in our NPS score, given that the average digital retailer’s NPS score in 2020 was 34.9, as reported in Forrester’s US Net Promoter Benchmarks 2020 report. As a company that is heavily dependent upon its brand equity, NPS is critical to our business in order to benchmark our performance and customer satisfaction. Objectively measuring customer loyalty and brand advocacy through the NPS survey is critical. Our NPS score allows us to compare our brand performance over time as well as compare our performance to that of our competitors. We use NPS as a customer feedback tool, and we distribute the data to our marketing, sales and product development teams.

 

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Additionally, our network of over 42,000 health professionals provides us with a sales channel that provides immediate credibility with new customers. Health professionals in our network are equipped with educational materials, which allow them to better inform their patients about our products. This approach also improves our DTC organic growth and retention and further promotes brand awareness and trust from our customers.

We have also grown our customer base largely through organic methods. We find that by focusing on creating great products through vertical integration, our customers reorder and refer others. Part of our focus has been to educate consumers about the health benefits of nutritional supplements. Our education platform was developed with this in mind, and it acts as a powerful tool for empowering, engaging and retaining customers through their health journey. We publish both general and personalized education including online articles, wellness guides, podcasts and videos. Our daily online magazine, Take 5 Daily, has been our #1 customer acquisition channel. Our wellness guides have been downloaded over 100,000 times and our quizzes have been completed over 475,000 times. We continue to leverage this platform as a key source for customer acquisition.

Omni-Channel Sales Model

Customers can purchase our products through our omni-channel model consisting of both our DTC platform and our large network of health professionals.

There are two typical consumer pathways to purchasing Thorne supplement products for the first time through our DTC channel. The first common pathway is through our Thorne educational platform, where a consumer searches for a specific ingredient, health concern or product, and due to targeted advertising or positive media content, they land on our website to learn more. Once on our site, the consumer may read one to two Take 5 Daily blog articles or take a product quiz to help determine the best product to meet his or her needs. An interested consumer typically purchases one to two nutritional supplement products on average, with an average unit price of $30.70, either through our website, app or third-party site such as Amazon. We have an average rating of 4.5 stars across our products on Amazon, which we believe to be among the highest in the industry. Our platform also enables customers to easily choose personalized plans through our subscription service.

The second path occurs when a consumer searches for a data-driven approach to determine the best product to meet his or her needs. These consumers also typically find our website due to targeted advertising or positive media content and purchase one health test for an average price of $182.30 through our website or app. This consumer then collects a bio sample, mails the sample to a third-party laboratory, and receives his or her test results on Thorne.com within seven to ten business days. Within the results, the consumer can review his or her health insights and personalized recommendations on diet, lifestyle and supplementation. From there, the consumer converts and purchases on average one to two of our supplement products. After taking one of our tests, over 30% of consumers convert to using our recommended products. For customers in this second pathway, we receive revenue from the testing fee and from our supplement product sales. As a result of our merger with Onegevity, we expect that the traffic to our websites through this second pathway to continue to increase and to realize increasing revenue as a result of the synergy with our Thorne products.

Our platform enables customers to easily choose personalized plans through our subscription service. After taking one of our tests, over 30% of consumers convert to using our recommended products. Our website has garnered increasing popularity, with total users increasing by 89.5% from 2019 to 2020 and total subscriptions growing from 89,178 in 2019 to 155,305 in 2020, a 74.2% year-over-year growth rate. We plan to further expand this channel in order to build a strong recurring revenue stream. We have made significant investments in our supply chain logistics in order to offer shipping anywhere in the United States within two days. As a result of the investment in logistics and marketing, our new customers through our website increased by 185.7% in 2020 over 2019 and our DTC sales on our website grew at a 73.8% CAGR over the past three years.

 

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In addition to our robust DTC channel, we have also grown our network of over 42,000 health professionals across the world who recommend our products to their patients when appropriate. We are a trusted brand by top health professionals all over the world. According to the Holistic Primary Care’s 2016 Practitioner Survey Report, we are the most dispensed brand by health professionals with 30- to 40-year-old patients. This ecosystem provides a separate channel to reach our customers. Our team of 24 sales professionals continue to expand this network, educating health professionals of the benefits to using our products. As we continue to see more and more patients seeking safe, effective nutritional supplements for their health, our products have become increasingly popular through this channel. Thousands of our trusted health professionals recommend our products to their patients through “online dispensing”. Consumers can avoid going to a retailer and instead purchase any recommended products directly through our website using their health professional’s trusted recommendations and unique code. Health professionals also have the option to buy our products directly to resell in their offices. This continues to increase our brand awareness while also benefiting patients who are being treated by our network of health professionals. We continue to see the adoption through this channel, demonstrated by an increase from 25.8% year-over-year growth in 2018 to 57.6% year-over-year growth in 2020, representing a 40.2% three-year CAGR.

Our selling efforts are accelerated and supported by an in-house U.S.-based customer service team. Our customer service representatives are available for live chat, as well as calls 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. We also make our licensed medical professionals available to answer non-disease related questions to both health professionals and consumers.

Clinical Laboratory Partners

We partner with three certified clinical laboratories to process, and in some cases, produce, the tests that we offer. These laboratories are responsible for receiving and logging samples, preparing samples for processing, processing samples, performing quality assurance and quality control to assure validity of all test results before returning results to our network of physicians for assessment, and, in some cases, producing the tests. The samples that these laboratories process on our behalf include saliva-, blood-, stool- and urine-derived samples. Our payment and shipping arrangements with these laboratories vary by laboratory and are described below.

ZRT Laboratory, LLC

Pursuant to a Strategic Supply Agreement, ZRT Laboratory, LLC (“ZRT”) performs test kit production and sample processing for our home health test kits, including our Thyroid Test, Fertility Test, Heavy Metals Test, Weight Management Test, Menopause Test, Sleep Test, Stress Test and Vitamin D Test. Under our agreement with ZRT, we place a purchase order with ZRT for a bulk number of test kits and ZRT charges us a nominal fee per test kit. We keep the test kits in inventory following a quality control process and then sell the test kits directly to our customers through our website. After a customer returns the test kit sample to ZRT for processing, ZRT bills us directly for the laboratory processing fees, which constitutes the majority of a test’s cost to the customer. We have 45-day payment terms with ZRT. ZRT provides a written or electronic test report of the tests performed on the analyzed specimen to the authorized provider. This agreement is terminable anytime at either party’s convenience.

CosmosID

Pursuant a Services Agreement, CosmosID, Inc. (“CosmosID”) performs production of our test kits and their subsequent processing for our Gut Health Test. Our agreement with CosmosID covers both the production of the test kits and their subsequent processing. We place purchase orders with CosmosID and we are billed on 30-day terms following delivery of the test kits. We keep the test kits in inventory following a quality control process and then sell the test kits directly to our customers through our website. After a customer returns the test kit sample to CosmosID for processing, CosmosID invoices us within 15 business days after the end of each month for which laboratory services have been provided, which constitutes the majority of a test’s cost to the

 

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customer. We pay on 30-day terms from the invoice date. CosmosID provides a written or electronic test report of the tests performed on the analyzed specimen to the authorized provider. The agreement is terminable for convenience on twelve months notice. During the term of the agreement, we will exclusively use CosmosID’s microbiome sequencing services for all animal and human microbiome sample testing.

Quest Diagnostics

Pursuant to a Laboratory Services Agreement, Quest Diagnostics Inc. (“Quest”) performs laboratory testing services for more than 40 of our tests. Quest provides the specimen collection supplies directly to the customer at no cost to us. The cost of each of the laboratory test that is performed by Quest during each month is invoiced to us on a monthly basis. Payment terms are net 30. Quest provides a written or electronic test report of the tests performed on the analyzed specimen to the authorized provider. This agreement is terminable on 120 days prior written notice by either party.

Competition

We are building a new health category to develop personalized nutritional solutions to improve health with the same degree of scientific rigor that pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are using for disease treatment. We are at the intersection of and compete against companies that offer DTC subscriptions, digital health services, personalized consumer products and data-enabled wellness solutions. Due to our comprehensive approach to health and wellness, we currently compete with different health and wellness companies in different markets, such as Nestle Health Science and Metagenics in the nutritional supplement market, Hims, 23and Me and Livongo in the health services and online testing market and companies like Schrodinger and SEMA4 in the AI-driven healthcare market. The market for our products and services is highly fragmented, with many global players participating across category segments in which no single company has obtained more than a 5% market share. We believe no single competitor offers a similarly comprehensive, vertically integrated platform combining product efficacy with personalized wellness solutions to consumers, health professionals and corporations.

We believe that the principal competitive factors in our market are product quality, customer experience, brand awareness and loyalty, reliability and trust. We believe that we differentiate ourselves from our competitors by our relentless pursuit of science-based, personalized wellness solutions.

Research and Development

We plan to continue to devote significant resources to research and development. Our research and development organization is responsible for the design, architecture and operation of our personalized testing platform and nutritional supplement products. Our personalized testing platform includes over 13 tests, such as the Biological Age and Gut Health tests. We develop new nutritional products through evidence-based product development in areas such as healthy aging and cognition. We pioneered a drug-supplement mapping system that, through AI, helps develop a new B2B pipeline to support product development of our B2B partners such as pharmaceutical and CPG companies.

We continue to innovate in many areas, such as the development of Onegevity Lab. Our Onegevity Lab assessments provide an in-person clinical experience powered by AI, which we believe will help expand the personalized scientific wellness paradigm. By enabling individuals to obtain a 360-degree snapshot of their well-being, we believe Onegevity Lab, the clinic of the future, will empower individuals to identify opportunities that preserve their health and optimize performance.

Intellectual Property

We believe that our intellectual property rights are valuable and important to our business. We rely on trademarks, trade secrets, intellectual property assignment agreements, confidentiality procedures, non-disclosure

 

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agreements and employee non-disclosure and invention assignment agreements to establish and protect our proprietary rights. In addition, we rely at least in part on trade secrets to protect some aspects of our business, including the sourcing and methods of manufacturing for our nutritional supplement products, the multi-omics database and the algorithm of our AI models. Though we rely in part upon these legal and contractual protections, we believe that factors such as the skills and ingenuity of our employees and the functionality and frequent enhancements to our solutions are larger contributors to our success in the marketplace.

As of March 31, 2021, we held 69 active registered trademarks in the United States, primarily for product names, tag lines, and several THORNE marks; we have been issued three pending Notice of Allowances by the USPTO, and we have three active trademark applications pending at the USPTO. Internationally, we have received two registered trademarks, for THORNE RESEARCH and THORNE, respectively, from the Japan Trademark Office, and we have three trademark applications for THORNE currently pending at the China Trademark Office.

We intend to pursue additional intellectual property protection, including patent protection in the future, to the extent we believe it will be beneficial and cost-effective. Despite our efforts to protect our intellectual property rights, they may not be respected in the future or may be invalidated, circumvented or challenged. For example, third parties may have blocking patents that could be used to prevent us from commercializing our products and practicing our proprietary technology, and any patent applications we pursue that may issue in the future may be challenged, invalidated or circumvented, which could limit our ability to stop competitors from marketing related products or could limit the term of patent protection that otherwise may exist for our products. In addition, the scope of the rights granted under any issued patents may not provide us with protection or competitive advantages against competitors with similar products. Furthermore, our competitors may independently develop similar technologies that are outside the scope of the rights granted under any issued patents that we own or in-license. For these reasons, we may face competition with respect to our products and services.

Our industry is characterized by the existence of many patents and frequent claims and related litigation based on allegations of patent infringement or other violations of intellectual property rights. We believe that competitors will try to develop products that are similar to ours and that may infringe our intellectual property rights. Our competitors or other third parties may also claim that our solutions infringe their intellectual property rights. Some companies in our industry have extensive patent portfolios. From time to time, third parties have in the past and may in the future assert claims of infringement, misappropriation and other violations of intellectual property rights against us or our customers or partners, with whom our agreements may obligate us to indemnify against these claims. Successful claims of infringement by a third party could prevent us from offering certain products or features, require us to develop alternate, non-infringing technology, which could require significant time and during which we could be unable to continue to offer our affected products of solutions, require us to obtain a license, which may not be available on reasonable terms or at all, or force us to pay substantial damages, royalties or other fees. Moreover, our solutions incorporate software components licensed to the general public under open source software licenses. We obtain many components from software developed and released by contributors to independent open source components of our solutions. Open source licenses grant licensees broad permissions to use, copy, modify and redistribute our platform. As a result, open source development and license practices can limit the value of our software copyright assets. For additional information, see the section titled “Risk Factors—Risks Related to our Business – Risks Related to our Intellectual Property.”

Data Protection

We are committed to the security and privacy of our customers’ data. The data we collect and process is an integral part of our products and services, allowing us to ensure our products are safe and effective, to provide an engaging consumer experience, to recommend the most relevant products and services and to reach opted-in consumers with timely information. We collect and may use personal information to help operate our business, including for analytical purposes, and to communicate and otherwise reach our consumers. In some instances, we use third-party service providers to assist us in these activities.

 

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We attempt to control access to and distribution of our proprietary information, including our algorithms, source code and customer data through enterprise-grade security measures. We utilize various technology and process-based methods, such as multi-layer firewalls, intrusion detection systems, content filtering, endpoint security, centralized logging and alerting, email security mechanisms and access control mechanisms. Our platform offers powerful data security from our cloud infrastructure to the application layer, end-to-end data encryption, as well as fine grain authorization controls and sensitive field data masking. In addition, we continue to pursue independent third-party assessments and validations of our security and compliance capabilities, including through industry-standard certification like SOC 2.

Culture and Values

Our culture is driven by empowering our employees. By ensuring employees enjoy their jobs and believe they are challenged and treated fairly, we believe they will work hard to deliver our premium products for our customers and strong results for our investors.

We pride ourselves on the fact that our manufacturing and customer service takes place in our facilities in the United States. During 2020, we developed protocols to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and were forced to adjust to a workforce that was split between those who could work from home and those who could not.

We used the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to learn from our employees. We established Thorne United Committee, an action committee derived from all of our departments, that examined how we paid people, our role in the community, the diversity of our staff, the childcare issues facing employees, the potential for adult education programs, mentoring by senior staff and opportunities for college and trade school scholarships.

We believe that talented and engaged employees create trust and a bond with our customers that no senior management team can achieve alone. We engineer and produce complex products to solve the complex problems of health and wellness and believe that if our customers are to trust our brand, our employees must lead the messaging and be trusted to make decisions that do not compromise the quality of our products. To that end, we have long had policies that senior management cannot overrule decisions made by our quality control and quality assurance teams, nor can senior management overrule decisions taken by our adverse event review team about reporting Serious Adverse Events to the FDA or the safety of our products. We are a product-driven company, built around a culture that empowers employees to make the right decisions and rewards them for doing the right things for the company and our customers.

The key to our success lies in the four tenets of our culture that have driven our innovation and ingenuity from the very start. These tenets define our legacy and propel us toward a future where we are the leader in solving the complex problems of health and wellness. These four tenets are:

A belief in our purpose

We are a team united behind a common purpose: educating, inspiring and improving the health and wellness of people around the world. Being part of a larger purpose is what drives and unites us. It is this shared passion and belief in our mission that has helped us earn the trust of thousands of health professionals, United States National Olympic Teams, Mayo Clinic and customers around the world.

A belief in the power of our people

Our culture empowers our employees. From our distinguished researchers to our elite customer-care team, every individual has the opportunity to make a difference firsthand. Every individual has the opportunity to lead, to bring ideas to the table and to be an instrument of change in our workplace culture. We encourage candor, collaboration and communication within our company.

 

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Our culture is built on equality, where people of all backgrounds and experiences are both celebrated and encouraged. Women constitute over 40% of the leadership roles across our company and minorities represent 35% of our total employment. This group of leaders operates across multiple departments, including research and development, finance, marketing, bioinformatics, product development and customer service.

We give our employees the tools required to succeed. We offer competitive compensation, fully paid employee benefits, employee training and development, childcare benefits and monthly product credits for personal and immediate family use. We also provide unique growth opportunities dedicated to the ongoing training and professional development of our employees. To better achieve this objective, we draw together internal and external resources to develop and deliver the very best training, development and enrichment programs for our employees.

A belief in our communities

We create opportunities for employees to give back to their communities and support causes of their choosing. We are an active supporter of communities in South Carolina through charitable donations and programs. We encourage employees to support these activities with employer-sponsored paid time off for volunteer work. Our company does not make contributions to any political causes. Instead, we encourage our employees to take an active role in good government without management intervention.

Our Thorne United Committee champions a work environment that promotes the values of diversity, equality, inclusiveness and community. Its work supports programs that address cultural diversity, education and development, community outreach, dependent care support and employee wellness. Specific examples of these programs include tuition support for employees and a tuition grant award program for employees’ dependents, a company-sponsored 529 college savings plan with a company contribution, internship and mentoring options for employees’ children, community support programs and comprehensive childcare support.

A belief to lead from the front

Our mission is to be the world’s leader in the scientific wellness. This is the bedrock of our organization’s culture and it drives us to become the market leader in research and development, bringing innovative new products to market that address unmet clinical needs. Our goal is to innovate and provide new ways to think about health, performance and wellness.

Our Employees

We are extremely proud of our team, which embodies a diverse mix of backgrounds, industries and levels of experience, united in the shared belief that we can help people lead healthier, happier lives with longer health spans. Employee turnover is low, and close to zero in the management ranks. As of March 31, 2021, we had 440 full-time employees across our company. Of these employees, 283 were in manufacturing, 34 were in sales and marketing, 57 were in customer service and shipping, 35 were in medical, research and development and 31 were in general and administrative functions. None of our employees are represented by a labor union or covered by a collective bargaining agreement. We have not experienced any work stoppages, and we believe the relationship between management and employees is one that has developed over mutual trust and is in good standing.

Sustainability

We care deeply about the origins of our ingredients. We only partner with suppliers whose practices emphasize quality, science and responsibility. Higher quality ingredients that meet our stringent specifications of potency, purity and absorption ultimately translate into better health and wellness. We believe that the environment should not be compromised for the sake of profits. To us, doing our part to protect the environment

 

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and its resources goes hand-in-hand with our quality standards. We take pride in being a steward of the botanical ingredients we use in our products. If we learn a botanical ingredient is becoming endangered or over sourcing is diminishing its supply, we discontinue its use in our product line.

As our sustainability efforts evolve, we are working on long-term solutions to eliminate unnecessary paper waste, including an innovative paperless “pick, pack, and ship” system. Nearly all of our shipping supplies are made from recycled materials, including our shipping boxes, fill-air pillows and padded packs. We are also heavily invested in introducing innovative products, such as Effusio by Thorne, that align with our sustainability mission and help solve the complex problems we face today with plastic pollution. Effusio by Thorne leverages proprietary printing technology to develop dissolvable supplement beverage discs that provide healthier alternatives to traditional beverages, while also providing sustainable packaging alternatives and reducing packaging waste and emissions during shipping. Effusio by Thorne packaging is plastic free and the carton is fully recyclable.

Facilities

We currently lease seven facilities located in Summerville, South Carolina; New York City, New York; Madison, Wisconsin; and Benicia, California. Our 272,000 square-foot manufacturing and administrative facility is located on 25.8 acres in Summerville, South Carolina, with a lease expiring in October 2037. This facility consists of manufacturing and production, research and development, medical affairs, engineering, quality management, laboratory testing, brand marketing, inside sales, customer service, finance, legal, human resources, warehousing and materials management, procurement and safety functions. We entered into a 63-month lease agreement for a 115,500 square-foot warehouse in Summerville, South Carolina for occupancy planned during the third quarter of 2021. This will expand our finished goods warehousing and shipping capabilities to the eastern United States and international markets.

We have a 16,896 square-foot warehouse in Benicia, California that services Midwest and West Coast product fulfillment. This facility is leased through January 2025. Our corporate headquarters in New York City consists of office space totaling 7,700 square-feet and houses executive management, business development, corporate marketing and Onegevity personnel. The lease for this office expires in 2022. In addition, our information management and digital marketing staff, including our Chief Technology Officer, occupy a 2,500 square-foot facility in Madison, Wisconsin. The lease for this office expires in October 2024.

All of our leases contain terms that give us the option to extend the term of the lease. We intend to procure additional space as we add employees, grow production and expand geographically. We believe, however, that our facilities are adequate to meet our needs for the immediate future and suitable additional space will be available to accommodate any expansion of our operations as needed.

Government Regulation

Products that promote health and wellness, as well as payment for such products, are regulated by various federal, state and local agencies, including but not limited to the following: (i) the FDA, which administers the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), as well as other relevant laws; (ii) the Federal Trade Commission (FTC); (iii) the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC); (iv) the Office for Civil Rights, which administers the privacy aspects of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996; and (v) various state regulatory bodies. The FDA in the course of enforcing the FDCA may subject a company to various sanctions for violating FDA regulations or provisions of the FDCA, including requiring or requesting recalls, issuing Warning Letters, seeking to impose civil money penalties, seizing products that the agency believes are non-compliant, seeking to enjoin distribution of a specific product, seeking disgorgement of profits and seeking to criminally prosecute a company and its officers and other responsible parties.

 

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Dietary Supplements

The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), amended the FDCA to establish a new framework governing the composition, safety, labeling, manufacturing and marketing of dietary supplements. Generally, under DSHEA, dietary ingredients (i.e., vitamins; minerals; herb or other botanical; amino acids; or dietary substances for use by humans to supplement diet by increasing total dietary intake; or any concentrate, metabolite, constituent, extract or combination of any of the above) that were marketed in the United States prior to October 15, 1994 as a dietary supplement may be used in dietary supplements without notifying the FDA. “New” dietary ingredients (i.e., dietary ingredients that were “not marketed in the United States before October 15, 1994”) must be the subject of a new dietary ingredient notification submitted to the FDA unless the ingredient has been “present in the food supply as an article used for food” without being “chemically altered.” A new dietary ingredient notification must provide the FDA evidence of a “history of use or other evidence of safety” establishing that use of the dietary ingredient “will reasonably be expected to be safe.” A new dietary ingredient notification must be submitted to the FDA at least 75 days before the initial marketing. The FDA may determine that a new dietary ingredient notification does not provide an adequate basis to conclude that a dietary ingredient is reasonably expected to be safe. In addition, manufacturers of dietary supplements must ensure that ingredients in their products that are not defined as dietary ingredients comply with all the requirements applicable to conventional foods. For example, fillers and other constituents of the product must be approved as food additives or must be deemed generally recognized as safe for the conditions of use in order to be sold.

The FDA generally prohibits the marketing of a dietary supplement with any “disease claim,” including claims that the product is intended to treat, cure, mitigate or prevent disease or other health-related conditions or correlating use of the product with a decreased risk of disease, unless the claim constitutes a “health claim” that is authorized by the FDA. FTC has imposed stringent, claim-specific substantiation standards on certain dietary supplement manufacturers, to settle charges that they deceptively advertised their supplements’ efficacy. However, “statements of nutritional support,” including so-called “structure/function claims,” are permitted to be included in labeling for dietary supplements. Such statements may describe how a particular dietary ingredient affects the structure, function or general well-being of the body, or the mechanism of action by which a dietary ingredient may affect the structure, function or well-being of the body, but such statements may not state that a dietary supplement will reduce the risk or incidence of a disease unless such claim has been reviewed and approved by the FDA. A company that uses a statement of nutritional support in labeling must possess evidence substantiating that the statement is truthful and not misleading. Such statements must be submitted to the FDA no later than thirty days after first marketing the product with the certification that they possess the necessary evidence and must be accompanied by an FDA mandated label disclaimer that “This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.”

The FDA has published detailed current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP), regulations that govern the manufacturing, packaging, labeling and holding operations of dietary supplement manufacturers. The cGMP regulations, among other things, impose significant recordkeeping requirements on manufacturers and require dietary supplements to be of appropriate potency, purity and identity. The cGMP requirements are in effect for all dietary supplement manufacturers, and the FDA conducts inspections of dietary supplement manufacturers pursuant to these requirements.

The FDA has broad authority to enforce the provisions of federal law applicable to dietary supplements, including powers to issue a public warning or notice of violation letter to a company, publicize information about illegal products, detain products intended for import, require the reporting of serious adverse events, require a recall of illegal or unsafe products from the market, and request the Department of Justice to initiate a seizure action, an injunction action or a criminal prosecution in the United States courts.

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), expands the reach and regulatory powers of the FDA with respect to the production and importation of food, including dietary supplements. The expanded reach and regulatory powers include the FDA’s ability to order mandatory recalls, administratively detain domestic

 

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products, and require certification of compliance with domestic requirements for imported foods associated with safety issues. FMSA also gave FDA the authority to administratively revoke manufacturing facility registrations, effectively enjoining manufacturing of dietary ingredients and dietary supplements without judicial process.

Hemp-Derived Substances

On December 20, 2018, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 also known as the “Farm Bill” was signed into law. The Farm Bill removed hemp from the definition of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act, and granted the U.S. Department of Agriculture the ability to regulate hemp defined as the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa L.), and derivatives of cannabis, with extremely low (less than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis) concentrations of the compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), The Farm Bill did not alter, and explicitly preserved, the authority of the FDA to regulate dietary supplements, foods, and other products containing cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds including hemp or hemp-derived compounds under the FDCA.

Our hemp oil product is derived from the seeds and mature stalks of the Cannabis Sativa plant and, in accordance with the definition of hemp, contains a THC concentration that is less than 0.3 percent on a dry-weight basis. Hemp-containing products may also be subject to state registration requirements depending on where such products are marketed. We are also subject to state laws and regulations for our hemp oil product, which may limit where we can sell and market hemp-derived products.

Laboratory Developed Tests

The health and wellness tests we offer are considered laboratory developed tests (LDTs), and are designed, manufactured, and used within a single laboratory that is certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA), a federal law that regulates clinical laboratories that perform testing on specimens derived from humans and under which our partner laboratories are certified. Laboratory testing is currently under the purview of the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and state agencies that provide oversight of the safe and effective use of clinical laboratory tests, including LDTs.

Our partner clinical laboratories’ operations are subject to CLIA regulations, which are designed to ensure the quality and reliability of clinical laboratories by mandating specific standards in the areas of personnel qualifications, administration and participation in proficiency testing, patient test management, quality control, quality assurance and inspections. Laboratories must undergo on-site surveys at least every two years, which may be conducted by CMS under the CLIA program or by a private CMS approved accrediting agency. The sanction for failure to comply with CLIA requirements may be suspension, revocation or limitation of a laboratory’s CLIA certificate, which is necessary to conduct business, as well as significant fines and/or criminal penalties. Our partner laboratories are also subject to regulation of laboratory operations under state clinical laboratory laws. State clinical laboratory laws may require that laboratories and/or laboratory personnel meet certain qualifications, specify certain quality controls or require maintenance of certain records. Certain states, such as New York, California, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island, each require that laboratories obtain licenses to test specimens from patients residing in those states and additional states may require similar licenses in the future. Only Washington and New York State are exempt under CLIA, as these states have established laboratory quality standards at least as stringent as CLIA’s quality standards. Potential sanctions for violation of these statutes and regulations.

Our partner clinical laboratories’ operations are subject to complex laws, regulations and licensure requirements relating to billing and payment for laboratory services, sales and marketing interactions with ordering physicians and other health care providers, security and confidentiality of health information, and environmental and occupational safety, among others. Changes in regulations often increase the cost of testing or processing claims. Also, these laws may be interpreted or applied by a prosecutorial, regulatory or judicial authority in a manner that could require our partner laboratories and, consequently us, to make changes in

 

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operations, including in pricing, billing and/or marketing practices in a manner that could adversely affect operations.

In addition, the FDCA defines a medical device to include any instrument, apparatus, implement, machine, contrivance, implant, in vitro reagent, or other similar or related article, including a component part, or accessory, intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, in man or other animals. The health tests we offered may be considered by the FDA to be subject to regulation as medical devices. Among other things, pursuant to the FDCA and its implementing regulations, the FDA regulates the research, testing, manufacturing, safety, labeling, storage, recordkeeping, pre-market clearance or approval, marketing and promotion, and sales and distribution of medical devices in the United States to ensure that medical products distributed domestically are safe and effective for their intended uses. In addition, the FDA regulates the export of medical devices manufactured in the United States to international markets.

Although the FDA has statutory authority to assure that medical devices are safe and effective for their intended uses, the FDA has generally exercised its enforcement discretion and not enforced applicable regulations with respect to LDTs, which the FDA considers to be in vitro diagnostics that are designed, manufactured, and used within a single laboratory for use only in that laboratory. As a result, we believe the health tests that we offer are currently subject to the FDA’s enforcement discretion and are not subject to the FDA’s oversight.

Legislative and administrative proposals proposing to amend the FDA’s oversight of LDTs have been introduced in recent years and we expect that new legislative and administrative proposals will continue to be introduced from time to time. It is possible that legislation could be enacted into law or regulations or guidance could be issued by the FDA which may result in new or increased regulatory requirements for us to continue to offer our health tests or to develop and introduce new tests.

For example, in recent years, FDA has stated its intention to modify its enforcement discretion policy with respect to LDTs. On July 31, 2014, the FDA notified Congress of its intent to modify, in a risk-based manner, its policy of enforcement discretion with respect to LDTs. On October 3, 2014, the FDA issued two draft guidance documents entitled “Framework for Regulatory Oversight of Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs),” or the Framework Guidance, and “FDA Notification and Medical Device Reporting for Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs),” or the Reporting Guidance. The Framework Guidance stated that FDA intends to modify its policy of enforcement discretion with respect to LDTs in a risk-based manner consistent with the classification of medical devices generally in Classes I through III. The Reporting Guidance would have further enabled FDA to collect information regarding the LDTs currently being offered for clinical use through a notification process, as well as to enforce its regulations for reporting safety issues and collecting information on any known or suspected adverse events related to the use of an LDT. On November 18, 2016, the FDA announced that it would not finalize either guidance document to allow for further public discussion on an appropriate oversight approach to LDTs and to give Congressional authorizing committees the opportunity to develop a legislative solution, and the FDA issued a discussion paper on possible approaches to LDT regulation in January 2017. Moreover, in August 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that FDA will not require premarket review of LDTs absent notice-and-comment rulemaking, as opposed to through guidance documents and other informal issuances.

Medical Devices

LDTs, which are currently subject to FDA’s enforcement discretion and for which HHS has announced the FDA may not impose its authority without notice and comment rulemaking, the FDA may decide in the future to regulate LDTs and do not qualify for enforcement discretion at present. If this occurs, or if the FDA determines that certain of our other offerings, such as low-risk health and wellness products, including software, are subject to regulation as medical devices, our health tests and/or these other product offerings could become

 

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subject to the FDA’s authority applicable to medical devices, including the requirement for premarket review. Unless an exemption applies, each new or significantly modified medical device we seek to commercially distribute in the U.S. will require either a premarket notification to the FDA requesting permission for commercial distribution under Section 510(k) of the FDCA, also referred to as a 510(k) clearance, or approval from the FDA of a premarket approval application (PMA).

Classification

Under the FDCA, medical devices are classified into one of three classes-Class I, Class II or Class III depending on the degree of risk associated with each medical device and the extent of control needed to provide reasonable assurances with respect to safety and effectiveness. Class I includes devices with the lowest risk to the patient and are those for which safety and effectiveness can be reasonably assured by adherence to a set of FDA regulations, referred to as the General Controls for Medical Devices, which require compliance with the applicable portions of the FDA’s quality system regulation (QSR), facility registration and product listing, reporting of adverse events and malfunctions, and appropriate, truthful and non-misleading labeling and promotional materials. Some Class I devices also require premarket clearance by the FDA through the 510(k) premarket notification process described below. Most Class I products are exempt from the premarket notification requirements.

Class II devices are those that are subject to the General Controls, and special controls as deemed necessary by the FDA to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the device. These special controls can include performance standards, patient registries, FDA guidance documents and post-market surveillance. Most Class II devices are subject to premarket review and clearance by the FDA. Premarket review and clearance by the FDA for Class II devices is accomplished through the 510(k) premarket notification process.

Class III devices include devices deemed by the FDA to pose the greatest risk such as life-supporting or life-sustaining devices, or implantable devices, in addition to those deemed novel and not substantially equivalent following the 510(k) process. The safety and effectiveness of Class III devices cannot be reasonably assured solely by the General Controls and Special Controls described above. Therefore, these devices are subject to the PMA application process, which is generally more costly and time-consuming than the 510(k) process. Through the PMA application process, the applicant must submit data and information demonstrating reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness of the device for its intended use to the FDA’s satisfaction. Accordingly, a PMA typically includes, but is not limited to, extensive technical information regarding device design and development, preclinical and clinical trial data, manufacturing information, labeling and financial disclosure information for the clinical investigators in device studies. The PMA application must provide valid scientific evidence that demonstrates to the FDA’s satisfaction a reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness of the device for its intended use.

510(k) Clearance

Under the 510(k) clearance process, the manufacturer must submit to the FDA a premarket notification, demonstrating that the device is “substantially equivalent” to a legally marketed predicate device. A predicate device is a legally marketed device that is not subject to a PMA, i.e., a device that was legally marketed prior to May 28, 1976 (pre-amendments device) and for which a PMA is not required, a device that has been reclassified from Class III to Class II or I, or a device that was previously found substantially equivalent through the 510(k) process. To be “substantially equivalent,” the proposed device must have the same intended use as the predicate device, and either have the same technological characteristics as the predicate device or have different technological characteristics and not raise different questions of safety or effectiveness than the predicate device. Clinical data is sometimes required to support substantial equivalence.

After a 510(k) premarket notification is submitted, the FDA determines whether to accept it for substantive review. If it lacks necessary information for substantive review, the FDA will refuse to accept the

 

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510(k) notification. If it is accepted for filing, the FDA begins a substantive review. By statute, the FDA is required to complete its review of a 510(k) notification within 90 days of receiving the 510(k) notification. As a practical matter, clearance often takes longer, and clearance is never assured. Although many 510(k) premarket notifications are cleared without clinical data, the FDA may require further information, including clinical data, to make a determination regarding substantial equivalence, which may significantly prolong the review process. If the FDA agrees that the device is substantially equivalent, it will grant clearance to commercially market the device.

If the FDA determines that the device is not “substantially equivalent” to a predicate device, or if the device is automatically classified into Class III, the device sponsor must then fulfill the much more rigorous premarketing requirements of the PMA approval process, or seek reclassification of the device through the de novo process. The de novo classification process is an alternate pathway to classify medical devices that are automatically classified into Class III but which are low to moderate risk. A manufacturer can submit a petition for direct de novo review if the manufacturer is unable to identify an appropriate predicate device and the new device or new use of the device presents a moderate or low risk. De novo classification may also be available after receipt of a “not substantially equivalent” letter following submission of a 510(k) to FDA.

After a device receives 510(k) clearance, any modification that could significantly affect its safety or effectiveness, or that would constitute a new or major change in its intended use, will require a new 510(k) clearance or, depending on the modification, could require a PMA application. The FDA requires each manufacturer to determine whether the proposed change requires a new submission in the first instance, but the FDA can review any such decision and disagree with a manufacturer’s determination. Many minor modifications are accomplished by a letter-to-file in which the manufacture documents the change in an internal letter-to-file. The letter-to-file is in lieu of submitting a new 510(k) to obtain clearance for such change. The FDA can always review these letters to file in an inspection. If the FDA disagrees with a manufacturer’s determination regarding whether a new premarket submission is required for the modification of an existing 510(k)-cleared device, the FDA can require the manufacturer to cease marketing and/or recall the modified device until 510(k) clearance or approval of a PMA application is obtained. In addition, in these circumstances, the FDA can impose significant regulatory fines or penalties for failure to submit the requisite application(s).

Over the last several years, the FDA has proposed reforms to its 510(k) clearance process, and such proposals could include increased requirements for clinical data and a longer review period, or could make it more difficult for manufacturers to utilize the 510(k) clearance process for their products. For example, in November 2018, FDA officials announced steps that the FDA intended to take to modernize the premarket notification pathway under Section 510(k) of the FDCA. Among other things, the FDA announced that it planned to develop proposals to drive manufacturers utilizing the 510(k) pathway toward the use of newer predicates. These proposals included plans to potentially sunset certain older devices that were used as predicates under the 510(k) clearance pathway, and to potentially publish a list of devices that have been cleared on the basis of demonstrated substantial equivalence to predicate devices that are more than 10 years old. These proposals have not yet been finalized or adopted, although the FDA may work with Congress to implement such proposals through legislation.

More recently, in September 2019, the FDA published revised final guidance describing an optional “safety and performance based” premarket review pathway for manufacturers of “certain, well-understood device types” to demonstrate substantial equivalence under the 510(k) clearance pathway by showing that such device meets objective safety and performance criteria established by the FDA, thereby obviating the need for manufacturers to compare the safety and performance of their medical devices to specific predicate devices in the clearance process. The FDA maintains a list device types appropriate for the “safety and performance based” pathway and continues to develop product-specific guidance documents that identify the performance criteria for each such device type, as well as the recommended testing methods for such device types.

 

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PMA Approval

Following receipt of a PMA application, the FDA conducts an administrative review to determine whether the application is sufficiently complete to permit a substantive review. If it is not, the agency will refuse to file the PMA. If it is, the FDA will accept the application for filing and begin the review. The FDA has 180 days to review a filed PMA application, although the review of an application more often occurs over a significantly longer period of time. During this review period, the FDA may request additional information or clarification of information already provided, and the FDA may issue a major deficiency letter to the applicant, requesting the applicant’s response to deficiencies communicated by the FDA.

Before approving or denying a PMA, an FDA advisory committee may review the PMA at a public meeting and provide the FDA with the committee’s recommendation on whether the FDA should approve the submission, approve it with specific conditions, or not approve it. The FDA is not bound by the recommendations of an advisory committee, but it considers such recommendations carefully when making decisions.

Prior to approval of a PMA, the FDA may conduct inspections of the clinical trial data and clinical trial sites, as well as inspections of the manufacturing facility and processes to ensure compliance with the QSR. PMA devices are also subject to the payment of user fees, and an annual establishment registration fee.

If the FDA evaluation of a PMA is favorable, the FDA will issue either an approval letter, or an approvable letter, the latter of which usually contains a number of conditions that must be met in order to secure final approval of the PMA. When and if those conditions have been fulfilled to the satisfaction of the FDA, the agency will issue a PMA approval letter authorizing commercial marketing of the device, subject to the conditions of approval and the limitations established in the approval letter. If the FDA’s evaluation of a PMA application or manufacturing facilities is not favorable, the FDA will deny approval of the PMA or issue a not approvable letter. The FDA also may determine that additional tests or clinical trials are necessary, in which case the PMA approval may be delayed for several months or years while the trials are conducted and data is submitted in an amendment to the PMA, or the PMA is withdrawn and resubmitted when the data are available. The PMA process can be expensive, uncertain and lengthy and a number of devices for which the FDA approval has been sought by other companies have never been approved by the FDA for marketing.

New PMA applications or PMA supplements are required for modification to the manufacturing process, equipment or facility, quality control procedures, sterilization, packaging, expiration date, labeling, device specifications, ingredients, materials or design of a device that has been approved through the PMA process. PMA supplements often require submission of the same type of information as an initial PMA application, except that the supplement is limited to information needed to support any changes from the device covered by the approved PMA application and may or may not require as extensive technical or clinical data or the convening of an advisory panel, depending on the nature of the proposed change.

In approving a PMA application, as a condition of approval, the FDA may also require some form of post-approval study or post-market surveillance, whereby the applicant conducts a follow-up study or follows certain patient groups for a number of years and makes periodic reports to the FDA on the clinical status of those patients when necessary to protect the public health or to provide additional or longer term safety and effectiveness data for the device. The FDA may also approve a PMA application with other post-approval conditions intended to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the device, such as, among other things, restrictions on labeling, promotion, sale, distribution and use. New PMA applications or PMA supplements may also be required for modifications to any approved diagnostic tests, including modifications to our manufacturing processes, device labeling and device design, based on the findings of post-approval studies.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are almost always required to support a PMA and are sometimes required to support a 510(k) submission. All clinical investigations of devices to determine safety and effectiveness must be conducted

 

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in accordance with the FDA’s investigational device exemption (IDE), regulations which govern investigational device labeling, prohibit promotion of the investigational device, and specify an array of recordkeeping, reporting and monitoring responsibilities of study sponsors and study investigators. If the device presents a “significant risk,” to human health, as defined by the FDA, the FDA requires the device sponsor to submit an IDE application to the FDA, which must become effective prior to commencing human clinical trials. A significant risk device is one that presents a potential for serious risk to the health, safety or welfare of a patient and either is implanted, used in supporting or sustaining human life, substantially important in diagnosing, curing, mitigating or treating disease or otherwise preventing impairment of human health, or otherwise presents a potential for serious risk to a subject. An IDE application must be supported by appropriate data, such as animal and laboratory test results, showing that it is safe to test the device in humans and that the testing protocol is scientifically sound. The IDE will automatically become effective 30 days after receipt by the FDA unless the FDA notifies the company that the investigation may not begin. If the FDA determines that there are deficiencies or other concerns with an IDE for which it requires modification, the FDA may permit a clinical trial to proceed under a conditional approval.

In addition, the study must be approved by, and conducted under the oversight of, an Institutional Review Board (IRB), for each clinical site. The IRB is responsible for the initial and continuing review of the IDE, and may pose additional requirements for the conduct of the study. If an IDE application is approved by the FDA and one or more IRBs, human clinical trials may begin at a specific number of investigational sites with a specific number of patients, as approved by the FDA. If the device presents a non-significant risk to the patient, a sponsor may begin the clinical trial after obtaining approval for the trial by one or more IRBs without separate approval from the FDA, but must still follow abbreviated IDE requirements, such as monitoring the investigation, ensuring that the investigators obtain informed consent, and labeling and record-keeping requirements. Acceptance of an IDE application for review does not guarantee that the FDA will allow the IDE to become effective and, if it does become effective, the FDA may or may not determine that the data derived from the trials support the safety and effectiveness of the device or warrant the continuation of clinical trials. An IDE supplement must be submitted to, and approved by, the FDA before a sponsor or investigator may make a change to the investigational plan that may affect its scientific soundness, study plan or the rights, safety or welfare of human subjects.

During a study, the sponsor is required to comply with the applicable FDA requirements, including, for example, trial monitoring, selecting clinical investigators and providing them with the investigational plan, ensuring IRB review, adverse event reporting, record keeping and prohibitions on the promotion of investigational devices or on making safety or effectiveness claims for them. The clinical investigators in the clinical study are also subject to FDA’s regulations and must obtain patient informed consent, rigorously follow the investigational plan and study protocol, control the disposition of the investigational device, and comply with all reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Additionally, after a trial begins, the sponsor, the FDA or the IRB could suspend or terminate a clinical trial at any time for various reasons, including a belief that the risks to study subjects outweigh the anticipated benefits.

Post-Market Regulation

After a device is cleared or approved for marketing, numerous and pervasive regulatory requirements continue to apply. These include:

 

   

establishment registration and device listing with the FDA;

 

   

QSR requirements, which require manufacturers, including third-party manufacturers, to follow stringent design, testing, control, documentation and other quality assurance procedures during all aspects of the design and manufacturing process;

 

   

labeling regulations and FDA prohibitions against the promotion of investigational products, or the promotion of ‘‘off-label’’ uses of cleared or approved products;

 

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requirements related to promotional activities;

 

   

clearance or approval of product modifications to 510(k)-cleared devices that could significantly affect safety or effectiveness or that would constitute a major change in intended use of one of our cleared devices, or approval of certain modifications to PMA-approved devices;

 

   

medical device reporting regulations, which require that a manufacturer report to the FDA if a device it markets may have caused or contributed to a death or serious injury, or has malfunctioned and the device or a similar device that it markets would be likely to cause or contribute to a death or serious injury, if the malfunction were to recur;

 

   

correction, removal and recall reporting regulations, which require that manufacturers report to the FDA field corrections and product recalls or removals if undertaken to reduce a risk to health posed by the device or to remedy a violation of the FDCA that may present a risk to health;

 

   

the FDA’s recall authority, whereby the agency can order device manufacturers to recall from the market a product that is in violation of governing laws and regulations; and

 

   

post-market surveillance activities and regulations, which apply when deemed by the FDA to be necessary to protect the public health or to provide additional safety and effectiveness data for the device.

Device manufacturing processes are required to comply with the applicable portions of the QSR, which cover the methods and the facilities and controls for the design, manufacture, testing, production, processes, controls, quality assurance, labeling, packaging, distribution, installation and servicing of finished devices intended for human use. The QSR also requires, among other things, maintenance of a device master file, device history file, and complaint files. As a manufacturer, will be subject to periodic scheduled or unscheduled inspections by the FDA. Failure to maintain compliance with the QSR requirements could result in the shut-down of, or restrictions on, manufacturing operations and the recall or seizure of products. The discovery of previously unknown problems with any marketed medical device products, including unanticipated adverse events or adverse events of increasing severity or frequency, whether resulting from the use of the device within the scope of its clearance or off-label by a physician in the practice of medicine, could result in restrictions on a medical device, including the removal of the product from the market or voluntary or mandatory device recalls.

The FDA has broad regulatory compliance and enforcement powers. If the FDA determines that a manufacturer has failed to comply with applicable regulatory requirements, it can take a variety of compliance or enforcement actions, which may result in any of the following sanctions:

 

   

warning letters, untitled letters, fines, injunctions, consent decrees and civil penalties;

 

   

recalls, withdrawals, or administrative detention or seizure of our products;

 

   

operating restrictions or partial suspension or total shutdown of production;

 

   

refusing or delaying requests for 510(k) marketing clearance or PMA approvals of new products or modified products;

 

   

withdrawing 510(k) clearances or PMA approvals that have already been granted;

 

   

refusal to grant export approvals; or

 

   

criminal prosecutions.

 

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Telehealth Regulation

The practice of health care professions is subject to various federal, state and local certification and licensing laws, regulations and approvals, relating to, among other things, the adequacy of health care, the practice of medicine and other health professions (including the provision of remote care and cross-coverage practice), equipment, personnel, operating policies and procedures and the prerequisites for prescribing medication. In addition, the provision of health care services through any kind of clinic, facility, storefront or other location open to the public is often subject to state clinic licensure laws akin to those that health facilities like hospitals, surgery centers and urgent care clinics must obtain and maintain. We do not operate or promote any physical place to obtain healthcare and therefore do not believe we are subject to any clinic licensure requirements, but the application of some of these laws to the telehealth we facilitate is unclear and subject to differing interpretation.

Some states have enacted regulations specific to providing services to patients via telehealth. Such regulations include informed consent requirements that some states require providers to obtain from their patients before providing telehealth services. Health professionals who provide professional services using telehealth modalities must, in most instances, hold a valid license to practice the applicable health profession in the state in which the patient is located. In addition, certain states require a physician providing telehealth to be physically located in the same state as the patient. Any failure to comply with these laws and regulations could result in civil or criminal penalties against us.

State Corporate Practice of Medicine and Fee Splitting Laws

Our relationships with physicians and other health professionals are subject to various state laws, which are intended to prevent unlicensed persons from interfering with or influencing the physician’s professional judgment, and prohibiting the sharing of professional services income with non-professional or business interests. These laws vary from state to state and are subject to broad interpretation and enforcement by state regulators. A determination of non-compliance could lead to adverse judicial or administrative action against us and/or our providers, civil or criminal penalties, receipt of cease and desist orders from state regulators, loss of provider licenses, or a restructuring of our arrangements with our affiliated professional entities.

Healthcare Fraud and Abuse Laws

Although none of our offerings are currently covered by any third-party payor, including any commercial payor or government healthcare program, we may nonetheless be subject to a number of federal and state healthcare regulatory laws that restrict business practices in the healthcare industry. These laws include, but are not limited to, federal and state anti-kickback, false claims, and other healthcare fraud and abuse laws.

The U.S. federal Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits, among other things, any person or entity from knowingly and willfully offering, paying, soliciting, receiving or providing any remuneration, directly or indirectly, overtly or covertly, to induce or in return for purchasing, leasing, ordering, or arranging for or recommending the purchase, lease, or order of any good, facility, item or service reimbursable, in whole or in part, under Medicare, Medicaid or other federal healthcare programs. A person or entity does not need to have actual knowledge of the statute or specific intent to violate it in order to have committed a violation. The majority of states also have antikickback laws, which establish similar prohibitions, and in some cases may apply to items or services reimbursed by any third party payor, including commercial insurers and self-pay patients.

The federal false claims, including the civil False Claims Act, prohibit, among other things, any person or entity from knowingly presenting, or causing to be presented, a false, fictitious or fraudulent claim for payment to, or approval by, the federal government, knowingly making, using, or causing to be made or used a false record or statement material to a false or fraudulent claim to the federal government, or knowingly making a false statement to avoid, decrease or conceal an obligation to pay money to the U.S. federal government. A

 

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claim includes “any request or demand” for money or property presented to the U.S. government. Actions under the civil False Claims Act may be brought by the Attorney General or as a qui tam action by a private individual in the name of the government. Moreover, a claim including items or services resulting from a violation of the U.S. federal Anti-Kickback Statute constitutes a false or fraudulent claim for purposes of the federal civil False Claims Act.

In addition, the civil monetary penalties statute, subject to certain exceptions, prohibits, among other things, the offer or transfer of remuneration, including waivers of copayments and deductible amounts (or any part thereof), to a Medicare or state healthcare program beneficiary if the person knows or should know it is likely to influence the beneficiary’s selection of a particular provider, practitioner or supplier of services reimbursable by Medicare or a state healthcare program.

The federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 created additional federal criminal statutes that prohibit, among other actions, knowingly and willfully executing, or attempting to execute, a scheme to defraud any healthcare benefit program, including private third party payors, knowingly and willfully embezzling or stealing from a healthcare benefit program, willfully obstructing a criminal investigation of a healthcare offense, and knowingly and willfully falsifying, concealing or covering up a material fact or making any materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statement in connection with the delivery of or payment for healthcare benefits, items or services. Similar to the U.S. federal Anti-Kickback Statute, a person or entity does not need to have actual knowledge of the statute or specific intent to violate it in order to have committed a violation.

The federal Physician Payments Sunshine Act requires certain manufacturers of drugs, devices, biologics and medical supplies for which payment is available under Medicare, Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program, with specific exceptions, to report annually to CMS information related to payments or other transfers of value made to physicians (defined to include doctors, dentists, optometrists, podiatrists and chiropractors), certain other healthcare professionals beginning in 2022, and teaching hospitals, and applicable manufacturers and applicable group purchasing organizations to report annually to CMS ownership and investment interests held by physicians and their immediate family members.

Violations of fraud and abuse laws, including federal and state anti-kickback and false claims laws, may be punishable by criminal and civil sanctions, including fines and civil monetary penalties, the possibility of exclusion from federal healthcare programs (including Medicare and Medicaid), disgorgement and corporate integrity agreements, which impose, among other things, rigorous operational and monitoring requirements on companies. Similar sanctions and penalties, as well as imprisonment, also can be imposed upon executive officers and employees of such companies.

Data Privacy and Security Laws and Regulations

Numerous state, federal and foreign laws, including consumer protection laws and regulations, govern the collection, dissemination, use, access to, confidentiality and security of personal information, including health related information. In the United States, numerous federal and state laws and regulations, including data breach notification laws, health information privacy and security laws and federal and state consumer protection laws and regulations (e.g., Section 5 of the FTC Act), that govern the collection, use, disclosure, and protection of health related and other personal information could apply to our operations or the operations of our partners. For example, the privacy and security regulations under HIPAA establish comprehensive federal standards with respect to the uses and disclosures of PHI by health plans, healthcare clearinghouses and certain health care providers referred to as covered entities, and the business associates with whom such covered entities contract for services, as well as their covered subcontractors, in addition to setting standards to protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of electronic PHI. HIPAA requires covered entities and business associates to develop and maintain policies with respect to the protection of, use and disclosure of electronic PHI, including the adoption of administrative, physical and technical safeguards to protect such information, and imposes certain notification requirements in the event of a data breach.

 

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As we launch commercial diagnostic tests, we must ensure that our use and disclosure and protection of PHI comply with requirements under the HIPAA privacy and security regulations. Violations of HIPAA may result in significant fines and other penalties for wrongful use or disclosure of PHI, including potential civil and criminal fines and penalties.

In addition, certain state and non-U.S. laws, such as the GDPR, govern the privacy and security of personal data, including health-related data in certain circumstances, some of which are more stringent than HIPAA and many of which differ from each other in significant ways and may not have the same effect, thus complicating compliance efforts. Failure to comply with these laws, where applicable, can result in the imposition of significant civil and/or criminal penalties and private litigation. For example, California enacted the CCPA, which went into effect on January 1, 2020. Pursuant to the CCPA, certain businesses are required, among other things, to make certain enhanced disclosures related to California residents regarding the use or disclosure of their personal information, allow California residents to opt-out of certain uses and disclosures of their personal information without penalty, provide Californians with other choices related to personal data in our possession, and obtain opt-in consent before engaging in certain uses of personal information relating to California residents under the age of 16. The California Attorney General may seek substantial monetary penalties and injunctive relief in the event of our non-compliance with the CCPA. The CCPA also allows for private lawsuits from California residents in the event of certain data breaches. Moreover, the CPRA recently passed in California. The CPRA significantly modifies the CCPA, creating obligations relating to consumer data including additional consumer rights processes, limitations on data uses, new audit requirements for higher risk data, and opt outs for certain uses of sensitive data. It will also create a new California data protection agency authorized to issue substantive regulations and could result in increased privacy and information security enforcement. The majority of the provisions will go into effect on January 1, 2023, with enforcement beginning July 1, 2023. Aspects of the CCPA and CPRA remain uncertain, and we may be required to make modifications to our policies or practices in efforts to comply.

In Europe, the GDPR went into effect in May 2018 and imposes strict requirements for processing the personal data of individuals within the EEA. In addition, the GDPR increases the scrutiny of transfers of personal data from the EEA to the United States and other jurisdictions that the European Commission does not recognize as having “adequate” data protection laws. Companies that must comply with the GDPR face increased compliance obligations and risk, including more robust regulatory enforcement of data protection requirements and potential fines for noncompliance of up to €20 million or 4% of the annual global revenues of the noncompliant company, whichever is greater. Additionally, from January 1, 2021, companies have to comply with the GDPR and the UK GDPR, which, together with the amended UK Data Protection Act 2018, retains the GDPR in UK national law. The UK GDPR mirrors the fines under the GDPR, e.g. fines up to the greater of €20 million (£17.5 million) or 4% of global turnover. The relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union in relation to certain aspects of data protection law remains unclear, and it is unclear how United Kingdom data protection laws and regulations will develop in the medium to longer term, and how data transfers to and from the United Kingdom will be regulated in the long term.

Privacy and security laws, self-regulatory schemes, regulations, standards, and other obligations are constantly evolving, may conflict with each other to complicate compliance efforts, and can result in investigations, proceedings, or actions that lead to significant civil and/or criminal penalties and restrictions on data processing.

Federal Trade Commission

The advertising and promotion of our products in the United States is subject to regulation by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), under the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTC Act). The FTC Act requires that an advertiser possess, at a minimum, a “reasonable basis” to substantiate all product claims before the claims are made, and competent and reliable scientific evidence to substantiate health and therapeutic claims. A lack of adequate substantiation may render such claims deceptive and/or misleading. The FTC Act also governs the

 

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appropriate use and necessary disclosures relating to promotional statements made by social media influencers as well as product testimonials.

In recent years, the FTC has initiated numerous investigations of and actions against companies that sell dietary supplements. The FTC has issued guidance to assist companies in understanding and complying with its substantiation requirement. We believe that we have adequate substantiation for all material advertising claims that we make for our products in the United States, and we believe that we have organized the documentation to support our advertising and promotional practices in compliance with these guidelines. However, no assurance can be given that the FTC would reach the same conclusion if it were to review or question our substantiation for our advertising claims in the United States.

The FTC may enforce compliance with the law in a variety of ways, both administratively and judicially, using compulsory process, cease and desist orders, and injunctions. FTC enforcement can result in orders requiring, among other things, limits on advertising, corrective advertising, customer redress, restitution, divestiture of assets, rescission of contracts, and such other relief as the agency deems necessary to protect the public. Violation of these orders could result in substantial financial or other penalties. Although we have not been the subject of any action by the FTC, no assurance can be given that the FTC will not question our advertising or other operations in the United States in the future. Any action in the future by the FTC could materially and adversely affect our ability to successfully market our products in the United States.

In addition, state attorneys general and local district attorneys also have jurisdiction to enforce similar state and local consumer protection laws. Our policy is to use advertising that complies with applicable regulations. Nevertheless, there can be no assurance that inadvertent failures to comply with the applicable regulations will not occur. Failure by us to comply with applicable regulations could result in substantial penalties, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations and adversely affect our ability to successfully market our products in the United States.

Environmental Matters

Our manufacturing processes and those of our suppliers involve use of hazardous materials and chemicals and produce waste products. We and our suppliers are subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations governing the use, manufacture, storage, handling and disposal of hazardous materials and waste products. For example, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), regulates the generation and disposal of certain hazardous wastes. Additionally, the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, and other state, local or foreign laws may impose liabilities for the costs of remediating contaminated real property. We may also be subject to environmental, health and safety claims and proceedings. While we believe we are in compliance with applicable environmental regulations, the failure to fully comply with any such regulations could result in the imposition of significant penalties, fines and/or sanctions which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Proposition 65

We are also subject to regulation under various state, local, and international laws that include provisions governing, among other things, the formulation, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, advertising, and distribution of dietary supplements. For example, California Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 (Proposition 65), in the state of California is a list of substances deemed to pose a risk of carcinogenicity or birth defects at or above certain levels. If any such listed ingredient exceeds the permissible levels in a marketed product distributed in the state of California, the product must be accompanied by a prominent warning label alerting consumers that the product contains an ingredient linked to cancer or birth defect risk. Private attorney general actions as well as California attorney general actions may be brought against non-compliant products and can result in substantial costs and penalties.

 

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Other Government Regulation

We also cannot predict the likelihood, nature or extent of government regulation that may arise from future legislation or administrative or executive action, either in the United States or abroad. For example, certain policies of the Biden Administration may impact our business and industry. The Biden Administration could significantly increase the federal government’s willingness to engage in regulatory and oversight activities such as implementing statutes through rulemaking, issuance of guidance, and review and approval of marketing applications. Any of these could substantially affect any of our regulated products or services.

Legal Proceedings

We are aware of third-party issued U.S. patents with claims relating to compositions of nicotinamide riboside, a component of some of our products, owned by the Trustees of Dartmouth and licensed to ChromaDex. On December 1, 2020 and February 1, 2021, we filed petitions for inter partes review against U.S. Patent Nos. 8,383,086 and 8,197,807, respectively at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board to seek to invalidate these patents. The Patent Trial and Appeal Board issued a decision on June 10, 2021, granting institution of inter partes review against U.S. Patent No. 8,383,086, and the institution decision is expected on August 18, 2021, for U.S. Patent No. 8,197,807. On May 12, 2021, the Trustees of Dartmouth College and ChromaDex filed a complaint against us in the District Court of the Southern District of New York, alleging infringement of U.S. Patent Nos. 8,383,086 and 8,197,807. The complaint seeks to enjoin us from selling our nutritional supplement products that contain nicotinamide riboside, including our NiaCel suite of supplements, and further seeks monetary damages for alleged infringement of the patents. We are exploring all of our options as to how best to respond to the complaint.

For further information regarding Legal Proceedings please see “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to our Intellectual Property—Litigation or other proceedings or third-party claims of intellectual property infringement, misappropriation or other violations may require us to spend significant time and money, and could in the future prevent us from selling our products or services or impact our stock price, any of which could have a material adverse effect.”

 

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MANAGEMENT

Executive Officers and Directors

The following table sets forth the names and positions of our executive officers, key employees and directors and their ages as of March 31, 2021:

 

Name

  

Age

    

Position

Executive Officers:

     

Paul F. Jacobson

     67      Chief Executive Officer and Director

Thomas P. McKenna

     61      Chief Operating Officer and Director

Will C. McCamy

     52      President

Scott S. Wheeler

     66      Chief Financial Officer

Key Employees:

     

Michelle L. Crow

     31      Chief Marketing Officer

Scott R. Hurth

     41      Chief Technology Officer

Stephen M. Phipps

     39      Chief Innovation Officer

Daniel McEvoy

     60      Co-CEO – Drawbridge Health

Nathan D. Price

     45      Chief Executive Officer – Onegevity

Bodi Zhang

     36      Chief Science Officer

Kim R. Pearson

     69      General Counsel

La Vonda Williams

     50      Chief Financial Officer Onegevity

Non-employee Directors:

     

Riccardo C. Braglia(1)(2)

     61      Director

Yasuhiro Oki(4)

     41      Director

Toru Yoshimura(2)

     56      Director

Toshitaka Inuzuka(2)

     52      Director

Tetsu Watanabe(4).

     55      Director

Sarah M. Kauss(1)(2)(3)

     46      Director Nominee

Saloni S. Varma(1)(3)

     42      Director Nominee

 

(1)

Member of the audit committee

(2)

Member of the compensation committee

(3)

Has agreed to join our board of directors upon the completion of this offering.

(4)

Intends to resign upon the completion of this offering.

Executive Officers

Paul Jacobson, 67, has served as our co-founder, Chief Executive Officer, and on our board of directors since 2010. He has also served as co-founder, Chief Executive Officer and on the board of directors for Company subsidiaries, including Thorne Research Inc., Health Elements, LLC and WellnessFX, Inc. since 2010. Mr. Jacobson is also the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer for Onegevity Health, LLC, which is now a division of our company. In addition, he has served on the board of directors for Tecton Group, LLC since 2020, and from 2017 to 2020, he served on the board of directors for Drawbridge Health, Inc. Prior to joining our company, Mr. Jacobson was on the board of directors for Progenics Pharmaceuticals and a Partner and Co-head of the Liquid Capital Markets Department at Goldman Sachs. He holds an M.B.A. from Washington University in Saint Louis and a B.A. in English and Economics from Vanderbilt University. We believe Mr. Jacobson is qualified to serve on our board of directors due to his extensive history with us and his business experience in investment banking and finance.

Thomas McKenna, 61, has served as our Chief Operating Officer and on our board of directors since 2010. Before joining our company, he was the Chief Operating Officer of Diversified Natural Products, Inc. Prior

 

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to that, he spent most of his career at Bristol-Myers Squibb in a variety of operational roles. Mr. McKenna holds an M.B.A. in Accounting from the Fox School of Business at Temple University and a B.S. in Finance from Fairfield University. We believe that Mr. McKenna is qualified to serve on our board of directors due to his extensive history with us, finance experience and education.

Will McCamy, 52, has served as President for Thorne Research, Inc. and on the board of directors for Health Elements, LLC, since 2010, both of which are our subsidiaries. Prior to joining our company, Mr. McCamy served as co-founder and President for Xymogen, Inc. Mr. McCamy has over 26 years of experience in the nutritional sciences industry, specifically focusing on the healthcare professional segment but recently expanding into consumer-driven initiatives and sport performance. Mr. McCamy holds a B.S. in Finance from University of Florida.

Scott Wheeler, 66, has served as Chief Financial Officer for us and our subsidiaries, Thorne Research, Inc., HEU Holding Company and Health Elements, LLC, since 2011. Prior to joining our Company, Mr. Wheeler served as Chief Financial Officer for Pulmuone Foods USA from 2009 to 2011 and Chief Financial Officer for Monterey Gourmet Foods, Inc., a publicly traded company, from 2003 through 2009. He holds an M.B.A. from Golden Gate University and a B.S. in Accounting from Brigham Young University. We expect that Mr. Wheeler will retire from his position as Chief Financial Officer of the Company during 2022, but will continue to consult with the Company through the end of 2022.

Key Employees

Michelle Crow, 31, has served as our Chief Marketing Officer since November 2017. She has also served on the board of directors for Akreto, Inc. since October 2020. Prior to becoming our Chief Marketing Officer, she held numerous positions from 2012 to October 2017 at our subsidiary Thorne Research Inc., including Vice President of Marketing, Assistant Vice President of Marketing, Director of Marketing, Manager of Operations, and Marketing Associate. Ms. Crow holds an M.B.A. in Marketing and Strategy from the Leonard N. Stern School of Business at New York University and a B.A. in Philosophy and Spanish from Duke University.

Scott Hurth, 41, has served as our Chief Technology Officer since 2014. He has also served on the board of directors for Akreto, Inc. since October 2020. Prior to his current roles, he co-founded Greydin, LLC, an information technology consulting firm and has held various positions with Amazon. He holds a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire.

Stephen Phipps, 39, has served as our Chief Innovation Officer since January 2021. Prior to his current role, he held numerous positions from 2015 to 2021 at our subsidiary Thorne Research, Inc., including Chief Innovation Officer, Vice President of Research and Development and Director of Clinical Programs. Mr. Phipps is also a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the Naturopathic Academy of Primary Care Physicians, and was a practicing Naturopathic physician before joining our Company. He holds a N.D. in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University, a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Florida and a B.S. in Botany from the University of Florida.

Daniel McEvoy, 60, has served as our Chief of Strategic Development since August 2019. He has also served as President for WellnessFX, Inc., a Company subsidiary, since March 2017. Additionally, Mr. McEvoy served on the board of directors for Health Elements, LLC, a Company subsidiary, and Onegevity Health, LLC, now a division of our company, since 2015 and January 2018, respectively. Prior to his current roles, he served as President for Onegevity Health, LLC from 2018 to 2020, Chief Operating Officer for WellnessFX, Inc., from 2015 to 2017, and Chief Financial Officer for WellnessFX, Inc. from 2014 to 2015. Prior to that, Mr. McEvoy served as Chief Financial Officer for Diversified Natural Products, Inc. from 2001 to 2009, as a Managing Director at Deutsche Bank Securities from 1996 to 1999 and as Vice President at Goldman Sachs from 1982 to 1996. He holds a B.A. in Biology from Dartmouth College.

 

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Dr. Nathan Price, 45, has served as Co-Chief Executive Officer for Onegevity Health, LLC, from November 2020 until its merger with our Company in March 2021. Post-merger, Dr. Price will be the Chief Executive Officer of Onegevity, a division of our company. Dr. Price has also served on the Board of Directors of Health and Environmental Sciences, a non-profit, since 2018. Since 2017, Dr. Price has co-led the Hood-Price Integrated Lab for Systems Biomedicine with biotechnology pioneer Lee Hood. Prior to his current roles, Dr. Price served as co-founder and Director of Arivale Inc. from 2014 to 2019. He has also served on many advisory boards, including Roche (Personalized Healthcare Division), Providence St. Joseph Health, Sera Prognostics, Navican, Basepaws, Trelys and the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability. Dr. Price holds a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of California, San Diego, an M.S. in Bioengineering from the University of California, San Diego and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Brigham Young University.

Dr. Bodi Zhang, 36, has served as Chief Science Officer for Onegevity Health, LLC from January 2018 until its merger with our company in March 2021. Post-merger, Dr. Zhang continues in the role as Chief Science Officer of Onegevity, a division of our company. Prior to his current role, Dr. Zhang served as Vice President, Corporate and Medical Strategy from January 2015 to 2018, and as General Manager, Strategic Alliance from January 2013 to 2015. Prior to joining our company, Dr. Zhang worked at Deallus Group, a global healthcare consultancy. Prior to the Deallus Group, Dr. Zhang was a Research Assistant Professor of Pharmacology at Tufts University, Boston. As a scientist, Bodi’s research focused on autoimmune diseases and published top-tier research publications, including in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and Nature Reviews. Dr. Zhang holds a Ph.D in Pharmacology and Biochemistry from Tufts University, Boston, an M.P.H in healthcare management from Harvard University, Boston and a M.D. from Peking University, China.

Kim Pearson, 69, has served as our General Counsel since 1995. Before joining our company, he was a partner in a Washington, D.C., law firm. As General Counsel, he ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and protect the rights, resources, and business continuity of the Company and its officers, board of directors, employees, and investors. Mr. Pearson supports general and operating management in day-to-day legal matters and recommends policies and procedures to ensure legal and regulatory compliance nationwide and internationally. Mr. Pearson has 40 years of experience as a lawyer and has vast knowledge of the nutritional supplement and the pharmaceutical industries, including a comprehensive understanding of their statutory and regulatory backgrounds. Mr. Pearson received his J.D. degree from Brigham Young University in 1979.

La Vonda Williams, 50, has served as Chief Financial Officer for Onegevity Health, LLC, which is now a division of our company, since September 2019. Before joining that entity, she served as Vice President of Equity Derivatives Operations at Goldman Sachs from 2014 to 2019. Prior to that, Ms. Williams served as Chief Operating Officer for Solaire Generation, Inc. from 2009 to 2010. Ms. Williams has spent nearly 20 years in finance and operations in a series of executive roles at early-stage startups, as well as operations, sales and underwriting positions at leading investment banks. She holds an M.B.A. from Stanford University and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Harvard University.

Non-Employee Directors

Riccardo Braglia, 61, has served on our board of directors since 2012. He has served as Chief Executive Officer and on the board of directors for Helsinn Holding SA, an international pharmaceutical, and many of Helsinn Group’s subsidiaries and affiliates, including Helsinn Healthcare, Helsinn Advanced Synthesis, Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals and Helsinn Therapeutics, since 2002. He serves as an Advisory Board Member of the Healthcare Fund at Windham Venture Partners. He is also a co-founder and has served on the board of directors for Sinomedica, a Swiss acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine center, since 2011, and is a co-founder and has served on the board of directors for Lyfebulb, a patient engagement platform, since 2014. He is also a Board Member for the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce, a Board Member for the Conquer Cancer Foundation of ASCO, a Board Member for Medacta International, and Chairman of WS Fashion Holding. Mr. Braglia has worked for 35 years as an entrepreneur in the healthcare sector, starting both companies and

 

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charities, and has international experience working with pharmaceutical businesses in the United Kingdom, Portugal, Switzerland and the United States. He holds an M.B.A in Industrial Business from the Università Boccini in Milan. We believe that Mr. Braglia is qualified to serve on our board of directors due to his extensive experience on company boards, his international experience, and his background as an entrepreneur in the healthcare sector.

Yasuhiro Oki, 41, has served on our board of directors and for our subsidiary Thorne Research Inc. since October 2018. He has also served as Director of Technology and Strategy for Thorne Research Inc. since March 2019. Mr. Oki also serves as a Senior Manager of Health Business Strategy in the Corporate Strategy Department at Kirin Holdings Co. since 2014. Prior to that, he held numerous positions within Kirin, including Manager of the Management Planning Department, Associate Manager of Corporate Strategy, and Associate Manager of Production and Quality Control for Kirin Brewery. Mr. Oki holds an M.B.A. in Business from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a Masters of Life Science from Kyoto University and a Bachelor of Agriculture from Kyoto University. We believe that Mr. Oki is qualified to serve on our board of directors because of his business background and education.

Toru Yoshimura, 56, has served on our board of directors and for our subsidiary Thorne Research Inc. since October 2019. He has also served as a member of our Compensation Committee since October 2019. Mr. Yoshimura has served in management roles at Kirin Holdings Co. since 2014, including as Senior Executive Officer and Director of Corporate Strategy since 2018. He also continues serve on the board of directors for many Kirin subsidiaries, including Kirin Brewery Co., Kirin Brewery (Zhuhai) Co., Kirin (China) Investment Co., Kirin Taiwan, and Interfood Shareholding Co. Prior to holding his current positions, Mr. Yoshimura was the Deputy General Manager and Manager of Strategy Planning at Kirin Holdings and held various positions at Kirin Brewery. He holds an M.B.A. from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Agriculture from the University of Tokyo. We believe that Mr. Yoshimura is qualified to serve on our board of directors because of his business background and education.

Toshitaka Inuzuka, 52, has served on our board of directors and for our subsidiary Thorne Research, Inc. since October 2018. He has also served on our Compensation Committee since July 2019. In addition, he has served as General Manager of the NutriScience Division at Mitsui & Co., Ltd. since July 2019. He also continues to serve on the board of directors for a number of private companies, including Novus International, Inc., Soda Aromatic Co., Ltd., Ceva Santé Animale SA and Bussan Food Science Co., Ltd. Previously, he served on the board of directors for San-ei Sucrochemical Co., Ltd., Certis USA L.L.C. and Anagra S.A. Since 2014 and prior to his current roles, Mr. Inuzuka held numerous positions at Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and its US subsidiary Mitsui & Co. (U.S.A.), Inc., including Senior Vice President of the Chemicals Division, General Manager of the Strategic Planning Department within the Nutrition & Agriculture Business Unit and Deputy General Manager. He holds a Bachelor of Science & Technology from Keio University. We believe that Mr. Inuzuka is qualified to serve on our board of directors because of his business background and experience serving on company boards.

Tetsu Watanabe, 55, has served on our board of directors and for our subsidiary Thorne Research, Inc. since July 2019. He has been Senior Vice President of the Chemicals Division at Mitsui & Co. (U.S.A.), Inc. since July 2019. Prior to his current roles, he held numerous positions over the course of 33 years at Mitsui, including General Manager of the AgriScience Division, Deputy General Manager of the AgriScience Division, General Manager of the Strategic Planning Department for Performance Chemicals, Deputy General Manager of the Chemicals Investment Administration Department, General Manager of the 3rd AgriScience Department and General Manager of the 2nd AgriScience Department. He holds a Bachelor of Social Science from Hitotsubashi University. We believe that Mr. Watanabe is qualified to serve on our board of directors because of his business background and education.

Sarah M. Kauss, 46, has agreed to join our board of directors upon the completion of this offering. Ms. Kauss is the founder of S’well, which manufactures reusable, insulated products for the retail and wholesale market and served as its Chief Executive Officer from 2010 to February 2020. She currently serves as

 

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Chairwoman. Prior to founding S’well, Ms. Kauss was a CPA at Ernst & Young. Ms. Kauss currently serves on the board of directors of Desenio Group AB, CarLotz Inc. and Glowforge Inc. Ms. Kauss received her M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and her B.S. in business and accounting from the University of Colorado at Boulder. We believe Ms. Kauss is qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors based on her background in accounting and extensive experience in product marketing and founding and leading a successful retail company.

Saloni S. Varma, 42, has agreed to join our board of directors upon the completion of this offering. Ms. Varma has served as the Chief Financial Officer of ByHeart, Inc., a fully integrated baby nutrition company, since July 2020. Prior to that, she served as VP Finance at Chobani, LLC from October 2017 to July 2020 and as VP Finance and Operations at Hunter Boot Ltd. from September 2016 to October 2017. She also held finance positions at Unilever, UBS and KPMG. Ms. Varma earned a Masters of Commerce, Accounting from the University of Mumbai and a Masters in Finance and Entrepreneurial Management from The Wharton School. We believe Ms. Varma is qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors based on her experience as a principal financial officer and background in accounting.

Family Relationships

There are no family relationships among any of our executive officers or directors.

Board Composition

Our board of directors currently consists of seven members and following the resignation of Yasuhiro Oki and Tetsu Watanabe, and appointment of Saloni Varma and Sarah Kauss, upon completion of this offering, will continue to consist of seven members. After the completion of this offering, the number of directors will be fixed from time to time by our board of directors, subject to the terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws. Each of our current directors will continue to serve as a director until the election and qualification of his or her successor, or until his or her earlier death, resignation or removal.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that our board of directors will be divided into three classes with staggered three-year terms. Only one class of directors will be elected at each annual meeting of stockholders, with the other classes continuing for the remainder of their respective three-year terms. Our current directors will be divided among the three classes as follows:

 

   

the Class I directors will be Paul Jacobson, Riccardo Braglia and Thomas McKenna, and their terms will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2022;

 

   

the Class II directors will be Saloni Varma and Sarah Kauss, and their terms will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2023; and

 

   

the Class III directors will be Toru Yoshimura and Toshitaka Inuzuka, and their terms will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2024.

At each annual meeting of stockholders, upon the expiration of the term of a class of directors, the successor to each such director in the class will be elected to serve from the time of election and qualification until the third annual meeting following his or her election and until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, in accordance with our amended and restated certificate of incorporation. Any additional directorships resulting from an increase in the number of directors will be distributed among the three classes so that, as nearly as possible, each class will consist of one third of our directors. This classification of our board of directors may have the effect of delaying or preventing changes in control of our company.

 

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Nominating Agreement

Immediately prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, we intend to enter into a nominating agreement with Mitsui and Kirin which will provide that, subject to certain minimum stock ownership requirements, that the Company will include a designee of Mitsui and Kirin (as applicable) in the slate of nominees recommended to the Company’s stockholders for election at the Company’s annual stockholder meetings if the current Mitsui or Kirin (as applicable) designee’s term is expiring at such meeting. This agreement also provides for certain information, board observer and secondment rights.

Director Independence

Upon the completion of this offering, we anticipate that our common stock will be listed on the Nasdaq. Under the rules of Nasdaq, independent directors must comprise a majority of a listed company’s board of directors within one year of the completion of this offering. In addition, the rules of Nasdaq require that, subject to specified exceptions, each member of a listed company’s audit and compensation committees be independent. Audit committee members and compensation committee members must also satisfy the independence criteria set forth in Rule 10A-3 and Rule 10C-1, respectively, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). Under the rules of Nasdaq, a director will only qualify as an “independent director” if, in the opinion of that company’s 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.

To be considered to be independent for purposes of Rule 10A-3 and under the rules of Nasdaq, 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.

To be considered independent for purposes of Rule 10C-1 and under the rules of Nasdaq, the board of directors must affirmatively determine that each member of the compensation committee is independent, including a consideration of all factors specifically relevant to determining whether the director has a relationship to the company which is material to that director’s ability to be independent from management in connection with the duties of a compensation committee member, including: (1) the source of compensation of such director, including any consulting, advisory or other compensatory fee paid by the company to such director and (2) whether such director is affiliated with the company, a subsidiary of the company or an affiliate of a subsidiary of the company.

Our board of directors undertook a review of its composition, the composition of its committees and the independence of our directors and considered 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. Based upon information requested from and provided by each director concerning his or her background, employment and affiliations, including family relationships, our board of directors has determined that                  , representing                  of our seven directors, do not have a relationship that would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director and that each of these directors is “independent” as that term is defined under the rules of Nasdaq.

 

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In making these determinations, our board of directors considered the current and prior relationships that each non-employee director has with our company and all other facts and circumstances our board of directors deemed relevant in determining their independence, including the beneficial ownership of our capital stock by each non-employee director, and the transactions involving them described in the section titled “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions.”

Role of the Board in Risk Oversight

Our board of directors has an active role, as a whole and at the committee level, in overseeing the management of our risks. Our board of directors is responsible for general oversight of risks and regular review of information regarding our risks, including credit risks, liquidity risks and operational risks. The independent members of our board of directors are responsible for overseeing the management of risks associated with the independence of our board of directors and potential conflicts of interest. The compensation committee is responsible for overseeing the management of risks relating to our executive compensation plans and arrangements. The audit committee is responsible for overseeing the management of risks relating to accounting matters and financial reporting. Although each committee is responsible for evaluating certain risks and overseeing the management of such risks, our entire board of directors is regularly informed through discussions from committee members about such risks.

Board Committees

Prior to the completion of this offering, our board of directors will have an audit committee and a compensation committee, each of which will have the composition and the responsibilities described below.

Audit Committee

Upon the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, the members of our audit committee will be Saloni Varma, Riccardo Braglia and Sarah Kauss. Saloni Varma will be the chair of our audit committee and is an audit committee financial expert, as that term is defined under the SEC rules implementing Section 407 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, and possesses financial sophistication, as defined under the rules of Nasdaq. Our audit committee will oversee our corporate accounting and financial reporting process and assist our board of directors in monitoring our financial systems. Our audit committee will also:

 

   

select, retain, compensate, evaluate, oversee, and where appropriate, terminate the independent registered public accounting firm to audit our financial statements;

 

   

help to ensure the independence and performance of the independent registered public accounting firm;

 

   

approve audit and non-audit services and fees;

 

   

review financial statements and discuss with management and the independent registered public accounting firm our annual audited and quarterly financial statements, the results of the independent audit and the quarterly reviews and the reports and certifications regarding internal controls over financial reporting and disclosure controls;

 

   

prepare the audit committee report that the SEC requires to be included in our annual proxy statement;

 

   

review reports and communications from the independent registered public accounting firm;

 

   

review the adequacy and effectiveness of our internal controls and disclosure controls and procedure;

 

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review our policies on risk assessment and risk management;

 

   

review and monitor conflicts of interest situations, and approve or prohibit any involvement in matters that may involve a conflict of interest or taking of a corporate opportunity;

 

   

review the overall adequacy and effectiveness of our legal, regulatory and ethical compliance programs and reports regarding compliance with applicable laws, regulations and internal compliance programs;

 

   

review related party transactions; and

 

   

establish and oversee procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of accounting related complaints and the confidential submission by our employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters.

Our audit committee will operate under a written charter, to be effective upon the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, which will satisfy the applicable rules of the SEC and the listing standards of Nasdaq.

Compensation Committee

Upon the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, the members of our compensation committee will be Sarah Kauss, Riccardo Braglia, Toru Yoshimura and Toshitaka Inuzuka. Sarah Kauss will be the chair of our compensation committee. Our compensation committee will oversee our compensation policies, plans and benefits programs. The compensation committee will also:

 

   

oversee our overall compensation philosophy and compensation policies, plans and benefit programs;

 

   

review and recommend for approval to the Board of Directors compensation for our executive officers and directors;

 

   

prepare the compensation committee report that the SEC will require to be included in our annual proxy statement; and

 

   

administer our equity compensation plans.

Our compensation committee will operate under a written charter, to be effective upon the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, which will satisfy the applicable rules of the SEC and the listing standards of Nasdaq.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Matters

Our board of directors does not currently have a nominating and corporate governance committee or other committee performing a similar function, nor do we have any formal written policies outlining the factors and process relating to the selection of nominees for consideration for membership on our board of directors by our directors or our stockholders. Our board of directors has adopted resolutions in accordance with the rules of The Nasdaq Stock Market authorizing a majority of our independent members to recommend qualified director nominees for consideration by the board of directors. Our board of directors believes that it is appropriate for us to not have a standing nominating and corporate governance committee because of a number of factors, including the number of independent members who want to participate in consideration of candidates for membership on our board of directors and in matters that relate to the corporate governance of our company. Upon completion of

 

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this offering, our board of directors will consist of seven members, five of whom will be independent. Our board of directors considered forming a nominating and corporate governance committee consisting of several of the independent members of our board of directors. Forming a committee consisting of less than all of the independent members was unattractive because it would have omitted the other independent members of our board of directors who wanted to participate in considering qualified candidates for board membership and to have input on corporate governance matters related to our company. Since our board of directors desired the participation in the nominations process of all of its independent directors, it therefore decided not to form a nominating and corporate governance committee and instead authorized a majority of the independent members of our board of directors to make and consider nominations for membership to our board of directors. The independent members of our board of directors do not have a nominating and corporate governance committee charter, but act pursuant to board of director resolutions as described above. Each of the members of our board of directors authorized to recommend director nominees is independent within the meaning of the current “independent director” standards established by The Nasdaq Stock Market rules. Our board of directors intends to review this matter periodically, and may in the future elect to designate a formal nominating and corporate governance committee.

Outside Director Compensation Policy

Prior to this offering, we expect our board of directors to adopt and our stockholders approve a new compensation policy for our non-employee directors that will be effective as of the date of the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. This policy will be developed with input from our independent compensation consultant, Compensia, regarding practices and compensation levels at comparable companies. It is designed to attract, retain, and reward non-employee directors.

Cash Compensation

Following the completion of this offering, non-employee directors will be entitled to receive the following cash compensation for their services under the outside director compensation policy:

 

   

$40,000 per year for service as a board member;

 

   

$35,000 per year for service as non-employee chair of the board;

 

   

$20,000 per year for service as chair of the audit committee;

 

   

$10,000 per year for service as a member of the audit committee;

 

   

$15,000 per year for service as chair of the compensation committee; and

 

   

$7,500 per year for service as a member of the compensation committee.

Each non-employee director who serves as the chair of a committee will receive only the additional annual cash fee as the chair of the committee, and not the annual fee as a member of the committee, provided that each non-employee director who serves as the non-employee chair or the lead independent director will receive the annual fee for service as a board member and an additional annual fee as the non-employee chair or lead independent director. All cash payments to non-employee directors are paid quarterly in arrears on a pro-rated basis.

Equity Compensation

Annual Award: Each non-employee director automatically will receive, on the date of each annual meeting of our stockholders following the effective date of the policy, an annual award of restricted stock units

 

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(Annual Award), covering a number of shares of our common stock having a grant date fair value (determined in accordance with GAAP) of $180,000; provided that the first annual award granted to an individual who first becomes a non-employee director following the effective date of the policy will have a grant date fair value equal to the product of (A) $180,000 multiplied by (B) a fraction, (i) the numerator of which is equal to the number of fully completed days between the non-employee director’s initial start date and the date of the first annual meeting of our stockholders to occur after such individual first becomes a non-employee director, and (ii) the denominator of which is 365; and provided further that any resulting fraction will be rounded down to the nearest whole share. Each Annual Award will vest in its entirety on the earlier of (x) the 1-year anniversary of the Annual Award’s grant date, or (y) the day immediately before the date of the next annual meeting of our stockholders that follows the grant date of the Annual Award, subject to the non-employee director’s continued service through the applicable vesting date.

In the event of a “change in control” (as defined in our 2021 Plan), each non-employee director will fully vest in their outstanding company equity awards issued under the director compensation policy, including any Annual Award, immediately prior to the consummation of the change in control provided that the non-employee director continues to be a non-employee director through such date.

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

We plan to enter into a change in control and severance agreements with each of Mr. Jacobson, Mr. McCamy, and Mr. McKenna. Each change in control and severance agreement was approved by our board of directors on                  , 2021.

Pursuant to each applicable named executive officer’s severance agreement, if, within the period (the change in control period) beginning on the date a letter of intent or similar agreement is made between us and an acquiror, provided such date occurs no earlier than 3 months prior to a “change in control” (as defined in the applicable agreement), and ending 12 months following a change in control, we terminate the employment of the named executive officer without “cause” (excluding death or disability) or the executive resigns for “good reason” (as such terms are defined in the applicable agreement), and within 60 days following such termination, the named executive officer executes a waiver and release of claims in our favor that becomes effective and irrevocable, the named executive officer will be entitled to receive (i) a lump sum payment equal to the sum of (A)                  of the named executive officer’s then current annual base salary and (B)                  of the named executive officer’s annual target bonus as in effect in the year of the applicable termination, (ii) reimbursement of premiums to maintain group health insurance continuation benefits pursuant to “COBRA” for the named executive officer and the officer’s respective eligible dependents for up to                 , and (iii) vesting acceleration as to 100% of the then-unvested shares subject to each of the named executive officer’s then outstanding equity awards (and in the case of awards with performance vesting, unless the applicable award agreement governing such award provides otherwise, all performance goals and other vesting criteria will be deemed achieved at target levels of achievement).

Pursuant to each applicable named executive officer’s severance agreement, if, outside of the change in control period, we terminate the employment of the named executive officer without cause (excluding death or disability) or the executive resigns for good reason, and within 60 days following such termination, the named executive officer executes a waiver and release of claims in our favor that becomes effective and irrevocable, the named executive officer will be entitled to receive (i) a lump sum payment equal to the sum of                 of the named executive officer’s then current annual base salary, and (ii) reimbursement of premiums to maintain group health insurance continuation benefits pursuant to “COBRA” for the named executive officer and the officer’s respective eligible dependents for up to                 .

Pursuant to each applicable named executive officer’s severance agreement, in the event any payment to an executive would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, or the Code (as a result of a payment being classified as a parachute payment under Section 280G of

 

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the Code), the executive will receive such payment as would entitle the executive to receive the greatest after-tax benefit, even if it means that we pay the executive a lower aggregate payment so as to minimize or eliminate the potential excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Inside Participation

None of the members of our board of directors who will serve on our compensation committee upon the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part is or has been an officer or employee of our company. None of our executive officers currently serves, or in the past fiscal year has served, as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee (or other board committee performing equivalent functions or, in the absence of any such committee, the entire board of directors) of any entity that has one or more executive officers serving on our board of directors or compensation committee.

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

Prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, we intend to adopt a written code of business conduct and ethics that will apply to our directors, officers and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller or persons performing similar functions. Following this offering, the code of business conduct and ethics will be available on our website at www.thorne.com. We intend to disclose future amendments to such code, or any waivers of its requirements, applicable to any principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller or persons performing similar functions or our directors on our website identified above or in a current report on Form 8-K. Information contained on the website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus and should not be considered to be part of this prospectus. The inclusion of our website address in this prospectus is an inactive textual reference only.

 

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Our named executive officers for 2020, which consist of our principal executive officer and our next two most highly compensated executive officer during 2020, are:

 

   

Paul F. Jacobson, our Chief Executive Officer;

 

   

William C. McCamy, our President; and

 

   

Thomas P. McKenna, our Chief Operating Officer.

Summary Compensation Table

The following table sets forth information regarding the compensation of our named executive officers for the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

Name and Principal Position

  

Year

    

Salary
($)

    

Bonus
($)

    

Option
Awards
($)

    

Non-Equity
Incentive Plan

Compensation
($)

    

All Other
Compensation
($)

   

Total
($)

 

Paul F. Jacobson

     2020        530,000        228,750        —          —          —         758,750  

Chief Executive Officer

                   

William C. McCamy

     2020        350,000        140,250        —          —          —         490,250  

President

                   

Thomas P. McKenna

     2020        430,000        237,000        —          —          17,200 (1)      684,200  

Chief Operating Officer

                   

 

(1)

Mr. McKenna participates in the Company’s 401k plan and our company provided a matching payment of $17,200.

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

The following table sets forth information concerning outstanding equity awards held by each of our named executive officers as of December 31, 2020:

 

   

Option awards

 

Name

 

Grant Date(1)

 

Number  of
securities
underlying
unexercised
options
exercisable
(#)

   

Number  of
securities
underlying
unexercised
options
unexercisable
(#)

   

Option
exercise
price
($)(2)

   

Option expiration
date

 

Number of
shares of
stock that
have not
vested (#)

   

Market
value of
shares of
stock that
have not
vested ($)

 

Paul F. Jacobson

  February 12, 2015     580       —         600     February 12, 2025     —         —    
  February 12, 2015     550       —         2,000     February 12, 2025     —         —    
  February 12, 2015     550       —         3,000     February 12, 2025     —         —    
  October 10, 2018     1,438       1,438 (3)      2,280     October 10, 2028     1,438       3,278,640  
  October 1, 2015     81       —         6,434     October 25, 2025     —         —    

William C. McCamy

  February 13, 2014     550       —         515     February 13, 2024       —    
  February 12, 2015     176       —         600     February 12, 2025       —    
  February 12, 2015     350       —         2,000     February 12, 2025       —    
  February 12, 2015     370       —         3,000     February 12, 2025       —    
  October 10, 2018     539       539 (3)      2,280     October 10, 2028     539       1,227,796  

Thomas P. McKenna

  February 12, 2015     200       —         600     February 12, 2025       —    
  February 12, 2015     420       —         3,000     February 12, 2025       —    
  February 12, 2015     400       —         2,000     February 12, 2025       —    
  October 10, 2018     719       719 (3)      2,280     October 10, 2028     719       1,639,342  

 

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(1)

Each of the outstanding equity awards was granted pursuant to our 2010 Plan, except for the grant to Paul F. Jacobson on October 1, 2015, which was granted under the Onegevity Plan.

(2)

This column represents the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of grant, as determined by our board of directors.

(3)

Twenty-Five percent (25%) of the shares subject to the award vest on each annual anniversary of October 10, 2018 subject to continued service to the Company.

Employment Arrangements With Our Named Executive Officers

Prior to the effectiveness of this offering, we expect to enter into new confirmatory offer letters with each of our named executive officers.

Paul Jacobson

Mr. Jacobson’s current annual base salary is $530,000 and he is eligible for an annual employee bonus in an amount subject to approval by our board of directors.

William McCamy

Mr. McCamy’s current annual base salary is $350,000 and he is eligible for an annual employee bonus in an amount subject to approval by our board of directors.

Thomas P. McKenna

Mr. McKenna’s current annual base salary is $430,000 and he is eligible for an annual employee bonus in an amount subject to approval by our board of directors.

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

Prior to the effectiveness of this offering, we expect to enter into new change in control and severance agreements with each of our named executive officers.

Employee Benefit And Stock Plans

2021 Equity Incentive Plan

Prior to the effectiveness of this offering, we expect that our board of directors will adopt, and our stockholders will approve, our 2021 Equity Incentive Plan (2021 Plan). We expect that our 2021 Plan will become effective on the business day immediately prior to the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. Our 2021 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 nonstatutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units (RSUs), and performance awards to our employees, directors, and consultants and our parent and subsidiary corporations’ employees and consultants. Our 2010 Plan and our Onegevity Plan will terminate immediately prior to effectiveness of the 2021 Plan with respect to the grant of future awards.

Authorized shares. Subject to the adjustment provisions of and the automatic increase described in our 2021 Plan, a total of                  shares of our common stock will be reserved for issuance pursuant to our 2021 Plan. In addition, subject to the adjustment provisions of our 2021 Plan, the shares reserved for issuance under our 2021 Plan will also include any shares subject to awards granted under our 2010 Plan or our Onegevity Plan that, on or after the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, expire or otherwise terminate without having been exercised or issued in full, are tendered to or withheld by us for

 

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payment of an exercise price or for satisfying tax withholding obligations, or are forfeited to or repurchased by us due to failure to vest (provided that the maximum number of shares that may be added to our 2021 Plan pursuant to outstanding awards under the 2010 Plan or Onegevity Plan is                shares). Subject to the adjustment provisions of our 2021 Plan, the number of shares available for issuance under our 2021 Plan will also include an annual increase on the first day of each fiscal year beginning with the 2022 fiscal year and ending on the ten year anniversary of the date our board of directors approved the 2021 Plan, in an amount equal to the least of:

 

   

five percent (5%) of the outstanding shares of our common stock as of the last day of the immediately preceding fiscal year; or

 

   

such other amount as our board of directors may determine.

If a stock option or stock appreciation right granted under the 2021 Plan expires or becomes unexercisable without having been exercised in full or is surrendered pursuant to an exchange program or, with respect to restricted stock, RSUs or stock settled performance awards, is forfeited to, or repurchased by, us due to failure to vest, then the unpurchased shares (or for awards other than stock options or stock appreciation rights, the forfeited or repurchased shares) which were subject thereto will become available for future grant or sale under the 2021 Plan (unless the 2021 Plan has terminated). With respect to stock appreciation rights, only the net shares actually issued will cease to be available under the 2021 Plan and all remaining shares under stock appreciation rights will remain available for future grant or sale under the 2021 Plan (unless the 2021 Plan has terminated). Shares that have actually been issued under the 2021 Plan under any award will not be returned to the 2021 Plan; provided, however, that if shares issued pursuant to awards of restricted stock, RSUs or performance awards are repurchased or forfeited to us due to failure to vest, such shares will become available for future grant under the 2021 Plan. Shares used to pay the exercise price of an award or to satisfy the tax withholding obligations related to an award will become available for future grant or sale under the 2021 Plan. To the extent an award is paid out in cash rather than shares, the cash payment will not result in a reduction in the number of shares available for issuance under the 2021 Plan.

Plan administration. We expect that our compensation committee will administer our 2021 Plan and may further delegate authority to one or more subcommittees or officers to the extent such delegation complies with applicable laws. Subject to the provisions of our 2021 Plan, the administrator will have the power to administer our 2021 Plan and make all determinations deemed necessary or advisable for administering our 2021 Plan, including but not limited to: the power to determine the fair market value of our common stock; select the service providers to whom awards may be granted; determine the number of shares covered by each award; approve forms of award agreements for use under our 2021 Plan; determine the terms and conditions of awards (including, but not limited to, the exercise price, the times or times at which the awards may be exercised, any vesting acceleration or waiver or forfeiture restrictions, and any restriction or limitation regarding any award or the shares relating thereto); construe and interpret the terms of our 2021 Plan and awards granted under it, including but not limited to determining whether and when a change in control has occurred; establish, amend, and rescind rules and regulations relating to our 2021 Plan, and adopt sub-plans relating to the 2021 Plan; interpret, modify or amend each award, including but not limited to the discretionary authority to extend the post-termination exercisability period of awards; allow participants to satisfy tax withholding obligations in any manner permitted by the 2021 Plan; delegate ministerial duties to any of our employees; authorize any person to take any steps and execute, on our behalf, any documents required for an award previously granted by the administrator to be effective; temporarily suspend the exercisability of an award if the administrator deems such suspension to be necessary or appropriate for administrative purposes, provided that, unless prohibited by applicable laws, such suspension shall be lifted in all cases not less than ten trading days before the last date that the award may be exercised; allow a participant to defer the receipt of payment of cash or the delivery of shares that would otherwise be due to such participant under an award; and make any determinations necessary or appropriate under the adjustment provisions of the 2021 Plan. The administrator also has the authority to allow participants the opportunity to transfer outstanding awards to a financial institution or other person or entity selected by the administrator and to institute an exchange program by which outstanding awards may be

 

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surrendered or canceled in exchange for awards of the same type which may have a higher or lower exercise price and/or different terms, awards of a different type and/or cash, or by which the exercise price of an outstanding award is increased or reduced. The administrator’s decisions, interpretations, and other actions will be final and binding on all participants to the full extent permitted by law.

Stock options. Our 2021 Plan permits the grant of options. The exercise price of options granted under our 2021 Plan must be at least equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant, except that options may be granted with a lower exercise price to a service provider who is not a U.S. taxpayer, or pursuant to certain transactions. The term of an option is determined by the administrator, provided that the term of an incentive stock option may not exceed ten years. With respect to any participant who owns more than 10% of the voting power of all classes of our outstanding stock, the term of an incentive stock option granted to such participant must not exceed five years and the exercise price must equal at least 110% of the fair market value on the grant date. The administrator determines the methods of payment of the exercise price of an option, which may include cash, check or wire transfer, cashless exercise, net exercise, promissory note, shares, or other consideration or method of payment acceptable to the administrator, to the extent permitted by applicable law. After the termination of service of an employee, director, or consultant, he or she may exercise his or her option for the period of time stated in his or her option agreement. In the absence of a specified time in an award agreement, if termination is due to death or disability, the option will remain exercisable for six months. In all other cases, in the absence of a specified time in an award, the option will remain exercisable for thirty days. These exercise periods may be tolled in certain circumstances, for example if exercise prior to the end of the applicable period is not permitted because of applicable laws. However, in no event may an option be exercised later than the expiration of its term.

Stock appreciation rights. Our 2021 Plan permits 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 exercise date and the date of grant. The term of stock appreciation rights is determined by the administrator. After the termination of service of an employee, director, or consultant, he or she may exercise his or her stock appreciation right for the period of time stated in his or her stock appreciation rights agreement. In the absence of a specified time in an award agreement, if termination is due to death or disability, the stock appreciation rights will remain exercisable for six months. In all other cases, in the absence of a specified time in an award agreement, the stock appreciation rights will remain exercisable for thirty days following the termination of service. These exercise periods may be tolled in certain circumstances, for example if exercise prior to the end of the applicable period is not permitted because of applicable laws. However, in no event may a stock appreciation right be exercised later than the expiration of its term. Subject to the provisions of our 2021 Plan, the administrator determines the other terms of stock appreciation rights, including when such rights become exercisable and whether to pay any increased appreciation in cash or with shares of our common stock, or a combination thereof, except that the per share exercise price for the shares to be issued pursuant to the exercise of a stock appreciation right must be no less than 100% of the fair market value per share on the date of grant.

Restricted stock. Our 2021 Plan permits the grant of restricted stock. Restricted stock awards are grants of shares of our common stock that vest in accordance with terms and conditions established by the administrator. The administrator determines the number of shares of restricted stock granted to any employee, director, or consultant and, subject to the provisions of our 2021 Plan, determines the terms and conditions of such awards. The administrator has the authority to impose whatever conditions to vesting it determines to be appropriate (for example, the administrator will be able to set restrictions based on the achievement of specific performance goals or continued service to us); provided, however, that the administrator, in its sole discretion, may accelerate the time at which any restrictions will lapse or be removed. Recipients of restricted stock awards generally have voting and dividend rights with respect to such shares upon grant without regard to vesting, unless the administrator provides otherwise. Shares of restricted stock that do not vest will be subject to our right of repurchase or forfeiture.

 

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Restricted stock units. Our 2021 Plan permits the grant of restricted stock units. The administrator determines the terms and conditions of restricted stock units, including the vesting criteria and the form and timing of payment. The administrator may set vesting criteria based upon the achievement of company-wide, divisional, business unit or individual goals (such as continued employment or service), or any other basis determined by the administrator in its discretion. The administrator, in its sole discretion, may settle earned restricted stock units in the form of cash, shares, or some combination of both. The administrator, in its sole discretion, may reduce or waive the criteria that must be met for vesting, of the restricted stock units to earn the restricted stock units.

Performance Awards. Our 2021 Plan permits the grant of performance awards. Performance awards are awards that will result in a payment to a participant only if performance goals established by the administrator are achieved or the awards otherwise vest. The administrator may establish performance objectives or other vesting criteria in its discretion, which, depending on the extent to which they are met, will determine the number and/or the value of performance awards to be paid out to participants. The administrator has the authority to set performance objectives based on the achievement of company-wide, divisional, business unit, or individual goals (including, but not limited to, continued employment or service), or any other basis determined by the administrator in its discretion. Each performance award’s threshold, target, and maximum payout values are established by the administrator on or before the grant date. After the grant of a performance award, the administrator, in its sole discretion, may reduce or waive any performance criteria or other vesting provisions for such performance award. The administrator, in its sole discretion, may pay earned performance awards in the form of cash, in shares, or in some combination thereof.

Non-Employee Directors. Our 2021 Plan provides that all outside (non-employee) directors will be eligible to receive all types of awards (except for incentive stock options) under our 2021 Plan. In order to provide a maximum limit on the awards that can be made to our non-employee directors, our 2021 Plan provides that in any given fiscal year, a non-employee director will not be issued or granted cash retainer fees or awards with an aggregate value greater than $1,000,000 in connection with his or her initially joining our board of directors (in each case, excluding awards granted to him or her as a consultant or employee). The maximum limits do not reflect the intended size of any potential grants or a commitment to make grants to our outside directors under our 2021 Plan in the future.

Non-transferability of awards. Unless the administrator provides otherwise, our 2021 Plan generally does not allow for the transfer of awards and only the recipient of an award may exercise an award during his or her lifetime. If the administrator makes an award transferrable, such award will contain such additional terms and conditions as the administrator deems appropriate.

Certain adjustments. If any extraordinary dividend or other extraordinary distribution (whether in cash, shares, other securities, or other property), recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, reclassification, repurchase, or exchange of shares of our common stock or other of our securities, other change in our corporate structure affecting the shares, or any similar equity restructuring transaction affecting our shares occurs (including a change in control), the administrator, to prevent diminution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits intended to be provided under the 2021 Plan, will adjust the number and class of shares that may be delivered under the 2021 Plan and/or the number, class, and price of shares covered by each outstanding award, and the numerical share limits set forth in our 2021 Plan. The conversion of any of our convertible securities and ordinary course repurchases of our shares or other securities will not be treated as an event that will require adjustment under the 2021 Plan.

Dissolution or liquidation. In the event of our proposed liquidation or dissolution, the administrator will notify participants as soon as practicable and, to the extent not exercised, all awards will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed transaction.

Merger or change in control. Our 2021 Plan provides that in the event of a merger or change in control, as defined under our 2021 Plan, each outstanding award will be treated as the administrator determines, without a

 

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requirement to obtain a participant’s consent, including, without limitation, that such award will be continued by the successor corporation or a parent or subsidiary of the successor corporation. An award generally will be considered continued if, following the transaction, (i) the award gives the right to purchase or receive the consideration received in the transaction by holders of our shares or (ii) the award is terminated in exchange for an amount of cash and/or property, if any, equal to the amount that would have been received upon the exercise or realization of the award at the closing of the transaction, which payment may be subject to any escrow applicable to holders of our common stock in connection with the transaction or subjected to the award’s original vesting schedule. The administrator will not be required to treat all awards or portions thereof the vested and unvested portions of an award, or all participants similarly.

In the event that a successor corporation or its parent or subsidiary does not continue an outstanding award, then such award will fully vest, all restrictions on such award will lapse, all performance goals or other vesting criteria applicable to such award will be deemed achieved at 100% of target levels, and such award will become fully exercisable, if applicable, for a specified period prior to the transaction, unless specifically provided for otherwise under the applicable award agreement or other written agreement with the participant. The award will then terminate upon the expiration of the specified period of time. If an option or stock appreciation right is not continued, the administrator will notify the participant in writing or electronically that such option or stock appreciation right will be exercisable for a period of time determined by the administrator in its sole discretion and the option or stock appreciation right will terminate upon the expiration of such period.

With respect to awards granted to an outside director, in the event of a change in control, all of his or her options and stock appreciation rights, if any, will vest fully and become immediately exercisable, all restrictions on his or her restricted stock and RSUs will lapse, and all performance goals or other vesting requirements for his or her performance awards will be deemed achieved at 100% of target levels, and all other terms and conditions met.

Clawback. Awards will be subject to any clawback policy that we are required to adopt pursuant to the listing standards of any national securities exchange or association on which our stock is listed or as otherwise required by applicable laws, and the administrator will also be able to specify in an award agreement that the participant’s rights, payments, and/or benefits with respect to an award will be subject to reduction, cancellation, forfeiture, and/or recoupment upon the occurrence of certain specified events.

Amendment; termination. The administrator will have the authority to amend, alter, suspend, or terminate our 2021 Plan, provided we will obtain stockholder approval of any amendment to the extent necessary or desirable to comply with applicable laws. However, no amendment, alteration, suspension or termination of our 2021 Plan or an Award under it may, taken as a whole, materially impair the existing rights of any participant without the participant’s consent. Our 2021 Plan will continue in effect until it is terminated, provided that incentive stock options may not be granted after the ten year anniversary of the date our board of directors approved the 2021 Plan, and the automatic annual share increase will end on the ten year anniversary of the date our board of directors approved the 2021 Plan.

2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Prior to the effectiveness of this offering, we expect that our board of directors will adopt, and our stockholders will approve, our ESPP. Our ESPP will be effective on the business day immediately prior to the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. We believe that allowing our employees to participate in our ESPP will provide them with a further incentive towards promoting our success and accomplishing our corporate goals.

Authorized shares. A total of                  shares of our common stock will be available for sale under our ESPP. The number of shares of our common stock that will be available for sale under our ESPP also includes an

 

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annual increase on the first day of each fiscal year following the fiscal year in which the first offering period under the ESPP commences, equal to the least of:

 

   

one percent (1%) of the outstanding shares of our common stock as of the last day of the immediately preceding fiscal year; or

 

   

such other amount as the administrator may determine.

ESPP administration. We expect that the compensation committee of our board of directors will administer our ESPP and will have full and exclusive discretionary authority to construe, interpret, and apply the terms of the ESPP, delegate ministerial duties to any of our employees, designate separate offerings under the ESPP, designate our subsidiaries and affiliates as participating in the ESPP, determine eligibility, adjudicate all disputed claims filed under the ESPP, and establish procedures that it deems necessary for the administration of the ESPP, including, but not limited to, adopting such procedures and sub-plans as are necessary or appropriate to permit participation in the ESPP by employees who are foreign nationals or employed outside the United States. The administrator’s findings, decisions and determinations are final and binding on all participants to the full extent permitted by law.

Eligibility. Generally, all of our employees will be eligible to participate if they are customarily employed by us, or any participating subsidiary or affiliate, for at least 20 hours per week and more than five months in any calendar year. The administrator, in its discretion, may, prior to an enrollment date, for all options to be granted on such enrollment date in an offering, determine that an employee who (1) has not completed at least two years of service (or a lesser period of time determined by the administrator) since his or her last hire date, (2) customarily works not more than 20 hours per week (or a lesser period of time determined by the administrator), (3) customarily works not more than five months per calendar year (or a lesser period of time determined by the administrator), (4) is a highly compensated employee within the meaning of Section 414(q) of the Code, or (5) is a highly compensated employee within the meaning of Section 414(q) of the Code with compensation above a certain level or is an officer or subject to disclosure requirements under Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, is or is not eligible to participate in such offering period.

However, an employee may not be granted rights to purchase shares of our common stock under our ESPP if such employee:

 

   

immediately after the grant would own capital stock and/or hold outstanding options to purchase such stock possessing 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of capital stock of ours or of any parent or subsidiary of ours; or

 

   

holds rights to purchase shares of our common stock under all employee stock purchase plans of ours or any parent or subsidiary of ours that accrue at a rate that exceeds $25,000 worth of shares of our common stock for each calendar year in which such rights are outstanding at any time.

Offering periods. Our ESPP will include a component that allows us to make offerings intended to qualify under Section 423 of the Code and a component that allows us to make offerings not intended to qualify under Section 423 of the Code to designated companies, as described in our ESPP. Our 2021 ESPP will provide for offering periods as may be determined by the administrator in its discretion, in each case on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis.

Contributions. Our ESPP will permit participants to purchase shares of our common stock through contributions (in the form of payroll deductions or otherwise to the extent permitted by the administrator) in an amount that the administrator may establish from time to time, in its discretion and on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis. Unless otherwise determined by the administrator, a participant may not change the rate of his or her contributions during an offering period.

 

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Exercise of purchase right. Amounts contributed and accumulated by the participant will be used to purchase shares of our common stock at the end of each offering. A participant may purchase a maximum of                  shares of our common stock during an offering period. The purchase price of the shares will be 85% of the lower of the fair market value of our common stock on the first trading day of the offering period or on the exercise date. Participants may end their participation at any time during an offering period and will be paid their accrued contributions that have not yet been used to purchase shares of our common stock. Participation ends automatically upon termination of employment with us.

Non-transferability. A participant may not transfer contributions credited to his or her account nor any rights granted under our ESPP other than by will, the laws of descent and distribution or as otherwise provided under our ESPP.

Merger or change in control. Our ESPP will provide that in the event of a merger or change in control, as defined under our ESPP, a successor corporation (or a parent or subsidiary of the successor corporation) will assume or substitute each outstanding purchase right. If the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the outstanding purchase right, the offering period with respect to which the purchase right relates will be shortened, and a new exercise date will be set that will be before the date of the proposed merger or change in control. The administrator will notify each participant that the exercise date has been changed and that the participant’s option will be exercised automatically on the new exercise date unless prior to such date the participant has withdrawn from the offering period.

Amendment; termination. The administrator will have the authority to amend, suspend or terminate our ESPP. Our ESPP automatically will terminate in 2041, unless we terminate it sooner.

2010 Equity Incentive Plan, as Amended

Our 2010 Plan was originally adopted by our board of directors and approved by our stockholders in June 2010. Our 2010 Plan was most recently amended in 2021. Our 2010 Plan allows us to provide incentive stock options, within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, to our employees and any of our parent and subsidiary corporations’ employees, and nonstatutory stock options, restricted stock awards, and restricted stock units (each, together with incentive stock options, an “award” and the recipient of such award, a “participant”) to eligible employees, directors and consultants, including employees and consultants of any of our affiliate companies. It is expected that as of one business day prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, our 2010 Plan will terminate, and we will not grant any additional awards under our 2010 Plan thereafter. However, our 2010 Plan will continue to govern the terms and conditions of the outstanding awards previously granted under our 2010 Plan.

As of                  , 2021, stock options covering                  shares of our common stock were outstanding under our 2010 Plan and                  restricted stock units outstanding under our 2010 Plan. There were no restricted stock awards outstanding under our 2010 Plan.

Plan administration. Our 2010 Plan is administered by our board of directors or a committee appointed by our board of directors. The administrator has all authority and discretion necessary or appropriate to administer our 2010 Plan and to control its operation, including the authority to construe and interpret the terms of our 2010 Plan and the awards granted under our 2010 Plan. The administrator’s decisions are final and binding on all participants and any other persons holding awards.

The administrator’s powers include the power to (i) make or select the manner of making all determinations with respect to each award to be granted under the 2010 Plan including the employee, consultant or director to receive the award and the form of award, (ii) institute and determine the terms and conditions of an exchange program, (iii) prescribe, amend and rescind rules and regulations relating to the 2010 Plan, (iv) determine the terms and provisions of the respective award agreements (which need not be identical), and (v) make all other determinations necessary or advisable for the administration of the 2010 Plan.

 

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Eligibility. Employees, directors and consultants, including employees and consultants of any of our affiliate companies, are eligible to receive awards. Only our employees or employees of our parent or subsidiary companies are eligible to receive incentive stock options.

Stock options. Stock options have been granted under our 2010 Plan. Subject to the provisions of our 2010 Plan, the administrator determines the term of an option, the number of shares subject to an option, and the time period in which an option may be exercised.

The term of an option is stated in the applicable award agreement, but the term of an option may not exceed 10 years from the grant date. The administrator determines the exercise price of options, which generally may not be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the grant date, except as provided for in the 2010 Plan. However, an incentive stock option granted to an individual who directly or by attribution owns more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all of our classes of stock or of any our parent or subsidiary companies will have a term of no longer than five years from the grant date and will have an exercise price of at least 110% of the fair market value of our common stock on the grant date. In addition, to the extent that the aggregate fair market value of the shares with respect to which incentive stock options are exercisable for the first time by an employee during any calendar year (under all plans of ours and any of our parent or subsidiary companies) exceeds $100,000, such options will be treated as nonstatutory stock options.

The administrator determines how a participant may pay the exercise price of an option. If a participant’s status as an employee or other association with the Company and its affiliates terminates, that participant may exercise the vested portion of his or her option for the period of time stated in the applicable award agreement. Vested options generally will remain exercisable for 90 days or such other period of time as set forth in the applicable award agreement or provided by the administrator if a participant’s employment or other association terminates for a reason other than death or disability. If a participant’s employment or other association terminates due to death or disability, vested options generally will remain exercisable for 365 days from the date of termination or such other period as provided by the administrator. In no event will an option remain exercisable beyond its original term. If a participant does not exercise his or her option within the time specified in the award agreement, the option will terminate.

Restricted Stock. Prior to the completion of this offering, we may grant restricted stock under our 2010 Plan. Restricted stock awards are grants of shares of our common stock that may be subject to various restrictions, including restrictions on transferability and forfeiture provisions. Subject to the terms of our 2010 Plan, the administrator will determine the number of shares of restricted stock granted and other terms and conditions of such awards. The administrator may impose whatever conditions to vesting it determines to be appropriate, and may, in its sole discretion, accelerate the time at which any restrictions will lapse or be removed. Recipients of restricted stock will have voting and dividend rights with respect to such shares upon grant without regard to vesting, unless the administrator provides otherwise. Shares of restricted stock that have not vested are subject to our right of repurchase or forfeiture.

Restricted Stock Units. Prior to the completion of this offering, we may grant restricted stock units under our 2010 Plan. Subject to the terms of our 2010 Plan, the administrator will determine the terms and conditions of restricted stock units, including the vesting criteria and the form and timing of payment. The administrator may set vesting criteria based upon the achievement of company-wide, divisional, business unit or individual goals (such as continued employment or service), applicable federal or state securities laws or any other basis determined by the administrator in its discretion. The administrator, in its sole discretion, may settle earned restricted stock units in the form of cash, shares, or some combination of both. The administrator, in its sole discretion, may reduce or waive the criteria that must be met for vesting, of the restricted stock units to receive a payout.

Non-transferability of awards. Unless determined otherwise by the administrator, awards may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned or otherwise alienated or hypothecated in any manner other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution.

 

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Certain adjustments. In the event that any dividend or other distribution (whether in the form of cash, shares of common stock, other securities, or other property), recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, repurchase, or exchange of shares of common stock or other securities of the Company, or other change in the corporate structure of the Company affecting the shares of common stock occurs, the administrator, in order to prevent diminution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits intended to be made available under the 2010 Plan, will adjust the number and class of shares of stock that may be delivered under the 2010 Plan and/or the number, class, and price of shares of stock covered by each outstanding award.

Dissolution or liquidation. In the event of our proposed dissolution or liquidation, the administrator will notify each participant as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction. To the extent it has not been previously exercised, an award will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed action.

Merger and change in control. Subject to any provisions of then outstanding awards granting greater rights to the holders thereof, in the event of an acquisition of the Company, (i) any then outstanding options shall accelerate in full if not assumed by the acquiring entity or replaced by comparable options to purchase shares of the capital stock of the successor or acquiring entity or parent thereof, and to the extent not assumed or replaced on the acquisition shall then terminate to the extent not exercised, (ii) any then outstanding restricted stock shall accelerate in full if the Company’s rights to reacquire such shares of restricted stock on occurrence of the applicable risk of forfeiture with respect to those shares are not assigned to the acquiring entity, and (iii) any then outstanding restricted stock units shall accelerate in full if not assumed or replaced by comparable restricted stock units to receive shares of the capital stock of the successor or acquiring entity or parent thereof. As to any one or more outstanding awards which are not otherwise accelerated in full by reason of the acquisition, the administrator may also, either in advance of an acquisition or at the time thereof and upon such terms as it may deem appropriate, provide for the acceleration of such outstanding options, restricted stock and restricted stock units in the event that the employment of the participants should subsequently terminate following the acquisition. Each outstanding option that is assumed in connection with an acquisition, or is otherwise to continue in effect subsequent to the acquisition, will be appropriately adjusted, immediately after the acquisition, as to the number and class of securities and the price at which it may be exercised in accordance with the adjustment provisions of the 2010 Plan. In addition to or in lieu of the foregoing, with respect to outstanding options, in the event of an acquisition the board of directors may provide that one or more options then outstanding shall become immediately exercisable in full and shall be terminated in exchange for a cash payment equal to the excess of the fair market value (as determined by the board of directors in its sole discretion) of the shares subject to such options over the exercise price thereof.

Amendment and termination. Our board of directors may, at anytime, terminate the 2010 Plan or make such modifications of the 2010 Plan as it shall deem advisable. Unless the board of directors otherwise expressly provides, no amendment of the 2010 Plan shall affect the terms of any award outstanding on the date of such amendment. In any case, no termination or amendment of the 2010 Plan may, without the consent of any recipient of an award granted hereunder, adversely affect the rights of the recipient under such award. The administrator may amend the terms of any award theretofore granted prospectively or retroactively, provided that the award as amended is consistent with the terms of the 2010 Plan, but no such amendment shall impair the rights of the recipient of such award without his or her consent.

As noted above, it is expected that as of one business day prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, our 2010 Plan will be terminated, and we will not grant any additional awards under our 2010 Plan thereafter.

Restated 2020 Onegevity Health Equity Plan

In connection with our acquisition of Onegevity Health, LLC in 2021, our board of directors approved the assumption of the Onegevity Health LLC 2020 Unit Plan and outstanding options thereunder to purchase

 

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LLC units of Onegevity. We amended and restated such plan into the Restated 2020 Onegevity Health Equity Plan (the Onegevity Plan), and converted options to purchase LLC units of Onegevity into options to purchase shares of our common stock.

Our Onegevity Plan allows us to provide stock options and restricted stock awards (each an “award” and the recipient of such award, a “participant”) to eligible employees, directors and consultants, including employees and consultants of any of our affiliate companies. It is expected that as of one business day prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, our Onegevity Plan will terminate, and we will not grant any additional awards under our Onegevity Plan thereafter. However, our Onegevity Plan will continue to govern the terms and conditions of the outstanding awards previously granted under our Onegevity Plan.

As of March 31, 2021, stock options covering                  shares of our common stock were outstanding under our Onegevity Plan and there were no restricted stock awards outstanding under our Onegevity Plan.

Plan administration. Our Onegevity Plan is administered by our board of directors or a committee appointed by our board of directors. The administrator has all authority and discretion necessary or appropriate to administer our Onegevity Plan and to control its operation, including the authority to construe and interpret the terms of our Onegevity Plan and the awards granted under our Onegevity Plan. The administrator’s decisions are final and binding on all participants and any other persons holding awards.

The administrator’s powers include the power to (i) make or select the manner of making all determinations with respect to each award to be granted under the Onegevity Plan including the employee, consultant or director to receive the award and the form of award, (ii) prescribe, amend and rescind rules and regulations relating to the Onegevity Plan, (iii) determine the terms and provisions of the respective award agreements (which need not be identical), and (iv) make all other determinations necessary or advisable for the administration of the Onegevity Plan.

Eligibility. Employees, directors and consultants, including employees and consultants of any of our affiliate companies, are eligible to receive awards.

Stock options. Stock options have been granted under our Onegevity Plan. Subject to the provisions of our Onegevity Plan, the administrator determines the term of an option, the number of shares subject to an option, and the time period in which an option may be exercised.

The term of an option is stated in the applicable award agreement, but the term of an option may not exceed 10 years from the grant date. The administrator determines the exercise price of options, which generally may not be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the grant date, except as provided for in the Onegevity Plan.

The administrator determines how a participant may pay the exercise price of an option. If a participant’s status as an employee or other association with the Company and its affiliates terminates, that participant may exercise the vested portion of his or her option for the period of time stated in the applicable award agreement. Vested options generally will remain exercisable for three months if a participant’s employment or other association terminates for a reason other than death or disability. If a participant’s employment or other association terminates due to death or disability, respectively, vested options generally will remain exercisable for 12 or 6 months, respectively, from the date of such termination. If a participant’s employment or other association terminates due to cause, vested options generally will immediately terminate. In no event will an option remain exercisable beyond its original term. If a participant does not exercise his or her option within the time specified in the award agreement, the option will terminate.

Restricted Stock. Prior to the completion of this offering, we may grant restricted stock under our Onegevity Plan. Restricted stock awards are grants of shares of our common stock that may be subject to various

 

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restrictions, including restrictions on transferability and forfeiture provisions. Subject to the terms of our Onegevity Plan, the administrator will determine the number of shares of restricted stock granted and other terms and conditions of such awards. The administrator may impose whatever conditions to vesting it determines to be appropriate, and may, in its sole discretion, accelerate the time at which any restrictions will lapse or be removed. Recipients of restricted stock will have voting and dividend rights with respect to such shares upon grant without regard to vesting, unless the administrator provides otherwise. Shares of restricted stock that have not vested are subject to our right of repurchase or forfeiture.

Non-transferability of awards. Unless determined otherwise by the administrator, awards may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned or otherwise alienated or hypothecated in any manner other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution.

Certain adjustments. Subject to any action required under applicable laws by the holders of our securities, (i) the numbers and class of shares or other securities: (x) available for future awards under the Onegevity Plan and (y) covered by each outstanding award, (ii) the exercise price per share of each outstanding option, and (iii) any repurchase price per share applicable to shares issued pursuant to any award under the Onegevity Plan, shall be automatically proportionately adjusted in the event of a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination, consolidation, reclassification of the shares, subdivision of the shares or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares effected without receipt of consideration by us; provided, however, that such adjustments shall only be made in respect of shares that are the subject of the splits and other actions. In the event of a declaration of an extraordinary dividend payable in a form other than shares in an amount that has a material effect on the fair market value, a recapitalization (including a recapitalization through a large nonrecurring cash dividend), a rights offering, a reorganization, merger, a spin-off, split-up, change in entity structure or a similar occurrence, the administrator of the Onegevity Plan may make appropriate adjustments in one or more of (1) the numbers and class of shares or other securities: (x) available for future awards under the Onegevity Plan and (y) covered by each outstanding award, (2) the exercise price per share of each outstanding option, and (3) any repurchase price per share applicable to shares issued pursuant to any award under the Onegevity Plan, and any such adjustment by the administrator shall be made in the administrator’s sole and absolute discretion and shall be final, binding and conclusive.

Dissolution or liquidation. In the event of our proposed dissolution or liquidation, an award will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed action unless determined otherwise by the administrator.

Merger and change in control. In the event of a sale of all or substantially all of our assets, or a merger, consolidation or other capital reorganization or business combination transaction of ours with or into another corporation, entity or person and, except as otherwise provided in the applicable award agreement, each outstanding award under the Onegevity Plan, and/or shares acquired pursuant to an award that are unvested as of the consummation of the transaction, shall be subject to the applicable merger or purchase agreement. Such agreement may provide, without limitation, for the assumption or substitution of outstanding awards and/or unvested shares by the surviving entity or its parent, for the replacement of outstanding awards and/or, subject to compliance with applicable laws, unvested shares with a cash incentive program of the surviving entity which preserves the value of such awards and/or shares and provides for subsequent payout in accordance with the same vesting provisions applicable to those awards and/or shares, for accelerated vesting of outstanding awards and/or unvested shares, for the cancellation of outstanding awards or for the repurchase of unvested shares at the original purchase price paid for the unvested shares, with or without consideration and, in all cases, without the consent of the participant. In the event that the successor or a parent or subsidiary of such successor does not agree to assume any outstanding option, each such option shall terminate upon the consummation of the corporate transaction.

Amendment and termination. Our board of directors may, at any time, amend or terminate the Onegevity Plan, but no amendment or termination may adversely affect the rights of a participant under any outstanding award without such participant’s consent.

 

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As noted above, it is expected that as of one business day prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, our Onegevity Plan will be terminated, and we will not grant any additional awards under our Onegevity Plan thereafter.

Employee Incentive Compensation Plan

We expect our board of directors to approve our Employee Incentive Compensation Plan (Incentive Compensation Plan), which will become effective on the date it is approved.

Our board of directors or a committee appointed by our board of directors will administer the Incentive Compensation Plan, provided that unless and until our board of directors determines otherwise, our compensation committee will administer the Incentive Compensation Plan. The Incentive Compensation Plan allows the administrator to provide awards to employees selected for participation, who may include our named executive officers, which awards may be based upon performance goals established by the administrator. The administrator, in its sole discretion, may establish a target award for each participant under the Incentive Compensation Plan, which may be expressed as a percentage of the participant’s average annual base salary for the applicable performance period, a fixed dollar amount, or such other amount or based on such other formula as the administrator determines to be appropriate.

Under the Incentive Compensation Plan, the administrator determines the performance goals, if any, applicable to any target award (or portion thereof) for a performance period, which may include, without limitation, goals related to: attainment of research and development milestones; sales bookings; business divestitures and acquisitions; capital raising; cash flow; cash position; contract awards or backlog; corporate transactions; customer renewals; customer retention rates from an acquired company, subsidiary, business unit or division; earnings (which may include any calculation of earnings, including but not limited to earnings before interest and taxes, earnings before taxes, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and net taxes); earnings per share; expenses; financial milestones; gross margin; growth in stockholder value relative to the moving average of the S&P 500 Index or another index; internal rate of return; leadership development or succession planning; license or research collaboration arrangements; market share; net income; net profit; net sales; new product or business development; new product invention or innovation; number of customers; operating cash flow; operating expenses; operating income; operating margin; overhead or other expense reduction; patents; procurement; product defect measures; product release timelines; productivity; profit; regulatory milestones or regulatory-related goals; retained earnings; return on assets; return on capital; return on equity; return on investment; return on sales; revenue; revenue growth; sales results; sales growth; savings; stock price; time to market; total stockholder return; working capital; unadjusted or adjusted actual contract value; unadjusted or adjusted total contract value; loans and loan originations; and individual objectives such as peer reviews or other subjective or objective criteria. As determined by the administrator, the performance goals may be based on GAAP or non GAAP results and any actual results may be adjusted by the administrator for one-time items or unbudgeted or unexpected items and/or payments of awards under the Incentive Compensation Plan when determining whether the performance goals have been met. The performance goals may be based on any factors the administrator determines relevant, including without limitation on an individual, divisional, portfolio, project, business unit, segment or company-wide basis. Any criteria used may be measured on such basis as the administrator determines, including without limitation: (a) in absolute terms, (b) in combination with another performance goal or goals (for example, but not by way of limitation, as a ratio or matrix), (c) in relative terms (including, but not limited to, results for other periods, passage of time and/or against another company or companies or an index or indices), (d) on a per-share basis, (e) against our performance as a whole or a segment and/or (f) on a pre-tax or after-tax basis. The performance goals may differ from participant to participant and from award to award. Failure to meet the applicable performance goals will result in a failure to earn the target award, subject to the administrator’s discretion to modify an award. The administrator also may determine that a target award (or portion thereof) will not have a performance goal associated with it but instead will be granted, if at all, as determined by the administrator.

 

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The administrator may, in its sole discretion and at any time, increase, reduce or eliminate a participant’s actual award, and/or increase, reduce or eliminate the amount allocated to the bonus pool for a particular performance period. The actual award may be below, at or above a participant’s target award, in the administrator’s discretion. The administrator may determine the amount of any increase, reduction, or elimination based on such factors as it deems relevant, and it is not required to establish any allocation or weighting with respect to the factors it considers.

Actual awards under the Incentive Compensation Plan generally will be paid in cash (or its equivalent) in a single lump sum only after they are earned and approved by the administrator, provided that the administrator reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to settle an actual award with a grant of an equity award with such terms and conditions, including vesting requirements, as determined by the administrator in its sole discretion. Unless otherwise determined by administrator, to earn an actual award, a participant must be employed by us (or an affiliate of us, as applicable) through the date the bonus is paid. Payment of bonuses occurs as soon as administratively practicable after the end of the applicable performance period, but in no case after the later of (i) the 15th day of the third month of the fiscal year immediately following the fiscal year in which the bonuses vest and (ii) March 15 of the calendar year immediately following the calendar year in which the bonuses vest.

Awards under our Incentive Compensation Plan will be subject to reduction, cancellation, forfeiture, or recoupment in accordance with any clawback policy that we adopt pursuant to the listing standards of any national securities exchange or association on which our securities are listed or as is otherwise required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act or other applicable laws. In addition, the administrator may impose such other clawback, recovery or recoupment provisions with respect to an award under the Incentive Compensation Plan as the administrator determines necessary or appropriate, including without limitation a reacquisition right in respect of previously acquired cash, stock, or other property provided with respect to an award.

The administrator will have the authority to amend or terminate the Incentive Compensation Plan. However, such action may not materially alter or materially impair the existing rights of any participant with respect to any earned bonus without the participant’s consent. The Incentive Compensation Plan will remain in effect until terminated in accordance with the terms of the Incentive Compensation Plan.

401(k) plan

We maintain a 401(k) retirement savings plan for the benefit of our employees, including our named executive officers who remain employed with us, and who satisfy certain eligibility requirements. Under the 401(k) plan, eligible employees may elect to defer a portion of their compensation, within the limits prescribed by the Code, on a pre-tax or after-tax (Roth) basis, through contributions to the 401(k) plan. The 401(k) plan authorizes employer matching and discretionary contributions. The 401(k) plan is intended to qualify under Sections 401(a) and 501(a) of the Code. As a tax-qualified retirement plan, pre-tax contributions to the 401(k) plan and earnings on those pre-tax contributions are not taxable to the employees until distributed from the 401(k) plan, and earnings on Roth contributions are not taxable when distributed from the 401(k) plan.

Deferred Compensation Plan

We maintain a Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan (NDCP), for the benefit of certain of our employees, including our named executive officers. Under the NDCP, participants are permitted to defer up to 75% of their applicable base salary, performance-based compensation and commissions, and an amount equivalent to 100% of any 401(k) Plan refund. Compensation amounts that are deferred under the NDCP are 100% vested in the applicable participant on the date we submit such amounts to the NDCP provider, currently Principal Life Insurance Company. Elections to defer compensation under the NDCP must be made prior to the start of the plan year and will continue in effect until modified.

 

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We may also provide additional credit amounts under the NDCP with respect to each participant that will vest based on a participant’s continued employment over a multi-year schedule. We have never provided additional credit amounts under the NDCP.

Participants may elect to receive deferred compensation either upon the occurrence of a qualifying event or pursuant to a defined distribution date, provided that if a qualifying event occurs prior to a defined distribution date, distributions under the NDCP will commence on the date of such qualifying event.

Qualifying events under the NDCP consist of the following:

 

   

separation from service;

 

   

separation from service upon a change in control of our company;

 

   

change in control of our company;

 

   

unforeseeable emergency;

 

   

disability; and

 

   

death.

Participants may elect different payment methods with respect to certain qualifying events and with respect to distribution dates. Distribution payments must be made as a lump sum upon a separation from service upon a change in control of our company, a change in control of our company, an unforeseeable emergency, or the participant’s death. With respect to separation from service or the participant’s disability, participants may elect to receive distribution payments in lump sum or as annual installments up to 10 years following the applicable qualifying event. With respect to fixed distribution dates, participants may elect to receive distribution payments in lump sum or as annual installments up to 5 years following the qualifying event.

Loans are not allowed from the NDCP and rollovers to an IRA or other qualified account are not available.

Participants may not change their deferral amounts during a plan year. However, participants may change deferral amounts at the end of each plan year with respect to future deferrals for the next plan year.

Participants may elect to have deferred amounts under the plan invested in various investment alternatives selected by the NDCP.

As of December 31, 2020, the following executives have deferred the following balances of their salary:

 

Paul F. Jacobson

   $ 0  

Thomas P. McKenna

   $       171,059  

Will C. McCamy

   $ 0  

Limitation of Liability and Indemnification

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, each to be effective upon the completion of this offering, will provide that we will indemnify our directors and officers, and may indemnify our employees and other agents, to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. Delaware law

 

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prohibits our amended and restated certificate of incorporation from limiting the liability of our directors for the following:

 

   

any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to us or to our stockholders;

 

   

acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law;

 

   

unlawful payment of dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions; and

 

   

any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.

If Delaware law is amended to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of a director, then the liability of our directors will be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law, as so amended. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation does not eliminate a director’s duty of care and, in appropriate circumstances, equitable remedies, such as injunctive or other forms of non-monetary relief, remain available under Delaware law. This provision also does not affect a director’s responsibilities under any other laws, such as the federal securities laws or other state or federal laws. Under our amended and restated bylaws, we will also be empowered to purchase insurance on behalf of any person whom we are required or permitted to indemnify.

In addition to the indemnification required in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, we intend to enter into an indemnification agreement with each member of our board of directors and each of our officers prior to the completion of the offering. These agreements provide for the indemnification of our directors and officers for certain expenses and liabilities incurred in connection with any action, suit, proceeding or alternative dispute resolution mechanism or hearing, inquiry or investigation that may lead to the foregoing, to which they are a party, or are threatened to be made a party, by reason of the fact that they are or were a director, officer, employee, agent or fiduciary of our company, or any of our subsidiaries, by reason of any action or inaction by them while serving as an officer, director, agent or fiduciary, or by reason of the fact that they were serving at our request as a director, officer, employee, agent or fiduciary of another entity. In the case of an action or proceeding by or in the right of our company or any of our subsidiaries, no indemnification will be provided for any claim where a court determines that the indemnified party is prohibited from receiving indemnification. We believe that these charter and bylaw provisions and indemnification agreements are necessary to attract and retain qualified persons as directors and officers.

The limitation of liability and indemnification provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws may discourage stockholders from bringing a lawsuit against directors for breach of their fiduciary duties. They may also reduce the likelihood of derivative litigation against directors and officers, even though an action, if successful, might benefit us and our stockholders. Moreover, a stockholder’s investment may be harmed to the extent we pay the costs of settlement and damage awards against directors and officers pursuant to these indemnification provisions. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to our directors, officers and controlling persons pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, we have been advised that, in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act, and is, therefore, unenforceable. There is no pending litigation or proceeding naming any of our directors or officers as to which indemnification is being sought, nor are we aware of any pending or threatened litigation that may result in claims for indemnification by any director or officer.

 

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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Other than compensation arrangements, including employment, termination of employment and change in control arrangements, with our directors and executive officers, including those discussed in the sections titled “Management” and “Executive Compensation” and the registration rights described in the section titled “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights,” the following is a description of each transaction since January 1, 2018 and each currently proposed transaction in which:

 

   

we have been or are to be a participant;

 

   

the amount involved exceeded or exceeds $120,000; and

 

   

any of our directors, executive officers or holders of more than 5% of our outstanding capital stock, or any immediate family member of, or person sharing the household with, any of these individuals or entities, had or will have a direct or indirect material interest.

Series E Convertible Preferred Stock Financing

In July 2018, the Company issued and sold an aggregate of 60,700 shares of our series E convertible preferred stock to Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui), and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin), at a purchase price of $2,280.03 per share for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $138.4 million (the Series E Financing). In connection with the Series E Financing, all outstanding shares of series D preferred stock held by Mitsui were converted to series E convertible preferred stock and the accruing series D dividends totaling $3,266,918 were subsequently paid in cash in February 2020. In addition, the remaining outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock, including series A, B, and C convertible preferred stock, were either redeemed for cash or converted to common stock and the series B convertible preferred stock dividend totaling $11,999,798 was paid out through the issuance of 5,263 shares of common stock. In addition, 9,803 outstanding warrants issued in connection with previous financings were redeemed from stockholders not participating in the Series E Financing as part of the transaction. The following table presents the number of shares and total purchase price paid by these entities.

 

Name of Seller

  

Sellers’ Equity
Redeemed

  

Percent of Total
Company Equity
Redeemed

   

Redemption
Amount Paid

 

WestView Capital Partners II, L.P.

   21,500 Series A Preferred 375 Series C Preferred      31.5   $ 59,659,091  

Tudor Ventures III L.P.

   11,000 Series A Preferred 125 Series C Preferred      16.0     30,340,909  

Diversified Natural Products, Inc.

   Warrants to Purchase 7,823 Shares of Common Stock      11.3     5,498,675  

ELUS Holdings Corporation

   Warrants to Purchase 1,260 Shares of Common Stock      1.8     804,838  

Al Czap

   500 Series A Preferred      *       1,363,636  

Jim Gilbert

   200 Shares Series C Preferred      *       456,006  

 

*

represents less than 1% of total company equity redeemed

Merger with Onegevity

Our board of directors approved, with an effective date of January 6, 2021, the merger with Onegevity Health, LLC (Onegevity) with Onegevity becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Thorne. Paul Jacobson, our Chief Executive Officer, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Onegevity and owns 5,712 (4.0%) of Onegevity’s outstanding shares. This merger was approved by a majority of each of our and Onegevity’s board’s independent board members. The transaction exchanged all outstanding Onegevity equity for 14.1% of the outstanding equity

 

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of the combined Thorne and Onegevity entity. This transaction increased Paul Jacobson’s ownership in the Company to 4.4% based on our common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2021. The transaction was completed on March 3, 2021.

Merger with Drawbridge

On May 25, 2021, we announced that we had acquired the majority of outstanding shares of Drawbridge Health, Inc. (Drawbridge) a healthcare technology company that is focused on re-inventing the blood draw experience by offering a more comfortable and convenient blood testing solution through the OneDraw A1C Test System. Prior to the merger, we owned approximately 11.2% of the outstanding shares of Drawbridge. Under the merger agreement, we increased our ownership of Drawbridge by 77.3% to a total ownership of 88.5%. The merger agreement calls for the payment of approximately $3.3 million in cash, the assumption of all future liabilities and the fulfillment of certain obligations under the research development collaboration agreements currently in place. Paul Jacobson, our Chief Executive Officer, was serving on the Board of Directors of Drawbridge at the time of the merger.

Loans for Executive Option Exercises

On April 30, 2019, we provided loans to officers Paul Jacobson, Tom McKenna, Will McCamy, Scott Wheeler and Kim Pearson in amounts that would allow them to exercise option grants expiring on July 16, 2020. These notes were issued at a 5% interest rate and were all repaid upon the issuance of the optioned shares on July 16, 2020. Outstanding principal and interest on the notes, as well as applicable taxes, were deducted from the number of shares granted to them. Loan amounts, options purchased, loan repayment amounts, and total share issuance values are noted in the table below. All loans to officers have been repaid to our company.

 

Name

  

Amount
Borrowed

    

Shares and
Options
Purchased

    

Amount
Repaid

    

Total Value
Received

 

Paul Jacobson

   $ 525,160        1,800      $ 556,813      $ 7,166,010  

Tom McKenna

     525,160        1,800        556,813        7,237,420  

Will McCamy

     334,020        1,500        354,152        6,117,339  

Scott Wheeler

     101,460        304        107,575        1,264,622  

Kim Pearson

     45,980        127        48,751        517,894  

Supply Agreement with NR Therapeutics

We are party to an exclusive supply agreement dated June 5, 2020 (NR Supply Agreement) with NR Therapeutics, LLC (NR Therapeutics) pursuant to which we purchase inventory of Nicotinamide riboside (NR) from NR Therapeutics. Paul Jacobson, our Chief Executive Officer, is a member of NR Therapeutics board of directors, and we hold a 49% interest in NR Therapeutics. As of March 31, 2021, we have approximately $0.7 million in outstanding purchase orders with NR Therapeutics.

Kirin and Mitsui Feasibility Review Agreement

On March 19, 2019, Onegevity Health, LLC (Onegevity) entered into a feasibility review agreement (Feasibility Agreement) with Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin) and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui). Entities affiliated with Kirin hold more than 5% of our capital stock and entities affiliated with Mitsui also hold more than 5% of our capital stock. Pursuant to the Feasibility Agreement, we are required to conduct a feasibility study for the successful commercialization of Onegevity’s Gutbio product (Gutbio Product) and in return each of Kirin and Mitsui paid the company $500,000 (Feasibility Payment Amount). Under the Feasibility Agreement, Kirin and Mitsui may, acting jointly, anytime prior to March 19, 2022, make the decision to commercialize the Gutbio Product. If they choose to commercialize the Gutbio Product, then we are required to enter into a definitive license agreement to license the Gutbio Product to Kirin and Mitsui for their exclusive use in Japan. If they do

 

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not choose to commercialize the Gutbio Product, the Feasibility Agreement requires us to issue equity securities of Onegevity to each of Kirin and Mitsui in equal amounts in consideration for the Feasibility Payment Amount.

Kirin and Mitsui Letter Agreements

On July 5, 2018, we entered into a letter agreement with Kirin and Mitsui (the Thorne Japan Agreement) in connection with the Company’s Series E convertible preferred stock financing which designates Kirin and Mitsui and the Company’s and its affiliates exclusive strategic partners in Japan, including with respect to the commercialization in Japan of any products and services designed, developed, manufactured, marketed, provided, licensed, sold or bought by the Company or its affiliates from time to time. This agreement further appoints Kirin and Mitsui as the exclusive marketers and distributors of the Company’s products in Japan and provides Kirin and Mitsui with the exclusive right to conduct research and development activities related to the Company’s products in Japan, as well as manage any regulatory approvals required to market or distribute the Company’s products in Japan. This agreement also provides Kirin and Mitsui with an exclusive right of first negotiation with respect to marketing of the Company’s products in any country in Asia, including China, ASEAN member countries, Australia, New Zealand and any other countries in which Kirin and Mitsui have an interest. This agreement expires on July 5, 2028.

Also on July 5, 2018, the Company and Onegevity entered into a letter agreement with Kirin and Mitsui (the Onegevity Agreement) in connection with the Company’s Series E convertible stock financing which provided for certain exclusive commitments between the Company and Onegevity. Kirin and Mitsui also received a right of first negotiation with respect to any business collaboration, including with respect to Onegevity products, intellectual property, services or technology, in or with respect to Japan. The agreement also provides Kirin and Mitsui a right of first refusal over any agreement, arrangement or understanding with any third party regarding a business collaboration in the Asia Pacific region other than Japan. This agreement does not expire.

Kirin and Mitsui Amendment Agreement

On June 8, 2021, we entered into an Amendment Agreement with Kirin and Mitsui in order to amend the Feasibility Agreement, the Thorne Japan Agreement and the Onegevity Agreement. This Amendment Agreement removed the requirement from the Thorne Japan Agreement that the parties enter into separate agreements related to the exclusivity provisions discussed above and also removed any provisions regarding the establishment of a joint venture in Japan. The Amendment Agreement further removed certain obsolete intercompany commitments between the Company and Onegevity, in light of the Company’s merger with Onegevity. The Amendment Agreement also amended the Onegevity Agreement to replace Onegevity with the Company as a party to the agreement. Finally, the Amendment Agreement amended the Feasibility Agreement discussed above to obligate the Company (rather than Onegevity) to issue equity securities to each of Kirin and Mitsui in consideration for any Feasibility Payment Amount and providing for a mechanism upon which such shares would be valued for the purpose of such issuance.

Kirin Juntendo Agreement

On October 16, 2020, Onegevity Health, LLC entered into a service agreement (Juntendo Agreement) with Juntendo University and Kirin. Pursuant to the Juntendo Agreement, we shall provide DNA analysis services for up to 600 samples and in return may receive up to $129,000. As of March 31, 2020 we have received a total of $2,400 under the agreement.

Equity Investment in Tecton Group, LLC

We are a 43% holder in Tecton Group, LLC (formerly Thorne OPS-FUEL Joint, LLC) (Tecton), as of December 31, 2020, a veteran owned business focused on brain health for our military, athletes, and the general

 

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public. Tecton in conjunction with the Company is in the process of commercializing a revolutionary nutrition technology developed by the U.S. Department of Defense that provides soldiers and athletes improved cognitive and physical performance in addition to fueling the brain to protect against concussion and secondary damage of traumatic brain injury. Tecton is also party to a letter agreement between us, Tecton, Kirin and Mitsui (Tecton Letter Agreement) providing us with, amongst other things, a right of first offer to commercialize any Tecton product or service. The Tecton Letter Agreement also provides Kirin and Mitsui, with a right of first negotiation for any commercialization of Tecton products or services in Japan. Paul Jacobson, our Chief Executive Officer, also is a member of Tecton’s board of directors. In 2020, we paid certain fees on behalf of Tecton, totaling approximately $615,000, in exchange for a 3.5% additional equity interest in Tecton.

Kirin Loan to Company

On July 24, 2019, Kirin provided us with a one-time loan of $3.0 million. We repaid this loan in 2020, including accrued interest of $128,219 from proceeds under our revolving line of credit with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.

Kirin and Mitsui Employee Secondments

We are party to a secondment agreement with Kirin’s employee, Mr. Yasuhiro Oki, dated March 18, 2019 (Kirin Secondment Agreement), and a secondment agreement with Mitsui’s employee, Mr. Shuntaro Yamamoto, dated February 28, 2019 (Mitsui Secondment Agreement), under which they provide full-time services to Thorne and Thorne reimburses Kirin and Mitsui for such services. Under the Kirin Secondment Agreement and the Mitsui Secondment Agreement, we reimburse each of Kirin and Mitsui $120,000 annually for such services.

Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Loans to Officers

In 2020, the Company issued loans to certain executive officers to pay the AMT associated with the exercise of stock options in 2019. The loans were issued on February 18, 2020 and were repaid on July 14, 2020. As of December 31, 2020, there were no outstanding loans to the Company’s officers. The amount of the loans are as follows:

 

     Less AMT tax
borrowed
 

Paul Jacobson

   $ 320,000  

Tom McKenna

     250,000  

Will McCamy

     130,000  

Scott Wheeler

     0  

Kim Pearson

     10,000  
  

 

 

 

Total

   $     710,000  
  

 

 

 

The loans carried a 5% interest rate on them. Interest repaid to the company was $14,297.

Registration Rights Agreement

We are party to a registration rights agreement, as amended, with certain holders of our capital stock. Under our registration rights agreement, certain holders of our capital stock, including Mitsui and Kirin, have the right to demand that we file a registration statement or request that their shares of our capital stock be covered by a registration statement that we are otherwise filing. See the section titled “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights” for additional information regarding these registration rights.

 

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Stockholder Agreement

We are party to a stockholder agreement, with certain holders of our capital stock. Our existing certificate of incorporation contains provisions regarding election of members of the board of directors that correspond to the stockholder agreement; however, such provisions will be removed in the amended and restated certificate of incorporation that will be effective at the closing of this offering and the parties intend to terminate the stockholder agreement in connection with this offering and the execution of the nominating agreement described below.

Nominating Agreement

Immediately prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, we intend to enter into a nominating agreement with Mitsui and Kirin which will provide that, subject to certain minimum stock ownership requirements, that the Company will include a designee of Mitsui and Kirin (as applicable) in the slate of nominees recommended to the Company’s stockholders for election at the Company’s annual stockholder meetings if the current Mitsui or Kirin (as applicable) designee’s term is expiring at such meeting. This agreement also provides for certain information, board observer and secondment rights.

Indemnification Agreements

We have entered into separate indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers, in addition to the indemnification provided for in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws. The indemnification agreements and our amended restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws that will be in effect upon the closing of this offering require us to indemnify our directors, executive officers and certain controlling persons to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. See the section titled “Executive Compensation—Limitation of Liability and Indemnification” for additional information.

Related Party Transaction Policy

Our audit committee will have the primary responsibility for reviewing and approving or disapproving “related party transactions,” which are transactions between us and related persons in which the aggregate amount involved exceeds or may be expected to exceed $120,000 and in which a related person has or will have a direct or indirect material interest. The charter of our audit committee will provide that our audit committee shall review and approve in advance any related party transaction.

Prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, we intend to adopt a formal written policy providing that we are not permitted to enter into any transaction that exceeds $120,000 and in which any related person has a direct or indirect material interest without the consent of our audit committee. In approving or rejecting any such transaction, our audit committee is to consider the relevant facts and circumstances available and deemed relevant to our audit committee, including whether the transaction is on terms no less favorable than terms generally available to an unaffiliated third party under the same or similar circumstances and the extent of the related person’s interest in the transaction.

 

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PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

The following table sets forth the beneficial ownership of our common stock as of March 31, 2021, by:

 

   

each person, or group of affiliated persons, who is known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our common stock;

 

   

each of the named executive officers;

 

   

each of our directors; and

 

   

all of our current executive officers and directors as a group.

We have determined beneficial ownership in accordance with the rules of the SEC, and thus it represents sole or shared voting or investment power with respect to our securities. Unless otherwise indicated below, to our knowledge, the persons and entities named in the table have sole voting and sole investment power with respect to all shares that they beneficially owned, subject to community property laws where applicable. The information does not necessarily indicate beneficial ownership for any other purpose, including for purposes of Sections 13(d) and 13(g) of the Exchange Act.

We have based our calculation of the percentage of beneficial ownership prior to this offering on                 shares of our common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2021, after giving effect to the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock into shares of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering. We have based our calculation of the percentage of beneficial ownership after this offering on                 shares of our common stock outstanding immediately after the completion of this offering, assuming no exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares. The table below does not reflect any shares of our common stock that may be purchased through the reserved share program, as described under “Underwriting—Reserved Share Program.” We have deemed shares of our common stock subject to stock options that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021, to be outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person holding the stock option for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of that person. We did not deem these shares outstanding, however, for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person.

Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each beneficial owner listed in the table below is c/o Thorne HealthTech, Inc., 152 W. 57th Street, New York, New York 10019.

 

    

Shares Beneficially
Owned Prior To This
Offering

   

Shares Beneficially
Owned After This
Offering

 

Name of Beneficial Owner

  

Shares

    

Percentage

   

Shares

    

Percentage

 

5% and Greater Stockholders:

          

Mitsui & Co, Ltd.(1)

     35,350        34.5     

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited(2)

     35,350        34.5     

ELUS Holdings Corporation(3)

     13,209        12.8     

Diversified Natural Products, Inc.(4)

     9,291        8.6     

Named Executive Officers and Directors:

          

Paul F. Jacobson(5)

     13,616        12.2     

Tom P. McKenna(6)

     1,929        1.9     

William C. McCamy(7)

     1,976        1.9     

Riccardo C. Braglia(8)

     13,209        12.8     

Yasuhiro Oki(9)

     35,350        34.5     

Toru Yoshimura(10)

     35,350        34.5     

Toshitaka Inuzuka(11)

     35,350        34.5     

Tetsu Watanabe(12)

     35,350        34.5     

All current executive officers and directors as a group (8 persons)(13)

     101,430        79.1     

 

 

  *

Represents beneficial ownership of less than 1% of the outstanding shares of our common stock.

 

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  (1)

Consists of (i) 35,223 shares of common stock held of record by Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui) and (ii) 127 shares of common stock subject to warrants that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021. The address for Mitsui is 2-1, Otemachi 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-8631, Japan.

  (2)

Consists of (i) 35,223 shares of common stock held of record by Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin) and (ii) 127 shares of common stock subject to warrants that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021. The address for Kirin is Nakano Central Park South, 10-2 Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo, 164-0001, Japan.

  (3)

Consists of (i) 12,190 shares of common stock held of record by ELUS Holdings Corporation (ELUS) and (ii) 1,019 shares of common stock subject to warrants that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021. The address for ELUS is 170 Wood Avenue South, 5th Floor, Iselin, New Jersey 08830.

  (4)

Consists of 3,601 shares of common stock held of record by Diversified Natural Products, Inc. (DNP) and (ii) 5,690 shares of common stock subject to warrants that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021. Voting and dispositive decisions with respect to the shares held by DNP are made by Mr. Jacobson, the Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

  (5)

Consists of (i) 1,127 shares of common stock held by Mr. Jacobson, (ii) 3,198 shares of common stock subject to outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021, (iii) 3,601 shares of common stock held of record by DNP, as noted in footnote (4), and (iv) 5,690 shares of common stock subject to warrants that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021, held of record by DNP, as noted in footnote (4).

  (6)

Consists of (i) 190 shares of common stock held by Mr. McKenna, (ii) 1,739 shares of common stock subject to outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021.

  (7)

Consists (i) 190 shares of common stock held of record by Mr. McCamy and (ii) of 1,786 shares of common stock subject to outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021.

  (8)

Consists of (i) 12,190 shares of common stock and (ii) 1,019 shares of common stock subject to warrants that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021, held by ELUS, as noted in footnote (3).

  (9)

Consists of 35,223 shares of common stock held by Kirin as noted in footnote (2).

  (10)

Consists of 35,223 shares of common stock held by Kirin as noted in footnote (2).

  (11)

Consists of 35,223 shares of common stock held by Mitsui as noted in footnote (1).

  (12)

Consists of 35,223 shares of common stock held by Mitsui as noted in footnote (1).

  (13)

Consists of 87,744 shares of common stock beneficially owned by our executive officers and directors and (ii) 13,686 shares of common stock subject to warrants or options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2021, beneficially owned by our executive officers and directors.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

The following descriptions of our capital stock and certain provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws are summaries and are qualified by reference to the amended and restated certificate of incorporation and the amended and restated bylaws that will be in effect upon completion of this offering. Copies of these documents will be filed with the SEC as exhibits to our registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. The descriptions of the common stock and preferred stock reflect changes to our capital structure that will occur upon the completion of this offering.

Immediately prior to the completion of this offering and the filing of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to be effective upon completion of this offering, our authorized capital stock will consist of                  shares of common stock, par value $             per share, and                  shares of preferred stock, par value $             per share.

Immediately prior to the completion of this offering, all the outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock will automatically convert into an aggregate of                  shares of our common stock.

Based on shares of common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2021, and after giving effect to the automatic conversion of all of our outstanding convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of shares of common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering and the issuance of                  shares of common stock in this offering, there will be                  shares of common stock outstanding upon the completion of this offering. As of March 31, 2021, we had                  stockholders of record.

Common Stock

Voting Rights

Each holder of common stock is entitled to one vote for each share on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders, including the election of directors. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws to be in effect upon the completion of this offering do not provide for cumulative voting rights. Because of this, the holders of a plurality of the shares of common stock entitled to vote in any election of directors can elect all of the directors standing for election, if they should so choose. With respect to matters other than the election of directors, at any meeting of the stockholders at which a quorum is present or represented, the affirmative vote of a majority of the voting power of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at such meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter shall be the act of the stockholders, except as otherwise required by law. The holders of a majority of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at all meetings of the stockholders.

Dividends

Subject to preferences that may be applicable to any then-outstanding preferred stock, holders of our common stock are entitled to receive dividends, if any, as may be declared from time to time by our board of directors out of legally available funds.

Liquidation

In the event of our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, holders of our common stock will be entitled to share ratably in the net assets legally available for distribution to stockholders after the payment of all of our debts and other liabilities and the satisfaction of any liquidation preference granted to the holders of any then-outstanding shares of preferred stock.

 

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Rights and Preferences

Holders of our common stock have no preemptive, conversion, subscription or other rights, and there are no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to our common stock. The rights, preferences and privileges of the holders of our common stock are 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 in the future.

Fully Paid and Nonassessable

All of our outstanding shares of common stock are, and the shares of common stock to be issued in this offering, upon payment and delivery in accordance with the underwriting agreement, will be fully paid and nonassessable.

Preferred Stock

Upon the completion of this offering, our board of directors will have the authority, without further action by the stockholders, to issue up to                  shares of preferred stock in one or more series and to fix the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions thereof. These rights, preferences and privileges could include dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, redemption rights, liquidation preferences, sinking fund terms and the number of shares constituting any series or the designation of such series, any or all of which may be greater than the rights of common stock. The issuance of preferred stock could adversely affect the voting power of holders of common stock and the likelihood that such holders will receive dividend payments and payments upon liquidation. In addition, the issuance of preferred stock could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in our control or other corporate action. Upon the completion of this offering, no shares of preferred stock will be outstanding, and we have no present plan to issue any shares of preferred stock.

Options

As of March 31, 2021, we had outstanding options to purchase an aggregate of                  shares of our common stock, with a weighted-average exercise price of $         per share, under our 2010 Plan.

Registration Rights

After the completion of this offering, under our registration rights agreement, as amended, the holders of shares of common stock or their transferees, will have the right to require us to register the offer and sale of their shares or to include their shares in any registration statement we file, in each case as described below.

Demand Registration Rights

After the completion of this offering, the holders of up to                  shares of our common stock will be entitled to certain demand registration rights. Beginning 180 days following the date of effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, the holders of at least 50% of the shares having registration rights then outstanding can request that we file a registration statement to register the offer and sale of their shares. We are only obligated to effect up to two such registrations. Each such request for registration must register and sell at least 80% of the securities requested to be registered. These demand registration rights are subject to specified conditions and limitations, including determining the priority of which such shares having registration rights will be sold if the underwriters advise that our company should limit the number of shares included in any such registration. If we determine that it would be materially detrimental to us and our stockholders to effect such a demand registration, we have the right to defer such registration, not more than once in any twelve month period, for a period of up to 90 days.

 

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Piggyback Registration Rights

After the completion of this offering, the holders of up to                  shares of our common stock will be entitled to certain “piggyback” registration rights. If we propose to register the offer and sale of shares of our common stock under the Securities Act, the holders of these shares can request that we include their shares in such registration, subject to certain marketing and other limitations, including the right of the underwriters to limit the number of shares included in any such registration statement under certain circumstances. As a result, whenever we propose to file a registration statement under the Securities Act, other than with respect to (1) a registration solely either to the sale of securities to employees of the Company pursuant to a stock purchase, stock option or similar plan, and (2) a merger, recapitalization or reorganization, the holders of these shares are entitled to notice of the registration and have the right, subject to certain limitations, to include their shares in the registration.

Form S-3 Registration Rights

After the completion of this offering, the holders of up to                  shares of our common stock will be entitled to certain Form S-3 registration rights. At any time after the completion of this offering when we are eligible to file a registration statement on Form S-3, the holders of the shares having these rights then outstanding can request that we register the offer and sale of their shares of our common stock on a registration statement on Form S-3 so long as the request covers securities the anticipated aggregate public offering price of which is at least $3 million. These stockholders may make an unlimited number of requests for registration on a registration statement on Form S-3. However, we will not be required to affect a registration on Form S-3 if we have affected two such registrations within the twelve-month period preceding the date of the request. These Form S-3 registration rights are subject to specified conditions and limitations, including determining the priority of which such shares having registration rights will be sold if the underwriters advise that our company should limit the number of shares included in any such registration. Additionally, if we determine that it would be seriously detrimental to us and our stockholders to effect such a demand registration, we have the right to defer such registration, not more than twice in any twelve month period.

Expenses of Registration

We will pay all expenses relating to any demand registrations, Form S-3 registrations and piggyback registrations, subject to specified exceptions.

Termination

The registration rights terminate upon the earliest of (1) the closing of certain liquidation events and (2) as to a given holder of registration rights, the date after the closing of this offering when such holder of registration rights can sell all of such holder’s registrable securities during any 90-day period pursuant to Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act.

Anti-takeover Effects of Certain Provisions of Delaware Law, Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Our Amended and Restated Bylaws

Certain provisions of Delaware law and certain provisions that will be included in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws summarized below may be deemed to have an anti-takeover effect and may delay, deter or prevent a tender offer or takeover attempt that a stockholder might consider to be in its best interests, including attempts that might result in a premium being paid over the market price for the shares held by stockholders.

Preferred Stock

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will contain provisions that permit our board of directors to issue, without any further vote or action by the stockholders, shares of preferred stock in one or more

 

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series and, with respect to each such series, to fix the number of shares constituting the series and the designation of the series, the voting rights (if any) of the shares of the series and the powers, preferences or relative, participation, optional and other special rights, if any, and any qualifications, limitations or restrictions, of the shares of such series.

Classified Board

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that our board of directors is divided into three classes, designated Class I, Class II and Class III. Each class will be an equal number of directors, as nearly as possible, consisting of one third of the total number of directors constituting the entire board of directors. The term of initial Class I directors shall terminate on the date of the 2022 annual meeting, the term of the initial Class II directors shall terminate on the date of the 2023 annual meeting, and the term of the initial Class III directors shall terminate on the date of the 2024 annual meeting. At each annual meeting of stockholders beginning in 2022, the class of directors whose term expires at that annual meeting will be subject to reelection for a three-year term.

Removal of Directors

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that stockholders may only remove a director for cause by a vote of no less than a majority of the shares present in person or by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote.

Director Vacancies

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will authorize only our board of directors to fill vacant directorships.

No Cumulative Voting

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that stockholders do not have the right to cumulate votes in the election of directors.

Special Meetings of Stockholders

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws will provide that, except as otherwise required by law, special meetings of the stockholders may be called only by an officer at the request of a majority of our board of directors, by the Chair of our board of directors or by our Chief Executive Officer.

Advance notice procedures for director nominations

Our amended and restated bylaws will provide that stockholders seeking to nominate candidates for election as directors at an annual or special meeting of stockholders must provide timely notice thereof in writing. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice generally will have to be delivered to and received at our principal executive offices before notice of the meeting is issued by the secretary of the company, with such notice being served not less than 90 nor more than 120 days before the meeting. Although the amended and restated bylaws will not give the board of directors the power to approve or disapprove stockholder nominations of candidates to be elected at an annual meeting, the amended and restated bylaws may have the effect of precluding the conduct of certain business at a meeting if the proper procedures are not followed or may discourage or deter a potential acquirer from conducting a solicitation of proxies to elect its own slate of directors or otherwise attempting to obtain control of our company.

 

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Action by Written Consent

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws will provide that any action to be taken by the stockholders must be affected at a duly called annual or special meeting of stockholders and may not be affected by written consent.

Amending our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation may be amended or altered in any manner provided by the Delaware General Corporation Law (DGCL). Our amended and restated bylaws may be adopted, amended, altered or repealed by stockholders only upon approval of at least majority of the voting power of all the then outstanding shares of the common stock, except for any amendment of the above provisions, which would require the approval of a two-thirds majority of our then outstanding common stock. Additionally, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that our bylaws may be amended, altered or repealed by the board of directors.

Authorized but Unissued Shares

Our authorized but unissued shares of common stock and preferred stock will be available for future issuances without stockholder approval, except as required by the listing standards of Nasdaq, and could be utilized for a variety of corporate purposes, including future offerings to raise additional capital, acquisitions and employee benefit plans. The existence of authorized but unissued and unreserved common stock and preferred stock could render more difficult or discourage an attempt to obtain control of the company by means of a proxy contest, tender offer, merger or otherwise.

Exclusive Jurisdiction

Our amended and restated bylaws will provide that, unless we consent to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware shall be the sole and exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, any action asserting a claim of breach of fiduciary duty, any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to the DGCL, any action regarding our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or amended and restated bylaws, or any action asserting a claim against us that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine. This provision would not apply to suits brought to enforce a duty or liability created by the Exchange Act or any other claim for which the U.S. federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction. Our amended and restated bylaws further provide that the federal district courts of the United States of America will be the exclusive forum for resolving any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act. Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring any interest in our securities shall be deemed to have notice of and consented to these provisions. Although we believe these provisions benefit us by providing increased consistency in the application of law for the specified types of actions and proceedings, the provisions may have the effect of discouraging lawsuits against us or our directors and officers. There is uncertainty as to whether a court would enforce such provisions, and the enforceability of similar choice of forum provisions in other companies’ charter documents has been challenged in legal proceedings. We also note that stockholders cannot waive compliance (or consent to noncompliance) with the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. See the section titled “Risk Factors— Our amended and restated bylaws designate a state or federal court located within the State of Delaware as the exclusive forum for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders, and also provide that the federal district courts will be the exclusive forum for resolving any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, each of which could limit our stockholders’ ability to choose the judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, stockholders, or employees.”

Business Combinations with Interested Stockholders

We are governed by Section 203 of the DGCL. Subject to certain exceptions, Section 203 of the DGCL prohibits a public Delaware corporation from engaging in a business combination (as defined in such section)

 

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with an “interested stockholder” (defined generally as any person who beneficially owns 15% or more of the outstanding voting stock of such corporation or any person affiliated with such person) for a period of three years following the time that such stockholder became an interested stockholder, unless (1) prior to such time the board of directors of such corporation approved either the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder; (2) upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of such corporation at the time the transaction commenced (excluding for purposes of determining the voting stock of such corporation outstanding (but not the outstanding voting stock owned by the interested stockholder) those shares owned (a) by persons who are directors and also officers of such corporation and (b) by 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 (3) at or subsequent to such time the business combination is approved by the board of directors of such corporation and authorized at a meeting of stockholders (and not by written consent) by the affirmative vote of at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding voting stock of such corporation not owned by the interested stockholder.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and our amended and restated bylaws will provide that we must indemnify our directors and officers to the fullest extent authorized by the DGCL. We are expressly authorized to, and do, carry directors’ and officers’ insurance providing coverage for our directors, officers and certain employees for some liabilities. We believe that these indemnification provisions and insurance are useful to attract and retain qualified directors and executive officers.

The limitation on liability and indemnification provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may discourage stockholders from bringing a lawsuit against directors for breach of their fiduciary duty. These provisions may also have the effect of reducing the likelihood of derivative litigation against directors and officers, even though such an action, if successful, might otherwise benefit us and our stockholders. In addition, your investment may be adversely affected to the extent we pay the costs of settlement and damage awards against directors and officers pursuant to these indemnification provisions.

Listing

We have applied to list our common stock on Nasdaq under the symbol “THRN.”

Transfer Agent and Registrar

Upon completion of this offering, the transfer agent and registrar for our common stock will be Computershare Trust Company, N.A. The transfer agent and registrar’s address is 250 Royal Street, Canton, Massachusetts 02021.

 

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SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock, and although we expect that our common stock will be approved for listing on the Nasdaq, we cannot assure investors that there will be an active public market for our common stock following this offering. We cannot predict what effect, if any, sales of our shares in the public market or the availability of shares for sale will have on the market price of our common stock. Future sales of substantial amounts of common stock in the public market, including shares issued upon exercise of outstanding options, or the perception that such sales may occur, however, could adversely affect the market price of our common stock and also could adversely affect our future ability to raise capital through the sale of our common stock or other equity-related securities of ours at times and prices we believe appropriate.

Upon completion of this offering, based on our shares outstanding as of March 31, 2021, and after giving effect to the conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock,                  shares of our common stock will be outstanding, or                 shares of common stock if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full. All of the shares of common stock expected to be sold in this offering will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act unless held by our “affiliates,” as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. The remaining outstanding shares of our common stock will be deemed “restricted securities” as that term is defined under Rule 144. Restricted securities may be sold in the public market only if their offer and sale is registered under the Securities Act or if the offer and sale of those securities qualify for an exemption from registration, including exemptions provided by Rules 144 and 701 under the Securities Act, which are summarized below.

As a result of the lock-up agreements and market stand-off provisions described below and the provisions of Rules 144 or 701, the shares of our common stock that will be deemed “restricted securities” will be available for sale in the public market following the completion of this offering as follows:

 

   

no shares will be eligible for sale on the date of this prospectus; and

 

   

                 shares will be eligible for sale upon expiration of the lock-up agreements and market stand-off provisions described below, following the date that is 180 days after the date of this prospectus.

Lock-up Agreements and Market Stand-Off Agreements

Our officers, directors and the holders of substantially all of our capital stock and options have entered into market stand-off agreements with us and have entered into or will enter into lock-up agreements with the underwriters, subject to certain exceptions, not to dispose of or hedge any of their common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of common stock during the period from the date of this prospectus continuing through the date that is 180 days following the date of this prospectus without the consent of BofA Securities, Inc., Cowen and Company, LLC and Evercore Group L.L.C. See the section titled “Underwriting” for additional information.

Rule 144

Rule 144, as currently in effect, generally provides that, once we have been subject to the public company reporting requirements of Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act for at least 90 days, a stockholder who is not deemed to have been one of our affiliates at any time during the preceding 90 days and who has beneficially owned the shares of our capital stock proposed to be sold for at least six months is entitled to sell such shares in reliance upon Rule 144 without complying with the volume limitation, manner of sale or notice conditions of Rule 144. If such stockholder has beneficially owned the shares of our capital stock proposed to be sold for at least one year, then such person is entitled to sell such shares in reliance upon Rule 144 without complying with any of the other conditions of Rule 144.

 

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Rule 144 also provides that a stockholder who is deemed to have been one of our affiliates at any time during the preceding 90 days and who has beneficially owned the shares of our common stock proposed to be sold for at least six months is entitled to sell such shares in reliance upon Rule 144 within any three month period beginning 90 days after the date of this prospectus a number of such shares that does not exceed the greater of the following:

 

   

1% of the number of shares of our capital stock then outstanding, which will equal                 shares immediately after the completion of this offering, assuming no exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares; or

 

   

the average weekly trading volume of our common stock during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to such sale.

Sales of our capital stock made in reliance upon Rule 144 by a stockholder who is deemed to have been one of our affiliates at any time during the preceding 90 days are also subject to the current public information, manner of sale and notice conditions of Rule 144.

Rule 701

Rule 701 generally provides that, once we have been subject to the public company reporting requirements of Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act for at least 90 days, a stockholder who purchased shares of our common stock pursuant to a written compensatory benefit plan or contract and who is not deemed to have been one of our affiliates at any time during the preceding 90 days may sell such shares in reliance upon Rule 144 without complying with the current public information or holding period conditions of Rule 144. Rule 701 also provides that a stockholder who purchased shares of our common stock pursuant to a written compensatory benefit plan or contract and who is deemed to have been one of our affiliates during the preceding 90 days may sell such shares under Rule 144 without complying with the holding period condition of Rule 144. However, all stockholders who purchased shares of our common stock pursuant to a written compensatory benefit plan or contract are required to wait until 90 days after the date of this prospectus before selling such shares pursuant to Rule 701.

Registration Rights

After the completion of this offering, the holders of up to                  shares of our common stock will be entitled to certain rights with respect to the registration of such shares under the Securities Act. The registration of these shares of our common stock under the Securities Act would result in these shares becoming eligible for sale in the public market without restriction under the Securities Act immediately upon the effectiveness of such registration. See the section titled “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights” for a description of these registration rights.

Registration Statement

After the completion of this offering, we intend to file a registration statement on Form S-8 under the Securities Act to register all of the shares of our common stock subject to equity awards outstanding or reserved for issuance under our equity compensation plans. The shares of our common stock covered by such registration statement will be eligible for sale in the public market without restriction under the Securities Act immediately upon the effectiveness of such registration statement, subject to vesting restrictions, the conditions of Rule 144 applicable to affiliates, and any applicable market stand-off agreements and lock-up agreements. See the section titled “Executive Compensation—Employee Benefit and Stock Plans” for a description of our equity compensation plans.

 

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MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-U.S. HOLDERS OF OUR COMMON STOCK

The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal income tax considerations of the ownership and disposition of our common stock acquired in this offering by a “non-U.S. holder” (as defined below), but does not purport to be a complete analysis of all the potential tax considerations relating thereto. This summary is based upon the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code), Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, administrative rulings and judicial decisions, all as of the date hereof. These authorities may be changed, possibly retroactively, so as to result in U.S. federal income tax consequences different from those set forth below. We have not sought, and do not intend to seek, any ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), with respect to the statements made and the conclusions reached in the following summary, and there can be no assurance that the IRS or a court will agree with such statements and conclusions.

This summary also does not address the tax considerations arising under the laws of any non-U.S., state or local jurisdiction, under U.S. federal gift and estate tax rules or under any applicable tax treaty. In addition, this discussion does not address any potential application of the Medicare contribution tax on net investment income or any tax considerations applicable to an investor’s particular circumstances or to investors that may be subject to special tax rules, including, without limitation:

 

   

banks, insurance companies, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts or other financial institutions;

 

   

tax-exempt organizations or accounts;

 

   

pension plans and tax-qualified retirement plans;

 

   

controlled foreign corporations, passive foreign investment companies and corporations that accumulate earnings to avoid U.S. federal income tax;

 

   

brokers or dealers in securities or currencies;

 

   

traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings;

 

   

persons that own, or are deemed to own, more than 5% of our capital stock (except to the extent specifically set forth below);

 

   

U.S. expatriates and certain other former citizens or long-term residents of the United States;

 

   

partnerships (or entities or arrangements classified as such for U.S. federal income tax purposes), other pass-through entities, and investors therein;

 

   

persons subject to the alternative minimum tax;

 

   

persons who hold our common stock as a position in a hedging transaction, “straddle,” “conversion transaction” or other risk reduction transaction;

 

   

persons who hold or receive our common stock pursuant to the exercise of any employee stock option or otherwise as compensation;

 

   

persons subject to special tax accounting rules as a result of any item of gross income with respect to our common stock being taken into account in an “applicable financial statement” as defined in Section 451(b) of the Code;

 

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persons who do not hold our common stock as a capital asset within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code (generally, property held for investment); or

 

   

persons deemed to sell our common stock under the constructive sale provisions of the Code.

In addition, if a partnership, entity or arrangement classified as a partnership or flow-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds our common stock, the tax treatment of a partner or beneficial owner generally will depend on the status of the partner or beneficial owner, the activities of the partnership or other entity, and certain determinations made at the partner or beneficial owner level. A partner or beneficial owner in a partnership or other such entity that will hold our common stock should consult his, her or its own tax advisor regarding the tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our common stock through a partnership or other such entity, as applicable.

You are urged to consult your tax advisor with respect to the application of the U.S. federal income tax laws to your particular situation, as well as any tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our common stock arising under the U.S. federal gift or estate tax rules or under the laws of any state, local, non-U.S. or other taxing jurisdiction or under any applicable tax treaty.

Non-U.S. Holder Defined

For purposes of this discussion, you are a “non-U.S. holder” if you are a beneficial owner of our common stock that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is not a partnership (including any entity or arrangement treated as a partnership and the equity holders therein) or:

 

   

an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;

 

   

a corporation or other entity taxable as a corporation created or organized in the United States or under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof, or otherwise treated as such for U.S. federal income tax purposes;

 

   

an estate whose income is subject to U.S. federal income tax regardless of its source; or

 

   

a trust (1) whose administration is subject to the primary supervision of a U.S. court and that has one or more U.S. persons who have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (2) that has made a valid election under applicable Treasury Regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

Distributions

As described in the section titled “Dividend Policy,” we have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock, and we do not expect to pay any dividends in the foreseeable future. However, if we do make distributions on our common stock, those payments will constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent paid from our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. To the extent those distributions exceed both our current and our accumulated earnings and profits, the excess will constitute a return of capital and will first reduce your basis in our common stock (determined separately with respect to each share of our common stock), but not below zero, and then will be treated as gain from the sale of stock as described below in the section titled “—Gain on Disposition of Common Stock”).

Subject to the discussions below on effectively connected income and in the sections titled “—Backup Withholding and Information Reporting” and “—Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA),” any dividend paid to you generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax either at a rate of 30% of the gross amount

 

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of the dividend or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty between the United States and your country of residence. In order to receive a reduced treaty rate, you must provide us with a properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E or other appropriate version of IRS Form W-8 certifying qualification for the reduced rate. Under applicable Treasury Regulations, we may withhold up to 30% of the gross amount of the entire distribution even if the amount constituting a dividend, as described above, is less than the gross amount. If you are eligible for a reduced rate of U.S. federal withholding tax pursuant to an income tax treaty and do not timely provide us with such documentation, you may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by timely filing an appropriate claim for refund with the IRS. If you hold our common stock through a financial institution or other agent acting on your behalf, you will be required to provide appropriate documentation to the agent, which then will be required to provide certification to us or our paying agent, either directly or through other intermediaries.

Dividends received by you that are treated as effectively connected with your conduct of a 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 you in the United States) are generally exempt from the 30% U.S. federal withholding tax, subject to the discussion below in the sections titled “—Backup Withholding and Information Reporting” and “—Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA).” In order to obtain this exemption, you must provide us with a properly executed IRS Form W-8ECI or other appropriate form properly certifying such exemption. Such effectively connected dividends, although not subject to U.S. federal withholding tax, are taxed at the same graduated rates applicable to U.S. persons, net of certain deductions and credits, subject to an applicable income tax treaty providing otherwise. In addition, if you are a corporate non-U.S. holder, dividends you receive that are effectively connected with your conduct of a U.S. trade or business (and, if an income tax treaty applies, are attributable to a permanent establishment or fixed base maintained by you in the United States) may also be subject to a branch profits tax at a rate of 30% or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty between the United States and your country of residence. You should consult your tax advisor regarding the tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our common stock, including any applicable tax treaties that may provide for different rules.

Gain on Disposition of Common Stock

Subject to the discussion in the section titled “—Backup Withholding and Information Reporting,” you generally will not be required to pay U.S. federal income tax on any gain realized upon the sale or other taxable disposition of our common stock unless:

 

   

the gain is effectively connected with your conduct of a U.S. trade or business (and, if an applicable income tax treaty so provides, the gain is attributable to a permanent establishment or fixed base maintained by you in the United States);

 

   

you are an individual who is present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the calendar year in which the sale or disposition occurs and certain other conditions are met; or

 

   

our common stock constitutes a United States real property interest by reason of our status as a “United States real property holding corporation,” (USRPHC) for U.S. federal income tax purposes at any time within the shorter of the five-year period preceding your disposition of, or your holding period for, our common stock, unless our common stock is regularly traded on an established securities market and you hold no more than 5% of our outstanding common stock, directly, indirectly and constructively, at all times, during the shorter of the five-year period ending on the date of the taxable disposition or your holding period for our common stock.

We believe that we are not currently and will not become a USRPHC for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the remainder of this discussion so assumes. However, because the determination of whether we

 

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are a USRPHC depends on the fair market value of our U.S. real property relative to the fair market value of our U.S. and worldwide real property plus our other business assets, there can be no assurance that we will not become a USRPHC in the future. If we are a USRPHC and either our common stock is not regularly traded on an established securities market or you hold, or are treated as holding, more than 5% of our outstanding common stock, directly or indirectly, during the applicable testing period, you will generally be taxed on any gain in the same manner as gain that is effectively connected with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business, except that the branch profits tax generally will not apply. If we are a USRPHC and our common stock is not regularly traded on an established securities market, your proceeds received on the disposition of shares will also generally be subject to withholding at a rate of 15%. You are encouraged to consult your own tax advisors regarding the possible consequences to you if we are, or were to become, a URSPHC.

If you are a non-U.S. holder described in the first bullet above, you will be required to pay tax on the gain derived from the sale (net of certain deductions and credits) under regular graduated U.S. federal income tax rates, and a corporate non-U.S. holder described in the first bullet above also may be subject to the branch profits tax at a 30% rate, or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty. If you are an individual non-U.S. holder described in the second bullet above, you will be subject to tax on such gain at 30% (or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty) on the gain derived from the sale, which gain may be offset by U.S. source capital losses for the year, provided you have timely filed U.S. federal income tax returns with respect to such losses. You should consult your tax advisor regarding any applicable income tax or other treaties that may provide for different rules.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

Generally, we must report annually to the IRS the amount of dividends paid to you, your name and address and the amount of tax withheld, if any. A similar report will be sent to you. Pursuant to applicable income tax treaties or other agreements, the IRS may make these reports available to tax authorities in your country of residence.

Payments of dividends on or of proceeds from the disposition of our common stock made to you may also be subject to backup withholding at a current rate of 24% and information reporting unless you establish an exemption, for example, by properly certifying your non-U.S. status on a properly completed IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E or another appropriate version of IRS Form W-8. Notwithstanding the foregoing, backup withholding may apply if either we or our paying agent has actual knowledge, or reason to know, that you are a U.S. person. In addition, proceeds of the sale or other taxable disposition of our common stock within the United States or conducted through certain U.S.-related brokers generally will not be subject to backup withholding or information reporting if the applicable withholding agent receives the certification described above and does not have actual knowledge or reason to know that you are a United States person or you otherwise establish an exemption. Proceeds of a disposition of our common stock conducted through a non-U.S. office of a non-U.S. broker generally will not be subject to backup withholding or information reporting.

Backup withholding is not an additional tax; rather, the U.S. federal income tax liability of persons subject to backup withholding will be reduced by the amount of tax withheld. If withholding results in an overpayment of taxes, a refund or credit may generally be obtained from the IRS, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS in a timely manner.

Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA)

The Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, Treasury Regulations issued thereunder and official IRS guidance (collectively FATCA) generally impose a U.S. federal withholding tax of 30% on dividends on, and, subject to the discussion of certain proposed Treasury Regulations below, the gross proceeds from a sale or other disposition of our common stock, paid to a “foreign financial institution” (as specially defined under these rules), unless such institution enters into an agreement with the U.S. government to, among other things, withhold on

 

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certain payments and to collect and provide to the U.S. tax authorities substantial information regarding the U.S. account holders of such institution (which includes certain equity and debt holders of such institution, as well as certain account holders that are foreign entities with U.S. owners) or otherwise establishes an exemption. FATCA also generally imposes a U.S. federal withholding tax of 30% on dividends on and, subject to the discussion of certain proposed Treasury Regulations below, the gross proceeds from a sale or other disposition of our common stock paid to a “non-financial foreign entity” (as specially defined under these rules) unless such entity provides the withholding agent with a certification identifying the substantial direct and indirect U.S. owners of the entity, certifies that it does not have any substantial U.S. owners or otherwise establishes an exemption. The withholding tax will apply regardless of whether the payment otherwise would be exempt from U.S. nonresident and backup withholding tax, including under the other exemptions described above. Under certain circumstances, a non-U.S. holder might be eligible for refunds or credits of such taxes. An intergovernmental agreement between the United States and an applicable foreign country may modify the requirements described in this section. Prospective investors should consult with their own tax advisors regarding the application of FATCA withholding to their investment in, and ownership and disposition of, our common stock.

The Treasury Secretary has issued proposed Treasury Regulations that, if finalized in their present form, would eliminate withholding under FATCA with respect to payment of gross proceeds from a sale or other disposition of our common stock. In the preamble to such proposed Treasury Regulations, the U.S. Treasury stated that taxpayers may generally rely on the proposed Treasury Regulations until final regulations are issued.

The preceding discussion of U.S. federal tax considerations is for general information only. It is not tax advice to investors in their particular circumstances. Each prospective investor should consult its own tax advisor regarding the particular U.S. federal, state and local and non-U.S. tax consequences of purchasing, holding and disposing of our common stock, including the consequences of any proposed change in applicable laws.

 

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UNDERWRITING

BofA Securities, Inc., Cowen and Company, LLC and Evercore Group L.L.C. are acting as representatives of each of the underwriters named below. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in an underwriting agreement among us and the underwriters, we have agreed to sell to the underwriters, and each of the underwriters has agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase from us, the number of shares of common stock set forth opposite its name below.

 

Underwriter   

Number of
Shares

 

BofA Securities, Inc.

                       

Cowen and Company, LLC

  

Evercore Group L.L.C.

  

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

  
  

 

 

 

Total

                       
  

 

 

 

Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the underwriting agreement, the underwriters have agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase all of the shares sold under the underwriting agreement if any of these shares 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 against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make in respect of those liabilities.

The underwriters are offering the shares, subject to prior sale, when, as and if issued to and accepted by them, subject to approval of legal matters by their counsel, including the validity of the shares, and other conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, such as the receipt by the underwriters of officer’s certificates and legal opinions. The underwriters reserve the right to withdraw, cancel or modify offers to the public and to reject orders in whole or in part.

Commissions and Discounts

The representatives have advised us that the underwriters propose initially to offer the shares to the public at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and to dealers at that price less a concession not in excess of $         per share. After the initial offering, the public offering price, concession or any other term of the offering may be changed.

The following table shows the public offering price, underwriting discount and proceeds before expenses to us. The information assumes either no exercise or full exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares.

 

    

Per Share

    

Without Option

    

With Option

 

Public offering price

   $        $        $    

Underwriting discount

   $        $        $    

Proceeds, before expenses, to us

   $        $        $    

The expenses of the offering, not including the underwriting discount, are estimated at $         and are payable by us.

 

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Option to Purchase Additional Shares

We have granted an option to the underwriters, exercisable for 30 days after the date of this prospectus, to purchase up to                  additional shares at the initial public offering price, less the underwriting discount. If the underwriters exercise this option, each will be obligated, subject to conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, to purchase a number of additional shares proportionate to that underwriter’s initial amount reflected in the above table.

No Sales of Similar Securities

We, our executive officers and directors and our other existing security holders have agreed 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 the written consent of BofA Securities, Inc., Cowen and Company, LLC and Evercore Group L.L.C. Specifically, we and these other persons have agreed, with certain limited exceptions, not to directly or indirectly

 

   

offer, pledge, sell or contract to sell any common stock;

 

   

sell any option or contract to purchase any common stock;

 

   

purchase any option or contract to sell any common stock;

 

   

grant any option, right or warrant for the sale of any common stock;

 

   

lend or otherwise dispose of or transfer any common stock;

 

   

request or demand that we file or make a confidential submission of a registration statement related to the common stock; or

 

   

enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, the economic consequence of ownership of any common stock whether any such swap or transaction is to be settled by delivery of shares or other securities, in cash or otherwise.

This lock-up provision applies to common stock and to securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for or repayable with common stock. It also applies to common stock owned now or acquired later by the person executing the agreement or for which the person executing the agreement later acquires the power of disposition.

Listing

We expect the shares to be approved for listing on the Nasdaq, subject to notice of issuance, under the symbol “THRN.”

Before this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock. The initial public offering price will be determined through negotiations between us and the representatives. In addition to prevailing market conditions, the factors to be considered in determining the initial public offering price are

 

   

the valuation multiples of publicly traded companies that the representatives believe to be comparable to us;

 

   

our financial information;

 

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the history of, and the prospects for, our company and the industry in which we compete;

 

   

an assessment of our management, its past and present operations, and the prospects for, and timing of, our future revenues;

 

   

the present state of our development; and

 

   

the above factors in relation to market values and various valuation measures of other companies engaged in activities similar to ours.

An active trading market for the shares may not develop. It is also possible that after the offering the shares will not trade in the public market at or above the initial public offering price.

The underwriters do not expect to sell more than 5% of the shares in the aggregate to accounts over which they exercise discretionary authority.

Reserved Share Program

At our request, an affiliate of BofA Securities, Inc., a participating underwriter, has reserved for sale, at the initial public offering price, up to 5% of the shares offered by this prospectus for sale to our directors, officers and selected senior managers. Any shares purchased by our directors, officers or selected senior managers pursuant to our reserved share program will be subject to the lock-up agreements described above. If these persons purchase reserved shares, it will reduce the number of shares available for sale to the general public. Any reserved shares that are not so purchased will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same terms as the other shares offered by this prospectus.

Price Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids

Until the distribution of the shares is completed, SEC rules may limit underwriters and selling group members from bidding for and purchasing our common stock. However, the representatives may engage in transactions that stabilize the price of the common stock, such as bids or purchases to peg, fix or maintain that price.

In connection with the offering, the underwriters may purchase and sell our common stock in the open market. These transactions may include short sales, purchases on the open market to cover positions created by short sales and stabilizing transactions. Short sales involve the sale by the underwriters of a greater number of shares than they are required to purchase in the offering. “Covered” short sales are sales made in an amount not greater than the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares described above. The underwriters may close out any covered short position by either exercising their option to purchase additional shares or purchasing shares 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 granted to them. “Naked” short sales are sales in excess of such option. 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 our common stock in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering. Stabilizing transactions consist of various bids for or purchases of shares of common stock made by the underwriters in the open market prior to the completion of the offering.

The underwriters may also impose a penalty bid. This occurs when a particular underwriter repays to the underwriters a portion of the underwriting discount received by it because the representatives have repurchased shares sold by or for the account of such underwriter in stabilizing or short covering transactions.

 

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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. The underwriters may conduct these transactions on the                 , in the over-the-counter market or otherwise.

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. In addition, neither we nor any of the underwriters make any representation that the representatives will engage in these transactions or that these transactions, once commenced, will not be discontinued without notice.

Electronic Distribution

In connection with the offering, certain of the underwriters or securities dealers may distribute prospectuses by electronic means, such as e-mail.

Other Relationships

Some of the underwriters and their affiliates have engaged in, and may in the future engage in, investment banking and other commercial dealings in the ordinary course of business with us or our affiliates. They have received, or may in the future receive, customary fees and commissions for these transactions.

The underwriters and their respective affiliates are full service financial institutions engaged in various activities, which may include sales and trading, commercial and investment banking, advisory, investment management, investment research, principal investment, hedging, market making, brokerage and other financial and non-financial activities and services. Certain of the underwriters and their respective affiliates have provided, and may in the future provide, a variety of these services to the issuer and to persons and entities with relationships with the issuer, for which they received or will receive customary fees and expenses.

In addition, in the ordinary course of their business activities, the underwriters and 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 account and for the accounts of their customers. Such investments and securities activities may involve securities and/or instruments of ours or our affiliates. The underwriters and their affiliates may also make investment recommendations and/or publish or express independent research views in respect of such securities or financial instruments and may hold, or recommend to clients that they acquire, long and/or short positions in such securities and instruments.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the European Economic Area

In relation to each Member State of the European Economic Area (each a “Relevant State”), no Shares have been offered or will be offered pursuant to the offering to the public in that Relevant State prior to the publication of a prospectus in relation to the Shares which has been approved by the competent authority in that Relevant State or, where appropriate, approved in another Relevant State and notified to the competent authority in that Relevant State, all in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), except that offers of Shares may be made to the public in that Relevant State at any time under the following exemptions under the Prospectus Regulation:

 

  a.

to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined under the Prospectus Regulation;

 

  b.

to fewer than 150 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined under the Prospectus Regulation), subject to obtaining the prior consent of underwriters for any such offer; or

 

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  c.

in any other circumstances falling within Article 1(4) of the Prospectus Regulation, provided that no such offer of Shares shall require the Issuer or any Manager to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 23 of the Prospectus Regulation.

Each person in a Relevant State who initially acquires any Shares or to whom any offer is made will be deemed to have represented, acknowledged and agreed to and with the Company and the Managers that it is a qualified investor within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation.

In the case of any Shares being offered to a financial intermediary as that term is used in Article 5(1) of the Prospectus Regulation, each such financial intermediary will be deemed to have represented, acknowledged and agreed that the Shares acquired by it in the offer have not been acquired on a non-discretionary basis on behalf of, nor have they been acquired with a view to their offer or resale to, persons in circumstances which may give rise to an offer to the public other than their offer or resale in a Relevant State to qualified investors, in circumstances in which the prior consent of the underwriters has been obtained to each such proposed offer or resale.

The Company, the underwriters and their affiliates will rely upon the truth and accuracy of the foregoing representations, acknowledgements and agreements.

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer to the public” in relation to any Shares in any Relevant State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and any Shares to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for any Shares, and the expression “Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129.

The above selling restriction is in addition to any other selling restrictions set out below.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the United Kingdom

In relation to the United Kingdom (UK), no Shares have been offered or will be offered pursuant to the offering to the public in the UK prior to the publication of a prospectus in relation to the Shares which has been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK in accordance with the UK Prospectus Regulation and the FSMA, except that offers of Shares may be made to the public in the UK at any time under the following exemptions under the UK Prospectus Regulation and the FSMA:

 

  a.

to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined under the UK Prospectus Regulation;

 

  b.

to fewer than 150 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined under the UK Prospectus Regulation), subject to obtaining the prior consent of representatives for any such offer; or

 

  c.

at any time in other circumstances falling within section 86 of the FSMA,

provided that no such offer of Shares shall require the Issuer or any Manager to publish a prospectus pursuant to Section 85 of the FSMA or Article 3 of the UK Prospectus Regulation or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 23 of the UK Prospectus Regulation.

Each person in the UK who initially acquires any Shares or to whom any offer is made will be deemed to have represented, acknowledged and agreed to and with the Company and the Managers that it is a qualified investor within the meaning of the UK Prospectus Regulation.

In the case of any Shares being offered to a financial intermediary as that term is used in Article 5(1) of the UK Prospectus Regulation, each such financial intermediary will be deemed to have represented,

 

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acknowledged and agreed that the Shares acquired by it in the offer have not been acquired on a non-discretionary basis on behalf of, nor have they been acquired with a view to their offer or resale to, persons in circumstances which may give rise to an offer to the public other than their offer or resale in the UK to qualified investors, in circumstances in which the prior consent of the underwriters has been obtained to each such proposed offer or resale.

The Company, the underwriters and their affiliates will rely upon the truth and accuracy of the foregoing representations, acknowledgements and agreements.

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer to the public” in relation to any Shares in the UK means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and any Shares to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for any Shares, the expression “UK Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, and the expression “FSMA” means the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.

This document is for distribution only to persons who (i) have professional experience in matters relating to investments and who qualify as investment professionals within the meaning of Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the “Financial Promotion Order”), (ii) are persons falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) (“high net worth companies, unincorporated associations etc.”) of the Financial Promotion Order, (iii) are outside the United Kingdom, or (iv) are persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (FSMA)) in connection with the issue or sale of any securities may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). This document is directed only at relevant persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to relevant persons and will be engaged in only with relevant persons.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Switzerland

The shares may not be publicly offered in Switzerland and will not be listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (SIX), or on any other stock exchange or regulated trading facility in Switzerland. This document has been prepared without regard to the disclosure standards for issuance prospectuses under art. 652a or art. 1156 of the Swiss Code of Obligations or the disclosure standards for listing prospectuses under art. 27 ff. of the SIX Listing Rules or the listing rules of any other stock exchange or regulated trading facility in Switzerland. Neither this document nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the shares or the offering may be publicly distributed or otherwise made publicly available in Switzerland.

Neither this document nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the offering, the Company, the shares have been or will be filed with or approved by any Swiss regulatory authority. In particular, this document will not be filed with, and the offer of shares will not be supervised by, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA (FINMA), and the offer of shares has not been and will not be authorized under the Swiss Federal Act on Collective Investment Schemes (CISA). The investor protection afforded to acquirers of interests in collective investment schemes under the CISA does not extend to acquirers of shares.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the Dubai International Financial Centre

This prospectus relates to an Exempt Offer in accordance with the Offered Securities Rules of the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). This prospectus is intended for distribution only to persons of a type specified in the Offered Securities Rules of the DFSA. It must not be delivered to, or relied on by, any other person. The DFSA has no responsibility for reviewing or verifying any documents in connection with Exempt Offers. The DFSA has not approved this prospectus nor taken steps to verify the information set forth herein and

 

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has no responsibility for the prospectus. The shares to which this prospectus relates may be illiquid and/or subject to restrictions on their resale. Prospective purchasers of the shares offered should conduct their own due diligence on the shares. If you do not understand the contents of this prospectus you should consult an authorized financial advisor.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Australia

No placement document, prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document has been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), in relation to the offering. This prospectus does not constitute a prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act 2001 (Corporations Act), and does not purport to include the information required for a prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act.

Any offer in Australia of the shares may only be made to persons (Exempt Investors), who are “sophisticated investors” (within the meaning of section 708(8) of the Corporations Act), “professional investors” (within the meaning of section 708(11) of the Corporations Act) or otherwise pursuant to one or more exemptions contained in section 708 of the Corporations Act so that it is lawful to offer the shares without disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act.

The shares applied for by Exempt Investors in Australia must not be offered for sale in Australia in the period of 12 months after the date of allotment under the offering, except in circumstances where disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act would not be required pursuant to an exemption under section 708 of the Corporations Act or otherwise or where the offer is pursuant to a disclosure document which complies with Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act. Any person acquiring shares must observe such Australian on-sale restrictions.

This prospectus contains general information only and does not take account of the investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any particular person. It does not contain any securities recommendations or financial product advice. Before making an investment decision, investors need to consider whether the information in this prospectus is appropriate to their needs, objectives and circumstances, and, if necessary, seek expert advice on those matters.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Hong Kong

The shares have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than (a) to “professional investors” as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571) of Hong Kong and any rules made under that Ordinance; or (b) 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 that Ordinance. No advertisement, invitation or document relating to the shares has been or may be issued or has been or may be in the possession of any person for the purposes of issue, 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 to do so under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to shares 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 and any rules made under that Ordinance.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Japan

The shares have not been and will not be registered under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan (Law No. 25 of 1948, as amended) and, accordingly, will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, in Japan, or for the benefit of any Japanese Person or to others for re-offering or resale, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to any Japanese Person, except in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and ministerial

 

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guidelines promulgated by relevant Japanese governmental or regulatory authorities in effect at the relevant time. For the purposes of this paragraph, “Japanese Person” shall mean any person resident in Japan, including any corporation or other entity organized under the laws of Japan.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Singapore

This prospectus has not been registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Accordingly, the shares were not offered or sold or caused to be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase and will not be offered or sold or caused to be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, and this prospectus or any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of the shares, has not been circulated or distributed, nor will it be circulated or distributed, whether directly or indirectly, to any person in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor (as defined in Section 4A of the Securities and Futures Act (Chapter 289) of Singapore, as modified or amended from time to time (SFA)) pursuant to Section 274 of the SFA, (ii) to a relevant person (as defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA) pursuant to Section 275(1) of the SFA, 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 shares 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 in 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 of the trust is an individual who is an accredited investor,

securities or securities-based derivatives contracts (each term as defined in Section 2(1) of the SFA) of that corporation or the beneficiaries’ rights and interest (howsoever described) in that trust shall not be transferred within six months after that corporation or that trust has acquired the shares pursuant to an offer made under Section 275 of the SFA except:

 

  (a)

to an institutional investor or to a relevant person, or to any person arising from an offer referred to in Section 275(1A) or Section 276(4)(i)(B) of the SFA;

 

  (b)

where no consideration is or will be given for the transfer;

 

  (c)

where the transfer is by operation of law; or

 

  (d)

as specified in Section 276(7) of the SFA.

Singapore SFA Product Classification—In connection with Section 309B of the SFA and the CMP Regulations 2018, unless otherwise specified before an offer of shares of our common stock, we have determined, and hereby notify, all relevant persons (as defined in Section 309A(1) of the SFA), that shares of our common stock are “prescribed capital markets products” (as defined in the CMP Regulations 2018) and Excluded Investment Products (as defined in MAS Notice SFA 04-N12: Notice on the Sale of Investment Products and MAS Notice FAA-N16: Notice on Recommendations on Investment Products).

Notice to Prospective Investors in Canada

The shares may be sold only to purchasers purchasing, or deemed to be purchasing, as principal that are accredited investors, as defined in National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions or subsection 73.3(1) of

 

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the Securities Act (Ontario), and are permitted clients, as defined in National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations. Any resale of the shares must be made in accordance with an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the prospectus requirements of applicable securities laws.

Securities legislation in certain provinces or territories of Canada may provide a purchaser with remedies for rescission or damages if this prospectus (including any amendment thereto) contains a misrepresentation, provided that the remedies for rescission or damages are exercised by the purchaser within the time limit prescribed by the securities legislation of the purchaser’s province or territory. The purchaser should refer to any applicable provisions of the securities legislation of the purchaser’s province or territory for particulars of these rights or consult with a legal advisor.

Pursuant to section 3A.3 (or, in the case of securities issued or guaranteed by the government of a non-Canadian jurisdiction, section 3A.4) of National Instrument 33-105 Underwriting Conflicts (NI 33-105), the underwriters are not required to comply with the disclosure requirements of NI 33-105 regarding underwriter conflicts of interest in connection with this offering.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Israel

We have not taken any action to permit a public offering of our shares outside the United States. Solicitation of our shares, however, will be made in certain countries in a manner that will not require the publication of a prospectus under the laws of the country. 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 our shares and the distribution of this prospectus outside the United States.

Notwithstanding the above, the offering of our shares is available to investors listed in the First Supplement of the Israeli Securities Law of 1968, as amended. A prospectus has not been prepared or filed, and will not be prepared or filed, in Israel relating to the shares offered hereunder. The shares cannot be resold in Israel other than to investors listed in the First Supplement of the Israeli Securities Law of 1968, as amended, purchasing for their own account and not for distribution or resale purposes. No action will be taken in Israel that would permit an offering of the shares offered hereunder, or the distribution of any offering document or any other material to the public in Israel. This registration statement has not been reviewed or approved by the Israel Securities Authority. Any materials provided to an investor in Israel may not be reproduced or used for any other purpose, nor be furnished to any other person other than those to whom copies have been provided directly by the Issuer or the Dealer(s). The shares will not be traded on the TASE. Nothing in the above should be considered as the rendering of a recommendation or advice, including investment advice or investment marketing under the Israeli Law For Regulation of Investment Advice, Investment Marketing and Investment Portfolio Management, 1995, to purchase any shares and in purchasing the shares, the investors acknowledge that they have expertise and experience in financial and business matters so as to be capable of evaluating the risks and merits of the purchase of the shares.

 

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LEGAL MATTERS

The validity of the issuance of our common stock offered in this prospectus will be passed upon for us by Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation, Palo Alto, California. Latham & Watkins LLP, New York, New York, is acting as counsel for the underwriters.

EXPERTS

The financial statements as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2020, included in this prospectus and in the registration statement have been so included in reliance on the report of BDO USA, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm appearing elsewhere herein and in the registration statement, given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.

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 the shares of our common stock offered by this prospectus. This prospectus, which constitutes a part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information set forth in 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 filed as a part of the registration statement. Statements contained in this prospectus concerning the contents of any contract or any other document is 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 in this prospectus relating to a contract or document filed as an exhibit is qualified in all respects by the filed exhibit. The SEC also maintains an Internet website that contains the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, as well as the exhibits thereto. These documents, along with future reports, proxy statements and other information about us, are available at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

As a result of this offering, we will become subject to the information and reporting requirements of the 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 SEC’s public reference facilities and the website of the SEC referred to above. We also maintain a website at www.thorne.com where these materials are available. Upon the completion of this offering, you may access these materials free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Information contained on, or that can be accessible through, our website is not a part of this prospectus and the inclusion of our website address in this prospectus is an inactive textual reference only.

 

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FINANCIALS

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     F-2  

Consolidated Financial Statements

  

Consolidated Balance Sheets

     F-3-4  

Consolidated Statements of Operations

     F-5  

Consolidated Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

     F-6  

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

     F-7-8  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     F-9-42  

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

  

Consolidated Balance Sheets

     F-43-44  

Consolidated Statements of Operations

     F-45  

Consolidated Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

     F-46  

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

     F-47-48  

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

     F-49-67  

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Shareholders and Board of Directors

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

New York, New York

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the related consolidated statements of operations, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the consolidated financial statements). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Basis for Opinion

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ BDO USA, LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2019.

Raleigh, North Carolina

April 19, 2021, except for the disclosure regarding disaggregated revenues by sales channel within Note 2, as to which the date is June 4, 2021

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

     December 31,  
     2020      2019  

Assets

     

Current Assets

     

Cash

   $ 15,262,094      $ 463,648  

Accounts receivable, net

     2,378,994        4,901,145  

Related party receivables

     135,399        51,059  

Inventories, net

     28,066,024        27,732,984  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     886,328        764,829  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total current assets

     46,728,839        33,913,665  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

     23,189,730        23,335,256  

Operating lease right-of-use asset, net

     17,740,816        15,310,882  

Finance right-of-use asset

     767,237        283,407  

Intangible assets, net

     7,635,253        8,570,833  

Goodwill

     14,440,683        14,440,683  

Investments

     1,150,000        400,000  

Equity method investments

     3,382,147        4,276,836  

Other assets

     454,429        474,431  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 115,489,134      $ 101,005,993  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

     December 31,  
     2020     2019  

Liabilities, Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

    

Current Liabilities

    

Cash overdraft

   $ —       $ 1,372,355  

Accounts payable

     8,691,430       6,686,698  

Accrued payroll

     2,592,143       1,570,771  

Other accrued expenses

     891,018       756,159  

Dividend payable

     —         3,000,000  

Stock-based compensation liability

     —         14,769,154  

Related party payable

     809,080       3,436,249  

Current portion of operating lease liability

     2,603,930       866,249  

Current portion of finance lease liability

     269,212       77,390  

Current portion of long-term debt

     223,400       —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     16,080,213       32,535,025  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Long-term Liabilities

    

Revolving line of credit

     20,000,000       11,204,732  

Operating lease liability, net of current portion

     27,284,356       26,929,349  

Finance lease liability, net of current portion

     454,857       135,917  

Long-term debt, net of current portion

     469,471       —    

Warrant liability

     3,930,930       2,018,443  

Other long-term liabilities

     621,115       1,615,581  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     68,840,942       74,439,047  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 11 and 18)

    

Series E convertible preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share 60,700 authorized; 60,700 issued and outstanding in 2020 and 2019; aggregate liquidation preference of $134,449,035 as of December 31, 2020 and 2019

     133,484,531       133,484,531  

Stockholders’ Deficit

    

Common stock; par value $0.01, 142,000 authorized in 2020 and 2019, respectively; 27,694 issued and outstanding in 2020; 21,669 issued and outstanding in 2019

     277       216  

Additional paid-in capital

     52,574,823       28,539,825  

Accumulated deficit

     (132,964,365     (129,606,619
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ deficit—Thorne Healthtech, Inc.

     (80,389,265     (101,066,578

Non-controlling interest

     (6,447,074     (5,851,007
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ deficit

     (86,836,339     (106,917,585
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit

   $ 115,489,134     $ 101,005,993  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Operations

 

     Years Ended December 31,  
     2020     2019  

Net Sales

   $ 138,454,924     $ 102,532,171  

Cost of sales

     73,667,333       57,788,787  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit

     64,787,591       44,743,384  

Operating expenses:

    

Research and development

     4,224,891       3,898,507  

Selling, general, and administrative

     59,547,933       54,750,911  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

     1,014,767       (13,906,034

Other expense (income):

    

Interest expense, net

     1,125,472       406,418  

Guarantee fees

     243,040       297,920  

Change in fair value of warrant liability

     1,912,487       1,992,250  

Other expense (income), net

     1,119       (43,554
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expense, net

     3,282,118       2,653,034  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss before income taxes and loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (2,267,351     (16,559,068

Income tax expense

     176,758       33,424  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss before loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (2,444,109     (16,592,492

Loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (1,509,704     (1,623,445
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss

     (3,953,813    
(18,215,937

Net loss—non-controlling interest

     (596,067     (1,492,067
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss attributable to Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

     (3,357,746     (16,723,870

Deemed dividends

     —         (4,813,681
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss attributable to common stockholders

   $ (3,357,746   $ (21,537,551
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

   $ (150   $ (1,221
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average common share equivalent, basic and diluted

     22,440       17,638  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

 

    Convertible
Preferred Stock
    Common stock                          
    Additional                 Total  
    Paid-In     Accumulated     Noncontrolling     Stockholders’  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Interest     Deficit  

Balance, January 1, 2019

    60,700     $ 133,484,531       17,638     $ 176     $ 22,762,979     $ (108,069,068   $ (4,359,190   $ (89,665,103

Contribution

    —         —         —         —         —         —         250       250  

Exercise of stock options for promissory note

    —         —         4,031       40       (40     —         —         —    

Deemed dividend —warrant modification

    —         —         —         —         4,813,681       (4,813,681     —         —    

Net loss

    —         —         —         —         —         (16,723,870     (1,492,067     (18,215,937

Stock-based compensation

    —         —         —         —         963,205       —         —         963,205  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2019

    60,700       133,484,531       21,669       216       28,539,825       (129,606,619     (5,851,007     (106,917,585

Exercise of stock options

    —         —         310       3       850,678       —         —         850,681  

Exercise of stock options

    —         —         1,500       15       (15     —         —         —    

Repurchase of common stock

    —         —         (5,531     (55     55       —         —         —    

Exercise of common stock warrants

    —         —         9,746       98       22,221,075       —         —         22,221,173  

Net loss

    —         —         —         —         —         (3,357,746     (596,067     (3,953,813

Stock-based compensation

    —         —         —         —         963,205       —         —         963,205  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2020

    60,700     $ 133,484,531       27,694     $ 277     $ 52,574,823     $ (132,964,365   $ (6,447,074   $ (86,836,339
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

     Years Ended December 31,  
     2020     2019  

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

    

Net loss

   $ (3,953,813   $ (18,215,937

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

    

Depreciation and amortization

     4,295,840       4,598,203  

Change in fair value of warrant liability

     1,912,487       1,992,250  

Non-cash lease expense

     5,272,409       2,783,558  

Stock-based compensation

     10,037,396       12,226,286  

Change in inventory and receivable reserves

     291,619       (156,731

Loss (gain) on sale of equipment

     1,129       (13,108

Loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliate

     1,509,704       1,623,445  

Change in operating assets and liabilities

    

Accounts receivable

     2,607,011       (1,561,122

Related party receivable

     (84,340     (51,059

Related party payables

     372,831       —    

Inventories

     (709,519     (7,103,989

Prepaid expenses and other assets

     (107,336     (275,470

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

     1,061,060       (590,184

Operating lease liabilities

     (5,399,423     (2,877,016
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

     17,107,055       (7,620,874
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

    

Proceeds from sale of equipment

     —         13,108  

Purchase of investment in equity method investments

     (615,015     —    

Purchase of investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries

     (750,000     (1,300,281

Purchase of property and equipment

     (1,193,642     (1,654,671

Purchase of license agreements

     (1,128,621     (1,250,000
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

   $ (3,687,278   $ (4,191,844
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

     Years Ended December 31,  
     2020     2019  

Cash Flows Provided by Financing Activities

    

Payoff of line of credit

   $ (11,204,731   $ —    

Proceeds from revolving line of credit

     20,000,000       8,786,122  

Payments on long-term debt and finance leases

     (378,191     (97,539

Dividends paid on convertible preferred stock

     (3,266,918     —    

Proceeds from loan from related party

     —         3,000,000  

Repayment of loan from related party

     (3,000,000     —    

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     127,249       —    

Proceeds from exercise of common stock warrants

     22,221,173       —    

Repurchase of common stock

     (23,119,913     —    

Payments for loans to management

     (710,000     —    

Proceeds from repayment of loans to management

     710,000       —    

Capital contribution

     —         250  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

     1,378,669       11,688,833  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash

     14,798,446       (123,885

Cash, beginning of the year

     463,648       587,533  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash, end of the year

   $ 15,262,094     $ 463,648  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flows Information

    

Cash paid during the year for interest

   $ 1,136,731     $ 672,813  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax paid (refunded)

   $ 40,007     $ (26,989
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Noncash Investing and Financing Activities

    

Equipment acquired through finance lease obligations

   $ 694,108     $ 376,569  

Equipment acquired through debt obligations

   $ 893,600     $ —    

Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities

   $ 4,259,688     $ 15,809,629  

Leasehold improvements paid by lessor

   $ —       $ 12,193,360  

Promissory notes issued in exchange for common stock

   $ —       $ 1,531,779  

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

F-8


Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1. Organization and Nature of Operations

Thorne Holding Corp. (the Company) was incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware on June 17, 2010, to acquire 100% of the stock of Thorne Research, Inc. (Thorne Research). On November 13, 2020, the Company changed its name to Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

The Company is a science-driven wellness company pioneering innovative solutions and personalized approaches to health and wellness. The Company is building a new health category to deliver better health outcomes through a proactive, empowered approach. Its unique, vertically integrated brands, Thorne and Onegevity, provide actionable insights and personalized data, products and services that help individuals take a proactive approach to improve and maintain their health over their lifetime. By combining its proprietary multi-omics database, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital health content with its science-backed nutritional supplements, the Company delivers a total system for wellness.

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP). The consolidated financial statements include the operations of the Company and all of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, as well as majority-owned subsidiaries over which it exercises control and, when applicable, entities for which it has a controlling financial interest or variable interest for which it is the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP 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 consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Key estimates relate primarily to determining the net realizable value and demand for inventory, future value of intangible assets, long lived assets and goodwill, useful lives associated with property and equipment, valuation allowances with respect to deferred tax assets, contingencies, warrant liability, impairment of equity method investments, evaluation of sales and use tax positions, and the valuation and assumptions underlying share-based compensation. On an ongoing basis, management evaluates its estimates compared to historical experience and trends, which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities.

Cash

Cash includes all cash balances. At times, cash balances may exceed the amount insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The Company has not experienced any losses resulting from these excess deposits.

Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable consist of balances due from customers and are recorded at net realizable value. Past due balances that are delinquent beyond the acceptable terms of credit for each customer are reviewed individually for collectability. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $34 thousand and $119 thousand as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost, determined on the first-in, first-out method, or net realizable value. Finished goods and work-in-process include the inventory costs of raw materials, direct labor and normal manufacturing overhead. The Company uses an inventory reserve to adjust our inventory costs down to a net realizable value and to reserve for estimated obsolescence of both raw materials and finished goods. At the point of loss recognition, a new, lower-cost basis for that inventory is established, and any subsequent improvements in facts and circumstances do not result in the restoration or increase in that newly established cost basis.

Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets

Prepaid expenses and other current assets include annual insurance premiums and annual equipment and software maintenance expense, paid on a non-calendar year basis such that portions of the advance payments relate to future periods.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at historical cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed using the straight-line method over the shorter of the remaining lease term (including renewals that are reasonably certain to occur) or the estimated useful lives of the improvements. The estimated useful lives of property and equipment are as follows:

 

Machinery and equipment

     3 to 15 years  

Furniture and fixtures

     3 to 7 years  

Office equipment

     3 to 7 years  

Leasehold improvements

     3 to 20 years  

Vehicles

     7 years  

Lab equipment

     5 to 10 years  

Leases

The Company has operating and finance lease agreements for its production, shipping and customer service centers and corporate offices. At inception, the Company determines whether an agreement represents a lease and, at commencement, the Company evaluates each lease agreement to determine whether the lease constitutes an operating or financing lease. Some of our lease agreements have renewal options, tenant improvement allowances, rent holidays and rent escalation clauses.

The Company adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-02 - Leases as of January 1, 2019 using the cumulative-effect adjustment method and elected the package of practical expedients permitted in Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 842. Accordingly, the Company accounted for our existing leases as operating or finance leases under the new guidance, without reassessing (a) whether the contracts contain a lease under ASC Topic 842, (b) whether classification of the leases would be different in accordance with ASC Topic 842, or (c) whether the unamortized initial direct costs before transition adjustments would have met the definition of initial direct costs in ASC Topic 842 at lease commencement. The Company also elected not to separate lease components from non-lease components for all fixed payments.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Adoption of ASU 2016-02 did not have a material impact on the Company’s cash flows from operations and had no impact on the Company’s operating results. The most significant impact was the recognition of operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease obligations on its consolidated balance sheet. Right-of-use lease assets represent the Company’s right to use the underlying asset for the lease term, and the operating lease obligation represents its commitment to make the lease payments arising from the lease. The Company has elected not to recognize on the consolidated balance sheet leases with terms of one-year or less. Lease liabilities and their corresponding right-of-use assets are recorded based on the present value of lease payments over the expected lease term. The interest rate implicit in lease contracts is typically not readily determinable. As such, the Company utilizes the appropriate incremental borrowing rate, which is the rate incurred to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment. Certain adjustments to the right-of-use asset may be required for items such as initial direct costs paid or incentives received. The lease term may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, subject to any changes in the lease or expectations regarding the terms.

Other Assets

Other assets are primarily deposits required by contractual obligations for real estate leases.

Impairment of Long-lived Assets

The long-lived assets of the Company are reviewed for impairment in accordance with ASC 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment” (ASC 360), whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. The recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, no impairment losses were identified.

Investments

The Company has investments in various other entities. The equity method of accounting is used for entities in which the Company exercises significant influence, but does not have a controlling interest or a variable interest in which it is the primary beneficiary. Investments not accounted for using the equity method do not have readily determinable fair values and do not qualify for the practical expedient to measure the investment using a net asset value per share. These investments are recorded using the measurement alternative in which the Company’s equity interests are recorded at cost, less impairments, adjusted for observable price changes in orderly transactions for an identical or similar investment of the same issuer. At each reporting period, the Company assesses if these investments continue to qualify for this measurement alternative. An impairment is recorded when there is evidence that the expected fair value of the investment has declined to below the recorded cost. Adjustments to the carrying value are recorded in other expense (income), net in the consolidated statements of operations.

Equity Method Investments

The Company reports investments in unconsolidated entities, over whose operating and financial policies it has the ability to exercise significant influence but not control, under the equity method of accounting.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Under this method of accounting, the Company’s pro rata share of the applicable entity’s earnings or losses are included in the consolidated statements of operations. Initially the investments are recorded based on assets contributed or the cash invested.

The Company evaluates its equity-method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the investments may exceed the fair value. If it is determined that a decline in the fair value of the investments is not temporary, and if such reduced fair value is below its carrying value, an impairment is recorded. Determining fair value involves significant judgment. Estimates consider available evidence including the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at market rates, general economic conditions and other relevant factors. No impairments were recorded related to our equity-method investments for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

Intangible Assets, net

Intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and amortized over the estimated period of benefit on a straight line basis and include customer relationships with estimated useful lives of 20 years, trade names with estimated useful lives ranging from 5 to 15 years, existing technology and reformulations with estimated useful lives ranging from 3 to 15 years, research formulas with estimated useful lives of 10 years and license agreements with estimated useful lives of 3 to 15 years. Amortization expense is generally recognized in selling, general and administrative expense. The carrying value of definite life intangibles is reviewed at each balance sheet date if indication of impairment exists.

The Company’s intangible assets include intangible assets acquired through the Thorne Research acquisition in 2010. As of December 31, 2020, the net book value of such intangible assets was to $6.1 million. Intangible assets also include payments under license agreements related to trademarks and content, which had a net book value as of December 31, 2020 of $1.5 million.

Goodwill

Goodwill, which represents the excess of the purchase price paid over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired, is carried at cost. Goodwill is not amortized; rather, it is subject to a periodic assessment for impairment by applying a fair value-based test. The Company is organized in one reporting unit and evaluates the goodwill for the Company as a whole. Goodwill is assessed for impairment on an annual basis annual basis at December 31st or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. Under the authoritative guidance issued by the FASB, the Company has the option to first assess the qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. If the Company determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then the goodwill impairment test is performed. The goodwill impairment test requires the Company to estimate the fair value of the reporting unit and to compare the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount. If the fair value exceeds the carrying amount, then no impairment is recognized. If the carrying amount recorded exceeds the fair value calculated, then an impairment charge is recognized for the difference, limited to the amount of goodwill recorded. The judgments made in determining the projected cash flows used to estimate the fair value can materially impact the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. There was no impairment of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

In June 2010, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of Thorne Research, which is now a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The Company accounted for the transaction as a business combination in accordance with the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 805, Business Combinations, and recorded the consideration transferred and assets acquired, and liabilities assumed at their fair values, resulting in the recording of goodwill of $14.4 million.

Defined Contribution Plan

The Company maintains a 401(k) defined contribution plan which covers all employees who meet minimum requirements and elect to participate. The Company is currently matching employee contributions, up to specified percentages of those contributions.

Warrant Liability

The Company determines the accounting classification of a warrant, as either liability or equity, by first assessing whether the warrant meets liability classification in accordance with ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (ASC 480), and then in accordance with ASC 815-40, Accounting for Derivative Financial Instruments Indexed to, and Potentially Settled in, a Company’s Own Stock (ASC 815-40). If the warrant does not meet liability classification under ASC 480, the Company assesses the requirements under ASC 815-40, including whether the warrant is indexed to its common stock and whether the warrant meets the other requirements to be classified as equity under ASC 815-40. After all relevant assessments are made, the Company concludes whether the warrant should be classified as liability or equity.

The Company has warrants that are classified as a liability on the consolidated balance sheet. The warrants classified as a liability are measured at fair value using the Black-Scholes pricing model which takes into account, as of the valuation date, factors including the current exercise price, the contractual life of the warrant, the current fair value of the underlying stock, its expected volatility, and the risk-free interest rate for the term of the warrant. The warrant liability is revalued at each reporting period and changes in fair value are recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. The selection of the appropriate valuation model and the inputs and assumptions that are required to determine the valuation requires significant judgment and requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of the related liability and reported amounts of the change in fair value. Actual results could differ from those estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known. As the warrant liability is required to be measured at fair value at each reporting date, it is reasonably possible that these estimates and assumptions could change in the near term.

Equity-Classified Warrants

The Company has common stock warrants that are equity-classified on the consolidated balance sheet (see Note 15). The Company has concluded that these warrants do not meet the requirements to be accounted for as liability under ASC 480 as they are for a fixed number of shares and do not contain provisions that require the Company to cash-settle the warrants. Additionally, the Company determined that these warrants are indexed to the Company’s stock as they do not contain exercise contingencies or adjustments to exercise price that are not an input to a fixed-for-fixed model. The warrants also meet the other equity-classification criteria under ASC 815-40. Equity classified warrants are accounted for at fair value on the issuance date and are not remeasured every reporting period.

Revenue Recognition

On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” (ASC 606) using the modified retrospective method for all contracts

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

not completed as of the date of adoption. Revenues for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are presented under ASC 606.

Under ASC 606, the Company accounts for revenue using the following steps:

 

   

identify the contract, or contracts, with a customer;

 

   

identify the performance obligations in the contract;

 

   

determine the transaction price;

 

   

allocate the transaction price to the identified performance obligations; and

 

   

recognize revenue when, or as, the Company satisfies the performance obligations.

The Company recognizes revenues at a point in time when it satisfies a performance obligation by transferring control over a product and other promised goods and services to a customer. Significant judgments made in the application of ASC 606 include determining the transaction price, the timing of transfer of control of the performance obligation (i.e., sale of product). The Company considers several factors in determining the point in time when control transfers to the customer. These factors include that legal title transfers to the customer, the Company has a present right to payment, and the customer has assumed the risks and rewards of ownership.

Professional/B2B Sales: The Company sells to wholesale customers that include health professionals, retail stores and through various online sites operated by authorized resellers, such as Emerson Ecologics, LLC. Certain customers resell Company products in online marketplaces, however, no inventories are held on consignment; revenue is recognized when control of the goods is transferred to these customers which is typically at the time of shipment. For a few specific customers, revenue is recognized at time of delivery. The terms of payment over the recognized receivables from distributors are less than one year and therefore these sales do not have any significant financing components. The Company uses standard price lists in determining the transaction price, adjusted for estimates of variable consideration. Any discounts stated or implied are allocated entirely to the sole performance obligation.

DTC Transaction Sales: The Company also sells direct to consumers online through a Company owned and operated website. Revenue from online sales is recognized at time of shipment of the product. In addition, the Company sells testing services and test kits. Testing services and testing kits are recorded as revenue when the testing results are provided to the customer. Shipping and handling costs are considered a fulfillment activity and are expensed as incurred.

DTC Subscription Sales: The Company offers its customers the ability to opt into recurring automatic refills on both Thorne.com and Amazon.com. Revenue is recognized under the subscription program when product is shipped to the consumer. No funds are collected at the time a consumer signs up for a subscription and the customer can cancel or modify a subscription at any time at no cost to the customer. On the Company website, customers are allowed to subscribe at a frequency of monthly, every 45 days, every 2 months, every 3 months, or every 4 months. For all frequencies, a 10% discount is offered on retail refill orders. On Amazon, the discount ranges from 5 to 10% depending on the number of products to which a customer is subscribed; the average discount on Amazon for the Company’s subscriptions is approximately 8%. The Company records revenues, net of estimated discounts.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

If a customer is not satisfied for any reason with a product purchased, the customer can return it to the place of purchase to receive a refund, a credit, or a replacement product. The return or refund request must be submitted within 60 days of the date of purchase. The Company estimates returns and accrues for potential returns based on historical data.

There are no material differences in our revenue recognition policy between the DTC subscription program and the DTC transaction program.

The Company primarily sells to customers throughout the United States but also sells to international markets. Regardless of customer location, all customers are invoiced and payments are required to be made in U.S. dollars.

The Company has elected to exclude sales and use taxes for non-exempt customers from the transaction price and, therefore, sales and use taxes are excluded from revenue.

Product Returns, Sales Incentives and Other Forms of Variable Consideration

In measuring revenue and determining the consideration the Company is entitled to as part of a contract with a customer, the Company takes into account the related elements of variable consideration. Such elements of variable consideration element include product return rights, discounts, rebates, volume discounts and rebates and promotional offers and other marketing offers that may impact net sales.

For the sale of goods with a right of return, the Company only recognizes revenue for the consideration it expects to be entitled to (considering the products to be returned) and records a sales return accrual within accrued liabilities for the amount it expects to credit back its customers. Given that most product returns cannot be resold to another customer, the Company does not recognize an asset in inventory or a corresponding adjustment to cost of sales for the right to recover goods from customers associated with the estimated returns.

The sales return accrual include estimates that directly impact reported net sales. These estimates are calculated based on a history of actual returns and estimated future returns. In addition, as necessary, sales return accruals may be established for significant future known or anticipated events. The types of known or anticipated events that are considered, and will continue to be considered, include the Company’s decision to continue to support new and existing products.

Returns are handled on a case-by-case basis, but generally all returns are accepted if the customer is unsatisfied with the product. The Company has accrued an estimate for returns related to a future period. Sales returns accrued for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were approximately $63 thousand and $44 thousand, respectively, and reduced net sales.

The Company estimates sales incentives and other variable consideration using the expected value method and records accruals within accrued liabilities when the liability becomes identifiable and quantifiable. Under this method, certain forms of variable consideration are based on volumes of sales to the customer, which requires subjective estimates. These estimates are supported by historical results as well as specific facts and circumstances related to the current period. A select few customers, because of their size, are offered a discount for early payment.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The Company also enters into transactions and makes payments to certain of its customers related to advertising, some of which involve cooperative relationships with customers. These activities may be arranged either with unrelated third parties or in conjunction with the customer. To the extent that the Company receives a distinct good or service in exchange for consideration and the fair value of the benefit can be reasonably estimated, the Company’s share of the costs of these transactions (regardless of to whom they were paid) are reflected as selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. The Company also enters into other advertising activities arranged with customers. These activities cannot be arranged with unrelated third parties, no distinct good or service is received in exchange for consideration and the fair value of the benefit is not reasonably estimated. The Company’s share of the costs for these transactions paid to customers are reflected as a reduction in the transaction price within net sales in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

For certain sales, the Company incurs incremental costs of obtaining the contract through the form of sales commissions. The sales commissions incurred are directly correlated to the sales generated and are therefore expensed as incurred.

The following table presents revenue disaggregated by geography, as determined by the country products were shipped to:

 

     2020     2019  
     Amount      Percentage
of Total
    Amount      Percentage
of Total
 

Domestic

   $ 129,061,117        93.2   $ 94,729,882        92.4

Foreign

     9,393,807        6.8     7,802,289        7.6
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total sales

   $ 138,454,924        100.0   $ 102,532,171        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table presents disaggregated revenues based upon sales channel:

 

     2020     2019  
     Amount      Percentage
of Total
    Amount      Percentage
of Total
 

DTC subscription sales

   $ 15,406,597        11.1   $ 10,271,615        10.0

DTC transaction sales

     38,246,752        27.6     24,599,322        24.0

Professional/B2B

     84,801,575        61.2     67,661,234        66.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 138,454,924        100.0   $ 102,532,171        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cost of Goods Sold

Cost of goods sold includes the cost of inventory sold and includes all direct and indirect costs to bring the product to its saleable condition, including, inbound freight costs associated with inventory, inventory shrinkage costs, labor associated with manufacturing, lab testing, depreciation and amortization of assets used in the manufacturing process, costs to maintain production equipment, quality assurance costs and other costs associated with manufacturing.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Selling, General and Administrative

Selling, general and administrative expenses consist of payroll and related expenses for employees involved in general corporate functions, including accounting, finance, legal, marketing, selling and human resources; costs associated with use by these functions of facilities and equipment, such as depreciation expense and rent, share-based compensation expense, professional fees and other general corporate costs. It also includes shipping costs incurred in operating and staffing distribution operations, including costs attributable to picking, packaging and preparing customer orders for shipment, payment processing and related transaction costs, and responding to inquiries from customers.

Shipping and Handling

The costs of out-bound freight are included in selling, general and administrative expenses and totaled approximately $6.2 million and $4.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Advertising

The cost of advertising is expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was approximately $7.8 million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Research and Development

Research and development costs, which are expensed as incurred, totaled approximately $4.2 million and $3.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Research and development costs include research payroll and payroll related costs, new product development and line extensions, clinical trials, product efficacy research, product shelf-life validation and new dietary ingredient research, among other things.

Stock-based Awards

The Company follows ASC 718 “Stock Compensation”, which provides guidance in accounting for share-based awards exchanged for services rendered and requires companies to expense the estimated fair value of these awards over the requisite service period. The Company recognizes as expense, the grant-date fair value of stock options and other stock-based compensation issued to employees and non-employee directors over the requisite service periods, which are typically the vesting periods. The Company uses the Black-Scholes-Merton model to estimate the fair value of our stock-based payments. The volatility assumption used in the Black-Scholes-Merton model is based on the calculated historical volatility based on an analysis of reported data for a peer group of companies. The expected term of options granted has been determined based upon the simplified method, because the Company does not have sufficient historical information regarding its options to derive the expected term. Under this approach, the expected term is the mid-point between the weighted average of vesting period and the contractual term. The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. Treasury rates whose term is consistent with the expected life of the stock options. The Company has not paid and does not anticipate paying cash dividends on its shares of common stock; therefore, the expected dividend yield is assumed to be zero. The Company estimates forfeitures based on its historical experience and adjust the estimated forfeiture rate based upon actual experience.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Common Stock Valuation

Due to the absence of an active market for the Company’s common stock, the Company utilized methodologies, approaches and assumptions consistent with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Audit and Accounting Practice Guide: Valuation of Privately-Held Company Equity Securities Issued as Compensation to estimate the fair value of its common stock. In determining the exercise prices for options granted, the Company has considered the fair value of the common stock as of the grant date. The fair value of the common stock has been determined based upon a variety of factors, including the prices at which the Company sold shares of its convertible preferred stock to outside investors in arms-length transactions, if any, and the superior rights, preferences and privileges of the preferred stock relative to the common stock at the time of each grant; the Company’s historical and forecasted performance and operating results and the lack of an active public market for the Company’s common stock. Significant changes to the key assumptions underlying the factors used could result in different fair values of common stock at each valuation date.

Variable Interest Entities

The Company consolidates variable interest entities where the Company is determined to be the primary beneficiary, under ASC 810, Consolidation. The Company consolidates into its consolidated financial statements two legal entities (Health Elements, LLC and Onegevity Health, LLC) in which it holds a controlling interest. The Company presents non-controlling interest as a component of stockholders’ deficit on its consolidated balance sheet and reports net loss-non-controlling interest in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company’s acquisition or disposal of ownership interests in the variable interest entities is a reconsideration event that requires a reassessment of whether the entity continues to be a variable interest entity and whether the primary beneficiary has changed. If after making these reassessments, the primary beneficiary remains the same (i.e., a controlling financial interest is maintained), and the transaction is in the scope of ASC 810, the Company accounts for the acquisition or disposal of a noncontrolling interest as an equity transaction, consistent with the principles of ASC 810-10. Any difference between the price paid and the carrying amount of the noncontrolling interest is not be reflected in net income, but instead reflected directly in equity.

Health Elements, LLC (Health Elements). Health Elements is consolidated within the Company’s consolidated financial statements. At January 1, 2016, the Company owned approximately 178.5 million Class A units, 7.7 million Series A Preferred units and 109.4 million Class B units of Health Elements, representing an ownership interest of approximately 48%. On November 15, 2016, the Company converted $5.6 million of its outstanding advance and unpaid interest to Health Elements into approximately 235.4 million Series C Preferred units.

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company acquired an additional approximately 1.0 million Series A Preferred units from Health Elements for $0.1 million from another investor, bringing the Company’s total ownership to approximately 60.1%. The Company has determined that it is the primary beneficiary of Health Elements as it has the power to direct activities most significantly impacting Health Elements’ economic performance. Therefore, the Company has consolidated the assets and liabilities of Health Elements in accordance with ASC 810, Consolidations as of December 31, 2019.

On July 31, 2020, the Company exchanged its interest in Health Elements for additional shares of Onegevity Health, LLC (Onegevity) which eliminated the Company’s direct investment in Health Elements. This transaction increased the number of shares owned by the Company in Onegevity from 50,000 shares to 58,252. See below for further discussion of Onegevity.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Summary information for Health Elements, excluding intercompany activity with the Company and Onegevity, is included in the consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations as follows, as of and for the years ended December 31:

 

     2020      2019  

Total assets

   $ 0      $ 277,000  

Less liabilities

     0        214,000  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net assets (liabilities)

   $ 0      $ 63,000  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Revenue

   $ 566,000      $ 1,382,000  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss

   $ (112,000    $ (364,000
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company, consolidated both Health Elements, LLC (Health Elements) and Onegevity into its consolidated financial statements. Health Elements has been consolidated into the Company’s financial statements since its inception in 2011 and Onegevity has been consolidated into the Company’s financial statements since its inception in 2018. The Company owned approximately 60% of the outstanding shares of Health Elements and approximately 50% of the outstanding shares of Onegevity immediately prior to the transaction on July 31, 2020. Both entities were consolidated under ASC 810 as the Company determined that it is the primary beneficiary of both entities.

The exchange of Health Elements shares for Onegevity shares in 2020 by the Company did not change the Company’s ability to control the variable interest entities and therefore the transaction was recorded in equity. The noncontrolling interest in Heath Elements converted to a noncontrolling interest in Onegevity.

Onegevity Health, LLC. Onegevity is consolidated within the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

The Company owned 50,000 shares of Onegevity capital stock, which equated to approximately 45% ownership at December 31, 2019. As discussed above, on July 31, 2020, the Company exchanged its 60% investment in Health Elements for an additional 8,252 shares of Onegevity. During the cashless tax-free exchange, Onegevity obtained a 100% ownership in Health Elements, and as a result all assets and liabilities have been consolidated into Onegevity’s financial information. This transaction increased the Company’s ownership in Onegevity to 58,252 shares, or approximately 50% ownership, at December 31, 2020. After evaluating relevant factors, the Company determined that it is the primary beneficiary of Onegevity and has accordingly consolidated the assets and liabilities of Onegevity in accordance with ASC 810, Consolidations as of and for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

Summary information for Onegevity, excluding intercompany activity with the Company and Health Elements, is included in the consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations as follows, as of and for the years ended December 31:

 

     2020      2019  

Total assets

   $ 1,728,000      $ 1,144,000  

Less liabilities

     545,000        1,592,000  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net assets (liabilities)

   $ 1,183,000      $ (448,000
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Revenue .

   $ 2,776,000      $ 1,049,000  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss

   $ (881,000    $ (2,693,000
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

F-19


Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for using an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. We evaluate both the positive and negative evidence that is relevant in assessing whether we will realize the deferred tax assets. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets will not be realized. This projected realization is directly related to our future projections of the performance of our business and management’s planning initiatives at any point in time. As a result, valuation allowances are subject to change as proven business trends and planning initiatives develop.

In accordance with the accounting standard for uncertainty in income taxes, liabilities for uncertain tax positions are recognized based on the two-step process prescribed by the accounting standards. The first step is to recognize the tax benefit from uncertain tax positions if it is more likely than not the tax positions will be sustained on examination by the tax authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The second step is that the tax benefit is measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

Health Elements, LLC made a previous election to be taxed as a Subchapter C corporation. As such, a provision for income taxes has been made for this entity and is included in the consolidated financial statements. See Note 15.

Segments

The Company operates in one reportable segment: the selling of innovative solutions and personalized approaches to health and wellness. The Company’s chief operating decision maker (determined to be the Chief Executive Officer) does not manage any part of the Company separately, and the allocation of resources and assessment of performance are based on the Company’s consolidated operating results and where the best future opportunities arise.

Loss Contingencies

Certain conditions may exist which may result in a loss to the Company, but which will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. The Company’s management assesses such contingent liabilities and such assessment inherently involves an exercise of judgment. In assessing loss contingencies related to legal proceedings that are pending against the Company, or unasserted claims that may result in such proceedings, the Company evaluates the perceived merits of any legal proceedings or unasserted claims as well as the perceived merits of the amount of relief sought or expected to be sought therein.

If the assessment of a contingency indicates that it is probable that a material loss has been incurred and the amount of the liability is estimable, the liability would be accrued in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. If the assessment indicates that a potentially material loss contingency is not probable but is reasonably possible, or is probable but cannot be estimated, the nature of the contingent liability, together with an estimate of the range of possible loss, if determinable and material, would be disclosed.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Loss contingencies considered remote are generally not disclosed. Unasserted claims that are not considered probable of being asserted and those for which an unfavorable outcome is not reasonably possible have not been disclosed.

Fair Value Measurements

ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The standard describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

 

   

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity has the ability to access as of the measurement date.

 

   

Level 2: Significant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

 

   

Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.

The carrying amounts of certain financial instruments, which include cash, receivables, accounts payable, accrued expenses, long-term debt and the line of credit approximate their fair values at December 31, 2020 and 2019 due to their short-term nature and management’s belief that their carrying amounts approximate the amount for which the assets could be sold or the liabilities could be settled.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers: (Topic 606). This ASU affects any entity that either enters into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services or enters into contracts for the transfer of nonfinancial assets unless those contracts are within the scope of other standards (e.g., insurance contracts or lease contracts). This ASU will supersede the revenue recognition requirements in Topic 605, Revenue Recognition, and most industry-specific guidance. In addition, the existing requirements for the recognition of a gain or loss on the transfer of nonfinancial assets that are not in a contract with a customer (e.g., assets within the scope of Topic 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment, and intangible assets within the scope of Topic 350, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other) are amended to be consistent with the guidance on recognition and measurement (including the constraint on revenue) in this ASU. The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company adopted this ASU as of January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective method. The Company concluded there was no material impact to the beginning retained earnings as of January 1, 2019.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments, which requires equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method of accounting, or those that result in consolidation of the investee) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. However, entities may choose to measure equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values at

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

cost minus impairment, if any. The Company adopted the ASU on January 1, 2019, and in accordance with the amended guidance of ASC 321, Equity Securities, elected to measure their equity investments without readily determinable fair values at cost minus impairment, if any. The ASU also requires separate presentation of financial assets and liabilities by measurement category (see Note 3) and form of financial asset (i.e. securities or loans and receivables). The adoption of ASU 2016-01 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted the new accounting standard for leases, ASU 2016-02 and 2018-11 (collectively ASU 842) and changed its lease policies accordingly. Under the new standard, the most significant change is the requirement of balance sheet recognition of right-of-use (ROU) assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases. The Company adopted the new accounting standard utilizing the modified retrospective method using a simplified transition approach. The Company has elected the package of practical expedients for transition which are permitted in the new standard. Accordingly, the Company did not reassess whether (i) any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases under the new standard, (ii) classification of leases as operating leases or capital leases would be different under the new standard, or (iii) any initial direct costs would have met the definition of initial direct costs under the new standard. Additionally, the Company did not elect to use hindsight in determining the lease term for existing leases as of January 1, 2019.

Adoption of the new lease standard on January 1, 2019 had a material impact on the Company’s financial statements. The most significant impacts related to the recognition of right-of-use assets of $14.9 million and lease liabilities of $27.5 million for operating leases on the consolidated balance sheet as of January 1, 2019. The Company also reclassified deferred rent balance of $496,000 related to existing lease arrangements as of December 31, 2019 and into the ROU asset balance as of January 1, 2019. ROU assets represent the right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. The standard did not materially impact the statement of operations and statement of cash flows during implementation on January 1, 2019.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 250): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. These amendments eliminate Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. The annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test is performed by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An impairment charge should be recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value; however, the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. This ASU is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019; however, early adoption is permitted for annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. This update became effective at the beginning of the Company’s 2020 fiscal year. The adoption of this ASU did not have any impact on the consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2018-15, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. In August 2018, the FASB issued this ASU to align the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. This update was effective at the beginning of the Company’s 2020 fiscal year. The Company currently has capitalized implementation costs related to a cloud-based lab software. As this is essentially a service contract arrangement, only development stage costs have been capitalized. This software is still in the development stage and as such, the software asset has not been placed in service. Although both internal and external implementation costs are eligible for capitalization, the Company has only capitalized

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

external costs. Ongoing service costs are being expensed as incurred. Total costs capitalized at December 31, 2020 and 2019 were $0.4 million and $0.3 million, respectively. It is anticipated that the software will be fully implemented during the second quarter of 2021.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. In December 2019, the FASB issued this ASU to simplify the accounting for income taxes by eliminating certain exceptions related to the approach for intraperiod tax allocation, the methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period, and the recognition of deferred tax liabilities for outside basis differences. This ASU also clarifies and simplifies other aspects of the accounting for income taxes. This update is effective at the beginning of the Company’s 2021 fiscal year, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. In June 2016, the FASB issued this ASU to amend the current accounting guidance which requires the measurement of all expected losses to be based on historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. For trade receivables, loans, and other financial instruments, the Company will be required to use a forward-looking expected loss model that reflects probable losses rather than the incurred loss model for recognizing credit losses. This ASU was amended by ASU 2019-10 to be effective for smaller reporting companies beginning after December 15, 2022. The Company does not believe the adoption of this ASU will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848). In March 2020, the FASB issued guidance providing optional expedients and exceptions to account for the effects of reference rate reform to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. The optional guidance, which became effective on March 12, 2020 and can be applied through December 21, 2022, has not impacted the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The Company has various contracts that reference LIBOR and is assessing how this standard may be applied to specific contract modifications through December 31, 2022.

No other new accounting pronouncement issued or effective during the fiscal year had, or is expected to have, a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

COVID-19 Pandemic and CARES Act

On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced a global health emergency because of a new strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) and the risks to the international community as the virus spreads globally. In March 2020, the WHO classified the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic.

The Company is a manufacturer of nutritional supplement products, a category of food that is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Based on guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and in particular, specific guidance therein regarding the food and agriculture industries, the Company’s manufacturing facility has been designated as “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers” and would therefore be exempt from any “shelter in place” restrictions that might be imposed by the State of South Carolina.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The full impact of the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve as of the date of this report. As such, it is uncertain as to the impact this pandemic on the Company’s financial condition. Management is actively monitoring the impact of this virus on its financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, customers and workforce.

On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed into law the “Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.” The CARES Act, among other things, includes provisions relating to refundable payroll tax credits, deferment of employer side social security payments, net operating loss carryback periods, alternative minimum tax credit refunds, modifications to the net interest deduction limitations, increased limitations on qualified charitable contributions, and technical corrections to tax depreciation methods for qualified improvement property. The Company deferred the employer portion of payroll taxes during the year ended December 31, 2020. The total amount deferred at year end was approximately $1.0 million and will be payable over the next two years.

The Company’s consolidated financial statements presented herein reflect the latest estimates and assumptions made by management that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related disclosures as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods presented.

3. Inventories, net

Inventories consist of the following:

 

     December 31,  
     2020      2019  

Raw materials

   $ 13,751,348      $ 9,719,993  

Work in process

     7,224        201,993  

Finished goods

     14,808,931        17,935,998  

Reserve for slow moving and obsolete inventory

     (501,479      (125,000
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Inventory, net

   $ 28,066,024      $ 27,732,984  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Raw materials consist primarily of powders, softgels, and packaging components such as bottles, lids and labels. Work in process consists of premixed powders and encapsulated powders not yet bottled.

4. Investments - Equity Method

Drawbridge Health, Inc. (Drawbridge). During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company purchased 2,857,142 shares of Series B Preferred Stock of Drawbridge for $5.0 million. The shares have voting rights, are convertible into common stock and have preferential payment considerations. Holders of this stock are entitled to a $0.14 per share dividend when and if declared. Dividends on the preferred stock are not mandatory or cumulative. In July 2019, an additional $0.5 million was paid for 285,714 shares of Series B Preferred Stock. The Company had an ownership percentage of approximately 12.4% in Drawbridge at December 31, 2019. Drawbridge raised additional capital in 2020 at the same price as what the Company historically paid which reduced the Company’s ownership in Drawbridge to 11.2% as of December 31, 2020. Management has determined it does have the ability to exercise significant influence over Drawbridge’s operating and financial activities due to its equity ownership and board representation, which began in 2019. The investment, therefore,

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

is accounted for using the equity method, and the Company’s proportionate share of the net loss of the investee is reported under the line item captioned “loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates” in the consolidated statements of operations. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company’s proportionate share of the investee’s net loss was $0.9 million and $1.2 million, respectively. The Company’s net investment in Drawbridge as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 was $3.4 million and $4.3 million, respectively.

Tecton Group LLC (Tecton). During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company and OPS-FUEL, Inc. formed Tecton Group LLC, with each party initially receiving 1,000,000 common shares, representing 50% ownership. After evaluating the relevant factors, the Company determined that it had significant influence with respect to Tecton, and accounted for the investment using the equity method, with the investee’s proportionate share of the net loss of the investee reported under the line item captioned “loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates” in the consolidated statements of operations. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company and other third-party investors purchased additional shares in Tecton. The Company’s new ownership interest in Tecton was approximately 49%. During the year ended December 31, 2018, as the Company’s proportionate share of the investee’s net loss exceeded the carrying value of the purchased shares, the carrying value of this investment at December 31, 2018 was zero.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company increased its investment in Tecton, however its ownership percentage decreased to approximately 48% due to additional third parties investing in Tecton. During the year ended December 31, 2019, as the Company’s proportionate share of the investee’s net loss and suspended losses from the prior year again exceeded the total investment, the carrying value of this investment at December 31, 2019 was zero. The total suspended loss in the Tecton investment was approximately $754,761 at December 31, 2019, for which the Company has no further obligation.

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company further increased its investment, however its ownership percentage decreased due to additional investment by other investors, resulting in an approximately 43% interest in Tecton. During the year ended December 31, 2020, as the Company’s proportionate share of the investee’s net loss and suspended losses from the prior year again exceeded the total investment, the carrying value of this investment was zero at December 31, 2020. The total suspended loss in the investee was approximately $462,243 at December 31, 2020, for which the Company has no further obligation.

Tecton in conjunction with the Company is in the process of commercializing a revolutionary nutrition technology developed by the U.S. Department of Defense that provides soldiers and athletes improved cognitive and physical performance in addition to fueling the brain to protect against concussion and secondary damage of traumatic brain injury. The Company is also party to a letter agreement between us, Tecton, Kirin and Mitsui (Tecton Letter Agreement) providing us with, amongst other things, a right of first offer to commercialize any Tecton product or service. The Tecton Letter Agreement also provides Kirin and Mitsui, with a right of first negotiation for any commercialization of Tecton products or services in Japan. Paul Jacobson, our Chief Executive Officer, also is a member of Tecton’s board of directors. In 2020, we paid certain fees on behalf of Tecton, totaling approximately $615,000, in exchange for a 3.5% additional equity interest in Tecton.

NR Therapeutics LLC (NR). During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company purchased 49 common units for $750,000 from NR Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., representing 49% ownership in NR Therapeutics LLC. The Company invested in NR in order to purchase an exclusive ingredient that will be included in products available for sale beginning in 2021. Management concluded that no impairment was necessary for the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

5. Investments – Equity securities

Oova. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company invested $400,000 in Oova, representing a 3.15% equity interest. As management has determined it does not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial activities of the investee, and the fair value of the investment is not readily determinable, the Company’s investment in Oova is accounted for at cost minus impairment, in accordance with ASC 321, Equity Securities. As there were not any observable price changes in identical or similar securities to Oova, the Company has not adjusted the value of this investment upward or downward, either on a cumulative basis or in the current year ended December 31, 2020. Since Oova is a startup company, it is difficult to identify the risks associated with this investment and whether the investment, if sold, would be sold at a different amount than the net asset value per share as currently recorded as the fair value of this investment. Since the Company invested in Oova, the investee has successfully brought its product to market. Although there are no restrictions on the Company’s ability to sell this investment, the timing of when or if the Company would sell this asset is unknown at this time. There are no unfunded commitments related to the Company’s investment. Management concluded that no impairment was necessary for the years ended December 31, 2020 or 2019.

6. Property and Equipment, net

The components of property and equipment are as follows:

 

     December 31,  
    

2020

    

2019

 

Machinery and equipment

   $ 7,248,706      $ 5,807,760  

Furniture and fixtures

     351,935        326,064  

Office equipment

     2,748,380        2,646,562  

Leasehold improvements

     18,858,225        18,590,789  

Vehicles

     98,282        98,282  

Lab equipment

     1,755,985        1,672,808  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total property and equipment

     31,061,513        29,142,265  

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

     (8,603,098      (6,379,804

In-process assets including deposits on new equipment

     731,315        572,795  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

   $ 23,189,730      $ 23,335,256  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

In-process assets are stated at cost, which includes the cost of construction and other directly attributable costs. No provision for depreciation is made on in-process assets until the relevant assets are completed and available for intended use. The Company’s leasehold improvements include approximately $12.2 million in improvements at its Summerville facility that were paid for by the lessor. Management concluded the Company is the accounting owner of the leasehold improvements, and accordingly, has recorded the leasehold improvements as part of property and equipment on the consolidated balance sheets.

Depreciation and amortization expense of property and equipment was $2.2 million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

7. Intangible Assets, net

Intangible assets, other than goodwill, and the associated accumulated amortization consist of the following:

 

    

2020

   

2019

   

Weighted
average

Amortization

(Years)

 

Customer relationships

   $ 6,500,000     $ 6,500,000       20  

Trade names

     8,640,000       8,640,000       14  

Existing technology/reformulations

     3,207,923       3,207,923       13  

Research and development

formulas

     800,000       800,000       10  

License agreements

     7,841,365       6,712,743       5  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total intangible assets

     26,989,288       25,860,666    

Accumulated amortization

     (19,354,035     (17,289,833  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

Intangible assets, net

   $ 7,635,253     $ 8,570,833    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

Amortization expense totaled $2.1 million and $2.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Following is a table of estimated amortization expense for the next five years and thereafter as of December 31, 2020:

 

Year Ending December 31,

  

Amount

 

2021

   $ 1,637,029  

2022

     1,387,029  

2023

     1,166,195  

2024

     1,012,029  

2025

     685,363  

Thereafter

     1,747,608  
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 7,635,253  
  

 

 

 

8. Line of Credit

Line of Credit. In December 2018, the Company entered into an asset-based line of credit. The amount of the loans available to the Company cannot exceed $20.0 million and is limited to the amount of qualified current receivables and inventory owned by the Company. The interest rate paid is 0.25% on any unused line of credit and LIBOR plus 1.75% on the used portion of the line of credit. Interest payments are due monthly, and the principal balance is due upon maturity in December 2023. Accounts receivable totaling $1.6 million served as collateral for borrowings on an asset-based line of credit at December 31, 2019. This loan was paid off and closed out during March 2020 and therefore no receivables served as collateral at December 31, 2020. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company had borrowings of $0 and $11.2 million, respectively, on the line of credit.

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Letter of Credit. In 2018, an irrevocable standby letter of credit was issued by a bank on the Company’s behalf as required by the landlord of the Summerville, South Carolina production facility, and guarantees were issued by related parties. This letter of credit is for $4.9 million and had an original expiration date of December 3, 2019 with automatic renewals until October 31, 2037. The letter of credit has an annual fee of $20 thousand. Each shareholder guaranteed 50% of the total amount of the standby letter of credit and requires an annual guarantee fee. The guarantee fee expense for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were $0.2 million and $0.2 million, respectively and were paid 50% to each of the shareholders. The guarantee fee is based on the 12-month U.S. dollar rate plus 3% on the amount of the guarantee. All of these fees are included in guarantee fees in the consolidated statements of operations.

On February 14, 2020, the Company secured a new revolving line of credit with a new financial institution. There were no debt issuance costs incurred to secure this financing. The line of credit was guaranteed by two significant shareholders in the Company. Each shareholder guaranteed 50% of the total amount of the loan. Funds were drawn up to the maximum $20.0 million limit in February 2020, and remained outstanding as of December 31, 2020. The primary uses of the funds were to paydown and close the previous line of credit, and pay off the dividend payable and related party payable, all of which were outstanding liabilities at December 31, 2019. The loan expired in February 2021. On February 14, 2021, as a subsequent event, the loan was extended until February 2022 and accordingly, the line of credit was classified as a long-term liability on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020. The guarantee fees of 2.0% accrued during the year ended December 31, 2020 related to this line of credit were $0.4 million and is included in the guarantee fees in the consolidated statements of operations. The interest paid to the bank on the loan is a variable interest rate based on rates quoted by the bank. The Company can choose an interest rate, based on current market rates and on the number of days it chooses to lock in the interest rate. The number of days range from 30 days to 365 days. On December 15, 2020, the Company locked in an interest rate for 90 days through March 15, 2021 at a rate of 0.715%.

9. Long-Term Debt

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company entered into two financing agreements in order to obtain two encapsulation machines through financing arrangements. The long-term debt is as follows:

 

     December 31,
2020
 

Note payable with quarterly principal and interest payments of $30,917 per quarter, with fixed interest of 6.943%. The loan matures August 12, 2024.

   $ 346,436  

Note payable with quarterly principal and interest payments of $30,917 per quarter, with fixed interest of 6.943%. The loan matures July 15, 2023

     346,435  
  

 

 

 
     692,871  

Less current maturities

     (223,400
  

 

 

 
  

Long-term debt

   $ 469,471  
  

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The loans above are collateralized by the encapsulation machines acquired. Aggregate maturities of long-term debt as of December 31 are as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,

  

Amount

 

2021

   $ 223,400  

2022

     219,046  

2023

     203,740  

2024

     46,685  
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 692,871  
  

 

 

 

10. Related Party Payable

The Company obtained a loan from one if its largest shareholders in the amount of $3.0 million in July 2019. This loan bears fixed interest at the rate of 7.5%. The loan did not have any maturity date. The terms of the loan required that it could not be repaid until the Company mets certain liquidity threshold. This loan was paid in full in February 2020, with interest accrued of $0.1 million also paid at that time. The interest expense is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company also had a related party payable to multiple shareholders totaling $0.8 million and $0.4 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, related to inventory purchases (see Note 19).

 

11.

Leases

On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted a new accounting standard for leases, as outlined in recently adopted accounting standards in Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

The Company leases real estate, vehicle, and equipment for use in its operations. The Company’s leases generally have lease terms of 1 to 30 years, some of which include options to terminate, or to extend leases. The Company includes options that are reasonably certain to be exercised as part of the determination of lease terms. The Company may negotiate termination clauses in anticipation of any changes in market conditions, but generally these termination options are not exercised. Residual value guarantees are generally not included within operating leases. In addition to base rent payments, the leases may require the Company to pay directly for taxes and other non-lease components, such as insurance, maintenance and other operating expenses, which may be dependent on usage or vary month-to-month. The Company elected the practical expedient in the new standard to not separate non-lease components from lease components in calculating the amounts of right-of-use (ROU) assets and lease liabilities for all underlying asset classes. The Company determined if an arrangement is a lease at inception of the contract in accordance with guidance detailed in the new standard and performed the lease classification test as of the lease commencement date. ROU assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. When leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company used its estimated incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of future payments.

Leases that are economically similar to the purchase of an asset are classified as finance leases. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, finance lease assets are included separately within the consolidated balance sheets and the corresponding finance lease liabilities are included within current portion of long-term debt and finance leases for the current portion, and within long-term debt and finance leases, net of current portion for

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

the long-term portion. The finance lease classification under ASC 842 includes leases previously classified as capital leases under ASC 840.

The balances for the operating and finance leases where the Company is the lessee are presented as follows within the consolidated balance sheets:

 

     December 31, 2020      December 31, 2019  

Operating lease:

     

Operating lease right-of-use assets

   $ 17,740,816      $ 15,310,882  

Current portion of operating lease obligations

     2,603,930        866,249  

Operating lease obligations, net of current portion

     27,284,356        26,929,349  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total operating lease liabilities

   $ 29,888,286      $ 27,795,598  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Finance lease:

     

Finance right-of-use assets

   $ 767,237      $ 283,407  

Current portion of finance lease obligations

     269,212        77,390  

Finance lease obligation, net of current portion

     454,857        135,917  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total finance lease liabilities

   $ 724,069      $ 213,307  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The components of lease expense are as follows within our statement of operations:

 

     Years ended December 31,  
     2020      2019  

Operating lease expense:

     

Operating lease cost(1)

   $ 5,062,144      $ 2,690,396  

Finance lease expense:

     

Amortization of leased assets

     210,262        93,162  

Interest on lease liabilities

     22,947        7,946  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total lease cost

   $ 5,295,353      $ 2,791,504  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  (1)

Includes short-term leases and variable lease costs, which are immaterial.

The weighted average remaining lease term and weighted average discount rate at December 31 were as follows:

 

     December 31, 2020     December 31, 2019  

Weighted average remaining lease term (years)

    

Operating leases

     15.53 years       16.5 years  

Finance leases

     .02 years       .01 years  

Weighted average discount rate applied

    

Operating leases

     12.1%       8.4%  

Finance leases

     4.7%       4.6%  

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases where the Company is the lessee is as follows:

 

     Years ended December 31,  
     2020      2019  

Operating cash outflows from operating leases

   $ 5,399,423      $ 2,877,016  

Operating cash outflows from finance leases (interest payments)

     22,947        7,946  

Financing cash outflows from finance leases

     177,461        97,539  

Leased assets obtained in exchange for finance lease liabilities

     694,108        246,314  

Leased assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities

   $ 4,259,688      $ 938,197  

As of December 31, 2020, the maturities of the operating and finance lease liabilities are as follows:

 

Period

   Operating leases      Finance leases  

2021

   $ 5,563,360      $ 298,213  

2022

     4,484,766        265,205  

2023

     2,842,169        142,780  

2024

     2,915,006        69,732  

2025

     2,864,422        0  

Thereafter

     38,616,667        0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total minimum lease payments

   $ 57,286,390      $ 775,930  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Less: imputed interest

     27,398,104        51,861  

Total present value of lease liabilities

   $ 29,888,286      $ 724,069  

Less: current portion

     2,603,930        269,212  

Long-term portion of lease liabilities

   $ 27,284,356      $ 454,857  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

In 2016, the Company entered into a new lease agreement for office, warehouse and production space in Summerville, South Carolina. The Company began occupying the space in the summer of 2018, with the lease commencing April 2018. The lease requires monthly payments of $0.2 million, increasing by 2.5% annually, through January 31, 2037. At December 31, 2020, monthly payments were $0.2 million. The Company was required to provide the landlord with a $4.9 million irrevocable letter of credit as a security deposit (see Note 8). The required security deposit may be reduced upon the attainment of certain EBITDA levels.

12. Employee Compensation Plans

The Company maintains a qualified defined contribution profit sharing plan (Profit Sharing Plan) for all eligible employees. Employees age 21 or older are eligible to participate on the first day of the following month from their hire date. The amount of contribution is determined annually by the Board of Directors. Effective January 1, 2019, the Company began making safe harbor contributions to the Profit Sharing Plan. The contribution will match 100% of the elective deferrals for the first 3% contributed by the employee, with another 50% of deferrals over 3% up to 5% of the compensation. This safe harbor plan requires that all matching contributions are 100% vested at the time of contribution. The total employer safe harbor contributions to the Profit Sharing Plan during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were $0.7 million and $0.6 million, respectively. Any profit-sharing contributions would be fully vested at the end of six or more years of service, with 20% each year starting in the second year of service. There were no profit-sharing contributions to the Profit Sharing Plan in 2020 or 2019.

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The Company has a non-qualified deferred compensation plan for select groups of management that was established in August 2015 (Deferred Compensation Plan). The purpose of the Deferred Compensation Plan is to attract and retain a select group of management or highly compensated employees and to provide them an opportunity to defer compensation on a pre-tax basis and accumulate tax-deferred earnings to achieve their financial goals. The Deferred Compensation Plan provides the following benefits:

 

   

opportunity to defer compensation in excess of qualified retirement plan limits on a pre-tax basis;

 

   

earnings accumulate tax-deferred;

 

   

systematic savings through payroll deduction;

 

   

various investment choices;

 

   

ability to tailor benefit distribution options to meet personal needs; and

 

   

unlike a qualified plan, the Deferred Compensation Plan is not required to fund the benefits payable under the Deferred Compensation Plan and the value in the trust is subject to the Company’s general creditors.

Each participant in the Deferred Compensation Plan has a fully vested and non-forfeitable interest in each year’s contribution, including interest credited thereto, and in any Company matching contributions, if applicable. The Company may make discretionary credits to the deferred compensation account of each participant in an amount determined each plan year by the Company. The Company has not made any discretionary credits to the Deferred Compensation Plan since inception.

 

13.

Concentrations

Credit Risk. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and accounts receivable. Although the Company places its cash with high quality institutions, these balances often exceed federally insured limits. Concentrations of credit risk primarily relate to unsecured trade receivables. Major customers who accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s total receivables were as follows:

 

     Years ended December 31,  
     2020     2019  

Emerson Ecologics, LLC

     39.4     24.2

iHerb, Inc.

     *       24.3

Biote Medical, LLC

     *       14.3

 

* Represents less than 10%

Sales. Major customers who accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s total sales were as follows:

 

     Years ended December 31,  
     2020     2019  

iHerb, Inc.

     11.3     10.6

Pattern Inc.

     26.1     27.8

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

14.

Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

On July 5, 2018, the Company issued 60,700 Series E convertible preferred stock to investors for $138.4 million. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company had Series E convertible preferred stock outstanding of 60,700 shares which are recorded in the financial statements as temporary equity.

A summary of the significant rights and privileges of the Series E convertible preferred stock is as follows:

Conversion. Each share of Series E convertible preferred stock is convertible at the option of the holder into common stock on a one-for-one basis. Each share of Series E convertible preferred stock shall automatically be converted into shares of common stock at the then effective conversion price immediately after the consummation of a qualified public offering. Additionally, each share of preferred stock is automatically converted immediately upon the conversion or vote to convert by the holders of a majority of the then outstanding preferred stock.

Liquidation. Upon any liquidation, dissolution, or winding-up of the business, the assets of the Company available for distribution to its stockholders shall be distributed first to the holders of shares of Series E convertible preferred stock up to their original issue prices.

Voting Rights. The holder of each share of preferred stock shall be entitled to vote on all matters and shall be entitled to that number of votes equal to the total number of shares of common stock into which the preferred stock are convertible.

Dividends. In the event the Board of Directors declares the payment of dividends, they shall be distributed first to the holders of shares of Series E convertible preferred stock up to their original issue prices. Thereafter, the amounts remaining shall be distributed pro rata based on the number of shares of common stock then held by each shareholder (assuming conversion of all outstanding shares of Series E convertible preferred stock into common stock).

In conjunction with the issuance of Series E convertible preferred stock, the Company’s board of directors declared dividends to holders of Series D preferred stock in 2018. All shares of Series D preferred stock were redeemed in 2018. These dividends were approved by the board and declared payable in 2018 and were accrued for as of December 31, 2018. The dividends were paid during the year ended December 31, 2020 along with accrued interest at the rate of 7.5% of $0.3 million.

The Company’s Series E convertible preferred stock has been classified as temporary equity on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet in accordance with authoritative guidance for the classification and measurement of redeemable securities. Upon certain fundamental transaction events that are outside of the Company’s control, including liquidation, sale or transfer of control of the Company, the Company may be required to redeem the Series E convertible preferred stock. The Company has determined not to adjust the carrying values of the Series E convertible preferred stock to the liquidation preferences of such shares because the Series E convertible preferred stock is not currently redeemable and not probable of becoming redeemable due to the uncertainty of whether or when the contingent events would occur.

 

15.

Warrants

The Company’s two largest shareholders each hold a warrant to purchase 5,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, with an exercise price of $2,280 and an expiration date of October 10, 2028. These warrants are classified as equity on the consolidated balance sheets. In July 2020, each shareholder exercised 4,873 equity-based warrants for a total of $22.3 million in gross proceeds. As of December 31, 2020, there were 254 warrants outstanding.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

As of December 31, 2019 and 2020, the Company had 5,690 additional common stock warrants outstanding that were classified as equity with an exercise price of $3,000 and an expiration date of June 23, 2030.

The original expiration date of the 5,690 warrants was June 23, 2020. In May 2019, the Company extended the term of certain common stock warrants classified as equity on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company extended the expiration date of these warrants to June 23, 2030. The Company remeasured the warrants immediately before and after the modification in May 2019, and the resulting change in fair value of $4.8 million was recorded as a dividend to the warrant holders, who were stockholders of the Company.

In April 2011, the Company issued 1,019 warrants to purchase common stock to a related-party stockholder, with a strike price of $3,000 per warrant. The warrants were originally classified as liability awards. In May 2019, the Board of Directors extended the term of the warrants for an additional 10 years to June 23, 2030. The extension was determined by management to be a modification of the warrant and the change in fair value of the warrants as a result of the modification of $1.0 million was recorded as an expense within the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019.

The warrant liability is remeasured at fair value at each reporting date and had a fair market value of $3.9 and $2.0 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Equity-classified warrants are accounted for at fair value on the issuance date and are not remeasured at each reporting period. The Black-Scholes assumptions that were used in the valuation at the time of issuance include a volatility for the Company of 56%, a risk-free interest rate of 2.46% and the term length was the contractual term of the warrants issued.

In order to calculate the fair value of the warrants, certain assumptions were made, including the fair market value of the underlying common stock, risk-free interest rate, volatility, and remaining contractual life. Changes to the assumptions could cause significant adjustments to the valuation. Due to the Company’s limited operating history and lack of company-specific historical or implied volatility as a private company, the expected volatility assumption was determined by examining the historical volatilities of a group of industry peers whose share prices are publicly available. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield in effect at the time of the grant for treasury securities of similar maturity. The Company has not paid and does not anticipate paying cash dividends on its shares of common stock; therefore, the expected dividend yield is assumed to be zero.

The Black-Scholes model was used to value the liability-classified warrants. The following assumptions were used:

 

     December 31,  
    

2020

   

2019

 

Fair market value

   $  4,970     $  2,966  

Exercise Price

   $ 3,000     $ 3,000  

Term

     9.5       10.5  

Volatility

     68     56

Annual Dividend

     0       0  

Risk-free interest rate

     0.13     1.83

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The fair value of financial instruments measured on a recurring basis is as follows:

 

     As of December 31, 2020  

Description

   Total      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3  

Liabilities:

           

Warrant liability

   $  3,930,930                    $  3,930,930  
     As of December 31, 2019  

Description

   Total      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3  

Liabilities:

           

Warrant liability

   $ 2,018,443                    $ 2,018,443  

The following table summarizes the change in fair value, as determined by Level 3 inputs, for all assets and liabilities using unobservable Level 3 inputs for the year ended December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2020

 

     Warrant
Liability
 

Balance at December 31, 2018

   $ 26,193  

Fair value assessment upon extension of warrant life for 10 years

     985,334  

Change in fair value for 2019

     1,006,916  
  

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2019

     2,018,443  
  

 

 

 

Change in fair value for 2020

     1,912,487  
  

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2020

   $  3,930,930  
  

 

 

 

 

16.

Stock Based Awards

Stock Options. In 2010, The Board of Directors created the 2010 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2010 Plan) and has been amended from time to time to grant additional options. The 2010 Plan provides granting of options to purchase shares of common stock. All options are granted at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors and have a term of not greater than 10 years from issuance. Options are exercisable when vested. Vesting requires continuous employment up to the vesting date and the vesting schedule is determined by the 2010 Plan. Options generally vest over a four-year period. The Company has also granted 2,035 performance-based employee stock options, the exercise of which is dependent upon the exercise of certain warrants for common stock. In 2018, an additional 11,500 options were authorized to be issued to management with a strike price of $2,280. Total options authorized as of each of December 31, 2019 and 2020 were 20,000.

In 2018, certain members of management and the Company entered into an agreement whereby certain members of management received a put right from the Company, in which management could receive cash from the Company for the fair value of 5,704 common stock options, with an exercise price of $380 per share, were set to expire in 2020 and 2021. Per the terms of the Agreement, the fair value to be paid in cash equaled the fair value of the underlying common stock less the exercise price of the stock options.

On May 1, 2019, certain members of management exercised 4,031 of the 5,704 options, whereby promissory notes totaling $1.5 million, representing the exercise price of $380 per share, were executed in exchange for 4,031 shares of common stock. The promissory notes to management bear interest at 5.0%, with a maturity date of June 22, 2020. In addition, in May 2019, these same members of management and the Company entered into an additional put right agreement in which management could request the Company to purchase the 4,031 shares of common stock for cash.

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Due to the terms of the promissory notes with management and the put right on both the stock options and common stock, the Company determined the put rights represent a liability of the Company to management and is remeasured at each balance sheet date. The change in liability is charged to stock-based compensation expense within selling, general and administration expense in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2019, the stock-based compensation liability was $14.8 million was recorded as a short term liability on the consolidated balance sheet. In June 2020, the Company agreed to purchase the common stock from these members of management at fair value. The stock-based compensation liability was again remeasured just prior to the exercise date. Stock compensation expense related to the remeasurement of these options was $9.1 million and $11.3 million in the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company paid $23.1 million to management and relieved the liability on July 14, 2020 in the amount of $23.8 million, and one option holder elected to cash exercise 240 options.

In February 2020, promissory notes to key members of management of the Company were executed totaling $0.7 million. The notes bear interest at 5.0%, with a maturity date of June 30, 2020. The promissory notes were issued so that management would have the appropriate funds to pay taxes associated with the exercise of 4,031 stock options into common stock. These notes were paid off in July 2020. During the year ended December 31, 2020, management repaid all promissory notes upon maturity. Interest of $16 thousand was reported as interest income and included in the net interest expense shown on the consolidated statements of operation.

In June 2020, the Company issued promissory notes to key members of management totaling $6.3 million in connection with the buyout of management stock options and the repurchase of common stock. Subsequently, the common stock and stock options were canceled. The notes bore interest at 5.0%, with a maturity date of July 31, 2020. These notes were repaid by the Company at maturity during the year ended December 31, 2020 with interest expense of $22 thousand which was reporting as interest expense and included in the net interest expense shown on the consolidated statements of operation.

Additional related party transactions are discussed in Note 19.

Stock-based compensation expense for 2020 and 2019 was $10.0 million and $12.2 million, respectively. This amount is classified as selling, general and administrative expense on the consolidated statements of operations.

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s stock option activity during the years ended December 31:

 

     Options
Issued and
Outstanding
     Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
     Grant-Date
Fair Value
 

January 1, 2019

     23,396      $ 1,044      $ 172  

Granted

     —          —          —    

Exercised

     (4,031      380        —    

Cancelled/forfeited

     —          —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Outstanding, December 31, 2019

     19,365        1,917        256  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Exercisable, December 31, 2019

     15,545      $ 501      $ 117  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

January 1, 2020

     19,365      $ 1,917      $ 256  

Granted

     —          —          —    

Exercised

     (1,810      380        —    

Cancelled/forfeited

     —          —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Outstanding, December 31, 2020

     17,555        2,075        259  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Exercisable, December 31, 2020

     11,805      $ 1,001      $ 135  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following information summarizes the Company’s stock options outstanding at December 31, 2020:

 

    

Exercise Price ($)

      

Number of Options
Outstanding

      

Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
(Years)

      

Number of Options
Available for
Exercise

 
     515          955          2.70          955  
     600          1,610          4.12          1,610  
     2,000          1,725          4.12          1,725  
     3,000          1,765          2.71          1,765  
     2,280          11,500          7.78          5,750  
       

 

 

           

 

 

 
          17,555               11,805  

As of December 31, 2020, the unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to outstanding options was $1.7 million and is expected to be recognized as expense over approximately two years.

 

17.

Income Taxes

The components of income tax expense consist of the following:

 

     Years Ended
December 31,
 
    

2020

    

2019

 

Current

     

Federal

   $ —        $ —    

State

     176,758        33,424  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income tax expense

   $ 176,758      $ 33,424  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

 

     December 31,  
    

2020

    

2019

 

Deferred tax assets:

     

Net operating losses

   $ 13,547,317      $ 13,809,479  

State credits

     2,031,797        1,577,942  

Lease liability ASC 842

     7,152,442        6,790,809  

Disallowed interest expense

     164,984        —    

Stock options

     —          465,080  

Other

     976,746        1,588,213  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total deferred tax assets

   $ 23,873,286      $ 24,231,523  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

     

Basis difference on fixed assets

   $ (3,569,913    $ (3,532,661

Basis difference on intangibles

     (1,066,468      (543,941

Prepaid expenses

     (100,995      (111,030

Right-of-use asset ASC 842

     (4,324,325      (3,780,863
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total deferred liabilities

     (9,061,701      (7,968,495
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net deferred tax asset

     14,811,585        16,263,028  

Less valuation allowance

     (14,811,585      (16,263,028

Net deferred tax asset (liability) post valuation allowance

   $ —        $ —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The effective tax rate differs from the statutory federal tax rate as follows:

 

     Years Ended December 31,  
    

2020

   

2019

 

Federal income tax at the statutory rate U.S. federal rate

   $ (835,808      21.0   $ (3,818,327      21.0

State taxes, net of federal

     128,075        (3.2 %)      26,920        (0.2 %) 

Permanent items

     2,571,620        (64.6 %)      3,043,025        (16.7 %) 

Change in valuation allowance

     (1,659,594      41.7     1,308,428        (7.2 %) 

Impact of prior period adjustments

          (578,771      3.2

Nondeductible expenses and other

     (27,535      0.7     52,149        (0.3 %) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income tax expense

     $          176,758               $          33,424           
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effective income tax rate

     (4.4%)       (0.2%)  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

As discussed in Note 2, Health Elements made a federal election during 2013 to be taxed as a Subchapter C corporation. Since that time, Health Elements has filed a consolidated income tax return, which includes the activity of WellnessFX, Inc. The Company has continued to file a separate consolidated income tax return, which includes the activity of Thorne Research. As such, separate tax returns are filed and therefore net operating losses are unique to each tax group.

As of December 31, 2019, the Company had federal operating loss carryforwards of approximately $51.3 million and state operating loss carryforwards $51.3 million, including Health Elements. As of December 31, 2020, the Company had federal net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $50.1 million and state

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

operating loss carryforwards of $50.1 million, including Health Elements. If not utilized, the federal operating loss carryforwards incurred before January 1, 2019 will begin to expire in 2030. The federal operating losses incurred in 2019 and beyond do not expire. The state operating loss carrying forwards do not expire.

For the year ended December 31, 2018, management has not yet conducted a formal analysis to determine the impact of the Company’s move from Idaho to South Carolina for purposes of its state apportionment. Management estimates that the combined Idaho and South Carolina operating loss for the year ended December 31, 2018 approximates $11,400,000. Under current law, the Idaho portion of the overall operating loss will expire December 31, 2038 whereas the South Carolina portion of the operating loss has an indefinite carryforward period. Management does not believe there are any uncertain tax positions.

The Company has net operating loss carryforwards in various other state jurisdictions that are not material to the consolidated financial statements.

Internal Revenue (Code) Section 382 can potentially limit the future utilization of net operating loss carryforwards when certain ownership changes occur. Management has not undertaken a Code Section 382 study for either the Company or Health Elements tax groups. As such, while a full valuation allowance has been recognized against the tax benefit associated with the above loss carryforwards, it is unknown whether the gross loss carryforwards are limited under Section 382. A formal study could potentially result in a decrease in the gross carryforwards and result in an increased future tax liability to us.

The Company is subject to taxation in the U.S. and various states. The Company does not have any unrecognized tax benefits. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, there is no accrued interest or penalties recorded in the financial statements.

 

18.

Commitments and Contingencies

Royalties and Other Agreements. The Company has entered into various agreements which require future payments. The agreement calls for future payments to a major hospital for use of their trademarks and tradenames in advertising the benefits of supplements and gives the Company access to research information owned by the hospital and provides for the hospital to perform clinical trials and to support the Company’s products. As of December 31, 2020, future annual minimum commitments under these agreements are as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,

  

Amount

 

2021

   $ 1,860,500  

2022

     1,280,000  

2023

     750,000  
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 3,890,500  
  

 

 

 

The Company also has various royalty agreements, which are dependent on future sales. Total royalties paid during each of the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, were approximately $0.5 million.

Other. In 2017, the Company recognized grant revenue of $0.8 million from Berkeley County, South Carolina, which includes certain performance obligations that must be met over the next seven years and maintained by the company for five years once attained. The grant agreement includes the potential for repayment of proceeds in whole or in part for failure to satisfy the performance obligations. As of December 31, 2020, Berkeley County has not asked for repayment of these proceeds.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The Company, like other manufacturers of products that are ingested, faces an inherent risk of exposure to product liability claims in the event that, among other things, the use of its product results in injury.

The Company maintains insurance to manage these risks. However, there can be no assurance the amount of insurance would be sufficient to cover all product liability claims.

In addition to the matter discussed below, occasionally the Company is involved in lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of its operations. The Company’s management does not expect the ultimate resolution of pending legal action to have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.

The Company is aware of third-party issued U.S. patents with claims relating to compositions of nicotinamide riboside, a component of some of the Company’s products, owned by the Trustees of Dartmouth and licensed to ChromaDex Corporation (ChromaDex). The Company has filed petitions for inter partes review against these patents at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board to seek to invalidate these patents. The Trustees of Dartmouth and ChromaDex may initiate infringement proceedings against the Company. The Trustees of Dartmouth and ChromaDex have asserted their patents against other third parties, such as Elysium Health. The Company has not recorded a loss in connection with this matter as the Company believes that it is currently not probable nor estimable.

 

19.

Related Party Transactions

Inventory Purchases. The Company purchases raw material from a stockholder. Purchases totaled $4.6 million and $3.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Amounts due to the related party, at December 31, 2020 and 2019, were approximately $0.8 million and $0.4 million, respectively.

Licensing Agreement. On March 19, 2019, Onegevity Health, LLC (Onegevity) entered into a feasibility review agreement (Feasibility Agreement) with Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin) and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui). Entities affiliated with Kirin hold more than 5% of our capital stock and entities affiliated with Mitsui also hold more than 5% of our capital stock. Pursuant to the Feasibility Agreement, we are required to conduct a feasibility study for the successful commercialization of Onegevity’s Gutbio product (Gutbio Product) and in return each of Kirin and Mitsui paid the company $500,000 (Feasbility Payment Amount). Under the Feasibility Agreement, Kirin and Mitsui may, acting jointly, anytime prior to March 19, 2022, make the decision to commercialize the Gutbio Product. If they choose to commercialize the Gutbio Product, then we are required to enter into a definitive license agreement to license the Gutbio Product to Kirin and Mitsui for their exclusive use in Japan. If they do not choose to commercialize the Gutbio Product, the Feasibility Agreement requires us to issue equity securities of Onegevity to each of Kirin and Mitsui in equal amounts in consideration for the Feasibility Payment Amount.

Reimbursement of Costs. The Company paid $0.3 million and $0.1 million to stockholders for reimbursement of labor costs and attorney fees during the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Accounts Receivable. There was approximately $13 thousand in accounts receivable at December 31, 2019 from an officer, which was subsequently paid in January 2020. There were no accounts receivable from officers in 2020.

Other. See Notes 8, 10, 14, 15, 16 and 21 for additional discussion of the Company’s related party transactions.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

20.

Basic and Diluted Net Loss per Share

Basic net loss per share is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted net loss per share is calculated by adjusting weighted average shares outstanding for the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents outstanding for the period. Diluted net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share, since the effects of potentially dilutive securities are anti-dilutive for all periods presented.

The following securities, presented on a common stock equivalent basis, have been excluded from the calculation of weighted average common shares outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 because the effect is anti-dilutive due to the net loss reported in each of those periods. All share amounts presented in the table below represent the total number outstanding as of the end of each period.

 

Description

  

2020

    

2019

 

Convertible preferred stock

     60,700      60,700

Equity warrants

     5,944      15,690

Liability warrants

     1,019      1,019

Stock options

     17,555        19,365

 

21.

Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated subsequent events through April 19, 2021, which represents the date the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued.

On January 26, 2021, the Company entered into a five-year lease agreement for a 136,500 square foot building for the Company’s shipping operations. The lease has two renewal options for three years each. Rent is abated for the first three months while the Company installs racking, packing stations and all other required equipment before shipping is relocated. Future rent payments are as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,

  

Amount

 

2021

   $ 467,775  

2022

     642,411  

2023

     661,683  

2024

     681,534  

2025

     701,980  

Thereafter

     180,760  
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 3,336,143  
  

 

 

 

In connection with relocating shipping operations, additional leases were signed for various equipment, such as forklifts and computers, which are not material.

On February 14, 2021, the Company renewed the revolving line of credit for an additional year to February 12, 2022. The line of credit continues to be guaranteed by two significant shareholders in the Company with a reduced guarantee fee of 1.2%. Funds were drawn up to the $20.0 million limit in February 2020, and remained outstanding at December 31, 2020. The current interest rate on the loan was renewed for a 90-day period through June 14, 2021 at a rate of 0.655%.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

On March 3, 2021, the Company and Onegevity merged per the terms of an Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between the companies (Merger Agreement).

The Merger Agreement calls for the issuance of one share of the Company’s Series B common stock for every four shares owned by the Onegevity shareholders. The merger increased the number of shares of Company stock issued and outstanding from 88,394 shares to 102,083 shares. The Company is the surviving entity after the consummation of the merger.

The Company’s Board of Directors and the stockholders authorized the issuance of Series B common stock. These shares do not have voting rights or rights to receive future dividends.

There were no other subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

     March 31,      December 31,  
     2021      2020  
     (unaudited)         

Assets

     

Current Assets

     

Cash

   $ 23,333,772      $ 15,262,094  

Accounts receivable, net

     4,277,360        2,378,994  

Related party receivables

     475,042        135,399  

Inventories, net

     31,740,894        28,066,024  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     2,043,716        886,328  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total current assets

     61,870,784        46,728,839  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

     24,020,000        23,189,730  

Operating lease right-of-use asset, net

     20,077,629        17,740,816  

Finance right-of-use asset

     966,064        767,237  

Intangible assets, net

     7,413,496        7,635,253  

Goodwill

     14,440,683        14,440,683  

Investments

     1,150,000        1,150,000  

Equity method investments

     3,324,699        3,382,147  

Other assets

     512,057        454,429  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 133,775,412      $ 115,489,134  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

     March 31,     December 31,  
     2021     2020  
     (unaudited)        

Liabilities, Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

    

Current Liabilities

    

Revolving line of credit

   $ 20,000,000     $ —    

Accounts payable

     14,780,753       8,691,430  

Accrued payroll

     3,205,172       2,592,143  

Other accrued expenses

     1,003,853       891,018  

Related party payable

     2,144,173       809,080  

Current portion of operating lease liability

     2,159,195       2,603,930  

Current portion of finance lease liability

     257,049       269,212  

Current portion of long-term debt

     296,034       223,400  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     43,846,229       16,080,213  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Long-term Liabilities

    

Revolving line of credit

     —         20,000,000  

Operating lease liability, net of current portion

     29,567,272       27,284,356  

Finance lease liability, net of current portion

     670,696       454,857  

Long-term debt, net of current portion

     1,164,233       469,471  

Warrant liability

     5,558,681       3,930,930  

Other long-term liabilities

     1,103,097       621,115  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     81,910,208       68,840,942  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 8, 13 and 17)

    

Series E convertible preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share 60,700 authorized; 60,700 issued and outstanding in March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020; aggregate liquidation preference of $134,449,035 as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020

     133,484,531       133,484,531  

Stockholders’ Deficit

    

Class A Common Stock; par value $0.01, 142,000 authorized as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively; 27,694 issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively

     277       277  

Class B Common Stock; no par value, 20,000 authorized as of March 31, 2021 and 0 as of December 31, 2020 respectively; 13,886 issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2021 and 0 as of December 31, 2020, respectively

     —         —    

Additional paid-in capital

     53,085,345       52,574,823  

Accumulated deficit

     (134,704,949     (132,964,365
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ deficit—Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

     (81,619,327     (80,389,265

Non-controlling interest

     —         (6,447,074
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ deficit

     (81,619,327     (86,836,339
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit

   $ 133,775,412     $ 115,489,134  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2021     2020  

Net Sales

   $ 44,483,740     $ 33,143,659  

Cost of sales

     21,246,522       17,964,192  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit

     23,237,218       15,179,467  

Operating expenses:

    

Research and development

     907,170       989,985  

Selling, general, and administrative

     15,476,320       13,980,914  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from operations

     6,853,728       208,568  

Other expense:

    

Interest expense, net

     282,645       617,585  

Guarantee fees

     138,864       85,980  

Change in fair value of warrant liability

     1,627,751       478,122  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expense, net

     2,049,260       1,181,687  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes and loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     4,804,468       (973,119

Income tax expense

     40,530       1,225  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Income (loss) before loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     4,763,938       (974,344

Loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliates

     (57,448     (203,077
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

     4,706,490       (1,177,421

Net loss—non-controlling interest

     —         (489,378
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Income (loss) attributable to Thorne Health Tech, Inc.

     4,706,490       (688,043

Undistributed earnings attributable to Series E convertible preferred stockholders

     (4,706,490     —    

Net Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders

     —         (688,043
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) per share:

    

Basic

     —       $ (39

Diluted

     —       $ (39

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

    

Basic

     39,663       17,638  

Diluted

     39,663       17,638  

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

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Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

(unaudited)

 

    Convertible
Preferred Stock
    Common stock
Class A
    Common stock
Class B
                         
    Additional                 Total  
    Paid-In     Accumulated     Noncontrolling     Stockholders’  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Interest     Deficit  

Balance, December 31, 2020

    60,700     $ 133,484,531       27,694     $ 277       —       $ —       $ 52,574,823     $ (132,964,365   $ (6,447,074   $ (86,836,339

Common stock issued in exchange for remaining interest in consolidated affiliate

    —         —         —         —         13,886       —         —         (6,447,074     6,447,074       —    

Stock-based compensation

    —         —         —         —         —         —         510,522         —         510,522  

Net income

    —         —         —         —         —         —         —         4,706,490       —         4,706,490  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2021

    60,700     $ 133,484,531       27,694     $ 277       13,886     $ —       $ 53,085,345     $ (134,704,949     —       $ (81,619,327
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

    Convertible
Preferred Stock
    Common stock
Class A
    Common stock
Class B
                         
    Additional                 Total  
    Paid-In     Accumulated     Noncontrolling     Stockholders’  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Interest     Deficit  

Balance, December 31, 2019

    60,700     $ 133,484,531       21,669     $ 216       —       $ —       $ 28,539,825     $ (129,606,619   $ (5,851,007   $ (106,917,585

Stock-based compensation

    —         —         —         —         —         —         240,802         —         240,802  

Net loss

    —         —         —         —         —         —         —         (688,043     (489,378     (1,177,421
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2020

    60,700     $ 133,484,531       21,669     $ 216       —       $ —       $ 28,780,627     $ (130,294,662   $ (6,340,385   $ (107,854,204
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2021     2020  

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

    

Net income (loss)

   $ 4,706,490     $  (1,177,421)  

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities

    

Depreciation and amortization

     985,401       946,717  

Change in fair value of warrant liability

     1,627,751       478,122  

Non-cash lease expense

     1,450,595       1,014,379  

Stock-based compensation

     510,522       3,073,346  

Change in inventory and receivable reserves

     (104,589     25,349  

Loss from equity interest in unconsolidated affiliate

     57,448       203,077  

Change in operating assets and liabilities

    

Accounts receivable

     (1,919,225     (1,348,305

Related party receivable

     (339,643     (710,000

Related party payables

     1,335,093       —    

Inventories

     (3,549,422     275,884  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

     (1,219,851     271,895  

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

     7,109,669       1,132,046  

Operating lease liabilities

     (1,863,504     (1,199,553
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

     8,786,735       2,985,536  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

    

Purchase of property and equipment

     (589,212     (371,091

Purchase of license agreements

     —         (100,000
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

   $ (589,212   $ (471,091
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2021     2020  

Cash Flows (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities

    

Payoff of line of credit

   $ —       $ (11,204,732

Repayment of loan from related party

     —         (2,667,855

Proceeds from revolving line of credit

     —         20,000,000  

Payments on long-term debt and finance leases

     (125,845     (27,303

Dividends paid on convertible preferred stock

     —         (3,266,918
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

     (125,845     2,833,192  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Increase in Cash

     8,071,678       5,347,637  

Cash, beginning of period

     15,262,094       463,648  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash, end of period

   $ 23,333,772     $ 5,811,285  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flows Information

    

Cash paid during the year for interest

   $ 301,660     $ 653,112  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax paid

   $ —       $ 1,878  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Noncash Investing and Financing Activities

    

Equipment acquired through finance lease obligations

   $ 284,551     $ 174,209  

Equipment acquired through debt obligations

   $ 817,202     $ —    

Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities

   $ 2,913,002     $ 4,259,688  

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

1. Description of Business and Nature of Operations

Thorne Holding Corp. (the Company) was incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware on June 17, 2010, to acquire 100% of the stock of Thorne Research, Inc. (Thorne Research). On November 13, 2020, the Company changed its name to Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

The Company is a science-driven wellness company pioneering innovative solutions and personalized approaches to health and wellness. The Company is building a new health category to deliver better health outcomes through a proactive, empowered approach. Its unique, vertically integrated brands, Thorne and Onegevity, provide actionable insights and personalized data, products and services that help individuals take a proactive approach to improve and maintain their health over their lifetime. By combining its proprietary multi-omics database, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital health content with its science-backed nutritional supplements, the Company delivers a total system for wellness.

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP). The consolidated financial statements include the operations of the Company and all of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, as well as majority-owned subsidiaries over which it exercises control and, when applicable, entities for which it has a controlling financial interest or variable interest for which it is the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

The consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2021, and the consolidated statements of operations, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit, and cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2021 are unaudited. The unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as the annual consolidated financial statements and reflect, in the opinion of management, all adjustments of a normal and recurring nature that are necessary for the fair statement of the Company’s financial position as of March 31, 2021 and the results of operations and cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been condensed or omitted. The financial data and the other financial information disclosed in these notes to the consolidated financial statements related to the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 are also unaudited. The consolidated results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2021 are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2021 or for any other future annual or interim period. The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020 included herein was derived from the audited consolidated financial statements as of that date.

These interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited financial statements.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities and expenses as well as related

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. The Company bases its estimates on its historical experience and on assumptions that it believes are reasonable; however, actual results could significantly differ from those estimates.

There have been no significant changes from the significant accounting policies disclosed in the Company’s audited financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020.

Fair Value Measurements

ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The standard describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

 

   

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity has the ability to access as of the measurement date.

 

   

Level 2: Significant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

 

   

Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.

The carrying amounts of certain financial instruments, which include cash, receivables, accounts payable, accrued expenses and the line of credit approximate their fair values at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 due to their short-term nature and management’s belief that their carrying amounts approximate the amount for which the assets could be sold or the liabilities could be settled.

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there were 1,019 warrants classified as liability. The fair value of the warrant liability is based on the Black-Scholes option model. The Company is required to revalue the warrants at each reporting date with any changes in fair value recorded on the consolidated statement of operations. The valuation of the warrants is classified under Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to the need to use assumptions in the valuation that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable.

Deferred Offering Costs

The Company capitalizes within other assets certain legal, accounting and other third-party fees that are directly related to the Company’s in-process equity financings, including the planned offering to which this prospectus relates, until such financings are consummated. After consummation of the equity financing, these costs are recorded as a reduction of the proceeds received as a result of the offering. Should a planned equity financing be abandoned, terminated or significantly delayed, the deferred offering costs are immediately written off to operating expenses. The Company deferred $1.5 million of offering costs at March 31, 2021, which are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets in these financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

The Company accounts for revenues under Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606) using the following steps:

 

   

identify the contract, or contracts, with a customer;

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

   

identify the performance obligations in the contract;

 

   

determine the transaction price;

 

   

allocate the transaction price to the identified performance obligations; and

 

   

recognize revenue when, or as, the Company satisfies the performance obligations.

The Company recognizes revenue at a point in time when it satisfies a performance obligation by transferring control over a product and other promised goods and services to a customer. Significant judgments made in the application of ASC 606 include determining the transaction price, the timing of transfer of control of the performance obligation (i.e., sale of product). The Company considers several factors in determining the point in time when control transfers to the customer. These factors include that legal title transfers to the customer, the Company has a present right to payment, and the customer has assumed the risks and rewards of ownership.

Professional/B2B Sales: The Company sells to wholesale customers that include health professionals, retail stores and through various online sites operated by authorized resellers, such as Emerson Ecologics, LLC. Certain customers resell Company products in online marketplaces, however, no inventories are held on consignment; revenue is recognized when control of the goods is transferred to these customers which is typically at the time of shipment. For a few specific customers, revenue is recognized at time of delivery. The terms of payment over the recognized receivables from distributors are less than one year and therefore these sales do not have any significant financing components. The Company uses standard price lists in determining the transaction price, adjusted for estimates of variable consideration. Any discounts stated or implied are allocated entirely to the sole performance obligation.

DTC Transaction Sales: The Company also sells direct to consumers online through a Company owned and operated website. Revenue from online sales is recognized at time of shipment of the product. In addition, the Company sells testing services and test kits. Testing services and testing kits are recorded as revenue when the testing results are provided to the customer. Shipping and handling costs are considered a fulfillment activity and are expensed as incurred.

DTC Subscription Sales: The Company offers its customers the ability to opt into recurring automatic refills on both Thorne.com and Amazon.com. Revenue is recognized under the subscription program when product is shipped to the consumer. No funds are collected at the time a consumer signs up for a subscription and the customer can cancel or modify a subscription at any time at no cost to the customer. On the Company website, customers are allowed to subscribe monthly, every 45 days, every 2 months, every 3 months, or every 4 months. For all these frequencies, a 10% discount is offered on retail refill orders. On Amazon, the discount ranges from 5% to 10% depending on the number of products to which a customer is subscribed; the average discount on Amazon for the Company’s subscriptions is approximately 7%. The Company records revenues, net of estimated discounts.

If a customer is not satisfied for any reason with a product purchased, the customer can return it to the place of purchase to receive a refund, a credit, or a replacement product. The return or refund request must be submitted within 60 days of the date of purchase. The Company estimates returns and accrues for potential returns based on historical data.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

There are no material differences in our revenue recognition policy between the DTC subscription program and the DTC transaction program.

The Company primarily sells to customers throughout the United States but also sells in international markets. Regardless of customer location, all customers are invoiced and payments are required to be made in U.S. dollars. The Company has elected to exclude sales and use taxes for non-exempt customers from the transaction price and, therefore, sales and use taxes are excluded from revenue.

Product Returns, Sales Incentives and Other Forms of Variable Consideration

In measuring revenue and determining the consideration the Company is entitled to as part of a contract with a customer, the Company takes into account the related elements of variable consideration. Such elements of variable consideration include product return rights, discounts, rebates, volume discounts and rebates, and promotional offers and other marketing offers that may impact net sales.

For the sale of goods with a right of return, the Company only recognizes revenue for the consideration it expects to be entitled to (considering the products to be returned) and records a sales return accrual within accrued liabilities for the amount it expects to credit back its customers. Given that most product returns cannot be resold to another customer, the Company does not recognize an asset in inventory or a corresponding adjustment to cost of sales for the right to recover goods from customers associated with the estimated returns.

The sales return accrual includes estimates that directly impact reported net sales. These estimates are calculated based on a history of actual returns and estimated future returns. In addition, as necessary, sales return accruals may be established for significant future known or anticipated events. The types of known or anticipated events that are considered, and will continue to be considered, include the Company’s decision to continue to support new and existing products.

Returns are handled on a case-by-case basis, but generally all returns are accepted if the customer is unsatisfied with the product. The Company has accrued an estimate for returns related to a future period. Sales returns accrued at March 31, 2021 and 2020 were approximately $56 thousand and $64 thousand, respectively and reduced net sales.

The Company estimates sales incentives and other variable consideration using the expected value method and records accruals within accrued liabilities when the liability becomes identifiable and quantifiable. Under this method, certain forms of variable consideration are based on volumes of sales to the customer, which requires subjective estimates. These estimates are supported by historical results as well as specific facts and circumstances related to the current period. A select few customers, because of their size, are offered a discount for early payment.

The Company also enters into transactions and makes payments to certain of its customers related to advertising, some of which involve cooperative relationships with customers. These activities may be arranged either with unrelated third parties or in conjunction with the customer. To the extent the Company receives a distinct good or service in exchange for consideration and the fair value of the benefit can be reasonably estimated, the Company’s share of the costs of these transactions (regardless of to whom they were paid) are reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. The Company also enters into other advertising activities arranged with customers. These activities

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

cannot be arranged with unrelated third parties, no distinct good or service is received in exchange for consideration and the fair value of the benefit is not reasonably estimated. The Company’s share of the costs for these transactions paid to customers are reflected as a reduction in the transaction price within net sales in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

For certain sales, the Company incurs incremental costs of obtaining the contract through the form of sales commissions. The sales commissions incurred are directly correlated to the sales generated and are therefore expensed as incurred.

The following table presents revenue disaggregated by geography, as determined by the country products were shipped to:

 

     Three Months Ended  
     March 31,
2021
    March 31,
2020
 
     Amount      Percentage
of Total
    Amount      Percentage
of Total
 

Domestic

   $ 41,879,286        94.1   $ 30,591,679        92.3

Foreign

     2,604,454        5.9     2,551,980        7.7
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total sales

   $ 44,483,740        100.0   $ 33,143,659        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table presents disaggregated revenues based upon sales channel:

 

     Three Months Ended  
     March 31,
2021
    March 31,
2020
 
     Amount      Percentage
of Total
    Amount      Percentage
of Total
 

DTC Subscription Sales

   $ 5,480,524        12.3   $ 3,553,911        10.7

DTC Transaction Sales

     13,923,476        31.3     10,411,093        31.4

Professional/B2B Sales

     25,079,740        56.4     19,178,655        57.9
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total sales

   $ 44,483,740        100.0   $ 33,143,659        100.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Segments

The Company operates in one reportable segment–the selling of innovative solutions and personalized approaches to health and wellbeing. The Company’s chief operating decision maker (determined to be the Chief Executive Officer) does not manage any part of the Company separately, and the allocation of resources and assessment of performance are based on the Company’s consolidated operating results and where the best future opportunities arise.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes.    In December 2019, the FASB issued this ASU to simplify the accounting for income taxes by eliminating certain exceptions related to the approach for intraperiod tax allocation, the methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period, and the recognition of deferred tax liabilities for outside basis differences. This ASU also clarifies and

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

simplifies other aspects of the accounting for income taxes. This update was adopted by the Company effective January 1, 2021. The Company has a full valuation allowance on its deferred income taxes and therefore the adoption did not have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. In June 2016, the FASB issued this ASU to amend the current accounting guidance which requires the measurement of all expected losses to be based on historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. For trade receivables, loans, and other financial instruments, the Company will be required to use a forward-looking expected loss model that reflects probable losses rather than the incurred loss model for recognizing credit losses. This ASU was amended by ASU 2019-10 to be effective for smaller reporting companies beginning after December 15, 2022. The Company does not believe the adoption of this ASU will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848). In March 2020, the FASB issued guidance providing optional expedients and exceptions to account for the effects of reference rate reform to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. The optional guidance, which became effective on March 12, 2020 and can be applied through December 21, 2022, has not impacted our consolidated financial statements. The Company has various contracts that reference LIBOR and is assessing how this standard may be applied to specific contract modifications through December 31, 2022.

COVID-19 Pandemic

On January 30, 2020, The World Health Organization (WHO) announced a global health emergency because of a new strain of coronavirus (Covid-19) and the risks to the international community as the virus spreads globally. In March 2020, the WHO classified Covid-19 outbreak as a pandemic.

The Company is a manufacturer of nutritional supplement products, a category of food that is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Based on guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security / Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and in particular, specific guidance therein regarding the Food and Agriculture industries, the Company’s manufacturing facility has been designated as “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers” and would therefore be exempt from any “shelter in place” restrictions that might be imposed by the State of South Carolina.

The full impact of the Covid-19 outbreak continues to evolve as of the date of this report. As such, it is uncertain as to the impact this pandemic on the Company’s financial condition. Management is actively monitoring the impact of this virus on its financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, customers, and workforce.

On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed into law the “Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.” The CARES Act, among other things, includes provisions relating to refundable payroll tax credits, deferment of employer side social security payments, net operating loss carryback periods, alternative minimum tax credit refunds, modifications to the net interest deduction limitations, increased limitations on qualified charitable contributions, and technical corrections to tax depreciation methods for qualified improvement property. The Company deferred the employer portion of payroll taxes during the year ended December 31, 2020. The total amount deferred at year end was approximately $1.0 million and will be payable over the next two years.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

The Company’s unaudited consolidated financial statements presented herein reflect the latest estimates and assumptions made by management that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related disclosures as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods presented.

3. Related party receivable

As of March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company’s related party receivables related to packing and shipping services provided to Oova, an entity in which the Company has invested, were $1 thousand and $0, respectively. Revenue related to these shipping services for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 were $4 thousand and $0, respectively.

As of March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had a related party receivable in the amount of $0.5 million and $0, respectively, related to short term advances to Tecton Group LLC, an entity in which the Company has invested.

4. Inventories, net

Inventories consist of the following:

 

     March 31,      December 31,  
     2021      2020  

Raw materials

   $ 15,696,101      $ 13,751,348  

Work in process

     76,292        7,224  

Finished goods

     16,344,532        14,808,931  

Reserve for slow moving and obsolete inventory

     (376,031      (501,479
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Inventory, net

   $ 31,740,894      $ 28,066,024  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Raw materials consist primarily of powders, softgels, and packaging components such as bottles, lids and labels. Work in process consists of premixed powders and encapsulated powders not yet bottled.

5. Line of Credit

Letter of credit - In 2018, an irrevocable standby letter of credit was issued by a bank on the Company’s behalf as required by the landlord of the Summerville, South Carolina production facility, and guarantees were issued by related parties. This letter of credit is for $4.9 million and had an original expiration date of December 3, 2019 with automatic renewals until October 31, 2037. The letter of credit has an annual fee of $20 thousand. The standby letter of credit is guaranteed 50% by each of our two largest shareholders which require an annual guarantee fee. The guarantee fee expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 were $40 thousand and $26 thousand, respectively and paid 50% to each of the shareholders. The guarantee fee is based on the 12-month USD LIBOR rate plus 3% on the amount of the guarantee. All of these fees are included in guarantee fees in the consolidated statements of operations.

On February 14, 2020, the Company secured a new revolving line of credit with a new financial institution. There were no debt issuance costs incurred to secure this financing. The line of credit was guaranteed by two significant shareholders in the Company. Each shareholder guaranteed 50% of the total amount of the

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

loan. Funds were drawn up to the maximum $20.0 million limit in February 2020. The primary uses of the funds were to paydown and close the previous line of credit and pay off the dividend payable and related party payable. The loan was extended until February 2022 and accordingly, the line of credit was classified as a current liability on the consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2021 and a long-term liability at December 31, 2020. The guarantee fees of 2.0% accrued during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 related to this line of credit were $99 thousand and $60 thousand, respectively, and are included in the guarantee fees in the consolidated statements of operations. The interest paid to the bank on the loan is a variable interest rate based on rates quoted by the bank. The Company can choose an interest rate, based on current market rates and on the number of days it chooses to lock in the interest rate. The number of days range from 30 days to 365 days. On March 15, 2021, the Company locked in an interest rate for 90 days through June 14, 2021 at a rate of 0.655%.

On February 12, 2021, the Company entered into an Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement, by and among the Company as the borrower and SMBC as the lender (2021 Credit Agreement), to refinance and replace the 2020 Credit Agreement. The terms of the 2021 Credit Agreement are substantially similar to the terms of the 2020 Credit Agreement. Under the 2021 Credit Agreement, SMBC may in its sole discretion elect to make unsecured loans to the Company until February 11, 2022, in an aggregate principal amount up to but not exceeding $20.0 million at any time. Each loan made under the 2021 Credit Agreement may have a maturity date that is not less than one day and not more than twelve months after the date that such loan is disbursed, as the Company and SMBC may mutually agree. SMBC may, in its sole discretion at any time, terminate in whole or partially reduce the unused portion of the credit line under the 2021 Credit Agreement. SMBC is not obligated to make any loan under the 2021 Credit Agreement.

The Company may prepay any outstanding loans under the 2021 Credit Agreement in whole or in part at any time without penalty, other than customary breakfunding or additional costs as determined by SMBC. As of March 31, 2021, the Company has fully drawn down $20.0 million under the 2021 Credit Agreement to refinance its outstanding loans under the 2020 Credit Agreement. As a result, under the $20.0 million maximum credit line, no additional amount is available to be borrowed.

A loan under the 2021 Credit Agreement bears interest at a per annum rate quoted by SMBC and agreed to by the Company when such loan is made. Interest on a loan is payable in arrears on the maturity date of such loan. Principal of a loan is due on such loan’s maturity date. The Company is also obligated to pay other expenses and indemnities customary for a credit facility of this size and type.

The Company’s obligations under the 2021 Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Kirin and Mitsui. The Company pays each guarantor an annual fee equal to 1.20% of each of their $10 million guarantees annually and upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of the Company. Under the Fee Letter dated February 12, 2021 between the Company and Mitsui (2021 Mitsui Fee Letter), the Company also agreed to reimburse Mitsui in cash for any amounts that Mitsui pays under its guarantee of the 2021 Credit Agreement. However, if the Company is not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Mitsui, then the Company and Mitsui may agree to deem such unreimbursed amount to be made for the Company’s benefit in consideration for its debt or equity securities on terms reasonably satisfactory to Mitsui and the Company.

Under the Fee Letter dated February 12, 2021 between the Company and Kirin (2021 Kirin Fee Letter), the Company agreed to reimburse Kirin in cash for any amounts that Kirin pays under its guarantee of the 2021 Credit Agreement. If the Company is not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Kirin, however, then the Company and Kirin may agree to deem such unreimbursed amount to be made for the Company’s benefit in consideration for its debt or equity securities on terms reasonably satisfactory to Kirin and the

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

Company. After the closing of the Company’s initial public offering, the Company intends to negotiate with SMBC to pay off its existing debt under the 2021 Credit Agreement. If the Company pays off its existing debt under the 2021 Credit Agreement, then the related Mitsui and Kirin guarantees may also be released and terminated. There is no guarantee, however, that its negotiations will be successful.

The 2021 Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative covenants, including covenants regarding the payment of taxes and other obligations, maintenance of insurance, reporting requirements and compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and customary negative covenants limiting the Company’s ability, among other things, to merge or consolidate, dispose of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets, liquidate or dissolve, and grant liens, subject to certain exceptions. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an event of default, SMBC may declare all outstanding principal of, and accrued and unpaid interest on, loans made under the 2021 Credit Agreement immediately due and payable and may exercise the other rights and remedies provided for under the 2021 Credit Agreement and related loan documents. The events of default under the 2021 Credit Agreement include, subject to grace periods in certain instances, payment defaults, cross defaults with certain other material indebtedness, certain material judgments, breaches of covenants or representations and warranties, change in control of the Company, a material adverse change as defined in the 2021 Credit Agreement, and certain bankruptcy and insolvency events.

6. Long-Term Debt

The long-term debt related to financing encapsulation machines consists of the following:

 

     March 31,      December 31,  
     2021      2020  

Note payable with quarterly principal and interest payments of $30,917 per quarter, with fixed interest of 6.943%. The loan matures August 12, 2024.

   $ 361,473      $ 346,436  

Note payable with quarterly principal and interest payments of $30,917 per quarter, with fixed interest of 6.943%. The loan matures July 15, 2023.

     281,592        346,435  

Note payable with quarterly principal and interest payments of $56,548 per quarter, with fixed interest of 4.89%. The loan matures March 20, 2025.

     817,202        —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 1,460,267      $ 692,871  

Less current maturities

     (296,034      (223,400
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Long-term debt

   $ 1,164,233      $ 469,471  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

7. Related Party Payable

The Company had a related party payable to multiple shareholders totaling $2.1 million and $0.8 million at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively, related to inventory purchases.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

8. Leases

The Company leases real estate, vehicle, and equipment for use in its operations. The Company’s leases generally have lease terms of 1 to 30 years, some of which include options to terminate, or to extend leases. The Company includes options that are reasonably certain to be exercised as part of the determination of lease terms. The Company may negotiate termination clauses in anticipation of any changes in market conditions, but generally these termination options are not exercised. Residual value guarantees are generally not included within operating leases. In addition to base rent payments, the leases may require the Company to pay directly for taxes and other non-lease components, such as insurance, maintenance and other operating expenses, which may be dependent on usage or vary month-to-month. The Company elected the practical expedient in the new standard to not separate non-lease components from lease components in calculating the amounts of right-of-use (ROU) assets and lease liabilities for all underlying asset classes. The Company determined if an arrangement is a lease at inception of the contract in accordance with guidance detailed in the new standard and performed the lease classification test as of the lease commencement date. ROU assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease’s commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. When a lease did not provide an implicit rate, the Company used its estimated incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of future payments.

Leases that are economically similar to the purchase of an asset are classified as finance leases. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, finance lease assets are included separately within the consolidated balance sheets and classified as finance right-of-use asset and the corresponding finance lease liabilities are included within current portion of finance lease liability and within long-term finance lease liability, net of current portion. The finance lease classification under ASC 842 includes leases previously classified as capital leases under ASC 840.

The balances for the operating and finance leases where the Company is the lessee are presented as follows within the consolidated balance sheets:

 

     March 31,
2021
     December 31,
2020
 

Operating lease:

     

Operating lease right-of-use assets

   $ 20,077,629      $ 17,740,816  

Current portion of operating lease obligations

     2,159,195        2,603,930  

Operating lease obligations, net of current portion

     29,567,272        27,284,356  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total operating lease liabilities

   $ 31,726,467      $ 29,888,286  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Finance lease:

     

Finance right-of-use assets

   $ 966,064      $ 767,237  

Current portion of finance lease obligations

     257,049        269,212  

Finance Lease obligation, net of current portion

     670,696        454,857  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total finance lease liabilities

   $ 927,745      $ 724,069  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The components of lease expense are as follows within our statement of operations:

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended      Three Months Ended  
     March 31, 2021      March 31, 2020  

Operating lease expense:

     

Operating lease cost(1)

   $ 1,232,708      $ 872,200  

Finance lease expense:

     

Amortization of leased assets

     73,915        32,270  

Interest on lease liabilities

     11,300        3,218  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total lease cost

   $ 1,317,923      $ 907,688  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  (1)

Includes short-term leases and variable lease costs, which are immaterial.

The weighted average remaining lease term and weighted average discount rate at March 31, 2021 were as follows:

 

     March 31, 2021  

Weighted average remaining lease term (years)

  

Operating leases

     13.40 years  

Finance leases

     .08 years  

Weighted average discount rate applied

  

Operating leases

     10.3%  

Finance leases

     0.3%  

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases where the Company is the lessee is as follows:

 

     Three Months Ended      Three Months Ended  
     March 31, 2021      March 31, 2020  

Operating cash outflows from operating leases

   $ 1,863,504      $ 1,199,553  

Operating cash outflows from finance leases (interest payments)

     11,300        3,218  

Financing cash outflows from finance leases

     76,039        27,303  

Leased assets obtained in exchange for finance lease liabilities

     284,551        174,209  

Leased assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities

   $ 2,913,002      $ 4,259,688  

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

As of March 31, 2021, the maturities of the operating and finance lease liabilities are as follows:

 

Period

   Operating leases      Finance leases  

2021

   $ 3,959,731      $ 294,959  

2022

     5,120,940        359,954  

2023

     3,497,428        233,712  

2024

     3,589,923        94,060  

2025

     3,559,586        16,764  

Thereafter

     39,031,420        38,940  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total minimum lease payments

   $ 58,759,028      $ 1,037,388  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Less: imputed interest

     27,032,621        109,643  

Total present value of lease liabilities

   $ 31,726,407      $ 927,745  

Less: current portion

     2,159,195        257,049  

Long-term portion of lease liabilities

   $ 29,567,212      $ 670,696  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

In 2016, the Company entered into a new lease agreement for office, warehouse and production space in Summerville, South Carolina. The Company began occupying the space in the summer of 2018, with the lease commencing April 2018. The lease requires monthly payments of $0.2 million, increasing by 2.5% annually, through January 31, 2037. At March 31, 2021, monthly payments were approximately $0.2 million. The Company was required to provide the landlord with a $4.9 million irrevocable letter of credit as a security deposit (see Note 5). The required security deposit may be reduced upon the attainment of certain EBITDA levels.

 

9.

Concentrations

Credit Risk - Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and accounts receivable. Although the Company places its cash with high quality institutions, these balances often exceed federally insured limits. Concentrations of credit risk primarily relate to unsecured trade receivables. Major customers who accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s total receivables were as follows:

 

     March 31,     December 31,  
     2021     2020  

Emerson Ecologics, LLC

     41.0 %      39.4

Pattern

     12.9 %      *  

iHerb, Inc.

     11.9 %      *  

Biote Medical, LLC

     10.6 %      *  

 

* Represents less than 10%

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

Sales - Major customers who accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s total sales were as follows:

 

     Three months ended
March 31,
 
     2021     2020  

iHerb, Inc.

     13.2 %      12.9

Emerson Ecologics, LLC

     12.1 %      14.1

Pattern Inc.

     31.4 %      31.6

 

10.

Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

On July 5, 2018, the Company issued 60,700 Series E convertible preferred stock to investors for $138.4 million. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had Series E convertible preferred stock outstanding of 60,700 shares which are recorded in the financial statements as temporary equity.

A summary of the significant rights and privileges of the Series E convertible preferred stock is as follows:

Conversion - Each share of Series E preferred stock is convertible at the option of the holder into common stock on a one-for-one basis. Each share of Series E preferred stock shall automatically be converted into shares of common stock at the then effective conversion price immediately after the consummation of a qualified public offering. Additionally, each share of preferred stock is automatically converted immediately upon the conversion or vote to convert by the holders of a majority of the then outstanding preferred stock.

Liquidation - Upon any liquidation, dissolution, or winding-up of the business, the assets of the Company available for distribution to its stockholders shall be distributed first to the holders of shares of Series E convertible preferred stock up to their original issue prices.

Voting Rights - The holder of each share of preferred stock shall be entitled to vote on all matters and shall be entitled to that number of votes equal to the total number of shares of common stock into which the preferred stock are convertible.

Dividends - In the event the Board of Directors declares the payment of dividends, they shall be distributed first to the holders of shares of Series E convertible preferred stock up to their original issue prices. Thereafter, the amounts remaining shall be distributed pro rata based on the number of shares of common stock then held by each shareholder (assuming conversion of all outstanding shares of Series E convertible preferred stock into common stock).

The agreement for the Series E convertible preferred stock issuance also resulted in $3.0 million of dividends becoming payable to stockholders related to the issuance of preferred stock and increased the accumulated deficit in the Company’s stockholders’ deficit. These dividends were approved by the Board of Directors and declared payable in 2018 and were accrued for as of December 31, 2018. These dividends along with interest accrued on the dividends at the rate of 7.5% of $266,918 were paid during the three months ended March 31, 2020.

The Company’s Series E convertible preferred stock has been classified as temporary equity on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet in accordance with authoritative guidance for the classification and measurement of redeemable securities. Upon certain change in control events that are outside of the Company’s

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

control, including liquidation, sale or transfer of control of the Company, holders of the Series E convertible preferred stock can cause its redemption. The Company has determined not to adjust the carrying values of the Series E convertible preferred stock to the liquidation preferences of such shares because the Series E convertible preferred stock is not currently redeemable and not probable of becoming redeemable due to the uncertainty of whether or when the contingent events would occur.

 

11.

Warrants

The Company’s two largest shareholders each have 5,000 warrants, for a total of 10,000, to purchase the Company’s common stock, with an exercise price of $2,280 and an expiration date of October 10, 2028. These warrants are classified as equity on the consolidated balance sheets. In July 2020, each shareholder exercised 4,873 equity-based warrants for a total of $22,220,880 in gross proceeds. As of March 31, 2021, there are 254 warrants outstanding of the original 10,000 issued.

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had 5,690 additional common stock warrants outstanding that were classified as equity with an exercise price of $3,000 and an expiration date of June 23, 2030.    

In April 2011, the Company issued 1,019 warrants to purchase common stock to a related-party stockholder, with a strike price of $3,000 per warrant. The warrants were originally classified as liability awards. In May 2019, the Board of Directors extended the term of the warrants for an additional 10 years to June 23, 2030. The extension was determined by management to be a modification of the warrant.

The warrant liability is remeasured at fair value at each reporting date and have a fair value of $5.6 million and $3.9 million as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

In order to calculate the fair value of the warrants, certain assumptions were made, including the fair market value of the underlying common stock, risk-free interest rate, volatility, and remaining contractual life. Changes to the assumptions could cause significant adjustments to the valuation. Due to the Company’s limited operating history and lack of company-specific historical or implied volatility as a private company, the expected volatility assumption was determined by examining the historical volatilities of a group of industry peers whose share prices are publicly available. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield in effect at the time of the grant for treasury securities of similar maturity. The Company has not paid and does not anticipate paying cash dividends on its shares of common stock; therefore, the expected dividend yield is assumed to be zero.

The Black-Scholes model was used to value the liability-classified warrants. The following assumptions were used:

 

     As of     As of  
     March 31,
2021
    December 31,
2020
 

Fair market value

   $ 6,480     $ 4,970  

Exercise price

   $ 3,000     $ 3,000  

Volatility

     77 %      68

Annual dividend

     0       0  

Risk-free interest rate

     0.14 %      0.13

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

The fair value of financial instruments measured on a recurring basis is as follows:

 

     As of March 31, 2021  

Description

   Total      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3  

Liabilities:

           

Warrant liability

   $ 5,558,681        —          —        $ 5,558,681  

The following table summarizes the change in fair value, as determined by Level 3 inputs, for all assets and liabilities using unobservable Level 3 inputs at March 31, 2021.

 

     Warrant
Liability
 

Balance at December 31, 2020

   $ 3,930,930  

Change in fair value for three months ended March 31, 2021

     1,627,751  
  

 

 

 

Balance at March 31, 2021

   $ 5,558,681  
  

 

 

 

 

12.

Stock Based Awards

Stock Options - In 2010, the Company’s Board of Directors created the 2010 Equity Incentive Plan and has been amended from time to time to grant additional options. The plan provides granting of options to purchase shares of common stock. All options are granted at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors and have a term of not greater than 10 years from issuance. Options are exercisable when vested. Vesting requires continuous employment up to the vesting date and the vesting schedule is determined by the Plan. Options generally vest over a four-year period. The Company has also granted 2,035 performance-based employee stock options, the exercise of which is dependent upon the exercise of certain warrants for common stock. In 2018, an additional 11,500 options were authorized to be issued to management with a strike price of $2,280. As of December 31, 2019 all shares were fully-vested as the performance metric was achieved. The additional options were issued during the year ended December 31, 2019. Total options authorized as of March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020 were 24,500 and 20,000, respectively.

In 2018, certain members of management and the Company entered into an agreement whereby certain members of management received a put right from the Company, in which management could receive cash from the Company for the fair value of 5,704 common stock options, with an exercise price of $380 per share, held by management set to expire in 2020 and 2021. Per the terms of the Agreement, the fair value to be paid in cash equaled the fair value of the underlying common stock less the exercise price of the stock options.

Stock-based compensation expense for March 31, 2021 and 2020 was $0.5 million and $3.1 million, respectively. This amount is classified as selling, general, and administrative on the consolidated statements of operations.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

The following table summarizes activity of the Company’s stock option at March 31, 2021 and changes during the three months then ended.

 

     Options
Issued and
Outstanding
     Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
     Grant-Date
Fair Value
 

Outstanding, December 31, 2020

     17,555      $ 2,075      $ 259  

Granted (1)

     4,403        3,403        3,358  

Exercised

     —          —       

Cancelled/forfeited

     —          —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Outstanding, March 31, 2021

     21,958      $ 2,341      $ 894  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Exercisable, March 31, 2021

     12,181      $ 1,070      $ 158  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  (1)

The stock options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2021 were granted in exchange for stock options of Onegevity in conjunction with the merger agreement as further discussed in Note 16. As a result of the stock option exchange, there was no incremental stock compensation expense recorded by the Company. The Company compared the fair value of the stock options immediately before and after the exchange and determined that the exchange did not result in incremental compensation expense.

The following information summarizes the Company’s stock options outstanding at March 31, 2021:

 

Exercise Price

      

Number of Options
Outstanding

      

Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
(Years)

      

Number of Options
Available for
Exercise

 
  $   515          955          2.43          955  
  600          1,610          3.87          1,610  
  2,000          1,725          3.87          1,725  
  3,000          1,765          3.87          1,765  
  2,280          11,500          7.53          5,750  
  3,120          4,027          9.34          0  
  6,434          376          2.67          376  
    

 

 

           

 

 

 
       21,958               12,181  

As of March 31, 2021, the unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to outstanding options was $3.8 million and is expected to be recognized as expense over approximately 3 years.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

13.

Commitments and Contingencies

Royalties and Other Agreements - The Company has entered into various agreements which require future payments. The agreement calls for future payments to a major hospital for use of their trademarks and tradenames in advertising the benefits of supplements and gives the Company access to research information owned by the hospital and provides for the hospital to perform clinical trials and to support the Company’s products. As of March 31, 2021, future annual minimum commitments under these agreements are as follows:

 

    

Amount

 

Nine months ended December 31, 2021

     1,270,250  

Year ended December 31, 2022

     1,280,000  

Year ended December 31, 2023

     750,000  
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 3,330,250  
  

 

 

 

The Company also has various royalty agreements, which are dependent on future sales. Total royalties paid during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, were approximately $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

Other - In 2017, the Company recognized grant revenue of $0.8 million from Berkeley County, South Carolina, which includes certain performance obligations that must be met over the next seven years and maintained by the company for five years once attained. The grant agreement includes the potential for repayment of proceeds in whole or in part for failure to satisfy the performance obligations. As of March 31, 2021, Berkeley County has not asked for repayment of these proceeds.

The Company, like other manufacturers of products that are ingested, faces an inherent risk of exposure to product liability claims in the event that, among other things, the use of its product results in injury.

The Company maintains insurance to manage these risks. However, there can be no assurance the amount of insurance would be sufficient to cover all product liability claims.

Occasionally, the Company is involved in lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of its operations. The Company’s management does not expect the ultimate resolution of pending legal action to have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.

 

14.

Related Party Transactions

Inventory Purchases - The Company purchases raw material from a shareholder. Purchases totaled $1.7 million and $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Amounts due to the related party at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, were approximately $1.4 million and $0.8 million, respectively.

The Company purchases raw material from an entity in which the Company invests. Purchases totaled

$1.0 million and $0.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. Amounts due to the related party at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, were approximately $0.7 million and $0, respectively.

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

License Agreement - In connection with a feasibility study associated with the rights of use to products, information and other intellectual property and services, Onegevity received a total of $1.0 million in equal amounts from two shareholders during the year ended December 31, 2019. This amount was recorded as deferred revenue at March 31, 2020, with the $1.0 million recorded in net sales during August 2020.

Reimbursement of Costs - The Company paid approximately $51 thousand to shareholders for reimbursement of labor costs in each of the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.

Other - See Notes 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 for additional related party transactions.

 

15.

Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) per Share

Basic net income (loss) per share is calculated by dividing the net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period, without consideration for common stock equivalents. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common stock equivalents outstanding for the period.

Holders of Series E convertible preferred stock meet the definition of participating securities, which requires the Company to apply the two-class method to compute both basic and diluted net income (loss) per share. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that treats participating securities as having rights to earnings that would otherwise have been available to common stockholders. The two-class method requires earnings for the period to be allocated between common stock and participating securities based upon their respective rights to receive dividends as if all earnings for the period had been distributed. In the event the Board of Directors declare dividends or any distributions, the available distributions shall be distributed (i) first, to the Series E convertible preferred stock until such holders have received on a cumulative basis an amount per share equal to the Series E original issue price, and (ii) second, to the holders of Class A common stock and Series E convertible preferred stock (on as converted basis) on a pro rata pari passu basis. The Series E convertible preferred stock does not contractually participate in the Company’s net losses, and therefore, undistributed losses are not allocated to Series E convertible preferred stock.

The dilutive effect of stock options, warrants and unvested nonparticipating restricted stock is based on the treasury stock method while the dilutive effect of the convertible preferred stock is based on the if-converted method. These potential common stock equivalents are only included in the calculations when their effect is dilutive. The Company presents the more dilutive of the two-class method or if-converted method as diluted net income (loss) per share during the period.

The following table presents information necessary to calculate net income (loss) per share for the quarters ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:

 

     March 31,
2021
    March 31,
2020
 

Net income (loss) attributable to Thorne Health Tech, Inc.

   $ 4,706,490   $ (688,043 )

Undistributed earnings allocated to Series E convertible preferred shares

     (4,706,490 )     —    

Net income (loss) available to common stockholders – Basic and Diluted

   $ —       $ (688,043 )

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – Basic and Diluted

     39,663     17,865

Net income (loss) per share – Basic and Diluted

   $ —       $ (39

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

For March 31, 2021 and 2020, diluted net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share, since the effects of potentially dilutive securities are anti-dilutive for all periods presented.

The following securities, presented on a common stock equivalent basis, have been excluded from the calculation of weighted average common shares outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020 because the effect is anti-dilutive due to the net loss reported in each of the periods. All share amounts presented in the table below represent the total number outstanding as of the end of each period.

 

Description

   March 31,
2021
     March 31,
2020
 

Convertible preferred stock

     60,700      60,700

Equity warrants

     5,944      15,690

Liability warrants

     1,019      1,019

Stock options

     21,958      17,865

Unvested restricted stock

     1,062        —    

 

16.

Merger with Variable Interest Entity

On January 6, 2021, the Company announced it has merged with Onegevity Health LLC, a health intelligence company.

As of December 31, 2020 the Company’s ownership in Onegevity was approximately 50%. Since Onegevity’s inception in 2018, the Company determined that it has been the primary beneficiary of Onegevity and has accordingly consolidated the assets and liabilities of Onegevity in accordance with ASC 810, Consolidations.

To effect the merger, the Company issued 13,886 class B common shares to the minority shareholders of Onegevity, plus an additional 4,403 stock options with various strike prices to key managers of Onegevity who had stock options in Onegevity in a tax free exchange. No cash was involved in the transaction. The class B common shares do not have voting rights among other restriction.

As part of the merger, the legal entity Onegevity Health, LLC was dissolved; its wholly owned subsidiary, Health Elements, LLC, became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

The merger did not lead to a change in control and therefore the transaction was recorded in the equity section of the Company’s balance sheet.

 

17.

Legal Proceedings

The Company is aware of third-party issued U.S. patents with claims relating to compositions of nicotinamide riboside, a component of some of its products, owned by the Trustees of Dartmouth and licensed to ChromaDex Corporation (Chromadex). On December 1, 2020 and February 1, 2021, the Company filed petitions for inter partes review against U.S. Patent Nos. 8,383,086 and 8,197,807, respectively at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board to seek to invalidate these patents. The Patent Trial and Appeal Board issued a decision on June 10, 2021, granting institution of inter partes review against U.S. Patent No. 8,383,086, and the institution decision is expected on August 18, 2021, for U.S. Patent No. 8,197,807. On May 12, 2021, the Trustees of Dartmouth College and ChromaDex filed a complaint against the Company in the District Court of the Southern

 

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Table of Contents

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

District of New York, alleging infringement of U.S. Patent Nos. 8,383,086 and 8,197,807. The complaint seeks to enjoin the Company from selling our nutritional supplement products that contain nicotinamide riboside, including our NiaCel suite of supplements, and further seeks monetary damages for alleged infringement of the patents. The Company has not recorded a loss in connection with this matter as the Company believes that it is currently not probable nor estimable.

 

18.

Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated subsequent events through July 16, 2021, which represents the date the unaudited consolidated financial statements were issued.

On May 25, 2021, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire the majority of outstanding shares of Drawbridge Health, Inc. (Drawbridge), a healthcare technology company. Prior to the merger, the Company owned approximately 11.2% of the outstanding shares and accounted for its investment in Drawbridge as an equity method investment, as the Company determined it had significant influence over Drawbridge. The Company’s net equity investment was $3.1 million as of March 31, 2021. Under the merger agreement, the Company increased its ownership of Drawbridge by 77.3% to a total ownership of 88.5%. The merger agreement calls for the payment of approximately $3.3 million, the assumption of all future liabilities and the fulfillment of certain obligations under the research development collaboration agreements currently in place.

 

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Table of Contents

 

 

Shares

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Common Stock

 

 

P R O S P E C T U S

 

BofA Securities

Cowen

Evercore ISI

RBC Capital Markets

, 2021

Through and including                  , 2021 (the 25th day after the 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 dealer’s obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as an underwriter and with respect to an unsold allotment or subscription.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

PART II

Information Not Required in the Prospectus

Item 13. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution

The following table sets forth the expenses to be incurred in connection with the offering described in this Registration Statement, other than underwriting discounts and commissions, all of which will be paid by us. All amounts are estimates except the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), registration fee, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (FINRA), filing fee and the Nasdaq listing fee.

 

    

Amount Paid or

to Be Paid

 

SEC registration fee

   $ *  

FINRA filing fee

     *  

Nasdaq listing fee

     *  

Printing and engraving expenses

     *  

Legal fees and expenses

     *  

Accounting fees and expenses

     *  

Transfer agent and registrar fees

     *  

Miscellaneous expenses

     *  
  

 

 

 

Total

   $          
  

 

 

 

 

*

To be provided by amendment.

Item 14. Indemnification of Directors and Officers

Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law empowers a corporation to indemnify its directors and officers and to purchase insurance with respect to liability arising out of their capacity or status as directors and officers, provided that the person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in our best interests, and, with respect to any criminal action, had no reasonable cause to believe the person’s actions were unlawful. The Delaware General Corporation Law further provides that the indemnification permitted thereunder shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which the directors and officers may be entitled under the corporation’s bylaws, any agreement, a vote of stockholders or otherwise. The certificate of incorporation of the registrant to be in effect upon the completion of this offering provides for the indemnification of the registrant’s directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted under the Delaware General Corporation Law. In addition, the bylaws of the registrant to be in effect upon the completion of this offering require the registrant to fully indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding (whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative) by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the registrant, or is or was a director or officer of the registrant serving at the registrant’s request as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorney’s fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law.

Section 102(b)(7) of the Delaware General Corporation Law permits a corporation to provide in its certificate of incorporation that a director of the corporation shall not be personally liable to the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except (1) for any breach of the director’s 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) for payments of unlawful dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions or (4) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. The registrant’s certificate of incorporation to be in effect upon the completion of this offering

 

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provides that the registrant’s directors shall not be personally liable to it or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director and that if the Delaware General Corporation Law is amended to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of the registrant’s directors shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law, as so amended.

Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law provides, among other things, that a director who willfully or negligently approves of an unlawful payment of dividends or an unlawful stock purchase or redemption may be held liable for such actions. A director who was either absent when the unlawful actions were approved, or dissented at the time, may avoid liability by causing his or her dissent to such actions to be entered in the books containing minutes of the meetings of the board of directors at the time such action occurred or immediately after such absent director receives notice of the unlawful acts.

As permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law, the registrant has entered into separate indemnification agreements with each of the registrant’s directors and executive officers which would require the registrant, among other things, to indemnify them against certain liabilities which may arise by reason of their status as directors or executive officers.

The registrant expects to obtain and maintain insurance policies under which its directors and officers are insured, within the limits and subject to the limitations of those policies, against certain expenses in connection with the defense of, and certain liabilities which might be imposed as a result of, actions, suits or proceedings to which they are parties by reason of being or having been directors or officers. The coverage provided by these policies may apply whether or not the registrant would have the power to indemnify such person against such liability under the provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law.

These indemnification provisions and the indemnification agreements entered into between the registrant and the registrant’s officers and directors may be sufficiently broad to permit indemnification of the registrant’s officers and directors for liabilities (including reimbursement of expenses incurred) arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

The underwriting agreement between the registrant and the underwriters filed as Exhibit 1.1 to this registration statement provides for the indemnification by the underwriters of the registrant’s directors and officers and certain controlling persons against specified liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act with respect to information provided by the underwriters specifically for inclusion in the registration statement. The investors’ rights agreement with certain holders of our capital stock also provides for cross-indemnification in connection with the registration of the registrant’s common stock on behalf of such holders.

Item 15. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

The following list sets forth information regarding all unregistered securities sold by us since January 1, 2018. No underwriters were involved in the sales and the certificates representing the securities sold and issued contain legends restricting transfer of the securities without registration under the Securities Act or an applicable exemption from registration.

 

  (1)

On July 5, 2018, we sold and issued 30,350 shares of series E convertible preferred stock to Mitsui & Co. Ltd. (Mitsui), and 30,350 shares of series E convertible preferred stock to Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin), at a purchase price of $2,280.03 per share for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $138.4 million.

 

  (2)

On October 10, 2018, we issued a warrant for the purchase of 5,000 shares of common stock to Mitsui and a warrant for the purchase of 5,000 shares of common stock to Kirin with an aggregate exercise price of $2,280.03 per share.

 

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  (3)

On October 10, 2018, we issued 5,488 shares of common stock to ELUS Holdings Corporation as a dividend on our Series B convertible preferred stock. The aggregate value of the share dividend was a total of $11,999,798.

 

  (4)

On January 6, 2021, we issued 13,689 shares of class B common stock to the stockholders of Onegevity LLC in exchange for their shares in Onegevity LLC as part of our merger with Onegevity. The aggregate value of the exchanged shares was $59,485,607.

 

  (5)

From January 2018 through                     , we granted stock options to purchase an aggregate of                 shares of common stock upon the exercise of options under our 2010 Plan at exercise prices per share ranging from $         to $        , for an aggregate exercise price of approximately $        .

The offers, sales and issuances of the securities described in Items 15(1), 15(2) and 15(3) and 15(4) were exempt from registration under the Securities Act under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act or Regulation D promulgated thereunder as transactions by an issuer not involving a public offering. The recipients of securities in each of these transactions acquired the securities for investment only and not with a view to or for sale in connection with any distribution thereof and appropriate legends were affixed to the securities issued in these transactions. Each of the recipients of securities in these transactions was an accredited person and had adequate access, through employment, business or other relationships, to information about the registrant.

The offers, sales and issuances of the securities described in Items 15(4) and 15(5) were exempt from registration under the Securities Act under either (1) Rule 701 in that the transactions were under compensatory benefit plans and contracts relating to compensation as provided under Rule 701 or (2) Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act as transactions by an issuer not involving any public offering. The recipients of such securities were the registrant’s employees, consultants or directors and received the securities under our 2010 Plan. The recipients of securities in each of these transactions represented their intention to acquire the securities for investment only and not with view to or for sale in connection with any distribution thereof and appropriate legends were affixed to the securities issued in these transactions.

Item 16. Exhibit and Financial Statement Schedules

(a) Exhibits.

See the Exhibit Index immediately preceding the signature page hereto for a list of exhibits filed as part of this registration statement on Form S-1, which Exhibit Index is incorporated herein by reference.

(b) Financial Statement Schedules.

Schedules have been omitted because the information required to be set forth therein is not applicable or is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.

Item 17. Undertakings

The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the underwriters at the closing specified in the underwriting agreements, certificates in such denominations and registered in such names as required by the underwriters to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by

 

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a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

The undersigned hereby undertakes that:

 

  (1)

For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, the information omitted from the form of prospectus 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 of 1933 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.

 

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Exhibit Index

 

Exhibit
number

 

Description

  1.1*   Form of Underwriting Agreement.
  3.1   Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, as currently in effect.
  3.2   Form of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, to be in effect upon the completion of this offering.
  3.3   Bylaws of the Registrant, as currently in effect.
  3.4   Form of Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant, to be in effect upon the completion of this offering.
  4.1   Fourth Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement by and among the Registrant and certain of its stockholders, dated July 5, 2018.
  4.2   Fourth Amended and Restated Stockholders Agreement by and among the Registrant and certain of its stockholders, dated July 5, 2018.
  4.3   Specimen common stock certificate of the Registrant.
  5.1*   Opinion of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation.
10.1+*   Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Registrant and each of its directors and executive officers.
10.2+   2010 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, and forms of agreement thereunder.
10.3+   Restated 2020 Onegevity Equity Plan, and forms of agreement thereunder.
10.4+*   2021 Equity Incentive Plan and forms of agreements thereunder, to be in effect upon the completion of this offering.
10.5+*   2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan and forms of agreements thereunder, to be in effect upon the completion of this offering.
10.6(a)+*   Confirmatory Employment Letter with Paul F. Jacobson.
10.6(b)+*   Confirmatory Employment Letter with William C. McCamy.
10.6(c)+*   Confirmatory Employment Letter with Thomas P. McKenna.
10.7+   Employee Incentive Compensation Plan.
10.8(a)+*   Change in Control and Severance Agreement with Paul F. Jacobson.
10.8(b)+*   Change in Control and Severance Agreement with William C. McCamy.
10.8(c)+*   Change in Control and Severance Agreement with Thomas P. McKenna.
10.9+   Outside Director Compensation Policy.
10.10#   Lease Agreement between the Registrant and Summerville Owner LLC, dated September 16, 2019, as amended.
10.11   Agreement of Lease between the Registrant and Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C, dated March 14, 2013, as amended.
10.12   Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease between the Registrant and Icon Owner Pool 1 SF Non-Business Parks, LLC, dated October 25, 2019.
10.13#   Vendor Agreement between the Registrant and BioTE Medical, LLC, dated December 1, 2020.

 

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Exhibit
number

  

Description

10.14    Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement between the Registrant and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, dated February 12, 2021.
10.15    Fee Letter between the Registrant and Mitsui & Co., Ltd., dated February 12, 2021.
10.16    Fee Letter between the Registrant and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, dated February 12, 2021.
10.17    Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement between the Registrant and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, dated February 14, 2020.
10.18    Fee Letter between the Registrant and Mitsui & Co., Ltd., dated February 14, 2020.
10.19    Fee Letter between the Registrant and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, dated February 14, 2020.
10.20    Reimbursement Agreement between the Registrant and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, dated November 30, 2018.
10.21    Fee Letter between the Registrant and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, dated November 30, 2018.
10.22    Fee Letter between the Registrant and Mitsui & Co., Ltd., dated November 30, 2018.
10.23    Unconditional Guaranty between the Registrant and Truist Bank, dated June 2, 2020.
10.24#    Authorized Reseller Agreement between the Registrant and Pattern Inc., dated November 25, 2019, as amended.
10.25#    First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement between the Registrant and Emerson Ecologics, LLC, dated August 31, 2020, as amended.
10.26*    Nominating, Observer, and Secondment Agreement between the Registrant, Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, and Mitsui & Co., Ltd., dated                 , 2021.
21.1    Subsidiaries of the Registrant
23.1    Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
23.2*    Consent of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation (included in Exhibit 5.1).
24.1    Power of Attorney (see page II-8 to this Form S-1).
99.1    Consent of Sarah M. Kauss
99.2    Consent of Saloni S. Varma

 

*

To be filed by amendment.

+

Indicated management contract or compensatory plan.

#

Portions of the exhibit have been omitted as the Registrant has determined (i) the omitted information is not materials; and (ii) the Registrant customarily and actually treats the omitted information as private or confidential.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in New York, New York on July 16, 2021.

 

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.
By:  

/s/ Paul F. Jacobson

  Paul F. Jacobson
  Chief Executive Officer

 

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POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Paul F. Jacobson and Scott S. Wheeler as his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and substitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities to sign any or all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to this registration statement and any and all additional registration statements pursuant to Rule 462(b) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and all other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as they, he or she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact and agents or any of them, or their, his or her substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/s/ Paul F. Jacobson

Paul F. Jacobson

  

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer)

  July 16, 2021

/s/ Scott S. Wheeler

Scott S. Wheeler

  

Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

  July 16, 2021

/s/ Thomas P. McKenna

Thomas P. McKenna

  

Chief Operating Officer and Director

  July 16, 2021

/s/ Riccardo C. Braglia

Riccardo C. Braglia

  

Director

  July 16, 2021

/s/ Yasuhiro Oki

Yasuhiro Oki

  

Director

  July 16, 2021

/s/ Toru Yoshimura

Toru Yoshimura

  

Director

  July 16, 2021

/s/ Toshitaka Inuzuka

Toshitaka Inuzuka

  

Director

  July 16, 2021

/s/ Tetsu Watanabe

Tetsu Watanabe

  

Director

  July 16, 2021

 

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Exhibit 3.1

SIXTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

(Pursuant to Sections 242 and 245 of the

General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware)

Thorne HealthTech, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “General Corporation Law”),

DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

1. That the name of this corporation is Thorne HealthTech, Inc., and that this corporation was initially incorporated under the name of Thorne Holding Corp. pursuant to a Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on June 17, 2010 (the “Original Certificate”). The Original Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to an Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on June 23, 2010 (the “First Restated Certificate”). The First Restated Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on May 10, 2011 (the “Second Restated Certificate”), which Second Restated Certificate was subsequently amended pursuant to a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 10, 2012. The Second Restated Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on May 29, 2015 (the “Third Restated Certificate”). The Third Amended and Restated Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on November 20, 2017 (the “Fourth Restated Certificate”). The Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on October 3, 2018 (as amended, the “Fifth Restated Certificate”), and the Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate was amended by that certain Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on November 13, 2020, changing the name of the corporation to Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

2. Pursuant to Sections 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law, this Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation amends and restates the Fifth Restated Certificate in its entirety.

3. This Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation was duly adopted by the written consent of the Board of Directors of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. and by the written consent of the stockholders of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. in accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections 141, 228, 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law.


4. The text of the Fifth Restated Certificate is hereby restated and further amended to read in its entirety as follows:

FIRST: The name of this corporation is Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Corporation”).

SECOND: The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware is Corporation Service Company, 251 Little Falls Drive, Wilmington, DE 19808, County of New Castle. The name of its registered agent at such address is Corporation Service Company.

THIRD: The nature of the business or purposes to be conducted or promoted is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law.

FOURTH: The Corporation is authorized to issue shares of stock as follows:

  The total number of shares of all classes of stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is 222,700 shares, consisting of (i) 142,000 shares of Class A Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share (“Class A Common Stock”), (ii) 20,000 shares of Class B Common Stock, no par value (“Class B Common Stock” and collectively with the Class A Common Stock, “Common Stock”), and (iii) 60,700 shares of Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share (“Preferred Stock”), all of which are hereby designated “Series E Preferred Stock” (“Series E Preferred Stock”).

This Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation shall become effective upon the filing and acceptance hereof by the Delaware Secretary of State (the “Effective Time”).

The following is a statement of the designations and the powers, privileges and rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof in respect of each class of capital stock of the Corporation. Unless otherwise indicated, references to “Sections” or “Subsections” in this Article Fourth refer to sections and subsections of this Article Fourth.

A. COMMON STOCK

1. General. The voting, dividend and liquidation rights of the holders of the Common Stock are subject to and qualified by the rights, powers and preferences of the holders of the Preferred Stock set forth herein.

2. Voting.

2.1 Class A Common Stock. The holders of the Class A Common Stock are entitled to one (1) vote for each share of Class A Common Stock held at all meetings of stockholders (and written actions in lieu of meetings); provided, however, that, except as otherwise required by law, holders of Class A Common Stock, as such, shall not be entitled to vote on any amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation that relates solely to any terms of the Series E

 

2


Preferred Stock with respect to which the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock are entitled to vote thereon pursuant to the Certificate of Incorporation or pursuant to the General Corporation Law. There shall be no cumulative voting. The number of authorized shares of Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by (in addition to any vote of the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock that may be required by the terms of the Certificate of Incorporation) the affirmative vote of the holders of shares of capital stock of the Corporation representing a majority of the votes represented by all outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the General Corporation Law.

2.2 Class B Common Stock. The holders of the Class B Common Stock shall not be entitled to vote on any matters, except as may be required pursuant to the General Corporation Law.

B. CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK

Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time in one or more series, each of such series to consist of such number of shares and to have such terms, rights, powers, privileges and preferences, and the restrictions, qualifications and limitations with respect thereto, as stated or expressed herein. All shares of the authorized Preferred Stock of the Corporation are hereby designated “Series E Preferred Stock” with the following rights, preferences, powers, privileges and restrictions, qualifications and limitations. Unless otherwise indicated, references to “Sections” or “Subsections” in this Part B of this Article Fourth refer to sections and subsections of Part B of this Article Fourth.

 

  1.

Dividends.

For purposes of this Certificate of Incorporation, “Series E Original Issue Price” shall initially mean $2,280.03 per share, subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other events affecting the Series E Preferred Stock.

1.1 Dividends or Repurchases. Subject to the last sentence of Section 2.1, unless otherwise consented to by holders of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall not declare, pay or set aside any dividends or distribution on shares of Common Stock or declare, pay or set aside any amounts in connection with the repurchase or redemption of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, or any similar transaction, except for repurchases of stock from former employees, officers, directors, consultants or other persons who performed services for the Corporation or any subsidiary pursuant to any written agreement approved by the Board of Directors, until each holder of Series E Preferred Stock has received cumulative distributions under Section 2.1(a) in an amount per share equal to the Series E Original Issue Price.

 

  2.

Dividends, Distribution, Liquidation, Dissolution or Winding Up; Certain Mergers, Consolidations and Asset Sales.

 

  2.1

Payments to Holders of Series E Preferred Stock and Common Stock.

 

3


(a) In the event the Board of Directors determines to declare the payment of any dividends or make any other distributions to the stockholders of the Corporation (other than in connection with a Qualified IPO, a Liquidation Event or a Deemed Liquidation Event), the assets of the Corporation then available for distribution to its stockholders, whether from capital, surplus or earnings, shall be distributed in the following order of priority:

(i) first, to the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock then outstanding until such holders have received on a cumulative basis, including all distributions made to such holder after the Effective Time on account of their Series E Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 2.1(a)(i), an amount per share equal to the Series E Original Issue Price; and

(ii) second, after payment in full of all amounts distributable under Subsection 2.1(a)(i), to the holders of Class A Common Stock and Series E Preferred Stock, on a pro rata pari passu basis based on the number of shares of Class A Common Stock then held by each such holder (assuming conversion of all outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock into Class A Common Stock, whether or not then convertible in accordance with the terms thereof).

(b) In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation (each, a “Liquidation Event”) or Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined below), the assets of the Corporation then available for distribution to its stockholders, whether from capital, surplus or earnings, shall be distributed in the following order of priority (subject to the last sentence of this Section 2.1):

(i) first, to the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock then outstanding until such holders have received an amount per share equal to the Series E Original Issue Price; and

(ii) second, after payment in full of all amounts distributable under Subsection 2.1(b)(i), to the holders of shares of Common Stock then outstanding on a pro rata basis based on the number of shares of Common Stock then held by each such holder.

Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 2.1 or any other provision of this Certificate of Incorporation, the proceeds of any Deemed Liquidation Event may be paid to the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agreement or agreements providing for such Deemed Liquidation Event if such agreement or agreements are approved by the affirmative vote or written consent of the holders of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the outstanding shares of the Series E Preferred Stock.

 

  2.2

Deemed Liquidation Events.

2.2.1 Definition. Each of the following events shall be considered a “Deemed Liquidation Event” unless the holders of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock elect otherwise by written notice to the Corporation at least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of any such event:

 

4


(a) a merger or consolidation in which

(i) the Corporation is a constituent party, or

(ii) a subsidiary of the Corporation is a constituent party and the Corporation issues shares of its capital stock pursuant to such merger or consolidation,

except any such merger or consolidation involving the Corporation or a subsidiary in which the shares of capital stock of the Corporation outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation continue to represent, or are converted into or exchanged for shares of capital stock that represent, immediately following such merger or consolidation, at least a majority, by voting power, of the capital stock of (1) the surviving or resulting corporation, or (2) if the surviving or resulting corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of another corporation immediately following such merger or consolidation, the parent corporation of such surviving or resulting corporation (provided that for the purpose of this Subsection 2.2.1, all shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Options (as defined below) outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation or upon conversion of Convertible Securities (as defined below) outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation shall be deemed to be outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation and, if applicable, converted or exchanged in such merger or consolidation on the same terms as the actual outstanding shares of Common Stock are converted or exchanged);

(b) the sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition, in a single transaction or series of related transactions, by the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation of all or substantially all the assets of the Corporation or the Corporation and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, except where such sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition is to a wholly owned subsidiary of the Corporation; or

(c) a transaction or series of related transactions in which an entity or individual, or a group of related entities and/or individuals, acquires shares, in the aggregate (not including any shares owned by such entity or individual or group of related entities and/or individuals prior to such transaction or series of related transactions), representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding voting power of the Corporation.

For purposes of this Article Fourth, the term “Designated Holders” shall mean Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation (“Mitsui”), and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, a Japanese corporation (“Kirin”), respectively, so long as such respective entity (together with any of its affiliates) at the applicable date and time continues to hold a number of shares of Series E Preferred Stock (including for this purpose the number of shares of Series E Preferred Stock that were converted into shares of Common Stock then held by such entity) equal to no less than fifty percent (50%) of the number of shares of Series E Preferred Stock originally issued to such entity (after giving effect to any stock dividends, stock splits, combinations or other events affecting the Series E Preferred Stock as a class).

2.2.2 Effecting a Deemed Liquidation Event. Subject to the last sentence of Section 2.1, the Corporation shall not have the power to effect a Deemed Liquidation Event referred to in Subsection 2.2.1(a)(i) unless the agreement or plan of merger or consolidation for such transaction provides that the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Section 2.1.

 

5


2.2.3 Amount Deemed Paid or Distributed. The amount deemed paid or distributed to the holders of capital stock of the Corporation upon any such merger, consolidation, sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license, other disposition or redemption shall be the cash or the fair market value of the property, rights or securities paid or distributed to such holders by the Corporation or the acquiring person, firm or other entity. The fair market value of such property, rights or securities shall be determined in good faith by the Board of Directors and except that any securities to be distributed to stockholders in a Liquidation Event or a Deemed Liquidation Event shall be valued as follows:

(a) The method of valuation of securities not subject to investment letters or other similar restrictions on free marketability:

(i) if traded on a national securities exchange or a recognized national quotation system, then the value shall be deemed to be the average of the closing prices of the securities on such exchange or system over the thirty (30) day period ending three (3) days prior to the distribution;

(ii) if actively traded over-the-counter, then the value shall be deemed to be the average of the closing bid prices over the thirty (30) day period ending three (3) days prior to the distribution; or

(iii) if there is no active public market, then the value shall be the fair market value thereof, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors.

(b) The method of valuation of securities subject to investment letters or other similar restrictions on free marketability shall be to make an appropriate discount from the market value determined above in Subsections 2.2.3(a)(i), (ii) and (iii), to reflect the approximate fair market value thereof, with such discount determined in good faith by the Board of Directors.

2.2.4 Allocation of Escrow. In the case of any Deemed Liquidation Event, if any portion of the consideration payable to the Corporation, its subsidiaries or to stockholders of the Corporation is placed into escrow and/or is payable to the Corporation, its subsidiaries or to stockholders of the Corporation subject to contingencies or the passage of time, including, without limitation, any milestones or earn-out provisions, the agreement or agreements providing for such Deemed Liquidation Event shall provide that (a) the portion of such consideration that is not placed in escrow and not subject to any such contingencies or the passage of time (the “Initial Consideration”) shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Section 2.1 as if the Initial Consideration were the only consideration payable in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event, and (b) any additional consideration which is paid or becomes payable to the Corporation, its subsidiaries or stockholders of the Corporation upon release from escrow, satisfaction of contingencies or after the passage of time shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Section 2.1 after taking into account the previous payment of the Initial Consideration and any amounts previously released or paid and allocated among such holders upon release from escrow, satisfaction of contingencies or after the passage of time as part of the same transaction.

 

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3. Voting.

3.1 General. On any matter presented to the stockholders of the Corporation for their action or consideration at any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation (or by written consent of stockholders in lieu of meeting), each holder of outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock shall be entitled to cast the number of votes equal to the number of whole shares of Class A Common Stock held by such holder or into which the shares of Series E Preferred Stock held by such holder were convertible (whether or not then convertible in accordance with the terms thereof) as of immediately prior to the record date for determining stockholders entitled to vote on such matter. Except as provided by law or as provided in this Certificate of Incorporation, holders of Series E Preferred Stock shall vote together with the holders of Class A Common Stock as a single class and on an as-converted to Class A Common Stock basis.

3.2 Election of Directors. The number of directors that shall constitute the whole Board of Directors initially shall be seven (7) and thereafter shall be such number as from time to time shall be fixed by, or in the manner provided in, the Fourth Amended and Restated Stockholder Agreement, dated as of July 5, 2018, by and among the Corporation and the stockholders identified therein, as the same may be amended, modified, supplemented and/or restated from time to time (the “Stockholder Agreement”), and the Bylaws of the Corporation. Any director elected as provided in the Stockholder Agreement may be removed without cause by, and only by, the stockholder(s) entitled to elect such director pursuant to the Stockholder Agreement, given either at a special meeting of such stockholders duly called for that purpose or pursuant to a written consent of such stockholders. At any meeting held for the purpose of electing a director, the presence in person or by proxy of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class or series entitled to elect such director shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of electing such director. A vacancy in any directorship filled by a holder or the holders of any class or series shall be filled only by vote or written consent in lieu of a meeting of such holder or the holders of such class or series.

3.3 Series E Preferred Stock Protective Provisions. At any time when any shares of Series E Preferred Stock are outstanding, and in addition to any other vote required by law or this Certificate of Incorporation, without the written consent or affirmative vote of each of the Designated Holders, if any, given in writing or by vote at a meeting, consenting or voting (as the case may be) separately, the Corporation shall not, either directly or by amendment, merger, consolidation or otherwise:

(i) amend, alter or repeal any material provision of the Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of the Corporation or the certificate of incorporation, operating agreement, bylaws or similar governance document of any subsidiary of the Corporation, including, without limitation, any amendment or alteration that would have the effect of increasing or decreasing the authorized number of shares of Preferred Stock or Common Stock, increasing or decreasing the authorized number of directors constituting the Board of Directors or amending, altering, changing or repealing the rights, preferences or privileges of the shares of the Series E Preferred Stock;

 

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(ii) create, grant, pledge, sell, offer, transfer or issue, or authorize the creation, grant, pledge, sale, offer, transfer or issuance, of any shares of capital stock of the Corporation or shares of capital stock or equity interests of any subsidiary of the Corporation (including any other securities convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for any shares of such capital stock or such equity interests, or any options, warrants, restricted shares, restricted share units, performance share units, stock appreciation rights, phantom stock or other rights of any kind to acquire any shares of such capital stock or such equity interests or such convertible or exercisable or exchangeable securities) or reclassify any existing stock or equity interests into a new class or series of stock or interests other than (x) the issuance by the Corporation of (A) Options to purchase up to 11,500 shares of Common Stock authorized and reserved for issuance under the Company’s 2010 Equity Incentive Plan (“Equity Incentive Plan”) as of the Effective Time, (B) (i) warrants to purchase Common Stock, which are outstanding as of the Effective Time and not otherwise redeemed in the Redemption (as defined in and pursuant to the Series E Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (as defined in Section 4.4.1(d) hereof)) and (ii) warrants to purchase Common Stock issued to the Purchasers (as defined in and pursuant to the Series E Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (as defined in Section 4.4.1(d) hereof)), (C) shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of such options or warrants, or (y) pursuant to the terms of any options, warrants, or other rights to acquire Common Stock (or securities convertible or exchangeable into Common Stock) outstanding as of the date hereof;

(iii) (A) enter into, or obligate the Corporation to enter into, any transaction that could constitute a Liquidation Event, a Deemed Liquidation Event or any similar extraordinary transaction involving or affecting the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries; (B) cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, or obligate any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, any merger, amalgamation, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization or similar extraordinary transaction; or (C) cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, or obligate any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, any transaction that would dissolve, liquidate or wind-up any such subsidiary;

(iv) enter into, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, or obligate the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, any transaction constituting the acquisition or disposition of another corporation or entity or assets thereof by the Corporation by consolidation, merger, purchase of all or substantially all of the assets, or other reorganization in which the Corporation or its applicable subsidiary acquires or disposes of, in a single transaction or series of related transactions, all or substantially all of the assets of such other corporation (or a division thereof) or entity (or a division thereof) or a majority of the voting power of equity ownership of such other entity;

(v) except pursuant to Section 4 of the Management Holders Agreement dated as of July 5, 2018 (the “Management Holders Agreement”), enter into, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, any agreement,

 

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transaction or arrangement with (a) any stockholder of the Corporation, (b) any officer or director of the Corporation or any of the Corporation’s subsidiaries or stockholders, (c) any immediate family member of any officer or director covered by clause (13), or (d) any affiliate of any person covered in clauses (a), (b) or (c); provided, that a Designated Holder’s approval shall not be required under this Section 3.3(v) if such Designated Holder or any of its affiliates is the only party entering into the applicable agreement, transaction or arrangement with the Corporation or the subsidiary of the Corporation, as applicable (for the avoidance of doubt, the other Designated Holder will retain its rights under this Section 3.3 with respect to such agreement, transaction or arrangement);

(vi) enter into, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, any new line of business that is material to the Corporation; make a change, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to make a change, in any line of business if such change is material to the Corporation; cease to engage, or cause or pewit any subsidiary of the Corporation to cease to engage, in any line of business if such cessation is material to the Corporation; or obligate the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation to do any of the foregoing;

(vii) except as approved by the Board of Directors (including a majority of the directors designated by the Designated Holders), incur, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to incur, any indebtedness for borrowed money in excess of $1,000,000 individually or $3,000,000 in the aggregate in any fiscal year, or create, or authorize the creation of, or issue, or authorize the issuance of (or cause or permit any subsidiary to take any such action) any debt security, including, without limitation, any debt security which by its terms is convertible into or exchangeable for any equity security of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation and any security of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation which may represent a combination of debt and equity, except, in each case, as provided for in the Corporation or any subsidiary’s then-effective annual budget;

(viii) except as approved by the Board of Directors (including a majority of the directors designated by the Designated Holders), grant liens or other encumbrances, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to grant liens or other encumbrances, on any assets of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation, except liens or encumbrances granted in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice;

(ix) except as approved by the Board of Directors (including a majority of the directors designated by the Designated Holders), make, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to make, capital or other expenditures in excess of $1,000,000 individually or $3,000,000 in the aggregate in any fiscal year, except, in each case, as provided for in the Corporation or any subsidiary’s then-effective annual budget;

 

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(x) sell, lease, license or otherwise dispose of, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to sell, lease, license or otherwise dispose of assets with a fair market value in excess of $1,000,000 individually or $3,000,000 in the aggregate, or otherwise outside of the ordinary course of business;

(xi) enter into, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, any agreement or transaction with a third party that would materially and adversely affect the interests of any Designated Holder with respect to commercial arrangements between such Designated Holder or its affiliates, on the one hand, and the Corporation or its affiliates, on the other hand;

(xii) except as approved by the Board of Directors (including a majority of the directors designated by the Designated Holders), appoint, terminate or materially change the compensation of, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to appoint, terminate or materially change the compensation of, the chief executive officer, president, chief financial officer, chief operating officer, chief technology officer, chief marketing officer or general counsel of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation;

(xiii) guarantee or lend money, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to guarantee or lend money, outside of the ordinary course of business;

(xiv) except as approved by the Board of Directors (including a majority of the directors designated by the Designated Holders), approve, implement or amend any stock-based on equity-linked compensation plan for employees of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation, or any other material benefit plan provided to employees of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation;

(xv) commence or terminate (including by settlement or compromise) litigation or other actions or proceedings, or grant any forbearance or waiver that (A) involves claims exceeding $50,000 individually or $250,000 in the aggregate, or (B) otherwise material to the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation;

(xvi) sell or otherwise transfer or dispose of any capital stock or equity interests of any subsidiary of the Corporation;

(xvii) commence any public offering of capital stock of the Corporation or of any capital stock or equity interests of any subsidiary of the Corporation except as described in Section 2.6(a) of the Stockholder Agreement;

(xviii) except as approved by the Board of Directors (including a majority of the directors designated by the Designated Holders), authorize or approve the annual budget of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation, or any amendments thereto;

(xix) declare, set aside, make or pay any dividend or other distribution, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to declare, set aside, make or pay

 

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any dividend or other distribution, whether payable in cash, stock, equity interests, property or otherwise, with respect to any of the capital stock of the Corporation or the capital stock or equity interests of any of its subsidiaries, other than any distribution related to repurchases of capital stock of the Corporation from former employees, officers, directors, consultants or other persons who performed services for the Corporation or any subsidiary pursuant to any written agreement approved by the Board of Directors;

(xx) except pursuant to Section 4 of the Management Holders Agreement, (A) reclassify, split, combine, subdivide or redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire, directly or indirectly, any of the Corporation’s capital stock or securities convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for any shares of the Corporation’s capital stock or (B) cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to reclassify, split, combine, subdivide or redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire, directly or indirectly, any of its capital stock or equity interests or securities convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for any of its capital stock or equity interests.

(xxi) make, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to make, any assignment for the benefit of creditors or any actions with respect to its bankruptcy, receivership, reorganization or insolvency;

(xxii) except pursuant to Section 4 of the Management Holders Agreement, enter into, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, a transaction with any affiliate, director, executive officer, partner, stockholder, member or manager of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation or any affiliate, director, executive officer, partner, stockholder, member or manager of any affiliate of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation, except the approval of a Designated Holder is not required if such Designated Holder (or affiliate thereof) is the only party transacting with the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation;

(xxiii) except as approved by the Board of Directors (including a majority of the directors designated by the Designated Holders), exercise, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to exercise, any consent or approval rights as an equity holder of (or by virtue of board or other applicable representation or control with respect to) any minority-owned entity or any successor entities thereof (by merger, acquisition of assets or otherwise), in each case with respect to any of the foregoing actions restricted by this Section 3.3; or

(xxiv) enter into, or cause or permit any subsidiary of the Corporation to enter into, any agreement to effect any of the foregoing actions restricted by this Section 3.3.

So long as the Stockholder Agreement is in effect, (i) the term “subsidiary” used in this Certificate shall be interpreted and applied consistently with the terms of the Stockholder Agreement, and (ii) without limiting the foregoing, the term “subsidiary” as used herein shall not be deemed to include or refer to any entity that is excluded from the definition of “Subsidiaries” in the Stockholder Agreement.

 

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4. Optional Conversion.

The holders of the Series E Preferred Stock shall have conversion rights as follows (the “Conversion Rights”):

4.1 Right to Convert.

4.1.1 Conversion Ratio. Each share of Series E Preferred Stock shall be convertible, at the option of the holder thereof, at any time and from time to time, and without the payment of additional consideration by the holder thereof, into such number of fully paid and nonassessable shares of Class A Common Stock as is determined by dividing the Series E Original Issue Price by the Conversion Price (as defined below) in effect at the time of conversion. The “Conversion Price” shall initially be equal to the Series E Original Issue Price. Such initial Conversion Price, and the rate at which shares of Series E Preferred Stock may be converted into shares of Class A Common Stock shall be subject to adjustment as provided below.

4.1.2 Termination of Conversion Rights. In the event of a Liquidation Event or a Deemed Liquidation Event, the Conversion Rights shall terminate at the close of business on the last full day preceding the date fixed for the payment of any such amounts distributable on such event to the holders of Series E Preferred Stock; provided such amounts are actually distributed to such holders upon the payment date.

4.2 Fractional Shares. No fractional shares of Class A Common Stock shall be issued upon conversion of the Series E Preferred Stock. In lieu of any fractional shares to which the holder would otherwise be entitled, the Corporation shall pay cash equal to such fraction multiplied by the fair market value of a share of Class A Common Stock as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors. Whether or not fractional shares would be issuable upon such conversion shall be determined on the basis of the total number of shares of Series E Preferred Stock the holder is at the time converting into Class A Common Stock and the aggregate number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon such conversion.

4.3 Mechanics of Conversion.

4.3.1 Notice of Conversion. In order for a holder of Series E Preferred Stock to voluntarily convert shares of Series E Preferred Stock into shares of Class A Common Stock, such holder shall surrender the certificate or certificates for such shares of Series E Preferred Stock (or, if such registered holder alleges that such certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, a lost certificate affidavit and agreement reasonably acceptable to the Corporation to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such certificate), at the office of the transfer agent for the Series E Preferred Stock (or at the principal office of the Corporation if the Corporation serves as its own transfer agent), together with written notice that such holder elects to convert all or any number of the shares of the Series E Preferred Stock represented by such certificate or certificates and, if applicable, any event on which such conversion is contingent. Such notice shall state such holder’s

 

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name or the names of the nominees in which such holder wishes the certificate or certificates for shares of Class A Common Stock to be issued. If required by the Corporation, certificates surrendered for conversion shall be endorsed or accompanied by a written instrument or instruments of transfer, in form reasonably satisfactory to the Corporation, duly executed by the registered holder or his, her or its attorney duly authorized in writing. The close of business on the date of receipt by the transfer agent (or by the Corporation if the Corporation serves as its own transfer agent) of such certificates (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) and notice shall be the time of conversion (the “Conversion Time”), and the shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the shares represented by such certificate shall be deemed to be outstanding of record as of such date. The Corporation shall, as soon as practicable after the Conversion Time, issue and deliver to such holder of Series E Preferred Stock, or to his, her or its nominees, a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon such conversion in accordance with the provisions hereof, a certificate for the number (if any) of the shares of Series E Preferred Stock represented by the surrendered certificate that were not converted into Class A Common Stock, make payment in cash as provided in Section 4.2 in lieu of any fraction of a share of Class A Common Stock otherwise issuable upon such conversion and make payment of any declared but unpaid dividends on the shares of Series E Preferred Stock converted.

4.3.2 Reservation of Shares. The Corporation shall at all times when the Series E Preferred Stock shall be outstanding, reserve and keep available out of its authorized but unissued capital stock, for the purpose of effecting the conversion of the Series E Preferred Stock, such number of its duly authorized shares of Class A Common Stock as shall from time to time be sufficient to effect the conversion of all outstanding Series E Preferred Stock; and if at any time the number of authorized but unissued shares of Class A Common Stock shall not be sufficient to effect the conversion of all then-outstanding shares of the Series E Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall take such corporate action as may be necessary to increase its authorized but unissued shares of Class A Common Stock to such number of shares as shall be sufficient for such purposes, including, without limitation, engaging in best efforts to obtain the requisite stockholder approval of any necessary amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation. Before taking any action which would cause an adjustment reducing the Conversion Price below the then par value of the shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the Series E Preferred Stock, the Corporation will take any corporate action which may, in the opinion of its counsel, be necessary in order that the Corporation may validly and legally issue fully paid and nonassessable shares of Class A Common Stock at such adjusted Conversion Price.

4.3.3 Effect of Conversion. All shares of Series E Preferred Stock which shall have been surrendered for conversion as herein provided shall no longer be deemed to be outstanding and all rights with respect to such shares shall immediately cease and terminate at the Conversion Time, except only the right of the holders thereof to receive shares of Class A Common Stock in exchange therefor, to receive payment in lieu of any fraction of a share otherwise issuable upon such conversion as provided in Section 4.2 and to receive payment of any dividends declared but unpaid thereon. Any shares of Series E Preferred Stock so converted shall be retired and cancelled and may not be reissued as shares of such series, and the Corporation may thereafter take such appropriate action (without the need for stockholder action) as may be necessary to reduce the authorized number of shares of Series E Preferred Stock accordingly.

 

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4.3.4 No Further Adjustment. Upon any such conversion, no adjustment to the Conversion Price shall be made for any declared but unpaid dividends on the Series E Preferred Stock surrendered for conversion or on the Class A Common Stock delivered upon conversion.

4.3.5 Taxes. The Corporation shall pay any and all issue and other similar taxes that may be payable in respect of any issuance or delivery of shares of Class A Common Stock upon conversion of shares of Series E Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 4. The Corporation shall not, however, be required to pay any tax which may be payable in respect of any transfer involved in the issuance and delivery of shares of Class A Common Stock in a name other than that in which the shares of Series E Preferred Stock so converted were registered, and no such issuance or delivery shall be made unless and until the person or entity requesting such issuance has paid to the Corporation the amount of any such tax or has established, to the satisfaction of the Corporation, that such tax has been paid.

4.4 Adjustments to Conversion Price for Diluting Issues.

4.4.1 Special Definitions. For purposes of this Article Fourth or any other applicable Section specified herein, the following definitions shall apply:

(a) “Option” shall mean rights, options or warrants to subscribe for, purchase or otherwise acquire Common Stock or Convertible Securities.

(b) “Original Issue Date” shall mean, with respect to the Series E Preferred Stock, the date on which the first share of Series E Preferred Stock was issued.

(c) “Convertible Securities” shall mean any evidences or instruments of indebtedness, shares or other securities directly or indirectly convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for Common Stock, but excluding Options.

(d) “Series E Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement” means that certain Preferred Stock Purchase and Securities Redemption Agreement, dated as of July 5, 2018, by and among the Corporation and the parties named therein.

(e) “Additional Shares of Common Stock” shall mean all shares of Common Stock issued (or, pursuant to Subsection 4.4.3 below, deemed to be issued) by the Corporation after the Original Issue Date, other than (i) the following shares of Common Stock, and (ii) the following shares of Common Stock deemed issued pursuant to the following Options and Convertible Securities (clauses (i) and (ii) collectively, “Exempted Securities”):

(i) shares of Common Stock issued or deemed issued pursuant to the Series E Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement;

(ii) shares of Common Stock issued or deemed issued as a dividend or distribution on the Series E Preferred Stock;

(iii) shares of Common Stock issued by reason of a dividend, stock split, split-up or other distribution on shares of Common Stock that is covered by Sections 4.5, 4.6, 4.7 or 4.8 below;

 

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(iv) Options to purchase up to 11,500 shares of Common Stock authorized and reserved for issuance under the Equity Incentive Plan as of the Effective Time (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization affecting such shares);

(v) shares of Common Stock or Convertible Securities actually issued (A) upon the exercise of the Options described in subparagraph (iv) or upon the exercise of any Options outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time; or (B) upon the conversion of Convertible Securities outstanding as of the Effective Time and not otherwise redeemed in the Redemption (as defined in the Series E Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement) or issued to the Purchasers as defined in and pursuant to the Series E Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, in each case provided such issuance is pursuant to the terms of such Option or Convertible Security and all adjustments to the Conversion Price resulting from the issuance of such Options or Convertible Securities have been made in accordance with this Section 4.4; and

(vi) shares of Class B Common Stock.

4.4.2 No Adjustment of Conversion Price. No adjustment in the Conversion Price shall be made as the result of the issuance or deemed issuance of any Additional Shares of Common Stock if the Corporation receives written notice from the holders of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the then-outstanding shares of the Series E Preferred Stock agreeing that no such adjustment shall be made as the result of the issuance or deemed issuance of such Additional Shares of Common Stock,

4.4.3 Deemed Issue of Additional Shares of Common Stock.

(a) If the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date shall issue any Options or Convertible Securities (excluding Options or Convertible Securities which are themselves Exempted Securities) or shall fix a record date for the determination of holders of any class of securities entitled to receive any such Options or Convertible Securities, then the maximum number of shares of Common Stock (as set forth in the instrument relating thereto, assuming the satisfaction of any conditions to exercisability, convertibility or exchangeability but without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such number) issuable upon the exercise of such Options or, in the case of Convertible Securities and Options therefor, the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, shall be deemed to be Additional Shares of Common Stock issued as of the time of such issue or, in case such a record date shall have been fixed, as of the close of business on such record date.

(b) If the terms of any Option or Convertible Security, the issuance of which resulted in an adjustment to the Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4, are revised as a result of an amendment to such terms or any other adjustment pursuant to the provisions of such Option or Convertible Security (but excluding automatic adjustments to such terms pursuant to anti-dilution or similar provisions of such Option or Convertible Security) to provide for either (1) any increase or decrease in the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any such Option or Convertible Security, or (2) any increase or decrease in the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, then, effective upon such increase or decrease becoming effective, the Conversion Price

 

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computed upon the original issue of such Option or Convertible Security (or upon the occurrence of a record date with respect thereto) shall be readjusted to such Conversion Price as would have obtained had such revised terms been in effect upon the original date of issuance of such Option or Convertible Security. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no readjustment pursuant to this clause (b) shall have the effect of increasing the Conversion Price to an amount which exceeds the lower of (i) the Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to the original adjustment made as a result of the issuance of such Option or Convertible Security, or (ii) the Conversion Price that would have resulted from any issuances of Additional Shares of Common Stock (other than deemed issuances of Additional Shares of Common Stock as a result of the issuance of such Option or Convertible Security) between the original adjustment date and such readjustment date.

(c) If the terms of any Option or Convertible Security (excluding Options or Convertible Securities which are themselves Exempted Securities), the issuance of which did not result in an adjustment to the Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4 (either because the consideration per share (determined pursuant to Subsection 4.4.5) of the Additional Shares of Common Stock subject thereto was equal to or greater than the Conversion Price then in effect, or because such Option or Convertible Security was issued before the Original Issue Date), are revised after the Original Issue Date as a result of an amendment to such terms or any other adjustment pursuant to the provisions of such Option or Convertible Security (but excluding automatic adjustments to such terms pursuant to anti-dilution or similar provisions of such Option or Convertible Security) to provide for either (1) any increase or decrease in the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion or exchange of any such Option or Convertible Security, or (2) any increase or decrease in the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion or exchange, then such Option or Convertible Security, as so amended or adjusted, and the Additional Shares of Common Stock subject thereto (determined in the manner provided in Subsection 4.4.3(a)) shall be deemed to have been issued effective upon such increase or decrease becoming effective.

(d) Upon the expiration or termination of any unexercised Option or unconverted or unexchanged Convertible Security (or portion thereof) which resulted (either upon its original issuance or upon a revision of its terms) in an adjustment to the Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4, the Conversion Price shall be readjusted to such Conversion Price as would have obtained had such Option or Convertible Security (or portion thereof) never been issued.

(e) If the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any Option or Convertible Security, or the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, is calculable at the time such Option or Convertible Security is issued or amended but is subject to adjustment based upon subsequent events, any adjustment to the Conversion Price provided for in this Subsection 4.4.3 shall be effected at the time of such issuance or amendment based on such number of shares or amount of consideration without regard to any provisions for subsequent adjustments (and any subsequent adjustments shall be treated as provided in clauses (b) and (c) of this Subsection 4.4.3). If the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any Option or Convertible Security, or the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, cannot be calculated at all at the time such Option or

 

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Convertible Security is issued or amended, any adjustment to the Conversion Price that would result under the terms of this Subsection 4.4.3 at the time of such issuance or amendment shall instead be effected at the time such number of shares and/or amount of consideration is first calculable (even if subject to subsequent adjustments), assuming for purposes of calculating such adjustment to the Conversion Price that such issuance or amendment took place at the time such calculation can first be made.

4.4.4 Certain Adjustments of Conversion Price Upon Issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock.

(a) Adjustment of the Conversion Price Upon Issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock. In the event the Corporation shall at any time after the Original Issue Date issue Additional Shares of Common Stock (including Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to be issued pursuant to Subsection 4.4.3), without consideration or for a consideration per share less than the Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance, then the Conversion Price shall be reduced, concurrently with such issue, to a price (calculated to the nearest one-hundredth of a cent) determined in accordance with the following formula:

CP2 = CP1 * (A + B) ÷ (A + C).

For purposes of the foregoing formula, the following definitions shall apply:

(i) “CP2” shall mean the Conversion Price in effect immediately after such issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock

(ii) “CP1” shall mean the Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock;

(iii) ”A” shall mean the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock (treating for this purpose as outstanding all shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Options outstanding immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance or upon conversion or exchange of Convertible Securities (including the Series E Preferred Stock) outstanding (assuming exercise of any outstanding Options therefor) immediately prior to such issue);

(iv) ”B” shall mean the number of shares of Common Stock that would have been issued or deemed issued if such Additional Shares of Common Stock had been issued at a price per share equal to CP1 (determined by dividing the aggregate consideration received by the Corporation in respect of such issue by CP1); and

(v) “C” shall mean the number of such Additional Shares of Common Stock issued in such transaction.

4.4.5 Determination of Consideration. For purposes of this Section 4.4, the consideration received by the Corporation for the issuance or deemed issuance of any Additional Shares of Common Stock shall be computed as follows:

 

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(a) Cash and Property: Such consideration shall:

(i) insofar as it consists of cash, be computed at the aggregate amount of cash received by the Corporation, excluding amounts paid or payable for accrued interest;

(ii) insofar as it consists of property other than cash, be computed at the fair market value thereof at the time of such issue, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors; and (iii)in the event Additional Shares of Common Stock are issued together with other shares or securities or other assets of the Corporation for consideration which covers both, be the proportion of such consideration so received, computed as provided in clauses (i) and (ii) above, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors.

(b) Options and Convertible Securities. The consideration per share received by the Corporation for Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to have been issued pursuant to Subsection 4.4.3, relating to Options and Convertible Securities, shall be determined by dividing:

(i) the total amount, if any, received or receivable by the Corporation as consideration for the issue of such Options or Convertible Securities, plus the minimum aggregate amount of additional consideration (as set forth in the instruments relating thereto, without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such consideration) payable to the Corporation upon the exercise of such Options or the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, or in the case of Options for Convertible Securities, the exercise of such Options for Convertible Securities and the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, by

(ii) the maximum number of shares of Common Stock (as set forth in the instruments relating thereto, without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such number) issuable upon the exercise of such Options or the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, or in the case of Options for Convertible Securities, the exercise of such Options for Convertible Securities and the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities.

4.4.6 Multiple Closing Dates. In the event the Corporation shall issue on more than one (1) date Additional Shares of Common Stock that are a part of one (1) transaction or a series of related transactions and that would result in an adjustment to the Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4, then, upon the final such issuance, the Conversion Price shall be readjusted to give effect to all such issuances as if they occurred on the date of the first such issuance (and without giving effect to any additional adjustments as a result of any such subsequent issuances within such period).

4.5 Adjustment for Stock Splits and Combinations. In case the Corporation shall at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date effect a subdivision of its outstanding Common Stock into a greater number of shares, the Conversion Price in effect immediately before that subdivision shall be proportionately reduced, and conversely, in case the outstanding shares of Common Stock shall be combined into a smaller number of shares, the Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to such combination shall be proportionately increased. Any adjustment under this subsection shall become effective at the close of business on the date the subdivision or combination becomes effective.

 

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4.6 Adjustment for Certain Dividends and Distributions. In the event the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date shall make or issue, or fix a record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive, a dividend or other distribution payable on the Common Stock in additional shares of Common Stock, then and in each such event the Conversion Price in effect immediately before such event shall be decreased as of the time of such issuance or, in the event such a record date shall have been fixed, as of the close of business on such record date, by multiplying the Conversion Price then in effect by a fraction:

(1) the numerator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance or the close of business on such record date, and

(2) the denominator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance or the close of business on such record date plus the number of shares of Common Stock issuable in payment of such dividend or distribution.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) if such record date shall have been fixed and such dividend is not fully paid or if such distribution is not fully made on the date fixed therefor, the Conversion Price shall be recomputed accordingly as of the close of business on such record date and thereafter the Conversion Price shall be adjusted pursuant to this subsection as of the time of actual payment of such dividends or distributions; and (b) that no such adjustment shall be made if the holders of Series E Preferred Stock simultaneously receive a dividend or other distribution of shares of Common Stock in a number equal to the number of shares of Common Stock as they would have received if all outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock had been converted into Common Stock on the date of such event.

4.7 Adjustments for Other Dividends and Distributions. In the event the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date shall make or issue, or fix a record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive, a dividend or other distribution payable in securities of the Corporation (other than a distribution of shares of Common Stock in respect of outstanding shares of Common Stock) or in other property and the provisions of Section 1 do not apply to such dividend or distribution, then and in each such event the holders of Series E Preferred Stock shall receive, simultaneously with the distribution to the holders of Common Stock, a dividend or other distribution of such securities, cash or other property in an amount equal to the amount of such securities, cash or other property as such holders of Series E Preferred Stock would have received if all outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock held by such holders had been converted into Common Stock on the date of such event (or immediately prior to the record date for determining the holders entitled to receive the applicable dividend or distribution, as applicable).

4.8 Adjustment for Merger or Reorganization, etc. Subject to the provisions of Section 2.2, if there shall occur any reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger involving the Corporation in which the Common Stock (but not the Series E Preferred Stock) is converted into or exchanged for securities, cash or other property (other than a transaction covered by Sections 4.4, 4.6 or 4.7), then, following any such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger, each share of Series E Preferred Stock shall thereafter be

 

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convertible in lieu of the Common Stock into which it was convertible prior to such event into the kind and amount of securities, cash or other property which a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock of the Corporation issuable upon conversion of one (1) share of Series E Preferred Stock immediately prior to such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger would have been entitled to receive pursuant to such transaction; and, in such case, appropriate adjustment (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors) shall be made in the application of the provisions in this Section 4 with respect to the rights and interests thereafter of the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock, to the end that the provisions set forth in this Section 4 (including provisions with respect to changes in and other adjustments of the Conversion Price) shall thereafter be applicable, as nearly as reasonably may be, in relation to any securities or other property thereafter deliverable upon the conversion of the Series E Preferred Stock.

4.9 Certificate as to Adjustments. Upon the occurrence of each adjustment or readjustment of the Conversion Price pursuant to this Section 4, the Corporation at its expense shall, as promptly as reasonably practicable but in any event not later than ten (10) days thereafter, compute such adjustment or readjustment in accordance with the terms hereof and furnish to each holder of Series E Preferred Stock a certificate setting forth such adjustment or readjustment (including the kind and amount of securities, cash or other property into which the Series E Preferred Stock is convertible) and showing in detail the facts upon which such adjustment or readjustment is based. The Corporation shall, as promptly as reasonably practicable after the written request at any time of any holder of Series E Preferred Stock (but in any event not later than ten (10) days thereafter), furnish or cause to be furnished to such holder a certificate setting forth (i) the Conversion Price then in effect, and (ii) the number of shares of Common Stock and the amount, if any, of other securities, cash or property which then would be received upon the conversion of Series E Preferred Stock.

4.10 Notice of Record Date. In the event:

(a) the Corporation shall take a record of the holders of its Common Stock (or other capital stock or securities at the time issuable upon conversion of the Series E Preferred Stock) for the purpose of entitling or enabling them to receive any dividend or other distribution, or to receive any right to subscribe for or purchase any shares of capital stock of any class or any other securities, or to receive any other security; or

(b) of any capital reorganization of the Corporation, any reclassification of the Common Stock of the Corporation, or any Deemed Liquidation Event; or

(c) of the voluntary or involuntary dissolution, liquidation or winding-up of the Corporation,

then, and in each such case, the Corporation will send or cause to be sent to the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock a notice specifying, as the case may be, (i) the record date for such dividend, distribution or right, and the amount and character of such dividend, distribution or right, or (ii) the effective date on which such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up is proposed to take place, and the time, if any is to be fixed, as of which the holders of record of Common Stock (or such other capital stock or securities at the time issuable upon the conversion of the Series E Preferred Stock) shall be entitled

 

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to exchange their shares of Common Stock (or such other capital stock or securities) for securities or other property deliverable upon such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up, and the amount per share and character of such exchange applicable to the Series E Preferred Stock and the Common Stock. Such notice shall be sent at least ten (10) days prior to the record date or effective date for the event specified in such notice and shall include a statement containing the Corporation’s best good faith estimate as of the date of such notice of the aggregate amount payable in respect of each share of capital stock of the Corporation in connection with such event (i) if each share of Series E Preferred Stock converts to Common Stock immediately prior to such event and (ii) if no share of Series E Preferred Stock converts to Common Stock prior to such event.

5. Mandatory Conversion.

5.1 Trigger Events. Upon either (a) the closing of the sale of shares of Common Stock to the public in a firm-commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on a U.S. stock exchange resulting in at least $40,000,000 of proceeds to the Corporation, net of underwriting discounts and commissions and expenses (a “Qualified IPO”), or (b) the date and time, or the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the holders of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the then-outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock (the time of such closing or the date and time specified or the time of the event specified in such vote or written consent is referred to herein as the “Mandatory Conversion Time”), (i) all outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into shares of Class A Common Stock, at the then effective conversion rate and (ii) such converted shares of Series E Preferred Stock may not be reissued by the Corporation.

5.2 Procedural Requirements. All holders of record of shares of Series E Preferred Stock shall be sent written notice of the Mandatory Conversion Time and the place designated for mandatory conversion of all such shares of Series E Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 5. Such notice need not be sent in advance of the occurrence of the Mandatory Conversion Time. Upon receipt of such notice, each holder of shares of Series E Preferred Stock shall surrender his, her or its certificate or certificates for all such shares (or, if such holder alleges that such certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, a lost certificate affidavit and agreement reasonably acceptable to the Corporation to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such certificate) to the Corporation at the place designated in such notice, and shall thereafter receive certificates for the number of shares of Class A Common Stock to which such holder is entitled pursuant to this Section 5. At the Mandatory Conversion Time, all outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock shall be deemed to have been converted into shares of Class A Common Stock, which shall be deemed to be outstanding of record, and all rights with respect to the Series E Preferred Stock so converted, including the rights, if any, to receive notices and vote (other than as a holder of Class A Common Stock), will terminate, except only the rights of the holders thereof, upon surrender of their certificate or certificates (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) therefor, to receive the items provided for in the antepenultimate sentence of this Section 5.2. If so required by the Corporation, certificates surrendered for conversion shall be endorsed or accompanied by written instrument or instruments of transfer, in form reasonably satisfactory to the Corporation, duly

 

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executed by the registered holder or by his, her or its attorney duly authorized in writing. As soon as practicable after the Mandatory Conversion Time and the surrender of the certificate or certificates (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) for Series E Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall issue and deliver to such holder, or to his, her or its nominees, a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Class A Common Stock issuable on such conversion in accordance with the provisions hereof, together with cash as provided in Section 4.2 in lieu of any fraction of a share of Class A Common Stock otherwise issuable upon such conversion and the payment of any declared but unpaid dividends on the shares of Series E Preferred Stock converted. In case the number of shares of Series E Preferred Stock represented by the certificate or certificates surrendered pursuant to this Section 5.2 exceeds the number of shares converted, the Corporation shall, upon such conversion, execute and deliver to the holder, at the expense of the Corporation, a new certificate or certificates for the number of shares of Series E Preferred Stock represented by the certificate or certificates surrendered which are not to be converted. Such converted Series E Preferred Stock shall be retired and cancelled and may not be reissued as shares of such series, and the Corporation may thereafter take such appropriate action (without the need for stockholder action) as may be necessary to reduce the authorized number of shares of Series E Preferred Stock accordingly.

6. Acquired Shares. Any shares of capital stock of the Corporation or its subsidiaries (including any Reclassified Preferred Stock) which are acquired by the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries shall be automatically and immediately cancelled and retired and shall not be reissued, sold or transferred. Neither the Corporation nor any of its subsidiaries may hold such shares in treasury or exercise any voting or other rights granted to the holders of such capital stock following any such acquisition thereof

7. Waiver. Except as required by law or as otherwise provided herein, any of the rights, powers, privileges, preferences and other terms of the Series E Preferred Stock set forth herein may be waived on behalf of all holders of Series E Preferred Stock by the affirmative written consent or vote of the holders holding at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the shares of Series E Preferred Stock then outstanding.

8. Notices. Any notice required or permitted by the provisions of this Article Fourth to be given to a holder of shares of Series E Preferred Stock shall be mailed, postage prepaid, to the post office address last shown on the records of the Corporation, or given by electronic communication in compliance with the provisions of the General Corporation Law, and shall be deemed sent upon such mailing or electronic transmission.

9. Certain Actions. The Corporation shall not, by amendment of its Certificate of Incorporation or through a reorganization, transfer of assets, consolidation, merger, dissolution, issue, or sale of securities or any other voluntary action, avoid or seek to avoid the observance or performance of any of the terms to be observed or performed by the Corporation under this Certificate of Incorporation, or seek to limit or circumvent any of the rights, powers, preferences and privileges of the Series E Preferred Stock, but shall at all times in good faith assist in carrying out all the provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation and in taking all such action as may be necessary or appropriate to protect each stockholders’ rights under this Certificate of Incorporation against impairment.

 

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FIFTH: Subject to any additional vote required by the Certificate of Incorporation, in furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by statute, the Board of Directors is expressly authorized to make, repeal, alter, amend and rescind any or all of the Bylaws of the Corporation.

SIXTH: Subject to any additional vote required by the Certificate of Incorporation, the number of directors of the Corporation shall be determined in the manner set forth in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

SEVENTH: Elections of directors need not be by written ballot unless the Bylaws of the Corporation shall so provide.

EIGHTH: Meetings of stockholders may be held within or without the State of Delaware, as the Bylaws of the Corporation may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept outside the State of Delaware at such place or places as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

NINTH: To the fullest extent permitted by law, a director of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director. If the General Corporation Law or any other law of the State of Delaware is amended after approval by the stockholders of this Article Ninth to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law as so amended.

Any repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this Article Ninth by the stockholders of the Corporation shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director of the Corporation existing at the time of, or increase the liability of any director of the Corporation with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to, such repeal or modification.

TENTH: To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Corporation is authorized to provide indemnification of (and advancement of expenses to) directors, officers and agents of the Corporation (and any other persons to which General Corporation Law permits the Corporation to provide indemnification) through bylaw provisions, agreements with such agents or other persons, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, in excess of the indemnification and advancement otherwise permitted by Section 145 of the General Corporation Law.

Any amendment, repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this Article Tenth shall not adversely affect any right or protection of any director, officer or other agent of the Corporation existing at the time of such amendment, repeal or modification.

ELEVENTH: The Corporation renounces any interest or expectancy of the Corporation in, or in being offered an opportunity to participate in, any Excluded Opportunity. An “Excluded Opportunity” is any matter, transaction or interest that is presented to, or acquired, created or developed by, or which otherwise comes into the possession of, (i) any director of the

 

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Corporation who is not and was not an employee or consultant of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries, or (ii) any holder of Series E Preferred Stock or any partner, member, director, stockholder, employee, affiliate or agent of any such holder, other than someone who is or was an employee or consultant of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries (collectively, “Covered Persons”); provided, that any matter, transaction or interest presented to, or acquired, created or developed by, or which otherwise comes into the possession of, a Covered Person expressly and solely in such Covered Person’s capacity as a director of the Corporation shall not be deemed to be an Excluded Opportunity.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Thorne HealthTech, Inc. has caused this Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be signed by Paul F. Jacobson on a duly authorized officer of the Corporation, this 25th day of February, 2021.

 

By:  

/s/ Paul F Jacobson

  Name: Paul F Jacobson
  Title: CEO

 

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Exhibit 3.2

 

SEVENTH AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

(Pursuant to Sections 242 and 245 of the

General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware)

Thorne HealthTech, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “General Corporation Law”),

DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

1. That the name of this corporation is Thorne HealthTech, Inc., and that this corporation was initially incorporated under the name of Thorne Holding Corp., pursuant to a Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on June 17, 2010 (the “Original Certificate”). The Original Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to an Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on June 23, 2010 (the “First Restated Certificate”). The First Restated Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on May 10, 2011 (the “Second Restated Certificate”), which Second Restated Certificate was subsequently amended pursuant to a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on January 10, 2012. The Second Restated Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on May 29, 2015 (the “Third Restated Certificate”). The Third Amended and Restated Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on November 20, 2017 (the “Fourth Restated Certificate”). The Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on October 3, 2018 (as amended, the “Fifth Restated Certificate”), and the Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate was amended by that certain Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on November 13, 2020, changing the name of the corporation to Thorne HealthTech, Inc. The Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate was amended and restated in its entirety pursuant to the Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on February 25, 2021 (the “Sixth Restated Certificate”).

2. Pursuant to Sections 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law, this Seventh Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (this “Certificate”) amends and restates the Sixth Restated Certificate in its entirety.

3. This Certificate was duly adopted by the written consent of the Board of Directors of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Board of Directors”) and by the written consent of the stockholders of Thorne HealthTech, Inc., in accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections 141, 228, 242, and 245 of the General Corporation Law.


4. The text of the Sixth Restated Certificate is hereby restated and further amended to read in its entirety as follows:

FIRST: The name of this corporation is Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Corporation”).

SECOND: The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware is Corporation Service Company, 251 Little Falls Drive, Wilmington, Delaware 19808, County of New Castle. The name of its registered agent at such address is Corporation Service Company.

THIRD: The nature of the business or purposes to be conducted or promoted is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law.

FOURTH:

1. The Corporation is authorized to issue two classes of stock, to be designated as Common Stock and Preferred Stock. The total number of shares of all classes of stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is 105,000,000 shares, consisting of (i) 100,000,000 shares of Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share (“Common Stock”), and (ii) 5,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share (“Preferred Stock”).

2. The following is a statement of the designations and the powers, privileges, and rights, and the qualifications, limitations, or restrictions thereof in respect to each class of capital stock of the Corporation.

Common Stock.

a. The voting, dividend, and liquidation rights of the holders of the Common Stock are subject to and qualified by the rights of the holders of the Preferred Stock of any series as may be designated by the Board of Directors on any issuance of the Preferred Stock of any series.

b. Each share of Common Stock outstanding as of the applicable record date shall entitle the holder thereof to one (1) vote on any matter submitted to a vote at a meeting of the stockholders; provided, however, that, except as required by law, holders of Common Stock shall not be entitled to vote on any amendment to this Certificate (which, as used herein, shall mean the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation, as amended from time to time, including the terms of any certificate of designations of any series of Preferred Stock) that relates solely to the terms of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock if the holders of such affected series are entitled, either separately or together as a class with the holders of one or more other such series, to vote thereon pursuant to this Certificate or the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware. There shall be no cumulative voting.


c. The number of authorized shares of Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power of all the then-outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote thereon, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the General Corporation Law.

d. Dividends may be declared and paid on the Common Stock if, as, and when determined by the Board of Directors subject to the rights of any then-outstanding Preferred Stock and to the requirements of applicable law.

e. On the dissolution or liquidation of the Corporation, whether voluntary or involuntary, holders of Common Stock shall be entitled to receive the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders, subject to any preferential or other rights of any then-outstanding Preferred Stock.

Preferred Stock.

a. The Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time in one or more series pursuant to a resolution or resolutions providing for such issue duly adopted by the Board of Directors (authority to do so being hereby expressly vested in the Board of Directors).

b. The Board of Directors is further authorized, subject to limitations prescribed by law, to fix by resolution or resolutions the designations, powers, preferences, and rights, and the qualifications, limitations, or restrictions thereof, of any series of Preferred Stock, including, without limitation, authority to fix by resolution or resolutions the dividend rights, dividend rate, conversion rights, voting rights, rights and terms of redemption (including sinking fund provisions), redemption price or prices, and liquidation preferences of any such series, and the number of shares constituting any such series and the designation thereof, or any of the foregoing. The Board of Directors is further authorized to increase (but not above the total number of authorized shares of the class) or decrease (but not below the number of shares of any such series then outstanding) the number of shares of any series, subject to the powers, preferences, and rights, and the qualifications, limitations, and restrictions thereof stated in this Certificate or the resolution of the Board of Directors originally fixing the number of shares of such series. Except as may be otherwise specified by the terms of any series of Preferred Stock, if the number of shares of any series of Preferred Stock is so decreased, then the Corporation shall take all such steps as are necessary to cause the shares constituting such decrease to resume the status that they had prior to the adoption of the resolution originally fixing the number of shares of such series.

c. The number of authorized shares of Preferred Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power of all the then-outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote thereon, without a separate vote of the holders of the class or classes the number of authorized shares of which are being increased or decreased, unless a vote of any holders of one or more series of Preferred Stock is required pursuant to the terms of any certificate of designation relating to any series of Preferred Stock, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the General Corporation Law.


FIFTH:

1. The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of the Board of Directors, except as otherwise provided by law, by this Certificate, or by the Bylaws of the Corporation.

2. Subject to the rights of holders of Preferred Stock, the number of directors that constitutes the entire Board of Directors shall be fixed only by resolution of the Board of Directors acting pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Whole Board. For the purposes of this Certificate, the term “Whole Board” shall mean the total number of authorized directorships whether or not there exist any vacancies or other unfilled seats in previously authorized directorships. At each annual meeting of stockholders, directors of the Corporation shall be elected to hold office until the expiration of the term for which they are elected and until their successors have been duly elected and qualified or until their earlier resignation or removal; except that if any such meeting shall not be so held, then such election shall take place at a stockholders’ meeting called and held in accordance with the General Corporation Law.

3. From and after the date of effectiveness of this Certificate, the directors of the Corporation (other than any who may be elected by holders of Preferred Stock under specified circumstances) shall be divided into three classes as nearly equal in size as is practicable, hereby designated as Class I, Class II, and Class III. Directors already in office shall be assigned to each class at the time such classification becomes effective in accordance with a resolution or resolutions adopted by the Board of Directors. At the first annual meeting of stockholders following the date of effectiveness of this Certificate, the term of office of the Class I directors shall expire and Class I directors shall be elected for a full term of three years. At the second annual meeting of stockholders following the date of effectiveness of this Certificate, the term of office of the Class II directors shall expire and Class II directors shall be elected for a full term of three years. At the third annual meeting of stockholders following the date of effectiveness of this Certificate, the term of office of the Class III directors shall expire and Class III directors shall be elected for a full term of three years. At each succeeding annual meeting of stockholders, directors shall be elected for a full term of three years to succeed the directors of the class whose terms expire at such annual meeting. If the number of directors is changed, any newly created directorships or decrease in directorships shall be so apportioned hereafter among the classes as to make all classes as nearly equal in number as is practicable, provided that no decrease in the number of directors constituting the Board of Directors shall shorten the term of any incumbent director.

4. From and after the effectiveness of this Certificate, only for so long as the Board of Directors is classified and subject to the rights of holders of Preferred Stock, any director or the entire Board of Directors may be removed from office at any time, but only for cause, and only by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote in the election of directors.


5. Except as otherwise provided for or fixed by or pursuant to the provisions of this Article FIFTH in relation to the rights of the holders of Preferred Stock to elect directors under specified circumstances, or except as otherwise provided by resolution of a majority of the Whole Board, newly created directorships resulting from an increase in the number of directors, created in accordance with the Bylaws of the Corporation, and vacancies on the Board of Directors resulting from death, resignation, disqualification, removal, or other cause shall be filled only by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors then in office, even though less than a quorum of the Board of Directors, or by a sole remaining director, and not by the stockholders. A person so elected by the Board of Directors to fill a vacancy or newly created directorship shall hold office until the next election of the class for which such director shall have been chosen until his or her successor shall have been duly elected and qualified or until such director’s earlier death, resignation, or removal. No decrease in the number of directors constituting the Board of Directors shall shorten the term of any incumbent director.

6. The election of directors need not be by written ballot unless the Bylaws of the Corporation so provide.

SIXTH: In furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by law, the Board of Directors is expressly authorized to adopt, amend, alter, repeal, and rescind the Bylaws of the Corporation. The affirmative vote of at least a majority of the Whole Board shall be required in order for the Board of Directors to adopt, amend, alter, repeal or rescind the Bylaws of the Corporation. The Bylaws of the Corporation may also be adopted, amended, altered, repealed or rescinded by the stockholders of the Corporation. Notwithstanding the above or any other provision of this Certificate, the Bylaws of the Corporation may not be amended, altered, repealed or rescinded except in accordance with the provisions of the Bylaws relating to amendments to the Bylaws. No Bylaw hereafter legally adopted, amended, altered, repealed or rescinded shall invalidate any prior act of the directors or officers of the Corporation that would have been valid if such Bylaw had not been adopted, amended, altered, repealed or rescinded.

SEVENTH:

1. From and after the closing of a firm commitment underwritten initial public offering of securities of the Corporation pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and subject to the rights of holders of Preferred Stock, no action shall be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation except at an annual or special meeting of the Stockholders called in accordance with the Bylaws of the Corporation, and no action shall be taken by the stockholders by written consent. Advance notice of stockholder nominations for the election of directors and of business to be brought by stockholders before any meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation shall be given in the manner and to the extent provided in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

2. Subject to the terms of any series of Preferred Stock, special meetings of stockholders of the Corporation may be called only by the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, or the Board of Directors acting pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Whole Board, but a special meeting may not be called by any other person or persons and any power of stockholders to call a special meeting of stockholders is specifically denied. Only such business shall be considered at a special meeting of stockholders as shall have been stated in the notice for such meeting.


3. Meetings of stockholders may be held within or without the State of Delaware, as the Bylaws of the Corporation may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept outside the State of Delaware at such place or places as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

EIGHTH: To the fullest extent permitted by law, a director of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director. If the General Corporation Law or any other law of the State of Delaware is amended after approval by the stockholders of this Article EIGHTH to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law as so amended. Any repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this Article EIGHTH by the stockholders of the Corporation shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director of the Corporation existing at the time of, or increase the liability of any director of the Corporation with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to, such repeal or modification.

NINTH:

1. Subject to any provisions in the Bylaws of the Corporation related to indemnification of directors of the Corporation, the Corporation shall indemnify, and advance expenses to, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any director of the Corporation who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to a threatened, pending, or completed action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative (a “Proceeding”) by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director of the Corporation or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise, including service with respect to an employee benefit plan, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such Proceeding. Subject to any provisions in the Bylaws of the Corporation, the Corporation shall be required to indemnify a person in connection with a Proceeding (or part thereof) initiated by such person only if the Proceeding (or part thereof) was authorized by the Board of Directors.

2. The Corporation shall have the power to indemnify, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any officer, employee, or agent of the Corporation who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to a Proceeding by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee, or agent of the Corporation or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise, including service with respect to an employee benefit plan, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such Proceeding.


3. Any amendment, repeal, or modification of the foregoing provisions of this Article NINTH shall not adversely affect any right or protection of any director, officer, or other agent of the Corporation existing at the time of such amendment, repeal, or modification.

TENTH: The Corporation reserves the right to amend or repeal any provision contained in this Certificate in the manner prescribed by the laws of the State of Delaware, and all rights conferred on stockholders are granted subject to this reservation; provided, however, that notwithstanding any other provision of this Certificate or any provision of law that might otherwise permit a lesser vote, the Board of Directors acting pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Whole Board and the affirmative vote of sixty-six and two-thirds percent (66 2/3%) of the voting power of the then-outstanding voting securities of the Corporation, voting together as a single class, shall be required for the amendment, repeal, or modification of the provisions of Section 2 of Article FOURTH, Sections 3-5 of Article FIFTH, Sections 1-2 of Article SEVENTH, this Article TENTH, or Article ELEVENTH of this Certificate.

ELEVENTH: The Corporation renounces, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any interest or expectancy of the Corporation in, or in being offered an opportunity to participate in, any Excluded Opportunity. An “Excluded Opportunity” is any matter, transaction or interest that is presented to, or acquired, created or developed by, or which otherwise comes into the possession of (i) any director of the Corporation who is not an employee of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries, or (ii) any holder of Preferred Stock, or of Common Stock issued upon conversion of Preferred Stock, or any partner, member, director, stockholder, employee or agent of any such holder, other than someone who is an employee of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries (collectively, “Covered Persons”), unless such matter, transaction or interest is presented to, or acquired, created or developed by, or otherwise comes into the possession of, a Covered Person expressly and solely in such Covered Person’s capacity as a director of the Corporation. Any person purchasing or otherwise acquiring any interest in any shares of capital stock of the Corporation shall be deemed to have notice of and have consented to the provisions of this Article ELEVENTH. Neither the alteration, amendment or repeal of this Article ELEVENTH, nor the adoption of any provision of this Certificate inconsistent with this Article ELEVENTH, nor, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any modification of law, shall eliminate or reduce the effect of this Article ELEVENTH in respect of any Excluded Opportunity first identified or any other matter occurring, or any cause of action, suit or claim that, but for this Article ELEVENTH, would accrue or arise, prior to such alteration, amendment, repeal, adoption or modification. If any provision or provisions of this Article ELEVENTH shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable as applied to any circumstance for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of such provisions in any other circumstance and of the remaining provisions of this Article ELEVENTH (including, without limitation, each portion of any paragraph of this Article ELEVENTH containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable that is not itself held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and (b) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Article ELEVENTH (including, without limitation, each such portion of any paragraph of this Article ELEVENTH containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall be construed so as to permit the Corporation to protect its directors, officers, employees and agents from personal liability in respect of their good faith service to or for the benefit of the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by law. This Article ELEVENTH shall not limit any protections or defenses available to, or indemnification or advancement rights of, any director or officer of the Corporation under this Certificate, the Bylaws, applicable law, any agreement or otherwise.


TWELFTH: This Certificate shall become effective on the filing and acceptance hereof by the Secretary of State of Delaware.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Thorne HealthTech, Inc., has caused this Seventh Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation on this ___ day of ___________, 2021.

 

By:    
  Paul F. Jacobson
  Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 3.3

THORNE HOLDING CORP.

BY-LAWS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Article I. - General

     1  

1.1.

  Offices      1  

1.2.

  Seal      1  

1.3.

  Fiscal Year      1  

Article II. - Stockholders

     1  

2.1.

  Place of Meetings      1  

2.2.

  Annual Meeting      1  

2.3.

  Quorum      1  

2.4.

  Right to Vote; Proxies      2  

2.5.

  Voting      2  

2.6.

  Notice of Annual Meetings      2  

2.7.

  Stockholders’ List      2  

2.8.

  Special Meetings      3  

2.9.

  Notice of Special Meetings      3  

2.10.

  Inspectors      3  

2.11.

  Stockholders’ Consent in Lieu of Meeting      3  

Article III. - Directors

     4  

3.1.

  Number of Directors      4  

3.2.

  Change in Number of Directors; Vacancies      5  

3.3.

  Resignation      5  

3.4.

  Removal      5  

3.5.

  Place of Meetings and Books      5  

3.6.

  General Powers      5  

3.7.

  Executive Committee      5  

3.8.

  Other Committees      6  

3.9.

  Powers Denied to Committees      6  

3.10.

  Substitute Committee Member      6  

3.11.

  Compensation of Directors      6  

3.12.

  Annual Meeting      7  

3.13.

  Regular Meetings      7  

3.14.

  Special Meetings      7  

3.15.

  Quorum      7  

3.16.

  Telephonic Participation in Meetings      7  

3.17.

  Action by Consent      7  

Article IV. - Officers

     7  

4.1.

  Selection; Statutory Officers      7  

4.2.

  Time of Election      8  

4.3.

  Additional Officers      8  

4.4.

  Terms of Office      8  


4.5.

  Compensation of Officers      8  

4.6.

  Chairman of the Board      8  

4.7.

  President      8  

4.8.

  Vice-Presidents      8  

4.9.

  Treasurer      9  

4.10.

  Secretary      9  

4.11.

  Assistant Secretary      9  

4.12.

  Assistant Treasurer      9  

4.13.

  Subordinate Officers      10  

Article V. - Stock

     10  

5.1.

  Stock      10  

5.2.

  Fractional Share Interests      10  

5.3.

  Transfers of Stock      10  

5.4.

  Record Date      11  

5.5.

  Transfer Agent and Registrar      11  

5.6.

  Dividends      11  

5.7.

  Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates      12  

5.8.

  Inspection of Books      12  

Article VI. - Miscellaneous Management Provisions

     12  

6.1.

  Checks, Drafts and Notes      12  

6.2.

  Notices      12  

6.3.

  Conflict of Interest      13  

6.4.

  Voting of Securities owned by this Corporation      13  

Article VII. - Indemnification

     14  

7.1.

  Right to Indemnification      14  

7.2.

  Right of Indemnitee to Bring Suit      14  

7.3.

  Non-Exclusivity of Rights      15  

7.4.

  Insurance      15  

7.5.

  Indemnification of Employees and Agents of the Corporation      15  

Article VIII. - Amendments

     15  

8.1.

  Amendments      15  

 

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THORNE HOLDING CORP.

BY-LAWS

Article I. - General.

1.1. Offices. The registered office shall be in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle, State of Delaware. The Corporation may also have offices at such other places both within and without the State of Delaware as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or the business of the Corporation may require.

1.2. Seal. The seal of the Corporation, if any, shall be in the form of a circle and shall have inscribed thereon the name of the Corporation, the year of its organization and the words “Corporate Seal, Delaware”.

1.3. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be the period from January through December.

Article II. - Stockholders.

2.1. Place of Meetings. All meetings of the stockholders shall be held at such places and times as the Board of Directors may determine and as shall be stated in the notice of meeting given to stockholders.

2.2. Annual Meeting. The annual meeting of the stockholders shall be held each year on such date and at such time as the Board of Directors may determine. At each annual meeting the stockholders entitled to vote shall elect a Board of Directors by plurality vote by ballot, and they may transact such other corporate business as may properly be brought before the meeting. At the annual meeting any business may be transacted, irrespective of whether the notice calling such meeting shall have contained a reference thereto, except where notice is required by law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these bylaws.

2.3. Quorum. At all meetings of the stockholders the holders of a majority of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum requisite for the transaction of business except as otherwise provided by law, by the Certificate of Incorporation or by these bylaws. If, however, such majority shall not be present or represented at any meeting of the stockholders, the stockholders entitled to vote thereat, present in person or by proxy, by a majority vote, shall have power to adjourn the meeting from time to time without notice other than announcement at the meeting until the requisite amount of voting stock shall be present. If the adjournment is for more than thirty (30) days, or if after the adjournment a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting. At such adjourned meeting, at which the requisite amount of voting stock shall be represented, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted if the meeting had been held as originally called.


2.4. Right to Vote; Proxies. Each holder of a share or shares of capital stock of the Corporation having the right to vote at any meeting shall be entitled to one vote for each such share of stock held by him. Any stockholder entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders may vote either in person or by proxy, but no proxy which is dated more than three years prior to the meeting at which it is offered shall confer the right to vote thereat unless the proxy provides that it shall be effective for a longer period. A proxy may be granted by a writing executed by the stockholder or his authorized officer, director, employee or agent or by transmission or authorization of transmission of a telegram, cablegram, or other means of electronic transmission to the person who will be the holder of the proxy or to a proxy solicitation firm, proxy support service organization or like agent duly authorized by the person who will be the holder of the proxy to receive such transmission, subject to the conditions set forth in Section 212 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, as it may be amended from time to time (the “Delaware GCL”).

2.5. Voting. At all meetings of stockholders, except as otherwise expressly provided for by statute, the Certificate of Incorporation or these by-laws, (i) in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of a majority of shares present in person or by means of remote communication or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on such matter shall be the act of the stockholders and (ii) directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes of the shares present in person or by means of remote communication or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the election of directors. Except as otherwise expressly provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation or these by-laws, at all meetings of stockholders the voting shall be by voice vote, but any stockholder qualified to vote on the matter in question may demand a stock vote, by shares of stock, upon such question, whereupon such stock vote shall be taken by ballot which may be by electronic transmission by any stockholder present by means of remote communication, each of which shall state the name of the stockholder voting and the number of shares voted by him, and, if such ballot be cast by a proxy, it shall also state the name of the proxy.

2.6. Notice of Annual Meetings. Written notice of the annual meeting of the stockholders, stating the time, the place, the means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, shall be sent not less than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting. It shall be the duty of every stockholder to furnish to the Secretary of the Corporation or to the transfer agent, if any, of the class of stock owned by him, his post-office address and to notify said Secretary or transfer agent of any change therein.

2.7. Stockholders List. A complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders, arranged in alphabetical order and showing the address of each stockholder, and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder, shall be prepared by the Secretary and shall be open to examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting for a period of at least ten days before such meeting (i) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain access to such list is provided with the notice of the meeting, or (ii) during ordinary business hours at the principal office of the corporation, and said list shall be open to examination during the whole time of said meeting, at the place of said meeting, or, if the meeting held is by remote communication, on a reasonably accessible electronic network and the information required to access such list shall be provided with the notice of the meeting.

 

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2.8. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the stockholders for any purpose or purposes, unless otherwise provided by statute, may be called by the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Board, if any, the President or any Vice President.

2.9. Notice of Special Meetings. Written notice of a special meeting of stockholders, stating the time, the place, the means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting and the object thereof, shall be sent not less than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days before such meeting, to each stockholder entitled to vote thereat, either in paper form or electronic form pursuant to each stockholder’s instructions on record with the Corporation. No business may be transacted at such meeting except that referred to in said notice, or in a supplemental notice given also in compliance with the provisions hereof, or such other business as may be germane or supplementary to that stated in said notice or notices.

2.10. Inspectors.

1. One or more inspectors may be appointed by the Board of Directors before or at any meeting of stockholders, or, if no such appointment shall have been made, the presiding officer may make such appointment at the meeting. At the meeting for which the inspector or inspectors are appointed, he or they shall open and close the polls, receive and take charge of the proxies and ballots, and decide all questions touching on the qualifications of voters, the validity of proxies and the acceptance and rejection of votes. If any inspector previously appointed shall fail to attend or refuse or be unable to serve, the presiding officer shall appoint an inspector in his place.

2. At any time at which the Corporation has a class of voting stock that is (i) listed on a national securities exchange, (ii) authorized for quotation on an inter-dealer quotation system of a registered national securities association, or (iii) held of record by more than 2,000 stockholders, the provisions of Section 231 of the Delaware GCL with respect to inspectors of election and voting procedures shall apply, in lieu of the provisions of paragraph (I) of this §2.10.

2.11. Stockholders Consent in Lieu of Meeting. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, any action required by law to be taken at any annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation, or any action which may be taken at any annual or special meeting of such stockholders, may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if a consent or consents in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by the holders of outstanding stock having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon

 

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were present and voted and shall be delivered to the Corporation by delivery to its registered office in the State of Delaware, its principal place of business, or an officer or agent of the Corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded. Delivery made to the Corporation’s registered office shall be by hand or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. Every written consent shall bear the date of signature of each stockholder who signs the consent and no written consent shall be effective to take the corporate action referred to therein unless, within sixty days of the earliest dated consent delivered in the manner required by this §2.11 to the Corporation, written consents signed by a sufficient number of stockholders to take action are delivered to the Corporation by delivery to its registered office in the State of Delaware, its principal place of business, or an officer or agent of the Corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded.

A telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission consenting to an action to be taken and transmitted by a stockholder or proxyholder, or by a person or persons authorized to act for a stockholder or proxyholder, shall be deemed to be written, signed and dated for the purposes of this section, provided that any such telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission sets forth or is delivered with information from which the Corporation can determine that the telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission was transmitted by the stockholder or proxyholder or by a person or persons authorized to act for the stockholder or proxyholder and the date on which such stockholder or proxyholder or authorized person or persons transmitted such telegram, cablegram or electronic transmission. The date on which such telegram, cablegram or electronic transmission is transmitted shall be deemed to be the date on which such consent was signed. No consent given by telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission shall be deemed to have been delivered until such consent is reproduced in paper form and until such paper form shall be delivered to the Corporation by delivery to its principal place of business or to an officer or agent of the Corporation having custody of the book in which the proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded. Any copy, facsimile or other reliable reproduction of a consent in writing may be substituted or used in lieu of the original writing for any and all purposes for which the original writing could be used, provided that such copy, facsimile or other reproduction shall be a complete reproduction of the entire original writing.

Prompt notice of the taking of the corporate action without a meeting by less than unanimous written consent shall be given to those stockholders who have not consented in writing.

Article III.- Directors.

3.1. Number of Directors. Except as otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation or these by-laws, the property and business of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of a board of not less than one nor more than thirteen directors. Within the limits specified, the number of directors shall be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors or by the stockholders at the annual meeting. Directors need not be stockholders, residents of Delaware or citizens of the United States. The directors shall be elected by ballot at the annual meeting of the stockholders and each director shall be elected to serve until his successor shall be elected and shall qualify or until his earlier resignation or removal; provided that in the event of failure to hold such meeting or to hold such election at such meeting, such election may be held at

 

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any special meeting of the stockholders called for that purpose. If the office of any director becomes vacant by reason of death, resignation, disqualification, removal, failure to elect, or otherwise, the remaining directors, although more or less than a quorum, by a majority vote of such remaining directors may elect a successor or successors who shall hold office for the unexpired term.

3.2. Change in Number of Directors; Vacancies. The maximum number of directors may be increased by an amendment to these by-laws adopted by a majority vote of the Board of Directors or by a majority vote of the capital stock having voting power, and if the number of directors is so increased by action of the Board of Directors or of the stockholders or otherwise, then the additional directors may be elected in the manner provided above for the filling of vacancies in the Board of Directors or at the annual meeting of stockholders or at a special meeting called for that purpose.

3.3. Resignation. Any director of this Corporation may resign at any time by giving notice in writing or by electronic transmission to the Chairman of the Board, if any, the President or the Secretary of the Corporation. Such resignation shall take effect at the time specified therein, at the time of receipt if no time is specified therein and at the time of acceptance if the effectiveness of such resignation is conditioned upon its acceptance. Unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.

3.4. Removal. Any director or the entire Board of Directors may be removed, with or without cause, by the holders of a majority of the shares then entitled to vote at an election of directors.

3.5. Place of Meetings and Books. The Board of Directors may hold their meetings and keep the books of the Corporation outside the State of Delaware, at such places as they may from time to time determine.

3.6. General Powers. In addition to the powers and authority expressly conferred upon them by these by-laws, the board may exercise all such powers of the Corporation and do all such lawful acts and things as are not by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation or by these by-laws directed or required to be exercised or done by the stockholders.

3.7. Executive Committee. There may be an executive committee of one or more directors designated by resolution passed by a majority of the whole board. The act of a majority of the members of such committee shall be the act of the committee. Said committee may meet at stated times or on notice to all by any of their own number, and shall have and may exercise those powers of the Board of Directors in the management of the business affairs of the Company as are provided by law and may authorize the seal of the Corporation to be affixed to all papers which may require it. Vacancies in the membership of the committee shall be filled by the Board of Directors at a regular meeting or at a special meeting called for that purpose.

 

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3.8. Other Committees. The Board of Directors may also designate one or more committees in addition to the executive committee, by resolution or resolutions passed by a majority of the whole board; such committee or committees shall consist of one or more directors of the Corporation, and to the extent provided in the resolution or resolutions designating them, shall have and may exercise specific powers of the Board of Directors in the management of the business and affairs of the Corporation to the extent permitted by statute and shall have power to authorize the seal of the Corporation to be affixed to all papers which may require it. Such committee or committees shall have such name or names as may be determined from time to time by resolution adopted by the Board of Directors.

3.9. Powers Denied to Committees. Committees of the Board of Directors shall not, in any event, have any power or authority to amend the Certificate of Incorporation (except that a committee may, to the extent authorized in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issuance of shares adopted by the Board of Directors as provided in Section 151(a) of the Delaware GCL, fix the designations and any of the preferences or rights of such shares relating to dividends, redemption, dissolution, any distribution of assets of the Corporation or the conversion into, or the exchange of such shares for, shares of any other class or classes or any other series of the same or any other class or classes of stock of the Corporation or fix the number of shares of any series of stock or authorize the increase or decrease of the shares of any series), adopt an agreement of merger or consolidation, recommend to the stockholders the sale, lease or exchange of all or substantially all of the Corporation’s property and assets, recommend to the stockholders a dissolution of the Corporation or a revocation of a dissolution or to amend the by-laws of the Corporation. Further, no committee of the Board of Directors shall have the power or authority to declare a dividend, to authorize the issuance of stock or to adopt a certificate of ownership and merger pursuant to Section 253 of the Delaware GCL, unless the resolution or resolutions designating such committee expressly so provides.

3.10. Substitute Committee Member. In the absence or on the disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not he or they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board of Directors to act at the meeting in the place of such absent or disqualified member. Any committee shall keep regular minutes of its proceedings and report the same to the board as may be required by the board.

3.11. Compensation of Directors. The Board of Directors shall have the power to fix the compensation of directors and members of committees of the Board. The directors may be paid their expenses, if any, of attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors and may be paid a fixed sum for attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors or a stated salary as director. No such payment shall preclude any director from serving the Corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor. Members of special or standing committees may be allowed like compensation for attending committee meetings.

 

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3.12. Annual Meeting. The newly elected board may meet at such place and time as shall be fixed and announced by the presiding officer at the annual meeting of stockholders, for the purpose of organization or otherwise, and no further notice of such meeting shall be necessary to the newly elected directors in order legally to constitute the meeting, provided a quorum shall be present, or they may meet at such place and time as shall be stated in a notice given to such directors two (2) days prior to such meeting, or as shall be fixed by the consent in writing of all the directors.

3.13. Regular Meetings. Regular meetings of the board may be held without notice at such time and place as shall from time to time be determined by the board.

3.14. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the board may be called by the Chairman of the Board, if any, the President, or any two (2) directors, on two (2) days notice to each director, or such shorter period of time before the meeting as will nonetheless be sufficient for the convenient assembly of the directors so notified; special meetings shall be called by the Secretary in like manner and on like notice, on the written request of two or more directors.

3.15. Quorum. At all meetings of the Board of Directors, a majority of the total number of directors shall be necessary and sufficient to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and the act of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be the act of the Board of Directors, except as may be otherwise specifically permitted or provided by statute, or by the Certificate of Incorporation, or by these by-laws. If at any meeting of the board there shall be less than a quorum present, a majority of those present may adjourn the meeting from time to time until a quorum is obtained, and no further notice thereof need be given other than by announcement at said meeting which shall be so adjourned.

3.16. Telephonic Participation in Meetings. Members of the Board of Directors or any committee designated by such board may participate in a meeting of the board or committee by means of conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and participation in a meeting pursuant to this section shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.

3.17. Action by Consent. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these by-laws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting, if all members of the board or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission and such consent is filed in paper form with the minutes of proceedings of the board or committee.

Article IV.- Officers.

4.1. Selection; Statutory Officers. The officers of the Corporation shall be chosen by the Board of Directors. There shall be a President, a Secretary and a Treasurer, and there may be a Chairman of the Board of Directors, one or more Vice Presidents, one or more Assistant Secretaries, and one or more Assistant Treasurers, as the Board of Directors may elect. Any number of offices may be held by the same person.

 

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4.2. Time of Election. The officers above named shall be chosen by the Board of Directors at its first meeting after each annual meeting of stockholders. None of said officers need be a director.

4.3. Additional Officers. The board may appoint such other officers and agents as it shall deem necessary, who shall hold their offices for such terms and shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as shall be determined from time to time by the board.

4.4. Terms of Office. Each officer of the Corporation shall hold office until his successor is chosen and qualified, or until his earlier resignation or removal. Any officer elected or appointed by the Board of Directors may be removed at any time by the Board of Directors.

4.5. Compensation of Officers. The Board of Directors shall have power to fix the compensation of all officers of the Corporation. It may authorize any officer, upon whom the power of appointing subordinate officers may have been conferred, to fix the compensation of such subordinate officers.

4.6. Chairman of the Board. The Chairman of the Board of Directors shall preside at all meetings of the stockholders and directors, and shall have such other duties as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Directors.

4.7. President. Unless the Board of Directors otherwise determines, the President shall be the chief executive officer and head of the Corporation. Unless there is a Chairman of the Board, the President shall preside at all meetings of directors and stockholders. Under the supervision of the Board of Directors and of the executive committee, the President shall have the general control and management of its business and affairs, subject, however, to the right of the Board of Directors and of the executive committee to confer any specific power, except such as may be by statute exclusively conferred on the President, upon any other officer or officers of the Corporation. The President shall perform and do all acts and things incident to the position of President and such other duties as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Directors or the executive committee.

4.8. Vice-Presidents. The Vice-Presidents shall perform such of the duties of the President on behalf of the Corporation as may be respectively assigned to them from time to time by the Board of Directors or by the executive committee or by the President. The Board of Directors or the executive committee may designate one of the Vice-Presidents as the Executive Vice-President, and in the absence or inability of the President to act, such Executive Vice-President shall have and possess all of the powers and discharge all of the duties of the President, subject to the control of the board and of the executive committee.

 

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4.9. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall have the care and custody of all the funds and securities of the Corporation which may come into his hands as Treasurer, and the power and authority to endorse checks, drafts and other instruments for the payment of money for deposit or collection when necessary or proper and to deposit the same to the credit of the Corporation in such bank or banks or depository as the Board of Directors or the executive committee, or the officers or agents to whom the Board of Directors or the executive committee may delegate such authority, may designate, and he may endorse all commercial documents requiring endorsements for or on behalf of the Corporation. He may sign all receipts and vouchers for the payments made to the Corporation. He shall render an account of his transactions to the Board of Directors or to the executive committee as often as the board or the committee shall require the same. He shall enter regularly in the books to be kept by him for that purpose full and adequate account of all moneys received and paid by him on account of the Corporation. He shall perform all acts incident to the position of Treasurer, subject to the control of the Board of Directors and of the executive committee. He shall when requested, pursuant to vote of the Board of Directors or the executive committee, give a bond to the Corporation conditioned for the faithful performance of his duties, the expense of which bond shall be borne by the Corporation.

4.10. Secretary. The Secretary shall keep the minutes of all meetings of the Board of Directors and of the stockholders; he shall attend to the giving and serving of all notices of the Corporation. Except as otherwise ordered by the Board of Directors or the executive committee, he shall attest the seal of the Corporation upon all contracts and instruments executed under such seal and shall affix the seal of the Corporation thereto and to all certificates of shares of capital stock of the Corporation. He shall have charge of the stock certificate book, transfer book and stock ledger, and such other books and papers as the Board of Directors or the executive committee may direct. He shall, in general, perform all the duties of Secretary, subject to the control of the Board of Directors and of the executive committee.

4.11. Assistant Secretary. The Board of Directors or any two of the officers of the Corporation acting jointly may appoint or remove one or more Assistant Secretaries of the Corporation. Any Assistant Secretary upon his appointment shall perform such duties of the Secretary, and also any and all such other duties as the executive committee or the Board of Directors or the President or the Executive Vice-President or the Treasurer or the Secretary may designate.

4.12. Assistant Treasurer. The Board of Directors or any two of the officers of the Corporation acting jointly may appoint or remove one or more Assistant Treasurers of the Corporation. Any Assistant Treasurer upon his appointment shall perform such of the duties of the Treasurer, and also any and all such other duties as the executive committee or the Board of Directors or the President or the Executive Vice-President or the Treasurer or the Secretary may designate.

 

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4.13. Subordinate Officers. The Board of Directors may select such subordinate officers as it may deem desirable. Each such officer shall hold office for such period, have such authority, and perform such duties as the Board of Directors may prescribe. The Board of Directors may, from time to time, authorize any officer to appoint and remove subordinate officers and to prescribe the powers and duties thereof.

Article V.- Stock.

5.1. Stock. Each stockholder shall be entitled to a certificate or certificates of stock of the Corporation in such form as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe. The certificates of stock of the Corporation shall be numbered and shall be entered in the books of the Corporation as they are issued. They shall certify the holder’s name and number and class of shares and shall be signed by both of (i) either the Chairperson or Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors, or the President or Vice President, and (ii) any one of the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer or the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary, and may, but need not, be sealed with the corporate seal of the Corporation. If such certificate is countersigned (I) by a transfer agent other than the Corporation or its employee, or, (2) by a registrar other than the Corporation or its employee, the signature of the officers of the Corporation and the corporate seal may be facsimiles. In case any officer or officers who shall have signed, or whose facsimile signature or signatures shall have been used on, any such certificate or certificates shall cease to be such officer or officers of the Corporation, whether because of death, resignation or otherwise, before such certificate or certificates shall have been delivered by the Corporation, such certificate or certificates may nevertheless be adopted by the Corporation and be issued and delivered as though the person or persons who signed such certificate or certificates or whose facsimile signature shall have been used thereon had not ceased to be such officer or officers of the Corporation.

5.2. Fractional Share Interests. The Corporation may, but shall not be required to, issue fractions of a share. If the Corporation does not issue fractions of a share, it shall (i) arrange for the disposition of fractional interests by those entitled thereto, (ii) pay in cash the fair value of fractions of a share as of the time when those entitled to receive such fractions are determined, or (iii) issue scrip or warrants in registered or bearer form which shall entitle the holder to receive a certificate for a full share upon the surrender of such scrip or warrants aggregating a full share. A certificate for a fractional share shall, but scrip or warrants shall not unless otherwise provided therein, entitle the holder to exercise voting rights, to receive dividends thereon, and to participate in any of the assets of the Corporation in the event of liquidation. The Board of Directors may cause scrip or warrants to be issued subject to the conditions that they shall become void if not exchanged for certificates representing full shares before a specified date, or subject to the conditions that the shares for which scrip or warrants are exchangeable may be sold by the Corporation and the proceeds thereof distributed to the holders of scrip or warrants, or subject to any other conditions which the Board of Directors may impose.

5.3. Transfers of Stock. Subject to any transfer restrictions then in force, the shares of stock of the Corporation shall be transferable only upon its books by the holders thereof in person or by their duly authorized attorneys or legal representatives and upon such transfer the old certificates shall be surrendered to the Corporation by the delivery thereof to the person in charge

 

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of the stock and transfer books and ledgers or to such other person as the directors may designate by whom they shall be cancelled and new certificates shall thereupon be issued. The Corporation shall be entitled to treat the holder of record of any share or shares of stock as the holder in fact thereof and accordingly shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share on the part of any other person whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof save as expressly provided by the laws of Delaware.

5.4. Record Date. For the purpose of determining the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, or to express consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting, or entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or the allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion, or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a record date, which shall not be more than sixty (60) days nor less than ten (10) days before the date of such meeting, nor more than sixty (60) days prior to any other action. If no such record date is fixed by the Board of Directors, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice is given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held; the record date for determining stockholders entitled to express consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting, when no prior action by the Board of Directors is necessary, shall be the day on which the first written consent is expressed; and the record date for determining stockholders for any other purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board of Directors adopts the resolution relating thereto. A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting.

5.5. Transfer Agent and Registrar. The Board of Directors may appoint one or more transfer agents or transfer clerks and one or more registrars and may require all certificates of stock to bear the signature or signatures of any of them.

5.6. Dividends.

1. Power to Declare. Dividends upon the capital stock of the Corporation, subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation, if any, may be declared by the Board of Directors at any regular or special meeting, pursuant to law. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of the capital stock, subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and the laws of Delaware.

2. Reserves. Before payment of any dividend, there may be set aside out of any funds of the Corporation available for dividends such sum or sums as the directors from time to time, in their absolute discretion, think proper as a reserve or reserves to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for repairing or maintaining any property of the Corporation, or for such other purpose as the directors shall think conducive to the interest of the Corporation, and the directors may modify or abolish any such reserve in the manner in which it was created.

 

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5.7. Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates. No certificates for shares of stock of the Corporation shall be issued in place of any certificate alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, except upon production of such evidence of the loss, theft or destruction and upon indemnification of the Corporation and its agents to such extent and in such manner as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.

5.8. Inspection of Books. The stockholders of the Corporation, by a majority vote at any meeting of stockholders duly called, or in case the stockholders shall fail to act, the Board of Directors shall have power from time to time to determine whether and to what extent and at what times and places and under what conditions and regulations the accounts and books of the Corporation (other than the stock ledger) or any of them, shall be open to inspection of stockholders; and no stockholder shall have any right to inspect any account or book or document of the Corporation except as conferred by statute or authorized by the Board of Directors or by a resolution of the stockholders.

Article VI.- Miscellaneous Management Provisions.

6.1. Checks, Drafts and Notes. All checks, drafts or orders for the payment of money, and all notes and acceptances of the Corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers, agent or agents as the Board of Directors may designate.

6.2. Notices.

1. Notices to directors and stockholders may be (i) in writing and delivered personally or mailed to the directors or stockholders at their addresses appearing on the books of the Corporation, (ii) by facsimile telecommunication, when directed to a number at which the director or stockholder has consented to receive notice, (iii) by electronic mail, when directed to an electronic mail address at which the director or stockholder has consented to receive notice, (iv) by other electronic transmission, when directed to the director or stockholder. Notice by mail shall be deemed to be given at the time when the same shall be mailed.

2. Whenever any notice is required to be given under the provisions of the statutes or of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation of the Corporation or of these by-laws, a written waiver signed by the person or persons entitled to said notice, or waiver by electronic transmission by the person entitled to said notice, whether before or after the time stated therein or the meeting or action to which such notice relates, shall be deemed equivalent to notice. Attendance of a person at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting except when the person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.

 

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6.3. Conflict of Interest. No contract or transaction between the Corporation and one or more of its directors or officers, or between the Corporation and any other corporation, partnership, association, or other organization in which one or more of its directors or officers are directors or officers, or have a financial interest, shall be void or voidable solely for this reason, or solely because the director or officer is present at or participates in the meeting of the board of or committee thereof which authorized the contract or transaction, or solely because his or their votes are counted for such purpose, if: (i) the material facts as to his relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the Board of Directors or the committee and the board or committee in good faith authorizes the contract or transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of the disinterested directors, even though the disinterested directors be less than a quorum; or (ii) the material facts as to his relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the stockholders of the Corporation entitled to vote thereon, and the contract or transaction as specifically approved in good faith by vote of such stockholders; or (iii) the contract or transaction is fair as to the Corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified, by the Board of Directors, a committee or the stockholders. Common or interested directors may be counted in determining the presence of a quorum at a meeting of the Board of Directors or of a committee which authorizes the contract or transaction.

6.4. Voting of Securities owned by this Corporation. Subject always to the specific directions of the Board of Directors, (i) any shares or other securities issued by any other Corporation and owned or controlled by this Corporation may be voted in person at any meeting of security holders of such other corporation by the President of this Corporation if he is present at such meeting, or in his absence by the Treasurer of this Corporation if he is present at such meeting, and (ii) whenever, in the judgment of the President, it is desirable for this Corporation to execute a proxy or written consent in respect to any shares or other securities issued by any other Corporation and owned by this Corporation, such proxy or consent shall be executed in the name of this Corporation by the President, without the necessity of any authorization by the Board of Directors, affixation of corporate seal or countersignature or attestation by another officer, provided that if the President is unable to execute such proxy or consent by reason of sickness, absence from the United States or other similar cause, the Treasurer may execute such proxy or consent. Any person or persons designated in the manner above stated as the proxy or proxies of this Corporation shall have full right, power and authority to vote the shares or other securities issued by such other corporation and owned by this Corporation the same as such shares or other securities might be voted by this Corporation.

 

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Article VII.- Indemnification.

7.1. Right to Indemnification. Each person who was or is made a party or is threatened to be made a party to or is otherwise involved in any action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (a “Proceeding”), by reason of being or having been a director or officer of the Corporation or serving or having served at the request of the Corporation as a director, trustee, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, including service with respect to an employee benefit plan (an “Indemnitee”), whether the basis of such proceeding is alleged action or failure to act in an official capacity as a director, trustee, officer, employee or agent or in any other capacity while serving as a director, trustee, officer, employee or agent, shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Corporation to the fullest extent authorized by the Delaware General Corporation Law, as the same exists or may hereafter be amended (but, in the case of any such amendment, only to the extent that such amendment permits the Corporation to provide broader indemnification rights than permitted prior thereto) (as used in this Article 7, the “Delaware Law”), against all expense, liability and loss (including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines, ERISA excise taxes or penalties and amounts paid in settlement) reasonably incurred or suffered by such Indemnitee in connection therewith and such indemnification shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, trustee, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the Indemnitee’s heirs, executors and administrators; provided, however, that, except as provided in §7.2 hereof with respect to Proceedings to enforce rights to indemnification, the Corporation shall indemnify any such Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding (or part thereof) initiated by such Indemnitee only if such Proceeding (or part thereof) was authorized by the board of directors of the Corporation. The right to indemnification conferred in this Article 7 shall be a contract right and shall include the right to be paid by the Corporation the expenses (including attorneys’ fees) incurred in defending any such Proceeding in advance of its final disposition (an “Advancement of Expenses”); provided, however, that, if the Delaware Law so requires, an Advancement of Expenses incurred by an Indemnitee shall be made only upon delivery to the Corporation of an undertaking (an “Undertaking”), by or on behalf of such Indemnitee, to repay all amounts so advanced if it shall ultimately be determined by final judicial decision from which there is no further right to appeal (a “Final Adjudication”) that such Indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified for such expenses under this Article 7 or otherwise.

7.2. Right of Indemnitee to Bring Suit. If a claim under §7.1 hereof is not paid in full by the Corporation within sixty days after a written claim has been received by the Corporation, except in the case of a claim for an Advancement of Expenses, in which case the applicable period shall be twenty days, the Indemnitee may at any time thereafter bring suit against the Corporation to recover the unpaid amount of the claim. If successful in whole or in part in any such suit, or in a suit brought by the Corporation to recover an Advancement of Expenses pursuant to the terms of an Undertaking, the Indemnitee shall be entitled to be paid also the expense of prosecuting or defending such suit. In (i) any suit brought by the Indemnitee to enforce a right to indemnification hereunder (but not in a suit brought by the Indemnitee to enforce a right to an Advancement of Expenses) it shall be a defense that, and (ii) in any suit by the Corporation to recover an Advancement of Expenses pursuant to the terms of an Undertaking the Corporation shall be entitled to recover such expenses upon a Final Adjudication that, the Indemnitee has not met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in the Delaware Law. Neither the failure of the Corporation (including its board of directors, independent legal counsel, or its stockholders) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of such suit that indemnification of the

 

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Indemnitee is proper in the circumstances because the Indemnitee has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in the Delaware Law, nor an actual determination by the Corporation (including its board of directors, independent legal counsel, or its stockholders) that the Indemnitee has not met such applicable standard of conduct, shall create a presumption that the Indemnitee has not met the applicable standard of conduct or, in the case of such a suit brought by the Indemnitee, be a defense to such suit. In any suit brought by the Indemnitee to enforce a right to indemnification or to an Advancement of Expenses hereunder, or by the Corporation to recover an Advancement of Expenses pursuant to the terms of an Undertaking, the burden of proving that the Indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified, or to such Advancement of Expenses, under this Article 7 or otherwise shall be on the Corporation.

7.3. Non-Exclusivity of Rights. The rights to indemnification and to the Advancement of Expenses conferred in this Article 7 shall not be exclusive of any other right which any person may have or hereafter acquire under any statute, the Corporation’s Certificate of Incorporation, by-law, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise.

7.4. Insurance. The Corporation may maintain insurance, at its expense, to protect itself and any director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation or another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any expense, liability or loss, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify such person against such expense, liability or loss under this Article 7 or under the Delaware Law.

7.5. Indemnification of Employees and Agents of the Corporation. The Corporation may, to the extent authorized from time to time by the board of directors, grant rights to indemnification, and to the Advancement of Expenses, to any employee or agent of the Corporation to the fullest extent of the provisions of this Article 7 with respect to the indemnification and Advancement of Expenses of directors and officers of the Corporation.

Article VIII.- Amendments.

8.1. Amendments. The by-laws of the Corporation may be altered, amended or repealed at any meeting of the Board of Directors upon notice thereof in accordance with these by-laws, or at any meeting of the stockholders by the vote of the holders of the majority of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at such meeting, in accordance with the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation and of the laws of Delaware.

 

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Exhibit 3.4

AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS OF

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

(initially adopted on June 20, 2010)

(as amended and restated on [__], 2021; effective as of the

closing of the Corporation’s initial public offering)

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

          Page  
ARTICLE I - CORPORATE OFFICES      1  

1.1

  

REGISTERED OFFICE

     1  

1.2

  

OTHER OFFICES

     1  
ARTICLE II - MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS      1  

2.1

  

PLACE OF MEETINGS

     1  

2.2

  

ANNUAL MEETING

     1  

2.3

  

SPECIAL MEETING

     1  

2.4

  

ADVANCE NOTICE PROCEDURES

     2  

2.5

  

NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETINGS

     8  

2.6

  

QUORUM

     8  

2.7

  

ADJOURNED MEETING; NOTICE

     8  

2.8

  

CONDUCT OF BUSINESS

     9  

2.9

  

VOTING

     9  

2.10

  

STOCKHOLDER ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT WITHOUT A MEETING

     9  

2.11

  

RECORD DATES

     10  

2.12

  

PROXIES

     10  

2.13

  

LIST OF STOCKHOLDERS ENTITLED TO VOTE

     10  

2.14

  

INSPECTORS OF ELECTION

     11  
ARTICLE III - DIRECTORS      11  

3.1

  

POWERS

     11  

3.2

  

NUMBER OF DIRECTORS

     12  

3.3

  

ELECTION, QUALIFICATION, AND TERM OF OFFICE OF DIRECTORS

     12  

3.4

  

RESIGNATION AND VACANCIES

     12  

3.5

  

PLACE OF MEETINGS; MEETINGS BY TELEPHONE

     13  

3.6

  

REGULAR MEETINGS

     13  

3.7

  

SPECIAL MEETINGS; NOTICE

     13  

3.8

  

QUORUM; VOTING

     14  

3.9

  

BOARD ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT WITHOUT A MEETING

     14  

3.10

  

FEES AND COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS

     14  

3.11

  

REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS

     14  
ARTICLE IV - COMMITTEES      15  

4.1

  

COMMITTEES OF DIRECTORS

     15  

4.2

  

COMMITTEE MINUTES

     15  

4.3

  

MEETINGS AND ACTION OF COMMITTEES

     15  

4.4

  

SUBCOMMITTEES

     16  
ARTICLE V - OFFICERS      16  

5.1

  

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

     16  

5.2

  

APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

     16  

5.3

  

APPOINTMENT OF SUBORDINATE OFFICERS

     16  

5.4

  

REMOVAL AND RESIGNATION OF OFFICERS

     17  

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

          Page  
     

5.5

  

VACANCIES IN OFFICES

     17  

5.6

  

REPRESENTATION OF SECURITIES OF OTHER ENTITIES

     17  

5.7

  

AUTHORITY AND DUTIES OF OFFICERS

     17  
ARTICLE VI - STOCK      17  

6.1

  

STOCK CERTIFICATES; PARTLY PAID SHARES

     17  

6.2

  

SPECIAL DESIGNATION ON CERTIFICATES

     18  

6.3

  

LOST CERTIFICATES

     18  

6.4

  

DIVIDENDS

     19  

6.5

  

TRANSFER OF STOCK

     19  

6.6

  

STOCK TRANSFER AGREEMENTS

     19  

6.7

  

REGISTERED STOCKHOLDERS

     19  
ARTICLE VII - MANNER OF GIVING NOTICE AND WAIVER      19  

7.1

  

NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETINGS

     19  

7.2

  

NOTICE TO STOCKHOLDERS SHARING AN ADDRESS

     19  

7.3

  

NOTICE TO PERSONS WITH WHOM COMMUNICATION IS UNLAWFUL

     20  

7.4

  

WAIVER OF NOTICE

     20  
ARTICLE VIII - INDEMNIFICATION      20  

8.1

  

INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS IN THIRD-PARTY PROCEEDINGS

     20  

8.2

  

INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS IN ACTIONS BY OR IN THE RIGHT OF THE CORPORATION

     21  

8.3

  

SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE

     21  

8.4

  

INDEMNIFICATION OF OTHERS

     21  

8.5

  

ADVANCED PAYMENT OF EXPENSES

     22  

8.6

  

LIMITATION ON INDEMNIFICATION

     22  

8.7

  

DETERMINATION; CLAIM

     23  

8.8

  

NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS

     23  

8.9

  

INSURANCE

     23  

8.10

  

SURVIVAL

     23  

8.11

  

EFFECT OF REPEAL OR MODIFICATION

     24  

8.12

  

CERTAIN DEFINITIONS

     24  
ARTICLE IX - GENERAL MATTERS      24  

9.1

  

EXECUTION OF CORPORATE CONTRACTS AND INSTRUMENTS

     24  

9.2

  

FISCAL YEAR

     24  

9.3

  

SEAL

     24  

9.4

  

CONSTRUCTION; DEFINITIONS

     25  

9.5

  

FORUM SELECTION

     25  
ARTICLE X - AMENDMENTS      26  

 

 

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BYLAWS OF THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

 

 

 

ARTICLE I—CORPORATE OFFICES

1.1 REGISTERED OFFICE

The registered office of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Corporation”) will be fixed in the Corporation’s Certificate of Incorporation, as the same may be amended from time to time.

1.2 OTHER OFFICES

The Corporation may at any time establish other offices.

ARTICLE II—MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS

2.1 PLACE OF MEETINGS

Meetings of stockholders will be held at a place, if any, within or outside the State of Delaware, determined by the Corporation’s board of directors (the “Board of Directors”). The Board of Directors may, in its discretion, determine that a meeting of stockholders will not be held at any place, but may instead be held solely by means of remote communication as authorized by Section 211(a)(2) of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “General Corporation Law”). In the absence of such designation or determination, stockholders’ meetings will be held at the Corporation’s principal executive offices.

2.2 ANNUAL MEETING

The annual meeting of stockholders will be held each year. The Board of Directors will designate the date and time of the annual meeting. At the annual meeting, directors will be elected and any other proper business, brought in accordance with Section 2.4 of these Bylaws, may be transacted. The Board of Directors, acting pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Whole Board, may cancel, postpone, or reschedule any previously scheduled annual meeting at any time, before or after the notice for such annual meeting has been sent to the stockholders. For the purposes of these Bylaws, the term “Whole Board” will mean the total number of authorized directors whether or not there exists any vacancies or unfilled seats in previously authorized directors.

2.3 SPECIAL MEETING

(a) A special meeting of the stockholders, other than as required by law, may be called at any time by: (i) the Board of Directors acting pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Whole Board, (ii) the chairperson of the Board of Directors, or (iii) the Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer, but a special meeting may not be called by any other person or persons, and any power of stockholders to call a special meeting of stockholders is specifically denied. The Board of Directors, acting pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Whole Board, may cancel, postpone, or reschedule any previously scheduled special meeting at any time, before or after the notice for such special meeting has been sent to the stockholders.

 

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(b) The notice of a special meeting will include the purpose for which the meeting is called. Only such business will be conducted at a special meeting of the stockholders as will have been brought before the meeting by or at the direction of a majority of the Whole Board, the chairperson of the Board of Directors, or the Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer. Nothing contained in this Section 2.3(b) will be construed as limiting, fixing, or affecting the time when a meeting of the stockholders called by action of the Board of Directors may be held.

2.4 ADVANCE NOTICE PROCEDURES

(a) Annual Meetings of Stockholders.

(i) Nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors or the proposal of other business to be transacted by the stockholders at an annual meeting of stockholders may be made only: (1) pursuant to the Corporation’s notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto), (2) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors, (3) as may be provided in the certificate of designations for any class or series of preferred stock, or (4) by any stockholder of the Corporation who: (A) is a stockholder of record at the time of giving of the notice contemplated by Section 2.4(a)(ii), (B) is a stockholder of record on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of the annual meeting, (C) is a stockholder of record on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the annual meeting, (D) is a stockholder of record at the time of the annual meeting, and (E) complies with the procedures set forth in this Section 2.4(a).

(ii) For nominations or other business to be properly brought before an annual meeting of the stockholders by a stockholder pursuant to clause (4) of Section 2.4(a)(i), the stockholder must have given timely notice in writing to the Secretary, and any such nomination or proposed business must constitute a proper matter for stockholder action. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice must be received by the Secretary at the Corporation’s principal executive offices no earlier than 8:00 a.m., local time, on the 120th day and no later than 5:00 p.m., local time, on the 90th day prior to the day of the first anniversary of the preceding year’s annual meeting of stockholders. However, if no annual meeting of stockholders was held in the preceding year, or if the date of the applicable annual meeting has been changed by more than 25 days from the first anniversary of the preceding year’s annual meeting, then to be timely such notice must be received by the Secretary at the Corporation’s principal executive offices no earlier than 8:00 a.m., local time, on the 120th day prior to the day of the annual meeting and no later than 5:00 p.m., local time, on the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of the annual meeting was first made by the Corporation. In no event will the adjournment, rescheduling, or postponement of any annual meeting, or any announcement thereof, commence a new time period (or extend any time period) for the giving of a stockholder’s notice as described above. If the number of directors to be elected to the Board of Directors is increased and there is no public announcement naming the nominees for director or specifying the size of the increased Board of Directors at least 10 days before the last day that a stockholder may deliver a notice of nomination pursuant to the foregoing provisions, then a stockholder’s notice required by this Section 2.4(a)(ii) will also be considered timely, but only with respect to nominees for any new positions created by such increase, if it is received by the Secretary at the Corporation’s principal executive offices no later than 5:00 p.m., local time, on the tenth day following the day on which such public announcement is first made. “Public announcement” means disclosure in a press release reported by a national news service or in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Section 13, 14, or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (as amended and inclusive of rules and regulations thereunder, the “1934 Act”).

 

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(iii) A stockholder’s notice to the Secretary must set forth:

(1) as to each person whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election as a director:

(A) such person’s name, age, business address, residence address, and principal occupation or employment; the class and number of shares of the Corporation that are held of record or are beneficially owned by such person, and a description of any Derivative Instruments (defined below) held or beneficially owned thereby or of any other agreement, arrangement, or understanding (including any short position or any borrowing or lending of shares), the effect or intent of which is to mitigate loss to, or to manage the risk or benefit of share price changes for, or to increase or decrease the voting power of such person; and all information relating to such person required to be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for the contested election of directors, or is otherwise required, in each case pursuant to the Section 14 of the 1934 Act;

(B) such person’s written consent to being named in such stockholder’s proxy statement as a nominee of such stockholder and to serving as a director of the Corporation if elected;

(C) a reasonably detailed description of any direct or indirect compensatory, payment, indemnification, or other financial agreement, arrangement, or understanding that such person has, or has had within the previous three years, with any person or entity other than the Corporation (including the amount of any payment or payments received or receivable thereunder), in each case in connection with candidacy or service as a director of the Corporation (a “Third-Party Compensation Arrangement”); and

(D) a description of any other material relationships between such person and such person’s respective affiliates and associates, or others acting in concert with them, on the one hand, and such stockholder giving the notice and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination is made, and their respective affiliates and associates, or others acting in concert with them, on the other hand;

(2) as to any other business that the stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting:

(A) a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting;

(B) the text of the proposal or business (including the text of any resolutions proposed for consideration and, if applicable, the text of any proposed amendment to these Bylaws or the Certificate of Incorporation);

(C) the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting;

 

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(D) any material interest in such business of such stockholder giving the notice and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, and their respective affiliates and associates, or others acting in concert with them; and

(E) a description of all agreements, arrangements, and understandings between such stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, and their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them, and any other person or persons (including their names) in connection with the proposal of such business by such stockholder; and

(3) as to the stockholder giving the notice and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination or proposal is made:

(A) the name and address of such stockholder as appears on the Corporation’s books, of such beneficial owner, and of their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them;

(B) for each class or series, the number of shares of stock of the Corporation that are, directly or indirectly, held of record or are beneficially owned by such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them;

(C) a description of any agreement, arrangement, or understanding between such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them, and any other person or persons (including, in each case, their names) in connection with the proposal of such nomination or other business;

(D) a description of any agreement, arrangement, or understanding (including, regardless of the form of settlement, any derivative, long or short positions, profit interests, forwards, futures, swaps, options, warrants, convertible securities, stock appreciation or similar rights, hedging transactions, and borrowed or loaned shares), that has been entered into by or on behalf of such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them, with respect to the Corporation’s securities (any of the foregoing, a “Derivative Instrument”), or any other agreement, arrangement, or understanding that has been made the effect or intent of which is to create or mitigate loss to, manage risk or benefit of share price changes for, or increase or decrease the voting power of such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them, with respect to the Corporation’s securities;

(E) any rights to dividends on the Corporation’s securities owned beneficially by such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates, or others acting in concert with them, that are separated or separable from the underlying security;

(F) any proportionate interest in the Corporation’s securities or Derivative Instruments held, directly or indirectly, by a general or limited partnership in which such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them, is a general partner or, directly or indirectly, beneficially owns an interest in a general partner of such general or limited partnership;

 

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(G) any performance-related fees (other than an asset-based fee) that such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them, is entitled to based on any increase or decrease in the value of the Corporation’s securities or Derivative Instruments, including, without limitation, any such interests held by members of the immediate family of such persons sharing the same household;

(H) any significant equity interests or any Derivative Instruments in any principal competitor of the Corporation that are held by such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them;

(I) any direct or indirect interest of such stockholder, such beneficial owner, or their respective affiliates or associates or others acting in concert with them, in any contract with the Corporation, any affiliate of the Corporation, or any principal competitor of the Corporation (in each case, including any employment agreement, collective bargaining agreement, or consulting agreement);

(J) a representation and undertaking that the stockholder is a holder of record of stock of the Corporation as of the date of submission of the stockholder’s notice and intends to appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to bring such nomination or other business before the meeting;

(K) a representation and undertaking that such stockholder or such beneficial owner intends, or is part of a group that intends, to: (x) deliver a proxy statement or form of proxy to holders of at least the percentage of the voting power of the Corporation’s then-outstanding stock required to approve or adopt the proposal or to elect each such nominee; or (y) otherwise solicit proxies from stockholders in support of such proposal or nomination;

(L) any other information relating to such stockholder, such beneficial owner or their respective affiliates or associates, or others acting in concert with them, or director nominee or proposed business that, in each case, would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filing required to be made in connection with the solicitation of proxies in support of such nominee (in a contested election of directors) or proposal pursuant to Section 14 of the 1934 Act; and

(M) such other information relating to a proposed item of business as the Corporation may reasonably require to determine whether such proposed item of business is a proper matter for stockholder action.

(iv) In addition to the requirements of this Section 2.4, to be timely, a stockholder’s notice (and any additional information submitted to the Corporation in connection therewith) must further be updated and supplemented: (1) if necessary, so that the information provided or required to be provided in such notice is true and correct as of the record date(s) for determining the stockholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the meeting and as of the date that is ten business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment, rescheduling, or postponement thereof, and (2) to provide any additional information that the Corporation may reasonably request. Such update and supplement or additional information, if applicable, must be received by the Secretary at the Corporation’s principal executive offices, in the case of a request for additional information, promptly following a request therefor, which response must be delivered not later than such reasonable time as is specified in such request from the Corporation or, in the case of any other update or supplement of any information, not later than five business days after the record date(s) for the meeting (in the case of an update and supplement required to be made as of the record date(s)), and not later than eight business days prior to the date for the meeting or any adjournment, rescheduling, or postponement thereof (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of ten business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment, rescheduling, or postponement thereof). The failure to timely provide such update, supplement, or additional information will result in the nomination or proposal not being eligible for consideration at the meeting.

 

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(b) Special Meetings of Stockholders. Except to the extent required by the General Corporation Law, and subject to Section 2.3(a), a special meeting of the stockholders may be called only in accordance with the Corporation’s Certificate of Incorporation and these Bylaws. Only such business will be conducted at a special meeting of the stockholders as has been brought before the special meeting pursuant to the Corporation’s notice of meeting. If the election of directors is included as business to be brought before a special meeting in the Corporation’s notice of meeting, then nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors at such special meeting may be made by any stockholder who: (i) is a stockholder of record at the time of giving of the notice contemplated by this Section 2.4(b), (ii) is a stockholder of record on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of the special meeting, (iii) is a stockholder of record on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the special meeting, (iv) is a stockholder of record at the time of the special meeting, and (v) complies with the procedures set forth in this Section 2.4(b). For nominations to be properly brought by a stockholder before a special meeting pursuant to this Section 2.4(b), the stockholder’s notice must be received by the Secretary at the Corporation’s principal executive offices no earlier than 8:00 a.m., local time, on the 120th day prior to the day of the special meeting and no later than 5:00 p.m., local time, on the tenth day following the day on which public announcement of the date of the special meeting was first made. In no event will any adjournment, rescheduling, or postponement of a special meeting or the announcement thereof commence a new time period (or extend any time period) for the giving of a stockholder’s notice. A stockholder’s notice to the Secretary must comply with the applicable notice requirements of Section 2.4(a)(iii).

(c) Other Requirements.

(i) To be eligible to be a nominee by a stockholder for election as a director of the Corporation, the proposed nominee must provide to the Secretary, in accordance with the applicable time periods prescribed for delivery of notice under Section 2.4(a)(ii) or Section 2.4(b):

(1) a signed and completed written questionnaire (in the form provided by the Secretary at the written request of the nominating stockholder, which form will be provided by the Secretary within ten days of receiving such request) containing information regarding such nominee’s background and qualifications and such other information as may reasonably be required by the Corporation to determine the eligibility of such nominee to serve as a director of the Corporation or as an independent director of the Corporation;

(2) a written representation and undertaking that, unless previously disclosed to the Corporation, such nominee is not, and will not become, a party to any voting agreement, arrangement, commitment, assurance, or understanding with any person or entity as to how such nominee, if elected as a director, will vote on any issue;

(3) a written representation and undertaking that, unless previously disclosed to the Corporation, such nominee is not, and will not become, a party to any Third-Party Compensation Arrangement;

 

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(4) a written representation and undertaking that, if elected as a director, such nominee would be in compliance with, and will continue to comply with, the Corporation’s Corporate Governance Guidelines as disclosed on the Corporation’s website, as amended from time to time; and

(5) a written representation and undertaking that such nominee, if elected, intends to serve a full term on the Board of Directors.

(ii) At the request of the Board of Directors, a person nominated by the Board of Directors for election as a director must furnish to the Secretary the information that is required to be set forth in a stockholder’s notice of nomination that pertains to such nominee.

(iii) No person will be eligible to be nominated by a stockholder for election as a director of the Corporation unless nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 2.4. No business proposed by a stockholder will be conducted at a stockholder meeting except in accordance with this Section 2.4.

(iv) The chairperson of the applicable meeting of stockholders will, if the facts warrant, determine and declare to the meeting that a nomination was not made in accordance with the procedures prescribed by these Bylaws or that business was not properly brought before the meeting. If the chairperson of the meeting should so determine, then the chairperson of the meeting will so declare to the meeting, and the defective nomination will be disregarded or such business will not be transacted, as the case may be.

(v) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 2.4, unless otherwise required by law, if the stockholder (or a qualified representative of the stockholder) does not appear in person at the meeting to present a nomination or other proposed business, then such nomination will be disregarded or such proposed business will not be transacted, as the case may be, notwithstanding that proxies in respect of such nomination or business may have been received by the Corporation and counted for purposes of determining a quorum. For purposes of this Section 2.4, to be considered a qualified representative of the stockholder, a person must be a duly authorized officer, manager, or partner of such stockholder or must be authorized by a writing executed by such stockholder or an electronic transmission delivered by such stockholder to act for such stockholder as proxy at the meeting, and such person must produce such writing or electronic transmission, or a reliable reproduction of the writing or electronic transmission, at the meeting.

(vi) Without limiting this Section 2.4, a stockholder must also comply with applicable requirements of the 1934 Act with respect to the matters set forth in this Section 2.4, it being understood that: (1) any references in these Bylaws to the 1934 Act are not intended to, and will not, limit any requirements applicable to nominations or proposals as to any other business to be considered pursuant to this Section 2.4, and (2) compliance with clause (4) of Section 2.4(a)(i) and with Section 2.4(b) are the exclusive means for a stockholder to make nominations or submit other business (other than as provided in Section 2.4(c)(vii)).

(vii) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 2.4, the notice requirements set forth in these Bylaws with respect to the proposal of business pursuant to this Section 2.4 will be deemed to be satisfied by a stockholder if: (1) such stockholder has submitted a proposal to the Corporation in compliance with Rule 14a-8 under the 1934 Act, and (2) such

 

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stockholder’s proposal has been included in a proxy statement that has been prepared by the Corporation to solicit proxies for the meeting of stockholders. Subject to Rule 14a-8 and other applicable rules and regulations under the 1934 Act, nothing in these Bylaws will be construed to permit any stockholder, or give any stockholder the right, to include or have disseminated or described in the Corporation’s proxy statement any nomination of a director or any other business proposal.

2.5 NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETINGS

Whenever stockholders are required or permitted to take action at a meeting, a notice of the meeting will be given that will state the place, if any, date, and hour of the meeting, the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, if such date is different from the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of the meeting, and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called. Except as otherwise provided in the General Corporation Law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws, the notice of any meeting of stockholders will be given not less than ten nor more than sixty days before the date of the meeting to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting as of the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to notice of the meeting.

2.6 QUORUM

The holders of a majority of the voting power of the capital stock of the Corporation issued and outstanding and entitled to vote, present in person or represented by proxy, will constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at all meetings of the stockholders. Where a separate vote by a class or series or classes or series is required, a majority of the voting power of the outstanding shares of such class or series or classes or series, present in person or represented by proxy, will constitute a quorum entitled to take action with respect to that vote on that matter, except as otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws.

If, however, such quorum is not present or represented at any meeting of the stockholders, then either the chairperson of the meeting or the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, will have the power to adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum is present or represented. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present or represented, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the original meeting.

2.7 ADJOURNED MEETING; NOTICE

When a meeting is adjourned to another time or place, unless these Bylaws otherwise require, notice need not be given of the adjourned meeting if the time, place, if any, thereof, and the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such adjourned meeting are announced at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken. At the adjourned meeting the Corporation may transact any business that might have been transacted at the original meeting. If the adjournment is for more than 30 days, then a notice of the adjourned meeting will be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting. If after the adjournment a new record date for stockholders entitled to vote is fixed for the adjourned meeting, then the Board of Directors will fix a new record date for notice of such adjourned meeting in accordance with Section 213(a) of the General Corporation Law and Section 2.11 of these Bylaws and will give notice of the adjourned meeting to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such adjourned meeting as of the record date fixed for notice of such adjourned meeting.

 

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2.8 CONDUCT OF BUSINESS

The chairperson of any meeting of stockholders will determine the order of business and the procedure at the meeting, including such regulation of the manner of voting and the conduct of business and discussion as seem appropriate to the chairperson. The chairperson of any meeting of the stockholders will be designated by the Board of Directors; in the absence of such designation, the chairperson of the Board of Directors, or the Chief Executive Officer in the absence of the chairperson of the Board of Directors, or in their absence another executive officer of the Corporation will serve as chairperson of the stockholder meeting. The chairperson of any meeting of stockholders will have the power to adjourn the meeting to another place, if any, date, or time, whether or not a quorum is present.

2.9 VOTING

The stockholders entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders will be determined in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.11 of these Bylaws, subject to Section 217 (relating to voting rights of fiduciaries, pledgors, and joint owners of stock) and Section 218 (relating to voting trusts and other voting agreements) of the General Corporation Law.

Except as may be otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, each stockholder will be entitled to one vote for each share of capital stock held by such stockholder.

Except as otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation, these Bylaws, or the rules of the stock exchange on which the Corporation’s securities are listed, in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of a majority of the voting power of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter will be the act of the stockholders. Except as otherwise required by law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws, directors will be elected by a plurality of the voting power of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the election of directors. Where a separate vote by a class or series or classes or series is required, in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of the majority of the voting power of the outstanding shares of such class or series or classes or series present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter will be the act of such class or series or classes or series, except as otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation, these Bylaws, or the rules of the stock exchange on which the securities of the Corporation are listed.

2.10 STOCKHOLDER ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT WITHOUT A MEETING

Subject to the rights of holders of preferred stock of the Corporation, any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation must be taken at a duly called annual or special meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation and may not be taken by any consent in writing by such stockholders.

 

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2.11 RECORD DATES

So the Corporation can determine the stockholders entitled to notice of a meeting of the stockholders or any adjournment thereof, the Board of Directors may fix a record date, which record date will not precede the date on which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the Board of Directors and which record date will not be more than sixty nor less than ten days before the date of such meeting. If the Board of Directors so fixes a date, then such date will also be the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at such meeting unless the Board of Directors determines, at the time it fixes such record date, that a later date on or before the date of the meeting will be the date for making such determination.

If no record date is fixed by the Board of Directors, then the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of and to vote at a meeting of the stockholders will be at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice is given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held.

A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of the stockholders will apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new record date for determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the adjourned meeting, and in such case will also fix as the record date for stockholders entitled to notice of such adjourned meeting the same or an earlier date as that fixed for determination of stockholders entitled to vote in accordance with the provisions of Section 213 of the General Corporation Law and this Section 2.11 at the adjourned meeting.

So the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to receive payment of any dividend, or other distribution, or allotment of any rights of the stockholders entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion, or exchange of stock, or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix a record date, which record date will not precede the date on which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted, and which record date will be not more than sixty days prior to such action. If no record date is fixed, then the record date for determining stockholders for any such purpose will be at the close of business on the day on which the Board of Directors adopts the resolution relating thereto.

2.12 PROXIES

Each stockholder entitled to vote at a meeting of the stockholders, or such stockholder’s authorized officer, director, employee, or agent, may authorize another person or persons to act for such stockholder by proxy authorized by a document or by a transmission permitted by law that is filed in accordance with the procedure established for the meeting, but no such proxy will be voted or acted on after three years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period. The revocability of a proxy that states on its face that it is irrevocable will be governed by the provisions of Section 212 of the General Corporation Law.

2.13 LIST OF STOCKHOLDERS ENTITLED TO VOTE

The Corporation will prepare, at least ten days before every meeting of the stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting; provided, however, if the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote is less than ten days before the meeting date, the list will reflect the stockholders entitled to vote as of the tenth day before the meeting date, arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. The Corporation will not be required to include electronic mail addresses or other electronic contact information on such list. Such list will be open to the examination of any

 

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stockholder for any purpose germane to the meeting for a period of at least ten days prior to the meeting: (a) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain access to such list is provided with the notice of the meeting, or (b) during ordinary business hours, at the Corporation’s principal place of business. If the Corporation determines to make the list of stockholders available on an electronic network, then the Corporation may take reasonable steps to ensure that such information is available only to stockholders of the Corporation. If the meeting is to be held at a place, then a list of stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting will be produced and kept at the time and place of the meeting during the whole time thereof and may be examined by any stockholder who is present. If the meeting is to be held solely by means of remote communication, then such list will also be open to the examination of any stockholder during the whole time of the meeting on a reasonably accessible electronic network, and the information required to access such list will be provided with the notice of the meeting.

2.14 INSPECTORS OF ELECTION

Before a meeting of the stockholders, the Corporation will appoint an inspector or inspectors of election to act at the meeting or its adjournment. The Corporation may designate one or more persons as alternate inspectors to replace any inspector who fails to act.

Such inspectors will:

(a) ascertain the number of shares outstanding and the voting power of each;

(b) determine the shares represented at the meeting and the validity of proxies and ballots;

(c) count all votes and ballots;

(d) determine and retain for a reasonable period a record of the disposition of any challenges made to any determination by the inspectors; and

(e) certify their determination of the number of shares represented at the meeting and their count of votes and ballots.

The inspectors of election will perform their duties impartially, in good faith, to the best of their ability, and as expeditiously as is practical. If there are multiple inspectors of election, then the decision, act, or certificate of a majority is effective in all respects as the decision, act, or certificate of all. Any report or certificate made by the inspectors of election is prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein.

ARTICLE III—DIRECTORS

3.1 POWERS

The business and affairs of the Corporation will be managed by and under the direction of the Board of Directors, except as may be otherwise provided by law or the Certificate of Incorporation.

 

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3.2 NUMBER OF DIRECTORS

The Board of Directors will consist of one or more members, each of whom will be a natural person. Unless the Certificate of Incorporation fixes the number of directors, the number of directors will be determined from time to time by resolution of a majority of the Whole Board. No reduction of the authorized number of directors will have the effect of removing a director before that director’s term of office expires.

3.3 ELECTION, QUALIFICATION, AND TERM OF OFFICE OF DIRECTORS

Except as provided in the Certificate of Incorporation or Section 3.4 of these Bylaws, each director, including a director elected to fill a vacancy or newly created directorship, will hold office until the expiration of the term for which elected and until such director’s successor is elected and qualified or until such director’s earlier death, resignation, or removal. Directors need not be stockholders unless so required by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws. The Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws may prescribe other qualifications for directors.

If so provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, the directors of the Corporation will be divided into three classes.

3.4 RESIGNATION AND VACANCIES

Any director may resign at any time on notice given in writing or by electronic transmission to the Corporation. A resignation is effective when the resignation is delivered unless the resignation specifies a later effective date or an effective date determined on the happening of an event or events. A resignation that is conditioned on the director failing to receive a specified vote for reelection as a director may provide that it is irrevocable. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, when one or more directors resign from the Board of Directors, effective at a future date, a majority of the directors then in office, including those who have so resigned, will have power to fill such vacancy or vacancies, the vote thereon to take effect when such resignation or resignations become effective.

Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws, or permitted in the specific case by resolution of the Board of Directors, and subject to the rights of holders of Preferred Stock, vacancies and newly created directorships resulting from an increase in the authorized number of directors elected by the stockholders having the right to vote as a single class may be filled by a majority of the directors then in office, although less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director, and not by stockholders; notwithstanding anything in these Bylaws to the contrary, for so long as any party to that certain nominating, observer and secondment agreement, dated as of August [__], 2021, by and among the Corporation, Kirin Holding Company, Limited and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (as may be amended from time to time, the “Nominating Agreement”), is entitled to designate a person to be included in a future slate of nominees recommended by the Corporation to the Corporation’s stockholders for election at an Election Meeting (as defined therein) as a director of the Corporation pursuant to the Nominating Agreement (each a “Nominating Party”), and the director previously designated by such Nominating Party has resigned from the Board of Directors, the directors then in office shall take reasonable action to fill such vacancy with the designee of such Nominating Party that it intends to nominate at the next Election Meeting (as defined therein) pursuant to the Nominating Agreement. If the directors are divided into classes, then a person so chosen to fill a vacancy or newly created directorship will hold office until the next election of the class for which such director will have been chosen and until that director’s successor will have been duly elected and qualified.

 

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3.5 PLACE OF MEETINGS; MEETINGS BY TELEPHONE

The Board of Directors may hold meetings, both regular and special, either within or outside the State of Delaware.

Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, members of the Board of Directors may participate in a meeting of the Board of Directors by means of telephone conference or other communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and such participation in a meeting will constitute presence in person at the meeting.

3.6 REGULAR MEETINGS

Regular meetings of the Board of Directors may be held without notice at such time and at such place as from time to time is determined by the Board of Directors.

3.7 SPECIAL MEETINGS; NOTICE

Special meetings of the Board of Directors for any purpose or purposes may be called at any time by the chairperson of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the Secretary, or a majority of the Whole Board.

Notice of the time and place of special meetings will be:

(a) delivered personally by hand, by courier, or by telephone;

(b) sent by U.S. first-class mail, postage prepaid;

(c) sent by facsimile;

(d) sent by electronic mail; or

(e) otherwise given by electronic transmission (as defined in Section 232 of the General Corporation Law),

directed to each director at that director’s address, telephone number, facsimile number, electronic mail address, or other contact for notice by electronic transmission, as the case may be, as shown on the Corporation’s records.

If the notice is: (i) delivered personally by hand, by courier, or by telephone, (ii) sent by facsimile, (iii) sent by electronic mail, or (iv) otherwise given by electronic transmission, then it will be delivered, sent, or otherwise directed to each director, as applicable, at least 24 hours before the time of the holding of the meeting. If the notice is sent by U.S. mail, then it will be deposited in the U.S. mail at least four days before the time of the holding of the meeting. Any oral notice of the time and place of the meeting may be communicated to the director in lieu of written notice if such notice is communicated at least 24 hours before the time of the holding of the meeting. The notice need not specify the place of the meeting if the meeting is to be held at the Corporation’s principal executive offices nor the purpose of the meeting, unless required by law.

 

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3.8 QUORUM; VOTING

At all meetings of the Board of Directors, a majority of the Whole Board will constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. If a quorum is not present at a meeting of the Board of Directors, then the directors present may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum is present.

The affirmative vote of a majority of the directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present will be the act of the Board of Directors, except as may be otherwise specifically provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws.

If the Certificate of Incorporation provides that one or more directors will have more or less than one vote per director on any matter, except as may otherwise be expressly provided herein or therein and denoted with the phrase “notwithstanding the final paragraph of Section 3.8 of the Bylaws” or language to similar effect, every reference in these Bylaws to a majority or other proportion of the directors will refer to a majority or other proportion of the votes of the directors.

3.9 BOARD ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT WITHOUT A MEETING

Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors, or of a committee thereof, may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board of Directors or any committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission. Any person (whether or not then a director) may provide, whether through instruction to an agent or otherwise, that a consent to action will be effective at a future time (including a time determined on the happening of an event), no later than sixty days after such instruction is given or such provision is made, and such consent will be deemed to have been given for purposes of this Section 3.9 at such effective time so long as such person is then a director and did not revoke the consent prior to such time. Any such consent will be revocable prior to its becoming effective.

3.10 FEES AND COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS

Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, the Board of Directors will have the authority to fix the compensation of directors.

3.11 REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS

Any director or the entire Board of Directors may be removed from office by the stockholders of the Corporation in the manner specified in the Certificate of Incorporation and applicable law. No reduction of the authorized number of directors will have the effect of removing a director prior to the expiration of such director’s term of office.

 

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ARTICLE IV—COMMITTEES

4.1 COMMITTEES OF DIRECTORS

The Board of Directors may, by resolution passed by a majority of the Whole Board, designate one or more committees, each committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the Corporation. The Board of Directors may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members present at a meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not such member or members constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board of Directors to act at the meeting in the place of such absent or disqualified member. Any such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the Board of Directors or in these Bylaws, will have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the Board of Directors in the management of the business and affairs of the Corporation, and may authorize the seal of the Corporation to be affixed to papers that may require it; but no such committee will have the power or authority: (a) to approve or adopt, or recommend to the stockholders, any action or matter (other than the election or removal of directors) expressly required by the General Corporation Law to be submitted to stockholders for approval, or (b) to adopt, amend, or repeal a Bylaw of the Corporation.

4.2 COMMITTEE MINUTES

Each committee and subcommittee will keep regular minutes of its meetings.

4.3 MEETINGS AND ACTION OF COMMITTEES

Meetings and actions of committees and subcommittees will be governed by, and be held and taken in accordance with, the provisions of:

(a) Section 3.5 (place of meetings and meetings by telephone);

(b) Section 3.6 (regular meetings);

(c) Section 3.7 (special meetings and notice);

(d) Section 3.8 (quorum; voting);

(e) Section 3.9 (action without a meeting); and

(f) Section 7.4 (waiver of notice)

 

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with such changes in the context of those Bylaws as are necessary to substitute the committee or subcommittee and its members for the Board of Directors and its members. However: (i) the time and place of regular meetings of committees or subcommittees may be determined either by resolution of the Board of Directors or by resolution of the committee or subcommittee; (ii) special meetings of committees or subcommittees may also be called by resolution of the Board of Directors or the committee or the subcommittee; and (iii) notice of special meetings of committees and subcommittees will also be given to alternate members who have the right to attend all meetings of the committee or subcommittee. The Board of Directors may adopt rules for the governance of committees not inconsistent with the provisions of these Bylaws.

Any provision in the Certificate of Incorporation providing that one or more directors will have more or less than one vote per director on any matter will apply to voting in any committee or subcommittee, unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws.

4.4 SUBCOMMITTEES

Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, these Bylaws, or the resolutions of the Board of Directors designating the committee, a committee may create one or more subcommittees, each subcommittee to consist of one or more members of the committee, and delegate to a subcommittee the powers and authority of the committee.

ARTICLE V—OFFICERS

5.1 EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

The executive officers of the Corporation will be a Chief Executive Officer, a Chief Operating Officer, and a Chief Financial Officer. The Corporation may also have, at the discretion of the Board of Directors, a chairperson of the Board of Directors and any such other subordinate officers, including one or more vice presidents, one or more assistant vice presidents, a treasurer and one or more assistant treasurers, a secretary and one or more assistant secretaries, and any such other subordinate officers as may be appointed in accordance with the provisions of these Bylaws. Any number of offices may be held by the same person.

5.2 APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

The Board of Directors will appoint the executive officers of the Corporation, subject to the rights, if any, of an officer under a contract of employment.

5.3 APPOINTMENT OF SUBORDINATE OFFICERS

The Board of Directors may appoint, or empower the Chief Executive Officer to appoint, such other subordinate officers as the business of the Corporation may require. Each of such other subordinate officers will hold office for such period, have such authority, and perform such duties as are directed by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer as the business of the Corporation may require and from time to time determine.

 

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5.4 REMOVAL AND RESIGNATION OF OFFICERS

Subject to the rights, if any, of an officer under a contract of employment, any executive or subordinate officer may be removed, either with or without cause, by the Board of Directors or, for the avoidance of doubt, any duly authorized committee or subcommittee thereof, or by an executive officer who has been conferred such power of removal.

An officer may resign at any time by giving notice, in writing or by electronic transmission, to the Corporation. A resignation will take effect at the date of the receipt of such notice or at any later time specified in such notice. Unless otherwise specified in the notice of resignation, the acceptance of the resignation will not be necessary to make it effective. A resignation is without prejudice to the rights, if any, of the Corporation under any contract to which the officer is a party.

5.5 VACANCIES IN OFFICES

A vacancy occurring in an office of the Corporation will be filled by the Board of Directors or as provided in Section 5.3.

5.6 REPRESENTATION OF SECURITIES OF OTHER ENTITIES

The chairperson of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, any executive officer, the Secretary, or any other person authorized by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer, is authorized to vote, represent, and exercise on behalf of the Corporation all rights incident to the shares or other securities of any other entity or entities, and all rights incident to any management authority conferred on the Corporation in accordance with the governing documents of any such entity or entities, standing in the name of the Corporation, including the right to act by written consent. The authority granted herein may be exercised either by such person directly or by any other person authorized to do so by proxy or power of attorney duly executed by such person having the authority.

5.7 AUTHORITY AND DUTIES OF OFFICERS

The officers of the Corporation will respectively have such authority and perform such duties in the management of the business of the Corporation as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors and the Chief Executive Officer, to the extent not so provided, as generally pertain to their respective offices, subject to the control of the Board of Directors.

ARTICLE VI—STOCK

6.1 STOCK CERTIFICATES; PARTLY PAID SHARES

The shares of the Corporation will be represented by certificates, provided that the Board of Directors may provide by resolution that some or all of any or all classes or series of its stock will be uncertificated shares. Any such resolution will not apply to shares represented by a certificate until such certificate is surrendered to the Corporation. Unless otherwise provided by a resolution of the Board of Directors, every holder of stock represented by certificates will be entitled to have a certificate signed by, or in the name of the Corporation, by the Chief Financial Officer (or another officer designated by the Chief Financial Officer) and one other officer of the Corporation, representing the number of shares registered in certificate form. The signatures on a certificate may be a facsimile. If any officer, transfer

 

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agent, or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been affixed on a certificate has ceased to be such officer, transfer agent, or registrar before such certificate is issued, then it may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if such person were such officer, transfer agent, or registrar at the date of issue.

The Corporation will not have power to issue share certificates in bearer form.

The Corporation may issue the whole or any part of its shares as partly paid and subject to call for the remainder of the consideration to be paid therefor. On the face or back of each stock certificate issued to represent any such partly-paid shares, or on the books and records of the Corporation in the case of uncertificated partly-paid shares, the total amount of the consideration to be paid therefor and the amount paid thereon will be stated. On the declaration of any dividend on fully-paid shares, the Corporation will declare a dividend on partly-paid shares of the same class, but only on the basis of the percentage of the consideration actually paid thereon.

6.2 SPECIAL DESIGNATION ON CERTIFICATES

If the Corporation is authorized to issue more than one class of stock or more than one series of any class, then the powers, the designations, the preferences, and the relative, participating, optional, or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations, or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights will be set forth in full or summarized on the face or back of the certificate that the Corporation issues to represent such class or series of stock; provided, however, that, except as otherwise provided in Section 202 of the General Corporation Law, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, there may be set forth on the face or back of the certificate that the Corporation issues to represent such class or series of stock, a statement that the Corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests the powers, designations, and preferences, and the relative, participating, optional, or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations, or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights. Within a reasonable time after the issuance or transfer of uncertificated stock, the registered owner thereof will be given a notice, in writing or by electronic transmission, containing the information required to be set forth or stated on certificates pursuant to this Section 6.2 or Sections 156, 202(a), 218(a) or 364 of the General Corporation Law or with respect to this Section 6.2 a statement that the Corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests the powers, designations, and preferences, and the relative, participating, optional, or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations, or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights. Except as otherwise expressly provided by law, the rights and obligations of the holders of uncertificated stock and the rights and obligations of the holders of certificates representing stock of the same class and series will be identical.

6.3 LOST CERTIFICATES

Except as provided in this Section 6.3, no new certificates for shares will be issued to replace a previously issued certificate unless the latter is surrendered to the Corporation and cancelled at the same time. The Corporation may issue a new certificate of stock or uncertificated shares in the place of any certificate theretofore issued by it that is alleged to have been lost, stolen, or destroyed. The Corporation may require the owner of the lost, stolen, or destroyed certificate, or such owner’s legal representative, to give the Corporation a bond sufficient to indemnify it against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft, or destruction of any such certificate or the issuance of such new certificate or uncertificated shares.

 

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6.4 DIVIDENDS

The Board of Directors, subject to any restrictions contained in the Certificate of Incorporation or applicable law, may declare and pay dividends on the shares of the Corporation’s capital stock. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of the Corporation’s capital stock, subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation. The Board of Directors may set apart out of any of the funds of the Corporation available for dividends a reserve or reserves for any proper purpose and may abolish any such reserve.

6.5 TRANSFER OF STOCK

Transfers of record of shares of stock of the Corporation will be made only on its books by the holders thereof, in person or by an attorney duly authorized, and, if such stock is certificated, on the surrender of a certificate or certificates for a like number of shares, properly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignation, or authority to transfer.

6.6 STOCK TRANSFER AGREEMENTS

The Corporation will have power to enter and perform any agreement with any number of stockholders of any one or more classes of stock of the Corporation to restrict the transfer of shares of stock of the Corporation of any one or more classes owned by such stockholders in any manner not prohibited by the General Corporation Law.

6.7 REGISTERED STOCKHOLDERS

The Corporation:

(a) will be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a person registered on its books as the owner of shares to receive dividends and notices and to vote as such owner; and

(b) will not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or shares on the part of another person, whether or not it will have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of the State of Delaware.

ARTICLE VII—MANNER OF GIVING NOTICE AND WAIVER

7.1 NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETINGS

Notice of any meeting of the stockholders will be given in the manner set forth in the General Corporation Law.

7.2 NOTICE TO STOCKHOLDERS SHARING AN ADDRESS

Except as otherwise prohibited under the General Corporation Law, without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given effectively to stockholders, any notice to stockholders given by the Corporation under the provisions of the General Corporation Law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws will be effective if given by a single written notice to stockholders who share an address if consented to by the stockholders at that address to whom such notice is given. Any such consent will be

 

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revocable by the stockholder by written notice to the Corporation. A stockholder who fails to object in writing to the Corporation within sixty days of having been given written notice by the Corporation of its intention to send the single notice, will be deemed to have consented to receiving such single written notice. This Section 7.2 will not apply to Sections 164, 296, 311, 312, or 324 of the General Corporation Law.

7.3 NOTICE TO PERSONS WITH WHOM COMMUNICATION IS UNLAWFUL

Whenever notice is required to be given, under the General Corporation Law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws, to any person with whom communication is unlawful, the giving of such notice to such person will not be required and there will be no duty to apply to a governmental authority or agency for a license or permit to give such notice to such person. Any action or meeting that will be taken or held without notice to any such person with whom communication is unlawful will have the same force and effect as if such notice had been duly given. If the action taken by the Corporation is such as to require the filing of a certificate under the General Corporation Law, then the certificate will state, if such is the fact and if notice is required, that notice was given to all persons entitled to receive notice, except such persons with whom communication is unlawful.

7.4 WAIVER OF NOTICE

Whenever notice is required to be given under a provision of the General Corporation Law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws, a written waiver, signed by the person entitled to notice, or a waiver by electronic transmission by the person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time of the event for which notice is to be given, will be deemed equivalent to notice. Attendance of a person at a meeting will constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning of the meeting to the transaction of business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the stockholders need be specified in a written waiver of notice or a waiver by electronic transmission unless so required by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws.

ARTICLE VIII—INDEMNIFICATION

8.1 INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS IN THIRD-PARTY PROCEEDINGS

Subject to the other provisions of this Article VIII, the Corporation will indemnify, to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law, as now or hereinafter in effect, any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending, or completed action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative (a “Proceeding”) (other than an action by or in the right of the Corporation) by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the Corporation, or is or was a director or officer of the Corporation serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such Proceeding if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to a criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe such person’s conduct was unlawful. The termination of a Proceeding by judgment,

 

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order, settlement, conviction, or on a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, will not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner that such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to a criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that such person’s conduct was unlawful.

8.2 INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS IN ACTIONS BY OR IN THE RIGHT OF THE CORPORATION

Subject to the other provisions of this Article VIII, the Corporation will indemnify, to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law, as now or hereinafter in effect, any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending, or completed Proceeding by or in the right of the Corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the Corporation, or is or was a director or officer of the Corporation serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with the defense or settlement of such Proceeding if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation; except that no indemnification will be made in respect of any claim, issue, or matter as to which such person will have been adjudged to be liable to the Corporation unless and only to the extent that the Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought determines on application that, despite the adjudication of liability, but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses that the Court of Chancery or such other court deems proper.

8.3 SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE

To the extent that a present or former director or officer (for purposes of this Section 8.3 only, as such term is defined in Section 145(c)(1) of the General Corporation Law) of the Corporation is successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of an action, suit, or proceeding described in Section 8.1 or Section 8.2, or in defense of a claim, issue, or matter therein, such person will be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection therewith. The Corporation may indemnify any other person who is not a present or former director or officer of the Corporation against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person to the extent that person is successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any suit or proceeding described in Section 8.1 or Section 8.2, or in defense of any claim, issue, or matter therein.

8.4 INDEMNIFICATION OF OTHERS

Subject to the other provisions of this Article VIII, the Corporation has power to indemnify its employees and agents, or any other persons, to the extent not prohibited by the General Corporation Law or other applicable law. The Board of Directors has the power to delegate to any person or persons identified in subsections (1) through (4) of Section 145(d) of the General Corporation Law the determination of whether employees or agents will be indemnified.

 

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8.5 ADVANCED PAYMENT OF EXPENSES

Expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by an officer or director of the Corporation in defending a Proceeding will be paid by the Corporation in advance of the final disposition of such Proceeding on receipt of a written request therefor (together with documentation reasonably evidencing such expenses), including an undertaking by or on behalf of the person to repay such amounts if it is ultimately determined that the person is not entitled to be indemnified under this Article VIII or the General Corporation Law. Such expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by former directors and officers or other employees and agents of the Corporation or by persons serving at the request of the Corporation as directors, officers, employees, or agents of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise may be so paid on such terms and conditions, if any, as the Corporation deems appropriate. The right to advancement of expenses will not apply to a Proceeding (or any part of a Proceeding) for which indemnity is excluded pursuant to these Bylaws, but will apply to a Proceeding (or any part of a Proceeding) referenced in Section 8.6(b) or 8.6(c) prior to a determination the person is not entitled to be indemnified by the Corporation.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, unless otherwise dictated pursuant to Section 8.8, no advance will be made by the Corporation to an officer of the Corporation (except by reason of the fact that such officer is or was a director of the Corporation, in which event this paragraph will not apply) in a Proceeding if a determination is reasonably and promptly made: (a) by a vote of the directors who are not parties to such Proceeding, even though less than a quorum, or (b) by a committee of such directors designated by the vote of the majority of such directors, even though less than a quorum, or (c) if there are no such directors, or if such directors so direct, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion, that facts known to the decision-making party at the time such determination is made demonstrate clearly and convincingly that such person acted in bad faith or in a manner that such person did not believe to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation.

8.6 LIMITATION ON INDEMNIFICATION

Subject to the requirements in Section 8.3 and the General Corporation Law, the Corporation is not obligated to indemnify any person pursuant to this Article VIII in connection with a Proceeding (or any part of a Proceeding):

(a) for which payment has actually been made to or on behalf of such person under any law, insurance policy, indemnity provision, vote or otherwise, except with respect to any excess beyond the amount paid;

(b) for an accounting or disgorgement of profits pursuant to Section 16(b) of the 1934 Act or similar provisions of federal, state, or local statutory law or common law if such person is held liable therefor (including pursuant to any settlement arrangements);

(c) for reimbursement of the Corporation by such person of a bonus or other incentive-based or equity-based compensation or of profits realized by such person from the sale of securities of the Corporation, as required in each case under the 1934 Act (including such reimbursements that arise from an accounting restatement of the Corporation pursuant to Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), or the payment to the Corporation of profits arising from the purchase and sale by such person of securities in violation of Section 306 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act), if such person is held liable therefor (including pursuant to any settlement arrangements);

(d) initiated by such person, including a Proceeding (or any part of a Proceeding) initiated by such person against the Corporation or its directors, officers, employees, agents, or other indemnitees, unless: (i) the Board of Directors authorized the Proceeding (or the relevant part of the Proceeding) prior to its initiation, (ii) the Corporation provides the indemnification, in its sole discretion, pursuant to the powers vested in the Corporation under applicable law, (iii) otherwise required to be made under Section 8.7, or (iv) otherwise required by applicable law; or

 

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(e) if prohibited by applicable law.

8.7 DETERMINATION; CLAIM

If a claim for indemnification or advancement of expenses under this Article VIII is not paid in full within ninety days after receipt by the Corporation of the written request therefor, the claimant will be entitled to an adjudication by a court of competent jurisdiction of the claimant’s entitlement to such indemnification or advancement of expenses. The Corporation will indemnify such claimant against expenses actually and reasonably incurred by the claimant in connection with an action for indemnification or advancement of expenses from the Corporation under this Article VIII to the extent such claimant is successful in such action and to the extent not prohibited by law. In any such suit, the Corporation will have, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, the burden of proving the claimant is not entitled to the requested indemnification or advancement of expenses.

8.8 NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS

The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Article VIII will not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which a person seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under the Certificate of Incorporation, law, bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors, or otherwise, both as to action in such person’s official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office. The Corporation is specifically authorized to enter individual contracts with any or all of its directors, officers, employees, or agents respecting indemnification and advancement of expenses, to the fullest extent not prohibited by the General Corporation Law or other applicable law.

8.9 INSURANCE

The Corporation may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee, or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise against any liability asserted against such person and incurred by such person in any such capacity, or arising out of such person’s status as such, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify such person against such liability under the provisions of the General Corporation Law.

8.10 SURVIVAL

The right to indemnification and advancement of expenses conferred by this Article VIII will continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee, or agent and will inure to the benefit of the person’s heirs, executors, and administrators.

 

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8.11 EFFECT OF REPEAL OR MODIFICATION

A right to indemnification or to advancement of expenses arising under a provision of the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws will not be eliminated or impaired by amendment or restatement of the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws after the occurrence of the act or omission that is the subject of the civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative action, suit, or proceeding for which indemnification or advancement of expenses is sought, unless the provision in effect at the time of such act or omission explicitly authorizes such elimination or impairment after such action or omission has occurred.

8.12 CERTAIN DEFINITIONS

For purposes of this Article VIII, references to the “Corporation” includes, in addition to the resulting Corporation, any constituent corporation (including any constituent of a constituent) absorbed in a consolidation or merger which, if its separate existence had continued, would have had power and authority to indemnify its directors, officers, employees, or agents, so that any person who is or was a director, officer, employee, or agent of such constituent corporation, or is or was serving at the request of such constituent corporation as a director, officer, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise, will stand in the same position under the provisions of this Article VIII with respect to the resulting or surviving corporation as such person would have with respect to such constituent corporation if its separate existence had continued. For purposes of this Article VIII, references to “other enterprises” includes employee benefit plans; references to “fines” includes any excise taxes assessed on a person with respect to an employee benefit plan; and references to “serving at the request of the Corporation” includes any service as a director, officer, employee, or agent of the Corporation that imposes duties on, or involves services by, such director, officer, employee, or agent with respect to an employee benefit plan, its participants or beneficiaries; and a person who acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries of an employee benefit plan will be deemed to have acted in a manner “not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation” as referred to in this Article VIII.

ARTICLE IX—GENERAL MATTERS

9.1 EXECUTION OF CORPORATE CONTRACTS AND INSTRUMENTS

Except as otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws, the Board of Directors may authorize any officer or officers, or agent or agents, to enter into any contract or execute any document or instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Corporation. Such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Unless so authorized or ratified by the Board of Directors or within the agency power of an officer, no officer, agent, or employee will have power or authority to bind the Corporation by any contract or engagement or to pledge its credit or to render it liable for any purpose or for any amount.

9.2 FISCAL YEAR

The fiscal year of the Corporation will be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors and may be changed by the Board of Directors.

9.3 SEAL

The Corporation may adopt a corporate seal, which will be adopted, and which may be altered by the Board of Directors. The Corporation may use the corporate seal by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed, affixed, or in any other manner reproduced.

 

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9.4 CONSTRUCTION; DEFINITIONS

Unless the context requires otherwise, the general provisions, rules of construction, and definitions in the General Corporation Law govern the construction of these Bylaws. Without limiting the generality of this provision, the singular number includes the plural, the plural number includes the singular, and the term “person” includes a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, other enterprise, and a natural person. Any reference in these Bylaws to a section of the General Corporation Law will be deemed to refer to such section as amended from time to time and any successor provisions thereto.

9.5 FORUM SELECTION

Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware (or, if the Court of Chancery does not have jurisdiction, another State court in Delaware or the federal district court for the District of Delaware) will, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be the sole and exclusive forum for: (a) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, (b) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by a director, stockholder, officer, employee, or agent of the Corporation to the Corporation or the Corporation’s stockholders, creditors, or other constituents, (c) an action arising pursuant to a provision of the General Corporation Law, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these Bylaws (as such may be amended from time to time), or (d) an action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine, except for, as to each of (a) through (d), above, a claim as to which such court determines there is an indispensable party not subject to the jurisdiction of such court (and the indispensable party does not consent to the personal jurisdiction of such court within ten days following such determination), which is vested in the exclusive jurisdiction of a court or forum other than such court or for which such court does not have subject matter jurisdiction; provided, that the provisions of the first sentence of this Section 9.5 will not apply to suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the 1934 Act, any respective successors thereto or any other claim for which the federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction; and provided further that, if and only if the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware dismisses any such action for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, such action may be brought in another state or federal court sitting in the State of Delaware.

Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the U.S. federal district courts will be the sole and exclusive forum for the resolution of a complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any successor thereto.

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring or holding an interest in a security of the Corporation will be deemed to have notice of and consented to the provisions of this Section 9.5. For the avoidance of doubt, nothing contained in this Section 9.5 will apply to any action brought to enforce a duty or liability created by the 1934 Act or any successor thereto.

 

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ARTICLE X—AMENDMENTS

These Bylaws may be adopted, amended, or repealed by the stockholders entitled to vote; provided, however, that the affirmative vote of the holders of at least sixty-six and two-thirds percent of the total voting power of outstanding voting securities, voting together as a single class, will be required for the stockholders of the Corporation to alter, amend, or repeal, or adopt any Bylaw inconsistent with the following provisions of these Bylaws: Article II, Section 3.1, Section 3.2, Section 3.4, Section 3.11, Article VIII, Section 9.5, or this Article X (including, without limitation, any such Article or Section as renumbered as a result of any amendment, alteration, change, repeal, or adoption of any other Bylaw). The Board of Directors will also have the power to adopt, amend, or repeal Bylaws; provided, however, that a Bylaw amendment adopted by stockholders that specifies the votes that will be necessary for the election of directors will not be further amended or repealed by the Board of Directors.

 

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Exhibit 4.1

Execution Version

FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

This FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”), dated as of July 5, 2018 and effective as of the Effective Time, is among (i) Thorne Holding Corp., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), (ii) the Stockholders listed on Schedule 1 hereto (the “Initial Stockholders”), (iii) the individuals listed on Schedule 2 hereto (the “Purchasers”) and (iv) each person who shall, subsequent to the date hereof, join in and become a party to this Agreement pursuant to, and in accordance with, Section 2(1) hereof (“Additional Stockholders” and together with the Initial Stockholders and the Purchasers, the “Stockholders”).

WHEREAS, the Company and WestView Capital Partners II, L.P. (“WestView”), Tudor Ventures III L.P. (“Tudor”), Diversified Natural Products, Inc. (“DNP”), Albert Czap (“Czap”), ELUS Holdings Corporation (“ELUS”), IdB Holding S.p.A, the James L. Gilbert Trust – 1994 (“Gilbert”), Monashee Capital Master Fund L.P. and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (“Mitsui”) are parties to that certain Third Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of November 22, 2017, among the Company and the parties referred to therein (the “Amended Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the undersigned Stockholders and the Company, being all of the parties necessary to amend the Amended Agreement in accordance with the terms thereof, have agreed to amend and restate the Amended Agreement in its entirety in the form of this Agreement;

WHEREAS, the Company, the Purchasers, WestView, Tudor, Czap, Gilbert, ELUS and DNP have entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase and Securities Redemption Agreement (the “SPRA”), dated as of the date hereof, pursuant to which, among other things, (a) the Purchasers will purchase shares of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share (the “Series E Preferred Stock”); (b) Mitsui will exchange its outstanding shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share (the “Series D Preferred Stock”), for newly issued shares of Series E Preferred Stock; (c) the Company will redeem all outstanding capital stock of the Company held by WestView, Tudor, Czap and Gilbert; and (d) immediately after the consummation of the transactions described in the foregoing clauses (b) and (c), all remaining shares of Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock and Series C Preferred Stock shall be converted into shares of Common Stock;

WHEREAS, but for the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Company and the Purchasers would not be willing to enter into the SPRA or to consummate the transactions contemplated thereby, which transactions will benefit the parties; and

WHEREAS, the parties hereto wish to set forth their respective rights with regard to the registration of shares of the Company’s capital stock for public sale and certain other matters relating thereto.


NOW, THEREFORE, the parties to this Agreement hereby agree to amend and restate the Amended Agreement in its entirety, as set forth herein, and further agree as follows:

1. DEFINITIONS. For all purposes of this Agreement, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:

Affiliate” shall mean, with respect to any Stockholder, any Person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with, such Stockholder and shall include, without limitation, (a) any Person who is a director or beneficial holder of more than fifty percent (50%) of the then outstanding capital stock of (or other beneficial interest in) such Stockholder and Family Members of any such Persons, (b) any Person of which such Stockholder or an Affiliate (as defined in clause (a) above) of such Stockholder directly or indirectly, either beneficially owns more than fifty percent (50%) of the then outstanding capital stock (or partnership interests or other shares of beneficial interest) or constitutes more than a fifty percent (50%) equity participant, (c) any Person of which an Affiliate (as defined in clause (a) above) of such Stockholder is a general partner, director, officer or executive employee, (d) in the case of a specified Person who is an individual, Family Members of such Person, and (e) if such Person is a limited partnership, any other limited partnership the general partner of which (or the general partner of such general partner, if such general partner is itself a partnership) is the same individual or group of individuals that serves as the general partner of such Person (or is the general partner of such general partner, if such general partner of such Person is a partnership).

Common Stock” shall mean the Company’s Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share.

Convertible Securities” shall mean any securities exercisable for, convertible into or exchangeable for any shares of Common Stock.

Effective Time” means the Closing, as defined in the SPRA.

ELUS” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

Exchange Act” shall mean the United States of America Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

Family Members” shall mean, with respect to any individual, any Related Person or Family Trust of such individual.

Family Trust” shall mean, with respect to any individual, any trust or limited liability company created solely for the benefit of one or more of such individual’s Related Persons and controlled by such individual.

Person” shall mean an individual, partnership, limited liability company, corporation, association, trust, joint venture, unincorporated organization, or any government, governmental department or agency or political subdivision thereof.

Preferred Stock” shall mean the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock.

 

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Public Sale” shall mean any sale of Common Stock to the public pursuant to a public offering registered under the Securities Act or to the public through a broker or market maker pursuant to the provisions of Rule 144 (or any successor rule) adopted under the Securities Act.

Registrable Securities” shall mean, without duplication: (a) all shares of Common Stock held by the Stockholders from time to time, including shares issued or issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Stock; (b) any shares of Common Stock issued as (or issuable upon the conversion or exercise of any warrant, option, right or other security which is issued as) a dividend or other distribution with respect to, or in exchange for or in replacement of the shares referenced in (a) above; and (c) any shares of Common Stock issuable upon the conversion or exercise of any Convertible Securities issued pursuant to the SPRA or otherwise, and held by the Stockholders; excluding in all cases, however, any shares for which registration rights have terminated pursuant to Section 10 of this Agreement.

Related Persons” shall mean, with respect to any individual, such individual’s parents, siblings, spouse, children and grandchildren.

SEC” shall mean the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Securities Act” shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulation promulgated thereunder.

Series A Preferred Stock” shall mean the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share.

Series B Preferred Stock” shall mean the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share.

Series C Preferred Stock” shall mean the Company’s Series C Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share.

Series D Preferred Stock” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

Series E Preferred Stock” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

SPRA” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

2. REGISTRATION RIGHTS.

(a) Demand Registration. At any time after the earlier of one hundred and eighty (180) days following the completion of a Public Sale or five (5) years after the Effective Time, upon the written request by Stockholders owning or holding, alone or with their Affiliates, more than fifty percent (50%) of the issued and outstanding Preferred Stock (including for purposes of this calculation any issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock), which such Stockholders shall, in all events, include Mitsui and Kirin, respectively, so long as

 

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Mitsui or Kirin, as applicable, owns at least fifty percent (50%) of the number of shares of Preferred Stock (including for purposes of this calculation any issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock) owned by them, respectively, as of the Effective Time (subject to proportionate adjustment in the case of any stock split, reverse stock split, recapitalization, reclassification stock dividend or other distribution with respect to such shares), requesting that the Company effect a public offering under the Securities Act of all or part of the Registrable Securities held by such Stockholders and specifying the intended method or methods of disposition of such Registrable Securities, the Company will promptly give written notice of such requested registration to all Stockholders and will use its best efforts to effect the registration under the Securities Act, as expeditiously as is reasonable, of:

(i) the Registrable Securities that the Company has been so requested to register by such Stockholders, for disposition in accordance with the intended method of disposition stated in such request; and

(ii) all other Registrable Securities that the Company has been requested to register by other Stockholders by written request delivered to the Company within 30 days after the receipt of such written notice delivered by the Company;

all to the extent required to permit the disposition (in accordance with the intended methods thereof as aforesaid) of the Registrable Securities so to be registered. Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, the Company shall not be obligated to consummate more than two (2) registrations pursuant to this Section 2(a); provided, that in each case at least eighty percent (80%) of the Registrable Securities requested to be registered are registered and sold to the public. In connection with any underwritten offering with respect to which Stockholders shall have requested registration pursuant to this Section 2(a), the Company shall have the right to select the lead managing underwriter (being an underwriting firm of national standing) with respect to such offering, such underwriter to be reasonably acceptable to the Stockholders requesting the registration. Should the Stockholders requesting the registration so elect, they may select an underwriting firm of national standing which is reasonably acceptable to the Company to act as co-lead manager of such offering.

(b) Incidental Registration. If at any time after the Effective Time the Company proposes to file a registration statement under the Securities Act with respect to an offering for its own account or for the sale of equity securities of any holder of any class of equity security of the Company (excluding the Company’s initial public offering of Common Stock, unless such first public offering includes the registration of securities for the account of other Stockholders, and excluding a registration relating solely either to the sale of securities to employees of the Company pursuant to a stock purchase, stock option or similar plan, or a merger, recapitalization or reorganization), the Company shall promptly give each Stockholder written notice of such registration at least thirty (30) days prior to the anticipated filing date and such notice shall offer the Stockholders the opportunity to register such number of Registrable Securities as each Stockholder may request. Upon the written request of any such Stockholder given to the Company within twenty (20) days after receipt of such notice delivered by the Company, the Company shall, subject to the provisions of Section 2(d), use its best efforts to cause to be registered under the Securities Act all of the Registrable Securities that each such Stockholder has requested to be registered.

 

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(c) Registration on Form S-3. If at any time after the Effective Time (i) any Stockholder or Stockholders request that the Company file a registration statement on Form S-3 or any successor thereto for a public offering of all or any portion of the Registrable Securities held by such requesting holder or holders, the reasonably anticipated aggregate price to the public of which would exceed $3,000,000, and (ii) the Company is a registrant entitled to use Form S-3 or any successor thereto to register such Registrable Securities, then the Company shall use its best efforts to, as soon as practicable, register under the Securities Act on Form S-3 or any successor thereto, for public sale in accordance with the method of disposition specified in such notice, the number of Registrable Securities specified in such notice. The number of registrations on Form S-3 which may be requested and obtained under this Section 2(c) shall be limited to no more than two (2) per calendar year.

(d) Underwriting Requirements. In connection with any underwritten offering pursuant to Section 2(a), if the managing underwriter shall advise the Company that, in its view, the number or proposed mix of securities requested to be included in such registration (including securities which the Company desires to be included which are not Registrable Securities) exceeds the largest number of securities which can be sold without having a material adverse effect on such offering (the “Maximum Offering Size”), including the price at which such securities can be sold, the Company will include in such registration:

(i) first, shares of Common Stock issued or issuable upon conversion of the shares of Preferred Stock requested by the Stockholders to be included in such registration pursuant to Section 2(a), with the shares so included to be apportioned pro rata among the Stockholders according to the total number of such shares of Common Stock owned by each such Stockholder (including any shares of Common Stock issued or issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Stock) or in such other proportions as shall be agreed upon by such Stockholders, if the total number of shares requested to be included in such registration by the Stockholders exceeds the Maximum Offering Size;

(ii) second, any Registrable Securities other than the ones referenced in (i) above requested by the Stockholders to be included in such registration pursuant to Section 2(a), with the shares so included to be apportioned pro rata among the Stockholders according to the total number of Registrable Securities owned by each such Stockholder (excluding any shares of Preferred Stock or shares of Common Stock issued or issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Stock, but assuming the conversion into Common Stock of all outstanding Convertible Securities other than such Preferred Stock) or in such other proportions as shall be agreed upon by such Stockholders, to the extent such total amount of Registrable Securities requested to be included in such registration by the Stockholders exceeds the Maximum Offering Size; and

 

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(iii) third, after registration of the total amount of Registrable Securities requested to be included in such registration by the Stockholders, any securities to be sold for the account of other Persons (including the Company) which shall not cause the Maximum Offering Size to be exceeded, with such priorities among the Company and such other Persons as the Company shall determine.

In connection with any underwritten offering pursuant to Section 2(b), if the managing underwriter shall advise the Company that, in its view, the number or mix of securities (including all Registrable Securities) which the Company, the Stockholders and any other Persons intend to include in such registration exceeds the Maximum Offering Size, the Company will include in such registration, in the priority listed below, securities up to the Maximum Offering Size:

(iv) first, securities to be sold for the Company’s own account;

(v) second, Registrable Securities requested to be included in such registration by Stockholders pursuant to Section 2(b) with the shares so included to be apportioned pro rata among the Stockholders according to the total amount of Registrable Securities owned by each such Stockholder calculated on a fully diluted basis (i.e., assuming the conversion into Common Stock of all outstanding Convertible Securities) or in such other proportions as shall be agreed upon by such Stockholders (if necessary); and

(vi) third, shares of Common Stock requested to be included in such registration by all other Persons, allocated (if necessary) pro rata among such Persons on the basis of the relative number of securities each such Person has requested to be included in such registration, or as such Persons may otherwise agree.

(e) Expenses of Registration. The Company shall bear and pay all expenses incurred in connection with any registration, filing or qualification of shares with respect to registrations pursuant to this Section 2, including, without limitation, all registration, filing, qualification, Blue Sky, printing and accounting fees relating or apportionable thereto, but excluding underwriting discounts and commissions relating to shares being registered, applicable transfer taxes and expenses of counsel to the Stockholders, which shall be borne by the Stockholders selling shares being registered. Notwithstanding anything in this paragraph to the contrary, upon demand of the Stockholders, the Company shall pay the reasonable expenses of one separate counsel for the Stockholders to be selected by the Stockholders holding a majority of the Registrable Securities held by Stockholders and included in such registration, filing or qualification.

(f) Company Delay or Withdrawal of Registration. At the time of any request to register Registrable Securities pursuant to Section 2(a), if the Board of Directors of the Company determines in its good faith reasonable judgment that the Company should not file any registration statement otherwise required to be filed pursuant to such Section 2(a) because the Company is engaged in or plans to engage in any financing, acquisition or other material transaction which would be adversely affected by the filing of such a registration statement, the Company shall be entitled to postpone for the shortest reasonable period of time (but not exceeding ninety (90) days from the date of the request), the filing of such registration statement and shall promptly give the Stockholders who have requested the filing of such registration statement under Section 2(a) and any other Stockholders who have requested the

 

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registration of their Registrable Securities under Section 2(a) written notice of such determination, containing a general statement of the reasons for such postponement and an approximation of the anticipated delay. If the Company shall so postpone the filing of the registration statement, the Stockholders who made the request for registration under Section 2(a) shall have the right to withdraw the request for registration by giving written notice to the Company within thirty (30) days after receipt of the notice of postponement. Such right to delay a request for registration pursuant to this Section 2(f) may not be exercised more than once in any twelve (12) month period. Without limiting the foregoing, the Company shall have no liability to any Stockholder for the Company’s withdrawal of any registration as to which a Stockholder has registration rights under Section 2(b) (except reimbursement of expenses incurred prior to such withdrawal in accordance with paragraph (e) above); provided, that such withdrawal is made by the Company in good faith and not for the purpose of impairing any Stockholder’s rights under such Section 2(b).

(g) Rule 144 Reporting. With a view to making available the benefits of certain rules and regulations of the SEC which may at any time permit the sale of the Registrable Securities by the Stockholders to the public without registration, at all times after ninety (90) days after any registration statement covering a public offering of securities of the Company under the Securities Act shall have become effective, the Company agrees to:

(i) make and keep public information available, as those terms are understood and defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act;

(ii) use its best efforts to file with the SEC in a timely manner all reports and other documents required of the Company under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act; and

(iii) furnish to each Stockholder holding Registrable Securities forthwith upon request a written statement by the Company as to its compliance with the reporting requirements of such Rule 144 and of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, a copy of the most recent annual or quarterly report of the Company, and such other reports and documents so filed by the Company as such Stockholder may reasonably request in availing itself of any rule or regulation of the SEC allowing such Stockholder to sell any Registrable Securities without registration.

(h) Obligations of the Company. Whenever required under this Section 2 to effect the registration of any Registrable Securities, the Company shall, as expeditiously as reasonably possible:

(i) prepare and file with the SEC a registration statement with respect to such shares and use its best efforts to cause such registration statement to become and remain effective until the disposition of all securities covered by the registration statement;

(ii) prepare and file with the SEC such amendments and supplements to such registration statement and the prospectus used in connection therewith as may be necessary to comply with the provisions of the Securities Act with respect to the disposition of all securities covered by such registration statement;

 

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(iii) furnish to the Stockholders such number of copies of a prospectus, including a preliminary prospectus, in conformity with the requirements of the Securities Act, and such other documents as they may reasonably request in order to facilitate the disposition of the shares owned by them and covered by a registration statement filed under this Section 2;

(iv) use its best efforts to register and qualify the securities covered by such registration statement under such other securities or Blue Sky laws of such states or jurisdictions as shall be reasonably requested by the Stockholders; provided, that the Company shall not be required in connection therewith or as a condition thereto to qualify to do business or to file a general consent to service of process in any such states or jurisdictions;

(v) in the event of any underwritten public offering, enter into and perform its obligations under an underwriting agreement, in usual and customary form, with the managing underwriter(s) of such offering (and each Stockholder participating in such underwriting shall also enter into and perform its obligations under such an underwriting agreement);

(vi) notify each Stockholder holding shares covered by such registration statement as promptly as possible at any time when a prospectus relating thereto is required to be delivered under the Securities Act of the happening of any event as a result of which the prospectus included in such registration statement, as then in effect, includes an untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading and promptly prepare (and file with the SEC) and furnish to such Stockholders a reasonable number of copies of a supplement to or an amendment of such prospectus as may be necessary so that, as thereafter delivered to the purchasers of such Securities, such prospectus shall not include an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading in the light of the circumstances then existing;

(vii) furnish, at the request of any Stockholder requesting registration of shares pursuant to this Section 2, on the date that such shares are delivered to the underwriters for sale in connection with a registration pursuant to this Section 2 (if such shares are being sold through underwriters) or, if such shares are not being sold through underwriters, on the date that the registration statement with respect to such shares becomes effective, (i) an opinion, dated as of such date, of counsel representing the Company for the purposes of such registration, in form and substance as is customarily given to underwriters in an underwritten public offering, addressed to the underwriters, if any, and to the Stockholders participating in such registration of shares, and (ii) a “comfort” letter, dated as of such date, from the independent certified public accountants of the Company, in form and substance as in customarily given by independent certified public accountants to underwriters in an underwritten public offering, addressed to the underwriters, if any, and to the Stockholders requesting registration of shares;

 

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(viii) notify Stockholders whose shares are included in the registration statement promptly of any request by the SEC for the amendment or supplement of such registration statement or prospectus or for additional information, and notify such Stockholders promptly of the filing of each amendment or supplement to such registration statement or prospectus;

(ix) advise Stockholders whose shares are included in the registration statement, promptly after it shall receive notice, of the issuance of any stop order by the SEC suspending the effectiveness of such registration statement or the initiation or threatening of any proceeding for that purpose and promptly use its best efforts to prevent the issuance of any stop order or to obtain its withdrawal if such stop order should be issued;

(x) furnish to each Stockholder whose shares are included in the registration statement at least one conformed copy of the registration statement and any amendments thereto;

(xi) provide each Stockholder whose shares are included in the registration statement and its representatives a reasonable opportunity, after entering into a confidentiality agreement which is reasonably satisfactory to the Company, to conduct an inquiry of the Company’s financial and other records during normal business hours and make available during normal business hours and without unreasonable disruption to the Company’s business or operations, its officers, directors and employees to provide such information as such Stockholder may reasonably request to fulfill any due diligence obligations that such Stockholder may have;

(xii) keep the registration statement effective for a period ending on the earlier of the date that is ninety (90) days from the effective date of the registration statement or such time as the Stockholders have completed the distribution described in the registration statement;

(xiii) cause all Registrable Securities registered on the registration statement to be listed each national securities exchange on which similar securities issued by the Company are then listed; and

(xiv) provide a transfer agent and registrar for all Registrable Securities registered pursuant to this Agreement and provide a CUSIP number for all such Registrable Securities, in each case not later than the effective date of such registration.

(i) Obligations of Stockholders. In connection with any registration required to be effected pursuant to this Section 2, the Stockholders selling any shares in connection with such registration shall furnish to the Company such information regarding themselves, the shares held by them and the intended method of disposition of such shares as shall be required or reasonably necessary to effect the registration of their shares.

 

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(j) Lock-Up Agreement. Each Stockholder hereby agrees that in connection with any registration of securities of the Company relating to an underwritten offering thereof to the general public, to the extent requested by the Company or the underwriter of such offering, such Stockholder (to the extent such Stockholder then holds, individually or together with its Affiliates, two percent (2%) or more of the outstanding shares of Common Stock, or is an officer, director or employee of the Company) shall not, whether or not such Stockholder is participating in such registration, sell, contract to sell, grant any option or right to purchase, lend, pledge, enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers economic consequences of ownership or otherwise transfer or dispose of (other than in a private sale or to donees who agree to be similarly bound) any shares of Common Stock or any other securities convertible into Common Stock (other than those shares, if any, which are in fact included in such registration) without the prior written consent of the Company or the applicable underwriters, as the case may be, for such period (the “Lock-Up Period”) of time (not to exceed (x) one hundred eighty (180) days with respect to the initial public offering of the Common Stock, or (y) ninety (90) days with respect to any other offering) from the effective date of the registration statement for such registration as the Company or such underwriters may specify in writing. Each Stockholder hereby further agrees that (to the extent such Stockholder then holds, individually or together with its Affiliates, two percent (2%) or more of the outstanding shares of Common Stock, or is an officer, director or employee of the Company), if reasonably requested by any underwriter or underwriters in any such offering, such Stockholder shall enter into a lock-up agreement in the form (containing customary terms) reasonably requested by such underwriter or underwriters for such offering, provided, that such lock-up agreement does not provide (i) for a longer lock-up period than the Lock-Up Period contained in this Section 2(j) or (ii) terms that are more onerous to such Stockholder than those applicable to any similarly situated Stockholder. Each Stockholder further agrees that the underwriters of any such offering are intended to be third-party beneficiaries of this Section 2(j) and such beneficiaries shall be entitled to enforce the provisions of this Section 2(j) an their own behalf as though they were a party hereto. The provisions of this Section 2(j) shall not be deemed to prevent the Stockholders from exercising their rights under Section 2(b) hereof in connection with any such underwritten offering.

(k) Indemnification. The Company will, and hereby does, indemnify and hold harmless, in the case of any registration statement filed pursuant to this Section 2, each seller of any Registrable Securities covered by such registration statement, its directors and officers, each other person who participates as an underwriter in the offering or sale of such securities, each officer and director of each such underwriter, and each such other person, if any, who controls such seller or any such underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act, (collectively, the “Seller Indemnitees”), against any losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses, joint or several, to which such Seller Indemnitee may become subject under the Securities Act or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (or actions or proceedings in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon (i) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of any material fact contained in any registration statement under which such securities were registered under the Securities Act, any preliminary prospectus, final prospectus or summary prospectus included therein, or any amendment or supplement thereto, or any document incorporated by reference therein; (ii) any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; and (iii) any violation by the Company of any applicable securities laws in connection with such registration statement, preliminary prospectus, final prospectus or summary prospectus, or any related “free

 

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writing prospectus”, or amendment or supplement thereto or document incorporated by reference therein; and the Company will reimburse such Seller Indemnitee for any legal or any other expenses reasonably incurred by them in connection with investigating or defending such loss, claim, liability, action or proceeding; provided, however, that the Company shall not be liable to any Seller Indemnitee in any such case to the extent that any such loss, claim, damage, liability (or action or proceeding in respect thereof) or expense arises out of or is based upon an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission made in such registration statement, any such preliminary prospectus, final prospectus, summary prospectus, amendment or supplement, or any document incorporated by reference therein, in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Company for use in the preparation thereof by such Seller Indemnitee. Such indemnity shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of any Seller Indemnitee and shall survive the transfer of such securities by such seller.

The Company may require, as a condition to including any Registrable Securities in any registration statement pursuant to this Section 2, that the Company shall have received an undertaking satisfactory to it from each prospective seller of such securities, to, severally and not jointly, indemnify and hold harmless (in the same manner and to the same extent as set forth in the preceding paragraph, except that no such prospective seller shall in any event be liable pursuant thereto for any amount in excess of the net proceeds of sale received by such seller from the sale by it of Registrable Securities under such registration statement) the Company, each officer and director of each such underwriter and each other person, if any, who controls the Company or the underwriter, and each other seller, with respect to any statement in or omission from such registration statement, any preliminary prospectus, final prospectus or summary prospectus included therein, or any amendment or supplement thereto, or any related “free-writing prospectus”, or any document incorporated by reference therein, but only if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished by such indemnifying prospective seller to the Company for use in the preparation of or inclusion in such registration statement, preliminary prospectus, final prospectus, summary prospectus, amendment or supplement, or document incorporated by reference therein. Such indemnity shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of the Company or any such director, officer, controlling person or other seller and shall survive the transfer of such securities by such seller. The indemnity contemplated by this paragraph shall not apply to amounts paid in settlement of any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (or actions in respect thereof) if such settlement is effected without the consent of the Stockholder from whom indemnification is sought (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed).

Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party of notice of the commencement of any action or proceeding (including a governmental investigation) involving a claim referred to in this Section 2(k), such indemnified party will, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against an indemnifying party under this Section 2(k), give written notice to the latter of the commencement of such action; provided, however, that the failure of any indemnified party to give notice as provided herein shall not relieve the indemnifying party of its obligations under the preceding provisions of this Section 2(k), except to the extent that the indemnifying party is actually prejudiced by such failure to give notice. In case any such action is brought against an indemnified party, unless in such indemnified party’s reasonable judgment a conflict of interest between such indemnified and indemnifying parties

 

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may exist in respect of such claim (in which case, the indemnifying party shall be liable for the fees and expenses of one counsel for the underwriters and other sellers in connection with any one action or separate but similar or related actions), the indemnifying party will be entitled to participate in and to assume the defense thereof, jointly with any other indemnifying party similarly notified, to the extent that it may wish, with counsel reasonably satisfactory to such indemnified party, and after notice from the indemnifying party to such indemnified party of its election so to assume the defense thereon, the indemnifying party will not be liable to such indemnified party for any legal or other expenses subsequently incurred by the latter in connection with the defense thereof (except as expressly set forth above).

(l) Rights of Stockholders. No person shall be granted registration rights which conflict with or which are more favorable to such Stockholder than the registration rights set forth in this Agreement. At the election of the Company and the holders of greater than fifty percent (50%) of the total number of then issued and outstanding shares of Preferred Stock held by all Stockholders (including for purposes of this calculation any issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock), which Stockholders shall include Mitsui and Kirin, respectively, so long as Mitsui or Kirin, as applicable, owns at least fifty percent (50%) of the number of shares of Preferred Stock (including for purposes of this calculation any issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock) owned by them, respectively, as of the Effective Time (subject to proportionate adjustment in the case of any stock split, reverse stock split, recapitalization, reclassification stock dividend or other distribution with respect to such shares), new stockholders of the Company may be given the opportunity to receive the registration rights provided under this Agreement by being permitted to execute an Instrument of Accession to this Agreement in the form of Exhibit A attached hereto (and, upon execution, be added to Schedule 1) or be given registration rights on another basis less favorable to such new stockholder.

3. SEVERABILITY. Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement will be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect under any applicable law or rule in any jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect any other provision or any other jurisdiction, but this Agreement will be reformed, construed and enforced in such jurisdiction as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision had never been contained herein.

4. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. Except as otherwise expressly set forth herein, from and after the Effective Time and unless and until thereafter amended, this document will embody the complete agreement and understanding among the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and will supersede and preempt any prior understandings, agreements or representations by or among the parties, written or oral, with respect to such subject matter.

5. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement will bind and inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Company and the Stockholders and their respective successors and permitted assigns.

 

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6. COUNTERPARTS; EFFECTIVENESS OF AGREEMENT. This Agreement may be executed by original, facsimile, PDF or other electronic signature (including Docusign) and in separate counterparts each of which will be an original and all of which taken together will constitute one and the same agreement. This Agreement shall become effective as of the Effective Time but automatically shall terminate and be deemed null and void ab initio if the SPRA is terminated or the Closing (as defined in the SPRA) otherwise does not occur for any reason.

7. REMEDIES. The Stockholders will be entitled to enforce their rights under this Agreement specifically (without posting a bond or other security), to recover damages by reason of any breach of any provision of this Agreement and to exercise all other rights existing in their favor. The parties hereto acknowledge and agree that in the event of any breach of this Agreement by the Company, the Stockholders would be irreparably harmed and could not be made whole by monetary damages. Each party hereto accordingly agrees (a) not to assert by way of defense or otherwise that a remedy at law would be adequate, and (b) that the parties agree, in addition to any other remedy to which they may be entitled, that the remedy of specific performance of this Agreement is appropriate in any action in court. In the event of any dispute involving the terms of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to collect reasonable fees and expenses incurred by the prevailing party in connection with such dispute from the non-prevailing parties to such dispute.

8. RECAPITALIZATION, ETC. In the event that any capital stock or other securities are issued in respect of, in exchange for, or in substitution of, any shares of Common Stock by reason of any reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, merger, consolidation, spin-off, partial or complete liquidation, stock dividend, split-up, sale of assets, distribution to Stockholders or combination of the Common Stock or any other change in capital structure of the Company, appropriate adjustments shall be made with respect to the relevant provisions of this Agreement so as to fairly and equitably preserve, as far as practicable, the original rights and obligations of the parties hereto under this Agreement.

9. AMENDMENT AND WAIVER. No modification, amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement will be effective against the Company or the Stockholders unless such modification, amendment or waiver is approved in writing by the Company and the holders of greater than fifty percent (50%) of the total number of then issued and outstanding shares of Preferred Stock held by all Stockholders, which holders shall include Mitsui and Kirin, respectively, so long as Mitsui or Kirin, as applicable, owns at least fifty percent (50%) of the number of shares of Preferred Stock (including for purposes of this calculation any issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock) owned by them, respectively, as of the Effective Time (subject to proportionate adjustment in the case of any stock split, reverse stock split, recapitalization, reclassification stock dividend or other distribution with respect to such shares); provided, however that no such modification, amendment or waiver shall be effective against any Stockholder who has not consented to such modification, amendment or waiver to the extent that such modification, amendment or waiver would be adverse to the interests of such Stockholder in any material respect and would have a disproportionate impact in any material respect on the rights of such Stockholder in its capacity as a Stockholder hereunder when measured against the impact of such modification, amendment or waiver on the rights of other Stockholders in their capacities as Stockholders hereunder.

 

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The Company shall notify all Stockholders of each modification, amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement that could reasonably be expected to affect the rights of such Stockholder hereunder at least five (5) business days prior to the effectiveness of such modification, amendment or waiver. The failure of any party to enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement will in no way be construed as a waiver of such provisions and will not affect the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every provision of this Agreement in accordance with its terms.

10. TERMINATION. This Agreement (and the right of any Stockholder to request registration or inclusion of Registrable Securities in any registration) will terminate with respect to each applicable Stockholder upon the earliest to occur of:

(a) any Liquidation Event (as defined in the Company’s Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation as in effect as of the Effective Time or as amended or modified from time to time);

(b) such time after consummation of an initial public offering of the Common Stock under the Securities Act as Rule 144 or another similar exemption under the Securities Act is available for the sale of all of such Stockholder’s shares without limitation during a three-month period without registration; or

(c) a termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 6 hereof;

provided, that the provisions of Section 2(e) and Section 2(k) shall survive any termination pursuant to Section 10(a) or Section 10(b) above.

11. GOVERNING LAW; JURY TRIAL WAIVER. ALL QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE CONSTRUCTION, VALIDITY AND INTERPRETATION OF THIS AGREEMENT WILL BE GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW. THE PARTIES HERETO AGREE TO WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO HAVE ANY DISPUTE ARISING HEREUNDER OR OTHERWISE IN CONNECTION WITH THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY ADJUDICATED BY A JURY, AND HEREBY AGREE TO SUBMIT TO THE COURTS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE IN CONNECTION WITH THE RESOLUTION OF ANY SUCH DISPUTE.

12. DESCRIPTIVE HEADINGS. The descriptive headings of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and do not constitute a part of this Agreement.

13. CONSTRUCTION. The language used in this Agreement will be deemed to be the language chosen by the parties to express their mutual intent, and no rule of strict construction will be applied against any party.

 

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14. NOTICES. All notices, demands, and other communications hereunder shall be in writing or by written telecommunication, and shall be deemed to be duly given if delivered personally or by overnight courier or if mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, or sent by telecopier, as follows:

If to the Company, to:

Thorne Holding Corp.

152 West 57th Street

New York, NY 10019

Attn: Paul Jacobson

(917) 859-2505

Email: pjacobson@thorne.com

With copies (which shall not constitute notice) sent contemporaneously to:

Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP

One West Fourth Street

Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Attn: Christopher J. Gyves

(336) 721-3634

Email: christopher.gyves@wbd-us.com

If to the Stockholders, to the addresses set forth on Schedules 1 and 2 attached hereto.

If to any Additional Stockholder, to the address for such Additional Stockholder on Schedule 1 attached hereto (or such other address as such Additional Stockholder shall specify by written notice given pursuant to this Agreement).

[Balance of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Registration Rights Agreement on the day and year first above written.

 

COMPANY:
THORNE HOLDING COMPANY
By:   /s/ Paul Jacobson
Name: Paul Jacobson
Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

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INITIAL STOCKHOLDER:
DIVERSIFIED NATURAL PRODUCTS, INC.
By:   /s/ Paul Jacobson
Name: Paul Jacobson
Title: Authorized Signatory

 

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INITIAL STOCKHOLDER:
IDB HOLDING S.P.A
By:   /s/ Daniele Giovini
Name: Daniele Giovini
Title:   General Manager

 

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INITIAL STOCKHOLDER:
MONASHEE CAPITAL MASTER FUND LP
By:   /s/ Tom Wynn
Name: Tom Wynn
Title:   Partner

 

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Exhibit 4.2

FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED STOCKHOLDER AGREEMENT

This FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED STOCKHOLDER AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”), dated as of July 5, 2018 and effective as of the Effective Time, is entered into by and among (i) Thorne Holding Corp., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), (ii) the Stockholders listed on Schedule 1 hereto (the “Initial Stockholders”), (iii) the entities listed on Schedule 2 hereto (the “Purchasers”) and (iv) each Person who shall, subsequent to the date hereof, join in and become a party to this Agreement by executing an Instrument of Accession (“Instrument of Accession”) in the form of Exhibit A hereto (collectively, the “Subsequent Stockholders”). Capitalized terms used herein without definition shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in Section 1 hereof.

WHEREAS, the Company and WestView Capital Partners II, L.P. (“WestView”), Tudor Ventures III L.P. (“Tudor”), Diversified Natural Products, Inc. (“DNP”), Albert Czap (“Czap”), ELUS Holdings Corporation, IdB Holding S.p.A, the James L. Gilbert Trust — 1994 (“Gilbert”), Monashee Capital Master Fund L.P. and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. are parties to that certain Third Amended and Restated Stockholder Agreement, dated as of November 22, 2017, among the Company and the parties referred to therein (the “Amended Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Company, the Purchasers, WestView, Tudor, Czap, Gilbert, ELUS Holdings Corporation and DNP have entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase and Securities Redemption Agreement (the “SPRA”), dated as of the date hereof, pursuant to which, among other things, (a) the Purchasers will purchase shares of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share (the “Series E Preferred Stock”), (b) Mitsui will exchange its outstanding shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share, for newly issued shares of Series E Preferred Stock, (c) the Company will redeem all outstanding capital stock of the Company held by WestView, Tudor, Czap and Gilbert, (d) ELUS Holdings Corporation will exchange its outstanding shares of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share, for newly issued shares of Common Stock, and (e) immediately after the consummation of the transactions described in the foregoing clauses (b), (c) and (d), all remaining shares of Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock and Series C Preferred Stock shall be converted into shares of Common Stock;

WHEREAS, in connection with the Closing under the SPRA, the undersigned Stockholders and the Company, being all of the parties necessary to amend the Amended Agreement in accordance with the terms thereof, have agreed to amend and restate the Amended Agreement in its entirety in the form of this Agreement;

WHEREAS, also simultaneous with and conditioned upon the execution of this Agreement, the Company and Purchasers shall enter into a Fourth Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement (the “Registration Rights Agreement”), pursuant to which, among other things, the parties thereto shall agree to certain rights and obligations relating to the registration of capital stock of the Company for public sale and certain other matters relating thereto;

WHEREAS, but for the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and the Initial Stockholders, the Company and the Purchasers would not be willing to enter into the SPRA or consummate the transactions contemplated thereby, which transaction will benefit the parties; and


WHEREAS, the parties hereto wish to set forth certain rights and obligations of the parties with regard to, among other things, (a) the transfer and issuance of Securities, (b) the election of Persons to the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board of Directors”) and committees thereof, (c) the manner in which Securities will be voted with respect to certain matters, and (d) certain other matters concerning the parties’ ownership and transfer of Securities, and the management and affairs of the Company.

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties to this Agreement hereby agree to amend and restate the Amended Agreement in its entirety, as set forth herein, and further agree as follows:

1. DEFINITIONS. For all purposes of this Agreement, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:

5% Holder” shall mean any Stockholder that, together with its Affiliates, holds outstanding Common Stock or Preferred Stock representing at least five percent (5%) of the outstanding Securities (determined on a fully-diluted and an as-converted to Common Stock basis but not giving effect to the exercise of any outstanding options or warrants to purchase Common Stock).

Adjustment Notification” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.6(b) hereof.

Affiliate” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such first Person.

Agreement” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof.

Amended Agreement” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof. “Approved Sale” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.1(a) hereof. “Audit Committee” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1(c) hereof. “Board of Directors” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof. “Budget” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 7.1(d) hereof.

Business Day” means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in the City of New York are authorized or required to close.

Charter” shall mean the Company’s Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware at or about the Effective Time, as amended and in effect from time to time.

Common Directors” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1(a)(iv) hereof.

Common Stock” shall mean the Company’s common stock, $0.01 par value per share.

Company” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof.

Company Legal Matters” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 24 hereof.

 

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Company Sale” means any of the following (in each case by means of any transaction or series of related transactions): (i) any Person or group of related Persons acquires Securities representing (A) the voting power to elect a majority of the directors of the Board of Directors, or (B) a majority of the fully diluted Common Stock; (ii) the Company consolidates or combines with or merges into another Person, or any Person consolidates or combines with or merges into the Company, and (B) the holders of the capital stock of the Company immediately prior to such transaction do not own, directly or indirectly, at least a majority of the capital stock of the surviving company immediately after the consummation of the transaction; (iii) the sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole; or (iv) a transaction that qualifies as a “Deemed Liquidation Event” as defined in the Charter. The Purchasers and their Affiliates shall not be deemed to constitute a group of related Persons for purposes of the Company Sale definition.

Compensation Committee” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1(c) hereof. “Confidential Information” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 8 hereof. “Czap” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

Designated Holders” shall mean each of Mitsui and Kirin, respectively, so long as such respective Stockholder and its Affiliates at the applicable date and time continue to hold Securities representing at least fifty percent (50%) of the number of Total Shares owned by such Stockholder at the Effective Time (after giving effect to any subsequent stock splits, combinations or similar transactions involving one or more classes of applicable Securities as a class).

DNP” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

Downward Valuation Adjustment” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.6(a) hereof.

Effective Time” shall mean the Closing, as defined in the SPRA.

ELUS” shall mean ELUS Holdings Corporation, Helsinn Healthcare, S.A. and their Affiliates.

Exempt Transfers” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a)(ii) hereof. “Exercisable Security” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.2(vi) hereof. “Exercising Holders” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.1(c) hereof.

Family Members” shall mean, with respect to any individual, any Related Person or Family Trust of such individual.

Family Trust” shall mean, with respect to any individual, any trust or limited liability company created solely for the benefit of one or more of such individual’s Related Persons and controlled by such individual.

First Election Period” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2 hereof.

GAAP” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 7.1(b) hereof.

Gilbert” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

 

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Independent Third Party” shall mean, with respect to any Stockholder, any individual or entity who is not an Affiliate of such Stockholder.

Initial Public Offering” shall mean the first underwritten public offering of Common Stock by the Company registered under the Securities Act (other than a registration statement relating either to the sale of securities to employees of the Company pursuant to its stock option, stock purchase or similar plan or an SEC Rule 145 transaction).

Initial Stockholders” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof. “Instrument of Accession” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof. “Investor Offer Notice” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(a) hereof. “IPO Notification” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.6(b) hereof. “Issuance Notice” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.1(b) hereof. “Issuance Security” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.1(a) hereof. “Jacobson” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1(a)(iv) hereof.

Japan Person” shall mean (x) any Person that has been incorporated, organized or formed under the laws of Japan, (y) any Person that is a national or citizen of Japan, or (z) any Person that is a direct or indirect subsidiary of a Person meeting the requirements set forth in clause (x) or (y).

Kirin” means Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, a Japanese corporation.

Majority Stockholders” shall mean, from time to time, Stockholders then holding a majority of outstanding shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock (voting together on an as-converted to Common Stock basis).

McKenna” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1(a)(iv) hereof. “Mitsui” means Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation.

Non-Designated Holders” means Stockholders other than the Designated Stockholders.

Non-K/M Directors” means the members of the Board of Directors other than members designated by Mitsui under Section 4.1(a)(i) and members designated by Kirin under Section 4.1(a)(ii).

Offer” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.7(a) hereof.

Offer Notification” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.7(b) hereof.

Participating Stockholders” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.3 hereof.

Person” shall mean an individual, partnership, limited liability company, corporation, association, trust, joint venture, unincorporated organization, or any government, governmental department or agency or political subdivision thereof.

Personal Representative” shall mean the successor or legal representative (including, without limitation, a guardian, executor, administrator or conservator) of a dead or incompetent Stockholder.

 

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Preferred Stock” shall mean the Series E Preferred Stock.

Pre-Emptive Right Notice Period” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.1(b) hereof.

Purchasers” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof. “Purchase Right” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.1(a) hereof.

Related Persons” shall mean, with respect to any individual, such individual’s parents, siblings, spouse, children and grandchildren.

Registration Rights Agreement” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

Second Election Period” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(d) hereof. “Secondary Purchase Right” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.1(c) hereof.

Securities” shall mean (i) any capital stock of the Company, including but not limited to any shares of Common Stock and any shares of Preferred Stock, and (ii) any warrants, options or other rights or securities exchangeable or exercisable for or convertible into capital stock of the Company.

Securities Act” shall mean the United States of America Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulation promulgated thereunder.

Series A Preferred Stock” shall mean the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share.

Series B Preferred Stock” shall mean the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share.

Series C Preferred Stock” shall mean the Company’s Series C Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share.

Series D Preferred Stock” shall mean the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share.

Series E Preferred Stock” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof. “SPRA” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

Stockholders” shall mean, collectively, the Initial Stockholders, the Purchasers and any Subsequent Stockholders.

Subsequent Stockholders” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof.

Subsidiary” shall mean, with respect to the Company, without duplication, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, other business entity, or joint venture or joint venture arrangement, of which (a) if a corporation, at least fifty percent (50%) of the total voting power of the capital stock entitled to vote (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) in the election of directors, managers, or trustees thereof is at the time in question owned or controlled,

 

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directly or indirectly, by the Company or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of the Company or a combination thereof, or (b) if a limited liability company, partnership, association, other business entity (other than a corporation), or joint venture or joint venture arrangement, at least fifty percent (50%) of the membership, partnership or other ownership interests or units thereof are at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by the Company or one or more Subsidiaries of the Company or a combination thereof, and for this purpose, a specified Person or Persons shall be deemed to own a majority ownership interest in such a business entity (other than a corporation) if the Company or its direct or indirect Subsidiaries are allocated a majority of such business entity’s gains or losses, or control any managing member, managing director or general partner of such business entity (other than a corporation). For clarity, (x) each of the following entities is a Subsidiary as of the date hereof: Thorne Research, Inc., an Idaho corporation, Health Elements, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, WellnessFX, Inc., a Delaware corporation, HEU Holding Company, a Florida corporation, Drawbridge Health, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and YouCare Joint Venture LTD; and (y) none of the following entities is a Subsidiary as of the date hereof: Pillar Health, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Pillar”), and Thorne OPS-FUEL Joint, LLC (otherwise known as Tecton, LLC), a Delaware limited liability company (“Tecton”).

Third Election Period” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(e) hereof.

Total Shares” means at any time of determination the total of (i) all shares of Common Stock outstanding at such time plus (ii) all shares of Common Stock issuable upon the conversion of all shares of Preferred Stock outstanding at such time.

Transfer” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a) hereof.

Transferring Stockholder” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(a) hereof.

Tudor” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

WBD” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 24 hereof.

WestView” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.

2. RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER OF SECURITIES.

2.1 Transfer.

(a) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, no Stockholder may sell, assign, pledge or otherwise transfer, directly or indirectly, voluntarily or involuntarily, by operation of law or otherwise (a “Transfer”), any rights or interest in any Securities, without strict compliance with the terms of Sections 2.2, 2.3 and 2.5; provided, however, that the provisions of Sections 2.2 and 2.3 shall not apply:

(i) Subject to Section 2.1(b), in the case of any Stockholder that is not a natural person, to a Transfer of Securities to its Affiliates, general or limited partners, stockholders, members or other equity holders,

 

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(ii) Subject to Section 2.1(b), in the case of any Stockholder that is a natural person, to a Transfer of Securities to such Stockholder’s Personal Representative or Family Members; provided, that, in the case of a Transfer to a Related Person, such Stockholder retains voting and dispositive control of the Securities until such Stockholder’s death or incapacity,

(iii) Subject to Section 2.1(b), in the case of a Designated Holder or an Affiliate thereof, to a Transfer of Securities to the other Designated Holder or an Affiliate thereof, and

(iv) in the case of any Stockholder, pursuant to an Approved Sale (subsections (i) through (iv) inclusive, collectively the “Exempt Transfers”).

(b) The restrictions contained in this Section 2 will continue to be applicable to the transferred Securities after any Exempt Transfer under Section 2.1(a)(i), Section 2.1(a)(ii) or Section 2.1(a)(iii), and, as a condition precedent to any such Exempt Transfer, the transferee of the transferred Securities to the extent not already a party to this Agreement shall have executed and delivered to the Company an Instrument of Accession.

2.2 First Right of Purchase.

(a) Any Stockholder (the “Transferring Stockholder”) proposing to make any Transfer of Securities, other than an Exempt Transfer (a “Proposed Transfer”), shall deliver a written notice (the “Investor Offer Notice”) to the Designated Holders and the Company at least forty-five (45) days prior to the Proposed Transfer. The Investor Offer Notice will state the Transferring Stockholder’s bona fide intention to make the Proposed Transfer, and disclose in reasonable detail the material terms of the Proposed Transfer, including the number of Securities proposed to be Transferred, the class or classes of such Securities, the proposed price and the identity of the proposed transferee, and the status of the Transferring Stockholder’s arrangement with the proposed transferee (including whether the proposed transferee has made a binding offer or is otherwise committed to acquire the Securities to be transferred).

(b) Subject to the terms of this Section 2.2, the Designated Holders may elect to purchase all or any portion of the Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice at the price and on the terms specified therein by delivering written notice of such election to the Transferring Stockholder, the other Stockholders and the Company within forty-five (45) days after the Designated Holders’ receipt of the Investor Offer Notice (“First Election Period”). The Designated Holders may, in their discretion, allocate between them the Securities (if any) to be purchased in such election, such allocation to be set forth in the written notice of such election. In the absence of such mutual allocation, the Designated Holders shall be entitled to purchase their respective pro rata shares of the Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice, based on the number of Total Shares held by each Designated Holder and its Affiliates divided by the number of Total Shares then held by both Designated Holders and their Affiliates.

(c) If the Designated Holders elect to purchase Securities being offered, the consummation of such purchase will take place by the later of (i) thirty (30) days after the expiration of the First Election Period, and (ii) five (5) Business Days after receipt of all consents, waivers and approvals necessary to consummate such purchase.

 

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(d) If the Designated Holders do not elect to purchase all of the Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice, the Company may elect to purchase the balance of the Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice at the price and on the terms specified therein by delivering written notice thereof to the Transferring Stockholder and the other Stockholders within fifteen (15) days after the expiration of the First Election Period (the “Second Election Period”). If the Company elects to purchase Securities being offered, the consummation of such purchase will take place by the later of (i) thirty (30) days after the expiration of the Second Election Period, and (ii) five (5) Business Days after receipt of all consents, waivers and approvals necessary to consummate such purchase.

(e) If the Company does not elect to purchase all of the Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice, the Company shall provide written notice to the 5% Holders (other than the Designated Holders), including a copy of the Investor Offer Notice, within two (2) Business Days after the date that the Second Election Period expires, setting forth the amount of the Securities that the Designated Holders and the Company did not elect to purchase, and each of the 5% Holders (other than the Designated Holders) may elect to purchase some or all of the balance of the Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice at the price and on the terms specified therein by delivering written notice thereof to the Transferring Stockholder, the other Stockholders and the Company within fifteen (15) days after the date of delivery of such notice from the Company (the “Third Election Period”).

(f) If any 5% Holder elects to purchase any of the remaining Securities pursuant to Section 2.2(e), the consummation of such purchase will take place by the later of (i) thirty (30) days after the expiration of the Third Election Period, and (ii) three (3) days after receipt of all consents, waivers and approvals necessary to consummate such purchase. If more than one such 5% Holder elects to purchase any of the Securities being offered, each such 5% Holder electing to purchase such Securities will be entitled to purchase from the Transferring Stockholder a pro rata portion based upon the respective numbers of Securities (determined on a fully diluted and an as-converted to Common Stock basis but not giving effect to the exercise of any outstanding options or warrants to purchase Common Stock) then held by such electing 5% Holders, with the consummation of such purchase to take place by the later of (i) thirty (30) days after the expiration of the Third Election Period, and (ii) five (5) Business Days after receipt of all consents, waivers and approvals necessary to consummate such purchase.

(g) If the Designated Holders, the Company and/or the 5% Holders do not elect to purchase all of the Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice, neither the Designated Holders, the Company nor the 5% Holders shall be entitled to purchase any of the Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice, and the Transferring Stockholder may, within ninety (90) days but not less than ten (10) days after the expiration of the Third Election Period, but subject to Section 2.3, complete the Proposed Transfer at a price and on terms no more favorable to the transferees than the price and terms offered in the Investor Offer Notice; provided that no such Proposed Transfer may be completed unless each of such transferees shall have executed and delivered an Instrument of Accession to the Company as a condition precedent thereto. If the Transferring Stockholder fails to consummate such Proposed Transfer within the ninety (90) day period after the expiration of the Third Election Period, any subsequent proposed Transfer of such Securities shall be once again subject to the provisions of this Section 2.2.

 

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2.3 Co-Sale Rights. In the event of a proposed Transfer of Securities by a Designated Holder (other than an Exempt Transfer) with respect to which the Company and the 5% Holders are entitled to but do not elect to purchase all of the Securities proposed to be transferred, each of the 5% Holders (other than the Transferring Stockholder, any 5% Holder that elected to purchase Securities specified in the Investor Offer Notice under Section 2.2 or any 5% Holder who is an employee of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries) may elect to participate in the contemplated sale by delivering written notice to the transferring Designated Holder within fifteen (15) days after expiration of the Third Election Period. If any of such 5% Holders elects to participate in such sale (the “Participating Stockholders”), each of such transferring Designated Stockholder and the Participating Stockholders will be entitled to sell in the contemplated sale, on the same terms as are applicable to the Designated Holder, that number of Securities determined by multiplying (i) (x) the aggregate number of Securities covered by the Investor Offer Notice, minus (y) the number of Securities purchased pursuant to Section 2.2, by (ii) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of Securities owned by such Stockholder on the date of receipt of the Investor Offer Notice by such Stockholder (determined on a fully-diluted and an as-converted to Common Stock basis but not giving effect to the exercise of any outstanding options or warrants to purchase Common Stock) and the denominator of which is the total number of Securities owned by the Designated Stockholder and all Participating Stockholders on such date (determined on a fully-diluted and an as-converted to Common Stock basis but not giving effect to the exercise of any outstanding options or warrants to purchase Common Stock). The Designated Holder will use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain the agreement of the prospective transferee(s) to the participation of the Participating Stockholders in any contemplated sale; provided that if the prospective transferee(s) declines to allow the participation of the Participating Stockholders on the terms specified herein, the proposed Transfer may be consummated if the Designated Holder, within five (5) days after such consummation, purchases the Securities that the Participating Stockholders would have sold in such proposed Transfer had the prospective transferee(s) not declined to allow their participation; provided, further, if the prospective transferee(s) objects to the delivery of convertible Preferred Stock in lieu of Common Stock, the Stockholder holding the relevant convertible Preferred Stock shall first convert the Preferred Stock into Common Stock and deliver Common Stock (and the Company agrees to make any such conversion concurrent with and contingent upon the consummation of the contemplated sale).

2.4 Transfers of Securities in Breach of this Agreement. In the event of any Transfer or attempted Transfer of Securities in breach of this Agreement, commencing immediately upon the date of such attempted Transfer (a) such Transfer shall be void and of no effect, (b) no dividend of any kind or any distribution pursuant to any liquidation, redemption or otherwise shall be paid by the Company to the purported transferee in respect of such Securities, with the amount of any such dividend or distribution being retained by the Company until such time as such Transfer has been finally rescinded and reversed, and (c) neither the putative transferring Stockholder nor the purported transferee shall be entitled to exercise any rights with respect to such Securities under this Agreement until such Transfer in breach of this Agreement has been rescinded.

2.5 Transfer to Competitors. Prior to the fourth anniversary of the Effective Time, and provided that Mitsui is a Designated Holder at the time of such purported Transfer, no Stockholder may Transfer any Securities to any Japan Person unless the Stockholder proposing such Transfer first obtains the written consent of Mitsui. Prior to the fourth anniversary of the Effective Time, and provided that Kirin is a Designated Holder at the time of such purported Transfer, no Stockholder may Transfer any Securities to any Japan Person unless the Stockholder proposing such Transfer first obtains the written consent of Kirin.

 

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2.6 Initial Public Offering.

(a) If, at any time following the fourth anniversary of the Effective Time, the Non-K/M Directors, in good faith and consistent with their fiduciary duties, unanimously resolve to pursue or commence registration for an Initial Public Offering for which the Board of Directors have received advice from a nationally recognized investment banking firm selected by the Non-K/M Directors and reasonably acceptable to the Board of Directors that such Initial Public Offering is reasonably likely to be consummated within fifteen (15) months following such resolution of the Non-K/M Directors and to result in an offering price per share that would imply a net equity valuation of the Company of at least $400,000,000, then the members of the Board of Directors designated by Kirin and Mitsui shall not object to the pursuit or commencement of such Initial Public Offering and the Designated Holders shall not unreasonably withhold any stockholder consent required to pursue or consummate such Initial Public Offering; provided, however, that, notwithstanding the foregoing, the foregoing commitment of the members of the Board of Directors designated by Kirin and Mitsui shall cease to apply and the Designated Holders shall have the right to withhold any consent with respect to such Initial Public Offering or revoke any consent previously granted if at any time before such Initial Public Offering has occurred, the managing underwriter indicates that such Initial Public Offering is not likely to result in an offering price per share that would imply a net equity valuation of the Company of at least $400,000,000 (such decrease in valuation, a “Downward Valuation Adjustment”). So long as no Downward Valuation Adjustment has occurred, the Designated Holders (i) shall not interfere with any steps reasonably undertaken by the Company with respect to such Initial Public Offering; (ii) shall, as may be necessary to facilitate the approval, authorization or recommendation of any such Initial Public Offering, replace any members of the Board of Directors designated by Kirin and Mitsui who do not vote in favor of, authorize or recommend a proposal to pursue or commence such Initial Public Offering; and (iii) shall vote their shares in favor of the consummation of the transactions necessary to complete such Initial Public Offering and otherwise consent to and raise no objection to the consummation of such transactions; provided that, notwithstanding the foregoing, neither Designated Holder nor any Affiliate thereof shall be required to terminate or otherwise amend or modify any commercial or other agreements that such Designated Holder or such Affiliate has entered into with the Company or any of its Affiliates, except to the extent necessary to remove prohibitions on, or to permit the authorization of, the consummation of such Initial Public Offering (it being understood and agreed that nothing herein will require the Designated Holders to terminate, amend or modify any rights granted pursuant to Section 2.6(b)). The Company shall keep the Designated Holders reasonably informed with respect to such Initial Public Offering (including, without limitation, the status, timing, pricing and other terms thereof) and shall deliver to the Designated Holders copies of all material documents (including drafts thereof and comments thereto) and correspondence to or from the managing underwriter and the SEC related to such Initial Public Offering (with such delivery to be at substantially the same time as when such documents and correspondence are distributed or received by the Company), including without limitation the prospectus, registration statement and drafts and mark-ups of definitive agreements.

(b) The Company (i) shall promptly notify (the “IPO Notification”) the Designated Holders in writing if the conditions triggering an Initial Public Offering described in Section 2.6(a) have been

 

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satisfied and (ii) shall promptly notify (the “Adjustment Notification”) the Designated Holders if any Downward Valuation Adjustment has occurred. The IPO Notification shall describe in reasonable detail the material terms of such Initial Public Offering, including the proposed Initial Public Offering valuation (which shall have been reasonably determined by the Board of Directors following consultation with a nationally recognized investment banking firm), the name and address of the proposed managing underwriter, the expected offering date, and the proposed national securities exchange for such Initial Public Offering, and shall include a copy of all documents exchanged with the proposed managing underwriter. The Adjustment Notification shall describe in reasonable detail the reason for the Downward Valuation Adjustment and the revised terms and pricing of such Initial Public Offering. Following the delivery of any IPO Notification, the Designated Holders shall have one hundred twenty (120) days to elect and commit in writing to purchase all Securities not held by the Designated Holders at the proposed Initial Public Offering valuation. If the Designated Holders elect and commit in writing to purchase all such Securities, then each Stockholder shall be required to sell its Securities to the Designated Holders, and the Designated Holders shall be required to purchase such Securities, at a per Security purchase price (which, for the avoidance of doubt, shall be reduced by the exercise price payable with respect to any option, warrant or similar Security) based on the proposed Initial Public Offering valuation (in case of a Downward Valuation Adjustment, such valuation shall be reduced as reflected in the Adjustment Notification) and pursuant to purchase and sale documents in customary form reasonably acceptable to the Designated Holders and at a closing date reasonably agreed by the Board of Directors and the Designated Holders. If the consummation of the Initial Public Offering provided for in the IPO Notification does not occur for any reason, the rights and obligations set forth in this Section 2.6(b) shall continue, including the obligation of the Company to provide the IPO Notification and the right of the Designated Holders to purchase all Securities not held by the Designated Holders at the proposed Initial Public Offering valuation. Following the delivery of any Adjustment Notification, the Designated Holders shall have ten (10) Business Days to revoke any prior stockholder consent to the extent such revocation is permitted pursuant to Section 2.6(a).

2.7 Acquisition of the Company.

(a) If, at any time following the fourth anniversary of the Effective Time, the Company receives a definitive offer from a reputable third party for a Company Sale which the Non-K/M Directors, consistent with their fiduciary duties, unanimously resolve to pursue (an “Offer”), the members of the Board of Directors designated by Kirin and Mitsui shall not object to such Offer and the Designated Holders shall not withhold any stockholder consent required to consummate such Offer, provided that such Offer: (i) will result in Kirin and Mitsui receiving all cash as consideration for their Securities, (ii) is fully financed and subject only to limited, reasonable and customary conditions, (iii) values the Company at a net equity value of not less than $400,000,000, (iv) is not subject to any contingent or conditional consideration (including, without limitation, holdbacks, escrows, installment payments, milestones or earn-out provisions) that could result in less than $400,000,000 being delivered to the aggregate holders of Securities at the consummation of such Offer and (v) otherwise complies with the conditions for an Approved Sale set forth in the last sentence and related subparagraphs of Section 3.1. The Designated Holders (i) shall not interfere with any steps reasonably undertaken by the Company with respect to such Offer and (ii) shall, as may be necessary to facilitate the approval, authorization or recommendation of any such Offer, replace any members of the Board of Directors designated by Kirin and Mitsui who do not vote in favor of, authorize or

 

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recommend the Offer. The Designated Holders shall vote their shares in favor of the consummation of the transactions necessary to complete such Offer and otherwise consent to and raise no objection to the consummation of such transactions, and shall take all actions to waive any appraisal or similar dissenters rights that they may have in connection with the consummation of such transactions; provided that, notwithstanding the foregoing, neither Designated Holder nor any Affiliate thereof shall be required to terminate or otherwise amend or modify any commercial or other agreements that such Designated Holder or such Affiliate has entered into with the Company or any of its Affiliates. The Company shall keep the Designated Holders reasonably informed of such transactions (including, without limitation, the status, timing, economic and other terms thereof) and shall deliver to the Designated Holders copies of all material documents (including drafts thereof and comments thereto) distributed to or received from the proposed acquirer (at substantially the same time as when distributed to or received from the proposed acquirer) in connection with such Offer, including without limitation confidentiality agreements, acquisition proposals, letters of intent, indications of interest, term sheets, drafts and mark-ups of definitive agreements and documents related to financing.

(b) The Company will promptly notify (the “Offer Notification”) the Designated Holders in writing if the conditions triggering an Offer described in Section 2.7(a) have been satisfied. The Offer Notification shall describe in reasonable detail the material terms and conditions of such Offer, including the name and address of the proposed acquirer, its source of financing and the expected date, time and location of the proposed consummation of such Offer, and shall include a copy of any term sheet, letter of intent, indication of interest or acquisition proposal. Within forty-five (45) days following the delivery of the Offer Notification, the Designated Holders shall have the right to commit in writing to purchase all Securities not held by the Designated Holders at the valuation specified in the Offer. If the Designated Holders elect and commit in writing to purchase all such Securities, then each Stockholder shall be required to sell its Securities to the Designated Holders, and the Designated Holders shall be required to purchase such Securities, at a per Security purchase price (which, for the avoidance of doubt, shall be reduced by the exercise price payable with respect to any option, warrant or similar Security) based on the valuation specified in the Offer and pursuant to purchase and sale documents in customary form reasonably acceptable to the Designated Holders and at a closing date reasonably agreed by the Non-K/M Directors and the Designated Holders. If the consummation of the Offer provided for in the Offer Notification does not occur for any reason, the rights and obligations set forth in this Section 2.7(b) shall continue, including the obligation of the Company to provide the Offer Notification and the right of the Designated Holders to purchase all Securities not held by the Designated Holders at the valuation specified in the Offer.

3. SALE OF THE COMPANY.

3.1 Approved Sale. In the event a Company Sale is approved by the Board of Directors and the Majority Stockholders (an “Approved Sale”), such Majority Stockholders may, at their joint election, require each other Stockholder to participate in such Approved Sale in a manner set forth in Section 3.2. Any such election shall be made by written notice to the Company, and upon receipt of such election notice the Company shall be required to promptly deliver notice of such exercise to all other Stockholders no less than twenty (20) days prior to the consummation of such Approved Sale. Such notice to the other Stockholders shall describe in reasonable detail the material terms and conditions of such Approved Sale, including the name and address of the proposed acquirer and the

 

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expected date, time and location of the proposed closing, and shall include a copy of the term sheet or letter of intent, if any. Any Approved Sale shall be subject to the following conditions:

(i) each such Stockholder shall receive, with respect to such Stockholder’s Securities, consideration that is no less than every other Stockholder receives with respect to his, her or its Securities of the same type, class and series (provided, that differences in net proceeds attributable to differing exercise or conversion prices with respect to Securities of the same type, class or series shall not be deemed to constitute differing consideration);

(ii) any rights and liquidation preferences provided by the Charter shall be honored and all amounts payable pursuant to any Approved Sale shall be otherwise paid in accordance with the Charter (including pursuant to the last paragraph of Section 2.1 of the Charter);

(iii) if any Stockholder is given an option as to the form and amount of consideration to be received as a result of the Approved Sale with respect to any class and series of Securities, each other Stockholder shall have been given the same option with respect to such class and series of Securities;

(iv) no Stockholder, other than any Stockholder who may be an officer or employee of the Company or its Affiliates, shall be required to agree to any non-competition, non-solicitation or similar restriction or to provide any release other than a release of claims relating directly to such Stockholder’s authority, ownership and the ability to convey title to their respective Securities;

(v) no Stockholder shall be obligated to undertake any indemnity that is joint in nature or could exceed (I) in the case of any indemnity relating to a breach of representations and warranties relating to the Company (and not such Stockholder), such Stockholder’s pro rata share of such indemnification obligation calculated based on such Stockholder’s pro rata share of the aggregate net proceeds received by all Stockholders in connection with such Approved Sale, or (II) in any case, the amount of the proceeds received by such Stockholder in the Approved Sale; and

(vi) any representations and warranties to be made by each Stockholder in connection with the Approved Sale shall be limited to representations and warranties as to such Stockholder only (and not the Company) related to authority, ownership and the ability to convey title to their respective Securities, including but not limited to representations and warranties that (i) the Stockholder holds all right, title and interest in and to the Securities such Stockholder purports to hold, free and clear of all liens and encumbrances, (ii) the obligations of the Stockholder in connection with the transaction have been duly authorized by or on behalf of the Stockholder, if applicable, (iii) the documents to be entered into by the Stockholder have been duly executed by such Stockholder and delivered to the acquirer and are enforceable against such Stockholder in accordance with their respective terms, subject to equitable exceptions, and (iv) neither the execution and delivery of documents to be entered into in connection with the transaction, nor the performance of such Stockholder’s obligations thereunder, will cause a breach or violation of the terms of any agreement, law or judgment, or order or decree of any court or governmental agency, to which it is bound which would impair such Stockholder’s ability to consummate the Approved Sale.

 

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3.2 Obligations of Stockholders with respect to an Approved Sale. Subject to Section 3.1, the Company and the Stockholders shall use their reasonable best efforts to cause the consummation of any Approved Sale and shall not take any action prejudicial to or inconsistent with, or that would otherwise materially delay, any Approved Sale. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each Stockholder shall:

(i) vote such Stockholder’s Securities in favor of, or to otherwise approve, the terms of any Approved Sale and such matters ancillary thereto as are customary;

(ii) waive and disclaim any appraisal, dissenters or similar rights that such Stockholder may have in connection with an Approved Sale;

(iii) sell all of such Stockholder’s Securities on the terms and conditions approved by the Board of Directors (but only if the consideration for such Approved Sale is paid entirely in cash or publicly tradeable securities (or securities immediately convertible into publicly tradeable securities solely at the holder’s option));

(iv) enter into any agreement or agreements required to be entered into by such Stockholder to effectuate the Approved Sale and enter into such other customary agreements, documents, certificates and instruments as are applicable to the Approved Sale and otherwise are consistent with the requirements and limitations in Section 3.1 and this Section 3.2;

(v) upon request, deliver such Stockholder’s Securities (together with executed instruments of transfer or assignment) in escrow (pending receipt of the purchase price therefor) to counsel for the Company or the Majority Stockholders in such sale;

(vi) subject to the terms of any Exercisable Security (as defined below), upon the election of the Company in its sole discretion and without any further action required on the part of such Stockholder, each stock option, warrant, and other similar right then exercisable for shares of capital stock of the Company (collectively, “Exercisable Securities” and individually, an “Exercisable Security”), shall, if such Stockholder has not otherwise exercised the vested portion of such Exercisable Security prior to the closing of an Approved Sale (or any such Exercisable Security contains a vesting acceleration provision that becomes effective immediately prior to the closing of an Approved Sale), be cancelled in connection with an Approved Sale in exchange for an amount of cash or such other consideration payable in connection with such Approved Sale with an aggregate value equal to (A) the consideration payable in respect of each share of the class or series of capital stock underlying such Exercisable Security in connection with such Approved Sale, multiplied by the number of shares of such class or series of capital stock underlying such Exercisable Security that remain unexercised as of the closing of such Approved Sale, minus (B) the exercise price per share for such Exercisable Security multiplied by the number of shares of such class or series of capital stock underlying such Exercisable Security that remain unexercised as of the closing of such Approved Sale; provided, that if the result of such calculation is a positive number, any

 

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such payment shall be subject to the terms and conditions generally applicable to the payment of the consideration in connection with such Approved Sale, including indemnification obligations, escrows, earnouts, contingency payments, purchase price adjustments, and payment in accordance with the terms of the Charter; and

(vii) if the consideration to be paid in exchange for the Securities pursuant to this Section 3.2 includes any securities and due receipt thereof by any Stockholder would require under applicable law (x) the registration or qualification of such securities or of any Person as a broker or dealer or agent with respect to such securities or (y) the provision to any Stockholder of any information other than such information as a prudent issuer would generally furnish in an offering made solely to “accredited investors” as defined in Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Company may cause to be paid to any such Stockholder in lieu thereof, against surrender of the Securities which would have otherwise been sold by such Stockholder, an amount in cash equal to the fair value (as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors) of the securities which such Stockholder would otherwise receive as of the date of the issuance of such securities in exchange for the Securities.

3.3 PROXY. WITHOUT LIMITING SECTION 4.3 BELOW, EACH STOCKHOLDER HEREBY APPOINTS A DESIGNEE OF THE DESIGNATED HOLDERS IN ANY APPROVED SALE AS SUCH STOCKHOLDER’S TRUE AND LAWFUL PROXY AND ATTORNEY, WITH FULL POWER OF SUBSTITUTION, TO VOTE AT ANY MEETING OF THE STOCKHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY, HOWEVER CALLED, OR ANY ADJOURNMENT THEREOF, OR BY WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE STOCKHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY, ALL VOTING SECURITIES OWNED BY SUCH STOCKHOLDER OR OVER WHICH SUCH STOCKHOLDER HAS VOTING CONTROL TO EFFECTUATE THE AGREEMENTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF SUCH STOCKHOLDER SET FORTH IN THIS SECTION 3 IN THE EVENT OF ANY BREACH BY SUCH STOCKHOLDER OF ITS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THIS SECTION 3. THE PROXIES AND POWERS GRANTED BY EACH STOCKHOLDER PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION 3.3 ARE COUPLED WITH AN INTEREST AND ARE GIVEN TO SECURE THE PERFORMANCE OF SUCH STOCKHOLDER’S DUTIES UNDER THIS SECTION 3. SUCH PROXIES ARE IRREVOCABLE FOR SO LONG AS THIS SECTION 3 REMAINS IN EFFECT AND WILL SURVIVE THE DEATH, INCOMPETENCE OR DISABILITY OF ANY STOCKHOLDER WHO IS AN INDIVIDUAL AND THE MERGER, LIQUIDATION OR DISSOLUTION OF ANY STOCKHOLDER THAT IS A CORPORATION, PARTNERSHIP OR OTHER ENTITY.

4. BOARD OF DIRECTORS; VOTING AGREEMENTS.

4.1 Board of Directors.

(a) The Board of Directors shall consist of seven (7) directors. Subject to Section 4.1(b), in any and all elections of directors of the Company (whether at a meeting or by written consent in lieu of a meeting), each Stockholder shall vote, or cause to be voted, or cause such Stockholder’s

 

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designees as directors to vote, all voting Securities owned by such Stockholder or over which such Stockholder has voting control so as to nominate and elect as directors:

(i) So long as Mitsui is a Designated Holder, two (2) individuals designated by Mitsui, who shall initially be Masami Yokoyama and Toshitaka Inuzuka;

(ii) So long as Kirin is a Designated Holder, two (2) individuals designated by Kirin, who shall initially be Tom Yoshimura and Shinro Fujita;

(iii) So long as ELUS and its Affiliates collectively hold at least 10% of the Total Shares, one (1) individual designated by ELUS, who shall initially be Riccardo Braglia; and

(iv) Two (2) individuals elected by the vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock (voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis) (the “Common Directors”), one of whom will be Paul Jacobson (“Jacobson”) so long as Jacobson is employed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Thorne Research, Inc. and the second of whom will be elected from the following group of executives of the Company and Thorne Research, Inc.: (v) Chief Financial Officer, (w) President, (x) Chief Operating Officer, (y) Chief Marketing Officer and (z) Chief Technology Officer; provided, that the second Common Director shall not be an Affiliate of a Designated Holder and shall be independent (applying the standards of Section 303A.02(a)(i)-(ii) of the NYSE Listed Company Manual) of the Designated Holders; provided, further, that an individual shall not be disqualified from serving as a director solely as a result of the individual’s status as an employee of the Company. It is agreed that Tom McKenna (“McKenna”) will be the initial Common Director other than Jacobson.

The Designated Holders shall consult with the Chief Executive Officer of the Company on a non-binding basis, and shall consider the Chief Executive Officer’s recommendations and views in good faith, with respect to the designation of the Common Director and the directors to be designated pursuant to Section 4.1(a)(i) or (ii).

(b) If any vacancy shall occur on the Board of Directors as a result of death, disability, resignation, removal or any other termination of a director, the replacement for such vacating director shall be designated by the Person or Persons who, pursuant to Section 4.1(a) above, originally designated such vacating director, or in the case of the Common Directors, by the vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock (voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis). Each Person or group of Persons (as applicable) entitled to designate a director or a replacement for a director pursuant to this Section 4 shall also be entitled to remove such director from the Board of Directors and any applicable committees thereof with or without cause and to designate the replacement for any director so removed. Each Stockholder shall vote, or cause to be voted, or cause such Stockholder’s designees as directors to vote, all voting Securities owned by such Stockholder or over which such Stockholder has voting control, from time to time and at all times, in whatever manner as shall be necessary to comply with this Section 4.1(b). In the event that Mitsui, Kirin or ELUS loses the right to designate members of the Board of Directors pursuant to Sections 4.1(a)(i), (ii) or (iii), as applicable, then such member(s) of the Board of Directors shall be designated by the vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock (voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis).

 

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(c) There will be a compensation committee of the Board of Directors, consisting of no more than five (5) directors (the “Compensation Committee”), and an audit committee of the Board of Directors, consisting of no more than five (5) directors (the “Audit Committee”). The Designated Holders acting jointly shall have the right to appoint from among their respective Board of Director appointees a majority of the members of any committee of the Board of Directors, with each Designated Holder entitled to appoint an equal number of members to any such committee (including the Compensation Committee and the Audit Committee), and the members of any Board of Directors committee not so appointed by the Designated Holders shall be appointed by the Board of Directors from among its members. The Chief Executive Officer of the Company shall serve as a member on the Compensation Committee. The Chief Executive Officer of the Company will be recused from all Compensation Committee discussions concerning such Chief Executive Officer or with respect to which such Chief Executive Officer reasonably could be deemed to have a conflict of interest. The Compensation Committee shall be charged with approving salaries, incentive or similar compensation and grants of options, restricted stock awards and other equity based compensation for key employees of the Company. The Audit Committee shall be charged with assisting the Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities to its stockholders by reviewing the financial reports and other financial information provided by the Company to its stockholders, to any governmental body or to the public; the Company’s systems of internal control; and the Company’s auditing, accounting and financial reporting processes generally. There will not be any other committee (including without limitation any executive committee) of the Board of Directors unless such committee is specifically approved by (x) the Board of Directors and (y) the majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock (voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis). In the event an executive committee, or similar committee, including any committee delegated the responsibilities of the full Board of Directors or responsibilities typically held by an executive committee or similar committee is formed pursuant to the provisions of this Section 4.1(c), then the composition of such committee shall be determined in accordance with the second sentence of this Section 4.1(c).

(d) Action of the Board of Directors shall be by approval of a majority of all directors then in office, including at least one (1) director appointed by each Designated Holder. Action by any committee of the Board of Directors shall be by approval of a majority of all members of the committee then in office, including at least one (1) member appointed by each Designated Holder. The approval of the Board of Directors shall be required for all matters for which approval of the Board of Directors is required by law or that are material to the Company.

(e) The rights of a Designated Holder under this Section 4.1 shall be assignable in whole or in part to any Person (including, for clarity, the other Designated Holder or their respective Affiliates) if such Person acquires more than fifty percent (50%) of the number of shares of Preferred Stock held by the Designated Holder at the Effective Time or any shares issued upon a conversion of such shares of Preferred Stock into Common Stock (after giving effect to any stock splits, combinations or similar transactions involving one or more classes of Securities as a whole) and provided the Transfer of such shares to such Person would not violate Section 2.5. The rights of ELUS under this Section 4.1 shall be assignable in whole or in part to any Person (including, for clarity, any Designated Holder or their respective Affiliates) who acquires all of the shares of Common Stock and other securities of the Company held by ELUS and provided the Transfer of such shares to such Person would not violate Section 2.5.

 

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(f) The Company shall reimburse the members of the Board of Directors for the reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by in attending meetings of the Board of Directors. The Company also shall at all times maintain directors and officers insurance coverage from a carrier and in an amount and scope of coverage as is satisfactory to the Board, including at least one (1) director appointed by each Designated Holder, for the benefit of the current and former members of the Board of Directors and any committee thereof (both as to the Company and as to any subsidiary, Affiliate or other entity with respect to which any such person is serving as a director, manager or equivalent capacity at the request or for the benefit of the Company).

(g) The Company shall cause meetings of the Board of Directors to be held no less frequently than four (4) times in each twelve (12) calendar month period.

(h) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Company’s Bylaws, the Company shall give notice of any regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors or any applicable committee thereof to each director then serving on the Board of Directors or such committee, and each observer designated hereunder. Such notices shall state the place, if any, date, and hour of the meeting, and the means of remote communication, if any, by which directors may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting. In the case of a special meeting, the notice shall state the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called and no business other than that specified in the notice shall be transacted at a special meeting. Notices may be given by personal delivery, mail, telegram, courier service (including, without limitation, Federal Express), facsimile transmission (directed to the facsimile transmission number at which the director has consented to receive notice), electronic mail (directed to the electronic mail address at which the director has consented to receive notice), or other form of electronic transmission pursuant to which the director has consented to receive notice. If notice is given by personal delivery, by facsimile transmission, by telegram, by electronic mail, or by other form of electronic transmission pursuant to which the director has consented to receive notice, then such notice shall be given on (i) not less than seventy-two (72) hours’ notice to each director prior to the meeting, in the case of a regular meeting, and (ii) not less than forty-eight (48) hours’ notice to each director prior to the meeting, in the case of a special meeting. If written notice is delivered by mail or courier service, then it shall be given on not less than five (5) Business Days’ notice to each director prior to the meeting. For the avoidance of doubt, any director may waive the requirements for notice contained herein on behalf of him or herself and the party designating such director.

(i) No party, nor any Affiliate of any such party, shall have any liability as a result of designating a person for election as a director for any act or omission by such designated person in his or her capacity as a director of the Company, nor shall any party have any liability as a result of voting for any such designee in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

(j) The Company shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain, within sixty (60) days of the Effective Time, from financially sound and reputable insurers, Directors and Officers Errors and Omissions insurance, which shall cover the directors and officers of the Company and its

 

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Subsidiaries, each in an amount satisfactory to the Board of Directors, and the Company will use commercially reasonable efforts to cause such insurance policies to be maintained until such time as the Board of Directors determines that such insurance should be discontinued. Without limiting the foregoing, such policies shall not be cancelable by the Company or any such Subsidiary without prior approval of the Board of Directors.

4.2 Vote to Increase Authorized Common Stock. Each Stockholder shall vote, or cause to be voted, all voting Securities owned by such Stockholder or over which such Stockholder has voting control, from time to time and at all times, in whatever manner as shall be necessary to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock to ensure that there will be sufficient shares of Common Stock available for conversion of all of the shares of Preferred Stock (and any Securities from time to time held by the Designated Holders) outstanding at any given time.

4.3 Secondment. Each Designated Holder shall have the right to second one or more employees of the Designated Holder or an Affiliate thereof to serve as secondees to the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, with the rights and on the terms set forth in a secondment agreement between such Designated Holder, the Company and the applicable secondee in a form to be reasonably agreed by such parties (which shall include reasonable and customary provisions with respect to confidentiality, conflicts of interest and assignment of intellectual property rights no less restrictive than the corresponding provisions of agreements executed by employees of the Company).

4.4 PROXY. WITHOUT LIMITING SECTION 3.3 ABOVE, EACH STOCKHOLDER HEREBY GRANTS TO THE DESIGNATED HOLDERS, AND IF THERE ARE NO SUCH DESIGNATED HOLDERS, TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE COMPANY, AN IRREVOCABLE PROXY, COUPLED WITH AN INTEREST, TO VOTE AT ANY MEETING OF THE STOCKHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY, HOWEVER CALLED, OR ANY ADJOURNMENT THEREOF, OR BY WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE STOCKHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY, ALL VOTING SECURITIES OWNED BY SUCH STOCKHOLDER OR OVER WHICH SUCH STOCKHOLDER HAS VOTING CONTROL TO THE EXTENT NECESSARY TO CARRY OUT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION 4 IN THE EVENT OF ANY BREACH BY SUCH STOCKHOLDER OF HIS, HER OR ITS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE VOTING AGREEMENT CONTAINED HEREIN.

4.5 Action by Stockholders. Each Stockholder further agrees that such Stockholder will not vote (in person, by proxy, pursuant to written consent or otherwise) any Securities owned by such Stockholder or over which such Stockholder from time to time has voting control, in any manner which may circumvent the voting arrangements required by this Section 4.

5. FIRST REFUSAL RIGHTS.

5.1 Pre-Emptive Rights.

(a) Except for (i) the issuance of Common Stock (or securities convertible into or containing options or rights to acquire shares of Common Stock) (A) pursuant to an Initial Public Offering, (B) as consideration for the acquisition of all or any substantial portion of the assets or all or any portion of the capital stock of any Person, (C) upon conversion, exchange or reclassification of

 

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shares of one class or series of capital stock of the Company into shares of another class or series of capital stock of the Company, (D) to any current or former employee or director of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries as employment-related compensation in a transaction approved by the Board of Directors, or (E) upon the exercise or redemption of any options, warrants or other rights to acquire shares of Common Stock which are outstanding as of the Effective Time or upon the exercise of any options to acquire up to 11,500 shares of Common Stock authorized and reserved for issuance under the Company’s 2010 Equity Incentive Plan as of the Effective Time; or (ii) Securities issued pursuant to the SPRA or any Securities issued upon the exercise or conversion of Securities issued pursuant to the SPRA, if the Company authorizes the issuance and sale of any shares of any class of Securities (other than as a dividend, stock split, split-up or other distribution on the outstanding Common Stock) (such Securities, “Issuance Securities”), the Company will first offer to sell to each 5% Holder, and each such 5% Holder shall have the right to purchase (the “Purchase Right”) at the price and on the terms set forth in the Issuance Notice (defined below), a pro rata portion of such Issuance Securities (based upon the respective number of Securities then held by all 5% Holders on a fully diluted and as-converted to Common Stock basis, but excluding any shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of any options, warrants or other rights to acquire shares of Common Stock then held by any Stockholders).

(b) Promptly after the Company authorizes the proposed issuance and sale of the Issuance Securities, the Company shall notify (“Issuance Notice”) each 5% Holder in writing of such authorization, with such notification setting forth in reasonable detail the material terms of such issuance, including the terms of the Issuance Securities, the purchase price therefor, the payment terms and such 5% Holder’s percentage allotment. Each 5% Holder (or applicable designee or delegee thereof) entitled to purchase Issuance Securities must exercise such 5% Holder’s Purchase Right within thirty (30) days after delivery by the Company of the Issuance Notice (the “Pre-Emptive Right Notice Period”).

(c) Upon the expiration of the Pre-Emptive Right Notice Period, if Purchase Rights have been exercised by the 5% Holders with respect to some but not all of the Issuance Securities, then the Company shall immediately send written notice to those 5% Holders who timely and fully exercised their Purchase Rights (the “Exercising Holders”). Each Exercising Holder shall have an additional right to purchase (“Secondary Purchase Right”) all or any part of the balance of any such remaining Issuance Securities on the terms and conditions specified in the Issuance Notice. To exercise such Secondary Purchase Right, an Exercising Holder must provide written notice to the Company within ten (10) days after the Company’s delivery of such notice of the Secondary Purchase Right. In the event two (2) or more Exercising Holders choose to exercise the Secondary Purchase Right for a total number of remaining Issuance Securities in excess of the number available, the remaining Issuance Securities available for purchase under this Section 5.1(c) shall be allocated to such Exercising Holders pro rata based on the relative number of shares of Issuance Securities such Exercising Holders have elected to purchase pursuant to their respective Secondary Purchase Right.

(d) Beginning fifteen (15) days after the expiration of the Pre-Emptive Right Notice Period, for a period of ninety (90) days, the Company will be free to sell such Issuance Securities that the 5% Holders have not elected to purchase on terms and conditions no more favorable to the purchasers thereof than those offered to such 5% Holders. Any Issuance Securities offered or sold by the Company after such ninety (90) day period must be reoffered to the 5% Holders entitled to purchase such Issuance Securities pursuant to the terms of this Section 5. Any purchaser of Issuance Securities pursuant to this Section 5.3(d) that is not already a party hereto, as a condition precedent to the closing of any such sale, shall have executed and delivered to the Company an Instrument of Accession.

 

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(e) Notwithstanding anything else contained in this Section 5 to the contrary, each 5% Holder shall be entitled to assign or delegate its rights under this Section 5 to any of its Affiliates and any Designated Holder shall be entitled to assign or delegate its rights under this Section 5 to its Affiliates or the other Designated Holder or its Affiliates; provided that such assignment or delegation would not violate Section 2.5, and subject to the last sentence of Section 5.1(d).

6. COVENANTS. The Company and each Stockholder agrees to use its commercially reasonable best efforts, within the requirements of applicable law, to ensure that the rights granted under this Agreement and the Charter are effective and that the parties enjoy the benefits of this Agreement and the Charter. Such actions include, without limitation, the use of commercially reasonable best efforts to cause the nomination and election of the directors as provided in this Agreement.

7. INFORMATION AND OBSERVER RIGHTS; SUBSIDIARIES.

7.1 Delivery of Financial Statements. The Company shall deliver to each 5% Holder:

(a) as soon as practicable, but in any event within one hundred and twenty (120) days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company, (i) a balance sheet as of the end of such year, (ii) statements of income and of cash flows for such year, and a comparison between (x) the actual amounts as of and for such fiscal year and (y) the comparable amounts for the prior year and as included in the Company’s Budget (as defined below) for such year, with an explanation of any material differences between such amounts and a schedule as to the sources and applications of funds for such year, and (iii) a statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such year, all such financial statements audited and certified by independent public accountants selected by the Company and approved by the Board of Directors;

(b) as soon as practicable, but in any event within forty-five (45) days after the end of each of the first three (3) quarters of each fiscal year of the Company, (I) unaudited statements of income and of cash flows for such fiscal quarter, an unaudited balance sheet and a statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such fiscal quarter, all prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) (except that such financial statements may (i) be subject to normal year-end audit adjustments, and (ii) not contain all notes thereto that may be required in accordance with GAAP), and (II) a then-current fully diluted equity capitalization table of the Company certified by the Company’s Chief Financial Officer as true and correct;

(c) as soon as practicable, but in any event within thirty (30) days of the end of each month, a report from management of the Company in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Designated Holders, an unaudited income statement and statement of cash flows for such month, and an unaudited balance sheet and statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such month, all prepared in accordance with GAAP (except that such financial statements may (i) be subject to normal year-end audit adjustments, and (ii) not contain all notes thereto that may be required in accordance with GAAP) and certified by the Company’s Chief Financial Officer;

 

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(d) as soon as practicable, but in any event thirty (30) days before the end of each fiscal year, a budget and business plan for the next fiscal year (collectively, the “Budget”), approved by the Board of Directors and prepared on a monthly basis, including balance sheets, income statements, and statements of cash flow for such months and, promptly after prepared, any other budgets or revised budgets prepared by the Company;

(e) with respect to any financial statements called for in Section 7.1(a), Section 7.1(b), Section 7.1(c), and Section 7.1(d), an instrument executed by the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer or such other authorized officer of the Company certifying that such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP consistently applied with prior practice for earlier periods (except as otherwise set forth in Section 7.1(b) and Section 7.1(c)) and fairly present the financial condition of the Company and its results of operation for the periods specified therein; and

(f) such other information relating to the financial condition, capitalization, business, prospects, or corporate affairs of the Company and each Subsidiary as any 5% Holder may from time to time reasonably request; provided, however, that the Company shall not be obligated under this Section 7.1 to provide information (i) that the Company reasonably determines in good faith to be a trade secret or confidential information (unless covered by an enforceable confidentiality agreement, in form reasonably acceptable to the Company) or (ii) the disclosure of which would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company and its counsel.

If, for any period, the Company has any Subsidiary or Affiliate whose accounts are consolidated with those of the Company, then in respect of such period the financial statements delivered pursuant to the foregoing sections shall be the consolidated and consolidating financial statements of the Company and all such consolidated Subsidiaries or Affiliates.

Notwithstanding anything else in this Section 7.1 to the contrary, the Company may cease providing the information set forth in this Section 7.1 during the period starting with the date thirty (30) days before the Company’s good-faith estimate of the date of filing of a registration statement if it reasonably concludes it must do so to comply with the SEC rules applicable to such registration statement and related offering; provided that the Company’s covenants under this Section 7.1 shall be reinstated at such time as the Company is no longer actively employing its commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective.

7.2 Inspection. The Company shall permit each 5% Holder, at such 5% Holder’s expense, to visit and inspect the properties of the Company and its Subsidiaries, examine their books of account and records (including equityholder ledgers and related records and materials), and discuss the affairs, finances, and accounts of the Company and its Subsidiaries with their respective officers, in each case, during normal business hours of the Company or such Subsidiary as may be reasonably requested by such 5% Holder; provided, however, that the Company and its Subsidiaries shall not be obligated pursuant to this Section 7.2 to provide access to any information that the Company reasonably and in good faith considers to be a trade secret or confidential information (unless covered by an enforceable confidentiality agreement, in form reasonably acceptable to the Company) or the disclosure of which would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company or such Subsidiary and its counsel. Within five (5) days of any 5% Holder’s request, the Company shall provide to such 5% Holder a then-current fully diluted equity capitalization table of the Company certified by the Company’s Chief Financial Officer as true and correct.

 

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7.3 Observer Rights.

(a) For so long as Mitsui is a 5% Holder, (x) the Company shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, invite up to two (2) representatives of Mitsui to attend all meetings of the Board of Directors and each Subsidiary’s board of directors (or any committee of the foregoing), and (y) the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause each of Tecton and Pillar to invite one (1) representative of Mitsui to attend all meetings of the respective board of directors (or applicable governing body) of Tecton and Pillar (or any respective committees of the foregoing), in each case with respect to (x) and (y), in a nonvoting observer capacity and, in this respect, shall give copies of all notices, minutes, consents, and other materials that it provides to directors (or other members of the applicable governing body) at the same time and in the same manner as provided to such directors (or other members of the applicable governing body); provided, however, that each such representative shall agree in writing to a nondisclosure agreement in a reasonable and customary form approved by the Company (provided any such agreement shall be in substantially the same form and no more restrictive than any similar agreement signed by the other directors or other members of the applicable governing body), which shall provide that such representative will hold in confidence and trust all information so provided; and provided, further, that the Company, each Subsidiary, Tecton and Pillar may withhold any information and exclude such representative from any meeting or portion thereof if access to such information or attendance at such meeting reasonably would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company, the respective Subsidiary, Tecton or Pillar and its counsel or result in disclosure of trade secrets or a conflict of interest, as determined in good faith by the disinterested members of the Board of Directors, such Subsidiary’s board of directors, the board of directors (or applicable governing body) of Tecton or the board of directors (or applicable governing body) of Pillar (as applicable).

(b) For so long as Kirin is a 5% Holder, (x) the Company shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, invite up to two (2) representatives of Kirin to attend all meetings of the Board of Directors and each Subsidiary’s board of directors (or any committee of the foregoing), and (y) the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause each of Tecton and Pillar to invite one (1) representative of Kirin to attend all meetings of the respective board of directors (or applicable governing body) of Tecton and Pillar (or any respective committees of the foregoing), in each case with respect to (x) and (y), in a nonvoting observer capacity and, in this respect, shall give copies of all notices, minutes, consents, and other materials that it provides to directors (or other members of the applicable governing body) at the same time and in the same manner as provided to such directors (or such other members of the applicable governing body); provided, however, that each such representative shall agree in writing to a nondisclosure agreement in a reasonable and customary form approved by the Company (provided any such agreement shall be in substantially the same form and no more restrictive than any similar agreement signed by the other directors or other members of the applicable governing body), which shall provide that such representative will hold in confidence and trust all information so provided; and provided, further, that the Company, each Subsidiary, Tecton and Pillar may withhold any information and exclude such representative from any meeting or portion thereof if access to such information or attendance at such meeting reasonably would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company, the respective Subsidiary, Tecton or Pillar and its

 

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counsel or result in disclosure of trade secrets or a conflict of interest, as determined in good faith by the disinterested members of the Board of Directors, such Subsidiary’s board of directors, the board of directors (or applicable governing body) of Tecton or the board of directors (or applicable governing body) of Pillar (as applicable).

(c) For so long as ELUS is a 5% Holder, the Company shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, invite a representative of ELUS to attend all meetings of the Board of Directors and each Subsidiary’s board of directors (or any committee of the foregoing) in a nonvoting observer capacity and, in this respect, shall give copies of all notices, minutes, consents, and other materials that it provides to directors at the same time and in the same manner as provided to such directors; provided, however, that such representative shall agree in writing to a nondisclosure agreement in a reasonable and customary form approved by the Company (provided any such agreement shall be in substantially the same form and no more restrictive than any similar agreement signed by the other Directors), which shall provide that such representative will hold in confidence and trust all information so provided; and provided, further, that the Company and each Subsidiary may withhold any information and exclude such representative from any meeting or portion thereof if access to such information or attendance at such meeting reasonably would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company or the respective Subsidiary and its counsel or result in disclosure of trade secrets or a conflict of interest, as determined in good faith by the disinterested members of the Board of Directors or such Subsidiary’s board of directors (as applicable).

7.4 Subsidiaries. The Company shall, and shall cause each Subsidiary to, take all actions necessary or desirable to give effect to this Agreement, the SPRA and the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.

8. CONFIDENTIALITY. Each party hereby agrees to: (a) hold in confidence and trust, and not disclose, any nonpublic, proprietary or confidential information of the Company and its Subsidiaries (the “Confidential Information”), (b) use the Confidential Information solely for the benefit of the Company and its Subsidiaries, and (c) use its reasonable best efforts to ensure that any third party to which it provides such Confidential Information pursuant to this Section 8 shall hold such information in confidence and trust and use such Confidential Information solely for the benefit of the Company and its Subsidiaries; provided, that a Stockholder may disclose confidential information (i) to its attorneys, accountants, consultants, and other professionals to the extent necessary to obtain their services in connection with monitoring its investment or interest in the Company, provided such Persons are subject to professional duties of confidentiality or agree to be bound by confidentiality and use restrictions with respect to the Confidential Information at least as restrictive as those set forth in this Section 8, (ii) to any existing or prospective Affiliate, partner, member, stockholder, director or officer of such Stockholder or of any wholly owned subsidiary of such Stockholder in the ordinary course of business, provided that such Stockholder informs such Person that such information is confidential and such Person agrees to be bound by confidentiality and use restrictions with respect to the confidential information at least as restrictive as those set forth in this Section 8, (iii) to any prospective transferee of such Stockholder’s Securities (except, for clarity, to any transferee that would violate Section 2.5), provided that the prospective Transferee agrees to be bound by confidentiality and use restrictions with respect to the confidential information at least as restrictive as those set forth in this Section 8, or (iv) to the extent required by law or regulation (including relevant securities laws and stock exchange listing standards, rules or requirements);

 

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provided, that in connection with any disclosure required by law, the Stockholder required to make such disclosure shall to the extent legally permissible provide prior written notice of such required disclosure to the Company and shall take all reasonable and lawful actions to avoid and/or minimize the extent of such disclosure as may be reasonably requested by the Company.

9. ADDITIONAL LEGEND. So long as any Securities are subject to the provisions hereof, all certificates or instruments representing such Securities will have imprinted on them the following legend:

The shares represented by this certificate are subject to the terms of a certain Fourth Amended and Restated Stockholder Agreement, dated as of July 5, 2018, among the issuer of this certificate and certain stockholders. The Stockholder Agreement contains certain restrictive provisions relating to the voting and transfer of shares of the stock represented hereby. A copy of the Stockholder Agreement is on file at the Company’s principal offices. Upon written request to the Company’s Secretary, a copy of the Stockholder Agreement will be provided without charge to appropriately interested persons, as determined by such Secretary.

10. SEVERABILITY. Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement will be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect under any applicable law or rule in any jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect any other provision or any other jurisdiction, but this Agreement will be reformed, construed and enforced in such jurisdiction as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision had never been contained herein.

11. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. Except as otherwise expressly set forth herein, from and after the Effective Time and unless and until thereafter amended, this document will embody the complete agreement and understanding among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and upon the Effective Time will supersede and preempt any prior understandings, agreements or representations by or among the parties, written or oral, with respect to such subject matter.

12. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement will bind and inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Company and the Stockholders and their respective successors and assigns.

13. STOCK SPLITS, STOCK DIVIDENDS, ETC. In the event of any issuance of Securities after the Effective Time to any of the Stockholders (including, without limitation, in connection with any stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, reorganization, or the like), such Securities shall become subject to this Agreement and shall be endorsed with the legend set forth in Section 9.

14. COUNTERPARTS; EFFECTIVENESS OF AGREEMENT. This Agreement may be executed and delivered (including by email or facsimile) in separate counterparts each of which will be an original and all of which taken together will constitute one and the same agreement. This Agreement automatically shall become effective as of the Effective Time, but automatically shall terminate and be deemed null and void ab initio if the SPRA is terminated or the Closing (as defined in the SPRA) otherwise does not occur for any reason.

 

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15. REMEDIES. The Stockholders will be entitled to enforce their rights under this Agreement specifically (without posting a bond or other security), to recover damages by reason of any breach of any provision of this Agreement and to exercise all other rights existing in their favor. The parties hereto agree and acknowledge that money damages may not be an adequate remedy for any breach of the provisions of this Agreement and that any Stockholder may in its sole discretion apply to any court of law or equity of competent jurisdiction for specific performance and/or injunctive relief in order to enforce the terms of this Agreement or prevent any violation of the provisions of this Agreement. All remedies, either under this Agreement or by law or otherwise afforded to any party, shall be cumulative and not alternative.

16. AMENDMENT AND WAIVER. No modification, amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement will be effective against the Company or the Stockholders unless (A) such modification, amendment or waiver is approved in writing by the Majority Stockholders; and (B) any provision of this Agreement that adversely changes the rights of any Stockholder disproportionately to the other similarly situated Stockholders shall not be effective against such disproportionately adversely affected Stockholder, or enforced by the Company or any other Stockholders, unless such modification, amendment or waiver is approved in writing by such disproportionately adversely affected Stockholder. Any provision hereof may be waived by the waiving party on such party’s own behalf, without the consent of any other party. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no provision hereof, definition herein or rights hereunder in favor of, applicable to or for the express benefit of (i) Mitsui or its Affiliates may be amended or waived without the consent of Mitsui, (ii) Kirin or its Affiliates may be amended or waived without the consent of Kirin, (iii) ELUS or its Affiliates may be amended or waived without the consent of ELUS, (iv) any 5% Holder may be amended or waived (for so long as such 5% Holder remains a 5% Holder) without the consent of such 5% Holder, or (v) any Designated Holder may be amended or waived (for so long as such Designated Holder remains a Designated Holder) without the consent of such Designated Holder. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the following actions shall not be taken without the consent of Non-Designated Stockholders holding a majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock (voting together on an as-converted to Common Stock basis) then held by all Non-Designated Stockholders: (1) an amendment, modification or waiver of this Agreement to increase or decrease the number of members of the Board of Directors; provided, that the Non-Designated Stockholders shall not unreasonably withhold, delay or condition approval of an increase to the number of members of the Board of Directors in connection with a financing transaction approved by the Board of Directors (including at least one Non-K/M Director); (2) an amendment, modification or waiver of Section 4(a)(iv) hereof or this fourth sentence of Section 16; (3) an amendment, modification or waiver of the definition of “Subsidiary”; or (4) an amendment, modification or waiver of any provision hereof that adversely changes the rights of the Non-Designated Stockholders under either Section 2.6 or Section 2.7 hereof. The failure of any party to enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement will in no way be construed as a waiver of such provisions and will not affect the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every provision of this Agreement in accordance with its terms. The Company shall give prompt written notice of any amendment, termination or waiver hereunder to any party that did not consent in writing thereto.

17. EMPLOYMENT. Nothing contained in this Agreement is intended to create for any Stockholder who is an officer or employee of the Company or a Subsidiary of the Company a right to continued employment with the Company or any of its Subsidiaries or employment in the same position or on the same terms as those currently in effect.

 

-26-


18. TERMINATION. This Agreement will terminate upon the earliest to occur of (a) the completion of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation or dissolution of the Company, (b) the completion of an Initial Public Offering, or (c) the consummation of an Approved Sale and distribution of proceeds to or the escrow of such proceeds for the benefit of the Stockholders in accordance with the Charter.

19. GOVERNING LAW. ALL QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE CONSTRUCTION, VALIDITY AND INTERPRETATION OF THIS AGREEMENT WILL BE GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW. THE PARTIES AGREE TO WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO HAVE ANY DISPUTE ARISING HEREUNDER OR OTHERWISE IN CONNECTION WITH THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY ADJUDICATED BY A JURY, AND HEREBY AGREE TO SUBMIT TO THE COURTS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE IN CONNECTION WITH THE RESOLUTION OF ANY SUCH DISPUTE.

20. DESCRIPTIVE HEADINGS. The descriptive headings of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and do not constitute a part of this Agreement.

21. CONSTRUCTION. The language used in this Agreement will be deemed to be the language chosen by the parties to express their mutual intent, and no rule of strict construction will be applied against any party. For purposes of this Agreement, (a) the words “include,” “includes” and “including” shall be deemed to be followed by the words “without limitation”; (b) the word “or” is not exclusive; and (c) the words “herein,” “hereof,” “hereby,” “hereto” and “hereunder” refer to this Agreement as a whole. Unless the context otherwise requires, references herein: (i) to Sections, Schedules and Exhibits mean the Sections of, and Schedules and Exhibits attached to, this Agreement; (ii) to an agreement, instrument or other document means such agreement, instrument or other document as amended, supplemented and modified from time to time to the extent permitted by the provisions thereof, (iii) to a statute means such statute as amended from time to time and includes any successor legislation thereto and any regulations promulgated thereunder, and (iv) to $ or Dollars mean United States Dollars. This Agreement shall be construed without regard to any presumption or rule requiring construction or interpretation against the party drafting an instrument or causing any instrument to be drafted. The Schedules and Exhibits referred to herein shall be construed with, and as an integral part of, this Agreement to the same extent as if they were set forth verbatim herein.

22. NOTICES. All notices and other communications given or made pursuant to this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed effectively given upon the earlier of actual receipt or (a) personal delivery to the party to be notified, (b) when sent, if sent by confirmed electronic mail or facsimile during normal business hours of the recipient, and if not sent during normal business hours, then on the recipient’s next Business Day, (c) five (5) days after having been sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, or (d) one (1) Business Day after deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, freight prepaid, specifying next business day delivery, with written verification of receipt:

 

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If to the Company, to:

Thorne Holding Corp.

152 West 57th Street

New York, NY 10019

Attn: Paul Jacobson

(917) 859-2505

Email: pjacobson@thorne.com

With copies (which shall not constitute notice) sent contemporaneously to:

Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP

One West Fourth Street

Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Attn: Christopher J. Gyves

(336) 721-3634

Email: christopher.gyves@wbd-us.com

If to any Purchaser, to its address set forth on Schedule 2 or such other address as a Purchaser from time to time may specify to the Company for purposes of notice. If to any other Stockholder, to the last address for such Stockholder on the Company’s official stockholder records.

23. EMPLOYEE AGREEMENTS. The Company will cause each Person now or hereafter employed by it or by any Subsidiary (or engaged by the Company or any Subsidiary as a consultant/independent contractor) with access to confidential information and/or trade secrets to enter into a nondisclosure and proprietary rights assignment agreement, substantially in a form approved by the Board of Directors. In addition, the Company shall not amend, modify, terminate, waive, or otherwise alter, in whole or in part, any of the above-referenced agreements or any restricted stock agreement between the Company and any employee, without the consent of the Board of Directors.

24. LEGAL MATTERS. The Company retained Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP (together with its affiliates, “WBD”) in connection with the transactions contemplated herein. Further, the Company may retain WBD as legal counsel in connection with management and operations. Except as may have been expressly and specifically agreed in writing by WBD, (a) WBD has not and is not representing any Stockholder or any director or officer of the Company in their individual capacities in connection with the transactions contemplated herein and the management and operation of the Company or any dispute that may arise between any Stockholder or director or officer, on one hand, and the Company, on the other hand (the “Company Legal Matters”), and (b) WBD has not and is not providing any advice or counsel (including legal advice or counsel), and shall not be deemed to have provided any advice or counsel, to any Stockholder or any director or officer of the Company in their individual capacities, in connection with the Company Legal Matters. Each party has had the opportunity to engage its own independent counsel with respect to the transactions contemplated herein and will engage independent counsel to the extent it desires counsel in the future.

25. THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES. The parties hereto agree that the agreements et forth herein are solely for the benefit of the parties hereto, in accordance with and subject to the terms

 

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of this Agreement, and nothing expressed or implied in this Agreement is intended or shall be construed to confer upon or give any Person, other than the parties hereto, any right or remedies under or by reason of this Agreement; provided, however, that, notwithstanding the foregoing, if (x) the Designated Holders fail to comply with their obligations set forth in Section 2.6 or Section 2.7, (y) the Company has not taken action against the Designated Holders with respect to such failure and (z) after thirty (30) days’ written notice by the Management Representative (as defined in the Management Holders Agreement, dated as of the date hereof, between the Company, the Management Representative, and the other parties thereto (the “MHA”)) to the Company and the Designated Holders of such noncompliance, the Designated Holders failed to have cured such noncompliance, the Management Representative (as defined in the MHA), on behalf of the Management Holders (as defined in the MHA), so long as the Management Holders (as defined in the MHA) own Securities, may rely upon and may directly enforce Section 2.6 or Section 2.7 (as the case may be) against the Designated Holders as an express third-party beneficiary to cause the Designated Holders to comply with their obligations set forth in Section 2.6 and Section 2.7 (as the case may be).

[Remainder of page intentionally left blank]

 

-29-


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has executed this Agreement or caused this Agreement to be executed on its behalf as of the date first written above.

 

COMPANY:
THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:  

/s/ Paul Jacobson

Name:   Paul Jacobson
Title:   Chief Executive Officer

 

[Signature Page to Stockholder Agreement]


INITIAL STOCKHOLDER:
DIVERSIFIED NATURAL PRODUCTS, INC.
By:  

/s/ Paul Jacobson

Name:   Paul Jacobson
Title:   Authorized Signatory

 

[Signature Page to Stockholder Agreement]


INITIAL STOCKHOLDER:
ELUS HOLDING CORPORATION
By:  

/s/ Riccardo Braglia

Name:   Riccardo Braglia
Title:   Chairman

 

[Signature Page to Stockholder Agreement]


INITIAL STOCKHOLDER:
IDB HOLDING S.P.A
By:  

/s/ Daniele Giavini

Name:   Daniele Giavini
Title:   General Manager

 

[Signature Page to Stockholder Agreement]


INITIAL STOCKHOLDER:
MONASHEE CAPITAL MASTER FUND LP
By:  

/s/ Tom Wynn

Name:   Tom Wynn
Title:   Partner

 

[Signature Page to Stockholder Agreement]


PURCHASER:
KIRIN HOLDINGS COMPANY, LIMITED
By:  

/s/ Keisuke Nishimura

Name:   Keisuke Nishimura
Title:   Senior Executive Vice President

 

[Signature Page to Stockholder Agreement]


PURCHASER:
MITSUI & CO., LTD.
By:  

/s/ Masami Yokoyama

Name:   Masami Yokoyama
Title:   General Manager, NutriScience Div.

 

[Signature Page to Stockholder Agreement]


Schedule 1

Initial Stockholders

 

Stockholder

 

Address

Diversified Natural Products, Inc. c/o Paul Jacobson

 

152 West 57th St.

New York, NY 10019

ELUS Holding Corporation

c/o William Mann

 

170 Wood Avenue South

5th Floor

Iselin, New Jersey 08830

United States

 

With copies of all notices to:

 

Helsinn Healthcare, S.A.

P.O. Box 357

6915 Lugano/Pambio-Noranco

Switzerland

Attention: Matteo Missaglia, General Counsel

Facsimile: +41 (0) 91 993.21.22

IdB Holding S.p.A.

 

Viale Ortles 12

20139 Milan, Italy

Monashee Capital Master Fund LP

 

125 High Street

High Street Tower, 28th Floor

Boston, MA 02110


Schedule 2

Purchasers

 

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.

 

c/o Yasutaka Yamakawa

General Manager, Food Science Dept. I

Nutri Science Div. Nutrition & Agriculture Business Unit

1-3, Marunouchi 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8631, Japan

Facsimile: +81-3-3285-9847

E-mail: Ya.Yamakawa@mitsui.com

 

With a copy (which shall not constitute notice) to:

 

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

300 South Grand Avenue, Twenty-Second Floor

Los Angeles, CA 90071-3132

Attention: John L. Filippone

Facsimile: (213) 612-2501

Email: john.filippone@morganlewis.com

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited

 

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited

Nakano Central Park South 4-10-2 Nakano

Nakano-ku, Tokyo 164-0001

 

With a copy (which shall not constitute notice) to:

 

Morrison & Foerster LLP

250 West 55th Street

New York, New York 10019-9601

Attention: Stan Yukevich; Enrico Granata

Email: SYukevich@mofo.com;

EGranata@mofo.com


Exhibit A

Instrument of Accession

The undersigned, _______________, in order to become the owner or holder of ________ shares of [Preferred Stock] [Common Stock], [$0.01] par value per share (the “Shares”), of Thorne Holding Corp., a Delaware corporation, hereby agrees to become a Subsequent Stockholder party to that certain Fourth Amended and Restated Stockholder Agreement, dated as of July 5, 2018 (the “Stockholder Agreement”), a copy of which is attached hereto. This Instrument of Accession shall become a part of such Stockholder Agreement.

Executed as of the date set forth below under the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

Signature:  

                     

Address:  

                     

 

 

Date:  

                     

Accepted:

THORNE HOLDING CORP.

 

By:  

                     

Date:  

                     

Exhibit 4.3

LOGO

THIS CERTIFIES THAT is the owner of CUSIP DATED COUNTERSIGNED AND REGISTERED: COMPUTERSHARE TRUST COMPANY, N.A. TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR, FULLY-PAID AND NON-ASSESSABLE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OF Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (hereinafter called the “Company”), transferable on the books of the Company in person or by duly authorized attorney, upon surrender of this Certificate properly endorsed. This Certificate and the shares represented hereby, are issued and shall be held subject to all of the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and the By-Laws, as amended, of the Company (copies of which are on file with the Company and with the Transfer Agent), to all of which each holder, by acceptance hereof, assents. This Certificate is not valid unless countersigned and registered by the Transfer Agent and Registrar. Witness the facsimile seal of the Company and the facsimile signatures of its duly authorized officers. COMMON STOCK PAR VALUE $.01 COMMON STOCK SEE REVERSE FOR CERTAIN DEFINITIONS Certificate Number Shares . THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. INCORPORATED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE FACSIMILE SIGNATURE TO COME FACSIMILE SIGNATURE TO COME President Secretary By AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE 6/23/2010 DEL AWAR E CO R PO RATE THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. ZQ|CERT#|COY|CLS|RGSTRY|ACCT#|TRANSTYPE|RUN#|TRANS# XXXXXX XX X DD-MMM-YYYY * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * ** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Sample **** Mr. Sample **000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****0 00000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****00 0000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000 000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****0000 00**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****00000 0**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000 **Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000* *Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000** Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**S ***ZERO HUNDRED THOUSAND ZERO HUNDRED AND ZERO*** MR. SAMPLE & MRS. SAMPLE & MR. SAMPLE & MRS. SAMPLE ZQ00000000 Certificate Numbers 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 Total Transaction Num/No. 123456 Denom. 123456 Total 1234567 MR A SAMPLE DESIGNATION (IF ANY) ADD 1 ADD 2 ADD 3 ADD 4 PO BOX 505006, Louisville, KY 40233-5006 CUSIP/IDENTIFIER XXXXXX XX X Holder ID XXXXXXXXXX Insurance Value 1,000,000.00 Number of Shares 123456 DTC 12345678 123456789012345 THIS CERTIFICATE IS TRANSFERABLE IN CITIES DESIGNATED BY THE TRANSFER AGENT, AVAILABLE ONLINE AT www.computershare.com


LOGO

The IRS requires that the named transfer agent (“we”) report the cost basis of certain shares or units acquired after January 1, 2011. If your shares or units are covered by the legislation, and you requested to sell or transfer the shares or units using a specific cost basis calculation method, then we have processed as you requested. If you did not specify a cost basis calculation method, then we have defaulted to the first in, first out (FIFO) method. Please consult your tax advisor if you need additional information about cost basis. If you do not keep in contact with the issuer or do not have any activity in your account for the time period specified by state law, your property may become subject to state unclaimed property laws and transferred to the appropriate state. For value received,______ hereby sell, assign and transfer unto ______________ Shares _____________ Attorney Dated: _______ 20__________________ Signature:____________________________________________________________ Signature:_________ Notice: The signature to this assignment must correspond with the name as written upon the face of the certificate, in every particular, without alteration or enlargement, or any change whatever. PLEASE INSERT SOCIAL SECURITY OR OTHER IDENTIFYING NUMBER OF ASSIGNEE (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPEWRITE NAME AND ADDRESS, INCLUDING POSTAL ZIP CODE, OF ASSIGNEE) of the common stock represented by the within Certificate, and do hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint to transfer the said stock on the books of the within-named Company with full power of substitution in the premises. . THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. THE COMPANY WILL FURNISH WITHOUT CHARGE TO EACH SHAREHOLDER WHO SO REQUESTS, A SUMMARY OF THE POWERS, DESIGNATIONS, PREFERENCES AND RELATIVE, PARTICIPATING, OPTIONAL OR OTHER SPECIAL RIGHTS OF EACH CLASS OF STOCK OF THE COMPANY AND THE QUALIFICATIONS, LIMITATIONS OR RESTRICTIONS OF SUCH PREFERENCES AND RIGHTS, AND THE VARIATIONS IN RIGHTS, PREFERENCES AND LIMITATIONS DETERMINED FOR EACH SERIES, WHICH ARE FIXED BY THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION OF THE COMPANY, AS AMENDED, AND THE RESOLUTIONS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY, AND THE AUTHORITY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TO DETERMINE VARIATIONS FOR FUTURE SERIES. SUCH REQUEST MAY BE MADE TO THE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY OR TO THE TRANSFER AGENT. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MAY REQUIRE THE OWNER OF A LOST OR DESTROYED STOCK CERTIFICATE, OR HIS LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES, TO GIVE THE COMPANY A BOND TO INDEMNIFY IT AND ITS TRANSFER AGENTS AND REGISTRARS AGAINST ANY CLAIM THAT MAY BE MADE AGAINST THEM ON ACCOUNT OF THE ALLEGED LOSS OR DESTRUCTION OF ANY SUCH CERTIFICATE. Signature(s) Guaranteed: Medallion Guarantee Stamp THE SIGNATURE(S) SHOULD BE GUARANTEED BY AN ELIGIBLE GUARANTOR INSTITUTION (Banks, Stockbrokers, Savings and Loan Associations and Credit Unions) WITH MEMBERSHIP IN AN APPROVED SIGNATURE GUARANTEE MEDALLION PROGRAM, PURSUANT TO S.E.C. RULE 17Ad-15. The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face of this certificate, shall be construed as though they were written out in full according to applicable laws or regulations: TEN COM - as tenants in common UNIF GIFT MIN ACT -............................................ Custodian................................................ (Cust) (Minor) TEN ENT - as tenants by the entireties under Uniform Gifts to Minors Act........................................................ (State) JT TEN - as joint tenants with right of survivorship UNIF TRF MIN ACT -............................................ Custodian (until age................................ ) and not as tenants in common (Cust) ............................. under Uniform Transfers to Minors Act................... (Minor) (State) Additional abbreviations may also be used though not in the above list.

Exhibit 10.2

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

AMENDED AND RESTATED 2010 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

1.

  Purpose      1  

2.

  Definitions      1  

3.

  Term of the Plan      4  

4.

  Stock Subject to the Plan      4  

5.

  Administration      4  

6.

  Authorization and Eligibility      5  

7.

  Specific Terms of Awards      5  

8.

  Adjustment Provisions      10  

9.

  Settlement of Awards      11  

10.

  Reservation of Stock      14  

11.

  No Special Employment or Other Rights      14  

12.

  Nonexclusivity of the Plan      14  

13.

  Termination and Amendment of the Plan      14  

14.

  Notices and Other Communications      15  

15.

  Governing Law      15  


THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

2010 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

1. Purpose

This Plan is intended to encourage ownership of Common Stock by employees, consultants and directors of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Company”) and its Affiliates and to provide additional incentive for them to promote the success of the Company’s business. The Plan is intended to be an incentive stock option plan within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, but not all Awards are required to be Incentive Options.

2. Definitions

As used in this Plan, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

2.1 Accelerate, Accelerated, and Acceleration, when used with respect to an Option, means that as of the time of reference the Option will become exercisable with respect to some or all of the shares of Common Stock for which it was not then otherwise exercisable by its terms; when used with respect to Restricted Stock, means that the Risk of Forfeiture otherwise applicable to the Stock shall expire with respect to some or all of the shares of Restricted Stock then still otherwise subject to the Risk of Forfeiture; and when used with respect to Restricted Stock Units, means that as of the time of reference the Restricted Stock Units will vest and the applicable Participant will be eligible to receive the payout underlying such Restricted Stock Units.

2.2 Acquisition means a merger or consolidation of the Company with or into another person or the sale, transfer, or other disposition of all or substantially all of the Company’s capital stock or assets to one or more other persons in a single transaction or series of related transactions, unless securities possessing more than 50% of the total combined voting power of the survivor’s or acquiror’s outstanding securities (or the securities of any parent thereof) are held by a person or persons who held securities possessing more than 50% of the total combined voting power of the Company immediately prior to that transaction. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a transaction will not constitute an Acquisition (i) unless the transaction qualifies as a change in control event within the meaning of Code Section 409A; or (ii) if its primary purpose is to (1) change the jurisdiction of the Company’s incorporation, or (2) create a holding company owned in substantially the same proportions by the persons who held the Company’s securities immediately before such transaction.

2.3 Affiliate means any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, business trust, or other entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Company.

2.4 Award means any grant or sale pursuant to the Plan of Options, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Stock Grants.

2.5 Award Agreement means an agreement between the Company and the recipient of an Award, setting forth the terms and conditions of the Award.

2.6 Board means the Company’s Board of Directors, as constituted from time to time.

 


2.7 Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time, or any successor statute thereto, and any regulations issued from time to time thereunder.

2.8 Committee means any committee of the Board delegated responsibility by the Board for the administration of the Plan, as provided in Section 5 of the Plan. For any period during which no such committee is in existence “Committee” shall mean the Board and all authority and responsibility assigned to the Committee under the Plan shall be exercised, if at all, by the Board.

2.9 Common Stock or Stock means the Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company, as adjusted in accordance with Section 8 of the Plan.

2.10 Company means Thorne HealthTech, Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Delaware.

2.11 Exchange Program means a program under which (i) outstanding Awards are surrendered or cancelled in exchange for awards of the same type (which may have higher or lower exercise prices and different terms), awards of a different type, and/or cash, (ii) Participants would have the opportunity to transfer any outstanding Awards to a financial institution or other person or entity selected by the Committee, and/or (iii) the exercise price of an outstanding Award is increased or reduced. The Committee will determine the terms and conditions of any Exchange Program in its sole discretion.

2.12 Grant Date means the date as of which an Option is granted, as determined under Section 7.1(a).

2.13 Incentive Option means an Option which by its terms is to be treated as an “incentive stock option” within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.

2.14 Market Value means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

(a) If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq Global Select Market, the Nasdaq Global Market or the Nasdaq Capital Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Market Value will be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system on the day of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Committee deems reliable; if the determination date for the Market Value occurs on a non-Trading Day (i.e., a weekend or holiday), the Market Value will be such price on the immediately preceding Trading Day, unless otherwise determined by the Committee;

(b) If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, the Market Value of a share of Common Stock will be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the day of determination (or, if no bids and asks were reported on that date, as applicable, on the last Trading Day such bids and asks were reported), as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Committee deems reliable; or

 

-2-


(c) For any Awards granted on the effective date of the first registration statement filed by the Company and declared effective under Section 12(b) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with respect to any class of the Company’s securities, the Market Value will be the initial price to the public set forth in the final prospectus included within the registration statement on Form S-1 filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission for the initial public offering of the Common Stock; or

(d) In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Market Value will be determined in good faith by the Committee.

2.15 Nonstatutory Option means any Option that is not an Incentive Option.

2.16 Option means an option to purchase shares of Common Stock.

2.17 Optionee means a Participant to whom an Option shall have been granted under the Plan.

2.18 Participant means any holder of an outstanding Award under the Plan.

2.19 Plan means this Amended and Restated 2010 Equity Incentive Plan of the Company, as amended from time to time, and including any attachments or addenda hereto.

2.20 Restricted Stock means a grant or sale of shares of Common Stock to a Participant subject to a Risk of Forfeiture.

2.21 Restricted Stock Unit means a bookkeeping entry representing an amount equal to the Market Value of one share of Common Stock, granted pursuant to Section 7.5. Each Restricted Stock Unit represents an unfunded and unsecured obligation of the Company.

2.22 Restriction Period means the period of time, established by the Committee in connection with an Award of Restricted Stock, during which the shares of Restricted Stock are subject to a Risk of Forfeiture described in the applicable Award Agreement.

2.23 Risk of Forfeiture means a limitation on the right of the Participant to retain Restricted Stock, including a right in the Company to reacquire the Shares at less than their then Market Value, arising because of the occurrence or non-occurrence of specified events or conditions.

2.24 Stock Grant means the grant of shares of Common Stock not subject to restrictions or other forfeiture conditions.

2.25 Stockholder Agreement means that certain Stockholder Agreement dated as of June 23, 2010, by and among the Company and the Stockholder parties thereto setting forth, among other provisions, restrictions upon the transfer of shares of Stock or on the exercise of rights appurtenant thereto (including but not limited to voting rights).

 

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2.26 Ten Percent Owner means a person who owns, or is deemed within the meaning of Section 422(b)(6) of the Code to own, stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company (or any parent or subsidiary corporations of the Company, as defined in Sections 424(e) and (f), respectively, of the Code). Whether a person is a Ten Percent Owner shall be determined with respect to an Option based on the facts existing immediately prior to the Grant Date of the Option.

2.27 Trading Day means a day on which the primary stock exchange or national market system (or other trading platform, as applicable) on which the Common Stock trades is open for trading.

3. Term of the Plan

Unless the Plan shall have been earlier terminated by the Board, Awards may be granted under this Plan at any time in the period commencing on the date of approval of the Plan by the Board and ending immediately prior to the tenth anniversary of the earlier of the adoption of the Plan by the Board or approval of the Plan by the Company’s stockholders. Awards granted pursuant to the Plan within that period shall not expire solely by reason of the termination of the Plan. Awards of Incentive Options granted prior to stockholder approval of the Plan are expressly conditioned upon such approval, but in the event of the failure of the stockholders to approve the Plan shall thereafter and for all purposes be deemed to constitute Nonstatutory Options.

4. Stock Subject to the Plan

At no time shall the number of shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to or subject to outstanding Awards granted under the Plan exceed                 shares of Common Stock. For purposes of applying the foregoing limitation, if any Option expires, terminates, or is cancelled for any reason without having been exercised in full, or if any Award of Restricted Stock or Restricted Stock Units is forfeited by the recipient, the shares not purchased by the Optionee or forfeited by the recipient shall again be available for Awards to be granted under the Plan. Shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to the Plan may be either authorized but unissued shares or shares held by the Company in its treasury.

5. Administration

The Plan shall be administered by the Committee; provided, however, that at any time and on any one or more occasions the Board may itself exercise any of the powers and responsibilities assigned the Committee under the Plan and when so acting shall have the benefit of all of the provisions of the Plan pertaining to the Committee’s exercise of its authorities hereunder; and provided further, however, that the Committee may delegate to an executive officer or officers the authority to grant Awards hereunder to employees who are not officers, and to consultants, in accordance with such guidelines as the Committee shall set forth at any time or from time to time. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee shall have complete authority, in its discretion, to make or to select the manner of making all determinations with respect to each Award to be granted by the Company under the Plan including the employee, consultant or director to receive the Award and the form of Award. In making such determinations, the Committee may take into account the nature of the services rendered by the respective employees, consultants, and directors, their present and potential contributions to the success of the Company and its Affiliates, and such other factors as the Committee in its discretion shall deem relevant. The Committee shall have

 

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complete authority, in its discretion, to institute and determine the terms and conditions of an Exchange Program. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee shall also have complete authority to interpret the Plan, to prescribe, amend and rescind rules and regulations relating to it, to determine the terms and provisions of the respective Award Agreements (which need not be identical), and to make all other determinations necessary or advisable for the administration of the Plan. The Committee’s determinations made in good faith on matters referred to in the Plan shall be final, binding and conclusive on all persons having or claiming any interest under the Plan or an Award made pursuant to hereto.

6. Authorization and Eligibility

The Committee may grant from time to time and at any time prior to the termination of the Plan one or more Awards, either alone or in combination with any other Awards, to any employee of or consultant to one or more of the Company and its Affiliates or to any non-employee member of the Board or of any board of directors (or similar governing authority) of any Affiliate. However, only employees of the Company, and of any parent or subsidiary corporations of the Company, as defined in Sections 424(e) and (f), respectively, of the Code, shall be eligible for the grant of an Incentive Option.

Each grant of an Award shall be subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the Plan (including but not limited to any specific terms and conditions applicable to that type of Award set out in the following Section), and such other terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, as the Committee may prescribe. Without limiting the foregoing, the Committee shall be entitled to condition the exercise of any Options, or the grant of Restricted Stock or settlement of Restricted Stock Units, upon the contemporaneous execution and delivery by the Participant of an instrument of accession to each of the Stockholder Agreement. No prospective Participant shall have any rights with respect to an Award, unless and until such Participant has executed an agreement evidencing the Award, delivered a fully executed copy thereof to the Company, and otherwise complied with the applicable terms and conditions of such Award.

7. Specific Terms of Awards

7.1 Options.

(a) Date of Grant. The granting of an Option shall take place at the time specified in the Award Agreement. Only if expressly so provided in the applicable Award Agreement shall the Grant Date be the date on which the Award Agreement shall have been duly executed and delivered by the Company and the Optionee.

(b) Exercise Price. The price at which shares of Common Stock may be acquired under each Incentive Option shall be not less than 100% of the Market Value of Common Stock on the Grant Date, or not less than 110% of the Market Value of Common Stock on the Grant Date if the Optionee is a Ten Percent Owner. The price at which shares may be acquired under each Nonstatutory Option shall not be so limited solely by reason of this Section.

 

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(c) Option Period. No Incentive Option may be exercised on or after the tenth anniversary of the Grant Date, or on or after the fifth anniversary of the Grant Date if the Optionee is a Ten Percent Owner. The Option period under each Nonstatutory Option shall not be so limited solely by reason of this Section.

(d) Exercisability. An Option may be immediately exercisable or become exercisable in such installments, cumulative or non-cumulative, as the Committee may determine. In the case of an Option not otherwise immediately exercisable in full, the Committee may Accelerate such Option in whole or in part at any time; provided, however, that in the case of an Incentive Option, any such Acceleration of the Option would not cause the Option to fail to comply with the provisions of Section 422 of the Code or the Optionee consents to the Acceleration.

(e) Termination of Association with the Company. Unless the Committee or any Award Agreement shall provide otherwise with respect to any Option, if the Optionee’s employment or other association with the Company and its Affiliates ends for any reason other than death or disability (as determined by the Board), including because of the Optionee’s employer ceasing to be an Affiliate, any outstanding Option of the Optionee shall cease to be exercisable in any respect not later than 90 days following that event and, for the period it remains exercisable following that event, shall be exercisable only to the extent exercisable at the date of that event. Unless the Committee shall provide otherwise with respect to any Option, if the Optionee’s employment or other association with the Company and its Affiliates ends for death or disability, any outstanding Option of the Optionee shall cease to be exercisable in any respect not later than 365 days following that event and, for the period it remains exercisable following that event, shall be exercisable only to the extent exercisable at the date of that event. Military or sick leave or other bona fide leave shall not be deemed a termination of employment or other association, provided that it does not exceed the longer of ninety (90) days or the period during which the absent Optionee’s reemployment rights, if any, are guaranteed by statute or by contract. Notwithstanding and in addition to the forgoing, if the Optionee’s employment with the Company is terminated due to disability and the Optionee’s death occurs prior to the first anniversary of such termination, the period in which the Options may be exercised by the Optionee shall be extended for an additional three hundred sixty five (365) days following the date of the Optionee’s death.

(f) Transferability. Except as otherwise provided in this subsection (f), Options shall not be transferable, and no Option or interest therein may be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or hypothecated, other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. All of a Participant’s rights in any Option may be exercised during the life of the Participant only by the Participant or the Participant’s legal representative. However, the Committee may, at or after the grant of a Nonstatutory Option, provide that such Option may be transferred by the recipient to a family member; provided, however, that any such transfer is without payment of any consideration whatsoever and that no transfer of an Option shall be valid unless first approved by the Committee, acting in its sole discretion. For this purpose, “family member” means any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, spouse, former spouse, sibling, niece, nephew, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, including adoptive relationships, any person sharing the employee’s household (other than a tenant or employee), a trust in which the foregoing persons have more than fifty (50) percent of the beneficial interests, a foundation in which the foregoing persons (or the Participant) control the management of assets, and any other entity in which these persons (or the Participant) own more than fifty (50) percent of the voting interests.

 

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(g) Method of Exercise. An Option may be exercised by the Optionee giving written notice, in the manner provided in Section 14, specifying the number of shares with respect to which the Option is then being exercised. The notice shall be accompanied by payment in the form of cash or check payable to the order of the Company in an amount equal to the exercise price of the shares to be purchased or, if the Committee had so authorized on the grant of an Incentive Option or on or after grant of an Nonstatutory Option (and subject to such conditions, if any, as the Committee may deem necessary to avoid adverse accounting effects to the Company) by delivery to the Company of shares of Common Stock having a Market Value equal to the exercise price of the shares to be purchased. At the sole option of the Board, payment of any exercise price may also be made through and under the terms and conditions of any cashless exercise program authorized by the Company. Receipt by the Company of such notice and payment in any authorized or combination of authorized means shall constitute the exercise of the Option. Within thirty (30) days thereafter but subject to the remaining provisions of the Plan, the Company shall deliver or cause to be delivered to the Optionee or his agent a certificate or certificates for the number of shares then being purchased. Such shares shall be fully paid and nonassessable.

(h) Limit on Incentive Option Characterization. An Incentive Option shall be considered to be an Incentive Option only to the extent that the number of shares of Common Stock for which the Option first becomes exercisable in a calendar year do not have an aggregate Market Value (as of the date of the grant of the Option) in excess of the “current limit”. The current limit for any Optionee for any calendar year shall be $100,000 minus the aggregate Market Value at the date of grant of the number of shares of Common Stock available for purchase for the first time in the same year under each other Incentive Option previously granted to the Optionee under the Plan, and under each other incentive stock option previously granted to the Optionee under any other incentive stock option plan of the Company and its Affiliates, after December 31, 1986. Any shares of Common Stock which would cause the foregoing limit to be violated shall be deemed to have been granted under a separate Nonstatutory Option, otherwise identical in its terms to those of the Incentive Option.

(i) Notification of Disposition. Each person exercising any Incentive Option granted under the Plan shall be deemed to have covenanted with the Company to report to the Company any disposition of such shares prior to the expiration of the holding periods specified by Section 422(a)(1) of the Code and, if and to the extent that the realization of income in such a disposition imposes upon the Company federal, state, local or other withholding tax requirements, or any such withholding is required to secure for the Company an otherwise available tax deduction, to remit to the Company an amount in cash sufficient to satisfy those requirements.

(j) Rights Pending Exercise. No person holding an Option shall be deemed for any purpose to be a stockholder of the Company with respect to any of the shares of Stock issuable pursuant to his Option, except to the extent that the Option shall have been exercised with respect thereto and, in addition, a certificate shall have been issued therefor and delivered to such holder or his agent.

 

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7.2 Restricted Stock.

(a) Purchase Price. Shares of Restricted Stock shall be issued under the Plan for such consideration, in cash, other property or services, or any combination thereof, as is determined by the Committee.

(b) Issuance of Certificates. Each Participant receiving a Restricted Stock Award, subject to subsection (c) below, shall be issued a stock certificate in respect of such shares of Restricted Stock. Such certificate shall be registered in the name of such Participant, and, if applicable, shall bear an appropriate legend referring to the terms, conditions, and restrictions applicable to such Award substantially in the following form:

The transferability of this certificate and the shares represented by this certificate are subject to the terms and conditions of the Thorne HealthTech, Inc. 2010 Equity Incentive Plan and an Award Agreement entered into by the registered owner and Thorne HealthTech, Inc. Copies of such Plan and Agreement are on file in the offices of Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

(c) Escrow of Shares. The Committee may require that the stock certificates evidencing shares of Restricted Stock be held in custody by a designated escrow agent (which may but need not be the Company) until the restrictions thereon shall have lapsed, and that the Participant deliver a stock power, endorsed in blank, relating to the Stock covered by such Award.

(d) Restrictions and Restriction Period. During the Restriction Period applicable to shares of Restricted Stock, such shares shall be subject to limitations on transferability and a Risk of Forfeiture arising on the basis of such conditions related to the performance of services, Company or Affiliate performance or otherwise as the Committee may determine and provide for in the applicable Award Agreement. Any such Risk of Forfeiture may be waived or terminated, or the Restriction Period shortened, at any time by the Committee on such basis as it deems appropriate.

(e) Rights Pending Lapse of Risk of Forfeiture or Forfeiture of Award. Except as otherwise provided in the Plan or the applicable Award Agreement, at all times prior to lapse of any Risk of Forfeiture applicable to, or forfeiture of, an Award of Restricted Stock, the Participant shall have all of the rights of a stockholder of the Company, including the right to vote, and the right to receive any dividends with respect to, the shares of Restricted Stock. The Committee, as determined at the time of Award, may permit or require the payment of cash dividends to be deferred and, if the Committee so determines, reinvested in additional Restricted Stock to the extent shares are available under Section 4.

(f) Termination of Association with the Company. Unless the Committee shall provide otherwise for any Award of Restricted Stock, upon termination of a Participant’s employment or other association with the Company and its Affiliates for any reason during the Restriction Period, including because of the Participant’s employer ceasing to be an Affiliate during the Restriction Period, all shares of Restricted Stock still subject to Risk of Forfeiture shall be forfeited or otherwise subject to return to or repurchase by the Company on the terms specified in the Award Agreement; provided, however, that military or sick leave or other bona fide leave shall not be deemed a termination of employment or other association, if it does not exceed the longer of ninety (90) days or the period during which the absent Participant’s reemployment rights,

 

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if any, are guaranteed by statute or by contract and, provided, further, that in the event that the Participant’s employment or other association with the Company terminates as a result of the death or disability (as determined by the Board) of Participant, all further Risk of Forfeiture of any shares of Restricted Stock shall lapse.

(g) Lapse of Restrictions. If and when the Restriction Period expires without a prior forfeiture of the Restricted Stock, the certificates for such shares shall be delivered to the Participant promptly if not theretofore so delivered.

7.3 Stock Grants. Stock Grants shall be awarded solely in recognition of significant contributions to the success of the Company or its Affiliates, in lieu of compensation otherwise already due and in such other limited circumstances as the Committee deems appropriate. Stock Grants shall be made without forfeiture conditions of any kind.

7.4 Awards to Participants Outside the United States. The Committee may modify the terms of any Award under the Plan granted to a Participant who is, at the time of grant or during the term of the Award, resident or primarily employed outside of the United States in any manner deemed by the Committee to be necessary or appropriate in order that the Award shall conform to laws, regulations, and customs of the country in which the Participant is then resident or primarily employed, or so that the value and other benefits of the Award to the Participant, as affected by foreign tax laws and other restrictions applicable as a result of the Participant’s residence or employment abroad, shall be comparable to the value of such an Award to a Participant who is resident or primarily employed in the United States. An Award may be modified under this Section 7.4 in a manner that is inconsistent with the express terms of the Plan, so long as such modifications will not contravene any applicable law or regulation.

7.5 Restricted Stock Units.

(a) Grant. Restricted Stock Units may be granted at any time and from time to time as determined by the Committee. After the Committee determines that it will grant Restricted Stock Units, it will advise the Participant in an Award Agreement of the terms, conditions, and restrictions related to the grant, including the number of Restricted Stock Units.

(b) Vesting Criteria and Other Terms. The Committee will set vesting criteria in its discretion, which, depending on the extent to which the criteria are met, will determine the number of Restricted Stock Units that will be paid out to the Participant. The Committee may set vesting criteria based upon the achievement of Company-wide, business unit, or individual goals (including, but not limited to, continued employment or service), or any other basis determined by the Committee in its discretion.

(c) Earning Restricted Stock Units. Upon meeting the applicable vesting criteria, the Participant will be entitled to receive a payout as determined by the Committee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time after the grant of Restricted Stock Units, the Committee, in its sole discretion, may reduce or waive any vesting criteria that must be met to receive a payout.

(d) Form and Timing of Payment. Payment of earned Restricted Stock Units will be made as soon as practicable after the date(s) determined by the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement. The Committee, in its sole discretion, may settle earned Restricted Stock Units in cash, Shares, or a combination of both.

 

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(e) Cancellation. On the date set forth in the Award Agreement, all unearned Restricted Stock Units will be forfeited to the Company.

8. Adjustment Provisions

8.1 Adjustment for Corporate Actions. In the event that any dividend or other distribution (whether in the form of cash, shares of Common Stock, other securities, or other property), recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, repurchase, or exchange of shares of Common Stock or other securities of the Company, or other change in the corporate structure of the Company affecting the shares of Common Stock occurs, the Committee, in order to prevent diminution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits intended to be made available under the Plan, will adjust the number and class of shares of stock that may be delivered under the Plan and/or the number, class, and price of shares of stock covered by each outstanding Award. Further, the Committee will make such adjustments to an Award as required by Section 25102(o) of the California Corporations Code to the extent the Company is relying upon the exemption afforded thereby with respect to the Award.

8.2 Treatment in Acquisitions. Subject to any provisions of then outstanding Awards granting greater rights to the holders thereof, in the event of an Acquisition (a) any then outstanding Options shall Accelerate in full if not assumed by the acquiring entity or replaced by comparable options to purchase shares of the capital stock of the successor or acquiring entity or parent thereof, and to the extent not assumed or replaced on the Acquisition shall then (or after a reasonable period following the Acquisition, as determined by the Committee) terminate to the extent not exercised, (b) any then outstanding Restricted Stock shall Accelerate in full if the Company’s rights to reacquire such shares of Restricted Stock on occurrence of the applicable Risk of Forfeiture with respect to those shares are not assigned to the acquiring entity, and (c) and any then outstanding Restricted Stock Units shall Accelerate in full if not assumed or replaced by comparable restricted stock units to receive shares of the capital stock of the successor or acquiring entity or parent thereof. As to any one or more outstanding Options, shares of Restricted Stock or Restricted Stock Units which are not otherwise Accelerated in full by reason of such Acquisition, the Committee may also, either in advance of an Acquisition or at the time thereof and upon such terms as it may deem appropriate, provide for the Acceleration of such outstanding Options , Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units in the event that the employment of the Participants should subsequently terminate following the Acquisition. Each outstanding Option that is assumed in connection with an Acquisition, or is otherwise to continue in effect subsequent to the Acquisition, will be appropriately adjusted, immediately after the Acquisition, as to the number and class of securities and the price at which it may be exercised in accordance with Section 8.1. In addition to or in lieu of the foregoing, with respect to outstanding Options, in the event of an Acquisition the Board may provide that one or more Options then outstanding shall become immediately exercisable in full and shall be terminated in exchange for a cash payment equal to the excess of the fair market value (as determined by the Board in its sole discretion) of the shares subject to such Options over the exercise price thereof.

 

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8.3 Dissolution or Liquidation. Upon dissolution or liquidation of the Company, other than as part of an Acquisition or similar transaction, each outstanding Award shall terminate, but, with respect to then outstanding Options, the applicable Optionees (if at the time in the employ of or otherwise associated with the Company or any of its Affiliates) shall have the right, immediately prior to the dissolution or liquidation, to exercise the Options to the extent exercisable on the date of dissolution or liquidation.

8.4 Related Matters. Any adjustment in Awards made pursuant to this Section 8 shall be determined and made, if at all, by the Committee and shall include any correlative modification of terms, including of Option exercise prices, rates of vesting or exercisability, Risks of Forfeiture and applicable repurchase prices for Restricted Stock, which the Committee may deem necessary or appropriate so as to ensure the rights of the Participants in their respective Awards are not substantially diminished nor enlarged as a result of the adjustment and corporate action other than as expressly contemplated in this Section 8. No fraction of a share shall be purchasable or deliverable upon exercise, but in the event any adjustment hereunder of the number of shares covered by an Award shall cause such number to include a fraction of a share, such number of shares shall be adjusted to the nearest smaller whole number of shares. No adjustment of an Option exercise price per share pursuant to this Section 8 shall result in an exercise price which is less than the par value of the Stock.

9. Settlement of Awards

9.1 Violation of Law. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan or the relevant Award Agreement, if, at any time, in the reasonable opinion of the Company, the issuance of shares of Common Stock covered by an Award may constitute a violation of law, then the Company may delay such issuance and the delivery of a certificate for such shares until (i) approval shall have been obtained from such governmental agencies, other than the Securities and Exchange Commission, as may be required under any applicable law, rule, or regulation, and (ii) in the case where such issuance would constitute a violation of a law administered by or a regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission, one of the following conditions shall have been satisfied:

(a) the shares are at the time of the issue of such shares effectively registered under the Securities Act of 1933; or

(b) the Company shall have determined, on such basis as it deems appropriate (including an opinion of counsel in form and substance satisfactory to the Company) that the sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance or other disposition of such shares or such beneficial interest, as the case may be, does not require registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended or any applicable State securities laws.

The Company shall make all reasonable efforts to bring about the occurrence of said events.

9.2 Corporate Restrictions on Rights in Stock. Any Stock to be issued pursuant to Awards granted under the Plan shall be subject to all restrictions upon the transfer thereof which may be now or hereafter imposed by the charter, certificate or articles, and by-laws, of the Company. Whenever Stock is to be issued pursuant to an Award, if the Committee so directs at or after grant, the Company shall be under no obligation to issue such shares until such time, if

 

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ever, as the recipient of the Award (and any person who exercises any Option, in whole or in part), shall have become a party to and bound by the Stockholder Agreement, if any. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this Plan and the provisions of the Stockholder Agreement, the provisions of the Stockholder Agreement shall control except as required to fulfill the intention that this Plan constitute an incentive stock option plan within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, but insofar as possible the provisions of the Plan and such Agreement shall be construed so as to give full force and effect to all such provisions.

9.3 Investment Representations. The Company shall be under no obligation to issue any shares covered by any Award unless the shares to be issued pursuant to Awards granted under the Plan have been effectively registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Participant shall have made such written representations to the Company (upon which the Company believes it may reasonably rely) as the Company may deem necessary or appropriate for purposes of confirming that the issuance of such shares will be exempt from the registration requirements of that Act and any applicable state securities laws and otherwise in compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations, including but not limited to that the Participant is acquiring the shares for his or her own account for the purpose of investment and not with a view to, or for sale in connection with, the distribution of any such shares.

9.4 Registration. If the Company shall deem it necessary or desirable to register under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended or other applicable statutes any shares of Stock issued or to be issued pursuant to Awards granted under the Plan, or to qualify any such shares of Stock for exemption from the Securities Act of 1933, as amended or other applicable statutes, then the Company shall take such action at its own expense. The Company may require from each recipient of an Award, or each holder of shares of Stock acquired pursuant to the Plan, such information in writing for use in any registration statement, prospectus, preliminary prospectus or offering circular as is reasonably necessary for that purpose and may require reasonable indemnity to the Company and its officers and directors from that holder against all losses, claims, damage and liabilities arising from use of the information so furnished and caused by any untrue statement of any material fact therein or caused by the omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading in the light of the circumstances under which they were made. In addition, the Company may require of any such person that he or she agree that, without the prior written consent of the Company or the managing underwriter in any public offering of shares of Stock, he or she will not sell, make any short sale of, loan, grant any option for the purchase of, pledge or otherwise encumber, or otherwise dispose of, any shares of Common Stock during the 180 day period commencing on the effective date of the registration statement relating to the underwritten public offering of securities. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing provisions of this Section 9.4, if in connection with any underwritten public offering of securities of the Company the managing underwriter of such offering requires that the Company’s directors and officers enter into a lock-up agreement containing provisions that are more restrictive than the provisions set forth in the preceding sentence, then (a) each holder of shares of Stock acquired pursuant to the Plan (regardless of whether such person has complied or complies with the provisions of clause (b) below) shall be bound by, and shall be deemed to have agreed to, the same lock-up terms as those to which the Company’s directors and officers are required to adhere; and (b) at the request of the Company or such managing underwriter, each such person shall execute and deliver a lock-up agreement in form and substance equivalent to that which is required to be executed by the Company’s directors and officers.

 

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9.5 Placement of Legends; Stop Orders etc. Each share of Common Stock to be issued pursuant to Awards granted under the Plan may bear a reference to the investment representation made in accordance with Section 9.3 in addition to any other applicable restriction under the Plan, the terms of the Award and if applicable under the Stockholder Agreement and to the fact that no registration statement has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in respect to such shares of Common Stock. All certificates for shares of Common Stock or other securities delivered under the Plan shall be subject to such stock transfer orders and other restrictions as the Committee may deem advisable under the rules, regulations, and other requirements of any stock exchange upon which the Common Stock is then listed, and any applicable federal or state securities law, and the Committee may cause a legend or legends to be put on any such certificates to make appropriate reference to such restrictions.

9.6 Tax Withholding. Prior to the delivery of any shares of Common Stock or cash pursuant to an Award (or exercise thereof), the Company will have the power and the right to deduct or withhold, or require a Participant to remit to the Company, an amount sufficient to satisfy federal, state, local, foreign or other taxes (including the Participant’s FICA obligation) required to be withheld with respect to such Award (or exercise thereof). The Committee, in its sole discretion and pursuant to such procedures as it may specify from time to time, may permit a Participant to satisfy such tax withholding obligation, in whole or in part by such methods as the Committee shall determine, including, without limitation, (i) paying cash, (ii) electing to have the Company withhold otherwise deliverable shares of Common Stock having a fair market value equal to the minimum statutory amount required to be withheld or such greater amount as the Committee may determine if such amount would not have adverse accounting consequences, as the Committee determines in its sole discretion, (iii) delivering to the Company already-owned shares of Common Stock having a fair market value equal to the statutory amount required to be withheld or such greater amount as the Committee may determine, in each case, provided the delivery of such shares will not result in any adverse accounting consequences, as the Committee determines in its sole discretion, (iv) selling a sufficient number of shares of Common Stock otherwise deliverable to the Participant through such means as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion (whether through a broker or otherwise) equal to the amount required to be withheld, or (v) any combination of the foregoing methods of payment. The amount of the withholding requirement will be deemed to include any amount which the Committee agrees may be withheld at the time the election is made, not to exceed the amount determined by using the maximum federal, state or local marginal income tax rates applicable to the Participant with respect to the Award on the date that the amount of tax to be withheld is to be determined or such greater amount as the Committee may determine if such amount would not have adverse accounting consequences, as the Committee determines in its sole discretion. The fair market value of the shares of Common Stock to be withheld or delivered will be determined as of the date that the taxes are required to be withheld.

9.7 Compliance With Code Section 409A. Awards will be designed and operated in such a manner that they are either exempt from the application of, or comply with, the requirements of Code Section 409A such that the grant, payment, settlement or deferral will not be subject to the additional tax or interest applicable under Code Section 409A, except as otherwise determined in the sole discretion of the Committee. The Plan and each Award Agreement under the Plan is intended to meet the requirements of Code Section 409A and will be construed and interpreted in accordance with such intent, except as otherwise determined in the sole discretion of the

 

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Committee. To the extent that an Award or payment, or the settlement or deferral thereof, is subject to Code Section 409A the Award will be granted, paid, settled or deferred in a manner that will meet the requirements of Code Section 409A, such that the grant, payment, settlement or deferral will not be subject to the additional tax or interest applicable under Code Section 409A. In no event will the Company or any Affiliate have any obligation under the terms of this Plan to reimburse a Participant for any taxes or other costs that may be imposed on Participant as a result of Section 409A.

10. Reservation of Stock

The Company shall at all times during the term of the Plan and any outstanding Awards granted hereunder reserve or otherwise keep available such number of shares of Stock as will be sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the Plan (if then in effect) and the Awards and shall pay all fees and expenses necessarily incurred by the Company in connection therewith.

11. No Special Employment or Other Rights

Nothing contained in the Plan or in any Award Agreement shall confer upon any recipient of an Award any right with respect to the continuation of his or her employment or other association with the Company (or any Affiliate), or interfere in any way with the right of the Company (or any Affiliate), subject to the terms of any separate employment or consulting agreement or provision of law or corporate charter, certificate or articles, or by-laws, to the contrary, at any time to terminate such employment or consulting agreement or to increase or decrease, or otherwise adjust, the other terms and conditions of the recipient’s employment or other association with the Company and its Affiliates.

12. Nonexclusivity of the Plan

Neither the adoption of the Plan by the Board nor the submission of the Plan to the stockholders of the Company shall be construed as creating any limitations on the power of the Board to adopt such other incentive arrangements as it may deem desirable, including without limitation, the granting of stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units other than under the Plan, and such arrangements may be either applicable generally or only in specific cases.

13. Termination and Amendment of the Plan

The Board may at any time terminate the Plan or make such modifications of the Plan as it shall deem advisable. Unless the Board otherwise expressly provides, no amendment of the Plan shall affect the terms of any Award outstanding on the date of such amendment. In any case, no termination or amendment of the Plan may, without the consent of any recipient of an Award granted hereunder, adversely affect the rights of the recipient under such Award.

The Committee may amend the terms of any Award theretofore granted, prospectively or retroactively, provided that the Award as amended is consistent with the terms of the Plan, but no such amendment shall impair the rights of the recipient of such Award without his or her consent.

 

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14. Notices and Other Communications

Any notice, demand, request or other communication hereunder to any party shall be deemed to be sufficient if contained in a written instrument delivered in person or duly sent by first class registered, certified or overnight mail, postage prepaid, or telecopied with a confirmation copy by regular, certified or overnight mail, addressed or telecopied, as the case may be, (i) if to the recipient of an Award, at his or her residence address last filed with the Company and (ii) if to the Company, at its principal place of business, addressed to the attention of its Treasurer, or to such other address or telecopier number, as the case may be, as the addressee may have designated by notice to the addressor. All such notices, requests, demands and other communications shall be deemed to have been received: (i) in the case of personal delivery, on the date of such delivery; (ii) in the case of mailing, when received by the addressee; and (iii) in the case of facsimile transmission, when confirmed by facsimile machine report.

15. Governing Law

The Plan and all Award Agreements and actions taken thereunder shall be governed, interpreted and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to the conflict of laws principles thereof.

 

 

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THORNE HEALTHECH, INC.

2010 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the 2010 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended (the “Plan”) shall have the same defined meanings in this Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (the “Award Agreement”).

I. NOTICE OF GRANT OF RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS

 

  Name:    «Name»
  Address:   

The undersigned Participant has been granted the right to receive an Award of Restricted Stock Units, subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Award Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant:

   «GrantDate»

Number of Restricted Stock Units:

   «Shares»

Vesting Commencement Date:

The first date following the expiration of the Lock-Up Period (as defined in Section 5 of Part II of the Award Agreement) following an Initial Public Offering (as defined below), subject to Participant continuing to be an employee, director or consultant of the Company or any Affiliate (a “Service Provider”) through such date. “Initial Public Offering” means the consummation of the first firm commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement on Form S-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission covering the offer and sale by the Company of its equity securities, as a result of or following which the Company’s Common Stock shall be publicly held.

Vesting Schedule:

Subject to any acceleration provisions contained in the Plan or set forth below, the Restricted Stock Units shall vest in accordance with the following schedule:

Twenty-five percent (25%) of the Restricted Stock Units shall vest on each one year anniversary of the Vesting Commencement Date, subject to Participant continuing to be a Service Provider through each applicable vesting date.

In the event Participant ceases to be a Service Provider for any or no reason before Participant vests in the Restricted Stock Units, the Restricted Stock Units and Participant’s right to acquire any Shares hereunder will immediately terminate.


II. AGREEMENT

1. Grant of Restricted Stock Units. The Company hereby grants to the individual (“Participant”) named in the Notice of Grant of Restricted Stock Units in Part I of this Award Agreement (the “Notice of Grant”) under the Plan an Award of Restricted Stock Units, subject to all of the terms and conditions in this Award Agreement and the Plan, which is incorporated herein by reference. Subject to Section 13 of the Plan, in the event of a conflict between the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Award Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall prevail.

2. Company’s Obligation to Pay. Each Restricted Stock Unit represents the right to receive a share of Common Stock (a “Share”) on the date it vests. Unless and until the Restricted Stock Units will have vested in the manner set forth in Section 4, Participant will have no right to payment of any such Restricted Stock Units. Prior to actual payment of any vested Restricted Stock Units, such Restricted Stock Unit will represent an unsecured obligation of the Company, payable (if at all) only from the general assets of the Company.

3. Participant’s Representations. In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) at the time the Restricted Stock Units are paid to Participant, Participant shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the receipt of all or any portion of this Restricted Stock Unit Award, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A.

4. Vesting Schedule. Except as provided in Section 6, and subject to Section 7, the Restricted Stock Units awarded by this Award Agreement will vest in accordance with the vesting schedule set forth in the Notice of Grant, subject to Participant continuing to be a Service Provider through each applicable vesting date.

5. Lock-Up Period. Participant hereby agrees that Participant shall not offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, lend, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any Common Stock (or other securities) of the Company or enter into any swap, hedging or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of any Common Stock (or other securities) of the Company held by Participant (other than those included in the registration) for a period specified by the representative of the underwriters of Common Stock (or other securities) of the Company not to exceed one hundred and eighty (180) days following the effective date of any registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act (or such other period as may be requested by the Company or the underwriters to accommodate regulatory restrictions on (i) the publication or other distribution of research reports and (ii) analyst recommendations and opinions, including, but not limited to, the restrictions contained in NASD Rule 2711(f)(4) or NYSE Rule 472(f)(4), or any successor provisions or amendments thereto) (such period, the “Lock-Up Period”).

Participant agrees to execute and deliver such other agreements as may be reasonably requested by the Company or the underwriter which are consistent with the foregoing or which are necessary to give further effect thereto. In addition, if requested by the Company or the representative of the underwriters of Common Stock (or other securities) of the Company, Participant shall provide, within ten (10) days of such request, such information as may be required by the Company or such representative in connection with the completion of any public offering of the Company’s securities

 

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pursuant to a registration statement filed under the Securities Act. The obligations described in this Section 5 shall not apply to a registration relating solely to employee benefit plans on Form S-1 or Form S-8 or similar forms that may be promulgated in the future, or a registration relating solely to a Commission Rule 145 transaction on Form S-4 or similar forms that may be promulgated in the future. The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to the shares of Common Stock (or other securities) subject to the foregoing restriction until the end of said one hundred and eighty (180) day (or other) period. Participant agrees that any transferee of the Restricted Stock Unit Award or Shares acquired pursuant to the Restricted Stock Unit Award shall be bound by this Section 5.

6. Payment after Vesting.

(a) General Rule. Subject to Section 10, any Restricted Stock Units that vest will be paid to Participant (or in the event of Participant’s death, to his or her properly designated beneficiary or estate) in whole Shares. Subject to the provisions of Section 6(b), such vested Restricted Stock Units shall be paid in whole Shares as soon as practicable after vesting, but in each such case within sixty (60) days following the vesting date. In no event will Participant be permitted, directly or indirectly, to specify the taxable year of payment of any Restricted Stock Units payable under this Award Agreement.

(b) Acceleration.

(i) Discretionary Acceleration. The Committee, in its discretion, may accelerate the vesting of the balance, or some lesser portion of the balance, of the unvested Restricted Stock Units at any time, subject to the terms of the Plan. If so accelerated, such Restricted Stock Units will be considered as having vested as of the date specified by the Committee. If Participant is a U.S. taxpayer, the payment of Shares vesting pursuant to this Section 6(b) shall in all cases be paid at a time or in a manner that is exempt from, or complies with, Section 409A. The prior sentence may be superseded in a future agreement or amendment to this Award Agreement only by direct and specific reference to such sentence.

(ii) Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or this Award Agreement or any other agreement (whether entered into before, on or after the Date of Grant), if the vesting of the balance, or some lesser portion of the balance, of the Restricted Stock Units is accelerated in connection with Participant’s termination as a Service Provider (provided that such termination is a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A, as determined by the Company), other than due to Participant’s death, and if (x) Participant is a U.S. taxpayer and a “specified employee” within the meaning of Section 409A at the time of such termination as a Service Provider and (y) the payment of such accelerated Restricted Stock Units will result in the imposition of additional tax under Section 409A if paid to Participant on or within the six (6) month period following Participant’s termination as a Service Provider, then the payment of such accelerated Restricted Stock Units will not be made until the date six (6) months and one (1) day following the date of Participant’s termination as a Service Provider, unless Participant dies following his or her termination as a Service Provider, in which case, the Restricted Stock Units will be paid in Shares to Participant’s estate as soon as practicable following his or her death.

 

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(c) Section 409A. It is the intent of this Award Agreement that it and all payments and benefits to U.S. taxpayers hereunder be exempt from, or comply with, the requirements of Section 409A so that none of the Restricted Stock Units provided under this Award Agreement or Shares issuable thereunder will be subject to the additional tax imposed under Section 409A, and any ambiguities herein will be interpreted to be so exempt or so comply. Each payment payable under this Award Agreement is intended to constitute a separate payment for purposes of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-2(b)(2). However, in no event will the Company reimburse Participant, or be otherwise responsible for, any taxes or costs that may be imposed on Participant as a result of Section 409A. For purposes of this Award Agreement, “Section 409A” means Section 409A of the Code, and any final Treasury Regulations and Internal Revenue Service guidance thereunder, as each may be amended from time to time.

7. Forfeiture Upon Termination as a Service Provider. Notwithstanding any contrary provision of this Award Agreement, if Participant ceases to be a Service Provider for any or no reason, the then-unvested Restricted Stock Units awarded by this Award Agreement will thereupon be forfeited at no cost to the Company and Participant will have no further rights thereunder.

8. Tax Consequences. Participant has reviewed with his or her own tax advisors the U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax consequences of this investment and the transactions contemplated by this Award Agreement. With respect to such matters, Participant relies solely on such advisors and not on any statements or representations of the Company or any of its agents, written or oral. Participant understands that Participant (and not the Company) shall be responsible for Participant’s own tax liability that may arise as a result of this investment or the transactions contemplated by this Award Agreement.

9. Death of Participant. Any distribution or delivery to be made to Participant under this Award Agreement will, if Participant is then deceased, be made to Participant’s designated beneficiary, or if no beneficiary survives Participant, the administrator or executor of Participant’s estate. Any such transferee must furnish the Company with (a) written notice of his or her status as transferee, and (b) evidence satisfactory to the Company to establish the validity of the transfer and compliance with any laws or regulations pertaining to said transfer.

10. Tax Obligations

(a) Responsibility for Taxes. Participant acknowledges that, regardless of any action taken by the Company or, if different, Participant’s employer (the “Employer”), the ultimate liability for any tax and/or social insurance liability obligations and requirements in connection with the Restricted Stock Units, including, without limitation, (i) all federal, state, and local taxes (including the Participant’s Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) obligation) that are required to be withheld by the Company or the Employer or other payment of tax-related items related to Participant’s participation in the Plan and legally applicable to Participant, (ii) the Participant’s and, to the extent required by the Company (or Employer), the Company’s (or Employer’s) fringe benefit tax liability, if any, associated with the grant, vesting, or settlement of the Restricted Stock Units or sale of Shares, and (iii) any other Company (or Employer) taxes the responsibility for which the Participant has, or has agreed to bear, with respect to the Restricted Stock Units (or settlement thereof or issuance of Shares thereunder) (collectively, the “Tax Obligations”), is and remains Participant’s

 

4


responsibility and may exceed the amount actually withheld by the Company or the Employer. Participant further acknowledges that the Company and/or the Employer (i) make no representations or undertakings regarding the treatment of any Tax Obligations in connection with any aspect of the Restricted Stock Units, including, but not limited to, the grant, vesting or settlement of the Restricted Stock Units, the subsequent sale of Shares acquired pursuant to such settlement and the receipt of any dividends or other distributions, and (ii) do not commit to and are under no obligation to structure the terms of the grant or any aspect of the Restricted Stock Units to reduce or eliminate Participant’s liability for Tax Obligations or achieve any particular tax result. Further, if Participant is subject to Tax Obligations in more than one jurisdiction between the Date of Grant and the date of any relevant taxable or tax withholding event, as applicable, Participant acknowledges that the Company and/or the Employer (or former employer, as applicable) may be required to withhold or account for Tax Obligations in more than one jurisdiction. If Participant fails to make satisfactory arrangements for the payment of any required Tax Obligations hereunder at the time of the applicable taxable event, Participant acknowledges and agrees that the Company may refuse to issue or deliver the Shares.

(b) Tax Withholding and Default Method of Tax Withholding. When Shares are issued as payment for vested Restricted Stock Units, Participant generally will recognize immediate U.S. taxable income if Participant is a U.S. taxpayer. If Participant is a non-U.S. taxpayer, Participant will be subject to applicable taxes in his or her jurisdiction. The minimum amount of Tax Obligations which the Company determines must be withheld with respect to this Award (“Tax Withholding Obligation”) will be satisfied by having the Company withhold otherwise deliverable Shares having a fair market value equal to the minimum amount statutorily required to be withheld (or such greater amount as Participant may elect if permitted by the Committee, if such greater amount would not result in adverse financial accounting consequences) (such method for satisfying the Tax Withholding Obligation, the “net settlement method”). By accepting this Award, Participant expressly consents to the net settlement method to cover the Tax Withholding Obligation and agrees and acknowledges that Participant may not satisfy the Tax Withholding Obligation by any means other than such net settlement method, unless required to do so by the Committee or pursuant to the Committee’s express written consent.

(c) Committee Discretion. If the Committee determines that Participant cannot satisfy Participant’s Tax Withholding Obligation through the default procedure described in Section 8(b) or the Committee otherwise determines it is in the best interests of the Company for Participant to satisfy Participant’s Tax Withholding Obligation by a method other than through the default procedure described in Section 8(b), it may permit or require Participant to satisfy Participant’s Tax Withholding Obligation, in whole or in part (without limitation), if permissible by applicable local law, by (i) paying cash, (ii) electing to have Shares sold on Participant’s behalf at the prevailing market price pursuant to such procedures as the Company may specify from time to time, including through a broker-assisted arrangement (it being understood that the Shares to be sold must have vested pursuant to the terms of this Award Agreement and the Plan); (iii) withholding the amount of such Tax Withholding Obligation from Participant’s wages or other cash compensation paid to Participant by the Company and/or the Employer, (iv) delivering to the Company Shares that Participant owns and that have vested with a fair market value equal to the amount required to be withheld (or such greater amount as Participant may elect if permitted by the Committee, if such greater amount would not result in adverse financial accounting consequences), or (v) such other means as the Committee deems appropriate.

 

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(d) Company’s Obligation to Deliver Shares. For clarification purposes, in no event will the Company issue Participant any Shares unless and until arrangements satisfactory to the Committee have been made for the payment of Participant’s Tax Withholding Obligation. If Participant fails to make satisfactory arrangements for the payment of such Tax Withholding Obligations hereunder at the time any applicable Restricted Stock Units otherwise are scheduled to vest pursuant to Sections 4 or 6 or Participant’s Tax Withholding Obligations otherwise become due, Participant will permanently forfeit such Restricted Stock Units to which Participant’s Tax Withholding Obligation relates and any right to receive Shares thereunder and such Restricted Stock Units will be returned to the Company at no cost to the Company. Participant acknowledges and agrees that the Company may refuse to issue or deliver the Shares if such Tax Obligations are not delivered at the time they are due.

11. Rights as Stockholder. Neither Participant nor any person claiming under or through Participant will have any of the rights or privileges of a stockholder of the Company in respect of any Shares deliverable hereunder unless and until certificates representing such Shares (which may be in book entry form) will have been issued, recorded on the records of the Company or its transfer agents or registrars, and delivered to Participant (including through electronic delivery to a brokerage account). After such issuance, recordation and delivery, Participant will have all the rights of a stockholder of the Company with respect to voting such Shares and receipt of dividends and distributions on such Shares.

12. No Guarantee of Continued Service. PARTICIPANT ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF THE RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (OR THE EMPLOYER) AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED THIS RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD OR ACQUIRING SHARES HEREUNDER. PARTICIPANT FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUED ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE IN ANY WAY WITH PARTICIPANT’S RIGHT OR THE RIGHT OF THE COMPANY (OR THE EMPLOYER) TO TERMINATE PARTICIPANT’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

13. Grant is Not Transferable. Except to the limited extent provided in Section 9, this grant and the rights and privileges conferred hereby will not be transferred, assigned, pledged or hypothecated in any way (whether by operation of law or otherwise) and will not be subject to sale under execution, attachment or similar process. Upon any attempt to transfer, assign, pledge, hypothecate or otherwise dispose of this grant, or any right or privilege conferred hereby, or upon any attempted sale under any execution, attachment or similar process, this grant and the rights and privileges conferred hereby immediately will become null and void.

14. Companys Right of First Refusal. Subject to Section 13, before any Shares held by Participant or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section 14 (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

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(a) Notice of Proposed Transfer. The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating: (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

(b) Exercise of Right of First Refusal. At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

(c) Purchase Price. The purchase price (“Right of First Refusal Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section 14 shall be the Offered Price. If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

(d) Payment. Payment of the Right of First Refusal Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

(e) Holder’s Right to Transfer. If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section 14, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within one hundred and twenty (120) days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section 14 shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee. If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

(f) Exception for Certain Family Transfers. Anything to the contrary contained in this Section 14 notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Participant’s lifetime or on the Participant’s death by will or intestacy to the Participant’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Participant’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section 14. “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister. In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Award Agreement, including this Section 14, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section 14.

 

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(g) Termination of Right of First Refusal. The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the earlier of (i) the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public, or (ii) a Change in Control in which the successor corporation has equity securities that are publicly traded.

15. Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

(a) Legends. Participant understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below, or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL IN FAVOR OF THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER. SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL IN FAVOR OF THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER FOR A PERIOD OF TIME FOLLOWING THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE UNDERWRITTEN PUBLIC OFFERING OF THE COMPANY’S SECURITIES SET FORTH IN AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES AND MAY NOT BE SOLD OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF BY THE HOLDER PRIOR TO THE EXPIRATION OF SUCH PERIOD WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF THE COMPANY OR THE MANAGING UNDERWRITER.

(b) Stop-Transfer Notices. Participant agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

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(c) Refusal to Transfer. The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Award Agreement or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

16. Restrictions on Sale of Securities. Any sale of the Shares issued under this Award Agreement will be subject to any market blackout-period that may be imposed by the Company and must comply with the Company’s insider trading policies and other Applicable Laws.

17. Nature of Grant. In accepting the grant, Participant acknowledges, understands and agrees that:

(a) the grant of the Restricted Stock Units is voluntary and occasional and does not create any contractual or other right to receive future grants of Restricted Stock Units, or benefits in lieu of Restricted Stock Units, even if Restricted Stock Units have been granted in the past;

(b) all decisions with respect to future Restricted Stock Units or other grants, if any, will be at the sole discretion of the Company;

(c) Participant is voluntarily participating in the Plan;

(d) the Restricted Stock Units and the Shares subject to the Restricted Stock Units are not intended to replace any pension rights or compensation;

(e) the Restricted Stock Units and the Shares subject to the Restricted Stock Units, and the income and value of same, are not part of normal or expected compensation for purposes of calculating any severance, resignation, termination, redundancy, dismissal, end-of-service payments, bonuses, long-service awards, pension or retirement or welfare benefits or similar payments;

(f) the future value of the underlying Shares is unknown, indeterminable and cannot be predicted;

(g) for purposes of the Restricted Stock Units, Participant’s status as a Service Provider will be considered terminated as of the date Participant is no longer actively providing services to the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary (regardless of the reason for such termination and whether or not later to be found invalid or in breach of employment laws in the jurisdiction where Participant is a Service Provider or the terms of Participant’s employment or service agreement, if any), and unless otherwise expressly provided in this Award Agreement (including by reference in the Notice of Grant to other arrangements or contracts) or determined by the Committee, Participant’s right to vest in the Restricted Stock Units under the Plan, if any, will terminate as of such date and will not be extended by any notice period (e.g., Participant’s period of service would not include any contractual notice period or any period of “garden leave” or similar period mandated under employment laws in the jurisdiction where Participant is a Service Provider or the terms of Participant’s employment or service agreement, if any, unless Participant is providing bona fide services during such time); the Committee shall have the exclusive discretion to determine when Participant is no longer actively providing services for purposes of the Restricted Stock Units grant (including whether Participant may still be considered to be providing services while on a leave of absence);

 

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(h) unless otherwise provided in the Plan or by the Company in its discretion, the Restricted Stock Units and the benefits evidenced by this Award Agreement do not create any entitlement to have the Restricted Stock Units or any such benefits transferred to, or assumed by, another company or exchanged, cashed out or substituted for, in connection with any corporate transaction affecting the Shares; and

(i) the following provisions apply only if Participant is providing services outside the United States:

(i) the Restricted Stock Units and the Shares subject to the Restricted Stock Units are not part of normal or expected compensation or salary for any purpose;

(ii) Participant acknowledges and agrees that none of the Company, the Employer or any Parent or Subsidiary shall be liable for any foreign exchange rate fluctuation between Participant’s local currency and the United States Dollar that may affect the value of the Restricted Stock Units or of any amounts due to Participant pursuant to the settlement of the Restricted Stock Units or the subsequent sale of any Shares acquired upon settlement; and

(iii) no claim or entitlement to compensation or damages shall arise from forfeiture of the Restricted Stock Units resulting from the termination of Participant’s status as a Service Provider (for any reason whatsoever whether or not later found to be invalid or in breach of employment laws in the jurisdiction where Participant is a Service Provider or the terms of Participant’s employment or service agreement, if any), and in consideration of the grant of the Restricted Stock Units to which Participant is otherwise not entitled, Participant irrevocably agrees never to institute any claim against the Company, any Parent or Subsidiary or the Employer, waives his or her ability, if any, to bring any such claim, and releases the Company, any Parent or Subsidiary and the Employer from any such claim; if, notwithstanding the foregoing, any such claim is allowed by a court of competent jurisdiction, then, by participating in the Plan, Participant shall be deemed irrevocably to have agreed not to pursue such claim and agrees to execute any and all documents necessary to request dismissal or withdrawal of such claim.

18. No Advice Regarding Grant. The Company is not providing any tax, legal or financial advice, nor is the Company making any recommendations regarding Participant’s participation in the Plan, or Participant’s acquisition or sale of the underlying Shares. Participant is hereby advised to consult with his or her own personal tax, legal and financial advisors regarding his or her participation in the Plan before taking any action related to the Plan.

19. Data Privacy. Participant hereby explicitly and unambiguously consents to the collection, use and transfer, in electronic or other form, of Participant’s personal data as described in this Award Agreement and any other Restricted Stock Unit grant materials by and among, as applicable, the Employer, the Company and any Parent or Subsidiary for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering and managing Participant’s participation in the Plan.

 

10


Participant understands that the Company and the Employer may hold certain personal information about Participant, including, but not limited to, Participant’s name, home address and telephone number, date of birth, social insurance number or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, any Shares or directorships held in the Company, details of all Restricted Stock Units or any other entitlement to Shares awarded, canceled, exercised, vested, unvested or outstanding in Participant’s favor (“Data”), for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering and managing the Plan.

Participant understands that Data will be transferred to a stock plan service provider as may be selected by the Company in the future, which is assisting the Company with the implementation, administration and management of the Plan. Participant understands that the recipients of the Data may be located in the United States or elsewhere, and that the recipients’ country of operation (e.g., the United States) may have different data privacy laws and protections than Participant’s country. Participant understands that if he or she resides outside the United States, he or she may request a list with the names and addresses of any potential recipients of the Data by contacting his or her local human resources representative. Participant authorizes the Company, any stock plan service provider selected by the Company and any other possible recipients which may assist the Company (presently or in the future) with implementing, administering and managing the Plan to receive, possess, use, retain and transfer the Data, in electronic or other form, for the sole purpose of implementing, administering and managing his or her participation in the Plan. Participant understands that Data will be held only as long as is necessary to implement, administer and manage Participant’s participation in the Plan. Participant understands if he or she resides outside the United States, he or she may, at any time, view Data, request additional information about the storage and processing of Data, require any necessary amendments to Data or refuse or withdraw the consents herein, in any case without cost, by contacting in writing his or her local human resources representative. Further, Participant understands that he or she is providing the consents herein on a purely voluntary basis. If Participant does not consent, or if Participant later seeks to revoke his or her consent, his or her status as a Service Provider and career with the Employer will not be adversely affected; the only adverse consequence of refusing or withdrawing Participant’s consent is that the Company would not be able to grant Participant Restricted Stock Units or other equity awards or administer or maintain such awards. Therefore, Participant understands that refusing or withdrawing his or her consent may affect Participant’s ability to participate in the Plan. For more information on the consequences of Participant’s refusal to consent or withdrawal of consent, Participant understands that he or she may contact his or her local human resources representative.

20. Address for Notices. Any notice to be given to the Company under the terms of this Award Agreement will be addressed to the Company at Thorne HealthTech, Inc. 152 W. 57th Street, New York, New York 10019, or at such other address as the Company may hereafter designate in writing.

21. Electronic Delivery. The Company may, in its sole discretion, decide to deliver any documents related to the Restricted Stock Units awarded under the Plan or future Restricted Stock Units that may be awarded under the Plan by electronic means or request Participant’s consent to participate in the Plan by electronic means. Participant hereby consents to receive such documents by electronic delivery and agrees to participate in the Plan through any on-line or electronic system established and maintained by the Company or another third party designated by the Company.

 

11


22. No Waiver. Either party’s failure to enforce any provision or provisions of this Award Agreement shall not in any way be construed as a waiver of any such provision or provisions, nor prevent that party from thereafter enforcing each and every other provision of this Award Agreement. The rights granted both parties herein are cumulative and shall not constitute a waiver of either party’s right to assert all other legal remedies available to it under the circumstances.

23. Successors and Assigns. The Company may assign any of its rights under this Award Agreement to single or multiple assignees, and this Award Agreement shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company. Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Award Agreement shall be binding upon Participant and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns. The rights and obligations of Participant under this Award Agreement may only be assigned with the prior written consent of the Company.

24. Additional Conditions to Issuance of Stock. If at any time the Company will determine, in its discretion, that the listing, registration, qualification or rule compliance of the Shares upon any securities exchange or under any state, federal or foreign law, the tax code and related regulations or under the rulings or regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any other governmental regulatory body or the clearance, consent or approval of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any other governmental regulatory authority is necessary or desirable as a condition to the issuance of Shares to Participant (or his or her estate) hereunder, such issuance will not occur unless and until such listing, registration, qualification, rule compliance, clearance, consent or approval will have been completed, effected or obtained free of any conditions not acceptable to the Company. Subject to the terms of the Award Agreement and the Plan, the Company shall not be required to issue any certificate or certificates for Shares hereunder prior to the lapse of such reasonable period of time following the date of vesting of the Restricted Stock Units as the Committee may establish from time to time for reasons of administrative convenience.

25. Language. If Participant has received this Award Agreement or any other document related to the Plan translated into a language other than English and if the meaning of the translated version is different than the English version, the English version will control.

26. Interpretation. The Committee will have the power to interpret the Plan and this Award Agreement and to adopt such rules for the administration, interpretation and application of the Plan as are consistent therewith and to interpret or revoke any such rules (including, but not limited to, the determination of whether or not any Restricted Stock Units have vested). All actions taken and all interpretations and determinations made by the Committee in good faith will be final and binding upon Participant, the Company and all other interested persons. Neither the Committee nor any person acting on behalf of the Committee will be personally liable for any action, determination or interpretation made in good faith with respect to the Plan or this Award Agreement.

 

12


27. Modifications to the Award Agreement. This Award Agreement constitutes the entire understanding of the parties on the subjects covered. Participant expressly warrants that he or she is not accepting this Award Agreement in reliance on any promises, representations, or inducements other than those contained herein. Modifications to this Award Agreement or the Plan can be made only in an express written contract executed by a duly authorized officer of the Company. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Plan or this Award Agreement, the Company reserves the right to revise this Award Agreement as it deems necessary or advisable, in its sole discretion and without the consent of Participant, to comply with Section 409A or to otherwise avoid imposition of any additional tax or income recognition under Section 409A in connection to this Award of Restricted Stock Units.

28. Governing Law; Severability. This Award Agreement and the Restricted Stock Units are governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of New York. In the event that any provision hereof becomes or is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal, unenforceable or void, this Award Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.

29. Entire Agreement. The Plan is incorporated herein by reference. The Plan and this Award Agreement (including the exhibits and addendums referenced herein) constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Participant with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Participant’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Participant.

30. Country Addendum. Notwithstanding any provisions in this Award Agreement, the Restricted Stock Unit grant shall be subject to any special terms and conditions set forth in any appendix to this Award Agreement for any country whose laws are applicable to Participant and this Award of Restricted Stock Units (as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion) (the “Country Addendum”). Moreover, if Participant relocates to one of the countries included in the Country Addendum, the special terms and conditions for such country will apply to Participant, to the extent the Company determines that the application of such terms and conditions is necessary or advisable for legal or administrative reasons. The Country Addendum constitutes part of this Award Agreement. Participant acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Plan and represents that he or she is familiar with the terms and provisions thereof, and hereby accepts this Award Agreement subject to all of the terms and provisions thereof. Participant has reviewed the Plan and this Award Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Award Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Award Agreement. Participant hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions arising under the Plan or this Award Agreement. Participant further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

13


PARTICIPANT      THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

 

    

 

Signature      By

«Name»

    

 

Print Name      Print Name
    

 

     Title
Address:     

«Address»

    

«CityStateZip»

    

 

14


THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

COUNTRY ADDENDUM

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This Country Addendum includes additional terms and conditions that govern the award of Restricted Stock Units under the Plan if Participant works in one of the countries listed below. If Participant is a citizen or resident of a country (or is considered as such for local law purposes) other than the one in which he or she is currently working or if Participant relocates to another country after receiving the Award of Restricted Stock Units, the Company will, in its discretion, determine the extent to which the terms and conditions contained herein will be applicable to Participant.

Certain capitalized terms used but not defined in this Country Addendum shall have the meanings set forth in the Plan and/or the Award Agreement to which this Country Addendum is attached.

NOTIFICATIONS

This Country Addendum also includes notifications relating to exchange control and other issues of which Participant should be aware with respect to his or her participation in the Plan. The information is based on the exchange control, securities and other laws in effect in the countries listed in this Country Addendum, as of [_______]. Such laws are often complex and change frequently. As a result, the Company strongly recommends that Participant not rely on the notifications herein as the only source of information relating to the consequences of his or her participation in the Plan because the information may be outdated when Participant vests in the Restricted Stock Units and acquires Shares, or when Participant subsequently sell Shares acquired under the Plan.

In addition, the notifications are general in nature and may not apply to Participant’s particular situation, and the Company is not in a position to assure Participant of any particular result. Accordingly, Participant is advised to seek appropriate professional advice as to how the relevant laws in Participant’s country may apply to Participant’s situation.

Finally, if Participant is a citizen or resident of a country other than the one in which Participant is currently working (or is considered as such for local law purposes) or if Participant moves to another country after receiving an Award of Restricted Stock Units, the information contained herein may not be applicable to Participant.


EXHIBIT A

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

PARTICIPANT    :    «NAME»
COMPANY    :    THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.
SECURITY    :    COMMON STOCK
AMOUNT    :   

                                             

DATE    :                                                 

In connection with the receipt of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Participant represents to the Company the following:

(a) Participant is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities. Participant is acquiring these Securities for investment for Participant’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

(b) Participant acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Participant’s investment intent as expressed herein. In this connection, Participant understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Participant’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one (1) year or any other fixed period in the future. Participant further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available. Participant further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities. Participant understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities shall be imprinted with any legend required under applicable state securities laws.

(c) Participant is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Restricted Stock Unit Award to Participant, the receipt of the Securities shall be exempt from registration under the Securities Act. In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities


exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of the applicable conditions specified by Rule 144, including in the case of affiliates (1) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (2) the amount of Securities being sold during any three (3) month period not exceeding specified limitations, (3) the resale being made in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction”, transactions directly with a “market maker” or “riskless principal transactions” (as those terms are defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Restricted Stock Unit Award, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which may require (1) the availability of current public information about the Company; (2) the resale to occur more than a specified period after the purchase and full payment (within the meaning of Rule 144) for the Securities; and (3) in the case of the sale of Securities by an affiliate, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

(d) Participant further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption shall be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 shall have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk. Participant understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption shall be available in such event.

 

PARTICIPANT

 

Signature

«Name»

Print Name

 

Date

 

2

Exhibit 10.3

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

RESTATED 2020 ONEGEVITY EQUITY PLAN

1. Purposes of the Plan. This document sets forth and restates the terms of that certain Onegevity Health, LLC 2020 Unit Plan, now known as the Thorne HealthTech, Inc. Restated 2020 Onegevity Equity Plan, pursuant to that certain Board resolution effective as of January 5, 2021 (the “Resolution”). The purpose of the Plan is to attract and retain the best available personnel for positions of substantial responsibility, to provide additional incentive to Employees and Consultants, and to promote the success of the Company’s business. The Options granted under the Plan may be Incentive Options or Nonstatutory Options, as determined by the Administrator at the time an Option is granted and subject to the applicable provisions of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder. Restricted Shares may also be granted under the Plan.

2. Definitions. As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

(a) “Administrator” means the Board or a Committee.

(b) “Affiliate” means (i) an entity other than a Subsidiary which, together with the Company, is under common control of a third person or entity, and (ii) an entity other than a Subsidiary in which the Company and /or one or more Subsidiaries own a controlling interest.

(c) “Applicable Laws” means all applicable laws, rules, regulations and requirements, including, but not limited to, all applicable U.S. federal or state laws, and the applicable laws, rules or regulations of any other country or jurisdiction where Options or Restricted Shares are granted under the Plan or Participants reside or provide services, as such laws, rules, and regulations shall be in effect from time to time.

(d) “Award” means any award of an Option or Restricted Shares under the Plan.

(e) “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

(f) “Cashless Exercise means a program approved by the Administrator in which payment of the Option exercise price, tax obligations or other required deductions may be satisfied, in whole or in part, with Shares subject to the Option, including by delivery of an irrevocable direction to a securities broker (on a form prescribed by the Company) to sell Shares and to deliver all or part of the sale proceeds to the Company in payment of such amount.

(g) “Cause” for termination of a Participant’s Continuous Service Status will exist if the Participant’s Continuous Service Status is terminated for any of the following reasons: (i) as provided in any employment agreement or other applicable written agreement between the Company and Participant; (ii) as provided in an Option Agreement or Restricted Stock Agreement applicable to Participant; (iii) Participant’s willful failure to perform his or her duties and responsibilities to the Company or Participant’s violation of any written Company policy; (iv) Participant’s commission of any act of fraud, embezzlement, dishonesty or any other willful misconduct that has caused or is reasonably expected to result in injury to the Company;


(v) Participant’s unauthorized use or disclosure of any proprietary information or trade secrets of the Company or any other party to whom the Participant owes an obligation of nondisclosure as a result of his or her relationship with the Company; or (vi) Participant’s material breach of any of his or her obligations under any written agreement or covenant, including without limitation any noncompetition agreements or covenants, with the Company. The determination as to whether a Participant’s Continuous Service Status has been terminated for Cause shall be made in good faith by the Company and shall be final and binding on the Participant. The foregoing definition does not in any way limit the Company’s ability to terminate a Participant’s employment or consulting relationship at any time, and the term “Company” will be interpreted to include any Parent, Subsidiary, Affiliate or any successor thereto, if appropriate.

(h) “Change in Control means (i) a sale of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets; (ii) a merger, consolidation or other capital reorganization or business combination transaction of the Company with or into another corporation, entity or person; or (iii) the consummation of a transaction in which any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 of the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the total voting power represented by the Company’s then outstanding voting securities, except that any change in the beneficial ownership of the securities of the Company as a result of a private financing of the Company that is approved by the Board shall not be deemed to be a Change in Control.

Notwithstanding anything stated herein, a transaction shall not constitute a “Change in Control” if its sole purpose is to change the state of the Company’s organization, or to create a holding company that will be owned in substantially the same proportions by the persons who hold the Company’s securities immediately before such transaction.

(i) “Class B Common Stock or “Class B Common Sharesmeans the shares of Company stock denominated as Class B Common Stock in the Stockholder Agreement of the Company, as the same may be subsequently amended, modified or restated. Shares of Class B Common Stock shall not be entitled to any voting rights or distributions or dividends, unless and until the occurrence of an event described in Section 11(a) or Section 11(b) of the Plan.

(j) “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

(k) “Committee” means one or more committees or subcommittees of the Board consisting of two (2) or more Directors (or such lesser or greater number of Directors as shall constitute the minimum number permitted by Applicable Laws to establish a committee or sub-committee of the Board) appointed by the Board to administer the Plan in accordance with Section 4 herein.

(l) “Company” means Thorne HealthTech, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

(m) “Consultant” means any person or entity, including an advisor but not an Employee, who renders services to the Company, or any Parent, Subsidiary or Affiliate, and is compensated for such services, and any Director whether compensated for such services or not.


(n) “Continuous Service Status means the absence of any interruption or termination of service as an Employee or Consultant. Continuous Service Status as an Employee or Consultant shall not be considered interrupted or terminated in the case of (i) Company approved sick leave; (ii) military leave; (iii) any other bona fide leave of absence approved by the Company, provided that, if an Employee is holding an Incentive Option and such leave exceeds three (3) months, such Employee’s service as an Employee shall be deemed terminated on the first (1st) day following such three (3) month period and the Incentive Option shall thereafter automatically become a Nonstatutory Option in accordance with Applicable Laws, unless reemployment upon the expiration of such leave is guaranteed by contract or statute, or unless provided otherwise pursuant to a written Company policy. Also, Continuous Service Status as an Employee or Consultant shall not be considered interrupted or terminated in the case of a transfer between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parents, Subsidiaries or Affiliates, or their respective successors, or a change in status from an Employee to a Consultant or from a Consultant to an Employee.

(o) “Director” means a member of the Board.

(p) “Disability” means “disability” within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

(q) “Employee” means any person employed by the Company, or any Parent, Subsidiary or Affiliate, with the status of employment determined pursuant to such factors as are deemed appropriate by the Company in its sole discretion, subject to any requirements of Applicable Laws, including the Code. The payment by the Company of a fee to a Director for serving as such shall not be sufficient to constitute “employment” of such Director by the Company or any Parent, Subsidiary or Affiliate.

(r) “Exchange Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

(s) “Fair Market Value means, as of any date, the per share fair market value of the Shares, as determined by the Administrator in good faith on such basis as it deems appropriate and applied consistently with respect to Participants.

(t) “Family Members means any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, former spouse, sibling, niece, nephew, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law or sister-in-law (including adoptive relationships) of the Participant, any person sharing the Participant’s household (other than a tenant or employee), a trust in which these persons (or the Participant) have more than fifty percent (50%) of the beneficial interest, a foundation in which these persons (or the Participant) control the management of assets, and any other entity in which these persons (or the Participant) own more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting interests.

(u) “Incentive Option” means an Option intended to, and which does, in fact, qualify as an incentive option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.

(v) “Involuntary Termination means (unless another definition is provided in the applicable Option Agreement, Restricted Stock Agreement, employment agreement or other applicable written agreement) the termination of a Participant’s Continuous Service Status other than for (i) death, (ii) Disability or (iii) Cause by the Company or a Parent, Subsidiary, Affiliate or successor thereto, as appropriate.


(w) “Listed Security means any security of the Company that is listed or approved for listing on a national securities exchange or designated or approved for designation as a national market system security on an interdealer quotation system by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.

(x) “Nonstatutory Option means an Option that is not intended to, or does not, in fact, qualify as an Incentive Option.

(y) “Option” means an option to purchase Shares granted pursuant to the Plan.

(z) “Option Agreement means a written document, the form(s) of which shall be approved from time to time by the Administrator, reflecting the terms of an Option granted under the Plan and includes any documents attached to or incorporated into such Option Agreement, including, but not limited to, a notice of stock option grant and a form of exercise notice.

(aa) “Option Exchange Program means a program approved by the Administrator whereby outstanding Options (i) are exchanged for Options with a lower exercise price, Restricted Shares, cash or other property or (ii) are amended to decrease the exercise price as a result of a decline in the Fair Market Value.

(bb) “Optioned Shares means Shares that are subject to an Option or that were issued pursuant to the exercise of an Option.

(cc) “Optionee” means an Employee or Consultant who receives an Option.

(dd) “Parent” means any limited liability company or corporation (other than the Company) in an unbroken chain of limited liability companies or corporations ending with the Company if, at the time of grant of the Award, each of the limited liability companies or corporations other than the Company owns securities possessing fifty percent (50%) or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of securities in one of the other limited liability companies or corporations in such chain. A limited liability company or corporation that attains the status of a Parent on a date after the adoption of the Plan shall be considered a Parent commencing as of such date.

(ee) “Participant” means any holder of one or more Awards or Shares issued pursuant to an Award.

(ff) “Plan” means the Thorne HealthTech, Inc. Restated 2020 Onegevity Equity Plan.

(gg) “Restricted Shares means Shares received pursuant to a grant under Section 8 herein.


(hh) “Restricted Stock Agreement” means a written document, the form(s) of which shall be approved from time to time by the Administrator, reflecting the terms of Restricted Shares granted under the Plan and includes any documents attached to such agreement.

(ii) “Rule 16b-3” means Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act, as amended from time to time, or any successor provision.

(jj) “Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

(kk) “Shares” or “Stock” means the Class B Common Stock in the Company, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 herein.

(ll) “Subsidiary” means any limited liability company or corporation (other than the Company) in an unbroken chain of limited liability companies or corporations beginning with the Company if, at the time of grant of the Award, each of the limited liability companies or corporations other than the last limited liability company or corporation in the unbroken chain owns securities possessing fifty percent (50%) or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of securities in one of the other limited liability companies or corporations in such chain. A limited liability company or corporation that attains the status of a Subsidiary on a date after the adoption of the Plan shall be considered a Subsidiary commencing as of such date.

(mm) “Ten Percent Holder” means a person who owns securities representing more than ten percent (10%) of the voting power of all classes of securities of the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary measured as of an Award’s date of grant.

3. Shares Subject to the Plan. Subject to the provisions of Section 11 herein, the maximum aggregate number of Shares that may be issued under the Plan is fifteen thousand (15,000) Common Shares, all of which may be issued under the Plan pursuant to Incentive Options. The Shares issued under the Plan may be authorized, but unissued, or reacquired Shares. If an Award should expire or become unexercisable for any reason without having been exercised in full, or is surrendered pursuant to an Option Exchange Program, the unpurchased Shares that were subject thereto shall, unless the Plan shall have been terminated, become available for future grant under the Plan. In addition, any Shares which are retained by the Company upon exercise of an Award in order to satisfy the exercise or purchase price for such Award or any withholding taxes due with respect to such Award shall be treated as not issued and shall continue to be available under the Plan and Shares issued under the Plan and later repurchased by the Company at the original purchase price paid for the Shares (including, without limitation, upon repurchase by the Company in connection with the termination of a Participant’s Continuous Service Status) shall again be available for future grant under the Plan. Any Shares issued under the Plan and later repurchased by the Company pursuant to any other repurchase right that the Company may have shall not be available for future grant under the Plan.

4. Administration of the Plan.

(a) General. The Plan shall be administered by the Board, a Committee appointed by the Board, or any combination thereof, as determined by the Board. The Plan may be administered by different administrative bodies with respect to different classes of Participants and, if permitted by Applicable Laws, the Board may authorize one or more officers of the Company to make Awards under the Plan to Employees and Consultants (who are not subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act) within parameters specified by the Board.


(b) Committee Composition. If a Committee has been appointed pursuant to this Section, such Committee shall continue to serve in its designated capacity until otherwise directed by the Board. From time to time the Board may increase the size of any Committee and appoint additional members thereof, remove members (with or without cause) and appoint new members in substitution therefor, fill vacancies (however caused) and dissolve a Committee and thereafter directly administer the Plan, all to the extent permitted by Applicable Laws and, in the case of a Committee administering the Plan in accordance with the requirements of Rule 16b-3 or Section 162(m) of the Code, to the extent permitted or required by such provisions.

(c) Powers of the Administrator. Subject to the provisions of the Plan and, in the case of a Committee, the specific duties delegated by the Board to such Committee, the Administrator shall have the authority, in its sole discretion:

(i) to determine the Fair Market Value in accordance with Section 2(t) herein; provided that such determination shall be applied consistently with respect to Participants under the Plan;

(ii) to select the Employees and Consultants to whom Awards may from time to time be granted;

(iii) to determine the number and type of Shares to be covered by each Award;

(iv) to approve the form(s) of agreement(s) and other related documents used under the Plan;

(v) to determine the terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, of any Award granted hereunder, which terms and conditions include but are not limited to the exercise or purchase price, the time or times when Awards may vest and/or be exercised (which may be based on performance criteria), the circumstances (if any) when vesting will be accelerated or forfeiture restrictions will be waived, and any restriction or limitation regarding any Award, Optioned Shares, or Restricted Shares;

(vi) to amend any outstanding Award or agreement related to any Optioned Shares or Restricted Shares, including any amendment adjusting vesting (e.g., in connection with a change in the terms or conditions under which such person is providing services to the Company); provided that no amendment shall be made that would materially and adversely affect the rights of any Participant without his or her consent;

(vii) to determine whether and under what circumstances an Option may be settled in cash under Section 7(d) herein instead of Shares;

(viii) subject to Applicable Laws, to implement an Option Exchange Program and establish the terms and conditions of such Option Exchange Program without consent of the holders of securities of the Company; provided that no amendment or adjustment to an Option that would materially and adversely affect the rights of any Participant shall be made without his or her consent;


(ix) to approve addenda pursuant to Section 17 herein or to grant Awards to, or to modify the terms of, any outstanding Option Agreement or Restricted Stock Agreement or any agreement related to any Optioned Shares or Restricted Shares held by Participants who are foreign nationals or employed outside of the United States with such terms and conditions as the Administrator deems necessary or appropriate to accommodate differences in local law, tax policy or custom which deviate from the terms and conditions set forth in this Plan to the extent necessary or appropriate to accommodate such differences; and

(x) to construe and interpret the terms of the Plan, any Option Agreement, or Restricted Stock Agreement, and any agreement related to any Optioned Shares or Restricted Shares, which constructions and interpretations shall be final and binding on all Participants.

(d) Indemnification. To the maximum extent permitted by Applicable Laws, each member of the Committee (including officers of the Company, if applicable), or of the Board, as applicable, shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against and from (i) any loss, cost, liability, or expense that may be imposed upon or reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with or resulting from any claim, action, suit or proceeding to which he or she may be a party or in which he or she may be involved by reason of any action taken or failure to act under the Plan or pursuant to the terms and conditions of any Award except for actions taken or not taken in bad faith, and (ii) any amounts paid by him or her in settlement thereof, with the Company’s approval, or paid by him or her in satisfaction of any judgment in any such claim, action, suit or proceeding against him or her, provided that such member shall give the Company an opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend any such claim, action, suit or proceeding before he or she undertakes to handle and defend it on his or her own behalf, and if the Company assumes such defense, then the Company shall have the exclusive right to defend and settle such claim, action, suit or proceeding so long as the Company does not admit fault or liability on the part of the indemnified person without that person’s advance written approval. The foregoing right of indemnification shall not be exclusive of any other rights of indemnification to which such persons may be entitled under the Company’s certificate of incorporation, bylaws or stockholder agreement, by contract, as a matter of law or otherwise, or under any other power that the Company may have to indemnify or hold harmless each such person.

5. Eligibility.

(a) Recipients of Grants. Nonstatutory Options and Restricted Shares may be granted to Employees and Consultants. Incentive Options may be granted only to Employees, provided that Employees of Affiliates shall not be eligible to receive Incentive Options.

(b) Type of Option. Each Option shall be designated in the Option Agreement as either an Incentive Option or a Nonstatutory Option.


(c) ISO $100,000 Limitation. Notwithstanding any designation under Section 5(b), to the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value of Shares with respect to which options designated as Incentive Options are exercisable for the first time by any Optionee during any calendar year (under all plans of the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary) exceeds $100,000, such excess options shall be treated as Nonstatutory Options. For purposes of this Section 5(c), Incentive Options shall be taken into account in the order in which they were granted, and the Fair Market Value of Shares subject to an Incentive Option shall be determined as of the date of the grant of such Option.

(d) No Employment Rights. Neither the Plan nor any Award shall confer upon any Employee or Consultant any right with respect to continuation of an employment or consulting relationship with the Company (or any Parent, Subsidiary or Affiliate), nor shall it interfere in any way with such Employee’s or Consultant’s right or the Company’s (or any Parent’s, Subsidiary’s or Affiliate’s) right to terminate his or her employment or consulting relationship at any time, with or without cause.

6. Term of Plan. The Plan is effective as of January 6, 2021 and shall continue in effect until ten (10) years after the date of the Resolution adopting the Plan, unless sooner terminated under Section 13 herein.

7. Options.

(a) Term of Option. The term of each Option shall be the term stated in the Option Agreement for each Participant; provided that the term shall be no more than ten (10) years from the date of grant thereof or such shorter term as may be provided in the Option Agreement and provided further that, in the case of an Incentive Option granted to a person who at the time of such grant is a Ten Percent Holder, the term of the Option shall be five (5) years from the date of grant thereof or such shorter term as may be provided in the Option Agreement.

(b) Option Exercise Price and Consideration.

(i) Exercise Price. The per Share exercise price for the Shares to be issued pursuant to the exercise of an Option shall be such price as is determined by the Administrator and set forth in the Option Agreement, but shall be subject to the following:

(A) In the case of an Incentive Option

1. granted to an Employee who at the time of grant is a Ten Percent Holder, the per Share exercise price shall be no less than one hundred ten percent (110%) of the Fair Market Value on the date of grant;

2. granted to any other Employee, the per Share exercise price shall be no less than one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value on the date of grant;

(B) Except as provided in subsection (C) below, in the case of a Nonstatutory Option the per Share exercise price shall be such price as is determined by the Administrator, provided that, if the per Share exercise price is less than one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value on the date of grant, it shall otherwise comply with all Applicable Laws, including Section 409A of the Code; and


(C) Notwithstanding the foregoing, Options may be granted with a per Share exercise price other than as required above pursuant to a merger or other corporate transaction.

(ii) Permissible Consideration. The consideration to be paid for the Shares to be issued upon exercise of an Option, including the method of payment, shall be determined by the Administrator (and, in the case of an Incentive Option and to the extent required by Applicable Laws, shall be determined at the time of grant) and may consist entirely of (1) cash; (2) check; (3) to the extent permitted under Applicable Laws, delivery of a promissory note with such recourse, interest, security and redemption provisions as the Administrator determines to be appropriate; (4) cancellation of indebtedness; (5) other previously owned Shares that have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Shares as to which the Option is exercised; (6) a Cashless Exercise; (7) such other consideration and method of payment permitted under Applicable Laws; or (8) any combination of the foregoing methods of payment. In making its determination as to the type of consideration to accept, the Administrator shall consider if acceptance of such consideration may be reasonably expected to benefit the Company and the Administrator may, in its sole discretion, refuse to accept a particular form of consideration at the time of any Option exercise.

(c) Exercise of Option.

(i) General.

(A) Exercisability. Any Option granted hereunder shall be exercisable at such times and under such conditions as determined by the Administrator, consistent with the terms of the Plan and reflected in the Option Agreement, including vesting requirements and/or performance criteria with respect to the Company, Parent, Subsidiary or Affiliate, and/or Optionee.

(B) Leave of Absence. The Administrator shall have the discretion to determine whether and to what extent the vesting of Options shall be tolled during any leave of absence; provided, however, that in the absence of such determination, vesting of Options shall be tolled during any unpaid leave (unless otherwise required by Applicable Laws). Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of military leave, vesting shall toll during any unpaid portion of such leave, provided that, upon an Optionee’s returning from military leave (under conditions that would entitle him or her to protection upon such return under the Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act), he or she shall be given vesting credit with respect to Options to the same extent as would have applied had the Optionee continued to provide services to the Company (or any Parent, Subsidiary or Affiliate, if applicable) throughout the leave on the same terms as he or she was providing services immediately prior to such leave.

(C) Minimum Exercise Requirements. An Option may be exercised for a fraction of a Share only to the extent that the Option provides for the issuance of a fraction of a Share upon exercise. The Administrator may require that an Option be exercised as to a minimum number of Shares, provided that such requirement shall not prevent an Optionee from exercising the full number of Shares as to which the Option is then exercisable.


(D) Procedures for and Results of Exercise. An Option shall be deemed exercised when written notice of such exercise has been received by the Company in accordance with the terms of the Option Agreement by the person entitled to exercise the Option and the Company has received full payment for the Shares with respect to which the Option is exercised and has paid, or made arrangements to satisfy, any applicable taxes, withholding, required deductions or other required payments in accordance with Section 9. The exercise of an Option shall result in a decrease in the number and class of Shares that thereafter may be available, both for purposes of the Plan and for sale under the Option, by the number and class of Shares as to which the Option is exercised.

(E) Rights as Holder of Securities. Until the issuance of Shares (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company), no rights as a holder of securities shall exist with respect to the Optioned Shares, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option; provided, however, that holders of Class B Common Stock, upon issuance, will have no rights to vote or receive dividends or distributions until the occurrence of an event described in Section 11(a) or Section 11(b) of the Plan. No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date the certificate representing the Shares is issued, except as provided in Section 11.

(ii) Termination of Continuous Service Status. The Administrator shall establish and set forth in the applicable Option Agreement the terms and conditions upon which an Option shall remain exercisable, if at all, following termination of an Optionee’s Continuous Service Status, which provisions may be waived or modified by the Administrator at any time. To the extent that an Option Agreement does not specify the terms and conditions upon which an Option shall terminate upon termination of an Optionee’s Continuous Service Status, the following provisions shall apply:

(A) General Provisions. If the Optionee (or other person entitled to exercise the Option) does not exercise the Option to the extent so entitled within the time specified below, the Option shall terminate and the Optioned Shares underlying the unexercised portion of the Option shall revert to the Plan. In no event may any Option be exercised after the expiration of the Option term as set forth in the Option Agreement (and subject to this Section).

(B) Termination other than Upon Disability or Death or for Cause. In the event of termination of an Optionee’s Continuous Service Status other than under the circumstances set forth in subsections (C) through (E) below, such Optionee may exercise any outstanding Option at any time within three (3) months following such termination to the extent the Optionee is vested in the Optioned Shares.

(C) Disability of Optionee. In the event of termination of an Optionee’s Continuous Service Status as a result of his or her Disability, such Optionee may exercise any outstanding Option at any time within six (6) months following such termination to the extent the Optionee is vested in the Optioned Shares.


(D) Death of Optionee. In the event of the death of an Optionee during the period of Continuous Service Status since the date of grant of any outstanding Option, or within three (3) months following termination of Optionee’s Continuous Service Status, the Option may be exercised by any beneficiaries designated in accordance with Section 15 below or, if there are no such beneficiaries, by the Optionee’s estate, or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, at any time within twelve (12) months following the date the Optionee’s Continuous Service Status terminated, but only to the extent the Optionee is vested in the Optioned Shares.

(E) Termination for Cause. In the event of termination of an Optionee’s Continuous Service Status for Cause, any outstanding Option (including any vested portion thereof) held by such Optionee shall immediately terminate in its entirety upon first notification to the Optionee of termination of the Optionee’s Continuous Service Status for Cause. If an Optionee’s Continuous Service Status is suspended pending an investigation of whether the Optionee’s Continuous Service Status will be terminated for Cause, all the Optionee’s rights under any Option, including the right to exercise the Option, shall be suspended during the investigation period. Nothing in this Section 7(c)(ii)(E) shall in any way limit the Company’s right to purchase unvested Shares issued upon exercise of an Option as set forth in the applicable Option Agreement.

(iii) Execution of Operating Agreement of the Company. It shall be a condition precedent to the exercise of an Option, in whole or in part, that the Optionee execute and deliver to the Company a counterpart to the operating agreement of the Company as in effect at the time of exercise. Such counterpart shall be in the form provided by the Company.

(d) Buyout Provisions. The Administrator may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted under the Plan based on such terms and conditions as the Administrator shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

8. Restricted Shares.

(a) Grant. When a right to receive Restricted Shares is granted under the Plan, the Company shall advise the recipient in writing of the terms, conditions and restrictions related thereto, including the number of Shares that such person shall be entitled to receive, the purchase price to be paid, if any (which shall be as determined by the Administrator, subject to Applicable Laws, including any applicable securities laws), and the time within which such person must accept such offer. Permissible consideration for Restricted Shares shall be determined by the Administrator and shall be the same as is set forth in Section 7(b)(ii) with respect to exercise of Options. The grant shall be accepted by execution of a Restricted Stock Agreement in the form determined by the Administrator.

(b) Repurchase Option.

(i) General. Unless the Administrator determines otherwise, the Restricted Stock Agreement shall grant the Company a repurchase option exercisable upon the voluntary or involuntary termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service Status for any reason (including death or Disability) at a purchase price equal the greater of the Fair Market Value or the original purchase price paid by the Participant for such Shares, if any, and in the event of a termination for Cause, at a purchase price equal the lesser of the Fair Market Value or the original purchase price paid by the Participant for such Shares, if any, with such purchase price being paid by cancellation of any indebtedness of the Participnat to the Company. The repurchase option shall lapse at such rate as the Administrator may determine.


(ii) Leave of Absence. The Administrator shall have the discretion to determine whether and to what extent the lapsing of Company repurchase rights shall be tolled during any leave of absence; provided, however, that in the absence of such determination, such lapsing shall be tolled during any unpaid leave (unless otherwise required by Applicable Laws). Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of military leave, the lapsing of Company repurchase rights shall toll during any unpaid portion of such leave, provided that, upon a Participant’s returning from military leave (under conditions that would entitle him or her to protection upon such return under the Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act), he or she shall be given vesting credit with respect to the Restricted Stock Agreement to the same extent as would have applied had the Participant continued to provide services to the Company (or any Parent, Subsidiary or Affiliate, if applicable) throughout the leave on the same terms as he or she was providing services immediately prior to such leave.

(c) Other Provisions. The Restricted Stock Agreement shall contain such other terms, provisions and conditions not inconsistent with the Plan as may be determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion. In addition, the provisions of Restricted Stock Agreements need not be the same with respect to each Participant.

(d) Rights as a Holder of Securities. Once the Restricted Shares are issued, the Participant shall have the rights equivalent to those of a holder of the securities, and shall be a record holder when his or her issuance of the Shares is entered upon the records of the duly authorized transfer agent of the Company, however, the Participant shall not be entitled to any voting rights or distributions or dividends, unless and until the occurrence of an event described in Section 11(a) or Section 11(b) of the Plan. No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date the Restricted Shares are issued, except as provided in Section 11 herein.

9. Taxes.

(a) As a condition of the grant, vesting and exercise of an Award, the Participant (or in the case of the Participant’s death or a permitted transferee, the person holding or exercising the Award) shall make such arrangements as the Administrator may require for the satisfaction of any applicable U.S. federal, state, local or foreign tax, withholding and any other required deductions or payments that may arise in connection with such Award. The Company shall not be required to issue any Shares under the Plan until such obligations are satisfied.

(b) The Administrator may, to the extent permitted under Applicable Laws, permit a Participant (or in the case of the Participant’s death or a permitted transferee, the person holding or exercising the Award) to satisfy all or part of his or her tax, withholding or any other required deductions or payments by Cashless Exercise or by surrendering Shares (either directly or by Share attestation) that he or she previously acquired; provided that, unless specifically permitted by the Company, any such Cashless Exercise must be an approved broker-assisted Cashless Exercise or the Shares withheld in the Cashless Exercise must be limited to avoid financial accounting charges under applicable accounting guidance and any such surrendered


Shares must have been previously held for any minimum duration required to avoid financial accounting charges under applicable accounting guidance. Any payment of taxes by surrendering Shares to the Company may be subject to restrictions, including, but not limited to, any restrictions required by rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

10. Non-Transferability of Awards.

(a) General. Except as set forth in this Section, Awards may not be sold, pledged, assigned, hypothecated, transferred or disposed of in any manner other than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution. The designation of a beneficiary by a Participant will not constitute a transfer. An Option may be exercised, during the lifetime of the holder of the Option, only by such holder or a transferee permitted by this Section.

(b) Limited Transferability Rights. Notwithstanding anything else in this Section, the Administrator may in its sole discretion grant Nonstatutory Options that may be transferred by instrument to an inter vivos or testamentary trust in which the Options are to be passed to beneficiaries upon the death of the trustor (settlor) or by gift to Family Members. Notwithstanding the foregoing, beginning with (i) the period when the Company begins to rely on the exemption described in Rule 12h-1(f)(1) promulgated under the Exchange Act, as determined by the Board in its sole discretion, and (ii) ending on the earlier of (A) the date when the Company ceases to rely on such exemption, as determined by the Board in its sole discretion, or (B) the date when the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, an Option, or prior to exercise, the Shares subject to the Option, may not be pledged, hypothecated or otherwise transferred or disposed of in any manner, including by entering into any short position, any “put equivalent position” or any “call equivalent position” (as defined in Rule 16a-1(h) and Rule 16a-1(b) of the Exchange Act, respectively), other than to (i) persons who are Family Members through gifts or domestic relations orders, or (ii) to an executor or guardian of the Participant upon the death or disability of the Participant. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, the Board, in its sole discretion, may permit transfers to the Company or in connection with a Corporate Transaction (as defined below) or other acquisition transactions involving the Company to the extent permitted by Rule 12h-1(f).

11. Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Merger or Certain Other Transactions.

(a) Changes in Capitalization. Subject to any action required under Applicable Laws by the holders of securities of the Company, (i) the numbers and class of Shares or other securities: (x) available for future Awards under Section 3 herein and (y) covered by each outstanding Award, (ii) the exercise price per Share of each outstanding Option, and (iii) any repurchase price per Share applicable to Shares issued pursuant to any Award, shall be automatically proportionately adjusted in the event of a Stock split, reverse Stock split, Stock dividend, combination, consolidation, reclassification of the Shares, subdivision of the Shares or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued Shares effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that the adjustments listed in clauses (i) —(iii) of this sentence shall only be made in respect of Shares that are the subject of the splits and other actions referred to in this sentence. In the event of a declaration of an extraordinary dividend payable in a form other than Shares in an amount that has a material effect on the Fair Market


Value, a recapitalization (including a recapitalization through a large nonrecurring cash dividend), a rights offering, a reorganization, merger, a spin-off, split-up, change in entity structure or a similar occurrence, the Administrator may make appropriate adjustments in one or more of (i) the numbers and class of Shares or other securities: (x) available for future Awards under Section 3 above and (y) covered by each outstanding Award, (ii) the exercise price per Share of each outstanding Option, and (iii) any repurchase price per Share applicable to Shares issued pursuant to any Award, and any such adjustment by the Administrator shall be made in the Administrator’s sole and absolute discretion and shall be final, binding and conclusive. Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of any class, or securities convertible into shares of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of Shares subject to an Award. If, by reason of a transaction described in this Section 11(a) or an adjustment pursuant to this Section 11(a), a Participant’s Award agreement or agreement related to any Optioned Shares or Restricted Shares covers additional or different shares or securities, then such additional or different shares, and the Award agreement or agreement related to the Optioned Shares or Restricted Shares in respect thereof, shall be subject to all of the terms, conditions and restrictions which were applicable to the Award, Optioned Shares and Restricted Shares prior to such adjustment.

(b) Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the Company, each Award will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such action, unless otherwise determined by the Administrator.

(c) Corporate Transactions. In the event of a sale of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets, or a merger, consolidation or other capital reorganization or business combination transaction of the Company with or into another corporation, entity or person (a “Corporate Transaction”) and, except as otherwise provided in the applicable Award agreement, each outstanding Award, and/or Shares acquired pursuant to an Award that are unvested as of the consummation of the transaction (“Unvested Shares”), shall be subject to the applicable merger or purchase agreement. Such agreement may provide, without limitation, for the assumption or substitution of outstanding Awards and/or Unvested Shares by the surviving entity or its parent, for the replacement of outstanding Awards and/or, subject to compliance with Applicable Laws, Unvested Shares with a cash incentive program of the surviving entity which preserves the value of such Awards and/or Shares and provides for subsequent payout in accordance with the same vesting provisions applicable to those Awards and/or Shares, for accelerated vesting of outstanding Awards and/or Unvested Shares, for the cancellation of outstanding Awards or for the repurchase of Unvested Shares at the original purchase price paid for the Unvested Shares, with or without consideration and, in all cases, without the consent of the Participant. In the event that the successor or a parent or subsidiary of such successor does not agree to assume any outstanding Option, each such Option shall terminate upon the consummation of the Corporate Transaction.

12. Time of Granting of Awards. The date of grant of an Award shall, for all purposes, be the date on which the Administrator makes the determination granting such Award, or such other date as is determined by the Administrator.

13. Amendment and Termination of the Plan. The Board may at any time amend or terminate the Plan, but no amendment or termination shall be made that would materially and adversely affect the rights of any Participant under any outstanding Award, without his or her consent. In addition, to the extent necessary and desirable to comply with Applicable Laws, the Company shall obtain the approval of holders of securities with respect to any Plan amendment in such a manner and to such a degree as required.


14. Conditions Upon Issuance of Shares. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan or any agreement entered into by the Company pursuant to the Plan, the Company shall not be obligated, and shall have no liability for failure, to issue or deliver any Shares under the Plan unless such issuance or delivery would comply with Applicable Laws, with such compliance determined by the Company in consultation with its legal counsel. As a condition to the exercise of any Option or issuance of any Restricted Shares, the Company may require the person exercising the Option or receiving the Restricted Shares to represent and warrant at the time of any such exercise or issuance that the Shares shall be held only for investment and without any present intention to sell or distribute such Shares if, in the opinion of counsel for the Company, such a representation is advisable or required by Applicable Laws. Shares issued upon exercise of Options or as Restricted Shares prior to the date, if ever, on which the Shares become a Listed Security shall be subject to a right of first refusal in favor of the Company pursuant to which the Participant will be required to offer Shares to the Company before selling or transferring them to any third party on such terms and subject to such conditions as is reflected in the applicable Option Agreement or Restricted Stock Agreement.

15. Beneficiaries. If permitted by the Company, a Participant may designate one or more beneficiaries with respect to an Award by timely filing the prescribed form with the Company. A beneficiary designation may be changed by filing the prescribed form with the Company at any time before the Participant’s death. Except as otherwise provided in an Award Agreement, if no beneficiary was designated or if no designated beneficiary survives the Participant, then after a Participant’s death any vested Award(s) shall be transferred or distributed to the Participant’s estate or to any person who has the right to acquire the Award by bequest or inheritance.

16. Approval of Holders of Securities. If required by Applicable Laws, continuance of the Plan shall be subject to approval by the holders of securities of the Company within twelve (12) months before or after the date the Plan is adopted or, to the extent required by Applicable Laws, any date the Plan is amended. Such approval shall be obtained in the manner and to the degree required under Applicable Laws.

17. Addenda. The Administrator may approve such addenda to the Plan as it may consider necessary or appropriate for the purpose of granting Awards to Employees or Consultants, which Awards may contain such terms and conditions as the Administrator deems necessary or appropriate to accommodate differences in local law, tax policy or custom, which may deviate from the terms and conditions set forth in this Plan. The terms of any such addenda shall supersede the terms of the Plan to the extent necessary to accommodate such differences but shall not otherwise affect the terms of the Plan as in effect for any other purpose.

Exhibit 10.7

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

EMPLOYEE INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

1. Purposes of the Plan. The Plan is intended to increase stockholder value and the success of the Company by motivating Employees to (a) perform to the best of their abilities and (b) achieve the Company’s objectives.

2. Definitions.

2.1 “Actual Award” means as to any Performance Period, the actual award (if any) payable to a Participant for the Performance Period, subject to the authority of the Administrator (as defined in Section 3) under Section 4.4.

2.2 “Administrator” has the meaning ascribed to it under Section 3.1.

2.3 “Affiliate” means any corporation or other entity (including, but not limited to, partnerships and joint ventures) that, from time to time and at the time of any determination, directly or indirectly, is in control of or is controlled by the Company.

2.4 “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

2.5 “Bonus Pool” means the pool of funds available for distribution to Participants. Subject to the terms of the Plan, the Administrator establishes the Bonus Pool for each Performance Period.

2.6 “Code” means the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Reference to a specific section of the Code or regulation thereunder will include such section or regulation, any valid regulation or formal guidance of general or direct applicability promulgated under such section or regulation, and any comparable provision of any future legislation or regulation amending, supplementing or superseding such section or regulation.

2.7 “Committee” means a committee appointed by the Board (pursuant to Section 3) to administer the Plan.

2.8 “Company” means Thorne HealthTech, Inc., a Delaware corporation, or any successor thereto.

2.9 “Company Group” means the Company and any Parents, Subsidiaries, and Affiliates.

2.10 “Disability” means a permanent and total disability determined in accordance with uniform and nondiscriminatory standards adopted by the Administrator from time to time.

 


2.11 “Employee” means any executive, officer, or other employee of the Company Group, whether such individual is so employed at the time the Plan is adopted or becomes so employed subsequent to the adoption of the Plan.

2.12 “Fiscal Year” means the fiscal year of the Company.

2.13 “Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Code Section 424(e).

2.14 “Participant” means as to any Performance Period, an Employee who has been selected by the Administrator for participation in the Plan for that Performance Period and who has, if so requested by the Company or the employing member of the Company Group, signed an acknowledgement form in the form provided by the Company Group.

2.15 “Performance Period” means the period of time for the measurement of the performance criteria that must be met to receive an Actual Award, as determined by the Administrator. A Performance Period may be divided into one or more shorter periods if, for example, but not by way of limitation, the Administrator desires to measure some performance criteria over twelve (12) months and other criteria over three (3) months.

2.16 “Plan” means this Employee Incentive Compensation Plan (including any appendix attached hereto), as may be amended from time to time.

2.17 “Section 409A” means Section 409A of the Code and/or any state law equivalent as each may be amended or promulgated from time to time.

2.18 “Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Code Section 424(f), in relation to the Company.

2.19 “Target Award” means the target award, at 100% of target level performance achievement, payable under the Plan to a Participant for a Performance Period, as determined by the Administrator in accordance with Section 4.2.

2.20 “Tax Withholdings” means tax, social insurance and social security liability or premium obligations in connection with the awards under the Plan, including without limitation: (a) all federal, state, and local income, employment and any other taxes (including the Participant’s U.S. Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) obligation) that are required to be withheld by the Company Group, (b) the Participant’s and, to the extent required by the Company Group, the fringe benefit tax liability of the Company Group associated with an award under the Plan, and (c) any other taxes or social insurance or social security liabilities or premium the responsibility for which the Participant has, or has agreed to bear, with respect to such award under the Plan.

2.21 “Termination of Employment” means a cessation of the employee-employer relationship between an Employee and the Company Group, including without limitation a termination by resignation, discharge, death, Disability, retirement, or the disaffiliation of a Parent, Subsidiary or Affiliate. For purposes of the Plan, transfer of employment of a Participant between any members of the Company Group (for example, between the Company and a Subsidiary) will not be deemed a Termination of Employment.

 

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3. Administration of the Plan.

3.1 Administrator. The Plan will be administered by the Board or a Committee (the “Administrator”). The members of any Committee will be appointed from time to time in a manner that satisfies applicable laws by, and serve at the pleasure of, the Board. The Board may retain the authority to administer the Plan concurrently with a Committee and may revoke the delegation of some or all authority previously delegated. Different Administrators may administer the Plan with respect to different groups of Employees. Unless and until the Board otherwise determines, the Board’s Compensation Committee will administer the Plan.

3.2 Administrator Authority. It will be the duty of the Administrator to administer the Plan in accordance with the Plan’s provisions and in accordance with applicable law. The Administrator will have all powers and discretion necessary or appropriate to administer the Plan and to control its operation, including, but not limited to, the power to (a) determine which Employees will be granted awards, (b) prescribe the terms and conditions of awards, (c) interpret the Plan and the awards, (d) adopt such procedures, appendices and sub-plans as are necessary or appropriate to permit participation in the Plan by Employees who are non-U.S. nationals or employed outside of the U.S. or to qualify awards for special tax treatment under the laws of jurisdictions other than the U.S., (e) adopt rules for the administration, interpretation and application of the Plan as are consistent therewith, and (f) interpret, amend or revoke any such rules. Any determinations and decisions made or to be made by the Administrator pursuant to the provisions of the Plan, unless specified otherwise by the Administrator, will be in the Administrator’s sole discretion.

3.3 Decisions Binding. All determinations and decisions made by the Administrator and/or any delegate of the Administrator pursuant to the provisions of the Plan will be final, conclusive, and binding on all persons, and will be given the maximum deference permitted by law.

3.4 Delegation by Administrator. The Administrator, on such terms and conditions as it may provide, may delegate all or part of its authority and powers under the Plan to one or more directors and/or officers of the Company. Such delegation may be revoked at any time.

3.5 Indemnification. Each person who is or will have been a member of the Administrator will be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against and from (a) any loss, cost, liability, or expense that may be imposed upon or reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with or resulting from any claim, action, suit, or proceeding to which he or she may be a party or in which he or she may be involved by reason of any action taken or failure to act under the Plan or any award, and (b) from any and all amounts paid by him or her in settlement thereof, with the Company’s approval, or paid by him or her in satisfaction of any judgment in any such claim, action, suit, or proceeding against him or her, provided he or she will give the Company an opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend the same before he or she undertakes to handle and defend it on his or her own behalf. The foregoing right of indemnification will not be exclusive of any other rights of indemnification to which such persons may be entitled under the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws, by contract, as a matter of law, or otherwise, or under any power that the Company may have to indemnify them or hold them harmless.

 

-3-


4. Selection of Participants and Determination of Awards.

4.1 Selection of Participants. The Administrator will select the Employees who will be Participants for any Performance Period. Participation in the Plan will be on a Performance Period by Performance Period basis. Accordingly, an Employee who is a Participant for a given Performance Period in no way is guaranteed or assured of being selected for participation in any subsequent Performance Period or Performance Periods. No Employee will have the right to be selected to receive an award under this Plan or, if so selected, to be selected to receive a future award.

4.2 Determination of Target Awards. The Administrator may establish a Target Award for each Participant (which may be expressed as a percentage of a Participant’s average annual base salary for the Performance Period or a fixed dollar amount or such other amount or based on such other formula or factors as the Administrator determines).

4.3 Bonus Pool. Each Performance Period, the Administrator may establish a Bonus Pool, which pool may be established before, during or after the applicable Performance Period. Actual Awards will be paid from the Bonus Pool, if a Bonus Pool has been established.

4.4 Discretion to Modify Awards. Notwithstanding any contrary provision of the Plan, the Administrator, at any time prior to payment of an Actual Award, may: (a) increase, reduce or eliminate a Participant’s Actual Award, and/or (b) increase, reduce or eliminate the amount allocated to the Bonus Pool. The Actual Award may be below, at or above the Target Award, as determined by the Administrator. The Administrator may determine the amount of any increase, reduction, or elimination based on such factors as it deems relevant, and will not be required to establish any allocation or weighting with respect to the factors it considers.

4.5 Discretion to Determine Criteria. Notwithstanding any contrary provision of the Plan, the Administrator will determine the performance goals, if any, applicable to any Target Award (or portion thereof) which may include, without limitation, goals related to: attainment of research and development milestones; sales bookings; business divestitures and acquisitions; capital raising; cash flow; cash position; contract awards or backlog; corporate transactions; customer renewals; customer retention rates from an acquired company, subsidiary, business unit or division; earnings (which may include any calculation of earnings, including but not limited to earnings before interest and taxes, earnings before taxes, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and net taxes); earnings per share; expenses; financial milestones; gross margin; growth in stockholder value relative to the moving average of the S&P 500 Index or another index; internal rate of return; leadership development or succession planning; license or research collaboration arrangements; market share; net income; net profit; net sales; new product or business development; new product invention or innovation; number of customers; operating cash flow; operating expenses; operating income; operating margin; overhead or other expense reduction; patents; procurement; product defect measures; product release timelines; productivity; profit; regulatory milestones or regulatory-related goals; retained earnings; return on assets; return on capital; return on equity; return on investment; return on sales; revenue; revenue growth; sales results; sales growth; savings; stock price; time to market; total stockholder return; working capital; unadjusted or adjusted actual contract value; unadjusted or adjusted total contract value; and individual objectives such as peer reviews or other subjective or objective criteria. As

 

-4-


determined by the Administrator, the performance goals may be based on U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) or non-GAAP results and any actual results may be adjusted by the Administrator for one-time items or unbudgeted or unexpected items and/or payments of Actual Awards under the Plan when determining whether the performance goals have been met. The performance goals may be based on any factors the Administrator determines relevant, including without limitation on an individual, divisional, portfolio, project, business unit, segment or Company-wide basis. Any criteria used may be measured on such basis as the Administrator determines, including without limitation: (a) in absolute terms, (b) in combination with another performance goal or goals (for example, but not by way of limitation, as a ratio or matrix), (c) in relative terms (including, but not limited to, results for other periods, passage of time and/or against another company or companies or an index or indices), (d) on a per-share basis, (e) against the performance of the Company as a whole or a segment of the Company and/or (f) on a pre-tax or after-tax basis. The performance goals may differ from Participant to Participant and from award to award. Failure to meet the applicable performance goals will result in a failure to earn the Target Award, except as provided in Section 4.4. The Administrator also may determine that a Target Award (or portion thereof) will not have a performance goal associated with it but instead will be granted (if at all) as determined by the Administrator.

4.6 Appendices and Sub-Plan. The Administrator may determine, at any time prior to payment of an Actual Award, that any Target Award or Actual Award (or portion thereof) are subject to any special provisions set forth in a country-specific appendix (or portion thereof) or sub-plan made available to the Participant in connection with this Award Agreement (as may be amended and/or restated from time to time) (collectively, an “Applicable Appendix”). If the Administrator determines that an Applicable Appendix applies, such terms and conditions supplement, amend and/or supersede the terms of this Plan, provided, however, that no such terms or conditions shall be effective with respect to a Participant who is a U.S. taxpayer or otherwise subject to Section 409A unless such terms and conditions would result in the terms of a Target Award or Actual Award to such Participant remaining exempt or excepted from the requirements of Section 409A pursuant to the “short-term deferral” exception or another exception or exemption under Section 409A, or otherwise complying with Section 409A, in each case such that none of this Plan or Actual Awards provided under this Plan to such Participant will be subject to the additional tax imposed under Section 409A.

5. Payment of Awards.

5.1 Right to Receive Payment. Each Actual Award will be paid solely from the general assets of the Company Group. Nothing in this Plan will be construed to create a trust or to establish or evidence any Participant’s claim of any right other than as an unsecured general creditor with respect to any payment to which the Participant may be entitled.

5.1 Timing of Payment. Payment of each Actual Award will be made as soon as practicable after the end of the Performance Period to which the Actual Award relates and after the Actual Award is approved by the Administrator, but in no event after the later of (a) the fifteenth (15th) day of the third (3rd) month of the Fiscal Year immediately following the Fiscal Year in which the Participant’s Actual Award first becomes no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture, and (b) March 15 of the calendar year immediately following the calendar year in which the Participant’s Actual Award first becomes no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture. Unless otherwise determined by the Administrator, to earn an Actual Award a Participant must be employed by the Company Group on the date the Actual Award is paid, and in all cases subject to the Administrator’s discretion pursuant to Section 4.4.

 

-5-


5.2 Form of Payment. Subject to the terms of this Plan, including Section 6.1.2, each Actual Award generally will be paid in cash (or its equivalent) in a single lump sum. The Administrator reserves the right to settle an Actual Award with a grant of an equity award with such terms and conditions, including any vesting requirements, as determined by the Administrator.

5.3 Payment in the Event of Death or Disability. If a Termination of Employment occurs due to a Participant’s death or Disability prior to payment of an Actual Award that the Administrator has determined will be paid for a prior Performance Period, then the Actual Award will be paid to the Participant or the Participant’s estate, as the case may be, subject to the Administrator’s discretion pursuant to Section 4.4.

6. General Provisions.

6.1 Tax Matters.

6.1.1 Section 409A. It is the intent that this Plan be exempt from or comply with the requirements of Section 409A so that none of the payments to be provided hereunder will be subject to the additional tax imposed under Section 409A, and any ambiguities or ambiguous terms will be interpreted to be so exempt or so comply. Each payment under this Plan is intended to constitute a separate payment for purposes of Treasury Regulations Section 1.409A-2(b)(2). In no event will the Company Group have any liability, obligation, or responsibility to reimburse, indemnify or hold harmless any Participant or other Employee for any taxes, penalties or interest imposed, or other costs incurred, as a result of Section 409A.

6.1.2 Tax Withholdings. The Company Group will have the right and authority to deduct from any Actual Award all applicable Tax Withholdings. Prior to the payment of an Actual Award or such earlier time as any Tax Withholdings are due, the Company Group is permitted to deduct or withhold, or require a Participant to remit to the Company Group, an amount sufficient to satisfy any Tax Withholdings with respect to such Actual Award.

6.2 No Effect on Employment or Service. Neither the Plan nor any award under the Plan will confer upon a Participant any right regarding continuing the Participant’s relationship as an Employee or other service provider to the Company Group, nor will they interfere with or limit in any way the right of the Company Group or the Participant to terminate such relationship at any time, with or without cause, to the extent permitted by applicable laws.

6.3 Forfeiture Events.

6.3.1 Clawback Policy; Applicable Laws. All awards under the Plan will be subject to reduction, cancellation, forfeiture, or recoupment in accordance with any clawback policy that the Company Group is required to adopt pursuant to the listing standards of any national securities exchange or association on which the Company’s securities are listed or as is otherwise required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act or other applicable

 

-6-


laws. In addition, the Administrator may impose such other clawback, recovery or recoupment provisions with respect to an award under the Plan as the Administrator determines necessary or appropriate, including without limitation a reacquisition right in respect of previously acquired cash, stock, or other property provided with respect to an award. Unless this Section 6.3.1 is specifically mentioned and waived in a written agreement between a Participant and a member of the Company Group or other document, no recovery of compensation under a clawback policy will give the Participant the right to resign for “good reason” or “constructive termination” (or similar term) under any agreement with a member of the Company Group.

6.3.2 Additional Forfeiture Terms. The Administrator may specify when providing for an award under the Plan that the Participant’s rights, payments, and benefits with respect to the award will be subject to reduction, cancellation, forfeiture, or recoupment upon the occurrence of specified events, in addition to any otherwise applicable vesting or performance conditions of the award. Such events may include, without limitation, termination of the Participant’s status as an Employee for “cause” or any act by a Participant, whether before or after the Participant’s status as an Employee terminates, that would constitute “cause.”

6.3.3 Accounting Restatements. If the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement due to the material noncompliance of the Company, as a result of misconduct, with any financial reporting requirement under the securities laws, then any Participant who knowingly or through gross negligence engaged in the misconduct, or who knowingly or through gross negligence failed to prevent the misconduct, and any Participant who is one of the individuals subject to automatic forfeiture under Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, will reimburse the Company Group the amount of any payment with respect to an award earned or accrued during the twelve (12) month period following the first public issuance or filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (whichever first occurred) of the financial document embodying such financial reporting requirement.

6.4 Successors. All obligations of the Company under the Plan, with respect to awards under the Plan, will be binding on any successor to the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or indirect purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise, of all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company.

6.5 Nontransferability of Awards. No award under the Plan may be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or hypothecated, other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and except as provided in Section 5.3. All rights with respect to an award granted to a Participant will be available during his or her lifetime only to the Participant.

7. Amendment, Termination, and Duration.

7.1 Amendment, Suspension, or Termination. The Administrator may amend or terminate the Plan, or any part thereof, at any time and for any reason. The amendment, suspension or termination of the Plan will not, without the consent of the Participant, alter or impair any rights or obligations under any Actual Award earned by such Participant. No award may be granted during any period of suspension or after termination of the Plan. Any payments under this Plan, including the method of calculating such payments, do not create any contractual or other acquired right to participate in a similar Plan, receive any similar payments (or benefits in lieu) or have the Participant’s payments calculated in a certain way in the future. The actual or anticipated value of any awards under the Plan will not be taken into account in assessing any other employment benefits or termination payments, including any payments in lieu of notice or severance, except as required by applicable law.

 

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7.2 Duration of Plan. The Plan will commence on the date first adopted by the Board or the Compensation Committee of the Board, and subject to Section 7.1 (regarding the Administrator’s right to amend or terminate the Plan), will remain in effect thereafter until terminated.

8. Legal Construction.

8.1 Gender and Number. Unless otherwise indicated by the context, any feminine term used herein also will include the masculine and any masculine term used herein also will include the feminine; the plural will include the singular and the singular will include the plural.

8.2 Severability. If any provision of the Plan is or becomes or is deemed to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable for any reason in any jurisdiction or as to any Participant, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability will not affect the remaining parts of the Plan, and the Plan will be construed and enforced as if the invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision had not been included.

8.3 Governing Law. The Plan and all awards and all determinations made and actions taken under the Plan will be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of New York, but without regard to its conflict of law provisions. For purposes of litigating any dispute that arises under this Plan, a Participant’s acceptance of an award is his or her consent to the jurisdiction of the State of New York resides, and agreement that any such litigation will be conducted in Santa Clara County, New York, or the federal courts for the United States for the Northern District of New York, and no other courts, regardless of where a Participant’s services are performed. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an Applicable Appendix may provide that, with respect to the Participant, the Plan and one or more awards and determinations actions taken under the Plan will be construed in accordance with and governed by, the country where the Participant permanently resides or, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, such other jurisdiction as the Applicable Appendix may provide, and may provide for consent to jurisdiction, and agreement that litigation will be conducted in, the country where the Participant permanently resides or, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, such other jurisdiction as the Applicable Appendix may provide.

8.4 Bonus Plan. The Plan is intended to be a “bonus program” as defined under U.S. Department of Labor regulations section 2510.3-2(c) and will be construed and administered in accordance with such intention.

8.5 Headings. Headings are provided herein for convenience only, and will not serve as a basis for interpretation or construction of the Plan.

 

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8.6 Severability. In case any one or more of the provisions contained in the Plan shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision of the Plan, but the Plan shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions had never been contained herein.

9. Compliance with Applicable Laws. Awards under the Plan (including without limitation the granting of such awards) will be subject to all applicable laws, rules and regulations, and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be required.

*    *    *

 

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PARTICIPANT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

You have been designated as a Participant who may be eligible to participate in the Employee Incentive Compensation Plan (Plan”), subject to meeting the terms of the Plan [, the attached Applicable Appendix] and this Acknowledgment Form. You must sign and return this Acknowledgment Form to become an eligible Participant in the Plan. Relevant details in relation to your participation in the Plan are set out in the Plan.

By signing below, you acknowledge and agree that you received a copy of the Plan and have read and understand its terms. You acknowledge that you have not relied upon any representations or statements made by the Company or any of its affiliates which are not specifically set out in the Plan. You understand that the Plan, your participation in the Plan and any awards made under the Plan are discretionary and that the Company may amend, suspend, replace or terminate the Plan at any time and for any reason, in its sole discretion in accordance with the terms of the Plan to the full extent permitted under applicable law.

 

Name: ________________________________________

  

Signature: _____________________________________

  

Date: ________________

 

-10-

Exhibit 10.9

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

OUTSIDE DIRECTOR COMPENSATION POLICY

Adopted and approved July 9, 2021, and effective as of the Effective Date

Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Company”) believes that providing cash and equity compensation to members of its Board of Directors (the “Board,” and members of the Board, the “Directors”) represents an effective tool to attract, retain and reward Directors who are not employees of the Company (the “Outside Directors”). This Outside Director Compensation Policy (the “Policy”) is intended to formalize the Company’s policy regarding cash compensation and grants of equity awards to its Outside Directors. Unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used in this Policy will have the meaning given such term in the Company’s 2021 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended from time to time (or if such plan no longer is in use at the time of the grant of an equity award, the meaning given such term or any similar term in the equity plan then in place under which such equity award is granted) (such applicable plan, the “Plan”). Each Outside Director will be solely responsible for any tax obligations incurred by such Outside Director as a result of the equity awards and cash and other compensation such Outside Director receives under this Policy.

Subject to Section 9 of this Policy, this Policy will be effective as of the date of the first sale of Shares (or other common equity securities of the Company) to the general public upon the closing of an underwritten public offering (1) pursuant to an effective registration statement filed pursuant to Section 12(b) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and (2) immediately after which such securities (i.e., the Shares or other common equity securities of the Company) are registered on a national securities exchange (as defined under then-applicable United States federal securities laws and regulations) (such date, the “Effective Date”).

1. CASH COMPENSATION

a. Annual Cash Retainers for Service as Outside Director. Each Outside Director will be paid a cash retainer of $40,000 per year. There are no per-meeting attendance fees for attending Board meetings or meetings of any committee of the Board.

b. Additional Annual Cash Retainers for Service as Non-Employee Chair, Committee Chair and Committee Member

i. As of the Effective Date, each Outside Director who serves as the Non-Employee Chair or chair or a member of a committee of the Board will be eligible to earn additional annual fees as follows:

 

Non-Employee Chair:

   $ 35,000  

Audit Committee Chair:

   $ 20,000  

Member of Audit Committee:

   $ 10,000  

Compensation Committee Chair:

   $ 15,000  

Member of Compensation Committee:

   $ 7,500  


For clarity, each Outside Director who serves as the chair of a committee will receive only the additional annual fee as the chair of the committee and not the additional annual fee as a member of such committee while serving as such chair, provided that the Outside Director who serves as the Non-Employee Chair will receive the annual fee as an Outside Director and the additional annual fee as the Non-Employee Chair.

c. Payments. Each annual cash retainer under this Policy will be paid quarterly in arrears on a prorated basis to each Outside Director who has served in the relevant capacity at any point during the immediately preceding fiscal quarter of the Company (“Fiscal Quarter”), and such payment will be made no later than 30 days following the end of such immediately preceding Fiscal Quarter. For purposes of clarity, an Outside Director who has served as an Outside Director, as a member of an applicable committee (or chair thereof) during only a portion of the relevant Fiscal Quarter will receive a prorated payment of the quarterly payment of the applicable annual cash retainer(s), calculated based on the number of days during such Fiscal Quarter such Outside Director has served in the relevant capacities. For purposes of clarity, an Outside Director who has served as an Outside Director, as a member of an applicable committee (or chair thereof), as applicable, from the Effective Date through the end of the Fiscal Quarter containing the Effective Date (the “Initial Period”) will receive a prorated payment of the quarterly payment of the applicable annual cash retainer(s), calculated based on the number of days during the Initial Period that such Outside Director has served in the relevant capacities.

2. EQUITY COMPENSATION

Outside Directors will be eligible to receive all types of Awards (except Incentive Stock Options) under the Plan, including discretionary Awards not covered under this Policy. All grants of Awards to Outside Directors pursuant to Section 2 of this Policy will be automatic and nondiscretionary, except as otherwise provided herein, and will be made in accordance with the following provisions:

a. No Discretion. No person will have any discretion to select which Outside Directors will be granted any Awards under this Policy or to determine the number of Shares to be covered by such Awards, except as provided in Sections 2(c)(iii) and 9 below.

b. Annual Award. On the first Trading Day immediately following the each Annual Meeting of the Company’s stockholders (an “Annual Meeting”) that occurs after the Effective Date, each Outside Director automatically will be granted an award of Restricted Stock Units (an “Annual Award”) covering a number of Shares having a Value of $180,000; provided that the first Annual Award granted to an individual who first becomes an Outside Director following the Effective Date will have a Value equal to the product of (A) $180,000 multiplied by (B) a fraction, (i) the numerator of which is the number of fully completed days between the applicable date on which such individual first becomes an Outside Director and the date of the first Annual Meeting to occur after such individual first becomes an Outside Director, and (ii) the denominator of which is 365; and provided further that any resulting fraction shall be rounded down to the nearest whole Share. Each Annual Award will be scheduled to vest on the earlier of (x) the 1-year anniversary of the Annual Award’s grant date, or (y) the day immediately before the date of the next Annual Meeting following the Annual Award’s grant date, in each case, subject to the Outside Director continuing to be an Outside Director through the applicable vesting date.

 

2


c. Additional Terms of Annual Awards. The terms and conditions of each Annual Award will be as follows:

i. Each Annual Award will be granted under and subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and the applicable form of Award Agreement previously approved by the Board or its Compensation Committee, as applicable, for use thereunder.

ii. For purposes of this Policy, “Value” means the grant date fair value as determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or such other methodology the Board or any committee of the Board designed by the Board with appropriate authority (the “Designated Committee”), as applicable, may determine prior to the grant of the applicable Award becoming effective.

iii. Revisions. The Board or the Designated Committee, as applicable and in its discretion, may change and otherwise revise the terms of Annual Awards granted under this Policy, including, without limitation, the number of Shares subject thereto and type of Award.

3. OTHER COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Outside Directors also may be eligible to receive other compensation and benefits, as may be determined by the Board or its Designated Committee, as applicable, from time to time.

4. CHANGE IN CONTROL

In the event of a Change in Control, each Outside Director will fully vest in his or her outstanding Company equity awards as of immediately prior to a Change in Control, including any Annual Awards, provided that the Outside Director continues to be an Outside Director through the date of the Change in Control.

5. ANNUAL COMPENSATION LIMIT

No Outside Director may be granted Awards with Values, and be provided cash retainers or fees, with amounts that, in any Fiscal Year, in the aggregate, exceed $1,000,000. Any Awards or other compensation provided to an individual (a) for his or her services as an Employee, or for his or her services as a Consultant other than as an Outside Director, or (b) prior to the Effective Date, will be excluded for purposes of the foregoing limit.

6. TRAVEL EXPENSES

Each Outside Director’s reasonable, customary, and properly documented, out-of-pocket travel expenses to meetings of the Board and any of its committees, as applicable, will be reimbursed by the Company.

 

3


7. CODE SECTION 409A

In no event will cash compensation or expense reimbursement payments under this Policy be paid after the later of (a) the fifteenth (15th) day of the third (3rd) month following the end of the Company’s taxable year in which the compensation is earned or expenses are incurred, as applicable, or (b) the fifteenth (15th) day of the third (3rd) month following the end of the calendar year in which the compensation is earned or expenses are incurred, as applicable, in compliance with the “short-term deferral” exception under Code Section 409A. It is the intent of this Policy that this Policy and all payments hereunder be exempt or excepted from or otherwise comply with the requirements of Code Section 409A so that none of the compensation to be provided hereunder will be subject to the additional tax imposed under Code Section 409A, and any ambiguities or ambiguous terms herein will be interpreted to be so exempt or comply. In no event will the Company Group have any responsibility, liability or obligation to reimburse, indemnify, or hold harmless an Outside Director or any other person for any taxes imposed, or other costs incurred, as a result of Code Section 409A.

8. STOCKHOLDER APPROVAL

The initial adoption of this Policy will be subject to approval by the Company’s stockholders prior to the Effective Date. Unless otherwise required by applicable law, following such approval, the Policy will not be subject to approval by the Company’s stockholders, including, for the avoidance of doubt, as a result of or in connection with an action taken with respect to this Policy as contemplated in Section 9.

9. REVISIONS

The Board may amend, alter, suspend or terminate this Policy at any time and for any reason. No amendment, alteration, suspension or termination of this Policy will materially impair the rights of an Outside Director with respect to compensation that already has been paid or awarded, unless otherwise mutually agreed in writing between the Outside Director and the Company. Termination of this Policy will not affect the Board’s or the Designated Committee’s ability to exercise the powers granted to it with respect to Awards granted pursuant to this Policy prior to the date of such termination, including without limitation such applicable powers set forth in the Plan.

*                *                 *

 

4

Exhibit 10.10

Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

LEASE AGREEMENT

BETWEEN

GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC

a Delaware limited liability company,

as Landlord

and

THORNE RESEARCH, INC.

an Idaho corporation,

as Tenant

Address of Premises:

Omni Industrial Campus Lot 3, Summerville, South Carolina


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Article 1

     1  
    1.1      Lease of Premises; Acquisition Contingency, Title and Condition      1  
    1.2      Use      4  
    1.3      Lease Term      5  
    1.4      Rent      7  
    1.5      Security Deposit      8  

Article 2

     9  
    2.1      Net Lease      9  
    2.2      Taxes and Assessments; Compliance with Law      10  
    2.3      Liens      13  
    2.4      Indemnification      14  
    2.5      Maintenance and Repair      15  
    2.6      Permitted Contests      16  

Article 3

     17  
    3.1      Condemnation and Casualty      17  
    3.2      Repair      19  
    3.3      Insurance      22  
    3.4      Alterations      25  
    3.5      Easements      29  

Article 4

     29  
    4.1      Assignment and Subletting      29  

Article 5

     33  
    5.1      Conditional Limitations; Default Provisions      33  
    5.2      Additional Rights of Landlord      36  

Article 6

     37  
    6.1      Notices and Other Instruments      37  
    6.2      Estoppel Certificates, Subordination, Non-Disturbance and Attornment; Financial Information      38  

Article 7

     40  
    7.1      Environmental Matters      40  
    7.2      Environmental Indemnity      43  
    7.3      Remediation/Compliance Standards; Tenant’s Right to Contest; Declaration of Environmental Restrictions      44  

Article 8

     44  
    8.1      No Merger      44  
    8.2      Holdover      45  
    8.3      Surrender      45  

 

i


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  8.4    Severability; Binding Effect      45  
  8.5    Table of Contents and Headings      46  
  8.6    Counterparts      46  
  8.7    Recording of Lease      46  
  8.8    No Waiver, Amendments      46  
  8.9    No Brokers/Advisors      46  
  8.10    Governing Law      46  
  8.11    Waiver of Jury Trial      47  
  8.12    Conveyance by Landlord      47  
  8.13    Relationship of the Parties      47  
  8.14    Representation by Counsel      47  
  8.15    True Lease      47  
  8.16    Landlord’s Liability      47  
  8.17    Other Documents      48  
  8.18    Attorney Fees      48  
  8.19    Limitation on Liability; No Consequential Damages      48  
  8.20    Subordination/Waiver Of Landlord’s Lien      48  
  8.21    Entire Agreement      48  

 

ii


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

LIST OF SCHEDULES

 

Schedule A       Description of Land
Schedule B       Landlord’s Account for Payment of Base Monthly Rent
Exhibit A       Construction Addendum
Exhibit B       Calculation of Base Rent
Exhibit C       Memorandum of Lease
Exhibit D       Building Expansion

 

i


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

LEASE AGREEMENT

THIS LEASE AGREEMENT (this “Lease”), dated as of the 29th day of September, 2016 (the “Effective Date”), is made and entered into between GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (together with its successors and assigns, “Landlord”), having an address at c/o Gramercy Property Trust, 521 Fifth Avenue, 30th Floor, New York, New York 10175, and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation (together with its successors and assigns, herein called “Tenant”), having an address at 25820 Highway 2 West, Sandpoint, Idaho 83864.

ARTICLE 1

1.1 Lease of Premises; Acquisition Contingency, Title and Condition.

(a) In consideration of the rents and covenants herein stipulated to be paid and performed by Tenant and upon the terms and conditions herein specified, as of the Commencement Date (as hereinafter defined) unless this Lease is sooner terminated pursuant to Section 1.1(b) below or Sections 2.2 or 3.1 of Exhibit A attached hereto, Landlord hereby leases to Tenant, and Tenant hereby leases from Landlord, the premises (the “Premises”) consisting of:

(i) those certain parcels of land being commonly known as Omni Industrial Campus Lot 3, Summerville, South Carolina and more particularly described on Schedule A, attached hereto and made a part hereof, consisting of approximately 25.8 acres, together with all of the Landlord’s right, title and interest, if any, in and to (1) all easements, rights-of-way, appurtenances, and other rights and benefits belonging to such parcels of land, and (2) all public or private streets, roads, avenues, alleys, or passageways, open or proposed, on or abutting such parcels of land (collectively, the “Land”); and

(ii) the building to be located and constructed on the Land pursuant to Exhibit A attached hereto and made a part hereof, containing approximately 240,800 square feet of office, processing, storage and distribution space, together with all related nonstructural improvements and utilities to be located on the Premises, landscaping, site work improvement, all as initially described in the Preliminary Plans (as defined in Exhibit A attached hereto) and to be as more particularly shown and described in the Final Project Plans (as defined in Exhibit A attached hereto), together with all machinery, apparatus, equipment, fittings and appliances that are attached (or become attached in connection with its construction pursuant to Exhibit A, except as otherwise provided in Section 8.3) to the building or Land in a manner that such items cannot be removed or severed from the building or Land without causing material damage thereto and that are used in connection with the operation or maintenance of the building or Land, including all electrical, antipollution, heating, lighting (including hanging fluorescent lighting), incinerating, power, air cooling, air conditioning, humidification, sprinkling, plumbing, lifting, refrigeration, cleaning, fire prevention, fire extinguishing and ventilating systems, devices and machinery; and all engines, pipes, pumps, tanks (including exchange tanks and fuel storage tanks), motors, conduits, ducts, steam circulation coils, blowers, steam lines, compressors, oil burners, boilers, doors, windows, loading platforms, lavatory facilities, stairwells, fencing, elevators, racking systems, shelves, power generators, hot water heaters, furnaces and sinks, and the Tenant Improvements (as hereinafter defined) (collectively, the “Building Improvements”).

 


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the foregoing, the Premises shall not include Tenant’s business machinery, equipment, removable trade fixtures, motorized vehicles, tools, supplies and materials, security systems, cameras, inventory, stock in trade, pallets and other vehicles, furniture, copiers, computers, printers, scanners and office supplies, and the goods of Tenant’s customers or Tenant’s affiliates and other personal property and materials placed by Tenant or its affiliates or customers in or upon the Premises (collectively, the “Tenant’s Personal Property”), which shall remain the property of Tenant, or its affiliates or customers, as the case may be.

(b) This Lease is made subject to the condition that Landlord acquires fee title to the Premises on or before the Acquisition Deadline (defined below). If Landlord fails to acquire fee title to the Premises on or before the Acquisition Deadline, then this Lease shall be automatically terminated and of no further force or effect (subject, however, to the provisions hereof that expressly survive the termination of this Lease). If this Lease is terminated pursuant to this Section 1.1(b) for any reason other than termination of the Land Contract (defined below) due to a default by Landlord (as buyer), then Tenant shall reimburse Landlord, not later than ten (10) Business Days after receiving Landlord’s written demand (together with all supporting information reasonably requested by Tenant including, without limitation, work product prepared by third party vendors), for all costs and expenses incurred by Landlord in connection with the negotiation, preparation and performance of this Lease and/or Landlord’s acquisition or pursuit of the Premises, including (without limitation), Landlord’s travel and lodging expenses, reasonable attorney’s fees, non-refundable earnest money deposits under the Land Contract, fees, costs and expenses of architects, engineers, design professionals, surveyors and other consultants and contractors for or with respect to Landlord’s investigation of the Premises and preparation of plans and specifications for the improvements to be constructed hereunder, the Development Management G&A fees and Development Reimbursables. As used herein, the (i) “Acquisition Deadline” means September 30, 2016, subject to Landlord’s right to extend the Acquisition Deadline for up to an additional sixty (60) days by notice to Tenant not later than the original Acquisition Deadline, and (ii) the “Land Contract” means that certain Industrial Parcel Purchase and Sale Agreement dated April 19, 2016 between MWV-Omni, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, as seller, and Clarius Partners, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Clarius”), as buyer, as amended by (1) that certain Amendment to Industrial Parcel Purchase and Sale Agreement effective June 17, 2016, (2) that certain Amendment to Industrial Parcel Purchase and Sale Agreement effective July 13, 2016, (3) that certain Amendment to Industrial Parcel Purchase and Sale Agreement effective August 18, 2016, and (4) that certain Amendment to Industrial Parcel Purchase and Sale Agreement effective August 22, 2016, as assigned by Clarius to Landlord pursuant to that certain Assignment and Assumption of Purchase Agreement dated as of September 29, 2016, as the same may be amended or restated from time to time. Tenant’s obligations under this Section 1.1(b) shall survive the termination of this Lease.

(c) As of the Commencement Date (unless terminated sooner as provided in Section 1.1(b) above or Sections 2.2 or 3.1 of Exhibit A to this Lease), the Premises shall be leased to Tenant in their then present condition without representation or warranty by Landlord (but without limitation upon Landlord’s undertakings pursuant to Exhibit A attached hereto, subject to the existing state of title and any state of facts that an accurate survey or physical inspection might reveal, to all applicable Legal Requirements (as hereinafter defined) in effect as of and at any time after the Commencement Date, to all real estate taxes, assessments and water and sewer charges,

 

2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

and to any matter of public record as of the date thereof, together with other easements, rights of way, declarations or other matters of public record contemplated by and consistent with the Final Project Plans (as defined in Exhibit A) or required by any governmental or quasi-governmental authority in connection with the Final Completion (as defined in Exhibit A) of the Building Improvements (collectively, “Development Easements”); provided, however, that in the event that any Development Easements or any other easements, rights of way, covenants, declarations, restrictions or comparable instruments are required or deemed appropriate by Landlord after the Effective Date (as opposed to those that are contemplated by and consistent with the Final Project Plans) that could reasonably be anticipated by Tenant to: (i) be materially detrimental to the proper conduct of the Tenant’s business at the Premises; or (ii) impair the use, occupancy or enjoyment of the Premises for the Permitted Use in any material respect, Landlord shall obtain Tenant’s written consent prior to granting the recordation of the same (which consent shall be granted or denied within ten (10) days of Tenant’s receipt of Landlord’s request therefor and shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed)). After the Commencement Date, Landlord shall not voluntarily record against the Land any easements, rights of way, restrictions, covenants, declarations or other comparable instruments without obtaining Tenant’s prior written consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed); provided, however, that Landlord shall be permitted to record easements, rights of way, restrictions, covenants, declarations or other comparable instruments required by governmental or quasi-governmental authorities without obtaining Tenant’s consent, but will provide Tenant twenty (20) days prior written (or so much notice as is practicable under the circumstances) notice of the same before agreeing to any such instruments (to the extent Landlord has the right to agree) and Tenant shall have the right to contest the same pursuant to Section 2.6.

(d) EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY AND SPECIFICALLY SET FORTH HEREIN AND FOR LANDLORD’S OBLIGATION TO ACHIEVE FINAL COMPLETION OF THE BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS LEASE AND EXHIBIT A ATTACHED HERETO, UPON SUBSTANTIAL COMPLETION OF THE BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH EXHIBIT A ATTACHED HERETO, THE LEASE OF THE PREMISES SHALL BE ON AN “AS IS” BASIS, IT BEING AGREED THAT TENANT WILL ACCEPT AND LEASE THE PREMISES IN THEIR THEN PRESENT CONDITION, WITH ALL FAULTS. EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY AND SPECIFICALLY SET FORTH HEREIN, LANDLORD HEREBY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE RELATIVE TO THE PREMISES OR ANY COMPONENT PART THEREOF. EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY AND SPECIFICALLY SET FORTH HEREIN AND FOR LANDLORD’S OBLIGATION TO ACHIEVE FINAL COMPLETION OF THE BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS LEASE AND EXHIBIT A ATTACHED HERETO (WHICH SHALL NOT SURVIVE THE FINAL COMPLETION OF THE BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF THIS LEASE), TENANT ACKNOWLEDGES THAT LANDLORD (WHETHER ACTING AS LANDLORD HEREUNDER OR IN ANY OTHER CAPACITY) HAS NOT MADE AND WILL NOT MAKE, NOR SHALL LANDLORD BE DEEMED TO HAVE MADE, ANY WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT TO ANY OF THE PREMISES, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION AS TO (i) ITS FITNESS, DESIGN OR CONDITION FOR ANY

 

3


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

PARTICULAR USE OR PURPOSE, (ii) THE QUALITY OF THE MATERIAL OR WORKMANSHIP THEREIN, (iii) THE EXISTENCE OF ANY DEFECT, LATENT OR PATENT, (iv) VALUE, (v) COMPLIANCE WITH SPECIFICATIONS, (vi) LOCATION, (vii) USE, (viii) CONDITION, (ix) MERCHANTABILITY, (x) QUALITY, (xi) DESCRIPTION, (xii) DURABILITY, (xiii) OPERATION, (xiv) THE EXISTENCE OF ANY HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE, HAZARDOUS CONDITION OR HAZARDOUS ACTIVITY OR (xv) COMPLIANCE OF THE PREMISES WITH ANY LAW OR LEGAL REQUIREMENT. TENANT ACKNOWLEDGES THAT THE PREMISES WILL BE OF ITS SELECTION AND TO ITS SPECIFICATIONS AND THAT THE PREMISES WILL HAVE BEEN INSPECTED BY TENANT. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION HAVE BEEN NEGOTIATED, AND ARE INTENDED TO BE A COMPLETE EXCLUSION AND NEGATION OF ANY WARRANTIES BY LANDLORD, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WITH RESPECT TO ANY OF THE PREMISES, ARISING PURSUANT TO THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE OR ANY OTHER LAW NOW OR HEREAFTER IN EFFECT OR ARISING OTHERWISE. NOTWITHSTANDING THE FOREGOING, THE TERMS OF THIS SECTION SHALL BE WITHOUT LIMITATION UPON LANDLORD’S UNDERTAKINGS PURSUANT TO SECTION 1.2(b) HEREOF AND LANDLORD’S INDEMNIFICATION OBLIGATIONS PURSUANT TO SECTION 5.2(b) HEREOF.

Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, Landlord acknowledges and agrees that: (i) Tenant may make or pursue a claim based upon contract, warranty, tort (including negligence of any nature), or other legal theory against the General Contractor (as defined in Exhibit A) and/or any of the subcontractors of the General Contractor, the developer, the Architect (as defined in Exhibit A), engineers, design professionals, and other consultants and contractors with respect to the construction of the Building Improvements pursuant to Exhibit A and (ii) Tenant may exercise the non-exclusive license rights granted by Landlord to Tenant pursuant to Section 2.5(c) herein, subject to Landlord’s right to enforce the same in the event of any breach, default or failure of performance by Tenant hereunder. Landlord shall use commercially reasonable efforts to secure on behalf of Tenant industry standard (or better) warranties from the General Contractor, its subcontractors, the developer, the Architect, engineers, design professionals, and other consultants and contractors, and at the request of Tenant, reasonably cooperate with Tenant, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, in pursuing such claims and/or enforcing the Warranties (as defined below).

1.2 Use.

(a) Tenant may use, occupy and enjoy the Premises for, and only for, the Permitted Use (defined hereinafter). “Permitted Use” shall mean the use, occupancy and enjoyment of the Premises as a receiving, warehousing, shipping, manufacturing, development, testing, storage and distribution facility for Tenant’s nutritional supplements and related products, including office operations of Tenant and/or its affiliates (and related ancillary uses, including ATM machines and cafeteria use), or any other lawful use that is not a Prohibited Use (as defined hereinafter) and is approved by Landlord (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned). As used herein, “Prohibited Use” means a use of all or a portion of the Premises for any of the following: (i) any use or purpose that is prohibited under any recorded restrictions applicable to the Premises or for which the consent or approval of a third-party is required unless such consent is obtained; (ii) any use or purpose that involves the manufacture,

 

4


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

use, treatment, release, discharge or storage of Hazardous Materials, other than on an incidental basis in accordance with all applicable Legal Requirements (including Environment Laws) in connection with the Permitted Use; (iii) any use or purpose that would require a special use permit or variance (or the equivalent) under local building and zoning regulations unless such special use permit or variance is obtained; (iv) any use or purposes that would result in materially increased insurance premiums for the Premises (as compared to the insurance premiums that would apply to standard manufacturing, warehouse and distributions facilities with ancillary office uses); and (v) any use (other than the Permitted Use) that is inconsistent with the character of the Building Improvements or the industrial campus in which the Premises is located. Landlord and its agents and designees may enter upon and examine the Premises at reasonable times after one (1) business day’s notice to Tenant and show the Premises to prospective purchasers, or mortgagees as long as such examination or showing shall not unreasonably interfere with the business operations of Tenant on the Premises. In no event shall the Premises or any portion thereof be used for any purpose other than a Permitted Use. Tenant shall not use, occupy or permit the Premises to be used or occupied, nor do or permit anything to be done in or on the Premises in a manner that would (i) violate any certificate of occupancy or equivalent certificate affecting the Premises or violate any zoning or other law, ordinance or regulation governing the Premises; or (ii) constitute a public or private nuisance or waste.

(b) Landlord hereby covenants that, so long as Tenant is not then in default of its obligations under this Lease beyond any period for the notice and cure thereof, then Tenant shall peaceably hold and quietly enjoy the Premises subject to the terms of this Lease without interruption by Landlord, or any person, firm or corporation claiming by or through Landlord.

1.3 Lease Term.

(a) The initial term of this Lease (the “Initial Term”) shall be for a period commencing as of the Substantial Completion Date (as defined in Exhibit A attached hereto) (the “Commencement Date”) and expiring on the last day of the calendar month in which occurs the twentieth (20th) anniversary of the Substantial Completion Date (the “Expiration Date”), unless terminated sooner as provided in this Lease, each successive twelve (12) month increment thereof being sometimes referred to herein as a “Lease Year”, except that the first Lease Year shall be the period commencing on the Commencement Date and expiring on the last day of the calendar month in which occurs the first (1st) anniversary of the Commencement Date.

(b) Tenant shall have two (2) successive five (5) year options to extend the Initial Term (each an “Option Term” and collectively, the “Option Terms”) upon the same terms and conditions then in effect, except as expressly otherwise provided herein, exercisable by the delivery of written notice to Landlord by Tenant not less than twelve (12) months prior to the expiration of the Initial Term or the then current Option Term, as the case may be,. The Initial Term and all Options Terms, if applicable, are collectively referred to as the “Lease Term” or the “Term”.

(c) The Base Monthly Rent rate payable during an Option Term shall equal the greater of: (i) the annual Base Monthly Rent payable immediately prior to the commencement of such Option Term multiplied by multiplied by one hundred two and 50/100 percent (102.50%), and (ii) the then Fair Market Rent (as defined below) for the Premises.

 

5


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(d) If Tenant exercises an Option Term as provided herein, Landlord shall make the initial determination of the annual Fair Market Rent. Landlord shall notify Tenant in writing (the “FMR Notice”) of Landlord’s determination of the Fair Market Rent within thirty (30) days following receipt of Tenant’s renewal notice. Tenant shall notify Landlord in writing thirty (30) days of its receipt of Landlord’s FMR Notice whether or not it accepts Landlord’s determination of Fair Market Rent. If Tenant accepts Landlord’s determination, the Fair Market Rent shall be final and binding and Landlord shall prepare an amendment to this Lease that amends the Base Monthly Rent to reflect the new Fair Market Rent. Tenant’s failure to respond to Landlord’s FMR Notice within the thirty (30) day period shall be deemed an acceptance by Tenant of Landlord’s determination of Fair Market Rent. If Tenant delivers written notice (“Tenant’s Rejection Notice”) to Landlord within the thirty (30) day period rejecting Landlord’s determination of Fair Market Rent, the Parties agree to negotiate their differences in good faith within thirty (30) days (the “FMR Negotiation Period”) following Landlord’s receipt of Tenant’s Rejection Notice. If the parties fail to agree on a Fair Market Rent within the FMR Negotiation Period, then the parties agree to obtain an appraisal to determine the Fair Market Rent in accordance with the terms and conditions contained below.

(e) Landlord and Tenant each shall, within ten (10) days following the expiration of the FMR Negotiation Period, select an appraiser. Landlord’s appraiser and Tenant’s appraiser shall then, within ten (10) days following their appointment, designate a third appraiser. If the two appraisers cannot agree on the third appraiser within the ten (10) day period, Landlord and Tenant shall promptly make application to a court of competent jurisdiction seated in the county in which the Premises is located, to name the third appraiser. Each of the three appraisers shall: (i) be MAI certified by the Appraisal Institute/a member of the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers or comparable organization; (ii) be licensed in the State of South Carolina; and (iii) have a minimum of ten (10) years’ experience in the business of appraising or managing commercial real estate or acting as a commercial real estate broker or agent in the vicinity of Summerville, South Carolina.

(f) Within twenty (20) days after his appointment, the third appraiser acting as an expert and not as an arbitrator, shall choose either the appraised value, made by either the Landlord’s appraiser or Tenant’s appraiser and such choice of the third appraiser. The third appraiser shall be limited to awarding only one or the other of the two figures submitted by the parties’ appraisers. In any litigation between the parties in which the determination of the appraiser is at issue, the determination shall be final and binding on the parties unless the court finds that the selected appraised value is clearly erroneous.

(g) For the purposes of this Section, the term “Fair Market Rent” shall mean the rent paid by commercial tenants in the vicinity of Summerville, South Carolina, taking into account: (i) the transaction is an “arm’s length” transaction; (ii) the value of the property is for the land and the improvements located on the land; and (iii) the value is determined as the Premises is currently then being used.

(h) Landlord and Tenant shall each be responsible for the costs of expenses of their own appraisers and shall each be responsible for one-half of the costs and expenses incurred by the third appraiser.

 

6


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

1.4 Rent.

(a) Tenant shall pay Landlord in advance the Base Monthly Rent (defined hereinafter) commencing on the Base Rent Commencement Date (as defined in Exhibit A attached hereto) and, thereafter, on or before the first day of each succeeding calendar month (the “Payment Dates”). Base Monthly Rent shall be paid to Landlord by wire transfer in immediately available federal funds to the account set forth on Schedule B attached hereto or to such other account or to such address or to such other person as Landlord from time to time may designate to Tenant in writing. “Base Monthly Rent” shall mean an amount equal to 1/12th of the applicable Base Rent determined pursuant to, and in accordance with, Exhibit B attached hereto and made a part hereof (which Base Rent and Base Monthly Rent are subject to determination as described in Exhibit B attached hereto and made a part hereof). If any Payment Date falls due on a day that is not a Business Day, the Base Monthly Rent due and payable on such date shall be due and payable on the next succeeding Business Day without interest or penalty if paid on such succeeding Business Day. A “Business Day” is defined as any day other than a Saturday or Sunday or other day on which the banks in Charleston, South Carolina are authorized or required to be closed.

(b) If the Base Rent Commencement Date occurs on any date which is not the first calendar day of the applicable month, Tenant shall pay Base Monthly Rent on a pro rata basis for such partial calendar month.

(c) All taxes, costs, expenses and other amounts that Tenant is required to pay pursuant to this Lease (other than Base Rent), together with every fine, penalty, interest and cost that may be added for non-payment or late payment thereof, shall constitute additional rent (“Additional Rent”) required to be paid by Tenant on and after the Additional Rent Commencement Date (as defined in Exhibit A attached hereto). Base Rent and Additional Rent are referred to collectively as “Rent”. Subject to Tenant’s rights pursuant to Section 2.6 herein, if Tenant shall fail to pay any such Additional Rent within ten (10) days of receipt of written notice from Landlord that such amounts are due and owing (except that no such written notice shall be required for failure to pay Additional Rent consisting of insurance premiums, real estate taxes or other Impositions (defined hereinafter) that are billed directly to Tenant), Landlord shall have all rights, powers and remedies with respect thereto as are provided herein or by law in the case of non-payment of any Base Monthly Rent and shall, except as expressly provided herein, have the right to pay the same on behalf of Tenant. In such event and in the event that Tenant fails to timely pay any installment of Base Monthly Rent, Tenant shall pay to Landlord interest at a rate (the “Rate”) equal to the prime rate (or base rate) of interest per annum announced from time to time by Citibank, N.A., New York (“Citibank”) (whether or not such rate is actually charged by Citibank to any party, and, if Citibank shall discontinue the practice of announcing its prime rate (or base rate), then the highest rate charged by Citibank on short term, unsecured loans to its most creditworthy large corporate borrowers), plus five percent (5%) per annum; provided, however, if the Premises are then encumbered by an Indenture (defined hereinafter), then the Rate shall be equal to the default rate of interest per annum on Landlord’s financing of the Premises secured by such Indenture, so long as such default rate does not exceed the higher of five percent (5%) above the aforesaid prime (or base) rate or five percent (5%) above the interest rate applicable under the Indenture (but in no event shall the Rate exceed the maximum amount permitted by law), on all overdue Base Monthly Rent from the due date thereof until paid and on all overdue Base Monthly Rent, Additional Rent and other sums due hereunder, in each case paid by Landlord on behalf of Tenant or due from Tenant and unpaid, from the date of payment by Landlord or due date until repaid by Tenant. Tenant shall perform all of its obligations under this Lease at its sole cost and expense, and, shall pay all Rent when due and payable, without offset, notice or demand.

 

7


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(d) After the date all or any portion of any installment of Base Monthly Rent is due and not paid, Tenant shall pay Landlord an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the amount of such unpaid installment or portion thereof, provided, however, that with respect to the first late payment of all or any portion of any installment of Base Monthly Rent in any consecutive twelve (12) month period, the late charge shall not be due and payable unless the Base Monthly Rent has not been paid within five (5) days’ following the due date thereof.

(e) Concurrent with each installment of Base Monthly Rent, Tenant shall pay to Landlord or to Landlord’s designee specified in writing to Tenant, an asset management fee equal to One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty and No/100 Dollars ($1,250.00).

1.5 Security Deposit. Tenant agrees to deposit with Landlord, upon Tenant’s execution of this Lease, a security deposit in the amount of Four Million Nine Hundred Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($4,900,000.00) (together with any Letter of Credit and the proceeds thereof, the “Security Deposit”), in the form of an unconditional, irrevocable letter of credit in a form reasonably acceptable to Landlord (“Letter of Credit”), as security for the full and faithful performance by Tenant of each and every term, provision, covenant and condition of this Lease. The Security Deposit shall be held by Landlord during the Lease Term in accordance with the provisions of this Section 1.5. Tenant shall have the right to substitute the Letter of Credit with another letter of credit (that meets the requirements of this Section 1.5) with Landlord’s consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed.

(a) In the event of a sale or financing of the Premises by Landlord, Landlord shall have the right to transfer the Letter of Credit to such purchaser or Lender and upon purchaser’s or Lender’s receipt and acceptance thereof Landlord shall thereupon be released by Tenant from all liability for the return of such Letter of Credit. All fees and charges of the issuing bank to transfer the Letter of Credit or to re-issue the Letter of Credit in the name of the new beneficiary shall be paid for by Tenant. To the extent that the Letter of Credit shall have been actually transferred or delivered by Landlord to a new landlord, Tenant shall look solely to the new landlord for the return of the Letter of Credit and new landlord shall have assumed the obligation to return the same. The provisions hereof shall apply to every transfer or assignment of the Letter of Credit made to a new landlord.

(b) Upon an Event of Default by Tenant, Landlord may present the Letter of Credit for the payment of any sum then due hereunder or which Landlord may expend or be required to expend by reason of Tenant’s breach including, without limitation, any damages or deficiency in the reletting of the Premises, whether such damages or deficiency shall have accrued before or after reentry by Landlord. If any of the Security Deposit shall be so used, applied, drawn down or retained by Landlord at any time or from time to time, Tenant shall promptly, in each such instance, within five (5) days of written demand therefore by Landlord, pay to Landlord such additional sums as may be necessary to restore the Security Deposit to the original amount set forth above, and Tenant’s failure to timely do so shall be deemed an Event of Default. Except as otherwise required by applicable Legal Requirements, Tenant shall not be entitled to any interest on the Security Deposit.

 

8


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(c) If Tenant shall fully and faithfully comply with all the terms, provisions, covenants and conditions of this Lease, the Letter of Credit shall be returned to Tenant after all of the following have occurred: (a) the expiration of the Lease Term; (b) Tenant has vacated the Premises; (c) Tenant has surrendered the Premises to Landlord in accordance with this Lease; and (d) Landlord has made, within a reasonable period of time, a final determination of all amounts payable by Tenant hereunder and Tenant has paid same. In the absence of evidence satisfactory to Landlord of an assignment of the right to receive the Letter of Credit, Landlord may return the Letter of Credit to the original Tenant, regardless of one or more assignments of this Lease.

(d) Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Lease, if at any time during the Lease Term, as evidenced by the financial statements delivered by Tenant to Landlord pursuant to Section 6.2(b) of this Lease, (i) Tenant maintains (A) EBITDA (as hereinafter defined) of not less than [***], and (B) annual sales of not less than [***] over four consecutive fiscal quarters then the Security Deposit (and Letter of Credit) required to be maintained by Tenant under this Lease shall be reduced to Two Million Four Hundred Fifty Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($2,450,000.00); or (ii) Tenant maintains (A) EBITDA (as hereinafter defined) of not less than [***], and (B) annual sales of not less than [***] over four consecutive fiscal quarters then the Security Deposit (and Letter of Credit) required to be maintained by Tenant under this Lease shall be reduced to Zero. In addition, if at any time during the Lease Term Tenant achieves, or is merged with an entity that after such merger has, a Required Credit Rating (as hereinafter defined), the Security Deposit (and Letter of Credit) required to be maintained by Tenant under this Lease shall be reduced to Zero. In addition, if Tenant delivers a guaranty in a form reasonably acceptable to Landlord from an entity that purchases Tenant and such entity has a Required Credit Rating (as hereinafter defined), the Security Deposit (and Letter of Credit) required to be maintained by Tenant under this Lease shall be reduced to Zero. “EBITDA” means for the purposes hereof, income from operations plus depreciation, amortization and other non-cash charges incurred during the applicable twelve (12) month period including, without limitation, non-cash impairment charges.

ARTICLE 2

2.1 Net Lease.

(a) This Lease is a net lease and, any present or future law to the contrary notwithstanding, shall not terminate (except as otherwise expressly provided herein and permitted in Section 3.1(c) hereof or Sections 2.2 or 3.1 of Exhibit A attached hereto), nor shall Tenant be entitled to any abatement, reduction, diminution, set-off, counterclaim, defense or deduction with respect to any Base Rent, Additional Rent or other sums payable hereunder, nor shall the obligations of Tenant hereunder be affected, by reason of any of the following that occur on or after the Commencement Date: any damage to or destruction of the Premises or any portion thereof except as otherwise hereinafter expressly provided and permitted in connection with a Major Casualty (as hereinafter provided); any defect in the condition, design, operation or fitness for use of the Premises or any portion thereof; any taking of the Premises or any part thereof by condemnation or otherwise except as otherwise hereinafter expressly provided and permitted in

 

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connection with a Major Condemnation (as hereinafter provided); any eviction by paramount title or otherwise (except for a breach of Section 1.2(b) above); the impossibility or illegality of performance by Landlord, Tenant or both; any action of any governmental authority (including, without limitation, any condemnation and changes in Legal Requirements, except as otherwise hereinafter expressly provided and permitted in connection with a Major Condemnation (as hereinafter provided)); construction on or renovation of the Premises; subject to Tenant’s rights under any non-disturbance agreement delivered to Tenant pursuant to Section 6.2(d) herein, any foreclosure, trustee’s sale or other exercise of remedies by the holder of an Indenture encumbering Landlord’s interest in the Premises (i.e., any Lender, as hereinafter defined); market or economic changes; or any failure of the Premises to comply with Legal Requirements. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein to the contrary, all costs, expenses and obligations of every kind and nature whatsoever relating to the Premises and the appurtenances thereto and the use and occupancy thereof that may arise or become due and payable during the Lease Term in accordance with the provisions hereof (whether or not the same shall become payable during the Lease Term or thereafter) shall be paid by Tenant. It is the purpose and intention of the parties to this Lease that the Rent due to Landlord hereunder shall be absolutely net to Landlord and that this Lease shall yield, net to Landlord, the Base Rent and other Rent payable to Landlord provided in this Lease. The parties intend that the obligations of Tenant hereunder shall be separate and independent covenants and agreements and shall continue unaffected unless such obligations shall have been modified or terminated pursuant to an express provision of this Lease.

(b) Tenant shall remain obligated under this Lease in accordance with its terms and shall not take any action to terminate (except as otherwise expressly provided and permitted in Section 3.1(c) hereof or Sections 2.2 or 3.1 of Exhibit A to this Lease), rescind or avoid this Lease, notwithstanding any bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, liquidation, dissolution or other proceeding affecting Landlord or any action with respect to this Lease which may be taken by any trustee, receiver or liquidator or by any court.

(c) Except as otherwise expressly provided and permitted in Section 3.1(c) hereof or Sections 2.2 or 3.1 of Exhibit A to this Lease, Tenant expressly and specifically waives all rights to terminate or surrender this Lease, or to any abatement, set off or deferment of any Rent. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, Tenant has no right hereunder or otherwise to deduct from or setoff against Rent in any circumstance.

2.2 Taxes and Assessments; Compliance with Law.

(a) From and after the Additional Rent Commencement Date and during the Lease Term, Tenant shall pay, prior to delinquency, all “Impositions”, which are defined as: (i) all taxes (including, without limitation, real property taxes, fees in lieu of taxes and those taxes described in (ii) below), assessments, excises, levies, fees (including, without limitation, license, permit, inspection, authorization and similar fees), utility charges, permit and inspection charges, water and sewer rents and charges, and all other governmental charges (including, without limitation, any clawback payments, deficiency payments, and penalty payments arising from the Tenant Incentives (as such term is defined in Section 2.2(c) hereof), general and special, ordinary and extraordinary, foreseen and unforeseen, and any interest and penalties thereon that are, at any time during the Term, imposed or levied upon or assessed against or that arise with respect to (A) the Premises, (B) any Base Rent, Additional Rent or other sums payable hereunder, (C) this Lease

 

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or the leasehold estate hereby created or (D) the operation, possession or use of the Premises (even if such charge is imposed against Landlord, e.g., real estate taxes, fee in lieu taxes, and assessments); (ii) all gross receipts or similar taxes (i.e., taxes based upon gross income that fail to take into account deductions with respect to depreciation, interest, taxes or ordinary and necessary business expenses, in each case relating to the Premises) imposed or levied upon, assessed against or measured by any Base Rent, Additional Rent or other sums payable hereunder; (iii) all offers, claims and demands (not caused by Landlord) of mechanics, laborers, materialmen and others which, if unpaid, might create a lien on the Premises, (iv) all charges of utilities, communications and similar services serving the Premises; and (v) any amounts payable by or with respect to the Property or the owner of the Property under any Development Easements, declarations, restrictions, easements, rights of way or other comparable recorded instrument (collectively, “Declarations”), including, but not limited to, any regular or special assessments related to such Declarations. Any Imposition relating to a period, a part of which is included within the Lease Term and a part of which is included in a period of time after the Expiration Date (whether or not such Imposition shall be assessed, levied, confirmed, imposed upon or in respect of or become a lien upon the Premises, or shall become payable, during the Term), shall be apportioned between Landlord and Tenant as of the Expiration Date (other than an Expiration Date arising by reason of Tenant’s default), as the case may be, so that Tenant shall pay only that portion of such Imposition which that part of such fiscal period included in the period of time before the Expiration Date bears to such fiscal period, and Landlord shall pay the remainder thereof. Other than in respect of Impositions relating, in part, to a period of time before the Commencement Date, no such apportionment of Impositions shall be made if this Lease is terminated as the result of an Event of Default. However, if, by applicable law, any Imposition may at the option of the taxpayer be paid in installments (whether or not interest shall accrue on the unpaid balance of such Imposition), Tenant may exercise the option to pay the same in such installments and shall be responsible for the payment of such installments only, together with applicable interest, if any, provided that all such installment payments together with applicable interest, if any, relating to periods prior to the Expiration Date shall be made prior to the Expiration Date. Tenant shall promptly notify Landlord if Tenant shall have elected to pay any such Imposition in installments. Tenant shall not be required to pay any franchise, estate, inheritance, corporate, transfer, net income or similar tax of Landlord unless such tax is imposed, levied or assessed in substitution for any other tax, assessment, charge or levy that Tenant is required to pay pursuant to this Section 2.2(a), provided, however, that if at any time during the Term, the method of taxation shall be such that there shall be assessed, levied, charged or imposed on Landlord a capital levy or other tax directly on the rents received therefrom, or upon the value of the Premises or any present or any future improvement or improvements on the Premises, then all such levies and taxes or the part thereof so measured or based shall be payable by Tenant, but only to the extent that such levies or taxes would be payable if the Premises were the only property of Landlord, and Tenant shall pay and discharge the same as herein provided. Tenant shall prepare and file all tax reports required by governmental or other authorities which relate to the Impositions. Tenant shall deliver to Landlord proof of payment with respect to real estate taxes, fee in lieu of taxes, and other Impositions no later than five (5) days prior to the last day that payment of such taxes may be made without penalty. Within ten (10) days after Landlord’s request therefor, Tenant shall deliver to Landlord (1) copies of all settlements and notices pertaining to the Impositions which may be issued by any governmental authority, and (2) receipts for payment of all other Impositions. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the Event of Default, at Landlord’s discretion, Landlord may elect to pay any Impositions directly (rather than having Tenant pay such Impositions) and, in such event, Tenant shall pay the amount thereof to Landlord (or as Landlord otherwise directs Tenant) not later than five (5) business days after notice from Landlord of the amount due.

 

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(b) Landlord, in its discretion, shall have the sole and exclusive right (but not the obligation) to protest or appeal real estate taxes, fee in lieu of taxes, and assessments applicable to the Premises. Except as expressly approved in writing by Landlord, in advance, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, Tenant shall not have any right to protest or appeal any real estate taxes, fee in lieu of taxes, and assessments. If Landlord approves Tenant’s protest or appeal of real estate taxes, fee in lieu of taxes, and assessments, then Tenant shall comply with the reasonable terms and conditions imposed by Landlord with respect to such protest or appeal, including (without limitation): (i) that Tenant complies with the terms and conditions of Section 2.6 regarding permitted contests, (ii) that no protest or appeal of taxes, fee in lieu of taxes, or assessments shall be permitted if it would be prohibited under, or would terminate, reduce or jeopardize, any governmental incentives applicable to the Premises (including, without limitation, any tax increment financing applicable to the Premises), and (iii) if Tenant fails to commence such contest or, having commenced to contest the same, and having deposited such security reasonably required by Landlord for its full amount, shall thereafter fail to prosecute such contest in good faith or with due diligence, or, upon adverse conclusion of any such contest, shall fail to pay such tax, fee in lieu of tax, assessment or charge, Landlord may, at its election (but shall not be required to), pay and discharge any such tax, fee in lieu of tax, assessment or charge, and any interest or penalty thereon, and Tenant shall reimburse Landlord, within five (5) business days after written demand, for any amounts so expended by Landlord (which amounts shall be deemed Rent for all purposes under this Lease). Landlord and Tenant agree to reasonably cooperate with each other in connection with any protest of the real estate taxes and assessments applicable to the Premises. Any refunds of real property taxes or fee in lieu of taxes received by Landlord or Tenant for the tax year in which the Additional Rent Commencement Date occurs shall be prorated. The amount of Real Estate Taxes and fees in lieu of taxes for a calendar year or partial calendar year shall be the amount assessed for such calendar year, even though the payment of such Real Estate Taxes and fees in lieu of taxes may occur in a different calendar year.

(c) Landlord acknowledges that, in connection with Tenant’s operation of the Property, Tenant has obtained, and may from time to time in the future pursue, certain tax and other incentives from the State of South Carolina or any political subdivision thereof, including, without limitation, the incentives provided pursuant to any agreement entered into with a governmental authority providing for a fee-in-lieu-of-tax arrangement (collectively, the “Tenant Incentives”); provided, however, that such Tenant Incentives or pursuit of such Tenant Incentives do not adversely impact any current or future tax incentives obtained by Landlord with respect to the Premises, including without limitation, the current fee-in-lieu-of-tax arrangement currently in place with respect to the Premises (collectively, the “Landlord Incentives”). Landlord hereby agrees to reasonably cooperate with Tenant, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, to further Tenant’s pursuit and realization of the Tenant Incentives, and to execute, acknowledge (where necessary), and deliver such further documents, and perform such further acts, as may be reasonably necessary to obtain such Tenant Incentives; provided, however, that such Tenant Incentives or pursuit of such Tenant Incentives do not adversely impact any Landlord Incentives. Landlord shall take no action which, to the knowledge of Landlord, will result in any material delay or reduction in the

 

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Tenant Incentives available to Tenant. Tenant hereby agrees to reasonably cooperate with Landlord, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, to further Landlord’s pursuit and realization of any Landlord Incentives, and to execute, acknowledge (where necessary), and deliver such further documents, and perform such further acts, as may be reasonably necessary to obtain such Landlord Incentives. Tenant shall take no action which, to the knowledge of Tenant, will result in any material delay or reduction in the Landlord Incentives available with respect to the Premises.

(d) Tenant shall file or cause to be filed, on a timely basis, all property tax returns required in connection with the Property, including, but not limited to, Form SCDOR PT-300 or such comparable form as the South Carolina Department of Revenue may provide. Landlord hereby agrees to reasonably cooperate with Tenant with respect to any such filings, and hereby agrees to execute, acknowledge (if necessary) and deliver such further documents or information, and to perform such further acts, as may be reasonably necessary for any such filings. Landlord shall take no action which would unduly delay Tenant’s filing of any state or local property tax returns pursuant to this Section.

(e) From and after the Commencement Date, Tenant shall comply with and cause the Premises to comply with, and shall cause any subtenant and all Tenant Parties (as hereinafter defined) to comply with, and shall assume all obligations and liabilities with respect to: (i) all statutes, codes, licenses, permits, rules, laws, ordinances and regulations, and other governmental rules, orders and determinations presently in effect or hereafter enacted, made or issued, applicable to the Premises or the ownership, operation, use or possession thereof, including, without limitation, all Environmental Laws (defined hereinafter), the Americans with Disabilities Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder, and all health, building, fire, safety and other codes, ordinances and requirements, in each case as amended, and any judicial or administrative interpretations thereof, including any judicial order, consent, decree or judgment, and (ii) all Declarations in effect or hereinafter binding upon the Premises (subject to the consent rights granted to Tenant pursuant to Section 1.1(c) herein) and (iii) all contracts (including, but not limited to, insurance policies (including, without limitation, to the extent necessary to prevent cancellation thereof and to insure full payment of any claims made under such policies)), agreements, covenants, conditions and restrictions now or hereafter applicable to the Premises or the ownership, operation, use or possession thereof (collectively, “Legal Requirements”).

2.3 Liens. Tenant will not create or permit, and will promptly remove and discharge (by filing the required bonds or satisfying the lien in full) within thirty (30) calendar days of Tenant’s knowledge thereof, any charge, lien, security interest or encumbrance upon the Premises or any Base Rent, Additional Rent or other sums payable hereunder that arise during the Lease Term for any reason, including all liens that arise out of the possession, use, occupancy, construction, repair or rebuilding of the Premises by Tenant or by reason of labor or materials furnished or claimed to have been furnished to Tenant or for the Premises, but not including (a) the Permitted Exceptions and any liens arising from Landlord’s obligations set forth in Exhibit A hereto, (b) any mortgage, charge, lien, security interest or encumbrance created by Landlord without the consent of Tenant (it being agreed that the Indenture, as hereinafter defined, for purposes of this sentence, will be deemed to have been created without the consent of Tenant) and (c) any statutory lien created by a governmental authority in connection with governmental incentives that have been awarded to Landlord with respect to the Premises. Except in connection with the construction activities contemplated pursuant to Exhibit A hereto, nothing contained in

 

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this Lease shall be construed as constituting the consent or request of Landlord, express or implied, to or for the performance by any contractor, laborer, materialman, or vendor of any labor or services or for the furnishing of any materials for any construction, alteration, addition, repair or demolition of or to the Premises or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that Landlord will not be liable for any labor, services or materials furnished or to be furnished to Tenant during the Term, or to anyone holding an interest in the Premises or any part thereof through or under Tenant, and that, except in connection with Landlord’s obligations set forth in Exhibit A hereto, no mechanic’s or other liens for any such labor, services or materials shall attach to or affect the interest of Landlord in and to the Premises.

2.4 Indemnification.

(a) Tenant shall defend all actions against Landlord, Lender (as defined in Section 3.3(c)) and any agent, manager, owner, beneficial owner, partner, member, officer, director or shareholder of Landlord or Lender, together with their respective successors and assigns (herein, collectively, “Indemnified Parties”) with respect to, and shall pay, protect, indemnify, defend and save harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against, any and all liabilities, losses, damages, costs, expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses), causes of action, suits, claims, demands or judgments of any nature (collectively, “Claims”) arising from any of the following events or circumstances, but only if such events or circumstances giving rise to such claims or losses occurred during the Lease Term (or prior to the Commencement Date to the extent resulting from the actions or omissions of Tenant or any Tenant Party (as hereinafter defined) in connection with the design, development, construction or completion of the Building Improvements (but without limiting the obligations of Landlord under Exhibit A): (i) injury to or death of any person, or damage to or loss of property, on the Premises or on any portion of the Land or on the adjoining sidewalks, curbs and parking areas connected with the use, condition or occupancy of the Premises, (ii) any use or condition in or on, or possession, alteration, repair, operation, maintenance or management of, the Premises or any portion of the Land or on the adjoining sidewalks, curbs and parking areas by Tenant, Tenant’s agents, employees, representatives, contractors, subcontractors, consultants or invitees (each a “Tenant Party” or collectively, the “Tenant Parties”) or anyone claiming by, through or under Tenant, (iii) any representation or warranty made herein by Tenant being false or misleading in any material respect, (iv) any performance of any labor or services or the furnishing of any materials or other property in respect to the Premises or any portion of the Land or on the adjoining sidewalks, curbs and parking areas by Tenant, any Tenant Parties or anyone claiming by, through or under Tenant, including, but not limited to, the construction of any Tenant Work, (v) any failure of Tenant to pay any taxes, assessments or other charges which Tenant is required to pay under this Lease, (vi) any lien, encumbrance or claim arising on or against the Premises or any portion of the Land or on the adjoining sidewalks, curbs or parking areas by Tenant or anyone claiming by, through or under Tenant under any Legal Requirements or otherwise which Tenant is obligated hereunder to remove and discharge, or the failure by the Premises, the Land, Tenant or any Tenant Parties to comply with any Legal Requirements, (vii) the claims of any invitees, patrons, licensees or subtenants of all or any portion of the Premises or any Person acting through or under Tenant or otherwise acting under or as a consequence of this Lease, (viii) Tenant’s violation of this Lease, (ix) any act or omission of Tenant or its agents, contractors, licensees, subtenants or invitees relating to the use and occupancy of the Premises, (x) any contest referred to in Section 2.6 or (xi) any other matters

 

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relating to the Premises or this Lease which such matters relate to events or circumstances that occur during the Lease Term (or prior to the Commencement Date to the extent resulting from the actions or omissions of Tenant or any Tenant Party in connection with the design, development, construction or completion of the Building Improvement (but without limiting the obligations of Landlord under Exhibit A)); provided, however, that the indemnification set forth in this Section 2.4 shall not apply to Claims to the extent arising from the acts or omissions of Landlord and/or Landlord’s agents, employees, representatives, contractors, subcontractors, consultants or invitees in connection with the construction activities contemplated by Exhibit A hereto (except that the foregoing shall not apply to Claims under items (iii), (iv), (v), (vii), (viii), (ix) or (x)) or (B) in the event of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of any Indemnified Parties that occur after completion of the construction activities contemplated by Exhibit A hereto; provided, further, that an Indemnified Party shall not be deemed to be grossly negligent, or its conduct deemed to be willful misconduct, for failure to perform an obligation or satisfy a condition required to be performed or satisfied by Tenant pursuant to this Lease. The indemnification obligations in this Section 2.4 shall survive any expiration of this Lease.

2.5 Maintenance and Repair.

(a) Tenant acknowledges that, as of the Substantial Completion Date, (but without limitation upon Landlord’s obligations under Exhibit A to achieve Final Completion) it will have received the Premises in good order and repair. During the Lease Term, Tenant, at its own expense, will maintain all parts of the Premises in good repair and condition, except for ordinary wear and tear (but subject to Landlord’s obligation to achieve Final Completion), and will take all action and will make all structural and non-structural, foreseen and unforeseen and ordinary and extraordinary changes and repairs and replacements which may be required to keep all parts of the Premises in good repair and condition with a reasonable useful life for the Permitted Use, including but not limited to, all necessary structural replacements; provided, however, that Tenant shall not be required to replace the roof upon the expiration of the Lease Term unless the roof is reasonably determined not to be in good working order or to have a useful life of less than five (5) years, except to the extent replacement becomes necessary as a result of damage caused by Tenant or any Tenant Party. Such determination shall be made by a reputable roofing consultant reasonably acceptable to Landlord and Tenant in the final eighteen (18) months of the Term. Without limitation of the foregoing, during the Lease Term, Tenant shall, at Tenant’s sole cost, be solely liable for, and shall provide for, the maintenance, repair, and replacement, as necessary, of all plumbing, heating, refrigeration, air conditioning, ventilating, electrical, lighting facilities and equipment within the Premises, fixtures, interior and exterior walls, the floor, the roof, the inside of exterior walls, ceilings, decking, floors, windows, doors, plate glass and skylights located within the Premises, and signs. Tenant shall, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, enter into and keep in effect at all times during the Lease Term maintenance and service contracts with respect to HVAC and refrigeration systems at the Premises. During the Lease Term, Tenant shall perform all required landscaping and replacement, repairs and maintenance of the exterior parking areas, sidewalks and truck courts at the Premises and shall repair, at its expense, any damage to the Premises arising out of Tenant’s use or occupancy thereof, including damage caused by bringing into the Premises any property, all regardless of fault, or by whom such damage shall be caused. All repairs, replacements and reconstruction made by or on behalf of Tenant shall be made and performed: (a) at Tenant’s cost and expense (b) by contractors or mechanics that are appropriately

 

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licensed (if necessary), (c) at least equal in quality of materials and workmanship to the original work or installation and in accordance with the requirements of applicable Warranties (as defined in Exhibit B attached hereto), and (d) in accordance with all Declarations and all applicable laws and regulations of governmental authorities having jurisdiction over the Premises. Landlord shall not be required to maintain, repair, replace or rebuild all or any part of the Premises, other than in connection with the Substantial Completion and Final Completion of the Building Improvements contemplated by Exhibit A.

(b) In the event that, on or after the Commencement Date, Tenant shall alter the Building Improvements, which such alteration shall cause an encroachment upon any property, street or right-of-way adjoining or adjacent to the Premises, or shall violate agreements or conditions affecting the Premises or any part thereof (including any Development Easements), or any Legal Requirements or Insurance Requirements, or shall hinder, obstruct or impair any Development Easements to which the Premises are subject, then, promptly after written request of Landlord (unless such encroachment, violation, hindrance, obstruction or impairment has been approved in writing by Landlord), Tenant shall, at its expense, either (i) obtain valid and effective waivers or settlements of all claims, liabilities and damages resulting therefrom, or (ii) if Landlord consents thereto, make such changes, including alteration or removal, to the Building Improvements and take such other action as shall be necessary to remove or eliminate such encroachments, violations, hindrances, obstructions or impairments.

(c) Landlord hereby grants to Tenant a non-exclusive license to enforce any rights of the Landlord now or hereafter existing under all Warranties, and that are necessary for the maintenance, repair and operation of the Premises (including without limitation the Building Improvements) and the conduct of Tenant’s business therein, subject to Landlord’s right to enforce the same in the event of any continuing breach, default or failure of performance hereunder by Tenant.

2.6 Permitted Contests. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary (but subject to Section 2.2(b) regarding the protest or appeal of real estate taxes and assessments), Tenant shall have the right, at Tenant’s expense and only if no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, to contest the existence, amount or validity of any Imposition, lien, encumbrance or Legal Requirement (including, without limitation, the requirement of any governmental or quasi-governmental authority to impose any easement, right of way, covenant, declaration, restriction or comparable recorded instrument against the Premises) and to seek zoning changes, special permits (or amendments thereto) and similar relief for the Premises as necessary or appropriate to ensure Tenant’s use of the Premises for the Permitted Use consistent with this Lease, by appropriate proceedings diligently pursued, and provided that failing to pay such Imposition, lien or encumbrance, performing such Legal Requirement or exercising such rights will not: (1) subject Landlord, Tenant or the Premises to criminal or civil penalties or fines, or prosecution for a crime, or any late fees, delinquency fees or default interest; (2) subject the Premises or any part thereof to being condemned, vacated, forfeited or otherwise impaired, or result in a lien being imposed or assessed against the Premises (unless Tenant files the required bonds to discharge such liens in accordance with state law or satisfies the lien in full); (3) impair the value of the Premises or any portion thereof; or (4) subject the Premises, any portion thereof or interest therein, the Base Rent, Additional Rent or any other sums payable under this Lease or any portion thereof, to sale, forfeiture, interruption or loss by reason of such proceedings; provided, further, that prior to the

 

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date on which such Imposition or charge would otherwise have become delinquent Tenant shall have given Landlord prior notice of such contest. Landlord shall reasonably cooperate with Tenant in connection with Tenant’s exercise of the rights set forth in the preceding sentence, provided Landlord shall not incur any cost, expense, liability or risk in connection therewith. Tenant shall pay any and all losses, judgments, decrees and costs in connection with the exercise of its rights under this Section 2.6 and shall, promptly after final determination, fully pay and discharge the amounts which shall be levied, assessed, charged or imposed or be determined to be payable in connection with the exercise of such rights and perform all acts the performance of which shall be ordered or decreed as a result thereof. Any refunds of real property taxes or other Impositions paid or payable to Tenant under this Lease in connection with any contest of taxes or assessments prosecuted by Tenant or Landlord for which Tenant is responsible under this Lease shall be the property of Tenant and, if received by Landlord, such refunds shall promptly be paid over to Tenant. The obligations of Landlord and Tenant under this Section 2.6 shall survive the expiration or sooner termination of this Lease.

ARTICLE 3

3.1 Condemnation and Casualty.

(a) If: (i) the use, occupancy or title of or to the Premises or any part thereof is taken, requisitioned or sold in, by or on account of any actual or threatened eminent domain proceeding or other action by any person having the power of eminent domain (“Condemnation”); or (ii) the Premises or any part thereof is damaged or destroyed by fire, flood or other casualty (“Casualty”), Tenant shall give prompt written notice thereof to Landlord (which notice shall set forth Tenant’s good faith estimates of the cost of repairing or restoring any damage or destruction caused thereby), or, if Tenant cannot reasonably estimate the anticipated cost of restoration, Tenant shall nonetheless give Landlord prompt notice of the occurrence of any such Casualty or Condemnation, and will diligently proceed to obtain estimates to enable Tenant to quantify the anticipated cost of such restoration, whereupon Tenant shall promptly notify Landlord of such good faith estimate. All awards, compensations, and insurance payments on account of any Condemnation or Casualty (net of Tenant’s Loss, as defined herein) are hereinafter collectively called “Compensation”. So long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, Tenant is hereby authorized and empowered, at its cost and expense, to appear in any such proceeding or other action, to negotiate and prosecute (in each case subject to Landlord’s approval as set forth hereinafter) any claim for any award, compensation, insurance proceeds or other payment on account of any such Casualty or Condemnation (it being understood that Landlord shall be entitled, at its own cost, to participate therein and no such proceeding shall be settled without Landlord’s consent, which such consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), and to cause any such award, compensation, insurance proceeds or other payment to be paid to Landlord, except that Tenant shall be entitled to submit a separate claim for any of Tenant’s losses on account of any such Casualty or Condemnation (including without limitation, for interruption or loss of business, moving expenses, for Tenant improvements or for the value of Tenant’s leasehold interest (collectively, “Tenant’s Loss”)) and receive and retain any award applicable thereto. Any final adjustment, settlement or compromise of any such claim shall, however, be subject to the prior written approval of Landlord, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed. For so long as an Event of Default exists, Tenant shall not be entitled to adjust, collect or compromise any such claim or to participate with Landlord in any adjustment, collection and

 

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compromise of any Compensation payable in connection with a Casualty or Condemnation. Tenant agrees to sign, upon the reasonable request of Landlord, all such proofs of loss, receipts, vouchers and releases. All Compensation shall be applied pursuant to the applicable provisions of ARTICLE 3, and all such Compensation (less the reasonable expense of collecting such Compensation) is herein called the “Net Proceeds”; provided, however, that the portion of any Compensation in connection with a Condemnation that is allocable to the loss of value in, or diminution in value of, the Premises (the “Lost Value Award”) shall be promptly paid to Landlord in all events and not included in Net Proceeds. Tenant shall pay all insurance deductibles in connection with any Casualty. Except in the event of a Major Casualty or Major Condemnation, Tenant shall be unconditionally obligated, at Tenant’s sole cost, to repair, restore or replace, as necessary, the Premises after any Casualty or Condemnation irrespective of the availability or sufficiency Net Proceeds.

(b) Except in the event of a termination of this Lease pursuant to Section 3.1(c), Tenant shall have no right to terminate this Lease on the basis of any Casualty or Condemnation or otherwise. If the restoration or replacement of the Premises after a Casualty or Condemnation extends beyond the Expiration Date (except in the event that a Termination Notice (as defined hereinafter) is delivered by Tenant to Landlord prior to the expiration of the Term), this Lease shall continue in effect until such restoration or replacement is complete, except that Tenant shall not be obligated to pay Rent during such period of restoration or replacement after the expiration of the Term; provided, however, that the foregoing shall be without limitation upon Tenant’s obligation to pay the Remaining Rent (as hereinafter defined) in connection with Tenant’s termination of the Lease after a Major Casualty.

(c) In the event of a Major Condemnation (as defined hereinafter) that occurs at any time during the Lease Term or a Major Casualty (as defined hereinafter) that occurs during the last two (2) years of the Lease Term, Tenant shall have the right, at its election, either to (i) rebuild and restore the Premises in accordance with the requirements set forth in Sections 2.5 and 3.4 herein and the Net Proceeds (but not any Lost Value Award) shall be made available to Tenant for such rebuilding and/or restoration pursuant to Section 3.2(e) hereof or (ii) give written notice (the “Termination Notice”) to Landlord within sixty (60) days after such Major Casualty or Major Condemnation of Tenant’s election to terminate this Lease. In the event the Tenant gives a Termination Notice pursuant to the preceding sentence, the Termination Notice shall include a specification of the proposed termination date (the “Lease Termination Date”) and this Lease shall terminate and all Net Proceeds shall be paid to Landlord on the Lease Termination Date (provided, however, that if the Net Proceeds have not yet been paid in connection with the Major Casualty or Major Condemnation as of the Lease Termination Date, the Lease shall not terminate until such later date as all Net Proceeds (other than those specifically relating to Tenant’s Loss) and the Remaining Rent are paid to Landlord). In addition, upon, and as a condition to, any termination of the Lease pursuant to a Termination Notice given under this Section 3.1(c), any Net Proceeds (other than those specifically relating to Tenant’s Loss), if any, payable to Tenant in connection with a Major Casualty or a Major Condemnation shall be paid and belong to the Landlord and the Tenant shall pay to the Landlord on the Lease Termination Date the following: (i) in the event of a Major Casualty, the amount of any deductible or self insured retention with respect to any insurance policies in place at the time of the casualty; (ii) all Rent accrued as of the Lease Termination Date, (iii) all other amounts then due and payable by the Tenant under this Lease (it

 

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is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

being understood that this Lease shall not terminate until payment of all such sums to Landlord); and (iv) in the event of a Major Casualty, all Rent owing hereunder with respect to the period from and after the Termination Date until the original expiration date of the Lease Term, including, but not limited to, all amounts owing on account of Impositions and Accrued Impositions (collectively, the “Remaining Rent”). Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, in the event of any termination of this Lease in connection with a Major Casualty, Tenant shall remain obligated to fund and pay to Landlord deficiencies in Net Proceeds in connection with the restoration of the Premises pursuant to Section 3.2(g) and shall promptly remit such amount to Landlord.

(d) A “Major Casualty” shall mean a casualty loss, including damage, by fire or otherwise, to the extent of seventy-five percent (75%) or more of the replacement value of the Premises are damaged or destroyed or to the extent the Premises are rendered untenantable for the conduct of Tenant’s business as reasonably determined by Landlord and Tenant, in either case that occurs during the last two (2) years of the Lease Term only. A “Major Condemnation” shall mean the permanent taking by Condemnation affecting (i) title to all or at least fifty percent (50%) of the floor area of the Premises, or (ii) the principal points of ingress or egress of the Premises to public roadways or the Land connecting such points of ingress or egress to the Building Improvements, such that either (A) Tenant has no reasonable access to public roadways or (B) Tenant shall reasonably determine that there will be a material adverse effect on Tenant’s ability to use the Premises for the Permitted Use, and, in either case, no reasonable, alternative points of ingress or egress can be provided.

3.2 Repair.

(a) If there shall occur a Casualty, or a Condemnation that does not constitute a Major Casualty or a Major Condemnation or there shall be a Major Casualty or a Major Condemnation and Tenant shall not give a Termination Notice under Section 3.1(c), then, this Lease shall nonetheless continue in full force and effect and Tenant shall, at its expense, promptly rebuild, replace or repair the Premises in conformity with the requirements of Sections 2.5 and 3.4 hereof so as to restore the Premises (in the case of Condemnation, as nearly as practicable) to the condition thereof immediately prior to such occurrence, assuming the Premises have been maintained in accordance with the requirements of this Lease (or if the Premises were under construction at such time, to the condition thereof at the time of completion). Tenant’s obligation to rebuild shall apply even if the costs of rebuilding exceed the amount of Net Proceeds. Prior to any such rebuilding, replacement or repair, Landlord and Tenant shall agree on the estimated cost thereof (the “Restoration Cost”). In the event that Landlord and Tenant cannot so agree, Landlord and Tenant shall select a reputable independent architect who is registered or licensed as such in the State of South Carolina, which such architect shall determine the Restoration Cost.

(b) If only part of the Premises is taken or condemned for a public or quasi-public use and Tenant either is not permitted or elects not to terminate this Lease pursuant to Section 3.1(c), Tenant shall restore the Building Improvements upon the Premises to a condition and size as nearly comparable as reasonably possible to the condition and size thereof immediately prior to the taking. In the event that the parties are unable to agree upon the extent of such restoration, either party may submit the issue for arbitration pursuant to the rules then obtaining of the American Arbitration Association and the determination or award rendered by the arbitrator(s) shall be final, conclusive and binding upon the parties and not subject to appeal, and judgment thereon may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.

 

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(c) All of the costs of rebuilding shall be paid out of the Net Proceeds and, if the Net Proceeds are not sufficient, from Tenant’s own funds. Any Net Proceeds remaining after completion of the repairs and rebuilding of the Premises and final payment has been made for such work shall be disbursed to Tenant, except that Landlord shall receive all excess Net Proceeds in connection with a Condemnation and all Loss Value Awards. In the event of any temporary Condemnation, this Lease shall remain in full force and effect and Tenant shall be entitled to the Net Proceeds, if any, allocable to such temporary condemnation, except that such portion of the Net Proceeds allocable to the time period after the expiration or termination of the Lease Term shall be paid to Landlord.

(d) Except in the event of a termination of this Lease pursuant to Section 3.1(c) (and without limitation upon Tenant’s obligation to pay Remaining Rent, if applicable), Tenant’s obligation to pay Rent under the provisions of this Lease shall not be affected, altered or reduced by any Casualty or Condemnation and Tenant’s obligation to continue to pay Base Rent and Additional Rent shall continue notwithstanding any such Condemnation or Casualty.

(e) The full amount of the Net Proceeds shall be paid to and deposited with a depository (the “Depository”) to be selected as hereinafter provided. In addition, within thirty (30) days following any Casualty, Tenant shall be obligated to pay to the Depository the amount of any deductible or self-insured retention with respect to any insurance policies in place at the time of the Casualty and, if applicable, the Additional Deposit (defined below). The Depository shall be (a) Lender or (b) a bank or trust company selected by Landlord and approved by Tenant (so long as an Event of Default does not exist under this Lease and is continuing) and by Lender, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, which has undivided capital and surplus of Two Hundred Million Dollars ($200,000,000) or more. The Depository shall have no affirmative obligation to prosecute a determination of the amount of, or to effect the collection of, any insurance proceeds or condemnation award or awards. Moneys received by the Depository pursuant to the provisions of this Lease shall not be commingled with the Depository’s own funds and shall be held by the Depository in trust, either separately or with other trust funds. The Depository shall place any moneys held by it into an interest bearing account; and the interest paid or received by the Depository on the moneys so held in trust shall be added to the moneys so held in trust. The Depository shall not be liable or accountable for any action taken or suffered by the Depository or for any disbursement of moneys made by the Depository in good faith in reliance on advice of legal counsel. In disbursing moneys pursuant to Section 3.2(f), the Depository may rely conclusively on the information contained in any notice given to the Depository by Tenant in accordance with the provisions of said Section 3.2(f), unless Landlord shall notify the Depository in writing within ten (10) business days after the giving of any such notice that Landlord intends to dispute such information, in which case the disputed amount shall not be disbursed but shall continue to be held by the Depository until such dispute shall have been resolved by agreement of the parties. In the event of any Event of Default by Tenant hereunder after a Casualty or Condemnation and prior to the completion of any rebuilding or restoration, remaining Net Proceeds shall be disbursed to Landlord or Lender (as directed by Landlord) to be applied as determined by Landlord (which release and application shall be without limitation upon Tenant’s restoration and rebuilding obligations).

 

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(f) Except as otherwise agreed in writing by Landlord and, if applicable, all Lenders, the Depository shall disburse funds only in accordance with the following conditions:

(i) prior to commencement of restoration, the architects, contracts, contractors, plans and specifications for the restoration shall have been approved by Landlord within ten (10) days of Landlord’s receipt of Tenant’s request for such approval, which such approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed;

(ii) at the time of any disbursement, no Event of Default shall exist and be continuing and no mechanics’ or materialmen’s liens shall have been filed against any of the Premises and remain undischarged (either by filing the required bonds or satisfying the liens in full);

(iii) disbursements shall be made from time to time in an amount not exceeding the cost of the work completed since the last disbursement, upon receipt of: (A) satisfactory evidence, including architects’ certificates, of the stage of completion, the estimated total cost of completion and performance of the work to date in a good and workmanlike manner in accordance with the contracts, plans and specifications; (B) discharges of liens; (C) a satisfactory bringdown of title insurance and (D) other evidence of cost and payment reasonably requested by Landlord so that Landlord can verify that the amounts disbursed from time to time are represented by work that is completed, in place and free and clear of mechanics’ and materialmen’s lien claims;

(iv) each request for disbursement shall be accompanied by a certificate of Tenant, signed by the president, vice president or other authorized signatory of Tenant, describing the work for which payment is requested, stating the cost incurred in connection therewith, stating that Tenant has not previously received payment for such work and, upon completion of the work, also stating that the work has been fully completed and complies with the applicable requirements of this Lease;

(v) Sufficient Net Proceeds remain to complete the restoration of replacement as determined by Landlord, and, if sufficient funds do not remain, Tenant shall have posted the necessary Additional Deposit (as hereinafter defined) in accordance with paragraph (g) below.

(vi) Landlord may retain all retainage amounts under construction contracts until the restoration is substantially completed;

(vii) each request by Tenant for a disbursement from Depository shall be made on not less than fifteen (15) Business Days’ prior notice to Depository and Landlord and shall be accompanied by the certificate referenced in (iv) above, including documentation reasonably evidencing satisfaction of (i) and (iii) above. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Section 3.2(f) to the contrary, if Landlord shall in good faith desire to dispute the information contained in any request by Tenant for a disbursement, Landlord shall so notify Tenant and the Depository in writing within ten (10) Business Days after Landlord has received such notice, specifying the amount intended to be disputed and the nature of the dispute. After such ten (10) Business Day period has elapsed, if Landlord has not disputed the information contained in

 

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Tenant’s notice, the Depository shall promptly disburse to Tenant out of the Net Proceeds the amount of such requested costs and expenses. If Landlord disputes the information contained in Tenant’s notice, such dispute shall be promptly resolved by agreement of the parties and any undisputed amount shall be released to Tenant.

(g) Prior to commencement of restoration and at any time during restoration prior to any additional disbursement, if the estimated cost of restoring the Premises (taking into account the Restoration Cost and any changes to the nature and scope of construction costs agreed upon between Landlord and Tenant subsequent to the determination of the Restoration Cost) exceeds the amount of the Net Proceeds available for such restoration, the amount of such excess shall, upon demand by Landlord, be paid by Tenant to the Depository. Any sum so added by Tenant which remains in the Restoration Fund upon completion of restoration shall be refunded to Tenant.

(h) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 3.2, if (i) the Restoration Cost is less than Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000.00) with respect to any one casualty or partial condemnation and (ii) no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, then Tenant may apply for and receive the Net Proceeds directly from the insurer or payor thereof (and Landlord shall advise such insurer or payor to pay over such proceeds directly to Tenant), provided that Tenant shall promptly and diligently commence and complete such Work in a good and workmanlike manner and shall promptly pay any Loss Value Award to Landlord.

3.3 Insurance.

(a) Subject to Section 3.3(g), upon Substantial Completion of the Building Improvements, Tenant will maintain insurance on the Premises of the following character:

(i) Insurance with respect to the Building Improvements against all perils included within the classification “All Risk of Physical Loss” pursuant to a special form property insurance policy, covering such risks as shall be customarily insured against with respect to improvements similar in construction, location and use including by way of example, wind, hail, sprinkler leakage, debris removal, cost of demolition, fire, malicious mischief, water damage, boiler and machinery explosion or damage and the like, with extended coverage, and in amounts not less than 100% of the actual replacement cost of the Building Improvements (exclusive of foundations and excavations), without regard to depreciation. Such policies shall contain a replacement cost endorsement, an agreed amount endorsement, a law and ordinance endorsement, and shall contain deductibles not more than $10,000.00 per occurrence (except with respect to wind, flood and earthquake coverage, which such coverages may contain higher deductibles at commercially reasonable levels available to Tenant in the market for properties similar to the Premises). If any of the Building Improvements constitute a legal non-conforming structure under applicable building, zoning or land use laws, the law and ordinance coverage will contain insurance substantially identical to the following insurance now available: Coverage A: “Loss Due to Operation of Law” (with a minimum liability sublimit equal to $1,000,000.00 with a waiver of any co-insurance provisions or an Agreed Value Endorsement), Coverage B: “Demolition Cost” and Coverage C: “Increased Cost of Construction” coverages. Landlord (or, at Landlord’s direction, any Lender or Depository) shall be named as loss payee on the policies required to be maintained pursuant to this Section 3.3(a)(i), subject to the terms of Section 3.2.

 

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(ii) Commercial general public liability insurance insuring Landlord, Lender and Tenant against all claims for damages to person or property or for loss of life or of property occurring upon, in, or about the Premises, in limits of at least $1,000,000.00 combined single limit for bodily injury or death to any one person and property damage, $2,000,000.00 general aggregate for bodily injury or death to any number of persons and for property damage in respect of any one accident or occurrence, and $10,000,000.00 umbrella coverage for bodily injury or death and property damage, all with deductible amounts not exceeding $10,000.00.

(iii) Worker’s compensation insurance in the statutory minimum amounts.

(iv) Insurance against loss or damage from (A) leakage of sprinkler systems and (B) explosion of steam boilers, air conditioning equipment, pressure vessels or similar apparatus now or hereafter installed at the Premises, in an amount not less than replacement cost. Landlord shall be named as loss payee on the policies required to be maintained pursuant to this Section 3.3(a)(iv).

(v) The insurance coverage provided for herein shall also insure against loss or damage resulting from acts of terrorism, upon terms and conditions approved by Landlord.

(vi) During any period after the Commencement Date during which construction is conducted on the Premises and during which period the construction and materials are not covered by the existing policies, premium prepaid insurance policies covering the Premises (which during construction shall be on an “All-Risk” perils, including theft, “Builder’s Risk,” “Completed Value”, non-reporting form) in amounts equal to the replacement costs of the Building Improvements and worker’s compensation, employers’ liability, commercial auto liability, and commercial general liability insurance (including contractual liability and completed operations coverage) for each general contractor written on a 1986 standard “ISO” occurrence basis form or equivalent and excess umbrella coverage, carried during the course of construction, with general liability insurance limits as set forth in clause (ii) above.

(vii) Business income/interruption insurance to include loss of rents at limits sufficient to cover one hundred percent (100%) of the annual Base Rent and Additional Rent payable to Landlord with a period of indemnity not less than twelve (12) months from time of loss. Such insurance shall name Landlord as loss payee solely with respect to Base Rent and Additional Rent payable to or for the benefit of Landlord under this Lease.

(b) Subject to subsection (g) of this Section 3.3: (i) the insurance policies required herein shall be issued by companies authorized to transact business in the state in which the Premises are located and having an Alfred M. Best Company rating of “A:X” or better (except that with respect to worker’s compensation insurance an Alfred M. Best Company rating of A- or better is acceptable) and (b) no insurance policy maintained by Tenant hereunder shall provide for a deductible or self-insured retention in excess of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00), except for the deductibles or self-insured retention for: (X) workers compensation coverage, which will have no maximum, and (Y) wind, flood and earthquake coverages, which such coverages may

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

contain sublimits and higher deductibles at commercially reasonable levels available to Tenant in the market for properties similar to the Premises. Tenant shall, promptly upon receipt (but in any event prior to the expiration date of any of the insurance policies required to be maintained pursuant to this Lease), deliver to Landlord certificates of insurance evidencing such renewals and, upon request by Landlord, provide evidence of the payment of premiums.

(c) Every such policy (other than any general public liability or worker’s compensation policy) shall bear a mortgagee’s loss payable clause and/or a mortgagee endorsement in favor of the mortgagee or beneficiary (whether one or more, the “Lender”) under each mortgage, deed of trust or similar security instrument creating a lien on the interests of Landlord in the Premises (whether one or more, the “Indenture”).

(d) All such insurance (other than any worker’s compensation policy) shall be endorsed to provide that:

(i) such insurance will not be canceled or amended except after ten (10) days’ written notice to Landlord and Lender in the event of cancellation for non-payment and thirty (30) days’ written notice to Landlord and Lender in the event such insurance will be canceled for any other reason;

(ii) Landlord and Lender are each an additional insured on each liability policy with the understanding that any obligation imposed upon the insured (including, without limitation, the liability to pay premiums, but excluding any obligation of the insured to cooperate with any insurer or any insurer’s representative in the investigation, defense or settlement of any claim covered under such insurance) shall be the sole obligation of Tenant and not that of any other insured;

(iii) the interests of the Lender shall not be invalidated by any action or inaction of the Landlord, Tenant or any other person, and such insurance shall insure the Lender regardless of any breach or violation by the Tenant, the Landlord or any other person of any warranties, declarations or conditions contained in the policies relating to such insurance or application therefor;

(iv) the interests of Landlord shall not be invalidated by any action or inaction of the Tenant or any other person, and such insurance shall insure the Landlord regardless of any breach or violation by the Tenant or any other person of any warranties, declarations or conditions contained in the policies relating to such insurance or application therefor;

(v) except with respect to worker’s compensation and automobile insurance, the insurer thereunder waives all rights of subrogation against the Lender and Landlord and waives any right of set-off and counterclaim and any other right of deduction, whether by attachment or otherwise;

(vi) such insurance shall be primary without right of contribution from any other insurance carried by or on behalf of the Tenant or the Landlord or the Lender or any other person with respect to its interest in the Premises;

 

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(vii) all terms, conditions, insuring agreements and endorsements, with the exception of limits of liability, shall operate in the same manner as if there were a separate policy covering each insured; and

(viii) all insurance proceeds payable under any policy of insurance with respect to the Premises shall be paid directly to Tenant pursuant to Section 3.2(h) or Landlord pursuant to Section 3.1.

(e) Tenant shall pay as they become due all premiums for the insurance required by this Section 3.3 and maintain all such policies in good standing, shall renew or replace each policy. Tenant shall in all events provide current certificates of insurance evidencing such coverages to Landlord and Lender.

(f) At Landlord’s request, Tenant shall deliver to Landlord and Lender copies of the applicable insurance policies and original or duplicate certificates of insurance, satisfactory to and permitting reliance thereon by Landlord and Lender, evidencing the existence of all insurance which is required to be maintained by Tenant hereunder, such delivery to be made (i) upon the execution and delivery hereof and (ii) at least ten (10) days prior to the expiration of any such insurance. In the event of any transfer by Landlord of Landlord’s interest in the Premises or any financing or refinancing of Landlord’s interest in the Premises, Tenant shall, upon not less than ten (10) days’ prior written notice, deliver to Landlord or any Lender providing such financing or refinancing, as the case may be, certificates of all insurance required to be maintained by Tenant hereunder naming such transferee or such Lender, as the case may be, as a loss payee or additional insured to the extent required herein effective as of the date of such transfer, financing or refinancing. Any insurance required hereunder may be provided under blanket policies provided that the Premises and the applicable coverage applicable thereto are specified therein.

(g) Notwithstanding anything in Section 3.3(a) to the contrary, if an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, Landlord, in its discretion and upon notice to Tenant, may elect to obtain and maintain any or all of the insurance policies described in Section 3.3(a), and in such event Tenant shall pay or reimburse Landlord for the premiums and other costs of such insurance within five (5) business days after receiving Landlord’s written request for payment together with supporting information therefor. In addition to and without limiting Tenant’s obligations under Section 3.3(a), Landlord may (but shall not be obligated to), in its reasonable discretion, obtain and maintain a separate liability insurance policy in Landlord’s name providing coverage similar to the coverage described in Section 3.3(a)(ii), with policy limits determined by Landlord in its reasonable discretion, and in such event Tenant shall pay or reimburse Landlord for the premiums and other costs of such insurance within five (5) business days after receiving Landlord’s written request for payment together with supporting information therefor.

(h) The requirements of this Section 3.3 shall not be construed to negate or modify Tenant’s obligations under Section 2.5 and 3.4.

 

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3.4 Alterations.

(a) Tenant may, at its expense, make additions to and alterations of the Building Improvements, and construct additional improvements (collectively, “Alterations”), provided that: (i) the fair market value, utility and useful life of the Premises shall not be reduced or lessened thereby; (ii) such Alterations shall be timely completed in a good and workmanlike manner, free and clear of liens and encumbrances, and in compliance with all applicable Legal Requirements and the requirements of all insurance policies required to be maintained by Tenant hereunder; and (iii) except as set forth in Section 3.4(b), no Material Alterations, as hereafter defined, shall be made unless Landlord’s prior written consent shall have been obtained, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned, unless an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing in which case such consent may be withheld by Landlord in its sole discretion. “Material Alteration” is defined as (i) any expansion or alteration of the building envelope of the Building Improvements, (ii) any alteration or other Work which affects the structural elements, foundation, roof, exterior walls or building systems of the Building Improvements, other than in a de minimis manner, and/or (iii) any Work for which the Estimated Cost (defined hereinafter) is in excess of One Hundred Twenty Five Thousand Dollars ($125,000) in a single instance or Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) in the aggregate over a consecutive twelve (12) month period. “Estimated Cost” is defined as the estimated cost of materials, construction and labor (not including architects, engineers or other professionals), as estimated by a licensed architect, which estimate together with a complete description of the Work and all related work shall be delivered to, and such estimate and description reasonably approved by, Landlord before the commencement of any Work hereunder. In addition to the limitations set forth in (i) through (iii) above, Tenant agrees that all Alterations and Material Alterations that Tenant shall be required or permitted to do under the provisions of this Lease (hereinafter collectively called the “Work”), including (without limitation, the Building Expansion pursuant to Section 3.4(b), shall be performed in each case subject to the following:

(i) Any Work when completed shall be of such a character as not to reduce the value of the Premises below its value immediately prior to the commencement of such Work.

(ii) No Work shall be performed by Tenant if the same would reduce the usable square footage of the Premises, or would weaken or adversely affect, temporarily or permanently, the structure of the Premises or any part thereof or the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, life safety or HVAC systems serving the Premises, or reduce the permitted uses thereof under applicable zoning laws or materially impair other amenities of the Premises, or if the Work would convert the use of the Premises to a use that is not a Permitted Use.

(iii) No Material Alterations shall be commenced until detailed plans and specifications (including layout, architectural, mechanical and structural drawings), prepared by an architect reasonably satisfactory to Landlord shall have been submitted to and approved by Landlord, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, and no such Work shall be undertaken except under the supervision of such architect.

(iv) Work shall be commenced only after all required municipal and other governmental and third-party permits, authorizations and approvals for such Work shall have been obtained by Tenant, at its own cost and expense. Landlord will, on Tenant’s written request and at no third party expense or liability to Landlord, promptly execute any documents necessary to be signed by Landlord to obtain any such permits, authorizations and approvals.

 

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(v) All Work shall be performed in a good workmanlike manner, and in accordance with all Legal Requirements, as well as any plans and specifications therefor which shall have been approved by Landlord as required hereunder. All Work shall be commenced and completed in a commercially reasonable manner, free and clear of all liens and at Tenant’s sole cost and expense.

(vi) Upon completion of any Work, Tenant, at Tenant’s expense, shall obtain and deliver to Landlord (x) certificate(s) of occupancy (if applicable) and any other certificates of final approval of such Work required by any governmental or quasi- governmental authority, and (y) with respect to any Material Alterations, as-built plans and specifications for the Work.

(vii) With respect to any Material Alterations (including, without limitation, any Building Expansion pursuant to Section 3.4(b)), Tenant shall pay to Landlord a fee equal to the greater of (x) Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($2,500.00), or (y) the actual cost incurred by Landlord in reviewing Tenant’s design, plans and specifications and supervising the Work, to compensate Landlord for Landlord’s review of the design, plans and specifications and for the supervision of the Work. (Landlord’s review of plans and specifications for any Work and any supervision or inspection of any Work by or on behalf of Landlord shall be solely for the benefit of Landlord and may not be relied upon by Tenant for any purpose. Without limitation, Landlord’s review and approval of, or failure to disapprove, any plans, specifications or Work shall not constitute a representation or warranty that such plans, specifications or Work complies with applicable Legal Requirements and shall not constitute a waiver of the express requirements of this Lease with respect to such Work.) Such fee shall be paid to Landlord as follows: (A) 50% of the fee (based on Landlord’s reasonable estimate) shall be paid by Tenant to Landlord concurrently with Tenant’s submission of the plans and specifications for Landlord’s approval pursuant to clause (iii) above, and (B) the balance of such fee shall be paid by Tenant to Landlord monthly in arears during the prosecution of the Work, on a percentage of completion basis.

(viii) Except as may be expressly provided to the contrary hereunder with respect to Tenant’s Personal Property, all Alterations installed in and affixed to the Premises in a manner that such fixtures cannot be removed or severed from the Premises without causing material damage thereto at any time during the Lease Term shall become the property of Landlord at the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease and shall remain upon and be surrendered with the Premises. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything in this Lease to the contrary, Landlord shall have the right to require that any Alteration be removed by Tenant, at Tenant’s sole cost, upon the expiration or sooner termination of this Lease by so advising Tenant, in writing, at or around the time such Alteration is commenced as to Alterations that do not require Landlord’s consent or as part of Landlord’s consent to such Alterations that require Landlord’s consent. Further, notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, by notice to Tenant not less than six (6) months prior to the expiration of the Lease Term or upon the earlier termination of this Lease, Landlord shall also have the right to require Tenant to remove any or all of the Tenant Improvements, at Tenant’s sole cost, upon the expiration or sooner termination of this Lease; provided that Tenant shall not be required to remove at the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease any of the Tenant Improvements that are normal and customary for the use of the Premises as a generic warehouse and distribution facility. Tenant shall immediately repair any damage to the Premises caused by its removal of any of the Tenant Improvements which are required by

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Landlord to be removed or any of Tenant’s Personal Property or Alterations which remain the property of Tenant (or are required by Landlord to be removed) pursuant to the terms of this Section. All property required to be removed by Tenant at the end of the Lease Term remaining in the Premises after Tenant’s vacation shall be deemed abandoned and may, at the election of Landlord, either be retained as Landlord’s property or may be removed from the Premises by Landlord at Tenant’s expense. Tenant’s obligations under this Section shall survive the termination of this Lease.

(b) So long as Tenant is not in default under this Lease beyond any applicable cure period, Tenant shall have the right to develop and construct upon the Premises an expansion of the Building Improvements, containing not more than fifty thousand (50,000) square feet of floor area, in the location and substantially in the configuration shown on Exhibit D attached hereto and made a part hereof (the “Building Expansion”); provided, however, that Tenant’s undertaking of the Building Expansion shall be subject to the following terms and conditions: (i) the Building Expansion shall be undertaken and completed at Tenant’s sole cost and expense; (ii) Tenant shall give Landlord not less than one hundred twenty (120) days’ prior written notice of Tenant’s commencement of any on-site Work in connection with the Building Expansion, which notice shall include (without limitation) the identity of Tenant’s proposed architect and general contractor for the Building Expansion, preliminary plans and specifications for the Building Expansion, the Estimated Cost of the Building Expansion, the proposed construction schedule for the Work, and evidence reasonably satisfactory to Landlord that Tenant has obtained third-party and governmental permits and approvals (other than the building permit) that are required with respect to the Building Expansion under applicable Legal Requirements, the Development Easements, the Declaration or any recorded covenant, conditions and restrictions of record affecting the Premises; (iii) the proposed architect and general contractor for the Building Expansion shall be subject to the prior written approval of Landlord, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned, (iv) Tenant shall deposit the Estimated Cost of the Building Expansion, in cash, into a construction disbursement escrow established with a title insurance company satisfactory to Landlord, for disbursement to pay for the cost of the Work upon terms and conditions satisfactory to Landlord in Landlord’s reasonable judgment (provided, however, in Landlord’s sole discretion, in lieu of such construction disbursement escrow, Landlord may require Tenant to provide a bond, letter of credit or other security, in amount, form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Landlord, to secure the timely and lien-free completion of the Building Expansion by Tenant); (v) once commenced, Tenant shall diligently and continuously prosecute the construction and completion of the Building Expansion Work in accordance with the plans and specifications and construction schedule approved by Landlord, subject only to Force Majeure Delays; (vi) once the Building Expansion Work is commenced, if Tenant suspends material construction activities at the site of fails to adhere to the construction schedule approved by Landlord for any reason other than Force Majeure Delays, and if such suspension or failure is not cured by Tenant within thirty (30) days after notice from Landlord, then such suspension or failure shall constitute an Event of Default by Tenant hereunder; and (vii) Tenant shall comply with the terms and provisions of this Lease applicable to Material Alterations and other Work, including (without limitation) Sections 2.3 and 2.4 concerning liens, and the terms and conditions of clauses (i) through (viii) in Section 3.4(a) above.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(c) Tenant may, at its cost and expense, install, or place upon or reinstall, or replace and remove from the Premises any of Tenant’s Personal Property. Landlord will, on Tenant’s written request, promptly execute any documents reasonably necessary to be signed by Landlord to obtain any permits, authorizations and approvals related to any Alterations, provided that Tenant shall bear any expense or liability of Landlord in connection therewith.

3.5 Easements. Landlord agrees from time to time during the Lease Term, at the request of Tenant, without additional consideration, but at no additional cost, liability or expense to Landlord, (1) to grant to third parties easements, licenses, rights of way and other rights and privileges in the nature of easements of such nature, extent and duration (but not extending beyond the Lease Term, unless approved by Landlord in Landlord’s sole discretion) as Tenant may reasonably request with respect to the Premises; (2) to release or relocate existing easements and appurtenances which are for the benefit of the Premises; and (3) to execute and deliver any instrument necessary or appropriate to confirm such grants or releases to any person in each of the foregoing instances, the same to be without consideration, but only if (i) such grant or release is not detrimental to the proper conduct of business of Tenant on the Premises, (ii) such grant or release does not impair the effective use of the Premises for its intended purposes or adversely affect its value, (iii) the consideration, if any, being paid for such grant or release is fair and adequate, (iv) for so long as this Lease is in effect, Tenant will perform all obligations, if any, of owner under the applicable instrument, (v) no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, and (vi) Landlord shall have received (X) a certificate from the appropriate officer of Tenant certifying as to the satisfaction of the conditions described in clause (i) through (v) above, and (Y) a duly authorized undertaking of Tenant in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Landlord, to the effect that Tenant will remain obligated hereunder to the same extent as if such grant or release had not been made. Any easement that imposes any obligation or liability on Landlord shall expressly provide that it is without recourse to Landlord (except to the extent of Landlord’s interest in the Premises), and that any lien arising by virtue of the nonperformance of obligations under such easement shall be subordinate to the lien of any Indenture.

ARTICLE 4

4.1 Assignment and Subletting.

(a) The following terms have the following meanings when used in this Section 4.1:

(i) “Affiliate” means any Person that, directly or indirectly, Controls, is Controlled by or is under common Control with the Named Tenant.

(ii) “Assignment Documents” means:

(A) a copy of an assignment and assumption of the Lease, in customary form, executed by Tenant and the assignee whereby the assignee agrees to observe, pay and perform (where the assignee agrees, at a minimum, to pay and perform all obligations of the Tenant under this Lease),

 

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is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(B) copies of organizational documents and resolutions, as the case may be, authorizing the execution and delivery of an assumption of this Lease by the assignee.

(iii) “Control” means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of another Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities or membership interests, by contract or otherwise.

(iv) “GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles as developed and modified by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and industry practice and custom, applied on a consistent basis.

(v) “Named Tenant” means Thorne Research, Inc. or, following assignment of this Lease to a Pre-Approved Assignee, such Pre-Approved Assignee.

(vi) “Net Worth” means, at any time, Tangible Net Worth plus Intangible Asset Value.

(vii) “Person” means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), limited liability company, joint stock company, trust, unincorporated association, joint venture or other entity.

(viii) “Pre-Approved Assignee” means, a Person that, in connection with a transaction under Section 4.1 of this Lease (other than an assignment of the Lease to an Affiliate of Tenant), is or becomes the Tenant, where after giving effect to such transaction, such Tenant (A) agrees (or has agreed) to use the Premises solely for the Permitted Use and (B) satisfies any one of the following:

(A) it meets the Required Credit Rating;

(B) it has both (x) a Net Worth equal to or greater than the Net Worth of Tenant as of the date hereof or immediately prior to the date of the proposed assignment, whichever is greater, and (y) a Tangible Net Worth equal to or greater than the Tangible Net Worth of Tenant as of the date hereof or immediately prior to the date of the proposed assignment, whichever is greater; or

(C) its obligations under the Lease are guaranteed, pursuant to a written guaranty satisfactory to Landlord, by a guarantor satisfactory to Landlord that either: (x) has both (1) a Net Worth equal to or greater than the Net Worth of Tenant as of the date hereof or immediately prior to the date of the proposed assignment, whichever is greater, and (2) a Tangible Net Worth equal to or greater than the Tangible Net Worth of Tenant as of the date hereof or immediately prior to the date of the proposed assignment, whichever is greater, or (y) meets the Required Credit Rating;

(ix) “Required Credit Rating” means an unsecured senior debt rating of “baa3” or better from Moody’s Investor Services, Inc. or “BBB-”or better from Standard & Poor’s Corporation, in each case with a stable or positive outlook. In the event all such rating agencies shall cease to furnish such ratings, then a comparable rating by another rating agency reasonably acceptable to Landlord and Tenant may be substituted.

 

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is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(x) “Tangible Net Worth” means, at any time:

(A) the total assets of the Person and its subsidiaries that would be shown as assets on a consolidated balance sheet of the Person and its subsidiaries as of such time prepared in accordance with GAAP, after eliminating all amounts properly attributable to minority interests, if any, in the stock and surplus of subsidiaries, minus

(B) the total liabilities of the Person and its subsidiaries that would be shown as liabilities on a consolidated balance sheet of the Person and its subsidiaries as of such time prepared in accordance with GAAP, minus

(C) the net book value of all assets, after deducting any reserves applicable thereto, that would be treated as intangible under GAAP (“Intangible Asset Value”), including, without limitation, good will, trademarks, trade names, service marks, brand names, copyrights, patents and unamortized debt discount and expense, organizational expenses and the excess of the equity in any subsidiary over the cost of the investment in such subsidiary, minus

(D) any increase in the amount of Tangible Net Worth attributable to a write-up in the book value of any asset on the books of the Person resulting from a revaluation thereof subsequent to the closing, minus

(E) the amounts, if any, at which any shares of the capital stock of the Person or any subsidiary appear as an asset on the balance sheet from which the Tangible Net Worth is determined for the purposes of this definition, minus

(F) all deferred assets (other than prepaid taxes and other expenses).

(b) Tenant shall not assign this Lease or any interest herein or sublease all or any portion of the Premises, except in accordance with the requirements of this Section 4.1. For purposes of this Lease, a sale, transfer and/or assignment of the direct or indirect ownership interests in Tenant (including, without limitation, a sale, transfer or assignment by the holders of direct or indirect beneficial ownership interests in Tenant of all or a majority of their respective direct or indirect ownership interests in Tenant) shall be deemed to be an assignment of this Lease, subject to the provisions of Section 4.1(c)(2) below.

(c) Upon thirty (30) days prior written notice to Landlord, but without the consent of Landlord, Tenant shall have the right to assign this Lease (A) to a Pre-Approved Assignee or (B) to an Affiliate; subject to the conditions that (1) at least thirty (30) days prior to any assignment (or deemed assignment) of this Lease that does not require the consent of Landlord, Tenant shall provide Landlord with (i) the name of the proposed assignee, and (ii) if applicable, reasonable evidence that after giving effect to such transaction, Tenant will be a Pre-Approved Assignee, and (2) in the case of an assignment of this Lease to an Affiliate, it shall be an Event of Default hereunder if the assignee ceases to qualify as an Affiliate. Nothing in this Section 4.1(c) or any other provision of this Lease shall release Tenant or any guarantor of this Lease from its obligations hereunder or under any guaranty executed by such guarantor.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(d) If Tenant desires to assign this Lease, whether by operation of law or otherwise, to a Person other than in accordance with Section 4.1(c) above, then Tenant shall, not less than sixty (60) days prior to the effective date of such assignment, submit to Landlord a request for approval of such assignment, together with information regarding the following with respect to the proposed assignee: (A) credit, (B) capital structure, (C) management, (D) operating history, (E) proposed use of the Premises. Landlord shall review such information and shall approve or disapprove the proposed assignment, no later than the thirtieth (30th) day following receipt of all such information, which approval or consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed. If a response is not received by Tenant from Landlord by the expiration of such thirty (30) day period such assignment shall be deemed not to be approved.

(e) No assignment of this Lease to a Pre-Approved Assignee or to an assignee approved by Landlord under Subsection 4.1(d) of this Lease, shall be effective against Landlord until Landlord has received the applicable Assignment Documents, and Tenant agrees to forward the Assignment Documents to Landlord on or immediately following (no later than ten (10) days) the execution of any such assignment. No assignment of this Lease to any Person shall release the Tenant from any obligation under the Lease. Upon any assignment of this Lease to an Affiliate, the Tenant shall not be released from liability under this Lease and Tenant shall deliver to Landlord the documents referred to in clause (A) of the definition of Assignment Documents in connection with such assignment no later than ten (10) days following the execution of any such assignment.

(f) In no event will Tenant be released from its obligations under this Lease by reason of any assignment hereof or transfer of any interests in Tenant. From and after any assignment of this Lease, Tenant shall remain primarily and jointly and severally liable with the assignee for the performance of the Tenant’s obligations hereunder.

(g) So long as no Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, Tenant may sublet all or a portion of the Premises with the prior written consent of Landlord, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, provided, however that the following shall not require Landlord’s consent: (1) subleases to Affiliates or customers of Tenant and (2) subleases to one or more parties of up to ten percent (10%) of the floor area of the Premises in the aggregate for all such subleases pursuant to this item (2) ((1) and (2) being referred to hereinafter as “Permitted Subleases”). In connection with all subleases, whether or not requiring the consent of Landlord, (A) each such sublease shall expressly be made subject to the provisions hereof, (B) the term of any subletting shall not extend beyond the Lease Term, (C) each sublease shall terminate upon any termination of this Lease, unless Landlord elects in writing (in its sole and absolute discretion), to cause the sublessee to attorn to and recognize Landlord as the lessor under such sublease, whereupon such sublease shall continue as a direct lease between the sublessee and Landlord upon all the terms and conditions of such sublease, (D) no sublease shall affect or reduce any obligation of the Tenant or right of the Landlord hereunder, and (E) all obligations of the Tenant hereunder shall continue in full force and effect as the obligations of a principal and not of a guarantor or surety, as though no subletting had been made.

 

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is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(h) Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, Landlord shall have the right to collect and enjoy all rents and other sums of money payable under any sublease of any of the Premises upon notice to Tenant and any subtenants and to collect such rents and sums of money and to apply the same to Rent as it becomes due and payable. Tenant shall not accept any rents under any sublease more than thirty (30) days in advance of the accrual thereof nor do nor permit anything to be done, the doing of which, nor omit or refrain from doing anything, the omission of which, will or could be a breach of or default in the terms of any of the subleases.

(i) Tenant shall not have the power to mortgage, pledge or otherwise encumber its interest under this Lease, without the prior written consent of Landlord, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, and any such mortgage, pledge or encumbrance made in violation of this Section 4.1 shall be void and of no force and effect.

(j) Landlord may sell or transfer the Premises at any time without Tenant’s consent to any third party (each a “Third Party Purchaser”). In the event of any such transfer, Tenant shall attorn to any Third Party Purchaser as Landlord so long as such Third Party Purchaser and Landlord notify Tenant in writing of such transfer and Third Party Purchaser agrees to assume all obligations of Landlord accruing under this Lease after the date of such transfer. At the request of Landlord, Tenant will execute such documents confirming the agreement referred to above and such other agreements as Landlord may reasonably request, provided that such agreements do not increase the liabilities and obligations or reduce the rights of Tenant hereunder.

(k) For purposes of this Lease, “Excess Sublease Rent” shall mean an amount, if any, equal to: (A) (i) all rent or other consideration paid to Tenant by any subtenant, for and during each month less (ii) the portion applicable to such month (when amortized from the date such subtenant commences to pay rent over the remaining term of the sublease, exclusive of any renewals or extensions) of Tenant’s Concession Costs reasonably incurred by Tenant in connection with such subletting, less (B) (i) the installment of Base Monthly Rent for such month plus (ii) such other rent or consideration attributable to such month, which would otherwise be required to be paid by Tenant to Landlord. In determining the amount of Excess Sublease Rent, the amount of the installment of Base Monthly Rent to be deducted pursuant to clause (B)(i) of this Section (k) shall be determined by multiplying the then applicable square foot rate of the installment of Base Monthly Rent by the area of the portion of the Premises which has been sublet. For purposes of this Lease “Concession Costs” shall mean leasing commissions, attorneys’ fees and expenses, alteration costs, costs to prepare the sublease premises, and costs such as construction allowances, rent concessions, moving expenses, takeover obligation and other similar inducements, incurred in subleasing the applicable portion of the Premises. Except in connection with Permitted Subleases, fifty percent (50%) of the Excess Sublease Rent shall be payable, as and when received by Tenant, to Landlord as Additional Rent.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

ARTICLE 5

5.1 Conditional Limitations; Default Provisions.

(a) Any of the following occurrences or acts shall constitute an “Event of Default” under this Lease:

(i) if Tenant shall fail to pay any Base Monthly Rent within 5 days after receipt of written notice from Landlord that such Base Monthly Rent was not paid on the due date, or Tenant fails to pay any Rent (other than Base Monthly Rent) or any other sum due hereunder within ten (10) days after receipt of written notice from Landlord that such rent or other charges are delinquent; or

(ii) Tenant fails to observe or perform any provision hereof not expressly described in Section 5.1(a) above and such failure shall continue for thirty (30) days after notice to Tenant of such failure (provided, that in the case of any such failure which is capable of being cured but cannot be cured by the payment of money and cannot with diligence be cured within such 30-day period, if Tenant shall commence promptly to cure the same and thereafter prosecute the curing thereof with diligence, the time within which such failure may be cured shall be extended for such period as is necessary to complete the curing thereof with diligence); or

(iii) if Tenant (or any guarantor of Tenant’s obligations hereunder) shall file a petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization or for an arrangement pursuant to any federal or state law, or shall be adjudicated a bankrupt or become insolvent or shall make an assignment for the benefit of creditors or shall admit in writing its inability to pay its debts generally as they become due, or if a petition or answer proposing the adjudication of Tenant (or any such guarantor) as a bankrupt or its reorganization pursuant to any federal or state bankruptcy law or any similar federal or state law shall be filed in any court and Tenant (or such guarantor) shall consent to or acquiesce in the filing thereof or such petition or answer shall not be discharged or denied within ninety (90) days after the filing thereof; or

(iv) if a receiver, trustee or liquidator of Tenant (or any guarantor of Tenant’s obligations hereunder) or of all or substantially all of the assets of Tenant (or any such guarantor) or Tenant’s estate in the Premises shall be appointed in any proceeding brought by Tenant (or a guarantor), or if any such receiver, trustee or liquidator shall be appointed in any proceeding brought against Tenant (or any such guarantor) and shall not be discharged within ninety (90) days after such appointment, or if Tenant (or any such guarantor) shall consent to or acquiesce in such appointment; or

(v) if Tenant or any guarantor of Tenant’s obligations hereunder shall dissolve or otherwise fail to maintain its legal existence; or

(vi) an assignment of this Lease or any interest herein, or subletting of the Premises or any portion thereof, in violation of the terms and conditions of this Lease; or

(vii) if Tenant fails to purchase and maintain the required insurance under Section 3.3.

(b) If an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, Landlord may, in addition to other rights granted to Landlord hereunder, give Tenant notice of Landlord’s intention to terminate this Lease on a date specified in such notice, which such date shall not be less than thirty (30) days after the giving of such notice. Upon such date this Lease, the estate hereby granted and all rights of Tenant hereunder shall expire and terminate. Upon such termination, Tenant shall immediately surrender and deliver possession of the Premises to Landlord in accordance with Section 8.3. If Tenant does not so surrender and deliver possession of the Premises, Landlord may re-enter and repossess the Premises by any available legal process.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(c) If this Lease is terminated pursuant to Section 5.1(b), Landlord shall have the right to peaceably re-enter and repossess the Premises, but only after instituting legal proceedings as a condition to such re-entry and repossession.

(d) If an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, Landlord may terminate Tenant’s right of possession (but not this Lease) and may repossess the Premises by summary proceeding, ejectment or other legal proceeding without thereby releasing Tenant from any liability hereunder and without demand or notice of any kind to Tenant and without terminating this Lease. After repossession of the Premises pursuant hereto or any termination of this Lease, Landlord shall have the right to re-let any of the Premises to such tenant or tenants, for such term or terms, for such rent, on such conditions and for such uses as Landlord in its reasonable discretion (and subject to the requirements of Section 5.1(f) herein) may determine, and collect and receive any rents payable by reason of such re-letting. Landlord may make such Alterations in connection with such re-letting as it may deem advisable in its reasonable discretion.

(e) If and to the extent required by applicable Legal Requirements, Landlord shall mitigate damages by making reasonable efforts to re-let the Premises in the event that Tenant’s possession is terminated prior to the expiration of the Term. In addition, if the Premises is re-let and Landlord is compensated for any portion of the Base Rent, Additional Rent, all of its actual damages and the reasonable and customary costs of re-letting the Premises, then Landlord’s damages shall be adjusted accordingly. If any law shall validly limit the amount of any damages provided for herein to an amount which is less than the amount agreed to herein, Landlord shall be entitled to the maximum amount available under such law.

(f) In the event of any expiration or termination of the Lease Term or re-entry or repossession of the Premises in accordance with the requirements hereof (whether or not the Lease is terminated) by reason of the occurrence of an Event of Default, Tenant shall pay to Landlord all Rent required to be paid by Tenant through the date of such expiration, termination, re-entry or repossession; and thereafter, Tenant shall, until the end of what would have been the Lease Term in the absence of such expiration, termination, re-entry or repossession, continue to be liable to Landlord for, and shall pay to Landlord when due: (i) all Rent which would be payable under this Lease by Tenant in the absence of any such expiration, termination, re-entry or repossession, less (ii) the net proceeds, if any, of any re-letting effected for the account of Tenant, after deducting from such proceeds the following (the “Re-Letting Costs”): all necessary and customary expenses of Landlord (applicable to the remaining balance of what would have been Lease Term) actually incurred in connection with such re-letting (including, without limitation, all repossession costs, brokerage commissions, reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses, alteration costs and expenses of preparation for such reletting), Tenant shall pay such Rent on the dates on which such Rent would be payable under this Lease in the absence of such expiration, termination, re-entry or repossession, and Landlord shall be entitled to recover the same from Tenant on each such date.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(g) At any time after any expiration or termination of the Lease Term or reentry or repossession of the Premises in accordance with the requirements hereof by reason of the occurrence of an Event of Default, Landlord shall be entitled to recover damages from Tenant, and Tenant shall pay to Landlord on demand, an amount equal to the sum of (A) the excess, if any, of (i) the aggregate of all Base Rent, Additional Rent and other sums which would be payable under this Lease, in each case from the date of such demand (or, if applicable, the date to which Tenant shall have satisfied in full its obligations under Section 5.1(f) to pay Rent as it becomes due) for what would be the then-unexpired Lease Term in the absence of such expiration, termination, re-entry, repossession or removal, discounted to Present Value, over (b) the then fair rental value of the Premises (taking into account any proceeds received or to be received from any re-letting of all or a portion of the Premises for any portion of what would be the then unexpired Term), discounted to Present Value for the same period, plus (B) all Re-Letting Costs. If any law shall limit the amount of damages to less than the amount above agreed upon, Landlord shall be entitled to the maximum amount allowable under such law. For the purpose of this Section 5.1(g), the “Present Value” of any amount shall mean such amount discounted monthly to present value by using the discount rate equal to the then Treasury Rate. “Treasury Rate” means the yield to maturity of a debt obligation of the United States Treasury having a maturity date closest to but not earlier than the then-existing remaining Lease Term and, if more than one have been issued with such maturity date, then using the debt obligation first issued on or closest to the date of any termination by Landlord under this Lease.

(h) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Lease to the contrary, in exercising its rights under Sections 5.1(f) and/or 5.1(g), Landlord shall not be entitled to recover damages that are duplicative.

5.2 Additional Rights of Landlord.

(a) No right or remedy of Landlord under this Lease shall be exclusive of any other right or remedy, but shall he cumulative and in addition to any other right or remedy hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or equity. Failure to insist upon the strict performance of any provision hereof or to exercise any option, right, power or remedy contained herein shall not constitute a waiver or relinquishment thereof for the future. Receipt by Landlord of any Base Rent, Additional Rent or other sums payable hereunder with knowledge of the breach of any provision hereof shall not constitute waiver of such breach, and no waiver by Landlord of any provision hereof shall be deemed to have been made unless made in writing duly executed by Landlord. Landlord shall be entitled to seek to obtain injunctive relief in case of the violation, or attempted or threatened violation, of any of the provisions hereof, or to a decree compelling performance of any of the provisions hereof, or to any other remedy allowed to Landlord by law or equity.

(b) If Tenant shall be in default in the observance or performance of any term or covenant on Tenant’s part to be observed or performed under any of the provisions of this Lease, then, without thereby waiving such default (and whether or not any applicable cure periods have lapsed), Landlord may, but shall be under no obligation to, take all action, including, without limitation, peaceably enter upon the Premises to perform the obligation of Tenant hereunder immediately and without notice in the case of an emergency and upon five (5) business days’ notice to Tenant in other cases. The reasonable and actual cost and expenses incurred by Landlord

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

in connection therewith, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses (including those incurred in connection with any appellate proceedings), together with interest thereon at the Rate from the date any such expenses were incurred by Landlord until the date of payment by Tenant, shall constitute Additional Rent and shall be paid by Tenant to Landlord within five (5) days after demand therefor together with supporting information.

(c) No termination of this Lease, repossession or reletting of the Premises, exercise of any remedy or collection of any damages pursuant to this Article shall relieve Tenant of any indemnification obligations pursuant to this Lease.

(d) No failure of Landlord (i) to insist at any time upon the strict performance of any provision of this Lease or (ii) to exercise any option, right, power or remedy contained in this Lease shall be construed as a waiver, modification or relinquishment thereof. A receipt by Landlord of any sum in satisfaction of any monetary obligation with knowledge of the breach of any provision hereof shall not be deemed a waiver of such breach, and no waiver by Landlord of any provision hereof shall be deemed to have been made unless expressed in a writing signed by Landlord.

ARTICLE 6

6.1 Notices and Other Instruments. All notices, consents, approvals and requests required or permitted hereunder shall be given in writing and shall be effective for all purposes if hand delivered or sent by (i) certified or registered United States mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, or (ii) expedited prepaid delivery service, either overnight delivery service of a nationally recognized courier, commercial or United States Postal Service, with proof of attempted delivery, addressed as follows:

 

  If to Landlord:    GPT Summerville Owner LLC
     c/o Gramercy Property Trust
     521 Fifth Avenue, 30th Floor
     New York, New York 10175
     Attention: Managing Director, Operations
  with copy to:    c/o Gramercy Property Trust Inc.
     550 Blair Mill Road, Suite 120
     Horsham, PA 19044
     Attn: Lease Administration
  If to Tenant:    Thorne Research, Inc.
     25820 Highway 2 West
     Sandpoint, Idaho 83864
     Attn: Kim R. Pearson, General Counsel
  with copy to:    Jason S. Nichols
     Parsons Behle & Latimer
     201 South Main Street, Suite 1800
     Salt Lake City, Utah 84111

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Such address may be changed by any party in a written notice to the other parties hereto in the manner provided for in this Section. A notice shall be deemed to have been given: in the case of hand delivery, at the time of delivery; in the case of registered or certified mail, when delivered or the first attempted delivery on a Business Day; or in the case of expedited prepaid delivery, upon the first attempted delivery on a Business Day. A party receiving a notice which does not comply with the technical requirements for notice under this Section may elect to waive any deficiencies and treat the notice as having been properly given.

6.2 Estoppel Certificates, Subordination, Non-Disturbance and Attornment; Financial Information.

(a) Tenant shall, at any time and from time to time during, the Lease Term within not less than ten (10) Business Days after Tenant’s receipt of written request by Landlord, execute, acknowledge and deliver to Landlord and/or to any actual or prospective Lender, purchaser, assignee or mortgagee or third party designated by Landlord, a certificate stating: (i) that this Lease is unmodified and in force and effect (or if there have been modifications, that this Lease is in force and effect as modified, and identifying the modification agreements); (ii) the Commencement Date and Expiration Date of the Term, (iii) the amount of Base Rent and Additional Rent payable by Tenant and the amount of the Security Deposit, (iv) the date to which Base Rent has been paid; (v) whether there is any existing default by the Tenant in the payment of Base Rent, whether, to Tenant’s actual knowledge, there is an existing default by the Tenant in the payment of any Additional Rent beyond any applicable grace period, and whether, to Tenant’s actual knowledge, there is any other existing default by either party hereto, and, if there is any such default, specifying the nature and extent thereof, and the actions taken to cure such default; (vi) whether there are any actions or proceedings pending against the Premises before any governmental authority to condemn the Premises or any portion thereof or any interest therein and whether, to the actual knowledge of Tenant, any such actions or proceedings have been threatened; (vii) whether there exists any material unrepaired damage to the Premises from fire or other casualty; and (vi) whether, to the actual knowledge of Tenant, there is any existing default by Landlord under this Lease and whether Tenant has any defenses, off-set rights or other claims against Landlord (and if so, specifying the nature and extent thereof); and (vii) such other matters as Landlord shall reasonably request. Any such certificate may be relied upon by Landlord and the direct and indirect beneficial owners of Landlord and any actual or prospective Lender, mortgagee or purchaser of the Premises.

(b) Tenant will deliver to Landlord, within 150 days after the end of each fiscal year of Tenant, copies of the following financial statements for Tenant: a balance sheet as at the end of such year and a statement of income and expenses for such year certified by independent certified public accountants of recognized national standing selected by Tenant; and, within sixty (60) days after the end of each of the three remaining fiscal quarters of Tenant a balance sheet as at the end of such quarter and statements of income and expenses for such quarters certified by the chief financial officer of Tenant, the foregoing financial statements all being prepared in accordance with GAAP, consistently applied; and

(c) Upon request of Landlord, and upon concurrent compliance with the provisions of Section 6.2(d) below, this Lease shall be subject and subordinate to the lien of any Indenture now or at any time hereafter in force against the Premises (or any portion thereof) and to all advances made or to be made upon the security thereof, and Tenant shall, within twenty (20) days after Landlord’s or Lender’s request, enter into an agreement with such Lender pursuant to

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

which Tenant shall agree that in the event that any such Lender, or any purchaser at a foreclosure sale, shall acquire title to the Premises, Tenant shall attorn to such Lender or such purchaser, as the case may be, as its new Landlord and this Lease shall continue as a direct lease between Tenant and such Lender or purchaser, as the case may be, with respect to the Premises upon the terms and conditions set forth herein, including without limitation, those set forth in Section 6.2(d) below.

(d) Upon receipt of a request from Landlord at any time during the Lease Term for the attornment agreement described in Section 6.2(c) above, Landlord shall deliver a non-disturbance agreement in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Tenant executed by Lender which shall provide that unless an Event of Default then exists under this Lease, Lender shall not join Tenant as a defendant in any action to foreclose upon the interest of Landlord in the Premises and, upon the Lender’s foreclosure of Landlord’s interest in the Premises by judicial proceedings or otherwise, such Lender (or any purchaser at a foreclosure sale), agrees that the Lease shall continue in full force and effect as a direct lease between Lender (or such purchaser) and Tenant, subject to all the terms, covenants and conditions of the Lease, and that Tenant’s rights of possession of the Premises and other rights and privileges under the Lease shall not be terminated, interfered with, or disturbed for any reason other than one which would entitle the Landlord to terminate the Lease or so disturb or interfere with such rights, under its terms or at law or in equity, or would cause, without any further action by such Landlord, the termination of the Lease, or would entitle such Landlord to dispossess the Tenant from the Premises, provided, that, Tenant, from and after the date of such succession, attorns to such Lender or the purchaser at foreclosure, pays to such Lender or purchase at foreclosure all items of Base Rent, Additional Rent and other items accruing from and after such date and otherwise remains in compliance with all other terms and provisions of this Lease and provided that any such agreements memorializing such attornment obligation shall not increase the liabilities and obligations of Tenant hereunder nor decrease the liabilities and obligations of any subsequent purchaser, as Landlord hereunder, except that neither Lender nor any purchaser at foreclosure nor any subsequent purchaser shall be liable for any default on the part of Landlord occurring prior to the date of such transfer or foreclosure, as applicable, or be subject to any defenses, set-off rights or other claims that Tenant may have against Landlord on account of matters occurring prior to the date of such transfer or foreclosure, as applicable, and provided further that the Lender or purchaser at foreclosure, and any subsequent purchaser of the Premises, shall not be bound by or subject to any material amendment or modification of this Lease which are entered into by Landlord and Tenant without the Lender’s prior written consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed) after the date of the attornment agreement. In the event that Tenant shall execute a separate document for the benefit of a Lender relating to subordination, attornment or non-disturbance, such document shall control to the extent that it conflicts with the provisions of this Section 6.2(d).

(e) Landlord shall at any time and from time to time during, the Lease Term within not less than thirty (30) days after Landlord’s receipt of written request by Tenant, execute, acknowledge and deliver to Tenant or to any third party designated by Tenant, a certificate stating: (i) that this Lease is unmodified and in force and effect (or if there have been modifications, that this Lease is in force and effect as modified, and identifying the modification agreements); (ii) the Commencement Date and Expiration Date of the Term, (iii) the amount of Base Rent and Additional Rent payable by Tenant and the amount of the Security Deposit, (iv) the date to which Base Rent has been paid; (v) whether there is any existing default by the Tenant in the payment of

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Base Rent; (vi) whether, to Landlord’s actual knowledge, there is an existing default by the Tenant in the payment of any Additional Rent beyond any applicable grace period; (vi) whether, to Landlord’s actual knowledge, there is any other existing default by either party hereto, and, if there is any such default, specifying the nature and extent thereof, and the actions taken to cure such default and (vii) such other matters as Tenant shall reasonably request.

ARTICLE 7

7.1 Environmental Matters.

(a) As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings:

(i) “Environmental Claim” shall mean any claim, action, investigation or written notice by any Person or Governmental Authority alleging potential liability (including, without limitation, potential liability for investigatory costs, cleanup costs, governmental response costs, natural resources damages, property damages, personal injuries or penalties) arising out of, based on or resulting from (A) the presence, or Release into the environment, of any Hazardous Substance at the Premises or (B) circumstances forming the basis of any Environmental Violation.

(ii) “Environmental Law” shall mean whenever enacted or promulgated, any applicable federal, state and local law, statute, ordinance, rule, regulation, license, permit, authorization, approval, consent, court order, judgment, decree, injunction, code, requirement or agreement with any governmental entity, (i) relating to pollution (or the cleanup thereof), or the protection of air, water vapor, surface water, groundwater, drinking water supply, land (including land surface or subsurface), plant, aquatic and animal life from injury caused by a Hazardous Substance or (ii) concerning exposure to, or the use, containment, storage, recycling, reclamation, reuse, treatment, generation, discharge, transportation, processing, handling, labeling, production, disposal or remediation of Hazardous Substances, hazardous conditions or hazardous activities, in each case as amended and as now or hereafter in effect. The term Environmental Law includes, without limitation, the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act, the federal Water Pollution Control Act, the federal Clean Air Act, the federal Clean Water Act, the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (including the Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments to RCRA), the federal Solid Waste Disposal Act, the federal Toxic Substance Control Act, the federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, the federal National Environmental Policy Act and the federal Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, each as amended and as now or hereafter in effect and any similar state or local law.

(iii) “Environmental Violation” shall mean (i) any Release of any Hazardous Substance in violation of any Environmental Law or in excess of any reportable quantity established under any Environmental Law or any action of Federal, state or local government or any other Person for the costs of any removal or remedial action or natural resources damage or for bodily injury or property damage, (ii) any deposit, storage, dumping, placement or use of any Hazardous Substance at, upon, under or within the Premises or which extends to any adjoining property in violation of any Environmental Law or in excess of any reportable quantity established under any Environmental Law, (iii) the abandonment or discarding of any barrels, containers or other receptacles containing any Hazardous Substances in violation of any Environmental Laws, or (iv) any violation of or noncompliance with any Environmental Law.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(iv) “Governmental Authority” shall mean any federal, state, regional or local government or political subdivision thereof and any Person exercising executive, legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government.

(v) “Hazardous Substance” means any underground storage tanks or any substance, material, product, petroleum, petroleum product, derivative, compound or mixture, mineral (including asbestos), chemical, gas, medical waste, or other pollutant, in each case whether naturally occurring, man-made or the by-product of any process, that is regulated under any Environmental Law as being toxic, harmful or hazardous or acutely hazardous to the environment or public health or safety. Hazardous Substances include, without limitation, petroleum or petroleum-derived substances or waste, radon, radioactive materials, asbestos, asbestos containing materials, microbial matter (including but not limited to mold, mildew and other fungi or bacterial matter which reproduces through the release of spores or the splitting of cells), urea formaldehyde foam insulation, lead and polychlorinated biphenyls in concentrations or conditions that cause such materials or substances to be regulated by Environmental Laws.

(vi) “Release” shall mean any direct or indirect releasing, spilling, leaking, leaching, disposing, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying, treating, or dumping of Hazardous Substances at, into, onto or emanating or migrating from or onto the Premises or the threat thereof, regardless of whether the result of an intentional or unintentional action or omission.

(vii) “USEPA” means the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

(b) Tenant covenants that during the Lease Term it (i) shall comply, and cause the Premises to comply, with all Environmental Laws applicable to the Premises, (ii) shall prohibit the use of the Premises for the storage or handling of any Hazardous Substance (other than in connection with the operation and maintenance of the Premises and in commercially reasonable quantities as a consumer thereof, subject to, in any event, compliance with Environmental Laws), and (iii) shall not install or permit the installation on the Premises of any underground storage tanks. Tenant shall not at any time during the Lease Term (i) cause, permit or suffer to occur any Environmental Violation or (ii) permit any sublessee, assignee, other Person occupying the Premises under or through Tenant or any Tenant Parties to cause, permit or suffer to occur any Environmental Violation and, at the request of Landlord or Lender, Tenant shall promptly clean-up, remediate or undertake any response action to correct such Environmental Violation, and (iii) without the prior written consent of Landlord, permit any drilling or exploration for or extraction, removal, or production of any minerals from the surface or the subsurface of the Land, regardless of the depth thereof or the method of mining or extraction thereof. Any and all reports prepared for or by Landlord with respect to the Premises shall be at Landlord’s sole cost and expense and shall be for the sole benefit of Landlord and Lender and no other Person shall have the right to rely on any such reports.

 

41


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(c) If any investigation, site monitoring, containment, cleanup, removal, restoration or other remedial work of any kind or nature (collectively, the “Remedial Work”) is required on the Premises pursuant to an order or directive of any Governmental Authority or under any applicable Environmental Law, because of or in connection with the presence, suspected presence, Release, or suspected Release of a Hazardous Substance into the air, soil, ground water, surface water, or soil vapor on, under or emanating from the Premises or any portion thereof, which such Release resulted from Tenant’s or any Tenant Party’s use, presence or occupancy of the Premises and which occurred during the Term, Tenant shall (at Tenant’s sole cost and expense), or shall cause such responsible third parties to, promptly commence and diligently prosecute to completion all such Remedial Work in accordance with Environmental Laws and the requirements of any Governmental Authorities (subject to Tenant’s right to contest same pursuant to Section 7.3 herein).

(d) Upon reasonable prior notice, Landlord shall have the right at all reasonable times and during normal business hours, except to the extent such access is limited by applicable law, to enter upon and inspect all or any portion of the Premises, provided that such inspections shall not unreasonably interfere with the operation thereof. Landlord, at its sole cost and expense, may retain an environmental consultant to conduct and prepare reports of such inspections. The inspection rights granted to Landlord in this Section shall be in addition to, and not in limitation of, any other inspection rights granted to Landlord in this Lease, and shall expressly include the right to conduct, at Landlord’s sole cost and expense, soil borings and other customary environmental tests, assessments and audits in compliance with applicable Legal Requirements; provided, that, Landlord, as applicable, shall cause to be repaired any damage caused by such borings, tests, assessments or audits.

(e) To the extent that Tenant has knowledge thereof, Tenant shall promptly provide notice to Landlord of:

(i) any proceeding or investigation commenced or threatened by any Governmental Authority with respect to the presence of any Hazardous Substance on, under or emanating from the Premises;

(ii) all claims made or any lawsuit or other legal action or proceeding brought or threatened by any Person against (A) Tenant or Landlord or the Premises or any portion thereof; or (B) any other party occupying the Premises or any portion thereof, in any such case relating to any loss or injury allegedly resulting from any Hazardous Substance or relating to any Environmental Violation;

(iii) the discovery of any occurrence or condition on the Premises that constitutes a Release or an Environmental Violation or which might subject Landlord to an Environmental Claim; and

(iv) the commencement and completion of any Remedial Work.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(f) During the Lease Term, Tenant shall be, and is hereby, designated the party (as between Landlord and Tenant) responsible to comply with the requirements of this ARTICLE 7. Any assignee or subtenant of Tenant shall be deemed to have, and by entering into such assignment or sublease, and/or by entering into possession of the Premises, does hereby acknowledge that they shall be the party responsible, jointly and severally with Tenant under the provisions of ARTICLE 7 of this Lease, provided, however, that in the event Tenant assigns this Lease pursuant to Section 4.1 herein, then Tenant shall be held jointly and severally liable with Tenant’s assignee. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, neither Tenant nor any of its successors, assignees or subtenants shall be responsible to comply with the requirements of Article 7 to the extent that any events, circumstances or conditions requiring compliance with Environmental Laws: (i) occurred or existed on or prior to the Commencement Date (unless caused by Tenant or any Tenant Party in connection with the design, development, construction or completion of the Building Improvements (but without limiting the obligation of Landlord under Exhibit A)), (ii) occurred after the expiration or early termination of this Lease, or (iii) resulted from the acts or omissions of Landlord or any Landlord Party.

(g) If applicable, prior to termination of the Lease it shall be the obligation of Tenant to deactivate any identification number, permit, license, etc. issued by the USEPA or any other federal, state or local entity dealing with the generation, treatment, storage or disposal of any Hazardous Substance on or at the Premises and to comply with any concomitant notification requirements pursuant to Environmental Laws dealing with Hazardous Substances generated, stored or used at the Premises during the Term.

(h) In the event there shall be filed a lien against the Premises arising out of a claim(s) by Governmental Authorities (unless caused by Landlord), Tenant shall immediately either: (i) pay the claim and remove the lien from the Premises; or (ii) furnish a bond, cash receipt or other security reasonably satisfactory to the Landlord sufficient to discharge the claim out of which the lien arises.

(i) All costs associated with Tenant’s compliance, as applicable, with the foregoing requirements, including without limitation Landlord’s reasonable and actual costs in reviewing the sampling plan, test results and developing a plan for and monitoring the cleanup and site detoxification, shall be paid by Tenant upon demand.

7.2 Environmental Indemnity. Tenant agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties for, from, and against all demands, claims, actions or causes of action, assessments, losses, damages, liabilities, costs and expenses, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees, disbursements and expenses, and reasonable consultants’ fees, disbursements and expenses (but excluding internal overhead, administrative and similar costs of the Indemnified Parties), asserted against, resulting to, imposed on, or incurred by the Indemnified Parties, directly or indirectly, in connection with any of the following arising on and after the Commencement Date (and such indemnity obligations shall survive any expiration of the Lease Term or termination of this Lease):

(a) any Environmental Violation, or any claim relating to Hazardous Substances, including (A) liability for response costs and for costs of removal and remedial action incurred by the United States Government, any state or local governmental unit or any other Person, or damages from injury to or destruction or loss of natural resources, including the reasonable costs of assessing such injury, destruction or loss, incurred pursuant to Section 107 of CERCLA, or any successor section or act or provision of any similar state or local Law, (B)

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

liability for costs and expenses of abatement, correction or clean-up, fines, damages, response costs or penalties which arise from the provisions of any of the other Environmental Laws and (C) liability for personal injury or property damage arising under any statutory or common-law tort theory, including damages assessed for the maintenance of a public or private nuisance or for carrying on of a dangerous activity;

(b) any Remedial Work required to be performed pursuant to any Environmental Law or the terms hereof;

(c) the Release of Hazardous Substances at, in, under or about the Premises; or

(d) the breach of any environmental representation, warranty or covenant set forth in this Lease; provided, however, that the indemnification set forth above shall not apply to the extent that any of the events, circumstances or conditions set forth in (a) through (d) above (including, without limitation, any such events, circumstances or conditions that caused or resulted in an Environmental Claim, an Environmental Violation or the Release of Hazardous Substances on, in or at the Premises): (i) occurred or existed on or prior to the Commencement Date (unless caused, exacerbated or Released by Tenant or any Tenant Party in connection with the design, development, construction or completion or use or occupancy of the Building Improvements (but without limiting the obligation of Landlord under Exhibit A)), (ii) occurred after the expiration or early termination of this Lease, or (iii) resulted from or relate in any way to the acts or omissions of any Landlord or any Landlord Parties constituting gross negligence or willful misconduct.

7.3 Remediation/Compliance Standards; Tenants Right to Contest; Declaration of Environmental Restrictions. Notwithstanding anything contained in this ARTICLE 7 to the contrary: (i) at no expense to Landlord, Landlord shall promptly provide all information requested by Tenant or Governmental Authorities (to the extent in Landlord’s possession and without Landlord being required to undertake any third party investigations) with respect to Tenant’s fulfilling Tenant’s obligations under this paragraph, and shall promptly sign such affidavits, submissions, and other documents reasonably requested by Tenant or Governmental Authorities (all at no third party cost or liability to Landlord) and (ii) Tenant shall have the right to dispute or contest any request, demand or order issued by any Governmental Authority concerning Tenant’s or the Premise’s compliance with Environmental Laws or the conditions or limitations concerning Remedial Work, all subject to Section 2.6 hereof. At the request of Tenant, Landlord shall cooperate in good faith and act reasonably to allow Tenant to perform Tenant Remedial Work in a cost effective manner provided the same do not adversely affect the value of the Premises or any potential uses thereof.

ARTICLE 8

8.1 No Merger. There shall be no merger of this Lease or of the leasehold estate hereby created with the fee estate in the Premises by reason of the fact that the same person acquires or holds, directly or indirectly, this Lease or the leasehold estate hereby created or any interest herein or in such leasehold estate as well as the fee estate in the Premises or any interest in such fee estate.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

8.2 Holdover. If the Tenant shall continue to occupy the Premises after the Expiration Date or earlier termination of this Lease, then Tenant shall be deemed to be a holdover tenant, the tenancy of which shall be from month to month upon the same provisions and conditions set forth in this Lease, except that Base Rent for the holdover period shall be an amount equal to one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the Base Rent in effect immediately prior to the holdover period. This Section 8.2 does not amount to a waiver of the Landlord’s right of reentry or any other right granted under ARTICLE 5 and shall not constitute a consent to any holdover by Tenant.

8.3 Surrender. Upon the expiration or termination of this Lease, Tenant shall surrender the Premises to Landlord in the condition in which the Premises were originally received from Landlord, except as repaired, rebuilt, restored, altered or added to as permitted or required hereby and except for ordinary wear and tear and except for the limitations set forth in the Section 2.5(a) with respect to the roof replacement. Tenant shall remove from the Premises on or prior to such expiration or termination all property situated thereon which is not owned by Landlord; all Tenant Improvements and Alterations that Landlord has required be removed in accordance with Section 3.4(a) hereof and all of Tenant’s Personal Property (collectively the “Removal Items”) and shall repair any damage caused by such removal. Property not so removed shall (only at Landlord’s option) become the property of Landlord, and Landlord may cause such property to be removed from the Premises and disposed of, but the actual cost of any such removal and disposition and of repairing any damage caused by such removal shall be borne by Tenant. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, Tenant shall not be required to remove at the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease any of the Building Improvements or Alterations made by Tenant during the Lease Term that constitute normal and customary Alterations for the Permitted Use as a generic warehouse and distribution facility. Landlord and Tenant shall use good faith, reasonable efforts to walk through the Premises at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiration or sooner termination of this Lease and identify those Removal Items that Landlord has elected in accordance with the terms of this Lease to permit to remain in the Premises (which items shall be the property of Landlord) and those Removal Items that Landlord requires that Tenant remove at Tenant’s sole cost. Tenant shall repair any damage to the roof, walls or floor resulting from the removal of the Removal Items and shall cause the floor to be delivered level without holes or penetrations or protrusions. Landlord’s right to pursue Tenant for damages on account of damage caused by the removal of the Removal Items or Tenant’s failure to remove the Removal Items as herein required shall survive the expiration or sooner termination of this Lease.

8.4 Severability; Binding Effect. Each provision hereof shall be separate and independent and the breach of any provision by Landlord shall not discharge or relieve Tenant from any of its obligations hereunder. Each provision hereof shall be valid and shall be enforceable to the extent not prohibited by law. If any provision hereof or the application thereof to any person or circumstance shall to any extent be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions hereof or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is invalid or unenforceable shall not be affected thereby. All provisions contained in this Lease shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by, the successors and assigns of Landlord to the same extent as if each such successor and assign were named as a party hereto. All provisions contained in this Lease shall be binding upon the successors and assigns of Tenant and shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the permitted successors and assigns of Tenant in each ease to the same extent as if each such successor and assign were named as a party hereto.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

8.5 Table of Contents and Headings. The table of contents and the headings of the various Sections and Schedules of this Lease have been inserted for reference only and shall not to any extent have the effect of modifying the express terms and provisions of this Lease.

8.6 Counterparts. This Lease may be executed in two or more counterparts and shall be deemed to have become effective when and only when one or more of such counterparts shall have been signed by or on behalf of each of the parties hereto (although it shall not be necessary that any single counterpart be signed by or on behalf of each of the parties hereto, and all such counterparts shall be deemed to constitute but one and the same instrument), and shall have been delivered by each of the parties to each other.

8.7 Recording of Lease. Landlord and Tenant will execute on the Commencement Date a Notice of Lease in the form attached hereto as Exhibit C, which Tenant shall record of record in the public records of Berkeley County, South Carolina or other customary place for recording such documents. Tenant will execute, acknowledge, deliver and cause to be recorded or filed in the manner and place required by any present or future law all other instruments, including, without limitation, financing statements, continuation statements, releases and instruments of similar character, which shall be reasonably requested by the Landlord. Tenant shall be responsible for all costs, expenses and transfer taxes in connection with the execution of this Lease and the recording of a memorandum hereof. Upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, Tenant shall execute and deliver to Landlord a written termination of such Notice of Lease in recordable form and all other documents necessary to cause such Notice of Lease to be removed from the public records in which it was filed.

8.8 No Waiver, Amendments. No failure, delay, forbearance or indulgence on the part of any party in exercising any right, power or privilege hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof; or as an acquiescence in any breach, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right, power or remedy hereunder preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, power or privilege. No term or provision hereof may be amended, changed, waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement thereof is sought.

8.9 No Brokers/Advisors. Landlord and Tenant each represent and warrant to one another that it has not dealt with any broker in connection with the leasing of the Premises other than CBRE Global Corporate Services (“Broker”), and hereby defend, indemnify and hold one another harmless from and against any claims of brokers claiming through it. Landlord shall pay a commission to Broker pursuant to a separate agreement with Broker, which commission shall be included in Total Project Costs.

8.10 Governing Law. This Lease and the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be governed by the laws of the State of South Carolina. The parties agree to the jurisdiction and venue of the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina (the “Applicable Court”). The parties appoint the persons identified in Section 6.1 herein as agent to receive service of process, writs, notices, summonses, or other legal documents in any suit, action or proceeding which the parties may commence against one another. Where permitted by law or court rule of the Applicable Court, the parties consent to service of such process by United States mail, in the manner specified in the applicable law or court rule.

 

46


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

8.11 Waiver of Jury Trial. LANDLORD AND TENANT HEREBY IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVE TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING RELATING TO THIS LEASE.

8.12 Conveyance by Landlord. The word “Landlord” as used in this Lease means only the owner for the time being of the Premises, so that, if there is a transfer of an owner’s interest, the transferor shall be and hereby is entirely freed and relieved of all covenants and obligations of the Landlord hereunder, except any obligations which accrued prior to the date of transfer, and it shall be deemed and construed, without further agreement between the parties or between the parties and the transferee of the Premises, that the transferee has assumed and has agreed to carry out any and all of the Landlord’s covenants and obligation hereunder from and after the date of transfer.

8.13 Relationship of the Parties. Nothing contained in this Lease shall be construed in any manner to create any relationship between the Landlord and the Tenant other than the relationship of landlord and tenant. Without limitation, the Landlord and the Tenant shall not be considered partners or co-venturers for any purpose on account of this Lease.

8.14 Representation by Counsel. The Tenant and the Landlord each acknowledge that it was represented by counsel in connection with the negotiation and execution to the effect that ambiguities are to be resolved against the drafting party shall not be employed in the interpretation of this Lease.

8.15 True Lease. This Lease is intended as, and shall constitute, an agreement of lease, and nothing herein shall be construed as conveying to the Tenant any right, title or interest in or to the Premises nor to any remainder or reversionary estates in the Premises held by any Person, except, in each instance, as a Tenant. Under no circumstances shall this Lease be regarded as an assignment of all of Landlord’s interests in and to the Premises; instead Landlord and Tenant shall have the relationship between them of landlord and tenant, pursuant to the provisions of this Lease.

8.16 Landlords Liability. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary provided in this Lease, it is specifically understood and agreed, such agreement being a primary consideration for the execution of this Lease by Landlord, that (a) there shall be absolutely no personal liability on the part of Landlord, any Lender or their respective successors or assigns or the trustees, members, partners, shareholders, officers, directors, employees and agents of Landlord, any Lender or their respective successors or assigns, to Tenant or any other party with respect to any of the terms, covenants and conditions of this Lease, (b) Tenant waives all claims, demands and causes of action against the trustees, members, partners, shareholders, officers, directors, employees and agents of Landlord, any Lender and their respective successors or assigns in the event of any breach by Landlord of any of the terms, covenants and conditions of this Lease to be performed by Landlord, and (c) Tenant shall look solely to Landlord’s interest in the Premises (including without limitation rents, issues, profits, proceeds (i.e., insurance and condemnation) and other income Landlord receives from the Premises) for the satisfaction of each and every remedy of Tenant in the event of any breach by Landlord of any of the terms, covenants and conditions of this Lease to be performed by Landlord, or any other matter in connection with this Lease or the Premises, such exculpation of liability to be absolute and without any exception whatsoever.

 

47


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

8.17 Other Documents. Each of the Parties agrees to sign such other and further documents as may be reasonably necessary or appropriate to carry out the intentions expressed in this Lease.

8.18 Attorney Fees. If any legal action is brought by Landlord or Tenant because of an alleged breach, default, or misrepresentation by the other party in connection with any of the provisions of this Lease, the successful or prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs incurred in that action, in addition to any other relief to which that party may be entitled hereunder.

8.19 Limitation on Liability; No Consequential Damages. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, in no event shall Landlord or Tenant be liable under this Lease for exemplary, special, punitive or consequential damages (including, without limitation, lost profits), even in the event of the fault, negligence (in whole or in part), strict liability, breach of contract or otherwise of Landlord or Tenant.

8.20 Subordination/Waiver Of Landlords Lien. Landlord hereby agrees to subordinate any statutory or common law liens or security interests Landlord may have upon any of Tenant’s Personal Property to the liens and security interests in favor of any lender to Tenant and Landlord expressly waives any and all statutory or common law lien rights Landlord may have upon personal property of third parties stored on site by Tenant in the ordinary course of Tenant’s use of the Premises for the Permitted Uses. Landlord agrees to execute and deliver such instruments reasonably requested by Tenant’s lender from time to time to evidence or effect the aforesaid subordination.

8.21 Entire Agreement. This Lease constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter herein contained, and all prior negotiations with respect to the subject matter herein contained are merged into and incorporated into this Agreement and all other prior documents and correspondence between the parties with respect to the subject matter herein contained are superseded and of no further force of effect.

[SIGNATURES ON NEXT PAGE]

 

48


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF,, the parties hereto have caused this Lease to be executed as of the date first above written.

 

LANDLORD:
GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company
By:   /s/ Allan B. Rothschild
Name:   Allan B. Rothschild
Title:   Managing Director
TENANT:
THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation
By:    
Name:   Paul F. Jacobson
Title:   Chief Executive Officer

 

49


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF,, the parties hereto have caused this Lease to be executed as of the date first above written.

 

LANDLORD:
GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company
By:    
Name:   Allan B. Rothschild
Title:   Managing Director
TENANT:
THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation
By:   /s/ Paul F. Jacobson
Name:   Paul F. Jacobson
Title:   Chief Executive Officer

 

50


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

SCHEDULE A

DESCRIPTION OF PREMISES

LEGAL DESCRIPTION

All that lot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being on the eastern side of Omni Industrial Blvd. in the County of Berkeley, State of South Carolina, measuring and containing 25.81 acres shown an designated as Tract A-3 on a plat entitled “Final Subdivision Plat of Tract A (218.43+/- Ac.) Omni Industrial Commerce Park to create Tract A-3 (25.81 Ac.) & Tract A (192.62+/- Ac.)” drawn by Thomas & Hutton Engineering Co. dated May 19, 2016 and recorded ___________, 2016 in Plat Cabinet __, Pages ____ and ____, in the Register of Deeds Office for Berkeley County, South Carolina.

Formerly known as:

A 25.8 Acre portion of that certain piece, parcel and tract of land, with any improvements located thereon, situate, lying and being in New Hope Community, Berkeley County, South Carolina, being shown and designated as Tract A, 215.462 acres, and Parcel A-1, 5.095 acres, on a survey entitled “A BOUNDARY SURVEY OF TRACT A AND PARCEL A-1 OMNI COMMERCE PARK, OWNED BY EASTWAY PROPERTIES LLC LOCATED IN NEW HOPE COMMUNITY, BERKELEY COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA”, prepared by Southeastern Surveying of Charleston, Inc. dated August 15, 2011 and recorded on December 16, 2011, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Berkeley County, South Carolina in Record Plat Cabinet P at Page 25-P; and such size, shape, dimensions, buttings and boundings as shown on said survey.

Together with appurtenant easement rights for the encroachment of overhangs and for ingress, egress, use and enjoyment of common areas granted in that certain Declaration of Protective Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for Omni Industrial Campus by MWV-OMNI, LLC dated September 29, 2014 and recorded October 9, 2014 in Book 11010, Page 267 in said ROD Office; as amended by that certain First Amendment to Declaration of Protective Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for Omni Industrial Campus dated August 30, 2016, and recorded August 31, 2016, in Book 2262, Page 507 in said Register of Deeds Office for Berkeley County, South Carolina.

(See Attached)


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

SCHEDULE B

LANDLORD’S ACCOUNT FOR PAYMENT OF BASE MONTHLY RENT

Wire transfers to GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company in accordance with wire transfer instructions provided by Landlord to Tenant by written notice from time to time.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

LEASE EXHIBIT A

CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS

This LEASE EXHIBIT A sets forth the rights and obligations of Landlord and Tenant with respect to the construction of the Building Improvements (as hereinafter defined).

 

1.

DEFINITIONS. For purposes of this Exhibit and the Lease, the following terms shall have the following meanings, and terms which are not defined below, but which are defined in the Lease, shall have such meanings herein as are ascribed to such terms by the Lease:

 

  1.1

Actual Cost Excess” shall mean the amount, if any by which (x) the actual Total Project Costs, exceeds (y) the projected Total Project Costs set forth in the Preliminary Budget.

 

  1.2.

Additional Rent Commencement Date” shall mean the sooner to occur of: (1) the Substantial Completion Date; or (ii) the date upon which Substantial Completion would have occurred but for the occurrence of Tenant Delays, which such determination under (ii) shall be reasonably determined by the Architect in writing with a statement by the Architect setting forth the basis for his determination.

 

  1.3.

Architect” shall mean Ware Malcomb.

 

  1.4.

Allowance Amount” shall mean the total dollar amount of all Allowance Items set forth in the Final Budget.

 

  1.5.

Allowance Items” shall mean those items in the Final Budget for which an allowance has been provided and with respect to which the Landlord reserves the right to require Tenant to pay Excess Allowance Costs if the Allowance Amount is exceeded, as more particularly described in Section 3.6.

 

  1.6.

Base Rent Commencement Date” shall mean the sooner to occur of: (i) the day immediately following the last day of the fifth (5th) full calendar month after the Substantial Completion Date; or (ii) the day immediately following the last day of the fifth (5th) full calendar months after the date upon which Substantial Completion would have occurred but for the occurrence of Tenant Delays, which such determination under this (ii) shall be reasonably determined by the Architect in writing with a statement by the Architect setting forth the basis for his determination.

 

  1.7.

Building Improvements” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 1.1(a)(ii) of the Lease, together with all off-site work and other improvements contemplated by the Final Project Plans. Unless specifically agreed to by Landlord and Tenant, the Building Improvements shall include the Tenant Improvements (as hereinafter defined).

 

A-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  1.8.

Carry Costs” shall mean the reasonably imputed or actual cost of the investment or funding, both of Landlord’s equity investment and the proceeds of any Financing, in Total Project Costs determined as to any such Total Project Costs from the date of the investment therein or funding thereof. Carry Costs shall begin to accrue and be included in Total Project Costs as to any item of Total Project Costs, at the rate applicable to Landlord’s equity investment or the proceeds of any Financing (as the case may be) from time to time, from the later of (i) the date of the investment or funding of any portion of Total Project Costs; and (ii) the Carry Cost Commencement Date until the Base Rent Commencement Date.

 

  1.9.

Carry Cost Commencement Date” shall mean the date, commencing on the Effective Date when investments or funding of Total Project Costs may begin to be included in Carry Costs.

 

  1.10.

Commencement Date” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 1.3(a) of the Lease.

 

  1.11.

Development Fee” shall mean Seven Hundred Six Thousand Three Hundred Eighty-Three and No/100 Dollars ($706,383.00).

 

  1.12.

Development Management G&A” shall mean a fee in the amount of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) per month, payable to Landlord (or Landlord’s designee) in advance on the first day of each calendar month from and including April 1, 2016 through and including the month in which Final Completion is achieved, but in any event, not exceeding Ninety Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($90,000.00). Landlord (or its designee) shall be entitled to, and shall, receive the Development Management G&A fee, which amount shall be deemed included in Total Project Costs for purposes of calculating Base Rent.

 

  1.13.

Development Reimbursables” shall mean all travel, lodging, meals and other project-related costs and expenses incurred by Landlord or Landlord’s affiliates in connection with the Land Contract and/or this Lease, which shall be payable to Landlord (or Landlord’s designee) on a monthly basis, in arrears, from and including January 1, 2016 through and including Final Completion, up to an aggregate amount of $75,000.00; provided, however, that the Development Reimbursables incurred prior to the date Landlord acquires fee title to the Premises shall not exceed $7,500.00

 

  1.14.

Excess Allowance Amount” shall mean the amount (if any) by which the Total Project Costs paid or incurred by Landlord with respect to, or in connection with, the Allowance Items exceeds the Allowance Amount.

 

  1.15.

Final Budget” shall mean the final budget to be prepared pursuant to Section 2.2 below and reflecting the estimated Total Project Costs to be paid or incurred by Landlord to design, develop, permit, construct and achieve Substantial Completion and Final Completion of the Building Improvements.

 

A-2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  1.16.

Final Project Plans” shall mean Preliminary Plans as modified by the Working Drawings (as hereinafter defined) as of the Plans Approval Date, by such changes, additional information and specifications as contemplated by Section 2 of this Exhibit A, and as further modified by any Change Orders, Required Change Orders or Tenant’s Extra Work (each as hereafter defined), as applicable.

 

  1.17.

Final Completion” shall mean that all of the following have occurred: (i) Substantial Completion; (ii) issuance of a permanent Certificate of Occupancy (as opposed to a temporary Certificate of Occupancy): provided, however, that if Landlord is unable to obtain a permanent Certificate of Occupancy as a result of Tenant’s failure to obtain the Tenant Approvals, the requirements of this item (ii) shall not be applicable for purposes of determining whether Final Completion and the Final Completion Date have occurred: and (iii) certification in writing by the Architect that all punch list items have been completed; provided, however, that if Tenant exercises its right pursuant to Section 6 to complete remaining punch list items, the requirements of this item (iii) shall not be applicable for purposes of determining whether Final Completion and the Final Completion Date have occurred.

 

  1.18.

Final Completion Date” shall mean the date upon which Final Completion has occurred, subject to the qualifications described in the definition of “Final Completion” above.

 

  1.19.

Intentionally deleted.

 

  1.20.

Force Majeure Delays” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.2 of this Exhibit A.

 

  1.21.

General Contract” shall mean that certain Agreement between Owner and Contractor between Landlord and Contractor between General Contractor and Landlord (or the replacement agreement if General Contractor is terminated for any reason), substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A-7 to be entered into after the date hereof.

 

  1.22.

General Contractor” shall mean Evans General Contractors, LLC or another general contractor selected by Landlord and reasonably acceptable to Tenant or a replacement general contractor selected by Landlord and reasonably acceptable to Tenant should such General Contractor be terminated.

 

  1.23.

Government Incentives” shall mean monetary incentives not to exceed One Million Fifty Thousand Dollars ($1,050,000.00) in the aggregate, which are received by or payable to Landlord from the State of South Carolina or any political subdivision thereof for or on account of the development and construction of the Building Improvements under this Lease, including (if applicable) South Carolina Economic Development Grant; Berkeley County Electric Coop Grant; and South Carolina Power Team Grant.

 

A-3


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  1.24.

Land Basis” shall mean an amount equal to the product of (A) One Hundred Five Thousand Dollars per acre ($105,000.00/acre) multiplied by (B) the gross land area of the Land, measured in acres. Land Basis is an agreed value for the purpose of calculating Total Project Costs and Base Rent, only, and is not intended to reflect the fair market value of the land or on-site or off-site improvements upon which the Building Improvement are constructed or installed.

 

  1.25.

Landlord’s Share of Total Project Costs” shall mean the projected amount of Total Project Costs set forth on the Preliminary Budget, or the actual amount of Total Project Costs, whichever is less; provided, however, Landlord’s Share of Total Project Costs may be increased pursuant to Section 3.6 of this Exhibit A.

 

  1.26.

Permitted Delay” shall mean a delay that results from a Force Majeure Delay or a Tenant Delay.

 

  1.27.

Preliminary Budget” shall mean the preliminary budget attached hereto as Exhibit A-2 reflecting the estimated Total Project Costs to be paid or incurred by Landlord to design, develop, permit, construct and achieve Substantial Completion and Final Completion of the Building Improvements and all punch list items.

 

  1.28.

Preliminary Plans” shall mean comprehensive outline specifications and preliminary drawings prepared by Architect and General Contractor on behalf of Landlord for the Building Improvements to be constructed which are described in attached Exhibit A-1.

 

  1.29.

Punch List Amount” shall mean an amount equal to one hundred twenty-five percent (125%) of the costs reasonably estimated by Landlord, Tenant and General Contractor as necessary to complete the punch list items.

 

  1.30.

Punch List Escrow” shall mean an escrow established with First American Title Insurance Company for purposes of holding the Punch List Amount pending completion of the Punch list items.

 

  1.31.

Required Yield” shall mean Eight Percent (8.0%).

 

  1.32.

Schedule” shall mean the detailed schedule attached hereto as Exhibit A-3 describing the milestone dates necessary to timely Substantially Complete the Building Improvements on or prior to the Target Substantial Completion Date (as hereinafter defined) and to achieve Final Completion associated with (i) approval of the Final Project Plans by Landlord and Tenant; (ii) approval of the Final Budget by Landlord and Tenant; (iii) applying for and obtaining all of the necessary permits, approvals, licenses and consents from government and quasi-governmental authorities in connection with the commencement, construction and Final Completion of the Building Improvements; and (iv) the Final Completion of the Building Improvements. The time for achieving milestones identified on the Schedule shall be extended by the length of any delay in achieving the same resulting from any Tenant Delay and any Force Majeure Delay. The Schedule shall

 

A-4


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  from time-to-time be updated to reflect the actual progress of the design, construction and completion of the Building Improvements. Upon approval of the Final Budget, to the extent the approval by Tenant of the Final Budget occurs more than seven (7) business days after Landlord’s submission to Tenant of the draft Final Budget, the Schedule including, but not limited to, revisions to the Target Substantial Completion Date, shall be extended on a day-for-day basis for each day beyond such seven (7) business day period until Tenant has approved the Final Budget.

 

  1.33.

Substantial Completion and Substantially Complete” shall be when the following has occurred: (i) construction of the Building Improvements (without the Tenant Improvements) or Tenant Improvements, as applicable, has been substantially completed in accordance with the requirements of the Final Project Plans excepting only “punch list items” and the Architect has certified such fact in writing on AIA Form #G704-2000 and (ii) a temporary certificate of occupancy is issued by the governmental authority having jurisdiction to issue the same, which such temporary certificate of occupancy allows Tenant to occupy the Building for the Permitted Use at such time as Tenant has obtained the Tenant Approvals (as hereinafter defined); provided, however, if such certificate of occupancy could not be obtained because of the existence or condition of any Tenant Improvements or Tenant Delays (as hereinafter defined), then, for purposes of determining the Base Rent Commencement Date and the Additional Rent Commencement Date only, Substantial Completion of the Building Improvements shall be deemed to occur on the date on which such certificate of occupancy would otherwise have been issued but for such Tenant Delays or Tenant Improvements, which such “deemed to occur” date shall be reasonably determined by the Architect in writing with a statement by the Architect setting forth the basis for his determination. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) in no event shall Substantial Completion of the Building Improvements (without the Tenant Improvements) occur prior to the Target Substantial Completion Date, as defined below, and (b) the Substantial Completion Date shall be extended one (1) day for every day that the commencement of the Tenant Improvements, is delayed for a reason other than a Tenant Delay or Force Majeure Delay in commencing the Tenant Improvements on or before June 15, 2017.

 

  1.34.

Substantial Completion Date” shall mean the date upon which Substantial Completion of the Building Improvements (without the Tenant Improvements) has occurred.

 

  1.35.

Tenant Approvals” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.1 of this Exhibit A.

 

  1.36.

Intentionally Omitted.

 

  1.37.

Ten Year Treasury Rate” shall mean, as of any date, the “Constant Maturity Treasury” (or “CMT”) rate (per annum yield to maturity) for 10-year U.S. Treasury Notes, as published by the United States Department of the Treasury.

 

A-5


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  1.38.

Target Substantial Completion Date” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.1 of this Exhibit A.

 

  1.39.

Tenant Improvements” shall mean the alterations, additions or improvements to be made or constructed by Landlord to the interior of the Premises to make the Premises ready for operation by Tenant therein. The scope and nature of the Tenant Improvements is described on Exhibit A-4 hereof. To the extent applicable, Tenant shall submit to Landlord any plans, drawings or descriptions of the Tenant Improvements on or prior to the date specified in the Schedule. The Tenant Improvements shall be owned by Landlord and shall not be or become Tenant’s Personal Property.

 

  1.40.

Tenant Delays” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.3 of this Exhibit A.

 

  1.41.

Tenant’s Share of Total Project Costs” shall mean the Actual Cost Excess, if any, less any portion thereof that is added to Landlord’s Share of Total Project Costs pursuant to Section 3.6 below.

 

  1.42.

Total Project Costs” shall mean any and all hard or soft costs actually paid or incurred by Landlord (including, without limitation, the Carry Costs, Developer Fee, Development Management G&A and Development Reimbursables, whether paid to third parties or payable to Landlord or its affiliates) to acquire the Land, design, permit, develop, entitle, construct, Substantially Complete and Finally Complete the Building Improvements, obtain the Financing and otherwise perform its obligations pursuant to this Exhibit A and complete the design and development of the Building Improvements. Total Project Costs shall be deemed to include, without limitation, the following:

 

  (i)

the cost of all labor, materials, utilities, equipment (acquired or rented) and similar items incorporated into or consumed in the construction and development of the Building Improvements, utility or landscaping work incorporated in or related to the Building Improvements, including fees and bonuses, of contractors or materialmen;

 

  (ii)

architectural, topographical and boundary surveying, legal, consulting, accounting, civil engineering and engineering fees and expenses paid to outside architects, surveyors, accountants, consultants, attorneys and engineers in connection with the planning and construction of the Building Improvements;

 

  (iii)

the Land Basis, Carry Costs (which shall continue to accrue and be included in Total Project Costs for purposes of determining Base Rent through and including the Base Rent Commencement Date) and all reasonable and customary brokerage commissions payable in connection with this Lease;

 

A-6


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  (iv)

all construction costs and rents for the construction offices (including construction trailers) and landscaping relating to any thereof and all other reasonable, market costs paid to third parties in connection with establishing and maintaining the same, including costs of utilities, equipment, furniture and other similar related expense;

 

  (v)

all costs of building and other permits, including, but not limited to, all direct or indirect costs incurred in connection with obtaining any subdivision, rezoning, zoning variances or other approvals required from any governmental authorities having jurisdiction over the Land or any portion thereof;

 

  (vi)

all costs of all off-site improvements required to be constructed or paid for by or on behalf of Landlord in connection with the issuance of any building or other permits for, or completion of, the Building Improvements by any governmental authorities having jurisdiction over the Building Improvements;

 

  (vii)

all direct and indirect costs of acquiring any easements, air rights, use permits or other off-site rights in connection with the development or completion of the Building Improvements;

 

  (viii)

all insurance premiums paid or payable by Landlord with respect to the Building Improvement, including any builder’s risk, fire and extended coverage, rent loss, or general liability coverage carried by Landlord;

 

  (ix)

any and all amounts payable to General Contractor by Landlord under the General Contract, including, but not limited to, any contractor’s fee and general conditions, all as set forth in the General Contract;

 

  (x)

reasonable legal fees paid or incurred to design, develop or entitle the Building Improvements, to acquire the Land, to obtain the Financing and to negotiate the Land Contract and this Lease Agreement (including this Exhibit A);

 

  (xi)

all costs, expenses, points, fees and other charges paid to acquire the Land or in connection with Land Contract, or to obtain, or in connection with, the Financing, including, but not limited to, reasonable legal fees, transfer taxes and documentary stamps, net prorations paid by Landlord, lender legal fees, commitment fees, rate lock fees, diligence costs, title fees, survey fees, appraisal fees, inspection fees and letter of credit fees and costs;

 

  (xii)

any increased costs or expenses or losses resulting from Permitted Delays;

 

  (xiii)

Impositions and other costs paid or payable with respect to the Land with respect to the period after the date hereof and prior to the Commencement Date;

 

  (xiv)

The Development Fee;

 

A-7


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  (xv)

The Development Management G&A fees; and

 

  (xvi)

The Development Reimbursables.

Total Project Costs shall not include (i) costs arising from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Landlord, its agents or employees, (ii) costs, fines and penalties due to Landlord’s violation of applicable laws, and (iii) costs that are duplicative.

 

  1.43.

Working Drawings” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.1 of this Exhibit A.

 

2.

APPROVAL OF PLANS. Landlord and Tenant each hereby acknowledge that they have approved the Preliminary Plans and the Preliminary Budget. Landlord and Tenant agree the Preliminary Plans do not constitute a set of working drawings that are sufficient to perform the work necessary to complete the Building Improvements; however, the parties agree that the Preliminary Plans are sufficient to define, and shall constitute, the definition of the scope of the work for the Building Improvements (the “Project Scope”).

 

  2.1.

Preparation and Approval of Plans. Landlord has retained Architect to provide design services in connection with the Building Improvements and to perform contract administration. The fees of Architect in connection with the design and development of the Building Improvements shall be included in Total Project Costs. Landlord shall cause Architect, in consultation with Tenant and General Contractor, to prepare Working Drawings from the Preliminary Plans on or prior to the applicable milestone date specified in the Schedule. “Working Drawings” shall mean such drawings and specifications, design materials and other plans that are consistent with the Project Scope and necessary and sufficient to permit the bidding of the work to subcontractors and material suppliers and to construct the Building Improvements in accordance with all applicable laws, ordinances, rules and regulations. Except as otherwise approved by Tenant in writing (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned by Tenant), the Working Drawings prepared by Landlord shall represent a logical design and engineering progression of, and shall be consistent in all material respects with, the Preliminary Plans. Landlord shall use commercially reasonable efforts to deliver the Working Drawings to Tenant for Tenant’s review and approval on or prior to the milestone dated specified in the Schedule (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed). For purposes of the Lease and such approval, Tenant shall not have the right to require Landlord to make material modifications to the Project Scope, including material modifications to the Preliminary Plans or the Working Drawings. Any such material modifications or additional work beyond the Project Scope shall be governed by Section 4 of this Exhibit A. Tenant, acting reasonably and in good faith, shall have ten (10) business days from Landlord’s delivery of the Working Drawings to advise Landlord, in writing, as to whether or not Tenant accepts the Working Drawings. If Tenant fails to timely respond, Tenant shall automatically be deemed to have approved the Working Drawings. If Tenant timely requests changes to the Working Drawings (“Tenant’s Objection”), Tenant shall also, within such ten (10) business day

 

A-8


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  period, advise Landlord, with reasonable specificity and detail, of Tenant’s Objection. If, upon receipt of any Tenant Objection, Landlord wishes to take exception thereto, Landlord may do so within five (5) business days after Landlord’s receipt of such Tenant’s Objection. In such event, Landlord shall deliver revised Working Drawings to Tenant prior to the expiration of such five (5) business day period appropriately reflecting those matters which were approved and disapproved by Landlord, and Tenant shall grant its approval or disapproval thereto, and/or state any further objections or proposed modifications, within three (3) business days after receipt thereof. After the first submission and resubmission, Landlord and Tenant agree to restrict further objections or disputes to matters which have not previously been agreed upon or accepted by the other party and, in any event, Tenant shall not have the right to object to any Working Drawing or other plans and specifications prepared by Landlord unless the same represents a material departure from, and is not a logical design and engineering progression of, the Preliminary Plans or other plans previously approved by the parties. The parties shall, in all events, attempt to reach final agreement on the Working Drawings as soon as possible. Each party agrees that its failure to respond to a submission or resubmission within the above-referenced time frames shall constitute such party’s acceptance of the submission or resubmission in question, or, to the extent applicable, a delay caused by the delinquent party. Upon reaching final agreement of the Working Drawings, Landlord shall then cause Architect, in consultation with Tenant and General Contractor, to incorporate the agreed-upon changes into the Working Drawings as soon as reasonably practicable. Upon approval or deemed approval of the Working Drawings, those Working Drawings shall replace, be utilized and relied upon in lieu of the portion of the Preliminary Plans related to such approved Working Drawings. The date on which Landlord and Tenant mutually agree upon the Working Drawings, or the date on which the parties are deemed to have approved them, whichever is applicable, shall be referred to as the “Plans Approval Date”. After the Plans Approval Date, Landlord shall not be required to make any changes to the Working Drawings, except to the extent expressly set forth in this Exhibit A. Tenant’s review and approval of, or failure to disapprove, any plans or specifications shall not constitute a representation or warranty that such plans or specifications complies with applicable Legal Requirements and shall not constitute a waiver of the express requirements of Landlord under this Lease.

 

  2.2.

Final Budget. Landlord shall cause to be prepared and delivered to Tenant a proposed Final Budget for Tenant’s review and comment on or prior to the applicable milestone date in the original Schedule for the delivery of the proposed Final Budget, which proposed Final Budget shall be prepared in consultation with Tenant and General Contractor. When reasonably requested by Tenant, Landlord shall cause General Contractor to obtain three (3) competitive bids for each trade subcontract or materials supply contract; provided, however, that Landlord and General Contractor shall not be required to accept the lowest bid to the extent any reasonable objection exists to such bid after consultation with Tenant prior to rejecting such lowest bid. The results of such competitive bidding shall be shared

 

A-9


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  with Tenant and Landlord shall reasonably consider Tenant’s suggestions and requests concerning the retention of subcontractors and material suppliers. Without limitation of the foregoing, Landlord shall, in consultation with General Contractor and Tenant and subject to Tenant approval, which such approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, attempt to value engineer the construction and completion of the Building Improvements to reduce Total Project Costs. Tenant shall have a period of ten (10) business days of receipt of the Final Budget proposed by Landlord to review and provide reasonable comment with respect to such budget; provided, however, that Landlord has not, and will not by virtue of preparing and agreeing upon a Final Budget, guarantee that the maximum amount of Total Project Costs set forth in the Final Budget will not be equaled or exceeded in connection with the Substantial Completion and Final Completion of the Building Improvements. Tenant’s failure to timely comment on the draft Final Budget shall be deemed Tenant’s approval of the proposed Final Budget. Landlord shall use reasonable efforts to incorporate Tenant’s comments to the draft Final Budget. If Landlord reasonably and in good faith determines that any requested comments or changes are reasonable and appropriate, Landlord shall within five (5) business days of receipt of Tenant’s comments incorporate such changes or comments and submit the revised Final Budget to Tenant for its review and comment. Agreement by Landlord and Tenant on a Final Budget shall not constitute a guarantee by Landlord for the benefit of Tenant that the aggregate amount of Total Project Costs will not exceed the amount set forth in the Final Budget and Base Rent shall be determined pursuant to Exhibit B attached hereto on the basis of the actual Total Project Costs without reference to such Final Budget. If the projected Total Project Costs included in the Final Budget (after deducting therefrom increases in Total Project Costs resulting from (a) changes requested by Tenant to the Project Scope as contemplated in the Preliminary Plans that are reflected in the Final Project Plans and (b) increases in the Allowance Amounts for any Allowance Items from the amounts specified in the Preliminary Budget) exceed the projected Total Project Costs contained in the Preliminary Budget then such excess shall constitute a “Projected Cost Excess” under this Lease. In the event the Final Budget includes any Projected Cost Excess, such Projected Cost Excess shall be noted in the Final Budget.

 

  2.3.

Changes to Work. After the Plans Approval Date, except as otherwise required in this Exhibit A, neither Landlord nor Tenant shall have the right to order extra work or change orders with respect to the construction of the Building Improvements without the prior written consent of the other (which consent may be withheld, conditioned or delayed by either party in its sole and absolute discretion if such extra work or change orders will increase the Total Project Costs or cause a delay of any milestone dates in the Schedule; and otherwise which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed). Extra work or change orders requested by either Landlord or Tenant after the Plans Approval Date (each a “Proposed Change Order”) shall be made in writing, shall specify in detail any added or reduced Total Project Cost, the method of payment (inclusion in the Total Project Cost, or paid in advance at the time of the Change Order) and an estimate

 

A-10


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  of any construction delay resulting therefrom, and shall become effective and a part of the Final Project Plans once approved in writing by both Landlord and Tenant (a “Change Order”). Landlord and Tenant each agrees that it shall respond to a Proposed Change Order within seven (7) business days after receipt of the Proposed Change Order. No Proposed Change Order will be effective if the content of such Change Order is not permitted by applicable building and zoning regulations, as the same are then in effect, interpreted and enforced by the applicable governmental authorities. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Landlord shall be entitled to make changes to the Working Drawings or the Final Project Plans without the approval of Tenant (so long as the change order will not have a material adverse effect on Tenant’s ability to use the Premises for the Permitted Use), but only after seven (7) days’ advance written notice to Tenant (except in the event of an emergency in which case only such notice as is practicable (if any) shall be provided), to the extent such changes (“Required Change Orders”) (i) are necessary to conform with changes after the Plans Approval Date in requirements of any governmental or quasi-governmental or administrative code, rule, law, approval or other authority as the same are then in effect, or by interpretations or enforcement by the applicable governmental authorities pursuant to a written directive or law from such governmental or quasi-governmental authority, or (ii) are due to any Off-Site Items (as defined in Section 3.5 below). Tenant shall not unreasonably withhold its consent to a Change Order requested by Landlord as a result of a Permitted Delay (a “Permitted Delay Change Order”). If Tenant and Landlord are unable to agree upon a Change Order which constitutes a Permitted Delay Change Order, either party may submit the necessity or terms of such Permitted Change Order to arbitration pursuant to the rules then obtaining of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) and the determination or award rendered by the arbitrator(s) shall be final, conclusive and binding upon the parties and not subject to appeal. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, the prevailing party in all respects of the matters that were the subject of the arbitration shall be entitled to reimbursement for all reasonable fees and expenses actually incurred in connection with such arbitration.

 

3.

CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS.

 

  3.1.

Commencement and Completion of Construction of Building Improvements. Landlord shall, at Landlord’s sole cost and expense (except as otherwise provided herein), cause to be provided all of the design, material, labor and equipment required to construct and Substantially Complete and Finally Complete (subject to the limitations on such obligation contained in the definition of Final Completion) the Building Improvements on the Land, pursuant to and as described by the Final Project Plans, which Building Improvements include the on and off site work contemplated by the Final Project Plans. The Building Improvements shall be constructed by Landlord in a good and workmanlike manner, in accordance with the Final Project Plans and completed in accordance with all applicable statutes, ordinances and building codes, governmental rules, regulations and orders relating to construction of the Building Improvements and Landlord shall obtain all permits,

 

A-11


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  approvals, licenses or consents (including, without limitation, any variances or other land use approvals) that are necessary to Substantially Complete and Finally Complete (subject to the limitations on such obligation contained in the definition of Final Completion) the Building Improvements; provided, however, the foregoing shall not imply, create or impose any obligation on the part of Landlord to obtain any permits, licenses, approvals or consents necessary in connection with Tenant’s specific use of the Premises , including the handling, testing, manufacture, storage and processing of nutritional supplements (collectively, the “Tenant Approvals”). Landlord shall use commercially reasonable efforts to Substantially Complete the Building Improvements (without the Tenant Improvements) on or prior to October 2, 2017 (as such date may be extended, the “Target Substantial Completion Date”), which date shall be extended on account of Permitted Delays (as hereinafter defined); provided, however, if Landlord fails to so complete any portion or Substantially Complete the Building Improvements and deliver possession of the Premises to Tenant on or before the Target Substantial Completion Date, as applicable, Landlord shall not be liable to Tenant (hereunder, at law or in equity) and the obligations of Tenant under the Lease shall not be affected thereby. The Target Substantial Completion Date may be adjusted pursuant to the last sentence of the definition of the Schedule, in which case the Target Substantial Completion Date shall mean the dates reflected in such version of the Schedule. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, Landlord shall use commercially reasonable efforts to Substantially Complete the Tenant Improvements by the Target Substantial Completion Date or within a reasonable time thereafter. Tenant shall, at Tenant’s sole cost, use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain all of the Tenant Approvals on or prior to the milestone date for such Tenant Approvals contained in the Schedule. Tenant shall, at Tenant’s sole cost, use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain any and all Tenant Approvals on or prior to the milestone date for the applicable Tenant Approval specified in the Schedule, which date shall be extended on account of Force Majeure Delays. If and only to the extent that: (i) a final determination is made by any governmental or quasi-governmental authority that Landlord cannot obtain the permits and approvals necessary to construct the Building Improvements in accordance with the Final Project Plans; and (ii) Landlord is unable to reverse such determination and obtain such permits and approval on or prior to the end of the fifteenth (15) full calendar month after the date of this Lease for any reason other than Tenant Delays (the “Outside Permit Date”), which Tenant Delays shall extend the Outside Permit Date to the extent of resulting delays, Landlord and Tenant shall each have the one time right, exercisable in its sole discretion and as its sole remedy hereunder, at law or in equity, to terminate this Lease by delivery of written notice to the other delivered within ten (10) days after such Outside Permit Date (a “Permit Termination Notice”), in which event (i) this Lease shall terminate; and (ii) neither party shall have any further liability or obligation hereunder, except those liabilities or obligations that expressly survive a termination of this Lease. Neither Landlord nor Tenant shall have the right to terminate this Lease pursuant to the preceding sentence or otherwise if it fails to timely exercise such right. If this Lease is terminated pursuant to this Section 3.1

 

A-12


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  as a consequence of the failure to obtain the Tenant Approvals by the Outside Permit Date, then Tenant shall reimburse Landlord, not later than ten (10) Business Days after receiving Landlord’s written demand (together with all supporting information reasonably requested by Tenant including, without limitation, work product prepared by third party vendors), for all costs and expenses incurred by Landlord, from and after the date that Landlord acquires fee title to the Premises, in connection with the negotiation, preparation and performance of this Lease and/or Landlord’s acquisition or pursuit of the Premises, including (without limitation), Landlord’s travel and lodging expenses, reasonable attorney’s fees, non-refundable earnest money deposits under the Land Contract, fees, costs and expenses of architects, engineers, design professionals, surveyors and other consultants and contractors for or with respect to Landlord’s investigation of the Premises and preparation of plans and specifications for the improvements to be constructed hereunder, the Development Management G&A fees and the Development Reimbursables. Tenant’s obligations under this Section 3.1 shall survive the termination of this Lease.

 

  3.2.

Force Majeure Delays. If either party, as the result of any (a) strikes, lockouts or labor disputes, (b) general unavailability of materials or reasonable substitutes therefore (c) inclement weather which delays or precludes construction, acts of God or the public enemy, condemnation, civil commotion, fire or other casualty, (d) shortage of fuel which could not have been reasonably foreseen at the time of the Plans Approval Date, (e) action of local, state or federal governments or quasi-governmental authorities, affecting the work, including, but not limited to, any delays in the permitting process beyond the milestone dates for such approvals in the Schedule for reasons beyond the affected party’s reasonable control (provided, however, that in no event shall any delay contemplated by this subsection (e) exceed ninety (90) days beyond such milestone dates), (f) subsurface or otherwise concealed conditions or unknown conditions of an unusual nature (within the meaning of the AIA Form Construction Agreement), or (g) other conditions similar to those enumerated above which are beyond the reasonable control of the affected party and which reasonably interfere with affected party’s ability to perform any obligation on affected party’s part to be performed hereunder within the time periods herein specified (collectively, the “Force Majeure Delays”), then such failure shall be excused and shall not be a breach of affected party’s obligations under this Lease, and the deadline for performance shall be extended for a period equal to the actual period of delay from such Force Majeure Delays, and the affected party will notify the other party of the nature and probable duration of such delay. The affected party shall make reasonable efforts to minimize the impact of such delay and cause the Schedule to be modified to reflect such delay.

 

  3.3.

Tenant Delays. If Landlord shall be delayed in Substantially Completing the Building Improvements as a result of any Tenant Delays, then the Base Rent Commencement Date, Additional Rent Commencement Date and the payment of Rent under the Lease shall not be affected or deferred on account of any such Tenant Delays and such delays in Substantially Completing the Building Improvements shall be excused. “Tenant Delays” shall mean actual delays in the Substantial Completion of the Building Improvements that are a direct result of any or all of the following (but shall specifically exclude any Force Majeure Delays):

 

  (xvii)

Tenant’s failure to approve or disapprove Change Orders on a timely basis and/or to pay invoices, whether for Excess Allowance Costs or otherwise; or

 

A-13


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  (xviii)

Tenant’s request for changes in the Final Project Plans, the Preliminary Plans or the Working Drawings, which requests are not timely made or outside the Project Scope;

 

  (xix)

Tenant’s request for changes to the General Contract, which requests are not timely made; or

 

  (xx)

The performance or completion by Tenant, or any person, firm or corporation employed by Tenant or its representatives or agents (other than Landlord), of any work in or about the Premises, other than in accordance with the Schedule; or

 

  (xxi)

The performance or completion of any Tenant Extra Work to the extent that such delay was set forth in an Estimate (hereinafter defined) and approved by Tenant; or

 

  (xxii)

The acts or omissions of Tenant or its agents, employees, representatives, invitees, contractors, other than in accordance with this Lease; or

 

  (xxiii)

A Change Order proposed by Tenant (unless the Change Order would constitute a Required Change Order if proposed by Landlord); or

 

  (xxiv)

Tenant’s failure to timely obtain the Tenant Approvals.

Landlord shall promptly notify Tenant in writing of any Permitted Delays, including (i) any anticipated delay in the Target Substantial Completion Date as of the date of such notice; (ii) the nature and cause of the delay; and (iii) whether the conditions, events, acts, omissions or circumstances giving rise to such delays persist as of the date of such notice.

 

  3.4.

Additional Items Affecting Construction. Subject to Tenant’s rights under Sections 1.1(c) and 2.6 of the Lease, Tenant shall consent to, for the benefit of the Premises, any easements which Landlord reasonably deems necessary in order to complete construction of the Building Improvements in accordance with the Final Project Plans and any Legal Requirements, including matters pertaining to access, utility or other lines relating to the Building Improvements.

 

  3.5.

Off-Site Requirements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, to the extent that in connection with obtaining permits and approvals for the Building Improvements or complying with Legal Requirements, off-site improvements or other off-site items (collectively, the “Off-Site Items”) are

 

A-14


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  required to be addressed or implemented into the Building Improvements that are not included in the Final Project Plans, Tenant hereby agrees and acknowledges that such Off-Site Items shall be included in the Final Project Plans (through a Required Change Order, if necessary). The cost of such Off-Site Items shall be included in Total Project Costs and any delays directly resulting from such Off-Site Items shall be included as Permitted Delays (but not a Tenant Delay). Tenant or Tenant’s Representative shall have the right to reasonably participate in obtaining land use and other approvals for the Building Improvements, including the right to attend meetings and/or hearings pertaining thereto. Landlord shall provide Tenant five (5) days’ advance notice of all scheduled meetings and/or hearings with Governmental Authorities concerning such approvals and provide Tenant with copies of all correspondence regarding same.

 

  3.6.

Construction Costs. Landlord shall use diligent, good faith efforts, in consultation with Tenant and General Contractor, to Substantially Complete and achieve Final Completion (subject to the limitations on such obligation contained in the definition of Final Completion) of the Building Improvements for an amount equal to or less than the estimated aggregate amount of Total Project Costs set forth in the Final Budget (as modified and adjusted to reflect increased Total Project Costs resulting from Change Orders and Required Change Orders); provided, however, that Landlord does not guarantee that the actual aggregate amount of Total Project Costs will be equal to or less than such amounts. Tenant shall be solely responsible for any Actual Cost Excess, except (and only to the extent) that Landlord in Landlord’s sole discretion elects to increase Landlord’s Share of Total Project Costs by all or any portion of such Actual Cost Excess, by written notice to Tenant not later than thirty (30) days after the approval of the Final Budget pursuant to Section 2.2 (with respect to any Projected Cost Excess) or thirty (30) days after any other Actual Cost Excess is determined, as the case may be. If the Final Budget approved pursuant to Section 2.2 discloses a Projected Cost Excess or any Actual Cost Excess is encountered after the Final Budget is approved, and if Landlord does not expressly elect to include such Projected Cost Excess or Actual Cost Excess (as the case may be) in Landlord’s Share of Total Project Costs, then (i) the amount of such excess shall be included in Tenant’s Share of Total Project Costs, (ii) not later than fifteen (15) days after Tenant receives written notice thereof from Landlord, Tenant shall deposit Tenant’s Share of Total Project Costs, in cash, into an escrow established with First American Title Insurance Company (or as otherwise directed by Landlord’s construction lender), (iii) thereafter, Tenant shall be responsible for payment (from such escrow or otherwise) of its proportionate share (based on Tenant’s Share of Total Project Costs and Landlord’s Share of Total Project Costs) of each construction draw or other payment of Total Project Costs, which shall be funded concurrently with Landlord’s funding of Landlord’s proportionate share thereof, and (iv) Tenant’s failure to deposit Tenant’s Share of Total Project Costs into escrow as required above, or Tenant’s failure to fund Tenant’s Share of Total Project Costs concurrently with and in proportion to Landlord’s funding of Landlord’s Share of Tenant’s Project Costs, shall constitute a Tenant Delay and an Event of Default by Tenant under this Lease. Landlord agrees that the construction

 

A-15


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  of the Building Improvements, the bidding and award of the subcontracts and material supply agreements, and the payment of construction draws, are to be made on a so called “open book” basis, so that Tenant or Tenant’s Representative shall have the right to participate in the process, reasonably review all estimates, reasonably review all requests for payment from the General Contractor and review all construction draws. Accordingly, upon submittal of any of Landlord’s draw requests to Landlord’s Lender for payment, Landlord shall simultaneously deliver a copy of said draw request and all accompanying back-up and documentation to Tenant. Landlord shall keep full and detailed accounts of all materials and labor used in the performance of the Building Improvements in accordance with sound construction management practices. Landlord shall provide Tenant or its designated representatives with access to and the right to inspect and copy Landlord’s records, correspondence, construction drawings, receipts, vouchers, memoranda and other documents related to the Building Improvements, Total Project Costs and payment thereof during normal business hours after reasonable prior notice to Landlord. Tenant shall have the right, at its cost and expense, to audit all such books and records in conjunction with the determination of Total Project Costs for purposes of calculating Base Rent. Landlord shall preserve all such books and records for a period of three (3) years after Substantial Completion of the Building Improvements. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if Excess Allowance Costs exist, Landlord shall include such Excess Allowance Costs in Total Project Costs for all relevant purposes (including, but not limited to, the determination of Base Rent; provided, however, that Landlord may elect, in its sole discretion, either to (A) include such Excess Allowance Costs in Landlord’s Share Total Project Costs for all relevant purposes (including, but not limited to, the calculation of Base Rent); or (B) to include such Excess Allowance Costs in Tenant’s Share of Total Project Costs and to require that Tenant pay to Landlord, within five (5) business days after Landlord’s request therefor, the entire amount thereof. If Landlord makes such election and Tenant fails timely to pay the amount of the Excess Allowance Costs to Landlord, Landlord may immediately cease to perform work with respect to the applicable Allowance Item and any delays in the Target Substantial Completion Date or the Substantial Completion of the Building Improvements resulting therefrom shall constitute Tenant Delays. If such work involves progress payments, Landlord shall apply the amounts deposited by Tenant first. If, after final completion and payment for the Total Project Costs, Excess Allowance Costs exceed the amount paid by Tenant pursuant to this Section, then, Tenant shall pay the remaining amount of the Excess Allowance Costs to Landlord within five (5) business days after Landlord so requests. If there was an overpayment by Tenant of Excess Allowance Costs, Landlord shall promptly provide a credit or refund of the difference. Any Excess Allowance Costs payable by Tenant shall be deemed “Rent” under the Lease (and all remedies for the non-payment of Rent shall be available to Landlord therefor).

 

  3.7.

Intentionally deleted.

 

A-16


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  3.8.

Government Incentives. Landlord and Tenant shall cooperate with each other in good faith to identify and seek to obtain potential Government Incentives that may be available with respect to the development and construction of the Building Improvements. If any Government Incentives are received by or payable to Landlord on account of the Building Improvements then Landlord shall notify Tenant thereof and, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Legal Requirements (including, without limitation, the terms and conditions applicable to the Government Incentives) Tenant shall have the option either (i) to reduce the initial amount of Base Rent payable by Tenant hereunder in the manner specified below, or (ii) to increase the Allowance Amount set forth in the Final Budget on a dollar-for-dollar basis by the amount of the Government Incentives; provided, however, that (x) Tenant’s election under this Section 3.8 shall be made on a one-time basis to all of the Government Incentives obtained by Landlord (Tenant shall not be permitted to elect both a reduction in the initial amount of Base Rent and an increase in the Allowance Amount) and shall be made in writing not later than ten (10) Business Days after Landlord notifies Tenant of the amount of the Government Incentives, and (y) any increase in the Allowance Amount on account of Government Incentives shall be applied exclusively to Allowance Items in the nature of permanently-affixed Tenant Improvements to the Building Improvements. If and to the extent that Tenant elects to apply Government Incentives to the reduction of initial Base Rent, the initial Base Rent shall be reduced by the product of the Required Yield multiplied by the amount of Government Incentives so applied by Tenant.

 

4.

TENANT’S EXTRA WORK. If Tenant desires that any work be performed in connection with the construction of the Building Improvements other than, or in addition to, the work described in the Final Project Plans as of the Plans Approval Date (such other work is hereinafter called “Tenant’s Extra Work”), the following provisions shall be applicable:

 

  4.1.

Tenant shall, at its sole cost and expense, furnish to Landlord, the Architect, the General Contractor, and any electrical and mechanical consultants engaged by Landlord (collectively, “Landlord’s Consultants”), such information as may reasonably be necessary to cause Landlord’s Consultants to prepare and submit to Landlord all necessary drawings, plans and specifications covering the Tenant’s Extra Work (such drawings, plans and specifications are hereinafter called “Tenant’s Extra Work Plans”). All actual and reasonable fees and expenses of Landlord’s Consultants to prepare Tenant’s Extra Work Plans shall be included in Total Project Costs or paid by Tenant as provided in Section 4.3 below.

 

  4.2.

Landlord agrees to construct the Tenant’s Extra Work provided (i) the Tenant’s Extra Work Plans are approved in writing by Landlord (which approval may be withheld, conditioned or delayed by Landlord in its sole and absolute discretion if such extra work or change orders will increase the Total Project Costs or cause a delay of any milestone dates in the Schedule by more than 30 days; and otherwise which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), and (ii) Tenant has not defaulted beyond all applicable notice and cure periods under the terms and provisions of the Lease.

 

A-17


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  4.3.

Prior to commencing any Tenant’s Extra Work, Landlord shall submit to Tenant for Tenant’s approval, a written estimate of the cost of Tenant’s Extra Work and any projected delay in the Target Substantial Completion Date resulting from the proposed Tenant’s Extra Work (the “Estimate”). Landlord shall not be obligated to proceed with Tenant’s Extra Work until the Estimate is approved, in writing, by Tenant. Tenant shall have five (5) business days from Landlord’s delivery of the Estimate to advise Landlord of Tenant’s approval or disapproval thereof. If Tenant fails to timely approve the Estimate, then Tenant shall automatically be deemed to have disapproved the Estimate and therefore, Landlord shall have no obligation to perform Tenant’s Extra Work. The costs incurred in the performance of Tenant’s Extra Work shall be included in Total Project Costs; provided, however, Landlord may instead elect to require that Tenant pay the costs of Tenant’s Extra Work to Landlord as incurred within a reasonable period of time prior to such time as Landlord is obligated to pay the General Contractor for such work pursuant to the General Contract (whether on a percentage of completion basis or otherwise). If Landlord makes such election and Tenant fails timely to make any payments for Tenant’s Extra Work and any delays in the Target Substantial Completion Date set forth in the Estimate shall nonetheless remain effective for all relevant purposes. For purposes hereof, Tenant’s Extra Work shall be deemed to also include general conditions (including, but not limited to, builder’s risk insurance) the General Contractor’s fee and the Development Fee.

 

5.

RENT COMMENCEMENT DATE. Payment by Tenant of Base Monthly Rent shall commence on the Base Rent Commencement Date and payment by Tenant of Additional Rent shall commence on the Additional Rent Commencement Date; provided, however, that in determining the Base Rent Commencement Date and the Additional Rent Commencement Date, in the event the Substantial Completion Date is delayed due to Tenant Delays, then the Substantial Completion Date shall be deemed to occur on that date on which the Building Improvements would have been Substantially Completed but for the occurrence of such Tenant Delays, which such “deemed to occur” date shall be reasonably determined by the Architect in writing with a statement by the Architect setting forth the basis for his determination. If the Building Improvements are not Substantially Completed but are partially ready for occupancy for the conduct of Tenant’s business, Tenant may, but need not, occupy the portion of the Building Improvements that is ready for occupancy, provided such partial occupancy is permitted by applicable law. Tenant shall pay to Landlord Rent commencing on the date on which Tenant first occupies and takes possession and the date of such occupancy shall be deemed to be the Substantial Completion Date for the purpose of calculating the Base Rent Commencement Date and the Additional Rent Commencement Date in the first sentence of this Section 5.1. Tenant’s right to so occupy and utilize a portion of the Premises shall nevertheless be subject to Landlord’s reasonable approval, and throughout such partial occupancy, Tenant shall fully cooperate with Landlord to facilitate Landlord’s completion of any remaining or outstanding Building Improvements without any interference. If Tenant occupies any portion of the Premises prior to completion thereof, the provisions of the Lease shall apply to such occupancy or use of the Premises by Tenant, except that the Lease Term shall not commence until the Commencement Date.

 

A-18


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

6.

DELIVERY OF POSSESSION; PUNCH LIST; ACCEPTANCE AGREEMENT. Within five (5) business days of Substantial Completion, Landlord, Tenant and the Architect shall together walk through the Premises and inspect all Building Improvements so completed, using reasonable efforts to discover all uncompleted or defective construction in the Building Improvements. Within five (5) business days after such inspection has been completed, each party shall sign an acceptance agreement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A-6 (the “Acceptance Agreement”), which shall include by attachment a list of all “punch list” items which Landlord shall cause to be corrected by General Contractor. Within five (5) business days after such inspection has been completed and the Acceptance Agreement executed, Landlord shall deliver possession of the Premises to Tenant. Landlord shall cause General Contractor to complete and/or repair such “punch list” items within 30 days after executing the Acceptance Agreement or by such later date as is specified in the Acceptance Agreement (as to any punch list item, the completion date thereof set forth in the Acceptance Agreement is herein referred to as the “Item Completion Date”). Landlord, Tenant and third-party title insurance agency or other escrow company selected by Landlord (“Escrow Agent”) shall establish the Punch List Escrow pursuant to a joint order escrow agreement executed by Landlord, Tenant and Escrow Agent. Landlord or General Contractor shall place in the Punch List Escrow the Punch List Amount promptly after the Substantial Completion Date as security for Landlord’s obligation to cause General Contractor to complete all punch list items. If Landlord fails to complete (or cause General Contractor to complete) any punch list item within ninety (90) days after the applicable Item Completion Date for any reason other than Permitted Delays (which shall extend the Item Completion Dates for all relevant purposes), Tenant shall have the right to (i) complete such remaining punch list item(s); and (ii) draw upon the Punch List Escrow from remaining Punch List Amounts to reimburse Tenant for the reasonable, third party costs paid or incurred by Tenant to complete such punch list items (and Landlord and Tenant shall promptly direct that such amounts be disbursed to Tenant). If Landlord timely completes any punch list item within ninety (90) days after the Item Completion Date, as such date may be extended by Permitted Delays, Landlord shall have the right to promptly receive from the Punch List Escrow that portion of the Punch List Amount as is allocated to such completed punch list items (and Landlord and Tenant shall promptly direct Escrow Agent to disburse such amounts to Landlord). At such time as all punch list items have been completed, Landlord and Tenant shall promptly direct the Escrow Agent to disburse to Landlord, the portion of the Punch List Amount remaining in the Punch List Escrow. Landlord shall have no obligation to deliver possession of the Premises to Tenant until such procedures regarding the preparation of a punch list and the execution of the Acceptance Agreement have been completed. Tenant’s taking possession of any part of the Premises shall be deemed to be an acceptance by Tenant of the Building Improvements in such part as is complete (except for punch list items and Landlord’s obligation to achieve Final Completion) and in accordance with the terms of the Lease; provided, however, that early entry by Tenant as permitted in Section 8 below shall not be deemed to be taking of possession for purposes of this Section.

 

A-19


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

7.

NO WARRANTY. Tenant acknowledges and agrees that, from and after the Substantial Completion of the Building Improvements, this Lease is intended to and shall be a fully “net, net, net,” bondable Lease pursuant to which Landlord shall have no liability or obligation under the Lease or otherwise to repair, maintain or replace the Building Improvements or the Premises (subject to Landlord’s obligation to achieve to Final Completion the Building Improvements, as such obligation is qualified in the definition of Final Completion). Upon Substantial Completion or Final Completion of the Building Improvements, as applicable, Landlord shall assign, transfer and convey to Tenant, on a non-exclusive basis (but subject to an exclusive license), any and all warranties, O&M manuals, as built drawings of the General Contractor, subcontractors and any material suppliers as to the Building Improvements and all of the warranties and guarantees of the Building Improvements provided by the Architect, engineers, design professionals, and other consultants and contractors engaged by Landlord and General Contractor to Landlord pursuant to the General Contract, including, but not limited to, the roof warranty (collectively, the “Warranties”), which Warranties shall be as described in the various agreements and the General Contract, as applicable. Tenant shall have the exclusive license to enforce the Warranties; provided, however, that Landlord shall have the right to enforce such Warranties in the event of any breach, default or failure of performance by Tenant hereunder.

 

8.

TENANT’S ACCESS. Tenant and Tenant’s agents or independent contractors shall be permitted to enter the Premises no earlier than the applicable milestone date provided in the Schedule (as revised from time to time), in order that Tenant may install Tenant’s furniture, fixtures and equipment (the “Tenant Work”); provided, however, that Tenant and its representatives shall at all times have reasonable access to the project for purposes of monitoring the progress of construction. If Tenant desires early entry to the Premises to perform the Tenant Work, Tenant shall give to Landlord not less than one (1) business day prior written notice requesting access to the Premises, which notice shall contain and/or shall be accompanied by: (a) a description of the work to be performed and the names and addresses of all contractors for whom and which such early access is being requested and the approximate number of individuals, itemized by trade, who will be present in the Premises; (b) copies of all contracts pertaining to the performance of the work for which such early access is being requested; (c) copies of all plans and specifications pertaining to the work for which such access is being requested; (d) copies of all licenses and permits required in connection with the performance of the work for which such access is being requested; and (e) certificates of insurance naming Landlord as additional insured/loss payee as applicable in form reasonably acceptable to Landlord. Such early entry in accordance with the Schedule shall be subject to the condition that (i) Tenant and Tenant’s agents, employees, representatives, invitees, contractors, subcontractors, workmen, mechanics and suppliers shall work in harmony and not unreasonably interfere with Landlord and its agents and contractors in doing its work in, to, or on the Premises; and (ii) Tenant shall maintain, in full force and effect, the insurance policy or policies required under the Lease, and shall cause the General Contractor to be designated as an Additional Insured with respect to the Building Improvements. If at any time such entry or occupancy shall cause or threaten to cause such disharmony or unreasonable interference, Landlord, in Landlord’s reasonable discretion, shall have the right to withdraw and cancel such license upon 24 hours’ prior written notice to Tenant. Tenant agrees that any such entry into and occupancy of the Premises shall be deemed to be under all of the terms, covenants, conditions and provisions of the Lease, except as to the covenant to pay Rent. Tenant

 

A-20


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  further agrees that to the extent permitted by law, Landlord and its principals shall not be liable in any way for any injury or death to any person or persons, loss or damage to any of Tenant’s work and installations made in the Premises (including, without limitation, any Tenant Work) or loss or damage to property placed therein prior to the Commencement Date, the same being at Tenant’s sole risk, unless such occurrence is due to Landlord’s negligence or willful misconduct. Tenant hereby indemnifies, defends and holds harmless Landlord and any Landlord Indemnified Parties from and against all losses, liabilities, costs and expenses, including, but not limited to, reasonable attorney’s fees, which may be brought or made against Landlord or a Landlord Indemnified Party, or which Landlord or a Landlord Indemnified Party may pay or incur, by reason of the Tenant’s early access to the Premises pursuant to this Section 8 or due to the Tenant Work, unless resulting from the negligence or willful misconduct of Landlord or any Landlord Party.

 

9.

AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES. Tenant hereby appoints Thomas McKenna as its duly authorized representative to review and approve the Working Drawings and the Final Project Plans (“Tenant’s Representative”), so as not to unreasonably delay completion of the Building Improvements. Tenant hereby represents and warrants to Landlord that said authorized representative has authority to approve the Final Project Plans, as well as the authority to approve modifications to the Working Drawings. When Landlord requests Tenant to specify details or layouts, Tenant shall be given a reasonable time to do so, subject to the provisions of the Final Project Plans, so as not to delay completion of the Building Improvements.

 

10.

NOTICES DURING CONSTRUCTION. Notwithstanding any notice provision in the Lease, any notice required to be given by either party pursuant to this Exhibit A, shall be in writing and, shall be deemed to have been properly given, rendered or made only if personally delivered, or if sent by Federal Express or other comparable commercial overnight delivery service, or sent by confirmed facsimile, addressed to the other party at the addresses set forth below (or to such other addresses as Landlord or Tenant may designate to each other from time to time by written notice), and shall be deemed to have been given, rendered or made on the day so delivered or on the first business day after having been deposited with the courier service:

 

A-21


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

If to Landlord:   GPT Summerville Owner LLC
 

c/o Gramercy Property Trust

521 Fifth Avenue, 30th Floor

  New York, New York 10175
  Attention: Managing Director, Operations
At all times with a copy to:   c/o Gramercy Property Trust Inc.
  550 Blair Mill Road, Suite 120
  Horsham, PA 19044
  Attn: Lease Administration
If to Tenant:   Thorne Research, Inc.
  25820 Highway 2 West
  Sandpoint, Idaho 83864
  Attn: Tom McKenna, Chief Operating Officer
At all times with a copy to:   Thorne Research, Inc.
  25820 Highway 2 West
  Sandpoint, Idaho 83864
  Attn: Kim R. Pearson, General Counsel
  Jason S. Nichols
 

Parsons Behle & Latimer

201 South Main Street, Suite 1800

  Salt Lake City, Utah 84111

 

A-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

LIST OF EXHIBITS TO LEASE EXHIBIT A:

Exhibit A-1: Preliminary Plan and Outline Specifications

Exhibit A-2: Preliminary Budget

Exhibit A-3: Schedule

Exhibit A-4: Tenant Improvements

Exhibit A-5: Acceptance Agreement

Exhibit A-6: General Contract

 

A-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A-1 TO LEASE EXHIBIT A PRELIMINARY PLANS AND OUTLINE SPECIFICATIONS

 

LOGO

 

A-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A-1

OUTLINE SPECIFICATIONS

For.

Building Improvements, Excluding Tenant

Improvements

(Shell Building Construction)

FOR:

 

  LANDLORD:    GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER, LLC
  TENANT:    THORNE RESEARCH, INC.
  CONTRACTOR:    EVANS GENERAL CONTRACTORS

LOCATION:

Lot 3, Omni Industrial Campus,

Summerville, South Carolina

September 27, 2016

 

A-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

OUTLINE SPECIFICATIONS

Division 1 — General Requirements

 

1.1

Summary of the Work

The work shall include the construction of a ±217,620 SF warehouse shell building located in Summerville, South Carolina based on the site drawings prepared by Thomas & Hutton Engineering dated July 26, 2016 and the preliminary architectural site plan prepared by Clarius Partners, Scheme 9B, dated June 6, 2016, included herein as part of Exhibit A-1.

 

  1.

All grading, utilities, site paving, miscellaneous site improvements and landscaping are included. The site is bid as “Classified”.

 

  2.

The gross area is calculated to the exterior face of the walls.

Building shall be 702’ long x 310’ wide.

 

Shell Space:

   ±217,620 SF

Mezzanine:

   ±23.200 SF
  

 

TOTAL SPACE

   ±240,820 SF

Bay Sizes: 54’ x 50’ (typical interior)

54 x 60’ (dock bays)

 

  3.

The structural system shall consist of steel columns supporting steel joists and girders shall follow the Geotechnical Report recommendations regarding footings and foundation design. Clear height at the first column line shall be 32’ clear.

 

  4.

The columns will be supported by reinforced concrete spread footings.

 

  5.

The base shell building roof system shall consist of a mechanically-attached TPO roof membrane over R-20 polyiso insulation.

 

  6.

The concrete floors shall be 6”, 4,000-PSI unreinforced concrete bearing on a minimum of 4” of granular structural fill. Design shall be for a 500 PSF floor slab.

 

1.2

Applicable Codes

 

  A.

The work shall be completed in accordance with these specifications, the working drawings, all applicable local codes and the geotechnical engineer’s recommendations

 

1.3

Drawings and Specifications

 

  A.

The Owner shall provide civil engineering, architectural and structural, landscape and MEP design services. Contractor shall provide fire protection design and shall engage design-build subcontractors to provide design assistance to the Owner’s consultants.

 

A-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  B.

Working drawings shall bear the seal of licensed architects and engineers of the State of South Carolina, when applicable.

 

1.4

Insurance

 

  A.

Contractor shall carry the following insurance:

 

•  General Liability

  

$1 Million Each Occurrence

$2 Million Aggregate

$1 Million Personal Injury $300,000 Damage to Rented Premises

•  Automobile Liability

   $1 Million

•  Umbrella Liability

   $25 Million

•  Workers Compensation

   $1 Million

 

  B.

It is assumed that Owner shall provide Builders Risk insurance. Contractor may provide at an additional cost, if requested.

 

1.6

General

 

  A.

All material shall be new, unless specifically noted in this document. All work shall be performed in a professional workmanlike manner in accordance with generally accepted construction practices.

 

  B.

Contractor shall provide project supervision, management, oversight, temporary power, water, lighting, sanitary facilities, temporary field office, safety barriers, and trash removal as required for the duration of shell building construction (assumed through August 30, 2017, unless otherwise mutually agreed and extended by Contractor and Owner). Similar services/costs required to support or as a part of the Tenant Improvement will be charged against the Landlord provided Tenant Improvement Allowance.

 

  C.

Contractor shall assume responsibility for payments of all utility bills until substantial completion of shell building construction (targeted at, or before, August 30, 2017, unless otherwise mutually agreed and extended by Contractor and Owner).

 

  D.

Contractor shall provide cleanup of the site, including dumpsters, throughout the duration of the project. In addition, a final cleaning of the facility will be performed upon completion of Contractors Work.

 

A-2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

1.7

Warranty

 

  A.

Contractor shall wan-ant all work for a period of one (1) year from the date of substantial completion.

 

  B.

Contractor shall provide two (2) sets of a complete set of “record” drawings and two (2) operations and maintenance manuals to Owner upon completion of the project. Documents in .pdf format shall be provided by Owner.

 

  C.

See Section 7.1 for additional information regarding the roofing warranty.

 

  D.

Contractor will obtain any extended warranties on behalf of Owner. The extended warranty agreements shall be between Owner and the manufacturers and transferred to Owner. These include:

Roof membrane —15 years

 

1.8

Schedule

 

  A.

Contractor shall maintain a bar chart progress schedule and hold weekly meetings with Owner’ Representative to review the progress of the project as required.

 

1.9

Testing

 

  A.

Quality control testing for earthwork, concrete compressive strength, FF/FL, rebar, structural steel and asphalt shall be provided by Owner in accordance with State of South Carolina rules and regulations.

 

  B.

The Structural Engineer shall inspect the structural steel during erection and upon the completion of construction. If local officials require continual inspection of the structural steel, this will be provided by an independent testing lab provided by Owner.

 

  C.

Contractor to provide testing and inspections for roofing operations only. Coordinate interim and final inspections to be performed by the roofing manufacturer’s quality control representative.

 

1.10

Surveys

 

  A.

Contractor shall provide a foundation spot survey showing the lot lines, location of the building foundations, and the building setbacks. The survey shall be provided upon completion of the foundations.

 

  B.

Contractor shall provide all construction staking.

 

A-3


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Division 2 — Sitework

 

2.1

Clearing, Grubbing and Earthwork

 

  A.

All clearing, mass grading, finish grading, import, surcharge, export, etc. shall be provided by Contractor.

 

  B.

Presume existing groundwater level does not require dewatering using well points.

 

  C.

Installation, maintenance and removal of erosion control is included. All seeding is included in the landscaping allowance.

 

  D.

Pavement shall have adequate slope to maintain positive drainage.

 

  E.

Contractor shall use native material with cement stabilization (under direction from Owner’s geotechnical consultant) for structural material on the building pad and paved areas. No removal of unsuitable soil is included.

 

2.2

Paving and Surfacing

 

  A.

All paving is included per the site plan. The following paving sections are included:

 

  1.

Heavy Duty Concrete: 7” thick, 3,000 psi unreinforced concrete bearing on cement stabilized native material.

 

  2.

Light Duty Asphalt: 6” thick stone or crushed concrete base with 2” asphalt course on cement stabilized subgrade material.

 

  3.

Heavy Duty Asphalt: 9” thick stone or crushed concrete base with 3” asphalt course on cement stabilized subgrade material

 

  B.

One (1) 14’ x 50’ drive-in ramp is included with bollards and rail.

 

  C.

The pavement shall be striped with one (1) coat of chlorinated rubber paint for car parking spaces as indicated on the site drawing.

 

  D.

All concrete pavement will have dowel baskets at control joints and diamond plates (or equal) at construction joints.

 

  E.

Handicapped striping and signage will be provided as required by code.

 

  F.

Concrete door stoops will be provided at the exit doors which exit at a landscaped area.

 

  G.

Car parking spaces and associated handicap car parking spaces shall be provided as shown on the civil plan.

 

  H.

5’ wide concrete sidewalks are included at the car parking areas. Sidewalks will be 4” thick, unreinforced.

 

2.3

Curbs

 

  A.

Concrete curb and gutter is included where shown.

 

  B.

Handicapped ramps will be provided as required by code.

 

A-4


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

2.4

Site Utilities

 

  A.

Roof drainage shall discharge through network of exterior gutters and downspouts (no interior roof drains).

 

  B.

10” fire line will feed the fire pump and a 10” extending around the building or per code and as required for the ESFR fire protection system. Lead-ins to the building fire protection system and underground vault/backflow preventer are included. Fire line piping is included as C900 PVC.

 

  C.

Sanitary sewer line will be extended to the office end of the building.

 

  D.

Domestic water will be extended to the building at one (1) location. Service to be 2” with 1 1/2” meter.

 

  E.

Gas, power, and telephone services shall be installed to the building by the respective utility companies. It is assumed that all utilities are to the property line. The cost for extending offsite utilities is not included.

 

2.5

Landscaping

 

  A.

An allowance of $195,000 is included for landscaping, irrigation, water service, meter, topsoil placement and permanent seeding.

Division 3 — Concrete

 

3.1

Mix Design

 

  A.

All concrete shall consist of proper proportions of Portland Cement, coarse aggregates, fine aggregates, and clean water conforming to application of A.S.T.M. Standard Specifications.

 

  B.

Concrete for footings, foundations, and dock leveler pits shall be a minimum of 3,000 p.s.i. strength at twenty-eight (28) days.

 

  C.

Concrete for interior flatwork shall be a minimum of 4,000 p.s.i. strength at twenty-eight (28) days.

 

  D.

Concrete for tilt wall panels shall be a minimum of 4,000 p.s.i. strength, or as recommended by the structural engineer, at twenty-eight (28) days.

 

  E.

Concrete for exterior paving shall be a minimum of 3,000 p.s.i. strength at twenty-eight (28) days.

 

  F.

The allowable time limit for batching of the concrete trucks shall be ninety (90) minutes.

 

  G.

A copy of the mix designs shall be provided to Owner and the testing laboratory.

 

A-5


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

3.2

Concrete Slabs

 

  A.

All building slabs on grade will be 6” thick unreinforced concrete. Slab will bear on a minimum of 4” of granular structural fill.

 

  B.

10-mil vapor barrier will be provided below the slab on grade throughout. Seams and penetrations will be sealed and taped.

 

  C.

Diamond dowels will be used at the construction joints, sized and spaced per ACI recommendations.

 

  D.

All slabs will be cured with a water-based dissipative curing compound.

 

  E.

Slabs on grade will be pre-treated with termiticide.

 

  F.

The concrete floor slab shall be sawcut a maximum of 17.9’ on center or per PCI recommendations.

 

  G.

The warehouse area floor shall be sealed with one (1) coat of Lapidolith.

 

  H.

The concrete will be placed and finished per ACI 304 and ACI 302.1 utilizing a laser screed. The slab shall be finished with mechanical trowels to produce a smooth, dense, and wear resistant surface. Each slab pour shall have a minimum local tolerance of FF 35 and FL 25 and overall tolerance of FF 45 and FL 30 as measured upon completion in accordance with the ACI/CSA/ASTM F-number System standard with a Face Floor Profileograph or equal. Contractor shall provide evidence, in the form of a surveyors certificate and certificates from an independent materials testing laboratory, that the floor slab has been installed in accordance with this specification. FF/FL testing shall be paid by Owner.

 

3.3

Footings and Foundations

 

  A.

Interior columns shall be supported by poured concrete footings that are reinforced with steel reinforcing bars. The footings shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the recommendations of the structural engineer and geo-technical engineer.

 

3.4

Concrete Tilt Wall Panels

 

  A.

Non-Insulated concrete tilt panels shall be supported on continuous concrete footings.

 

  B.

Tilt panels will be site cast on the floor slab and erected by a crane lifting off the top of adjacent panels.

 

  C.

Anticipated panel thickness is +8”

 

A-6


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  D.

Panels will be load bearing and will be reinforced per the structural engineer’s design.

 

  E.

Panels will be braced to the existing floor slab upon erection. When allowed by the structural engineer, panel braces will be removed and slab holes will be patched with a gray-colored epoxy.

 

3.5

Miscellaneous Concrete

 

  A.

Eighteen (18) bollards are included.

 

  B.

One (1) fire pump room will be constructed with masonry up to 12’ AFF and have either a gypsum assembly extending from top of masonry to underside of deck or a concrete lid. This room will be constructed to achieve the fire rating required by local building codes.

Division 5 — Metals

 

5.1

Structural Steel

 

  A.

Structural steel shall be ASTM A36 or A50 fabricated and erected in accordance with latest American Institute of Steel Construction Specifications. All structural steel shall have a shop coat of gray primer to provide protection.

 

  B.

All steel columns will be square tube columns or wide-flange columns.

 

  C.

Anchor bolts shall be Grade A50 steel.

 

  D.

Steel connection bolts shall be A325 high strength bolts.

 

  E.

Lateral bracing will be provided via K-bracing and perimeter shear walls. K-bracing will be 141-0” minimum A.F.F.

 

  F.

Interior mezzanine structure, foundations and elevated deck are not included. Though they will be coordinated with the shell building to avoid conflicts, these components, and their respective cost(s) are considered part of the Tenant Improvement.

 

5.2

Steel Joists 8 Joist Girders

 

  A.

The roof structure shall be K-series steel joists with joist girders, designed, fabricated and installed per Steel Joist Institute standards.

 

  B.

Minimum clear height in the structure is 32’ at the first column line.

 

A-7


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

5.3

Roof structure to meet applicable code and have a minimum 10# collateral load.

 

5.4

Roof Deck

 

  A.

Metal roof deck will be 1 W deep, Type B wide rib decking. Gage to be as determined by the structural engineer.

 

  B.

Roof deck will be shop primed white.

 

  C.

Roof deck will be fastened to the roof structure via welding per the Structural Engineers design.

 

  D.

Decking will be designed, fabricated, and installed per Steel Deck Institute standards.

 

  E.

Roof to slope a minimum 14” per foot.

 

5.5

Miscellaneous Steel

 

  A.

6” diameter, schedule 80 concrete filled steel pipe bollards shall be provided to protect drive-in overhead door jambs, fire protection risers, electrical transformers and exposed electrical panels.

 

  B.

One (1) interior roof ladder is included. Cage will be provided.

 

  C.

Exterior downspout guards are included at the dock areas.

 

  D.

Exit stairs are included at the dock areas. Stairs will have metal grating treads and open risers and shall be galvanized.

Division 6 — Carpentry and Millwork

 

6.1

Blocking

 

  A.

Wood roof blocking shall be fire-rated and/or pressure treated as required by code.

Division 7 — Thermal and Moisture Protection

 

7.1

Roofing

 

  A.

Roofing shall be 45-mil TPO membrane with a 15-year NDL warranty. The roof system will be designed to meet local wind design requirements. Membrane shall be mechanically attached.

 

  B.

Roof insulation for the warehouse will be polyiso with a base R value of R-20.

 

  C.

All coping, gutters, and downspouts will be standard Kynar prefinished metal, sized and fabricated per SMACNA.

 

  D.

Eight (8) metal canopies are included at dock door locations. Canopies will be 3’¬11” deep and have 24” high bullnose fascia. Color to be selected by tenant from the standard manufacturers color selection chart.

 

A-8


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

7.2

Caulking and Sealants

 

  A.

Caulking of exterior concrete wall joints is included in the shell costs. Caulking of interior concrete wall joints, if desired, will be incorporated as part of the Tenant Improvement scope. Joints to be caulked using a two (2) part Tremco Dymeric polyurethane. The joints shall also have a backer rod behind the caulk.

 

  B.

Joints in the concrete paving will be caulked with traffic grade urethane.

 

  C.

Exposed warehouse floor joints will be caulked using Versaflex — SL85 (85 shore hardness) or equal at control and construction joints.

Division 8 — Doors and Hardware

 

8.1

Hollow Metal Doors and Frames

 

  A.

Hollow metal door frames shall be provided. The exterior frames shall be welded type, 14 gauge.

 

  B.

The exterior hollow metal doors shall be 1%” thick seamless flush foam filled doors. The doors shall be constructed of 16 gauge steel.

 

  C.

All materials, construction and installation shall be in accordance with the Steel Door Institute specifications.

 

8.2

Hardware

 

  A.

All exterior hollow metal doors will include one and one-half (1-1/2) pair ball bearing hinges, closer, lever arms, lock set, weather stripping, threshold, kickplate, wipe strip, drip cap, storm chain, and latch guard.

 

  B.

All hardware shall have a dull chrome finish (626D) and be of Series A commercial quality as manufactured by Schlage or equal. All door handles shall be lever design. All hinges and latches shall be steel with chrome brushed finish and all closers shall be aluminum.

 

8.3

Overhead Doors

 

  A.

The overhead doors shall be counterbalanced and have a baked on white enamel prime finish.

 

  B.

Eight (8) manually-operated insulated, vertical lift overhead doors, 9’-0” x 10,-0”, shall be provided at the dock doors. Doors will be 24 gauge, vertical sectional track doors with 3” track, weather-stripping, 10,000 cycle springs, and one (1) vision lite on the drivers side.

 

  C.

One (1) electrically-operated insulated, vertical lift overhead doors, 121-0” x 14’-0”, shall be provided at the drive-in ramp. Door will be 24 gauge, vertical sectional track doors with 3” track, weather-stripping, 10,000 cycle springs, and one (1) vision lite on the drivers side.

 

A-9


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

8.4

Glass & Glazing

 

  A.

Four (4) double entry doors are included.

 

  B.

An allowed quantity of 1,200 SF of storefront glazing is included in the shell building scope. Additional glazing scope above this quantity will be incorporated as part of the Tenant Improvement.

 

  C.

Exterior windows will consist of anodized aluminum framing and 1” thick insulated Low E glass in manufacturer’s standard colors.

 

  D.

Aluminum framing and glass is included as impact rated as required by code.

 

  E.

Clerestory windows are not included.

Division 9 — Finishes

 

9.1

Paint

 

  A.

The building exterior will be prepared per paint manufacture’s specifications to receive one (1) coat of primer and one (1) coat of exterior textured Tex-cote Xl-70 paint; include four (4) additional accent paint colors per architectural drawings.

 

  B.

Synthetic, Rust-Inhibiting Primer: Quick-drying, rust-inhibiting primer for priming ferrous metal on the exterior under full gloss acrylic coatings and on the interior under interior latex semi gloss paint.

 

  C.

Acrylic Gloss Coating: Water reducible, high-gloss coating for use over primer ferrous metal surfaces.

 

  D.

Interior Latex Semi gloss Enamel: A vinyl acrylic semi-gloss enamel for use over a primer on ferrous metal and over zinc-coated (galvanized) metal surfaces.

 

  E.

The following exterior items will be painted:

 

   

Exterior tilt panels (medium texture acrylic paint)

 

   

Hollow metal doors and frames

 

   

Pipe bollards

 

   

Downspout guards

 

   

Ramp handrails, if required

 

  F.

The following interior items will be painted:

 

   

Hollow metal doors and frames

 

   

Pipe bollards

 

   

Fire risers

 

   

Roof ladder

 

A-10


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Division 10- Specialties

 

10.1

Signs

 

  A.

Handicapped parking stall signs will be provided as required by code.

 

  B.

All exterior traffic signage is included.

 

  C.

Building signage to include dock door numbers, electrical room, fire pump room, roof access, electrical disconnect and building address numbers are included.

 

10.2

Fire Extinguishers

 

  A.

10# ABC fire extinguishers are included for an open shell warehouse in sufficient quantities to meet code based upon bulk storage and are part of the shell cost. Fire extinguishers will be hung from building walls and columns in locations required by the local authority in the warehouse. The cost for the fire extinguishers and cabinets in the office will be part of the Tenant Improvement.

Division 11 — Equipment

 

  A.

Loading dock equipment is not included. Dock packages including levelers, bumpers, seals, z-guards lights/fans shall be selected by Tenant and incorporated via the Tenant Improvement.

Division 15 — Mechanical

 

15.1

Fire Protection

 

  A.

An ESFR fire protection system using K-17 heads is included throughout open warehouse / storage & distribution areas. The system will include seismic bracing as required by code.

 

  B.

An electric fire pump is included.

 

  C.

Fire risers shall be protected steel bollards.

 

  D.

Knox boxes at fire pump electrical room and at doors adjacent to each fire riser.

 

  E.

Knox stickers on all exterior man doors.

 

15.2

Plumbing

 

  A.

950 LF of internal domestic water and sanitary sewer extension/ rough-ins are included as part of the shell building scope.

 

A-11


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  B.

The water service, including backflow preventer, will be extended into the building. The water piping above ground shall be type “M” copper tubing with bronzed joints. Water pipes below ground shall be type “K” copper with soldered joints.

 

  C.

Three (3) exterior hose bibbs are included.

 

  D.

One (1) floor drain will be provided at the fire pump room.

 

15.3

Heating and Air Conditioning

 

  A.

Twelve (12) gas-fired, ceiling mounted unit heaters with gas piping are included, to maintain 45 degrees in the warehouse while 17 degrees outside. The gas piping will be routed inside the building. Contractor is not providing heaters sized to accommodate the three (3) air changes per hour ventilation during winter months. (If gas is not available onsite, electric heaters will be required).

 

  B.

Roof mounted fans and wall louvers, rated for local wind speed sufficient to accommodate three (3) air changes per hour are included based on an empty warehouse. Air intake shall be via electrically-operated wall louvers to provide 100% make-up air and provide a pressure neutral system.

 

  C.

Fans and louvers shall be rated for local wind speed.

 

  D.

One (1) electric heater, fan and louver will be provided in the fire pump room as required by code.

 

  E.

System start-ups, owner instruction, and one-year material and labor warranty are included.

Division 16—Electrical

 

16.1

Service

 

  A.

One (1) 1,600 Amp 277/480 Volt, 3-Phase underground electrical service is included from a pad mounted transformer. The transformer will be furnished and installed by the local utility company.

 

  B.

Main service wiring shall be aluminum. All distribution wiring 150 Amp and larger shall be aluminum. Wiring below 150A shall be copper.

 

  C.

Any local electric company costs necessary to provide primary electric service to the building transformer, transformer and the meter are not included.

 

  D.

Two (2) 4” PVC conduits will be provided from the property line to the building for phone service.

 

A-12


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

16.2

Building Power

 

  A.

Power will be provided to the HVAC equipment.

 

  B.

Extend power from the building to the fire pump.

 

  C.

Extend power from the building to the irrigation pump.

 

16.3

Site Lighting

 

  A.

Eighteen (18) building mounted 150-watt LED wall packs on the exterior building walls are included at man doors.

 

  B.

Fifteen (15) building mounted 400-watt LED wall packs on the exterior building walls are included.

 

  C.

Wall packs will be controlled via photo cell / time clock.

 

  D.

Remote site lighting poles are not included by Contractor as they are assumed to be provided furnished and installed, by local utility company and leased by Owner/Tenant.

 

  E.

Exterior accent or architectural lighting is not included.

 

16.5

Building Lighting

 

  A.

Warehouse lighting in storage area shall achieve 20 FC at 36’ AFF based upon bulk storage layout, and shall be T-5 lights controlled by motion sensors.

 

  B.

Exit and emergency lights will be provided as required by code.

 

16.7

Fire Alarm

 

  A.

Contractor shall provide an addressable fire alarm monitoring system for the fire protection flow and tamper functions per NFPA 72.

 

  B.

Phone line for monitoring the fire alarm system shall be provided by Owner.

 

  C.

System to include individual zone supervision of all sprinkler system risers.

 

  D.

Supervision of fire pump and post indicator valves.

 

  E.

Pull stations as required for shell building construction only.

Division 17—Exclusions and Clarifications

 

17.1

Items not included in Contractor shell building Scope of Work

 

  A.

Architectural, Structural, Civil, Landscape Design or MEP performance specification

 

A-13


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  B.

Construction materials testing

 

  C.

Testing for, and remediation of, hazardous materials or handling hazardous materials

 

  D.

Geo-tech investigation

 

  E.

Generator

 

  F.

Permit fees, County review and or development fees, roadway impact fees, tap on fees and or excess utility facility charges

 

  G.

Special fire suppression systems including Halon systems

 

  H.

Special Factory Mutual or IRI insurance requirements

 

  I.

Secondary water source (i.e. water storage tank)

 

  J.

Skylights, smoke vents or draft curtains

 

  K.

Unsuitable, soft, and/or wet surface or subsurface conditions

 

  L.

Wet cure of floor slab

 

  M.

Epoxy floor coating, battery charger power, floor drains and exhaust system for battery charging area.

 

  N.

Wetlands mitigation

 

  O.

Work for offsite drainage and conservation areas

 

  P.

Telephone and communications system

 

  Q.

Battery chargers, stands, and gantry systems

 

  R.

Office furniture, cubicles and equipment

 

  S.

Lightening protection

 

  T.

Low voltage computer wiring and cabling systems

 

  U.

Security systems, closed circuit wiring, cabling, raceways, electrified door hardware, cameras, and or infrastructure to accommodate the same

 

  V.

Roof screens

 

  W.

LEE) certification and or any costs associated with the registration of the building with the USGBC

 

A-14


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  X.

Flag poles

 

  Y.

Building mounted or ground mounted Tenant logo signage and or branding

 

  Z.

Cost associated with the following are not included in the shell building scope and are anticipated to be incorporated as part of the Tenant Improvement, reconciled against the Tenant Improvement Allowance:

 

  1.

Mezzanine structure, foundations, elevated deck, stairs, elevator(s) and demising wall

 

  2.

Office, cafeteria and restroom build out(s) within the shell building

 

  3.

Warehouse shipping and receiving Quarantine

 

  4.

Encap-powder fill package & milling

 

  5.

WIP & Encap package

 

  6.

Loading dock equipment

 

  7.

Upgrade(s) or increases to base building roof insulation R-value

 

  8.

Additional quantifies of glass and glazing, above allowed quantity included above

 

  9.

Upsizing of base building electrical service

 

  10.

Painting, interior line of sealant and or insulation of interior face of exterior tilt wall panels

 

  11.

Exterior trash enclosure(s)

 

  12.

Exterior concrete pavement, except where shown at 60’ loading dock apron

 

  13.

Painting or protection of exposed interior structural steel columns or painting of roof steel structure

 

  14.

Air conditioning of warehouse space

 

A-15


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A-2 TO LEASE EXHIBIT A

PRELIMINARY BUDGET

[***]

 

A-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A-3 TO LEASE EXHIBIT A

[***]

 

A-2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A-4 TO LEASE EXHIBIT A

TENANT IMPROVEMENTS

[***]

 

A-3


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A-5 TO LEASE EXHIBIT A

ACCEPTANCE AGREEMENT

THIS ACCEPTANCE AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into this ____ day of __________, 20_, by and between THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation (“Tenant”), and GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”).

RECITALS

 

A.

Landlord and Tenant have entered into that certain Lease Agreement dated September ___, 2016 (as amended from time to time, the “Lease”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in the Lease.

 

B.

Landlord and Tenant desire to enter into this Agreement to set forth their understanding with respect to the Premises and the Lease.

AGREEMENT

NOW THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

1. Tenant acknowledges and agrees that Tenant has completed its walk-through of the Premises. Attached hereto as Exhibit A is a “punch list” of items which Landlord shall cause to be corrected by General Contractor, which punch list items was prepared by Landlord, Tenant and the Architect. Tenant hereby accepts possession of the Premises for purposes of the Lease (subject, however, to the attached punch list items) and without representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, except as expressly set forth in the Lease.

2. Landlord and Tenant hereby acknowledge the following facts:

 

  a.

The Commencement Date of the Lease is _________________________.

 

  b.

The Additional Rent Commencement Date is ______________________.

 

  c.

The Base Rent Commencement Date is ___________________________.

 

  d.

The Expiration Date of the Lease is ______________________________.

3. As modified hereby, the terms of the Lease are hereby ratified and shall remain in full force and effect.

[THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

A-4


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Landlord and Tenant have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

 

LANDLORD:

GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

By:

   

Name:

   

Title:

   

 

TENANT:

THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation

By:

   

Name: Paul F. Jacobson

Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

A-5


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A TO ACCEPTANCE AGREEMENT

PUNCH LIST ITEMS

 

A-6


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A-6 TO LEASE EXHIBIT A

GENERAL CONTRACT

Landlord shall cause to be prepared and delivered to Tenant a proposed General Contract for Tenant’s review and comment on or prior to the applicable milestone date in the original Schedule for the delivery of the proposed General Contract, which proposed General Contract shall be prepared in consultation with Tenant and General Contractor. Tenant shall have a period of ten (10) business days of receipt of the General Contract proposed by Landlord to review and provide reasonable comment with respect to such contract; provided, however, that Landlord has not, and will not by virtue of preparing and agreeing upon a General Contract, guarantee that the maximum amount of Total Project Costs set forth in the General Contract will not be equaled or exceeded in connection with the Substantial Completion and Final Completion of the Building Improvements. Tenant’s failure to timely comment on the draft General Contract shall be deemed Tenant’s approval of the proposed General Contract. Landlord shall use reasonable efforts to incorporate Tenant’s comments to the draft General Contract. If Landlord reasonably and in good faith determines that any requested comments or changes are reasonable and appropriate, Landlord shall within five (5) business days of receipt of Tenant’s comments incorporate such changes or comments and submit the revised General Contract to Tenant for its review and comment. Without limitation, Tenant’s review and approval of the General Contract shall not limit or excuse the obligation of Landlord to perform its obligations with respect to the Building Improvements.

 

A-7


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

LEASE EXHIBIT B

CALCULATION OF BASE RENT

B.1. Determination of Base Rent. Annual Base Rent payable by Tenant to Landlord for the first Lease Year shall be equal to the product of: (A) the aggregate amount of Landlord `s Share of Total Project Costs, and (B) the Required Yield; provided, however, that (x) Tenant’s obligation to pay Base Rent (but not Additional Rent) shall be abated from the Commencement Date through and including the day immediately preceding the Base Rent Commencement Date, and (y) the initial amount of annual Base Rent shall be subject to adjustment on account of Government Incentives in accordance with Section 3.8 of Exhibit A. As soon as reasonably practicable after the Commencement Date, Landlord shall document and disclose to Tenant the actual amount of Total Project Costs paid or incurred by Landlord to design, permit, entitle, develop, construct and Substantially Complete and Finally Complete the Building Improvements and all punch list items and otherwise perform its obligations under Exhibit A (inclusive of the Land Basis and any other element of Total Project Costs) and the Base Rent for the first Lease Year determined pursuant to the preceding sentence, which shall be payable in equal monthly installments from and after the Base Rent Commencement Date. In all events, no later than twenty (20) days after the Base Rent Commencement Date, Landlord shall disclose and document to Tenant so much of the aggregate amount of Total Project Costs as can reasonably be determined at that time together with a calculation of Base Rent pursuant to the penultimate sentence on the basis of such interim amount of Total Project Costs (such determination, the “Interim Base Rent Determination”). Commencing on the first day of the second month after the Base Rent Commencement Date, Tenant shall pay to Landlord (i) Base Monthly Rent for the first month of the initial Lease Year after the Base Rent Commencement Date on the basis of the Interim Base Rent Determination (or the final determination of Base Rent if then available); and (ii) Base Monthly Rent for the second month of the initial Lease Year after the Base Rent Commencement Date on the basis of the Interim Base Rent Determination (or the final determination of Base Rent if then available). Until such time as a final determination of Base Rent is made (the “Final Determination of Base Rent”), Tenant shall continue to pay Landlord Base Monthly Rent calculated on the basis of the Interim Base Rent Determination. If the Final Determination of Base Rent indicates that actual Base Rent exceeds the amount of Base Rent determined on the basis of the Interim Base Rent Determination, Tenant shall pay to Landlord (together with the next installment of Base Rent owing from Tenant to Landlord) the positive difference between the actual Base Monthly Rent that was owing for the period prior to the Final Determination of Base Rent (the “Interim Period”) and the actual amount of Base Monthly Rent paid by Tenant during such Interim Period on the basis of the Interim Base Rent Determination. If the Final Determination of Base Rent reveals that the actual Base Rent for the Interim Period was less than the Base Rent determined on the basis of the Interim Base Rent Determination, Landlord shall credit against the next installment of Base Monthly Rent owing from Tenant the positive difference between the Base Monthly Rent paid during the Interim Period and the actual amount of the Base Monthly Rent owing for such Interim Period. From and after the Final Determination of Base Rent, Tenant shall pay Base Monthly Rent to Landlord on the basis of the actual Base Rent as so determined. Promptly after the Final Determination of Base Rent, Landlord and Tenant shall execute and enter into an amendment to this Lease describing the Base Rent owing from Tenant to Landlord during the Lease Term (inclusive of the escalations described in item B-2 below). For a period of twelve

 

B-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(12) months after the Final Determination of Base Rent, Landlord and Tenant shall have the right to reasonably review and audit Total Project Costs, all such books and records in conjunction therewith and the resulting calculation of Base Rent, and, to the extent it is determined that an error in the amount of the Total Project Costs or such calculation occurred, Base Rent shall be adjusted by amendment to this Lease and previous overpayments or underpayments of Base Rent shall be adjusted.

B-2 Escalations. For each Lease Year after the initial Lease Year of the Term, the annual Base Rent payable by Tenant shall be equal to the annual Base Rent for the immediately preceding Lease Year (determined without regard to any rental abatement), multiplied by one hundred two and 50/100 percent (102.50%).

 

B-2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

LEASE EXHIBIT C

MEMORANDUM OF LEASE

After recording return to:

c/o Gramercy Property Trust Inc.

550 Blair Mill Road, Suite 120

Horsham, PA 19044

Attn: Lease Administration

MEMORANDUM OF LEASE

This Memorandum of Lease (this “Memorandum”) is made this ____ day of September, 2016, between GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation (“Tenant”).

WITNESETH:

Landlord and Tenant have entered into a Lease Agreement (the “Lease”) dated September ___, 2016, whereby Landlord has leased to Tenant that certain premises commonly known as Building Lot 3 in the Omni Industrial Campus, Summerville, South Carolina and located on that certain real property, located in Berkeley County, State of South Carolina (the “Property”), the legal description of which Property is set forth on Exhibit “A” attached hereto. The Lease contains provisions and rights appurtenant to the Property, some of which are as follows:

 

I.

Term. The initial term of the Lease is for a period of approximately twenty (20) years commencing on the Substantial Completion Date (as defined in the Lease) and expiring on the last day of the calendar month in which occurs the twentieth (20th) anniversary of the Commencement Date (as defined in the Lease). Tenant has the right to renew the initial Term of the Lease for two (2) additional terms of five (5) years each.

 

II.

Incorporation of Lease. All terms and conditions of the Lease are hereby incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein.

 

III.

Conflicts with Lease. This Memorandum is solely for notice and recording purposes and shall not be construed to alter, modify, expand, diminish or supplement the provisions of the Lease. In the event of any inconsistency between the provisions of this Memorandum and the provisions of the Lease, the provisions of the Lease shall govern.

 

C-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Memorandum has been duly executed by the parties hereto as of the day and year first above written.

 

    LANDLORD:
    GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company
        By:    
  Witness #1    

Name:

   
     

Title:

   
         
  Witness #2      
    TENANT:
    THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation
        By:    
  Witness #1     Name:   Paul F. Jacobson
      Title:   Chief Executive Officer
         
  Witness #2      

 

C-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

STATE OF                          )

             ) SS;

COUNTY OF                      )

The undersigned, a Notary Public, in and for the County and State aforesaid, does hereby certify, that _______________ personally known to me to be the ______________________ of GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and personally known to me to be the same person whose name is subscribed to the foregoing instrument, appeared before me this day in person and acknowledged under oath that, as such _______________________, he signed and delivered the said instrument pursuant to authority duly given to the sole member of said limited liability company.

Given under my hand and seal this ____ day of ______________, 20_.

 

       
   Notary Public   

My Commission Expires: _______________________________

STATE OF                          )

             ) SS;

COUNTY OF                      )

The foregoing was acknowledged before me this _______ day of _____, 2016, by Paul F. Jacobson, the Chief Executive Officer of THORNE RESEARCH, INC., personally known to me to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that that person executed the same in that person’s authorized capacity, and that, by that person’s signature on the instrument the person or the entity upon behalf of which the person acted, executed the instrument.

Given under my hand and seal this ____ day of ______________, 20_.

 

       
   Notary Public   

My Commission Expires: _______________________________

 

C-1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A TO MEMORANDUM OF LEASE

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

All that lot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being on the eastern side of Omni Industrial Blvd. in the County of Berkeley, State of South Carolina, measuring and containing 25.81 acres shown an designated as Tract A-3 on a plat entitled “Final Subdivision Plat of Tract A (218.43+/- Ac.) Omni Industrial Commerce Park to create Tract A-3 (25.81 Ac.) & Tract A (192.62+/- Ac.)” drawn by Thomas & Hutton Engineering Co. dated May 19, 2016 and recorded _________, 2016 in Plat Cabinet ___, Pages ____and ____, in the Register of Deeds Office for Berkeley County, South Carolina.

 

   Formerly known as:   
   A 25.8 Acre portion of that certain piece, parcel and tract of land, with any improvements located thereon, situate, lying and being in New Hope Community, Berkeley County, South Carolina, being shown and designated as Tract A, 215.462 acres, and Parcel A-1, 5.095 acres, on a survey entitled “A BOUNDARY SURVEY OF TRACT A AND PARCEL A-1 OMNI COMMERCE PARK, OWNED BY EASTWAY PROPERTIES LLC LOCATED IN NEW HOPE COMMUNITY, BERKELEY COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA”, prepared by Southeastern Surveying of Charleston, Inc. dated August 15, 2011 and recorded on December 16, 2011, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Berkeley County, South Carolina in Record Plat Cabinet P at Page 25-P; and such size, shape, dimensions, buttings and boundings as shown on said survey.   

Together with appurtenant easement rights for the encroachment of overhangs and for ingress, egress, use and enjoyment of common areas granted in that certain Declaration of Protective Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for Omni Industrial Campus by MWV-OMNI, LLC dated September 29, 2014 and recorded October 9, 2014 in Book 11010, Page 267 in said ROD Office; as amended by that certain First Amendment to Declaration of Protective Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for Omni Industrial Campus dated August 30, 2016, and recorded August 31, 2016, in Book 2262, Page 507 in said Register of Deeds Office for Berkeley County, South Carolina.

 

C-2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

LEASE EXHIBIT D

SITE PLAN DEPICTING LOCATION AND CONFIGURATION OF BUILDING EXPANSION

 

LOGO

 


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE

THIS FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE (the “Amendment”) is made as of the 31st day of January, 2019, by and between GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, having an office at c/o Gramercy Property Trust, 220 Commerce Drive, Suite 400, Fort Washington, Pa. 19034, attention: Lease Administration (hereinafter called the “Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation, having an address at 25820 Highway 2 West; Sandpoint, Idaho 83864 (hereinafter called the “Tenant”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, by Lease Agreement (the “Lease”) dated September 29, 2016, Landlord leased to Tenant those certain parcels of land being commonly known as Omni Industrial Campus Lot 3, located in Summerville, South Carolina and more particularly described on Schedule A to the Lease, together with the Building Improvements (as defined in the Lease); and

WHEREAS, pursuant to Item B.1 of Lease Exhibit B, promptly after the Final Determination of Base Rent, Landlord and Tenant are obligated to execute and enter into an amendment to the Lease describing the Base Rent owing from Tenant to Landlord during the Lease Term (inclusive of the escalations described in Item B-2 of Lease Exhibit B); and

WHEREAS, with the Final Determination of Base Rent having occurred, Landlord and Tenant desire to amend the Lease to provide for the Base Rent owing from Tenant to Landlord during the Lease Term (inclusive of the escalations described in Item B-2 of Lease Exhibit B), all as more particularly hereinafter set forth.

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of good and valuable consideration paid by Tenant to Landlord, the receipt and sufficiency of which are, hereby acknowledged by Landlord, the parties do covenant and agree as follows:

1. Defined Terms. Capitalized terms used herein, but otherwise not defined herein, shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Lease and are hereby incorporated by reference.

2. Rent. During the Lease Term, Tenant shall pay Base. Rent with respect to the Premises to Landlord in the amount set forth on Schedule A attached hereto and made a part hereof, in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Lease. Landlord and Tenant hereby acknowledge and agree that this Amendment constitutes the amendment to the Lease describing the Base Rent owing from Tenant to Landlord during the Lease Term (inclusive of the escalations described in Item B-2 of Lease Exhibit B) referenced in the penultimate sentence in Item B.1 of Lease Exhibit B of the Lease.

3. Brokers. Landlord and Tenant each warrant and represent to the other that they did not deal with any real estate broker in connection with the negotiation, execution and delivery of this Amendment. Each party agrees to indemnify, defend, and save the other harmless from and against any and all liabilities, costs, causes of action, damages and expenses, including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees, with respect to or arising out of any claims made by any real estate broker, agent or finder with respect to this Amendment in breach of the foregoing representation.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

4. Miscellaneous.

(a) The captions preceding the paragraphs of this Amendment are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and shall in no way be construed to define, limit or describe the scope of this Amendment or the intent of any provision hereof.

(b) Except as herein amended, the Lease is hereby ratified and confirmed and shall continue in full force and effect, and all of the terms, covenants and conditions contained in the Lease shall remain in full force and effect.

(c) All capitalized terms used in this Amendment and not otherwise defined shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Lease.

(d) Tenant hereby warrants and represents that it has the full and sole right and authority to enter into this Amendment without the prior approval or consent of any party being necessary.

(e) This Amendment shall bind and inure to the benefit of, and maybe enforced by, the parties hereto and their respective heirs, legal representatives, successors and assigns.

(f) The Lease, as hereby modified, contains the entire agreement between the parties and cannot be changed, modified or amended unless such change, modification or amendment is in writing and executed by the party against which the enforcement of the change, modification or amendment is sought.

(g) In the event of any conflict between the terms of the Lease and this Amendment, the terms of this Amendment shall prevail.

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Amendment to be executed as of the day and year first above written.

 

LANDLORD:

GPT SUMMERVILLE OWNER LLC,

a Delaware limited liability company

By:   /s/ Brittany Winters
Name:   Brittany Winters
Title:   Managing Director
TENANT:

THORNE RESEARCH, INC.

an Idaho corporation

By:   /s/ Thomas McKenna
Name:  

Thomas McKenna

Title:  

Chief Operating Officer

 

3


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

SCHEDULE A

BASE RENT

Total Project Cost    $ 29,015,887.70

 

     Annual Rent    Monthly Rent

10/2/2017-10/31/2018**

   $2,321,271.02    $193,439.25

11/1/2018-10/31/2019

   $2,379,302.79    $198,275.23

11/1/2019-10/31/2020

   $2,438,785.36    $203,232.11

11/1/2020-10/31/2021

   $2,499,755.00    $208,312.92

11/1/2021-10/31/2022

   $2,562,248.87    $213,520.74

11/1/2022-10/31/2023

   $2,626,305.09    $218,858,76

11/1/2023-10/31/2024

   $2,691,962.72    $224,330.23

11/1/2024-10/31/2026

   $2,759,261.79    $229,938.48

11/1/2025-10/31/2026

   $2,828,243.33    $235,686.94

11/1/2026-10/31/2027

   $2,898,949.42    $241,579.12

11/112027-10/3112028

   $2,971,423.15    $247,618.60

11/1/2028-10/31/2029

   $3,045,708.73    $253,809.06

11/1/2029-10/31/2030

   $3,121,851.45    $260,154.29

11/1/2030-10/31/2031

   $3,199,897.73    $266,658.14

11/1/2031-10/31/2032

   $3,279,895.18    $273,324.60

11/1/2032-10/31/2033

   $3,361,892.56    $280,157.71

11/1/2033-10/31/2034

   $3,445,939.87    $287,161.66

11/1/2034-10/31/2036

   $3,532,088.37    $294,340.70

11/1/2035-10/31/2036

   $3,620,390.58    $301,699.21

11/1/2036-10/31/2037

   $3,710,900.34    $309,241.70

 

**Per

Section 1.6 of Lease Exhibit A of the Original Lease, the first full 5 calendar months after the Substantial Completion Date base rent are abated (10/2/2018-3/31/2018).

 

4

Exhibit 10.11

AGREEMENT OF LEASE

THIS AGREEMENT OF LEASE (this “Lease” or “lease”), made as of March 14, 2013, by and between Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C., a New York limited liability company, having an office at do TF Cornerstone Inc., 387 Park Avenue South, 7th Floor, New York, New York 10016, Attn: Office Leasing Department hereinafter referred to as “Owner”, and Thorne Research, Inc., an Idaho corporation, having its principal office and place of business at 25820 Highway 2 West, Dover, Idaho 83825, hereinafter referred to as “Tenant.”

WITNESSETH: Owner hereby leases to Tenant and Tenant hereby hires from Owner a portion of the 21st floor (the “Demised Premises” or “demised premises”) in the building known as 152 West 57th Street, a/k/a Carnegie Hall Tower in the appurtenances thereto, (the “Building” or “building”), for a term (the “Term” or “term”) of three (3) years and two (2) months, (or until such term shall cease and expire or be sooner terminated or further extended as hereinafter provided), which shall commence upon the commencement date specified in the Basic Lease Provisions set forth below (the “Commencement Date”), and shall expire nevertheless on the last day of the calendar month in which the day that is three (3) years and two (2) months after the Commencement Date shall occur (the Expiration Date”), both dates inclusive, at the annual base rental rates specified in the Basic Lease Provisions set forth below.

The parties hereto, for themselves, their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors and assigns, hereby covenant as follows:

Basic Lease Provisions: The following provisions (the “Basic Lease Provisions”) indicate certain specific relevant terms of this lease to be incorporated by reference in the referenced Section s and elsewhere in the lease. Capitalized words and terms indicated in parenthetical and quotations shall have the meanings as hereinafter set forth or as elsewhere defined within this lease. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this Section and any other provisions of this lease, the latter shall control.

 

Demised Premises:

   A portion of the twenty-first (21st) floor in the Building as shown on Exhibit A hereof.

Term:

   Three (3) years and two (2) months.

Commencement Date:

   The later to occur of March 1, 2013 or the date of mutual execution and delivery of the Lease (deemed to be the date first set forth above).

Rent Commencement Date:

   The sixty-first (61st) day following the Commencement Date Any abatement of Base Rent under this Lease shall be exclusive of any portion thereof which constitutes the ERI Sum.


Expiration Date:

   The last day of the thirtieth (38th) full calendar month following the Commencement Date

Base Rent

(inclusive of the ERI Sum):

   $125,921.25 per annum ($10,493.44 per month) for the period commencing on the Commencement Date through and including the Expiration Date.

ERI Sum:

   Initially $5996.25 per annum ($499.69 per month), subject to increase pursuant to Article 39.

Payment Due from Tenant on Lease Execution:

   Payment of the installment of Base Rent for the first full calendar month of the Term plus delivery of the Security Deposit.

Security Deposit:

   $89,943.75

Tenant’s Proportionate Share:

   0.34%

Operating Base Year:

   Calendar year 2013.

Tax Base Year

   Calendar year 2013.

Permitted Use:

   General and executive offices and for no other purpose.

Guarantor(s):

   N/A

Broker (collectively):

   CB Richard Ellis and Newmark Grubb Knight Frank


Addresses for Notices:   

In the manner described in Article 28 as follows:

 

To Tenant:

25820 Highway 2 West

Dover, Idaho 83825

Attn: Paul F. Jacobson,

Chief Executive Officer

With a copy of any notice of default or termination to:

Ronald H. Gitter, Esq.

110 East 59th Street, 23rd Floor

New York, NY 10022

To Owner:

Carnegie Hall Tower II, L.L.C.

c/o TF Cornerstone Inc.

387 Park Avenue South

7th floor

New York, New York 10016

Attn: Office Leasing Department


STANDARD FORM OF OFFICE LEASE

The Real Estate Board of New York, Inc.

This Standard Form of Office Lease, dated as of March , 2013, together with the Basic Lease provisions, the Notes and the rider annexed hereto (with all exhibits and attachments thereto), shall constitute the Agreement of Lease between Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C., as Owner, and Thorne Research, Inc., an Idaho corporation, as Tenant, and covering a portion of the twenty-first (21st) floor at 152 West 57th Street, a/k/a Carnegie Hall Tower, New York, New York.

Rent: 1. Tenant shall pay the Base Rent as provided in the Basic Lease provisions section of this Lease and as hereinafter provided. Tenant agrees to pay Base Rent (together with additional rent and other charges hereinafter provided) to Owner or such other arty as Owner may designate, in lawful money of the United States which shall be legal tender in payment of all debts and dues, public and private, at the time of payment in equal monthly installments in advance on the first (1st) day of each month during the Term at the office of owner or such other place as Owner may designate, without any set-off or deduction whatsoever except that Tenant shall pay the Payment Due from Tenant on Lease Execution as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions Section of this Lease upon the execution and delivery hereof by Tenant. If the Commencement Date does not occur on the first (I”) day of a calendar month, Tenant shall pay, within five (5) days after the Commencement Date, a pro rata portion of the Base Rent attributable to the period from and including the Commencement Date through and including the last day of the calendar month in which the Commencement Date occurs.

Occupancy: 2. Tenant shall use and occupy the demised premises only for the Permitted Use as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions Section of this lease and for no other purpose.

Tenant Alterations: 3. Tenant shall, make no changes in or to the demised premises of any nature without Owner’s prior written consent. Subject to the prior written consent of Owner, and to the provisions of this article, Tenant at Tenant’s expense, may make alterations, installations, additions or improvements which are non-structural and which do not affect utility services or plumbing and electrical lines, in or to the interior of the demised premises, by using contractors or mechanics first approved in each instance by Owner. Tenant shall, before making any alterations, additions, installations or improvements, at its expense, obtain all permits, approvals and certificates required by any governmental or quasi-governmental bodies and (upon completion) certificates of final approval thereof, and shall deliver promptly duplicates of all such permits, approvals and certificates to Owner, and Tenant agrees to carry, and will cause Tenant’s contractors and sub-contractors to carry, such worker’s compensation, general liability, personal and property damage insurance as Owner may require. If any mechanic’s lien is filed against the demised premises, or the building of which the same forms a part, for work claimed to have been done for, or materials furnished to, Tenant, whether or not done pursuant to this article, the same shall be discharged by Tenant within 30 days thereafter, at Tenant’s expense, by payment or filing a bond as permitted by law. All fixtures and paneling, partitions, railings and like installations, installed in the demised premises at any time, either by Tenant or by Owner on Tenant’s behalf, shall, upon installation, become the property of Owner and shall remain upon and be surrendered with the demised premises unless Owner, by notice to Tenant no later than twenty days prior to the date fixed as the termination of this lease, elects to relinquish Owner’s right thereto and to have them removed by Tenant, in which event the same shall be removed from the


demised premises by Tenant prior to the expiration of the lease, at Tenant’s expense. ‘Nothing in this article shall be construed to give Owner title to, or to prevent Tenant’s removal of, trade fixtures, moveable office furniture and equipment, but upon removal of same from the demised premises or upon removal, of other installations as may be required by Owner, Tenant shall immediately, and at its expense, repair and restore the demised premises to the condition existing prior to any such installations, and repair any damage to the demised premises or the building due to such removal. All property permitted or required to be removed by Tenant at the end of the term remaining in the demised premises after Tenant’s removal shall be deemed abandoned and may, at the election of Owner, either be retained as Owner’s property or may be removed from the demised premises by Owner, at Tenant’s expense.

Maintenance and Repairs: 4. Tenant shall, throughout the term of this lease, take good care of the demised premises and the fixtures and appurtenances therein) Tenant shall be responsible for all damage or injury to the demised premises or any other part of the building and the systems and equipment thereof, whether requiring structural or nonstructural repairs caused by, or resulting from, carelessness, omission, neglect or improper conduct of Tenant, Tenant’s subtenants, agents, employees, invitees or licensees, or which arise out of any work, labor, service or equipment done for, or supplied to, Tenant or any subtenant, or arising out of the installation, use or operation of the property or equipment of Tenant or any subtenant. Tenant shall also repair all damage to the building and the demised premises caused by the moving of Tenant’s fixtures, furniture and equipment. Tenant shall promptly make, at Tenant’s expense, all repairs in and to the demised premises for which Tenant is responsible, using only the contractor for the trade or trades in questions, selected from a list of at least two contractors per trade submitted by Owner. Any other repairs in or to the building or the facilities and systems thereof, for which Tenant is responsible, shall be performed by Owner at the Tenant’s expense. Owner shall maintain and repair the public portions of the building, both exterior and interior and those other elements as set forth in Article 50 of this Lease, except that if Owner allows Tenant to erect on the outside of the building a sign or signs, or a hoist, lift or sidewalk elevator for the exclusive use of Tenant, Tenant shall maintain such exterior installations in good appearance, shall cause the same to be operated in a good and workmanlike manner, shall make all repairs thereto necessary to keep same in good order and condition, at Tenant’s own cost and expense, and shall cause the same to be covered by the insurance provided for hereafter in Article 8. Subject to the Owner’s obligations to deliver the Demised Premises in the condition described in this Lease and its obligations of maintenance, repair and restoration set forth herein, Tenant shall, throughout the term of the lease, take good care of the demised premises and the fixtures and appurtenances therein, and the sidewalks adjacent thereto, and at its sole cost and expense, make all non-structural repairs thereto as and when needed to preserve them in good working order and condition, reasonable wear and tear, obsolescence and damage from the elements, fire or other casualty, excepted. If the demised premises be or become infested with vermin, Tenant shall at Tenant’s expense, cause the same to be exterminated from time to time as appropriate. Except as specifically provided in Article 9 or elsewhere in this lease, there shall be no allowance to the Tenant for the diminution of rental value and no liability on the part of Owner by reason of inconvenience, annoyance or injury to business arising from Owner, Tenant or others, making or failing to make any repairs, alterations, additions or improvements in or to any portion of the building, including the erection or operation of any crane, derrick or sidewalk shed, or in or to the demised premises or the fixtures, appurtenances or equipment thereof. It is specifically agreed that Tenant shall be not entitled to any set off or reduction of rent by reason of any failure of Owner to comply with the covenants of this or any other article of this lease. Tenant agrees that Tenant’s sole remedy at law in such instance will be by way of an action for damages for breach of contract. The provisions of this Article 4 with respect to the making of repairs shall not apply in the case of fire or other Casualty, which are dealt with in Article 9 and Article 89 hereof.


Window Cleaning: 5. Tenant will not clean nor require, permit, suffer or allow any window in the demised premises to be cleaned from the outside in violation of Section 202 of the Labor Law or any other applicable law, or of the Rules of the Board of Standards and Appeals, or of any other Board or body having or asserting jurisdiction.

Requirements Of Law, Fire Insurance, Floor Loads: 6. Prior to the commencement of the lease term, if Tenant is then in possession, and at all times thereafter, Tenant, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, shall promptly comply with all present and future laws, orders and regulations of all state, federal, municipal and local governments, departments, commissions and boards and any direction of any public officer pursuant to law, and all orders, rules and regulations of the New York Board of Fire Underwriters, Insurance Services Office, or any similar body which shall impose any violation, order or duty upon Owner or Tenant with respect to the demised premises, whether or not arising out of Tenant’s use or manner of use thereof, (including Tenant’s permitted use) or, with respect to the building if arising out of Tenant’s use or manner of use of the demised premises or the building (including the use permitted under the lease). Nothing herein shall require Tenant to make structural repairs or alterations unless Tenant has, by its manner of use of the demised premises or method of operation therein, violated any such laws, ordinances, orders, rules, regulations or requirements with respect thereto. Tenant may, after securing Owner to Owner’s satisfaction against all damages, interest, penalties and expenses, including, but not limited to, reasonable attorneys’ fees, by cash deposit or by surety bond in an amount and in a company satisfactory to Owner, contest and appeal any such laws, ordinances, orders, rules, regulations or requirements provided same is done with all reasonable promptness and provided such appeal shall not subject Owner to prosecution for a criminal offense, or constitute a default under any lease or mortgage under which Owner may be obligated, or cause the demised premises or any part thereof to be condemned or vacated. Tenant shall not do or permit any act or thing to be done in or to the demised premises which is contrary to law, or which will invalidate or be in conflict with public liability, fire or other policies of insurance at any time carried by or for the benefit of Owner with respect to the demised premises or the building of which the demised premises form a part, or which shall or might subject Owner to any liability or responsibility to any person, or for property damage. Tenant shall not keep anything in the demised premises, except as now or hereafter permitted by the Fire Department, Board of Fire Underwriters, Fire Insurance Rating Organization or other authority having jurisdiction, and then only in such manner and such quantity so as not to increase the rate for fire insurance applicable to the building, nor use the demised premises in a manner which will increase the insurance rate for the building or any property located therein over that are in effect prior to the commencement of Tenant’s occupancy. Tenant shall pay all costs, expenses, fines, penalties, or damages, which may be imposed upon Owner by reason of Tenant’s failure to comply with the provisions of this article, and if by reason of such failure the fire insurance rate shall, at the beginning of this lease, or at any time thereafter, be higher than it otherwise would be, then, Tenant shall reimburse Owner, as additional rent hereunder, for that portion of all fire insurance premiums thereafter paid by Owner which shall have been charged because of such failure by Tenant. In any action or proceeding wherein Owner and Tenant are parties, a schedule or “make-up” of rate for the building or the demised premises issued by the New York Fire Insurance Exchange, or other body making fire insurance rates applicable to said premises shall be


conclusive evidence of the facts therein stated and of the several items and charges in the fire insurance rates then applicable to said premises. Tenant shall not place a load upon any floor of the demised premises exceeding the floor load per square foot area which it was designed to carry and which is allowed by law. Owner reserves the right to prescribe the weight and position of all safes, business machines and mechanical equipment. Such installations shall be placed and maintained by Tenant, at Tenant’s expense, in settings sufficient, in Owner’s judgment, to absorb and prevent vibration, noise and annoyance.

Subordination: 7. This lease is subject and subordinate to all ground or underlying leases and to all mortgages which may now or hereafter affect such leases or the real property of which the demised premises are a part, and to all renewals, modifications, consolidations, replacements and extensions of any such underlying leases and mortgages. This clause shall be self-operative and no further instrument of subordination shall be required by any ground or underlying lessor or by any mortgagee, affecting any lease or the real property of which the demised premises are a part. In confirmation of such subordination, Tenant shall from time to time execute promptly any certificate that Owner may request.

Property Loss, Damage Reimbursement Indemnity: 8. Owner or its agents shall not be liable for any damage to property of Tenant or of others entrusted to employees of the building, nor for loss of or damage to any property of Tenant by theft or otherwise, nor for any injury or damage to persons or property resulting from any cause of whatsoever nature, unless caused by, or due to, the negligence of Owner, its agents, servants or employees. Owner or its agents will not be liable for any such damage caused by other tenants or persons in, upon or about said building, or caused by operations in construction of any private, public or quasi-public work. If at any time any windows of the demised premises are temporarily closed, darkened or bricked up (or permanently closed, darkened or bricked up, if required by law) for any reason whatsoever including, but not limited to, Owner’s own acts, Owner shall not be liable for any damage Tenant may sustain thereby, and Tenant shall not be entitled to any compensation therefor, nor abatement or diminution of rent, nor shall the same release Tenant from its obligations hereunder, nor constitute an eviction. Tenant shall indemnify and save harmless Owner against and from all liabilities, obligations, damages, penalties, claims, costs and expenses for which Owner shall not be reimbursed by insurance, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, paid, suffered or incurred as a result of any breach by Tenant, Tenant’s agents, contactors, employees, invitees, or licensees of any covenant or condition of this lease, or the carelessness, negligence or improper conduct of the Tenant, Tenant’s agents, contractors, employees, invitees or licensees. Tenant’s liability under this lease extends to the acts and omissions of any subtenant, and any agent, contractor, employee, invitee or licensee of any subtenant. In case any action or proceeding is brought against Owner by reason of any such claim, Tenant, upon written notice from Owner, will, at Tenant’s expense, resist or defend such action or proceeding by counsel approved by Owner in writing, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld,

Destruction, Fire and Other : 9. (a) If the demised premises or any part thereof shall be damaged by fire or other casualty, Tenant shall give immediate notice thereof to Owner, and this lease shall continue in full force and effect except as hereinafter set forth. (b) If the demised premises are partially damaged or rendered partially unusable by fire or other casualty, the damages thereto shall be repaired by, and at the expense of, Owner, and the rent and other items of additional rent, until such repair shall be substantially complete, shall be apportioned from the day following the casualty,


according to e part of the demised premises which is usable. (c) If the demised premises are totally damaged or rendered wholly unusable by fire or other casualty, then the rent and other items of additional rent, as hereinafter expressly provided, shall be proportionately paid up to the time of the casualty, and thenceforth shall cease until the date when the demised premises shall have been repaired and restored by Owner (or if sooner reoccupied in part by Tenant then rent shall be apportioned as provided in subsection (b) above), subject to Owner’s right to elect not to restore the same as hereinafter provided. (d) If the demised premises are rendered wholly unusable or (whether or not the demised premises are damaged in whole or in part) if the building shall be so damaged that Owner shall decide to demolish it or to rebuild it, then, in any of such events, Owner may elect to terminate this lease by written notice to Tenant, given within ninety (90) days after such fire or casualty, or thirty (30) days after adjustment of the insurance claim for such fire or casualty, whichever is sooner, specifying a date for the expiration of the lease, which date shall not be more than sixty (60) days after the giving of such notice, and upon the date specified in such notice the term of this lease shall expire as fully and completely as if such date were the date set forth above for the termination of this lease, and Tenant shall forthwith quit, surrender and vacate the demised premises without prejudice however, to landlord’s rights and remedies against Tenant under the lease provisions in effect prior to such termination, and any rent owing shall be paid up to such date, and any payments of rent made by Tenant which were on account of any period subsequent to such date shall be returned to Tenant. Unless Owner shall serve a termination notice as provided for herein, Owner shall make the repairs and restorations under the conditions of (b) and (c) hereof, with all reasonable expedition, subject to delays due to adjustment of insurance claims, labor troubles and causes beyond Owner’s control. After any such casualty, Tenant shall cooperate with Owner’s restoration by removing from the demised premises as promptly as reasonably possible, all of Tenant’s salvageable inventory and moveable equipment, furniture, and other property. Tenant’s liability for rent shall resume five (5) days after written notice from Owner that the demised premises are substantially ready for Tenant’s occupancy. (e) Nothing contained hereinabove shall relieve Tenant from liability that may exist as a result of damage from fire or other casualty. Notwithstanding the foregoing, including Owner’s obligation to restore under subparagraph (b) above, each party shall look first to any insurance in its favor before making any claim against the other party for recovery for loss or damage resulting from fire or other casualty, and to the extent that such insurance is in force and collectible, and to the extent permitted by law, Owner and Tenant each hereby releases and waives all right of recovery with respect to subparagraphs (b), (d), and (e) above, against the other or any one claiming through or under each of them by way of subrogation or otherwise. The release and waiver herein referred to shall be deemed to include any loss or damage to the demised premises and/or to any personal property, equipment, trade fixtures, goods and merchandise located therein. The foregoing release and waiver shall be in force only if both releasors’ insurance policies contain a clause providing that such a release or waiver shall not invalidate the insurance. If, and to the extent, that such waiver can be obtained only by the payment of additional premiums, then the party benefiting from the waiver shall pay such premium within ten days after written demand or shall be deemed to have agreed that the party obtaining insurance coverage shall be free of any further obligation under the provisions hereof with respect to waiver of subrogation. Tenant acknowledges that Owner will not carry insurance on Tenant’s furniture and/or furnishings or any fixtures or equipment, improvements, or appurtenances removable by Tenant, and agrees that Owner will not be obligated to repair any damage thereto or replace the same. (f) Tenant hereby waives the provisions of Section 227 of the Real Property Law and agrees that the provisions of this article shall govern and control in lieu thereof.


Eminent Domain: 10. If the whole or any part of the demised premises shall be acquired or condemned by Eminent for any public or quasi public use or purpose, then, and in that event, the term of this lease shall cease and terminate from the date of title vesting in such proceeding, and Tenant shall have no claim for the value of any unexpired term of said lease, and assigns to Owner, Tenant’s entire interest in any such award. Tenant shall have the light to make an independent claim to the condemning authority for the value of Tenant’s moving expenses and personal property, trade fixtures and equipment, provided Tenant is entitled pursuant to the terms of the lease to remove such property, trade fixture and equipment at the end of the term, and provided further such claim does not reduce Owner’s award.

Assignment, Mortgage, Etc. : 11. Tenant, for itself, its heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors and assigns, expressly covenants that it shall not assign, agreement, nor underlet, or suffer or permit the demised premises or any part thereof to be used by others, without the prior written consent of Owner in each instance. Transfer of the majority of the stock of a corporate Tenant or the majority partnership interest of a partnership Tenant shall be deemed an assignment. If this lease be assigned, or if the demised premises or any part thereof be underlet or occupied by anybody other than Tenant, Owner may, after default by Tenant, collect rent from the assignee, undertenant or occupant, and apply the net amount collected to the rent herein reserved, but no such assignment, underletting, occupancy or collection shall be deemed a waiver of this covenant, or the acceptance of the assignee, undertenant or occupant as tenant, or a release of Tenant from the further performance by Tenant of covenants on the part of Tenant herein contained. The consent by Owner to an assignment or underletting shall not in any wise be construed to relieve Tenant from obtaining the express consent in writing of Owner to any further assignment or underletting.

Electric Current: 12. Rates and conditions in respect to sub-metering or rent inclusion, as the case may be, to be added in RIDER attached hereto. Tenant covenants and agrees that at all times its use of electric current shall not exceed the capacity of existing feeders to the building or the risers or wiring installation, and Tenant may not use any electrical equipment which, in Owner’s opinion, reasonably exercised, will overload such installations or interfere with the use thereof by other tenants of the building. The change at any time of the character of electric service shall in no wise make Owner liable or responsible to Tenant, for any loss, damages or expenses which Tenant may sustain.

Access to Premises: 13. Owner or Owner’s agents shall have the right (but shall not be obligated) to enter the demised premises any emergency at any time, and, at other reasonable times, to examine the same and to make such repairs, replacements and improvements as Owner may deem necessary and reasonably desirable to the demised premises or to any other portion of the building or which Owner may elect to perform. Tenant shall permit Owner to use and maintain and replace pipes and conduits in and through the demised premises and to erect new pipes and conduits therein, provided they are concealed within the walls, floor, or ceiling. Owner may, during the progress of any work in the demised premises, take all necessary materials and equipment into said premises without the same constituting an eviction, nor shall the Tenant be entitled to any abatement of rent while such work is in progress, nor to any damages by reason of loss or interruption of business or otherwise. Throughout the term hereof, Owner shall have the right to enter the demised premises at reasonable hours for the purpose of showing the same to prospective purchasers or mortgagees of the building, and during the last six months of the term, for the purpose of showing the same to prospective tenants. If Tenant is not present to open and permit an entry into the demised premises, Owner or Owner’s


agents may enter the same whenever such entry may be necessary or permissible by master key or forcibly, and provided reasonable care is exercised to safeguard Tenant’s property, such entry shall not render Owner or its agents liable therefor, nor m any event shall the obligations of Tenant hereunder be affected. If during the last month of the term Tenant shall have removed all or substantially all of Tenant’s property therefrom, Owner may immediately enter, alter, renovate or redecorate the demised premises without limitation or abatement of rent, or incurring liability to Tenant for any compensation, and such act shall have no effect on this lease or Tenant’s obligations hereunder.

Vault, Vault Space, Area: 14. No vaults, vault space or area, whether or not enclosed or covered, not within the property line of the building, is leased hereunder, anything contained in or indicated on any sketch, blue print or plan, or anything contained elsewhere in this lease to the contrary notwithstanding. Owner makes no representation as to the location of the property line of the building. All vaults and vault space and all such areas not within the property line of the building, which Tenant may be permitted to use and/or occupy, is to be used and/or occupied under a revocable license, and if any such license be revoked, or if the amount of such space or area be diminished or required by any federal, state or municipal authority or public utility, Owner shall not be subject to any liability, nor shall Tenant be entitled to any compensation or diminution or abatement of rent, nor shall such revocation, diminution or requisition be deemed constructive or actual eviction. Any tax, fee or charge of municipal authorities for such vault or area shall be paid by Tenant.

Occupancy: 15. Tenant will not at any time use or occupy the demised premises in violation of the certificate of occupancy issued for the building of which the demised premises area part. Tenant has inspected the demised premises and accepts them as is, subject to the riders annexed hereto with respect to Owner’s work, if any. In any event, Owner makes no representation as to the condition of the demised premises, and Tenant agrees to accept the same subject to violations, whether or not of record.

Bankruptcy: 16. (a) Anything elsewhere in this lease to the contrary notwithstanding, this lease may be cancelled by Owner by the sending of a written notice to Tenant within a reasonable time after the happening of any one or more of the following events: (1) the commencement of a case in bankruptcy or under the laws of any state naming Tenant as the debtor; or (2) the making by Tenant of an assignment or any other arrangement for the benefit of creditors under any state statute. Neither Tenant nor any person claiming through or under Tenant, or by reason of any statute or order of court, shall thereafter be entitled to possession of the premises demised but shall forthwith quit and surrender the demised premises. If this lease shall be assigned in accordance with its terms, the provisions of this Article 16 shall be applicable only to the party then owning Tenant’s interest in this lease.

(b) it is stipulated and agreed that in the event of the termination of this lease pursuant to (a) hereof, Owner shall forthwith, notwithstanding any other provisions of this lease to the contrary, be entitled to recover from Tenant as and for liquidated damages, an amount equal to the difference between the rent reserved hereunder for the unexpired portion of the term demised and the fair and reasonable rental value of the demised premises for the same period. In the computation of such damages the difference between any installment of rent becoming due hereunder after the date of termination, and the fair and reasonable rental value of the demised premises for the period for which such installment was payable, shall be discounted to the date of termination at the rate of four percent (4%) per annum.


If such demised premises or any part thereof be re-let by the Owner for the unexpired term of said lease, or any part thereof, before presentation of proof of such liquidated damages to any court, commission or tribunal, the amount of rent reserved upon such re-letting Shall be deemed to be the fair and reasonable rental value for the part or the whole of the demised premises so re-let during the term of the re- letting. Nothing herein contained shall limit or prejudice the right of the Owner to prove for and obtain as liquidated damages, by reason of such termination, an amount to the maximum allowed by any statute or rule of law in effect at the time when and governing the proceedings in which, such damages are to be proved, whether or not such amount be greater, equal to, or less than, the amount of the difference referred to above.

Default: 17. (1) If Tenant defaults in fulfilling any of the covenants of this lease other than the covenants for the payment of rent or additional rent; or if the demised premises become vacant or deserted or if any execution or attachment shall be issued against tenant or any of Tenant’s property, whereupon the demised premises shall be taken or occupied by someone other than Tenant; or if this lease be rejected under 5365 of Title 11 of the U.S. Code (Bankruptcy Code); or if Tenant shall fail to move into or take possession of the demised premises within thirty (30) days after the commencement of the term of this lease, then, in any one or more of such events, upon Owner serving a written fifteen (15) days’ notice upon Tenant specifying the nature of said default) and upon the expiration of said fifteen (15) days, if Tenant shall have failed to comply with or remedy such default, or if the said default or omission complained of shall be of a nature that the same cannot be completely cured or remedied within said fifteen (15) day period, and if Tenant shall not have diligently. commenced curing such default within such fifteen day (15) period, and shall not thereafter with reasonable diligence and in good faith, proceed to remedy or cure such default, then Owner may serve a written five (5) days’ notice of cancellation of this lease upon Tenant, and upon the expiration of said five (5) days this lease and the term thereunder shall end and expire as fully and completely as if the expiration of such five (5) day period were the day herein definitely fixed for the end and expiration of this lease and the term thereof, and Tenant shall then quit and surrender the demised premises to Owner, but Tenant shall remain liable as hereinafter provided.

(2) If the notice provided for in (1) hereof shall have been given, and the term shall expire as aforesaid; or if Tenant shall make default in the payment of the rent reserved herein, or any item of additional rent herein mentioned, or any part of either, or in making any other payment herein required; then, and in any of such events, Owner may without notice, re-enter the demised premises either by force or otherwise, and dispossess Tenant by summary proceedings or otherwise, and the legal representative of Tenant or other occupant of the demised premises, and remove their effects and hold the demised premises as if this lease had not been made, and Tenant hereby waives the service of notice of intention to re-enter or to institute legal proceedings to that end. If Tenant shall make default hereunder prior to the date fixed as the commencement of any renewal or extension of this lease, Owner may cancel and terminate such renewal or extension agreement by written notice.

Remedies of Owner: and Waiver of Redemption: 18. In case of any such default, re-en expiration and/or dispossess by summary proceedings or otherwise, (a) the rent shall become due thereupon and be paid up to the time of such re-entry, dispossess and/ or expiration, (b) Owner may re-let the demised premises or any part or parts thereof, either in the name of Owner or otherwise, for a term or terms, which may at Owner’s option be less than or exceed the period which would otherwise have constituted the balance of the term of this lease, and may grant concessions or free rent or charge


a higher rental than that in this lease, and/or (c) Tenant or the legal representatives of Tenant shall also pay to Owner as liquidated damages for the failure of Tenant to observe and perform said Tenant’s covenants herein contained, any deficiency between the rent hereby reserved and/or covenanted to be paid and the net amount, if any, of the rents collected on account of the lease or leases of the demised premises for each month of the period which would otherwise have constituted the balance of the term of this lease. The failure of Owner to re4et the demised premises, or any part or parts thereof, shall not release or affect Tenant’s liability for damages. In computing such liquidated damages there shall be added to the said deficiency such expenses as Owner may incur m connection with re-letting, such as legal expenses, reasonable attorneys’ fees, brokerage, advertising and for keeping the demised premises in good order or for preparing the same for re- letting. Any such liquidated damages shall be paid m morn* installments by Tenant on the rent day specified in this lease, and any suit brought to collect the amount of the deficiency for any month shall not prejudice in any way the rights of Owner to collect the deficiency for any subsequent month by a similar proceeding. Owner, inputting the demised premises m good order or preparing the same for re-rental may, at Owner’s option, make such alterations, repairs, replacements, and/or decorations in the demised premises as Owner, in Owner’s sole judgment, considers advisable and necessary for the purpose of re-letting the demised premises, and the making of such alterations, repairs, replacements, and/or decorations shall not operate or be construed to release Tenant from liability hereunder as aforesaid. Owner shall in no event be liable in any way whatsoever for failure to re-let the demised premises, or in the event that the demised premises are re-let, for failure to collect the rent thereof under such re-letting, and in no event shall Tenant be entitled to receive any excess, if any, of such net rents collected over the sums payable by Tenant to Owner hereunder. In the event of a breach or threatened breach by Tenant of any of the covenants or provisions hereof, Owner shall have the right of injunction and the right to invoke any remedy allowed at law or inequity as if re-entry, summary proceedings and other remedies were not herein provided for. Mention in this lease of any particular remedy, shall not preclude Owner from any other remedy, in law or in equity. Tenant hereby expressly waives any and all rights of redemption granted by or under any present or future laws in the event of Tenant being evicted or dispossessed for any cause, or in the event of Owner obtaining possession of the demised premises, by reason of the violation by Tenant of any of the covenants and conditions of this lease, or otherwise.

Fees and Expenses: 19. If Tenant shall default in the observance or performance of any term or covenant on Tenant’s part to be observed or performed under, or by virtue of, any of the terms or provisions in any article of this lease, after notice, if required, and upon expiration of any applicable grace period, if any, (except in an emergency), then, unless otherwise provided elsewhere in this lease, Owner may immediately, or at any time thereafter and without notice, perform the obligation of Tenant thereunder. If Owner, in connection with the foregoing, or in connection with any default by Tenant in the covenant to pay rent hereunder, makes any expenditures or incurs any obligations for the payment of money, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys’ fees, in instituting, prosecuting or defending any action or proceeding, and prevails in any such action or proceeding, then Tenant will reimburse Owner for such sums so paid, or obligations incurred, with interest and costs. The foregoing expenses incurred by reason of Tenant’s default shall be deemed to be additional rent hereunder, and shall be paid by Tenant to Owner within ten (10) days of rendition of any bill or statement to Tenant therefor. If Tenant’s lease term shall have expired at the time of making of such expenditures or incurring of such obligations, such sums shall be recoverable by Owner, as damages.


Building Alterations and Management: 20. Owner shall have the right at any time without the same constituting an eviction and without incurring liability to Tenant therefor, to change the arrangement and/or location of public entrances, passageways, doors, doorways, corridors, elevators, stairs, toilets or other public parts of the building, and to change the name number or designation by which the building may be known) There shall be no allowance to Tenant for diminution of rental value and no liability on the part of Owner by reason of inconvenience, annoyance or injury to business arising from Owner or other Tenants making any repairs in the building or any such alterations, additions and improvements. Furthermore, Tenant shall not have any claim against Owner by reason of Owner’s imposition of such controls of the manner of access to the building by Tenant’s social or business visitors as the Owner may deem necessary for the security of the building and its occupants.

No Representations by Owner: 21. Neither Owner nor Owner’s agents have made any representations or promises with respect to the physical condition of the building, the land upon which it is erected or the demised premises, the rents, leases, expenses of operation or any other matter or thing affecting or related to the demised premises, except as herein expressly set forth, and no rights, easements or licenses are acquired by Tenant by implication or otherwise, except as expressly set forth in the provisions of this lease. Tenant has inspected the building and the demised premises and is thoroughly acquainted with their condition and agrees to take the same “as-is”, and acknowledges that the taking of possession of the demised premises by Tenant shall be conclusive evidence that the said premises and the building of which the same form a part were in good and satisfactory condition at the tune such possession was so taken, except as to latent defects. All understandings and agreements heretofore between the parties hereto are merged in this contract, which alone fully and completely expresses the agreement between Owner and Tenant, and any executory agreement hereafter made shall be ineffective to change, modify, discharge or effect an abandonment of it in whole or in part, unless such executory agreement is in writing and signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, modification, discharge or abandonment is sought.

End of Term: 22. Upon the expiration or other termination of the term of this lease, Tenant shall quit and surrender to Owner the demised premises, “broom-clean”, in good order and condition, ordinary wear and damages which Tenant is not required to repair as provided elsewhere in this lease excepted, and Tenant shall remove all its property. Tenant’s obligation to observe or perform this covenant shall survive the expiration or other termination of this lease. If the last day of the term of this lease or any renewal thereof, falls on Sunday, this lease shall expire at noon on the preceding Saturday, unless it be a legal holiday, in which case it shall expire at noon on the preceding business day.

Quiet Enjoyment: 23. Owner covenants and agrees with Tenant that upon Tenant paying the rent and additional rent and observing and performing all the terms, covenants and conditions, on Tenant’s part to be observed and performed, Tenant may peaceably and quietly enjoy the premises hereby demised, subject, nevertheless, to the terms and conditions of this lease including, but not limited to, Article 31 hereof, and to the ground leases, underlying leases and mortgages hereinbefore mentioned:-


Failure to Give Possession: 24. If Owner is unable to give possession of the demised premises on the date of the commencement of the term hereof because of the holding-over or retention of possession of any tenant, undertenant or occupants, or if the demised premises are located in a building being constructed, because such building has not been sufficiently completed to make the demised premises ready for occupancy, or because of the fact that a certificate of occupancy has not been procured, or for any other reason, Owner shall not be subject to any liability for failure to give possession on said date and the validity of the lease shall not be impaired under such circumstances, nor shall the same be construed in any wise to extend the term of this lease, but the rent payable hereunder shall be abated (provided Tenant is not responsible for Owner’s inability to obtain possession or complete construction) until after Owner shall have given Tenant written notice that the Owner is able to deliver possession in condition required by this lease. If permission is given to Tenant to enter into possession of the demises premises, or to occupy premises other than the demised premises, prior to the date specified as the commencement of the term of this lease, Tenant covenants and agrees that such possession and/or occupancy shall be deemed to be under all the terms, covenants, conditions and provisions of this lease, except the obligation to pay the fixed annual rent set forth in the preamble to this lease. The provisions of this article are intended to constitute “an express provision to the contrary” within the meaning of Section 223-a of the New York.

No Waiver: 25. The failure of Owner to seek redress for violation of, or to insist upon the strict performance of, any covenant or condition of this lease or of any of the Rules or Regulations, set forth or hereafter adopted by Owner, shall not prevent a subsequent act which would have originally constituted a violation from having all the force and effect of an original violation. The receipt by Owner of rent and/or additional rent with knowledge of the breach of any covenant of this lease shall not be deemed a waiver of such breach, and no provision of this lease shall be deemed to have been waived by Owner unless such waiver be in writing signed by Owner. No payment by Tenant or receipt by Owner of a lesser amount than the monthly rent herein stipulated shall be deemed to be other than on account of the earliest stipulated rent, nor shall any endorsement or statement of any check or any letter accompanying any check or payment as rent be deemed an accord and satisfaction, and Owner may accept such check or payment without prejudice to Owner’s right to recover the balance of such rent or pursue any other remedy in this lease provided. No act or thing done by Owner or Owner’s agents during the term hereby demised shall be deemed an acceptance of a surrender of the demised premises, and no agreement to accept such surrender shall be valid unless in writing signed by Owner. No employee of Owner or Owner’s agent shall have any power to accept the keys of said premises prior to the termination of the lease, and the delivery of keys to any such agent or employee shall not operate as a termination of the lease or a surrender of the demised premises.

Waiver of Trial by Jury: 26. It is mutually agreed by and between Owner and Tenant that the respective parties hereto shall, and they hereby do, waive trial by jury in any action proceeding or counterclaim brought by either of the parties hereto against the other (except for personal injury or property damage) on any matters whatsoever arising out of, or in any way connected with, this lease, the relationship of Owner and Tenant, Tenant’s use of, or occupancy of, the demised premises, and any emergency statutory or any other statutory remedy.. It is further mutually agreed that in the event Owner commences any proceeding or action for possession, including a summary proceeding for possession of the demised premises, Tenant will not interpose any counterclaim of whatever nature or description in any such proceeding, including a counterclaim under Article 4, except for statutory mandatory counterclaims.


Inability to Perform: 27. This lease and the obligation of Tenant to pay rent hereunder and perform all of the other covenants and agreements hereunder on part of Tenant to be performed shall in no wise be affected, impaired or excused because Owner is unable to fulfill any of its obligations under this lease, or to supply, or is delayed in supplying, any service expressly or impliedly to be supplied, or is unable to make, or is delayed in making, any repair, additions, alterations, or decorations, or is unable to supply, or is delayed in supplying, any equipment, fixtures, or other materials, if Owner is prevented or delayed from so doing by reason of strike or labor troubles or any cause whatsoever including; but.: not limited to, government preemption or restrictions, or by reason of any rule, order or regulation of any department or subdivision thereof of any government agency, or by reason of the conditions which have been or are affected, either directly or indirectly, by war or other emergency.

Bills and Notices: 28. Except as otherwise in this lease provided, a bill, statement, notice or communication which Owner may desire or be required to give to Tenant, shall be deemed sufficiently given or rendered if; in writing, delivered to Tenant personally or sent by registered or certified mail addressed to Tenant at the building of which the demised premises form a part, or at the last known residence address or business address of Tenant, or left at any of the aforesaid premises addressed to Tenant, and the time of the rendition of such bill or statement and of the giving of such notice or communication shall be deemed to be the time when the same is delivered to Tenant, mailed, or left at the premises as herein provided. Any notice by Tenant to Owner must be served by registered or certified mail addressed to Owner at the address first hereinabove given or at such other address as Owner shall designate by written notice.

Services Provided by Owners: 29. As long as Tenant is not in default under any of the covenants of this lease beyond the applicable grace period provided in this lease for the curing of such defaults, Owner shall provide: (a) necessary elevator facilities on business days subject to call at all other times; (b) heat to the demised premises from 8 a.m. to 6p.m. and have one elevator when and as required by law, on business days from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; (c) water for ordinary lavatory purposes, but if Tenant uses or consumes water for any other purposes or in unusual quantities(of which fact Owner shall be the sole judge), Owner may install a water meter at Tenant’s expense, which Tenant shall thereafter maintain at Tenant’s expense in good working order and repair, to register such water consumption, and Tenant shall pay for water consumed as shown on said meter as additional rent as and when bills are rendered; (d) cleaning service for the demised premises , business days at Owner’s expense provided that the same are kept in order by Tenant. If however, said premises are to be kept clean by Tenant, it shall be done at Tenant’s sole expense, in a manner reasonably satisfactory to Owner, and no one other than persons approved by Owner shall be permitted to enter said premises or the building of which they are a part for such Tenant shall pay Owner the cost of removal of any of Tenant’s refuse and rubbish from the building; (e) If the demised premises are serviced by Owner’s air conditioning, cooling and ventilation system, air conditioning/cooling will be furnished to Tenant from May 15th through September 15th on business days (Mondays through Fridays, holidays excepted) from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and ventilation will be furnished on business days during the aforesaid hours except when air conditioning/cooling is being furnished as aforesaid. If Tenant requires air conditioning/cooling or ventilation for more extended hours or on Saturdays, Sundays or on holidays; as defined under Owner’s contract with the International Union of Operating-Engineers-Local-94, 94A, 94B, Owner will furnish the same at Tenant’s expense; R1DER to be added in respect to rates and conditions for such additional service; (f) Owner reserves the right to stop services of the heating , elevators, plumbing, air-conditioning, electric, power systems or cleaning or other services, if any, when necessary by reason of accident, or for repairs, alterations, replacements or improvements


necessary or desirable in the judgment of Owner, for as long as may be reasonably required by reason thereof. If the building of which the demised premises are a part supplies manually operated elevator service, Owner at any time may substitute automatic control elevator service and proceed diligently with alterations necessary therefor without in any wise affecting this lease or the obligations of Tenant hereunder.

Captions: 30. The Captions are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define, limit or describe the scope of this lease or the intent of any provisions thereof.

Definitions: 31. The term “office”, or “offices”, wherever used in this lease, shall not be construed to mean premises used as a store or stores, for the sale or display, at any time, of goods, wares or merchandise, of any kind, or as a restaurant, shop, booth, bootblack or other stand, barber shop, or for other similar purposes, or for manufacturing. The term “Owner” means a landlord or lessor, and as used in this lease means only the owner, or the mortgagee in possession for the time being, of the land and building (or the owner of a lease of the building or of the land and building) of which the demised premises form apart, so that m the event of any sale or sales of said land and building, or of said lease, or in the event of a lease of said building, or of the land and building, the said Owner shall be, and hereby is, entirely freed and relieved of all covenants and obligations of Owner hereunder, and it shall be deemed and construed without further agreement between the parties or their successors in interest, or between the parties and the purchaser, at any such sale, or the said lessee of the building, or of the land and building, that the purchaser or the lessee of the building has assumed and agreed to carry out any and all covenants and obligations of Owner, hereunder. The words “re-enter” and “reentry” as used in this lease are not restricted to their technical legal meaning. The term “business days” as used in this lease shall exclude Saturdays, Sundays and all days as observed by the State or Federal Government as legal holidays and those designated as holidays by the applicable building service union employees service contract, or by--the--applicable—Operating Engineers contract with respect to HVAC service. Wherever it is expressly provided in this lease that consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, such consent shall not be unreasonably delayed.

Adjacent Evacuation-Shoring: 32. If an excavation shall be made upon land Excavation adjacent to the demised premises, or shall be authorized to be made, Tenant shall afford to the person causing or authorized to cause such excavation, a license to enter upon the demised premises for the purpose of doing such work as said person shall deem necessary to preserve the wall or the building, of which demised premises form a part, from injury or damage, and to support the same by proper foundations, without any claim for damages or indemnity against Owner, or diminution or abatement of rent.

Rules and Regulations: 33. Tenant and Tenant’s servants, employees, agents, visitors, and licensees shall observe faith-fully, and comply strictly with, the Rules and Regulations and such other and further reasonable Rules and Regulations as Owner or Owner’s agents may from time to time adopt. Notice of any additional Rules or Regulations shall be given in such manner as Owner may elect. In case Tenant disputes the reasonableness of any additional Rules or Regulations hereafter made or adopted by Owner or Owner’s agents, the parties hereto agree to submit the question of the reasonableness of such Rules or Regulations for decision to the New York office of the American Arbitration Association, whose determination shall be final and conclusive upon the parties hereto. The right to dispute the reasonableness of any additional Rules or Regulations upon Tenant’s part shall


be deemed waived unless the same shall be asserted by service of a notice, in writing, upon Owner, within fifteen (15) days after the giving of notice thereof. Nothing in this lease contained shall be construed to impose upon Owner any duty or obligation to enforce the Rules and Regulations or terms, covenants or conditions in any other lease, as against any other tenant, and Owner shall not be liable to Tenant for violation of the same by any other tenant, its servants, employees, agents, visitors or licensees.

Security: 34. Tenant has deposited with owner the sum of $89,943.75 as security for the faithful performance and observance by Tenant of the terms, provisions and conditions of this lease; it is agreed that in the event Tenant defaults in respect of any of the terms, provisions and conditions of this lease, including, but not to, the payment of rent and additional rent Owner may use, ap4 or retain the whole or any part of the security so deposited to the extent required for the payment of any rent and additional rent, or any other sum as to which Tenant is in default, or for any sum which Owner may expend or may be required to expend by reason of Tenant’s default in respect of any of the terms, covenants and conditions of this lease, including but not limited to, any damages or deficiency in the re-letting of the demised premises whether such damages or deficiency accrued before or after summary proceedings or other re-entry by Owner. In the event that. Tenant shall fully and faithfully comply with all of the terms, provisions; covenants and conditions of this lease, the security shall be returned to Tenant after the date fixed as the end of the lease and after delivery of entire possession of the demised premises to Owner. In the event of a sale of the land and building, or leasing of the building, of which the demised premises form a part, Owner shall have the right to transfer the security to the vendee or lessee, and Owner shall thereupon be released by Tenant from all liability for the return of such security; and Tenant agrees to look to the new Owner solely for the return of said security, and it is agreed that the provisions hereof shall apply to every transfer or assignment made of the security to a new Owner. Tenant further covenants that it will not assign or encumber, or attempt to assign or encumber, the monies deposited herein las security, and that neither Owner nor its successors or assigns shall be bound by any such assignment, encumbrance, attempted assignment or attempted encumbrance.

Estoppel Certificate: 35.    Tenant at any time and from time to time upon at least ten (10) days prior notice by Owner, shall execute, acknowledge and deliver to Owner, and/or to any other person, firm or corporation specified by Owner, a statement certifying that this lease is unmodified and in full force and effect (of, if there have been modifications, that the same is in full force and effect as modified and stating the modifications), stating the dates to which the rent and additional rent have been paid and stating whether or not there exists any default by Owner under this lease, and, if so, specifying each such default.

Successors and Assigns: 36.    The covenants, conditions and agreements contained in this lease shall bind and inure to the benefit of Owner and Tenant and their respective heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, successors, and except as otherwise provided in this lease, their assigns. Tenant shall look only to Owner’s estate and interest hi the land and building, for the satisfaction of Tenant’s remedies for the collection of a judgment (or other judicial process) against Owner in the event of any default by Owner hereunder, and no other property or assets of such Owner (or any partner, member, officer or director thereof, disclosed or undisclosed), shall be subject to levy, execution or other enforcement procedure for the satisfaction of Tenant’s remedies under, or with respect to, this lease, the relationship of Owner and Tenant hereunder, or Tenant’s use and occupancy of the demised premises.


See Notes and Rider annexed hereto and made a part hereof.


In Witness Whereof, Owner and Tenant have respectively signed and sealed this lease as of the day and year first above written.

 

OWNER:
CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II L.L.C.
By:  

/s/ Kristin E. Sather

Kristin E. Sather:, Senior Vice President
TENANT:
THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation
By:  

/s/ Paul F. Jacobson

Name   (print): Paul F. Jacobson
Title   (print): Chief Executive Officer

 

Witness for Tenant:

/s/ Chenelle Dubvisson

Chenelle Dubvisson
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
STATE OF NEW YORK, CT
SS.:
COUNTY OF FAIRFIELD

On the 8th day of March in the year 2013 before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said State personally appeared Paul F. Jacobson personally known to me or proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the individual(s) whose name(s) is (are) subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their capacity(ies), and that by ,his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument, the individual(s), or the person upon behalf of which the individual(s) acted, executed the instrument.

 

*

and that such individual made such appearance before the undersigned in Greenwich, CT.

 

NOTARY PUBLIC  

/s/ Shaquema Petrie 3/8/13

 

SHAQUEMA C PETRIE
Notary Public
Connecticut
My Commission Expires Jul 31, 2017


IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ

RULES AND REGULATIONS ATTACHED TO AND

MADE A PART OF THIS LEASE

IN ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLE 33.

1. The sidewalks, entrances, driveways, passages, courts, elevators, vestibules, stairways, corridors or halls shall not be obstructed or encumbered by Tenant or used for any purpose other than for ingress or egress from the demised premises, and for delivery of merchandise and equipment m a prompt and efficient manner using elevators and passageways designated for such delivery by Owner. There shall not be used in any space, or m the public hall of the building, either by Tenant or by jobbers or others in the delivery or receipt of merchandise, any band trucks, except those equipped with rubber tires and sideguards. If said premises are situated on the ground floor of the building, Tenant thereof shall further, at Tenant’s expense, keep the sidewalk and curb m front of said premises clean and free from ice, snow, dirt and rubbish.

2. The water and wash closets and plumbing futures shall not be used for any purposes other than those for which they were designed or constructed, and no sweepings, rubbish, rags, acids or other substances shall be deposited therein, and the expense of any breakage, stoppage, or damage resulting from the violation of this rule shall be borne by the Tenant, whether or not caused by the Tenant, or its clerks, agents, employees or visitors.

3. No carpet, rug or other article shall be hung or shaken out of any window of the building and Tenant shall not sweep or throw, or permit to be swept or thrown, from the demised premises any dirt or other substances into any of the corridors or halls, elevators, or out of the doors or windows or stairways of the building, and Tenant shall not use, keep or permit to be used or kept, any foul or noxious gas or substance in the demised premises, or permit or suffer the demised premises to be occupied or used in a manner offensive or objectionable to Owner or other occupants of the building by reason of noise, odors, and/or vibrations, or interfere in any way with other tenants or those having business therein, nor shall any bicycles, vehicles, animals, fish, or birds be kept in or about the building. Smoking or carrying lighted cigars or cigarettes in the elevators of the building is prohibited.

4. No awnings or other projections shall be attached to the outside walls of the building without the prior written consent of Owner.

5. No sign, advertisement, notice or other lettering shall be exhibited, inscribed, painted or affixed by Tenant on any part of the outside of the demised premises or the building, or on the inside of the demised premise if the same is visible from the outside of the demised premises, without the prior written consent of Owner, except that the name of Tenant may appear on the entrance door of the demised premises. In the event of the violation of the foregoing by Tenant, Owner may remove same without any liability, and may charge the expense incurred by such removal to Tenant. Interior signs on doors and directory tablet shall be inscribed, painted or affixed for Tenant by Owner at the expense of Tenant, and shall be of a size, color and style acceptable to Owner.


6. Tenant shall not mark, paint, drill into, or in any way deface, any part of the demised premises or the building of which they forma part. No boring, cutting or stringing of wires shall be permitted, except with the prior written consent of Owner, and as Owner may direct. Tenant shall not lay Linoleum, or other similar floor covering, so that the same shall come in direct contact with the floor of the demised premises, and, if linoleum or other similar floor covering is desired to be used, an interlining of builder’s deadening felt shall be first affixed to the floor, by a waste or other material, soluble in water, the use of cement or other similar adhesive material being expressly prohibited.

7. No additional locks or bolts of any kind shall be placed upon any of the doors or windows by Tenant, nor shall any changes be made m existing locks or mechanism thereof. Tenant must, upon the termination of his tenancy, restore to Owner all keys of stores, offices and toilet rooms, either furnished to, or otherwise procured by, Tenant, and in the event of the loss of any keys, so furnished, Tenant shall pay to Owner the cost thereof.

8. Freight, furniture, business equipment, merchandise and bulky matter of any description shall be delivered to and removed from the demised premises only on the freight elevators and through the service entrances and corridors, and only during hours and in a manner approved by Owner. Owner reserves the right to inspect all freight to be brought into the building and to exclude from the building all freight which violates any of these Rules and Regulations of the lease, or which these Rules and Regulations are a part.

9. Canvassing, soliciting and peddling in the building is prohibited and Tenant shall cooperate to prevent the same.

10. Owner reserves the right to exclude from the building all persons who do not present a pass to the building signed by Owner. Owner will furnish passes to persons for whom Tenant requests same in writing. Tenant shall be responsible for all persons for whom he requests such pass, and shall be liable to Owner for all acts of such persons. Tenant shall not have a claim against Owner by reason of Owner excluding from the building any person who does not present such pass.

11. Owner shall have the right to prohibit any advertising by Tenant which in Owner’s opinion, tends to impair the reputation of the building or its desirability as a building for offices, and upon written notice from Owner, Tenant shall refrain from or discontinue such advertising.

12. Tenant shall not bring or permit to be brought or kept in or on the demised premises, any inflammable, combustible, explosive, or hazardous fluid, material, chemical or substance, or cause or permit any odors of cooking or other processes, or any unusual or other objectionable odors, to permeate in, or emanate from, the demised premises.

13. If the building contains central air conditioning and ventilation, Tenant agrees to keep all windows closed at all times and to abide by all rules and regulations issued by Owner with respect to such services. If Tenant requires air conditioning or ventilation after the usual hours, Tenant shall give notice in writing to the building superintendent prior to 3:00 p.m. in the case of services required on weekdays, and prior to 3:00 p.m. on the day prior in case of after hours service required on weekends or on holidays. Tenant shall cooperate with Owner in obtaining maximum effectiveness of the cooling system by lowering and closing venetian blinds and/or drapes and curtains when the sun’s rays fall directly on the windows of the demised premises.


14. Tenant shall not move any safe, heavy machinery, heavy equipment, bulky matter, or fixtures into or out of the building without Owner’s prior written consent. If such safe, machinery, equipment, bulky matter or fixtures requires special handling, all work in connection therewith shall comply with the Administrative Code of the City of New York and all other laws and regulations applicable thereto, and shall be done during such hours as Owner may designate.

Refuse and Trash, (I) Compliance by Tenant. Tenant covenants and agrees, at its sole cost and expense, to comply with all present and future laws, orders, and regulations, of all state, federal, municipal, and local governments, departments, commissions and boards regarding the collection, sorting, separation and recycling of waste products, garbage, refuse and trash. Tenant shall sort and separate such waste products, garbage, refuse and trash into such categories as provided by law. Each separately sorted category of waste products, garbage, refuse and trash shall be placed in separate receptacles reasonably approved by Owner. Such separate receptacles may, at Owner’s option, be removed from the demised premises in accordance with a collection schedule prescribed by law. Tenant shall remove, or cause to be removed by a contractor acceptable to Owner, at Owner’s sole discretion, such items as Owner may expressly designate. (2) Owner’s Rights in Event of Noncompliance. Owner has the option to ref-use to collect or accept from Tenant waste products, garbage, refuse or trash (a) that is not separated and sorted as required by law or (b) which consists of such items as Owner may expressly designate for Tenant’s removal, and to require Tenant to arrange for such collection at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, utilizing a contractor satisfactory to Owner, Tenant shall pay all costs, expenses, fines, penalties, or damages that may be imposed on Owner or Tenant by reason of Tenant’s failure to comply with the provisions of this Building Rule 15, and, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, shall indemnity, defend and hold Owner harmless (including reasonable legal fees and expenses) from and against any actions, claims and suits arising from such noncompliance, utilizing counsel reasonably satisfactory to Owner.


NOTES ANNEXED TO AND FORMING A PART OF PRINTED FORM OF LEASE DATED AS OF MARCH , 2013 BETWEEN CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II L.L.C., AS OWNER, AND THORNE RESEARCH, INC., AS TENANT, COVERING A PORTION OF THE TWENTY-FIRST (21ST) FLOOR AT 152 WEST 57TH STREET, NEW YORK, NEW YORK

 

  1)

, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed in the case of interior, non-structural work to be performed wholly within the demised premises, which work does not affect the proper functioning of any Building system or equipment or that of any other tenant of the Building;

 

  2)

The provisions of this Article shall survive the expiration or termination of this lease;

 

  3)

, subject to ordinary wear and tear;

 

  3A)

Notwithstanding the provisions of this Article 4, Tenant shall not be obligated to make any repairs or replacements necessitated by, or to repair damage caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of Owner, Owner’s agents or employees. In the event Owner performs any repairs or alterations to the demised premises or the Building, Owner shall (i) exercise commercially reasonable efforts to perform same in a manner which does not substantially interfere with the conduct of Tenant’s business; (ii) repair any damage Owner causes through Owner’s negligence in performing such repairs or alterations to the demised premises or the Building; and (iii) perform such work diligently and in a workmanlike manner; provided, however, Owner shall have no obligation to incur overtime or other special charges of any kind or nature in connection with the foregoing.

 

  3B)

; provided, however,

 

  4)

otherwise in effect;

 

  5)

Owner’s;

 

  6)

or betterments made by or for the benefit of;

 

  7)

after reasonable prior notice (which may be oral, electronic or telephonic except in an emergency when no notice shall be required and such entry may be at any time);

 

  8)

twelve (12);

 

  9)

including;

 

  10)

have been abandoned;


  11)

twenty (20);

 

  12)

in the case of default not involving the payment of a money or ten (10) days in the case of any default involving the payment of money;

 

  13)

period;

 

  14)

(it being acknowledged by Tenant that any default in the payment of Base Rent and/or additional rent can be completely cured within said ten (10) day period);

 

  14A)

,provided the foregoing does not prevent Tenant’s ingress/egress to and from the demised premises and/or the Building. Owner shall give Tenant notice of any change of the name, number or designation of the Building.

 

  15)

provided, however, subject to: (i) force majeure and/or circumstances beyond Owner’s reasonable control; and (ii) Owner’s then established Building-wide security requirements, Tenant shall have access to the demised premises seven (7) days a week, twenty-four (24) hours a day;

 

  16)

through the perimeter system;

 

  17)

approximately in accordance with the specifications and conditions set forth on Exhibit B annexed to the Rider to this Lease and made a part hereof;

 

  18)

Federal, State and union;

 

  18A)

Notwithstanding the foregoing, Owner shall not enforce any Rules and Regulations against Tenant which Owner shall not then be generally enforcing against other office tenants of the Building.

 

  19)

in cash with Owner or delivered to Owner a letter of credit;

 

  20)

or delivered (as applicable);

 

  21)

including, but not limited to, any damages arising from the rejection of this lease in a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding and use and occupancy charges in the event of Tenant’s holding over in the demised premises after expiration or sooner termination of this lease;

 

  22)

or the letter of credit delivered hereunder (as applicable).


RIDER ANNEXED TO AND MADE A PART OF LEASE DATED AS OF March ___, 2013 BETWEEN CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II L.L.C., AS OWNER, AND THORNE RESEARCH, INC., AS TENANT, COVERING A PORTION OF THE TWENTY-FIRST (21st) FLOOR AT 152 WEST 57TH STREET, NEW YORK,, NEW YORK

37. Tax Escalation:

(a) For the purposes hereof, the following quoted words, terms or phrases shall have the meanings in this Paragraph (a) ascribed to them: (i) “Lease Year” shall mean the period of twelve (12) months or less commencing on the Commencement Date and ending on the following December 31st, and each successive period of twelve (12) months thereafter during the Term, and the final period of twelve (12) months or less commencing with January 1st immediately preceding the expiration of the Term; (ii) “assessed value” shall mean the aggregate value of the Building and the land underlying same (the “Land”), as determined for the applicable period by the department or officer of The City of New York (“NYC”) charged with assessing the value of real property for purposes of calculating NYC real property taxes, in accordance with assessment procedures generally applied by such department or officer to land and improvements similar to the Building and the Land which are subject to such taxes; and (iii) “Taxes” shall mean: (a) an amount during each fiscal year of NYC commencing with the fiscal year immediately after the Tax Base Year all or any part of which occurs within the Term equal to Tenant’s Proportionate Share (as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions) of the excess of the product obtained by multiplying the assessed value of the Building and the Land for such fiscal year times the official NYC tax rate applicable to the Building and the Land for such fiscal year over the product obtained by multiplying the average of the assessed value of the Building and the Land for the tax years ending June 30, 2013 and June 30, 2014 by the official NYC tax rate applicable to the Building and the Land for each such period (the “Tax Base”); and (b) Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the legal fees and other expenses (including but not limited to consultants’ and expert witnesses’ fees) paid or incurred in connection with Owner’s obtaining any reduction of such tax rate or the assessed value of the Building and/or the Land for any period during the Term, or both. Taxes shall not include any interest or penalties incurred by Owner as a result of Owner’s late payment of such Taxes, taxes of Owner’s income or franchise taxes, estate or inheritance taxes, mortgage recording or similar taxes imposed on Owner.

(b) Tenant hereby acknowledges that there are no actual real estate taxes payable in respect of the Building and/or the Land. In lieu of a real estate tax escalation, Tenant hereby covenants and agrees to pay to Owner as additional rent on the first day of each and every month during the Term an amount equal to the quotient obtained by dividing the amount of the Taxes applicable to the then current Lease Year by the number of months in such Lease Year. Owner’s failure to render or delay in rendering a bill with respect to any Taxes shall not prejudice Owner’s right to thereafter render such a bill therefor, nor shall the rendering of any bill prejudice Owner’s right to thereafter render a corrected bill.


(c) In any case provided in this lease in which Tenant is entitled to a refund, Owner may, in lieu of allowing such refund, credit against future installments of additional rent any amounts to which Tenant shall be entitled. If this lease shall expire before any such credit shall have been fully applied, then (provided Tenant has not defaulted hereunder) Owner shall refund to Tenant the unapplied balance of such credit. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to decrease the amount of Base Rent reserved hereby and in no event and under no circumstances shall Tenant be entitled to set off against or deduct from the Base Rent herein reserved any additional rent or other sums payable to or for the benefit of Owner or otherwise. If the Tax Base is at any time reduced for any reason whatsoever, Owner shall have the right to adjust the amount of each of Tenant’s payments previously made on account of Taxes, and Tenant shall pay

(d) the amount of said adjustment within thirty (30) days after Owner’s written request therefor.

(e) The expiration or termination of this lease shall not affect the rights or obligations of the parties hereto respecting any payments due hereunder and any statement or bill relating to such payment may be sent to Tenant subsequent to, and all such rights and obligations shall survive, any such expiration or termination.

38. Expense Escalation:

(a) For the purposes hereof, the term “Operating Expenses” shall mean all expenses paid or incurred by or on behalf of Owner, Owner’s agents and/or their affiliates for the repair, replacement, maintenance, operation, decoration, management, and/or security of the Building. The term “Operating Expenses”, as used and defined in the previous sentence shall not, however, include the following items: (1) interest on and amortization of mortgages encumbering the Building and/or the Land; (2) the cost of tenant improvements made for new tenant(s) of the Building; (3) brokerage commissions; (4) the cost of any work or services performed for any particular tenant of the Building, to the extent that such work or services are in excess of the work or services which Owner is required to furnish such tenant under its lease; (5) the cost of any electricity consumed in space in the Building leased to tenant(s); and (6) Taxes. Owner shall have the right to utilize its own employees for the purpose of performing any services or furnishing any goods in connection with the repair, replacement, maintenance, operation, decoration, management and/or security of the Building. In addition, Owner shall have the right to employ its affiliates for the purpose of performing any services or furnishing any goods in connection with the repair, replacement, maintenance, operation, decoration, management and/or security of the Building; provided, however, that Operating Expenses shall not include the amount of any overhead or profit increment paid to an affiliate of Owner to the extent same exceeds the overhead or profit increment which would be paid in the absence of such affiliation. If Owner shall eliminate and/or reduce the payment of any of the items includible in Operating Expenses as a result of the installation of labor-saving devices, or by other means, then, and in such event, in computing the additional rent payable under this Article, the cost of such labor-saving devices or other means shall be included in Operating Expenses whether or not they would otherwise be includible hereunder.

(b) Tenant shall, during the Term, pay to Owner as additional rent at the times hereinafter specified an amount (the “Operating Payment”) equal to Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the Operating Expenses for the then current Lease Year or calendar year (as the case may be) that are in excess of the Operating Expenses for the Operating Base Year (as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions).


(c) If, at any time during the Term in respect of which an Operating Payment is due hereunder, more than five percent (5%) of the rentable space in the Building shall be vacant or unoccupied, Operating Expenses for such period shall be adjusted to reflect Operating Expenses that would have been incurred if ninety-five percent (95%) of the rentable space in the Building had been occupied.

(d) Owner may furnish to Tenant, prior to the commencement of each Lease Year a written statement setting forth Owner’s reasonable estimate of the Operating Payment for such Lease Year (an “Operating Estimate”). From and after the Commencement Date, Tenant shall pay to Owner on the first day of each month during the Lease Year in respect of which the Operating Payment will be due, an amount equal to one-twelfth (1/12th) of the Operating Estimate for such Lease Year. If, for any reason, Owner shall not furnish to Tenant an Operating Estimate for any Lease Year or if Owner shall furnish an Operating Estimate for a Lease Year subsequent to the commencement thereof, then: (i) until the first day of the month following the month in which such Operating Estimate is furnished to Tenant, Tenant shall pay to Owner on the first day of each month an amount equal to 105% of the monthly sum payable by Tenant to Owner under this Paragraph (d) in respect of the last month of the preceding Lease Year; (ii) within ten (10) days after such Operating Estimate is furnished to Tenant, Tenant shall, if there shall be a deficiency in the installments of the Operating Payment theretofore paid for such Lease Year, pay the full amount thereof or, if there shall have been an overpayment, be entitled to request that Owner refund the amount thereof to Tenant; and (iii) on the first day of the month following the month in which such Operating Estimate is furnished to Tenant and monthly thereafter throughout the remainder of such Lease Year Tenant shall pay to Owner an amount equal to one-twelfth (1/12th) of the Operating Payment shown on such Operating Estimate. Owner may, at any time during any Lease Year, furnish to Tenant a revised Operating Estimate for such Lease Year, and in such case, the Operating Payment for such Lease Year shall be adjusted and paid or refunded or credited as the case may be, substantially in the same manner as provided in the preceding sentence.

(e) Owner shall furnish to Tenant a statement or statements setting forth the Operating Payment (an “Owner’s Statement”) for each Lease Year. The statement of Operating Expenses set forth in an Owner’s Statement shall be deemed binding upon Tenant and determined by Tenant to be correct in all respects if, within ninety days after its receipt of same, Tenant fails to notify Owner, in writing, that it disputes such bills, invoices or statements. If an Owner’s Statement shall show that the sums paid by Tenant, if any, under Paragraph (d) of this Article exceeded the Operating Payment to be paid by Tenant for the Lease Year for which such Owner’s Statement is furnished, Owner shall refund to Tenant the amount of such excess and if Owner’s Statement for such Lease Year shall show that the sums so paid by Tenant were less than the Operating Payment to be paid by Tenant for such Lease Year, Tenant shall pay the amount of such deficiency within ten (10) days after its receipt of such Owner’s Statement. Owner shall endeavor to furnish to Tenant an Owner’s Statement within one hundred eighty (180) days after each Lease Year but Owner’s failure to render or delay in rendering an Owner’s Statement with respect to any Lease Year or any component of the Operating Payment shall not prejudice Owner’s right to thereafter render an Owner’s Statement with respect to any such Lease Year or such component, and the rendering of an Owner’s Statement for any Lease Year shall not prejudice Owner’s right to thereafter render a corrected Owner’s Statement for such Lease Year.


(f) In any case provided in this lease in which Tenant is entitled to a refund, Owner may, in lieu of allowing such refund, credit against future installments of additional rent any amounts to which Tenant shall be entitled. If this lease shall expire before any such credit shall have been fully applied, then (provided Tenant has not defaulted hereunder) Owner shall refund to Tenant the unapplied balance of such credit. Nothing contained in this Article or in Article 37 hereof shall be construed to decrease the amount of Base Rent reserved hereby and in no event and under no circumstances shall Tenant be entitled to set off against or deduct from the Base Rent herein reserved any additional rent or other sums payable to or for the benefit of Owner or otherwise.

(g) The expiration or termination of this lease shall not affect the rights or obligations of the parties hereto respecting any payments due hereunder and any statement or bill relating to such payment may be sent to Tenant subsequent to, and all such rights and obligations shall survive, any such expiration or termination.]

39. Electricity; Air Conditioning:

(a) Tenant shall obtain electricity for all of Tenant’s electrical needs for the demised premises including, but not limited to, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system serving the demised premises, on a “rent inclusion” basis (i.e., there shall be no separate charge to Tenant for such electricity by way of measuring the same on any meter or otherwise). The cost of furnishing electricity to Tenant for the demised premises shall be included in the Base Rent reserved hereunder as estimated in this Paragraph, subject, however, to all of the other provisions of this Article. Initially, an estimate in the amount of the ERI Sum (as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions) has been included in the Base Rent as the annual charge for Owner’s service of furnishing electricity to the demised premises on a “rent inclusion” basis (such amount, as the same may be increased pursuant to any of the provisions of this Article, being hereinafter referred to as the “rent inclusion factor”) for use during normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, excluding holidays. At any time after Tenant takes possession of the demised premises Owner may cause a survey to be prepared by a reputable, independent electrical consultant to be selected by Owner, the cost of which survey shall be borne equally by Owner and Tenant. The purpose of said survey shall be to determine the appropriate charge to Tenant for electricity to be included in Base Rent taking into account the full electric service including the estimated demand based upon the connected load necessary or useful for Tenant’s operation of all equipment, lighting and other installations, including, without limitation, air conditioning, heating and ventilation and any additional hours in excess of normal business hours during which the demised premises are in use. The rent inclusion factor shall, from time to time, be determined on the basis of Service Classification under which Owner purchases electricity for the Building inclusive of all applicable “demand,” “fuel adjustment” and any other charges and any taxes included in or applicable to such rates. When the charge for the electricity has been so determined as a result of such survey, the Base Rent shall be increased by the difference between the charge per annum determined by the survey and the estimated rent inclusion factor, effective as of the date of the survey.


(b) Tenant’s installations and its use of electricity in the demised premises shall not at any time exceed: (i) five (5) watts (connected load at the panel) per rentable square foot; or (ii) the capacity of existing feeders, risers and wiring serving the Building and the demised premises. In order to ensure that such capacity is not exceeded and to avert a possible adverse effect upon the Building electric service, Tenant shall not, without Owner’s prior written consent in each instance, connect any additional fixtures, appliances or equipment (other than lamps, fractional horsepower appliances and similar items of customary office equipment of small power consumption) to the Building electric distribution system or make any alteration or addition to the electric system of the demised premises existing as of the Commencement Date. Should Owner grant such consent, all additional risers or other equipment required therefor shall be installed by Owner at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, payable as additional rent upon demand. As a condition to granting such consent, Owner may require that Tenant agree to an increase in the Base Rent by an amount which will reflect the additional service to be furnished by Owner, that is, the potential electric energy (connected load) to be made available to Tenant based upon the estimated additional capacity of such additional risers or other equipment. Such increases shall be determined on the basis of the value of furnishing and installing any additional equipment or electrical facilities.

(c) If Tenant shall require electricity beyond the normal business hours specified above or for purposes other than as specified in Paragraphs (a) and (b) of this Article, or if the rate schedule of the company supplying electricity to the Building, including any supplementary charges such as “fuel adjustments,” “time of day charges” or any other charges for the supply of electricity to the Building shall be increased or imposed subsequent to the date of this lease, or if Tenant’s failure to maintain its machinery and equipment in good order and repair causes greater consumption of electricity, the Base Rent shall be adjusted to reflect the resulting increases in Owner’s cost in providing electricity to the demised premises, and the rent inclusion factor shall also be adjusted accordingly. Tenant has reviewed the electrical capacity available to the demised premises and represents to and for the benefit of Owner that it is satisfied therewith.

(d) Owner shall have the right to discontinue the furnishing of electricity upon not less than sixty (60) days prior written notice to Tenant. If Owner exercises such right, this lease shall continue in full force and effect and shall be unaffected thereby, except that from and after the effective date of such discontinuance, Owner shall not be obligated to furnish electricity to Tenant. If Owner so discontinues furnishing electricity to Tenant, Tenant shall arrange to obtain electricity directly from the public utility or other company furnishing electricity to the Building as expeditiously as is possible and shall thereafter pay Owner for maintaining the current transformers, service switches, feeders, risers, panels, wiring, etc. serving the demised premises. In the event any additional meters, transformers, service switches, panel boards, feeders, risers, conduit, wiring and/or other conductors and equipment may be required in order to enable Tenant to obtain electricity directly from such public utility or such other company, they shall be installed by Owner and the cost thereof shall be paid by Tenant, as additional rent, upon Owner’s demand.]

(e) Owner shall not in any way be liable or responsible to Tenant for any loss, damage or expense which Tenant may sustain or incur if: (i) the supply of electricity to the demised premises is interrupted, unless such loss, damage or expense is caused by Owner’s gross negligence or willful misconduct, in which case Owner’s sole liability shall be to promptly repair such failure or defect; (i) the quantity or character of electricity is changed or is no longer available or suitable for


Tenant’s requirements; or (iii) Tenant objects to, is inconvenienced by or otherwise affected by any requirement of the public utility or other company serving the Building. Tenant will comply with the general rules, regulations, terms, conditions and requirements of the public utility or other company supplying electricity to the Building that may now or hereafter be applicable thereto. Tenant shall enter into such modifications of this lease as Owner may from time to time request in connection with any requirement of any public utility (or other company supplying electricity to the Building) or any requirement of law pertaining to electrical consumption or service, or charges therefor.

(f) At Owner’s option, Owner shall maintain all lighting fixtures and furnish and install all lighting tubes, lamps, ballast transformers, starters and bulbs in the demised premises and Tenant shall pay, promptly upon demand, Owner’s reasonable charges therefor.

(g) Owner shall furnish condenser water to the air handling system heretofore installed by Owner for the demised premises on business days from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. between May 15 and September 15 of each year during the Term in quantities reasonably determined by Owner to be adequate (“Building Standard Quantities”) for the operation of such air handling system. Tenant hereby agrees to reimburse Owner, as additional rent, within ten (10) days after demand for 17.87% of the cost incurred by Owner (but in no event more than $2,500.00 per year), to maintain and keep in good order, condition and repair the air handling system and all other air conditioning equipment now or at any time serving the 21st floor in the Building. The current standard Building charge for condenser water is $2,000 per ton, but is subject to increase by Owner from time to time. The cost of any condenser water required by Tenant in excess of Building Standard Quantities shall be paid by Tenant to Owner from time to time as additional rent, within ten (10) days after demand therefor, at the then Building-wide charges established by Owner, which charge is currently $50 per hour, but is subject to increase by Owner from time to time, for additional condenser water provided to office tenants of the Building as long as Owner’s provision of such additional condenser water to Tenant shall not cause a disproportionate allocation of the quantity of condenser water then available in the Building. Owner, throughout the Term, shall have free and unrestricted access to all air conditioning equipment and facilities in and/or serving the demised premises and Owner reserves the right to interrupt, curtail, stop or suspend the supply of condenser water when necessary by reason of accident or for repairs, alterations or improvements which are, in the judgment of Owner, desirable or necessary to be made, or by reason of the difficulty or unavailability in securing supplies or labor, strikes, or for any other causes beyond Owner’s control, whether such other causes be similar or dissimilar to those hereinabove specifically mentioned. Furthermore, Owner reserves the right, at any time throughout the Term, to modify, change, reconstruct or alter the air conditioning system or any portion thereof, and the risers, pipes, ducts and conduits used in connection therewith, without affecting the obligations of Tenant hereunder or incurring any liability to Tenant therefor.

(h) Intentionally omitted.

(i) Any use of the demised premises, or any part thereof in a manner exceeding the design conditions thereof (including, without limitation human occupancy factors and connected electrical load), or rearrangement of partitioning in a manner that interferes with normal operation of the heat and air-conditioning systems (hereinafter called the “systems”) serving the same, or the use of machinery and equipment, including without limitation, computer and data processing machines, may require changes in such systems. Such changes, so occasioned, shall be made by Tenant, at its expense, subject to Owner’s prior written approval of such changes, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. Tenant shall not make any change, alteration or addition to or substitution of components of the systems without Owner’s prior written approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.


40. Subordination and Attornment:

(a) Tenant hereby acknowledges and agrees that Owner has advised it that as of the date hereof: (i) Owner does not own the Building or the Land but leases same from The Carnegie Hall Corporation (“CHC”) pursuant to a lease (the “Building Lease”) dated as of December 21, 1987 which was recorded in the Office of the City Register, New York County (the “Register’s Office”) in Reel 1344 at page 2162; (ii) CHC does not own the Building or the Land but leases same from The City of New York (the “City”) pursuant to a lease (the “City Lease”) dated June 30, 1960 which was recorded in the Register’s Office in Reel 864 at page 247 and which was restated in its entirety by instrument dated December 21, 1987 recorded in the Register’s Office in Reel 1344 at page 2051; (iii) the Building Lease, among other things, is subject to, among other things, a Restrictive Declaration (the “Restrictive Declaration”) dated as of July 20, 1987 which was recorded in the Register’s Office in Reel 1317 at page 1170; and (iv) the Building Lease has been mortgaged to UBS Real Estate Securities Inc. (“UBS”) pursuant to a Consolidated, Amended and Restated Mortgage and Security Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2007, which was recorded in the Register’s Office (the “Mortgage”). Tenant hereby further acknowledges and agrees that each of the Building Lease, the City Lease, the Restrictive Declaration and the Mortgage may at any time and from time to time be amended, modified, supplemented, restated and/or replaced and that the Building Lease, the City Lease, the Restrictive Declaration and the Mortgage and all such amendments, modifications, supplementations, restatements and replacements shall, in all respects, be superior and prior to this lease, it being expressly recognized by Tenant that the Building Lease, the City Lease and the Mortgage constitute “ground or underlying leases” and a “mortgage”, respectively, as those terms are used in this Article and Article 7 hereof and that this lease is in all respects subject and subordinate thereto and to the Restrictive Declaration. In confirmation of such subordination, Tenant shall execute, acknowledge and deliver to Owner within ten (10) days after demand any certificate that Owner may request.

(b) If by reason of a default on the part of Owner, as lessee under the Building Lease or any other ground or underlying lease, in the performance of any of the terms or provisions of such lease or for any other reason whatsoever, such lease and the leasehold estate of Owner as lessee thereunder is terminated by summary proceeding or otherwise, or if such lease and such leasehold estate is acquired through foreclosure proceedings brought by the holder of the Mortgage or any other mortgage to which such lease is or may become subject or subordinate, or in case of any termination or acquisition of any other lease covering the Building or any foreclosure of any mortgage affecting the real property of which the demised premises is a part, or if for any other reason any party holding any interest in the Building (or any designee of such party) shall succeed to Owner’s rights, Tenant shall attorn to the lessor under such lease, the purchaser in such foreclosure proceedings or such other party, as the case may be, and shall recognize such lessor, purchaser or other party as Tenant’s landlord under this lease, unless the lessor under such lease or the holder of any such mortgage in any such proceedings shall elect in connection therewith to terminate this lease and the rights of Tenant to the possession of the demised premises. Tenant shall execute and deliver at any time and from time to time, upon the request of Owner, the lessor under any such ground or underlying lease, or such


mortgagee or purchaser, any instrument which may be necessary or appropriate to evidence such attornment (including, without limitation, a direct lease) and Tenant hereby irrevocably constitutes and appoints Owner as Tenant’s attorney-in-fact, to execute and deliver any such instrument for and on behalf of Tenant. Such attornment by Tenant shall contain, among other things, provisions to the effect that in no event shall such lessor, mortgagee or purchaser, as landlord: (i) be obligated to repair, replace or restore the Building or the demised premises in the event of damage or destruction, beyond such repair, replacement or restoration as can be reasonably accomplished from the net proceeds of insurance actually received by or made available to such landlord; (ii) be responsible for any previous act or omission of the landlord or the tenant under such ground or underlying lease or for the return of any security deposit unless actually received by such landlord; (iii) be subject to any liability or offset accruing to Tenant against Owner; (iv) be bound by any previous modification or extension of this lease or any cancellation or surrender of same unless previously approved in writing; (v) be bound by any previous prepayment of more than one month’s rent or other charge; (vi) be bound by any obligation to make any payment to Tenant which was required to be made prior to the time such lessor, mortgagee or purchaser succeeded to Owner’s interest hereunder; or (vii) be bound by any obligation under this lease to perform any work or make any improvements to the demised premises to prepare same for Tenant’s occupancy. Tenant further waives the provisions of any statute or rule of law now or hereafter in effect which may give or purport to give Tenant any right of election to terminate this lease or to surrender possession of the demised premises in the event such ground or underlying lease terminates or any such summary proceeding or foreclosure proceeding is brought by the lessor under any such ground or underlying lease or the holder of any such mortgage, and agrees that, unless and until any such lessor under any such ground or underlying lease or holder of any such mortgage in connection with any such proceeding shall elect to terminate this lease and to extinguish the leasehold estate of Tenant hereunder, this lease shall not be affected in any way whatsoever by any such proceeding or termination.

(c) If any act or omission of Owner would give Tenant the right, immediately or after lapse of a period of time, to cancel or terminate this lease, or to abate or offset against the payment of rent or to claim a partial or total eviction (whether actual or constructive), Tenant shall not exercise such right: (i) until it has given written notice of such act or omission to Owner at the address first set forth above, CHC at 881 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10019, the City at Municipal Building, 17th floor, New York, New York 10048, UBS at 1285 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10019, Attn: Jeffrey Lavine with a copy to: Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP, One World Financial Center, New York, New York 10281, Attn: William P. McInerney, and every other superior mortgagee and superior lessor whose name and address shall have been furnished to Tenant; and (ii) until a reasonable period for remedying such act or omission shall have elapsed following the giving of such notice and following the time when each such superior mortgagee or superior lessor shall have become entitled to remedy the same (which reasonable period shall in no event be less than the period to which Owner would be entitled under this lease or otherwise, after similar notice, to effect such remedy plus thirty (30) business days).

(d) Except for any deposits that may be required hereunder and amounts to be paid on account of expenses incurred or to be incurred by Owner, Tenant shall not pay rent for more than one (1) month in advance and shall, promptly following request of CHC (made not more often than once annually), deliver to CHC a statement of the rent paid by Tenant to Owner during the prior year.


41. Intentionally Omitted.

42. Preparation of the Demised Premises:

(a) Tenant shall accept the demised premises in their then existing condition, “as is” and Owner shall have no obligation to perform any work or installations, supply any materials or equipment and/or incur any cost or expense in preparation of the demised premises for Tenant’s occupancy. The taking of possession of the demised premises by Tenant shall be conclusive evidence as against Tenant that at the time such possession was taken, the demised premises and the Building were in good and satisfactory condition.

(b) Tenant shall be permitted eight (8) hours total of freight elevator use in connection with Tenant’s move-in to the demised premises at no charge to Tenant, subject to scheduling in accordance with Owner’s standard procedures.

43. Limitation on Liability:

(a) Tenant shall look only to Owner’s estate and interest in the Building for the satisfaction of Tenant’s remedies or for the collection of a judgment (or other judicial process) requiring the payment of money by Owner in the event of any default or liability by Owner hereunder or otherwise, and no other property or assets of Owner and no property of any officer, employee, director, shareholder, member, partner or principal of Owner (disclosed or undisclosed) shall be subject to levy, execution or other enforcement procedure for the satisfaction of Tenant’s remedies under or with respect to this lease, the relationship of Owner and Tenant hereunder, Tenant’s use or occupancy of the demised premises or otherwise.

(b) Neither any: (i) performance by Owner, Tenant or others, of any repairs, improvements, alterations, additions, installations, substitutions, betterments or decorations in or to the Building (or any portion thereof) or the demised premises; (i) failure of Owner or others to make any repairs or improvements; (iii) damage to the Building (or any portion or element thereof), the demised premises or Tenant’s property; (iv) injury to any persons, caused by other tenants or persons in the Building, or by operations in the construction of any private, public or quasi-public work, or by any other cause; (v) latent defect in the Building (or any portion or element thereof) or the demised premises; (vi) temporary covering, darkening, closure or bricking up of any windows of or any particular entrances to the demised premises (provided Tenant is not deprived of all access to the demised premises) for any reason whatsoever including, without limitation, Owner’s own acts, nor any permanent covering, permanent darkening, permanent closure or permanent bricking up of any such windows or entrances if required by law, any insurance requirement or in connection with any alteration to the Building and/or the development of other property by Owner or others and/or construction upon any property near or adjacent to the Building and/or the Land (or any part thereof) by Owner or others; nor (vii) inconvenience or annoyance to Tenant or injury to or interruption of Tenant’s business by reason of any of the events or occurrences referred to in the foregoing subdivisions (i) through (vi) shall impose any liability on Owner to Tenant or any other party (other than as may be imposed by law upon Owner for its negligence or the negligence of its agents in the operation or maintenance of the Building (or any portion or element thereof) or for the breach by Owner of any express covenant of this lease on Owner’s part to be performed) or entitle Tenant to any


compensation therefor or abatement of rent nor shall the same release Tenant from any obligation under this lease nor constitute an eviction. No representation, guaranty or warranty is made that the Building communications or security systems, devices or procedures of the Building will be effective to prevent injury to Tenant or any other person or damage to, or loss (by theft or otherwise) of, any of Tenant’s property or of the property of any other person, and Owner reserves the right to discontinue or modify at any time any Building communications or security systems or procedures without liability to Tenant.

(c) Neither Owner, any lessor of a superior lease or holder of a superior mortgage, Owner’s agents, nor any of their respective officers, directors, shareholders, partners or principals (disclosed or undisclosed) (collectively, the “Indemnitees”) shall be liable to Tenant or Tenant’s agents, employees, contractors, invitees, subtenants or licensees or any other occupant of the demised premises, in connection with or arising from any injury to Tenant or to any other person or for any damage to, or loss (by theft or otherwise), of any of Tenant’s personal property or of the property of any other person, irrespective of the cause of such injury, damage or loss (including the acts or negligence of any tenant or of any owners or occupants of adjacent or neighboring property or caused by operators in the construction of any private, public or quasi-public work), unless solely due to the gross negligence of Owner or Owner’s agents, it being understood that no property, other than such as might normally be brought upon or kept in the demised premises as incidental to the reasonable use of the demised premises for the purposes herein permitted will be brought upon or be kept in the demised premises; provided, however, that even if due to any such gross negligence of Owner or Owner’s agents, in no event shall any of the Indemnitees ever be liable with respect to any claim for consequential damages in connection therewith. Any Building employee to whom any property shall be entrusted by or on behalf of Tenant shall be deemed to be acting as Tenant’s agent with respect to such property and neither Owner nor Owner’s agents shall be liable for any loss of or damage to any such property by theft or otherwise.

44. Insurance and Indemnity:

(a) In furtherance of the obligations of Tenant set forth in this Article and elsewhere in this lease (but not in limitation thereof) and as an independent and material covenant forming a part hereof, Tenant shall, at its sole cost and expense, carry and maintain in force throughout the Term: (i) worker’s compensation and other required statutory forms of insurance, in statutory limits; (ii) comprehensive general public liability insurance, which shall be written on an occurrence basis (and shall include, without limitation, a contractual liability endorsement and personal injury coverage), naming Tenant as the insured and naming Owner (as that term was broadly defined for purposes of this Article only) and Owner’s current managing agent, TF Cornerstone Inc., and any future managing agent, as additional insureds, in limits (subject to increase at Owner’s reasonable request) of not less than $3,000,000 combined single limit for bodily and personal injury or death and for property damage per occurrence, including water damage and sprinkler leakage legal liability, protecting Owner from all such claims for bodily or personal injury or death or property damage occurring in or about the demised premises and its appurtenances; and (iii) “all risk” property insurance covering all furniture, furnishings and equipment now or hereafter located in, on or about the demised premises and all improvements and betterments (whether permanent or temporary) made in, to or on the demised premises by, for or at the request of Tenant and regardless of the ownership thereof to a limit of not less than the full replacement cost thereof. The limits of insurance specified herein shall not limit


Tenant’s liability. All insurance required to be maintained by Tenant shall be carried with a company or companies rated “A+10” or better by Best Insurance Guide and licensed to do business in the State of New York and shall be written for terms of not less than one (1) year. Tenant hereby agrees to furnish Owner with certificates evidencing the maintenance of such insurance and the payment of the premiums therefor prior to the Commencement Date, and with renewals thereof and evidence of the payment of the premiums therefor at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of any such policy or policies. Such policy or policies shall also provide that it or they shall not be cancelled or altered without giving Owner at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice thereof, sent to Owner by certified mail at Owner’s address to which notices are required to be sent to Owner hereunder. Upon Tenant’s default in obtaining or delivering any such policy or policies or failure to pay the premiums therefor, Owner (in addition to and not in limitation of its other rights, remedies and privileges by reason thereof) may (but shall not be obligated to) secure or pay the premium for any such policy or policies and charge Tenant as additional rent therefor an amount equal to 110% of Owner’s costs therefor. Tenant hereby agrees to cooperate with Owner in connection with the collection of any insurance proceeds that may be due in the event of a loss and agrees to execute and deliver to Owner such proofs of loss and other instruments as may be required to recover such insurance proceeds.

(b) (i) Owner shall, if obtainable at no additional cost, include in its fire insurance policies appropriate clauses pursuant to which the insurance companies: (x) waive all right of subrogation against Tenant with respect to losses payable under such policies; and/or (y) agree that such policies shall not be invalidated should the insured waive in writing prior to a loss any or all right of recovery against any party for losses covered by such policies. But should any additional premiums be exacted for any such clause or clauses, Owner shall be released from the obligation hereby imposed unless Tenant shall agree to pay such additional premium.

(ii) Tenant shall include, if obtainable at no additional cost, in its fire insurance policy or policies on its furniture, furnishings, fixtures and other property removable by Tenant under the provisions of this lease appropriate clauses pursuant to which the insurance company or companies: (x) waive the right of subrogation against Owner and/or any tenant of space in the Building with respect to losses payable under such policy or policies; and/or (y) agree that such policy or policies shall not be invalidated should the insured waive in writing prior to a loss any or all right of recovery against any party for losses covered by such policy or policies. But should any additional premium be exacted for any such clause or clauses, Tenant shall be released from the obligation hereby imposed unless Owner or the other tenants shall agree to pay such additional premium. Tenant hereby acknowledges and agrees that in no event and under no circumstances shall Owner have any responsibility to insure Tenant’s improvements, fixtures, furniture, furnishings or other personalty and that Tenant shall be solely responsible therefor.

(iii) Provided that Owner’s right of full recovery under its policy or policies aforesaid is not adversely affected or prejudiced thereby, Owner hereby waives any and all right of recovery which it might otherwise have against Tenant, its servants, agents and employees, for loss or damage occurring to the Building and the fixtures, appurtenances and equipment therein, to the extent the same is covered by Owner’s insurance, notwithstanding that such loss or damage may result from the negligence or fault of Tenant, its servants, agents or employees. Provided that Tenant’s right of full recovery under its aforesaid policy or policies is not adversely affected or prejudiced thereby, Tenant hereby waives any and all right of recovery which it might otherwise have against Owner, its


servants, and employees, and against every other tenant in the Building who shall have executed a waiver similar to the one herein set forth for loss or damage to, Tenant’s furniture, furnishings, fixtures and other property, notwithstanding that such loss or damage may result from the negligence or fault of Owner, its servants, agents or employees, or such other tenant and/or the servants, agents or employees thereof.

(iv) Owner and Tenant shall advise the other promptly if the clauses to be included in their respective insurance policies pursuant to subdivisions (i) and (ii) hereof cannot be obtained. Owner and Tenant shall notify the other promptly of any cancellation or change of the terms of any such policy which would affect such clauses.

(c) Tenant hereby releases Owner (which term as used throughout this Article only shall include Owner’s employees, agents, partners, officers, shareholders and directors as well as all holders of any interest in the Building) from all liability, whether for negligence or otherwise, in connection with loss covered by any insurance policies which Tenant carries with respect to the demised premises, or any interest or property therein or thereon (whether or not such insurance is required to be carried under this lease), but only to the extent that such loss is collectible under such insurance policies.

(d) Tenant hereby assumes the sole responsibility for the condition, operation, management and control of the demised premises, and hereby covenants and agrees to indemnify and hold Owner harmless from and against all claims, actions, judgments, damages, liabilities or expenses including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees, in connection with damage to property or injury or death to persons, arising from or out of the use, alteration, occupation, management, possession or control of the demised premises, or occasioned wholly or in part by any act or omission of Tenant, its agents, employees, contractors, subtenants, invitees, licensees and the like, or any breach by Tenant of its obligations under this lease. In case Owner (as that term was broadly defined for purposes of this Article only) shall ever be made a party to any litigation commenced against Tenant, Tenant shall protect and hold Owner harmless and shall pay all costs and expenses including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred or paid by Owner in connection with such litigation. Upon request by Owner, Tenant shall resist and defend any such action or proceeding by counsel chosen by Tenant who shall be reasonably satisfactory to Owner. Tenant or its counsel shall keep Owner fully apprised at all times of the status of such defense.

45. Change of Condition:

Owner shall not be liable for any change of condition in the demised premises caused by the compliance with any present or future laws, rules, orders, ordinances, requirements, or regulations of any Federal, State, County or Municipal authority or government, including any change required by law for off-street parking or similar legislation, or by revocation by any such authority or authorities of any permit or license heretofore granted, or by construction or operation of any public or quasi-public work, or by the erection of any building or buildings upon any adjacent property, or by change of environment. Owner shall not be liable for interference with or loss of light, views, air or other incorporeal hereditaments.


46. Brokerage:

Tenant represents, warrants and confirms to and for the benefit of Owner that Tenant has not dealt with any broker or agent other than the Broker as identified in the Basic Lease Provisions with respect to this lease and the demised premises. As a special inducement for the execution and delivery of this lease by Owner (without which Owner would not have executed and delivered same), Tenant hereby agrees to indemnify and save Owner harmless of, from and against any and all claims (and all expenses and fees including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees related thereto) for commissions, fees or other compensation made by any other broker or entity claiming to have brought the availability of the demised premises to Tenant or otherwise arising out of or relating to the acts of Tenant, its employees, officers, shareholders, partners and/or agents. In case any action or proceeding shall be instituted against Owner for the payment of any such commissions, fees or other compensation, Tenant, upon notice from Owner and at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, shall resist and defend such action or proceeding by counsel chosen by and paid for by Tenant, who shall be reasonably satisfactory to Owner, and Owner shall also have the right, but not the obligation, to participate in the defense of any such action or proceeding by counsel of its own choice. The provisions of this Article shall survive the Expiration Date.

47. Estoppel:

Tenant shall, at any time and from time to time, as requested by Owner, upon not less than ten (10) days’ prior notice, to execute, acknowledge and deliver to Owner and/or to any other person, firm, or entity specified by Owner, a statement certifying that this lease is unmodified and in full force and effect (or if there have been modifications that the same is in full force as modified and stating the modifications), certifying the dates to which Base Rent and additional rent have been paid, and stating whether or not, Owner is in default in the performance of any of its obligations under this lease, and, if so, specifying each such default, it being intended that any such statement delivered pursuant hereto may be relied upon by Owner and any other parties with whom Owner may be dealing.

48. Late Payment Charge; Accord and Satisfaction; Application of Payments; End of Term:

(a) If Tenant shall make any payment of Base Rent, additional rent or other charges more than ten (10) days after the same shall be first due or payable, Tenant shall pay Owner: (i) as and for agreed upon late charges (and not a penalty) on account of Owner’s additional administrative, accounting and overhead costs attributable to Tenant’s delinquency, ten cents for each dollar that is not timely paid and (ii) an amount equal to the lesser of: (a) 18% per annum; or (b) the highest rate permitted by law, calculated on the amount not paid when due, from the due date until the date of payment. All amounts payable to Owner pursuant to this Article shall be considered additional rent. Nothing contained in this Article or otherwise is intended to grant Tenant any extension of time in respect of the due dates for any payments under this lease, nor shall same be construed to be in limitation of or in substitution for any other rights, remedies or privileges available to Owner under this lease, at law, in equity or otherwise.

(b) No payment by Tenant or receipt or acceptance by Owner of a lesser amount than the correct amount of Base Rent or additional rent shall be deemed to be other than a payment on account, nor shall any endorsement or statement on any check or any letter accompanying any check or payment be deemed an accord and satisfaction, and if Owner, in its discretion, accepts such check or payment, such acceptance shall be without prejudice to Owner’s right to recover the balance or pursue any other remedy available to Owner under this lease, at law or in equity. The collection by Owner of Base Rent or additional rent with knowledge of a default by Tenant shall not be deemed a waiver of such default or of any of the rights or remedies available to Owner hereunder or otherwise.


(c) If Tenant is in arrears in the payment of Base Rent or additional rent, Tenant waives Tenant’s right, if any, to designate the items to which any payments made by Tenant are to be credited, and Owner may, in its discretion, apply any payments made by Tenant to such items as Owner sees fit, irrespective of and notwithstanding any designation or request by Tenant as to the items which any such payments shall be credited.

(d) All checks tendered to Owner from anyone other than Tenant as and for the Base Rent and/or additional rent reserved hereunder may, at Owner’s discretion, be deemed payments for the account of Tenant. Acceptance by Owner, in its discretion, of Base Rent and/or additional rent from anyone other than Tenant shall not be deemed to operate as (1) an attornment to Owner by the payor of such rent and/or additional rent, (2) the consent of Owner to an assignment of this lease or subletting by Tenant of the demised premises to such payor, (3) an acknowledgement or agreement by Owner that such payor has any right to possess or otherwise use or occupy the demised premises, (4) a modification of any of the provisions of this lease or (5) a waiver of Owner’s right to refuse to accept future payments from anyone other than Tenant.

(e) Article 22 hereof is hereby amended to add the following: “If the demised premises are not surrendered and vacated as and at the time required by this lease (time being of the essence), Tenant shall be liable to Owner for: (i) all losses and damages which Owner may incur or sustain by reason thereof, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees, and Tenant shall indemnify and hold harmless Owner against all claims made by any succeeding tenants against Owner or otherwise arising out of or resulting from the failure of Tenant timely to surrender and vacate the demised premises in accordance with the provisions of this lease; and (ii) per diem use and occupancy in respect of the demised premises equal to two and one-half (2 1/2) times the Base Rent and additional rent payable hereunder for the last year of the Term (which amount Owner and Tenant presently agree is contemplated by them as being fair and reasonable under the circumstances and not a penalty). In no event shall any provision hereof be construed as permitting Tenant to hold over in possession of the demised premises after expiration or termination of the Term.”

(f) Article 3 hereof is hereby amended to add the following thereof: “In addition to Tenant’s removal and restoration obligations set forth in this Article 3, unless Owner shall agree to the contrary in writing following Tenant’s specific request as to whether Tenant shall be required to remove the proposed alteration, installation or other work made to Owner simultaneously with Tenant’s request for Owner’s approval of the proposed alteration, installation or other work, Tenant shall be required to remove, no later than thirty (30) days prior to the Expiration Date or earlier termination of the Term, any vaults and raised floors, kitchens, kitchen appliances and pantries, staircases, antennas or any other “specialty” installations or alterations which, in Owner’s determination, are either not consistent with standard general and administrative office use or are likely to materially increase the cost of demolishing or reletting the demised premises. If removal is so required, such removal shall be performed, at Owner’s option, by Owner at Tenant’s sole cost and expense or by Tenant at its sole cost and expense, including without limitation the cost to repair and restore in a good and workerlike manner any damage to the demised premises or the Building caused by such removal, to the condition same were in as of the Commencement Date (reasonable wear and tear excepted). The provisions of this Article 3 shall survive the expiration or termination of this lease.”


49. Arbitration:

(a) Either party may request arbitration of any matter in dispute wherein arbitration is expressly provided in this lease as the appropriate remedy. The arbitration shall be conducted, to the extent consistent with this Article, in accordance with the then applicable rules of the American Arbitration Association (or any organization successor thereto) in the City and County of New York. The arbitrator(s) shall: (i) be disinterested person(s) having at least ten (10) years of experience in the County of New York in a calling connected with the dispute; and (ii) have the right to retain and consult experts and competent authorities skilled in the matters under arbitration. In rendering any decision or award hereunder, the arbitrator(s) shall not add to, subtract from or otherwise modify the provisions of this lease.

(b) The fees and expenses of the arbitrator(s) and all other expenses (not including the attorneys’ fees, witness fees and similar expenses of the parties) of the arbitration shall be borne by the parties equally.

50. Addendum to Article 3:

(a) Supplementing Article 3 hereof, Tenant agrees that with respect to the performance by Tenant of any alterations, additions, improvements or installations to the demised premises costing in excess of $10,000 Tenant shall pay to Owner, as additional rent hereunder, promptly upon being billed therefor, a sum equal to ten (10%) percent of the cost of such alterations, additions, improvements or installations for Owner’s indirect costs, field supervision and coordination in connection therewith.

(b) If Tenant repairs or removes any mechanical or other equipment within the demised premises containing chlorofluorocarbons (“CFC’s”), the repair or removal of such equipment, as the case may be, shall conform with all requirements of law and industry practices. Additionally, any such repair or removal shall be done by contractors approved by Owner and subject to the procedures to which Owner’s consent shall have previously been obtained. Tenant shall indemnify and hold Owner harmless from any liability or damages resulting from any contamination within the Building as a result of the repair or removal by Tenant of any of the aforesaid equipment containing CFC’s.

51. Addendum to Article 6:

For the purposes of this Lease, the term “Legal Requirements” shall mean all laws (including, without limitation, the Landmarks Law (as hereinafter defined)), statutes and ordinances (including, without limitation, Building codes and zoning regulations and ordinances) and the orders, rules, regulations, directives and requirements of all federal, state, county, city and borough departments, bureaus, boards, agencies, offices, commissions and other subdivisions thereof, or of any official thereof, or of any other governmental public or quasi-public authority, whether now or hereafter in force, which may be applicable to the Land, the interior and/or the exterior of the Building or the demised premises or any part thereof, or the sidewalks, curbs or areas adjacent thereto and all requirements, obligations and conditions of all instruments of record on the date of this lease.


52. Addendum to Article 11:

Article 11 hereof is hereby amended to add the following:

(a) (1) If Tenant desires to assign this lease or sublet the demised premises, Tenant shall promptly notify Owner thereof in writing. Upon obtaining a proposed assignee or subtenant upon terms satisfactory to Tenant, Tenant shall submit to Owner in writing a request for Owner’s consent, together with: (i) the name of the proposed assignee or subtenant; (ii) the terms and conditions of the proposed assignment or subletting; (iii) the nature and character of the business which the proposed assignee or subtenant proposes to conduct in the demised premises; (iv) current financial statements and banking and other references of such proposed assignee or subtenant; and (v) such other information concerning such proposed assignment or subletting as Owner may reasonably request.

(2) Within thirty (30) business days following Owner’s receipt of the request and other items specified in the last sentence of subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph (a), Owner may notify Tenant that Owner elects to: (a) cancel this lease, in which event such cancellation shall become effective on the date proposed by Tenant for such assignment or subletting and this lease shall thereupon terminate on said date with the same force and effect as if said date were the expiration date of this lease; or (b) require Tenant to assign this lease to Owner (or Owner’s designee) effective on the date proposed by Tenant for such assignment or subletting. (From and after the effective date of an assignment of this lease required to be made by Tenant to Owner (or Owner’s designee) pursuant to this subparagraph (2), Tenant shall be relieved of all of its obligations hereunder in respect of time periods occurring after the effective date of such assignment except for those obligations which are herein made to survive the expiration of this lease.) In the event that Landlord exercises its recapture rights and cancels the Lease, Tenant’s obligations under the Lease, including all financial obligations (except those that survive termination of the Lease), shall terminate on the effective date of cancellation of the Lease. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary above in this Section 52(a)(2), in the event that Owner elects either (a) or (b) above, Tenant shall have the right to rescind the Tenant request to assign the Lease or sublease the Premises which gave rise to such exercise by Owner provided such notice of revocation is delivered to Owner within five (5) days following Owner’s delivery of notice of election to either cancel or take an assignment of this Lease as above provided; whereupon this Lease shall continue in full force and effect as though the request for assignment or sublet had never been made by Tenant.

(a) In the event that Owner shall not exercise either of its options under Paragraph (a) of this Article then provided that Tenant has not defaulted hereunder, Owner shall not unreasonably withhold or delay its consent to the proposed assignment or subletting. In no event and under no circumstances, however, shall Owner be required to consent to, and Tenant shall not propose, a subletting of less than all of the demised premises or an assignment or subletting: (i) to any person, firm or entity (or subdivision, affiliate or subsidiary of any firm or entity) that shall, at the time of such proposal, or within six (6) months prior thereto, be or have been a tenant, subtenant or occupant of space in the Building or be or have been negotiating with Owner or its agent to become a tenant, subtenant or occupant of space therein; (ii) to any person or entity that shall: (a) be a government or


governmental agency, department or affiliate thereof; (b) in any way be dependent upon government or donation financing for support; or (c) be prohibited from becoming a tenant or occupant of space in the Building by any document, instrument or covenant encumbering the Building that is superior to this lease or by the holder or beneficiary of same; or (iii) if the demised premises are to be used in violation of Article 2 hereof or for an auction room, bank, trust company, savings and loan company; stock brokerage firm, school, medical facility or office, public stenographic service, political campaign office, or governmental (foreign or domestic) agency, department or office, labor union offices or hiring hall, dance or music, modeling or art studio, radio or television broadcasting transmission activities, sound recording studio, talent or audition agency, travel agency, personnel or employment agency, gymnasium, restaurant or real estate brokerage business. Tenant shall not advertise or list the demised premises at a rental rate that is lower than the rental rate then being asked by Owner for comparable space in the Building. In the event that Tenant advertises or lists the demised premises at a rental rate lower than the rental rate then being asked by Owner for comparable space in the Building, Owner shall not be required to consent to any proposed subletting subsequent thereto. No pro tanto assignments of this lease shall be permitted under any circumstances whatsoever.

(b) As conditions precedent to granting consent to any proposed assignment or subletting, Owner may require that: (i) in the case of a proposed sublease, Tenant first agree, in a written agreement satisfactory to Owner (which agreement shall be secured by a collateral assignment of any such sublease, and/or such other security as Owner may require) to pay monthly to Owner, as additional rent hereunder, fifty percent (50%) of all rent and/or other consideration payable by the proposed subtenant to Tenant to the extent that such rent and/or other consideration exceeds, on a pro rata basis, the sum, amount or rate of the Base Rent at the time payable hereunder by Tenant; (ii) in the case of a proposed assignment, Tenant pay to Owner, as additional rent hereunder, fifty percent (50%) of any and all consideration payable by the proposed assignee to Tenant; (iii) Tenant and its proposed assignee or subtenant provide Owner with such other information as it may reasonably request, including (but not limited to) a certification in affidavit form of all rental and other consideration proposed to be paid in connection with the proposed assignment or subletting; and (iv) the proposed assignment or sublease and the documentation evidencing and/or executed or delivered in connection with same shall be otherwise reasonably acceptable to Owner; provided, if (i) and (ii) above occur in connection with the sale (either through an asset or stock transaction) of the business of Tenant, the “consideration payable” is not intended to include the consideration paid to Tenant for the business.

(c) If Owner shall grant its consent to a proposed assignment of this lease or subletting of the demised premises or any part thereof, such consent and the effectiveness of any such assignment or subletting shall nevertheless be conditioned upon Tenant delivering to Owner at least ten (10) business days prior to the effective date thereof: (i) an executed duplicate original of the sublease or assignment in the form previously approved by Owner which, among other things, contains the provisions required by: (a) Paragraph (c) of Article 61 of this lease; and (b) Paragraph (p) of Article 62 of this lease; and (ii) in the event of an assignment, an assumption agreement wherein the assignee (except Owner or its designee) agrees to assume directly for the benefit of Owner all of the terms, covenants and conditions of this lease to be performed by Tenant and which provides that the tenant named herein and such assignee shall be jointly and severally liable for the performance of all of the terms, covenants and conditions of this lease. Every assignment of this lease or subletting hereunder shall be expressly subject to the condition and restriction that this lease or sublease shall not be further


assigned, encumbered or otherwise transferred or the subleased premises further sublet by the subtenant in whole or in part, or any part of the demised premises used or occupied by others, without Owner’s prior written consent. Every subletting hereunder shall be subject to the express condition, and by accepting a sublease hereunder each subtenant shall be conclusively deemed to have agreed, that such sublease is subject and subordinate to this lease in all respects and that if this lease should be terminated prior to the expiration date herein set forth or if Owner shall succeed to Tenant’s estate in the demised premises, then at Owner’s election the subtenant shall attorn to and recognize Owner as the subtenant’s landlord under the sublease, any provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding; and the subtenant shall promptly execute and deliver to Owner any instrument Owner may reasonably request to evidence such attornment, and each subtenant shall conclusively be deemed to have appointed Owner its attorney-in-fact to execute and deliver any such certificate for and on behalf of such subtenant.

(d) Tenant covenants that notwithstanding any subletting of the demised premises, any assignment of this lease or any assumption of this lease by an assignee, Owner’s consent to any assignment or subletting and/or Owner’s acceptance of rent or additional rent from any subtenant or assignee, Tenant and each immediate and remote successor in interest to Tenant shall and will remain fully liable, jointly and severally (as a primary obligor) for the payment of the Base Rent and additional rent due and to become due hereunder and for the performance of all the covenants, agreements, terms, provisions and conditions contained in this lease on the part of Tenant to be performed.

(e) Subject to paragraph (h) below, if Tenant is a corporation, any sale, assignment, transfer, pledge, encumbrance or other disposition of any of the stock of Tenant, or if Tenant is a partnership or a limited liability company, any sale, assignment, transfer, pledge, encumbrance or other disposition of any interest in such partnership or limited liability company shall, for the purposes hereof, be considered an assignment and shall be subject to the provisions of this Article.

(f) Tenant hereby agrees not to advertise or in any manner to list the demised premises, or any part thereof, for rent or assignment or subletting without Owner’s prior written consent in each instance, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld in the case of a proposed advertisement which does not use the words “Carnegie Hall” and which does not specify the name of the Building or identify Owner, any of its agents or partners or any other party in the chain of title. Any consent granted by Owner pursuant to this Paragraph (g) shall not, in any event, alter or modify the other provisions of this lease related to assignments or sublettings by Tenant.

(g) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Lease, including, without limitation, the provisions of Paragraph (f) of this Article and provided Tenant is not in default beyond the expiration of any applicable notice and cure periods, Tenant may, without Owner’s consent and on not less than ten (10) days prior written notice to Owner, which notice shall include an executed copy of either an assignment of this lease (which assignment shall provide that the assignee assumes directly for the benefit of Owner all of Tenant’s obligations under this lease, or in connection with a merger or consolidation by operation of law or by effective provisions contained in the instrument of merger or consolidation, meets the requirements of subclause (c)(ii) hereinbelow), or the sublease (which provides that said sublease is subject and subordinate to this lease in all respects), as the case may be, assign this lease or sublet the demised premises to, or otherwise permit the use of the demised premises by, an entity into which Tenant is merged or consolidated or to an entity which shall be an


“affiliate”, “subsidiary” or “successor” (each as hereinafter defined) of Tenant and the provisions of Paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of this Article shall be inapplicable to such transaction. For purposes of this Paragraph: (a) an “Affiliate” of Tenant shall mean any entity which controls, is controlled by or is under common control with Tenant (“Control” being interpreted as the ownership of more than fifty (50%) percent of the stock or the interests in such entity, as applicable, and possession of the power to direct stock or the interests in such entity, as applicable, and possession of the power to direct the management and policies of such entity and the distribution of its profits); (b) a “Subsidiary” of Tenant shall mean an entity not less than fifty-one (51%) percent of which is owned and controlled by Tenant; and (c) a “Successor” of Tenant shall mean an entity (i) which acquires all or substantially all of the property and assets of Tenant, in a bona fide transaction and the transaction is not being done to circumvent the prohibitions and provisions of this Article and Article 11 of this Lease) and assumes all or substantially all of the obligations and liabilities of Tenant (including, without limitation, this lease) or (ii) into which or with which Tenant is merged or consolidated, which entity is subject to the jurisdiction of the court of the State of New York and which succeeds Tenant in accordance with applicable statutory provisions for merger or consolidation of entities, provided that, by operation of law or by effective provisions contained in the instruments of merger or consolidation, such entity fully assumes the liability of the entities participating in such merger or consolidation; provided further that, on the completion of every acquisition, merger, consolidation, assumption or other transaction in this subclause (c) described, the successor shall have a net worth at least equal to the greater of: (x) Tenant’s net worth on the date hereof; or (y) Tenant’s net worth immediately prior to the effective date of such acquisition, merger consolidation, assumption or other transaction, as applicable.

(h) Tenant shall have the right to permit one or more divisions, Affiliates or Subsidiaries of Tenant (each a “Permitted User”) to use space in the Demised Premises. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Article 52, each Permitted User shall be allowed such use, without Owner’s consent, but upon at least ten (10) days’ prior notice to Owner upon the following conditions: (i) Owner or Owner’s agent shall not be litigating against such proposed Permitted User within the prior twelve (12) months, (ii) the Permitted User shall not be entitled, directly or indirectly, to diplomatic or sovereign immunity and shall be subject to service of process in, and the jurisdiction of the court of, the State of New York, (iii) there will be no separate entrances and demising walls for the Permitted User, (iv) the total number of Permitted Users using desk space pursuant to this Paragraph (j) shall not exceed two (2) at any one time, (v) the aggregate number of rentable square feet used by all Permitted Users at any one time shall not exceed 25% of the then rentable square footage of the Demised Premises and (vi) Tenant shall receive no rent, payment or other consideration in connection with such occupancy in respect of such space other than rent payments (in no event greater per rentable square foot than the Base Rent and any recurring Additional Rent, payable hereunder per rentable square foot ) or other consideration for actual services rendered or provided by or for such occupant. With respect to each and every Permitted User, the following shall apply: (i) each Permitted User shall have no privity of contract with Owner and therefore shall have no rights under this Lease, and Owner shall have no liability or obligation to the Permitted User under this Lease for any reason whatsoever in connection with such use or occupancy, which use and occupancy shall be subject and subordinate to this Lease, (ii) each Permitted User shall use the Premises in conformity with all applicable provisions of this Lease, and (iii) Tenant shall be liable for the acts of such Permitted User in the Leased Premises.


(j) Any assignment or subletting made in contravention of the provisions of this Article shall constitute a material breach of the covenants contained in this Article; and any such assignment or subletting shall not be binding upon Owner and, at Owner’s option, may be treated as a nullity and of no force or effect whatsoever against Owner.”

Except as specifically set forth in this Article, nothing in this Article is intended to modify the provisions of Article 11 of this lease.

53. Addendum to Article 29:

In the event Owner shall furnish cleaning service to the demised premises pursuant to the provisions of Article 29(d), Tenant covenants and agrees that Tenant shall pay to Owner on demand the costs incurred by Owner for: (a) extra cleaning work in the demised premises required because of: (i) misuse or neglect on the part of Tenant or its employees or visitors; (ii) use of portions of the demised premises for the preparation, serving or consumption of food or beverages, data processing or reproducing operations, private lavatories or toilets or other special purposes requiring greater or more difficult cleaning work than office areas; (iii) unusual quantity of interior glass surfaces; (iv) non-building standard materials or finishes installed by or at the request or Tenant; and (b) removal from the demised premises and the Building of so much of any refuse and rubbish of Tenant as shall exceed that ordinarily accumulated daily in the routine of business office occupancy.

54. Security:

Article 34 hereof is hereby amended to add the following:

(a) Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary contained in this Article, at any time following Tenant’s deposit with Owner of the cash security to be deposited pursuant to this Article on or prior to the execution and delivery of this Lease and so long as no default exists beyond any applicable period of notice and cure, to secure the full and faithful performance by Tenant of all the terms, provisions, conditions, covenants and obligations (including, but not limited to, the payment of Base Rent and additional rent) on Tenant’s part to be performed hereunder, Tenant shall have the right to replace the cash deposited with Owner upon the execution of this Lease with the delivery to Owner of an unconditional, clean, irrevocable letter of credit, payable on sight, in the form of the letter of credit attached hereto as Exhibit C and made a part hereof (or such other form that is acceptable to Owner in its reasonable judgment), in an amount equal to the Security Deposit (as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions), issued by and drawn upon a bank (the “Issuing Bank”) which shall be approved by Owner in writing (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed) and which shall be a member of the New York Clearing House Association licensed to do business in the State of New York by the New York State Banking Department (or federally chartered) and having banking offices located in Manhattan. Owner may present such letter of credit for payment upon the occurrence of any default by Tenant hereunder beyond the expiration of any applicable notice or grace period set forth herein and Owner may use, apply and/or retain the whole or any part of the proceeds of such letter of credit to the extent required for the payment of any rents or for any sum which Owner may expend or may be required to expend by reason of such default or for any other rents or sums due from Tenant but not timely received, including but not limited to any damages or deficiency in connection with the re-letting of the demised premises, whether accruing


before or after summary proceedings or other re-entry by Owner. Such letter of credit shall have an expiration date that is no earlier than sixty (60) days after the date fixed for the expiration of the Term. If notwithstanding the foregoing, such letter of credit shall for any reason whatsoever expire or have an earlier expiration date than required, then a subsequent or extension letter of credit (or, if acceptable in Owner’s reasonable judgment, an amendment to the letter of credit then if effect) in the amount of the then expiring letter of credit and otherwise acceptable to Owner in the exercise of its reasonable judgment shall be delivered by Tenant to Owner at least forty-five (45) days prior to the expiration date of the letter of credit it is replacing or amending (time being of the essence). If Tenant fails to timely deliver any subsequent or extension letter of credit or amendment to an existing letter of credit, as aforesaid, the letter of credit then in effect may be presented for payment and negotiated, notwithstanding that no other default may then exist under this lease. The proceeds of the letter of credit that is so negotiated shall be held by Owner in accordance with this Article.

(b) In the event that Tenant defaults under this lease in respect of any of the terms, provisions, conditions, covenants and obligations of this lease, including, but not limited to, the payment of Base Rent or additional rent, Owner may, without first applying any other security, use, apply or retain the whole or any part of the proceeds of the letter of credit delivered as the Security Deposit hereunder to the extent required for the payment of any rent or additional rent or any other sum as to which Tenant is in default or for any sum which Owner has incurred or may be required to incur by reason of Tenant’s default in respect of any of the terms, provisions, conditions, covenants and obligations on Tenant’s part to be performed hereunder, including, but not limited to, any damages or deficiencies in the re-letting of the demised premises which accrued before or after the commencement of summary proceedings or other re-entry by Owner. Tenant hereby acknowledges and agrees that the letter of credit delivered hereunder to Owner as the Security Deposit is intended to be for the sole benefit of Owner and not Tenant or any third party. Further, in the event of Tenant’s bankruptcy or insolvency, no portion of the Security Deposit is to be deemed to be the property or a part of the estate or assets of Tenant, as debtor, nor shall the same be subject to attachment, forfeiture or seizure by a trustee or other fiduciary on behalf of creditors of Tenant.

(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary set forth herein, Tenant acknowledges and agrees that, in the event Owner terminates this lease pursuant to Article 17 hereof following Tenant’s default in respect of any of the terms, provisions, conditions, covenants or obligations of this lease, Owner, at Owner’s sole option and in addition to any of its rights and remedies under Article 18 hereof, may elect to retain the entire proceeds of the letter of credit delivered as the Security Deposit hereunder or any cash deposited with Owner therefor under Article 34 hereof, in each case as liquidated damages, it being understood and agreed that Owner’s damages in the event of such termination of this lease would be difficult or impossible to ascertain and, under the circumstances, the amount of the Security Deposit is a fair and reasonable approximation of such damages and not a penalty.

(d) If the security is in the form of a letter of credit, in the event the Issuing Bank fails to promptly pay any partial sight draft on the letter of credit in accordance with its terms, Owner may, at its option and without notice to Tenant or other action on Owner’s part, draw down the entire letter of credit and thereafter hold the proceeds thereof in cash.


(e) If the security is in the form of a letter of credit, Tenant covenants that it will not assign or encumber, or attempt to assign or encumber the letter of credit, and that none of Owner, its successors or assigns shall be bound by any such assignment, encumbrance, attempted assignment or attempted encumbrance.

(f) Every letter of credit deposited with Owner hereunder shall be transferable by its terms without charge to Owner or the transferee and shall name Owner and its successors, or any assignee of Owner, as the beneficiary thereunder. Upon any transfer of such security to an assignee of Owner, Owner shall be relieved of all further responsibility and liability with respect to such Security Deposit and Tenant agrees to look solely to such assignee of Owner for the return of the letter of credit or the proceeds thereof. The provisions of the preceding sentence are self-operative without the need for further documentation. Tenant shall not assign or encumber or attempt to assign or encumber the letter of credit or any of the proceeds thereof. In addition, each letter of credit deposited with Owner hereunder shall provide that Owner may, without the consent or involvement of Tenant, cause the issuer of the letter of credit to amend such letter of credit so as to name therein any successor to Owner (whether by merger, consolidation, reorganization, assignment or otherwise as permitted by applicable Legal Requirements) as the beneficiary thereof in lieu of the named owner herein or any successor-in-interest thereto. All costs relating to any such amendment to or transfer of said letter of credit shall be the responsibility of Tenant, and each letter of credit deposited with Owner hereunder shall provide that the payment of such costs shall be either deducted from Tenant’s account with the issuer of the letter of credit or billed directly to Tenant, without any involvement or action on the part of Owner.

(g) Supplementing Article 34 hereof, as long as major commercial banks having banking offices in the City and State of New York make interest-bearing security deposit accounts available, any cash security shall be placed by Owner or its agent in an interest-bearing account. Interest that may accrue thereon shall belong to Tenant, except such portion thereof as shall be equal to one (1%) percent per annum of said security or the total amount of the interest earned, whichever is less, which portion shall belong to and be the sole property of Owner as an administrative fee and Owner may withdraw said portion from time to time and retain same. That portion of the interest belonging to Tenant shall be accumulated and retained with such security and shall be considered part of said security; provided, however, following receipt of written request from Tenant for Tenant’s portion of the prior Lease Year’s earned interest, if any, no more often than annually beginning with the first anniversary of the Commencement Date, Owner shall, with commercially reasonable promptness, refund said Tenant’s portion of the interest to Tenant. The obligation to pay any taxes, whether income or otherwise, related to or affecting any interest earned on such cash security shall be the sole responsibility of Tenant and Tenant hereby agrees to timely pay same and to forever indemnify and save harmless Owner in respect thereof. Tenant shall, within ten (10) days after written demand therefor by Owner, furnish Owner with a tax identification number for use in respect of such cash security.”

55. Building Directory and Signs:

At the written request of Tenant, Owner shall list on the Building’s directory the name of Tenant, any other entity permitted to occupy any portion of the demised premises under the terms of this lease, and the executive officers, resident partners or employees of each of the foregoing entities provided the number of names so listed does not exceed five (5). The listing of any name other than


that of Tenant shall neither grant such party or entity any right or interest in this lease or in the demised premises nor constitute Owner’s consent to any assignment or sublease to, or occupancy of the demised premises by, such party or entity. In addition, Tenant shall have the right, at its cost and expense, to furnish and install a Building Standard sign identifying Tenant and any authorized subtenant on the entrance door of the demised premises provided that: (i) Owner shall first approve in writing the style, size, color, design and location of such sign and any changes to same; and (ii) Tenant shall, at its sole cost and expense, remove such sign from the entrance door to the demised premises on or before the expiration or any earlier termination of this lease and promptly repair and restore any damage to such door and/or the Building caused by such removal.

56. Certain Rights Reserved by Owner:

Owner hereby reserves and shall have the following rights, each of which Owner may exercise without liability to Tenant for damage or injury to property, person or business on account of the exercise thereof, and the exercise of any such rights shall not be deemed to constitute an eviction or disturbance of Tenant’s use or possession of the demised premises and shall not give rise to any claim for set-off or abatement of rent or any other claim:

(i) To install, affix and maintain any and all signs on the exterior and on the interior of the Building.

(ii) To retain at all times, and to use in appropriate instances, keys to all doors within and into the demised premises, and to access the demised premises at any time. Notwithstanding the provisions for Owner’s access to portions of the demised premises, Tenant relieves and releases Owner of all responsibility arising out of theft, robbery and pilferage. Upon the expiration of the Term or of Tenant’s right to possession of the demised premises, Tenant shall return all keys to Owner and shall disclose to Owner the combination of any safes, cabinets or vaults left in the demised premises.

(iii) To designate that window treatments shall consist of blinds adopted by Owner as the standard for the Building and to designate and approve, prior to installation, all types of additional window shades, blinds or draperies.

(iv) Tenant shall not install or operate any equipment or machinery or any mechanical devices of a nature not directly related to Tenant’s ordinary use of the demised premises without the prior written consent of Owner. Movements of Tenant’s property into or out of the Building and within the Building are entirely at the risk and responsibility of Tenant and Owner reserves the right to require permits before allowing any property to be moved into or out of the Building.

(v) To regulate delivery and service of supplies in order to insure the cleanliness and security of the demised premises and to avoid congestion of the loading docks, receiving areas and freight elevators.


(vi) To retain exclusive control and management over all common areas and the roof of the Building, expressly reserving to Owner the right to alter, eliminate, enlarge or otherwise make such changes to the common areas and the roof of the Building as Owner, in its sole discretion, shall deem desirable and, if any such common areas and roof are changed into usable or rentable areas, to retain, for Owner’s own account, all receipts in respect thereof. Owner may operate, manage, equip, light and maintain the common areas and the roof of the Building in such manner as Owner may from time to time determine, and Owner shall have the right and exclusive authority to employ and discharge all personnel with respect thereto. Owner reserves the right to grant to third parties the non-exclusive right to cross over and use in common with Owner and all tenants of the Building such common areas and roof as are designated from time to time by Owner.

57. Notices by Owner’s Agent:

Supplementing the provisions of Article 28 hereof, Tenant agrees that whenever Owner is required or desires to send any notice or other communication to Tenant under or pursuant to this lease, such notice or communication, if sent by one of Owner’s agents (of whose agency Owner shall have advised Tenant), for all purposes shall be deemed to have been sent by Owner. Owner hereby advises Tenant that Owner’s current agent is Rockrose Development Corp., 290 Park Avenue South, New York, New York 10010.

58. Maintenance of Demised Premises:

Owner shall not be responsible for the upkeep or maintenance of the demised premises or any installation or fixtures therein. In no event shall Owner be responsible for or insure any installation, fixtures, betterments or leasehold improvements made by or for the benefit of Tenant. Should Owner hereafter agree, in writing or otherwise, at the request of Tenant or otherwise for repairs or replacements necessitated by Tenant’s acts, negligence or omissions or that of its employees, agents or invitees, to do any work in or in respect of the demised premises, same shall be paid for by Tenant not later than ten (10) days after being billed therefor, at a rate and sum equal to the cost to Owner of any such work plus 10% of such cost.

59. Fees and Expenses:

Whenever any default, request or other action or inaction by Tenant causes Owner to engage an attorney, architect, engineer or other professional and/or incur any other costs or expenses (other than in connection with the negotiation and execution of this Lease), Tenant agrees that it shall pay and/or reimburse Owner for such costs or expenses within ten (10) days after being billed therefor as additional rent. Tenant hereby acknowledges and agrees that Owner may as a condition to the effectiveness of its approval or consent to any request by Tenant require that Tenant reimburse Owner for the amount of any reasonable attorneys’, architects’ and/or engineers’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by or on behalf of Owner in acting upon or in any manner relating to such request, but that Tenant shall be and remain obligated to reimburse Owner as aforesaid whether or not Owner requires such reimbursement from Tenant as a condition to the effectiveness of any approval or consent and whether or not Owner shall have granted or thereafter grant such approval or consent. Additionally, Tenant shall pay to Owner as additional rent upon demand the amount of all out-of-pocket expenses actually incurred by Owner for field supervision, coordination and general conditions in connection with any alterations, improvements, changes, decorations or additions (collectively, “Work”) done by or on behalf of Tenant in or to the demised premises.


60. Liens:

Tenant shall not create or suffer to be created or to remain, and shall (within thirty (30) days of the filing or imposition thereof) remove or discharge, by bonding or payment, any lien, encumbrance or charge upon the demised premises, the Building or the real property of which the same forms a part caused by or in any manner related to any act or alleged act of commission or omission on the part of Tenant, or any of its agents or contractors. Further, should any such lien be bonded and should Owner, CHC, the City or any of their agents be thereafter named as a party to any action or proceeding in respect of such bond or claim, Tenant agrees to indemnify and save harmless Owner, CHC, the City and all of their agents in respect thereof and to pay all costs and expenses (including reasonable legal fees) of Owner, CHC and the City related thereto. Tenant agrees to surrender the demised premises free and clear of all liens, charges or encumbrances thereon of every nature and description, and free and clear of all violations thereon placed by any governmental or quasi-governmental body resulting from any act of omission or commission on the part of Tenant or any of its agents or contractors, or otherwise related to Tenant’s use or occupancy of the demised premises. Nothing in this lease contained shall be construed as constituting the consent or request of Owner, CHC or the City to any contractor, laborer or materialman for the performance of any labor or services or the furnishing of any materials for the improvement or repair of the demised premises.

61. Alterations:

(a) Before proceeding with any Work Tenant shall, in addition to fulfilling all of its obligations under Article 3 hereof, submit to Owner: (i) a certificate addressed to Owner and CHC from an architect or engineer licensed as such in the State of New York who maintains at least $3,000,000 of insurance (“Tenant’s Architect”) stating that the Work will not reduce the value of the Building, violate any Legal Requirement, affect the exterior walls or appearance of the Building, Carnegie Hall, the connections between the Building and Carnegie Hall or the structural integrity of the Building (including without limitation, the roof of the Building) and estimating the cost of the Work; and (ii) for Owner’s approval (and for submission to CHC if Owner elects),

(o) All bills, invoices or statements rendered to Tenant pursuant to the terms of this lease shall be deemed binding upon Tenant and determined by Tenant to be correct in all respects if, within sixty (60) days after its receipt of same, Tenant fails to notify Owner, in writing, that it disputes such bill, invoice or statement.

(p) Tenant shall not use the words “Carnegie Hall” in any advertising or for any other promotional or profit-making purpose whatsoever and any sublease of all or any part of the demised premises and any assignment of this lease shall contain a provision identical to this Paragraph (p).

(q) Tenant hereby covenants and agrees for itself and any assignee, subtenant or other occupant claiming by, through or under Tenant: (i) to complete and return to New York City Public Development Corporation (“PDC”) within thirty (30) days after written request therefor a questionnaire on the form prescribed by PDC (the “Questionnaire”) with respect to the employment of personnel at the demised premises; (ii) in good faith to consider such proposals as the City or City-related entities may make with regard to filling employment opportunities created at the demised


premises; (iii) to provide the City or City-related entities with the opportunity to: (a) refer candidates who are residents of the City having the requisite experience for the opportunities in question; and (b) create a program to train residents of the City for those opportunities; and (iv) within thirty (30) days after demand to: (a) report to PDC, on an annual basis during the term hereof, the actual number of jobs then created at the demised premises and Tenant’s response to any proposals, personnel referrals and training programs made and/or created by the City, as described in clauses (ii) and (iii) of this Paragraph; and (b) deliver to PDC all forms reasonably required to be delivered pursuant to the Questionnaire. Tenant hereby acknowledges that the covenants and agreements in this Paragraph are for the benefit of PDC and the City.

(r) Tenant acknowledges that it has no rights to any development rights, “air rights” or comparable rights appurtenant to the Building, and consents, without further consideration, to any utilization of such rights by Owner, CHC, the City or any third party and agrees to promptly execute and deliver any instruments which may be requested by Owner including, without limitation, instruments merging zoning lots, evidencing such acknowledgement and consent. The provisions of this Paragraph shall be deemed to be and shall be construed as an express waiver by Tenant of any interest Tenant may have as a “party in interest” (as such quoted term is defined in Section 12-10 of the Zoning Resolution of the City).

(s) Tenant hereby agrees that it shall not claim or seek to claim any sales or other tax exemption by reason of the City’s ownership of the Building or the Land. If any sales or other tax is payable with respect to any cleaning or other services which Tenant obtains or contracts for directly from any third party or parties, Tenant shall file any required tax returns and shall pay any such tax, and Tenant shall indemnify and hold Owner harmless from and against any loss, damage or liability suffered or incurred by Owner on account thereof.

(t) Tenant shall not record this lease or any memorandum thereof and any attempt to do so shall be and be deemed a material default by Tenant hereunder.

(u) All Exhibits attached to this lease are incorporated into this lease. If any provision contained in any Exhibit hereto is inconsistent or in conflict with any other provision of this lease, the provision contained in such Exhibit shall supersede said other provision and shall control, unless a stricter standard for Owner’s or Tenant’s behavior is contained in this lease.

(v) In addition to Base Rent, all other payments required to be made by Tenant hereunder shall be deemed to be additional rent, whether or not the same shall be designated as such, and in the event of the non-payment thereof, Owner (in addition to and not in limitation of its other rights and remedies, whether herein reserved or as may be provided by law or in equity) shall have all of the rights and remedies in respect complete plans and specifications for the Work prepared, signed and sealed by Tenant’s Architect and shall obtain Owner’s written approval thereof. Owner’s approval of such plans and specifications (or of any revisions thereto) shall not constitute an opinion or agreement by Owner that the same are structurally sufficient or that they are in compliance with any legal, insurance or other requirements, nor shall any approval impose any present or future liability on Owner, waive any of Owner’s rights or release Tenant of any of its obligations hereunder. Additionally, Owner may, as a condition to granting such approval, require such security as Owner in its reasonable discretion may determine is necessary to ensure the lien free and timely completion of the Work. Tenant shall be solely responsible, once Owner has approved such plans, for obtaining all governmental and quasi governmental approvals thereof and of the Work.


(b) Promptly following the completion of any Work (and, in any event within thirty (30) days thereafter), Tenant shall, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, deliver to Owner: (i) two (2) sets of “as-built” plans and specifications for the Work; (ii) all original sign offs or other governmental approvals relating thereto; (iii) evidence that the Work has been paid for in full; (iv) copies of Tenant’s records, checks and/or invoices indicating the cost of the Work; (vi) a certification by Tenant’s Architect that all Work was completed in accordance with the plans and specifications approved by Owner; and (vii) a new architectural floor plan showing all demising walls within the demised premises to be in compliance with all laws and any directives issued by the New York City Fire Department with respect to the Building’s fire safety and emergency action plan, which drawing shall be submitted on CD media in CAD (in DWG format) and in PDF copy. Tenant shall reimburse Owner for all costs and fees incurred by Owner in connection with the submittal and review of the Tenant’s plans as they relate to the Building’s fire safety and emergency action plan, including, without limitation, any fees of Owner’s architects and the New York City Fire Department.

(c) Owner hereby notifies Tenant that: (i) the Building is located on a landmark site and is subject to Title 25, Chapter 3 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York (the “Landmarks Law”); (ii) in accordance with Sections 305, 306, 309 or 310 of the Landmarks Law Tenant must obtain a permit from the Landmarks Preservation Commission of the City of New York before commencing any exterior or interior work in or to the demised premises and/or the Building, except for ordinary repair and maintenance as that term is defined in Subdivision (r) of Section 302 of the Landmarks Law; and (iii) any sublease of the demised premises and any assignment of this lease shall contain a provision identical to this Paragraph (c).

(d) Nothing contained in this Article shall limit or qualify the provisions of Article 3 hereof except as expressly and specifically set forth in this Article. The provisions of this Article are in addition to the provisions contained in Article 3.

62. Miscellaneous:

(a) If any of the provisions of this lease, or the application thereof to any person or circumstances, shall, to any extent, be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of this lease, or the application of such provision or provisions to persons or circumstances other than those as to whom or which it is held invalid or unenforceable, shall not be affected thereby, and every provision of this lease shall be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

(b) This lease shall be governed in all respects by the internal laws of the State of New York.

(c) If, in connection with obtaining financing for the Building and or Owner’s interest therein and/or in the land on which the Building is situated, a bank, insurance company or other prospective lender shall request reasonable modifications to this lease as a condition to such financing, Tenant will not unreasonably withhold, delay, condition or defer its consent thereto, provided that such modifications do not increase the obligations of Tenant hereunder or adversely affect the leasehold hereby created other than to a de mimimis extent.


(d) Without incurring any liability to Tenant, Owner may permit access to the demised premises and open same, whether or not Tenant shall be present, upon demand of any receiver, trustee, assignee for the benefit of creditors, sheriff, marshal or court officer entitled to, or reasonably purporting to be entitled to, such access for the purpose of taking possession of, or removing, Tenant’s property or for any other lawful purpose (but this provision and any action by Owner hereunder shall not be deemed a recognition by Owner that the person or official making such demand has any right or interest in or to this lease, or in or to the demised premises), or upon demand of any representative of the fire, police, Building, sanitation or other department of the city, state or federal governments.

(e) Tenant shall not be entitled to exercise any right of termination or other option granted to it by this lease (if any) at any time when Tenant is in default in the performance or observance of any of the covenants, terms, provisions or conditions on its part to be performed or observed under this lease.

(f) Tenant shall not place or permit to be placed any vending machines in the demised premises.

(g) Neither Tenant nor any corporation or other entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with Tenant shall occupy any space in the Building (whether by accepting an assignment or a lease, entering into a license or sublease, or otherwise) other than the demised premises, except with the prior written consent of Owner in each instance.

(h) Tenant agrees that its sole remedies in cases where it disputes Owner’s reasonableness in exercising its judgment or withholding its consent or approval (as applicable) pursuant to a specific provision of this lease, or any rider or separate agreement relating to this lease, if any, shall be those in the nature of an injunction, declaratory judgment, or specific performance, the rights to money damages or other remedies being hereby specifically waived.

(i) The Article headings of this lease are for convenience only and are not to be given any effect whatsoever in construing this lease.

(j) This lease shall not be binding upon Owner unless and until it is signed by Owner and a fully executed copy thereof is delivered to Tenant.

(k) Tenant agrees that Tenant will not at any time during the Term, either directly or indirectly, use any contractors and/or labor and/or materials if the use of such contractors and/or labor and/or materials would or will create any difficulty with other contractors and/or labor engaged by Tenant, Owner or others in the maintenance and/or operation of the Building or any part thereof.

(l) The listing of any name other than that of Tenant, whether on the doors of the demised premises, on the Building directory, if any, or otherwise, shall not operate to vest in the named party any right or interest in this lease or in the demised premises, nor shall it be deemed to constitute the consent of Owner to any assignment or transfer of this lease, to any sublease of the demised premises, or to the use or occupancy thereof by others.


(m) In the event of a conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this rider and the provisions of the printed portion of this lease (comprised of Articles through 36), the provisions of this rider shall in all events govern and prevail.

(n) If the demised premises be, or become, infested with vermin by reason, in whole or in part, of Tenant’s manner of use thereof, Tenant shall, at Tenant’s expense, cause the same to be exterminated from time to time to the satisfaction of Owner, and shall employ such exterminator and such exterminating company or companies as shall then be designated by Owner to provide such services to the Building.

thereof as are herein or otherwise provided in the case of the non-payment of Base Rent.

63. OFAC Certification and Indemnification:

(a) Tenant represents, warrants and certifies that Tenant is not now and has never been nor shall it be at any time prior to the mutual execution and delivery of this lease by Owner and Tenant an individual, corporation, partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, association, joint stock company, trust, trustee, estate, limited liability company, unincorporated organization, real estate investment trust, government or any agency or political subdivision thereof, or any other form of entity (collectively, a “Person”) with whom a United States citizen, entity organized under the laws of the United States or its territories or entity having its principal place of business within the United States or any of its territories (collectively, a “U.S. Person”), is prohibited from transacting business of the type contemplated by this lease, whether such prohibition arises under United States law, regulation, executive orders and lists published by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the Treasury (“OFAC”) (including those executive orders and lists published by OFAC with respect to Persons that have been designated by executive order or by the sanction regulations of OFAC as Persons with whom U.S. Persons may not transact business or must limit their interactions to types approved by OFAC (“Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons”)) or otherwise. Neither Tenant nor any Person who owns an interest in Tenant (collectively, a “Tenant Party) is now or has ever been, nor shall be at any time prior to the mutual execution and delivery of this lease by Owner and Tenant, a Person with whom a U.S. Person, including a “financial institution” as defined in 31 U.S.C. 5312 (a)(z), as periodically amended (“Financial Institution”), is prohibited from transacting business of the type contemplated by this lease, whether such prohibition arises under United States law, regulation, executive orders and lists published by the OFAC (including those executive orders and lists published by OFAC with respect to Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons) or otherwise.

(b) Tenant represents, warrants and certifies that it has taken, and shall continue to take until the Expiration Date, such measures as are required by applicable law to assure that the funds used to pay Owner Base Rent, additional rent and any other charges due hereunder are derived: (i) from transactions that do not violate United States law nor, to the extent such funds originate outside the United States, do not violate the laws of the jurisdiction in which they originated; and (ii) from permissible sources under United States law and, to the extent such funds originate outside the United States, under the laws of the jurisdiction in which they originated.


(c) Tenant represents, warrants and certifies that neither Tenant nor any Tenant Party or any Person providing funds to Tenant: (i) is under investigation by any governmental authority for, or has been charged with, or convicted of, money laundering, drug trafficking, terrorist-related activities, any crimes which in the United States would be predicate crimes to money laundering, or any violation of any Anti-Money Laundering Laws (as hereinafter defined in this Paragraph); (ii) has been assessed civil or criminal penalties under any Anti-Money Laundering Laws; or (iii) has had any of its funds seized or forfeited in any action under any Anti Money Laundering Laws. For purposes of subclause (i) of the previous sentence, the term “Anti-Money Laundering Laws” shall mean all applicable laws, regulations and sanctions, state and federal, criminal and civil, that: (w) limit the use of and/or seek the forfeiture of proceeds from illegal transactions; (x) limit commercial transactions with designated countries or individuals believed to be terrorists, narcotics dealers or otherwise engaged in activities contrary to the interests of the United States; (y) require identification and documentation of the parties with whom a Financial Institution conducts business; or (z) are designed to disrupt the flow of funds to terrorist organizations. Such laws, regulations and sanctions shall be deemed to include, without limitation, the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001, Pub. L. No. 107-56 (the “Patriot Act”), the Bank Secrecy Act of 1970, as amended, 31 U.S.C. Section 5311 et. seq., the Trading with the Enemy Act, 50 U.S.C. App. Section 1 et seq., the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. Section 1701 et seq., and the sanction regulations promulgated pursuant thereto by the OFAC, as well as laws relating to prevention and detection of money laundering in 18 U.S.C. Sections 1956 and 1957.

(d) Tenant represents, warrants and certifies that it is in compliance with any and all applicable provisions of the Patriot Act.

(e) For a period of two (2) years after the Expiration Date, Tenant agrees to cooperate with Owner, and to cause each Tenant Party to cooperate with Owner, in providing such additional information and documentation respecting Tenant’s and each Tenant Party’s legal or beneficial ownership, policies, procedures (to the extent required by applicable laws) and sources of funds as Owner deems reasonably necessary or prudent to enable Owner to comply with Anti-Money Laundering Laws now in existence or hereafter enacted or amended.

(f) Tenant hereby agrees to forever defend, indemnify and hold harmless Owner from and against any and all claims, damages, costs, fines, penalties, losses, risks, liabilities and expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs) arising from or related to a breach of any of the foregoing representations, warranties, certifications and agreements.

END OF RIDER


EXHIBIT A

Floor Plan of Demised Premises

(All Dimensions are Approximate)

 

LOGO


EXHIBIT B

CLEANING SPECIFICATIONS

 

1.

General

All linoleum, rubber, asphalt tile and other similar types of flooring (that may be waxed) to be swept nightly, using approved dust-check type of mop.

All carpeting and rugs to be carpet swept nightly and vacuum cleaned weekly.

Hand dust and wipe clean all furniture, fixtures and window sills nightly, wash sills when necessary.

Empty and clean all ashtrays and screen all sand urns nightly.

Empty all waste receptacles and remove wastepaper. Change liners as necessary. (Tenant to supply receptacles and liners.)

Wash clean all water fountains and coolers nightly.

Hand dust all door and other ventilating louvers within reach, quarterly.

Dust all telephones as necessary.

Sweep all private stairway structures nightly.

 

2.

Lavatories in the Core

Sweep and wash all lavatory floors nightly using disinfectants. Wash and polish all mirrors, powder shelves, bright work and enameled surfaces in all lavatories, nightly.

Wash, scour and disinfect all toilet seats, nightly.

Empty paper towel receptacles and transport wastepaper to designated area in basements, nightly. (Towels and soap to be furnished by Tenant.)

Fill toilet tissue holders nightly.

Empty sanitary disposal receptacles nightly.

Wash and polish all wall tile and stall surfaces once per month.

 

3.

High Dusting

Dust all window blinds, frames, charts, graphs and similar wall hangings and vertical surfaces not reached in nightly cleaning, quarterly.


4.

Glass

Exterior windows to be cleaned inside and outside approximately once every quarter, weather permitting.

 

5.

Conditions

As herein used “nightly” means nightly on business days.

Furniture will not be moved.

Storage areas and other areas in which the requisite access is impeded will not be cleaned.

Tenant shall pay to Owner on demand the costs incurred by Owner for: (a) extra cleaning work in the demised premises required because of: (i) carelessness, indifference, misuse or neglect on the part of Tenant, subtenants, licensees, guests, invitees, contractors, employees, visitors or others; (ii) interior glass partitions or an unusual quantity of interior glass surfaces; and (iii) non-building standard materials or finishes installed by on or behalf of Tenant; (b) removal from the demised premises and the Building of any refuse or rubbish exceeding that which is ordinarily produced in first class executive offices comparable in size to the demised premises (such as, for example, cartons, crates, packing material, furniture or kitchen refuse); and (c) removal from the demised premises of trash, rubbish or other refuse: (i) at times other than Owner’s standard cleaning times; (ii) which requires special handling or disposal; or (iii) which accumulates due to the use of the demised premises other than between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on business days.

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein or otherwise, Owner shall not be required to clean any portions of the demised premises used for preparation, serving or consumption of food or beverages, training rooms, data processing or reproducing operations, private lavatories or toilets or other special purposes requiring greater or more difficult cleaning work than office areas and Tenant agrees, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, to retain Owner’s cleaning contractor to perform such cleaning.

Owner’s cleaning contractor shall have the right to enter the demised premises on any day between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. to perform the services described herein and shall have the right to use, without charge therefor, all light, power and water required therefor.


EXHIBIT C

LETTER OF CREDIT

[Issuer’s Letterhead]

[Date]                             

IRREVOCABLE LETTER OF CREDIT

No.:                             

Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C.

and its successors and assignors

do TF Cornerstone Inc.

290 Park Avenue South

New York, New York 10010

Attention: Director of Commercial Leasing

Gentlemen:

We hereby issue in your favor our irrevocable letter of credit No.:                             for account of                            (“Applicant”), fora sum not to exceed U.S.                            ($    ) Dollars in the aggregate available against your draft(s) drawn on us at sight in the form of Annex 1 hereto, with blanks appropriately completed and signed by your authorized signatory accompanied by certification, by you, your transferee, successor or assignee: (i) that you (or your transferee or successor) are entitled to the amount specified in accordance with that certain Lease (the “Lease”) dated as of                , 200_, between Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C. and                            ; and (ii) if presented by any transferee, successor or assignee, that such transferee, successor or assignee is an assignee of your rights and obligations as Owner, under the Lease.

Partial draws are authorized under this Letter of Credit.

This Letter of Credit is transferable and assignable by you to any transferee of or successor to Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C., as Owner under the Lease, that you may from time to time designate. We shall not recognize any transfer or assignment of this Letter of Credit until an executed transfer form in the form of Annex 2 hereto, with blanks appropriately completed and signed by your authorized signatory, is filed with us, by personal delivery (or by faxing or mailing to our offices located within the continental United States via nationally-recognized overnight courier service that provides for receipted delivery) and notice thereof is endorsed hereon by us. Our transfer charges, if any, are for the account of Applicant.

This Letter of Credit is valid for presentation at our offices at                , New York, New York by personal delivery (or by mailing to our offices located within the continental United States via nationally-recognized overnight courier service that provides for receipted delivery) on or before the close of business on                            . It is a condition of this Letter of Credit that it shall be automatically extended without amendment for a period of one year from the current or any Future


expiration date, unless at least forty-five (45) days prior to the then current expiration date, we shall notify you in writing by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, at the above listed address (or such other address of which you notify us in writing from time to time) of our intention not to renew this Letter of Credit. In all events, this Letter of Credit shall expire no earlier than    [ Insert date that is at least ninety (90) days after the Expiration Date].

Except as expressly stated herein, payment under this Letter of Credit is not subject to any conditions or qualifications.

This Letter of Credit is subject to the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (1993 Revision) International Chamber of Commerce Publication No. 500.

We hereby agree with you that drafts drawn under and in compliance with the terms of this Letter of Credit shall be duly honored on presentation to us.

 

Very truly yours,

 

Authorized Signature


ANNEX 1

LETTER OF CREDIT

SIGHT DRAFT

 

  [Date                            

FOR VALUE RECEIVED

PAY ON DEMAND TO                            $                     Dollars

Charge to Account of [Insert Name of Issuer] Irrevocable Letter of Credit No.

To: [Insert name and address of Issuer]

 

[Name of Beneficiary]
By:  

           


ANNEX 2

LETTER OF CREDIT

[Date]                                 

[Insert Name and Address of Issuer]

Attention:

Re: Letter of Credit No.

Gentlemen:

For value received, the undersigned beneficiary hereby irrevocably transfers to:

(Name of Transferee)

(Address)

all rights of the undersigned beneficiary to draw under the above Letter of Credit in its entirety.

By this transfer, all rights of the undersigned beneficiary in such Letter of Credit are transferred to the transferee and the transferee shall have the sole rights as beneficiary thereof, including sole rights relating to any amendments, whether now existing or hereafter made. All amendments are to be advised directly to the transferee without necessity of any consent of or notice to the undersigned beneficiary.

Yours very truly,

SIGNATURE AUTHENTICATED [Insert Name of Beneficiary]

 

          

 

  

 

  (Bank)    Signature of Beneficiary
 

 

  
  (Authorized Signature)   


ADDITIONAL RULES AND REGULATIONS

16. No noise or other activity, including the playing of musical instruments, radio, television or other sound reproduction system, which would, in Owner’s judgment, disturb other tenants in the Building, shall be made or permitted by Tenant, and no cooking shall be done in the demised premises, except as expressly approved in writing by Owner.

17. All entrance doors in the demised premises shall be left locked by Tenant when the demised premises are not in use. Entrance doors shall be kept closed at all times.

18. All locks affording access to the demised premises and to circulation within the demised premises shall be conformed to Owner’s master key system.

19. The requirements of Tenant will be attended to only upon application to the Building superintendent at his office in the Building. Building employees shall not be requested by Tenant, and will not be permitted, to perform any work or services specially for Tenant, unless expressly authorized to do so by the Building superintendent.

20. Owner reserves the right to rescind, alter, waive, expand or add any rule or regulation at any time prescribed for the Building when, in its judgment, it deems it necessary, desirable or proper for its best interests and for the best interests of the tenants thereof, and no alteration or waiver of any rule or regulation in favor of one tenant shall operate as an alteration or waiver in favor of any other tenant. Owner shall not be responsible to Tenant for the non-observance or violation by any other tenant of any of the rules and regulations at any time prescribed for the Building.

21. If attendance of Owner’s personnel and/or service contractors shall be required, as determined by Owner in its sole discretion, in connection with the use by Tenant of freight elevators or other Building services or equipment, Tenant shall pay to Owner on demand, as additional rent, such amount as Owner shall determine to be appropriate as a charge for Owner’s personnel and/or service contractors.

22. Tenant shall not at any time store or keep any material, supplies, furniture, furnishings or equipment of any kind in any machine room or in any mechanical or electrical equipment room in the Building whether such room be within or outside the demised premises.

23. Owner may charge Tenant for changes to the Building’s directory subsequent to the initial listings. All requests for directory listings shall be in writing on Tenant’s letterhead signed by an authorized officer of Tenant.

24. In no event and under no circumstances shall hand trucks be brought into or used in any passenger elevators in the Building, it being understood that all freight, furniture, business equipment and bulky matters of every description shall be moved into and out of the Building and between floors therein only on the freight elevator and otherwise in accordance with Rule 8 and the other Rules annexed to this lease.


25. In no event at any time or under any circumstances shall (i) any smoking be permitted in the Building, whether or not on a routine, sporadic or one-time basis, by Tenant or any employee, guest or invitee of Tenant, (ii) any dogs or other pets be permitted in the Building, whether or not on a routine, sporadic or one-time basis, and whether or not owned by Tenant or any employee, guest or invitee of Tenant, or (iii) any bicycles, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, or other wheeled vehicles be permitted in or about any part of the Building (including, without limitation, the halls, lobbies, elevators, entrances, passageways and common areas thereof and the sidewalks adjacent thereto), whether or not on a routine, sporadic or one-time basis, and whether or not owned or used by Tenant or any employee, guest or invitee of Tenant, including without limitation messengers, or (iv) Tenant install any window treatments other than such building standard window treatments as shall be then designated by Owner, or affix or attach any signage, lettering or decorations to the exterior windows of the Building.

 


FIRST AMENDMENT OF LEASE

THIS FIRST AMENDMENT OF LEASE, (this “Amendment”) made as of the 11 day of March, 2016, by and between CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II L.L.C., a New York limited liability company, having an office c/o TF Cornerstone Inc., 387 Park Avenue South, New York, New York 10016 (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation, having an office at 152 West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019 (“Tenant”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, by Agreement of Lease, dated as of March 14, 2013 (the “Lease”), Landlord did demise and let unto Tenant and Tenant did hire and take from Landlord a portion of the twenty-first (21st) floor, as more particularly identified in the Lease (the “Premises”) of the building known as and by the street address of 152 West 57th Street, New York, New York (the “Building”); and

WHEREAS, Landlord and Tenant desire to (i) extend the term of the Lease and (ii) to otherwise modify the Lease as set forth herein.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) paid by Tenant to Landlord, and for other good and valuable consideration, the mutual receipt and legal sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, for themselves, their legal representatives, successors and assigns, hereby agree as follows:

1. Definitions. All capitalized terms used herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Lease, unless otherwise defined herein.


2. Extension of Term. The term of the Lease is hereby extended on pursuant to law. All references to the Expiration Date in the Lease shall mean the Extended Expiration Date.

3. Rent. From and after June 1, 2016, the Base Rent shall be an amount equal to $125,921.25 per annum (payable monthly at $10,493.44) for the period commencing on June 1, 2016 to and including the Extended Expiration Date, which Base Rent amount is inclusive of the ERI Sum as currently billed under the Lease. Tenant shall continue to pay all additional rent under the Lease, including, without limitation, tax escalations in accordance with the provisions of Article 37 of the Lease and operating expense escalations in accordance with the provisions of Article 38 of the Lease.

4. Condition of Demised Premises. Tenant acknowledges that Tenant currently occupies the Demised Premises, is fully familiar with the condition thereof and that Landlord has made no representations to Tenant with respect to the condition of the Demised Premises. Tenant agrees to take the Demised Premises in their condition “as is”, and that Landlord shall have no obligation to perform any work, or alter, improve, decorate or otherwise prepare the Demised Premises or make any contribution for Tenant’s continued occupancy thereof.

5. Brokerage. Tenant and Landlord each represents and warrants to the other that it has not dealt with any broker, finder or like agent in connection with this Amendment other than Newmark & Company Real Estate, Inc. (the “Broker”). Tenant and Landlord each does hereby indemnify and hold the other harmless of and from any and all loss, costs, damage or expense (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees and disbursements) incurred by the indemnified party by reason of any claim of or liability to any broker, finder or like agent (other than the Broker) who shall claim to have dealt with the indemnifying party in connection herewith. The provisions of this Paragraph 5 shall survive the expiration or termination of the Lease as amended by this deposit shall continue to be held by Landlord throughout the term of the Lease as extended hereby.


6. Authorization. Tenant and Landlord each represents and warrants to the other that its execution and delivery of this Amendment has been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action and that the person executing this Amendment on its behalf has been duly authorized to do so, and that no other action or approval is required with respect to this transaction.

7. Full Force and Effect of Lease. Except as modified by this Amendment, the Lease and all covenants, agreements, terms and conditions thereof shall remain in full force and effect and are hereby in all respects ratified and confirmed.

8. Entire Agreement. The Lease, as amended by this Amendment, constitutes the entire understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the Demised Premises thereunder and may not be changed orally but only by an agreement in writing signed by the party against whom enforcement of any waiver, change, modification or discharge is sought.

9. Representations and Warranties. Tenant represents and warrants to Landlord that, as of the date hereof, (a) the Lease is in full force and effect and has not been modified except pursuant to this Amendment; (b) there are no defaults existing under the Lease by either Landlord or Tenant, to the knowledge of either; and (c) Tenant has no valid abatements, causes of action, counterclaims, disputes, defenses, offsets, credits, deductions, or claims against the enforcement of any of the terms and conditions of the Lease of which it is aware.

[No further text on this page. Signature page follows.]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment as of the date first above written.

 

CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II, L.L.C.,
Landlord
By:  

/s/ Kristin E. Sather

  Name: Kristin E. Sather
  Title: Sr. Vice President
THORNE RESEARCH, INC., Tenant
By:  

/s/ Paul Jacobson

  Name: Paul Jacobson
  Title: CEO


SECOND AMENDMENT OF LEASE

THIS SECOND AMENDMENT OF LEASE, (this “Amendment”) made as of the 23 day of January, 2018, by and between CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company having an office c/o TF Cornerstone Inc., 387 Park Avenue South, New York, New York 10016 (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation, having an office at 152 West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019 (“Tenant”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, by Agreement of Lease, dated as of March 14, 2013, as amended by that certain First Amendment of Lease (the “First Amendment”), dated as of March 11, 2016 (as amended, the “Lease”), Landlord did demise and let unto Tenant and Tenant did hire and take from Landlord a portion of the twenty-first (21st) floor, as more particularly identified in the Lease (the “Original Premises”), of the building known as and by the street address of 152 West 57th Street, New York, New York (the “Building”); and

WHEREAS, Landlord and Tenant desire to modify the Lease to (i) extend the term of the Lease, (ii) provide for the leasing by Tenant under the Lease of a portion of the tenth (10th) floor of the Building, being more particularly shown on Exhibit A attached hereto (the “Substitute Premises”), (iii) provide for the surrender of the Original Premises, and (iv) otherwise modify the terms and conditions of the Lease, all as hereinafter set forth.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) paid by Tenant to Landlord, and for other good and valuable consideration, the mutual receipt and legal sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, for themselves, their legal representatives, successors and assigns, hereby agree as follows:


1. Definitions. All capitalized terms used herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Lease, unless otherwise defined herein.

2. Extension of Term. Effective on the date hereof (the “Effective Date”) the term of the Lease is hereby extended on all of the same terms and conditions set forth in the Lease, as hereinafter modified, so that the term of the Lease shall expire on the last day of the month in which the three (3) year anniversary of the Substitute Premises Rent Commencement Date (as hereinafter defined) occurs (the “Second Extended Expiration Date”), provided, however, if the Substitute Premises Rent Commencement Date is the first day of a calendar month, the Second Extended Expiration Date shall be the three (3) year anniversary of the day preceding the Substitute Premises Rent Commencement Date, unless it shall sooner expire pursuant to any of the terms, covenants or conditions of the Lease, as amended by this Amendment, or pursuant to law. All references in the Lease to the Expiration Date and the Extended Expiration Date shall be deemed to refer to the Second Extended Expiration Date.

3. Lease of Original Premises Prior to the Substitute Premises Commencement Date. From and after the Effective Date, Tenant shall continue to lease the Original Premises upon all of the terms and conditions of the Lease and shall continue to pay Base Rent (inclusive of the ERI Sum) at the current rates set forth in the Lease, as the ERI Sum may hereafter be modified pursuant to the terms of the Lease, until the surrender of the Original Premises in accordance with the terms and conditions of Paragraph 5 below.

4. Lease of Substitute Premises. (A) Landlord hereby leases to Tenant, and Tenant hereby leases from Landlord, the Substitute Premises for a term commencing on the date that Landlord delivers possession of the Substitute Premises to Tenant free of all tenancies and occupants with the work set forth on Exhibit B (the “Landlord’s Substitute Premises Work”) substantially completed (the “Substitute Premises Commencement Date”) and ending on the Second Extended Expiration Date. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, in no event shall the Substitute Premises Commencement Date occur prior to March 1, 2018.


(B) Landlord shall not be liable for failure to deliver possession of the Substitute Premises to Tenant on any specified date, and such failure shall not impair the validity of this Amendment. Landlord shall be deemed to have tendered possession of the Substitute Premises to Tenant upon the giving of notice by Landlord to Tenant stating that the Substitute Premises are vacant, in the condition required by this Amendment and available for Tenant’s occupancy. There shall be no postponement of the Substitute Premises Commencement Date for any delay in the delivery of possession of the Substitute Premises to Tenant that results from any Tenant Delay (as hereinafter defined). The provisions of this paragraph are intended to constitute “an express provision to the contrary” within the meaning of Section 223-a of the New York Real Property Law or any successor Legal Requirement. For purposes of this Amendment, “Tenant Delay” shall mean any delay which results from any act or omission of Tenant, including delays due to changes in or additions to, or interference with, any work to be done by Landlord, or delays by Tenant in submission of information, or selecting construction materials to be installed by Landlord as part of Landlord’s Substitute Premises Work, if any, (e.g., color of carpet), or approving working drawings or estimates or giving authorizations or approvals.

(C) Effective as of the Substitute Premises Commencement Date, Tenant shall lease the Substitute Premises upon all of the terms and conditions of the Lease, except as follows:

 


(i) Tenant shall pay Base Rent with respect to the Substitute Premises (exclusive of the ERI Sum) at the rate of $250,344.00 per annum ($20,862.00 per month) for the period commencing on the Substitute Premises Commencement Date and ending on the Second Extended Expiration Date, both dates inclusive, each payable at the times and in the manner specified in the Lease for the payment of Base Rent. The ERI Sum with respect to the Substitute Premises (x) shall initially be equal to $14,274.00 per annum, (ii) be separately added to the Base Rent and billed on a monthly basis, and (iii) shall be subject to adjustment as provided in Article 39 of the Lease. Notwithstanding the foregoing, provided Tenant is not in default under the Lease or this Amendment, the monthly installments of Base Rent for the Substitute Premises (exclusive of the ERI Sum) for the period commencing on the Substitute Premises Commencement Date to and including the day immediately preceding the one (1) month anniversary of the Substitute Premises Commencement Date shall be abated. The one (1) month anniversary of the Substitute Premises Commencement Date is hereinafter called the “Substitute Premises Rent Commencement Date”.

(ii) Tenant shall continue to pay tax escalations in accordance with the provisions of Article 37 of the Lease except that the definition of “Taxes” set forth in subclause 37(a)(iii) of the Lease shall be amended to read as follows:

“(iii) “Taxes” shall mean (a) an amount during each fiscal year of NYC equal to Tenant’s Proportionate Share (as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions and as modified pursuant to Paragraph 4(C)(iv) of the Second Amendment to this Lease) of the excess of the product obtained by multiplying the assessed value of the Building and the Land for such fiscal year times the official NYC tax rate applicable to the Building and the Land for such year over the product obtained by multiplying the average assessed value of the Building and the Land, as finally determined, for the fiscal years (i) commencing on July 1, 2017 and continuing through and including June 30, 2018 and (ii) commencing on July 1, 2018 and continuing through and including June 30, 2019, by the official NYC tax rate or rates applicable to the Building and the Land for such period; and (b) Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the legal fees and other expenses (including but not limited to consultants’ and expert witnesses’ fees) paid or incurred in connection with Owner’s obtaining any reduction of such tax rate or the assessed value of the Building and/or the Land for any period during the Term, or both.”

 


(iii) Tenant shall continue to pay Operating Payments in accordance with the provisions of Article 38 of the Lease, except that effective on the Substitute Premises Commencement Date, the Operating Base Year (as defined in the Basic Lease Provisions) shall be the calendar year 2018 and Tenant’s Proportionate Share shall be as set forth in Paragraph 4(C)(iv) hereof.

(iv) Tenant’s Proportionate Share as defined in the Basic Lease Provisions shall mean 0.772%.

(v) Section 39(g) of the Lease shall be modified and amended to read as follows:

“(g) Owner shall furnish air-conditioning to the demise premises on business days (Mondays through Fridays, Federal, State and union holidays excepted) from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. between May 15 and September 15 of each year during the Term. Heat shall be provided by Owner in accordance with the terms of Article 29. Tenant hereby agrees to reimburse Owner, as additional rent, within ten (10) days after demand for 37.40% of the cost incurred by Owner, to maintain and keep in good order, condition and repair the air handling system and all other air conditioning equipment now or at any time serving the tenth (10th) floor in the Building. The Base Rent does not include any charge to Tenant for the furnishing of any heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning (“HVAC”) to the demised premises during any periods other than the hours set forth in this section and in Article 29, as applicable (“Overtime Periods”). If Tenant desires any HVAC service during Overtime Periods, Tenant shall deliver notice to the Building office requesting such services by (i) in the case of such after-hours services on business days, 2:00 P.M. the day such services are to be provided, and (ii) in the case of such after-hours services on non-business days, 12:00PM the business day immediately prior to the day such services are to be provided; provided, however, that Owner shall use reasonable efforts to arrange such service on such shorter notice as Tenant shall provide. If Owner furnishes HVAC service during Overtime Periods, Tenant shall pay to Owner within ten (10) days after demand the cost thereof at the then established rates for such services in the Building. Owner, throughout the Term, shall have free and unrestricted access to all air conditioning equipment and facilities in and/or serving the demised premises and Owner reserves the right to interrupt, curtail, stop or suspend the supply of condenser water when necessary by reason of accident or for repairs, alterations or improvements which are, in the judgment of Owner, desirable or necessary to be made, or by reason of the difficulty or unavailability in securing supplies or labor, strikes, or for any other causes beyond Owner’s control, whether such other causes be similar or dissimilar to those hereinabove specifically mentioned. Furthermore, Owner reserves the right, at any time throughout the Term, to modify, change, reconstruct or alter the air conditioning system or any portion thereof, and the risers, pipes, ducts and conduits used in connection therewith, without affecting the obligations of Tenant hereunder or incurring any liability to Tenant therefor.”


(vi) Article 42 and Article 46 of the Original Lease and Paragraph 5 of the First Amendment shall be deemed not applicable to the leasing of the Substitute Premises.

(vii) Exhibit A of the Original Lease shall be deemed deleted and replaced in its entirety with Exhibit A attached hereto.

(D) Tenant has inspected the Substitute Premises and agrees (A) to accept possession of the Substitute Premises in the “as is” condition existing on the Substitute Premises Commencement Date, (B) that neither Landlord nor Landlord’s agents have made any representations or warranties with respect to the Substitute Premises or the Building except as expressly set forth herein, and (C) except for Landlord’s Substitute Premises Work referred to in Exhibit B attached hereto, Landlord has no obligation to perform any work, supply any materials, incur any expense or make any alterations or improvements to the Substitute Premises to prepare the Substitute Premises for Tenant’s occupancy. Tenant’s occupancy of any part of the Substitute Premises shall be conclusive evidence, as against Tenant, that (1) Landlord has substantially completed Landlord’s Substitute Premises Work, (2) Tenant has accepted possession of the Substitute Premises in their then current condition, and (3) the Substitute Premises and the Building are in a good and satisfactory condition as required by this Amendment.

(E) Except as provided in this Amendment, all references in the Lease to the “demised premises” shall from and after the Substitute Premises Commencement Date be deemed to mean the Substitute Premises for all purposes of the Lease.

 


5. Surrendered Premises. (A) On the earlier of (the “Surrender Date”) (i) the date upon which Tenant shall remove all of Tenant’s moveable personal property and moveable trade fixtures from the Original Premises and vacate same and deliver vacant possession thereof to Landlord in the condition required by the Lease and provide written notice thereof to Landlord, and (ii) thirty (30) days after the Substitute Premises Commencement Date, Tenant shall surrender to Landlord, and Landlord shall accept the surrender of, the Original Premises, to the intent and purpose that the estate of Tenant in and to the Original Premises shall be wholly extinguished and that the term of the Lease with respect to the Original Premises shall expire on the Surrender Date in the same manner and with the same effect as if such date were the date set forth in the Lease for the expiration of the term thereof in respect of the Original Premises. Prior to the Surrender Date, Tenant shall lease the Original Premises upon all of the terms of the Lease applicable to such Original Premises, as amended by this Amendment.

(B) On or before the Surrender Date, time being of the essence with respect to such date, Tenant shall remove all of Tenant’s moveable personal property and moveable trade fixtures from the Original Premises and vacate same and deliver vacant possession thereof to Landlord in the condition required by the Lease. Tenant shall repair all damage to the Building caused by the removal of Tenant’s moveable personal property and moveable trade fixtures from the Original Premises in a good and workmanlike manner. Without limiting Tenant’s obligations set forth above, any moveable personal property and moveable trade fixtures remaining in the Original Premises after the Surrender Date shall be deemed abandoned by Tenant and Landlord may take possession thereof and retain the same as Landlord’s property or dispose of same at Tenant’s expense in any manner Landlord determines without accountability therefor to Tenant.

(C) Tenant represents and covenants that nothing has been or will be done or suffered whereby the Lease, or the terms or estates thereby granted, or the Original Premises, or any part thereof, or any alterations, decorations, installations, additions and improvements in and to the Original Premises, or any part thereof, have been or will be encumbered in any way whatsoever, and that Tenant owns and has and will have good right to surrender the Original Premises on the Surrender Date, and that no one other than Tenant has acquired or will acquire through or under Tenant any right, title or interest in or to the Original Premises, or any part thereof, or in or to said alterations, decorations, installations, additions and/or improvements or any part thereof.


(D) If Tenant shall fail to surrender the Original Premises pursuant to this Amendment, then Tenant shall be deemed to be a holdover in respect thereof and be subject to all of Landlord’s rights and remedies set forth in the Lease and this Amendment, and Landlord may separately pursue against Tenant any and all remedies available to it as landlord under the Lease or this Amendment or otherwise, at law or in equity, without affecting the rights and obligations of Landlord and Tenant under the Lease with respect to the Substitute Premises.

(E) Landlord shall accept the surrender of the Original Premises as of the Surrender Date and in consideration of such surrender by Tenant and of the acceptance of such surrender by Landlord, Tenant and Landlord do hereby mutually release each other, their respective successors and assigns of and from any and all claims, damages, obligations, liabilities, actions and causes of action, of every kind and nature whatsoever arising under or in connection with the Lease in respect of the Original Premises from and after the Surrender Date, except that nothing herein contained shall be deemed to constitute a release or discharge of Landlord or Tenant with respect to any obligation or liability (i) accrued or incurred under the Lease in respect of the Original Premises and outstanding and unsatisfied on the Surrender Date, and (ii) to a third party (under the insurance and indemnification provisions of the Lease or otherwise) arising prior to, on or after the Surrender Date in respect of the Original Premises as a result of an event occurring or condition existing prior to or on the Surrender Date.


(F) Landlord and Tenant shall promptly prepare, execute and file such returns, affidavits and other documentation, if any, as may be required in connection with any real property transfer tax that may become, or may be asserted to be or become due, owing or imposed in connection with this Amendment at any time by the City of New York or the State of New York or any agency or instrumentality of such City or State. The provisions of this Paragraph 5(F) shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Amendment.

6. Lease Modifications. From and after the date hereof, the Lease is hereby modified and amended as follows:

(A) Article 40 of the Lease is hereby modified by (i) deleting subclause (iv) from clause (a) thereof and replacing same in its entirety with “the Building Lease has been mortgaged to Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, pursuant to that certain Consolidation and Modification of Leasehold Mortgage, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement and Fixture Filing dated as of April 10, 2017 (the “Mortgage”)”, and (ii) deleting “UBS at 1285 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10019, Attn: Jeffrey Lavine with a copy to: Cadwalder, Wickersham & Taft LLP, One World Financial Center, New York, New York 10281, Attn: William P. McInerney” in clause (c) thereof and replacing same with “Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, One MetLife Way, Whippany, New Jersey 07981, Attention: Senior Managing Director, Real Estate Investments, with a copy to Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, One MetLife Way, Whippany, New Jersey 07981, Attention: Associate General Counsel, Real Estate Investments, and a copy to Shearman & Sterling LLP, 599 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York, 10022 Attention: Malcolm M. Montgomery, Esq. (5601-15)”


(B) Article 57 of the Lease is hereby modified by deleting “Rockrose Development Corp., 290 Park Avenue South, New York, New York 10010” and replacing same with “TF Cornerstone Inc., 387 Park Avenue South, 7th Floor, New York, New York 10016.”

(C) Article 61 of the Lease is hereby modified by adding the following clause (e) to the end thereof:

“(e) Prior to commencing any Work which requires Owner’s consent, Tenant shall, at Tenant’s expense, (a) obtain and deliver to Owner copies of all required permits and authorizations of any governmental or quasi-governmental authority for such Work (if and to the extent so required for such Work), (b) deliver to Owner any security required by this Lease, (c) deliver to Owner copies of the fully executed contracts between Tenant and its contractor(s), (d) deliver to Owner, any additional documents or materials related to the Work as required by Owner’s insurance carrier, and (e) deliver to Owner certificates (in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Owner) evidencing the following insurance coverages from each contractor and subcontractor:

(i) worker’s compensation insurance covering all persons to be employed in the performance of any Work, and

(ii) commercial general liability insurance on a primary and non-contributory basis with a limit of liability approved by Owner, and with contractual liability coverage, naming Owner, Owner’s managing agent, if any, any Superior Lessor and any Superior Mortgagee as additional insureds, and

(iii) comprehensive automobile liability insurance (covering all owned, non-owned and/or hired motor vehicles to be used in connection with the Work) with a limit of liability approved by Owner, and

(iv) builders risk insurance for the full value of the portion of the Work to be performed by such contractor and subcontractor.

Tenant shall not commence the Work until it has written approval from Owner that the above items have been satisfactorily furnished and Tenant may commence said Work.”

 


(D) Article 62(n) of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:

“(n) Tenant shall be responsible for maintaining the demised premises rodent and insect free. Extermination services shall be provided by Tenant on a monthly basis and additionally as required by Owner by such exterminator and such exterminating company or companies as shall then be designated by Owner to provide such services to the Building.”

(E) Each reference in the Lease to “this Lease”, “herein”, “hereunder” or words of similar import shall be deemed to refer to the Lease as amended by this Amendment.

7. Brokerage. Tenant and Landlord each represents and warrants to the other that it has not dealt with any broker, finder or like agent in connection with this Amendment other than Newmark Grubb Knight Frank and CBRE, Inc. (collectively, the “Broker”). Tenant and Landlord each does hereby indemnify and hold the other harmless of and from any and all loss, costs, damage or expense (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees and disbursements) incurred by the indemnified party by reason of any claim of or liability to any broker, finder or like agent (other than the Broker) who shall claim to have dealt with the indemnifying party in connection herewith. The provisions of this Paragraph 7 shall survive the expiration or termination of the Lease as amended by this Amendment. Landlord shall pay the commission due the Broker pursuant to separate agreements.

8. Security Deposit. Pursuant to Articles 34 and 54 of the Lease, Landlord and Tenant acknowledge and agree that as of the date hereof, Landlord is currently holding a cash security deposit in the amount of $89,943.75. On or prior to the date hereof, Tenant shall to deliver to Landlord additional security, in the form of cash, in the amount of $35,228.25, thereby increasing the cash security held by Landlord under the Lease to $125,172.00 (the “Increased Security Deposit”). The Increased Security Deposit shall be held by Landlord throughout the term of the Lease as extended hereby.


9. Authorization. Tenant and Landlord each represents and warrants to the other that its execution and delivery of this Amendment has been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action and that the person executing this Amendment on its behalf has been duly authorized to do so, and that no other action or approval is required with respect to this transaction.

10. Full Force and Effect of Lease. Except as modified by this Amendment, the Lease and all covenants, agreements, terms and conditions thereof shall remain in full force and effect and are hereby in all respects ratified and confirmed.

11. Entire Agreement. The Lease, as amended by this Amendment, constitutes the entire understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the Demised Premises thereunder and may not be changed orally but only by an agreement in writing signed by the party against whom enforcement of any waiver, change, modification or discharge is sought.

12. Representations and Warranties. Tenant represents and warrants to Landlord that, as of the date hereof, (a) the Lease is in full force and effect and has not been modified except pursuant to this Amendment; (b) there are no defaults existing under the Lease by either Landlord or Tenant; and (c) Tenant has no valid abatements, causes of action, counterclaims, disputes, defenses, offsets, credits, deductions, or claims against the enforcement of any of the terms and conditions of the Lease.

13. Counterparts. This Amendment may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed and original but all of which shall constitute one and the same agreement.

[SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment as of the date first above written.

 

CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II, L.L.C.,
Landlord
By:  

/s/ Kristin E. Sather

  Name: Kristin E. Sather
  Title: Sr. Vice President
THORNE RESEARCH, INC., Tenant
By:  

/s/ Scott Wheeler

  Name: Scott Wheeler
  Title: CFO


EXHIBIT A

SUBSTITUTE PREMISES FLOOR PLAN

The floor plan that follows is intended solely to identify the general location of the Substitute Premises and should not be used for any other purpose. All areas, dimensions, and locations are approximate, and any physical conditions indicated may not exist as shown.

 

LOGO


EXHIBIT B

LANDLORD’S SUBSTITUTE PREMISES WORK

The following work (unless otherwise specifically provided herein) shall be of material, manufacture, design, capacity, quality, finish and color of the standard adopted by Landlord for the Building and, where quantities are hereinafter specified, such quantities shall include any existing installations to the extent useable and used in the performance of such work. Landlord shall:

 

  1.

Furnish and install Building standard carpet in the Substitute Premises, the color of which shall be selected by Tenant within five (5) days of Landlord providing Tenant with the then available selection of Building standard colors.


June 28, 2019

BY HAND

Thorne Research, Inc.

152 West 57th Street, 10th Floor

New York, NY 10019

Attn: Paul Jacobson

Re: Third Amendment of Lease dated June 25, 2019, by and between Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C (“Landlord”) and Thorne Research, Inc. (“Tenant”)

 

 

Dear Mr. Jacobson,

I am pleased to enclose two (2) fully executed counterparts of the above referenced agreement.

Please feel free to call or email me at laura.milander@tfc.com if there are any questions respecting the foregoing or the attachments, or if I might otherwise be of assistance.

 

Very truly yours,
  Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C
  by TF Cornerstone Inc., as agent
By  

/s/ Laura Milander

Laura Milander
Commercial - Office Lease Coordinator

Enc.


THIRD AMENDMENT OF LEASE

THIS THIRD AMENDMENT OF LEASE, (this “Amendment”) made as of the 25 day of June, 2019, by and between CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company having an office c/o TF Cornerstone Inc., 387 Park Avenue South, New York, New York 10016 (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., an Idaho corporation, having an office at 152 West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019 (“Tenant”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, by Agreement of Lease, dated as of March 14, 2013, as amended by that certain (i) First Amendment of Lease (the “First Amendment”), dated as of March 11, 2016 and (ii) Second Amendment of Lease, dated as of January 23, 2018 (as amended, the “Lease”), Landlord did demise and let unto Tenant and Tenant did hire and take from Landlord a portion of the tenth (10th) floor, as more particularly identified in the Lease (the “Original Premises”), of the building known as and by the street address of 152 West 57th Street, New York, New York (the “Building”); and

WHEREAS, Landlord and Tenant desire to modify the Lease to (i) extend the term of the Lease, (ii) provide for the leasing by Tenant of an additional portion of the tenth (10th) floor of the Building, being more particularly shown on Exhibit A attached hereto (the “Additional Premises”, and together with the Original Premises, collectively, the “Demised Premises”), and (iii) to otherwise modify the terms and conditions of the Lease, all as hereinafter set forth.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) paid by Tenant to Landlord, and for other good and valuable consideration, the mutual receipt and legal sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, for themselves, their legal representatives, successors and assigns, hereby agree as follows:


1. Definitions. All capitalized terms used herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Lease, unless otherwise defined herein.

2. Extension of Term. Effective on the date hereof (the “Effective Date”) the term of the Lease is hereby extended on all of the same terms and conditions set forth in the Lease, as hereinafter modified, so that the term of the Lease shall expire on the last day of the month in which the three (3) year and three (3) month anniversary of the Effective Date occurs (the “Third Extended Expiration Date”), provided, however, if the Effective Date is the first day of a calendar month, the Third Extended Expiration Date shall be the three (3) year anniversary of the day preceding the Effective Date, unless it shall sooner expire pursuant to any of the terms, covenants or conditions of the Lease, as amended by this Amendment, or pursuant to law. All references in the Lease to the Expiration Date, the Extended Expiration Date and the Second Extended Expiration Date shall be deemed to refer to the Third Extended Expiration Date. Tenant acknowledges that Tenant currently occupies the Original Premises, is fully familiar with the condition thereof and that Landlord has made no representations to Tenant with respect to the condition of the Original - Premises. Tenant agrees to take the Original Premises in their condition “as is”, and that Landlord shall have no obligation to perform any work, or alter, improve, decorate or otherwise prepare the Original Premises or make any contribution for Tenant’s continued occupancy thereof.

 


3. Lease of Additional Premises.

(A) Landlord hereby leases to Tenant, and Tenant hereby leases from Landlord, the Additional Premises for a term commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the Third Extended Expiration Date.

(B) From and after the Effective Date, Tenant shall lease the Additional Premises upon all of the terms and conditions of the Lease, as modified by this Amendment.

(C) Tenant has inspected the Additional Premises and agrees (i) to accept possession of the Additional Premises in the “as is” condition existing on the Effective Date, (ii) that neither Landlord nor Landlord’s agents have made any representations or warranties with respect to the Additional Premises or the Building, and (iii) Landlord has no obligation to perform any work, supply any materials, incur any expense or make any alterations or improvements to the Additional Premises to prepare the Additional Premises for Tenant’s occupancy. Tenant’s occupancy of any part of the Additional Premises shall be conclusive evidence, as against Tenant, that (1) Tenant has accepted possession of the Additional Premises in their then current condition, and (2) the Additional Premises and the Building are in a good and satisfactory condition as required by this Amendment.

(D) Article 42 and Article 46 of the Original Lease, Paragraph 5 of the First Amendment and Paragraph 7 of the Second Amendment shall be deemed not applicable to the leasing of the Additional Premises.

(E) Except as provided in this Amendment, all references in the Lease to the “Demised Premises”, “demised premises”, “premises”, “Premises” and terms of similar import shall be deemed to include the Additional Premises for all purposes of the Lease.


4. Modification of Lease. From and after the Effective Date, the Lease is hereby modified and amended as follows:

(A) The Base Rent for the entire Demised Premises (exclusive of the ERI Sum) shall be an amount equal to $441,237.00 per annum (payable monthly at $36,769.75) for the period commencing on the Effective Date to and including the Third Extended Expiration Date, both dates inclusive, each payable at the times and in the manner specified in the Lease for the payment of Base Rent. The ER1 Sum with respect to the entire Demised Premises (x) shall initially be equal to $25,158.24 per annum ($2,096.52 per month), (ii) be separately added to the Base Rent and billed on a monthly basis, and (iii) shall be subject to adjustment as provided in Article 39 of the Lease. Notwithstanding the foregoing, provided Tenant is not in default under the Lease or this Amendment„ Tenant shall be entitled to a credit during the first, second and third full calendar months following the Effective Date against the monthly installments of Base Rent due during such months in an amount equal to $15,907.75 for each such month.

(B) Tenant’s Proportionate Share as defined in the Basic Lease Provisions shall mean 1.406%.

(C) Tenant shall continue to pay tax escalations in accordance with the provisions of Article 37 of the Lease except effective on the Effective Date:

(i) The definition of “Tax Base Year” set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions shall be amended to read as follows: “Fiscal year July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020.


(ii) The definition of “Taxes” set forth in subclause 37(a)(iii) of the Lease shall be amended to read as follows:

“(iii) “Taxes” shall mean (a) an amount during each fiscal year of NYC equal to Tenant’s Proportionate Share (as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions and as modified pursuant to Paragraph 4(B) of the Third Amendment to this Lease) of the excess of the product obtained by multiplying the assessed value of the Building and the Land for such fiscal year times the official NYC tax rate applicable to the Building and the Land for such year over the product obtained by multiplying the average assessed value of the Building and the Land, as finally determined, for the Tax Base Year (as set forth in the Basic Lease Provisions and as modified pursuant to Paragraph 4(B) of the Third Amendment to this Lease) by the official NYC tax rate or rates applicable to the Building and the Land for such period (the “Tax Base”); and (b) Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the legal fees and other expenses (including but not limited to consultants’ and expert witnesses’ fees) paid or incurred in connection with Owner’s obtaining any reduction of such tax rate or the assessed value of the Building and/or the Land for any period during the Term, or both.”

(D) Tenant shall continue to pay Operating Payments in accordance with the provisions of Article 38 of the Lease, except that effective on the Effective Date, the Operating Base Year (as defined in the Basic Lease Provisions) shall be the calendar year 2019 and Tenant’s Proportionate Share shall be as set forth in Paragraph 4(B) hereof.

(E) Section 39(g) of the Lease (as modified pursuant to Paragraph 4(C)(iv) of the Second Amendment) shall be modified and amended by deleting the reference to “37.40%” in the third (3rd) full sentence thereof and replacing same with “65.917%”.


5. Brokerage. Tenant and Landlord each represents and warrants to the other that it has not dealt with any broker, finder or like agent in connection with this Amendment other than Newmark Grubb Knight Frank (the “Broker”). Tenant and Landlord each does hereby indemnify and hold the other harmless of and from any and all loss, costs, damage or expense (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees and disbursements) incurred by the indemnified party by reason of any claim of or liability to any broker, finder or like agent (other than the Broker) who shall claim to have dealt with the indemnifying party in connection herewith. The provisions of this Paragraph 5 shall survive the expiration or termination of the Lease as amended by this Amendment. Landlord shall pay the commission due the Broker pursuant to separate agreements.

6. Security Deposit. Pursuant to Articles 34 and 54 of the Lease, Landlord and Tenant acknowledge and agree that as of the date hereof, Landlord is currently holding a cash security deposit in the amount of $125,172.00. On or prior to the Effective Date, Tenant shall to deliver to Landlord additional security, in the form of cash, in the amount of $95,447.00, thereby increasing the cash security held by Landlord under the Lease to $220,619.00 (the “Third Amendment Increased Security Deposit”). The Third Amendment Increased Security Deposit shall be held by Landlord throughout the term of the Lease as extended hereby.

7. Authorization. Tenant and Landlord each represents and warrants to the other that its execution and delivery of this Amendment has been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action and that the person executing this Amendment on its behalf has been duly authorized to do so, and that no other action or approval is required with respect to this transaction.


8. Full Force and Effect of Lease. Except as modified by this Amendment, the Lease and all covenants, agreements, terms and conditions thereof shall remain in full force and effect and are hereby in all respects ratified and confirmed.

9. Entire Agreement. The Lease, as amended by this Amendment, constitutes the entire understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the Demised Premises thereunder and may not be changed orally but only by an agreement in writing signed by the party against whom enforcement of any waiver, change, modification or discharge is sought.

10. Representations and Warranties. Tenant represents and warrants to Landlord that, as of the date hereof, (a) the Lease is in full force and effect and has not been modified except pursuant to this Amendment; (b) there are no defaults existing under the Lease by either Landlord or Tenant; and (c) Tenant has no valid abatements, causes of action, counterclaims, disputes, defenses, offsets, credits, deductions, or claims against the enforcement of any of the terms and conditions of the Lease.

11. Counterparts. This Amendment may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed and original but all of which shall constitute one and the same agreement.

[SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment as of the date first above written.

 

CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II L.L.C.,
Landlord
By:  

/s/ Kristin E. Sather

  Name:Kristin E. Sather
  Title: Sr. Vice President
THORNE RESEARCH, INC., Tenant
By:  

/s/ Paul Jacobson

  Name:Paul Jacobson
  Title: CEO


EXHIBIT A

ADDITIONAL PREMISES FLOOR PLAN

The floor plan that follows is intended solely to identify the general location of the Additional Premises and should not be used for any other purpose. All areas, dimensions, and locations are approximate, and any physical conditions indicated may not exist as shown.

 

LOGO


CARNEGIE HALL TOWER II LLC

c/o TF Cornerstone Inc.

387 Park Avenue South, 7th Floor

New York, New York 10016

By Hand and Email

July 17, 2018

Thorne Research Inc.

152 West 57th Street, 10th Floor

New York, New York 10019

Attn: Paul F. Jacobson

Chief Executive Officer

Re: Lease dated March 14, 2013 by and between Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C., as Landlord and Thorne Research, Inc. as Tenant further amended by the First Amended to Lease dated March 11, 2016, Second Amendment to Lease dated January 23, 2018 and Third Amendment of Lease dated as of June 25, 2019 for the rentable portion of the 10th floor located at 152 West 57th Street, NY, NY, (collectively the “Lease”)

Dear Mr. Jacobson,

Capitalized terms used herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Lease. This letter supersedes my letter dated July 9, 2019.

Landlord and Tenant hereby agree that the Effective Date referenced in Section 2 of Third Amendment Lease shall be June 28, 2019, the date on which Landlord received the amount necessary for the Third Amendment Increased Security Deposit and the Expiration Date is September 30, 2022.

Kindly indicate your agreement with the foregoing by executing the enclosed copy of this letter and then returning the signed letter to the undersigned. Please note that Tenant’s failure to execute this letter in any way will not affect the Lease, the term or any of Tenant’s obligations including Tenant’s obligation to pay rent and to perform all of the other covenants and agreements set forth.

If you have any questions, or if I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at 212.984.1789.

 

Sincerely,
Carnegie Hall Tower II L.L.C.
By:  

/s/ Kristin E. Sather

Kristin E. Sather, Senior Vice President


Agreement is acknowledged as of this 1 day of Aug 2019
By:   Thorne Research Inc.
By:  

/s/ Paul F. Jacobson

Name: Paul F. Jacobson

  Title: CEO, Throne Research, Inc.

Exhibit 10.12

MULTI-TENANT INDUSTRIAL TRIPLE NET LEASE

This Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (this “Lease”) is made and entered into as of October 25th, 2019 (the “Effective Date”), by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”). The following exhibits and attachments are incorporated into and made a part of this Lease: Exhibit A (Outline and Location of Premises), Exhibit B (Work Letter), Exhibit C (Prohibited Use), Exhibit D (Rules and Regulations), Exhibit E (Intentionally Omitted), Exhibit F (Requirements for Improvements or Alterations by Tenant), Exhibit G (Hazardous Materials Survey Form), Exhibit H (Additional Provisions), and Exhibit I (Judicial Reference).

1. BASIC LEASE INFORMATION.

 

  1.1

Building” shall mean the industrial building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510, and commonly known as Suite C. “Rentable Square Footage of the Building” is deemed to be 56,832 square feet.

 

  1.2

Premises” shall mean the area shown on Exhibit A to this Lease. The Premises is located within the walls and below the ceiling within Building and such other areas as generally shown on Exhibit A to this Lease. The “Rentable Square Footage of the Premises” is deemed to be 16,896 square feet. Landlord and Tenant stipulate and agree that the Rentable Square Footage of the Building and Rentable Square Footage of the Premises are correct.

 

  1.3

Base Rent”:

 

Period

   Monthly Base Rent  

12/1/19-11/30/20

   $ 9,800.00  

12/1/20-11/30/21

   $ 10,094.00  

12/1/21-11/30/22

   $ 10,396.82  

12/1/22-11/30/23

   $ 10,708.72  

12/1/23-11/30/24

   $ 11,029.99  

12/1/24-1/31/25

   $ 11,360.88  

Notwithstanding the foregoing, Base Rent shall be abated (the “Abated Base Rent”), in the amount of $9,800.00 per month, for the first two (2) full calendar months of the Term; provided, however, that if an Event of Default (defined in Section 18.1) exists when any such abatement would otherwise apply, such abatement shall be deferred until the date, if any, on which such Event of Default is cured.

 

  1.4

Tenant’s Share”: 29.7297%.

 

  1.5

Term”: The period commencing on December 1, 2019 (the “Commencement Date”) and, unless terminated earlier in accordance with this Lease, ending on January 31, 2025 (the “Termination Date”).

 

Oct 24, 2019


  1.6

Allowance(s): an amount not to exceed $18,000.00, as further described in the attached Exhibit B.

 

  1.7

Security Deposit”: $15,000.00, as more fully described in Section 5.

 

  1.8

Guarantor(s)”: None.

 

  1.9

Broker(s)”: CBRE, Inc. (“Tenant’s Broker”), which represented Tenant in connection with this transaction, and Cushman & Wakefield (“Landlord’s Broker”), which represented Landlord in connection with this transaction.

 

  1.10

Lease Year”: Each twelve (12) month period during the Term commencing on the Commencement Date.

 

  1.11

Permitted Use”: Warehousing, packaging and distribution of supplements, with ancillary office uses, subject to Section 2.2 below.

 

  1.12

Notice Address(es)”:

 

Landlord:    Tenant:
ICON Owner Pool 1 SF Non-    Prior to the Commencement Date:
Business Parks, LLC   
90 Park Avenue 32nd Floor    Thorne Research, Inc.
New York, New York 10016    ATTN: Kim Pearson, General
Attention: General Counsel    Counsel
   620 Omni Industrial Blvd.
And    Summerville, South Carolina 29486
   Email: kpearson@thorne.com
ICON Owner Pool 1 SF Non-   
Business Parks, LLC    From and after the Commencement
220 Commerce Drive, 4th Floor    Date:
Fort Washington, PA 19034   
Email: lease    Thorne Research, Inc.
administration@gptreit.com    ATTN: Kim Pearson, General
   Counsel
And    620 Omni Industrial Blvd.
   Summerville, South Carolina 29486
ICON Owner Pool 1 SF Non-    Email: kpearson@thorne.com
Business Parks, LLC   
3100 Bristol Street, Suite 220   
Costa Mesa, CA 92626   
Attention: Asset Manager   

 

  1.13

Property” means the Building and the parcel(s) of land on which it is located (the “Land”) and, at Landlord’s discretion, the parking facilities and other improvements, if any, serving the Building and the parcel(s) of Land on which they are located.

 

Oct 24, 2019


  1.14

Project” means the buildings, including the Building located within Benicia Warehouse.

 

  1.15

Initial Tenant’s Work” means the work that Tenant may perform in the Premises pursuant to a separate agreement (the “Work Letter”), attached to this Lease as Exhibit B.

2. PREMISES/USE.

 

  2.1

Premises. Landlord hereby leases to Tenant the Premises, but excluding the Common Area (as herein defined) and any other portion of the Building, the Land, Property and/or the Project. Tenant (i) accepts the Premises “AS-IS,” except as may be expressly set forth in the Work Letter, (ii) acknowledges that the Premises are acceptable for Tenant’s use and that neither Landlord nor any broker or agent has made, or shall be deemed to have made, any representations or warranties in connection with the Premises or their fitness for Tenant’s use or compliance with Applicable Laws (as herein defined) and (iii) waives all claims of defect in the Premises and any implied warranty that the Premises are suitable for Tenant’s intended purposes. Tenant hereby acknowledges that the area of the Premises set forth in the Basic Lease Information is approximate only, and Tenant accepts and agrees to be bound by such figure for all purposes in this Lease.

 

  2.2

Use. The Premises shall be used only for the Permitted Use and for no other uses without Landlord’s written consent. Tenant’s use of the Premises shall be in compliance with and subject to all applicable laws, statutes, codes, ordinances, orders, zoning, rules, regulations, conditions of approval and requirements of all federal, state, county, municipal and governmental authorities and administrative or judicial orders or decrees and all permits, licenses, approvals and other entitlements issued by governmental entities, and rules of common law, relating to or affecting the Property, the Premises or the Building or the use or operation thereof, whether now existing or hereafter enacted, including, without limitation ‘the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 USC 12111 et seq. (the “ADA”) as the same may be amended from time to time, all Environmental Laws (as defined in Section 15.1), and any covenants, conditions and restrictions encumbering the Land, Property and/or the Project (“CC&Rs”) or any supplement thereto recorded in any official or public records with respect to the Property and/or the Project or any portion thereof (collectively, “Applicable Laws”). Tenant shall be responsible for obtaining any permit, business license, or other permits or licenses required by any governmental agency permitting Tenant’s use or occupancy of the Premises and for performing, at Tenant’s sole cost, all modifications or additions to the Premises or the Common Areas in order to be in ADA compliance. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Landlord shall have no obligation to bring the Premises or Common Areas into compliance with ADA. If a change to the Common Areas or the Building becomes required under Applicable Law (or if any such requirement is enforced) as a result of any Alterations (herein defined) made to the Premises, the installation of any trade fixture in the Premises, any particular use of the Premises other than the Permitted Use, or any breach of Tenant’s obligations


  under this Lease, then Tenant, upon demand, shall (x) at Landlord’s option, either make such change at Tenant’s cost or pay Landlord the cost of making such change, and (y) pay Landlord a coordination fee equal to five percent (5%) of the cost of such change. In no event shall the Premises be used for any Prohibited Use (as defined in Exhibit C). Tenant shall comply with the rules and regulations attached hereto as Exhibit D, together with such additional rules and regulations as Landlord may from time to time prescribe (“Rules and Regulations”). Landlord shall not be responsible or liable to Tenant for the non-performance of any other tenant or occupant of the Building or Project of the Rules and Regulations or for any interference or disturbance of Tenant by any other tenant or occupant. Tenant shall not commit waste, overload the floors or structure of the Building, subject the Premises, the Building, the Common Area, Property or the Project to any use which would damage the same or increase the risk of loss or violate any insurance coverage, permit any unreasonable odors, smoke, dust, gas, substances, noise or vibrations to emanate from the Premises, take any action which would constitute a nuisance or would disturb, obstruct or endanger any other tenants, take any action which would abrogate any warranties, use or allow the Premises to be used for any unlawful purpose or conduct, or permit to be conducted, any auction upon the Premises.

3. ADJUSTMENT OF COMMENCEMENT DATE; POSSESSION.

 

  3.1

Intentionally Omitted.

 

  3.2

Possession. Landlord shall not be liable for a failure to deliver possession of the

Premises or any other space including as a result of the holdover or unlawful possession of such space by another party, provided, however, Landlord shall use reasonable efforts to obtain possession of any such space. In such event, the Commencement Date for the Premises, or the commencement date for such other space, as applicable, shall be postponed until the date Landlord delivers possession of such space to Tenant free from occupancy by any party. Except as otherwise provided in this Lease, Tenant shall not be permitted to take possession of or enter the Premises prior to the Commencement Date without Landlord’s approval.

 

  3.3

Early Access. Notwithstanding the foregoing but subject to the terms of this Section 3.3, provided that this Lease has been fully executed by all parties and Tenant has delivered all prepaid rental, the Security Deposit and the insurance certificates required hereunder, Tenant, at Tenant’s sole risk, shall be permitted to occupy the Premises solely for purposes of performing the Initial Tenant’s Work mid installing furniture, equipment or other personal property. Such possession prior to the Commencement Date shall be subject to all of the terms and conditions of this Lease, except that Tenant shall not be required to pay Rent with respect to the period of time prior to the Commencement Date during which Tenant occupies the Premises for such purposes. However, Tenant shall be liable for any separately metered utilities and services provided to Tenant during such period as described above.


4. RENT. Tenant shall pay to Landlord the Base Rent, Real Property Taxes (as herein defined) and Operating Expenses (as herein defined), without notice, demand, offset or deduction, in advance, on the first day of each calendar month. All Rent and payments required to be paid by Tenant to Landlord shall be made by Tenant payable to the entity and sent to the address Landlord designates and shall be made by good and sufficient check payable in United States of America currency or by other means acceptable to Landlord or by Electronic Fund Transfer of immediately available federal funds before 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Upon the execution of this Lease, Tenant shall pay to Landlord the third month’s Base Rent (subject to Abated Base Rent), the Security Deposit, and the first monthly installment of estimated Operating Expenses. If the Term commences (or ends) on a date other than the first (or last) day of a month, Base Rent shall be prorated on the basis of a thirty (30) day month. All sums other than Base Rent that Tenant is obligated to pay under this Lease shall be deemed to be additional rent due hereunder (“Additional Rent”), whether or not such sums are designated Additional Rent. The term “Rent” means the Base Rent and all Additional Rent payable hereunder. The obligation of Tenant to pay Base Rent and other sums to Landlord and the obligations of Landlord under this Lease are independent obligations. Tenant shall have no right at any time to abate, reduce, or set-off any rent due hereunder except as may be expressly provided in this Lease. If Tenant is delinquent in any monthly installment of Base Rent or Additional Rent for more than five (5) days, Tenant shall pay to Landlord on demand a late charge equal to ten percent (10%) of such delinquent sum and such delinquent sum shall also bear interest from the date such amount was due until paid in full at the lesser of (i) fifteen percent (15%); or (ii) at the maximum rate permitted by law (“Applicable Interest Rate”). The provision for such late charge shall be in addition to all of Landlord’s other rights and remedies hereunder or at law and shall not be construed as a penalty.

5. SECURITY DEPOSIT. Upon the execution of this Lease, Tenant shall pay to Landlord the Security Deposit. The Security Deposit shall be held by Landlord as security for the full and faithful performance of each provision of this Lease to be performed by Tenant. The Security Deposit is not an advance rental deposit or a measure of Landlord’s damages in the case of an Event of Default by Tenant. If Tenant breaches any provision hereof, Landlord may, at its option, without limiting its remedies and without notice to Tenant, apply all or part of the Security Deposit to cure such breach and compensate Landlord for any loss or damage caused by such breach, including any damage for which recovery may be made under California Civil Code § 1951.2. Tenant shall pay Landlord on demand the amount that will restore the Security Deposit to its original amount. No interest shall accrue on the Security Deposit and Landlord is not required to keep the Security Deposit separate from Landlord’s own funds. The Security Deposit shall be the property of Landlord, but shall be paid to Tenant within a reasonable period of time after Tenant’s obligations under this Lease have been completely fulfilled. Landlord shall be released from any obligation with respect to the Security Deposit upon transfer of this Lease and the Premises to a person or entity assuming Landlord’s obligations under this Section.

6. UTILITIES.

 

  6.1

Utilities. Tenant shall pay all charges for heat, water, gas, electricity, telephone, internet and any other utilities and services used on or provided to the Premises, along with any taxes, penalties, and surcharges related thereto and any maintenance and facility charges in connection with the provision of such utilities. In the event the Premises is not separately metered, Tenant shall have the option, subject to Landlord’s prior written consent and the terms of this Lease, to cause the Premises to be separately metered at Tenant’s cost and expense. If Tenant does not elect to cause the Premises to be separately metered, Tenant shall pay a reasonable proration of utilities, as determined by Landlord.


  6.2

Interruption of Utilities. Landlord shall have no liability to Tenant for any interruption in utilities or services to be provided to the Premises when such failure is caused by all or any of the following: (a) accident, casualty, breakage or repairs; (b) strikes, lockouts or other labor disturbances or labor disputes of any such character; (c) governmental regulation, moratorium or other governmental action; (d) inability, despite the exercise of reasonable diligence, to obtain electricity, water or fuel; (e) service interruptions or any other unavailability of utilities resulting from causes beyond Landlord’s control including without limitation, any electrical power “brown-out” or “black-out”; (f) act or default by Tenant or other party; or (g) any other cause beyond Landlord’s reasonable control. In addition, in the event of any such interruption in utilities or services, Tenant shall not be entitled to any abatement or reduction of Rent (except as expressly provided in Section 16 and Section 17 if such failure is a result of any casualty damage or Taking described therein), no eviction of Tenant shall result, and Tenant, shall not be relieved from the performance of any covenant or agreement in this Lease. In the event of any stoppage or interruption of services or utilities which are not obtained directly by Tenant, Landlord shall diligently attempt to resume such services or utilities as promptly as practicable. Tenant hereby waives the provisions of any applicable existing or future law, ordinance or governmental regulation concerning constructive eviction or permitting the termination of this Lease due to an interruption, failure or inability to provide any services.

7. TAXES. Tenant shall pay to Landlord Tenant’s Share of all Real Property Taxes (as herein denied) for each full or partial calendar year during the Term in accordance with the terms and provisions of Section 8 and Section 9 below. “Real Property Taxes” shall mean (a) all taxes, assessments, supplementary taxes, possessory interest taxes, levies, fees, exactions or charges and other governmental charges, together with any interest, charges, fees and penalties in connection therewith, which are assessed, levied, charged, conferred or imposed by any public authority upon the Land, the Building, the Property, the Project or any other improvements, fixtures, equipment or other property located at or on the Land, the Building, the Property, or the Project, all capital levies, franchise taxes, any excise, use, margin, transaction, sales or privilege taxes, assessments, levies or charges and other taxes assessed or imposed on Landlord upon the rents payable to Landlord under this Lease (excluding net income taxes imposed on Landlord unless such net income taxes are in substitution for any Real Property Taxes payable hereunder), including but not limited to, gross receipts taxes, assessments for special improvement districts and building improvement districts, governmental charges, fees and assessments for police, fire, traffic mitigation or other governmental service of purported benefit to the Land, Building, Property, Project or Premises, taxes and assessments levied in substitution or supplementation in whole or in part of any such taxes and assessments and the share of the Land, Building, Property, Project and Premises of any real estate taxes and assessments under any reciprocal easement agreement, common area agreement or similar agreement as to the Land, Building, Property, Project or Premises; (b) all personal property taxes for property that is owned by the landlord and used in connection with the operation, maintenance and repair of the Land, Building,


Project or Premises; and (c) all costs and fees incurred in connection with seeking reductions in any tax liabilities described in (a) and (b), including, without limitation, any costs incurred by the landlord for compliance, review and appeal of tax liabilities. Prior to delinquency, Tenant shall pay all taxes and assessments, together with any interest, charges, fees and penalties in connection therewith, levied upon trade fixtures, alterations, additions, improvements, inventories, equipment and other personal property located and/or installed on the Premises by Tenant; and, upon request, Tenant shall provide Landlord copies of receipts for payment of all such taxes and assessments. To the extent any such taxes are not separately assessed or billed to Tenant, Tenant shall pay the amount thereof as invoiced by Landlord. Landlord may, but is not obligated to, contest by appropriate legal proceedings the amount, validity, or application of any Real Property Taxes or liens thereof.

8. OPERATING EXPENSES.

 

  8.1

Operating Expenses. Tenant shall pay to Landlord Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses for each full or partial calendar year during the Term, as provided in Section 9 below. It is intended that this Lease be a “triple net lease,” and that the Rent to be paid hereunder by Tenant will be received by Landlord without any deduction or offset whatsoever by Tenant, foreseeable or unforeseeable, except as expressly set forth in this Lease. Except as expressly provided to the contrary in this Lease, Landlord shall not be required to make any expenditure, incur any obligation, or incur any liability of any kind whatsoever in connection with this Lease or the ownership, construction, maintenance, operation or repair of the Premises, Property or the Project. To the extent the Building shares certain items or services with other buildings, Landlord shall reasonably allocate items or services between such buildings and/or users.

 

  8.2

Definition of Operating Expenses.Operating Expenses” means the total costs and expenses incurred by Landlord in the ownership, operation, maintenance, repair, replacement and management of the Building, the Land, the Building Common Area, the Project and/or the Project Common Area, including, but not limited to: (1) repair, replacement, maintenance, utility costs and landscaping of the Building Common Area and Project Common Area, including, but not limited to, any and all costs of maintenance, repair and replacement of all parking areas (including bumpers, sweeping, striping and slurry coating), common driveways, loading and unloading areas, trash areas, outdoor lighting, sidewalks, walkways, landscaping (including tree trimming), irrigation systems, fences and gates and other costs which are allocable to the Building, the Building Common Area, the Land, the Project and/or the Project Common Area; (2) non-structural maintenance and repair of the roof (and roof membrane), skylights and exterior walls of the Premises (including exterior painting); (3) the costs relating to the insurance maintained by Landlord as described in Section 11.1 below, including, without limitation, Landlord’s cost of any deductible or self-insurance retention; (4) costs under maintenance contracts for, and the repair and replacement of, the elevators, if any, and all heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, but only to the extent maintained by Landlord or to the extent used in common with other occupants of the Building or Project or otherwise serving any Common Area; (5) maintenance, repair, replacement, monitoring and operation costs of all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, but only to the extent maintained


  by Landlord or to the extent used in common with other occupants of the Building or Project or otherwise serving any Common Area; (6) maintenance, repair, replacement, monitoring and option costs of the fire/life safety and sprinkler system (to the extent Landlord is obligated to do so pursuant to Section 12.2); (7) trash collection and snow removal costs; (8) costs of capital improvements or capital replacements (excluding the roof structure) made to or capital assets acquired for the Building, the Project, or the Land after the Commencement Date that are intended to reduce Operating Expenses or are reasonably necessary for the health and safety of the occupants of the Building or the Project or are required under any governmental law or regulation, which capital costs, or an allocable portion thereof, shall be amortized over the period determined by Landlord, together with interest on the unamortized balance at ten percent (10%); (9) commercially reasonable reserves set aside for maintenance and repair; (10) any other costs incurred by Landlord related to the Building, the Land and/or the Project including, but not limited to, paving, parking areas, roads, driveways, alleys, mowing, landscape, heating and ventilation; (11) assessments, association fees and all other costs assessed or charged under the CC&Rs, if any, that are attributable to the Land, the Building and/or the Project in connection with any property owners or maintenance association or operator; and (12) a management fee, not to exceed 5% of gross receipts from leases at the Building and/or the Project, for the management of this Lease, the Premises, the Building, the Land and/or the Project including the cost of those services which are customarily performed by a property management services company, whether performed by Landlord or by an affiliate of Landlord or through an outside management company or any combination of the foregoing. Operating Expenses shall not include (i) replacement of or structural repairs to the roof structure or the exterior walls; (ii) repairs to the extent covered by insurance proceeds that are actually received by Landlord, or paid by Tenant or other third parties; (iii) alterations solely attributable to tenants of the Project other than Tenant; (iv) marketing expenses; and (v) any cost or expense associated with compliance with any laws, ordinances, rules or regulations regarding any condition existing in the Building or on the Land or in the Project if such condition existed prior to the Commencement Date.

 

  8.3

Gross Up. If the Project is less than ninety-five percent (95%) occupied during any calendar year, the variable components of Operating Expenses as determined by Landlord shall be calculated as if the Project had been 95% occupied for the full calendar year. Any Operating Expenses or Real Property Taxes that are specifically attributable to the Building or to any other building in the Project or to the operation, repair and maintenance thereof, may be allocated entirely to the Building or to such other building. However, any Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes that are not specifically attributable to the Building or to any other building or to the operation, repair and maintenance thereof, may be equitably allocated by Landlord to all buildings in the Project.


9. ESTIMATED EXPENSES.

 

  9.1

Payment.Estimated Expenses” for any particular year shall mean Landlord’s estimate of Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes for a calendar year. Tenant shall pay Tenant’s Share of the Estimated Expenses with installments of Base Rent in monthly installments of one-twelfth (1/12th) thereof on the first day of each calendar month during such year. If at any time Landlord determines that Operating Expenses and/or Real Property Taxes are projected to vary from the then Estimated Expenses, Landlord may, by notice to Tenant, revise such Estimated Expenses, and Tenant’s monthly installments for the remainder of such year shall be adjusted so that by the end of such calendar year Tenant has paid to Landlord Tenant’s Share of the revised Estimated Expenses for such year.

 

  9.2

Adjustment.Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes Adjustment” (or “Adjustment”) shall mean the difference between Tenant’s Share of Estimated Expenses, on the one hand, and Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes, collectively, on the other hand, for any calendar year. Promptly after the end of each calendar year, Landlord shall deliver to Tenant a statement of Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes for such calendar year, accompanied by a computation of the Adjustment. If Tenant’s payments for Operating Expenses are less than Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses, of if Tenant’s payments of Real Property Taxes are less than Tenant’s Share of Real Property Taxes, then Tenant shall pay the difference within twenty (20) days after receipt of such statement. Tenant’s obligation to pay such amount shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease. If Tenant’s payments for Operating Expenses exceed Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses, or if Tenant’s payments for Real Property Taxes exceed Tenant’s Share of Real Property Taxes, then so long as an Event of Default by Tenant has not occurred Landlord shall credit such excess amount to future installments of Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses and/or Real Property Taxes, as the case may be, for the next calendar year (or pay to Tenant such excess in the event the Term has expired). If an Event of Default by Tenant occurs, Landlord may, but shall not be required to, credit such amount to Rent arrearages.

10. INDEMNITY AND WAIVER OF CLAIMS.

 

  10.1

Indemnity. Tenant shall indemnify, protect, defend (by counsel acceptable to Landlord) and hold harmless Landlord and Landlord’s affiliated entities, and each of their respective trustees, members, managers, principals, beneficiaries, partners, directors, officers, employees, shareholders, Mortgagees, agents, contractors, successors and assigns (individually and collectively, “Indemnitees”) from and against any and all claims, judgments, causes of action, damages, obligations, penalties, fines, taxes, costs, liens, liabilities, losses, charges and expenses, including without limitation all attorneys’ fees and other professional fees (collectively referred to as “Losses”) which may be imposed upon, incurred by or asserted against Landlord or any of the Indemnitees at any time during or after the Term by any third party and arising out of or in connection with (1) any Event of Default in the performance of any obligation on Tenant’s part to be performed under the terms of this Lease, or (2) any damages or injury occurring in the Premises, Tenant’s use of the Premises, any acts or omissions (including violations of Applicable Laws) of Tenant or any Tenant Party, the conduct of Tenant’s business, or any activity, work or things done, permitted or suffered by


  Tenant or any Tenant Party in or about the Premises, the Building, the Common Area, the Property or other portions of the Project, except to the extent caused by Landlord’s gross negligence or willful misconduct. Landlord reserves the right to retain counsel for its defense, in which case Tenant shall be responsible for the costs of such defense. The obligations of Tenant under this Section 10 shall survive the termination of this Lease with respect to any claims or liability arising prior to such termination.

 

  10.2

Waiver of Claims. Tenant, as a material part of the consideration to Landlord, hereby assumes all risk of illness or injury to persons in, upon or about the Premises, the Building, the Land, the Common Area or other portions of the Property or Project arising from any cause and all risk of damage to property including, but not limited to, Tenant’s Property and all Alterations in, upon or about the Premises, the Building, the Land, the Common Area or other portions of the Property arising from any cause and Tenant hereby expressly releases Landlord and the Indemnities and waives all claims in respect thereof against Landlord and the Indemnities provided, however, subject to Section 11.3.5, the foregoing release and waiver shall not apply to the extent such claims are caused by Landlord’s gross negligence or willful misconduct. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Landlord shall not be liable for any damages arising from any act or neglect of any contractor or other tenant, if any of the Building or the Project or Landlord’s failure to enforce the terms of any agreements with parties other than Tenant.

11. INSURANCE.

 

  11.1

Landlord. Landlord shall maintain insurance through individual or blanket policies insuring the Building against fire and extended coverage (including, if Landlord elects, “all risk” or “special cause of loss form” coverage, earthquake/volcanic action, flood and/or surface water insurance) for the full replacement cost of the Building, with deductibles in the form and endorsements of such coverage as selected by Landlord, together with business interruption insurance against loss of Rent in an amount equal to the amount of Rent for a period of at least twelve (12) months commencing on the date of loss. Landlord may also carry such other insurance as Landlord may deem prudent or advisable, including, without limitation, liability insurance in such amounts and on such terms as Landlord shall determine. Tenant shall pay to Landlord, as a portion of the Operating Expenses, the costs of the insurance coverages described herein, including, without limitation, Landlord’s cost of any self-insurance deductible or retention.

 

  11.2

Tenant. Tenant shall, at Tenant’s expense, obtain and keep in force at all times the following insurance (and any other commercially reasonable form(s) of insurance Landlord may reasonably require from time to time) in the following coverage amounts, which coverage amounts Landlord may reasonably increase from time to time upon reasonable advance written notice to Tenant in the event Tenant’s operations change or Landlord otherwise reasonably determines that such coverage amounts are inadequate under the circumstances:


  11.2.1

Commercial General Liability Insurance (Occurrence Form). A policy of commercial general liability insurance (“CGL Policy”) (occurrence form) having a combined single limit of not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) per occurrence and Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000.00) aggregate per location (if Tenant has multiple locations) (and not more than Twenty-Five Thousand Dollars ($25,000.00) self-insured retention/deductible), providing coverage for defense costs outside of the policy limits and including coverage for, among other things, bodily injury, personal injury, property damages arising out of Tenant’s operating and contractual liabilities, including coverage formerly known as broad form, blanket contractual liability for both oral and written contracts, premises and operations, products/completed operations, owners and contractors protective, personal and advertising injury, and with an “Additional Insured-Managers or Lessors of Premises Endorsement” and containing the “Amendment of the Pollution Exclusion Endorsement” for damage caused by heat, smoke or fumes from a hostile fire. The CGL Policy shall delete the exclusion for operations within fifty (50) feet of a railroad track (railroad protective liability), if applicable, and if applicable, and, if necessary, Tenant shall provide for restoration of the aggregate limit. The CGL Policy shall not contain any intra-insured exclusions as between insured persons or organizations, but shall include coverage for liability assumed under this Lease as an “insured contract” for the performance of Tenant’s indemnity obligations under this Lease;

 

  11.2.2

Automobile Liability Insurance. Business automobile liability insurance having a combined single limit of not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) per occurrence and insuring Tenant against liability for claims arising out of ownership, maintenance, or use of any owned, hired or non-owned automobiles;

 

  11.2.3

Workers’ Compensation and Employer’s Liability Insurance. Workers’ compensation insurance having limits not less than those required by applicable state and federal statute, and covering all persons employed by Tenant, including volunteers, in the conduct of its operations on the Premises, together with employer’s liability insurance coverage in the amount of at least One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) each accident for bodily injury by accident; One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) each employee for bodily injury by disease; and One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) policy limit for bodily injury by disease;

 

  11.2.4

Property Insurance. “All risk” or “special cause of loss form” property insurance including coverage for vandalism, malicious mischief, sprinkler leakage and, if applicable, boiler and machinery comprehensive form, insuring (1) Tenant’s fixtures, furniture, equipment (including electronic data processing equipment, if applicable), merchandise, inventory, and all other personal property and other contents contained within the Premises


  (collectively “Tenant’s Property”) and (2) the Alterations (as hereinafter defined) in an amount equal to the then applicable full replacement cost thereof. Landlord shall be designated as a loss payee with respect to Tenant’s property insurance on any Alterations. The foregoing property insurance shall include warehouser’s legal liability or bailee customers insurance for the full replacement cost of the property belonging to invitees and located in the Premises, if the property of Tenant’s invitees is to be kept in the Premises;

 

  11.2.5

Business Interruption. Loss of income and extra expense insurance in amounts as will reimburse Tenant for direct or indirect loss of earnings for a period of not less than twelve (12) months, attributable to all perils included in the “all risk” or “special cause of loss form” property insurance policy required in Section 11.2.4 above or attributable to prevention of access to the Premises as a result of such perils; and

 

  11.2.6

Environmental Insurance. If require by Landlord because of special environmental concerns regarding Tenant’s operations, Pollution Legal Liability Insurance and/or Environmental Impairment Insurance covering claims for damage or injury caused by hazardous materials, including, without limitation, bodily injury, wrongful death, property damage, including loss of use, removal, cleanup and restoration or work and material necessary to return the Premises and any other property of whatever nature located on the Premises to their condition existing prior to the appearance of Tenant’s hazardous materials on the Premises. If such coverage is required, Landlord shall determine limits of liability.

 

  11.2.7

Umbrella/Excess Insurance. An umbrella policy or excess liability policy having a limit of not less than Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000.00), which policy shall be in “following form” and shall provide that if the underlying aggregate is exhausted, the excess coverage will drop down as primary insurance. Such umbrella liability policy or excess liability policy shall include coverage for additional insureds.

 

  11.3

General.

 

  11.3.1

Insurance Companies. Insurance required to be maintained by Tenant shall be written by companies licensed to do business in the state in which the Premises are located and having a “Financial Strength Rating” of at least “A-VIII” (or such higher rating as may be required by a Mortgagee [as herein defined] having a lien on the Premises) as determined by A.M. Best Company.


  11.3.2

Certificates of Insurance. Tenant shall deliver to Landlord certificates of insurance for all insurance required to be maintained by Tenant in the form of ACORD 28 (Evidence of Commercial Property Insurance) and ACORD 25-S (Certificate of Liability Insurance) (or in a form acceptable to Landlord in its reasonable discretion), no later than seven (7) days after the Effective Date of this Lease (but in any even prior to any entry onto the Premises by Tenant or any employee, agent or contractor of Tenant). Upon request, Tenant shall also provide to Landlord a true, correct and complete copy of the actual insurance policy for all insurance required to be maintained by Tenant hereof. Tenant shall, at least ten (10) days prior to expiration of any required coverage, furnish Landlord with certificates of insurance does not constitute approval or agreement by Landlord that the insurance requirements in Section 11.2 have been met, and failure of Landlord to demand such evidence of full compliance with these insurance requirements or failure of Landlord to identify a deficiency from evidence provided will not be construed as a waiver of Tenant’s obligation to maintain such insurance. If tenant fails to maintain any insurance required in this Lease, Tenant shall be liable for all losses and costs suffered or incurred by Landlord (including litigation costs and attorneys’ fees and expenses) resulting from said failure. If Tenant fails to deliver any certificate or renewal to Landlord required under this Lease within the prescribed time period or in any such policy is canceled or modified during the Term without Landlord’s prior written consent, Landlord may obtain such insurance for the exclusive benefit of Landlord, in which case Tenant shall reimburse Landlord for the cost of such insurance within 15 days after receipt of a statement that indicated the cost of such insurance.

 

  11.3.3

Additional Insureds; Primary Coverage. Landlord, Landlord’s Mortgagee, if any, any property management company of Landlord for the Premises, and any other party designated by Landlord shall be named as additional insureds (“Additional Insureds”) under Insurance Services Office (“ISO”) endorsement CG 201011 85 under all of the policies required by Sections 11.2.1, 11.2.2, 11.2.6 and 11.2.7, and such endorsement shall be included with the certificates to be provided to Landlord pursuant to Section 11.3.2 above. The policies carried or required to be carried by Tenant pursuant to Sections 11.2.1, 11.2.2, 11.2.6 and 11.2.7 shall provide for severability of interest and shall be primary as respects the Additional Insureds, and any insurance maintained by the Additional Insureds shall be excess and non-contributing. Landlord is to be insured as its interests may appear and is to be designated as a loss payee on the insurance required to be maintained by Tenant pursuant to Sanction 11.2.4.

 

  11.3.4

Limits of Insurance. The limits and types of insurance maintained by Tenant shall not limit Tenant’s liability under this Lease, except as expressly provided in Section 11.3.5 below.


  11.3.5

Mutual Waiver of Subrogation. Each party waives, and shall cause its insurance carrier to waive any right of recovery against the other for any loss of or damage to property which loss or damage is (or, if the insurance required hereunder had been carried, would have been) covered by insurance. For purposes of this Section 11.3.5, any deductible with respect to a party’s insurance shall be deemed covered by, and recoverable by such party under, valid and collectable policies of insurance.

 

  11.3.6

Notification of Incidents. Tenant shall notify Landlord within twenty-four (24) hours after the occurrence of any accidents or incidents in the Premises, the Building, Common Areas, Property or the Project which could give rise to a claim under any of the insurance policies required under this Section 11.

12. REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE.

 

  12.1

Tenant Obligations. Except as otherwise expressly provided in Section 12.2, Tenant, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, shall keep and maintain the interior and exterior of the Premises in good, clean and safe order, condition and repair, including replacement (as necessary), including, without limitation, the following: loading docks, roll up doors and ramps; floors, subfloors and floor coverings; walls and wall coverings (excluding painting of exterior walls); doors, locks and other locking devices, windows, glass and plate glass; ceilings, skylights, and lighting systems; all plumbing, electrical and mechanical equipment and systems inside or exclusively serving the Premises; all heating, ventilating and air conditioning equipment and systems inside or exclusively serving the Premises (subject to Landlord’s rights described below); and wiring, appliances and devices using or containing refrigerants, or otherwise attached to or part of Tenant’s trade-fixtures and/or equipment. Tenant shall enter into a regularly scheduled preventive maintenance/service contract (“Service Contract”) with a maintenance contractor reasonably acceptable to Landlord for servicing all heating ventilation, and air conditioning systems and equipment inside or exclusively serving the Premises (collectively, the “HVAC System”). Tenant shall deliver full and complete copies of the Service Contract (and any other service contracts entered into by Tenant) to Landlord within one hundred twenty (120) days after the Commencement Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Landlord may elect to maintain the Service Contract respecting the HVAC System, in which case Tenant shall reimburse Landlord within thirty (30) days after Landlord’s demand for the cost of the Service Contract and shall promptly undertake and complete the repairs and/or replacements recommended by such maintenance contractor during the Term of this Lease. All repairs and replacements by Tenant shall be made and performed: (1) at Tenant’s cost and expense and at such time and in such manner as Landlord may designate, (2) by certified contractors or mechanics reasonably approved by Landlord, (3) so that same shall be at least equal in quality, value and utility to the original work or installation, (4) in a manner and using equipment and materials that will not interfere with or impair the operations, use or occupation of the Building or any of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing or other systems in the Building, Property or the Project, and (5) in accordance with the Rules and Regulations and all Applicable Laws. In the event Tenant fails, in the reasonable judgment of Landlord, to maintain the Premises in accordance with the obligations under this Lease, which failure continues at the end of


  fifteen (15) days following Tenant’s receipt of written notice from Landlord stating the nature of the failure, or in the case of an emergency immediately without prior notice, Landlord shall have the right to enter the Premises and perform such maintenance, repairs or refurbishing at Tenant’s sole cost and expense (including a sum for overhead to Landlord equal to ten percent (10%) of the costs of maintenance, repairs or refurbishing). Tenant shall maintain written records of maintenance and repair, as required by any Applicable Law.

 

  12.2

Landlord Obligations. Landlord shall repair damage to structural portions of the roof, foundation and load-bearing portions of walls (excluding wall coverings, painting, glass and doors) of the Building; provided, (a) if such damage is caused by an act or omission of Tenant, or any Tenant Party, then such repairs shall be at Tenant’s sole expense and (b) Landlord shall not be required to make any repair resulting from (1) any alteration or modification to the Building or to mechanical equipment within the Building performed by, for or because of Tenant or to special equipment or systems installed by, for or because of Tenant, (2) the installation, moving, use or operation of Tenant’s Property, (3) Tenant’s use or occupancy of the Premises in violation of Section 15 of this Lease, (4) fire and other casualty, except as provided by Section 16 of this Lease, or (5) condemnation, except as provided in Section 17 of this Lease. There shall be no abatement of Rent during the performance of such work. Landlord shall not be liable to Tenant for injury or damage that may result from any defect in the construction or condition of the Premises, nor for any damage that may result from interruption of Tenant’s use of the Premises during any repairs by Landlord. Tenant waives any right to repair the Premises, the Building, the Project and/or the Common Area at the expense of Landlord under any Applicable Laws.

13. ALTERATIONS.

 

  13.1

Trade Fixtures; Alterations. Subject to limitations set forth in this Lease, Tenant may install necessary trade fixtures, equipment and furniture in the Premises, provided that all alterations are done in compliance with Exhibit F and such items are installed and are removable without structural or material damage to the Premises, or the Building. Tenant shall not construct, nor allow to be constructed, any alterations or physical additions in, about or to the Premises without obtaining the prior written consent of Landlord, which consent shall be conditioned upon Tenant’s compliance with the provisions of Exhibit F and any other applicable requirements of Landlord regarding construction of improvements and alterations. If Landlord does not respond to a written request from Tenant made in accordance with Exhibit F within ten (10) business days, then Landlord shall be deemed to disapprove such request. If requested by Landlord, Tenant shall file a notice of completion after completion of such work and provide Landlord with a copy thereof.

 

  13.2

Damage; Removal. Upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, Tenant shall remove any or all trade fixtures, alterations, additions, improvements and partitions (“Alteration(s)”) made or installed by or for the benefit of Tenant and repair all damage caused by the installation or removal thereof; provided, however, Landlord


  may require Tenant to have all or any portion of such items designated by Landlord to remain at the Premises, in which event they shall be and become the property of Landlord upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease. All such removals and restoration shall be accomplished in a good and workmanlike manner and so as not to cause any damage to the Premises, the Building, the Common Area, the Property or the Project whatsoever.

 

  13.3

Liens. Tenant shall promptly pay a charge all claims for labor performed, supplies furnished and services rendered at the request of Tenant and shall keep the Premises free of all mechanics’ and materialmen’s liens in connection therewith. Tenant shall provide at least ten (10) days prior written notice to Landlord before any labor is performed, supplies furnished or services rendered on or at the Premises and Landlord shall have the right to post on the Premises notices of non-responsibility. Tenant shall remove any such lien within ten (10) business days after notice from Landlord, and if Tenant fails to do so, an Event of Default by Tenant shall have occurred, and in addition, Landlord, without limiting its remedies, may bond, insure over or otherwise pay the amount necessary to cause such removal, whether or not such lien is valid. The amount so paid, together with reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses, shall be reimbursed by Tenant upon demand.

14. LANDLORD’S RIGHTS. Landlord reserves the right to enter the Premises upon reasonable notice to Tenant (or without notice in case of an emergency) and/or to undertake the following all without abatement of rent or liability to Tenant: inspect the Premises and/or the performance by Tenant of the terms and conditions hereof; make such alterations, repairs, improvements or additions to the Premises as required or permitted hereunder; change boundary lines of the Land so long as such change does not materially and adversely impact Tenant’s use of the parking area and/or access to the Premises; install, use, maintain, repair, alter, relocate or replace any pipes, ducts, conduits, wires, equipment and other facilities in the Common Area or the Building; install, maintain and operate conduit cabling within the utility and/or conduit ducts and risers within the Building, as well as grant lease, license or use rights to third parties, to utilize the foregoing easements or licenses on the Land, the Property and/or the Project; grant easements, rights of way, utility raceways and make dedications; dedicate for public use portions of the Land, the Property and/or the Project; and record parcel maps, restrictions, covenants, conditions and restrictions affecting the Land, the Property and/or the Project and/or amendments to existing CC&Rs which do not unreasonably interfere with Tenant’s use of the Premises or impose additional material monetary obligations on Tenant; change the name of the Building, the Property and/or the Project; affix reasonable signs and displays on the Building and/or the Land (including rental signs); and, show the Premises to prospective purchasers, current or prospective investors, Mortgagees, ground lessees or insurers, or, during the last twelve (12) months of the Term (or while an uncured Event of Default exists), prospective tenants. If reasonably necessary, Landlord may temporarily close all or a portion of the Premises to perform repairs, alterations and additions. However, except in emergencies, Landlord will not close the Premises if the work can reasonably be completed on weekends and after normal business hours. Entry by Landlord shall not constitute a constructive eviction or entitle Tenant to an abatement or reduction of Rent.


15. ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS.

 

  15.1

Hazardous Materials. Tenant shall not cause nor permit, nor allow any of Tenant’s or Tenant’s affiliates’ employees, agents, customers, visitors, invitees, licensees, contractors, assignees or subtenants (individually, a “Tenant Party” and collectively, “Tenant’s Parties”) to cause or permit, any Hazardous Materials (as defined herein) to be brought upon, stored, manufactured, generated, blended, handled, recycled, treated, disposed or used on, under or about the Premises, the Building, the Common Area, Property or the Project, except for routine office and janitorial supplies in usual and customary quantities stored, used and disposed of in accordance with all applicable Environmental Laws. Tenant shall not install, operate or maintain any above or below grade tank, sump, pit, pond, lagoon or other storage or treatment vessel or device on the Property without Landlord’s prior written consent which may be withheld in Landlord’s sole discretion. As used herein, the term “Environmental Laws” means all applicable present and future statutes, regulations, ordinances, rules, codes, judgments, orders or other similar enactments of any governmental authority or agency regulating or relating to health, safety, or environmental conditions on, under, or about the Premises or the environment, including without limitation, the following: the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act; the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act; and all state and local counterparts thereto, and any regulations or the term “Hazardous Materials” means and pollutant, or contaminant listed or defined as Environmental Laws, asbestos and petroleum, including crude oil or any fraction thereof, natural gas liquids, liquefied natural gas, or synthetic gas usable for fuel (or mixtures of natural gas and such synthetic gas) and explosives, flammables, or radioactive substances of any kind. As defined in Environmental Laws, Tenant is and shall be deemed to be the “operator” of Tenant’s “facility” and the “owner” of all Hazardous Materials brought on the Premises by Tenant, its agents, employees, contractors or invitees, and the wastes, by-products, or residues generated, resulting, or produced therefrom. Tenant and Tenant’s Parties shall comply with all Environmental Laws and promptly notify Landlord in writing of the violation of any Environmental Law or presence of any Hazardous Materials, other than office and janitorial supplies as permitted above, in, on, under or about the Premises or the improvements or the soil or groundwater thereunder. Tenant shall neither create or suffer to exist, nor permit any Tenant Party to create or suffer to exist any lien, security interest or other charge or encumbrance of any kind with respect to the Property, including without limitation, any lien imposed pursuant to Section 107(f) of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (42 U.S.C. Section 9607(1)) or any similar state statute. Landlord shall have the right to enter upon and inspect the Premises and to conduct tests, monitoring and investigations. If such tests indicate the presence of any environmental condition caused or exacerbated by Tenant or any Tenant Party or arising during Tenant’s or any Tenant Party’s occupancy, Tenant shall reimburse Landlord for the cost of conducting such tests. The phrase “environmental condition” shall mean any adverse condition relating to any Hazardous Materials or the environment, including surface water, groundwater, drinking water supply, land, surface or subsurface strata or the ambient air and includes air, land and water pollutants, noise, vibration, light and odors. In the event of any such environmental condition, Tenant shall promptly notify both the property manager and


  the Landlord and shall promptly take any and all steps necessary to rectify the same to the satisfaction of the applicable agencies and Landlord, or shall, at Landlord’s election, reimburse Landlord, upon demand, for the cost to Landlord of performing work. The reimbursement shall be paid to Landlord in advance of Landlord’s performing such work, based upon Landlord’s reasonable estimate of the cost thereof; and upon completion of such work by Landlord, Tenant shall pay to Landlord any shortfall promptly after receipt of Landlord’s bills therefor or Landlord shall promptly refund to Tenant any excess deposit, as the case may be.

 

  15.2

Indemnification. Tenant shall indemnify, protect, defend (by counsel acceptable to Landlord) and hold harmless the Indemnitees from and against any and all Losses of or in connection with (1) Tenant and/or any Tenant Party’s breach of this Section 15, or (2) the presence of Hazardous Materials on, under or about the Premises or other property as a result (directly or indirectly) of Tenant’s and/or any Tenant Party’s activities, or failure to act, in connection with the Premises. Landlord reserves the right to retain counsel for its defense, in which case Tenant shall be responsible for the cost of such defense. This indemnity shall include, without limitation, any Losses arising from or in connection with (i) the effects of any contamination or injury to person, property or the environment created or suffered by Tenant, (ii) the cost of any required or necessary repair, cleanup or detoxification, and the preparations and implementation of any closure, monitoring or other required plans, whether such action is required or necessary prior to or following the termination of this Lease, interest, penalties, profits, consequential damages, the cost of demolition or rebuilding any improvements on real property, interest, penalties and damages arising from claims brought by or on behalf of employees of Tenant (with respect to which Tenant waives any right to raise as a defense against Landlord any immunity to which it may be entitled under any industrial or worker’s compensation laws), (iv) fees, costs or expenses incurred for the services of attorneys, consultants, contractors, experts, laboratories, and all other costs incurred in connection with the investigation or remediation of such Hazardous Materials or violation of such Environmental Laws, and (v) diminution in the fair market value of the Property including without limitation any reduction in fair market rental value or life expectancy of the Property or improvements located thereon or the restriction on the use of or adverse impact on the marketing of the Property or any portion thereof. Neither the written consent by Landlord to the presence of Hazardous Materials on, under or about the Premises, nor the strict compliance by Tenant with all Environmental Laws, shall excuse Tenant from Tenant’s obligation of indemnification pursuant hereto. Tenant’s obligations pursuant to the foregoing indemnity shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease. Neither the written consent by Landlord to the presence of Hazardous Materials on, under or about the Premises, nor the strict compliance by Tenant with all Environmental Laws, shall excuse Tenant from Tenant’s obligation of indemnification pursuant hereto. Tenant’s obligations pursuant to the foregoing indemnity shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease.


  15.3

Environmental Questionnaire Disclosure. Prior to the execution of this Lease, Tenant shall complete, execute, and deliver to Landlord a Hazardous Materials Survey Form in the form of Exhibit G attached hereto (“Survey Form”), and Tenant shall certify to Landlord that all information contained in the Survey Form is true and correct. The completed Survey Form shall be deemed incorporated into this Lease for all purposes, and Landlord shall be entitled to rely on the information contained therein. Within ten (10) days following receipt by Tenant of a written request therefore from Landlord (which request shall not be made more often than annually), Tenant shall disclose to Landlord in writing the names and amounts of all Hazardous Materials, or any combination thereof, which were stored, generated, used or disposed of on, under or about the Premises for the twelve (12) month period prior to and after each such request, or which Tenant intends to store, generate, use or dispose of on, under or about the Premises. At Landlord’s option, Tenant’s disclosure obligation under this Subparagraph shall include the requirement that Tenant update, execute and deliver to Landlord the Survey Form, as the same may be modified by Landlord from time to time.

 

  15.4

Surrender. In the 90 days prior to the expiration or termination of the Lease, and for up to 90 days after the late to occur of: (i) Tenant’s full surrender to Landlord of exclusive possession of the Property; and (ii) the termination of this Lease, Landlord may have an environmental assessment of the Property performed. Tenant shall perform, at its sole cost and expense, any clean-up or remedial work recommended by the consultant performing such assessment which is necessary to remove, mitigate or remediate any Hazardous Materials and/or contamination of the Property caused by the acts or omissions of Tenant or any Tenant Parties. Tenant’s obligations under this Section 15.4 shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease.

16. DAMAGE AND DESTRUCTION. If at any time during the Term all or a portion of the Premises are damaged by a fire or other casualty, Landlord shall notify Tenant within sixty (60) days after Landlord becomes aware of such damage as to the amount of time Landlord reasonably estimates it will take to restore the Premises. If the restoration time is estimated to exceed nine (9) months from the issuance of all permits, subject to extensions for Force Majeure, Landlord may elect to terminate this Lease and if such restoration period is greater than twelve (12) months from the issuance of all permits, then Tenant may, as its sole remedy, terminate this Lease on or before thirty (30) days after receipt of Landlord’s notice describing the estimated restoration time that is greater than twelve (12) months. In addition, Landlord, by notice to Tenant within ninety (90) days after the date of the fire or other casualty shall have the right to terminate this lease if: (1) any Mortgagee requires that the insurance proceeds be applied to the payment of the mortgage debt or ground lease, or (2) a material uninsured loss to the Building or Premises occurs. If neither party either elects to terminate this Lease as provided above or if neither party has the right to terminate this Lease as provided above, then, subject to receipt of sufficient insurance proceeds, Landlord shall promptly commence to restore the Premises, subject to delays arising from the collection of insurance proceeds or from Force Majeure events. Such restoration shall be to substantially the same condition that existed prior to the fire or other casualty, except for modifications required by Applicable Laws. Upon notice from Landlord, Tenant shall assign or endorse over to Landlord (or to any party designated by Landlord) all property insurance proceeds payable to Tenant under Tenant insurance with respect to any Alterations, provided if the estimated cost to repair such Alterations exceeds the amount of insurance proceeds received by Landlord from Tenant’s insurance carrier, the excess cost of such repairs shall be paid by Tenant to Landlord prior to Landlord’s commencement of repairs. Within fifteen (15) days of demand, Tenant


shall also pay Landlord for any additional excess costs that are determined during the performance of the repairs to such Alterations. In no event shall Landlord be required to spend more for the restoration of the Premises than the proceeds received by Landlord, whether insurance proceeds or proceeds from Tenant. Landlord shall not be liable for any inconvenience to Tenant, or injury to Tenant’s business resulting in any way from the fire or other casualty, or the repair thereof. If this Lease is not terminated by Landlord or Tenant in accordance with this section, Tenant shall be responsible for and shall pay to Landlord Tenant’s Share of any deductible or retention amount payable under the property insurance for the Building following any such casualty. Tenant at Tenant’s expense shall promptly perform, subject to delays arising from the collection of insurance proceeds, or from Force Majeure events, all repairs or restoration not required to be done by Landlord and shall promptly re-enter the Premises and commence doing business in accordance with this Lease. Notwithstanding the foregoing, either party may terminate this Lease if the Premises are damaged during the last year of the Term and Landlord reasonably estimates that it will take more than three (3) months to repair such damage. Provided no Event of Default by Tenant has occurred, Base Rent and Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes shall be abated for the period of repair and restoration commencing on the date of such casualty event in the proportion which the area of the Premises, if any, which is untenantable bears to the total area of the Premises. Such abatement shall be the sole remedy of Tenant, and except as provided herein, Tenant waives any right to terminate this Lease by reason of damage or casualty loss. Tenant agrees that the terms of this Section 16 shall govern any damage or destruction and shall accordingly supersede any contrary statute or rule of law.

17. CONDEMNATION. If any part of the Premises or the Building should be taken for any public or quasi-public use under governmental law, ordinance, or regulation, or by right of eminent domain, or by private purchase in lieu thereof (a “Taking” or “Taken”), and the Taking would materially interfere with or impair Landlord’s ownership or operation of the Property and/or the Project (as determined by Landlord), then upon written notice by Landlord this Lease shall terminate and Base Rent and Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes shall be apportioned as of said date. If part of the Premises or the Building shall be Taken and such condemnation does not materially interfere with or impair Landlord’s ownership or operation of the Property and/or the Project, and this Lease is not terminated as provided above, the Base Rent and Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes payable hereunder during the unexpired Term shall be reduced to such extent as Landlord reasonably determines under the circumstances. In the event of any such Taking, Landlord shall be entitled to receive the entire price or award from any such Taking without any payment to Tenant, and Tenant hereby assigns to Landlord Tenant’s interest, if any, in such award. Tenant shall have the right, to the extent that same shall not diminish Landlord’s award, to make a separate claim against the condemning authority (but not Landlord) for such compensation as may be separately awarded or recoverable by Tenant for moving expenses and damage to Tenant’s trade fixtures, if a separate award for such items is made to Tenant. If only a part of the Premises is subject to a Taking and this Lease is not terminated, Landlord, with reasonable diligence, will restore the remaining portion of the Premises as nearly as practicable to the condition immediately prior to the Taking. Tenant agrees that the terms of this Section 17 shall govern any Taking and shall accordingly supersede any contrary statute or rule of law.


18. DEFAULT.

 

  18.1

Event of Default. The occurrence of any of the following events shall, at Landlord’s option, constitute an “Event of Default”:

 

  18.1.1

Tenant shall fail to pay any installment of Base Rent or any other payment required herein when due, and such failure shall continue for a period of three (3) days after written notice to Tenant.

 

  18.1.2

Tenant or any guarantor or surety of Tenant’s obligations hereunder shall (1) make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; (2) commence any case, proceeding or other action seeking to have an order for relief entered on its behalf as a debtor or to adjudicate it as bankrupt or insolvent, or seeking reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, liquidation, dissolution or composition of it or its debts or seeking appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for it or for all or of any substantial part of its property (collectively, a “proceeding for relief’); (3) become the subject of any proceeding for relief which is not dismissed within sixty (60) days of its filing or entry; or (4) die or suffer a legal disability (if Tenant, guarantor, or surety is an individual) or be dissolved or otherwise fail to maintain its legal existence (if Tenant, guarantor or surety is a corporation, partnership or other entity).

 

  18.1.3

Any insurance required to be maintained by Tenant pursuant to this Lease shall be cancelled or terminated or shall expire or shall be reduced or materially changed, except, in each case, as permitted in this Lease.

 

  18.1.4

Tenant shall not occupy or shall vacate the Premises whether or not Tenant is in monetary or other default under this Lease. Tenant’s vacating of the Premises shall not constitute an Event of Default if, prior to vacating the Premises, Tenant has made arrangements reasonably acceptable to Landlord to (1) ensure that Tenant’s insurance for the Premises will not voided or cancelled with respect to the Premises as a result of such vacancy, (2) ensure that the Premises are secured and not subject to vandalism and (3) ensure that the Premises will be properly maintained after such vacation, including, but not limited to, keeping the heating, ventilation and cooling systems maintenance contracts required by this Lease in full force and effect.

 

  18.1.5

There shall occur any assignment, subleasing or other transfer of Tenant’s interest in or with respect to this Lease except as otherwise permitted in this Lease.

 

  18.1.6

Tenant shall fail to discharge lien placed upon the Premises in violation of this Lease within fifteen days after such lien or encumbrance is filed against the Premises.


  18.1.7

Tenant shall fail to comply with any provision of this Lease other than those specifically referred to in this Section 18.1, and except as otherwise expressly provided herein, such default shall continue for more than thirty (30) days after Landlord shall have given Tenant written notice of such default.

 

  18.1.8

Tenant or any affiliate off Tenant is in default beyond any notice and cure period under any other lease or agreement with Landlord at the Building or the Project.

 

  18.2

Landlord’s Remedies. Upon any Event of Default, Landlord shall have, in addition to any other remedies available to Landlord at law or in equity (which shall be cumulative and nonexclusive), the option to pursue any one or more of the following remedies (which shall be cumulative and nonexclusive) without any notice or demand:

 

  18.2.1

Landlord may terminate this Lease, in which event Tenant shall immediately surrender the Premises to Landlord, and if Tenant fails to do so, Landlord may, without prejudice to any other remedy it may have for possession or arrearages in Rent, enter upon and take possession of the Premises and expel or remove Tenant and any other person who may be occupying the Premises or any part thereof, without being liable for prosecution or any claim of damages therefor; and Landlord may recover from Tenant the following:

 

  (a)

The worth at the time of award of the unpaid Rent which had been earned at the time of such termination; plus

 

  (b)

The worth at the time of award of the amount by which the unpaid Rent which would have been earned after termination until the time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that Tenant proves could have been reasonably avoided; plus

 

  (c)

The worth at the time of award of the amount by which the unpaid Rent for the balance of the Term after the time of award exceeds the amount of such Rent loss that Tenant proves could be reasonably avoided; plus

 

  (d)

Any other amount necessary to compensate Landlord for all the detriment proximately caused by Tenant’s failure to perform its obligations hereunder or which in the ordinary course of things would be likely to result therefrom, including brokerage commissions, advertising expenses, expenses of remodeling any portion of the Premises for a new tenant (whether for the same or a different use), and any special concessions made to obtain a new tenant; plus


  (e)

At Landlord’s option, such other amounts in addition to or in lieu of the foregoing as may be permitted, om time to time by Applicable Law.

As used in Sections 18.2.1(a) and (b), the “worth at the time of award” shall be computed by allowing interest at a rate per annum equal to the lesser of (i) the annual “Bank Prime Loan” rate cited in the Federal Reserve Statistical Release Publication G.13(415), published on the first Tuesday of each Calendar month (or such other comparable index as Landlord shall reasonably designate if such rate ceases to be published) plus two (2) percentage points, or (ii) the highest rate permitted by Applicable Law. As used in Section 18.2.1(c), the “worth at the time of award” shall be computed by discounting such amount at the discount, rate of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco at the time of the award plus 1%.

 

  18.2.2

Landlord shall have the remedy described in California Civil Code § 1951.4 (lessor may continue lease in effect after lessee’s breach and abandonment and recover Rent as it becomes due, if lessee has the right to sublet or assign, subject only to reasonable limitations). Accordingly, if Landlord does not elect to terminate this Lease on account of any Event of Default by Tenant, Landlord may, from time to time, without terminating this Lease, enforce all of its rights and remedies hereunder, including the right to recover all Rent as it becomes due.

 

  18.2.3

Landlord shall at all times have the rights and remedies (which shall be cumulative with each other and cumulative and in addition to those rights and remedies available under Section 18.2.1 and Section 18.2.2, or any law or other provision hereof), without prior demand or notice except as required by law, to seek any declaratory, injunctive or other equitable relief, and specifically enforce this Lease, or restrain or enjoin a violation or breach of any provision hereof.

 

  18.3

Efforts to Relet. Unless Landlord provides Tenant with express notice to the contrary, no re-entry, repossession, repair, maintenance, change, alteration, addition, reletting, appointment of a receiver or other action or omission by Landlord shall (a) be construed as an election by Landlord to terminate this Lease or Tenant’s right to possession, or to accept a surrender of the Premises, or (b) operate to release Tenant from any of its obligations hereunder. Tenant waives, for Tenant and for all those claiming by, through or under Tenant, California Civil Code § 3275, California Code of Civil Procedure §§ 1174(c) and 1179, and any existing or future rights to redeem or reinstate, by order or judgment of any court or by any legal process or writ, this Lease or Tenant’s right of occupancy of the Premises after any termination hereof.


19.

ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLETTING.

 

  19.1

Tenant shall not assign, sublet, convey, mortgage, license, or otherwise transfer (“Transfer”), whether voluntarily or involuntarily or by operation of law, the Premises or any part thereof without Landlord’s prior written approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. A “Transfer” shall be deemed to include, without limitation, any of the following: (i) the merger of Tenant with any other entity or the indirect or direct transfer of any controlling or managing ownership or beneficial interest in Tenant, and (ii) the assignment or transfer of a substantial portion of the assets of Tenant, whether or not located at the Premises. If Tenant desires to undertake a Transfer, Tenant shall give Landlord prior written notice thereof with copies of all related documents and agreements associated with the Transfer, including without limitation, the financial statements of any proposed assignee, subtenant or transferee, at least thirty (30) days prior to the anticipated effective date of the Transfer. Tenant shall pay Landlord’s reasonable attorneys’ and financial consultant’s fees incurred in the review of such documentation whether or not a Transfer is consummated or approval is granted. If Landlord fails to notify Tenant in writing of Landlord’s approval or disapproval of any proposed Transfer within fifteen (15) business days of Landlord’s receipt of all required documentation, Landlord shall be deemed to have disapproved such Transfer. If Landlord approves of such Transfer, the parties shall enter into a consent agreement in a form reasonably designated by Landlord, and in the case of an assignment, the assignee shall assume in writing, for Landlord’s benefit, all of Tenant’s obligations hereunder. Any purported Transfer contrary to the provisions hereof shall be void and constitute an Event of Default. This Lease may not be assigned by operation of law. In the event of an assignment of this Lease or subletting of more than 20% of the rentable square footage of the Premises for more than 50% of the remaining Term (excluding unexercised options), Landlord shall have the right to recapture the portion of the Premises that Tenant is proposing to assign or sublease. If Landlord exercises its right to recapture, this Lease shall automatically be amended (or terminated if the entire Premises is being assigned or sublet) to delete the applicable portion of the Premises effective on the proposed effective date of the Transfer, although Landlord may require Tenant to execute a reasonable amendment or other document reflecting such reduction or termination. If Tenant receives rent or other consideration for any such Transfer in excess of the Rent, or in the case of a sublease of a portion of the Premises, in excess of such Rent that is fairly allocable to such portion, after appropriate adjustments to assure that all other payments required hereunder are appropriately taken into account, Tenant shall pay Landlord sixty percent (60%) of the difference between each such payment of rent or other consideration and the Rent required hereunder, after Tenant’s recovery of its actual and reasonable attorney’s fees, brokerage commissions and improvement allowances or improvement costs incurred directly in connection with such assignment or subletting, determined on a straight-line basis. Tenant shall continue to be liable as a principal and not as a guarantor or surety to the same extent as though no assignment had been made, and in no event shall any assignment or other Transfer release or relieve Tenant from any obligation under this Lease. Tenant shall not collaterally assign, mortgage, pledge, hypothecate or otherwise encumber this Lease or any of Tenant’s rights hereunder without the prior written consent of Landlord, which consent Landlord may withhold in its sole discretion.


  19.2

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 19, neither Tenant nor any other person having a right to possess, use or occupy (for convenience, collectively referred to in this subsection as “Use”) the Premises shall enter into any lease, sublease, license, concession or other agreement for Use of all or any portion of the Premises which provides for rental or other payment for such use based, in whole or in part, on the net income or profits derived by any person that leases, possesses, uses, or occupies all or any portion of the Premises (other than an amount based on a fixed percentage or percentages of receipts or sales), and any such purported lease, sublease, license, concession or other agreement shall be absolutely void and ineffective as a Transfer of any right or interest in the Use of all or any part of the Premises.

 

20.

ESTOPPEL, ATTORNMENT, AND SUBORDINATION.

 

  20.1

Estoppel. Within ten (10) days after written request by Landlord, Tenant shall execute and deliver a commercially reasonable certificate to those parties as are reasonably requested by Landlord (including a Mortgagee or prospective purchaser). Without limitation, such estoppel certificate may include a certification as to the status of this Lease, the existence of any Event of Defaults and the amount of rent that is due and payable. Tenant’s failure to deliver said statement in such time period shall be an Event of Default hereunder and shall be conclusive upon Tenant that (1) this Lease is in full force and effect, without modification except as may be represented by Landlord; (2) there are no uncured Event of Defaults in Landlord’s performance and Tenant has no right of offset, counterclaim or deduction against Rent hereunder; and (3) no more than one month’s Base Rent has been paid in advance.

 

  20.2

Subordination. This Lease shall unconditionally be and at all times remain subject and subordinate to all ground leases, master leases and all mortgages and deeds of trust which now or hereafter affect the Premises, the Property or the Project or Landlord’s interest therein (including any modifications, renewals or extensions thereof and all amendments thereto) (collectively, referred to as a “Mortgage”, all without the necessity of Tenant’s executing further instruments to affect such subordination. The party having the benefit of a Mortgage shall be referred to as a “Mortgagee”. If requested, Tenant shall execute and deliver to Landlord within ten (10) days after Landlord’s request whatever documentation that may reasonably be required to further effect the provisions of this paragraph including a Subordination, Non-disturbance and Attornment Agreement (“SNDA”) in the form reasonably required by the applicable Mortgagee. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Lease to the contrary, (1) the obligation for commissions under Section 26.19 shall not be binding on, and will not be enforceable against, any of Owner’s Mortgagees, and (2) such commission obligation shall be unconditionally subordinate to the lien of any Mortgage, and any commissions otherwise payable under this Lease shall not be due or payable after an event of default under any such mortgage or other security interest. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 20.2, the holder of any such Mortgage may at any time subordinate its mortgage to this lease, without Tenant’s consent, by notice in writing to Tenant, and thereupon this Lease shall be deemed prior to such Mortgage without regard to their respective dates of executing, delivery or recording and in the event such Mortgagee shall have the same rights with respect to this Lease as though this Lease has been executed prior to the executing, delivery and recording of such Mortgage and had been assigned to such Mortgagee.


  20.3

Attornment. Tenant hereby agrees that Tenant will recognize as its landlord under this Lease and shall attorn to any person succeeding to the interest of Landlord in respect of the land and the buildings governed by this Lease upon any foreclosure of any Mortgage upon such land or buildings or upon the execution of any deed in lieu of foreclosure in respect to such Mortgage. Tenant shall pay all rental payments required to be made pursuant to the terms of this Lease for the duration of the term of this Lease. Tenant’s attornment shall be effective and self-operative without the execution of any further instrument immediately upon Mortgagee’s succeeding Landlord’s interest in this Lease and giving written notice thereof to Tenant. If requested, Tenant shall execute and deliver an instrument or instruments confirming its attornment as provided for herein; provided, however, that no such Mortgagee or successor- in-interest shall be bound by any payment of Base Rent for more than one (1) month in advance, or any amendment or modification of this Lease made without the express written consent of such Mortgagee where such consent is required under applicable loan documents. Mortgagee shall not be liable for, nor subject to, any offsets or defenses which Tenant may have by reason of any act or omission of Landlord under this Lease, or for the return of any sums which Tenant may have paid to Landlord under this Lease as and for security deposits, advance rentals or otherwise, except to the extent that such sums are actually delivered by Landlord to Mortgagee. If Mortgagee, by succeeding to the interest of Landlord under this Lease, should become obligated to perform the covenants of Landlord hereunder, then, upon, any further transfer of Landlord’s interest by Mortgagee, all such obligations shall terminate as to Mortgagee.

 

  20.4

Mortgagee Protection. Tenant agrees to give any Mortgagee of any Mortgage secured by the Premises, the Property he Project, by registered or certified mail or nationally recognized overnight delivery service, a copy of any notice of default served upon the Landlord by Tenant concurrently with delivery to Landlord, provided that, prior to such notice, Tenant has been notified in writing (by way of service on Tenant of a copy of assignment of rents and leases or otherwise) of the address of such Mortgagee. Tenant further agrees that if Landlord shall have failed to cure such default within thirty (30) days after such notice to Landlord (or if such default cannot be cured or corrected within that time, then such additional time as may be necessary if Landlord has commenced within such thirty (30) day period and is diligently pursuing the remedies or steps necessary to cure or correct such default), then the Mortgagee shall have an additional sixty (60) days within which to cure or correct such default (or if such default cannot be cured or corrected within that time, then such additional time as may be necessary if such Mortgagee has commenced within such sixty (60) day period and is diligently pursuing the remedies or steps necessary to cure or correct such default). Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall any Mortgagee have any obligation to cure any default of the Landlord.


21. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING TO THE CONTRARY CONTAINED IN THIS LEASE, THE LIABILITY OF LANDLORD (AND OF ANY SUCCESSOR LANDLORD) SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE LESSER OF (A) THE INTEREST OF LANDLORD IN THE BUILDING, OR (B) THE EQUITY INTEREST LANDLORD WOULD HAVE IN THE BUILDING IF THE BUILDING WERE ENCUMBERED BY THIRD PARTY DEBT IN AN AMOUNT EQUAL TO 70% OF THE VALUE OF THE BUILDING. TENANT SHALL LOOK SOLELY TO LANDLORD’S INTEREST IN THE BUILDING FOR THE RECOVERY OF ANY JUDGMENT OR AWARD AGAINST LANDLORD OR ANY LANDLORD INDEMNITEES. NEITHER LANDLORD NOR ANY LANDLORD INDEMNITEES SHALL BE PERSONALLY LIABLE FOR ANY JUDGMENT OR DEFICIENCY, AND IN NO EVENT SHALL LANDLORD OR ANY LANDLORD INDEMNITEES OR MORTGAGEES BE LIABLE TO TENANT FOR LOST PROFIT, DAMAGE TO OR LOSS OF BUSINESS OR ANY FORM OF SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE. BEFORE FILING SUIT FOR AN ALLEGED DEFAULT BY LANDLORD, TENANT SHALL GIVE LANDLORD AND THE MORTGAGEE(S) WHOM TENANT HAS BEEN NOTIFIED HOLD MORTGAGES, NOTICE AND REASONABLE TIME TO CURE THE ALLEGED DEFAULT. WHENEVER LANDLORD TRANSFERS ITS INTEREST, LANDLORD SHALL BE AUTOMATICALLY RELEASED FROM FURTHER PERFORMANCE UNDER THIS LEASE AND FROM ALL FURTHER LIABILITIES AND EXPENSES HEREUNDER AND THE TRANSFEREE OF LANDLORD’S INTEREST SHALL ASSUME ALL LIABILITIES AND OBLIGATIONS OF LANDLORD HEREUNDER FROM THE DATE OF SUCH TRANSER.

22. RELOCATION. Landlord, at its expense, at any time before or during the Term, may relocate Tenant from the Premises to space of reasonably comparable size and utility (“Relocation Space”) within the Building or other buildings within the same Project upon 60 days’ prior written notice to Tenant. From and after the date of the relocation, the Base Rent and Tenant’s Share shall be adjusted based on the rentable square footage of the Relocation Space. Landlord shall pay Tenant’s reasonable costs of relocation, including all costs for moving Tenant’s furniture, equipment, supplies and other personal property.

23. HOLDING OVER. If Tenant holds over the Premises or any part thereof after expiration of the Term, such holding over shall, at Landlord’s option, constitute a month-to-month tenancy, at a rent (determined on a per month basis without reduction for partial months during the holdover) equal to two hundred percent (200%) of the Base Rent and Additional Rent in effect immediately prior to such holding over and shall otherwise be on all the other terms and conditions of this Lease. This Section shall not be construed as Landlord’s permission for Tenant to hold over. Acceptance of Rent by Landlord following expiration or termination shall not constitute a renewal of this Lease or extension of the Term except as specifically set forth above. If Tenant fails to surrender the Premises upon expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, Tenant shall indemnify and hold Landlord harmless from and against all Losses resulting from or arising out of Tenant’s failure to surrender the Premises, including, but not limited to, any amounts required to be paid to any tenant or prospective tenant who was to have occupied the Premises after the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease and any related attorneys’ fees and brokerage commissions.

24. NOTICES. All demands, approvals, consents or notices (collectively referred to as a “notice”) shall be in writing and delivered by hand and or sent by registered, express, or certified mail, with return receipt requested or with deliv6ry confirmation requested from the U.S. postal service, or sent by overnight or same day courier service at the party’s respective Notice Address(es) set forth in


Section 1; provided, however, notices sent by Landlord regarding general Building operational matters may be sent via e-mail to the e-mail address provided by Tenant to Landlord for such purpose. In addition, if the Building is closed (whether due to emergency, governmental order or any other reason), then any notice address at the Building shall not be deemed a required notice address during such closure, and, unless Tenant has provided an alternative valid notice address to Landlord for use during such closure, any notices sent during such closure may be sent via e-mail or in any other practical manner reasonably designed to ensure receipt by the intended recipient. Each notice shall be deemed to have been received on the earlier to occur of actual delivery or the date on which delivery is refused, or, if Tenant has vacated the Premises or any other Notice Address of Tenant without providing a new Notice Address, 3 days after notice is deposited in the U.S. mail or with a courier service in the manner described above. Either party may, at any time, change its Notice Address (other than to a post office box address) by giving the other party written notice of the new address.

25. SURRENDER. Upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, Tenant shall repair any damage to and restore the condition of the Premises in accordance with Section 13.2. Tenant shall also remove all of Tenant’s Property and shall repair all damage to the Premises, the Building, the Common Area, Property or the Project caused by the installation or removal of Tenant’s Property. Tenant shall further patch and fill all holes within the Premises. All penetrations of the roof shall be resealed to a water tight condition. In no event shall Tenant remove from the Building any mechanical or electrical systems, including without limitation, any power wiring or power panels, lighting or lighting fixtures, wall coverings, drapes, blinds or other window coverings, carpets or other floor coverings, heaters, air conditioners or any other heating and air conditioning equipment, fencing or security gates, load levelers, dock lights, dock locks or dock seals, or any wiring or any other aspect of any systems within the Premises, unless Landlord specifically permits or requires such removal in writing. Tenant shall surrender the Premises, together with all keys and security codes, to Landlord broom clean and in as good a condition as when received, ordinary wear and tear and damage by fire or casualty excepted. Conditions existing because of Tenant’s failure to perform maintenance, repairs or replacements shall not be deemed “reasonable wear and tear”. If Tenant fails to remove any of Tenant’s Property, or to restore the Premises to the required condition, within 2 days after termination of this Lease or Tenant’s right to possession, Landlord, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, shall be entitled (but not obligated) to remove and store Tenant’s Property and/or perform such restoration of the Premises. Landlord shall not be responsible for the value, preservation or safekeeping of Tenant’s Property. Tenant shall pay Landlord, upon demand, the expenses and storage charges incurred. If Tenant fails to remove Tenant’s Property from the Premises or storage, within 30 days after notice, Landlord may deem all or any part of Tenant’s Property to be abandoned and, at Landlord’s option, title to Tenant’s Property shall vest in Landlord or Landlord may dispose of Tenant’s Property in any manner Landlord deems appropriate.

26. MISCELLANEOUS.

 

  26.1

Entire Agreement. This Lease, Addenda, Exhibits and Schedules set forth all the agreements between Landlord and Tenant concerning the Premises; and there are no agreements either oral or written other than as set forth herein. This Lease may be modified only by a written agreement signed by an authorized representative of Landlord and Tenant.


  26.2

Time of Essence; Business Days. Time is of the essence with respect to Tenant’s exercise of any expansion, renewal or extension rights granted to Tenant. The expiration of the Term, whether by lapse of time, termination or otherwise, shall not relieve either party of any obligations which accrued prior to or which may continue to accrue after the expiration or termination of this Lease. For all purposes herein, a “business day” shall mean Monday through Friday of each week, exclusive of New Year’s Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day (“Holidays”). Landlord may designate additional Holidays that are commonly recognized by other industrial buildings in the area where the Building is located.

 

  26.3

Attorneys’ Fees; Jury Trial Waiver. In any action or proceeding between the parties, including any appellate or alternative dispute resolution proceeding, the prevailing party may recover from the other party its costs and expenses in connection therewith, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs. Tenant shall pay all reasonable attorneys’ fees and other fees and costs that Landlord incurs in interpreting or enforcing this Lease or otherwise protecting its rights hereunder (a) where Tenant has failed to pay Rent when due, or (b) in any bankruptcy case, assignment for the benefit of creditors, or other insolvency, liquidation or reorganization proceeding involving Tenant or this Lease. THE PARTIES WAIVE, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LITIGATION ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS LEASE, THE RELATIONSHIP OF LANDLORD AND TENANT, TENANT’S USE OR OCCUPANCY OF THE PREMISES, AND/OR ANY CLAIM FOR INJURY OR DAMAGE OR ANY EMERGENCY OR STATUTORY REMEDY.

 

  26.4

Severability. If any provision of this Lease or the application of any such provision shall be held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable to any extent, the remaining provisions of this Lease and the application thereof shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected, impaired or invalidated.

 

  26.5

Law. This Lease shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the state in which the Premises are located, and Landlord and Tenant hereby irrevocably consent to the jurisdiction and proper venue of such state.

 

  26.6

No Option. Submission of this Lease to Tenant for examination or negotiation does not constitute an option to lease, offer to lease or a reservation of, or option for, the Premises; and this document shall become effective and binding only upon the execution and delivery hereof by Landlord and Tenant.

 

  26.7

Successors and Assigns. This Lease shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of Landlord and, subject to compliance with the terms of Section 19, Tenant.

 

  26.8

Third-Party Beneficiaries. Nothing herein is intended to create any third-party beneficiary.


  26.9

Memorandum of Lease. Tenant shall not record this Lease or a short form memorandum hereof.

 

  26.10

Agency, Partnership or Joint Venture. Nothing contained herein nor any acts of the parties hereto shall be deemed or construed by the parties hereto, nor by any third party, as creating the relationship of principal and agent or of partnership or of joint venture by the parties hereto or any relationship other than the relationship of landlord and tenant.

 

  26.11

Merger. The voluntary or other surrender of this Lease by Tenant or a mutual cancellation thereof or a termination by Landlord shall not work a merger and shall, at the option of Landlord, terminate all or any existing subtenancies or may, at the option of Landlord, operate as an assignment to Landlord of any or all of such subtenancies.

 

  26.12

Headings. Section headings have been inserted solely as a matter of convenience and are not intended to define or limit the scope of any of the provisions contained therein.

 

  26.13

Security Measures. Tenant hereby acknowledges that Landlord shall have no obligation to provide a guard service or other security measures whatsoever.

 

  26.14

No Press Release. Any press release or other similar public statement regarding Tenant’s occupancy of the Premises or this Lease shall require the prior written approval of Landlord.

 

  26.15

Landlord’s Lien/Security Interest. Tenant hereby grants Landlord a security interest, and this Lease constitutes a security agreement, within the meaning of and pursuant to the Uniform Commercial Code of the state in which the Premises are situated as to all of Tenant’s Property (except merchandise sold in the ordinary course of business) as security for all of Tenant’s obligations hereunder, including, without limitation, the obligation to pay rent.

 

  26.16

Signs. All signs and graphics of every kind visible in or from public view or corridors, the Common Areas or the exterior of the Premises (whether located inside or outside of the Premises) shall be subject to Landlord’s prior written approval (not to be unreasonably withheld) and shall be subject to the CC&Rs and any applicable governmental laws, ordinances, and regulations and in compliance with Landlord’s signage program (if any). The installation of any sign on the Premises by or for Tenant shall be subject to the provisions of Section 13 (Alterations). Tenant, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, shall remove all such signs and graphics prior to the termination of this Lease. Such installations and removals shall be made in such manner as to avoid injury or defacement of the Premises; and Tenant shall repair any injury or defacement, including without limitation, discoloration caused by such installation or removal. Unless otherwise expressly agreed herein, Landlord reserves all rights to the use of the roof of the Building, including the right to install advertising signs on the Building, including the roof, which do not unreasonably interfere with the conduct of Tenant’s business. Landlord shall be entitled to all revenues from such advertising signs.


  26.17

Waiver. No waiver of any default or breach hereunder shall be implied from any omission to take action on account thereof, notwithstanding any custom and practice or course of dealing. No waiver by either party of any provision under this Lease shall be effective unless in writing and signed by such party. No waiver shall affect any default other than the default specified in the waiver and then such waiver shall be operative only for the time and to the extent therein stated. Waivers of any covenant shall not be construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach of the same.

 

  26.18

Financial Statements. Tenant shall provide, and cause each Guarantor, if applicable, to provide to any Mortgagee, any purchaser of the Building, the Property and/or the Project or Landlord, within ten (10) days after request, a current, accurate, audited financial statement for Tenant and Tenant’s business (and Guarantor and Guarantor’s business, if applicable) and financial statements for Tenant and Tenant’s business (and Guarantor and Guarantor’s business, if applicable) for each of the three (3) years prior to the current financial statement year prepared under generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied and certified by an officer of the Tenant (or Guarantor, if applicable) as being true and correct. Tenant shall also provide, and cause each Guarantor, if applicable, to provide, within said ten (10)-day period such other financial information or tax returns as may be reasonably required by Landlord, any purchaser of the Building, the Property and/or the Project or any Mortgagee of either. Tenant hereby authorizes Landlord, and shall cause each Guarantor, if applicable, to authorize Landlord to obtain one (1) or more credit reports on Tenant (and Guarantor, if applicable) at any time, and shall execute such further authorizations as Landlord may reasonably require in order to obtain a credit report.

 

  26.19

Brokerage Commission. Landlord shall pay a brokerage commission to Landlord’s Broker specified in the Basic Lease Information in accordance with a separate agreement between Landlord and Landlord’s Broker. Landlord shall have no further or separate obligation for payment of any commissions or fees to any other broker, agent or finder. Tenant warrants to Landlord that Tenant’s sole contact with Landlord or with the Premises in connection with this transaction has been directly with Landlord, Landlord’s Broker and Tenant’s Broker specified in the Basic Lease Information, and that no other broker, agent or finder can properly claim a right to a commission or a finder’s fee based upon contacts between the claimant and Tenant. Any commissions or fees payable to Tenant’s Broker with respect to this transaction shall be paid by Landlord’s Broker or Tenant, and Landlord shall have no obligation with respect thereto. Subject to the foregoing, Tenant agrees to indemnify and hold Landlord harmless from any Losses in connection with a claim by any person for a real estate broker’s commission, finder’s fee or other compensation based upon any statement, representation or agreement of Tenant, and Landlord agrees to indemnify and hold Tenant harmless from any such Losses based upon any statement, representation or agreement of Landlord.


  26.20

Authorization. If Tenant signs as a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, trust or other legal entity, then each of the persons executing this Lease on behalf of Tenant represents and warrants that Tenant has been and is qualified to do business in the state in which the Premises is located, that the entity has full right and authority to enter into this Lease, and that all persons signing on behalf of the entity were authorized to do so by appropriate actions. Tenant agrees to deliver to Landlord, simultaneously with the delivery of this Lease, a corporate resolution, proof of due authorization by partners, opinion of counsel or other appropriate documentation reasonably acceptable to Landlord evidencing the due authorization of Tenant to enter this Lease.

 

  26.21

Joint and Several. If Tenant consists of more than one person, then the obligation of all such persons shall be joint and several Jn such event, requests or demands from any one person or entity comprising Tenant shall be deemed to have been made by all such persons or entities, and notices to any one person or entity shall be deemed to have been given to all persons and entities.

 

  26.22

Covenants and Conditions. Each provision to be performed by Tenant hereunder shall be deemed to be both a covenant and a condition.

 

  26.23

Consents. Except as otherwise provided elsewhere in this Lease, Landlord’s actual reasonable costs and expenses (including, but not limited to, architects’, attorneys’, engineers’ and other consultants’ fees) incurred in the consideration of, or response to, a request by Tenant for any Landlord consent, including but not limited to, consents to an assignment, a subletting or the presence or use of a Hazardous Material, shall be paid by Tenant upon receipt of an invoice and supporting documentation therefor.

 

  26.24

Force Majeure.Force Majeure” as used in this Lease means delays resulting from causes beyond the reasonable control of Landlord, including, without limitation, any delay caused by any action, inaction, order, ruling, moratorium, regulation, statute, condition or other decision of any private party or governmental agency having jurisdiction over any portion of the Property or the Project, over the construction anticipated to occur thereon or over any uses thereof, or by delays in inspections or in issuing approvals by private parties or permits by governmental agencies, or by fire, flood, inclement weather, strikes, lockouts or other labor or industrial disturbance , failure or inability to secure materials, supplies or labor through ordinary sources, earthquake, or other natural disaster, or any cause whatsoever beyond the reasonable control (excluding financial inability) of the Landlord, or any of its contractors or other representatives, whether or not similar to any of the causes hereinabove stated.

 

  26.25

OFAC. Tenant hereby represents, warrants and certifies that: (i) neither it nor its officers, directors, or controlling owners is acting, directly or indirectly, for or on behalf of any person, group, entity, or nation named by any Executive Order, the United States Department of Justice, or the United States Treasury Department as a terrorist, “Specifically Designated National or Blocked Person,” or other banned or blocked person, entity, nation, or transaction pursuant to any law, order, rule or regulation that is enforced or administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (“SDN”); (ii)


  neither it nor its officers, directors or controlling owners is engaged in this transaction, directly or indirectly on behalf of, or instigating or facilitating this transaction, directly or indirectly on behalf of, any such person, group, entity, or nation; and (iii) neither it nor its officers, directors or controlling owners is in violation of Presidential Executive Order 13224, the USA PATRIOT Act, (Public Law 107-56), the Bank Secrecy Act, the Money Laundering Control Act or any regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. If the foregoing representations are untrue at any time during the Lease Term, an Event of Default will be deemed to have occurred, without the necessity of notice to Tenant. The provisions of this Paragraph shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease.

 

  26.26

Roof Use by Landlord. Landlord reserves the right to use the surface of the roof in any manner which does not materially interfere with Tenant’s use of the Premises including, but not limited to, installation of telecommunication equipment, solar equipment or any CNN/other uses.

 

  26.27

Guarantors. The Guarantors, if any, shall each execute a full payment and performance guaranty in a form provided by Landlord. It shall constitute an Event of Default of the Tenant if any Guarantor fails or refuses, upon request to provide: (1) evidence of the execution and continued enforceability of the guaranty, including the authority of the party signing on Guarantor’s behalf to obligate Guarantor, and in the case of a corporate Guarantor, a certified copy of a resolution of its board of directors authorizing the making of such guaranty, (2) current financial statements, (3) an estoppel certificate, or (4) written confirmation that the guaranty is still in effect as a valid binding obligation.

 

  26.28

Parking. Unless otherwise directed by Landlord, Tenant shall have the right to park in common with other tenants of the Project in those areas designated by Landlord for nonreserved parking. Tenant agrees not to overburden the parking facilities and agrees to cooperate with Landlord and other tenants in the use of parking facilities. Landlord may, but is not obligated to, designate exclusive parking spaces for Tenant and other tenants in the Property and/or Project if Landlord reasonably determines that such designation is necessary. Landlord shall not be responsible for enforcing Tenant’s parking rights against any third parties. The parking spaces shall be used for parking by vehicles no larger than full-size passenger automobiles, SUV’s or pick-up trucks (“Permitted Size Vehicles”). Vehicles other than Permitted Size Vehicles shall be parked and loaded or unloaded as directed by Landlord. Tenant shall not permit or allow any vehicles that belong to or are controlled by Tenant or Tenant’s employees, suppliers, shippers, customers, contractors or invitees to be loaded, unloaded, or parked in areas other than those designated by Landlord for such activities. If Tenant permits or allows any of the prohibited activities described in this Section, then Landlord shall have the right, without notice, in addition to such other rights and remedies that it may have, to remove or tow away the vehicle involved and charge the cost to Tenant, which cost shall be immediately payable upon demand by Landlord. No vehicle or equipment of any kind shall be dismantled or repaired or serviced on the Common Area.


  26.29

Common Area. Tenant may, subject to rules prescribed by Landlord, use the following areas on the Land or within the Building (“Building Common Area”) that are designated by Landlord to be used in common with Landlord and/or other tenants of the Building: hallways, stairwells, entranceways, restroom facilities, refuse facilities, landscaped areas, driveways necessary for access to the Premises, parking spaces and other common facilities located in the Building and/or on the Land designated by Landlord from time to time for the common use of all tenants of the Building. Tenant may, subject to any CC&Rs and any Rules or Regulations, use the following areas of the Project (“Project Common Area”) in common with Landlord, tenants of the Building and/or other owners, tenants or lawful users of the Project: refuse facilities, landscaped areas, roads, driveways necessary for access to the Premises, parking spaces, retention basins and other common facilities designated by Landlord from time to time for the common use of all tenants and owners of the Project. The Building Common Area and the Project Common Area are collectively referred to herein as the “Common Area”. Landlord shall not be responsible for non-compliance by any other tenant or occupant of the Project with, or Landlord’s failure to enforce, any of the Rules or Regulations or CC&Rs or any other terms or provisions of such tenant’s or occupant’s lease. Tenant shall promptly comply with the reasonable requirements of any board of fire insurance underwriters or other similar body now or hereafter constituted. Under no circumstances shall the right herein granted to use the Common Area be deemed to include the right to store any property, temporarily or permanently, in the Common Area. In the event that any unauthorized storage shall occur, then Landlord shall have the right, without notice, in addition to such other rights and remedies it may have, to remove the property and charge the cost to Tenant, which cost shall be immediately payable upon demand by Landlord. Landlord may change the shape and size of the Common Areas, including the addition of, elimination of or change to any improvements located in the Common Areas, so long as such change does not have a material adverse impact on Tenant.

 

  26.30

Counterparts. This Lease may be executed in counterparts and shall constitute an agreement binding on all parties notwithstanding that all parties are not signatories to the original or the same counterpart provided that all parties are furnished a copy or copies thereof reflecting the signature of all parties. Transmission of a facsimile or by email of a pdf copy of the signed counterpart of the Lease shall be deemed the equivalent of the delivery of the original, and any party so delivering a facsimile or pdf copy of the signed counterpart of the Lease by email transmission shall in all events deliver to the other party an original signature promptly upon request.

 

  26.31

Light and Air. This Lease does not grant any rights to light or air over or about the Building. Landlord excepts and reserves exclusively to itself any and all rights not specifically granted to Tenant under this Lease.

 

  26.32

Auctions. Tenant shall not conduct, nor permit to be conducted, either voluntarily or involuntarily, any auction upon the Premises or the Common Areas without first having obtained Landlord’s prior written consent, which Landlord may withhold in its sole discretion. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Lease, Landlord shall not be obligated to exercise any standard of reasonableness in determining whether to grant such consent.


  26.33

Unrelated Business Income. If Landlord is advised by its counsel at any time that any part of the payments by Tenant to Landlord under this Lease may be characterized as unrelated business income under the United States Internal Revenue Code and its regulations, then Tenant shall enter into any amendment proposed by Landlord to avoid such income, so long as the amendment does not require Tenant to make more payments or accept fewer services from Landlord, than this Lease provides.

 

  26.34

Waiver of Statutory Provisions. Each party waives California Civil Code §§ 1932(2), 1933(4) and 1945. Tenant waives (a) any rights under (i) California Civil Code §§ 1932(1), 1941, 1942, 1950.7 or any similar Applicable Law, or (ii) California Code of Civil Procedure §§ 1263.260 or 1265.130; and (b) any right to terminate this Lease under California Civil Code § 1995.310.

 

  26.35

Independent Covenants. This Lease shall be construed as though the covenants herein between Landlord and Tenant are independent and not dependent and Tenant hereby expressly waives the benefit of any statute to the contrary and agrees that if Landlord fails to perform its obligations set forth herein, Tenant shall not be entitled to make any repairs or perform any acts hereunder at Landlord’s expenses any setoff of the Rent or other amounts owing hereunder against Landlord.

 

  26.36

Confidentiality. Tenant acknowledges that the content of this Lease and any related documents are confidential information. Tenant shall keep such confidential information strictly confidential and shall not disclose such confidential information to any person or entity other than Tenant’s financial, legal and space planning consultants.

 

  26.37

Energy Usage. If Tenant (or any party claiming by, through or under Tenant) pays directly to the provider for any energy consumed at the Property, Tenant, promptly upon request, shall deliver to Landlord (or, at Landlord’s option, execute and deliver to Landlord an instrument enabling Landlord to obtain from such provider) any data about such consumption at the Building that Landlord may request.

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]


Landlord and Tenant have executed this Lease under seal in two or more counterparts as of the day and year first above written.

 

LANDLORD:
ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company
By:  

/s/ Joseph Finnigan

  Name:   Joseph Finnigan
  Title:   Vice President
TENANT:
THORNE RESEARCH, INC.,
a South Carolina corporation
By:  

/s/ Thomas P. McKenna

  Name:   Thomas P. McKenna
  Title:   Chief Operating Officer

Oct 24, 2019

 


EXHIBIT A

OUTLINE AND LOCATION OF PREMISES

This Exhibit is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510.

 

LOGO

 

EXHIBIT A

-1-


EXHIBIT B

WORK LETTER

This Exhibit is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given in the Lease.

 

1.

Initial Tenant’s Work. Tenant shall perform improvements to the Premises in accordance with the work list attached hereto as Schedule 1 (the “Work List”). The improvements to be performed by Tenant in accordance with the work set forth on Schedule 1 shall constitute Alterations and Tenant’s Work for all purposes under the Lease and are hereinafter referred to as the “Initial Tenant’s Work”. Tenant and its contractors shall not have the right to perform the Initial Tenant’s Work in the Premises unless and until Tenant has complied with all of the terms and conditions of the Lease with respect to Alterations and Tenant’s Work, including, without limitation, as set forth in Exhibit F to the Lease, and until Landlord has approved the final plans for the Initial Tenant’s Work and the contractors to be retained by Tenant for the Initial Tenant’s Work. Tenant shall be responsible for all elements of the plans for the Initial Tenant’s Work (including, without limitation, compliance with law, functionality of design, the structural integrity of the design, the configuration of the Premises and the placement of Tenant’s furniture, appliances, equipment, trade fixtures and inventory), and Landlord’s approval of such plans shall in no event relieve Tenant of the responsibility therefor. Once the Initial Tenant’s Work is approved by Landlord, no changes to the scope of or plans for the Initial Tenant’s Work may be made by Tenant without Landlord’s prior approval. Landlord’s approval of the contractors (including, without limitation, any architects or engineers) to perform the Initial Tenant’s Work shall not be unreasonably withheld. Landlord’s approval of the general contractor to perform the Initial Tenant’s Work shall not be considered to be unreasonably withheld if any such general contractor (i) does not have trade references reasonably acceptable to Landlord, (ii) does not maintain insurance as required by Landlord, (iii) does not have the ability to be bonded for the work in an amount satisfactory to Landlord, (iv) does not provide current financial statements reasonably acceptable to Landlord, or (v) is not licensed as a contractor in the state and municipality in which the Premises, is located. Tenant acknowledges the foregoing is not intended to be an exclusive list of the reasons why Landlord may reasonably withhold its consent to a general contractor.

 

2.

Cost of the Initial Tenant’s Work. Promptly after obtaining Landlord’s approval of the plans for the Initial Tenant’s Work and before commencing construction of the Initial Tenant’s Work, Tenant shall deliver to Landlord a reasonably detailed estimate of the cost of the Initial Tenant’s Work. No advance of the Construction Allowance (hereinafter defined) shall be made by Landlord until Tenant has first paid to the general contractor from its own funds (and

 

EXHIBIT B

-1-


  provided reasonable evidence thereof to Landlord) the anticipated amount by which the projected total costs for the Initial Tenant’s Work exceed the amount of the Construction Allowance (the “Excess Costs”). Landlord reserves the right to deduct the fee set forth in Section 4(b) of Exhibit F to the Lease from the Construction Allowance.

 

3.

Construction and Construction Allowance.

(a) Provided Tenant is not in default under the Lease, Landlord agrees to contribute up to Eighteen Thousand Dollars ($18,000.00) (the “Construction Allowance”) toward the cost of performing the Initial Tenant’s Work. The Construction Allowance may only be used for hard costs in connection with the Initial Tenant’s Work. Following Tenant’s payment of the Excess Costs, the Construction Allowance, less a ten percent (10%) retainage (which retainage shall be payable as part of the final draw), shall be paid to Tenant in periodic disbursements within forty-five (45) days after receipt of the following documentation: (i) an application for payment and sworn statement of contractor substantially in the form of MA Document G-702 covering all work for which disbursement is to be made to a date specified therein; (ii) a certification from an AIA architect substantially in the form of the Architect’s Certificate for Payment which is located on AIA Document G702, Application and Certificate of Payment; (iii) contractor’s, subcontractor’s and material supplier’s waivers of liens which shall cover all of the Initial Tenant’s Work for which disbursement is being requested and all other statements and forms required for compliance with the mechanics’ lien laws of the state in which the Premises is located, together with all such invoices, contracts, or other supporting data as Landlord or Landlord’s Mortgagee may reasonably require; (iv) a cost breakdown for each trade or subcontractor performing the Initial Tenant’s Work; (v) plans and specifications for the Initial Tenant’s Work, together with a certificate from an AIA architect that such plans and specifications comply in all material respects with all laws affecting the Building and Premises; (vi) copies of all construction contracts for the Initial Tenant’s Work, together with copies of all change orders, if any (which change orders must have been approved in advance by Landlord); and (vii) a request to disburse from Tenant containing an approval by Tenant of the work done and a good faith estimate of the cost to complete the Initial Tenant’s Work. Upon completion of the Initial Tenant’s Work, and prior to final disbursement of the Construction Allowance, Tenant shall furnish Landlord with: (1) general contractor’s and architect’s completion affidavits, (2) full and final waivers of lien, (3) receipted bills covering all labor and materials expended and used, (4) as-built plans of the Initial Tenant’s Work, (5) the certification of Tenant and its architect that the Initial Tenant’s Work has been installed in a good and workmanlike manner in accordance with the approved plans, and in accordance with applicable laws, codes and ordinances, and (6) a final certificate of occupancy for the Premises, if applicable. In no event shall Landlord be required to disburse the Construction Allowance more than one time per month. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Landlord shall not be obligated to disburse any portion of the Construction Allowance during the continuance of an uncured default under the Lease, and Landlord’s obligation to disburse shall only resume when and if such default is cured.

(b) In no event shall the Construction Allowance be used as a credit against Rent or for the purchase of equipment, furniture or other items of personal property of Tenant. In the event Tenant does not submit to Landlord a written request for payment of the entire Construction

 

EXHIBIT B

-3-


Allowance (together with all of the documents and certificates required for such payment) by the date that is ninety (90) days after the Commencement Date, any portion of the Construction Allowance not disbursed to Tenant shall automatically accrue to the sole benefit of Landlord, it being understood that Tenant shall not be entitled to any credit, abatement or other concession in connection therewith. Tenant shall be responsible for all applicable state sales or use taxes, if any, payable in connection with the Initial Tenant’s Work and/or Construction Allowance.

 

4.

Miscellaneous.

(a) Tenant agrees to accept the Premises in its “as-is” condition and configuration, it being agreed that Landlord shall not be required to perform any work or, except as provided above with respect to the Construction Allowance, incur any costs in connection with the construction or demolition of any improvements in the Premises.

(b) This Exhibit shall not be deemed applicable to any additional space added to the Premises at any time or from time to time, whether by any options under the Lease or otherwise, or to any portion of the original Premises or any additions to the Premises in the event of a renewal or extension of the original Term of the Lease, whether by any options under the Lease or otherwise, unless expressly so provided in the Lease or any amendment or supplement to the Lease.

 

EXHIBIT B

-3-


SCHEDULE 1 TO EXHIBIT B

WORK LIST

 

1.

Seal the warehouse man door to prevent dust, debris, etc.

 

2.

Install an edge of dock leveler.

 

3.

Ensure the warehouse is kept at a controllable temperature at or below 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

EXHIBIT B

-4-


EXHIBIT C

PROHIBITED USE

This Exhibit is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given in the Lease.

In no event shall Tenant use its Premises or occupancy of any part of the Premises in a manner constituting a Prohibited Use (as defined below). If Tenant uses the Premises for a purpose constituting a Prohibited Use, violates any Applicable Laws, or causes the Building to be in violation of any Applicable Laws, then Tenant shall promptly discontinue such use upon notice of such violation.

Prohibited Use” shall mean the use of any part of the Premises for the following types of operations and activities:

 

1.

automobile/truck/forklift maintenance, repair or fueling;

2.

battery manufacturing or reclamation;

3.

ceramics and jewelry manufacturing or finishing;

4.

chemical (organic or inorganic) storage, use or manufacturing;

5.

drum recycling;

6.

dry cleaning;

7.

electronic components manufacturing;

8.

electroplating and metal finishing;

9.

explosives manufacturing, use or storage;

10.

leather production, tanning or finishing;

11.

machinery and tool manufacturing;

12.

medical equipment manufacturing and hospitals;

13.

metal shredding, recycling or reclamation;

14.

metal smelting and refining;

15.

mining;

16.

paint, pigment and coating operations;

17.

petroleum refining;

18.

plastic and synthetic materials manufacturing;

19.

solvent reclamation;

20.

tire and rubber manufacturing;

21.

fertilizer storage;

22.

residential use or occupancy;

23.

auctions of any type;

24.

retail sales of any type;

25.

tire storage;

26.

hazardous waste treatment, storage or disposal; and

27.

above and/or underground storage tanks.

 

EXHIBIT C

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EXHIBIT D

RULES AND REGULATIONS

This Exhibit is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings in the Lease.

 

1.

No vehicle or equipment shall remain upon the Common Area longer than seventy-two (72) hours.

 

2.

Signs will conform to sign standards and criteria established from time to time by Landlord. No signs, placards, pictures, advertisements, names or notices shall be inscribed, displayed or printed or affixed on or to any part of the outside or inside of the building without the written consent of Landlord and Landlord shall have the right to remove any such non-conforming signs, placards, pictures, advertisements, names or notices without notice to and at the expense of Tenant.

 

3.

No antenna, aerial, discs, dishes or other such device shall be erected on the roof or exterior walls of the Premises or on the grounds, without the written consent of the Landlord in each instance. Any device installed without such written consent shall be subject to removal without notice.

 

4.

No loud speakers, televisions, phonographs, radios or other devices shall be used in a manner so as to be heard or seen outside of the Premises without the prior written consent of the Landlord.

 

5.

The outside areas immediately adjoining the Premises shall be kept clean and free from dirt and rubbish by the Tenant to the satisfaction of Landlord and Tenant shall not place or permit any obstruction or materials in such areas or permit any work to be performed outside the Premises.

 

6.

No open storage shall be permitted in the Project.

 

7.

All garbage and refuse shall be placed in containers placed at the location designated for refuse collection, in the manner specified by Landlord.

 

8.

Tenant shall not disturb, solicit, or canvass any occupant of the building and shall cooperate to prevent same.

 

9.

No noxious or offensive trade or activity shall be carried on upon any units or any part of the Common Area nor shall anything be done thereon which would in any way interfere with the quiet enjoyment of each of the other tenants of the Project or which would increase the rate of insurance or overburden utility facilities from time to time existing in the Project.

 

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10.

Neither Tenant nor its agents, employees, contractors, guests or invitees shall smoke or permit smoking in the Common Areas, unless a portion of the Common Areas have been declared a designated smoking area by. Landlord, nor shall the above parties allow smoke from the Premises to emanate into the Common Areas or any other part of the Building. Landlord shall have the right to designate the Building (including the Premises) as a non-smoking building.

 

11.

Landlord reserves the right to make such amendments to these rules and regulations from time to time as are nondiscriminatory and not inconsistent with the Lease.

 

EXHIBIT D

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EXHIBIT E

INTENTIONALLY OMITTED

 

EXHIBIT E

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EXHIBIT F

REQUIREMENTS FOR IMPROVEMENTS OR ALTERATIONS BY TENANT

This Exhibit is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given in the Lease.

If Landlord shall permit Tenant to construct any initial tenant improvements in the Premises or to have any Alterations performed in the Premises at any time prior to or during the Term by a contractor retained by Tenant (“Tenant’s Work”), then Tenant shall comply with the requirements set forth herein. If Tenant’s Work has been properly authorized, Tenant will receive written approval and consent for alterations to the Premises.

1. SUBMITTAL OF PLANS. Prior to commencing any Tenant’s Work, Tenant shall submit to Landlord for approval its proposed plans for Tenant’s Work. Without limiting the foregoing, if required by Landlord and reasonable under the circumstances, Tenant shall provide:

(a) A schedule of all work to be performed.

(b) A separate scale drawing denoting all proposed construction and/or demolition, if necessary.

(c) A separate drawing for each trade proposing structural, electrical, mechanical, civil or landscaping modifications.

(d) All dimensions and complete references to all work to be performed in the affected areas.

(e) If adding extra electrical or mechanical equipment, provide complete operating and maintenance specifications for each item.

Landlord’s failure to respond to a written request from Tenant within ten (10) business days following Tenant’s written request shall be deemed be Landlord’s disapproval of the applicable request for approval hereunder.

2. CHECKLIST/BUILDING PERMITS. With respect to each project, Landlord will provide Tenant with a checklist listing the items required to be furnished to Landlord in connection with the proposed work. Tenant shall furnish to Landlord prior to, during, or upon completion of Tenant’s Work, as applicable, each of the items specified in the checklist attached hereto as Attachment 1. Prior to commencing any of the Tenant’s Work requiring any permit under Applicable Law, Tenant shall provide Landlord with copies of all permits secured in connection with any of the Tenant’s Work, along with the plans submitted in connection with such permits. Upon completion of the Tenant’s Work, Tenant shall provide copies of the final inspection, a certification of occupancy to the extent required under Applicable Law, and a notice of completion.

 

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3. CONTRACTORS PROVIDING TENANT IMPROVEMENT SERVICES.

(a) The contractor employed by Tenant and any subcontractors shall be (i) duly licensed in the state in which the Premises are located, and (ii) subject to Landlord’s prior written approval, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. If more than one trade is employed on a single job, state law requires the services of a general contractor in addition to contractors for specialty work being performed.

(b) Each contractor shall provide proof of licensing as a general or specialty contractor in accordance with Applicable Laws.

(c) Tenant shall use Landlord’s subcontractor for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, roofing and roofing consultant.

(d) Tenant and Tenant’s contractors shall comply with all Applicable Laws pertaining to the performance of Tenant’s Work and the completed improvements and all applicable safety regulations established by Landlord or the general contractor.

(e) Prior to commencement of any work in the Premises, Tenant and Tenant’s contractors (and any subcontractors) shall have a signed contract/service agreement in place listing the insurance requirements specifically naming the Landlord as an additional insured on their general liability insurance policy and having an indemnification section indemnifying Landlord and shall obtain and provide Landlord with certificates evidencing Workers’ Compensation, public liability and property damage insurance in amounts and forms and with companies satisfactory to Landlord. Each general contractor (and any subcontractor) employed on the Premises shall provide Landlord with a current certificate of insurance in effect for that contractor with a thirty (30) day notice of cancellation or revocation clause. Insurance requirements are as follows:

(i) Commercial General Liability with a $2,000,000.00 Combined Single Limit covering the liability of Landlord and contractor for bodily injury and property damage arising as a result of the construction of the improvements and the services performed thereunder. The insurance certificate shall be submitted to Landlord for approval, and all General Liability insurance policies shall name as Additional Insureds Landlord, any successor in interest thereto, any Mortgagee of Landlord, any managing agent of Landlord, and owner of any of the foregoing, and any beneficiary, officer, director, employee, or agent of any of the foregoing.

(ii) Business Automobile Liability with a $2,000,000.00 Combined Single Limit covering Landlord and vehicles used by contractor (and any subcontractor) in connection with the construction of the improvements.

(iii) Workers’ Compensation and Employer’s Liability as required by law, for employees of the contractor (and any subcontractors) performing work on the Premises.

 

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(f) The following requirements shall be incorporated as “Special Conditions” into the contract between Tenant and its contractors and a copy of the contract shall be furnished to Landlord prior to the commencement of Tenant’s Work:

(i) Prior to start of Tenant’s Work, Tenant’s contractor shall provide Landlord with a construction schedule in “bar graph” form indicating the completion dates of all phases of Tenant’s Work.

(ii) Tenant’s contractor shall be responsible for the repair, replacement and clean-up of any damage done by it to the Premises and other contractors’ work which specifically includes accessways to the Premises which may be concurrently used by others.

(iii) Tenant’s contractor shall accept the Premises prior to starting any trenching operations. Any rework of sub-base or compaction required after the contractor’s initial acceptance of the Premises shall be done by Tenant’s contractor, which shall include the removal from the Property of any excess dirt or debris.

(iv) Tenant’s contractor shall contain its storage of materials and its operations within the Premises and such other space as it may be assigned by Landlord or Landlord’s contractor. Should Tenant’s contractor be assigned space outside the Premises, it shall move to such other space as Landlord or Landlord’s contractor shall direct from time to time to avoid interference or delays with other work.

(v) Tenant’s contractor shall clean up the construction area and surrounding exterior areas daily. All trash, demolition materials and surplus construction materials shall be stored within the Premises and promptly removed from the Premises and the Property and disposed of in an approved sanitation site.

(vi) Tenant’s contractor shall provide temporary utilities, portable toilet facilities, and potable drinking water as required for its work within the Premises and shall pay to Landlord or Landlord’s contractor the cost of any temporary utilities and facilities provided by Landlord or Landlord’s contractor at Tenant’s contractor’s request.

(vii) Tenant’s contractor shall notify Landlord or Landlord’s property manager of any planned work to be done on weekends or other than normal job hours.

(viii) Tenant’s contractor or subcontractors shall not post signs on any part of the Property or on the Premises.

(g) If required by Landlord and reasonable under the circumstances, Tenant shall provide Landlord with a set of “As-Built” drawings for any work performed to the Premises.

4. COSTS.

(a) Tenant shall promptly pay all costs and expenses in connection with or arising out of the performance of Tenant’s Work (including the costs of permits therefor) and shall furnish to Landlord evidence of such payment upon request.

 

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(b) Tenant shall reimburse Landlord for all costs which Landlord may incur in connection with granting approval to Tenant for any alteration and/or addition, including any costs or expenses which Landlord may incur in electing to have outside architects and engineers review said matters. Tenant shall pay Landlord an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total hard costs of construction and installation of Tenant’s Work as compensation to Landlord for review of plans, use of facilities and other miscellaneous costs of Landlord incurred as a result of such work.

5. CONTRACTOR’S BONDS. If required by Landlord and reasonable under the circumstances, prior to the commencement of construction, Tenant shall obtain or cause its contractor to obtain and deliver evidence thereof to Landlord payment and performance bonds covering the faithful performance of the contract for the construction of the Tenant’s Work and the payment of all obligations arising thereunder and shall furnish to Landlord evidence of such bonds upon request. In the alternative, and at Landlord’s option, Tenant may appoint Landlord as its contractor, and in so doing, Tenant shall deposit with the Landlord a sum of money equal to the entire amount of the estimated construction cost, as is required for the installation of the Tenant improvements on the Premises. If Tenant deposits with Landlord monies for construction costs, it is agreed that Landlord will not be placed in a fiduciary capacity as a trustee, or any other fiduciary title, for the sums of monies in Landlord’s possession. Tenant agrees to hold Landlord harmless from any and all claims, for workmanship and installation of improvements, and for merchantability and quality of goods used for the installation of Tenant’s improvements, as are requested by Tenant. Any bonds obtained pursuant hereto shall be for the mutual benefit of both Landlord and Tenant as obligees and beneficiaries.

6. BUILDING STANDARDS. All work shall (a) be performed during Landlord’s designated hours for construction work, (b) conform to Landlord’s established rules (including clean up rules), regulations, building standards and specifications, (c) not interfere with any other tenant of Landlord, nor block any access points, (d) comply with any CC&Rs and all laws, rules and regulations. Tenant is required to make these standards part of the construction documents.

7. ROOF PENETRATIONS. If improvements penetrate the roof membrane, the penetrations will be sealed per Landlord or Landlord’s consultant’s roofing specifications and inspected by Landlord or Landlord’s consultant to maintain the roof warranty. The cost of inspection and all corrective work shall be borne by Tenant. Tenant shall use Landlord’s original roofing contractor for any inspection or work to be done on the roof of the Building.

8. BUILDING MODIFICATIONS. Work will only be approved within the confines of a given space. Tenant will not be allowed to modify building exterior or mechanical and electrical service as provided to the building in common with other tenants.

9. ELECTRICAL WORK. All electrical work shall only be for electrical panels located within the Premises. Additional service requirements shall be secured only by direction of Landlord.

10. CLEAN UP AND DISPOSAL OF CONSTRUCTION DEBRIS. Tenant shall comply with Landlord’s rules regarding clean up. Building trash containers are provided for office generated trash only and are not to be used for disposal of construction-related materials and debris. Unapproved usage will result in a penalty assessment to the Tenant equal to the cost of an extra pick-up service as provided under the current rate schedule of regular trash removal service.

 

EXHIBIT F

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11. INSPECTION BY LANDLORD. Landlord reserves the following rights: (i) the right of inspection prior to, during and at completion of all construction and/or demolition, (ii) the right to post and record a notice of nonresponsibility in conformity with the law of the state or commonwealth in which the Building is located, and (iii) the right to order a total stop to all improvements underway for non-compliance with any of the requirements hereof.

12. GENERAL PROVISIONS.

(a) If Landlord has agreed to provide an allowance toward the cost of tenant improvements, Landlord shall retain from such funds an amount determined by Landlord until Tenant has fully complied with the requirements hereof.

(b) Nothing contained herein shall make or constitute Tenant as the agent of Landlord.

(c) All materials work, installations and decorations of any nature whatsoever brought on or installed in the Premises before the commencement of the Term or throughout the Term shall be at Tenant’s risk, and neither Landlord nor any party acting on Landlord’s behalf shall be responsible for any damage thereto or loss or destruction thereof due to any reason or cause whatsoever.

 

EXHIBIT F

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ATTACHMENT 1 TO EXHIBIT F

ITEMS TO BE FURNISHED TO LANDLORD FOR EACH WORK OF IMPROVEMENT

This Attachment 1 to Exhibit F is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given in the Lease.

 

1.

Plan of Alterations for Landlord Approval.

 

2.

Contractor(s), Address, Telephone Number, Contact Person.

 

3.

Copy of Contractor’s State and City Business License.

 

4.

Copy of all permits including, but not limited to, the Building Permit.

 

5.

Copy of Final Inspection and Signed Building Permit Cards.

 

6.

Copy of Certificate of Insurance Naming Landlord, Landlord’s Mortgagee, if any, any property management company of Landlord for the Premises, and any other party designated by Landlord as Additional Insured. Insurance to include Comprehensive General Liability, Comprehensive Auto, Workers’ Compensation and Employer’s Liability.

 

7.

Signed Unconditional lien waiver in favor of the Landlord.

 

8.

Schedule of Work.

 

9.

Copy of Completion and Payment Bond.

 

10.

Architect’s License and Expiration.

 

11.

Tenant and Architect Agreement.

 

12.

Tenant and Contractor Agreement.

 

13.

Copy of Permit Plans.

 

14.

Copy of As-Builts.

 

15.

Copy of Recorded Notice of Completion.

 

16.

Certificate of Occupancy.

 

17.

Evidence of Insurance for All-Risk/Builder’s Risk Insurance to the Amount of Improvements.

 

EXHIBIT F

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EXHIBIT G

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SURVEY FORM

This Exhibit is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given in the Lease.

The purpose of this form is to obtain information regarding the use of Hazardous Materials on the Premises. Prospective lessees should answer the questions in light of their proposed operations on the Premises. Existing lessees should answer the questions as they relate to ongoing operations on the Premises and should update any information previously submitted. If additional space is needed to answer the questions, you may attach separate sheets of paper to this form.

Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated. Any questions should be directed to, and when completed, the form should be mailed to:

 

                                                                                                  

                                                                                                  

                                                                                                  

                                                                                                  

 

1.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Company Name: Thorne Research, Inc.

Check Applicable Status: Prospective Lessee: XXX Current Lessee:                 

Mailing Address: 620 Omni Industrial Blvd., Summerville, South Carolina 29486

Contact Person and Title: Kim R. Pearson, General Counsel

Phone #: 843-494-5247

Address of Premises: 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510

Describe the proposed operations to take place on the Premises, including principal products manufactured or services to be conducted. Existing tenants should describe any proposed changes to ongoing operations.

The Premises will be used as storage for finished nutritional supplement products manufactured by the Lessee in South Carolina and transported to the Premises. The manufacture and storage of the Lessee’s finished nutritional supplement products is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration pursuant to Title 21 Code of Federal Regulations Part 111. The Lessee’s finished nutritional supplements products will be shipped from the Premises to end users (health-care practitioners and consumers) in the United States who purchase the finished products from Lessee.

 

EXHIBIT G

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2.

STORAGE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

 

  2.1

Will any Hazardous Materials be used or stored on the Premises?

Wastes                                                  Yes                No         XXX

Chemical Products                              Yes                 No         XXX

Attach the list of any Hazardous Materials to be used or stored, the quantities that will be on site at any given time, and the location and method of storage.

 

3.

STORAGE TANKS AND SUMPS

 

  3.1

Is any above or below ground storage of gasoline, diesel, or other Hazardous Materials in tanks or sumps proposed or currently conducted on the Premises?

Yes                 No         XXX

If yes, describe the materials to be stored, and the type, size and construction of the sump or tank. Attach copies of any permits obtained for the storage of such materials.

 

  3.2

Have any of the tanks or sumps been inspected or tested for leakage?

Yes                 No                  

If yes, attach results.

 

  3.3

Have any spills or leaks occurred from such tanks or sumps?

Yes             No        

If yes, describe.

 

  3.4

Were any regulatory agencies notified of the spill or leak?

Yes                 No                  

If so, attach copies of any spill reports filed, any clearance letters or other correspondence from regulatory agencies relating to the spill or leak.

 

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  3.5

Have any underground storage tanks or sumps been taken out of service or been removed?

Yes                 No                 

If yes, attach copies of any closure permits and clearance obtained from regulatory agencies relating to closure and removal of such tanks.

 

4.

SPILLS

 

  4.1

During the past year, have any spills occurred on the Premises?

Yes                 No         XXX

If so, please describe the spill and attach the results of any testing conducted to determine the extent of such spills.

 

  4.2

Were any agencies notified in connection with such spills?

Yes                 No                 

If so, attach copies of any spill reports or other correspondence with regulatory agencies.

 

  4.3

Were any cleanup actions undertaken in connection with the spill?

Yes                 No                 

If so, briefly describe the actions taken. Attach copies of any clearance letters obtained from any regulatory agencies involved and the results of any final soil or ground water sampling done upon completion of the cleanup work.

 

 

 

 

5.

WASTE MANAGEMENT

 

  5.1

Has your company been issued an EPA Hazardous Waste Generator I.D. Number?

Yes                 No         XXX

 

  5.2

Has your company filed a biennial report as a hazardous waste generator?

Yes                 No         XXX

If so, attach a copy of the most recent report files.

 

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  5.3

Attach a list of the Hazardous Materials, if any, generated or to be generated at the Premises, its hazard class and the quality generated on a monthly basis.

 

  5.4

Describe the method(s) of disposal for each material. Indicate where and how often disposal will take place.

 

  5.5

Indicate the name of the person(s) responsible for maintaining copies of hazardous manifests completed for off-site shipments of Hazardous Materials.

 

  5.6

Is any treatment or processing of Hazardous Materials currently conducted or proposed to be conducted at the Premises:

Yes                 No         XXX

If yes, please describe any existing or proposed treatment methods.

 

  5.7

Attach copies of any hazardous waste permits or licenses issued to your company with respect to its operations on the Premises.

 

6.

WATER TREATMENT / DISCHARGE

 

  6.1

Do you discharge wastewater to: storm drain? sewer? surface water?

no industrial discharge.

No storm drain?

No sewer?

No surface water?

No no industrial discharge.

 

  6.2

Is your wastewater treated before discharge?

Yes                 No                 

If yes, describe the type of treatment conducted.

 

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Attach copies of any wastewater discharge permits issued to your company with respect to its operations on the Premises.

 

7.

AIR DISCHARGES

 

  7.1

Do you have any filtration systems or stacks that discharge into the air?

Yes                         No         XXX

 

  7.2

Do you operate any of the following types of equipment, or any other equipment requiring an air emissions permit?

No         Spray booth

No         Dip tank

No         Drying oven

No         Incinerator

No         Other ____________________________

No         No Equipment Requiring Air Permits

 

  7.3

Are air emissions from your operation monitored?

Yes                 No         XXX

If so, indicate the frequency of monitoring and a description of the monitoring results.

 

  7.4

Attach copies of any air emissions permits pertaining to your operations on the Premises.

 

8.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS DISCLOSURES

 

  8.1

Does your company handle Hazardous Materials in a quantity equal to or exceeding an aggregate of 500 pound, 5 gallons, or 200 cubic feet?

Yes                 No         XXX

 

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  8.2

Has your company prepared a Hazardous Materials management plan (“Business Plan”) pursuant to the Fire Department requirements for the County in which the Premises is located?

Yes                 No         XXX

 

  8.3

Are any of the chemicals used in your operation regulated under Proposition 65? (for California properties only)

Yes                 No         XXX

If so, describe the actions taken, or proposed actions to be taken, to comply with the proposition.

 

  8.4

Describe the procedure followed to comply with OSHA Hazard Communication Standard requirements.

Yes                 No         XXX

 

9.

ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS, COMPLAINTS

 

  9.1

Has your company ever been subject to any agency enforcement actions, administrative orders, or consent decrees?

Yes                 No         XXX

If so, describe the actions and any continuing compliance obligations imposed as a result of these actions.

 

  9.2

Has your company ever received requests for information, notice or demand letters, or any other inquiries regarding its operation?

Yes                 No         XXX

 

  9.3

Have there ever been, or are there now pending, any lawsuits against the company regarding any environmental or health and safety concerns?

Yes                 No         XXX

 

  9.4

Has an environmental audit ever been conducted at your company’s current facility?

Yes                 No         XXX

 

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  9.5

Have there been any problems or complaints from neighbors at the company’s current facility?

Yes                 No         XXX

 

FOR THORNE RESEARCH, INC.
By:   Kim R. Pearson
Title: General Counsel
Date: October 21, 2019

 

EXHIBIT G

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EXHIBIT H

ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS

This Exhibit is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given in the Lease.

 

1.

California Civil Code Section 1938. Pursuant to California Civil Code § 1938(a), Landlord hereby states that the Premises have not undergone inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) (defined in California Civil Code § 55.52). Accordingly, pursuant to California Civil Code § 1938(e), Landlord hereby further states as follows:

A Certified Access Specialist (CASp) can inspect the subject premises and determine whether the subject premises comply with all of the applicable construction-related accessibility standards under state law. Although state law does not require a CASp inspection of the subject premises, the commercial property owner or lessor may not prohibit the lessee or tenant from obtaining a CASp inspection of the subject premises for the occupancy or potential occupancy of the lessee or tenant, if requested by the lessee or tenant. The parties shall mutually agree on the arrangements for the time and manner of the CASp inspection, the payment of the fee for the CASp inspection, and the cost of making any repairs necessary to correct violations of construction-related accessibility standards within the premises.

In accordance with the foregoing, Landlord and Tenant agree that if Tenant obtains a CASp inspection of the Premises, then Tenant shall pay (i) the fee for such inspection, and (ii) except as may be otherwise expressly provided in this Lease, the cost of making any repairs necessary to correct violations of construction-related accessibility standards within the Premises.

 

2.

Extension Option.

 

  2.1

Grant of Option; Conditions. Tenant shall have the right (the “Extension Option”) to extend the Term for one (1) additional period of five (5) years beginning on the day immediately following the expiration date of the Lease and ending on the fifth (5th) anniversary of such expiration date (the “Extension Term”), if:

 

  (a)

not less than nine (9) and not more than twelve (12) full calendar months before the expiration date of the Lease, Tenant delivers written notice to Landlord (the “Extension Notice”) electing to exercise the Extension Option;

 

  (b)

no Event of Default exists when Tenant delivers the Extension Notice;

 

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  (c)

no part of the Premises is sublet when Tenant delivers the Extension Notice; and

 

  (d)

the Lease has not been assigned before Tenant delivers the Extension Notice.

 

  2.2

Terms Applicable to Extension Term.

A. During the Extension Term, (a) the Base Rent rate per rentable square foot shall be equal to the Prevailing Market (defined in Section 2.5 below) rate per rentable square foot; (b) Base Rent shall increase, if at all, in accordance with the increases assumed in the determination of Prevailing Market rate; and (c) Base Rent shall be payable in monthly installments in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Lease.

B. During the Extension Term Tenant shall pay Tenant’s Share of Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes for the Premises in accordance with the Lease.

 

  2.3

Procedure for Determining Prevailing Market. Within thirty (30) days after receiving the Extension Notice, Landlord shall give Tenant written notice (“Landlord’s Notice”) stating Landlord’s estimate of the Prevailing Market rate for the Extension Term. Tenant, within fifteen (15) days thereafter, shall give Landlord either (i) written notice (“Tenant’s Binding Notice”) accepting Landlord’s estimate of the Prevailing Market rate for the Extension Term stated in Landlord’s Notice, or (ii) written notice (“Tenant’s Rejection Notice”) rejecting such estimate. If Tenant gives Landlord a Tenant’s Rejection Notice, Landlord and Tenant shall work together in good faith to agree in writing upon the Prevailing Market rate for the Extension Term. If, within thirty (30) days after delivery of a Tenant’s Rejection Notice, the parties fail to agree in writing upon the Prevailing Market rate, Tenant’s Extension Option shall be of no further force or effect.

 

  2.4

Extension Amendment. If Tenant is entitled to and properly exercises its Extension Option, and if the Prevailing Market rate for the Extension Term is determined in accordance with Section 2.3 above, Landlord, within a reasonable time thereafter, shall prepare and deliver to Tenant an amendment (the “Extension Amendment”) reflecting changes in the Base Rent, the Term, the expiration date of the Lease, and other appropriate terms in accordance with this Section 2, and Tenant shall execute and return (or provide Landlord with reasonable objections to) the Extension Amendment within fifteen (15) days after receiving it. Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon determination of the Prevailing Market rate for the Extension Term in accordance with Section 2.3 above, an otherwise valid exercise of the Extension Option shall be fully effective whether or not the Extension Amendment is executed.

 

  2.5

Definition of Prevailing Market. For purposes of this Extension Option, “Prevailing Market” shall mean the arms-length, fair-market, annual rental rate per rentable square foot under extension and renewal leases and amendments entered into on or about the date on which the Prevailing Market is being determined hereunder for space

 

EXHIBIT H

-3-


  comparable to the Premises in the Building and industrial buildings comparable to the Building in the Benicia, California area. The determination of Prevailing Market shall take into account (i) any material economic differences between the terms of the Lease and any comparison lease or amendment, such as rent abatements, construction costs and other concessions, and the manner, if any, in which the landlord under any such lease is reimbursed for operating expenses and taxes; (ii) any material differences in configuration or condition between the Premises and any comparison space, including any cost that would have to be incurred in order to make the configuration or condition of the comparison space similar to that of the Premises; and (iii) any reasonably anticipated changes in the Prevailing Market rate from the time such Prevailing Market rate is being determined and the time such Prevailing Market rate will become effective under the Lease.

 

  2.6

Subordination. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Tenant’s Extension Option is subject and subordinate to the expansion rights (whether such rights are designated as a right of first offer, right of first refusal, expansion option or otherwise) of any tenant of the Building or the Project existing on the date hereof.

 

EXHIBIT A

-3-


EXHIBIT I

JUDICIAL REFERENCE

This Exhibit is attached to and made a part of the Multi-Tenant Industrial Triple Net Lease (the “Lease”) by and between ICON OWNER POOL 1 SF NON-BUSINESS PARKS, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Landlord”), and THORNE RESEARCH, INC., a South Carolina corporation (“Tenant”), for space in the Building located at 533 Stone Road, Benicia, California 94510. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given in the Lease.

IF THE JURY-WAIVER PROVISIONS OF SECTION 26.3 OF THIS LEASE ARE NOT ENFORCEABLE UNDER CALIFORNIA LAW, THE PROVISIONS SET FORTH BELOW SHALL APPLY.

It is the desire and intention of the parties to agree upon a mechanism and procedure under which controversies and disputes arising out of this Lease or related to the Premises will be resolved in a prompt and expeditious manner. Accordingly, except with respect to actions for unlawful or forcible detainer or with respect to the prejudgment remedy of attachment, any action, proceeding or counterclaim brought by either party hereto against the other (and/or against its officers, directors, employees, agents or subsidiaries or affiliated entities) on any matters arising out of or in any way connected with this Lease, Tenant’s use or occupancy of the Premises and/or any claim of injury or damage, whether sounding in contract, tort, or otherwise, shall be heard and resolved by a referee under the provisions of the California Code of Civil Procedure, Sections 638 — 645.1, inclusive (as same may be amended, or any successor statute(s) thereto) (the “Referee Sections”). Any fee to initiate the judicial reference proceedings and all fees charged and costs incurred by the referee shall be paid by the party initiating such procedure (except that if a reporter is requested by either party, then a reporter shall be present at all proceedings where requested and the fees of such reporter — except for copies ordered by the other parties — shall be borne by the party requesting the reporter); provided however, that allocation of the costs and fees, including any initiation fee, of such proceeding shall be ultimately determined in accordance with Section 26.3 of this Lease. The venue of the proceedings shall be in the county in which the Premises are located. Within ten (10) days of receipt by any party of a request to resolve any dispute or controversy pursuant to this Exhibit I, the parties shall agree upon a single referee who shall try all issues, whether of fact or law, and report a finding and judgment on such issues as required by the Referee Sections. If the parties are unable to agree upon a referee within such ten (10)-day period, then any party may thereafter file a lawsuit in the county in which the Premises are located for the purpose of appointment of a referee under the Referee Sections. If the referee is appointed by the court, the referee shall be a neutral and impartial retired judge with substantial experience in the relevant matters to be determined, from Jams/Endispute, Inc., ADR Services, Inc. or a similar mediation/arbitration entity approved by each party in its sole and absolute discretion. The proposed referee may be challenged by any party for any of the grounds listed in the Referee Sections. The referee shall have the power to decide all issues of fact and law and report his or her decision on such issues, and to issue all recognized remedies available at law or in equity for any cause of action that is before the referee, including an award of attorneys’ fees and costs in accordance with this Lease. The referee shall not, however, have the power to award punitive damages,

 

EXHIBIT I

-1-


nor any other damages that are not permitted by the express provisions of this Lease, and the parties waive any right to recover any such damages. The parties may conduct all discovery as provided in the California Code of Civil Procedure, and the referee shall oversee discovery and may enforce all discovery orders in the same manner as any trial court judge, with rights to regulate discovery and to issue and enforce subpoenas, protective orders and other limitations on discovery available under California Applicable Law. The reference proceeding shall be conducted in accordance with California Applicable Law (including the rules of evidence), and in all regards, the referee shall follow California Applicable Law applicable at the time of the reference proceeding. The parties shall promptly and diligently cooperate with one another and the referee, and shall perform such acts as may be necessary to obtain a prompt and expeditious resolution of the dispute or controversy in accordance with the terms of this Exhibit I. In this regard, the parties agree that the parties and the referee shall use best efforts to ensure that (a) discovery be conducted for a period no longer than six (6) months from the date the referee is appointed, excluding motions regarding discovery, and (b) a trial date be set within nine (9) months of the date the referee is appointed. In accordance with Section 644 of the California Code of Civil Procedure, the decision of the referee upon the whole issue must stand as the decision of the court, and upon the filing of the statement of decision with the clerk of the court, or with the judge if there is no clerk, judgment may be entered thereon in the same manner as if the action had been tried by the court. Any decision of the referee and/or judgment or other order entered thereon shall be appealable to the same extent and in the same manner that such decision, judgment, or order would be appealable if rendered by a judge of the superior court in which venue is proper hereunder. The referee shall in his/her statement of decision set forth his/her findings of fact and conclusions of law. The parties intend this general reference agreement to be specifically enforceable in accordance with the Code of Civil Procedure. Nothing in this Exhibit I shall prejudice the right of any party to obtain provisional relief or other equitable remedies from a court of competent jurisdiction as shall otherwise be available under the Code of Civil Procedure and/or applicable court rules.

 

EXHIBIT I

-2-

Exhibit 10.13

Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

Vendor Agreement

Between

Thorne Research, Inc.

And

BioTE Medical, LLC

December 1, 2020

 

1


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

VENDOR AGREEMENT

This Vendor Agreement (“this Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the 1st day of December 2020 (“the Effective Date”), by and between Thorne Research, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“Thorne”), having its offices at 620 Omni Industrial Blvd., Summerville, South Carolina 29486, and BioTE Medical, LLC, a Texas limited liability company (“BioTE”), having its offices at 1875 West Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 100, Irving, Texas 75038, and who are sometimes referred to individually as a “Party” or together as the “Parties.”

WHEREAS, the Parties entered into that certain Non-Exclusive Co-Marketing Agreement, dated May 30, 2019, but the Parties now desire to replace that agreement with the terms, conditions, and obligations of this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, Thorne intends to provide product and AgeBio testing of up to [***] toward the funding of a clinical trial to be sponsored by and conducted by BioTE and Thorne; and

WHEREAS, Thorne remains engaged in the business of research, development, manufacture, distribution, and sale of a line of nutritional supplement products that promote better health and wellbeing for patients through health-care practitioners who prescribe or recommend Thorne’s nutritional supplement products to their patients; and

WHEREAS, BioTE remains engaged in the business of recruiting, training, and supporting physicians and other healthcare providers located in the United States of America or any of its territories to perform BioTE’s proprietary method of hormone balance (“BioTE Medical Hormone Pellet Therapy”) using pelletized therapeutic products derived from natural plant sources designed to replicate the body’s normal hormonal levels; and

WHEREAS, BioTE commits to a long-term strategic partnership with Thorne to grow the supplements and wellness products offering for BioTE’s 5,500 practitioners in the U.S. BioTE also commits to work with Thorne to provide supplements for BioTE’s currently unserved international practitioners. BioTE has invested considerable funds and will continue to invest funds creating a market for these Thorne supplements in the clinical, retail, direct to consumer, and online markets in Mexico and South America.

WHEREAS, BioTE currently sells only to medical practitioners, BioTE is making a considerable investment in adding direct-to-patient and direct-to-consumer supplement sales. All Thorne-BioTE products will be marketed to these large new markets in Q1 2021. Although BioTE’s growth with Thorne has been strong in the practitioner market, it will only be a fraction of the new direct-to-patient and direct-to-consumer market. Considerable growth can also be predicted on the automatic delivery/subscription service that will be available at the start of the program in Q1 2021.

 

2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

WHEREAS, BioTE will continue to use Thorne as a contract manufacturer for the current BioTE-labelled nutritional supplement products listed in Appendix 1, and as mutually agreed on for future nutritional supplement product development and manufacturing for BioTE-labelled nutritional supplement products and, where appropriate and mutually agreed on, recommend Thorne’s nutritional supplement product line to those health-care practitioners who prescribe and recommend the BioTE Medical Hormone Pellet Therapy to their patients.

NOW THEREFORE, the Parties agree on the following terms, conditions, and obligations as set forth herein:

 

1.

Validation Study. The Parties anticipate that certain of BioTE’s certified healthcare providers will conduct a year-long validation study. The Parties further anticipate that Thorne will provide up to, but not more than, [***] in product and AgeBio Testing toward implementing and conducting the validation study. The Parties agree to provide an appropriate attribution to Thorne’s participation and assistance in the validation study upon publication of the results of such study.

 

2.

Term. Whereas the initial term of the Non-Exclusive Vendor Agreement was two (2) years; i.e., the term of that agreement would have expired on May 29, 2021, the initial term of this Agreement will be three (3) years; i.e., the expiration date of this Agreement will be November 30, 2023; provided, however, that either Party may terminate this Agreement at any time for business convenience by providing a 180-day written notice to the other Party.

 

3.

Drop Ship Agreement. The Parties agree that certain Drop Ship Agreement previously agreed to and executed by the Parties on May 30, 2019 (Appendix 2) will remain in place, and the Parties agree to continue to comply with its terms, conditions, and obligations, and such Drop Ship Agreement is incorporated by reference herein. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Parties agree that if BioTE moves from a drop ship arrangement to an agreement with a third-party logistics provider, the Parties will review and revise the Drop Ship Agreement in place to address such change in shipping arrangements.

 

4.

Quality Agreement. The Parties agree to the terms, conditions, and obligations of the Quality Agreement attached as Appendix 3, below, which is executed by the Parties as of the Effective Date of this Agreement and is incorporated by reference herein.

 

5.

Sales Strategies. The Parties agree to continue to use commercially reasonable efforts by Thorne’s sales representatives to expose, instruct, and recommend the BioTE Medical Hormone Pellet Therapy to their health-care practitioner customers, and by BioTE to expose, instruct, and recommend BioTE-branded and Thorne’s nutritional supplement product line to BioTE’s health-care practitioner customers.

 

3


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

6.

Sales and Marketing Materials. The Parties agree to work together to develop sales and marketing materials to be used by Thorne and BioTE, respectively, to facilitate the accomplishment of the Sales Strategies set forth in Paragraph 5, above.

 

7.

Training. The Parties agree to make training available to each Party’s respective sales force.

 

8.

Commission Structure. Thorne agrees that if any of BioTE’s customers opt to purchase any other non-BioTE branded products, then BioTE will be entitled to receive a [***] commission paid for on a monthly commission cycle for the other products sold, but not including previous Thorne customers who have purchased product from Thorne in the previous 24 months.

 

9.

Contract Manufacturing. The Parties agree that during the Term of this Agreement, Thorne will continue to be a manufacturer of the finished nutritional supplement products that bear a BioTE-branded label listed in Appendix 1, subject to the mutually agreed upon production schedule(s) for the manufacture of such products. BioTE further agrees to continue to purchase such finished products from Thorne as set forth in this Agreement at such time as each lot of finished product is released for sale by Thorne’s Quality Assurance/Quality Control Department, and proof of such release for sale of finished BioTE-branded product is submitted, with the lot number’s accompanying invoice, to BioTE for approval and payment. BioTE will continue to receive a weekly statement reconciling the previous week’s orders processed by Thorne, which statement will continue to be emailed to BioTE each week for the previous week’s processed orders. BioTE will continue to receive a [***] discount for payment of a statement within seven (7) days or less from the date of the statement received and be allowed to pay their invoice by credit card. BioTE will continue to have up to seven (7) days to review the statement for accuracy and make payment by credit card on or before the seventh day to receive the 1-percent early payment discount. If payment is not received by the seventh day after a statement is received by BioTE, then Thorne can seek approval from BioTE to charge BioTE’s credit card on file without a discount. In the event Thorne experiences an increase greater than ten percent (10%) in raw material or component costs for those items needed in order to manufacture the finished nutritional supplement products for BioTE, Thorne may, upon receipt of BioTE’s prior written approval, which approval will not be unreasonably withheld, increase the purchase price of the finished nutritional supplement products manufactured for BioTE.

 

10.

Stock. Subject to reasonably accurate and timely rolling 12-month forecasts from BioTE, as well as mutually agreed upon production schedule(s), Thorne continues to commit to remain in stock on those BioTE-branded products manufactured pursuant to Paragraph 9, above. Thorne agrees to provide written notice to BioTE immediately (i.e., within twenty- four (24) business hours) if an out-of-stock situation occurs, and Thorne agrees to continue to pay for additional 2-day shipping at no cost to the customer or BioTE.

 

4


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

11.

Tracking and Billing. As the Parties deem necessary and by mutual agreement, the Parties agree to continue to develop processes to track and report the purchases of Thorne’s nutritional supplement products that are consummated as a result of the implementation of the Sales Strategies contemplated in Paragraph 5, above.

 

12.

Nutritional Supplement Products. The Parties agree that as of the Effective Date of this Agreement the nutritional supplement products that BioTE will expose to, instruct on, and recommend to their health-care practitioner customers are those listed in Appendix 1. By mutual agreement, the Parties reserve the right to add additional nutritional supplement products during the Term of this Agreement.

 

13.

Forecasts. Thorne and BioTE will continue to work closely together, and in good faith, to put in place rolling 12-month quarterly forecasts for production, which will be updated bimonthly based on historic and future trends.

 

14.

Shipping / Returns. Thorne’s modified shipping rates as agreed on by the Parties in Appendix 2 of the previous Non-Exclusive Vendor Agreement will continue to apply as the shipping rates during the Term of this Agreement, and former Appendix 2 is incorporated by reference herein as Appendix 2. Returns will continue to be addressed by the Parties on a case-by-case basis.

 

15.

No Representations or Warranties. Neither Thorne nor BioTE are authorized to make representations or warranties on behalf of the other with respect to the BioTE Medical Hormone Pellet Therapy or Thorne’s nutritional supplement products, respectively, that are not otherwise contained in the sales and marketing materials contemplated by Paragraph 6, above, or otherwise authorized by the prior written consent of the Party for whom the representation or warranty might apply.

 

16.

Regulatory Compliance and Oversight. Each Party will be solely responsible for its compliance with the applicable laws and regulations pertaining to the manufacture, marketing, and distribution of its products and services.

 

  (a)

Thorne will be responsible for adverse event reporting for the Thorne nutritional supplement products that BioTE recommends to its affiliated providers.

 

  (b)

Thorne will be responsible for complying with the regulatory requirements, policies, and procedures associated with manufacturing, distributing, and marketing its nutritional supplement product line.

 

17.

Product Discontinuance. Either Party may discontinue at any time, with at least one hundred twenty (120) days’ prior written notice to the other Party, any product. In the event BioTE discontinues a BioTE-branded product, then BioTE will be obligated to purchase, within one hundred eighty (180) days, any inventory of that discontinued product existing as of the date BioTE provided written notice of discontinuance.

 

5


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

18.

Force Majeure. Except for payments due under this Agreement, neither Party will be responsible for any failure to perform or delay in performance if such failure or delay is caused, directly or indirectly, by events or circumstances beyond such Party’s reasonable control (each a “Force Majeure”), including, but not limited to, acts of God, war, sabotage, riot, embargoes, compliance with court orders, acts of civil or military authorities, domestic or foreign acts of terrorism, denial of or delays in processing of export license applications, fire, lightening, epidemic, pandemic, floods or other severe weather conditions, earthquakes, accidents, strikes, fuel crises, interruptions or delays in transportation or communication facilities, or any other event or circumstance, whether similar or dissimilar to those set forth herein, provided that such Party gives prompt written notice thereof to the other Party and takes reasonable steps to minimize the effect of the event on such Party’s performance. The time for performance will be extended for a period equal to the duration of the Force Majeure, but in no event longer than sixty (60) days. After such time, the other Party will have the right to immediately terminate this Agreement.

 

19.

Indemnification. Each Party agrees to indemnify the other Party and hold it harmless from all claims, demands, damages, and liabilities of any kind to the extent any such claim, demand, damage, or liability arises as a result of the implementation of their respective obligations undertaken by the Parties in the performance of this Agreement.

 

20.

Intellectual Property; BioTE’s customers. The Parties acknowledge that each Party exclusively owns the right, title, and interest in its respective intellectual property, and that nothing in this Agreement transfers or inhibits the other Party’s exclusive ownership thereof. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Parties agree that any proprietary formulations developed by BioTE will remain the sole and exclusive property of BioTE, regardless of whether BioTE utilizes Thorne to manufacture or produce any such products on BioTE’s behalf. Thorne acknowledges that the customers that it ships to on behalf of BioTE are part of BioTE’s intellectual property. Thorne further acknowledges and agrees that it must obtain BioTE’s written approval prior to marketing any products, services, or items to BioTE’s customers. As used in this Paragraph 20, the term “marketing” will include, without limitation, electronic messaging, text messaging, telephone calls, in-person meetings, mailings, the gifting of samples, and any other advertising or soliciting of BioTE’s customers by Thorne. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this prohibition does not include previous Thorne customers who purchased product from Thorne in the twenty-four (24) month period prior to the effective date of the Parties’ previous Non-Exclusive Vendor Agreement.

 

21.

Confidentiality. The Parties agree that neither Party will disclose or use, without the other Party’s prior written consent, any non-public, confidential, or proprietary information of the other Party, including, but not limited to, trade secrets, product development information, business operations information, or customer information, that has been provided to the other Party in furtherance of undertaking their respective obligations.

 

6


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

22.

Notices. Any notice required or desired to be given pursuant to this Agreement will be deemed to have been given when such notice, in writing, is delivered to the other Party at the respective address first written above and addressed to the individual undersigned below.

 

23.

Relationship of the Parties. Nothing contained in this Agreement will be construed as creating a joint venture, partnership, or agency relationship between the Parties, nor will either Party have the right, power, or authority to create any obligation or duty, express or implied, on behalf of the other Party.

 

24.

Governing Law. The Parties agree that this Agreement will be governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to Delaware’s rules relating to conflicts of laws, and the Parties hereby consent to the jurisdiction of the federal and state courts of the State of Delaware relating to any action, suit, or proceeding brought to compel performance of any obligation undertaken herein by the Parties.

 

25.

Entire Agreement; Amendments. This Agreement and attached Appendices, and the documents incorporated by reference in this Agreement, constitute the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements between the Parties with respect to its subject matter. No amendment, change, waiver, or discharge hereof will be valid unless in writing and signed by the Party against which such amendment, change, waiver, or discharge is sought to be enforced.

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

7


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Vendor Agreement as of the Effective Date above written.

 

FOR THORNE RESEARCH, INC.
/s/ Paul F. Jacobson
By:   Paul F. Jacobson
Its:    Chief Executive Officer
FOR BIOTE MEDICAL, LLC
/s/ Terry Weber
By:   Terry Weber
Its:    Chief Executive Officer

 

8


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Appendix 1

Current BioTE-labelled Nutritional Supplement Products

Methyl Guard Plus

Meriva 500 SF

DIM SGS +

ADK 5

ADK 10

FloraSport Probiotic

Iodine

Omega w/CoQ10

Bacillus Coagulans

 

9


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Appendix 2

Shipping Provisions

All shipping of BioTE products will be coordinated through Thone’s Shipping Department, who will be responsible for determining and administering the most cost-effective and timely means of transit.

Orders will be processed for fulfillment from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm ET (4 pm PT).

Within the continental U.S., the following shipping terms will apply:

 

   

Free shipping (delivery within 1 to 3 business days of order) for any order of 1 case or more.

 

   

1-day air will be billed to BioTE at [***] per shipment.

Shipments to Hawaii will be billed to BioTE at [***], with delivery being 3 business days from pick-up.

The Shipping Department will also coordinate International shipments as required.

 

   

For Canada — BioTE will be charged [***] per shipment with delivery within 3 business days of order.

 

   

For Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and other Caribbean locations — BioTE will be charged [***] per shipment with delivery within 3 business days of order.

Discounts for Order Processing for BioTE 3PL

During the term of this agreement, if and when BioTE elects uses their own third party logistics provider (3PL) for order fulfillment, Thorne agrees to a [***] per bottle discount as Thorne will no longer be required provide order processing (pick-pack-ship) direct to Clinics or Patients, and only ship in bulk quantities to the selected BioTE 3PL.

 

10


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Appendix 3

Quality Agreement

This Quality Agreement (“this Agreement”) is made as of the 1st day of December 2020, by and between:

Thorne Research, Inc. (“Thorne”) having a principal place of business at 620 Omni Industrial Blvd., Summerville, South Carolina 29486, with an FDA Food Facility Registration Number of 11647265648,

and

BioTE Medical, LLC (“BioTE”) having a principal place of business at 1875 West Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 100, Irving, Texas 75038.

WHEREAS, BioTE has contracted with Thorne to provide manufacturing services in respect of certain Products (as set forth in Exhibit 1 of this Agreement) (the “Products”); and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to allocate the responsibility for procedures and Specifications, as defined below in Section 1.1 and set out in Exhibit 1 herein, impacting on the identity, strength, quality, and purity of the Products.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration for the promises and agreements contained herein, the parties agree as follows:

 

1.0

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

 

1.1

Specifications

Both parties acknowledge that Thorne’s and BioTE’s businesses and operations are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and therefore agree to comply with the requirements of this Agreement and the Specifications. For purposes of clarity, the terms and conditions of this Agreement will apply to the Products set forth in Exhibit 1, as well as any future products manufactured by Thorne on behalf of BioTE.

 

1.2

Division of Responsibilities

This Agreement defines the responsibilities of Thorne and BioTE for assuring compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (21 CFR Part 111), and quality activities associated with production, packaging, testing, and release of Products (“cGMPs”).

 

11


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

1.3

Business Terms

This Agreement does not define the business terms relating to the commercial supply of Products. To the extent there is conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this Agreement and a BioTE purchase order and/or the Non-Exclusive Co-Marketing Agreement between Thorne and BioTE, the terms of the Purchase Order and/or such Non-Exclusive Co-Marketing Agreement will govern with respect to the terms and conditions relating to the business and commercial supply requirements for Products.

 

1.4

Attached Exhibits

Listed below are the following Exhibits that are attached hereto and incorporated into this Agreement:

Exhibit 1 — Products and Specifications

 

2.0

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

 

2.1

Product and Facility Compliance

Thorne will itself manufacture, except for as set forth in Section 15.0, Products in accordance with the requirements of cGMPs.

Thorne will conduct manufacturing operations in accordance with current cGMP guidelines and accepted industry practices during the term of this Agreement. These requirements include maintaining a quality assurance system and facility that complies with and satisfies the requirements of 21 CFR Part 111, or an equivalent standard, where applicable, for any electronic records and computer systems.

Thorne and BioTE are responsible for complying with the regulatory requirements that are specifically set forth in this Agreement or the Division of Responsibilities.

 

2.2

Compliance: Audits

Thorne may be periodically audited upon reasonable notice by BioTE or an approved BioTE agent for compliance to current cGMPs and BioTE requirements and to assess the effectiveness of Thorne’s quality system. Thorne will allow BioTE reasonable access to the facility, to appropriate personnel, and to relevant documents, including laboratory testing notebooks. The cost of such audit will be borne by BioTE. Trade secret documents that relate to formulas and manufacturing processes will need approval from Thorne’s Chief Operating Officer prior to sharing documents with BioTE. Documents will not be transmitted electronically, but can be viewed as hard copies during compliance audits.

 

12


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

2.3

FDA Food Facility Registration

Thorne is responsible to register its manufacturing facility with the FDA and to maintain the registration documents such that they are readily available for inspection, as the case may be.

Thorne’s current FDA Food Facility Registration Number is 11647265648.

 

2.4

Regulatory Inspections

Thorne will notify BioTE’s Quality Control of any regulatory inspections and state or federal correspondence (which include, but are not limited to, FDA Form 483s, FDA Warning Letters, and FDA or state board inspection reports, among others) concerning Product quality within three (3) business days or sooner. Thorne will also provide a copy of any such inspection reports or copies of any correspondence received from state or federal regulators to BioTE within three (3) business days or sooner per lawyer client privileges.

BioTE will notify Thorne of any regulatory inspections that BioTE is subject to that implicate Thorne or involve any of Thorne’s products manufactured under BioTE’s label, and Thorne agrees to be immediately available by telephone to provide any appropriate documentation that BioTE will need to satisfy the inspection. BioTE to provide a copy of inspection reports related to Thorne manufactured products within three business days of receiving the final report.

 

2.5

Qualifications and Training

Procedures will be established by Thorne to assure that all personnel are adequately educated and routinely trained according to cGMP regulations and job functions.

Thorne will maintain and record training documents, and will provide evidence of personnel qualification and routine training to BioTE immediately upon request.

 

3.0

CONTROL DOCUMENTATION AND CHANGE CONTROL

 

3.1

Control Documentation

Thorne will maintain on site a system of written quality procedures, manufacturing instructions, and facility operations that reflect the processes set forth in the specifications. In addition, Thorne will, in accordance with cGMPs, maintain a change management system that tracks and controls changes to such documents.

 

13


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

3.2

Change Control

Thorne will provide BioTE with at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice of any significant changes that have potential effects on the quality and/or marketing authorization of the products listed within this document. Change requests will confirm that product characteristics will be unaffected and will be supported by technical documentation. Significant changes to product manufacturing or packaging processes, equipment, production sites, tests, or specifications that would require regulatory approval or notification must be mutually agreed upon in writing by Thorne and BioTE.

The parties mutually agree to make changes to the Products and Specifications (as listed on Exhibit 1) to comply with cGMPs or any governmental guidelines. Thorne agrees to implement any changes to the extent such changes are necessary to comply with cGMPs and any governmental guidelines.

 

3.3

Other Changes

Thorne will provide at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to BioTE of any proposed changes relating to the storage or shipment of Products, as well as any planned changes in any facilities or equipment that may impact the manufacturing of Products.

 

4.0

CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS AND CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE

 

4.1

Certificate of Analysis

Thorne will maintain Certificates of Analysis (“COA”) for each batch of Product delivered, and will make such COAs available to BioTE upon request. In accordance with 21 CFR § 111.75, BioTE will rely on the information provided in the COA provided that:

 

  (a)

Thorne qualifies the supplier by establishing the reliability of the supplier’s certificate of analysis through confirmation of the results of the supplier’s tests or examinations;

 

  (b)

The COA includes a description of the test or examination method(s) used, label claim specifications, and actual results of the tests or examinations;

 

  (c)

Thorne maintains documentation of how Thorne qualified the supplier, and forwards such documentation to BioTE upon BioTE’s request;

 

  (d)

Thorne periodically re-confirms the supplier’s COA; and

 

  (e)

Thorne’s quality control personnel reviews and approves the documentation setting forth the basis for qualification (and re-qualification) of any supplier.

 

14


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

The COA must specify the Product, specifications, including (if available) label claim, expiration date, and results for the particular lot, and when applicable will include test method reference and the signature of the person authorized to release the lot. Thorne will provide copies of internal and external test data sheets and chromatograms for applicable analytical tests on request for investigations or as necessary.

Thorne will include with the COA any record of investigation report prepared in response to an unplanned deviation or out-of-specification test result.

 

4.2

Thorne Information

Thorne will identify knowledgeable and qualified professionals readily accessible who will provide information and respond to queries, as follows:

 

  (a)

Notify BioTE in writing of any regulatory agency communications or contacts related to the Products and provide a copy of documents requested and left by the authorities within one (1) business day.

 

  (b)

Notify BioTE in writing of stability trends or non-conformance to specification within three (3) business days.

 

  (c)

Provide an investigation report for adverse events within 30 business days of Thorne’s receipt of such complaints, or immediately upon completion of the investigation report, whichever is sooner.

 

  (d)

Meet with BioTE, as necessary, to discuss technical matters relating to the manufacture of Products.

 

  (e)

Advise BioTE in writing of major unplanned process deviations or confirmed out-of-specification results within one (1) business day of Thorne’s knowledge of the same.

 

  (f)

Provide a COA (via electronic mail to BioTE’s QA department) for each finished batch shipment of Product.

 

5.0

INVESTIGATIONS OF DEVIATIONS

 

5.1

Deviations

Thorne will investigate thoroughly any unplanned deviation from approved procedures or out-of-specification test results, or any deviation that results from noncompliance with 21 C.F.R. § 101.9(g)(4)(i), that is, a deviation that results when the nutrient content of the composite is not formulated to be at least equal to the value for that nutrient declared on the product’s label. Such investigation must adhere to an approved written procedure and be documented. Review and approval of such investigation by Thorne’s Quality Assurance is required prior to disposition or disposal of the Product, if required and necessary. No Product involved in an investigation may be distributed or released to BioTE until the investigation is completed.

 

15


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

5.2

Notification and Report

Thorne must inform BioTE in writing of any major planned deviation, major unplanned deviation, or confirmed out-of-specification result affecting a Product’s quality after manufacturing or packaging, and submit to BioTE an investigation plan prior to completion of the investigation. Examples of situations that require an investigation and report include: (i) Confirmed out-of-specification laboratory result; (ii) major process deviation; (iii) failure of equipment that affects a Product; and (iv) significant yield deviation in or between bulk, packaged Product, and labeling.

A report on root cause of the problem and corrective action/preventative action plan is due within thirty (30) calendar days of the discovery of any major process deviation or confirmed out of specification result.

 

6.0

PRODUCT TESTING

 

6.1

Written Procedures

Thorne will have and follow written procedures in place for sampling and testing each batch of the Product prior to release. Such procedures include the following:

 

  (a)

Examination of a representative sample of units during packaging operations for correct labeling.

 

  (b)

Laboratory test records for conformance to Specifications, including identity, strength, purity, and potency of selected dietary ingredients.

 

  (c)

Current and approved validated test methods and acceptance criteria at the end of manufacturing.

 

  (d)

Sampling plans based on commonly accepted statistical criteria.

Upon request, Thorne will provide BioTE with written procedures for samples and testing the product. Thorne will allow BioTE the opportunity to request different and/or additional sampling and product testing only for investigation purposes

 

16


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

6.2

Approval by a Qualified Professional

No batch of Product will be released to BioTE prior to approval by a qualified professional. Thorne will appoint a qualified professional who will ensure that Products meeting BioTE’s Specifications are released to BioTE.

 

7.0

OBSOLETE, WASTE, AND REJECTED MATERIALS DISPOSITION

 

7.1

Destruction Procedures

Thorne will certify destruction of any excess, expired, obsolete, or rejected Products or raw materials. Thorne will provide a Certificate of Destruction attesting that such Products or materials were destroyed at BioTE’s request (“COD”).

 

7.2

Environmental Laws

Thorne will comply with federal, state, and local applicable environmental and safety laws and regulations pertaining to handling of any waste arising from the manufacture of Products.

 

8.0

PRODUCT COMPLAINT MANAGEMENT

Thorne will comply with all review and investigation process requirements as set forth in the sections below and in 21 CFR 111.

 

8.1

Product Complaints

Thorne or BioTE may be notified of complaints received by customers or consumers of the Product. For purposes of this Agreement, “Routine Complaints” include any complaint that is not life threatening and includes, without limitation, short product count, incorrect address, and delayed shipments. If and when Thorne or BioTE receives a Routine Complaint, the receiver of such a Routine Complaint must notify the other party within 72 hours, unless such complaint is an Urgent Complaint as defined below. These include complaints received either verbally or in a written format for both Urgent Complaints and Routine Complaints.

For purposes of this Agreement, “Urgent Complaints” include any complaint that alleges an adverse event; adulteration, contamination, tampering, misbranding, mislabeling, lack of stability, or that may reasonably be interpreted as having significant safety or regulatory consequences. With respect to Urgent Complaints, Thorne will notify BioTE of receipt of an Urgent Complaint immediately, and not less than 24 hours after receipt. Further, Thorne will respond to BioTE inquiries in writing immediately upon BioTE’s receipt of an Urgent Complaint, and not less than 24 hours after receipt.

 

17


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

8.2

Procedures for Complaints

The procedures for handling Product complaints must address recording, managing, and investigating complaints, and the party responsible for recording, reporting, and investigating Product complaints will forward such Product complaints to the other party.

Thorne will comply with all reasonable requests made by BioTE in connection with a Product complaint, the procedures for managing Product complaints, and the investigation thereof of any Product.

 

8.3

Maintaining Records

A written record of each Product complaint will be received and maintained in accordance with cGMPs, FDA guidelines, and Thorne’s policy for handling Product complaints. A reasonable attempt should be made to obtain and document the following information on each Product complaint record:

 

  (a)

Complainant’s name and address, unless the complainant wishes to remain anonymous.

 

  (b)

Name, strength and dosage form of the Product.

 

  (c)

Lot number and expiration date.

 

  (d)

Date complaint received and Product returned.

 

  (e)

Nature of the complaint.

 

  (f)

Complaint tracking (identification) number.

 

8.4

Storage of Product Returned

BioTE samples that contain Product (“BioTE Samples”) will be provided by BioTE to Thorne for purposes of complaint investigations, if available.

Thorne will document receipt of BioTE Sample(s) in the complaint record and will maintain BioTE Samples in a secure location.

 

8.5

Investigation

All Routine and Urgent Complaints received by either BioTE or Thorne regarding any of the Products require an investigation. For Routine and Urgent Complaints, the investigation plan, outline, or list of action steps must be submitted to BioTE. The investigations may be wholly or partially executed by Thorne but must minimally include provisions for:

 

18


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  (a)

Manufacturing record review.

 

  (b)

In-Process and Finished Product test results review.

 

  (c)

Shipping and distribution controls review.

 

  (d)

Packaging record review.

 

  (e)

Review of complaint and associated files for detection of trends.

 

  (f)

Review of impact on other Product or additional lots of the same Product.

 

  (g)

Testing of returned or reserve Product as necessary.

Investigations on Urgent Complaints will be initiated immediately with a target completion date of seven (7) calendar days. An investigation report must be issued inclusive of results of all testing performed, data reviews, and trend discoveries, with a conclusion and corrective action/preventative action plan recommendations, as required, at the close of an investigation. A copy of the final report must be kept on file by Thorne as part of the complaint record. Final investigation reports must be forwarded to BioTE within three (3) business days of completion.

Product testing on returned or retained samples in the custody of Thorne is at the discretion of Thorne. BioTE may request that Thorne perform Product testing; however, Thorne will follow its own written procedures for testing returned or retained samples. Any returned or retained samples sent to Thorne not consumed by required testing will be returned to BioTE.

 

9.0

RECALL

Thorne will have sole responsibility for initiating and managing any recall of BioTE’s Products manufactured or procured by Thorne. BioTE will be informed prior to the initiation of a recall to the extent that such recall arises out of a breach of its obligations hereunder.

There will be timely exchange of information between Thorne and BioTE about any potential recall, as follows:

 

  (a)

Thorne will immediately inform BioTE in writing of any circumstances that have come to its attention that may make a recall necessary.

 

  (b)

In the event a Regulatory Authority issues or requests a recall, Thorne or BioTE will, within 24 hours, notify the other party.

 

19


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  (c)

Within 48 hours of learning that a recall may be necessary, Thorne and BioTE will discuss details of the recall strategy.

BioTE will require a COD should Product be returned to Thorne as the result of a recall.

Thorne will pay BioTE all reasonable, out-of-pocket, costs, expenses, and attorneys’ fees borne by BioTE in connection with any recall of Thorne’s products manufactured under BioTE’s label, or in connection with any recall of product whose manufacturing process was outsourced by Thorne but bearing BioTE’s label.

 

10.0

RECORDS AND RETAINED SAMPLES RETENTION

Thorne will hold, in a secure manner, original records and representative samples from the manufacture and control of each lot of Product. Product samples must be stored under controlled and labeled conditions. All production history documentation will be available to BioTE for inspection while onsite. Electronic records will satisfy the requirements of 21 CFR Part 111 or an equivalent standard, where applicable.

 

10.1

Retained Samples

Retained samples to be kept per Thorne’s internal procedure and will be provided to BioTE upon BioTE’s request.

 

10.2

Records

Thorne to follow internal document retention schedule per policy document POL-00001.

 

11.0

REPROCESSING/ REWORKING

The parties will mutually agree in advance of plans to rework or reprocess Product unless an already agreed on procedure exists and there are no trends, or as permitted by the terms set forth in this Section. No change will be made to a validated process without the prior written authorization of BioTE. Thorne may not reprocess Product, unless reprocessing to correct defects of the type that from time to time arise during a packaging run (e.g., jams which damage secondary packaging) due to machine capabilities. Such routine reprocessing must be documented in the packaging record.

Thorne will have written procedures that describe the system for reworking or reprocessing Product. The system must provide for trending and include corrective and preventive action. Product recovery will be in keeping with the agreed upon procedure and documented. For Product to be considered releasable, all predetermined Specifications and other quality criteria must be met.

 

20


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

12.0

SELF-INSPECTION

Thorne will maintain a written program of self-inspection by technical personnel for all cGMP areas, as follows:

 

  (a)

Inspections will be conducted at least annually in keeping with a schedule. Thorne will provide documentation of such inspections to BioTE upon BioTE’s written request.

 

  (b)

The persons performing the inspection should be knowledgeable in their respective fields and familiar with cGMP.

 

  (c)

A report must be made of the observations.

 

  (d)

Management must evaluate the observations and corrective action.

 

  (e)

If applicable, an agreed upon corrective action must be initiated and tracked.

 

  (f)

A record of the observations and corrective actions will be maintained by Thorne, a copy of which will be forwarded to BioTE upon request.

 

13.0

STABILITY TESTING AND BEST-USED-BY DATING

Thorne and BioTE will mutually agree on procedures for determining Best-Use-By Dating for purchased BioTE products. Thorne will provide BioTE with a written explanation of the data to be used for determining Best-Use-By dates for each item. For all private-label products where full stability testing has been performed on the finished product, Thorne will provide BioTE with a copy of the final summary report upon request. BioTE may contract with Thorne additional stability testing of finished Products at BioTE’s expense. That stability testing program will be in writing and include the following elements:

 

  (a)

Product specific stability protocols that detail sample size, analytical/test methods including known and unknown impurity profiles and limits, (if applicable), test intervals, storage condition(s), packaging components/configurations and reason for the study

 

  (b)

Stability-indicating test methods

 

  (c)

Criteria for batch selection for the program

 

  (d)

Secure, alarmed, and qualified storage

 

  (e)

Manual and/or electronic data collection

 

  (f)

Statistical analysis capability

 

21


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  (g)

Out-of-specification investigation and notification mechanism

 

  (h)

Data summarization and distribution

Thorne will follow its SOP-00212 “Stability Testing Program.”

 

14.0

STORAGE AND SHIPPING CONDITIONS

Thorne will store manufactured Products in defined areas under appropriate conditions of temperature, humidity, and light and in accordance with specifications such that quality is not affected. In addition, Thorne will have written procedures that describe storage, handling and distribution of the Product and minimally address:

 

  (a)

Periodic verification of actual storage conditions at Thorne’s facility.

 

  (b)

Storage of semi-finished or finished Product under controlled labeled conditions.

 

  (c)

Handling of Product that has been subjected to improper storage conditions.

 

  (d)

Selection and preparation of Product for shipment.

 

  (e)

Monitoring to ensure shipping conditions have been maintained where requirements exist.

 

15.0

SUBCONTRACTING

In the event that a Purchase Order authorizes Thorne the right to subcontract Product manufactured, tested, or processed, such contractor must meet cGMP standards and BioTE’s regulatory requirements. Thorne must ensure that the subcontractor’s personnel are adequately educated and routinely trained according to cGMP regulations and job functions, in accordance with Section 2.6 above. Thorne must notify BioTE which aspects of manufacturing will be subcontracted and what manufacturing facilities will be used when initial product manufacturing quotes are provided. BioTE agrees this information will be kept confidential and will only be used for meeting cGMP compliance obligations. Thorne will provide results of audits of subcontracted manufacturing facilities to BioTE on request.

 

16.0

AMENDMENTS

This Agreement may only be modified by a writing signed by duly authorized representatives of Thorne and BioTE. The failure of either party to insist on strict performance of any provision of this Agreement, or to exercise any right or remedy, will not be deemed a waiver of such performance, right or remedy, of that or any other provision of this Agreement.

 

22


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

17.0

ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

If this paragraph is initialed by Thorne and BioTE, then this Agreement is supplemented by the additional terms and conditions contained in the attached Exhibit 1 (    ), ( ).

 

18.0

FACSIMILIE SIGNATURE

The Parties agree that a facsimile signature will be deemed an original.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have duly executed this Quality Agreement as of the date first written above and is effective until termination of the Vendor Agreement between Thorne and BioTE.

 

FOR BIOTE MEDICAL, LLC
/s/ Terry Weber
Name: Terry Weber
Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

FOR THORNE RESEARCH, INC.
/s/ Paul F. Jacobson
Name: Paul F. Jacobson
Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

23


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Appendix 4

Products and Specifications to be included on Certificate of Analysis

 

Product

  

Description

  

Label Claim

  

Exp
Date

  

Test
Results

  

Test
Method
Reference

  

Signature
and Date

ADK5    Capsule/Off-White   

Vitamin A (as Retinyl Palmitate) 1.5mg

 

Vitamin D (as D3) 5,000 IU

 

125mcg

 

Vitamin K (as MK04 and MK07)

 

500mcg

   Per exp date printed on bottle    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:
ADK10    Capsule/Off- White   

Vitamin A (as Retinyl Palmitate) 1.5mg

 

Vitamin D (as Vitamin D3) 10,000 IU

 

250mcg

 

Vitamin K (as MK-4 and MK-7)

 

500mcg

   Per exp date printed on bottle    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:

 

24


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Iodine Plus    Capsule/Off-White   

Iodine (as Potassium Iodide)

 

12.5mg

 

Zinc (as Zinc Amino Acid Chelate)

 

10mg

 

Selenium (as L-Selenomethionine)

 

200mcg

   TBD    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:
DIM    Capsule/Light Brown   

Diindolylmethane (as Crystalline DIM

 

150mg

 

POM Pomegranate extract (whole fruit) (Punica granatum)

 

100mg

 

Sulforaphane Glucosinolate (from broccoli extract (seed) (Brassica oleracea italica))

 

25mg

   24 months from date of production    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:

 

25


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Omega 3+ CoQ10    Gelcap/Orange   

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) (from Fish Oil)

 

450mg

 

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) (from Fish Oil)

 

180mg

 

Coenzyme Q10

 

30mg

   Per exp date printed on bottle    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:
Methyl Factors Plus    Capsule/Light Orang   

Riboflavin (as Riboflavin 5’- Phosphate Sodium)

 

90mg

 

Vitamin 6 (as Pyridoxal 5’-Phosphate)

 

45mg

 

Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin)

 

3mg

 

Betain Anhydrous (Trimethylglycine)

 

1.8 g

   Per exp date printed on bottle    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:
Curcumin SF    Capsule/Orange   

Curcumin Phytosome (Curcuma longa extract (root)/Phospholipid complex from Sunflower)

 

1g

   Per exp date printed on bottle    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:

 

26


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Multi Strain Probiotic 208    Capsule/White   

HOWARU* Restore II Blend

 

20 Billion CFUs

 

•  Bifidobacterium lactis (Bi-07) 5 Billion CFUs

 

•  Lactobacillus acidphilus (NCFM) 5 Billion CFUs

 

•  Bifidobacterium lactis (bi-04) 5 Billion CFUs

 

•  Lactobacillus paracasei (Lpc-37) 5 Billiob CFUs

   Per exp date printed on carton    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:
Bacillus Coagulans Probiotic    Capsule/White   

Bacillus Coagulans

 

133mg

 

2 Billion CFUs

   TBD    TBD    HPLC    Released for use by:

 

27

Exhibit 10.14

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION, a Japanese banking corporation, having its offices at 277 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10172 (the “BANK”), and THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, having its offices at 620 Omni Industrial Boulevard, Summerville, South Carolina 29486 (the “BORROWER”). The parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1.01. DEFINED TERMS. As used in this AGREEMENT, the following terms have the following meanings (terms defined in the singular to have the same meaning when used in the plural and vice versa):

“AGREEMENT” means this UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT, together with all exhibits and schedules hereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided herein.

“APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE” means, with respect to each LOAN, the interest rate per annum quoted by the BANK and agreed to by the BORROWER at the time of making such LOAN.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“BUSINESS DAY” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or other day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close.

“CHANGE OF CONTROL” shall mean (x) the sale or transfer of more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER, (y) the issuance of shares of common stock, or securities convertible into or exercisable for shares of common stock, constituting more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER immediately after issuance, to PERSON who were not holders of common stock, on an as converted basis, immediately prior to such issuance or (z) the sale, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the BORROWER and its majority owned subsidiaries in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER.

“CREDIT LINE” means a discretionary and uncommitted line of credit that the BANK establishes for the BORROWER pursuant to SECTION 2.01 hereof up to the amount referred to therein but which may be terminated in whole or reduced in part pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof. This CREDIT LINE shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN or extension of credit.


“DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01 hereof, whether or not any requirement for the giving of notice, the lapse of time, or both, or any other condition, has been satisfied.

“DISBURSEMENT DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is advanced, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“DOLLARS”, “U.S. DOLLARS”, “US$”, “USD”, or “$” means the lawful currency of the United States of America.

“EVENT OF DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01.

“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY” means any nation or government, any state or other political subdivision thereof, any central bank (or similar monetary or regulatory authority) thereof, any entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government, and any corporation or other entity owned or controlled, through stock or capital ownership or otherwise, by any of the foregoing.

“GUARANTOR” means each of Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation; and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, a Japanese corporation.

“LAST DRAWDOWN DATE” means February 11, 2022.

“LETTER OF GUARANTEE” means the letter of guarantee executed by each GUARANTOR and required to be delivered by the BORROWER to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01 hereof, together with all exhibits and schedules thereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided therein.

“LIEN” means any mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, security interest, assignment, deposit arrangement, charge or encumbrance, lien (statutory or other), or other preferential arrangement (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing, or any agreement to give any security interest).

“LOAN” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.01.

“LOAN DOCUMENTS” means this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, each LETTER OF GUARANTEE, and any other agreement, document, instrument, or contract furnished to the BANK in connection with any of the foregoing documents or supporting, securing, or otherwise relating to the LOANS, in each case as amended, amended and restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time.


“MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS” means Regulation T, U and/or X of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the rules promulgated thereunder, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated, or replaced from time to time, or any corresponding or succeeding provisions of applicable law.

“MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE” means any material adverse change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), or prospects of the BORROWER, or the BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES taken as one enterprise; (b) the legality, validity, binding effect, or enforceability of any LOAN DOCUMENT; (c) the ability of the BORROWER to fully and timely perform its obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the BANK’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies, and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the BANK under any LOAN DOCUMENT.

“MATURITY DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is due and payable, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“NOTE” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.05.

“PERSON” means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), joint stock company, estate, trust, limited liability company, unlimited liability company, unincorporated association, joint venture, or other entity or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY.

“PRIME RATE” means the rate of interest per annum established by the BANK’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the PRIME RATE shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“PROPERTY” means all types of real or personal property, including without limitation, tangible, intangible, or mixed property.

“SANCTIONS” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 4.10(a).

“SUBSIDIARY” means, with respect to any PERSON (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent.


ARTICLE II

AMOUNT AND TERMS OF LOANS

SECTION 2.01. REVOLVING CREDIT. The BANK may, upon request from the BORROWER, in the BANK’s sole and absolute discretion upon the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, make one or more loans (each, a “LOAN”) to the BORROWER from time to time during the period commencing on the date of this AGREEMENT and ending on (and including) the LAST DRAWDOWN DATE in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed at any time outstanding TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00), provided that such amount may be reduced pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof (the “CREDIT LINE”). Each LOAN shall have a MATURITY DATE that is not less than one (1) day and not more than twelve (12) months after the DISBURSEMENT DATE, as requested by the BORROWER in accordance with SECTION 2.03 and agreed to by the BANK. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the BORROWER may borrow, repay in whole or in part, and reborrow on a revolving basis, up to the amount of the CREDIT LINE. The availability of the CREDIT LINE hereunder shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN.

SECTION 2.02. REDUCTION AND TERMINATION OF CREDIT LINE. The BANK shall have the unrestricted right in its sole and absolute discretion, upon notice to the BORROWER, to immediately terminate in whole or reduce in part the unused portion of the CREDIT LINE.

SECTION 2.03. NOTICE AND MANNER OF BORROWING. Not later than 2:00 p.m., New York time on the requested DISBURSEMENT DATE, the BORROWER shall give the BANK telephonic application for each LOAN under this AGREEMENT to the BANK’s JDAD Loan Services Department (or such other contact as the BANK may inform the BORROWER from time to time), which may or may not be accepted by the BANK, specifying (i) the DISBURSEMENT DATE; (ii) the principal amount; and (iii) the MATURITY DATE. The BANK will send written confirmation of the LOAN to the BORROWER at the fax number or email address listed in SECTION 8.06 hereof. The BORROWER will acknowledge the information shown in the confirmation by promptly returning it to the BANK’s New York Branch by fax at (212) 224-4537. Not later than 4:00 p.m., New York time, on the DISBURSEMENT DATE of the LOAN and upon fulfillment of the applicable conditions set forth in ARTICLE III hereof, the BANK will, subject to its sole and absolute discretion and subject to the provisions of SECTION 2.01 hereof, make the LOAN available to the BORROWER in immediately available funds by crediting the amount thereof to the BORROWER’s account with the BANK, or to such other account as the BORROWER shall inform the BANK in writing. All notices given under this SECTION 2.03 shall be irrevocable. The failure to give any confirmation referred to herein shall not release or diminish any of the BORROWER’s obligations hereunder.

SECTION 2.04. REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL: PAYMENT OF INTEREST.

(a) The entire principal amount of each LOAN shall be paid in immediately available funds on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN.

(b) Each LOAN will bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof at a rate per annum equal to the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE.


(c) Accrued interest on each LOAN will be payable in arrears on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN; provided that (i) interest accrued pursuant to SECTION 2.04(d) will be payable on demand, and (ii) in the event of any repayment or prepayment of any LOAN, accrued interest on the principal amount repaid or prepaid will be payable on the date of such repayment or prepayment.

(d) If any EVENT OF DEFAULT under SECTION 7.01(1) or 7.01(2) hereof has occurred and is continuing then, until such defaulted amount has been paid in full, to the extent permitted by law, such defaulted amounts will bear interest (after as well as before judgment), payable on demand, at a rate per annum equal to the PRIME RATE plus 2%.

(e) All interest hereunder will be computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and will be payable for the actual number of days elapsed (including the first day, but excluding the last day).

SECTION 2.05. NOTE. As additional evidence of the BORROWER’s payment obligations hereunder, the BORROWER shall execute and deliver to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01(1) a single grid promissory note (the “NOTE”), substantially in the form of EXHIBIT A attached hereto, setting forth the CREDIT LINE as the maximum principal amount thereof and dated as of the date of this AGREEMENT, and made payable to the BANK. The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to record on a schedule attached to the NOTE (or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, which may be maintained in its internal records and shown on a computer printout) the principal amount, APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, MATURITY DATE, and other terms relevant to each LOAN, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’S failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the NOTE to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

SECTION 2.06. FUNDING LOSS, INDEMNIFICATION; CAPITAL ADEQUACY AND OTHER CHARGES AND COSTS.

(a) The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify and hold the BANK free and harmless from all losses, costs, and expenses that the BANK may incur, to the extent not mitigated by the redeployment of deposits or other funds, as a result of (i) a default by the BORROWER in payment when due of the principal of or interest on a LOAN, (ii) the BORROWER’s failure (other than due solely to a failure attributable to a default by the BANK) to make a borrowing or continuation with respect to a LOAN after making a request therefor, (iii) a prepayment (whether mandatory or otherwise, including but not limited to, acceleration pursuant to ARTICLE VII hereof) of a LOAN before a scheduled payment date for interest or principal, or (iv) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT or any demand by the BANK for payment of any LOAN permitted hereunder or under the NOTE.

(b) If the BANK determines at any time that any applicable law or governmental rule, regulation, guideline, or order concerning capital adequacy, reserves, or similar requirements, or any change in interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY will have the effect of increasing the cost to the BANK or the amount of capital required or expected to be maintained by the BANK as a result of the


making or continuance of the LOANS, then the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK, upon its written demand therefor, such additional amounts as shall be required to compensate the BANK for such increased costs. The BANK, upon determining that any additional amounts will be payable to the BANK pursuant to this paragraph, will give prompt written notice thereof to the BORROWER, which notice shall show in reasonable detail the basis for calculation of such additional amounts, although the failure to give any such notice shall not release or diminish the obligations of the BORROWER to pay additional amounts pursuant to this paragraph.

(c) If any present or future applicable law, rule, or regulation or any change therein or in the interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by the BANK with any request or directive of any such GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY, whether or not having the force of law, results in an increase of the cost to the BANK of making, renewing, or maintaining any LOAN, or reduces the amount of any sum receivable by the BANK under any LOAN, in the reasonable judgment of the BANK, then, upon demand by the BANK, the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK such additional amount or amounts as would compensate the BANK for such increased cost or reduction. The BANK’s computation of such amount or amounts shall be binding on the BORROWER absent manifest error.

SECTION 2.07. METHOD OF PAYMENT. The BORROWER shall make each payment of principal of and interest on the LOANS, in lawful money of the United States in immediately available funds, not later than 3:00 p.m. (New York time) on the date when such payment is due, via Fedwire or CHIPS to the account described below, or to such other location or in such other manner as the BANK may notify the BORROWER in writing:

 

Bank Name:

   Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York

SWIFT:

   SMBCUS33

ABA Number:

   0260-0967-4

Account Name:

   SMBC Loan Operations New York

Account Number:

   423001

Reference:

   Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Attn:

   BCDAD JDAD Loan Services

The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to charge any amounts due hereunder or under the NOTE from time to time against the BORROWER’s account #351905 or any other account of the BORROWER with the BANK. The BORROWER may, with the BANK’s prior consent, and on not less than five days’ notice, prepay the principal and interest of any LOAN in whole or in part, but only on condition that the prepayment is accompanied by payment of any and all additional costs, as determined by the BANK, that the BANK may incur as a result of such prepayment, including, without limitation, the breaking of any deposit, the redeployment of funds released by any prepayment, the termination of any swap or hedging contract, or otherwise.

SECTION 2.08. PAYMENTS ON NON-BUSINESS DAYS. Whenever payment shall fall due on a day which is not a BUSINESS DAY, payment shall be made on the next succeeding BUSINESS DAY, unless such BUSINESS DAY falls in the following calendar month, in which case payment shall be due on the next preceding BUSINESS DAY.


ARTICLE III

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

SECTION 3.01. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO INITIAL AND ALL LOANS. The BANK may in its sole and absolute discretion make LOANS available to the BORROWER, subject to the BANK’s receipt of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the BANK:

(1) AGREEMENT AND NOTE. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE, each duly executed by the BORROWER.

(2) EVIDENCE OF ALL CORPORATE ACTION BY THE BORROWER. Certified copies of the unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the BORROWER or a certified copy of the resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors authorizing the execution, delivery, and performance of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(3) INCUMBENCY AND SIGNATURE CERTIFICATE OF THE BORROWER. A certificate of the President or Vice President (or other appropriate officer) of the BORROWER certifying the names and true signatures of the officers of the BORROWER authorized, pursuant to the Board of Directors’ resolutions referred to in paragraph (2) above, to sign this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered by the BORROWER pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(4) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION. At least five days prior to the first DISBURSEMENT DATE, a BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION in relation to the BORROWER.

(5) LETTERS OF GUARANTEE. The LETTER OF GUARANTEE duly executed by each GUARANTOR.

ARTICLE IV

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

The BORROWER hereby represents and warrants to the BANK as follows at each time it makes an application for a LOAN:

SECTION 4.01. DUE INCORPORATION; GOOD STANDING. The BORROWER is a corporation, duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, and is properly licensed and in good standing in, and where necessary to maintain the BORROWER’s rights and privileges, has complied with the fictitious name statute of, every jurisdiction in which the BORROWER is doing business.

SECTION 4.02. CORPORATE POWER; AUTHORIZATION. The execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which it is a party and the performance of its obligations hereunder and thereunder are within the BORROWER’s corporate powers, have been duly authorized, and will not contravene or conflict with its charter or bylaws (or such other organizational and governing documents as may be applicable) or any agreement, instrument, or document to which the BORROWER is a party or by which the BORROWER or any of its PROPERTY is bound or affected.


SECTION 4.03. GOVERNMENT ACTION. No approval, consent, exemption, or other action by, or notice to or filing with, any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY is necessary in connection with the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, except as may have been obtained and certified copies of which have been delivered to BANK.

SECTION 4.04. NO LEGAL BAR. There is no law, rule, or regulation, nor is there any judgment, decree, or order of any court or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY binding on the BORROWER that would be contravened by the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT.

SECTION 4.05. ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATION. This AGREEMENT is a legal, valid, and binding agreement of the BORROWER, enforceable against the BORROWER in accordance with its terms, and the NOTE and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, when executed and delivered (and as endorsed from time to time), will be similarly legal, valid, binding, and enforceable.

SECTION 4.06. LITIGATION. Except as previously disclosed to the BANK in writing, there are no legal actions or other proceedings pending or, to the best of the BORROWER’s knowledge, threatened against the BORROWER which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. There are no outstanding and unsatisfied final judgments or decrees against the BORROWER for money damages, fines, or penalties which, individually or in the aggregate, could result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.07. NO DEFAULT. No event has occurred and is continuing or would result from the incurring of obligations by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT that is a default under any agreement or document to which the BORROWER is a party or which, with the passing of time or giving of notice or both, would become a default under any such document.

SECTION 4.08. NO CONFLICTING AGREEMENTS. Except as disclosed in writing by the BORROWER to the BANK prior to the date hereof, the BORROWER is not in default under any agreement to which it is a party or by which it or any of its PROPERTY is bound, the effect of which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.09. TAXES. The BORROWER has filed or caused to be filed all tax returns required to be filed, and has paid, or has made adequate provision for the payment of, all taxes shown to be due and payable on said returns or in any assessments made against it, and no tax liens have been filed and no claims are being asserted with respect to such taxes that are required to be reflected in the financial statements of the BORROWER and are not so reflected therein.


SECTION 4.10. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.

(a) None of the BORROWER, any of its SUBSIDIARIES or, to the knowledge of the BORROWER, any director, officer, employee, or agent of the BORROWER or any of its SUBSIDIARIES is a PERSON that is, or is owned or controlled by PERSONS that are: (i) the subject of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the U.S. Department of State, the United Nations Security Council, the European Union, Her Majesty’s Treasury, the Japanese government, including those imposed under the Foreign Exchange Act and the Import Trade Control Order of Japan (Cabinet Order No. 414 of 1949, as amended), or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “SANCTIONS”), or (ii) located, organized, or resident in a country or territory that is the subject of SANCTIONS, including Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria, except as previously disclosed to the BANK.

(b) The BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents are in compliance with (i) all applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(c) The BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES have instituted and maintain policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

SECTION 4.11. NO MISREPRESENTATION. Neither this AGREEMENT, nor any other LOAN DOCUMENT, nor any certificate, notice, report, financial statement, or document furnished to date or to be furnished by the BORROWER in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby contains or will contain a misrepresentation or misstatement of material fact, or omits or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated in order to make the statements herein or therein contained (taken as a whole) not misleading in the light of the circumstances under which made.

SECTION 4.12. RANKING OF LOAN; LIENS. The payment obligations of the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE are and will at all times be unsubordinated general obligations of the BORROWER, and rank and will at all times rank at least pari passu with all other present and future unsubordinated unsecured indebtedness of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE V

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER will:

SECTION 5.01. FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION. Deliver to the BANK such information respecting the business, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), operations, or prospects of the BORROWER as the BANK may from time to time reasonably request, including:

(a) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;


(b) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period setting forth in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the BANK), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

(c) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (a) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the BORROWER, in the form of EXHIBIT B attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred and, if a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

SECTION 5.02. NOTICE. Promptly notify the BANK in writing of:

(1) all litigation affecting the BORROWER as a defendant where the amount claimed in a single litigation action is in excess of $100,000 or when the aggregate amount claimed in all litigation actions is in excess of $500,000;

(2) any substantial dispute between the BORROWER and any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY;

(3) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT; and

(4) any other matters which, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 5.03. PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. Pay all obligations, including taxes, when due, except such as may be contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which the BORROWER has established reserves on its books which are reasonable and adequate.

SECTION 5.04. COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance by the BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(b) At all times comply with all laws, rules, regulations, orders, and directions of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over it or its business.


SECTION 5.05. MAINTAIN EXISTENCE; PROPERTY. Maintain and preserve (i) its existence as a legal entity and all rights, privileges and franchises now enjoyed; and (ii) all of its PROPERTIES that are used or useful in the conduct of its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted.

SECTION 5.06. BOOKS AND RECORDS. Maintain adequate books, accounts, and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of BANK, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its PROPERTIES, and to examine or audit its books, accounts, and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, PROPERTIES, and financial and other conditions of the BORROWER with officers of the BORROWER.

SECTION 5.07. INSURANCE. To the extent there exists any real property security interest, maintain and keep in force, on all of its property such insurance as is normal for the industry in which the BORROWER conducts its business and is satisfactory to BANK as to amount, nature, and carrier, covering fire damage (including use and occupancy), public liability, product liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation, and deliver to BANK upon request a schedule certified to be correct by a responsible officer of the BORROWER setting forth all insurance in force as of the date of such schedule.

SECTION 5.08. FURTHER ASSURANCES. The BORROWER will from time to time perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested by BANK to give effect to the purposes of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, if any.

ARTICLE VI

NEGATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER hereby agrees as follows:

SECTION 6.01. LIMITATIONS ON FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES. The BORROWER will not merge into or consolidate with any other PERSON, or permit any other PERSON to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

SECTION 6.02. USE OF PROCEEDS.

(a) No part of the proceeds of any LOAN will be used to buy or carry, or to extend credit to any other PERSON to buy or carry, any “margin stock” (as defined in Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the United States Federal Reserve System) in violation of MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS.

(b) The BORROWER will not request any LOAN, and the BORROWER shall not use, and the BORROWER will procure that its SUBSIDIARIES and its or their respective directors, officers, employees and agents will not use, the proceeds of any LOAN (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any PERSON, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is the subject of SANCTIONS, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of SANCTIONS applicable to any party hereto.


(c) No part of the proceeds of the LOANS will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any PERSON in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law.

SECTION 6.03. NEGATIVE PLEDGE. The BORROWER will not create, incur, assume, or suffer to exist any LIEN upon or with respect to any of its PROPERTY, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, other than:

(a) LIENS imposed by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY for taxes, assessments, or charges not yet due or which are being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings if adequate reserves with respect thereto are maintained on the books of the BORROWER in accordance with GAAP; and

(b) easements, rights-of-way, restrictions, and other similar encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business and encumbrances consisting of zoning restrictions, easements, licenses, restrictions on the use of property, or minor imperfections in title thereto which, in the aggregate, are not material in amount, and which do not in any case materially detract from the value of the property subject thereto or interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE VII

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

SECTION 7.01. EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following events will constitute an EVENT OF DEFAULT under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE:

(1) The BORROWER fails to pay any principal of any LOAN when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof or at a date fixed for prepayment thereof or otherwise.

(2) The BORROWER fails to pay any interest on any LOAN or any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in SECTION 7.01(1)) payable under this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT when and as the same shall become due and payable, and such failure continues unremedied for a period of ten (10) days.

(3) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made by or on behalf of the BORROWER in or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any of the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, or in any amendment hereof or thereof, or in any report, certificate, financial statement or other document furnished pursuant to or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT or any amendment hereof or thereof, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed made.

(4) The BORROWER (i) fails to pay its debts generally as they come due, (ii) conceals, removes, or transfers any of its PROPERTY in violation or evasion of any bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, or similar law, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (iv) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, assignee, custodian, sequestrator, liquidator, or similar official for itself or any of its PROPERTY, (v) files any petition or action for relief under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, or moratorium law, or any other law or laws for the relief of, or relating to, debtors, (vi) is adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent or (vii) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.


(5) An involuntary petition is filed under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium, or similar statute against the BORROWER or a custodian, receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors (or other similar official) is appointed to take possession, custody, or control of any PROPERTY of the BORROWER unless such petition or appointment is set aside or withdrawn or ceases to be in effect within 30 days from the date of said filing or appointment.

(6) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $250,000 shall be rendered against the BORROWER (or any combination thereof), and the same shall remain undischarged for a period of ten (10) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to attach or levy upon any assets of the BORROWER to enforce any such judgment.

(7) All, or such as in the opinion of BANK constitutes substantially all, of the PROPERTIES of the BORROWER is condemned, seized, or appropriated.

(8) The BORROWER fails to observe or perform any covenant, condition, or agreement contained in (i) SECTION 5.02(3), SECTION 5.05(i), SECTION 5.04(a), or ARTICLE VI; or (ii) any other provision of this AGREEMENT or the NOTE (and not described in SECTIONS 7.01(1) or (2)) and such failure is not remediable or, if remediable, continues unremedied for a period of 30 days after the earlier of (x) the date the BORROWER becomes aware thereof or (y) the date the BANK gives notice to the BORROWER with respect thereto.

(9) The BORROWER is in breach of or default under any term, condition, provision or covenant contained in any agreement to which it is a party relating to borrowed money.

(10) Any LETTER OF GUARANTEE or any other document issued in support of the obligations of the BORROWER to the BANK, or any replacement of any of the foregoing, expires without renewal, is disclaimed or disavowed, or, in the case of a guarantee, ceases to be the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the guarantor thereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder.

(11) A CHANGE OF CONTROL occurs.

(12) Any one or more events occur or conditions exist that, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted in or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 7.02. REMEDIES. Upon the occurrence of any EVENT OF DEFAULT (other than an event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5)), the BANK may, by notice to the BORROWER, declare the LOANS then outstanding to be due and payable in whole (or in part, in which case any principal not so declared to be due and payable may thereafter be declared to be due and payable), and thereupon the principal of the LOANS so declared to be due and payable, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will become due and payable immediately, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by


the BORROWER; and in case of any event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5), the principal of the LOANS then outstanding, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will automatically become due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER. The foregoing remedies are in addition to any and all other remedies available to BANK under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, at law, or in equity. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify the BANK and save the BANK harmless from and against any and all costs, losses, or expenses incurred by the BANK as a result of the occurrence of an EVENT OF DEFAULT or the repayment of any amount hereunder or under the NOTE other than on the date or dates originally due (including without limitation such as are incurred in connection with the reemployment or liquidation of funds acquired from third parties (including affiliates) by the BANK in order to maintain any amount theretofore outstanding hereunder or under the NOTE, the termination of any hedging contract or swap or other arrangement relating to the funding of the LOANS).

ARTICLE VIII

MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 8.01. INDEMNITY. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify, defend, reimburse, and hold harmless BANK and each of its affiliates, and all the directors, officers, employees, agents, legal counsel, and advisors of BANK (each, an “INDEMNIFIED PARTY”) from and against all claims, actions, proceedings, suits, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses, including the fees and out-of-pocket expenses of counsel that may be incurred by or asserted against any INDEMNIFIED PARTY in connection with, or arising out of, or relating to any transaction or proposed transaction (whether or not consummated), contemplated by this AGREEMENT or any LOAN DOCUMENT.

SECTION 8.02. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS; ASSIGNMENTS; PARTICIPATIONS. The provisions of this AGREEMENT shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns, except that the BORROWER may not assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of the BANK. The BANK may at any time sell, assign, transfer, or grant participations in all or any part of, or any interest in, BANK’s rights, benefits and obligations under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS (including all or a portion of the LOANS or the CREDIT LINE). The BANK may at any time pledge or assign a security interest in all or any portion of its rights under this AGREEMENT to secure obligations of the BANK, including any pledge or assignment to secure obligations to a Federal Reserve Bank.

SECTION 8.03. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This AGREEMENT and the LOAN DOCUMENTS integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof. This AGREEMENT renews and extends, without novation, the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement dated February 14, 2020 between the BORROWER, formerly known as Thorne Holding Corp., and the BANK, and the terms governing extensions of credit outstanding thereunder shall be amended to reflect the terms contained in this AGREEMENT upon the execution and delivery hereof.


SECTION 8.04. COUNTERPARTS This AGREEMENT and any amendments, waivers, consents, or supplements may be executed in as many counterparts as may be deemed necessary or convenient, and by the different parties hereto on separate counterparts, each of which, when so executed, shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall constitute but one and the same agreement.

SECTION 8.05. AMENDMENTS. ETC. No amendment, modification, termination, or waiver of any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, nor consent to any departure by the BORROWER from any such provision, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the BANK, and then such amendment, modification, termination, waiver, or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which it is given.

SECTION 8.06. NOTICES, ETC. All notices and other communications provided for under this AGREEMENT shall be in writing, delivered in person, or sent by overnight courier, first class mail (postage prepaid), fax or email to:

 

If to the BORROWER:  

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

620 Omni Industrial Boulevard

  Summerville, South Carolina 29486
  Attention: Mr. Scott Wheeler
                   Chief Financial Officer
  Telephone:     (843) 501-0286
  email:         swheeler@Thorne.com
If to the BANK:   Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
  277 Park Avenue
  New York, New York 10172
  Attention:     JDAD
  Telephone:   (212) 224-4000
  Fax:               (212) 593-9514

or at such other address as shall be designated by either party in a written notice to the other party complying as to delivery with the terms of this SECTION 8.06. All such notices and communications shall be effective when deposited in the mails, faxed, or emailed, as applicable, except that notices to the BANK pursuant to the provisions of ARTICLE II hereof shall be effective when received by the BANK.

SECTION 8.07. NO WAIVER; REMEDIES. No failure on the part of the BANK to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right, power or remedy under any LOAN DOCUMENT shall operate as waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right under any LOAN DOCUMENT preclude any other or further exercise thereof or exercise of any other right. The remedies provided in the LOAN DOCUMENTS are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

SECTION 8.08. COSTS, EXPENSES, AND TAXES. The BORROWER hereby agrees to pay on demand after giving borrowing written notice of the demand (i) all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK and its affiliates, including the reasonable fees, charges, and disbursements of counsel for the BANK, in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution, delivery, and administration of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and any


amendments, waivers, or other modifications of the provisions of any LOAN DOCUMENT (whether or not the transactions contemplated by the LOAN DOCUMENTS are consummated); and (ii) all out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK, including the fees, charges, and disbursements of any counsel for the BANK, in connection with the enforcement or protection of its rights (A) in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, including its rights under this SECTION 8.08, or (B) in connection with the LOANS, including all such out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with any restructuring, workout, or negotiations in respect of the LOAN DOCUMENTS or the LOANS. In addition, the BORROWER shall pay any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, and recording of any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and the other documents to be delivered under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS, and agrees to save the BANK harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

SECTION 8.09. DEDUCTIONS. All payments by the BORROWER to the BANK under this AGREEMENT or under the NOTE are to be made net and free of any and all taxes (except for taxes based upon the overall net income of the BANK), duties, imposts, fees, withholdings, or deductions (the “DEDUCTIONS”) of any nature now or hereafter imposed. If any DEDUCTION is, by law, required to be made from any payment hereunder, then the BORROWER shall pay to the BANK such additional amount as will result in receipt by the BANK of a net amount equal to the amount the BANK would have received hereunder had no such DEDUCTION been required. In such event the BORROWER shall, as soon as practical, deliver to the BANK a receipt issued by the relevant taxing authority evidencing the amount of such DEDUCTION and its payment. If the BORROWER is required to pay an additional amount on account of any such DEDUCTION, the BORROWER shall have the right, on not less than three BUSINESS DAYS’ prior written notice to the BANK, to repay the applicable LOAN.

SECTION 8.10. RIGHT OF SET OFF. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any EVENT OF DEFAULT the BANK is hereby authorized at any time and from time to time, without notice to the BORROWER (any such notice being expressly waived by the BORROWER to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law), to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held, and other indebtedness at any time owing by the BANK to or for the credit or the account of the BORROWER against any and all of the obligations of the BORROWER now or hereafter existing under the AGREEMENT or the NOTE or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, irrespective of whether or not the BANK shall have made any demand under this AGREEMENT or such other LOAN DOCUMENT and although such obligations may be unmatured. The BANK agrees promptly to notify the BORROWER after any such set off and application, provided that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such set off and application. The rights of the BANK under this SECTION 8.10 are in addition to other rights and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of set off) which the BANK may have.

SECTION 8.11. GOVERNING LAW; CONSENT TO JURISDICTION. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT against the BORROWER may be brought in the courts of the United States of America or the State of New York as the BANK may elect, and, by execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the BORROWER hereby (i) accepts for itself, generally and unconditionally, the non-exclusive


jurisdiction of the aforesaid courts, (ii) irrevocably agrees to be bound by any judgment of any such court with respect to this AGREEMENT or the NOTE, and (iii) irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action, or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT brought in any court of the United States of America or the State of New York located in the City of New York, and further irrevocably waives any claim that any such suit, action, or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. In the case of the courts of the United States of America and State of New York the BORROWER hereby agrees to receive service of process in any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT at its offices set forth in SECTION 8.06. Nothing herein shall affect the right to serve process in any other manner permitted by the law. The BORROWER hereby agrees that the mailing of such process to the BORROWER shall be deemed personal service and accepted by the BORROWER for any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.12. SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS. Any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT which is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions of such LOAN DOCUMENT or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.

SECTION 8.13. HEADINGS. ARTICLE and SECTION headings in this AGREEMENT are for the convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of the applicable LOAN DOCUMENTS for any other purpose.

SECTION 8.14. WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. THE BANK AND THE BORROWER MUTUALLY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.15. PATRIOT ACT. The BANK hereby notifies the BORROWER that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “ACT”), it is required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each borrower, guarantor, or grantor (each, a “LOAN PARTY”), which information includes the name, and address of each LOAN PARTY and other information that will allow the BANK to identify such LOAN PARTY in accordance with the ACT.

SECTION 8.16. CONFIDENTIALITY. The BANK agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the BORROWER pursuant to or in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, other than information that has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this SECTION 8.16; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the BANK from disclosing any such information: (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in the LOANS or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to the BORROWER and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents, attorneys, accountants, and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over the BANK, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the BANK; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the BANK may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the BANK’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the BANK’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the BORROWER being violated.

[signature page follows]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto. have caused this AGREEMENT to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.
By:   /s/ Scott S. Wheeler
  Scott S. Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer

 

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

By:  

/s/ Satoshi Takahara

 

Name: Satoshi Takahara

 

Title: Excutive Director


EXHIBIT A

[Form of]

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

US$20,000,000.00

      February 12, 2021

(maximum amount)

     

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. (the “BORROWER”), HEREBY UNCONDITIONALLY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “BANK”), the principal sum of TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00) or, if less, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all LOANS made to the BORROWER pursuant to the LINE AGREEMENT referred to below, together with interest on the unpaid principal amount of each LOAN from time to time outstanding hereunder at the rates, and payable in the manner and on the dates, specified in the LINE AGREEMENT, the provisions of which are incorporated by reference in this NOTE.

The BANK shall record the date and amount of each LOAN made, the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, the amount of principal and interest due and payable from time to time hereunder, each payment thereof, and the resulting unpaid principal balance hereof, on the schedule attached to this NOTE or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the LINE AGREEMENT to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

Both principal and interest are payable in the currency of the LOAN and in immediately available funds to the BANK at 277 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10172, or at such other place as may be designated in writing by the holder of this NOTE.

This promissory note is the NOTE referred to in, and is subject to and entitled to the benefits of, the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between the BORROWER and the BANK (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “LINE AGREEMENT”). Capitalized terms used herein shall have the respective meanings assigned to them in the LINE AGREEMENT.

The LINE AGREEMENT provides, among other things, for acceleration (which in certain cases shall be automatic) of the maturity hereof upon the occurrence of certain stated events, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived.

THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.

 

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

By:  

/s/ Scott S. Wheeler

 

Scott S. Wheeler

 

Chief Financial Officer


SCHEDULE TO

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

BORROWER: THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

LINE AMOUNT: US$20,000,000.00

 

Date

 

Bank’s
Reference
Number

 

Amount of

Loan

 

Maturity
Date

 

Applicable
Interest
Rate

 

Amount of
Principal
Paid

 

Unpaid
Balance of
Note

 

Notation
Made By:


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. (the “Borrower”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 5.01 of the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between the Borrower and the Bank (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “Line Agreement”). Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Line Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis for the period ended [_____] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

(a) The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

(b) The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this _____ day of _____________, ________.

 

By:

   
 

Name:

 

Title:

Exhibit 10.15

February 12, 2021

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.

2-1, Otemachi 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku,

Tokyo, 100-8631, Japan

Dear Sirs

Re: Guarantee – fee letter

This letter (the “Fee Letter”) is entered into in connection with the Guarantee Letter (hosho-sho) (the “Guarantee”) to be submitted by MITSUI & CO., LTD. (“Mitsui”) in favor of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation New York Branch (the “Beneficiary”) for the benefit of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Company”), pursuant to which Mitsui guarantees certain obligations of the Company under the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement, to be entered into by and between the Beneficiary and the Company, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, subject to the limitations and other terms set forth in the Guarantee.

In connection with, and as consideration for Mitsui to enter into, the Guarantee, the Company and Mitsui hereby agree as follows:

 

a)

The Company agrees to pay Mitsui for its own account, an annual fee at the rate per annum of 1.20% of $10,000,000 (the “Fee”), until the Guarantee is terminated. The Company shall pay the Fee and any other amounts accrued or otherwise payable pursuant to this Fee Letter (i) on an annual basis on each anniversary of the Effective Date, as defined below; and (ii) upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of the Company; provided that, upon the termination of the Guarantee, the Fee payable with respect to a partial year in which the Guarantee was terminated shall be equal to (x) the Fee multiplied by (y)(i) the number of days elapsed in such year (beginning on the relevant anniversary of the Effective Date) up to such termination divided by (ii) 365. Payment shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to a bank account designated by Mitsui.

 

b)

The Company agrees to reimburse Mitsui for any reasonably incurred fees or expenses related to or in connection with any disputes arising between Mitsui and the Beneficiary out of or in connection with the Guarantee including, but not limited to, attorney fees and costs for litigation.

 

c)

In the event that Mitsui is required to pay any amounts under the Guarantee, such amounts shall promptly be reimbursed to Mitsui in cash. In case the Company is not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Mitsui, the parties may agree to deem the unreimbursed amount of Mitsui’s payment under the Guarantee to be made for the benefit of the Company in consideration for debt or equity securities of the Company on terms reasonably satisfactory to Mitsui and the Company.

 

d)

The Company agrees to provide Mitsui with the following documents;

i. Monthly P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cashflow Statement within 21 days of the end of each month

ii. Next 12 months cashflow estimate, which will be updated every quarter, by the end of last day of the month after the end of each quarter (i.e. 2020/Q2-2021/Q1 estimate to come by April 30th, 2020)

iii. Monthly borrowing detail (amount, interest rate, term) within 10 days of the end of each month

The Company agrees that all of the fees and expenses set forth in this Fee Letter shall be fully earned upon becoming due and payable in accordance with the terms hereof.

This Fee Letter, together with the Guarantee, embody the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the specific matters set forth herein and supersede all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.

This Fee Letter shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Each of the parties hereby irrevocably waives all right to trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim (whether based on contract, tort or otherwise) arising out of or relating to this Fee Letter or the transactions contemplated hereby.


This Fee Letter may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one agreement. Delivery of an executed signature page of this Fee Letter by facsimile or electronic mail transmission shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart hereof.

The Fee Letter shall become effective as of the time of execution of the Credit Agreement and which is subject of the guarantee under the Guarantee (the “Effective Date”) and shall remain effective until the expiration or termination of the Guarantee, and provided that the Company shall remain liable following the termination hereof for accrued and unpaid Fees.

This Fee Letter may not be amended or any provision hereof waived or modified except by an instrument in writing signed by the Company and Mitsui.

This Fee Letter may not be assigned by the Company without the prior written consent of Mitsui.

Faithfully

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

 

By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name: Scott Wheeler
Title: CFO
Acknowledged and agreed:
MITSUI & CO., LTD.
By:   /s/ Toshitaka Inuzuka
Name:   Toshitaka Inuzuka

Title:

  General Manager, NutriScience Division

 

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Exhibit A: UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT(Draft)

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION, a Japanese banking corporation, having its offices at 277 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10172 (the “BANK”), and THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, having its offices at 620 Omni Industrial Boulevard, Summerville, South Carolina 29486 (the “BORROWER”). The parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1.01. DEFINED TERMS. As used in this AGREEMENT, the following terms have the following meanings (terms defined in the singular to have the same meaning when used in the plural and vice versa):

“AGREEMENT” means this UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT, together with all exhibits and schedules hereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided herein.

“APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE” means, with respect to each LOAN, the interest rate per annum quoted by the BANK and agreed to by the BORROWER at the time of making such LOAN.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“BUSINESS DAY” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or other day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close.

“CHANGE OF CONTROL” shall mean (x) the sale or transfer of more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER, (y) the issuance of shares of common stock, or securities convertible into or exercisable for shares of common stock, constituting more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER immediately after issuance, to PERSON who were not holders of common stock, on an as converted basis, immediately prior to such issuance or (z) the sale, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the BORROWER and its majority owned subsidiaries in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER.

“CREDIT LINE” means a discretionary and uncommitted line of credit that the BANK establishes for the BORROWER pursuant to SECTION 2.01 hereof up to the amount referred to therein but which may be terminated in whole or reduced in part pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof. This CREDIT LINE shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN or extension of credit.

“DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01 hereof, whether or not any requirement for the giving of notice, the lapse of time, or both, or any other condition, has been satisfied.

“DISBURSEMENT DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is advanced, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

 

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“DOLLARS”, “U.S. DOLLARS”, “US$”, “USD”, or “$” means the lawful currency of the United States of America.

“EVENT OF DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01.

“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY” means any nation or government, any state or other political subdivision thereof, any central bank (or similar monetary or regulatory authority) thereof, any entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government, and any corporation or other entity owned or controlled, through stock or capital ownership or otherwise, by any of the foregoing.

“GUARANTOR” means each of Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation; and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, a Japanese corporation.

“LAST DRAWDOWN DATE” means February 11, 2022.

“LETTER OF GUARANTEE” means the letter of guarantee executed by each GUARANTOR and required to be delivered by the BORROWER to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01 hereof, together with all exhibits and schedules thereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided therein.

“LIEN” means any mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, security interest, assignment, deposit arrangement, charge or encumbrance, lien (statutory or other), or other preferential arrangement (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing, or any agreement to give any security interest).

“LOAN” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.01.

“LOAN DOCUMENTS” means this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, each LETTER OF GUARANTEE, and any other agreement, document, instrument, or contract furnished to the BANK in connection with any of the foregoing documents or supporting, securing, or otherwise relating to the LOANS, in each case as amended, amended and restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time.

“MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS” means Regulation T, U and/or X of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the rules promulgated thereunder, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated, or replaced from time to time, or any corresponding or succeeding provisions of applicable law.

 

-4-


“MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE” means any material adverse change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), or prospects of the BORROWER, or the BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES taken as one enterprise; (b) the legality, validity, binding effect, or enforceability of any LOAN DOCUMENT; (c) the ability of the BORROWER to fully and timely perform its obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the BANK’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies, and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the BANK under any LOAN DOCUMENT.

“MATURITY DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is due and payable, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“NOTE” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.05.

“PERSON” means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), joint stock company, estate, trust, limited liability company, unlimited liability company, unincorporated association, joint venture, or other entity or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY.

“PRIME RATE” means the rate of interest per annum established by the BANK’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the PRIME RATE shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“PROPERTY” means all types of real or personal property, including without limitation, tangible, intangible, or mixed property.

“SANCTIONS” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 4.10(a).

“SUBSIDIARY” means, with respect to any PERSON (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent.

ARTICLE II

AMOUNT AND TERMS OF LOANS

SECTION 2.01. REVOLVING CREDIT. The BANK may, upon request from the BORROWER, in the BANK’s sole and absolute discretion upon the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, make one or more loans (each, a “LOAN”) to the BORROWER from time to time during the period commencing on the date of this AGREEMENT and ending on (and including) the LAST DRAWDOWN DATE in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed at any time outstanding TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00), provided that such amount may be reduced pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof (the “CREDIT LINE”). Each LOAN shall have a MATURITY DATE that is not less than one (1) day and not more than twelve (12) months after the DISBURSEMENT DATE, as requested by the BORROWER in accordance with SECTION 2.03 and agreed to by the BANK. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the BORROWER may borrow, repay in whole or in part, and reborrow on a revolving basis, up to the amount of the CREDIT LINE. The availability of the CREDIT LINE hereunder shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN.

 

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SECTION 2.02. REDUCTION AND TERMINATION OF CREDIT LINE. The BANK shall have the unrestricted right in its sole and absolute discretion, upon notice to the BORROWER, to immediately terminate in whole or reduce in part the unused portion of the CREDIT LINE.

SECTION 2.03. NOTICE AND MANNER OF BORROWING. Not later than 2:00 p.m., New York time on the requested DISBURSEMENT DATE, the BORROWER shall give the BANK telephonic application for each LOAN under this AGREEMENT to the BANK’s JDAD Loan Services Department (or such other contact as the BANK may inform the BORROWER from time to time), which may or may not be accepted by the BANK, specifying (i) the DISBURSEMENT DATE; (ii) the principal amount; and (iii) the MATURITY DATE. The BANK will send written confirmation of the LOAN to the BORROWER at the fax number or email address listed in SECTION 8.06 hereof. The BORROWER will acknowledge the information shown in the confirmation by promptly returning it to the BANK’s New York Branch by fax at (212) 224-4537. Not later than 4:00 p.m., New York time, on the DISBURSEMENT DATE of the LOAN and upon fulfillment of the applicable conditions set forth in ARTICLE III hereof, the BANK will, subject to its sole and absolute discretion and subject to the provisions of SECTION 2.01 hereof, make the LOAN available to the BORROWER in immediately available funds by crediting the amount thereof to the BORROWER’s account with the BANK, or to such other account as the BORROWER shall inform the BANK in writing. All notices given under this SECTION 2.03 shall be irrevocable. The failure to give any confirmation referred to herein shall not release or diminish any of the BORROWER’s obligations hereunder.

SECTION 2.04. REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL; PAYMENT OF INTEREST.

(a) The entire principal amount of each LOAN shall be paid in immediately available funds on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN.

(b) Each LOAN will bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof at a rate per annum equal to the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE.

(c) Accrued interest on each LOAN will be payable in arrears on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN; provided that (i) interest accrued pursuant to SECTION 2.04(d) will be payable on demand, and (ii) in the event of any repayment or prepayment of any LOAN, accrued interest on the principal amount repaid or prepaid will be payable on the date of such repayment or prepayment.

(d) If any EVENT OF DEFAULT under SECTION 7.01(1) or 7.01(2) hereof has occurred and is continuing then, until such defaulted amount has been paid in full, to the extent permitted by law, such defaulted amounts will bear interest (after as well as before judgment), payable on demand, at a rate per annum equal to the PRIME RATE plus 2%.

(e) All interest hereunder will be computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and will be payable for the actual number of days elapsed (including the first day, but excluding the last day).

SECTION 2.05. NOTE. As additional evidence of the BORROWER’s payment obligations hereunder, the BORROWER shall execute and deliver to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01(1) a single grid promissory note (the “NOTE”), substantially in the form of EXHIBIT A attached hereto, setting forth the CREDIT LINE as the maximum principal amount thereof and dated as of the date of this AGREEMENT, and made payable to the BANK. The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to record on a schedule attached to the NOTE (or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, which may be maintained in its internal records and shown on a computer printout) the principal amount, APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, MATURITY DATE, and other terms relevant to each LOAN, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the NOTE to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

 

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SECTION 2.06. FUNDING LOSS, INDEMNIFICATION; CAPITAL ADEQUACY AND OTHER CHARGES AND COSTS.

(a) The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify and hold the BANK free and harmless from all losses, costs, and expenses that the BANK may incur, to the extent not mitigated by the redeployment of deposits or other funds, as a result of (i) a default by the BORROWER in payment when due of the principal of or interest on a LOAN, (ii) the BORROWER’s failure (other than due solely to a failure attributable to a default by the BANK) to make a borrowing or continuation with respect to a LOAN after making a request therefor, (iii) a prepayment (whether mandatory or otherwise, including but not limited to, acceleration pursuant to ARTICLE VII hereof) of a LOAN before a scheduled payment date for interest or principal, or (iv) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT or any demand by the BANK for payment of any LOAN permitted hereunder or under the NOTE.

(b) If the BANK determines at any time that any applicable law or governmental rule, regulation, guideline, or order concerning capital adequacy, reserves, or similar requirements, or any change in interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY will have the effect of increasing the cost to the BANK or the amount of capital required or expected to be maintained by the BANK as a result of the making or continuance of the LOANS, then the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK, upon its written demand therefor, such additional amounts as shall be required to compensate the BANK for such increased costs. The BANK, upon determining that any additional amounts will be payable to the BANK pursuant to this paragraph, will give prompt written notice thereof to the BORROWER, which notice shall show in reasonable detail the basis for calculation of such additional amounts, although the failure to give any such notice shall not release or diminish the obligations of the BORROWER to pay additional amounts pursuant to this paragraph.

(c) If any present or future applicable law, rule, or regulation or any change therein or in the interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by the BANK with any request or directive of any such GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY, whether or not having the force of law, results in an increase of the cost to the BANK of making, renewing, or maintaining any LOAN, or reduces the amount of any sum receivable by the BANK under any LOAN, in the reasonable judgment of the BANK, then, upon demand by the BANK, the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK such additional amount or amounts as would compensate the BANK for such increased cost or reduction. The BANK’s computation of such amount or amounts shall be binding on the BORROWER absent manifest error.

SECTION 2.07. METHOD OF PAYMENT. The BORROWER shall make each payment of principal of and interest on the LOANS, in lawful money of the United States in immediately available funds, not later than 3:00 p.m. (New York time) on the date when such payment is due, via Fedwire or CHIPS to the account described below, or to such other location or in such other manner as the BANK may notify the BORROWER in writing:

 

  Bank Name:    Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York
  SWIFT:    SMBCUS33
  ABA Number:    0260-0967-4
  Account Name:    SMBC Loan Operations New York
  Account Number:    423001
  Reference:    Thorne HealthTech, Inc.
  Attn:    BCDAD JDAD Loan Services

 

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The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to charge any amounts due hereunder or under the NOTE from time to time against the BORROWER’s account #351905 or any other account of the BORROWER with the BANK. The BORROWER may, with the BANK’s prior consent, and on not less than five days’ notice, prepay the principal and interest of any LOAN in whole or in part, but only on condition that the prepayment is accompanied by payment of any and all additional costs, as determined by the BANK, that the BANK may incur as a result of such prepayment, including, without limitation, the breaking of any deposit, the redeployment of funds released by any prepayment, the termination of any swap or hedging contract, or otherwise.

SECTION 2.08. PAYMENTS ON NON-BUSINESS DAYS. Whenever payment shall fall due on a day which is not a BUSINESS DAY, payment shall be made on the next succeeding BUSINESS DAY, unless such BUSINESS DAY falls in the following calendar month, in which case payment shall be due on the next preceding BUSINESS DAY.

ARTICLE III

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

SECTION 3.01. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO INITIAL AND ALL LOANS. The BANK may in its sole and absolute discretion make LOANS available to the BORROWER, subject to the BANK’s receipt of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the BANK:

(1) AGREEMENT AND NOTE. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE, each duly executed by the BORROWER.

(2) EVIDENCE OF ALL CORPORATE ACTION BY THE BORROWER. Certified copies of the unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the BORROWER or a certified copy of the resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors authorizing the execution, delivery, and performance of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(3) INCUMBENCY AND SIGNATURE CERTIFICATE OF THE BORROWER. A certificate of the President or Vice President (or other appropriate officer) of the BORROWER certifying the names and true signatures of the officers of the BORROWER authorized, pursuant to the Board of Directors’ resolutions referred to in paragraph (2) above, to sign this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered by the BORROWER pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(4) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION. At least five days prior to the first DISBURSEMENT DATE, a BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION in relation to the BORROWER.

(5) LETTERS OF GUARANTEE. The LETTER OF GUARANTEE duly executed by each GUARANTOR.

ARTICLE IV

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

The BORROWER hereby represents and warrants to the BANK as follows at each time it makes an application for a LOAN:

SECTION 4.01. DUE INCORPORATION; GOOD STANDING. The BORROWER is a corporation, duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, and is properly licensed and in good standing in, and where necessary to maintain the BORROWER’s rights and privileges, has complied with the fictitious name statute of, every jurisdiction in which the BORROWER is doing business.

 

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SECTION 4.02. CORPORATE POWER; AUTHORIZATION. The execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which it is a party and the performance of its obligations hereunder and thereunder are within the BORROWER’s corporate powers, have been duly authorized, and will not contravene or conflict with its charter or bylaws (or such other organizational and governing documents as may be applicable) or any agreement, instrument, or document to which the BORROWER is a party or by which the BORROWER or any of its PROPERTY is bound or affected.

SECTION 4.03. GOVERNMENT ACTION. No approval, consent, exemption, or other action by, or notice to or filing with, any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY is necessary in connection with the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, except as may have been obtained and certified copies of which have been delivered to BANK.

SECTION 4.04. NO LEGAL BAR. There is no law, rule, or regulation, nor is there any judgment, decree, or order of any court or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY binding on the BORROWER that would be contravened by the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT.

SECTION 4.05. ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATION. This AGREEMENT is a legal, valid, and binding agreement of the BORROWER, enforceable against the BORROWER in accordance with its terms, and the NOTE and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, when executed and delivered (and as endorsed from time to time), will be similarly legal, valid, binding, and enforceable.

SECTION 4.06. LITIGATION. Except as previously disclosed to the BANK in writing, there are no legal actions or other proceedings pending or, to the best of the BORROWER’s knowledge, threatened against the BORROWER which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. There are no outstanding and unsatisfied final judgments or decrees against the BORROWER for money damages, fines, or penalties which, individually or in the aggregate, could result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.07. NO DEFAULT. No event has occurred and is continuing or would result from the incurring of obligations by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT that is a default under any agreement or document to which the BORROWER is a party or which, with the passing of time or giving of notice or both, would become a default under any such document.

SECTION 4.08. NO CONFLICTING AGREEMENTS. Except as disclosed in writing by the BORROWER to the BANK prior to the date hereof, the BORROWER is not in default under any agreement to which it is a party or by which it or any of its PROPERTY is bound, the effect of which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.09. TAXES. The BORROWER has filed or caused to be filed all tax returns required to be filed, and has paid, or has made adequate provision for the payment of, all taxes shown to be due and payable on said returns or in any assessments made against it, and no tax liens have been filed and no claims are being asserted with respect to such taxes that are required to be reflected in the financial statements of the BORROWER and are not so reflected therein.

 

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SECTION 4.10. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.    

(a) None of the BORROWER, any of its SUBSIDIARIES or, to the knowledge of the BORROWER, any director, officer, employee, or agent of the BORROWER or any of its SUBSIDIARIES is a PERSON that is, or is owned or controlled by PERSONS that are: (i) the subject of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the U.S. Department of State, the United Nations Security Council, the European Union, Her Majesty’s Treasury, the Japanese government, including those imposed under the Foreign Exchange Act and the Import Trade Control Order of Japan (Cabinet Order No. 414 of 1949, as amended), or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “SANCTIONS”), or (ii) located, organized, or resident in a country or territory that is the subject of SANCTIONS, including Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria, except as previously disclosed to the BANK.

(b) The BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents are in compliance with (i) all applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(c) The BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES have instituted and maintain policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

SECTION 4.11. NO MISREPRESENTATION. Neither this AGREEMENT, nor any other LOAN DOCUMENT, nor any certificate, notice, report, financial statement, or document furnished to date or to be furnished by the BORROWER in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby contains or will contain a misrepresentation or misstatement of material fact, or omits or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated in order to make the statements herein or therein contained (taken as a whole) not misleading in the light of the circumstances under which made.

SECTION 4.12. RANKING OF LOAN; LIENS. The payment obligations of the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE are and will at all times be unsubordinated general obligations of the BORROWER, and rank and will at all times rank at least pari passu with all other present and future unsubordinated unsecured indebtedness of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE V

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER will:

SECTION 5.01. FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION. Deliver to the BANK such information respecting the business, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), operations, or prospects of the BORROWER as the BANK may from time to time reasonably request, including:

(a) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;

 

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(b) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period setting forth in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the BANK), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

(c) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (a) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the BORROWER, in the form of EXHIBIT B attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred and, if a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

SECTION 5.02. NOTICE. Promptly notify the BANK in writing of:

(1) all litigation affecting the BORROWER as a defendant where the amount claimed in a single litigation action is in excess of $100,000 or when the aggregate amount claimed in all litigation actions is in excess of $500,000;

(2) any substantial dispute between the BORROWER and any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY;

(3) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT; and

(4) any other matters which, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 5.03. PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. Pay all obligations, including taxes, when due, except such as may be contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which the BORROWER has established reserves on its books which are reasonable and adequate.

SECTION 5.04. COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS.    

(a) Maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance by the BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(b) At all times comply with all laws, rules, regulations, orders, and directions of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over it or its business.

SECTION 5.05. MAINTAIN EXISTENCE; PROPERTY. Maintain and preserve (i) its existence as a legal entity and all rights, privileges and franchises now enjoyed; and (ii) all of its PROPERTIES that are used or useful in the conduct of its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted.

SECTION 5.06. BOOKS AND RECORDS. Maintain adequate books, accounts, and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of BANK, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its PROPERTIES, and to examine or audit its books, accounts, and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, PROPERTIES, and financial and other conditions of the BORROWER with officers of the BORROWER.

 

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SECTION 5.07. INSURANCE. To the extent there exists any real property security interest, maintain and keep in force, on all of its property such insurance as is normal for the industry in which the BORROWER conducts its business and is satisfactory to BANK as to amount, nature, and carrier, covering fire damage (including use and occupancy), public liability, product liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation, and deliver to BANK upon request a schedule certified to be correct by a responsible officer of the BORROWER setting forth all insurance in force as of the date of such schedule.

SECTION 5.08. FURTHER ASSURANCES. The BORROWER will from time to time perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested by BANK to give effect to the purposes of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, if any.

ARTICLE VI

NEGATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER hereby agrees as follows:

SECTION 6.01. LIMITATIONS ON FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES. The BORROWER will not merge into or consolidate with any other PERSON, or permit any other PERSON to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

SECTION 6.02. USE OF PROCEEDS.

(a) No part of the proceeds of any LOAN will be used to buy or carry, or to extend credit to any other PERSON to buy or carry, any “margin stock” (as defined in Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the United States Federal Reserve System) in violation of MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS.

(b) The BORROWER will not request any LOAN, and the BORROWER shall not use, and the BORROWER will procure that its SUBSIDIARIES and its or their respective directors, officers, employees and agents will not use, the proceeds of any LOAN (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any PERSON, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is the subject of SANCTIONS, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of SANCTIONS applicable to any party hereto.

(c) No part of the proceeds of the LOANS will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any PERSON in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law.

SECTION 6.03. NEGATIVE PLEDGE. The BORROWER will not create, incur, assume, or suffer to exist any LIEN upon or with respect to any of its PROPERTY, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, other than:

(a) LIENS imposed by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY for taxes, assessments, or charges not yet due or which are being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings if adequate reserves with respect thereto are maintained on the books of the BORROWER in accordance with GAAP; and

 

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(b) easements, rights-of-way, restrictions, and other similar encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business and encumbrances consisting of zoning restrictions, easements, licenses, restrictions on the use of property, or minor imperfections in title thereto which, in the aggregate, are not material in amount, and which do not in any case materially detract from the value of the property subject thereto or interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE VII

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

SECTION 7.01. EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following events will constitute an EVENT OF DEFAULT under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE:

(1) The BORROWER fails to pay any principal of any LOAN when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof or at a date fixed for prepayment thereof or otherwise.

(2) The BORROWER fails to pay any interest on any LOAN or any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in SECTION 7.01(1)) payable under this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT when and as the same shall become due and payable, and such failure continues unremedied for a period of ten (10) days.

(3) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made by or on behalf of the BORROWER in or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any of the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, or in any amendment hereof or thereof, or in any report, certificate, financial statement or other document furnished pursuant to or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT or any amendment hereof or thereof, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed made.

(4) The BORROWER (i) fails to pay its debts generally as they come due, (ii) conceals, removes, or transfers any of its PROPERTY in violation or evasion of any bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, or similar law, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (iv) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, assignee, custodian, sequestrator, liquidator, or similar official for itself or any of its PROPERTY, (v) files any petition or action for relief under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, or moratorium law, or any other law or laws for the relief of, or relating to, debtors, (vi) is adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent or (vii) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

(5) An involuntary petition is filed under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium, or similar statute against the BORROWER or a custodian, receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors (or other similar official) is appointed to take possession, custody, or control of any PROPERTY of the BORROWER unless such petition or appointment is set aside or withdrawn or ceases to be in effect within 30 days from the date of said filing or appointment.

(6) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $250,000 shall be rendered against the BORROWER (or any combination thereof), and the same shall remain undischarged for a period of ten (10) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to attach or levy upon any assets of the BORROWER to enforce any such judgment.

(7) All, or such as in the opinion of BANK constitutes substantially all, of the PROPERTIES of the BORROWER is condemned, seized, or appropriated.

 

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(8) The BORROWER fails to observe or perform any covenant, condition, or agreement contained in (i) SECTION 5.02(3), SECTION 5.05(i), SECTION 5.04(a), or ARTICLE VI; or (ii) any other provision of this AGREEMENT or the NOTE (and not described in SECTIONS 7.01(1) or (2)) and such failure is not remediable or, if remediable, continues unremedied for a period of 30 days after the earlier of (x) the date the BORROWER becomes aware thereof or (y) the date the BANK gives notice to the BORROWER with respect thereto.

(9) The BORROWER is in breach of or default under any term, condition, provision or covenant contained in any agreement to which it is a party relating to borrowed money.

(10) Any LETTER OF GUARANTEE or any other document issued in support of the obligations of the BORROWER to the BANK, or any replacement of any of the foregoing, expires without renewal, is disclaimed or disavowed, or, in the case of a guarantee, ceases to be the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the guarantor thereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder.

(11) A CHANGE OF CONTROL occurs.

(12) Any one or more events occur or conditions exist that, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted in or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 7.02. REMEDIES. Upon the occurrence of any EVENT OF DEFAULT (other than an event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5)), the BANK may, by notice to the BORROWER, declare the LOANS then outstanding to be due and payable in whole (or in part, in which case any principal not so declared to be due and payable may thereafter be declared to be due and payable), and thereupon the principal of the LOANS so declared to be due and payable, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will become due and payable immediately, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER; and in case of any event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5), the principal of the LOANS then outstanding, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will automatically become due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER. The foregoing remedies are in addition to any and all other remedies available to BANK under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, at law, or in equity. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify the BANK and save the BANK harmless from and against any and all costs, losses, or expenses incurred by the BANK as a result of the occurrence of an EVENT OF DEFAULT or the repayment of any amount hereunder or under the NOTE other than on the date or dates originally due (including without limitation such as are incurred in connection with the reemployment or liquidation of funds acquired from third parties (including affiliates) by the BANK in order to maintain any amount theretofore outstanding hereunder or under the NOTE, the termination of any hedging contract or swap or other arrangement relating to the funding of the LOANS).

ARTICLE VIII

MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 8.01. INDEMNITY. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify, defend, reimburse, and hold harmless BANK and each of its affiliates, and all the directors, officers, employees, agents, legal counsel, and advisors of BANK (each, an “INDEMNIFIED PARTY”) from and against all claims, actions, proceedings, suits, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses, including the fees and out-of-pocket expenses of counsel that may be incurred by or asserted against any INDEMNIFIED PARTY in connection with, or arising out of, or relating to any transaction or proposed transaction (whether or not consummated), contemplated by this AGREEMENT or any LOAN DOCUMENT.

 

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SECTION 8.02. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS; ASSIGNMENTS; PARTICIPATIONS. The provisions of this AGREEMENT shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns, except that the BORROWER may not assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of the BANK. The BANK may at any time sell, assign, transfer, or grant participations in all or any part of, or any interest in, BANK’s rights, benefits and obligations under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS (including all or a portion of the LOANS or the CREDIT LINE). The BANK may at any time pledge or assign a security interest in all or any portion of its rights under this AGREEMENT to secure obligations of the BANK, including any pledge or assignment to secure obligations to a Federal Reserve Bank.

SECTION 8.03. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This AGREEMENT and the LOAN DOCUMENTS integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof. This AGREEMENT renews and extends, without novation, the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement dated February 14, 2020 between the BORROWER, formerly known as Thorne Holding Corp., and the BANK, and the terms governing extensions of credit outstanding thereunder shall be amended to reflect the terms contained in this AGREEMENT upon the execution and delivery hereof.

SECTION 8.04. COUNTERPARTS. This AGREEMENT and any amendments, waivers, consents, or supplements may be executed in as many counterparts as may be deemed necessary or convenient, and by the different parties hereto on separate counterparts, each of which, when so executed, shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall constitute but one and the same agreement.

SECTION 8.05. AMENDMENTS, ETC. No amendment, modification, termination, or waiver of any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, nor consent to any departure by the BORROWER from any such provision, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the BANK, and then such amendment, modification, termination, waiver, or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which it is given.

SECTION 8.06. NOTICES, ETC. All notices and other communications provided for under this AGREEMENT shall be in writing, delivered in person, or sent by overnight courier, first class mail (postage prepaid), fax or email to:

 

If to the BORROWER:   

        Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

620 Omni Industrial Boulevard

Summerville, South Carolina 29486

Attention:    Mr. Scott Wheeler

    Chief Financial Officer

Telephone:  (843) 501-0286

email:          swheeler@Thorne.com

If to the BANK:   

        Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation

277 Park Avenue

New York, New York 10172

Attention:    JDAD

Telephone:  (212) 224-4000

Fax:             (212) 593-9514

or at such other address as shall be designated by either party in a written notice to the other party complying as to delivery with the terms of this SECTION 8.06. All such notices and communications shall be effective when deposited in the mails, faxed, or emailed, as applicable, except that notices to the BANK pursuant to the provisions of ARTICLE II hereof shall be effective when received by the BANK.

 

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SECTION 8.07. NO WAIVER; REMEDIES. No failure on the part of the BANK to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right, power, or remedy under any LOAN DOCUMENT shall operate as waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right under any LOAN DOCUMENT preclude any other or further exercise thereof or exercise of any other right. The remedies provided in the LOAN DOCUMENTS are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

SECTION 8.08. COSTS, EXPENSES, AND TAXES. The BORROWER hereby agrees to pay on demand after giving borrowing written notice of the demand (i) all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK and its affiliates, including the reasonable fees, charges, and disbursements of counsel for the BANK, in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution, delivery, and administration of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and any amendments, waivers, or other modifications of the provisions of any LOAN DOCUMENT (whether or not the transactions contemplated by the LOAN DOCUMENTS are consummated); and (ii) all out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK, including the fees, charges, and disbursements of any counsel for the BANK, in connection with the enforcement or protection of its rights (A) in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, including its rights under this SECTION 8.08, or (B) in connection with the LOANS, including all such out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with any restructuring, workout, or negotiations in respect of the LOAN DOCUMENTS or the LOANS. In addition, the BORROWER shall pay any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, and recording of any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and the other documents to be delivered under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS, and agrees to save the BANK harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

SECTION 8.09. DEDUCTIONS. All payments by the BORROWER to the BANK under this AGREEMENT or under the NOTE are to be made net and free of any and all taxes (except for taxes based upon the overall net income of the BANK), duties, imposts, fees, withholdings, or deductions (the “DEDUCTIONS”) of any nature now or hereafter imposed. If any DEDUCTION is, by law, required to be made from any payment hereunder, then the BORROWER shall pay to the BANK such additional amount as will result in receipt by the BANK of a net amount equal to the amount the BANK would have received hereunder had no such DEDUCTION been required. In such event the BORROWER shall, as soon as practical, deliver to the BANK a receipt issued by the relevant taxing authority evidencing the amount of such DEDUCTION and its payment. If the BORROWER is required to pay an additional amount on account of any such DEDUCTION, the BORROWER shall have the right, on not less than three BUSINESS DAYS’ prior written notice to the BANK, to repay the applicable LOAN.

SECTION 8.10. RIGHT OF SET OFF. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any EVENT OF DEFAULT the BANK is hereby authorized at any time and from time to time, without notice to the BORROWER (any such notice being expressly waived by the BORROWER to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law), to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held, and other indebtedness at any time owing by the BANK to or for the credit or the account of the BORROWER against any and all of the obligations of the BORROWER now or hereafter existing under the AGREEMENT or the NOTE or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, irrespective of whether or not the BANK shall have made any demand under this AGREEMENT or such other LOAN DOCUMENT and although such obligations may be unmatured. The BANK agrees promptly to notify the BORROWER after any such set off and application, provided that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such set off and application. The rights of the BANK under this SECTION 8.10 are in addition to other rights and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of set off) which the BANK may have.

 

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SECTION 8.11. GOVERNING LAW; CONSENT TO JURISDICTION. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT against the BORROWER may be brought in the courts of the United States of America or the State of New York as the BANK may elect, and, by execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the BORROWER hereby (i) accepts for itself, generally and unconditionally, the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the aforesaid courts, (ii) irrevocably agrees to be bound by any judgment of any such court with respect to this AGREEMENT or the NOTE, and (iii) irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action, or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT brought in any court of the United States of America or the State of New York located in the City of New York, and further irrevocably waives any claim that any such suit, action, or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. In the case of the courts of the United States of America and State of New York the BORROWER hereby agrees to receive service of process in any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT at its offices set forth in SECTION 8.06. Nothing herein shall affect the right to serve process in any other manner permitted by the law. The BORROWER hereby agrees that the mailing of such process to the BORROWER shall be deemed personal service and accepted by the BORROWER for any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.12. SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS. Any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT which is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions of such LOAN DOCUMENT or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.

SECTION 8.13. HEADINGS. ARTICLE and SECTION headings in this AGREEMENT are for the convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of the applicable LOAN DOCUMENTS for any other purpose.

SECTION 8.14. WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. THE BANK AND THE BORROWER MUTUALLY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.15. PATRIOT ACT. The BANK hereby notifies the BORROWER that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “ACT”), it is required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each borrower, guarantor, or grantor (each, a “LOAN PARTY”), which information includes the name and address of each LOAN PARTY and other information that will allow the BANK to identify such LOAN PARTY in accordance with the ACT.

SECTION 8.16. CONFIDENTIALITY. The BANK agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the BORROWER pursuant to or in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, other than information that has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this SECTION 8.16; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the BANK from disclosing any such information: (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in the LOANS or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to the BORROWER and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents, attorneys, accountants, and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over the BANK, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the BANK; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the BANK may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the BANK’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the BANK’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the BORROWER being violated.

[signature page follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this AGREEMENT to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

By:  

 

  Scott S. Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:

 

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EXHIBIT A

[Form of]

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

US$20,000,000.00   

February 12, 2021

(maximum amount)   

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. (the “BORROWER”), HEREBY UNCONDITIONALLY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “BANK”), the principal sum of TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00) or, if less, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all LOANS made to the BORROWER pursuant to the LINE AGREEMENT referred to below, together with interest on the unpaid principal amount of each LOAN from time to time outstanding hereunder at the rates, and payable in the manner and on the dates, specified in the LINE AGREEMENT, the provisions of which are incorporated by reference in this NOTE.

The BANK shall record the date and amount of each LOAN made, the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, the amount of principal and interest due and payable from time to time hereunder, each payment thereof, and the resulting unpaid principal balance hereof, on the schedule attached to this NOTE or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the LINE AGREEMENT to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

Both principal and interest are payable in the currency of the LOAN and in immediately available funds to the BANK at 277 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10172, or at such other place as may be designated in writing by the holder of this NOTE.

This promissory note is the NOTE referred to in, and is subject to and entitled to the benefits of, the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between the BORROWER and the BANK (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “LINE AGREEMENT”). Capitalized terms used herein shall have the respective meanings assigned to them in the LINE AGREEMENT.

The LINE AGREEMENT provides, among other things, for acceleration (which in certain cases shall be automatic) of the maturity hereof upon the occurrence of certain stated events, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived.

THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.

 

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.
By:    
  Scott S. Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer


SCHEDULE TO

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

BORROWER:    THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. LINE
AMOUNT:    US$20,000,000.00

 

Date

  

Bank’s
Reference
Number

  

Amount

of Loan

 

Maturity
Date

  

Applicable

Interest

Rate

  

Amount

of

Principal
Paid

  

Unpaid
Balance

of Note

  

Notation
Made By:

                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. (the “Borrower”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 5.01 of the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between the Borrower and the Bank (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “Line Agreement”). Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Line Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis for the period ended [_____] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

(a) The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

(b) The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this ____ day of ______________, _____.

 

By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:

Exhibit 10.16

February 12, 2021

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited

4-10-2 Nakano, Nakano-ku

Tokyo 164-0001, Japan

Dear Sirs

Re: Guarantee – fee letter

This letter (the “Fee Letter”) is entered into in connection with the Guarantee Letter (hosho-sho) (the “Guarantee”) to be submitted by Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (“Kirin”) in favor of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation New York Branch (the “Beneficiary”) for the benefit of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Company”), pursuant to which Kirin guarantees certain obligations of the Company under the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement, to be entered into by and between the Beneficiary and the Company, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, subject to the limitations and other terms set forth in the Guarantee.

In connection with, and as consideration for Kirin to enter into, the Guarantee, the Company and Kirin hereby agree as follows:

 

a)

The Company agrees to pay Kirin for its own account, an annual fee at the rate per annum of 1.20% of $10,000,000 (the “Fee”), until the Guarantee is terminated. The Company shall pay the Fee and any other amounts accrued or otherwise payable pursuant to this Fee Letter (i) on an annual basis on each anniversary of the Effective Date, as defined below; and (ii) upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of the Company; provided that, upon the termination of the Guarantee, the Fee payable with respect to a partial year in which the Guarantee was terminated shall be equal to (x) the Fee multiplied by (y)(i) the number of days elapsed in such year (beginning on the relevant anniversary of the Effective Date) up to such termination divided by (ii) 365. Payment shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to a bank account designated by Kirin.

b)

The Company agrees to reimburse Kirin for any reasonably incurred fees or expenses related to or in connection with any disputes arising between Kirin and the Beneficiary out of or in connection with the Guarantee including, but not limited to, attorney fees and costs for litigation.

c)

In the event that Kirin is required to pay any amounts under the Guarantee, such amounts shall promptly be reimbursed by the Company to Kirin in cash. In case the Company is not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Kirin, the parties may agree to deem the unreimbursed amount of Kirin’s payment under the Guarantee to be made for the benefit of the Company in consideration for debt or equity securities of the Company on terms reasonably satisfactory to Kirin and the Company.

d)

The Company agrees to provide Kirin with the following documents; i. Monthly P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cashflow Statement within 21 days of the end of each month ii. Next 12 months cashflow estimate, which will be updated every quarter, by the end of last day of the month after the end of each quarter (i.e. 2020/Q2-2021/Q1 estimate to come by April 30th, 2020) iii. Monthly borrowing detail (amount, interest rate, term) within 10 days of the end of each month

The Company agrees that all of the fees and expenses set forth in this Fee Letter shall be fully earned upon becoming due and payable in accordance with the terms hereof.

This Fee Letter, together with the Guarantee, embody the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the specific matters set forth herein and supersede all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.

This Fee Letter shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Each of the parties hereby irrevocably waives all right to trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim (whether based on contract, tort or otherwise) arising out of or relating to this Fee Letter or the transactions contemplated hereby.


This Fee Letter may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one agreement. Delivery of an executed signature page of this Fee Letter by facsimile or electronic mail transmission shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart hereof.

The Fee Letter shall become effective as of the time of execution of the Credit Agreement and which is subject of the guarantee under the Guarantee (the “Effective Date”) and shall remain effective until the expiration or termination of the Guarantee, and provided that the Company shall remain liable following the termination hereof for accrued and unpaid Fees.

This Fee Letter may not be amended or any provision hereof waived or modified except by an instrument in writing signed by the Company and Kirin.

This Fee Letter may not be assigned by the Company without the prior written consent of Kirin.

Faithfully

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

 

By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name: Scott Wheeler
Title: CFO

Acknowledged and agreed:

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited

 

By:   /s/ Keiji Konzo
Name: Keiji Konzo
Title: Senior Manager, Finance Department

 

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Exhibit A: UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT(Draft)

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION, a Japanese banking corporation, having its offices at 277 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10172 (the “BANK”), and THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, having its offices at 620 Omni Industrial Boulevard, Summerville, South Carolina 29486 (the “BORROWER”). The parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1.01. DEFINED TERMS. As used in this AGREEMENT, the following terms have the following meanings (terms defined in the singular to have the same meaning when used in the plural and vice versa):

“AGREEMENT” means this UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT, together with all exhibits and schedules hereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided herein.

“APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE” means, with respect to each LOAN, the interest rate per annum quoted by the BANK and agreed to by the BORROWER at the time of making such LOAN.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“BUSINESS DAY” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or other day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close.

“CHANGE OF CONTROL” shall mean (x) the sale or transfer of more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER, (y) the issuance of shares of common stock, or securities convertible into or exercisable for shares of common stock, constituting more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER immediately after issuance, to PERSON who were not holders of common stock, on an as converted basis, immediately prior to such issuance or (z) the sale, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the BORROWER and its majority owned subsidiaries in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER.

“CREDIT LINE” means a discretionary and uncommitted line of credit that the BANK establishes for the BORROWER pursuant to SECTION 2.01 hereof up to the amount referred to therein but which may be terminated in whole or reduced in part pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof. This CREDIT LINE shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN or extension of credit.

“DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01 hereof, whether or not any requirement for the giving of notice, the lapse of time, or both, or any other condition, has been satisfied.

“DISBURSEMENT DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is advanced, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

 

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“DOLLARS”, “U.S. DOLLARS”, “US$”, “USD”, or “$” means the lawful currency of the United States of America.

“EVENT OF DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01.

“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY” means any nation or government, any state or other political subdivision thereof, any central bank (or similar monetary or regulatory authority) thereof, any entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government, and any corporation or other entity owned or controlled, through stock or capital ownership or otherwise, by any of the foregoing.

“GUARANTOR” means each of Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation; and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, a Japanese corporation.

“LAST DRAWDOWN DATE” means February 11, 2022.

“LETTER OF GUARANTEE” means the letter of guarantee executed by each GUARANTOR and required to be delivered by the BORROWER to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01 hereof, together with all exhibits and schedules thereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided therein.

“LIEN” means any mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, security interest, assignment, deposit arrangement, charge or encumbrance, lien (statutory or other), or other preferential arrangement (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing, or any agreement to give any security interest).

“LOAN” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.01.

“LOAN DOCUMENTS” means this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, each LETTER OF GUARANTEE, and any other agreement, document, instrument, or contract furnished to the BANK in connection with any of the foregoing documents or supporting, securing, or otherwise relating to the LOANS, in each case as amended, amended and restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time.

“MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS” means Regulation T, U and/or X of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the rules promulgated thereunder, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated, or replaced from time to time, or any corresponding or succeeding provisions of applicable law.

“MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE” means any material adverse change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), or prospects of the BORROWER, or the BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES taken as one enterprise; (b) the legality,

 

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validity, binding effect, or enforceability of any LOAN DOCUMENT; (c) the ability of the BORROWER to fully and timely perform its obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the BANK’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies, and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the BANK under any LOAN DOCUMENT.

“MATURITY DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is due and payable, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“NOTE” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.05.

“PERSON” means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), joint stock company, estate, trust, limited liability company, unlimited liability company, unincorporated association, joint venture, or other entity or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY.

“PRIME RATE” means the rate of interest per annum established by the BANK’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the PRIME RATE shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“PROPERTY” means all types of real or personal property, including without limitation, tangible, intangible, or mixed property.

“SANCTIONS” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 4.10(a).

“SUBSIDIARY” means, with respect to any PERSON (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent.

ARTICLE II

AMOUNT AND TERMS OF LOANS

SECTION 2.01. REVOLVING CREDIT. The BANK may, upon request from the BORROWER, in the BANK’s sole and absolute discretion upon the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, make one or more loans (each, a “LOAN”) to the BORROWER from time to time during the period commencing on the date of this AGREEMENT and ending on (and including) the LAST DRAWDOWN DATE in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed at any time outstanding TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00), provided that such amount may be reduced pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof (the “CREDIT LINE”). Each LOAN shall have a MATURITY DATE that is not less than one (1) day and not more than twelve (12) months after the DISBURSEMENT DATE, as requested by the BORROWER in accordance with SECTION 2.03 and agreed to by the BANK. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the BORROWER may borrow, repay in whole or in part, and reborrow on a revolving basis, up to the amount of the CREDIT LINE. The availability of the CREDIT LINE hereunder shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN.

 

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SECTION 2.02. REDUCTION AND TERMINATION OF CREDIT LINE. The BANK shall have the unrestricted right in its sole and absolute discretion, upon notice to the BORROWER, to immediately terminate in whole or reduce in part the unused portion of the CREDIT LINE.

SECTION 2.03. NOTICE AND MANNER OF BORROWING. Not later than 2:00 p.m., New York time on the requested DISBURSEMENT DATE, the BORROWER shall give the BANK telephonic application for each LOAN under this AGREEMENT to the BANK’s JDAD Loan Services Department (or such other contact as the BANK may inform the BORROWER from time to time), which may or may not be accepted by the BANK, specifying (i) the DISBURSEMENT DATE; (ii) the principal amount; and (iii) the MATURITY DATE. The BANK will send written confirmation of the LOAN to the BORROWER at the fax number or email address listed in SECTION 8.06 hereof. The BORROWER will acknowledge the information shown in the confirmation by promptly returning it to the BANK’s New York Branch by fax at (212) 224-4537. Not later than 4:00 p.m., New York time, on the DISBURSEMENT DATE of the LOAN and upon fulfillment of the applicable conditions set forth in ARTICLE III hereof, the BANK will, subject to its sole and absolute discretion and subject to the provisions of SECTION 2.01 hereof, make the LOAN available to the BORROWER in immediately available funds by crediting the amount thereof to the BORROWER’s account with the BANK, or to such other account as the BORROWER shall inform the BANK in writing. All notices given under this SECTION 2.03 shall be irrevocable. The failure to give any confirmation referred to herein shall not release or diminish any of the BORROWER’s obligations hereunder.

SECTION 2.04. REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL; PAYMENT OF INTEREST.

(a) The entire principal amount of each LOAN shall be paid in immediately available funds on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN.

(b) Each LOAN will bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof at a rate per annum equal to the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE.

(c) Accrued interest on each LOAN will be payable in arrears on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN; provided that (i) interest accrued pursuant to SECTION 2.04(d) will be payable on demand, and (ii) in the event of any repayment or prepayment of any LOAN, accrued interest on the principal amount repaid or prepaid will be payable on the date of such repayment or prepayment.

(d) If any EVENT OF DEFAULT under SECTION 7.01(1) or 7.01(2) hereof has occurred and is continuing then, until such defaulted amount has been paid in full, to the extent permitted by law, such defaulted amounts will bear interest (after as well as before judgment), payable on demand, at a rate per annum equal to the PRIME RATE plus 2%.

(e) All interest hereunder will be computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and will be payable for the actual number of days elapsed (including the first day, but excluding the last day).

SECTION 2.05. NOTE. As additional evidence of the BORROWER’s payment obligations hereunder, the BORROWER shall execute and deliver to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01(1) a single grid promissory note (the “NOTE”), substantially in the form of EXHIBIT A attached hereto, setting forth the CREDIT LINE as the maximum principal amount thereof and dated as of the date of this AGREEMENT, and made payable to the BANK. The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to record on a schedule attached to the NOTE (or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, which may be maintained in its internal records and shown on a computer printout) the principal amount, APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, MATURITY DATE, and other terms relevant to each LOAN, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the NOTE to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

 

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SECTION 2.06. FUNDING LOSS, INDEMNIFICATION; CAPITAL ADEQUACY AND OTHER CHARGES AND COSTS.

(a) The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify and hold the BANK free and harmless from all losses, costs, and expenses that the BANK may incur, to the extent not mitigated by the redeployment of deposits or other funds, as a result of (i) a default by the BORROWER in payment when due of the principal of or interest on a LOAN, (ii) the BORROWER’s failure (other than due solely to a failure attributable to a default by the BANK) to make a borrowing or continuation with respect to a LOAN after making a request therefor, (iii) a prepayment (whether mandatory or otherwise, including but not limited to, acceleration pursuant to ARTICLE VII hereof) of a LOAN before a scheduled payment date for interest or principal, or (iv) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT or any demand by the BANK for payment of any LOAN permitted hereunder or under the NOTE.

(b) If the BANK determines at any time that any applicable law or governmental rule, regulation, guideline, or order concerning capital adequacy, reserves, or similar requirements, or any change in interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY will have the effect of increasing the cost to the BANK or the amount of capital required or expected to be maintained by the BANK as a result of the making or continuance of the LOANS, then the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK, upon its written demand therefor, such additional amounts as shall be required to compensate the BANK for such increased costs. The BANK, upon determining that any additional amounts will be payable to the BANK pursuant to this paragraph, will give prompt written notice thereof to the BORROWER, which notice shall show in reasonable detail the basis for calculation of such additional amounts, although the failure to give any such notice shall not release or diminish the obligations of the BORROWER to pay additional amounts pursuant to this paragraph.

(c) If any present or future applicable law, rule, or regulation or any change therein or in the interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by the BANK with any request or directive of any such GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY, whether or not having the force of law, results in an increase of the cost to the BANK of making, renewing, or maintaining any LOAN, or reduces the amount of any sum receivable by the BANK under any LOAN, in the reasonable judgment of the BANK, then, upon demand by the BANK, the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK such additional amount or amounts as would compensate the BANK for such increased cost or reduction. The BANK’s computation of such amount or amounts shall be binding on the BORROWER absent manifest error.

SECTION 2.07. METHOD OF PAYMENT. The BORROWER shall make each payment of principal of and interest on the LOANS, in lawful money of the United States in immediately available funds, not later than 3:00 p.m. (New York time) on the date when such payment is due, via Fedwire or CHIPS to the account described below, or to such other location or in such other manner as the BANK may notify the BORROWER in writing:

 

                   Bank Name:    Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York
  SWIFT:    SMBCUS33
  ABA Number:    0260-0967-4
  Account Name:    SMBC Loan Operations New York
  Account Number:    423001
  Reference:    Thorne HealthTech, Inc.
  Attn:    BCDAD JDAD Loan Services

 

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The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to charge any amounts due hereunder or under the NOTE from time to time against the BORROWER’s account #351905 or any other account of the BORROWER with the BANK. The BORROWER may, with the BANK’s prior consent, and on not less than five days’ notice, prepay the principal and interest of any LOAN in whole or in part, but only on condition that the prepayment is accompanied by payment of any and all additional costs, as determined by the BANK, that the BANK may incur as a result of such prepayment, including, without limitation, the breaking of any deposit, the redeployment of funds released by any prepayment, the termination of any swap or hedging contract, or otherwise.

SECTION 2.08. PAYMENTS ON NON-BUSINESS DAYS. Whenever payment shall fall due on a day which is not a BUSINESS DAY, payment shall be made on the next succeeding BUSINESS DAY, unless such BUSINESS DAY falls in the following calendar month, in which case payment shall be due on the next preceding BUSINESS DAY.

ARTICLE III

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

SECTION 3.01. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO INITIAL AND ALL LOANS. The BANK may in its sole and absolute discretion make LOANS available to the BORROWER, subject to the BANK’s receipt of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the BANK:

(1) AGREEMENT AND NOTE. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE, each duly executed by the BORROWER.

(2) EVIDENCE OF ALL CORPORATE ACTION BY THE BORROWER. Certified copies of the unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the BORROWER or a certified copy of the resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors authorizing the execution, delivery, and performance of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(3) INCUMBENCY AND SIGNATURE CERTIFICATE OF THE BORROWER. A certificate of the President or Vice President (or other appropriate officer) of the BORROWER certifying the names and true signatures of the officers of the BORROWER authorized, pursuant to the Board of Directors’ resolutions referred to in paragraph (2) above, to sign this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered by the BORROWER pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(4) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION. At least five days prior to the first DISBURSEMENT DATE, a BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION in relation to the BORROWER.

(5) LETTERS OF GUARANTEE. The LETTER OF GUARANTEE duly executed by each GUARANTOR.

ARTICLE IV

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

The BORROWER hereby represents and warrants to the BANK as follows at each time it makes an application for a LOAN:

SECTION 4.01. DUE INCORPORATION; GOOD STANDING. The BORROWER is a corporation, duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, and is properly licensed and in good standing in, and where necessary to maintain the BORROWER’s rights and privileges, has complied with the fictitious name statute of, every jurisdiction in which the BORROWER is doing business.

 

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SECTION 4.02. CORPORATE POWER; AUTHORIZATION. The execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which it is a party and the performance of its obligations hereunder and thereunder are within the BORROWER’s corporate powers, have been duly authorized, and will not contravene or conflict with its charter or bylaws (or such other organizational and governing documents as may be applicable) or any agreement, instrument, or document to which the BORROWER is a party or by which the BORROWER or any of its PROPERTY is bound or affected.

SECTION 4.03. GOVERNMENT ACTION. No approval, consent, exemption, or other action by, or notice to or filing with, any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY is necessary in connection with the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, except as may have been obtained and certified copies of which have been delivered to BANK.

SECTION 4.04. NO LEGAL BAR. There is no law, rule, or regulation, nor is there any judgment, decree, or order of any court or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY binding on the BORROWER that would be contravened by the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT.

SECTION 4.05. ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATION. This AGREEMENT is a legal, valid, and binding agreement of the BORROWER, enforceable against the BORROWER in accordance with its terms, and the NOTE and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, when executed and delivered (and as endorsed from time to time), will be similarly legal, valid, binding, and enforceable.

SECTION 4.06. LITIGATION. Except as previously disclosed to the BANK in writing, there are no legal actions or other proceedings pending or, to the best of the BORROWER’s knowledge, threatened against the BORROWER which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. There are no outstanding and unsatisfied final judgments or decrees against the BORROWER for money damages, fines, or penalties which, individually or in the aggregate, could result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.07. NO DEFAULT. No event has occurred and is continuing or would result from the incurring of obligations by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT that is a default under any agreement or document to which the BORROWER is a party or which, with the passing of time or giving of notice or both, would become a default under any such document.

SECTION 4.08. NO CONFLICTING AGREEMENTS. Except as disclosed in writing by the BORROWER to the BANK prior to the date hereof, the BORROWER is not in default under any agreement to which it is a party or by which it or any of its PROPERTY is bound, the effect of which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.09. TAXES. The BORROWER has filed or caused to be filed all tax returns required to be filed, and has paid, or has made adequate provision for the payment of, all taxes shown to be due and payable on said returns or in any assessments made against it, and no tax liens have been filed and no claims are being asserted with respect to such taxes that are required to be reflected in the financial statements of the BORROWER and are not so reflected therein.

 

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SECTION 4.10. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.

(a) None of the BORROWER, any of its SUBSIDIARIES or, to the knowledge of the BORROWER, any director, officer, employee, or agent of the BORROWER or any of its SUBSIDIARIES is a PERSON that is, or is owned or controlled by PERSONS that are: (i) the subject of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the U.S. Department of State, the United Nations Security Council, the European Union, Her Majesty’s Treasury, the Japanese government, including those imposed under the Foreign Exchange Act and the Import Trade Control Order of Japan (Cabinet Order No. 414 of 1949, as amended), or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “SANCTIONS”), or (ii) located, organized, or resident in a country or territory that is the subject of SANCTIONS, including Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria, except as previously disclosed to the BANK.

(b) The BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents are in compliance with (i) all applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(c) The BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES have instituted and maintain policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

SECTION 4.11. NO MISREPRESENTATION. Neither this AGREEMENT, nor any other LOAN DOCUMENT, nor any certificate, notice, report, financial statement, or document furnished to date or to be furnished by the BORROWER in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby contains or will contain a misrepresentation or misstatement of material fact, or omits or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated in order to make the statements herein or therein contained (taken as a whole) not misleading in the light of the circumstances under which made.

SECTION 4.12. RANKING OF LOAN; LIENS. The payment obligations of the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE are and will at all times be unsubordinated general obligations of the BORROWER, and rank and will at all times rank at least pari passu with all other present and future unsubordinated unsecured indebtedness of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE V

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER will:

SECTION 5.01. FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION. Deliver to the BANK such information respecting the business, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), operations, or prospects of the BORROWER as the BANK may from time to time reasonably request, including:

(a) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;

 

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(b) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period setting forth in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the BANK), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

(c) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (a) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the BORROWER, in the form of EXHIBIT B attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred and, if a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

SECTION 5.02. NOTICE. Promptly notify the BANK in writing of:

(1) all litigation affecting the BORROWER as a defendant where the amount claimed in a single litigation action is in excess of $100,000 or when the aggregate amount claimed in all litigation actions is in excess of $500,000;

(2) any substantial dispute between the BORROWER and any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY;

(3) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT; and

(4) any other matters which, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 5.03. PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. Pay all obligations, including taxes, when due, except such as may be contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which the BORROWER has established reserves on its books which are reasonable and adequate.

SECTION 5.04. COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance by the BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(b) At all times comply with all laws, rules, regulations, orders, and directions of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over it or its business.

SECTION 5.05. MAINTAIN EXISTENCE; PROPERTY. Maintain and preserve (i) its existence as a legal entity and all rights, privileges and franchises now enjoyed; and (ii) all of its PROPERTIES that are used or useful in the conduct of its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted.

SECTION 5.06. BOOKS AND RECORDS. Maintain adequate books, accounts, and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of BANK, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its PROPERTIES, and to examine or audit its books, accounts, and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, PROPERTIES, and financial and other conditions of the BORROWER with officers of the BORROWER.

 

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SECTION 5.07. INSURANCE. To the extent there exists any real property security interest, maintain and keep in force, on all of its property such insurance as is normal for the industry in which the BORROWER conducts its business and is satisfactory to BANK as to amount, nature, and carrier, covering fire damage (including use and occupancy), public liability, product liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation, and deliver to BANK upon request a schedule certified to be correct by a responsible officer of the BORROWER setting forth all insurance in force as of the date of such schedule.

SECTION 5.08. FURTHER ASSURANCES. The BORROWER will from time to time perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested by BANK to give effect to the purposes of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, if any.

ARTICLE VI

NEGATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER hereby agrees as follows:

SECTION 6.01. LIMITATIONS ON FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES. The BORROWER will not merge into or consolidate with any other PERSON, or permit any other PERSON to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

SECTION 6.02. USE OF PROCEEDS.

(a) No part of the proceeds of any LOAN will be used to buy or carry, or to extend credit to any other PERSON to buy or carry, any “margin stock” (as defined in Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the United States Federal Reserve System) in violation of MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS.

(b) The BORROWER will not request any LOAN, and the BORROWER shall not use, and the BORROWER will procure that its SUBSIDIARIES and its or their respective directors, officers, employees and agents will not use, the proceeds of any LOAN (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any PERSON, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is the subject of SANCTIONS, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of SANCTIONS applicable to any party hereto.

(c) No part of the proceeds of the LOANS will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any PERSON in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law.

SECTION 6.03. NEGATIVE PLEDGE. The BORROWER will not create, incur, assume, or suffer to exist any LIEN upon or with respect to any of its PROPERTY, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, other than:

(a) LIENS imposed by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY for taxes, assessments, or charges not yet due or which are being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings if adequate reserves with respect thereto are maintained on the books of the BORROWER in accordance with GAAP; and

 

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(b) easements, rights-of-way, restrictions, and other similar encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business and encumbrances consisting of zoning restrictions, easements, licenses, restrictions on the use of property, or minor imperfections in title thereto which, in the aggregate, are not material in amount, and which do not in any case materially detract from the value of the property subject thereto or interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE VII

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

SECTION 7.01. EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following events will constitute an EVENT OF DEFAULT under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE:

(1) The BORROWER fails to pay any principal of any LOAN when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof or at a date fixed for prepayment thereof or otherwise.

(2) The BORROWER fails to pay any interest on any LOAN or any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in SECTION 7.01(1)) payable under this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT when and as the same shall become due and payable, and such failure continues unremedied for a period of ten (10) days.

(3) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made by or on behalf of the BORROWER in or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any of the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, or in any amendment hereof or thereof, or in any report, certificate, financial statement or other document furnished pursuant to or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT or any amendment hereof or thereof, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed made.

(4) The BORROWER (i) fails to pay its debts generally as they come due, (ii) conceals, removes, or transfers any of its PROPERTY in violation or evasion of any bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, or similar law, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (iv) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, assignee, custodian, sequestrator, liquidator, or similar official for itself or any of its PROPERTY, (v) files any petition or action for relief under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, or moratorium law, or any other law or laws for the relief of, or relating to, debtors, (vi) is adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent or (vii) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

(5) An involuntary petition is filed under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium, or similar statute against the BORROWER or a custodian, receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors (or other similar official) is appointed to take possession, custody, or control of any PROPERTY of the BORROWER unless such petition or appointment is set aside or withdrawn or ceases to be in effect within 30 days from the date of said filing or appointment.

(6) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $250,000 shall be rendered against the BORROWER (or any combination thereof), and the same shall remain undischarged for a period of ten (10) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to attach or levy upon any assets of the BORROWER to enforce any such judgment.

(7) All, or such as in the opinion of BANK constitutes substantially all, of the PROPERTIES of the BORROWER is condemned, seized, or appropriated.

 

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(8) The BORROWER fails to observe or perform any covenant, condition, or agreement contained in (i) SECTION 5.02(3), SECTION 5.05(i), SECTION 5.04(a), or ARTICLE VI; or (ii) any other provision of this AGREEMENT or the NOTE (and not described in SECTIONS 7.01(1) or (2)) and such failure is not remediable or, if remediable, continues unremedied for a period of 30 days after the earlier of (x) the date the BORROWER becomes aware thereof or (y) the date the BANK gives notice to the BORROWER with respect thereto.

(9) The BORROWER is in breach of or default under any term, condition, provision or covenant contained in any agreement to which it is a party relating to borrowed money.

(10) Any LETTER OF GUARANTEE or any other document issued in support of the obligations of the BORROWER to the BANK, or any replacement of any of the foregoing, expires without renewal, is disclaimed or disavowed, or, in the case of a guarantee, ceases to be the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the guarantor thereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder.

(11) A CHANGE OF CONTROL occurs.

(12) Any one or more events occur or conditions exist that, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted in or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 7.02. REMEDIES. Upon the occurrence of any EVENT OF DEFAULT (other than an event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5)), the BANK may, by notice to the BORROWER, declare the LOANS then outstanding to be due and payable in whole (or in part, in which case any principal not so declared to be due and payable may thereafter be declared to be due and payable), and thereupon the principal of the LOANS so declared to be due and payable, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will become due and payable immediately, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER; and in case of any event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5), the principal of the LOANS then outstanding, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will automatically become due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER. The foregoing remedies are in addition to any and all other remedies available to BANK under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, at law, or in equity. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify the BANK and save the BANK harmless from and against any and all costs, losses, or expenses incurred by the BANK as a result of the occurrence of an EVENT OF DEFAULT or the repayment of any amount hereunder or under the NOTE other than on the date or dates originally due (including without limitation such as are incurred in connection with the reemployment or liquidation of funds acquired from third parties (including affiliates) by the BANK in order to maintain any amount theretofore outstanding hereunder or under the NOTE, the termination of any hedging contract or swap or other arrangement relating to the funding of the LOANS).

ARTICLE VIII

MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 8.01. INDEMNITY. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify, defend, reimburse, and hold harmless BANK and each of its affiliates, and all the directors, officers, employees, agents, legal counsel, and advisors of BANK (each, an “INDEMNIFIED PARTY”) from and against all claims, actions, proceedings, suits, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses, including the fees and out-of-pocket expenses of counsel that may be incurred by or asserted against any INDEMNIFIED PARTY in connection with, or arising out of, or relating to any transaction or proposed transaction (whether or not consummated), contemplated by this AGREEMENT or any LOAN DOCUMENT.

 

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SECTION 8.02. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS; ASSIGNMENTS; PARTICIPATIONS. The provisions of this AGREEMENT shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns, except that the BORROWER may not assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of the BANK. The BANK may at any time sell, assign, transfer, or grant participations in all or any part of, or any interest in, BANK’s rights, benefits and obligations under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS (including all or a portion of the LOANS or the CREDIT LINE). The BANK may at any time pledge or assign a security interest in all or any portion of its rights under this AGREEMENT to secure obligations of the BANK, including any pledge or assignment to secure obligations to a Federal Reserve Bank.

SECTION 8.03. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This AGREEMENT and the LOAN DOCUMENTS integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof. This AGREEMENT renews and extends, without novation, the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement dated February 14, 2020 between the BORROWER, formerly known as Thorne Holding Corp., and the BANK, and the terms governing extensions of credit outstanding thereunder shall be amended to reflect the terms contained in this AGREEMENT upon the execution and delivery hereof.

SECTION 8.04. COUNTERPARTS. This AGREEMENT and any amendments, waivers, consents, or supplements may be executed in as many counterparts as may be deemed necessary or convenient, and by the different parties hereto on separate counterparts, each of which, when so executed, shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall constitute but one and the same agreement.

SECTION 8.05. AMENDMENTS, ETC. No amendment, modification, termination, or waiver of any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, nor consent to any departure by the BORROWER from any such provision, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the BANK, and then such amendment, modification, termination, waiver, or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which it is given.

SECTION 8.06. NOTICES, ETC. All notices and other communications provided for under this AGREEMENT shall be in writing, delivered in person, or sent by overnight courier, first class mail (postage prepaid), fax or email to:

 

If to the BORROWER:    Thorne HealthTech, Inc.
   620 Omni Industrial Boulevard
   Summerville, South Carolina 29486
   Attention:    Mr. Scott Wheeler
      Chief Financial Officer
   Telephone:    (843) 501-0286
   email:    swheeler@Thorne.com
If to the BANK:    Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
   277 Park Avenue
   New York, New York 10172
   Attention: JDAD
   Telephone:    (212) 224-4000
   Fax:    (212) 593-9514

or at such other address as shall be designated by either party in a written notice to the other party complying as to delivery with the terms of this SECTION 8.06. All such notices and communications shall be effective when deposited in the mails, faxed, or emailed, as applicable, except that notices to the BANK pursuant to the provisions of ARTICLE II hereof shall be effective when received by the BANK.

 

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SECTION 8.07. NO WAIVER; REMEDIES. No failure on the part of the BANK to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right, power, or remedy under any LOAN DOCUMENT shall operate as waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right under any LOAN DOCUMENT preclude any other or further exercise thereof or exercise of any other right. The remedies provided in the LOAN DOCUMENTS are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

SECTION 8.08. COSTS, EXPENSES, AND TAXES. The BORROWER hereby agrees to pay on demand after giving borrowing written notice of the demand (i) all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK and its affiliates, including the reasonable fees, charges, and disbursements of counsel for the BANK, in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution, delivery, and administration of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and any amendments, waivers, or other modifications of the provisions of any LOAN DOCUMENT (whether or not the transactions contemplated by the LOAN DOCUMENTS are consummated); and (ii) all out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK, including the fees, charges, and disbursements of any counsel for the BANK, in connection with the enforcement or protection of its rights (A) in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, including its rights under this SECTION 8.08, or (B) in connection with the LOANS, including all such out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with any restructuring, workout, or negotiations in respect of the LOAN DOCUMENTS or the LOANS. In addition, the BORROWER shall pay any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, and recording of any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and the other documents to be delivered under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS, and agrees to save the BANK harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

SECTION 8.09. DEDUCTIONS. All payments by the BORROWER to the BANK under this AGREEMENT or under the NOTE are to be made net and free of any and all taxes (except for taxes based upon the overall net income of the BANK), duties, imposts, fees, withholdings, or deductions (the “DEDUCTIONS”) of any nature now or hereafter imposed. If any DEDUCTION is, by law, required to be made from any payment hereunder, then the BORROWER shall pay to the BANK such additional amount as will result in receipt by the BANK of a net amount equal to the amount the BANK would have received hereunder had no such DEDUCTION been required. In such event the BORROWER shall, as soon as practical, deliver to the BANK a receipt issued by the relevant taxing authority evidencing the amount of such DEDUCTION and its payment. If the BORROWER is required to pay an additional amount on account of any such DEDUCTION, the BORROWER shall have the right, on not less than three BUSINESS DAYS’ prior written notice to the BANK, to repay the applicable LOAN.

SECTION 8.10. RIGHT OF SET OFF. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any EVENT OF DEFAULT the BANK is hereby authorized at any time and from time to time, without notice to the BORROWER (any such notice being expressly waived by the BORROWER to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law), to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held, and other indebtedness at any time owing by the BANK to or for the credit or the account of the BORROWER against any and all of the obligations of the BORROWER now or hereafter existing under the AGREEMENT or the NOTE or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, irrespective of whether or not the BANK shall have made any demand under this AGREEMENT or such other LOAN DOCUMENT and although such obligations may be unmatured. The BANK agrees promptly to notify the BORROWER after any such set off and application, provided that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such set off and application. The rights of the BANK under this SECTION 8.10 are in addition to other rights and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of set off) which the BANK may have.

 

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SECTION 8.11. GOVERNING LAW; CONSENT TO JURISDICTION. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT against the BORROWER may be brought in the courts of the United States of America or the State of New York as the BANK may elect, and, by execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the BORROWER hereby (i) accepts for itself, generally and unconditionally, the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the aforesaid courts, (ii) irrevocably agrees to be bound by any judgment of any such court with respect to this AGREEMENT or the NOTE, and (iii) irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action, or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT brought in any court of the United States of America or the State of New York located in the City of New York, and further irrevocably waives any claim that any such suit, action, or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. In the case of the courts of the United States of America and State of New York the BORROWER hereby agrees to receive service of process in any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT at its offices set forth in SECTION 8.06. Nothing herein shall affect the right to serve process in any other manner permitted by the law. The BORROWER hereby agrees that the mailing of such process to the BORROWER shall be deemed personal service and accepted by the BORROWER for any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.12. SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS. Any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT which is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions of such LOAN DOCUMENT or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.

SECTION 8.13. HEADINGS. ARTICLE and SECTION headings in this AGREEMENT are for the convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of the applicable LOAN DOCUMENTS for any other purpose.    

SECTION 8.14. WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. THE BANK AND THE BORROWER MUTUALLY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.15. PATRIOT ACT. The BANK hereby notifies the BORROWER that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “ACT”), it is required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each borrower, guarantor, or grantor (each, a “LOAN PARTY”), which information includes the name and address of each LOAN PARTY and other information that will allow the BANK to identify such LOAN PARTY in accordance with the ACT.

SECTION 8.16. CONFIDENTIALITY. The BANK agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the BORROWER pursuant to or in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, other than information that has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this SECTION 8.16; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the BANK from disclosing any such information: (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in the LOANS or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to the BORROWER and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents, attorneys, accountants, and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over the BANK, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the BANK; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the BANK may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the BANK’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the BANK’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the BORROWER being violated.

[signature page follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this AGREEMENT to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.
By:    
  Scott S. Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer

 

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION
By:    

    

  Name:
  Title:

 

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EXHIBIT A

[Form of]

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

US$20,000,000.00

(maximum amount)

      February 12, 2021

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. (the “BORROWER”), HEREBY UNCONDITIONALLY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “BANK”), the principal sum of TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00) or, if less, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all LOANS made to the BORROWER pursuant to the LINE AGREEMENT referred to below, together with interest on the unpaid principal amount of each LOAN from time to time outstanding hereunder at the rates, and payable in the manner and on the dates, specified in the LINE AGREEMENT, the provisions of which are incorporated by reference in this NOTE.

The BANK shall record the date and amount of each LOAN made, the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, the amount of principal and interest due and payable from time to time hereunder, each payment thereof, and the resulting unpaid principal balance hereof, on the schedule attached to this NOTE or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the LINE AGREEMENT to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

Both principal and interest are payable in the currency of the LOAN and in immediately available funds to the BANK at 277 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10172, or at such other place as may be designated in writing by the holder of this NOTE.

This promissory note is the NOTE referred to in, and is subject to and entitled to the benefits of, the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between the BORROWER and the BANK (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “LINE AGREEMENT”). Capitalized terms used herein shall have the respective meanings assigned to them in the LINE AGREEMENT.

The LINE AGREEMENT provides, among other things, for acceleration (which in certain cases shall be automatic) of the maturity hereof upon the occurrence of certain stated events, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived.

THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.

 

THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.
By:    
  Scott S. Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer


SCHEDULE TO

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

BORROWER: THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC.

LINE AMOUNT: US$20,000,000.00

 

Date

   Bank’s
Reference
Number
     Amount
of Loan
     Maturity
Date
     Applicabl
e Interest
Rate
     Amount
of
Principal
Paid
     Unpaid
Balance
of Note
     Notation
Made By:
 
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HEALTHTECH, INC. (the “Borrower”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 5.01 of the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 12, 2021 between the Borrower and the Bank (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “Line Agreement”). Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Line Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis for the period ended [_____] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

(a) The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

(b) The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this ____ day of ______________, _____.

 

By:    
       Name:
  Title:

Exhibit 10.17

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION, a Japanese banking corporation, having its offices at 277 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10172 (the “BANK”), and THORNE HOLDING CORP., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, having its offices at 620 Omni Industrial Boulevard, Summerville, South Carolina 29486 (the “BORROWER”). The parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1.01 DEFINED TERMS. As used in this AGREEMENT, the following terms have the following meanings (terms defined in the singular to have the same meaning when used in the plural and vice versa):

“AGREEMENT” means this UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT, together with all exhibits and schedules hereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided herein.

“APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE” means, with respect to each LOAN, the interest rate per annum quoted by the BANK and agreed to by the BORROWER at the time of making such LOAN.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“BUSINESS DAY” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or other day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close.

“CHANGE OF CONTROL” shall mean (x) the sale or transfer of more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER, (y) the issuance of shares of common stock, or securities convertible into or exercisable for shares of common stock, constituting more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER immediately after issuance, to PERSON who were not holders of common stock, on an as converted basis, immediately prior to such issuance or (z) the sale, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the BORROWER and its majority owned subsidiaries in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER.

“CREDIT LINE” means a discretionary and uncommitted line of credit that the BANK establishes for the BORROWER pursuant to SECTION 2.01 hereof up to the amount referred to therein but which may be terminated in whole or reduced in part pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof.

This CREDIT LINE shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN or extension of credit.

 

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“DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01 hereof, whether or not any requirement for the giving of notice, the lapse of time, or both, or any other condition, has been satisfied.

“DISBURSEMENT DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is advanced, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“DOLLARS”, “U.S. DOLLARS”, “US$”, “USD”, or “$” means the lawful currency of the United States of America.

“EVENT OF DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01.

“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY” means any nation or government, any state or other political subdivision thereof, any central bank (or similar monetary or regulatory authority) thereof, any entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government, and any corporation or other entity owned or controlled, through stock or capital ownership or otherwise, by any of the foregoing.

“GUARANTOR” means each of Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation; and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, a Japanese corporation.

“LAST DRAWDOWN DATE” means February 12, 2021.

“LETTER OF GUARANTEE” means the letter of guarantee executed by each GUARANTOR and required to be delivered by the BORROWER to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01 hereof, together with all exhibits and schedules thereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided therein.

“LIEN” means any mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, security interest, assignment, deposit arrangement, charge or encumbrance, lien (statutory or other), or other preferential arrangement (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing, or any agreement to give any security interest).

“LOAN” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.01.

 

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“LOAN DOCUMENTS” means this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, each LETTER OF GUARANTEE, and any other agreement, document, instrument, or contract furnished to the BANK in connection with any of the foregoing documents or supporting, securing, or otherwise relating to the LOANS, in each case as amended, amended and restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time.

“MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS” means Regulation T, U and/or X of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the rules promulgated thereunder, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated, or replaced from time to time, or any corresponding or succeeding provisions of applicable law.

“MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE” means any material adverse change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), or prospects of the BORROWER, or the BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES taken as one enterprise; (b) the legality, validity, binding effect, or enforceability of any LOAN DOCUMENT; (c) the ability of the BORROWER to fully and timely perform its obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the BANK’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies, and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the BANK under any LOAN DOCUMENT.

“MATURITY DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is due and payable, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“NOTE” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.05.

“PERSON” means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), joint stock company, estate, trust, limited liability company, unlimited liability company, unincorporated association, joint venture, or other entity or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY.

“PRIME RATE” means the rate of interest per annum established by the BANK’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the PRIME RATE shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“PROPERTY” means all types of real or personal property, including without limitation, tangible, intangible, or mixed property.

“SANCTIONS” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 4.10(a).

“SUBSIDIARY” means, with respect to any PERSON (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent.

 

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ARTICLE II

AMOUNT AND TERMS OF LOANS

SECTION 2.01 REVOLVING CREDIT. The BANK may, upon request from the BORROWER, in the BANK’s sole and absolute discretion upon the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, make one or more loans (each, a “LOAN”) to the BORROWER from time to time during the period commencing on the date of this AGREEMENT and ending on (and including) the LAST DRAWDOWN DATE in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed at any time outstanding TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00), provided that such amount may be reduced pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof (the “CREDIT LINE”). Each LOAN shall have a MATURITY DATE that is not less than one (1) day and not more than twelve (12) months after the DISBURSEMENT DATE, as requested by the BORROWER in accordance with SECTION 2.03 and agreed to by the BANK. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the BORROWER may borrow, repay in whole or in part, and reborrow on a revolving basis, up to the amount of the CREDIT LINE. The availability of the CREDIT LINE hereunder shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN.

SECTION 2.02 REDUCTION AND TERMINATION OF CREDIT LINE. The BANK shall have the unrestricted right in its sole and absolute discretion, upon notice to the BORROWER, to immediately terminate in whole or reduce in part the unused portion of the CREDIT LINE.

SECTION 2.03 NOTICE AND MANNER OF BORROWING. Not later than 2:00 p.m., New York time on the requested DISBURSEMENT DATE, the BORROWER shall give the BANK telephonic application for each LOAN under this AGREEMENT to the BANK’s JDAD Loan Services Department (or such other contact as the BANK may inform the BORROWER from time to time), which may or may not be accepted by the BANK, specifying (i) the DISBURSEMENT DATE; (ii) the principal amount; and (iii) the MATURITY DATE. The BANK will send written confirmation of the LOAN to the BORROWER at the fax number or email address listed in SECTION 8.06 hereof. The BORROWER will acknowledge the information shown in the confirmation by promptly returning it to the BANK’s New York Branch by fax at (212) 224-4537. Not later than 4:00 p.m., New York time, on the DISBURSEMENT DATE of the LOAN and upon fulfillment of the applicable conditions set forth in ARTICLE III hereof, the BANK will, subject to its sole and absolute discretion and subject to the provisions of SECTION 2.01 hereof, make the LOAN available to the BORROWER in immediately available funds by crediting the amount thereof to the BORROWER’s account with the BANK, or to such other account as the BORROWER shall inform the BANK in writing. All notices given under this SECTION 2.03 shall be irrevocable. The failure to give any confirmation referred to herein shall not release or diminish any of the BORROWER’s obligations hereunder.

SECTION 2.04 REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL: PAYMENT OF INTEREST.

(a) The entire principal amount of each LOAN shall be paid in immediately available funds on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN.

 

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(b) Each LOAN will bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof at a rate per annum equal to the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE.

(c) Accrued interest on each LOAN will be payable in arrears on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN; provided that (i) interest accrued pursuant to SECTION 2.04(d) will be payable on demand, and (ii) in the event of any repayment or prepayment of any LOAN, accrued interest on the principal amount repaid or prepaid will be payable on the date of such repayment or prepayment.

(d) If any EVENT OF DEFAULT under SECTION 7.01(1) or 7.01(2) hereof has occurred and is continuing then, until such defaulted amount has been paid in full, to the extent permitted by law, such defaulted amounts will bear interest (after as well as before judgment), payable on demand, at a rate per annum equal to the PRIME RATE plus 2%.

(e) All interest hereunder will be computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and will be payable for the actual number of days elapsed (including the first day, but excluding the last day).

SECTION 2.05 NOTE. As additional evidence of the BORROWER’s payment obligations hereunder, the BORROWER shall execute and deliver to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01(1) a single grid promissory note (the “NOTE”), substantially in the form of EXHIBIT A attached hereto, setting forth the CREDIT LINE as the maximum principal amount thereof and dated as of the date of this AGREEMENT, and made payable to the BANK. The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to record on a schedule attached to the NOTE (or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, which may be maintained in its internal records and shown on a computer printout) the principal amount, APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, MATURITY DATE, and other terms relevant to each LOAN, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the NOTE to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

SECTION 2.06 FUNDING LOSS, INDEMNIFICATION; CAPITAL ADEQUACY AND OTHER CHARGES AND COSTS.

(a) The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify and hold the BANK free and harmless from all losses, costs, and expenses that the BANK may incur, to the extent not mitigated by the redeployment of deposits or other funds, as a result of (i) a default by the BORROWER in payment when due of the principal of or interest on a LOAN, (ii) the BORROWER’s failure (other than due solely to a failure attributable to a default by the BANK) to make a borrowing or continuation with respect to a LOAN after making a request therefor, (iii) a prepayment (whether mandatory or otherwise, including but not limited to, acceleration pursuant to ARTICLE VII hereof) of a LOAN before a scheduled payment date for interest or principal, or (iv) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT or any demand by the BANK for payment of any LOAN permitted hereunder or under the NOTE.

 

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(b) If the BANK determines at any time that any applicable law or governmental rule, regulation, guideline, or order concerning capital adequacy, reserves, or similar requirements, or any change in interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY will have the effect of increasing the cost to the BANK or the amount of capital required or expected to be maintained by the BANK as a result of the making or continuance of the LOANS, then the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK, upon its written demand therefor, such additional amounts as shall be required to compensate the BANK for such increased costs. The BANK, upon determining that any additional amounts will be payable to the BANK pursuant to this paragraph, will give prompt written notice thereof to the BORROWER, which notice shall show in reasonable detail the basis for calculation of such additional amounts, although the failure to give any such notice shall not release or diminish the obligations of the BORROWER to pay additional amounts pursuant to this paragraph.

(c) If any present or future applicable law, rule, or regulation or any change therein or in the interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by the BANK with any request or directive of any such GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY, whether or not having the force of law, results in an increase of the cost to the BANK of making, renewing, or maintaining any LOAN, or reduces the amount of any sum receivable by the BANK under any LOAN, in the reasonable judgment of the BANK, then, upon demand by the BANK, the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK such additional amount or amounts as would compensate the BANK for such increased cost or reduction. The BANK’s computation of such amount or amounts shall be binding on the BORROWER absent manifest error.

SECTION 2.07 METHOD OF PAYMENT. The BORROWER shall make each payment of principal of and interest on the LOANS, in lawful money of the United States in immediately available funds, not later than 3:00 p.m. (New York time) on the date when such payment is due, via Fedwire or CHIPS to the account described below, or to such other location or in such other manner as the BANK may notify the BORROWER in writing:

Bank  Name:                 Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York

SWIFT:                         SMBCUS33

ABA  Number:             0260-0967-4

Account  Name:            SMBC Loan Operations New York

Account  Number:        423001

Reference:                    Thorne Holding Corp.

Attn:                             BCDAD JDAD Loan Services

The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to charge any amounts due hereunder or under the NOTE from time to time against the BORROWER’s account #351905 or any other account of the BORROWER with the BANK. The BORROWER may, with the BANK’s prior consent, and on not less than five days’ notice, prepay the principal and interest of any LOAN in whole or in part, but only on condition that the prepayment is accompanied by payment of any and all additional costs, as determined by the BANK, that the BANK may incur as a result of such prepayment, including, without limitation, the breaking of any deposit, the redeployment of funds released by any prepayment, the termination of any swap or hedging contract, or otherwise.

 

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SECTION 2.08 PAYMENTS ON NON-BUSINESS DAYS. Whenever payment shall fall due on a day which is not a BUSINESS DAY, payment shall be made on the next succeeding BUSINESS DAY, unless such BUSINESS DAY falls in the following calendar month, in which case payment shall be due on the next preceding BUSINESS DAY.

ARTICLE III

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

SECTION 3.01 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO INITIAL AND ALL LOANS. The BANK may in its sole and absolute discretion make LOANS available to the BORROWER, subject to the BANK’s receipt of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the BANK:

(1) AGREEMENT AND NOTE. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE, each duly executed by the BORROWER.

(2) EVIDENCE OF ALL CORPORATE ACTION BY THE BORROWER. Certified copies of the unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the BORROWER or a certified copy of the resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors authorizing the execution, delivery, and performance of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(3) INCUMBENCY AND SIGNATURE CERTIFICATE OF THE BORROWER. A certificate of the President or Vice President (or other appropriate officer) of the BORROWER certifying the names and true signatures of the officers of the BORROWER authorized, pursuant to the Board of Directors’ resolutions referred to in paragraph (2) above, to sign this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered by the BORROWER pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(4) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION. At least five days prior to the first DISBURSEMENT DATE, a BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION in relation to the BORROWER.

(5) LETTERS OF GUARANTEE. The LETTER OF GUARANTEE duly executed by each GUARANTOR.

ARTICLE IV

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

The BORROWER hereby represents and warrants to the BANK as follows at each time it makes an application for a LOAN:

SECTION 4.01 DUE INCORPORATION; GOOD STANDING. The BORROWER is a corporation, duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, and is properly licensed and in good standing in, and where necessary to maintain the BORROWER’s rights and privileges, has complied with the fictitious name statute of, every jurisdiction in which the BORROWER is doing business.

 

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SECTION 4.02 CORPORATE POWER: AUTHORIZATION. The execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which it is a party and the performance of its obligations hereunder and thereunder are within the BORROWER’s corporate powers, have been duly authorized, and will not contravene or conflict with its charter or bylaws (or such other organizational and governing documents as may be applicable) or any agreement, instrument, or document to which the BORROWER is a party or by which the BORROWER or any of its PROPERTY is bound or affected.

SECTION 4.03 GOVERNMENT ACTION. No approval, consent, exemption, or other action by, or notice to or filing with, any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY is necessary in connection with the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, except as may have been obtained and certified copies of which have been delivered to BANK.

SECTION 4.04 NO LEGAL BAR. There is no law, rule, or regulation, nor is there any judgment, decree, or order of any court or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY binding on the BORROWER that would be contravened by the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT.

SECTION 4.05 ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATION. This AGREEMENT is a legal, valid, and binding agreement of the BORROWER, enforceable against the BORROWER in accordance with its terms, and the NOTE and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, when executed and delivered (and as endorsed from time to time), will be similarly legal, valid, binding, and enforceable.

SECTION 4.06 LITIGATION. Except as previously disclosed to the BANK in writing, there are no legal actions or other proceedings pending or, to the best of the BORROWER’s knowledge, threatened against the BORROWER which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. There are no outstanding and unsatisfied final judgments or decrees against the BORROWER for money damages, fines, or penalties which, individually or in the aggregate, could result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.07 NO DEFAULT. No event has occurred and is continuing or would result from the incurring of obligations by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT that is a default under any agreement or document to which the BORROWER is a party or which, with the passing of time or giving of notice or both, would become a default under any such document.

SECTION 4.08 NO CONFLICTING AGREEMENTS. Except as disclosed in writing by the BORROWER to the BANK prior to the date hereof, the BORROWER is not in default under any agreement to which it is a party or by which it or any of its PROPERTY is bound, the effect of which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.09 TAXES. The BORROWER has filed or caused to be filed all tax returns required to be filed, and has paid, or has made adequate provision for the payment of, all taxes shown to be due and payable on said returns or in any assessments made against it, and no tax liens have been filed and no claims are being asserted with respect to such taxes that are required to be reflected in the financial statements of the BORROWER and are not so reflected therein.

 

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SECTION 4.10 COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.

(a) None of the BORROWER, any of its SUBSIDIARIES or, to the knowledge of the BORROWER, any director, officer, employee, or agent of the BORROWER or any of its SUBSIDIARIES is a PERSON that is, or is owned or controlled by PERSONS that are: (i) the subject of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the U.S. Department of State, the United Nations Security Council, the European Union, Her Majesty’s Treasury, the Japanese government, including those imposed under the Foreign Exchange Act and the Import Trade Control Order of Japan (Cabinet Order No. 414 of 1949, as amended), or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “SANCTIONS”), or (ii) located, organized, or resident in a country or territory that is the subject of SANCTIONS, including Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria, except as previously disclosed to the BANK.

(b) The BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents are in compliance with (i) all applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(c) The BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES have instituted and maintain policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

SECTION 4.11 NO MISREPRESENTATION. Neither this AGREEMENT, nor any other LOAN DOCUMENT, nor any certificate, notice, report, financial statement, or document furnished to date or to be furnished by the BORROWER in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby contains or will contain a misrepresentation or misstatement of material fact, or omits or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated in order to make the statements herein or therein contained (taken as a whole) not misleading in the light of the circumstances under which made.

SECTION 4.12 RANKING OF LOAN: LIENS. The payment obligations of the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE are and will at all times be unsubordinated general obligations of the BORROWER, and rank and will at all times rank at least pari passu with all other present and future unsubordinated unsecured indebtedness of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE V

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER will:

SECTION 5.01 FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION. Deliver to the BANK such information respecting the business, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), operations, or prospects of the BORROWER as the BANK may from time to time reasonably request, including:

 

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(a) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;

(b) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period setting forth in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the BANK), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

(c) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (a) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the BORROWER, in the form of EXHIBIT B attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred and, if a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

SECTION 5.02 NOTICE. Promptly notify the BANK in writing of:

(1) all litigation affecting the BORROWER as a defendant where the amount claimed in a single litigation action is in excess of $100,000 or when the aggregate amount claimed in all litigation actions is in excess of $500,000;

(2) any substantial dispute between the BORROWER and any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY;

(3) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT; and

(4) any other matters which, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 5.03 PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. Pay all obligations, including taxes, when due, except such as may be contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which the BORROWER has established reserves on its books which are reasonable and adequate.

 

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SECTION 5.04 COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance by the BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(b) At all times comply with all laws, rules, regulations, orders, and directions of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over it or its business.

SECTION 5.05 MAINTAIN EXISTENCE; PROPERTY. Maintain and preserve (i) its existence as a legal entity and all rights, privileges and franchises now enjoyed; and (ii) all of its PROPERTIES that are used or useful in the conduct of its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted.

SECTION 5.06 BOOKS AND RECORDS. Maintain adequate books, accounts, and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of BANK, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its PROPERTIES, and to examine or audit its books, accounts, and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, PROPERTIES, and financial and other conditions of the BORROWER with officers of the BORROWER.

SECTION 5.07 INSURANCE. To the extent there exists any real property security interest, maintain and keep in force, on all of its property such insurance as is normal for the industry in which the BORROWER conducts its business and is satisfactory to BANK as to amount, nature, and carrier, covering fire damage (including use and occupancy), public liability, product liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation, and deliver to BANK upon request a schedule certified to be correct by a responsible officer of the BORROWER setting forth all insurance in force as of the date of such schedule.

SECTION 5.08 FURTHER ASSURANCES. The BORROWER will from time to time perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested by BANK to give effect to the purposes of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, if any.

ARTICLE VI

NEGATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER hereby agrees as follows:

SECTION 6.01 LIMITATIONS ON FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES. The BORROWER will not merge into or consolidate with any other PERSON, or permit any other PERSON to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

 

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SECTION 6.02 USE OF PROCEEDS.

(a) No part of the proceeds of any LOAN will be used to buy or carry, or to extend credit to any other PERSON to buy or carry, any “margin stock” (as defined in Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the United States Federal Reserve System) in violation of MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS.

(b) The BORROWER will not request any LOAN, and the BORROWER shall not use, and the BORROWER will procure that its SUBSIDIARIES and its or their respective directors, officers, employees and agents will not use, the proceeds of any LOAN (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any PERSON, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is the subject of SANCTIONS, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of SANCTIONS applicable to any party hereto.

(c) No part of the proceeds of the LOANS will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any PERSON in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law.

SECTION 6.03 NEGATIVE PLEDGE. The BORROWER will not create, incur, assume, or suffer to exist any LIEN upon or with respect to any of its PROPERTY, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, other than:

(a) LIENS imposed by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY for taxes, assessments, or charges not yet due or which are being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings if adequate reserves with respect thereto are maintained on the books of the BORROWER in accordance with GAAP; and

(b) easements, rights-of-way, restrictions, and other similar encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business and encumbrances consisting of zoning restrictions, easements, licenses, restrictions on the use of property, or minor imperfections in title thereto which, in the aggregate, are not material in amount, and which do not in any case materially detract from the value of the property subject thereto or interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE VII

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

SECTION 7.01 EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following events will constitute an EVENT OF DEFAULT under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE:

(1) The BORROWER fails to pay any principal of any LOAN when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof or at a date fixed for prepayment thereof or otherwise.

(2) The BORROWER fails to pay any interest on any LOAN or any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in SECTION 7.01(1)) payable under this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT when and as the same shall become due and payable, and such failure continues unremedied for a period of ten (10) days.

 

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(3) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made by or on behalf of the BORROWER in or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any of the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, or in any amendment hereof or thereof, or in any report, certificate, financial statement or other document furnished pursuant to or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT or any amendment hereof or thereof, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed made.

(4) The BORROWER (i) fails to pay its debts generally as they come due, (ii) conceals, removes, or transfers any of its PROPERTY in violation or evasion of any bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, or similar law, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (iv) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, assignee, custodian, sequestrator, liquidator, or similar official for itself or any of its PROPERTY, (v) files any petition or action for relief under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, or moratorium law, or any other law or laws for the relief of, or relating to, debtors, (vi) is adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent or (vii) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

(5) An involuntary petition is filed under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium, or similar statute against the BORROWER or a custodian, receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors (or other similar official) is appointed to take possession, custody, or control of any PROPERTY of the BORROWER unless such petition or appointment is set aside or withdrawn or ceases to be in effect within 30 days from the date of said filing or appointment.

(6) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $250,000 shall be rendered against the BORROWER (or any combination thereof), and the same shall remain undischarged for a period of ten (10) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to attach or levy upon any assets of the BORROWER to enforce any such judgment.

(7) All, or such as in the opinion of BANK constitutes substantially all, of the PROPERTIES of the BORROWER is condemned, seized, or appropriated.

(8) The BORROWER fails to observe or perform any covenant, condition, or agreement contained in (i) SECTION 5.02(3), SECTION 5.05(i), SECTION 5.04(a), or ARTICLE VI; or (ii) any other provision of this AGREEMENT or the NOTE (and not described in SECTIONS 7.01(1) or (2)) and such failure is not remediable or, if remediable, continues unremedied for a period of 30 days after the earlier of (x) the date the BORROWER becomes aware thereof or (y) the date the BANK gives notice to the BORROWER with respect thereto.

(9) The BORROWER is in breach of or default under any term, condition, provision or covenant contained in any agreement to which it is a party relating to borrowed money.

 

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(10) Any LETTER OF GUARANTEE or any other document issued in support of the obligations of the BORROWER to the BANK, or any replacement of any of the foregoing, expires without renewal, is disclaimed or disavowed, or, in the case of a guarantee, ceases to be the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the guarantor thereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder.

(11) A CHANGE OF CONTROL occurs.

(12) Any one or more events occur or conditions exist that, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted in or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 7.02 REMEDIES. Upon the occurrence of any EVENT OF DEFAULT (other than an event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5)), the BANK may, by notice to the BORROWER, declare the LOANS then outstanding to be due and payable in whole (or in part, in which case any principal not so declared to be due and payable may thereafter be declared to be due and payable), and thereupon the principal of the LOANS so declared to be due and payable, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will become due and payable immediately, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER; and in case of any event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5), the principal of the LOANS then outstanding, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will automatically become due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER. The foregoing remedies are in addition to any and all other remedies available to BANK under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, at law, or in equity. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify the BANK and save the BANK harmless from and against any and all costs, losses, or expenses incurred by the BANK as a result of the occurrence of an EVENT OF DEFAULT or the repayment of any amount hereunder or under the NOTE other than on the date or dates originally due (including without limitation such as are incurred in connection with the reemployment or liquidation of funds acquired from third parties (including affiliates) by the BANK in order to maintain any amount theretofore outstanding hereunder or under the NOTE, the termination of any hedging contract or swap or other arrangement relating to the funding of the LOANS).

ARTICLE VIII

MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 8.01 INDEMNITY. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify, defend, reimburse, and hold harmless BANK and each of its affiliates, and all the directors, officers, employees, agents, legal counsel, and advisors of BANK (each, an “INDEMNIFIED PARTY”) from and against all claims, actions, proceedings, suits, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses, including the fees and out-of-pocket expenses of counsel that may be incurred by or asserted against any INDEMNIFIED PARTY in connection with, or arising out of, or relating to any transaction or proposed transaction (whether or not consummated), contemplated by this AGREEMENT or any LOAN DOCUMENT.

 

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SECTION 8.02 SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS: ASSIGNMENTS; PARTICIPATIONS. This AGREEMENT shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the BORROWER and the BANK and their respective successors and assigns, except that the BORROWER may not assign or transfer any of its rights or obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT without the prior written consent of the BANK. The BANK may assign or transfer to any other PERSON all or part of the CREDIT LINE or the indebtedness of the BORROWER outstanding under this AGREEMENT and/or any LOAN DOCUMENT. The BANK may at any time sell or grant participations in all or part of the LOANS or the CREDIT LINE.

SECTION 8.03 ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This AGREEMENT and the LOAN DOCUMENTS integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof.

SECTION 8.04 COUNTERPARTS. This AGREEMENT and any amendments, waivers, consents, or supplements may be executed in as many counterparts as may be deemed necessary or convenient, and by the different parties hereto on separate counterparts, each of which, when so executed, shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall constitute but one and the same agreement.

SECTION 8.05 AMENDMENTS, ETC. No amendment, modification, termination, or waiver of any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, nor consent to any departure by the BORROWER from any such provision, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the BANK, and then such amendment, modification, termination, waiver, or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which it is given.

SECTION 8.06 NOTICES, ETC. All notices and other communications provided for under this AGREEMENT shall be in writing, delivered in person, or sent by overnight courier, first class mail (postage prepaid), fax or email to:

 

If to the BORROWER:

   Thorne Holding Corp.
   620 Omni Industrial Boulevard
   Summerville, South Carolina 29486
   Attention: Mr. Scott Wheeler
   Chief Financial Officer
   Telephone: (843) 501-0286
   email: swheeler@Thorne.com

If to the BANK:

   Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
   277 Park Avenue
   New York, New York 10172
   Attention: JDAD
   Telephone: (212) 224-4000
   Fax: (212) 593-9514

or at such other address as shall be designated by either party in a written notice to the other party complying as to delivery with the terms of this SECTION 8.06. All such notices and communications shall be effective when deposited in the mails, faxed, or emailed, as applicable, except that notices to the BANK pursuant to the provisions of ARTICLE II hereof shall be effective when received by the BANK.

 

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SECTION 8.07 NO WAIVER: REMEDIES. No failure on the part of the BANK to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right, power, or remedy under any LOAN DOCUMENT shall operate as waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right under any LOAN DOCUMENT preclude any other or further exercise thereof or exercise of any other right. The remedies provided in the LOAN DOCUMENTS are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

SECTION 8.08 COSTS, EXPENSES, AND TAXES. The BORROWER hereby agrees to pay on demand after giving borrowing written notice of the demand (i) all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK and its affiliates, including the reasonable fees, charges, and disbursements of counsel for the BANK, in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution, delivery, and administration of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and any amendments, waivers, or other modifications of the provisions of any LOAN DOCUMENT (whether or not the transactions contemplated by the LOAN DOCUMENTS are consummated); and (ii) all out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK, including the fees, charges, and disbursements of any counsel for the BANK, in connection with the enforcement or protection of its rights (A) in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, including its rights under this SECTION 8.08, or (B) in connection with the LOANS, including all such out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with any restructuring, workout, or negotiations in respect of the LOAN DOCUMENTS or the LOANS. In addition, the BORROWER shall pay any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, and recording of any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and the other documents to be delivered under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS, and agrees to save the BANK harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

SECTION 8.09 DEDUCTIONS. All payments by the BORROWER to the BANK under this AGREEMENT or under the NOTE are to be made net and free of any and all taxes (except for taxes based upon the overall net income of the BANK), duties, imposts, fees, withholdings, or deductions (the “DEDUCTIONS”) of any nature now or hereafter imposed. If any DEDUCTION is, by law, required to be made from any payment hereunder, then the BORROWER shall pay to the BANK such additional amount as will result in receipt by the BANK of a net amount equal to the amount the BANK would have received hereunder had no such DEDUCTION been required. In such event the BORROWER shall, as soon as practical, deliver to the BANK a receipt issued by the relevant taxing authority evidencing the amount of such DEDUCTION and its payment. If the BORROWER is required to pay an additional amount on account of any such DEDUCTION, the BORROWER shall have the right, on not less than three BUSINESS DAYS’ prior written notice to the BANK, to repay the applicable LOAN.

SECTION 8.10 RIGHT OF SET OFF. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any EVENT OF DEFAULT the BANK is hereby authorized at any time and from time to time, without notice to the BORROWER (any such notice being expressly waived by the BORROWER to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law), to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held, and other indebtedness at any

 

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time owing by the BANK to or for the credit or the account of the BORROWER against any and all of the obligations of the BORROWER now or hereafter existing under the AGREEMENT or the NOTE or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, irrespective of whether or not the BANK shall have made any demand under this AGREEMENT or such other LOAN DOCUMENT and although such obligations may be unmatured. The BANK agrees promptly to notify the BORROWER after any such set off and application, provided that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such set off and application. The rights of the BANK under this SECTION 8.10 are in addition to other rights and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of set off) which the BANK may have.

SECTION 8.11 GOVERNING LAW; CONSENT TO JURISDICTION. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT against the BORROWER may be brought in the courts of the United States of America or the State of New York as the BANK may elect, and, by execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the BORROWER hereby (i) accepts for itself, generally and unconditionally, the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the aforesaid courts, (ii) irrevocably agrees to be bound by any judgment of any such court with respect to this AGREEMENT or the NOTE, and (iii) irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action, or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT brought in any court of the United States of America or the State of New York located in the City of New York, and further irrevocably waives any claim that any such suit, action, or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. In the case of the courts of the United States of America and State of New York the BORROWER hereby agrees to receive service of process in any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT at its offices set forth in SECTION 8.06. Nothing herein shall affect the right to serve process in any other manner permitted by the law. The BORROWER hereby agrees that the mailing of such process to the BORROWER shall be deemed personal service and accepted by the BORROWER for any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.12 SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS. Any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT which is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions of such LOAN DOCUMENT or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.

SECTION 8.13 HEADINGS. ARTICLE and SECTION headings in this AGREEMENT are for the convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of the applicable LOAN DOCUMENTS for any other purpose.

SECTION 8.14 WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. THE BANK AND THE BORROWER MUTUALLY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.15 PATRIOT ACT. The BANK hereby notifies the BORROWER that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title HI of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “ACT”), it is required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each borrower, guarantor, or grantor (each, a “LOAN PARTY”), which information includes the name and address of each LOAN PARTY and other information that will allow the BANK to identify such LOAN PARTY in accordance with the ACT.

 

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SECTION 8.16 CONFIDENTIALITY. The BANK agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the BORROWER pursuant to or in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, other than information that has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this SECTION 8.16; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the BANK from disclosing any such information: (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in the LOANS or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to the BORROWER and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents, attorneys, accountants, and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over the BANK, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the BANK; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the BANK may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the BANK’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the BANK’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the BORROWER being violated.

[signature page follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this AGREEMENT to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.

By:

  /s/ Scott Wheeler
  Scott S Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer
SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION
By:   /s/ Satoshi Takahara
  Name: Satoshi Takahara
  Title: Executive Director


EXHIBIT A

[Form of]

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

US$20,000,000.00    February 14, 2020
(maximum amount)   

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “BORROWER”), HEREBY UNCONDITIONALLY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “BANK”), the principal sum of TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00) or, if less, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all LOANS made to the BORROWER pursuant to the LINE AGREEMENT referred to below, together with interest on the unpaid principal amount of each LOAN from time to time outstanding hereunder at the rates, and payable in the manner and on the dates, specified in the LINE AGREEMENT, the provisions of which are incorporated by reference in this NOTE.

The BANK shall record the date and amount of each LOAN made, the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, the amount of principal and interest due and payable from time to time hereunder, each payment thereof, and the resulting unpaid principal balance hereof, on the schedule attached to this NOTE or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the LINE AGREEMENT to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

Both principal and interest are payable in the currency of the LOAN and in immediately available funds to the BANK at 277 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10172, or at such other place as may be designated in writing by the holder of this NOTE.

This promissory note is the NOTE referred to in, and is subject to and entitled to the benefits of, the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between the BORROWER and the BANK (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “LINE AGREEMENT”). Capitalized terms used herein shall have the respective meanings assigned to them in the LINE AGREEMENT.

The LINE AGREEMENT provides, among other things, for acceleration (which in certain cases shall be automatic) of the maturity hereof upon the occurrence of certain stated events, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived.

THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:    
  Scott S. Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer


SCHEDULE TO

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

BORROWER:    THORNE HOLDING CORP.
LINE AMOUNT:    US$20,000,000.00

 

Date

 

Bank’s

Reference

Number

 

Amount

of Loan

 

Maturity

Date

 

Applicable

Interest

Rate

 

Amount of

Principal

Paid

 

Unpaid

Balance

of Note

 

Notation
Made By


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Borrower”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 5.01 of the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between the Borrower and the Bank (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “Line Agreement”). Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Line Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis for the period ended [ ] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

(a) The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

(b) The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this              day of                     

 

By:    
  Name:
  Title:


UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

US$20,000,000.00    February 14, 2020
(maximum amount)   

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “BORROWER”), HEREBY UNCONDITIONALLY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “BANK”), the principal sum of TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00) or, if less, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all LOANS made to the BORROWER pursuant to the LINE AGREEMENT referred to below, together with interest on the unpaid principal amount of each LOAN from time to time outstanding hereunder at the rates, and payable in the manner and on the dates, specified in the LINE AGREEMENT, the provisions of which are incorporated by reference in this NOTE.

The BANK shall record the date and amount of each LOAN made, the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, the amount of principal and interest due and payable from time to time hereunder, each payment thereof, and the resulting unpaid principal balance hereof, on the schedule attached to this NOTE or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the LINE AGREEMENT to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

Both principal and interest are payable in the currency of the LOAN and in immediately available funds to the BANK at 277 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10172, or at such other place as may be designated in writing by the holder of this NOTE.

This promissory note is the NOTE referred to in, and is subject to and entitled to the benefits of, the UNCOMMI 1TED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between the BORROWER and the BANK (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “LINE AGREEMENT”). Capitalized terms used herein shall have the respective meanings assigned to them in the LINE AGREEMENT.

The LINE AGREEMENT provides, among other things, for acceleration (which in certain cases shall be automatic) of the maturity hereof upon the occurrence of certain stated events, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived.

THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:   /s/ Scott S. Wheeler
  Scott S. Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer

Exhibit 10.18

February 14, 2020

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.

1-3, Marunouchi 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku,

Tokyo, 100-8631, Japan

Dear Sirs

Re: Guarantee — fee letter

This letter (the “Fee Letter”) is entered into in connection with the Guarantee Letter (hosho-sho) (the “Guarantee”) to be submitted by MITSUI & CO., LTD. (“Mitsui”) in favor of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation New York Branch (the “Beneficiary”) for the benefit of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Company”), pursuant to which Mitsui guarantees certain obligations of the Company under the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement, to be entered into by and between the Beneficiary and the Company, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, subject to the limitations and other terms set forth in the Guarantee.

In connection with, and as consideration for Mitsui to enter into, the Guarantee, the Company and Mitsui hereby agree as follows:

 

a)

The Company agrees to pay Mitsui for its own account, an annual fee at the rate per annum of 2.00% of $10,000,000 (the “Fee”), until the Guarantee is terminated. The Company shall pay the Fee and any other amounts accrued or otherwise payable pursuant to this Fee Letter (i) on an annual basis on each anniversary of the Effective Date, as defined below; and (ii) upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of the Company; provided that, upon the termination of the Guarantee, the Fee payable with respect to a partial year in which the Guarantee was terminated shall be equal to (x) the Fee multiplied by (y)(i) the number of days elapsed in such year (beginning on the relevant anniversary of the Effective Date) up to such termination divided by (ii) 365. Payment shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to a bank account designated by Mitsui.

 

b)

The Company agrees to reimburse Mitsui for any reasonably incurred fees or expenses related to or in connection with any disputes arising between Mitsui and the Beneficiary out of or in connection with the Guarantee including, but not limited to, attorney fees and costs for litigation.

 

c)

In the event that Mitsui is required to pay any amounts under the Guarantee, such amounts shall promptly be reimbursed to Mitsui in cash. In case the Company is not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Mitsui, the parties may agree to deem the unreimbursed amount of Mitsui’s payment under the Guarantee to be made for the benefit of the Company in consideration for debt or equity securities of the Company on terms reasonably satisfactory to Mitsui and the Company.

 

d)

The Company agrees to provide Mitsui with the following documents;

i. Monthly P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cashflow Statement within 21 days of the end of each month

ii. Next 12 months cashflow estimate, which will be updated every quarter, by the end of last day of the month after the end of each quarter (i.e. 2020/Q2-2021/Q1 estimate to come by April 30th, 2020)


iii. Monthly borrowing detail (amount, interest rate, term) within 10 days of the end of each month

 

e)

The Company agrees to fully pay back the Series D dividend ($3mil) plus accrued interest to Mitsui immediately after the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line is executed.

The Company agrees that all of the fees and expenses set forth in this Fee Letter shall be fully earned upon becoming due and payable in accordance with the terms hereof.

This Fee Letter, together with the Guarantee, embody the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the specific matters set forth herein and supersede all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.

This Fee Letter shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Each of the parties hereby irrevocably waives all right to trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim (whether based on contract, tort or otherwise) arising out of or relating to this Fee Letter or the transactions contemplated hereby.

This Fee Letter may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one agreement. Delivery of an executed signature page of this Fee Letter by facsimile or electronic mail transmission shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart hereof.

The Fee Letter shall become effective as of the time of execution of the Credit Agreement and which is subject of the guarantee under the Guarantee (the “Effective Date”) and shall remain effective until the expiration or termination of the Guarantee, and provided that the Company shall remain liable following the termination hereof for accrued and unpaid Fees.

This Fee Letter may not be amended or any provision hereof waived or modified except by an instrument in writing signed by the Company and Mitsui.

This Fee Letter may not be assigned by the Company without the prior written consent of Mitsui.

Faithfully

Thorne Holding Corp.

 

By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name: Scott Wheeler
Title: CFO

Acknowledged and agreed

MITSUI & CO., LTD.

By:   /s/Toshitaka Inuzuka
Name: Toshitaka Inuzuka
Title: General Manager, NutriScience Division

 

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Exhibit A: UNCOMMFITED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT(Draft)

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION, a Japanese banking corporation, having its offices at 277 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10172 (the “BANK”), and THORNE HOLDING CORP., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, having its offices at 620 Omni Industrial Boulevard, Summerville, South Carolina 29486 (the “BORROWER”). The parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1.01 DEFINED TERMS. As used in this AGREEMENT, the following terms have the following meanings (terms defined in the singular to have the same meaning when used in the plural and vice versa):

“AGREEMENT” means this UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT, together with all exhibits and schedules hereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided herein.

“APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE” means, with respect to each LOAN, the interest rate per annum quoted by the BANK and agreed to by the BORROWER at the time of making such LOAN.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“BUSINESS DAY” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or other day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close.

“CHANGE OF CONTROL” shall mean (x) the sale or transfer of more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER, (y) the issuance of shares of common stock, or securities convertible into or exercisable for shares of common stock, constituting more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER immediately after issuance, to PERSON who were not holders of common stock, on an as converted basis, immediately prior to such issuance or (z) the sale, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the BORROWER and its majority owned subsidiaries in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER.

“CREDIT LINE” means a discretionary and uncommitted line of credit that the BANK establishes for the BORROWER pursuant to SECTION 2.01 hereof up to the amount referred to therein but which may be terminated in whole or reduced in part pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof. This CREDIT LINE shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN or extension of credit.


“DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01 hereof, whether or not any requirement for the giving of notice, the lapse of time, or both, or any other condition, has been satisfied.

“DISBURSEMENT DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is advanced, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“DOLLARS”, “U.S. DOLLARS”, “US$”, “USD”, or “$” means the lawful currency of the United States of America.

“EVENT OF DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01.

“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY” means any nation or government, any state or other political subdivision thereof, any central bank (or similar monetary or regulatory authority) thereof, any entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government, and any corporation or other entity owned or controlled, through stock or capital ownership or otherwise, by any of the foregoing.

“GUARANTOR” means each of Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation; and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, a Japanese corporation.

“LAST DRAWDOWN DATE” means February 12, 2021.

“LETTER OF GUARANTEE” means the letter of guarantee executed by each GUARANTOR and required to be delivered by the BORROWER to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01 hereof, together with all exhibits and schedules thereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided therein.

“LIEN” means any mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, security interest, assignment, deposit arrangement, charge or encumbrance, lien (statutory or other), or other preferential arrangement (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing, or any agreement to give any security interest).

“LOAN” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.01.

 

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“LOAN DOCUMENTS” means this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, each LETTER OF GUARANTEE, and any other agreement, document, instrument, or contract furnished to the BANK in connection with any of the foregoing documents or supporting, securing, or otherwise relating to the LOANS, in each case as amended, amended and restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time.

“MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS” means Regulation T, U and/or X of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the rules promulgated thereunder, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated, or replaced from time to time, or any corresponding or succeeding provisions of applicable law.

“MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE” means any material adverse change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), or prospects of the BORROWER, or the BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES taken as one enterprise; (b) the legality, validity, binding effect, or enforceability of any LOAN DOCUMENT; (c) the ability of the BORROWER to fully and timely perform its obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the BANK’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies, and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the BANK under any LOAN DOCUMENT.

“MATURITY DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is due and payable, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“NOTE” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.05.

“PERSON” means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), joint stock company, estate, trust, limited liability company, unlimited liability company, unincorporated association, joint venture, or other entity or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY.

“PRIME RATE” means the rate of interest per annum established by the BANK’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the PRIME RATE shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“PROPERTY” means all types of real or personal property, including without limitation, tangible, intangible, or mixed property.

“SANCTIONS” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 4.10(a).

“SUBSIDIARY” means, with respect to any PERSON (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent.

 

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ARTICLE II

AMOUNT AND TERMS OF LOANS

SECTION 2.01 REVOLVING CREDIT. The BANK may, upon request from the BORROWER, in the BANK’s sole and absolute discretion upon the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, make one or more loans (each, a “LOAN”) to the BORROWER from time to time during the period commencing on the date of this AGREEMENT and ending on (and including) the LAST DRAWDOWN DATE in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed at any time outstanding TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00), provided that such amount may be reduced pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof (the “CREDIT LINE”). Each LOAN shall have a MATURITY DATE that is not less than one (1) day and not more than twelve (12) months after the DISBURSEMENT DATE, as requested by the BORROWER in accordance with SECTION 2.03 and agreed to by the BANK Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the BORROWER may borrow, repay in whole or in part, and reborrow on a revolving basis, up to the amount of the CREDIT LINE. The availability of the CREDIT LINE hereunder shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN.

SECTION 2.02 REDUCTION AND TERMINATION OF CREDIT LINE. The BANK shall have the unrestricted right in its sole and absolute discretion, upon notice to the BORROWER, to immediately terminate in whole or reduce in part the unused portion of the CREDIT LINE.

SECTION 2.03 NOTICE AND MANNER OF BORROWING. Not later than 2:00 p.m., New York time on the requested DISBURSEMENT DATE, the BORROWER shall give the BANK telephonic application for each LOAN under this AGREEMENT to the BANK’s JDAD Loan Services Department (or such other contact as the BANK may inform the BORROWER from time to time), which may or may not be accepted by the BANK, specifying (i) the DISBURSEMENT DATE; (ii) the principal amount; and (iii) the MATURITY DATE. The BANK will send written confirmation of the LOAN to the BORROWER at the fax number or email address listed in SECTION 8.06 hereof. The BORROWER will acknowledge the information shown in the confirmation by promptly returning it to the BANK’S New York Branch by fax at (212) 224-4537. Not later than 4:00 p.m., New York time, on the DISBURSEMENT DATE of the LOAN and upon fulfillment of the applicable conditions set forth in ARTICLE III hereof, the BANK will, subject to its sole and absolute discretion and subject to the provisions of SECTION 2.01 hereof, make the LOAN available to the BORROWER in immediately available funds by crediting the amount thereof to the BORROWER’s account with the BANK, or to such other account as the BORROWER shall inform the BANK in writing. All notices given under this SECTION 2.03 shall be irrevocable. The failure to give any confirmation referred to herein shall not release or diminish any of the BORROWER’s obligations hereunder.

SECTION 2.04 REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL; PAYMENT OF INTEREST.

(a) The entire principal amount of each LOAN shall be paid in immediately available funds on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN.

 

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(b) Each LOAN will bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof at a rate per annum equal to the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE.

(c) Accrued interest on each LOAN will be payable in arrears on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN; provided that (i) interest accrued pursuant to SECTION 2.04(d) will be payable on demand, and (ii) in the event of any repayment or prepayment of any LOAN, accrued interest on the principal amount repaid or prepaid will be payable on the date of such repayment or prepayment.

(d) If any EVENT OF DEFAULT under SECTION 7.01(1) or 7.01(2) hereof has occurred and is continuing then, until such defaulted amount has been paid in full, to the extent permitted by law, such defaulted amounts will bear interest (after as well as before judgment), payable on demand, at a rate per annum equal to the PRIME RATE plus 2%.

(e) All interest hereunder will be computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and will be payable for the actual number of days elapsed (including the first day, but excluding the last day).

SECTION 2.05 NOTE. As additional evidence of the BORROWER’s payment obligations hereunder, the BORROWER shall execute and deliver to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01(1) a single grid promissory note (the “NOTE”), substantially in the form of EXHIBIT A attached hereto, setting forth the CREDIT LINE as the maximum principal amount thereof and dated as of the date of this AGREEMENT, and made payable to the BANK. The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to record on a schedule attached to the NOTE (or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, which may be maintained in its internal records and shown on a computer printout) the principal amount, APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, MATURITY DATE, and other terms relevant to each LOAN, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the NOTE to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

SECTION 2.06 FUNDING LOSS, INDEMNIFICATION; CAPITAL ADEQUACY AND OTHER CHARGES AND COSTS.

(a) The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify and hold the BANK free and harmless from all losses, costs, and expenses that the BANK may incur, to the extent not mitigated by the redeployment of deposits or other funds, as a result of (i) a default by the BORROWER in payment when due of the principal of or interest on a LOAN, (ii) the BORROWER’s failure (other than due solely to a failure attributable to a default by the BANK) to make a borrowing or continuation with respect to a LOAN after making a request therefor, (iii) a prepayment (whether mandatory or otherwise, including but not limited to, acceleration pursuant to ARTICLE VII hereof) of a LOAN before a scheduled payment date for interest or principal, or (iv) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT or any demand by the BANK for payment of any LOAN permitted hereunder or under the NOTE.

 

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(b) If the BANK determines at any time that any applicable law or governmental rule, regulation, guideline, or order concerning capital adequacy, reserves, or similar requirements, or any change in interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY will have the effect of increasing the cost to the BANK or the amount of capital required or expected to be maintained by the BANK as a result of the making or continuance of the LOANS, then the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK, upon its written demand therefor, such additional amounts as shall be required to compensate the BANK for such increased costs. The BANK, upon determining that any additional amounts will be payable to the BANK pursuant to this paragraph, will give prompt written notice thereof to the BORROWER, which notice shall show in reasonable detail the basis for calculation of such additional amounts, although the failure to give any such notice shall not release or diminish the obligations of the BORROWER to pay additional amounts pursuant to this paragraph.

(c) If any present or future applicable law, rule, or regulation or any change therein or in the interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by the BANK with any request or directive of any such GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY, whether or not having the force of law, results in an increase of the cost to the BANK of making, renewing, or maintaining any LOAN, or reduces the amount of any sum receivable by the BANK under any LOAN, in the reasonable judgment of the BANK, then, upon demand by the BANK, the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK such additional amount or amounts as would compensate the BANK for such increased cost or reduction. The BANK’s computation of such amount or amounts shall be binding on the BORROWER absent manifest error.

SECTION 2.07 METHOD OF PAYMENT. The BORROWER shall make each payment of principal of and interest on the LOANS, in lawful money of the United States in immediately available funds, not later than 3:00 p.m. (New York time) on the date when such payment is due, via Fedwire or CHIPS to the account described below, or to such other location or in such other manner as the BANK may notify the BORROWER in writing:

 

  

Bank Name:

SWIFT:

ABA Number:

Account Name:

Account Number:

Reference:

Attn:

  

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York

SMBCUS33

0260-0967-4

SMBC Loan Operations New York

423001

Thorne Holding Corp.

BCDAD JDAD Loan Services

The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to charge any amounts due hereunder or under the NOTE from time to time against the BORROWER’s account #351905 or any other account of the BORROWER with the BANK. The BORROWER may, with the BANK’s prior consent, and on not less than five days’ notice, prepay the principal and interest of any LOAN in whole or in part, but only on condition that the prepayment is accompanied by payment of any and all additional costs, as determined by the BANK, that the BANK may incur as a result of such prepayment, including, without limitation, the breaking of any deposit, the redeployment of funds released by any prepayment, the termination of any swap or hedging contract, or otherwise.

SECTION 2.08 PAYMENTS ON NON-BUSINESS DAYS. Whenever payment shall fall due on a day which is not a BUSINESS DAY, payment shall be made on the next succeeding BUSINESS DAY, unless such BUSINESS DAY falls in the following calendar month, in which case payment shall be due on the next preceding BUSINESS DAY.

 

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ARTICLE III

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

SECTION 3.01 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO INITIAL AND ALL LOANS. The BANK may in its sole and absolute discretion make LOANS available to the BORROWER, subject to the BANK’S receipt of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the BANK:

(1) AGREEMENT AND NOTE. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE, each duly executed by the BORROWER.

(2) EVIDENCE OF ALL CORPORATE ACTION BY THE BORROWER. Certified copies of the unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the BORROWER or a certified copy of the resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors authorizing the execution, delivery, and performance of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(3) INCUMBENCY AND SIGNATURE CERTIFICATE OF THE BORROWER. A certificate of the President or Vice President (or other appropriate officer) of the BORROWER certifying the names and true signatures of the officers of the BORROWER authorized, pursuant to the Board of Directors’ resolutions referred to in paragraph (2) above, to sign this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered by the BORROWER pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(4) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION. At least five days prior to the first DISBURSEMENT DATE, a BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION in relation to the BORROWER.

(5) LETTERS OF GUARANTEE. The LETTER OF GUARANTEE duly executed by each GUARANTOR.

ARTICLE IV

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

The BORROWER hereby represents and warrants to the BANK as follows at each time it makes an application for a LOAN:

SECTION 4.01 DUE INCORPORATION; GOOD STANDING. The BORROWER is a corporation, duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, and is properly licensed and in good standing in, and where necessary to maintain the BORROWER’s rights and privileges, has complied with the fictitious name statute of, every jurisdiction in which the BORROWER is doing business.

 

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SECTION 4.02 CORPORATE POWER; AUTHORIZATION. The execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which it is a party and the performance of its obligations hereunder and thereunder are within the BORROWER’s corporate powers, have been duly authorized, and will not contravene or conflict with its charter or bylaws (or such other organizational and governing documents as may be applicable) or any agreement, instrument, or document to which the BORROWER is a party or by which the BORROWER or any of its PROPERTY is bound or affected.

SECTION 4.03 GOVERNMENT ACTION. No approval, consent, exemption, or other action by, or notice to or filing with, any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY is necessary in connection with the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, except as may have been obtained and certified copies of which have been delivered to BANK.

SECTION 4.04 NO LEGAL BAR. There is no law, rule, or regulation, nor is there any judgment, decree, or order of any court or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY binding on the BORROWER that would be contravened by the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT.

SECTION 4.05 ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATION. This AGREEMENT is a legal, valid, and binding agreement of the BORROWER, enforceable against the BORROWER in accordance with its terms, and the NOTE and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, when executed and delivered (and as endorsed from time to time), will be similarly legal, valid, binding, and enforceable.

SECTION 4.06 LITIGATION. Except as previously disclosed to the BANK in writing, there are no legal actions or other proceedings pending or, to the best of the BORROWER’s knowledge, threatened against the BORROWER which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. There are no outstanding and unsatisfied final judgments or decrees against the BORROWER for money damages, fines, or penalties which, individually or in the aggregate, could result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.07 NO DEFAULT. No event has occurred and is continuing or would result from the incurring of obligations by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT that is a default under any agreement or document to which the BORROWER is a party or which, with the passing of time or giving of notice or both, would become a default under any such document.

SECTION 4.08 NO CONFLICTING AGREEMENTS. Except as disclosed in writing by the BORROWER to the BANK prior to the date hereof, the BORROWER is not in default under any agreement to which it is a party or by which it or any of its PROPERTY is bound, the effect of which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.09 TAXES. The BORROWER has filed or caused to be filed all tax returns required to be filed, and has paid, or has made adequate provision for the payment of, all taxes shown to be due and payable on said returns or in any assessments made against it, and no tax liens have been filed and no claims are being asserted with respect to such taxes that are required to be reflected in the financial statements of the BORROWER and are not so reflected therein.

 

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SECTION 4.10 COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.

(a) None of the BORROWER, any of its SUBSIDIARIES or, to the knowledge of the BORROWER, any director, officer, employee, or agent of the BORROWER or any of its SUBSIDIARIES is a PERSON that is, or is owned or controlled by PERSONS that are: (i) the subject of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the U.S. Department of State, the United Nations Security Council, the European Union, Her Majesty’s Treasury, the Japanese government, including those imposed under the Foreign Exchange Act and the Import Trade Control Order of Japan (Cabinet Order No. 414 of 1949, as amended), or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “SANCTIONS”), or (ii) located, organized, or resident in a country or territory that is the subject of SANCTIONS, including Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria, except as previously disclosed to the BANK.

(b) The BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents are in compliance with (i) all applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(c) The BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES have instituted and maintain policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

SECTION 4.11 NO MISREPRESENTATION. Neither this AGREEMENT, nor any other LOAN DOCUMENT, nor any certificate, notice, report, financial statement, or document furnished to date or to be furnished by the BORROWER in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby contains or will contain a misrepresentation or misstatement of material fact, or omits or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated in order to make the statements herein or therein contained (taken as a whole) not misleading in the light of the circumstances under which made.

SECTION 4.12 RANKING OF LOAN; LIENS. The payment obligations of the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE are and will at all times be unsubordinated general obligations of the BORROWER, and rank and will at all times rank at least pari passu with all other present and future unsubordinated unsecured indebtedness of the BORROWER.

 

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ARTICLE V

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER will:

SECTION 5.01 FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION. Deliver to the BANK such information respecting the business, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), operations, or prospects of the BORROWER as the BANK may from time to time reasonably request, including:

(a) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;

(b) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period setting forth in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the BANK), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

(c) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (a) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the BORROWER, in the form of EXHIBIT B attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred and, if a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

SECTION 5.02 NOTICE. Promptly notify the BANK in writing of;

(1) all litigation affecting the BORROWER as a defendant where the amount claimed in a single litigation action is in excess of $100,000 or when the aggregate amount claimed in all litigation actions is in excess of $500,000;

(2) any substantial dispute between the BORROWER and any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY;

(3) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT; and

(4) any other matters which, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

 

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SECTION 5.03 PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. Pay all obligations, including taxes, when due, except such as may be contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which the BORROWER has established reserves on its books which are reasonable and adequate.

SECTION 5.04 COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance by the BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(b) At all times comply with all laws, rules, regulations, orders, and directions of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over it or its business.

SECTION 5.05 MAINTAIN EXISTENCE; PROPERTY. Maintain and preserve (i) its existence as a legal entity and all rights, privileges and franchises now enjoyed; and (ii) all of its PROPERTIES that are used or useful in the conduct of its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted.

SECTION 5.06 BOOKS AND RECORDS. Maintain adequate books, accounts, and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of BANK, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its PROPERTIES, and to examine or audit its books, accounts, and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, PROPERTIES, and financial and other conditions of the BORROWER with officers of the BORROWER.

SECTION 5.07 INSURANCE. To the extent there exists any real property security interest, maintain and keep in force, on all of its property such insurance as is normal for the industry in which the BORROWER conducts its business and is satisfactory to BANK as to amount, nature, and carrier, covering fire damage (including use and occupancy), public liability, product liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation, and deliver to BANK upon request a schedule certified to be correct by a responsible officer of the BORROWER setting forth all insurance in force as of the date of such schedule.

SECTION 5.08 FURTHER ASSURANCES. The BORROWER will from time to time perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested by BANK to give effect to the purposes of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, if any.

ARTICLE VI

NEGATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER hereby agrees as follows:

SECTION 6.01 LIMITATIONS ON FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES. The BORROWER will not merge into or consolidate with any other PERSON, or permit any other PERSON to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

 

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SECTION 6.02 USE OF PROCEEDS.

(a) No part of the proceeds of any LOAN will be used to buy or carry, or to extend credit to any other PERSON to buy or carry, any “margin stock” (as defined in Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the United States Federal Reserve System) in violation of MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS.

(b) The BORROWER will not request any LOAN, and the BORROWER shall not use, and the BORROWER will procure that its SUBSIDIARIES and its or their respective directors, officers, employees and agents will not use, the proceeds of any LOAN (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any PERSON, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is the subject of SANCTIONS, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of SANCTIONS applicable to any party hereto.

(c) No part of the proceeds of the LOANS will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any PERSON in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law.

SECTION 6.03 NEGATIVE PLEDGE. The BORROWER will not create, incur, assume, or suffer to exist any LIEN upon or with respect to any of its PROPERTY, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, other than:

(a) LIENS imposed by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY for taxes, assessments, or charges not yet due or which are being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings if adequate reserves with respect thereto are maintained on the books of the BORROWER in accordance with GAAP, and

(b) easements, rights-of-way, restrictions, and other similar encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business and encumbrances consisting of zoning restrictions, easements, licenses, restrictions on the use of property, or minor imperfections in title thereto which, in the aggregate, are not material in amount, and which do not in any case materially detract from the value of the property subject thereto or interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE VII

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

SECTION 7.01 EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following events will constitute an EVENT OF DEFAULT under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE:

(1) The BORROWER fails to pay any principal of any LOAN when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof or at a date fixed for prepayment thereof or otherwise.

 

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(2) The BORROWER fails to pay any interest on any LOAN or any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in SECTION 7.01(1)) payable under this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT when and as the same shall become due and payable, and such failure continues unremedied for a period of ten (10) days.

(3) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made by or on behalf of the BORROWER in or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any of the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, or in any amendment hereof or thereof, or in any report, certificate, financial statement or other document furnished pursuant to or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT or any amendment hereof or thereof, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed made.

(4) The BORROWER (i) fails to pay its debts generally as they come due, (ii) conceals, removes, or transfers any of its PROPERTY in violation or evasion of any bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, or similar law, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (iv) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, assignee, custodian, sequestrator, liquidator, or similar official for itself or any of its PROPERTY, (v) files any petition or action for relief under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, or moratorium law, or any other law or laws for the relief of, or relating to, debtors, (vi) is adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent or (vii) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

(5) An involuntary petition is filed under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium, or similar statute against the BORROWER or a custodian, receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors (or other similar official) is appointed to take possession, custody, or control of any PROPERTY of the BORROWER unless such petition or appointment is set aside or withdrawn or ceases to be in effect within 30 days from the date of said filing or appointment.

(6) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $250,000 shall be rendered against the BORROWER (or any combination thereof), and the same shall remain undischarged for a period of ten (10) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to attach or levy upon any assets of the BORROWER to enforce any such judgment.

(7) All, or such as in the opinion of BANK constitutes substantially all, of the PROPERTIES of the BORROWER is condemned, seized, or appropriated.

(8) The BORROWER fails to observe or perform any covenant, condition, or agreement contained in (i) SECTION 5.02(3), SECTION 5.05(i), SECTION 5.04(a), or ARTICLE VI; or (ii) any other provision of this AGREEMENT or the NOTE (and not described in SECTIONS 7.01(1) or (2)) and such failure is not remediable or, if remediable, continues unremedied for a period of 30 days after the earlier of (x) the date the BORROWER becomes aware thereof or (y) the date the BANK gives notice to the BORROWER with respect thereto.

(9) The BORROWER is in breach of or default under any term, condition, provision or covenant contained in any agreement to which it is a party relating to borrowed money.

 

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(10) Any LETTER OF GUARANTEE or any other document issued in support of the obligations of the BORROWER to the BANK, or any replacement of any of the foregoing, expires without renewal, is disclaimed or disavowed, or, in the case of a guarantee, ceases to be the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the guarantor thereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder.

(11) A CHANGE OF CONTROL occurs.

(12) Any one or more events occur or conditions exist that, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted in or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 7.02 REMEDIES. Upon the occurrence of any EVENT OF DEFAULT (other than an event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5)), the BANK may, by notice to the BORROWER, declare the LOANS then outstanding to be due and payable in whole (or in part, in which case any principal not so declared to be due and payable may thereafter be declared to be due and payable), and thereupon the principal of the LOANS so declared to be due and payable, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will become due and payable immediately, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER; and in case of any event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5), the principal of the LOANS then outstanding, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will automatically become due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER. The foregoing remedies are in addition to any and all other remedies available to BANK under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, at law, or in equity. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify the BANK and save the BANK harmless from and against any and all costs, losses, or expenses incurred by the BANK as a result of the occurrence of an EVENT OF DEFAULT or the repayment of any amount hereunder or under the NOTE other than on the date or dates originally due (including without limitation such as are incurred in connection with the reemployment or liquidation of funds acquired from third parties (including affiliates) by the BANK in order to maintain any amount theretofore outstanding hereunder or under the NOTE, the termination of any hedging contract or swap or other arrangement relating to the funding of the LOANS).

ARTICLE VIII

MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 8.01 INDEMNITY. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify, defend, reimburse, and hold harmless BANK and each of its affiliates, and all the directors, officers, employees, agents, legal counsel, and advisors of BANK (each, an “INDEMNIFIED PARTY”) from and against all claims, actions, proceedings, suits, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses, including the fees and out-of-pocket expenses of counsel that may be incurred by or asserted against any INDEMNIFIED PARTY in connection with, or arising out of, or relating to any transaction or proposed transaction (whether or not consummated), contemplated by this AGREEMENT or any LOAN DOCUMENT.

 

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SECTION 8.02 SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS; ASSIGNMENTS; PARTICIPATIONS. This AGREEMENT shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the BORROWER and the BANK and their respective successors and assigns, except that the BORROWER may not assign or transfer any of its rights or obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT without the prior written consent of the BANK. The BANK may assign or transfer to any other PERSON all or part of the CREDIT LINE or the indebtedness of the BORROWER outstanding under this AGREEMENT and/or any LOAN DOCUMENT. The BANK may at any time sell or grant participations in all or part of the LOANS or the CREDIT LINE.

SECTION 8.03 ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This AGREEMENT and the LOAN DOCUMENTS integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof.

SECTION 8.04 COUNTERPARTS. This AGREEMENT and any amendments, waivers, consents, or supplements may be executed in as many counterparts as may be deemed necessary or convenient, and by the different parties hereto on separate counterparts, each of which, when so executed, shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall constitute but one and the same agreement.

SECTION 8.05 AMENDMENTS, ETC. No amendment, modification, termination, or waiver of any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, nor consent to any departure by the BORROWER from any such provision, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the BANK, and then such amendment, modification, termination, waiver, or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which it is given.

SECTION 8.06 NOTICES, ETC. All notices and other communications provided for under this AGREEMENT shall be in writing, delivered in person, or sent by overnight courier, first class mail (postage prepaid), fax or email to:

 

If to the BORROWER:    Thorne Holding Corp.
   620 Omni Industrial Boulevard
   Summerville, South Carolina 29486
   Attention: Mr. Scott Wheeler, Chief Financial Officer
   Telephone: (843) 501-0286
   email: swheeler@Thorne.com
If to the BANK:    Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
   277 Park Avenue
   New York, New York 10172
   Attention: JDAD
   Telephone: (212) 224-4000
   Fax: (212) 593-9514

 

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or at such other address as shall be designated by either party in a written notice to the other party complying as to delivery with the terms of this SECTION 8.06. All such notices and communications shall be effective when deposited in the mails, faxed, or emailed, as applicable, except that notices to the BANK pursuant to the provisions of ARTICLE II hereof shall be effective when received by the BANK.

SECTION 8.07 NO WAIVER; REMEDIES. No failure on the part of the BANK to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right, power, or remedy under any LOAN DOCUMENT shall operate as waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right under any LOAN DOCUMENT preclude any other or further exercise thereof or exercise of any other right. The remedies provided in the LOAN DOCUMENTS are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

SECTION 8.08 COSTS, EXPENSES. AND TAXES. The BORROWER hereby agrees to pay on demand after giving borrowing written notice of the demand (i) all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK and its affiliates, including the reasonable fees, charges, and disbursements of counsel for the BANK, in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution, delivery, and administration of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and any amendments, waivers, or other modifications of the provisions of any LOAN DOCUMENT (whether or not the transactions contemplated by the LOAN DOCUMENTS are consummated); and (ii) all out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK, including the fees, charges, and disbursements of any counsel for the BANK, in connection with the enforcement or protection of its rights (A) in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, including its rights under this SECTION 8.08, or (B) in connection with the LOANS, including all such out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with any restructuring, workout, or negotiations in respect of the LOAN DOCUMENTS or the LOANS. In addition, the BORROWER shall pay any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, and recording of any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and the other documents to be delivered under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS, and agrees to save the BANK harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

SECTION 8.09 DEDUCTIONS. All payments by the BORROWER to the BANK under this AGREEMENT or under the NOTE are to be made net and free of any and all taxes (except for taxes based upon the overall net income of the BANK), duties, imposts, fees, withholdings, or deductions (the “DEDUCTIONS”) of any nature now or hereafter imposed. If any DEDUCTION is, by law, required to be made from any payment hereunder, then the BORROWER shall pay to the BANK such additional amount as will result in receipt by the BANK of a net amount equal to the amount the BANK would have received hereunder had no such DEDUCTION been required. In such event the BORROWER shall, as soon as practical, deliver to the BANK a receipt issued by the relevant taxing authority evidencing the amount of such DEDUCTION and its payment. If the BORROWER is required to pay an .additional amount on account of any such DEDUCTION, the BORROWER shall have the right, on not less than three BUSINESS DAYS’ prior written notice to the BANK, to repay the applicable LOAN.

 

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SECTION 8.10 RIGHT OF SET OFF. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any EVENT OF DEFAULT the BANK is hereby authorized at any time and from time to time, without notice to the BORROWER (any such notice being expressly waived by the BORROWER to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law), to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held, and other indebtedness at any time owing by the BANK to or for the credit or the account of the BORROWER against any and all of the obligations of the BORROWER now or hereafter existing under the AGREEMENT or the NOTE or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, irrespective of whether or not the BANK shall have made any demand under this AGREEMENT or such other LOAN DOCUMENT and although such obligations may be unmatured. The BANK agrees promptly to notify the BORROWER after any such set off and application, provided that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such set off and application. The rights of the BANK under this SECTION 8.10 are in addition to other rights and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of set off) which the BANK may have.

SECTION 8.11 GOVERNING LAW; CONSENT TO JURISDICTION. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT against the BORROWER may be brought in the courts of the United States of America or the State of New York as the BANK may elect, and, by execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the BORROWER hereby (i) accepts for itself, generally and unconditionally, the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the aforesaid courts, (ii) irrevocably agrees to be bound by any judgment of any such court with respect to this AGREEMENT or the NOTE, and (iii) irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action, or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT brought in any court of the United States of America or the State of New York located in the City of New York, and further irrevocably waives any claim that any such suit, action, or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. In the case of the courts of the United States of America and State of New York the BORROWER hereby agrees to receive service of process in any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT at its offices set forth in SECTION 8.06. Nothing herein shall affect the right to serve process in any other manner permitted by the law. The BORROWER hereby agrees that the mailing of such process to the BORROWER shall be deemed personal service and accepted by the BORROWER for any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.12 SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS. Any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT which is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions of such LOAN DOCUMENT or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.

SECTION 8.13 HEADINGS. ARTICLE and SECTION headings in this AGREEMENT are for the convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of the applicable LOAN DOCUMENTS for any other purpose.

SECTION 8.14 WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. THE BANK AND THE BORROWER MUTUALLY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT.

 

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SECTION 8.15 PATRIOT ACT. The BANK hereby notifies the BORROWER that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “ACT”), it is required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each borrower, guarantor, or grantor (each, a “LOAN PARTY”), which information includes the name and address of each LOAN PARTY and other information that will allow the BANK to identify such LOAN PARTY in accordance with the ACT.

SECTION 8.16 CONFIDENTIALITY. The BANK agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the BORROWER pursuant to or in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, other than information that has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this SECTION 8.16; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the BANK from disclosing any such information: (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in the LOANS or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to the BORROWER and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents, attorneys, accountants, and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over the BANK, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the BANK; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the BANK may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the BANK’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the BANK’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the BORROWER being violated.

[signature page follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this AGREEMENT to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:    
Scott S Wheeler
Chief Financial Officer

 

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION
By:    
Name:
Title:


EXHIBIT A

[Form of]

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

US$20,000,000.00

     February 14, 2020  

(maximum amount)

  

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “BORROWER”), HEREBY UNCONDITIONALLY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “BANK”), the principal sum of TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00) or, if less, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all LOANS made to the BORROWER pursuant to the LINE AGREEMENT referred to below, together with interest on the unpaid principal amount of each LOAN from time to time outstanding hereunder at the rates, and payable in the manner and on the dates, specified in the LINE AGREEMENT, the provisions of which are incorporated by reference in this NOTE.

The BANK shall record the date and amount of each LOAN made, the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, the amount of principal and interest due and payable from time to time hereunder, each payment thereof, and the resulting unpaid principal balance hereof, on the schedule attached to this NOTE or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the LINE AGREEMENT to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

Both principal and interest are payable in the currency of the LOAN and in immediately available funds to the BANK at 277 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10172, or at such other place as may be designated in writing by the holder of this NOTE.

This promissory note is the NOTE referred to in, and is subject to and entitled to the benefits of, the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between the BORROWER and the BANK (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “LINE AGREEMENT”). Capitalized terms used herein shall have the respective meanings assigned to them in the LINE AGREEMENT.

The LINE AGREEMENT provides, among other things, for acceleration (which in certain cases shall be automatic) of the maturity hereof upon the occurrence of certain stated events, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived.

THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK


THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:  
Scott S Wheeler
Chief Financial Officer

 

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SCHEDULE TO

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

BORROWER:

   THORNE HOLDING CORP.

LINE AMOUNT:

   US$20,000,000.00

 

Date

  

Bank’s
Reference
Number

  

Amount

of Loan

  

Maturity

Date

  

Applicable
Interest

Rate

  

Amount

of

Principal

Paid

  

Unpaid

Balance

of Note

  

Notation

Made

By:


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Borrower”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 5.01 of the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between the Borrower and the Bank (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “Line Agreement”). Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Line Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis for the period ended [                ] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

(a) The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

(b) The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this _______ day of                ,         .

 

By:    
Name:
Title:

Exhibit 10.19

February 14, 2020

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited

4-10-2 Nakano, Nakano-ku

Tokyo 164-0001, Japan

Dear Sirs

Re: Guarantee—fee letter

This letter (the “Fee Letter”) is entered into in connection with the Guarantee Letter (hosho-sho) (the “Guarantee”) to be submitted by Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (“Kirin”) in favor of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation New York Branch (the “Beneficiary”) for the benefit of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Company”), pursuant to which Kirin guarantees certain obligations of the Company under the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line Agreement, to be entered into by and between the Beneficiary and the Company, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, subject to the limitations and other terms set forth in the Guarantee.

In connection with, and as consideration for Kirin to enter into, the Guarantee, the Company and Kirin hereby agree as follows:

 

  a)

The Company agrees to pay Kirin for its own account, an annual fee at the rate per annum of 2.00% of $10,000,000 (the “Fee”), until the Guarantee is terminated. The Company shall pay the Fee and any other amounts accrued or otherwise payable pursuant to this Fee Letter (i) on an annual basis on each anniversary of the Effective Date, as defined below; and (ii) upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of the Company; provided that, upon the termination of the Guarantee, the Fee payable with respect to a partial year in which the Guarantee was terminated shall be equal to (x) the Fee multiplied by (y)(i) the number of days elapsed in such year (beginning on the relevant anniversary of the Effective Date) up to such termination divided by (ii) 365. Payment shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to a bank account designated by Kirin.

 

  b)

The Company agrees to reimburse Kirin for any reasonably incurred fees or expenses related to or in connection with any disputes arising between Kirin and the Beneficiary out of or in connection with the Guarantee including, but not limited to, attorney fees and costs for litigation.

 

  c)

In the event that Kirin is required to pay any amounts under the Guarantee, such amounts shall promptly be reimbursed by the Company to Kirin in cash. In case the Company is not able to wholly or partially reimburse such amounts to Kirin, the parties may agree to deem the unreimbursed amount of Kirin’s payment under the Guarantee to be made for the benefit of the Company in consideration for debt or equity securities of the Company on terms reasonably satisfactory to Kirin and the Company.


  d)

The Company agrees to provide Kirin with the following documents;

i. Monthly P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cashflow Statement within 21 days of the end of each month

ii. Next 12 months cashflow estimate, which will be updated every quarter, by the end of last day of the month after the end of each quarter (i.e. 2020/Q2-2021/Q1 estimate to come by April 30th, 2020)

iii. Monthly borrowing detail (amount, interest rate, term) within 10 days of the end of each month

 

  e)

The Company agrees to fully pay back to Kirin immediately after the Uncommitted and Revolving Credit Line is executed, in accordance with the letter dated on July 26, 2019 between the Company and Kirin, all and any indebtedness and accrued interest thereof arising out of or in connection with (i) Promissory Note Purchase and Sale Agreement dated July 26, 2019 and (ii) Unsecured Subordinated Promissory Note dated July 26, 2019 between the Company and Kirin.

The Company agrees that all of the fees and expenses set forth in this Fee Letter shall be fully earned upon becoming due and payable in accordance with the terms hereof.

This Fee Letter, together with the Guarantee, embody the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the specific matters set forth herein and supersede all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.

This Fee Letter shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Each of the parties hereby irrevocably waives all right to trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim (whether based on contract, tort or otherwise) arising out of or relating to this Fee Letter or the transactions contemplated hereby.

This Fee Letter may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one agreement. Delivery of an executed signature page of this Fee Letter by facsimile or electronic mail transmission shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart hereof.

The Fee Letter shall become effective as of the time of execution of the Credit Agreement and which is subject of the guarantee under the Guarantee (the “Effective Date”) and shall remain effective until the expiration or termination of the Guarantee, and provided that the Company shall remain liable following the termination hereof for accrued and unpaid Fees.

This Fee Letter may not be amended or any provision hereof waived or modified except by an instrument in writing signed by the Company and Kirin.

This Fee Letter may not be assigned by the Company without the prior written consent of Kirin.

Faithfully

 

Thorne Holding Corp.
By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name: Scott Wheeler
Title: CFO

 

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Acknowledged and agreed:
Kirin Holdings Company, Limited
By:   /s/ Takashi Hayashi
Name:   Takashi Hayashi
Title:   General Manager, Finance Department

 

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Exhibit A: UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT(Draft)

SECTION 1.01 UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION, a Japanese banking corporation, having its offices at 277 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10172 (the “BANK”), and THORNE HOLDING CORP., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, having its offices at 620 Omni Industrial Boulevard, Summerville, South Carolina 29486 (the “BORROWER”). The parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I.

DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1.01 DEFINED TERMS. As used in this AGREEMENT, the following terms have the following meanings (terms defined in the singular to have the same meaning when used in the plural and vice versa):

“AGREEMENT” means this UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT, together with all exhibits and schedules hereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided herein.

“APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE” means, with respect to each LOAN, the interest rate per annum quoted by the BANK and agreed to by the BORROWER at the time of making such LOAN.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION.

“BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGULATION” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“BUSINESS DAY” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or other day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close.

“CHANGE OF CONTROL” shall mean (x) the sale or transfer of more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER, (y) the issuance of shares of common stock, or securities convertible into or exercisable for shares of common stock, constituting more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock of the BORROWER immediately after issuance, to PERSON who were not holders of common stock, on an as converted basis, immediately prior to such issuance or (z) the sale, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the BORROWER and its majority owned subsidiaries in a single transaction or series of related transactions to PERSON who are not then stockholders of the BORROWER.

“CREDIT LINE” means a discretionary and uncommitted line of credit that the BANK establishes for the BORROWER pursuant to SECTION 2.01 hereof up to the amount referred to therein but which may be terminated in whole or reduced in part pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof. This CREDIT LINE shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN or extension of credit.

 

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“DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01 hereof, whether or not any requirement for the giving of notice, the lapse of time, or both, or any other condition, has been satisfied.

“DISBURSEMENT DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is advanced, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“DOLLARS”, “U.S. DOLLARS”, “US$”, “USD”, or “$” means the lawful currency of the United States of America.

“EVENT OF DEFAULT” means any of the events specified in SECTION 7.01.

“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY” means any nation or government, any state or other political subdivision thereof, any central bank (or similar monetary or regulatory authority) thereof, any entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government, and any corporation or other entity owned or controlled, through stock or capital ownership or otherwise, by any of the foregoing.

“GUARANTOR” means each of Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a Japanese corporation; and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, a Japanese corporation.

“LAST DRAWDOWN DATE” means February 12, 2021.

“LETTER OF GUARANTEE” means the letter of guarantee executed by each GUARANTOR and required to be delivered by the BORROWER to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01 hereof, together with all exhibits and schedules thereto, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated or replaced from time to time in the manner provided therein.

“LIEN” means any mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, security interest, assignment, deposit arrangement, charge or encumbrance, lien (statutory or other), or other preferential arrangement (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing, or any agreement to give any security interest).

“LOAN” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.01.

 

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“LOAN DOCUMENTS” means this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, each LETTER OF GUARANTEE, and any other agreement, document, instrument, or contract furnished to the BANK in connection with any of the foregoing documents or supporting, securing, or otherwise relating to the LOANS, in each case as amended, amended and restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time.

“MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS” means Regulation T, U and/or X of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the rules promulgated thereunder, as the same may be supplemented, modified, amended, restated, or replaced from time to time, or any corresponding or succeeding provisions of applicable law.

“MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE” means any material adverse change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), or prospects of the BORROWER, or the BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES taken as one enterprise; (b) the legality, validity, binding effect, or enforceability of any LOAN DOCUMENT; (c) the ability of the BORROWER to fully and timely perform its obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the BANK’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies, and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the BANK under any LOAN DOCUMENT.

“MATURITY DATE” means, in relation to a LOAN, the date on which such LOAN is due and payable, as requested by the BORROWER and agreed to by the BANK in accordance with SECTION 2.03.

“NOTE” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 2.05.

“PERSON” means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), joint stock company, estate, trust, limited liability company, unlimited liability company, unincorporated association, joint venture, or other entity or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY.

“PRIME RATE” means the rate of interest per annum established by the BANK’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the PRIME RATE shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“PROPERTY” means all types of real or personal property, including without limitation, tangible, intangible, or mixed property.

“SANCTIONS” has the meaning assigned to such term in SECTION 4.10(a).

“SUBSIDIARY” means, with respect to any PERSON (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent.

 

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ARTICLE II.

AMOUNT AND TERMS OF LOANS

SECTION 2.01 REVOLVING CREDIT. The BANK may, upon request from the BORROWER, in the BANK’s sole and absolute discretion upon the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, make one or more loans (each, a “LOAN”) to the BORROWER from time to time during the period commencing on the date of this AGREEMENT and ending on (and including) the LAST DRAWDOWN DATE in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed at any time outstanding TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00), provided that such amount may be reduced pursuant to SECTION 2.02 hereof (the “CREDIT LINE”). Each LOAN shall have a MATURITY DATE that is not less than one (1) day and not more than twelve (12) months after the DISBURSEMENT DATE, as requested by the BORROWER in accordance with SECTION 2.03 and agreed to by the BANK. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the BORROWER may borrow, repay in whole or in part, and reborrow on a revolving basis, up to the amount of the CREDIT LINE. The availability of the CREDIT LINE hereunder shall not be construed as the commitment of the BANK to make any LOAN.

SECTION 2.02 REDUCTION AND TERMINATION OF CREDIT LINE. The BANK shall have the unrestricted right in its sole and absolute discretion, upon notice to the BORROWER, to immediately terminate in whole or reduce in part the unused portion of the CREDIT LINE.

SECTION 2.03 NOTICE AND MANNER OF BORROWING. Not later than 2:00 p.m., New York time on the requested DISBURSEMENT DATE, the BORROWER shall give the BANK telephonic application for each LOAN under this AGREEMENT to the BANK’s JDAD Loan Services Department (or such other contact as the BANK may inform the BORROWER from time to time), which may or may not be accepted by the BANK, specifying (i) the DISBURSEMENT DATE; (ii) the principal amount; and (iii) the MATURITY DATE. The BANK will send written confirmation of the LOAN to the BORROWER at the fax number or email address listed in SECTION 8.06 hereof. The BORROWER will acknowledge the information shown in the confirmation by promptly returning it to the BANK’s New York Branch by fax at (212) 224-4537. Not later than 4:00 p.m., New York time, on the DISBURSEMENT DATE of the LOAN and upon fulfillment of the applicable conditions set forth in ARTICLE III hereof, the BANK will, subject to its sole and absolute discretion and subject to the provisions of SECTION 2.01 hereof, make the LOAN available to the BORROWER in immediately available funds by crediting the amount thereof to the BORROWER’s account with the BANK, or to such other account as the BORROWER shall inform the BANK in writing. All notices given under this SECTION 2.03 shall be irrevocable. The failure to give any confirmation referred to herein shall not release or diminish any of the BORROWER’s obligations hereunder.

SECTION 2.04 REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL; PAYMENT OF INTEREST.

(a) The entire principal amount of each LOAN shall be paid in immediately available funds on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN.

 

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(b) Each LOAN will bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof at a rate per annum equal to the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE.

(c) Accrued interest on each LOAN will be payable in arrears on the MATURITY DATE for such LOAN; provided that (i) interest accrued pursuant to SECTION 2.04(d) will be payable on demand, and (ii) in the event of any repayment or prepayment of any LOAN, accrued interest on the principal amount repaid or prepaid will be payable on the date of such repayment or prepayment.

(d) If any EVENT OF DEFAULT under SECTION 7.01(1) or 7.01(2) hereof has occurred and is continuing then, until such defaulted amount has been paid in full, to the extent permitted by law, such defaulted amounts will bear interest (after as well as before judgment), payable on demand, at a rate per annum equal to the PRIME RATE plus 2%.

(e) All interest hereunder will be computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and will be payable for the actual number of days elapsed (including the first day, but excluding the last day).

SECTION 2.05 NOTE. As additional evidence of the BORROWER’s payment obligations hereunder, the BORROWER shall execute and deliver to the BANK pursuant to SECTION 3.01(1) a single grid promissory note (the “NOTE”), substantially in the form of EXHIBIT A attached hereto, setting forth the CREDIT LINE as the maximum principal amount thereof and dated as of the date of this AGREEMENT, and made payable to the BANK. The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to record on a schedule attached to the NOTE (or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, which may be maintained in its internal records and shown on a computer printout) the principal amount, APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, MATURITY DATE, and other terms relevant to each LOAN, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the NOTE to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

SECTION 2.06 FUNDING LOSS, INDEMNIFICATION; CAPITAL ADEQUACY AND OTHER CHARGES AND COSTS.

(a) The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify and hold the BANK free and harmless from all losses, costs, and expenses that the BANK may incur, to the extent not mitigated by the redeployment of deposits or other funds, as a result of (i) a default by the BORROWER in payment when due of the principal of or interest on a LOAN, (ii) the BORROWER’s failure (other than due solely to a failure attributable to a default by the BANK) to make a borrowing or continuation with respect to a LOAN after making a request therefor, (iii) a prepayment (whether mandatory or otherwise, including but not limited to, acceleration pursuant to ARTICLE VII hereof) of a LOAN before a scheduled payment date for interest or principal, or (iv) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT or any demand by the BANK for payment of any LOAN permitted hereunder or under the NOTE.

 

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(b) If the BANK determines at any time that any applicable law or governmental rule, regulation, guideline, or order concerning capital adequacy, reserves, or similar requirements, or any change in interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY will have the effect of increasing the cost to the BANK or the amount of capital required or expected to be maintained by the BANK as a result of the making or continuance of the LOANS, then the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK, upon its written demand therefor, such additional amounts as shall be required to compensate the BANK for such increased costs. The BANK, upon determining that any additional amounts will be payable to the BANK pursuant to this paragraph, will give prompt written notice thereof to the BORROWER, which notice shall show in reasonable detail the basis for calculation of such additional amounts, although the failure to give any such notice shall not release or diminish the obligations of the BORROWER to pay additional amounts pursuant to this paragraph.

(c) If any present or future applicable law, rule, or regulation or any change therein or in the interpretation or administration thereof by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by the BANK with any request or directive of any such GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY, whether or not having the force of law, results in an increase of the cost to the BANK of making, renewing, or maintaining any LOAN, or reduces the amount of any sum receivable by the BANK under any LOAN, in the reasonable judgment of the BANK, then, upon demand by the BANK, the BORROWER agrees to pay to the BANK such additional amount or amounts as would compensate the BANK for such increased cost or reduction. The BANK’s computation of such amount or amounts shall be binding on the BORROWER absent manifest error.

SECTION 2.07 METHOD OF PAYMENT. The BORROWER shall make each payment of principal of and interest on the LOANS, in lawful money of the United States in immediately available funds, not later than 3:00 p.m. (New York time) on the date when such payment is due, via Fedwire or CHIPS to the account described below, or to such other location or in such other manner as the BANK may notify the BORROWER in writing:

 

 

Bank Name:

   Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York
 

SWIFT:

   SMBCUS33
 

ABA Number:

   0260-0967-4
 

Account Name:

   SMBC Loan Operations New York
 

Account Number:

   423001
 

Reference:

   Thorne Holding Corp.
 

Attn:

   BCDAD JDAD Loan Services

The BORROWER hereby authorizes the BANK to charge any amounts due hereunder or under the NOTE from time to time against the BORROWER’s account #351905 or any other account of the BORROWER with the BANK. The BORROWER may, with the BANK’S prior consent, and on not less than five days’ notice, prepay the principal and interest of any LOAN in whole or in part, but only on condition that the prepayment is accompanied by payment of any and all additional costs, as determined by the BANK, that the BANK may incur as a result of such prepayment, including, without limitation, the breaking of any deposit, the redeployment of funds released by any prepayment, the termination of any swap or hedging contract, or otherwise.

 

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SECTION 2.08 PAYMENTS ON NON-BUSINESS DAYS. Whenever payment shall fall due on a day which is not a BUSINESS DAY, payment shall be made on the next succeeding BUSINESS DAY, unless such BUSINESS DAY falls in the following calendar month, in which case payment shall be due on the next preceding BUSINESS DAY.

ARTICLE III.

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

SECTION 3.01 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO INITIAL AND ALL LOANS. The BANK may in its sole and absolute discretion make LOANS available to the BORROWER, subject to the BANK’s receipt of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the BANK:

(1) AGREEMENT AND NOTE. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE, each duly executed by the BORROWER.

(2) EVIDENCE OF ALL CORPORATE ACTION BY THE BORROWER. Certified copies of the unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the BORROWER or a certified copy of the resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors authorizing the execution, delivery, and performance of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(3) INCUMBENCY AND SIGNATURE CERTIFICATE OF THE BORROWER. A certificate of the President or Vice President (or other appropriate officer) of the BORROWER certifying the names and true signatures of the officers of the BORROWER authorized, pursuant to the Board of Directors’ resolutions referred to in paragraph (2) above, to sign this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and any other documents to be delivered by the BORROWER pursuant to this AGREEMENT.

(4) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION. At least five days prior to the first DISBURSEMENT DATE, a BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATION in relation to the BORROWER.

(5) LETTERS OF GUARANTEE. The LETTER OF GUARANTEE duly executed by each GUARANTOR.

ARTICLE IV.

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

The BORROWER hereby represents and warrants to the BANK as follows at each time it makes an application for a LOAN:

SECTION 4.01 DUE INCORPORATION; GOOD STANDING. The BORROWER is a corporation, duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, and is properly licensed and in good standing in, and where necessary to maintain the BORROWER’s rights and privileges, has complied with the fictitious name statute of, every jurisdiction in which the BORROWER is doing business.

 

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SECTION 4.02 CORPORATE POWER; AUTHORIZATION. The execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which it is a party and the performance of its obligations hereunder and thereunder are within the BORROWER’s corporate powers, have been duly authorized, and will not contravene or conflict with its charter or bylaws (or such other organizational and governing documents as may be applicable) or any agreement, instrument, or document to which the BORROWER is a party or by which the BORROWER or any of its PROPERTY is bound or affected.

SECTION 4.03 GOVERNMENT ACTION. No approval, consent, exemption, or other action by, or notice to or filing with, any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY is necessary in connection with the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, except as may have been obtained and certified copies of which have been delivered to BANK.

SECTION 4.04 NO LEGAL BAR. There is no law, rule, or regulation, nor is there any judgment, decree, or order of any court or GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY binding on the BORROWER that would be contravened by the execution, delivery, performance, or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT.

SECTION 4.05 ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATION. This AGREEMENT is a legal, valid, and binding agreement of the BORROWER, enforceable against the BORROWER in accordance with its terms, and the NOTE and each other LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, when executed and delivered (and as endorsed from time to time), will be similarly legal, valid, binding, and enforceable.

SECTION 4.06 LITIGATION. Except as previously disclosed to the BANK in writing, there are no legal actions or other proceedings pending or, to the best of the BORROWER’s knowledge, threatened against the BORROWER which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. There are no outstanding and unsatisfied final judgments or decrees against the BORROWER for money damages, fines, or penalties which, individually or in the aggregate, could result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 4.07 NO DEFAULT. No event has occurred and is continuing or would result from the incurring of obligations by the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT that is a default under any agreement or document to which the BORROWER is a party or which, with the passing of time or giving of notice or both, would become a default under any such document.

SECTION 4.08 NO CONFLICTING AGREEMENTS. Except as disclosed in writing by the BORROWER to the BANK prior to the date hereof, the BORROWER is not in default under any agreement to which it is a party or by which it or any of its PROPERTY is bound, the effect of which, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

 

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SECTION 4.09 TAXES. The BORROWER has filed or caused to be filed all tax returns required to be filed, and has paid, or has made adequate provision for the payment of, all taxes shown to be due and payable on said returns or in any assessments made against it, and no tax liens have been filed and no claims are being asserted with respect to such taxes that are required to be reflected in the financial statements of the BORROWER and are not so reflected therein.

SECTION 4.10 COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.

(a) None of the BORROWER, any of its SUBSIDIARIES or, to the knowledge of the BORROWER, any director, officer, employee, or agent of the BORROWER or any of its SUBSIDIARIES is a PERSON that is, or is owned or controlled by PERSONS that are: (i) the subject of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the U.S. Department of State, the United Nations Security Council, the European Union, Her Majesty’s Treasury, the Japanese government, including those imposed under the Foreign Exchange Act and the Import Trade Control Order of Japan (Cabinet Order No. 414 of 1949, as amended), or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “SANCTIONS”), or (ii) located, organized, or resident in a country or territory that is the subject of SANCTIONS, including Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria, except as previously disclosed to the BANK.

(b) The BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents are in compliance with (i) all applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(c) The BORROWER and its SUBSIDIARIES have instituted and maintain policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and all other applicable anti-corruption laws.

SECTION 4.11 NO MISREPRESENTATION. Neither this AGREEMENT, nor any other LOAN DOCUMENT, nor any certificate, notice, report, financial statement, or document furnished to date or to be furnished by the BORROWER in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby contains or will contain a misrepresentation or misstatement of material fact, or omits or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated in order to make the statements herein or therein contained (taken as a whole) not misleading in the light of the circumstances under which made.

SECTION 4.12 RANKING OF LOAN; LIENS. The payment obligations of the BORROWER under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE are and will at all times be unsubordinated general obligations of the BORROWER, and rank and will at all times rank at least pari passu with all other present and future unsubordinated unsecured indebtedness of the BORROWER.

 

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ARTICLE V.

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER will:

SECTION 5.01 FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION. Deliver to the BANK such information respecting the business, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise), operations, or prospects of the BORROWER as the BANK may from time to time reasonably request, including:

(a) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;

(b) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the BORROWER, its consolidated semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period setting forth in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the BORROWER and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the BANK), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

(c) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (a) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the BORROWER, in the form of EXHIBIT B attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred and, if a DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

SECTION 5.02 NOTICE. Promptly notify the BANK in writing of

(1) all litigation affecting the BORROWER as a defendant where the amount claimed in a single litigation action is in excess of $100,000 or when the aggregate amount claimed in all litigation actions is in excess of $500,000;

(2) any substantial dispute between the BORROWER and any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY;

(3) any DEFAULT or EVENT OF DEFAULT; and

(4) any other matters which, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 5.03 PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. Pay all obligations, including taxes, when due, except such as may be contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which the BORROWER has established reserves on its books which are reasonable and adequate.

 

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SECTION 5.04 COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance by the BORROWER, its SUBSIDIARIES, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with (i) applicable SANCTIONS and (ii) the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(b) At all times comply with all laws, rules, regulations, orders, and directions of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over it or its business.

SECTION 5.05 MAINTAIN EXISTENCE; PROPERTY. Maintain and preserve (i) its existence as a legal entity and all rights, privileges and franchises now enjoyed; and (ii) all of its PROPERTIES that are used or useful in the conduct of its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted.

SECTION 5.06 BOOKS AND RECORDS. Maintain adequate books, accounts, and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of BANK, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its PROPERTIES, and to examine or audit its books, accounts, and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, PROPERTIES, and financial and other conditions of the BORROWER with officers of the BORROWER.

SECTION 5.07 INSURANCE. To the extent there exists any real property security interest, maintain and keep in force, on all of its property such insurance as is normal for the industry in which the BORROWER conducts its business and is satisfactory to BANK as to amount, nature, and carrier, covering fire damage (including use and occupancy), public liability, product liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation, and deliver to BANK upon request a schedule certified to be correct by a responsible officer of the BORROWER setting forth all insurance in force as of the date of such schedule.

SECTION 5.08 FURTHER ASSURANCES. The BORROWER will from time to time perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested by BANK to give effect to the purposes of this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, and the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, if any.

ARTICLE VI.

NEGATIVE COVENANTS

So long as any indebtedness or obligation remains unpaid or outstanding hereunder, the BORROWER hereby agrees as follows:

SECTION 6.01 LIMITATIONS ON FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES. The BORROWER will not merge into or consolidate with any other PERSON, or permit any other PERSON to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

SECTION 6.02 USE OF PROCEEDS.

(a) No part of the proceeds of any LOAN will be used to buy or carry, or to extend credit to any other PERSON to buy or carry, any “margin stock” (as defined in Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the United States Federal Reserve System) in violation of MARGIN STOCK REGULATIONS.

 

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(b) The BORROWER will not request any LOAN, and the BORROWER shall not use, and the BORROWER will procure that its SUBSIDIARIES and its or their respective directors, officers, employees and agents will not use, the proceeds of any LOAN (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any PERSON, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is the subject of SANCTIONS, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of SANCTIONS applicable to any party hereto.

(c) No part of the proceeds of the LOANS will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any PERSON in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law.

SECTION 6.03 NEGATIVE PLEDGE. The BORROWER will not create, incur, assume, or suffer to exist any LIEN upon or with respect to any of its PROPERTY, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, other than:

(a) LIENS imposed by any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY for taxes, assessments, or charges not yet due or which are being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings if adequate reserves with respect thereto are maintained on the books of the BORROWER in accordance with GAAP; and

(b) easements, rights-of-way, restrictions, and other similar encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business and encumbrances consisting of zoning restrictions, easements, licenses, restrictions on the use of property, or minor imperfections in title thereto which, in the aggregate, are not material in amount, and which do not in any case materially detract from the value of the property subject thereto or interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the BORROWER.

ARTICLE VII.

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

SECTION 7.01 EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following events will constitute an EVENT OF DEFAULT under this AGREEMENT and the NOTE:

(1) The BORROWER fails to pay any principal of any LOAN when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof or at a date fixed for prepayment thereof or otherwise.

(2) The BORROWER fails to pay any interest on any LOAN or any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in SECTION 7.01(1)) payable under this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT when and as the same shall become due and payable, and such failure continues unremedied for a period of ten (10) days.

 

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(3) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made by or on behalf of the BORROWER in or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any of the other LOAN DOCUMENTS, or in any amendment hereof or thereof, or in any report, certificate, financial statement or other document furnished pursuant to or in connection with this AGREEMENT or any other LOAN DOCUMENT or any amendment hereof or thereof, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed made.

(4) The BORROWER (i) fails to pay its debts generally as they come due, (ii) conceals, removes, or transfers any of its PROPERTY in violation or evasion of any bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, or similar law, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (iv) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, assignee, custodian, sequestrator, liquidator, or similar official for itself or any of its PROPERTY, (v) files any petition or action for relief under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, or moratorium law, or any other law or laws for the relief of, or relating to, debtors, (vi) is adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent or (vii) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

(5) An involuntary petition is filed under any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium, or similar statute against the BORROWER or a custodian, receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors (or other similar official) is appointed to take possession, custody, or control of any PROPERTY of the BORROWER unless such petition or appointment is set aside or withdrawn or ceases to be in effect within 30 days from the date of said filing or appointment.

(6) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $250,000 shall be rendered against the BORROWER (or any combination thereof), and the same shall remain undischarged for a period of ten (10) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to attach or levy upon any assets of the BORROWER to enforce any such judgment.

(7) All, or such as in the opinion of BANK constitutes substantially all, of the PROPERTIES of the BORROWER is condemned, seized, or appropriated.

(8) The BORROWER fails to observe or perform any covenant, condition, or agreement contained in (i) SECTION 5.02(3), SECTION 5.05(i), SECTION 5.04(a), or ARTICLE VI; or (ii) any other provision of this AGREEMENT or the NOTE (and not described in SECTIONS 7.01(1) or (2)) and such failure is not remediable or, if remediable, continues unremedied for a period of 30 days after the earlier of (x) the date the BORROWER becomes aware thereof or (y) the date the BANK gives notice to the BORROWER with respect thereto.

(9) The BORROWER is in breach of or default under any term, condition, provision or covenant contained in any agreement to which it is a party relating to borrowed money.

(10) Any LETTER OF GUARANTEE or any other document issued in support of the obligations of the BORROWER to the BANK, or any replacement of any of the foregoing, expires without renewal, is disclaimed or disavowed, or, in the case of a guarantee, ceases to be the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the guarantor thereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder.

(11) A CHANGE OF CONTROL occurs.

 

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(12) Any one or more events occur or conditions exist that, individually or in the aggregate, have resulted in or could reasonably be expected to result in a MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE.

SECTION 7.02 REMEDIES. Upon the occurrence of any EVENT OF DEFAULT (other than an event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5)), the BANK may, by notice to the BORROWER, declare the LOANS then outstanding to be due and payable in whole (or in part, in which case any principal not so declared to be due and payable may thereafter be declared to be due and payable), and thereupon the principal of the LOANS so declared to be due and payable, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will become due and payable immediately, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER; and in case of any event described in SECTION 7.01(4) or 7.01(5), the principal of the LOANS then outstanding, together with accrued interest thereon and all fees and other obligations of the BORROWER accrued hereunder, will automatically become due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the BORROWER. The foregoing remedies are in addition to any and all other remedies available to BANK under this AGREEMENT, the NOTE, or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, at law, or in equity. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify the BANK and save the BANK harmless from and against any and all costs, losses, or expenses incurred by the BANK as a result of the occurrence of an EVENT OF DEFAULT or the repayment of any amount hereunder or under the NOTE other than on the date or dates originally due (including without limitation such as are incurred in connection with the reemployment or liquidation of funds acquired from third parties (including affiliates) by the BANK in order to maintain any amount theretofore outstanding hereunder or under the NOTE, the termination of any hedging contract or swap or other arrangement relating to the funding of the LOANS).

ARTICLE VIII.

MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 8.01 INDEMNITY. The BORROWER hereby agrees to indemnify, defend, reimburse, and hold harmless BANK and each of its affiliates, and all the directors, officers, employees, agents, legal counsel, and advisors of BANK (each, an “INDEMNIFIED PARTY”) from and against all claims, actions, proceedings, suits, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses, including the fees and out-of-pocket expenses of counsel that may be incurred by or asserted against any INDEMNIFIED PARTY in connection with, or arising out of, or relating to any transaction or proposed transaction (whether or not consummated), contemplated by this AGREEMENT or any LOAN DOCUMENT.

SECTION 8.02 SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS; ASSIGNMENTS; PARTICIPATIONS. This AGREEMENT shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the BORROWER and the BANK and their respective successors and assigns, except that the BORROWER may not assign or transfer any of its rights or obligations under any LOAN DOCUMENT without the prior written consent of the BANK. The BANK may assign or transfer to any other PERSON all or part of the CREDIT LINE or the indebtedness of the BORROWER outstanding under this AGREEMENT and/or any LOAN DOCUMENT. The BANK may at any time sell or grant participations in all or part of the LOANS or the CREDIT LINE.

 

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SECTION 8.03 ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This AGREEMENT and the LOAN DOCUMENTS integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof.

SECTION 8.04 COUNTERPARTS. This AGREEMENT and any amendments, waivers, consents, or supplements may be executed in as many counterparts as may be deemed necessary or convenient, and by the different parties hereto on separate counterparts, each of which, when so executed, shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall constitute but one and the same agreement.

SECTION 8.05 AMENDMENTS, ETC. No amendment, modification, termination, or waiver of any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT to which the BORROWER is a party, nor consent to any departure by the BORROWER from any such provision, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the BANK, and then such amendment, modification, termination, waiver, or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which it is given.

SECTION 8.06 NOTICES, ETC. All notices and other communications provided for under this AGREEMENT shall be in writing, delivered in person, or sent by overnight courier, first class mail (postage prepaid), fax or email to:

 

If to the BORROWER:

   Thorne Holding Corp.
   620 Omni Industrial Boulevard
   Summerville, South Carolina 29486
   Attention: Mr. Scott Wheeler, Chief Financial Officer
   Telephone: (843) 501-0286
   email: swheeler@Thorne.com

If to the BANK:

   Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
   277 Park Avenue
   New York, New York 10172
   Attention: JDAD
   Telephone: (212) 224-4000
   Fax: (212) 593-9514

or at such other address as shall be designated by either party in a written notice to the other party complying as to delivery with the terms of this SECTION 8.06. All such notices and communications shall be effective when deposited in the mails, faxed, or emailed, as applicable, except that notices to the BANK pursuant to the provisions of ARTICLE II hereof shall be effective when received by the BANK.

SECTION 8.07 NO WAIVER; REMEDIES. No failure on the part of the BANK to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right, power, or remedy under any LOAN DOCUMENT shall operate as waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right under any LOAN DOCUMENT preclude any other or further exercise thereof or exercise of any other right. The remedies provided in the LOAN DOCUMENTS are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

 

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SECTION 8.08 COSTS, EXPENSES. AND TAXES. The BORROWER hereby agrees to pay on demand after giving borrowing written notice of the demand (i) all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK and its affiliates, including the reasonable fees, charges, and disbursements of counsel for the BANK, in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution, delivery, and administration of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and any amendments, waivers, or other modifications of the provisions of any LOAN DOCUMENT (whether or not the transactions contemplated by the LOAN DOCUMENTS are consummated); and (ii) all out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the BANK, including the fees, charges, and disbursements of any counsel for the BANK, in connection with the enforcement or protection of its rights (A) in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, including its rights under this SECTION 8.08, or (B) in connection with the LOANS, including all such out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with any restructuring, workout, or negotiations in respect of the LOAN DOCUMENTS or the LOANS. In addition, the BORROWER shall pay any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, and recording of any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS and the other documents to be delivered under any of the LOAN DOCUMENTS, and agrees to save the BANK harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

SECTION 8.09 DEDUCTIONS. All payments by the BORROWER to the BANK under this AGREEMENT or under the NOTE are to be made net and free of any and all taxes (except for taxes based upon the overall net income of the BANK), duties, imposts, fees, withholdings, or deductions (the “DEDUCTIONS”) of any nature now or hereafter imposed. If any DEDUCTION is, by law, required to be made from any payment hereunder, then the BORROWER shall pay to the BANK such additional amount as will result in receipt by the BANK of a net amount equal to the amount the BANK would have received hereunder had no such DEDUCTION been required. In such event the BORROWER shall, as soon as practical, deliver to the BANK a receipt issued by the relevant taxing authority evidencing the amount of such DEDUCTION and its payment. If the BORROWER is required to pay an additional amount on account of any such DEDUCTION, the BORROWER shall have the right, on not less than three BUSINESS DAYS’ prior written notice to the BANK, to repay the applicable LOAN.

SECTION 8.10 RIGHT OF SET OFF. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any EVENT OF DEFAULT the BANK is hereby authorized at any time and from time to time, without notice to the BORROWER (any such notice being expressly waived by the BORROWER to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law), to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held, and other indebtedness at any time owing by the BANK to or for the credit or the account of the BORROWER against any and all of the obligations of the BORROWER now or hereafter existing under the AGREEMENT or the NOTE or any other LOAN DOCUMENT, irrespective of whether or not the BANK shall have made any demand under this AGREEMENT or such other LOAN DOCUMENT and although such obligations may be unmatured. The BANK agrees promptly to notify the BORROWER after any such set off and application, provided that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such set off and application. The rights of the BANK under this SECTION 8.10 are in addition to other rights and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of set off) which the BANK may have.

 

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SECTION 8.11 GOVERNING LAW; CONSENT TO JURISDICTION. This AGREEMENT and the NOTE shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT against the BORROWER may be brought in the courts of the United States of America or the State of New York as the BANK may elect, and, by execution and delivery of this AGREEMENT, the BORROWER hereby (i) accepts for itself, generally and unconditionally, the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the aforesaid courts, (ii) irrevocably agrees to be bound by any judgment of any such court with respect to this AGREEMENT or the NOTE, and (iii) irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action, or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT brought in any court of the United States of America or the State of New York located in the City of New York, and further irrevocably waives any claim that any such suit, action, or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. In the case of the courts of the United States of America and State of New York the BORROWER hereby agrees to receive service of process in any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT at its offices set forth in SECTION 8.06. Nothing herein shall affect the right to serve process in any other manner permitted by the law. The BORROWER hereby agrees that the mailing of such process to the BORROWER shall be deemed personal service and accepted by the BORROWER for any legal action or proceedings with respect to this AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.12 SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS. Any provision of any LOAN DOCUMENT which is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions of such LOAN DOCUMENT or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.

SECTION 8.13 HEADINGS. ARTICLE and SECTION headings in this AGREEMENT are for the convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of the applicable LOAN DOCUMENTS for any other purpose.

SECTION 8.14 WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. THE BANK AND THE BORROWER MUTUALLY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT.

SECTION 8.15 PATRIOT ACT. The BANK hereby notifies the BORROWER that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “ACT”), it is required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each borrower, guarantor, or grantor (each, a “LOAN PARTY”), which information includes the name and address of each LOAN PARTY and other information that will allow the BANK to identify such LOAN PARTY in accordance with the ACT.

SECTION 8.16 CONFIDENTIALITY. The BANK agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the BORROWER pursuant to or in connection with the LOAN DOCUMENTS, other than information that has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this SECTION 8.16; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the BANK from disclosing any such information: (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in the LOANS or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap

 

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or derivative transaction relating to the BORROWER and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents, attorneys, accountants, and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY having jurisdiction over the BANK, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the BANK; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the BANK may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the BANK’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the BANK’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the BORROWER being violated.

[signature page follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this AGREEMENT to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:   /s/ Scott S Wheeler
  Scott S Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

By:

   
 

Name:

 

Title:

 

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EXHIBIT A

[Form of]

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

 

US$20,000,000.00

(maximum amount)

   February 14, 2020

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “BORROWER”), HEREBY UNCONDITIONALLY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “BANK”), the principal sum of TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS (US$20,000,000.00) or, if less, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all LOANS made to the BORROWER pursuant to the LINE AGREEMENT referred to below, together with interest on the unpaid principal amount of each LOAN from time to time outstanding hereunder at the rates, and payable in the manner and on the dates, specified in the LINE AGREEMENT, the provisions of which are incorporated by reference in this NOTE.

The BANK shall record the date and amount of each LOAN made, the APPLICABLE INTEREST RATE, the amount of principal and interest due and payable from time to time hereunder, each payment thereof, and the resulting unpaid principal balance hereof, on the schedule attached to this NOTE or any similar form designated by the BANK in its sole and absolute discretion from time to time, and any such recordation shall be prima facie evidence of the accuracy of the information so recorded; provided that the BANK’s failure so to record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the BORROWER hereunder and under the LINE AGREEMENT to repay the principal of and interest on the LOANS.

Both principal and interest are payable in the currency of the LOAN and in immediately available funds to the BANK at 277 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10172, or at such other place as may be designated in writing by the holder of this NOTE.

This promissory note is the NOTE referred to in, and is subject to and entitled to the benefits of, the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between the BORROWER and the BANK (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “LINE AGREEMENT”). Capitalized terms used herein shall have the respective meanings assigned to them in the LINE AGREEMENT.

The LINE AGREEMENT provides, among other things, for acceleration (which in certain cases shall be automatic) of the maturity hereof upon the occurrence of certain stated events, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived.

THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:   /s/ Scott S Wheeler
  Scott S Wheeler
  Chief Financial Officer


SCHEDULE TO

UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE

BORROWER: THORNE HOLDING CORP.

LINE AMOUNT:     US$20,000,000.00

 

Date

  

Bank’s
Reference
Number

  

Amount

of Loan

  

Maturity
Date

  

Applicable
Interest
Rate

  

Amount
of
Principal
Paid

  

Unpaid
Balance
of Note

  

Notation
Made
By:


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Borrower”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 5.01 of the UNCOMMITTED AND REVOLVING CREDIT LINE AGREEMENT dated as of February 14, 2020 between the Borrower and the Bank (as amended, modified, renewed or extended from time to time, the “Line Agreement”). Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Line Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis for the period ended [            ] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

(a) The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

(b) The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this                      day of         ,                     .

 

By:    
  Name:
  Title:

Exhibit 10.20

REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT

by and between

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

and

THORNE HOLDING CORP.

Dated as of November 30, 2018


REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT, dated as of November 30, 2018 (the “Agreement”) by and between THORNE HOLDING CORP., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware (the “Company”), and SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”).

RECITALS:

The Company wishes the Bank to issue, from time to time, from and after the date hereof, one or more standby letters of credit for the account of the Company (each, a “Letter of Credit”) for the sole purpose of supporting the obligation of Thorne Research, Inc., a subsidiary of the Company, to make a security deposit pursuant to Section 1.5 of that certain Lease Agreement dated September 29, 2016 between Thorne Research, Inc., as tenant, and GPT Summerville Owner, LLC, as landlord, and the Bank is willing to issue such Letters of Credit, subject to the exercise of its discretion in each instance, all on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises contained in this Agreement, the Company and the Bank agree as follows:

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS AND CONSTRUCTION

Section 1.1 Definitions. As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following definitions:

“Beneficial Ownership Certification” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the Beneficial Ownership Regulation.

“Beneficial Ownership Regulation” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“Commission Fee” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.5.

“Default” means an Event of Default or any event or condition which, upon notice, lapse of time or both pursuant to Section 6.2, would, unless cured or waived, become an Event of Default.

“Demand” means any sight draft, electronic or telegraphic or SWIFT transmission, or other written demand drawn or made, or purported to be drawn or made, under or in connection with any Letter of Credit.

“Dollars” or “$” refers to lawful money of the United States of America.

“Event of Default” has the meaning assigned in Section 6.2.

“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.


“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“Governmental Authority” means the government of the United States of America or any other nation or any political subdivision thereof, whether state or local, and any agency, authority, instrumentality, regulatory body, court, central bank or other entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, taxing, regulatory or administrative powers or functions of or pertaining to government.

“Insolvency Proceeding” means any proceeding commenced by or against any Person under any provision of the United States Bankruptcy Code, as amended, or under any other bankruptcy or insolvency law, including assignments for the benefit of creditors, or proceedings seeking reorganization, arrangement, or other relief.

“LC Application” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.2.

“LC Disbursement” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.3.

“Letter of Credit” has the meaning assigned in the Recitals to this Agreement.

“Letter of Guarantee” means the Letter of Guarantee provided by the Parents in favor of the Bank in support of the Company’s obligations hereunder, to be delivered to the Bank pursuant to Section 3.1(a)(iii).

“Material Adverse Effect” means a material adverse effect on or change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise) or prospects of the Company or the Company and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole; (b) the legality, validity, binding effect or enforceability of this Agreement, or the Letter of Guarantee; (c) the ability of the Company or any Parent to fully and timely perform its obligations under this Agreement or the Letter of Guarantee, as applicable, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the Bank’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the Bank under this Agreement or the Letter of Guarantee.

“Obligations” means all obligations, liabilities and indebtedness of every nature of the Company from time to time owing to the Bank under or in connection with this Agreement or any Letter of Credit, in each case whether primary, secondary, direct, indirect, joint, several, joint and several, contingent (including the undrawn amount of each Letter of Credit), fixed or otherwise, including the obligation to provide cash collateral pursuant to this Agreement and including interest accruing at the rate provided in this Agreement on or after the commencement of any Insolvency Proceeding, whether or not allowed or allowable.

“Order” means any writ, judgment, injunction, decree or similar order of any Governmental Authority.

“Parent” (or, collectively, the “Parents”) means Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, each a corporation organized under the laws of Japan.

 

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“Person” means any natural person, corporation, limited liability company, trust, joint venture, association, company, partnership, Governmental Authority, or other entity.

“Prime Rate” means the rate of interest per annum established by the Bank’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the Prime Rate shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“Sanctions” has the meaning assigned in Section 5.1(f).

“Subsidiary” means, with respect to any Person (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent. Unless otherwise specified, all references herein to a “Subsidiary” or to “Subsidiaries” shall refer to a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries of the Company.

“Taxes” means all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, duties, deductions, withholdings (including backup withholding), assessments, fees or other charges imposed by any Governmental Authority, including any interest, additions to tax or penalties applicable thereto.

“UCP” means the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits as most recently published by the International Chamber of Commerce.

Section 1.2 Terms Generally. The definitions of terms herein shall apply equally to the singular and plural forms of the terms defined. Whenever the context may require, any pronoun shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine and neuter forms. The words “include”, “includes” and “including” shall be deemed to be followed by the phrase “without limitation”. Unless the context requires otherwise (a) any definition of or reference to any agreement, instrument or other document herein shall be construed as referring to such agreement, instrument or other document as from time to time amended, supplemented or otherwise modified (subject to any restrictions on such amendments, supplements or modifications set forth herein), (b) any reference herein to any Person shall be construed to include such Person’s successors and assigns, and (c) the words “herein”, “hereof and “hereunder”, and words of similar import, shall be construed to refer to this Agreement in its entirety and not to any particular provision hereof.

Section 1.3 Accounting Terms; GAAP. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all terms of an accounting or financial nature shall be construed in accordance with GAAP, as in effect from time to time.

 

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ARTICLE 2

ISSUANCE OF LETTERS OF CREDIT;

REIMBURSEMENT AND OTHER PAYMENTS

Section 2.1 General. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, the Company may from time to time request the Bank to issue Letters of Credit for its own account in such form as is acceptable to the Bank in its reasonable determination. A Letter of Credit may state that it is issued for the account of any Subsidiary of the Company without prejudice to the agreement herein between the Company and the Bank that the Company shall be the account party for all Letters of Credit and shall have the obligations with respect thereto provided by this Agreement. The Company and the Bank acknowledge and agree that in no event shall the aggregate amount of the Letters of Credit issued under this Agreement exceed $ 4,900,000.

Section 2.2 Procedure for Issuing Letters of Credit. In order to request the issuance of a Letter of Credit, the Company shall deliver to the Bank (reasonably in advance of the requested date of issuance) an application requesting the issuance of a Letter of Credit, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B, or in such other form as may be acceptable to the Bank (each, an “LC Application”), setting forth the following information with respect to the requested Letter of Credit: (i) the issuance date; (ii) the amount; (iii) the expiry date; (iv) the name and address of the applicant (which may be the Company or a Subsidiary); (v) the name and address of the beneficiary; (vi) the documents, if any, to be presented by the beneficiary in case of any Demand; (vii) the full text of any certificate to be presented by the beneficiary in case of any Demand; and (viii) such other matters as shall be necessary to prepare the Letter of Credit. If the Bank agrees to issue the Letter of Credit, the Bank shall deliver such Letter of Credit to its addressee with a copy to the Company and, if applicable, the Subsidiary, unless otherwise specified in the LC Application. The signing of this Agreement shall not be construed to impose upon the Bank an obligation to issue, amend or renew any Letter of Credit.

Section 2.3 Reimbursement. If the Bank shall make any payment or disbursement pursuant to or in respect of a Demand (each, an “LC Disbursement”), the Company shall pay to the Bank, on demand, in same day funds, an amount equal to such LC Disbursement, provided that (a) if such Demand is in a currency other than Dollars, the Company shall, at the option of the Bank, (i) pay the equivalent of such amount in Dollars at the Bank’s then-applicable selling rate for such other currency for transfers to the place where, and in the currency in which, such Demand is payable, or (ii) pay such amount in such other currency in the place, form and manner directed by the Bank; and (b) if a time draft is drawn under any Letter of Credit, the Company shall make such payment without demand sufficiently in advance of the maturity of the draft to enable the Bank to make timely payment of the amount so drawn under such Letter of Credit. The Company’s obligations with respect to any Letter of Credit issued [at the Company’s request] for the account of a Subsidiary shall remain in effect until satisfied or such Letter of Credit expires undrawn, irrespective of any change in control of the Subsidiary.

Section 2.4 Interest on Overdue Amounts. If the Company fails to reimburse the Bank for any LC Disbursement or if the Company fails to pay any other amount owing hereunder in full on the date due, then the unpaid amount thereof shall bear interest (computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and the actual number of days elapsed), for each day from and including the date of such LC Disbursement or payment default, as applicable, to but excluding the date on which payment is actually made by the Company, at the Prime Rate plus 2.0%.

 

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Section 2.5 Commission Fee. The Company shall pay to the Bank a commission fee (the “Commission Fee”) with respect to each Letter of Credit, which shall be payable at such times and computed on such amounts and at such rates as the Company and the Bank may agree in one or more separate fee agreements or, in the absence of such an agreement, as the Bank may, in its discretion, reasonably determine. The Commission Fee shall be fully earned when due and nonrefundable when paid, and the Company shall have no right to any refund of Commission Fees previously paid by the Company, including any refund claimed because a Letter of Credit is cancelled prior to its expiration date.

Section 2.6 Payment Instructions. All payments by the Company to the Bank hereunder shall be made in immediately available funds, free of any reduction and without set-off or counterclaim. Payments in Dollars shall be made at or prior to 2:00 p.m., New York time, by wire transfer to Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York (SWIFT: SMBCUS33), ABA Number: 0260-0967-4, Account Name: SMBC Loan Operations New York, Account Number: 423001, Reference: Thorne Holding Corp., Attn: BCDAD JDAD Loan Services, or to such other account or accounts as the Bank may notify the Company pursuant to Section 7.2. The Company hereby authorizes the Bank to debit any account maintained by the Company with the Bank to effect any payment under this Agreement.

Section 2.7 Additional Costs. If any change in any law or regulation or in the interpretation thereof by any Governmental Authority charged with the administration thereof shall either (i) impose, modify or deem applicable any reserve, special deposit or similar requirement, including any capital adequacy costs, against letters of credit issued by the Bank or (ii) impose on the Bank any other condition regarding any Letter of Credit, and the result of any event referred to in clause (i) or (ii) of this Section 2.7 shall be to increase the cost to the Bank of issuing or maintaining such Letter of Credit in any amount deemed material by the Bank, which cost, in the Bank’s judgment, cannot reasonably be avoided by the Bank, then, upon written notice from the Bank, the Company shall promptly pay to the Bank an amount equal to such cost, the Bank’s determination of which will be conclusive in the absence of manifest error. All amounts contemplated in this Section 2.7 that are not paid within 10 days following such notice will bear interest at the rate set forth in Section 2.4.

Section 2.8 Net Payment. All amounts payable by the Company hereunder will be paid in full, free of all Taxes now or hereafter levied, collected, withheld, assessed or otherwise imposed, except in the case of the taxes imposed on the overall net income of the Bank. If any Taxes are so levied or imposed, the Company agrees to pay the full amount of such Taxes and such additional amounts as may be necessary so that every payment of all amounts due hereunder, after withholding or deduction or on account of any Taxes, will not be less than the amount provided for herein. The Company shall promptly furnish to the Bank tax receipts or other evidence of the payment by the Company of any such Taxes that are due under applicable law and, if the Bank pays any such Taxes, the Bank shall furnish to the Company copies of tax receipts evidencing such payment by the Bank. If the Company is prohibited by law from making one or more payments under this Agreement free of Taxes in accordance herewith, or if any taxing authority shall at any time assert that the Bank is required to pay any such Taxes with respect to payments made by the Company under this Agreement,

 

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then the Company shall pay such additional amount to the Bank as may be necessary in order that the actual amount received by Bank after all Taxes (and after payment of any additional Taxes due as a consequence of the payment of such additional amount) shall equal the amount that would have been received by the Bank if such Taxes were not required. Whenever any such Taxes are required to be withheld or deducted from any amounts payable to the Bank hereunder, the Company shall pay such Taxes to the appropriate taxing authority for the account of the Bank and, as promptly as possible thereafter, send to the Bank an official receipt showing payment thereof, together with such additional documentary evidence as may be reasonably required from time to time by the Bank. If the Company fails to pay any such Taxes when due to the appropriate taxing authority or fails to remit any such official receipts or other required documentary evidence, the Company agrees to indemnify the Bank for and to hold the Bank harmless from and against any incremental taxes, interest or penalties that may become payable by the Bank as a result of such failure.

Section 2.9 Letters of Credit Issued for Subsidiaries. Notwithstanding that a Letter of Credit issued or outstanding pursuant hereto is in support of an obligation of, or is for the account of, a Subsidiary (or any Person who was a Subsidiary at the time the Letter of Credit was issued), the Company shall be obligated, on behalf of such Subsidiary, to reimburse Bank hereunder for any and all drawings under such Letter of Credit. The Company hereby acknowledges that the issuance of Letters of Credit for the account of its Subsidiaries inures to the benefit of the Company, and that the Company’s business derives substantial benefits from the businesses of such Subsidiaries.

ARTICLE 3

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

Section 3.1 Conditions Precedent to Issuance of Letters of Credit. It shall be a condition precedent to the issuance by the Bank of any Letter of Credit that:

(a) The Bank shall have received all of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the Bank:

(i) a certificate of an officer of the Company, dated as of the date hereof, certifying the name and true signatures of the officers of the Company authorized to sign this Agreement and any documents related hereto;

(ii) evidence reasonably acceptable to the Bank that the Company’s execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action;

(iii) at least five days prior to the issuance of the first Letter of Credit, a Beneficial Ownership Certification in relation to the Company;

(iv) the Letter of Guarantee, together with evidence reasonably acceptable to the Bank that the Parents’ execution, delivery and performance of the Letter of Guarantee have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action; and

(v) such other documents, instruments, approvals (and, if requested by the Bank, certified duplicates of executed copies thereof) as the Bank may request, including any guarantee or expression of support or pledge of security the Bank may require from time to time.

 

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(b) The representations and warranties contained in Section 5.1 hereof shall be true and correct on and as of the date of issuance of each Letter of Credit as though made on and as of such date.

(c) All fees due hereunder or in connection herewith, including, but not limited to, the Commission Fee described in Section 2.5 hereof, shall have been irrevocably paid in full.

ARTICLE 4

OBLIGATIONS ABSOLUTE

Section 4.1 Obligations of the Company. The obligations of the Company under this Agreement shall be absolute, unconditional and irrevocable, and shall be paid and performed strictly in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, under any and all circumstances whatsoever, and irrespective of

(a) the existence of any claim, set-off, defense or other rights that the Company, any other party guaranteeing or otherwise obligated with the Company, any Subsidiary or any other Person may at any time have against the beneficiary under any Letter of Credit, the Bank or any other Person, whether in connection with this Agreement or any other related or unrelated agreement or transaction;

(b) any Demand or other document presented under a Letter of Credit proving to be forged, fraudulent, invalid or insufficient in any respect or any statement therein being untrue or inaccurate in any respect;

(c) the insolvency or bankruptcy of any Person;

(d) any lack of validity or enforceability of any Letter of Credit or this Agreement, or any term or provision of any of the foregoing;

(e) any change in the time, manner, or place of payment of, or in any other term of, any obligation of the Company, any Subsidiary, or any other Person in respect of this Agreement, any Letter of Credit, or any related document or instrument or any other amendment or waiver of or any consent to departure from any of the foregoing;

(f) whether such Letter of Credit is issued in support of any obligations of any Subsidiary or any Subsidiary is an applicant for, or purports in any way to have any liability for, such Letter of Credit; or

(g) any other act, or omission to act, or delay of any kind of the Bank or any other Person or any other event or circumstance whatsoever, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing, that might, but for the provisions of this Section 4.1, constitute a legal or equitable discharge of the Company’s obligations hereunder.

 

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Section 4.2 Actions by the Bank. The Company agrees that any action or omission by the Bank or any of the Bank’s correspondents in connection with the Letters of Credit or presentation thereunder will be binding on the Company and will not result in any liability to the Bank or any of the Bank’s correspondents in the absence of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Bank or the Bank’s correspondents, as the case may be. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Bank and each of the Bank’s correspondents (i) may rely on any oral or other communication believed in good faith by the Bank or such correspondent to have been authorized or given by or on behalf of the Company; (ii) may honor any presentation if the documents presented appear on their face substantially to comply with the terms and conditions of the relevant Letter of Credit; (iii) will not be liable to the Company for any consequential, punitive or special damages, or for any damages resulting from any change in the value of any property relating to the Letters of Credit; (iv) may honor any Demand (whether such Demand is presented before or after the expiration of the Letter of Credit under which it is presented and whether such Demand has been previously dishonored) pursuant to a court order, to settle or compromise any claim that the Demand was wrongfully dishonored, or otherwise, and in such case the Bank shall be entitled to reimbursement from the Company of the amount, including any interest, the Bank so pays to the same extent as if the Bank had initially honored such Demand; (v) may honor any Demand that is payable upon presentation of a statement advising negotiation or payment, upon receipt of such statement (even if such statement indicates that a draft or other document is being separately delivered), and will not be liable for any failure of any such draft or other document to arrive, or to conform in any way with the relevant Letter of Credit; (vi) may pay any paying or negotiating bank claiming that it rightfully honored under the laws or practices of the place where such bank is located; and (vii) may settle or adjust any claim or demand made on the Bank in any way related to an Order; and honor any Demand in connection with a Letter of Credit that is the subject of such Order, notwithstanding that any Demand or other documents presented in connection with such Letter of Credit fail to conform in any way with such Letter of Credit.

Section 4.3 Payment of Demand. The Bank shall examine all documents purporting to represent a demand for payment under a Letter of Credit promptly following its receipt of such Demand, and shall notify the Company of such Demand and whether the Bank has made or will make an LC Disbursement thereunder as promptly as possible; provided that any failure to give or delay in giving such notice will not relieve the Company of its obligation to reimburse the Bank with respect to any such LC Disbursement.

ARTICLE 5

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

Section 5.1 Representations and Warranties of the Company. The Company represents and warrants as follows:

(a) Each Parent is the direct owner of 38.7% of the issued and outstanding voting stock of the Company.

(b) The Company (i) is an entity duly organized, validly existing and in good standing (where applicable) under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization, (ii) has all requisite power and authority, and all requisite licenses and permits from all Governmental Authorities having jurisdiction over the Company, to own its property and assets and to carry on its business as now

 

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conducted and as proposed to be conducted, (iii) is qualified to do business, and is in good standing (where applicable), in every jurisdiction where such qualification is required and (iv) has the corporate power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and each other agreement or instrument contemplated hereby to which it is or will be a party.

(c) This Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby (i) have been duly authorized by all requisite corporate and, if required, shareholder action and (ii) will not (A) violate (1) any material provision of law, statute, rule or regulation, or of the certificate or articles of incorporation or other constitutive documents or by-laws of the Company, (2) any Order or (3) any provision of any indenture or any other material agreement or instrument to which the Company is a party or by which the Company or any of its property is or may be bound, or (B) be in conflict with, result in a breach of or constitute (alone or with notice, lapse of time, or both) a default under, or give rise to any right to accelerate or to require the prepayment, repurchase or redemption of any obligation under any such indenture, agreement or other instrument.

(d) This Agreement and the Letter of Guarantee constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation, contract and agreement of the Company or the Parents, as applicable, enforceable against such entity in accordance with its terms, except as enforcement may be limited by (i) bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws or equitable principles relating to or limiting creditors’ rights generally and (ii) general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).

(e) None of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries nor, to the knowledge of the Company, any director, officer, agent, employee or other person acting on behalf of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries has taken any action, directly or indirectly, that would result in a violation by such persons of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law; and the Company has instituted and maintains policies and procedures designed to ensure continued compliance therewith.

(f) None of the Company, any of its Subsidiaries or any director, officer, employee, agent, or affiliate of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries is a Person that is, or is owned or controlled by, any Person that is: (i) the subject or target of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”), the U.S. Department of State, or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “Sanctions”), or (ii) located, organized or resident in a country or territory that is, or whose government is, the subject of Sanctions.

ARTICLE 6

COVENANTS OF THE COMPANY; EVENTS OF DEFAULT; REMEDIES

Section 6.1 Covenants of the Company. The Company covenants and agrees with the Bank that, until all Letters of Credit have been canceled or have expired and all amounts drawn thereunder have been reimbursed in full and all interest, fees and other expenses or amounts payable hereunder, if any, shall have been paid in full, and unless the Bank shall otherwise consent in writing:

(a) The Company shall (i) do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve, renew and keep in full force and effect its legal existence, (ii) do or cause to be done all things necessary to obtain, preserve, renew, extend and keep in full force and effect the rights, licenses,

 

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permits, franchises, authorizations, patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade names material to the conduct of its business and (iii) comply in all material respects with all applicable laws, rules, regulations (including any zoning, building, environmental law, ordinance, code or approval) and Orders, whether now in effect or hereafter enacted or issued.

(b) The Company shall deliver to the Bank such information respecting the business, properties, condition or operation, financial or otherwise, of the Company as the Bank may from time to time reasonably request, including:

(i) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company, its audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;

(ii) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the Company, its semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the Bank), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

(iii) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (i) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the Company, in the form of Exhibit A attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a Default or Event of Default has occurred and, if a Default or Event of Default has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

(c) The Company shall pay its obligations, including Taxes, that, if not paid, could result in a Material Adverse Effect before the same shall become delinquent or in default, except where (i) the validity or amount thereof is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, (ii) the Company has set aside on its books adequate reserves with respect thereto in accordance with GAAP and (iii) the failure to make payment pending such contest could not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.

 

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(d) The Company shall promptly notify the Bank of:

(i) any action, suit or proceeding against the Company before any Governmental Authority which, if adversely determined, would materially affect the financial condition or operations of the Company or the ability of the Company to carry on its business or to perform its obligations under this Agreement;

(ii) any Default, together with written notice specifying the nature and period of existence thereof and the action which Company is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto; and

(iii) any other matter which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

(e) The Company shall maintain adequate books, accounts and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of Bank, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its properties and to examine or audit its books, accounts and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, properties and financial and other conditions of Company with officers of Company.

(f) The Company shall perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested from time to time by the Bank to give effect to the purposes of this Agreement.

(g) The Company will not merge into or consolidate with any other Person, or permit any other Person to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

(h) No part of the proceeds of any Letter of Credit will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any Person in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law. The Company shall maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to promote compliance by the Company, its Subsidiaries, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(i) The Company shall not, directly or indirectly, use the proceeds of the Letters of Credit, or lend, contribute or otherwise make available such proceeds to any subsidiary, joint venture partner or other Person, (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any Person, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is, or whose government is, the subject of Sanctions, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of Sanctions by any Person (including any Subsidiary or beneficiary).

Section 6.2 Events of Default. Each of the following will constitute an event of default hereunder (an “Event of Default”):

(a) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made herein or in connection with any Letter of Credit, or any representation, warranty, statement or information made, deemed made or furnished in connection with or pursuant hereto, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when so made, deemed made or furnished.

 

-11-


(b) The Company fails to reimburse the Bank for any LC Disbursement when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof, by acceleration or otherwise.

(c) The Company fails to make any payment of interest on any LC Disbursement or of any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in subsection (b) above) due hereunder or in connection herewith, when and as the same becomes due and payable, and such default continues unremedied for a period of five (5) days.

(d) The Company fails to duly observe or perform any covenant, condition or agreement contained in Section 6.1(a)(i), Section 6.1(d)(ii), Section 6.1(g), Section 6.1(h) or Section 6.1(i).

(e) The Company fails to duly observe or perform any covenant, condition or agreement contained in this Agreement (other than those specified in (b), (c) or (d) above) and such failure continues unremedied for a period of thirty (30) days after notice thereof from the Bank to the Company.

(f) (i) The Company fails to pay any principal or interest, regardless of amount, due in respect of any indebtedness other than the Obligations hereunder (“Other Indebtedness”) when and as the same becomes due and payable or (ii) the Company fails to observe or perform any other term, covenant, condition or agreement contained in any agreement or instrument evidencing or governing any such Other Indebtedness, or any other event or condition occurs, if the effect of any failure or other event or condition referred to in this clause (ii) is to cause, or to permit the holder or holders of such Other Indebtedness or a trustee on its or their behalf to cause, such Other Indebtedness to become due or to be required to be repurchased, redeemed or defeased prior to its stated maturity.

(g) The Company (i) voluntarily commences any proceeding or file any petition seeking liquidation, reorganization or other relief under any Federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar law now or hereafter in effect; (ii) consents to the institution of, or fails to contest in a timely and appropriate manner, any proceeding or petition described in clause (h) of this Section 6.2; (iii) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, sequestrator, conservator or similar official for the Company or for a substantial part of its assets; (iv) files an answer admitting the material allegations of a petition filed against it in any such proceeding; (v) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or (vi) takes any corporate or other action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

(h) An involuntary proceeding is commenced or an involuntary petition is filed seeking (i) liquidation, reorganization or other relief in respect of the Company or its debts, or of a substantial part of its assets, under any Federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar law now or hereafter in effect; or (ii) the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, sequestrator, conservator or similar official for the Company or for a substantial part of its assets, and, in any such case, such proceeding or petition continues undismissed for 60 days or an order or decree approving or ordering any of the foregoing is entered.

 

-12-


(i) The Company becomes unable, admits in writing its inability, or fails generally to pay its debts as they become due.

(j) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $1,000,000 is rendered against the Company and the same remains undischarged for a period of thirty (30) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to levy upon assets or properties of the Company to enforce any such judgment.

(k) Any guarantee, letter of awareness or other document executed or issued in support of the obligations of the Company to the Bank, including the Letter of Guarantee, ceases to be, or is asserted by any issuer thereof not to be, a valid and enforceable guarantee of the obligations hereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder, or any security interest purported to be created by this Agreement or any related security document ceases to be, or is asserted by the grantor thereof not to be, a valid, perfected, first priority security interest in the assets or properties covered thereby.

(l) Any event occurs which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

Section 6.3 Remedies. (a) Upon the occurrence of any Event of Default (other than an event with respect to the Company described in clauses (g), (h), or (i) of Section 6.2), the Bank may, by notice to the Company, (i) declare all Obligations to be immediately due and payable, whereupon the same shall forthwith become due and payable by the Company, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the Company and (ii) demand that the Company pay, whereupon the Company shall be obligated to pay forthwith, an amount in immediately available funds (which funds shall be held by the Bank as collateral to secure the Obligations hereunder for the duration of such Event of Default pursuant to arrangements satisfactory to the Bank) equal to the sum of the aggregate of the amounts undrawn and available to be drawn under all Letters of Credit outstanding on such date; and, in case of any event with respect to the Company described in clauses (g), (h), or (i) of Section 6.2, all Obligations shall become immediately and automatically due and payable, and the obligation of the Company to pay cash collateral as aforesaid shall automatically become effective, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the Company.

(b) If any Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Bank may, without notice to the Company except as required by law and at any time or from time to time, charge, set-off, and otherwise apply any deposits of the Company held by the Bank or any affiliate of the Bank (including unmatured time deposits and certificates of deposit) against the Obligations or any part thereof.

(c) Until the application by the Bank of any portion of the cash collateral hereunder to the discharge of the Obligations, the Company shall be entitled to receive such investment and interest income as may accrue on such portion of the cash collateral not so applied pursuant to arrangements satisfactory to the Bank. In furtherance thereof, the Bank agrees that if and as instructed by the Company, the Bank shall, subject to arrangements satisfactory to it, invest such portion of the

 

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cash collateral as the Company shall direct in the following: (i) certificates of deposit of the Bank or any commercial bank having capital and surplus of at least $100,000,000; (ii) direct obligations of, or obligations of which principal and interest is fully secured by, the U.S. Government or any agency or division thereof, or (iii) commercial paper rated A-1 or P-1.

ARTICLE 7

MISCELLANEOUS

Section 7.1 Amendments; Etc. No amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement nor consent to any departure by the Bank or the Company therefrom shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the Bank and the Company, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given.

Section 7.2 Notices. Except in the case of notices and other communications expressly permitted to be given by telephone, all notices and other communications provided for herein will be in writing and will be delivered by hand or overnight courier service, mailed by certified or registered mail, or sent by fax or email as follows:

If to the Company:   Thorne Holding Corp.

620 Omni Industrial Boulevard

Summerville, SC 29486

Attention: Mr. Scott Wheeler

Telephone: (843) 501-0286

email: swheeler@Thorne.com

If to the Bank:           Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation

277 Park Avenue, 6th Floor

New York, NY 10172

Attention: JDAD

Telephone: (212) 224-4000

Fax: (212) 593.9514

Notices sent by hand or overnight courier service, or mailed by certified or registered mail, will be deemed to have been given when received; notices sent by fax or email will be deemed to have been given when sent (except that, if not given during normal business hours for the recipient, will be deemed to have been given at the opening of business on the next business day for the recipient). The Company and the Bank may each change its address for purposes hereof by notice to the other given in accordance with this Section 7.2.

Section 7.3 No Waiver; Remedies Cumulative. No failure on the part of the Bank or the Company to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise thereof or the exercise of any other rights. The remedies herein provided are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

 

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Section 7.4 Indemnification. (a) The Company shall indemnify and hold harmless the Bank from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, or reasonable costs or expenses whatsoever which the Bank may incur (or which may be claimed against the Bank by any Person whatsoever) by reason of or in connection with the transfer of, or payment of or failure to pay under, any Letter of Credit (including, not in limitation but in furtherance of the foregoing, any of the circumstances set forth in Section 4.1 hereof) or by reason of or in connection with any litigation or other proceeding in any way restraining, enjoining, or affecting the issuance of any Letter of Credit or the entering into of this Agreement or the performance of any obligations hereunder; provided that the Company shall not be required to indemnify the Bank for any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs or expenses to the extent caused directly by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Bank. The obligations of the Company under this Section 7.4 shall survive the termination or payment of any Letter of Credit.

(b) Reliance on Advice of Counsel. The Bank may consult with and employ outside legal counsel to advise it concerning its obligations with respect to any Letter of Credit, and shall be entitled to act upon, and shall be fully protected in any action taken in good faith reliance upon, any advice given by such counsel.

Section 7.5 Continuing Obligation. This Agreement is a continuing obligation and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Bank and the Company and their respective successors, transferees and assigns; provided that the Company may not assign all or any part of its rights or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the Bank.

Section 7.6 Liability of the Bank. As between the Company and the Bank, the Company assumes all risks of the acts and omissions of, or misuse of the Letters of Credit by, the respective beneficiaries of the Letters of Credit; provided however that the Company may have a claim against the Bank and the Bank may be liable to the Company, to the extent, but only to the extent, of any direct (as opposed to consequential or exemplary) damages suffered by the Company which the Company proves were caused by the willful misconduct or gross negligence in determining whether documents presented under a Letter of Credit comply with the terms of such Letter of Credit. In furtherance and not in limitation of the foregoing, the Bank shall not be responsible for: (i) the form, validity, sufficiency, accuracy, genuineness or legal effect of any document submitted by any party in connection with the application for an issuance of a Letter of Credit, even if it should in fact prove to be in any or all respects invalid, insufficient, inaccurate, fraudulent or forged, (ii) the validity or sufficiency of any instrument transferring or assigning or purporting to transfer or assign a Letter of Credit or the rights or benefits thereunder or proceeds thereof, in whole or in part, which may prove to be invalid or ineffective for any reason, (iii) the failure of the beneficiary of a Letter of Credit to comply fully with conditions required to be satisfied by any Person other than the Bank in order to draw upon such Letter of Credit, (iv) errors, omissions, interruptions or delays in transmission or delivery of any messages, by mail, cable, or otherwise, (v) errors in the interpretation of technical terms, (vi) the misapplication by the beneficiary of a Letter of Credit of the proceeds of any drawing under such Letter of Credit or (vii) any consequences arising from causes beyond control of the Bank.

 

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Section 7.7 Costs, Expenses and Taxes. Promptly upon the request of the Bank, the Company shall pay or reimburse the Bank for all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by the Bank in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, recording, enforcement and administration of this Agreement or any related document or instrument, including correspondent’s charges, attorney’s fees and other legal costs and expenses, and any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with any of the foregoing, and the Company shall save the Bank harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

Section 7.8 Governing Law. Except to the extent that any Letter of Credit provides otherwise, the UCP shall apply to each Letter of Credit. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, except to the extent inconsistent with the UCP.

Section 7.9 Headings. Article and Section headings in this Agreement are included herein for convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of this Agreement for any other purpose.

Section 7.10 Severability. If any one or more of the covenants, agreements, provisions or terms of this Agreement shall be for any reason whatsoever held invalid, then such covenants, agreements, provisions or terms shall be deemed severable from the remaining covenants, agreements, provisions or terms of this Agreement and shall in no way offset the validity or enforceability of the other provisions of this Agreement.

Section 7.11 Counterparts. This Agreement may be signed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which together shall constitute one agreement.

Section 7.12 Entire Agreement. This Agreement (including the recitals set forth hereinabove), the Letters of Credit, any fee letters relating thereto and the UCP integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof.

Section 7.13 Waiver of Jury Trial; Submission to Jurisdiction. EACH OF THE BANK AND THE COMPANY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY. The Company and the Bank hereby submit to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and any New York state court sitting in New York City for the purposes of all legal proceedings arising out of or relating to this Agreement.

Section 7.14 PATRIOT Act. The Bank hereby notifies the Company that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “Act”), it is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each customer (including applicants for letters of credit, guarantors and grantors (“Customers”), which information includes the name and address of each Customer and other information that will allow such Bank to identify such Customer in accordance with the Act.

 

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Section 7.15 Confidentiality. The Bank agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the Company pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement, other than information which has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this Section 7.15; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the Bank from disclosing any such information (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in this Agreement or any Letter of Credit or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to the Company and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents attorneys, accountants and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the Bank, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the Bank; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the Bank may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the Bank’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the Bank’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the Company being violated.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed and delivered by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name:   Scott Wheeler
Title:   CFO

 

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION
By:   /s/ Satoshi Takahara
Name:   Satoshi Takahara
Title:   Executive Director

 

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EXHIBIT A

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Company”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 6.1(b) of the Reimbursement Agreement dated as of November 30, 2018 (the “Reimbursement Agreement”) between the Company and the Bank. Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Reimbursement Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Company for the period ended [ ] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

(a) The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

(b) The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this 10th day of December, 2018

 

By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name:   Scott Wheeler
Title:   CFO


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

APPLICATION FOR STANDBY LETTER OF CREDIT

 

   L/C No.:                                                 
   (for Bank use only)

 

 

To:

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

277 Park Avenue, 6th Floor

New York, NY 10172

Attention: JDAD

Date: ________ _______, 20___

Please issue for our account an irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit as set forth below by:

☐ SWIFT____         ☐ Courier ☐ Applicant to arrange pickup ☐ Other (specify):

 

Applicant (full name and address):   
Beneficiary (full name and address):   
Delivery Instructions (if different from Beneficiary):   
Amount and Currency (please use ISO Alphabetic Currency Codes):   
Pricing:   
Issuance Date:    ___         , 20
Expiry Date:    ___         , 20
Drawings to be accompanied by:    ☐ Certificate (please attach full text)
☐ The following documents (please specify):
Letter of Credit format attached:   

☐ yes

☐ no

Other information:   

Confirmation of the Credit:

☐ Not Requested        ☐ Requested                 ☐ Authorized if requested by Beneficiary

Each credit shall be subject to:

☐ International Standby Practice 1998, ICC Publication 590 (ISP98)

☐ Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits, 2007 Revision, International Chamber of Commerce Publication No. 600 (UCP 600)

☐ Other (please specify):

 

Page 2 of 2


The undersigned requests you to issue your irrevocable standby letter of credit (herein called the “Credit”), substantially in accordance with these instructions (marked (x) where appropriate). The undersigned agrees to be bound in respect of the Credit by the terms and conditions of the Reimbursement Agreement dated of November 30, 2018, as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, made by the undersigned (and, if applicable, one or more other parities) to you (which agreement you may have received by electronic transmission). The undersigned represents and warrants to you that (i) no Event of Default (as defined in such agreement) or other event that, with notice, lapse of time, or both, would constitute an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would result from the issuance of the requested Credit and (ii) all representations and warranties contained in such agreement are true and correct in all material respects as of the date hereof and will be true and correct in all material respects immediately after issuance of the requested Credit.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP
By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name:   Scott Wheeler
Title:   CFO


[on Thorne Research, Inc. letterhead]

 

Page 2 of 2

Exhibit 10.21

November 30, 2018

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited

Nakano Central Park South

4-10-2 Nakano, Nakano-ku,

Tokyo, 164-0001, Japan

Dear Sirs

Re: Guarantee — fee letter

This letter (the “Fee Letter”) is entered into in connection with the Guarantee Letter (hosho-sho) (the “Guarantee”) to be submitted by KIRN HOLDINGS COMPANY, LIMITED (“Kirin”) in favor of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation New York Branch (the “Beneficiary”) for the benefit of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Company”), pursuant to which Kirin guarantees certain obligations of the Company under the Reimbursement Agreement, to be entered into by and between the Beneficiary and the Company, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, subject to the limitations and other terms set forth in the Guarantee.

In connection with, and as consideration for Kirin to enter into, the Guarantee, the Company and Kirin hereby agree as follows:

 

a)

The Company agrees to pay Kirin for its own account, an annual fee at the rate per annum of 12 month USD LIBOR (appearing on the appropriate page of the Reuters screen and rounded to the second decimal place, and if such page is replaced or such service ceases to be available, such other page displaying the appropriate rate after consultation between the parties to this Fee Letter), as of the last business day of October before each one year period commencing from the Effective Date, as defined below, and its anniversaries, which rate shall be revised as of such last business day each year while the Guarantee is in effect, plus 3.00% of $2,450,000 (the “Fee”), until the Guarantee is terminated. The initial annual rate per annum shall be 6.08%. The Company shall pay the Fee and any other amounts accrued or otherwise payable pursuant to this Fee Letter (i) on an annual basis on each anniversary of the Effective Date, as defined below; and (ii) upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of the Company; provided that, upon the termination of the Guarantee, the Fee payable with respect to a partial year in which the Guarantee was terminated shall be equal to (x) the Fee multiplied by (y)(i) the number of days elapsed in such year (beginning on the relevant anniversary of the Effective Date) up to such termination divided by (ii) 365. Payment shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to a bank account designated by Kirin.

 

b)

The Company agrees to reimburse Kirin for any reasonably incurred fees or expenses related to Kirin’s entry into the Guarantee and performance thereunder (other than the actual cost of performance under the terms of such Guarantee), specifically including, but not limited to the reasonable expenses of Kirin relating to, or in connection with, the enforcement of, or litigation related to Kirin’s obligations under the Guarantee.


c)

In the event that Kirin is required to pay any amounts under the Guarantee, such amounts shall be deemed to be made for the benefit of the Company in consideration for debt or equity securities of the Company on terms reasonably satisfactory to Kirin and the Company.

The Company agrees that all of the fees and expenses set forth in this Fee Letter shall be fully earned upon becoming due and payable in accordance with the terms hereof.

This Fee Letter, together with the Guarantee, embody the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the specific matters set forth herein and supersede all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.

This Fee Letter shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Each of the parties hereby irrevocably waives all right to trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim (whether based on contract, tort or otherwise) arising out of or relating to this Fee Letter or the transactions contemplated hereby.

This Fee Letter may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one agreement. Delivery of an executed signature page of this Fee Letter by facsimile or electronic mail transmission shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart hereof.

This Fee Letter shall become effective as of the time of issuance of that certain Letter of Credit to be issued by the Beneficiary pursuant to Reimbursement Agreement and which is the subject of the guarantee under the Guarantee (the “Effective Date”) and shall remain effective until the expiration or termination of the Guarantee, and provided that the Company shall remain liable following the termination hereof for accrued and unpaid Fees.

This Fee Letter may not be amended or any provision hereof waived or modified except by an instrument in writing signed by the Company and Kirin.

This Fee Letter may not be assigned by the Company without the prior written consent of Kirin.

Faith fully

Thorne Research, Inc.

 

By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name:   Scott Wheeler
Title:   CFO
Acknowledged and agreed:
KIRIN HOLDINGS COMPANY. LIMITED
By:   /s/ Shobu Nishitani
Name:   Shobu Nishitani
Title:   Director of Group Finance


Exhibit A

Draft

REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT

by and between

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

and

THORNE HOLDING CORP.

Dated as of October 31, 2018


REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT, dated as of October 31, 2018 (the “Agreement”) by and between THORNE HOLDING CORP., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware (the “Company”), and SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”).

RECITALS:

The Company wishes the Bank to issue, from time to time, from and after the date hereof, one or more standby letters of credit for the account of the Company (each, a “Letter of Credit”) for the sole purpose of supporting the obligation of Thorne Research, Inc., a subsidiary of the Company, to make a security deposit pursuant to Section 1.5 of that certain Lease Agreement dated September 29, 2016 between Thorne Research, Inc., as tenant, and GPT Summerville Owner, LLC, as landlord, and the Bank is willing to issue such Letters of Credit, subject to the exercise of its discretion in each instance, all on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises contained in this Agreement, the Company and the Bank agree as follows:

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS AND CONSTRUCTION

Section 1.1 Definitions. As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following definitions:

“Beneficial Ownership Certification” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the Beneficial Ownership Regulation.

“Beneficial Ownership Regulation” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“Commission Fee” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.5.

“Default” means an Event of Default or any event or condition which, upon notice, lapse of time or both pursuant to Section 6.2, would, unless cured or waived, become an Event of Default.

“Demand” means any sight draft, electronic or telegraphic or SWIFT transmission, or other written demand drawn or made, or purported to be drawn or made, under or in connection with any Letter of Credit.

“Dollars” or “$” refers to lawful money of the United States of America.

“Event of Default” has the meaning assigned in Section 6.2.

“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.


“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“Governmental Authority” means the government of the United States of America or any other nation or any political subdivision thereof, whether state or local, and any agency, authority, instrumentality, regulatory body, court, central bank or other entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, taxing, regulatory or administrative powers or functions of or pertaining to government.

“Insolvency Proceeding” means any proceeding commenced by or against any Person under any provision of the United States Bankruptcy Code, as amended, or under any other bankruptcy or insolvency law, including assignments for the benefit of creditors, or proceedings seeking reorganization, arrangement, or other relief.

“LC Application” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.2.

“LC Disbursement” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.3.

“Letter of Credit” has the meaning assigned in the Recitals to this Agreement.

“Letter of Guarantee” means the Letter of Guarantee provided by the Parents in favor of the Bank in support of the Company’s obligations hereunder, to be delivered to the Bank pursuant to Section 3.1(a)(iii).

“Material Adverse Effect” means a material adverse effect on or change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise) or prospects of the Company or the Company and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole; (b) the legality, validity, binding effect or enforceability of this Agreement, or the Letter of Guarantee; (c) the ability of the Company or any Parent to fully and timely perform its obligations under this Agreement or the Letter of Guarantee, as applicable, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the Bank’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the Bank under this Agreement or the Letter of Guarantee.

“Obligations” means all obligations, liabilities and indebtedness of every nature of the Company from time to time owing to the Bank under or in connection with this Agreement or any Letter of Credit, in each case whether primary, secondary, direct, indirect, joint, several, joint and several, contingent (including the undrawn amount of each Letter of Credit), fixed or otherwise, including the obligation to provide cash collateral pursuant to this Agreement and including interest accruing at the rate provided in this Agreement on or after the commencement of any Insolvency Proceeding, whether or not allowed or allowable.

“Order” means any writ, judgment, injunction, decree or similar order of any Governmental Authority.

“Parent” (or, collectively, the “Parents”) means Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, each a corporation organized under the laws of Japan.

 

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“Person” means any natural person, corporation, limited liability company, trust, joint venture, association, company, partnership, Governmental Authority, or other entity.

“Prime Rate” means the rate of interest per annum established by the Bank’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the Prime Rate shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“Sanctions” has the meaning assigned in Section 5.1(f).

“Subsidiary” means, with respect to any Person (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent. Unless otherwise specified, all references herein to a “Subsidiary” or to “Subsidiaries” shall refer to a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries of the Company.

“Taxes” means all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, duties, deductions, withholdings (including backup withholding), assessments, fees or other charges imposed by any Governmental Authority, including any interest, additions to tax or penalties applicable thereto.

“UCP” means the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits as most recently published by the International Chamber of Commerce.

Section 1.2 Terms Generally. The definitions of terms herein shall apply equally to the singular and plural forms of the terms defined. Whenever the context may require, any pronoun shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine and neuter forms. The words “include”, “includes” and “including” shall be deemed to be followed by the phrase “without limitation”. Unless the context requires otherwise (a) any definition of or reference to any agreement, instrument or other document herein shall be construed as referring to such agreement, instrument or other document as from time to time amended, supplemented or otherwise modified (subject to any restrictions on such amendments, supplements or modifications set forth herein), (b) any reference herein to any Person shall be construed to include such Person’s successors and assigns, and (c) the words “herein”, “hereof and “hereunder”, and words of similar import, shall be construed to refer to this Agreement in its entirety and not to any particular provision hereof.

Section 1.3 Accounting Terms; GAAP. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all terms of an accounting or financial nature shall be construed in accordance with GAAP, as in effect from time to time.

 

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ARTICLE 2

ISSUANCE OF LETTERS OF CREDIT;

REIMBURSEMENT AND OTHER PAYMENTS

Section 2.1 General. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, the Company may from time to time request the Bank to issue Letters of Credit for its own account in such form as is acceptable to the Bank in its reasonable determination. A Letter of Credit may state that it is issued for the account of any Subsidiary of the Company without prejudice to the agreement herein between the Company and the Bank that the Company shall be the account party for all Letters of Credit and shall have the obligations with respect thereto provided by this Agreement. The Company and the Bank acknowledge and agree that in no event shall the aggregate amount of the Letters of Credit issued under this Agreement exceed $ 4,900,000.

Section 2.2 Procedure for Issuing Letters of Credit. In order to request the issuance of a Letter of Credit, the Company shall deliver to the Bank (reasonably in advance of the requested date of issuance) an application requesting the issuance of a Letter of Credit, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B, or in such other form as may be acceptable to the Bank (each, an “LC Application”), setting forth the following information with respect to the requested Letter of Credit: (i) the issuance date; (ii) the amount; (iii) the expiry date; (iv) the name and address of the applicant (which may be the Company or a Subsidiary); (v) the name and address of the beneficiary; (vi) the documents, if any, to be presented by the beneficiary in case of any Demand; (vii) the full text of any certificate to be presented by the beneficiary in case of any Demand; and (viii) such other matters as shall be necessary to prepare the Letter of Credit. If the Bank agrees to issue the Letter of Credit, the Bank shall deliver such Letter of Credit to its addressee with a copy to the Company and, if applicable, the Subsidiary, unless otherwise specified in the LC Application. The signing of this Agreement shall not be construed to impose upon the Bank an obligation to issue, amend or renew any Letter of Credit.

Section 2.3 Reimbursement. If the Bank shall make any payment or disbursement pursuant to or in respect of a Demand (each, an “LC Disbursement”), the Company shall pay to the Bank, on demand, in same day funds, an amount equal to such LC Disbursement, provided that (a) if such Demand is in a currency other than Dollars, the Company shall, at the option of the Bank, (i) pay the equivalent of such amount in Dollars at the Bank’s then-applicable selling rate for such other currency for transfers to the place where, and in the currency in which, such Demand is payable, or (ii) pay such amount in such other currency in the place, form and manner directed by the Bank; and (b) if a time draft is drawn under any Letter of Credit, the Company shall make such payment without demand sufficiently in advance of the maturity of the draft to enable the Bank to make timely payment of the amount so drawn under such Letter of Credit. The Company’s obligations with respect to any Letter of Credit issued [at the Company’s request] for the account of a Subsidiary shall remain in effect until satisfied or such Letter of Credit expires undrawn, irrespective of any change in control of the Subsidiary.

Section 2.4 Interest on Overdue Amounts. If the Company fails to reimburse the Bank for any LC Disbursement or if the Company fails to pay any other amount owing hereunder in full on the date due, then the unpaid amount thereof shall bear interest (computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and the actual number of days elapsed), for each day from and including the date of such LC Disbursement or payment default, as applicable, to but excluding the date on which payment is actually made by the Company, at the Prime Rate plus 2.0%.

 

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Section 2.5 Commission Fee. The Company shall pay to the Bank a commission fee (the “Commission Fee”) with respect to each Letter of Credit, which shall be payable at such times and computed on such amounts and at such rates as the Company and the Bank may agree in one or more separate fee agreements or, in the absence of such an agreement, as the Bank may, in its discretion, reasonably determine. The Commission Fee shall be fully earned when due and nonrefundable when paid, and the Company shall have no right to any refund of Commission Fees previously paid by the Company, including any refund claimed because a Letter of Credit is cancelled prior to its expiration date.

Section 2.6 Payment Instructions. All payments by the Company to the Bank hereunder shall be made in immediately available funds, free of any reduction and without set-off or counterclaim. Payments in Dollars shall be made at or prior to 2:00 p.m., New York time, by wire transfer to Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York (SWIFT: SMBCUS33), ABA Number: 0260-0967-4, Account Name: SMBC Loan Operations New York, Account Number: 423001, Reference: Thorne Holding Corp., Attn: BCDAD JDAD Loan Services, or to such other account or accounts as the Bank may notify the Company pursuant to Section 7.2. The Company hereby authorizes the Bank to debit any account maintained by the Company with the Bank to effect any payment under this Agreement.

Section 2.7 Additional Costs. If any change in any law or regulation or in the interpretation thereof by any Governmental Authority charged with the administration thereof shall either (i) impose, modify or deem applicable any reserve, special deposit or similar requirement, including any capital adequacy costs, against letters of credit issued by the Bank or (ii) impose on the Bank any other condition regarding any Letter of Credit, and the result of any event referred to in clause (i) or (ii) of this Section 2.7 shall be to increase the cost to the Bank of issuing or maintaining such Letter of Credit in any amount deemed material by the Bank, which cost, in the Bank’s judgment, cannot reasonably be avoided by the Bank, then, upon written notice from the Bank, the Company shall promptly pay to the Bank an amount equal to such cost, the Bank’s determination of which will be conclusive in the absence of manifest error. All amounts contemplated in this Section 2.7 that are not paid within 10 days following such notice will bear interest at the rate set forth in Section 2.4.

Section 2.8 Net Payment. All amounts payable by the Company hereunder will be paid in full, free of all Taxes now or hereafter levied, collected, withheld, assessed or otherwise imposed, except in the case of the taxes imposed on the overall net income of the Bank. If any Taxes are so levied or imposed, the Company agrees to pay the full amount of such Taxes and such additional amounts as may be necessary so that every payment of all amounts due hereunder, after withholding or deduction or on account of any Taxes, will not be less than the amount provided for herein. The Company shall promptly furnish to the Bank tax receipts or other evidence of the payment by the Company of any such Taxes that are due under applicable law and, if the Bank pays any such Taxes, the Bank shall furnish to the Company copies of tax receipts evidencing such payment by the Bank. If the Company is prohibited by law from making one or more payments under this Agreement free of Taxes in accordance herewith, or if any taxing authority shall at any time assert that the Bank is required to pay any such Taxes with respect to payments made by the Company under this Agreement,

 

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then the Company shall pay such additional amount to the Bank as may be necessary in order that the actual amount received by Bank after all Taxes (and after payment of any additional Taxes due as a consequence of the payment of such additional amount) shall equal the amount that would have been received by the Bank if such Taxes were not required. Whenever any such Taxes are required to be withheld or deducted from any amounts payable to the Bank hereunder, the Company shall pay such Taxes to the appropriate taxing authority for the account of the Bank and, as promptly as possible thereafter, send to the Bank an official receipt showing payment thereof, together with such additional documentary evidence as may be reasonably required from time to time by the Bank. If the Company fails to pay any such Taxes when due to the appropriate taxing authority or fails to remit any such official receipts or other required documentary evidence, the Company agrees to indemnify the Bank for and to hold the Bank harmless from and against any incremental taxes, interest or penalties that may become payable by the Bank as a result of such failure.

Section 2.9 Letters of Credit Issued for Subsidiaries. Notwithstanding that a Letter of Credit issued or outstanding pursuant hereto is in support of an obligation of, or is for the account of, a Subsidiary (or any Person who was a Subsidiary at the time the Letter of Credit was issued), the Company shall be obligated, on behalf of such Subsidiary, to reimburse Bank hereunder for any and all drawings under such Letter of Credit. The Company hereby acknowledges that the issuance of Letters of Credit for the account of its Subsidiaries inures to the benefit of the Company, and that the Company’s business derives substantial benefits from the businesses of such Subsidiaries.

ARTICLE 3

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

Section 3.1. Conditions Precedent to Issuance of Letters of Credit. It shall be a condition precedent to the issuance by the Bank of any Letter of Credit that:

(a) The Bank shall have received all of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the Bank:

(i) a certificate of an officer of the Company, dated as of the date hereof, certifying the name and true signatures of the officers of the Company authorized to sign this Agreement and any documents related hereto;

(ii) evidence reasonably acceptable to the Bank that the Company’s execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action;

(iii) at least five days prior to the issuance of the first Letter of Credit, a Beneficial Ownership Certification in relation to the Company;

(iv) the Letter of Guarantee, together with evidence reasonably acceptable to the Bank that the Parents’ execution, delivery and performance of the Letter of Guarantee have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action; and

(v) such other documents, instruments, approvals (and, if requested by the Bank, certified duplicates of executed copies thereof) as the Bank may request, including any guarantee or expression of support or pledge of security the Bank may require from time to time.

 

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(b) The representations and warranties contained in Section 5.1 hereof shall be true and correct on and as of the date of issuance of each Letter of Credit as though made on and as of such date.

(c) All fees due hereunder or in connection herewith, including, but not limited to, the Commission Fee described in Section 2.5 hereof, shall have been irrevocably paid in full.

ARTICLE 4

OBLIGATIONS ABSOLUTE

Section 4.1 Obligations of the Company. The obligations of the Company under this Agreement shall be absolute, unconditional and irrevocable, and shall be paid and performed strictly in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, under any and all circumstances whatsoever, and irrespective of

(a) the existence of any claim, set-off, defense or other rights that the Company, any other party guaranteeing or otherwise obligated with the Company, any Subsidiary or any other Person may at any time have against the beneficiary under any Letter of Credit, the Bank or any other Person, whether in connection with this Agreement or any other related or unrelated agreement or transaction;

(b) any Demand or other document presented under a Letter of Credit proving to be forged, fraudulent, invalid or insufficient in any respect or any statement therein being untrue or inaccurate in any respect;

(c) the insolvency or bankruptcy of any Person;

(d) any lack of validity or enforceability of any Letter of Credit or this Agreement, or any term or provision of any of the foregoing;

(e) any change in the time, manner, or place of payment of, or in any other term of, any obligation of the Company, any Subsidiary, or any other Person in respect of this Agreement, any Letter of Credit, or any related document or instrument or any other amendment or waiver of or any consent to departure from any of the foregoing;

(f) whether such Letter of Credit is issued in support of any obligations of any Subsidiary or any Subsidiary is an applicant for, or purports in any way to have any liability for, such Letter of Credit; or

(g) any other act, or omission to act, or delay of any kind of the Bank or any other Person or any other event or circumstance whatsoever, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing, that might, but for the provisions of this Section 4.1, constitute a legal or equitable discharge of the Company’s obligations hereunder.

 

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Section 4.2 Actions by the Bank. The Company agrees that any action or omission by the Bank or any of the Bank’s correspondents in connection with the Letters of Credit or presentation thereunder will be binding on the Company and will not result in any liability to the Bank or any of the Bank’s correspondents in the absence of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Bank or the Bank’s correspondents, as the case may be. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Bank and each of the Bank’s correspondents (i) may rely on any oral or other communication believed in good faith by the Bank or such correspondent to have been authorized or given by or on behalf of the Company; (ii) may honor any presentation if the documents presented appear on their face substantially to comply with the terms and conditions of the relevant Letter of Credit; (iii) will not be liable to the Company for any consequential, punitive or special damages, or for any damages resulting from any change in the value of any property relating to the Letters of Credit; (iv) may honor any Demand (whether such Demand is presented before or after the expiration of the Letter of Credit under which it is presented and whether such Demand has been previously dishonored) pursuant to a court order, to settle or compromise any claim that the Demand was wrongfully dishonored, or otherwise, and in such case the Bank shall be entitled to reimbursement from the Company of the amount, including any interest, the Bank so pays to the same extent as if the Bank had initially honored such Demand; (v) may honor any Demand that is payable upon presentation of a statement advising negotiation or payment, upon receipt of such statement (even if such statement indicates that a draft or other document is being separately delivered), and will not be liable for any failure of any such draft or other document to arrive, or to conform in any way with the relevant Letter of Credit; (vi) may pay any paying or negotiating bank claiming that it rightfully honored under the laws or practices of the place where such bank is located; and (vii) may settle or adjust any claim or demand made on the Bank in any way related to an Order; and honor any Demand in connection with a Letter of Credit that is the subject of such Order, notwithstanding that any Demand or other documents presented in connection with such Letter of Credit fail to conform in any way with such Letter of Credit.

Section 4.3 Payment of Demand. The Bank shall examine all documents purporting to represent a demand for payment under a Letter of Credit promptly following its receipt of such Demand, and shall notify the Company of such Demand and whether the Bank has made or will make an LC Disbursement thereunder as promptly as possible; provided that any failure to give or delay in giving such notice will not relieve the Company of its obligation to reimburse the Bank with respect to any such LC Disbursement.

ARTICLE 5

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

Section 5.1 Representations and Warranties of the Company. The Company represents and warrants as follows:

(a) Each Parent is the direct owner of 38.7% of the issued and outstanding voting stock of the Company.

 

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(b) The Company (i) is an entity duly organized, validly existing and in good standing (where applicable) under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization, (ii) has all requisite power and authority, and all requisite licenses and permits from all Governmental Authorities having jurisdiction over the Company, to own its property and assets and to carry on its business as now conducted and as proposed to be conducted, (iii) is qualified to do business, and is in good standing (where applicable), in every jurisdiction where such qualification is required and (iv) has the corporate power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and each other agreement or instrument contemplated hereby to which it is or will be a party.

(c) This Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby (i) have been duly authorized by all requisite corporate and, if required, shareholder action and (ii) will not (A) violate (1) any material provision of law, statute, rule or regulation, or of the certificate or articles of incorporation or other constitutive documents or by-laws of the Company, (2) any Order or (3) any provision of any indenture or any other material agreement or instrument to which the Company is a party or by which the Company or any of its property is or may be bound, or (B) be in conflict with, result in a breach of or constitute (alone or with notice, lapse of time, or both) a default under, or give rise to any right to accelerate or to require the prepayment, repurchase or redemption of any obligation under any such indenture, agreement or other instrument.

(d) This Agreement and the Letter of Guarantee constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation, contract and agreement of the Company or the Parents, as applicable, enforceable against such entity in accordance with its terms, except as enforcement may be limited by (i) bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws or equitable principles relating to or limiting creditors’ rights generally and (ii) general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).

(e) None of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries nor, to the knowledge of the Company, any director, officer, agent, employee or other person acting on behalf of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries has taken any action, directly or indirectly, that would result in a violation by such persons of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law; and the Company has instituted and maintains policies and procedures designed to ensure continued compliance therewith.

(f) None of the Company, any of its Subsidiaries or any director, officer, employee, agent, or affiliate of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries is a Person that is, or is owned or controlled by, any Person that is: (i) the subject or target of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”), the U.S. Department of State, or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “Sanctions”), or (ii) located, organized or resident in a country or territory that is, or whose government is, the subject of Sanctions.

ARTICLE 6

COVENANTS OF THE COMPANY; EVENTS OF DEFAULT; REMEDIES

Section 6.1 Covenants of the Company. The Company covenants and agrees with the Bank that, until all Letters of Credit have been canceled or have expired and all amounts drawn thereunder have been reimbursed in full and all interest, fees and other expenses or amounts payable hereunder, if any, shall have been paid in full, and unless the Bank shall otherwise consent in writing:

(a) The Company shall (i) do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve, renew and keep in full force and effect its legal existence, (ii) do or cause to be done all things necessary to obtain, preserve, renew, extend and keep in full force and effect the rights, licenses, permits, franchises, authorizations, patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade names material to the conduct of its business and (iii) comply in all material respects with all applicable laws, rules, regulations (including any zoning, building, environmental law, ordinance, code or approval) and Orders, whether now in effect or hereafter enacted or issued.

 

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(b) The Company shall deliver to the Bank such information respecting the business, properties, condition or operation, financial or otherwise, of the Company as the Bank may from time to time reasonably request, including:

(i) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company, its audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;

(ii) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the Company, its semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the Bank), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

(iii) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (i) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the Company, in the form of Exhibit A attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a Default or Event of Default has occurred and, if a Default or Event of Default has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

(c) The Company shall pay its obligations, including Taxes, that, if not paid, could result in a Material Adverse Effect before the same shall become delinquent or in default, except where (i) the validity or amount thereof is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, (ii) the Company has set aside on its books adequate reserves with respect thereto in accordance with GAAP and (iii) the failure to make payment pending such contest could not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.

 

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(d) The Company shall promptly notify the Bank of:

(i) any action, suit or proceeding against the Company before any Governmental Authority which, if adversely determined, would materially affect the financial condition or operations of the Company or the ability of the Company to carry on its business or to perform its obligations under this Agreement;

(ii) any Default, together with written notice specifying the nature and period of existence thereof and the action which Company is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto; and

(iii) any other matter which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

(e) The Company shall maintain adequate books, accounts and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of Bank, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its properties and to examine or audit its books, accounts and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, properties and financial and other conditions of Company with officers of Company.

(f) The Company shall perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested from time to time by the Bank to give effect to the purposes of this Agreement.

(g) The Company will not merge into or consolidate with any other Person, or permit any other Person to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

(h) No part of the proceeds of any Letter of Credit will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any Person in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law. The Company shall maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to promote compliance by the Company, its Subsidiaries, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(i) The Company shall not, directly or indirectly, use the proceeds of the Letters of Credit, or lend, contribute or otherwise make available such proceeds to any subsidiary, joint venture partner or other Person, (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any Person, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is, or whose government is, the subject of Sanctions, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of Sanctions by any Person (including any Subsidiary or beneficiary).

Section 6.2 Events of Default. Each of the following will constitute an event of default hereunder (an “Event of Default”):

(a) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made herein or in connection with any Letter of Credit, or any representation, warranty, statement or information made, deemed made or furnished in connection with or pursuant hereto, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when so made, deemed made or furnished.

 

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(b) The Company fails to reimburse the Bank for any LC Disbursement when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof, by acceleration or otherwise.

(c) The Company fails to make any payment of interest on any LC Disbursement or of any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in subsection (b) above) due hereunder or in connection herewith, when and as the same becomes due and payable, and such default continues unremedied for a period of five (5) days.

(d) The Company fails to duly observe or perform any covenant, condition or agreement contained in Section 6.1(a)(i), Section 6.1(d)(ii), Section 6.1(g), Section 6.1(h) or Section 6.1(i).

(e) The Company fails to duly observe or perform any covenant, condition or agreement contained in this Agreement (other than those specified in (b), (c) or (d) above) and such failure continues unremedied for a period of thirty (30) days after notice thereof from the Bank to the Company.

(f) (i) The Company fails to pay any principal or interest, regardless of amount, due in respect of any indebtedness other than the Obligations hereunder (“Other Indebtedness”) when and as the same becomes due and payable or (ii) the Company fails to observe or perform any other term, covenant, condition or agreement contained in any agreement or instrument evidencing or governing any such Other Indebtedness, or any other event or condition occurs, if the effect of any failure or other event or condition referred to in this clause (ii) is to cause, or to permit the holder or holders of such Other Indebtedness or a trustee on its or their behalf to cause, such Other Indebtedness to become due or to be required to be repurchased, redeemed or defeased prior to its stated maturity.

(g) The Company (i) voluntarily commences any proceeding or file any petition seeking liquidation, reorganization or other relief under any Federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar law now or hereafter in effect; (ii) consents to the institution of, or fails to contest in a timely and appropriate manner, any proceeding or petition described in clause (h) of this Section 6.2; (iii) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, sequestrator, conservator or similar official for the Company or for a substantial part of its assets; (iv) files an answer admitting the material allegations of a petition filed against it in any such proceeding; (v) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or (vi) takes any corporate or other action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

(h) An involuntary proceeding is commenced or an involuntary petition is filed seeking (i) liquidation, reorganization or other relief in respect of the Company or its debts, or of a substantial part of its assets, under any Federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar law now or hereafter in effect; or (ii) the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, sequestrator, conservator or similar official for the Company or for a substantial part of its assets, and, in any such case, such proceeding or petition continues undismissed for 60 days or an order or decree approving or ordering any of the foregoing is entered.

 

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(i) The Company becomes unable, admits in writing its inability, or fails generally to pay its debts as they become due.

(j) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $1,000,000 is rendered against the Company and the same remains undischarged for a period of thirty (30) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to levy upon assets or properties of the Company to enforce any such judgment.

(k) Any guarantee, letter of awareness or other document executed or issued in support of the obligations of the Company to the Bank, including the Letter of Guarantee, ceases to be, or is asserted by any issuer thereof not to be, a valid and enforceable guarantee of the obligations hereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder, or any security interest purported to be created by this Agreement or any related security document ceases to be, or is asserted by the grantor thereof not to be, a valid, perfected, first priority security interest in the assets or properties covered thereby.

(l) Any event occurs which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

Section 6.3 Remedies. (a) Upon the occurrence of any Event of Default (other than an event with respect to the Company described in clauses (g), (h), or (i) of Section 6.2), the Bank may, by notice to the Company, (i) declare all Obligations to be immediately due and payable, whereupon the same shall forthwith become due and payable by the Company, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the Company and (ii) demand that the Company pay, whereupon the Company shall be obligated to pay forthwith, an amount in immediately available funds (which funds shall be held by the Bank as collateral to secure the Obligations hereunder for the duration of such Event of Default pursuant to arrangements satisfactory to the Bank) equal to the sum of the aggregate of the amounts undrawn and available to be drawn under all Letters of Credit outstanding on such date; and, in case of any event with respect to the Company described in clauses (g), (h), or (i) of Section 6.2, all Obligations shall become immediately and automatically due and payable, and the obligation of the Company to pay cash collateral as aforesaid shall automatically become effective, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the Company.

(b) If any Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Bank may, without notice to the Company except as required by law and at any time or from time to time, charge, set-off, and otherwise apply any deposits of the Company held by the Bank or any affiliate of the Bank (including unmatured time deposits and certificates of deposit) against the Obligations or any part thereof.

(c) Until the application by the Bank of any portion of the cash collateral hereunder to the discharge of the Obligations, the Company shall be entitled to receive such investment and interest income as may accrue on such portion of the cash collateral not so applied pursuant to arrangements satisfactory to the Bank. In furtherance thereof, the Bank agrees that if and as instructed by the Company, the Bank shall, subject to arrangements satisfactory to it, invest such portion of the

 

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cash collateral as the Company shall direct in the following: (i) certificates of deposit of the Bank or any commercial bank having capital and surplus of at least $100,000,000; (ii) direct obligations of, or obligations of which principal and interest is fully secured by, the U.S. Government or any agency or division thereof, or (iii) commercial paper rated A-1 or P-1.

ARTICLE 7

MISCELLANEOUS

Section 7.1 Amendments; Etc. No amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement nor consent to any departure by the Bank or the Company therefrom shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the Bank and the Company, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given.

Section 7.2 Notices. Except in the case of notices and other communications expressly permitted to be given by telephone, all notices and other communications provided for herein will be in writing and will be delivered by hand or overnight courier service, mailed by certified or registered mail, or sent by fax or email as follows:

 

If to the Company:

   Thorne Holding Corp.
   620 Omni Industrial Boulevard
   Summerville, SC 29486
   Attention: Mr. Scott Wheeler
   Telephone: (843) 501-0286
   email: swheeler@Thorne.com

If to the Bank:

   Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
   277 Park Avenue, 6th Floor
   New York, NY 10172
   Attention: JD 4D
   Telephone: (212) 224-4000
   Fax: (212) 593.9514

Notices sent by hand or overnight courier service, or mailed by certified or registered mail, will be deemed to have been given when received; notices sent by fax or email will be deemed to have been given when sent (except that, if not given during normal business hours for the recipient, will be deemed to have been given at the opening of business on the next business day for the recipient). The Company and the Bank may each change its address for purposes hereof by notice to the other given in accordance with this Section 7.2.

Section 7.3 No Waiver; Remedies Cumulative. No failure on the part of the Bank or the Company to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise thereof or the exercise of any other rights. The remedies herein provided are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

 

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Section 7.4 Indemnification. (a) The Company shall indemnify and hold harmless the Bank from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, or reasonable costs or expenses whatsoever which the Bank may incur (or which may be claimed against the Bank by any Person whatsoever) by reason of or in connection with the transfer of, or payment of or failure to pay under, any Letter of Credit (including, not in limitation but in furtherance of the foregoing, any of the circumstances set forth in Section 4.1 hereof) or by reason of or in connection with any litigation or other proceeding in any way restraining, enjoining, or affecting the issuance of any Letter of Credit or the entering into of this Agreement or the performance of any obligations hereunder; provided that the Company shall not be required to indemnify the Bank for any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs or expenses to the extent caused directly by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Bank. The obligations of the Company under this Section 7.4 shall survive the termination or payment of any Letter of Credit.

(b) Reliance on Advice of Counsel. The Bank may consult with and employ outside legal counsel to advise it concerning its obligations with respect to any Letter of Credit, and shall be entitled to act upon, and shall be fully protected in any action taken in good faith reliance upon, any advice given by such counsel.

Section 7.5 Continuing Obligation. This Agreement is a continuing obligation and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Bank and the Company and their respective successors, transferees and assigns; provided that the Company may not assign all or any part of its rights or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the Bank.

Section 7.6 Liability of the Bank. As between the Company and the Bank, the Company assumes all risks of the acts and omissions of, or misuse of the Letters of Credit by, the respective beneficiaries of the Letters of Credit; provided however that the Company may have a claim against the Bank and the Bank may be liable to the Company, to the extent, but only to the extent, of any direct (as opposed to consequential or exemplary) damages suffered by the Company which the Company proves were caused by the willful misconduct or gross negligence in determining whether documents presented under a Letter of Credit comply with the terms of such Letter of Credit. In furtherance and not in limitation of the foregoing, the Bank shall not be responsible for: (i) the form, validity, sufficiency, accuracy, genuineness or legal effect of any document submitted by any party in connection with the application for an issuance of a Letter of Credit, even if it should in fact prove to be in any or all respects invalid, insufficient, inaccurate, fraudulent or forged, (ii) the validity or sufficiency of any instrument transferring or assigning or purporting to transfer or assign a Letter of Credit or the rights or benefits thereunder or proceeds thereof, in whole or in part, which may prove to be invalid or ineffective for any reason, (iii) the failure of the beneficiary of a Letter of Credit to comply fully with conditions required to be satisfied by any Person other than the Bank in order to draw upon such Letter of Credit, (iv) errors, omissions, interruptions or delays in transmission or delivery of any messages, by mail, cable, or otherwise, (v) errors in the interpretation of technical terms, (vi) the misapplication by the beneficiary of a Letter of Credit of the proceeds of any drawing under such Letter of Credit or (vii) any consequences arising from causes beyond control of the Bank.

 

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Section 7.7 Costs, Expenses and Taxes. Promptly upon the request of the Bank, the Company shall pay or reimburse the Bank for all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by the Bank in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, recording, enforcement and administration of this Agreement or any related document or instrument, including correspondent’s charges, attorney’s fees and other legal costs and expenses, and any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with any of the foregoing, and the Company shall save the Bank harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

Section 7.8 Governing Law. Except to the extent that any Letter of Credit provides otherwise, the UCP shall apply to each Letter of Credit. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, except to the extent inconsistent with the UCP.

Section 7.9 Headings. Article and Section headings in this Agreement are included herein for convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of this Agreement for any other purpose.

Section 7.10 Severability. If any one or more of the covenants, agreements, provisions or terms of this Agreement shall be for any reason whatsoever held invalid, then such covenants, agreements, provisions or terms shall be deemed severable from the remaining covenants, agreements, provisions or terms of this Agreement and shall in no way offset the validity or enforceability of the other provisions of this Agreement.

Section 7.11 Counterparts. This Agreement may be signed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which together shall constitute one agreement.

Section 7.12 Entire Agreement. This Agreement (including the recitals set forth hereinabove), the Letters of Credit, any fee letters relating thereto and the UCP integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof.

Section 7.13 Waiver of Jury Trial; Submission to Jurisdiction. EACH OF THE BANK AND THE COMPANY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY. The Company and the Bank hereby submit to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and any New York state court sitting in New York City for the purposes of all legal proceedings arising out of or relating to this Agreement.

Section 7.14 PATRIOT Act. The Bank hereby notifies the Company that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “Act”), it is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each customer (including applicants for letters of credit, guarantors and grantors (“Customers”), which information includes the name and address of each Customer and other information that will allow such Bank to identify such Customer in accordance with the Act.

 

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Section 7.15 Confidentiality. The Bank agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the Company pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement, other than information which has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this Section 7.15; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the Bank from disclosing any such information (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in this Agreement or any Letter of Credit or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to the Company and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents, attorneys, accountants and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the Bank, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the Bank; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the Bank may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the Bank’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the Bank’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the Company being violated.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed and delivered by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name: Scott Wheeler
Title: CFO
SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION
By:    
Name:    
Title:    

 

-17-


Exhibit A

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Company”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 6.1(b) of the Reimbursement Agreement dated as of October 31, 2018 (the “Reimbursement Agreement”) between the Company and the Bank. Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Reimbursement Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Company for the period ended [ ] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

(a) The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

(b) The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this day of

 

By:    
  Name:
  Title:

 

-18-


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

APPLICATION FOR STANDBY LETTER OF CREDIT

L/C No.:_____________________

(for Bank use only)

 

To:

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

277 Park Avenue, 6th Floor

New York, NY 10172

Attention: JDAD

Date: ________ _______, 20____

Please issue for our account an irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit as set forth below by:

☐  SWIFT____         ☐  Courier ☐  Applicant to arrange pickup ☐  Other (specify):

 

Applicant (full name and address):

  

Beneficiary (full name and address):

  

Delivery Instructions (if different from Beneficiary):

  

Amount and Currency (please use ISO Alphabetic Currency Codes):

  

Pricing:

  

Issuance Date:

   ____            , 20

Expiry Date:

   ____            , 20

Drawings to be accompanied by:

  

☐  Certificate (please attach full text)

☐  The following documents (please specify):

Letter of Credit format attached:

  

☐  yes

☐  no

Other information:

  

Confirmation of the Credit:

 

☐  Not Requested                            ☐  Requested                        ☐  Authorized if requested by Beneficiary                    

 

Page 2 of 2


Each credit shall be subject to:

☐ International Standby Practice 1998, ICC Publication 590 (ISP98)

☐ Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits, 2007 Revision, International Chamber of Commerce Publication No. 600 (UCP 600)

☐ Other (please specify):

The undersigned requests you to issue your irrevocable standby letter of credit (herein called the “Credit”), substantially in accordance with these instructions (marked (x) where appropriate). The undersigned agrees to be bound in respect of the Credit by the terms and conditions of the Reimbursement Agreement dated of October 31, 2018, as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, made by the undersigned (and, if applicable, one or more other parities) to you (which agreement you may have received by electronic transmission). The undersigned represents and warrants to you that (i) no Event of Default (as defined in such agreement) or other event that, with notice, lapse of time, or both, would constitute an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would result from the issuance of the requested Credit and (ii) all representations and warranties contained in such agreement are true and correct in all material respects as of the date hereof and will be true and correct in all material respects immediately after issuance of the requested Credit.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP
By:    
  Name:
  Title:


[on Thorne Research, Inc. letterhead]

Exhibit 10.22

November 30, 2018

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.

1-3, Marunouchi 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku,

Tokyo, 100-8631, Japan

Dear Sirs

Re: Guarantee — fee letter

This letter (the “Fee Letter”) is entered into in connection with the Guarantee Letter (hosho-sho) (the “Guarantee”) to be submitted by MITSUI & CO., LTD. (“Mitsui”) in favor of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation New York Branch (the “Beneficiary”) for the benefit of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Company”), pursuant to which Mitsui guarantees certain obligations of the Company under the Reimbursement Agreement, to be entered into by and between the Beneficiary and the Company, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, subject to the limitations and other terms set forth in the Guarantee.

In connection with, and as consideration for Mitsui to enter into, the Guarantee, the Company and Mitsui hereby agree as follows:

 

a)

The Company agrees to pay Mitsui for its own account, an annual fee at the rate per annum of 12 month USD LIBOR (appearing on the appropriate page of the Reuters screen and rounded to the second decimal place, and if such page is replaced or such service ceases to be available, such other page displaying the appropriate rate after consultation between the parties to this Fee Letter), as of the last business day of October before each one year period commencing from the Effective Date, as defined below, and its anniversaries, which rate shall be revised as of such last business day each year while the Guarantee is in effect, plus 3.00% of $2,450,000 (the “Fee”), until the Guarantee is terminated. The initial annual rate per annum shall be 6.08%. The Company shall pay the Fee and any other amounts accrued or otherwise payable pursuant to this Fee Letter (i) on an annual basis on each anniversary of the Effective Date, as defined below; and (ii) upon the occurrence of any change of control in respect of the Company; provided that, upon the termination of the Guarantee, the Fee payable with respect to a partial year in which the Guarantee was terminated shall be equal to (x) the Fee multiplied by (y)(i) the number of days elapsed in such year (beginning on the relevant anniversary of the Effective Date) up to such termination divided by (ii) 365. Payment shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to a bank account designated by Mitsui.

 

b)

The Company agrees to reimburse Mitsui for any reasonably incurred fees or expenses related to Mitsui’s entry into the Guarantee and performance thereunder (other than the actual cost of performance under the terms of such Guarantee), specifically including, but not limited to the reasonable expenses of Mitsui relating to, or in connection with, the enforcement of, or litigation related to Mitsui’s obligations under the Guarantee.

 

c)

In the event that Mitsui is required to pay any amounts under the Guarantee, such amounts shall be deemed to be made for the benefit of the Company in consideration for debt or equity securities of the Company on terms reasonably satisfactory to Mitsui and the Company.


The Company agrees that all of the fees and expenses set forth in this Fee Letter shall be fully earned upon becoming due and payable in accordance with the terms hereof.

This Fee Letter, together with the Guarantee, embody the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the specific matters set forth herein and supersede all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.

This Fee Letter shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Each of the parties hereby irrevocably waives all right to trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim (whether based on contract, tort or otherwise) arising out of or relating to this Fee Letter or the transactions contemplated hereby.

This Fee Letter may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one agreement. Delivery of an executed signature page of this Fee Letter by facsimile or electronic mail transmission shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart hereof.

This Fee Letter shall become effective as of the time of issuance of that certain Letter of Credit to be issued by the Beneficiary pursuant to Reimbursement Agreement and which is the subject of the guarantee under the Guarantee (the “Effective Date”) and shall remain effective until the expiration or termination of the Guarantee, and provided that the Company shall remain liable following the termination hereof for accrued and unpaid Fees.

This Fee Letter may not be amended or any provision hereof waived or modified except by an instrument in writing signed by the Company and Mitsui.

This Fee Letter may not be assigned by the Company without the prior written consent of Mitsui.

Faithfully

 

Thorne Research, Inc.
By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name:   Scott Wheeler
Title:   CFO

 

Acknowledged and agreed:
MITSUI & CO., LTD.
By:   /s/ Masami Yokoyama
Name: Masami Yokoyama
Title: General Manager, NutriScience Division

 

-2-


Exhibit A

Draft

REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT

by and between

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

and

THORNE HOLDING CORP.

Dated as of October 31, 2018


REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT, dated as of October 31, 2018 (the “Agreement”) by and between THORNE HOLDING CORP., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware (the “Company”), and SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”).

RECITALS:

The Company wishes the Bank to issue, from time to time, from and after the date hereof, one or more standby letters of credit for the account of the Company (each, a “Letter of Credit”) for the sole purpose of supporting the obligation of Thorne Research, Inc., a subsidiary of the Company, to make a security deposit pursuant to Section 1.5 of that certain Lease Agreement dated September 29, 2016 between Thorne Research, Inc., as tenant, and GPT Summerville Owner, LLC, as landlord, and the Bank is willing to issue such Letters of Credit, subject to the exercise of its discretion in each instance, all on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises contained in this Agreement, the Company and the Bank agree as follows:

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS AND CONSTRUCTION

Section 1.1 Definitions. As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following definitions:

“Beneficial Ownership Certification” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership as required by the Beneficial Ownership Regulation.

“Beneficial Ownership Regulation” means 31 C.F.R. §1010.230, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time.

“Commission Fee” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.5.

“Default” means an Event of Default or any event or condition which, upon notice, lapse of time or both pursuant to Section 6.2, would, unless cured or waived, become an Event of Default.

“Demand” means any sight draft, electronic or telegraphic or SWIFT transmission, or other written demand drawn or made, or purported to be drawn or made, under or in connection with any Letter of Credit.

“Dollars” or “$” refers to lawful money of the United States of America.

“Event of Default” has the meaning assigned in Section 6.2.


“FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, as in effect from time to time.

“Governmental Authority” means the government of the United States of America or any other nation or any political subdivision thereof, whether state or local, and any agency, authority, instrumentality, regulatory body, court, central bank or other entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, taxing, regulatory or administrative powers or functions of or pertaining to government.

“Insolvency Proceeding” means any proceeding commenced by or against any Person under any provision of the United States Bankruptcy Code, as amended, or under any other bankruptcy or insolvency law, including assignments for the benefit of creditors, or proceedings seeking reorganization, arrangement, or other relief.

“LC Application” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.2.

“LC Disbursement” has the meaning assigned in Section 2.3.

“Letter of Credit” has the meaning assigned in the Recitals to this Agreement.

“Letter of Guarantee” means the Letter of Guarantee provided by the Parents in favor of the Bank in support of the Company’s obligations hereunder, to be delivered to the Bank pursuant to Section 3.1(a)(iii).

“Material Adverse Effect” means a material adverse effect on or change in (a) the business, results of operations, properties, assets, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise) or prospects of the Company or the Company and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole; (b) the legality, validity, binding effect or enforceability of this Agreement, or the Letter of Guarantee; (c) the ability of the Company or any Parent to fully and timely perform its obligations under this Agreement or the Letter of Guarantee, as applicable, as determined from the perspective of a reasonable person in the Bank’s position; or (d) the rights, remedies and benefits available to, or conferred upon, the Bank under this Agreement or the Letter of Guarantee.

“Obligations” means all obligations, liabilities and indebtedness of every nature of the Company from time to time owing to the Bank under or in connection with this Agreement or any Letter of Credit, in each case whether primary, secondary, direct, indirect, joint, several, joint and several, contingent (including the undrawn amount of each Letter of Credit), fixed or otherwise, including the obligation to provide cash collateral pursuant to this Agreement and including interest accruing at the rate provided in this Agreement on or after the commencement of any Insolvency Proceeding, whether or not allowed or allowable.

 

-2-


“Order” means any writ, judgment, injunction, decree or similar order of any Governmental Authority.

“Parent” (or, collectively, the “Parents”) means Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, each a corporation organized under the laws of Japan.

“Person” means any natural person, corporation, limited liability company, trust, joint venture, association, company, partnership, Governmental Authority, or other entity.

“Prime Rate” means the rate of interest per annum established by the Bank’s New York Branch from time to time as its prime rate or base rate; each change in the Prime Rate shall be effective from and including the date such change is established as being effective.

“Sanctions” has the meaning assigned in Section 5.1(f).

“Subsidiary” means, with respect to any Person (the “parent”) at any date, any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, or other entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the parent in the parent’s consolidated financial statements if such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP as of such date, as well as any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association or other entity (a) of which securities or other ownership interests representing more than 50% of the equity or more than 50% of the ordinary voting power or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the general partnership interests are, as of such date, owned, controlled or held, or (b) that is, as of such date, otherwise controlled, by the parent or one or more subsidiaries of the parent or by the parent and one or more subsidiaries of the parent. Unless otherwise specified, all references herein to a “Subsidiary” or to “Subsidiaries” shall refer to a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries of the Company.

“Taxes” means all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, duties, deductions, withholdings (including backup withholding), assessments, fees or other charges imposed by any Governmental Authority, including any interest, additions to tax or penalties applicable thereto.

“UCP” means the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits as most recently published by the International Chamber of Commerce.

Section 1.2 Terms Generally. The definitions of terms herein shall apply equally to the singular and plural forms of the terms defined. Whenever the context may require, any pronoun shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine and neuter forms. The words “include”, “includes” and “including” shall be deemed to be followed by the phrase “without limitation”. Unless the context requires otherwise (a) any definition of or reference to any agreement, instrument or other document herein shall be construed as referring to such agreement, instrument or other document as from time to time amended, supplemented or otherwise modified (subject to any restrictions on such amendments, supplements or modifications set forth herein), (b) any reference herein to any Person shall be construed to include such Person’s successors and assigns, and (c) the words “herein”, “hereof and “hereunder”, and words of similar import, shall be construed to refer to this Agreement in its entirety and not to any particular provision hereof.

 

-3-


Section 1.3 Accounting Terms; GAAP. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all terms of an accounting or financial nature shall be construed in accordance with GAAP, as in effect from time to time.

ARTICLE 2

ISSUANCE OF LETTERS OF CREDIT;

REIMBURSEMENT AND OTHER PAYMENTS

Section 2.1 General. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, the Company may from time to time request the Bank to issue Letters of Credit for its own account in such form as is acceptable to the Bank in its reasonable determination. A Letter of Credit may state that it is issued for the account of any Subsidiary of the Company without prejudice to the agreement herein between the Company and the Bank that the Company shall be the account party for all Letters of Credit and shall have the obligations with respect thereto provided by this Agreement. The Company and the Bank acknowledge and agree that in no event shall the aggregate amount of the Letters of Credit issued under this Agreement exceed $ 4,900,000.

Section 2.2 Procedure for Issuing Letters of Credit. In order to request the issuance of a Letter of Credit, the Company shall deliver to the Bank (reasonably in advance of the requested date of issuance) an application requesting the issuance of a Letter of Credit, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B, or in such other form as may be acceptable to the Bank (each, an “LC Application”), setting forth the following information with respect to the requested Letter of Credit: (i) the issuance date; (ii) the amount; (iii) the expiry date; (iv) the name and address of the applicant (which may be the Company or a Subsidiary); (v) the name and address of the beneficiary; (vi) the documents, if any, to be presented by the beneficiary in case of any Demand; (vii) the full text of any certificate to be presented by the beneficiary in case of any Demand; and (viii) such other matters as shall be necessary to prepare the Letter of Credit. If the Bank agrees to issue the Letter of Credit, the Bank shall deliver such Letter of Credit to its addressee with a copy to the Company and, if applicable, the Subsidiary, unless otherwise specified in the LC Application. The signing of this Agreement shall not be construed to impose upon the Bank an obligation to issue, amend or renew any Letter of Credit.

Section 2.3 Reimbursement. If the Bank shall make any payment or disbursement pursuant to or in respect of a Demand (each, an “LC Disbursement”), the Company shall pay to the Bank, on demand, in same day funds, an amount equal to such LC Disbursement, provided that (a) if such Demand is in a currency other than Dollars, the Company shall, at the option of the Bank, (i) pay the equivalent of such amount in Dollars at the Bank’s then-applicable selling rate for such other currency for transfers to the place where, and in the currency in which, such Demand is payable, or (ii) pay such amount in such other currency in the place, form and manner directed by the Bank; and (b) if a time draft is drawn under any Letter of Credit, the Company shall make such payment without demand sufficiently in advance of the maturity of the draft to enable the Bank to make timely payment of the amount so drawn under such Letter of Credit. The Company’s obligations with respect to any Letter of Credit issued [at the Company’s request] for the account of a Subsidiary shall remain in effect until satisfied or such Letter of Credit expires undrawn, irrespective of any change in control of the Subsidiary.

 

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Section 2.4 Interest on Overdue Amounts. If the Company fails to reimburse the Bank for any LC Disbursement or if the Company fails to pay any other amount owing hereunder in full on the date due, then the unpaid amount thereof shall bear interest (computed on the basis of a year of 360 days and the actual number of days elapsed), for each day from and including the date of such LC Disbursement or payment default, as applicable, to but excluding the date on which payment is actually made by the Company, at the Prime Rate plus 2.0%.

Section 2.5 Commission Fee. The Company shall pay to the Bank a commission fee (the “Commission Fee”) with respect to each Letter of Credit, which shall be payable at such times and computed on such amounts and at such rates as the Company and the Bank may agree in one or more separate fee agreements or, in the absence of such an agreement, as the Bank may, in its discretion, reasonably determine. The Commission Fee shall be fully earned when due and nonrefundable when paid, and the Company shall have no right to any refund of Commission Fees previously paid by the Company, including any refund claimed because a Letter of Credit is cancelled prior to its expiration date.

Section 2.6 Payment Instructions. All payments by the Company to the Bank hereunder shall be made in immediately available funds, free of any reduction and without set-off or counterclaim. Payments in Dollars shall be made at or prior to 2:00 p.m., New York time, by wire transfer to Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., New York (SWIFT: SMBCUS33), ABA Number: 0260-0967-4, Account Name: SMBC Loan Operations New York, Account Number: 423001, Reference: Thorne Holding Corp., Attn: BCDAD JDAD Loan Services, or to such other account or accounts as the Bank may notify the Company pursuant to Section 7.2. The Company hereby authorizes the Bank to debit any account maintained by the Company with the Bank to effect any payment under this Agreement.

Section 2.7 Additional Costs. If any change in any law or regulation or in the interpretation thereof by any Governmental Authority charged with the administration thereof shall either (i) impose, modify or deem applicable any reserve, special deposit or similar requirement, including any capital adequacy costs, against letters of credit issued by the Bank or (ii) impose on the Bank any other condition regarding any Letter of Credit, and the result of any event referred to in clause (i) or (ii) of this Section 2.7 shall be to increase the cost to the Bank of issuing or maintaining such Letter of Credit in any amount deemed material by the Bank, which cost, in the Bank’s judgment, cannot reasonably be avoided by the Bank, then, upon written notice from the Bank, the Company shall promptly pay to the Bank an amount equal to such cost, the Bank’s determination of which will be conclusive in the absence of manifest error. All amounts contemplated in this Section 2.7 that are not paid within 10 days following such notice will bear interest at the rate set forth in Section 2.4.

 

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Section 2.8 Net Payment. All amounts payable by the Company hereunder will be paid in full, free of all Taxes now or hereafter levied, collected, withheld, assessed or otherwise imposed, except in the case of the taxes imposed on the overall net income of the Bank. If any Taxes are so levied or imposed, the Company agrees to pay the full amount of such Taxes and such additional amounts as may be necessary so that every payment of all amounts due hereunder, after withholding or deduction or on account of any Taxes, will not be less than the amount provided for herein. The Company shall promptly furnish to the Bank tax receipts or other evidence of the payment by the Company of any such Taxes that are due under applicable law and, if the Bank pays any such Taxes, the Bank shall furnish to the Company copies of tax receipts evidencing such payment by the Bank. If the Company is prohibited by law from making one or more payments under this Agreement free of Taxes in accordance herewith, or if any taxing authority shall at any time assert that the Bank is required to pay any such Taxes with respect to payments made by the Company under this Agreement, then the Company shall pay such additional amount to the Bank as may be necessary in order that the actual amount received by Bank after all Taxes (and after payment of any additional Taxes due as a consequence of the payment of such additional amount) shall equal the amount that would have been received by the Bank if such Taxes were not required. Whenever any such Taxes are required to be withheld or deducted from any amounts payable to the Bank hereunder, the Company shall pay such Taxes to the appropriate taxing authority for the account of the Bank and, as promptly as possible thereafter, send to the Bank an official receipt showing payment thereof, together with such additional documentary evidence as may be reasonably required from time to time by the Bank. If the Company fails to pay any such Taxes when due to the appropriate taxing authority or fails to remit any such official receipts or other required documentary evidence, the Company agrees to indemnify the Bank for and to hold the Bank harmless from and against any incremental taxes, interest or penalties that may become payable by the Bank as a result of such failure.

Section 2.9 Letters of Credit Issued for Subsidiaries. Notwithstanding that a Letter of Credit issued or outstanding pursuant hereto is in support of an obligation of, or is for the account of, a Subsidiary (or any Person who was a Subsidiary at the time the Letter of Credit was issued), the Company shall be obligated, on behalf of such Subsidiary, to reimburse Bank hereunder for any and all drawings under such Letter of Credit. The Company hereby acknowledges that the issuance of Letters of Credit for the account of its Subsidiaries inures to the benefit of the Company. and that the Company’s business derives substantial benefits from the businesses of such Subsidiaries.

ARTICLE 3

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

Section 3.1 Conditions Precedent to Issuance of Letters of Credit. It shall be a condition precedent to the issuance by the Bank of any Letter of Credit that:

(a) The Bank shall have received all of the following, each of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the Bank:

(i) a certificate of an officer of the Company, dated as of the date hereof, certifying the name and true signatures of the officers of the Company authorized to sign this Agreement and any documents related hereto;

 

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(ii) evidence reasonably acceptable to the Bank that the Company’s execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action;

(iii) at least five days prior to the issuance of the first Letter of Credit, a Beneficial Ownership Certification in relation to the Company;

(iv) the Letter of Guarantee, together with evidence reasonably acceptable to the Bank that the Parents’ execution, delivery and performance of the Letter of Guarantee have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action; and

(v) such other documents, instruments, approvals (and, if requested by the Bank, certified duplicates of executed copies thereof) as the Bank may request, including any guarantee or expression of support or pledge of security the Bank may require from time to time.

(b) The representations and warranties contained in Section 5.1 hereof shall be true and correct on and as of the date of issuance of each Letter of Credit as though made on and as of such date.

(c) All fees due hereunder or in connection herewith, including, but not limited to, the Commission Fee described in Section 2.5 hereof, shall have been irrevocably paid in full.

ARTICLE 4

OBLIGATIONS ABSOLUTE

Section 4.1 Obligations of the Company. The obligations of the Company under this Agreement shall be absolute, unconditional and irrevocable, and shall be paid and performed strictly in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, under any and all circumstances whatsoever, and irrespective of:

(a) the existence of any claim, set-off, defense or other rights that the Company, any other party guaranteeing or otherwise obligated with the Company, any Subsidiary or any other Person may at any time have against the beneficiary under any Letter of Credit, the Bank or any other Person, whether in connection with this Agreement or any other related or unrelated agreement or transaction;

(b) any Demand or other document presented under a Letter of Credit proving to be forged, fraudulent, invalid or insufficient in any respect or any statement therein being untrue or inaccurate in any respect;

(c) the insolvency or bankruptcy of any Person;

(d) any lack of validity or enforceability of any Letter of Credit or this Agreement, or any term or provision of any of the foregoing;

 

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(e) any change in the time, manner, or place of payment of, or in any other term of, any obligation of the Company, any Subsidiary, or any other Person in respect of this Agreement, any Letter of Credit, or any related document or instrument or any other amendment or waiver of or any consent to departure from any of the foregoing;

(f) whether such Letter of Credit is issued in support of any obligations of any Subsidiary or any Subsidiary is an applicant for, or purports in any way to have any liability for, such Letter of Credit; or

(g) any other act, or omission to act, or delay of any kind of the Bank or any other Person or any other event or circumstance whatsoever, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing, that might, but for the provisions of this Section 4.1, constitute a legal or equitable discharge of the Company’s obligations hereunder.

Section 4.2 Actions by the Bank. The Company agrees that any action or omission by the Bank or any of the Bank’s correspondents in connection with the Letters of Credit or presentation thereunder will be binding on the Company and will not result in any liability to the Bank or any of the Bank’s correspondents in the absence of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Bank or the Bank’s correspondents, as the case may be. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Bank and each of the Bank’s correspondents (i) may rely on any oral or other communication believed in good faith by the Bank or such correspondent to have been authorized or given by or on behalf of the Company; (ii) may honor any presentation if the documents presented appear on their face substantially to comply with the terms and conditions of the relevant Letter of Credit; (iii) will not be liable to the Company for any consequential, punitive or special damages, or for any damages resulting from any change in the value of any property relating to the Letters of Credit; (iv) may honor any Demand (whether such Demand is presented before or after the expiration of the Letter of Credit under which it is presented and whether such Demand has been previously dishonored) pursuant to a court order, to settle or compromise any claim that the Demand was wrongfully dishonored, or otherwise, and in such case the Bank shall be entitled to reimbursement from the Company of the amount, including any interest, the Bank so pays to the same extent as if the Bank had initially honored such Demand; (v) may honor any Demand that is payable upon presentation of a statement advising negotiation or payment, upon receipt of such statement (even if such statement indicates that a draft or other document is being separately delivered), and will not be liable for any failure of any such draft or other document to arrive, or to conform in any way with the relevant Letter of Credit; (vi) may pay any paying or negotiating bank claiming that it rightfully honored under the laws or practices of the place where such bank is located; and (vii) may settle or adjust any claim or demand made on the Bank in any way related to an Order; and honor any Demand in connection with a Letter of Credit that is the subject of such Order, notwithstanding that any Demand or other documents presented in connection with such Letter of Credit fail to conform in any way with such Letter of Credit.

Section 4.3 Payment of Demand. The Bank shall examine all documents purporting to represent a demand for payment under a Letter of Credit promptly following its receipt of such Demand, and shall notify the Company of such Demand and whether the Bank has made or will make an LC Disbursement thereunder as promptly as possible; provided that any failure to give or delay in giving such notice will not relieve the Company of its obligation to reimburse the Bank with respect to any such LC Disbursement.

 

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ARTICLE 5

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

Section 5.1 Representations and Warranties of the Company. The Company represents and warrants as follows:

(a) Each Parent is the direct owner of 38.7% of the issued and outstanding voting stock of the Company.

(b) The Company (i) is an entity duly organized, validly existing and in good standing (where applicable) under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization, (ii) has all requisite power and authority, and all requisite licenses and permits from all Governmental Authorities having jurisdiction over the Company, to own its property and assets and to carry on its business as now conducted and as proposed to be conducted, (iii) is qualified to do business, and is in good standing (where applicable), in every jurisdiction where such qualification is required and (iv) has the corporate power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and each other agreement or instrument contemplated hereby to which it is or will be a party.

(c) This Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby (i) have been duly authorized by all requisite corporate and, if required, shareholder action and (ii) will not (A) violate (1) any material provision of law, statute, rule or regulation, or of the certificate or articles of incorporation or other constitutive documents or by-laws of the Company, (2) any Order or (3) any provision of any indenture or any other material agreement or instrument to which the Company is a party or by which the Company or any of its property is or may be bound, or (B) be in conflict with, result in a breach of or constitute (alone or with notice, lapse of time, or both) a default under, or give rise to any right to accelerate or to require the prepayment, repurchase or redemption of any obligation under any such indenture, agreement or other instrument.

(d) This Agreement and the Letter of Guarantee constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation, contract and agreement of the Company or the Parents, as applicable, enforceable against such entity in accordance with its terms, except as enforcement may be limited by (i) bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws or equitable principles relating to or limiting creditors’ rights generally and (ii) general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).

(e) None of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries nor, to the knowledge of the Company, any director, officer, agent, employee or other person acting on behalf of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries has taken any action, directly or indirectly, that would result in a violation by such persons of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law; and the Company has instituted and maintains policies and procedures designed to ensure continued compliance therewith.

 

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(f) None of the Company, any of its Subsidiaries or any director, officer, employee, agent, or affiliate of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries is a Person that is, or is owned or controlled by, any Person that is: (i) the subject or target of any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”), the U.S. Department of State, or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “Sanctions”), or (ii) located, organized or resident in a country or territory that is, or whose government is, the subject of Sanctions.

ARTICLE 6

COVENANTS OF THE COMPANY; EVENTS OF DEFAULT; REMEDIES

Section 6.1 Covenants of the Company. The Company covenants and agrees with the Bank that, until all Letters of Credit have been canceled or have expired and all amounts drawn thereunder have been reimbursed in full and all interest, fees and other expenses or amounts payable hereunder, if any, shall have been paid in full, and unless the Bank shall otherwise consent in writing:

(a) The Company shall (i) do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve, renew and keep in full force and effect its legal existence, (ii) do or cause to be done all things necessary to obtain, preserve, renew, extend and keep in full force and effect the rights, licenses, permits, franchises, authorizations, patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade names material to the conduct of its business and (iii) comply in all material respects with all applicable laws, rules, regulations (including any zoning, building, environmental law, ordinance, code or approval) and Orders, whether now in effect or hereafter enacted or issued.

(b) The Company shall deliver to the Bank such information respecting the business, properties, condition or operation, financial or otherwise, of the Company as the Bank may from time to time reasonably request, including:

(i) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company, its audited annual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such year, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, all reported on by independent public accountants of recognized national standing to the effect that such financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied;

(ii) if available, as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the end of the first semiannual reporting period of each fiscal year of the Company, its semiannual financial statements, which shall include at least its balance sheet and related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flow as of the end of and for such period, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, presenting fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except as differences from GAAP shall have been disclosed to, and approved by, the Bank), subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and

 

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(iii) concurrently with any delivery of financial statements under clause (i) above, a certificate of a responsible financial officer of the Company, in the form of Exhibit A attached hereto, certifying to such officer’s knowledge whether a Default or Event of Default has occurred and, if a Default or Event of Default has occurred, specifying the details thereof and any action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

(c) The Company shall pay its obligations, including Taxes, that, if not paid, could result in a Material Adverse Effect before the same shall become delinquent or in default, except where (i) the validity or amount thereof is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, (ii) the Company has set aside on its books adequate reserves with respect thereto in accordance with GAAP and (iii) the failure to make payment pending such contest could not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.

(d) The Company shall promptly notify the Bank of

(i) any action, suit or proceeding against the Company before any Governmental Authority which, if adversely determined, would materially affect the financial condition or operations of the Company or the ability of the Company to carry on its business or to perform its obligations under this Agreement;

(ii) any Default, together with written notice specifying the nature and period of existence thereof and the action which Company is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto; and

(iii) any other matter which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

(e) The Company shall maintain adequate books, accounts and records, all in accordance with GAAP, and permit employees or agents of Bank, at any reasonable time and as often as may reasonably be desired, to inspect its properties and to examine or audit its books, accounts and records and make copies thereof and to discuss the business, operations, properties and financial and other conditions of Company with officers of Company.

(f) The Company shall perform any and all acts and execute any and all additional documents as may be reasonably requested from time to time by the Bank to give effect to the purposes of this Agreement.

(g) The Company will not merge into or consolidate with any other Person, or permit any other Person to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (in each case, whether now owned or hereafter acquired), or liquidate or dissolve.

 

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(h) No part of the proceeds of any Letter of Credit will be used, directly or indirectly, in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment or giving of money, or anything else of value, to any Person in violation of the FCPA or any other applicable anti-corruption law. The Company shall maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to promote compliance by the Company, its Subsidiaries, and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents with the FCPA and any other applicable anti-corruption laws.

(i) The Company shall not, directly or indirectly, use the proceeds of the Letters of Credit, or lend, contribute or otherwise make available such proceeds to any subsidiary, joint venture partner or other Person, (i) to fund any activities or business of or with any Person, or in any country or territory, that, at the time of such funding, is, or whose government is, the subject of Sanctions, or (ii) in any other manner that would result in a violation of Sanctions by any Person (including any Subsidiary or beneficiary).

Section 6.2 Events of Default. Each of the following will constitute an event of default hereunder (an “Event of Default”):

(a) Any representation or warranty made or deemed made herein or in connection with any Letter of Credit, or any representation, warranty, statement or information made, deemed made or furnished in connection with or pursuant hereto, proves to have been false or misleading in any material respect when so made, deemed made or furnished.

(b) The Company fails to reimburse the Bank for any LC Disbursement when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof, by acceleration or otherwise.

(c) The Company fails to make any payment of interest on any LC Disbursement or of any fee or any other amount (other than an amount referred to in subsection (b) above) due hereunder or in connection herewith, when and as the same becomes due and payable, and such default continues unremedied for a period of five (5) days.

(d) The Company fails to duly observe or perform any covenant, condition or agreement contained in Section 6.1(a)(i), Section 6.1(d)(ii), Section 6.1(g), Section 6.1(h) or Section 6.1(i).

(e) The Company fails to duly observe or perform any covenant, condition or agreement contained in this Agreement (other than those specified in (b), (c) or (d) above) and such failure continues unremedied for a period of thirty (30) days after notice thereof from the Bank to the Company.

(f) (i) The Company fails to pay any principal or interest, regardless of amount, due in respect of any indebtedness other than the Obligations hereunder (“Other Indebtedness”) when and as the same becomes due and payable or (ii) the Company fails to observe or perform any other term, covenant, condition or agreement contained in any agreement or instrument evidencing or governing any such Other Indebtedness, or any other event or condition occurs, if the effect of any failure or other event or condition referred to in this clause (ii) is to cause, or to permit the holder or holders of such Other Indebtedness or a trustee on its or their behalf to cause, such Other Indebtedness to become due or to be required to be repurchased, redeemed or defeased prior to its stated maturity.

 

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(g) The Company (i) voluntarily commences any proceeding or file any petition seeking liquidation, reorganization or other relief under any Federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar law now or hereafter in effect; (ii) consents to the institution of, or fails to contest in a timely and appropriate manner, any proceeding or petition described in clause (h) of this Section 6.2; (iii) applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, sequestrator, conservator or similar official for the Company or for a substantial part of its assets; (iv) files an answer admitting the material allegations of a petition filed against it in any such proceeding; (v) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or (vi) takes any corporate or other action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

(h) An involuntary proceeding is commenced or an involuntary petition is filed seeking (i) liquidation, reorganization or other relief in respect of the Company or its debts, or of a substantial part of its assets, under any Federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar law now or hereafter in effect; or (ii) the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, sequestrator, conservator or similar official for the Company or for a substantial part of its assets, and, in any such case, such proceeding or petition continues undismissed for 60 days or an order or decree approving or ordering any of the foregoing is entered.

(i) The Company becomes unable, admits in writing its inability, or fails generally to pay its debts as they become due.

(j) One or more judgments for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $1,000,000 is rendered against the Company and the same remains undischarged for a period of thirty (30) consecutive days during which execution is not effectively stayed, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to levy upon assets or properties of the Company to enforce any such judgment.

(k) Any guarantee, letter of awareness or other document executed or issued in support of the obligations of the Company to the Bank, including the Letter of Guarantee, ceases to be, or is asserted by any issuer thereof not to be, a valid and enforceable guarantee of the obligations hereunder, or the issuer fails to observe or perform any covenant, undertaking, or other obligation thereunder, or any security interest purported to be created by this Agreement or any related security document ceases to be, or is asserted by the grantor thereof not to be, a valid, perfected, first priority security interest in the assets or properties covered thereby.

(l) Any event occurs which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

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Section 6.3 Remedies. (a) (a) Upon the occurrence of any Event of Default (other than an event with respect to the Company described in clauses (g), (h), or (i) of Section 6.2), the Bank may, by notice to the Company, (i) declare all Obligations to be immediately due and payable, whereupon the same shall forthwith become due and payable by the Company, without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the Company and (ii) demand that the Company pay, whereupon the Company shall be obligated to pay forthwith, an amount in immediately available funds (which funds shall be held by the Bank as collateral to secure the Obligations hereunder for the duration of such Event of Default pursuant to arrangements satisfactory to the Bank) equal to the sum of the aggregate of the amounts undrawn and available to be drawn under all Letters of Credit outstanding on such date; and, in case of any event with respect to the Company described in clauses (g), (h), or (i) of Section 6.2, all Obligations shall become immediately and automatically due and payable, and the obligation of the Company to pay cash collateral as aforesaid shall automatically become effective, in each case without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby waived by the Company.

(b) If any Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Bank may, without notice to the Company except as required by law and at any time or from time to time, charge, set-off, and otherwise apply any deposits of the Company held by the Bank or any affiliate of the Bank (including unmatured time deposits and certificates of deposit) against the Obligations or any part thereof.

(c) Until the application by the Bank of any portion of the cash collateral hereunder to the discharge of the Obligations, the Company shall be entitled to receive such investment and interest income as may accrue on such portion of the cash collateral not so applied pursuant to arrangements satisfactory to the Bank. In furtherance thereof, the Bank agrees that if and as instructed by the Company, the Bank shall, subject to arrangements satisfactory to it, invest such portion of the cash collateral as the Company shall direct in the following: (i) certificates of deposit of the Bank or any commercial bank having capital and surplus of at least $100,000,000; (ii) direct obligations of, or obligations of which principal and interest is fully secured by, the U.S. Government or any agency or division thereof or (iii) commercial paper rated A-1 or P-1.

ARTICLE 7

MISCELLANEOUS

Section 7.1 Amendments; Etc. No amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement nor consent to any departure by the Bank or the Company therefrom shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the Bank and the Company, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given.

Section 7.2 Notices. Except in the case of notices and other communications expressly permitted to be given by telephone, all notices and other communications provided for herein will be in writing and will be delivered by hand or overnight courier service, mailed by certified or registered mail, or sent by fax or email as follows:

If to the Company:             Thorne Holding Corp.

620 Omni Industrial Boulevard

Summerville, SC 29486

Attention: Mr. Scott Wheeler

Telephone: (843) 501-0286

email: swheeler@Thorne.com

 

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If to the Bank:             Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation

277 Park Avenue, 6th Floor

New York, NY 10172

Attention: JDAD

Telephone: (212) 224.4000

Fax: (212) 593-9514

Notices sent by hand or overnight courier service, or mailed by certified or registered mail, will be deemed to have been given when received; notices sent by fax or email will be deemed to have been given when sent (except that, if not given during normal business hours for the recipient, will be deemed to have been given at the opening of business on the next business day for the recipient). The Company and the Bank may each change its address for purposes hereof by notice to the other given in accordance with this Section 7.2.

Section 7.3 No Waiver; Remedies Cumulative. No failure on the part of the Bank or the Company to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise thereof or the exercise of any other rights. The remedies herein provided are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.

Section 7.4 Indemnification. (a) (a) The Company shall indemnify and hold harmless the Bank from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, or reasonable costs or expenses whatsoever which the Bank may incur (or which may be claimed against the Bank by any Person whatsoever) by reason of or in connection with the transfer of, or payment of or failure to pay under, any Letter of Credit (including, not in limitation but in furtherance of the foregoing, any of the circumstances set forth in Section 4.1 hereof) or by reason of or in connection with any litigation or other proceeding in any way restraining, enjoining, or affecting the issuance of any Letter of Credit or the entering into of this Agreement or the performance of any obligations hereunder; provided that the Company shall not be required to indemnify the Bank for any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs or expenses to the extent caused directly by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Bank. The obligations of the Company under this Section 7.4 shall survive the termination or payment of any Letter of Credit.

(b) Reliance on Advice of Counsel. The Bank may consult with and employ outside legal counsel to advise it concerning its obligations with respect to any Letter of Credit, and shall be entitled to act upon, and shall be fully protected in any action taken in good faith reliance upon, any advice given by such counsel.

 

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Section 7.5 Continuing Obligation. This Agreement is a continuing obligation and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Bank and the Company and their respective successors, transferees and assigns; provided that the Company may not assign all or any part of its rights or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the Bank.

Section 7.6 Liability of the Bank. As between the Company and the Bank, the Company assumes all risks of the acts and omissions of, or misuse of the Letters of Credit by, the respective beneficiaries of the Letters of Credit; provided however that the Company may have a claim against the Bank and the Bank may be liable to the Company, to the extent, but only to the extent, of any direct (as opposed to consequential or exemplary) damages suffered by the Company which the Company proves were caused by the willful misconduct or gross negligence in determining whether documents presented under a Letter of Credit comply with the terms of such Letter of Credit. In furtherance and not in limitation of the foregoing, the Bank shall not be responsible for: (i) the form, validity, sufficiency, accuracy, genuineness or legal effect of any document submitted by any party in connection with the application for an issuance of a Letter of Credit, even if it should in fact prove to be in any or all respects invalid, insufficient, inaccurate, fraudulent or forged, (ii) the validity or sufficiency of any instrument transferring or assigning or purporting to transfer or assign a Letter of Credit or the rights or benefits thereunder or proceeds thereof, in whole or in part, which may prove to be invalid or ineffective for any reason, (iii) the failure of the beneficiary of a Letter of Credit to comply fully with conditions required to be satisfied by any Person other than the Bank in order to draw upon such Letter of Credit, (iv) errors, omissions, interruptions or delays in transmission or delivery of any messages, by mail, cable, or otherwise, (v) errors in the interpretation of technical terms, (vi) the misapplication by the beneficiary of a Letter of Credit of the proceeds of any drawing under such Letter of Credit or (vii) any consequences arising from causes beyond control of the Bank.

Section 7.7 Costs. Expenses and Taxes. Promptly upon the request of the Bank, the Company shall pay or reimburse the Bank for all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by the Bank in connection with the execution, delivery, filing, recording, enforcement and administration of this Agreement or any related document or instrument, including correspondent’s charges, attorney’s fees and other legal costs and expenses, and any and all stamp and other taxes and fees payable or determined to be payable in connection with any of the foregoing, and the Company shall save the Bank harmless from and against any and all liabilities with respect to or resulting from any delay in paying or omission to pay such taxes and fees.

Section 7.8 Governing Law. Except to the extent that any Letter of Credit provides otherwise, the UCP shall apply to each Letter of Credit. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, except to the extent inconsistent with the UCP.

Section 7.9 Headings. Article and Section headings in this Agreement are included herein for convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of this Agreement for any other purpose.

Section 7.10 Severability. If any one or more of the covenants, agreements, provisions or terms of this Agreement shall be for any reason whatsoever held invalid, then such covenants, agreements, provisions or terms shall be deemed severable from the remaining covenants, agreements, provisions or terms of this Agreement and shall in no way offset the validity or enforceability of the other provisions of this Agreement.

 

-16-


Section 7.11 Counterparts. This Agreement may be signed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which together shall constitute one agreement.

Section 7.12 Entire Agreement. This Agreement (including the recitals set forth hereinabove), the Letters of Credit, any fee letters relating thereto and the UCP integrate all the terms and conditions mentioned herein or incidental hereto, and supersede all oral negotiations and prior writings with respect to the subject matter hereof.

Section 7.13 Waiver of Jury Trial; Submission to Jurisdiction. EACH OF THE BANK AND THE COMPANY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY. The Company and the Bank hereby submit to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and any New York state court sitting in New York City for the purposes of all legal proceedings arising out of or relating to this Agreement.

Section 7.14 PATRIOT Act. The Bank hereby notifies the Company that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56) (the “Act”), it is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each customer (including applicants for letters of credit, guarantors and grantors (“Customers”), which information includes the name and address of each Customer and other information that will allow such Bank to identify such Customer in accordance with the Act.

Section 7.15 Confidentiality. The Bank agrees to keep confidential any information provided to it by or on behalf of the Company pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement, other than information which has been publicly disclosed or is otherwise publicly available other than in breach of this Section 7.15; provided that nothing herein shall prevent the Bank from disclosing any such information (i) to any potential assignee of or participant in this Agreement or any Letter of Credit or any actual or prospective counterparty (or its advisors) to any swap or derivative transaction relating to the Company and its obligations which agrees in writing to comply with the provisions of this section; (ii) to its affiliates and the employees, officers, partners, directors, agents, attorneys, accountants and other professional advisors of it and its affiliates, provided that such recipients are obligated to keep the information confidential; (iii) upon the request or demand of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the Bank, including during the course of periodic examinations and reviews of the Bank; (iv) in connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder; (v) in connection with any litigation to which the Bank may be a party; and (vi) if, prior to such information having been so provided or obtained, such information was already in the Bank’s possession on a non-confidential basis without, to the best of the Bank’s knowledge, a duty of confidentiality to the Company being violated.

 

-17-


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed and delivered by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the date first above written.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:   /s/ Scott Wheeler
Name: Scott Wheeler

Title: CFO

 

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION
By:    
Name:  
Title:  

 

-18-


EXHIBIT A

[Form of]

CERTIFICATE OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

The undersigned chief financial officer of THORNE HOLDING CORP. (the “Company”) does hereby certify to SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION (the “Bank”) that:

1. This certificate (the “Certificate”) is delivered in accordance with Section 6.1(b) of the Reimbursement Agreement dated as of October 31, 2018 (the “Reimbursement Agreement”) between the Company and the Bank. Capitalized terms used in this Certificate and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Reimbursement Agreement.

2. I have reviewed the annual financial report of the Company for the period ended [____] (the “Financial Report”), a complete copy of which is attached to this Certificate.

3. Based on my knowledge, the Financial Report presents fairly in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of the Company in accordance with GAAP consistently applied as of the end of and for the period covered by the Financial Report.

4. Based on my knowledge, for the period covered by the Financial Report, and through and. including the date of this Certificate:

No Default or Event of Default has occurred.

[or]

 

  (a)

The following Default(s) or Event(s) of Default has/have occurred:

 

  (b)

The following action(s) has/have been taken or is/are proposed to be taken with respect thereto:


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of this                  day of                     ,             .

 

By:    
Name:  
Title:  

 

-2-


EXHIBIT B

[Form of]

APPLICATION FOR STANDBY LETTER OF CREDIT

L/C No.: __________________

(for Bank use only)  

 

To:

SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION

 

 

277 Park Avenue, 6th Floor

 

New York, NY 10172

 

Attention: JDAD

Date: __________, ______, 20_____

Please issue for our account an irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit as set forth below by:

☐ SWIFT _____                    ☐ Courier                     ☐ Applicant to arrange pickup                     ☐ Other (specify):

 

Applicant (full name and address):   
Beneficiary (full name and address):   
Delivery Instructions (if different from Beneficiary):   
Amount and Currency (please use ISO Alphabetic Currency Codes):   
Pricing:   
Issuance Date:                        ,          20
Expiry Date:                        ,          20
Drawings to be accompanied by   

☐ Certificate (please attach full text)

☐ The following documents (please specify):

Letter of Credit format attached:   

☐ yes

☐ no

Other information:   


Confirmation of the Credit:

☐ Not Requested                        ☐ Requested                     ☐ Authorized if requested by Beneficiary

Each credit shall be subject to:

 

International Standby Practice 1998, ICC Publication 590 (ISP98)

 

Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits, 2007 Revision, International Chamber of Commerce Publication No. 600 (UCP 600)

 

Other (please specify):

The undersigned requests you to issue your irrevocable standby letter of credit (herein called the “Credit”), substantially in accordance with these instructions (marked (x) where appropriate). The undersigned agrees to be bound in respect of the Credit by the terms and conditions of the Reimbursement Agreement dated of October 31, 2018, as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, made by the undersigned (and, if applicable, one or more other parities) to you (which agreement you may have received by electronic transmission). The undersigned represents and warrants to you that (i) no Event of Default (as defined in such agreement) or other event that, with notice, lapse of time, or both, would constitute an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would result from the issuance of the requested Credit and (ii) all representations and warranties contained in such agreement are true and correct in all material respects as of the date hereof and will be true and correct in all material respects immediately after issuance of the requested Credit.

 

THORNE HOLDING CORP.
By:    
Name:  
Title:  

 

-2-


[on Thorne Research, Inc. letterhead]

Exhibit 10.23

Unconditional Guaranty

This guaranty of Thorne Holding Corp. (“Guarantor”) dated June 02, 2020, provides:

Whereas, Thorne Research, Inc. (herein, whether one or more, the “Borrower”) desires to transact business with and to obtain credit or a continuation of credit from Truist Bank, its present and future affiliates and their successors and assigns (collectively, “Bank”); and

Whereas, Bank is unwilling to extend or continue credit to Borrower unless it receives a guaranty from the undersigned Guarantor with respect to the Obligations, as defined below, of Borrower to Bank;

Now, Therefore, in consideration of the premises and of other good and valuable consideration and in order to induce Bank from time to time, in its sole discretion, to extend or continue credit to or enter into other transactions with Borrower, Guarantor absolutely and unconditionally guarantees to Bank performance and payment when due, whether by acceleration or otherwise, of any and all Obligations of Borrower to Bank, together with all interest and charges related thereto, and all reasonable attorneys’ fees (in the amount of 15% of the principal and interest guaranteed hereby if this guaranty is governed by the laws of Georgia), and all costs and expenses of collection incurred by Bank in enforcing the Obligations or this guaranty, subject to the provisions contained herein.

 

1.

The term “Obligations” or “Obligation” as used herein shall include, without limitation, any and all liabilities, obligations, agreements and undertakings of Borrower to Bank in any amount, whether now existing or hereafter arising (including those owed by Borrower to others and acquired by Bank through purchase, assignment or otherwise), however created, evidenced or arising, whether individually or jointly with others, and whether absolute or contingent, direct or indirect, as maker, endorser, guarantor, surety or otherwise, liquidated or unliquidated, matured or unmatured, whether or not secured by collateral, and including, without limitation, (a) all obligations to perform or forbear from performing any acts, (b) all overdrafts on deposits or accounts maintained by Borrower with Bank, (c) all liabilities, obligations, agreements and undertakings of Borrower to Bank pursuant to any interest rate hedge agreement or other derivative transaction agreement or any foreign exchange contract or any application or other agreement requesting Bank to issue any letter of credit including, without limitation, the obligation of Borrower to reimburse Bank for all amounts funded by Bank pursuant to any such letter of credit (d) all obligations and other liabilities of Borrower to Bank in respect of any of the following services (i) any treasury or other cash management services, including, without limitation, automated clearing house (ACH) origination and other funds transfer, depository (including, without limitation, cash vault and check deposit), zero balance account and sweep, returned items processing, controlled disbursement, positive pay, lockbox, account reconciliation and information reporting, payables outsourcing, payroll processing, and trade finance services, and (ii) card services, including, without limitation, credit card (including, without limitation, purchasing card and commercial card), prepaid card (including, without limitation, payroll, stored value and gift cards), merchant services processing, and debit card services and (e) all costs of collection and protection of Bank’s rights, including attorneys’ fees allowed by law (in the amount of 15% of the principal and interest secured hereby if guaranty is governed by the laws of Georgia), whether such collection or protection occurs prior to, during, or after any bankruptcy proceedings filed by or against Borrower; provided, however, that “Obligations” will not include any Excluded Swap Obligation (as hereinafter defined). “Excluded Swap Obligation” means any Swap Obligation (as hereinafter defined), if and to the extent that all or any portion of this guaranty of such Swap Obligation is or becomes illegal under the Commodity Exchange Act (7 U.S.C. §1 et seq.) (as amended and, together with any successor statute, the “Commodity Exchange Act”), or any rule, regulation or order of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (or the application or official interpretation of any thereof), by virtue of Guarantor’s failure for any reason to constitute an “eligible contract participant” as defined in the Commodity Exchange Act and the regulations thereunder at the time that this guaranty becomes effective with respect to such Swap Obligation. If a Swap Obligation arises under a master agreement governing more than one swap, the exclusion of such Swap Obligation under this guaranty shall apply only to the portion of such Swap Obligation that is attributable to swaps for which this guaranty is or becomes illegal. For purposes hereof, the term “Swap Obligation” means any obligation to pay or perform under any agreement, contract or transaction that constitutes a “swap” within the meaning of section 1a(47) of the Commodity Exchange Act.

 

Page 1


The amount of the Guarantor’s liability under this guaranty shall be unlimited.

 

2.

This guaranty is a continuing guaranty, shall remain in force irrespective of any interruptions in the business relations of Borrower with Bank and shall apply to and guarantee any balance which shall remain due by Borrower to Bank; provided, however, that Guarantor may, by written notice delivered personally to an officer of Bank or received by registered mail by an officer of Bank, terminate this guaranty with respect to all Obligations of the Borrower incurred or contracted by the Borrower or acquired by Bank after the date on which the notice is actually received by such officer. Such termination shall not be applicable to any Obligation incurred prior to the receipt of such notice by Bank.

 

3.

Bank may at any time and from time to time, in the exercise of its sole discretion, either before or after default by Borrower or revocation or termination of this guaranty, without the consent of or notice to Guarantor, and without incurring responsibility to Guarantor, or releasing or impairing the liability of Guarantor, or any security available to Bank, upon or without any terms or conditions:

 

  a.

Change the manner, place, or terms of payment (including payment amounts and rate of interest) and/or change or extend the time of payment, renew or alter any Obligation, any collateral or security therefore, or any Obligation incurred directly or indirectly in respect thereof, and this guaranty shall apply to the Obligations as so changed, extended, renewed or altered;

 

  b.

Sell, exchange, release, surrender, realize upon or otherwise deal with in any manner and in any order any collateral or security at any time held by or available to Bank for any Obligation, or for any obligations of Guarantor or any person secondarily or otherwise liable for any of the Obligations; Bank shall have full authority to adjust, compromise and receive less than the amount due upon any such collateral;

 

  c.

Exercise or refrain from exercising any rights against Borrower, Guarantor or others, or otherwise act or refrain from acting;

 

  d.

Release, compromise, or agree not to sue, in whole or in part, Borrower, Guarantor or any other party obligated on any of the Obligations;

 

  e.

Apply any sums received by it from any source to any Obligation or Obligations, in such order of application as Bank may elect, regardless of what Obligation or Obligations remain unpaid. All payments shall be conclusively presumed to have been made by Borrower and no payment shall operate to reduce the obligation of a Guarantor unless, at the time such payments are made, written notice is delivered to an officer of Bank that such payments are made by a Guarantor in reduction of Guarantor’s liability hereunder, and such payments are actually made by Guarantor; and

 

  f.

Fail to set off and release, in whole or in part, any balance of any deposit account or credit on its books in favor of Borrower, or any other person liable for any of the Obligations, and may extend further credit in any manner to Borrower, and generally deal with Borrower or any security or other person liable for any of the Obligations as Bank, in its sole discretion, may see fit.

 

4.

As security for the payment of the Obligations and the obligation of Guarantor hereunder, Guarantor hereby assigns and grants a security interest to Bank in (a) all property of Guarantor in or coming into the possession, control or custody of Bank, or in which Bank has or hereafter acquires a lien, security interest, or other right; and (b) any existing or hereafter created lien or security interest in favor of Guarantor in any property of Borrower.

 

Page 2


5.

Guarantor waives notice of acceptance of the guaranty and notice, including notice of default, on any Obligation to which it may apply, and waives notice of presentment and demand for payment of any of the Obligations, suit or other action taken by Bank against, and any other notice to, Guarantor or to any other party liable for the Obligations. Guarantor waives all defenses, offsets and counterclaims which Guarantor may at any time have to any claim of Bank against Borrower. Except for any limitation which is specified above with respect to the amount of the maximum liability of Guarantor, this is an unconditional guaranty, and the liability of Guarantor to Bank shall not be terminated or in any way limited by reason or as the result of anything set forth or contained in any writing evidencing all or any part of the Obligations, nor shall it be limited to a proportionate part of the total of the Obligations. This is a guaranty of payment and not of collection and Guarantor waives any right to require that any action be brought against Borrower or any other person or to require that resort be had to any security or to any balance of any deposit account or credit on the books of Bank in favor of Borrower or any other person and agrees that Bank is not responsible for the validity, perfection, recordation or enforceability of any collateral or security for the Obligations.

 

6.

Guarantor hereby ratifies, confirms, and adopts all the terms, conditions, agreements and stipulations of all notes and other evidences of the Obligations heretofore or hereafter executed. Without in any way limiting the generality of the foregoing, Guarantor waives and renounces any and all homestead exemption right Guarantor may have under or by virtue of the Constitution or laws of any state, or the United States, as against the obligation hereby created, provided however, that such waiver shall not apply to any obligation created hereunder which arises from any of the Obligations that are consumer credit transactions; and Guarantor does hereby transfer, convey and assign, and direct any Trustee in Bankruptcy or receiver to deliver to Bank, a sufficient amount of property or money in any homestead exemption that may be allowed to Guarantor to pay any Obligation in full and all costs of collection. Guarantor waives and renounces any defense to any of the Obligations which may be available to or could be asserted by Borrower, except for payment.

 

7.

Guarantor subordinates all indebtedness of Borrower owing to Guarantor, whether now existing or hereafter arising, to the Obligations. Guarantor further agrees that it shall not be subrogated to, and will not enforce on its behalf, any right of action which Bank may have against Borrower until every Obligation shall have been paid in full. Bank shall have the right, immediately and without further action by it, to set off against any obligation of Guarantor to Bank, all money owed by Bank in any capacity to Guarantor, whether or not due.

 

8.

A subsequent guaranty by Guarantor shall not be deemed to be in lieu of or to supersede or terminate this guaranty but shall be construed as an additional or supplementary guaranty unless otherwise expressly provided therein; and in the event Guarantor, or any other guarantor, has given to Bank a previous guaranty or guaranties, this guaranty shall be construed to be an additional or supplemental guaranty, and not to be in lieu thereof or to terminate such previous guaranty or guaranties unless expressly so provided herein. Notwithstanding the foregoing to the contrary, in the event any previous or subsequent guaranty by Guarantor does not exclude an Excluded Swap Obligation, the terms of this guaranty as it relates to any Excluded Swap Obligation will control.

 

9.

This guaranty shall be binding on the Guarantor, notwithstanding the failure of any further contemplated guarantor(s) to execute similar instruments and notwithstanding the fact that the signature of one or more other parties guaranteeing the Obligations or any other existing or future signature shall be forged or unauthorized. The revocation of this guaranty in the manner permitted hereunder by Guarantor or any other party guaranteeing the Obligation, or the release by Bank of any one or more parties guaranteeing the Obligations, or the death of Borrower or Guarantor or any other party guaranteeing the Obligations, shall not affect or limit the liability of Guarantor, and Bank shall be under no duty to notify Guarantor of any such revocation, release or death.

 

 

Page 3


10.

Guarantor warrants to Bank that Guarantor has adequate means to obtain from Borrower on a continuing basis information concerning the financial condition of Borrower and that Guarantor is not relying on Bank to provide such information either now or in the future. Guarantor waives all errors and omissions in connection with Bank’s administration of the Obligations except behavior which amounts to gross negligence or willful misconduct. Guarantor represents and warrants that as of the date of this Guaranty it is an “eligible contract participant” as defined in the Commodity Exchange Act.

 

11.

No invalidity, irregularity or unenforceability of all or any part of the Obligations or of any collateral or security therefor shall affect, impair, or be a defense to this guaranty, and this guaranty is a primary obligation of Guarantor.

 

12.

The term “Guarantor” as used herein shall mean the undersigned Guarantor and if the undersigned is a partnership or limited liability company, the obligations and liability of Guarantor shall remain in full force and applicable notwithstanding any changes in the identity of the parties comprising the partnership, limited liability company or other legal entity, and the term “Guarantor” shall include any altered or successor partnership or limited liability company, and the predecessor partnership or limited liability company, and their partners or member/managers shall not thereby be released from any obligation or liability.

 

13.

No delay on the part of Bank in exercising any rights hereunder or failure to exercise the same shall operate as a waiver of such rights; no notice to or demand on Guarantor shall be deemed to be a waiver of the obligation of Guarantor or of the right of Bank to take further action without notice or demand as provided herein; nor in any event shall any modification or waiver of the provisions of this guaranty be effective unless in writing signed by Bank nor shall any such waiver be applicable except in the specific instance for which given.

 

14.

Guarantor agrees to provide to Bank updated financial information, including, but not limited to, tax returns and current financial statements in form satisfactory to Bank, as well as additional information, reports or schedules (financial or otherwise), all as Bank may from time to time request.

 

15.

Notwithstanding the fact that the Obligations of Borrower may have been paid in full and this guaranty may have been returned to Guarantor, the obligations of Guarantor hereunder shall continue in full force and effect with respect to any amounts that Bank may ever be required to repay under any Bankruptcy or insolvency laws.

 

16.

This guaranty shall not be construed to impose any obligation on Bank to extend or continue any credit at any time.

 

17.

Each reference herein to Borrower shall be deemed to include Borrower and its successors and assigns. Each reference herein to Bank shall be deemed to include its successors and assigns, in whose favor the provisions of this guaranty shall also inure. Each reference herein to Guarantor shall be deemed to include heirs, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors and assigns, all of whom shall be bound by the provisions of this guaranty.

 

18.

Guarantor agrees that certain material events and occurrences relating to this guaranty bear a reasonable relationship to the laws of South Carolina. This guaranty shall be governed by the laws of South Carolina and, unless applicable law provides otherwise, in the event of any legal proceeding arising out of or related to this guaranty, the Guarantor consents to the jurisdiction and venue of any court located in South Carolina. To the extent that any provision in this guaranty is inconsistent with applicable law, Bank will comply with applicable law.

WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. GUARANTOR AND BANK HEREBY KNOWINGLY, VOLUNTARILY, INTENTIONALLY, AND IRREVOCABLY WAIVE, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, THE RIGHT EITHER OF THEM MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT TO ANY LITIGATION, WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR TORT, AT LAW OR IN EQUITY, BASED HEREON OR ARISING OUT OF, UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS GUARANTY AND ANY OTHER DOCUMENT OR INSTRUMENT CONTEMPLATED TO BE EXECUTED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THIS GUARANTY, OR ANY COURSE OF CONDUCT, COURSE OF DEALING, STATEMENTS (WHETHER VERBAL OR WRITTEN) OR ACTIONS OF ANY PARTY HERETO. THIS PROVISION IS A MATERIAL INDUCEMENT FOR BANK ENTERING INTO OR ACCEPTING THIS GUARANTY.

 

Page 4


FURTHER, GUARANTOR HEREBY CERTIFIES THAT NO REPRESENTATIVE OR AGENT OF BANK, NOR BANK’S COUNSEL, HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT BANK WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF SUCH LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THIS WAIVER OF RIGHT TO JURY TRIAL PROVISION.

The undersigned Guarantor has read, understands and agrees to the provisions of this guaranty and has executed the same voluntarily under seal, with full authority and with the intent to be legally bound by its terms, conditions and obligations.

 

Thorne Holding Corp.
By:  

/s/ Scott Wheeler

Scott Wheeler, Chief Financial Officer

The corporate name must be signed by a duly authorized officer, and Bank files must contain a corporate resolution authorizing the guaranty.

 

Page 5

Exhibit 10.24

Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

AUTHORIZED RESELLER AGREEMENT

THIS AUTHORIZED RESELLER AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is entered into as of the 25th day of November 2019 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Thorne Research, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“Thorne”); and Pattern Inc., a Utah corporation (“Pattern”). Thorne and Pattern are individually referred to as a “Party” and collectively as the “Parties.”

RECITALS

WHEREAS, Thorne is the sole owner of the entire right, title, and interest to all proprietary information, trade secrets, product formulas, and manufacturing processes for a proprietary line of natural health products comprised of multiple and various formulas of vitamins, minerals, botanicals, enzymes, amino acids, fatty acids, and proteins (the “Products”). Thorne has developed substantial proprietary knowledge and expertise necessary to the manufacturing of the Products and sells the Products both through direct online sales to customers, and through sales to resellers who resell the Products to consumers; and

WHEREAS, Pattern is an online retailer and possesses certain expertise with respect to the sale of products on those retail websites named on the Market Schedules (as defined below) hereto (the “Retail Platform”), including with respect to content management, listing management, product feedback management, search engine optimization, advertising management and unauthorized seller compliance; and

WHEREAS, Thorne and Pattern entered into an Amazon Authorized Reseller Agreement, the effective date of which was November 21, 2016 (the “2016 agreement”) and which terminates on November 30, 2019; and

WHEREAS, the Parties desire to revise, as applicable, the terms and conditions in the 2016 Agreement and replace and supersede that Agreement with this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises made and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:

1. Appointment. During the Term and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Thorne appoints Pattern, and Pattern accepts such appointment, as an authorized online reseller of the Products, subject to the exclusions specifically noted herein.

2. Market Schedules. A “Market Schedule” is an attachment to this Agreement to be completed in advance of provision of Services on a Retail Platform, the form of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A, outlining the pricing, exclusivity, countries served (the “Territory”) and other terms specific to each geographic market. Each Market Schedule will become an addendum to this agreement and will incorporate the terms of this agreement. For a Market Schedule to be valid and enforceable, each Party must give written consent (email acceptable) to the terms and form of a Market Schedule.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

3. Services. During the Term (as defined herein) and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Pattern shall perform the following services and any additional services as outlined in a Market Schedule (collectively, the “Services”):

(a) Order Fulfillment. Pattern will process and fulfill purchases of the Products on the Retail Platform in a timely, efficient, and appropriate manner, and provide customer service in a professional manner so that the reputation of Thorne will not be harmed or diminished in any way.

(b) Promotion and Marketing. Pattern will use its best efforts to actively promote and market the Products on the Retail Platform on a consistent basis with its other brands.

(c) Retail Platform Content Management. Pattern will manage all of Thorne’s Product content on the Retail Platform, subject to the direction of Thorne. This includes managing images, descriptions, and other associated content.

(d) Retail Platform Listing Management. Pattern will manage all of Thorne Product listings on the Retail Platform. This includes activities such as duplicate listing identification and removal, and other associated listing management activities.

(e) Product Feedback Management. Pattern will drive and manage Thorne Product feedback through the Retail Platform. This includes using commercially reasonable efforts to provide continued accurate feedback, increase overall positive product reviews, and perform other activities intended to build successful Product reviews.

(f) Search Engine Optimization. Pattern will perform search engine optimization services to drive the Thorne Product line with regard to the Retail Platform search functions.

(g) Sales and Retail Platform Ranking. Pattern will manage activities to drive the overall sales and product rankings for Thorne Products on the Retail Platform.

(h) Unauthorized Seller Compliance. Where applicable, Pattern will provide seller compliance services including the following:

 

   

Full access to TriGuardian providing compliance reporting, metrics, and unauthorized seller management.

 

   

Ongoing research and investigation services providing information about storefronts unknown to Thorne.

 

   

Direct buy services for unknown sellers providing name and address information for unknown sellers.

(i) Online Business Intelligence. Pattern will provide regular reporting to Thorne with regard to sales, product management, listing management, demographics, and other information regarding the Products as such information becomes available on the Retail Platform, or as reasonably requested by Thorne from time to time.

 

2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

4. Term. The initial term of this Agreement will commence on the Effective Date and continue for a period of two (2) years from the Effective Date (collectively, with all renewals, the “Term”). Following the initial term, the Agreement will automatically renew for successive one-year periods unless: (i) the Agreement is terminated in accordance with Section 12 below, or (ii) one of the Parties gives the other Party written notice of non-renewal not less than 60 days prior to the end of the then-current Term.

5. Product Orders.

(a) Orders. Subject to Section 6(d), Pattern will order the Products from Thorne pursuant to Thorne’s then-current ordering process, and Thorne agrees to fulfill all such orders. Thorne shall provide written notice to Pattern of any changes or updates to Thorne’s ordering process at least 30 days prior to its effectiveness. If Pattern orders Products for which the Retail Platform requires an expiration date, Thorne, in fulfilling such orders, will only ship to Pattern Product with an expiration date greater than or equal to nine (9) months from the date such Product is shipped from Thorne’s facilities. Pattern may, at its discretion and without penalty, cancel any order for Products at any time prior to the date that Product is shipped from Thorne’s facilities in fulfillment of such order.

(b) Pricing. Thorne will sell the ordered Products to Pattern in accordance with each Market Schedule (“Product Prices”). All Product Prices include, and Thorne is solely responsible for, all costs and expenses relating to packing, transporting, loading and unloading, customs, taxes, tariffs and duties, insurance and any other similar financial contributions or obligations relating to the production and manufacture of the Products, and the delivery of the Products to Pattern’s facilities.

(c) Pricing Revisions. Product Prices shall be set forth in accordance with Thorne’s unilateral Wholesale List Price (“WLP”), which may be revised from time to time at Thorne’s sole discretion, provided that such revised WLP shall only become effective as to Pattern upon 30 days’ prior written notice to Pattern. Product Prices for any orders placed by Pattern during such 30-day notice period will be calculated using the pre-revision WLP. Orders pending but not shipped at the time of any change in the WLP will be priced at the Product Price in effect at the time the order was placed by Pattern.

(d) Shipping. As more specifically set forth in subsection (b) above, Thorne will be responsible for shipping Products from Thorne’s facilities to Pattern facilities unless specified in a Market Schedule, and shall ship all ordered Products in accordance with the terms and conditions specified in the applicable Market Schedule, including the delivery timing and other instructions set forth in the order. Pattern will be responsible for all shipping from Pattern facilities to the Retail Platform facilities and/or other third-party locations.

(e) Payment Terms. Pattern agrees to pay Thorne for ordered Product promptly following the delivery of such Product to Pattern’s facilities. Payments by Pattern shall be made using a Credit Card, ACH or check using 2/10 Net 30 terms. Thorne will indicate which of the above methods it prefers and communicate such preference to Pattern in a timely manner.

 

3


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

6. Performance of the Services.

(a) Negative Covenants. In providing the Services, Pattern agrees that it will not: (i) make any representation, warranty, or claim regarding the Products that is not preapproved, or otherwise in accordance with the directions and authority given to Pattern, by Thorne; (ii) make any representation, warranty, or claim regarding the Products other than those being made at that time by Thorne on its Product labels and/or website, nor use deceptive, misleading, or unethical representations or practices that are detrimental to Thorne or the Products; (iii) alter or modify any Product in any way prior to reselling it on the Retail Platform; or (iv) make any statements, orally or in writing, about the Products that are not approved by Thorne and that can be reasonable expected to violate any regulatory requirement of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, or the National Advertising Division of the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

(b) Regulatory Matters. Pattern shall use commercially reasonable efforts to market and resell the Products, in material compliance with federal, state and local laws and regulations of the Territory applicable to each sale. Pattern shall inform Thorne as soon as practicable upon receipt of any correspondence (for example, issuance of a warning letter) from governmental regulatory authorities regarding the Products. Pattern shall coordinate with Thorne its response to any regulatory action with respect to Pattern’s reselling of the Products. Nothing in this Section 5(b) shall limit Pattern’s ability to take action (or inaction) required by applicable law or that may be necessary or advisable for the protection of Pattern’s interests, as determined by Pattern in its sole discretion. This Section 5(b) likewise does not require Pattern to take any action that is prohibited by law or by any relevant regulatory authorities. Pattern will also familiarize itself with and comply with anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws as referenced in Section 13(b) of this Agreement, known as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.

(c) Manner of Performance. Pattern will perform the Services in a professional and workmanlike manner.

(d) Sales Forecast. Pattern agrees to provide Thorne with a sales forecast at a frequency and in a format mutually agreed to by the Parties in order to ensure appropriate and timely supply of the Products.

(e) Minimum Advertised Price. Thorne has a unilateral Minimum Advertised Price Policy (“MAP Policy”) that applies to all authorized resellers of Products located in the United States of America as well as in all other countries where Products are sold, except where such policy is in contravention with local laws, e.g. the EU. Pattern may set the retail prices for the Products in the Territory; provided however, that except where prohibited by local laws and regulations, no Product may be advertised online at a retail price less than the Minimum Advertised Price then in effect for that Product in a particular market.

(f) Dedicated Resources. The Parties agree to designate specific staff to maximize the performance of their respective obligations undertaken pursuant to this Agreement, including content development/updating, marketing, promotions, and measuring and reporting performance.

 

4


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

7. Thorne’s Obligations. During the Term, and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Thorne acknowledges and agrees to the following obligations:

(a) Availability of the Products. Thorne will maintain a high standard of Product quality and will promptly alert Pattern of recalls or material supply chain issues.

(b) Product Promotion. Thorne will cooperate and assist Pattern on sales promotions and other marketing activities by providing medical and educational content, including video and promotional materials for the Products on the Retail Platform.

(c) Electronic Order Fulfillment. Thorne will implement and utilize SPS Commerce electronic data interchange system and will work with Pattern to facilitate electronic order fulfillment and related functions.

8. Product Recalls. Product recalls will be managed in accordance with Thorne’s then-current product recall policy. All decisions regarding product recalls will be made by Thorne in its sole discretion. Thorne will be liable for all expenses and costs related to a Product recall, including any and all expenses and costs that may be incurred by Pattern.

9. Intellectual Property.

(a) License. During the Term and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Thorne grants a limited, worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free, nontransferable right and license to Pattern to use and display the Thorne Trademarks (as defined below) for the purposes of (i) selling, marketing and promoting the Products on the Retail Platform, (ii) assuring that the images and descriptions of the Products on the Retail Platform are accurate and up-to-date, and (iii) performing all of Pattern’s obligations under this Agreement. For purposes of this Agreement, “Thorne Trademarks” means Thorne’s trademarks, service marks, trade dress, Product names and likenesses, designs, logos, trade names, corporate names, and general intangibles of like nature, whether or not registered, including common law rights and registrations and applications for registration thereof, together with the goodwill relating thereto.

(b) Pattern Website and Customer Lists. Thorne grants Pattern the right to add Thorne’s name and logo to Pattern’s customer list, website, and marketing materials.

(c) Thorne Intellectual Property. As between Thorne and Pattern, except for the license granted in Section 8(a), Thorne shall be and remain the sole and exclusive owner of all right, title, and interest in and to the Thorne Trademarks. All intellectual property rights to the Products and Thorne Trademarks not expressly granted to Pattern under this Section 8 are reserved to Thorne. To the extent Pattern acquires any right, title or interest in the Thorne Trademarks, Pattern hereby assigns and conveys all such right, title and interest therein to Thorne. Pattern agrees to not challenge, question, or contest the validity or ownership of any Thorne Trademarks. Pattern cannot use any language or display Thorne Trademarks in such a way as to create the impression that the Thorne Trademarks are owned by Pattern.

 

5


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(d) Pattern Intellectual Property. Subject to Section 8(c), as between Thorne and Pattern, Pattern shall at all times be and remain the sole and exclusive owner of all patents, processes, software, code, files, technology, templates, designs, advertising concepts, promotional materials, images, text, forms, scripting, trade secrets and know-how of Pattern, including without limitation any of such items that may be created by Pattern in connection with the performance of the Services, including, without limitation, any Deliverables (as defined below) (collectively, the “Pattern Property”). To the extent Thorne acquires any right, title or interest in any Pattern Property, Thorne hereby assigns and conveys all such right, title and interest therein to Pattern. Except as expressly authorized in this Agreement, Thorne will not copy, modify, distribute or transfer, display, sublicense, rent, reverse engineer, de-compile or disassemble the Pattern Property.

(e) Grant of License. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, Pattern hereby grants to Thorne a personal, non-exclusive, nontransferable, royalty-free license to use, during the Term, any final images or video, Product descriptions, advertising concepts or promotional materials provided to Thorne by Pattern or publicly displayed by Pattern on the Retail Platform in connection with Pattern’s performance of the Services (collectively, “Deliverables”), for Thorne’s marketing or other such business operations exclusively on Thorne’s website, provided that in no case shall such operations include service bureau use, outsourcing, renting, or time-sharing the Services or Deliverables. Thorne will have no license to or rights regarding non-final images or videos created by Pattern. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything herein to the contrary, all rights and licenses granted to Thorne with respect to Deliverables shall terminate upon the expiration or termination of this Agreement, and upon the date of such termination or expiration Thorne shall immediately cease all use of Deliverables, including any modifications of or derivative works based on such Deliverables. If termination of this Agreement is two (2) years or more after the Effective Date of this Agreement, a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive license to use the Deliverables may be purchased from Pattern by Thorne for consideration of $1. If termination of this Agreement is less than two (2) years from the Effective Date of this Agreement, the Parties may collectively and in good faith determine the reasonable, fair market value of the Deliverables. Thorne will then have the option to purchase from Pattern a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive license to use the Deliverables for the consideration of the fair market value of the Deliverables as determined by the Parties.

(f) Pattern Rights. Thorne agrees and acknowledges that application of Pattern’s know-how, methodologies and processes is necessary to its production and delivery of high-quality Services and Deliverables. Accordingly, and notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Thorne permits Pattern to use, extract, examine, model, manipulate, collate, analyze, reproduce and otherwise use any data or other information that Pattern obtains or acquires through provision of the Services, including, but not limited to, sales information, within the scope of its regular business operations. In the event Thorne or any of its employees or contractors provide to Pattern suggestions or recommended changes with respect to the Services, or provide to Pattern the identities of or other information with respect to unauthorized sellers of the Products, Pattern shall have the right, without obligation to Thorne, to apply and utilize such suggestions, recommendations and information in its regular business operations. Pattern shall likewise be free to use any ideas, concepts, know-how and techniques it learns or obtains in connection with the performance of the Services within the scope of its regular business operations.

 

6


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

10. Confidentiality.

(a) Confidential Information. For purposes of this Agreement, “Confidential Information” means all know-how, designs, application information, specifications, manufacturing processes, data, formulas, technical information, data sheets, manuals, diagrams, customer lists, financial information, sales methods, sales proposals, business plans and any other intellectual property or proprietary information belonging to a Party or relating to the Party’s affairs that is not public information; provided, however, that it shall not include information or knowledge that (i) is known to the receiving Party or readily available to the receiving Party from another source before receipt thereof from the disclosing Party, (ii) is disclosed to the receiving Party in good faith by a third party who had the right to make such disclosure, (iii) is now or hereafter becomes part of the public domain through no fault of the receiving Party, (iv) is required to be disclosed by law, or (v) is independently developed by the receiving Party, acting alone or with other third parties, without use of Confidential Information of the disclosing Party.

(b) Non-disclosure. Subject to the provisions of Section 8(e), both during and after the Term, each of the Parties agrees: (i) to use commercially reasonable efforts to protect the Confidential Information of the other Party from unauthorized use or disclosure and to use at least the same degree of care with regard thereto as it uses to protect its own Confidential Information of a like nature; and (ii) to use and reproduce the Confidential Information of the other Party only for the purposes contemplated by this Agreement.

(c) Injunctive Relief. The Parties agree that any breach by either Party or any of its officers, directors, managers, employees, contractors or agents, of any provisions of this Section 9 may cause immediate and irreparable injury to the other Party and that, in the event of such breach, the injured Party will be entitled to seek injunctive relief as well as any and all other remedies available at law or in equity.

(d) Judicial/Legal Request. If either Party receives a subpoena or other validly issued administrative or judicial process requesting Confidential Information of the other Party, it shall provide prompt notice to the other of such receipt to enable the disclosing Party to seek an appropriate protective order. If the disclosing party does not provide such protective order or waive compliance with this provision within a reasonable time after the notice, the Party receiving the subpoena shall thereafter be entitled to comply with such subpoena or other process to that extent permitted by law; provided, however, that the receiving Party shall use reasonable efforts to minimize such disclosure and to obtain an assurance that the judicial/subpoena recipient shall accord confidential treatment to the Confidential Information.

 

7


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

11. Representations and Warranties.

(a) Mutual Warranty. Each Party represents and warrants to the other Party that: (i) such Party has the full corporate right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform the acts required of it; (ii) such Party owns the rights necessary to grant the rights and licenses and fulfill its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) the execution of this Agreement by such Party will not violate any agreement to which such Party is bound; and (iv) when executed and delivered by such Party this Agreement will constitute the legal, valid, and binding obligation of such Party, enforceable against such Party in accordance with its terms.

(b) Warranty for Products. Thorne hereby warrants that (i) Thorne has and will convey to Pattern good and valid title to the Products, free and clear of any lien or encumbrance, (ii) the Products shall conform to the specifications at the time of manufacture, shall not be adulterated with any ingredient not listed in the specifications and shall comply with all laws and regulations applicable to Thorne, and (iii) the Products shall not infringe upon the intellectual property rights of any third parties.

(c) Disclaimer of Warranties. THE WARRANTIES GIVEN IN THIS AGREEMENT BY PATTERN AND THORNE WITH RESPECT TO THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY EACH PARTY ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT TO THE SERVICES AND DELIVERABLES PROVIDED BY ONE PARTY TO THE OTHER, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR NON-INFRINGEMENT. NOTHING IN THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE DEEMED A WARRANTY BY EITHER PARTY WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCTS OR THEIR MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR NON-INFRINGEMENT.

12. Indemnification and Insurance.

(a) By Thorne. Thorne agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Pattern, its employees, managers, officers, directors, principals, owners and agents, from and against any and all claims, demands, damage, actions, costs, liability, loss and expense (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising out of or relating to: (i) any material breach by Thorne of its obligations under this Agreement, (ii) any product liability or other such claims relating to the Products, and (iii) any claim that the Products, the Thorne Trademarks, or any other data or information provided or made available to Pattern pursuant to this Agreement infringes upon the intellectual property rights of any third party.

(b) By Pattern. Pattern agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold Thorne, its employees, managers, officers, directors, principals, owners and agents, from and against any and all claims, demands, damage, actions, costs, liability, loss and expense (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising out of or relating to any material breach by Pattern of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

8


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(c) Insurance. Pattern agrees to maintain throughout the term of this Agreement, for so long as it is selling the Products, at its own expense, General Liability insurance (including Product Liability insurance) with a limit of insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence or claim and $3,000,000 in the aggregate. Thorne agrees to maintain throughout the term of this Agreement, for so long as Pattern is selling the Products, at its own expense, General Liability insurance (including Product Liability insurance) with a limit of insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence or claim and at least $3,000,000 in the aggregate. Thorne’s Product Liability insurance shall contain a Broad Form Vendor’s endorsement which provides additional insured status to its authorized vendors, distributors and resellers. Thorne shall ensure that all insurance policies required of it under this Section 11(c) name Pattern and its affiliates, including, in each case, all successors and permitted assigns, as additional insureds. Each Party shall provide the other Party, within 30 days after the execution of this Agreement and annually thereafter, with certificates of insurance evidencing the required insurances described above.

(d) Limitation on Liability. In no event shall either Party be liable for consequential, incidental, indirect or punitive loss, damage or expenses (including but not limited to business interruption, lost business, or lost savings) even if it has been advised of their possible existence, and one Party’s cumulative liability to the other Party, or any other Party, for any loss or damages arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall not exceed $1,000,000. The allocations of liability in this Section 11(d) represent the agreed and bargained-for understanding of the Parties.

13. Termination.

(a) Termination. This Agreement may be terminated as follows:

(i) By either Party, without cause, upon sixty (60) days prior written notice to the other Party.

(ii) By either Party immediately upon notice to the other if the other Party becomes or is declared bankrupt, becomes the subject of any proceeding related to its liquidation or insolvency (whether voluntary or involuntary) which is not dismissed within ninety (90) calendar days, or makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors.

(iii) By the non-breaching Party, if the other Party breaches any of its material obligations under this Agreement, unless (x) the breaching Party cures the breach within thirty (30) days of receiving written notice from the non-breaching Party of the breach, or (y) the breaching Party begins action to cure the breach within the 30-day notice period and thereafter diligently prosecutes such curative action to completion, if the breach cannot reasonably be cured within the 30-day notice period.

(b) Effect of Termination. Upon the termination or expiration of this Agreement:

(i) All rights granted by the Parties under the Agreement will terminate and revert to the respective Parties.

(ii) Pattern will promptly pay Thorne any unpaid amounts for the Products purchased pursuant to Section 4 or otherwise due under this Agreement.

 

9


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(iii) Thorne will promptly pay Pattern any unpaid amounts due under this Agreement.

(iv) Each Party will promptly return to the other Party or, at the other Party’s request, destroy the other Party’s Confidential Information.

(v) Thorne will promptly return to Pattern or, at Pattern’s request, destroy all Deliverables, including any modifications of or derivative works based on any Deliverables.

(vi) The relevant sections of this Agreement will remain in effect so that Pattern is permitted to fulfill all orders to customers that have been placed prior to the termination of this Agreement.

(vii) In the event that Thorne terminates this Agreement, Thorne will repurchase from Pattern any extra Product previously purchased by Pattern that is not necessary to fulfill orders made prior to the termination of this Agreement. Such Product shall be repurchased by Thorne at the same price that Pattern paid for the Product. Pattern will make reasonable efforts to reduce Product inventory prior to the date of termination of this Agreement.

(c) Market Schedules. Each Market Schedule may be terminated by either Party separately from this Agreement without affecting this Agreement or any other Brand Schedule by providing ninety (90) days’ written notice to the other Party. If not terminated by either Party under this clause 12(c), each Market Schedule will remain in force until this Agreement is terminated.

(d) Survival. Sections 7, 8(c), 8(d), 8(e) and 9 through 13 will survive termination of this Agreement.

14. Miscellaneous Terms and Conditions.

(a) Assignment. Neither Party will assign this Agreement, or any right, interest, or benefit under this Agreement, without the prior written consent of the other Party, which consent will not be unreasonably withheld or delayed; provided, however, that either Party may assign this Agreement, without the need to obtain consent of the other Party, to an affiliate of such Party or to a successor in interest to substantially all of the business of that Party to which the Agreement relates.

(b) Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. The Parties represent and warrant that they are familiar with applicable domestic and foreign anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws, including those prohibiting Thorne and Pattern, and their officers, employees, agents, and other working on their behalf, from taking corrupt actions in furtherance of an offer, payment, promise to pay, or authorization of the payment of anything of value, including but not limited to payments, tangible and intangible gifts, favors, services, and those entertainment and travel expenses that go beyond what is reasonable and customary and of modest value, to: (i) an executive, official, employee, or agent of a governmental department, agency or instrumentality, (ii) a director, officer, employee, or agent of a wholly or partially government-owned or government-controlled

 

10


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

company or business, (iii) a political party or official thereof, or candidate for political office, (iv) an executive, official employee, or agent of a public international organization (“Government Official”) or (v) any executive, officer, employee, or agent of a third party; while knowing or having a reasonable belief that all or some portion will be used for the purpose of: (a) influencing any act, decision, or failure to act by a Government Official in his or her official capacity, (b) inducing a Government Official to use his or her influence with a government or instrumentality to affect any act or decision of such government or entity, or (c) securing an illegal improper advantage, in order to obtain, retain, or direct business. Thorne and Pattern represent and warrant that they and their agents are now in compliance with all applicable domestic or foreign anti-bribery or anticorruption laws, including those prohibiting the bribery of Government Officials, and will remain in compliance with all applicable laws; that they will not authorize, offer or make payments directly or indirectly to any Government Official; and that no part of the payments received by Thorne or Pattern will be used for any purpose that could constitute a violation of any applicable laws.

(c) Governing Law and Forum. This Agreement will be governed by, construed, and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of South Carolina, and each Party agrees to submit to the jurisdiction of the courts of the State of South Carolina for the purpose of enforcing the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Any order, judgment, or decree entered by a South Carolina court may be transferred to any other jurisdiction to enforce its compliance.

(d) Dispute Resolution. Any dispute arising hereunder will be construed according to South Carolina law and will be resolved by mediation. The selected venue of the mediation will be Charleston, South Carolina, before a mediator licensed by the South Carolina State Bar and mutually agreed to by the Parties. This is intended to be a mandatory venue selection clause, and not a permissive venue selection clause, and the Parties acknowledge and agree that this venue selection clause should be interpreted in accordance with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Atlantic Marine Constr. Co. v. U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, 134 S. Ct. 568 (2013).

(e) Entire Agreement. This Agreement, together with any applicable Market Schedules, constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to its subject matter and will be deemed to merge and supersede all prior and contemporaneous agreements, communications, and understandings both written and oral.

(f) Force Majeure. Neither Party will be liable for failure to perform its obligations (except payment obligations) due to unforeseen circumstances or causes beyond the Party’s reasonable control, including without limitation, acts of God, riot, embargoes, acts of governmental authorities, fire, earthquake, flood, accident, strikes, or inability to secure transmission facilities.

(g) Further Assurances. Each Party will take such action, including, but not limited to, the execution, acknowledgment and delivery of documents, as may reasonably be requested by the other Party for the implementation or continuing performance of this Agreement.

 

11


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(h) No Waiver. No waiver of any breach of any provision of this Agreement will constitute a waiver of any prior, concurrent, or subsequent breach of the same or any other provisions, and no waiver will be effective unless made in writing and signed by an authorized representative of the waiving Party.

(i) Notice. Notices, demands, consents, or other communications will in writing and faxed, mailed, or delivered to each Party at the Party’s address or e-mail address set below, or at such other address as such Party will have furnished the other Party in writing. Such communications will be deemed effective given the earlier of: (i) when received; (ii) when delivered personally; (iii) one business day after being deposited with an overnight courier service of recognized standing; or (iv) four days after being deposited in the U.S. mail, first class with postage prepaid.

If to Thorne

Thorne Research, Inc.

Attention: Edwin Kamauoha, Deputy General Counsel

620 Omni Industrial Blvd, Summerville, SC 29486

email: ekamauoha@thorne.com

If to Pattern

Pattern Inc.

Attention: Jeff Jarvie, Chief Financial Officer

1633 West Innovation Way, STE 300, Lehi, UT 84043

email: jeff@Pattern.com

(j) Execution in Counterparts. For the convenience of the Parties, this Agreement may be executed in counterparts and each counterpart will be deemed to be an original.

(k) Relationship of the Parties. The Parties are and intend to be independent contractors with respect to the Services and nothing in this Agreement will be construed to create a partnership, joint venture, or employer-employee relationship. Neither Party may make any statement or take any position that contradicts anything in this Section.

(l) Severability. Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement will be construed and interpreted in such a manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement or the application thereof to any Party or circumstance will be prohibited by or invalid under applicable law, such provision will be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition invalidating the remainder of such provision or any other provision of this Agreement or the application of such provision to other Parties or circumstances.

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 

12


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Authorized Reseller Agreement to be executed as of the Effective Date.

 

Thorne Research, Inc.    
By:   /s/ Thomas P. McKenna     Date:   11/25/19
Name:   Thomas P. McKenna      
Title:   Chief Operating Officer      
Pattern Inc.      
By:   Jeffrey Jarvie     Date:   11/26/2019
Name:   Jeff Jarvie      
Title:   Chief Financial Officer      


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT A

Form of Market Schedule

Market Schedule to Authorized Reseller Agreement

Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research, Inc.

Effective Date:

Retail Platform(s):

Countries Served/Territory:

Exclusivity:

Pricing:

Market-Specific Commercial Terms:


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Market Schedule to Authorized Reseller Agreement

Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research, Inc.

Effective Date: The effective date of the Agreement.

Retail Platforms: amazon.com; walmart.com; jet.com

Countries Served/Territory: USA

 

Exclusivity:    Exclusive Product Reselling. Pattern shall resell the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, on behalf of Thorne. In accordance therewith, Thorne hereby appoints Pattern, and Pattern hereby accepts the appointment, to act as the exclusive reseller of the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule. The Parties understand and acknowledge the difficulty on the part of Thorne in ensuring strict exclusivity. Accordingly, the exclusivity granted to Pattern pursuant to this Market Schedule shall be interpreted as an agreement by and obligation of Thorne to, for the entirety of the Term, (i) not sell, on its own behalf or through any affiliate, any Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, (ii) not grant to any Party other than Pattern the right to resell the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, and (iii) use commercially reasonable efforts to ensure and maintain Pattern’s rights of exclusivity.
Pricing:    Thorne will sell the ordered Products to Pattern at Thorne’s then-WLP for such Products, [***].
Market-Specific Commercial Terms:
   Additional Services. Pattern will provide information and assistance to Thorne’s outside counsel, VORYS, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP, engaged to pursue legal action against unauthorized sellers of the Products on the Retail Platform named in this Market Schedule (“Thorne’s Outside Counsel”); provided, however, that Thorne shall be solely and exclusively responsible for instructing, directing, and approving all strategies and actions proposed by Thorne’s Outside Counsel.
   Proposition 65. Thorne shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that Products are compliant with California’s Prop 65 (Cal. Health & Safety Code §§ 25249.5—25249.14, et seq,) which prohibits the knowing and intentional exposure of any individual to a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer or reproductive toxicity without first giving clear and reasonable warning to such individual. Thorne may comply with Prop 65 (“Prop 65 Compliance”) by either: (1) ensuring that the Products do not require a Prop 65 warning or; (2) providing a warning that complies with all requirements of Prop 65 and related regulations. Thorne expressly represents and warrants Prop 65 Compliance with respect to each Product. If Thorne elects to achieve Prop 65 Compliance through the provision of a warning (subsection (2), above) that is provided through Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, Thorne shall in writing provide to


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

US/EU/CN Market Schedule to Authorized Reseller Agreement

Page 2

 

  

Pattern all specifications concerning the warning, including the text, font size, color and content of the warning for display on Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule and any other communication, if any, to be sent to the end customers of Products residing in the State of California. Pattern’s duties with respect to complying with Prop 65 are expressly limited to adhering with Thorne’s written directives and instructions concerning warnings and allowing customers to return any Products that Thorne reasonably believes are not Prop 65 Complaint for a full refund (including all shipping and handling fees). Thorne shall defend and indemnify Pattern with respect to any claim asserting a violation of Prop 65 by the Products.

 

Minimum Advertised Price. Thorne has established a Minimum Advertised Price Policy that applies to all authorized resellers of Products located in the United States (the “U.S. MAP Policy”). Pattern may set the retail prices for the Products in the Territory, provided however, that no Product shall be advertised online at a retail price less than the Minimum Advertised Price then in effect for that Product as stated in the U.S MAP Policy.

 

2


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Market Schedule to Authorized Reseller Agreement

Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research, Inc.

Effective Date: The effective date of the Agreement.

Retail Platforms: amazon.ca

Countries Served/Territory: Canada

 

Exclusivity:    Exclusive Product Reselling. Pattern shall resell the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, on behalf of Thorne. In accordance therewith, Thorne hereby appoints Pattern, and Pattern hereby accepts the appointment, to act as the exclusive reseller of the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule. The Parties understand and acknowledge the difficulty on the part of Thorne in ensuring strict exclusivity. Accordingly, the exclusivity granted to Pattern pursuant to this Market Schedule shall be interpreted as an agreement by and obligation of Thorne to, for the entirety of the Term, (i) not sell, on its own behalf or through any affiliate, any Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, (ii) not grant to any Party other than Pattern the right to resell the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, and (iii) use commercially reasonable efforts to ensure and maintain Pattern’s rights of exclusivity.
Pricing:    Thorne will sell the ordered Products to Pattern at Thorne’s then-WLP for such Products, [***].
Market-Specific Commercial Terms:
   Minimum Advertised Price. Thorne has established a Minimum Advertised Price Policy that applies to all authorized resellers of Products located in Canada (the “Canada MAP Policy”). Pattern may set the retail prices for the Products in the Territory, provided however, that no Product shall be advertised online at a retail price less than the Minimum Advertised Price then in effect for that Product as stated in the Canada MAP Policy.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Market Schedule to Authorized Reseller Agreement

Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research, Inc.

Effective Date: The effective date of the Agreement.

Retail Platforms: amazon.uk; amazon.it; amazon.es; amazon.fr; amazon.de

Countries/Territories Served: United Kingdom; European Union

 

Exclusivity:   

Thorne appoints Pattern as an exclusive reseller of the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule. The Parties understand and acknowledge the difficulty on the part of Thorne in ensuring strict exclusivity. Accordingly, the exclusivity granted to Pattern pursuant to this clause shall be interpreted as an agreement by and obligation of Thorne to, for the entirety of the Term;

 

(a)   not sell, on its own behalf or through any affiliate, any Products on the Retail Platform,

 

(b)   not grant to any Party other than Pattern the right to resell the Products on the Retail Platform, or

 

(c)   use commercially reasonable efforts to ensure and maintain Pattern’s rights of exclusivity.

 

Nothing in this clause shall prevent Thorne from selling Product on its own (i) B2C website (ii) allowing other resellers to sell Product on the reseller’s own B2C website or (iii) on any other platform other than the Retail Platform.

Pricing:    Thorne will sell the ordered Products to Pattern at Thorne’s then-WLP for such Products, [***].
Market-Specific Commercial Terms:
   Shipping. Thorne shall be responsible for shipping the Products to the countries/territories by sea.
   Import Licences. Pattern shall be responsible for obtaining any necessary import licences or permits necessary for the entry of the Products into the Countries Served/Territory and Thorne shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide supporting documentation in a timely and professional manner as requested by Pattern.
   VAT. All sums payable under this Agreement, or otherwise payable by any Party to any other Party under this Agreement are exclusive of any VAT chargeable on the supplies for which such sums (or any part of them) are the whole or part of the consideration for VAT purposes.
  

(a)   Where, under this Agreement, any Party makes a supply to any other Party (“Recipient”) for VAT purposes and VAT is or becomes chargeable on that supply for which the supplying Party is required to account to the relevant tax authority, the Recipient shall, subject to the receipt of a valid VAT invoice, pay the supplying Party (in addition to, and at the same time as, any other consideration for that supply) the amount of such VAT


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

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(b)   Where any Party is required by this Agreement to reimburse or indemnify any other Party for any cost or expense, that first Party shall reimburse or indemnify the other Party for the full amount of the cost or expense, including any VAT on that amount, except to the extent that the other Party is entitled to credit or repayment for that VAT from any relevant tax authority.

   Data Protection.
  

(a)   The following definitions apply in this clause:

  

Agreed Purposes: as required under this Agreement.

  

Controller, data controller, processor, data processor, data subject, personal data, processing and appropriate technical and organisational measures: as set out in the Data Protection Legislation in force at the time.

  

Data Protection Legislation: the UK Data Protection Legislation and any other European Union legislation relating to personal data and all other legislation and regulatory requirements in force from time to time which apply to a Party relating to the use of personal data (including, without limitation, the privacy of electronic communications); and the guidance and codes of practice issued by the relevant data protection or supervisory authority and applicable to a Party.

  

Permitted Recipients: the Parties to this Agreement, the employees of each Party, any third Parties engaged to perform obligations in connection with this Agreement.

  

Shared Personal Data: the personal data to be shared between the Parties under this Agreement. Shared Personal Data shall be confined to the following categories of information relevant to the following categories of data subject: customers of Products via the Retail Platform and personnel of either Party. The type of data shall relate to contact data, financial data and transaction data.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

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UK Data Protection Legislation: all applicable data protection and privacy legislation in force from time to time in the UK including the General Data Protection Regulation ((EU) 2016/679); the Data Protection Act 2018; the Privacy and Electronic Communications Directive 2002/58/EC (as updated by Directive 2009/136/EC) and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 (SI 2003/2426) as amended.

  

(b)   This clause sets out the framework for the sharing of personal data between the Parties as data controllers. Each Party acknowledges that one Party (the “Data Discloser”) will regularly disclose to the other Party (the “Data Recipient”) Shared Personal Data collected by the Data Discloser for the Agreed Purposes.

  

(c)   Each Party shall comply with all the obligations imposed on a controller under the Data Protection Legislation, and any material breach of the Data Protection Legislation by one Party shall constitute a material breach of the Agreement.

 

(d)   Each Party shall:

 

ensure that it has all necessary consents and notices in place to enable lawful transfer of the Shared Personal Data to the Data Recipient for the Agreed Purposes;

 

give full information to any data subject whose personal data may be processed under this Agreement of the nature such processing. This includes giving notice that, on the termination of this Agreement, personal data relating to them may be retained by or, as the case may be, transferred to one or more of the Permitted Recipients, their successors and assignees;

 

process the Shared Personal Data only for the Agreed Purposes;

 

not disclose or allow access to the Shared Personal Data to anyone other than the Permitted Recipients;

 

ensure that all Permitted Recipients are subject to written contractual obligations concerning the Shared Personal Data (including obligations of confidentiality) which are no less demanding than those imposed by this Agreement;

 

ensure that it has in place appropriate technical and organisational measures, reviewed and approved by the other Party, to protect against unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and against accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, personal data; not transfer any personal data outside of the European Economic Area unless the transferor:


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

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complies with the provisions of Article 26 of the General Data Protection Regulation (in the event the third Party is a joint controller); and

 

ensures that (i) the transfer is to a country approved by the European Commission as providing adequate protection pursuant to Article 45 of the General Data Protection Regulation; (ii) there are appropriate safeguards in place pursuant to Article 46 of the General Data Protection Regulation; or (iii) one of the derogations for specific situations in Article 49 of the General Data Protection Regulation applies to the transfer.

 

(e)   Each Party shall assist the other in complying with all applicable requirements of the Data Protection Legislation. In particular, each Party shall:

 

consult with the other Party about any notices given to data subjects in relation to the Shared Personal Data;

 

promptly inform the other Party about the receipt of any data subject access request;

 

provide the other Party with reasonable assistance in complying with any data subject access request;

 

not disclose or release any Shared Personal Data in response to a data subject access request without first consulting the other Party wherever possible;

 

assist the other Party, at the cost of the other Party, in responding to any request from a data subject and in ensuring compliance with its obligations under the Data Protection Legislation with respect to security,

 

breach notifications, impact assessments and consultations with supervisory authorities or regulators;

 

notify the other Party without undue delay on becoming aware of any breach of the Data Protection Legislation;


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

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at the written direction of the Data Discloser, delete or return Shared Personal Data and copies thereof to the Data Discloser on termination of this Agreement unless required by law to store the personal data;

 

use compatible technology for the processing of Shared Personal Data to ensure that there is no lack of accuracy resulting from personal data transfers;

 

maintain complete and accurate records and information to demonstrate its compliance with this clause 15 and allow for audits by the other Party or the other Party’s designated auditor; and

 

provide the other Party with contact details of at least one employee as point of contact and responsible manager for all issues arising out of the Data Protection Legislation, including the joint training of relevant staff, the procedures to be followed in the event of a data security breach, and the regular review of the Parties’ compliance with the Data Protection Legislation.

 

(f)   Each Party shall indemnify the other against all liabilities, costs, expenses, damages and losses (including but not limited to any direct, indirect or consequential losses, loss of profit, loss of reputation and all interest, penalties and legal costs (calculated on a full indemnity basis) and all other reasonable professional costs and expenses) suffered or incurred by the indemnified Party arising out of or in connection with the breach of the Data Protection Legislation by the indemnifying Party, its employees or agents, provided that the indemnified Party gives to the indemnifier prompt notice of such claim, full information about the circumstances giving rise to it, reasonable assistance in dealing with the claim and sole authority to manage, defend and/or settle it.

 


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Market Schedule to Authorized Reseller Agreement

Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research, Inc.

Effective Date: The effective date of the Agreement.

Retail Platforms: tmall.com

Countries/Territories Served: China; Hong Kong

 

Exclusivity:    Pattern shall resell the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule on behalf of Thorne. In accordance therewith, Thorne hereby appoints Pattern, and Pattern hereby accepts the appointment, to act as a non-exclusive reseller of the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule.
Pricing:    Thorne will sell the ordered Products to Pattern at Thorne’s then-WLP for such Products.
Market-Specific Commercial Terms:
  

Shipping. Thorne shall be responsible for shipping the Products to the countries/territories by sea. Pattern will pay any difference from standard sea shipping costs for any required expedited shipping. Thorne reserves the right to require certain minimum purchase volumes to make shipping costs to the Countries/Territories Served cost-effective.

 

Import Licences. Pattern shall be responsible for obtaining any necessary import licences or permits necessary for the entry of the Products into the Countries Served/Territory and Thorne shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide supporting documentation in a timely and professional manner as requested by Pattern.

 

Minimum Advertised Price. Thorne has established a Minimum Advertised Price Policy that applies to all authorized resellers of Products located in China and Hong Kong (the “China/HK MAP Policy”). Pattern may set the retail prices for the Products in the Territory, provided however, that no Product shall be advertised online at a retail price less than the Minimum Advertised Price then in effect for that Product as stated in the China/HK MAP Policy.

 

VAT. All sums payable under this Agreement, or otherwise payable by any Party to any other Party under this Agreement are exclusive of any VAT chargeable on the supplies for which such sums (or any part of them) are the whole or part of the consideration for VAT purposes.

 

(a)   Where, under this Agreement, any Party makes a supply to any other Party (“Recipient”) for VAT purposes and VAT is or becomes chargeable on that supply for which the supplying Party is required to account to the relevant tax authority, the Recipient shall, subject to the receipt of a valid VAT invoice, pay the supplying Party (in addition to, and at the same time as, any other consideration for that supply) the amount of such VAT.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

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(b)   Where any Party is required by this Agreement to reimburse or indemnify any other Party for any cost or expense, that first Party shall reimburse or indemnify the other Party for the full amount of the cost or expense, including any VAT on that amount, except to the extent that the other Party is entitled to credit or repayment for that VAT from any relevant tax authority.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

FIRST AMENDMENT TO

AUTHORIZED RESELLER AGREEMENT

This First Amendment to the Authorized Reseller Agreement (this “Amendment”) is entered into by and between Thorne Research, Inc. (“Thorne”) and Pattern Inc. (“Pattern”) (collectively, the “Parties”) to amend the November 25, 2019 Authorized Reseller Agreement between Pattern and Thorne (the “Agreement”). The effective date of this Amendment is August 20, 2020. Defined terms used in the Agreement have the same meaning in this Amendment. In consideration of the terms set forth below and other valuable consideration, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

1. Amendment to the first bullet in Section 3(h) Unauthorized Seller Compliance. The first bullet in Section 3(h) of the Agreement shall be replaced with the following:

 

   

Full access to TriGuardian (or any successor product) providing compliance reporting, metrics, and unauthorized seller identification.

2. Amendment to Section 5(e). Section 5(e) of the Agreement shall be replaced with the following:

(e) Minimum Advertised Price. Thorne has a unilateral Minimum Advertised Price Policy (“MAP Policy”) that applies to all authorized resellers of Products located in the United States of America as well as in all other countries where Products are sold, except where such policy is prohibited by local laws and regulations. Pattern may set the retail prices (i.e., the end user price) for Products in the Territory.

3. Amendment to Section 8(c). The following sentences are added to Section 8(c) of the Agreement:

This license will cease upon termination of this Agreement. All goodwill arising from Pattern’s use of the Thorne Trademarks shall inure solely to the benefit of Thorne. Pattern’s use of the Thorne Trademarks shall be in accordance with any guidelines that may be provided by Thorne from time to time, and must be commercially reasonable as to the size, placement, and other manners of use. Thorne reserves the right to review and approve, in its sole discretion, Pattern’s use or intended use of the Thorne Trademarks at any time, without limitation. Pattern shall not create, register, or use any domain name or any mobile application that contains any Thorne product name or any trademark owned by Thorne, nor a misspelling or confusingly similar variation of any Thorne product name or any trademark owned by Thorne. Pattern shall only use images and likenesses of the Thorne Trademarks (including pictures of bottles bearing Thorne labeling) and copyrighted Product descriptions authorized and approved by Thorne. Pattern does not have the right to affix any Thorne Trademark to any product or other material that is not a Thorne nutritional supplement product. Pattern shall use the trademark symbols “®” or TM as appropriate, when displaying Thorne’s trademarked names and/or Products, as an attribution of Thorne’s ownership of its trademarks. Thorne may periodically review Pattern’s Product listings and reserves the right to demand that Pattern make changes to its listings regarding the use of the Thorne Trademarks and intellectual property, even if Thorne has previously approved the material displayed thereon. The Thorne logo can only be used in the form supplied by Thorne for use online, unless otherwise approved by Thorne. Neither the file name nor the name of the image may be changed or modified from the original form supplied by Thorne, unless otherwise approved by Thorne.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

4. Amendment to Section 12(a)(iv). A new Section 12(a)(iv) shall be added to the agreement as follows:

(iv) Immediate Termination for Seller Feedback Rating. Thorne, in its sole and absolute discretion, may terminate this Agreement immediately with written notice of such termination in the event Pattern’s feedback rating falls below the acceptable level identified in any Marketplace Schedule for each Retail Platform.

5. Amendment to Section 13(e). Section 13(e) of the Agreement shall be replaced with the following:

(e) Entire Agreement. This Agreement, together with any applicable Market Schedules, constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to its subject matter and will be deemed to merge and supersede all prior and contemporaneous agreements, communications, and understandings both written and oral. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Thorne may modify Exhibits to the Market Schedules to this Agreement at any time with notice to Pattern. Unless otherwise provided, such modifications shall become effective upon delivery of the notice.

6. Amendment to Section 13(m). A new Section 13(m) of the Agreement shall be added to the Agreement as follows:

(m) Availability of Injunctive Relief. If there is a breach or threatened breach of this Agreement, including but not limited to any breach by Pattern of Section 1 (Appointment), Section 3 (Services), Section 8 (Intellectual Property), and Section 12 (Termination), it is agreed and understood that Thorne may have no adequate remedy in money or other damages and accordingly shall be entitled to seek injunctive relief and other equitable remedies; provided, however, no specification in this Agreement of any particular remedy shall be construed as a waiver or prohibition of any other remedies in the event of a breach or threatened breach of this Agreement. No failure, refusal, neglect, delay, waiver, forbearance, or omission by Thorne to exercise any right(s) herein or to insist upon full compliance by Pattern with Pattern’s obligations herein shall constitute a waiver of any provision herein or otherwise limit Thorne’s right to fully enforce any or all provisions and parts thereof.

7. New USA Market Schedule with Exhibits. A new Market Schedule for Sales on amazon.com and walmart.com in the USA, and its Exhibits 1 and 2 attached thereto shall be added to the Agreement, replacing the current such Market Schedule.

8. Conflict. All terms and conditions of the Agreement not modified by this Amendment shall remain in full force and effect. Should any conflict arise between the terms of the Agreement and this Amendment, this Amendment shall control.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

9. Execution in Counterparts. For the convenience of the Parties, this Amendment may be executed in counterparts and each counterpart will be deemed to be an original.Agreed to and accepted by the Parties as of the effective date of this Amendment:

 

Thorne Research, Inc.
Signature:   /s/ Thomas P. McKenna
Name:   Thomas P. McKenna
Title:   Chief Operating Officer

 

Pattern Inc.
Signature:   /s/ Jeff Jarvie
Name:   Jeff Jarvie
Title:   Chief Financial Officer

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Revised per First Amendment to the Authorized Reseller Agreement

Market Schedule to Authorized Reseller Agreement

Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research, Inc.

Effective Date: The effective date of the Agreement.

Retail Platforms: amazon.com (Merchant ID: A2EJCTH67GJMT3); walmart.com (Seller ID 5442)

Countries Served/Territory: USA

 

Exclusivity:    Exclusive Product Reselling. Pattern shall resell the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, on behalf of Thorne. In accordance therewith, Thorne hereby appoints Pattern, and Pattern hereby accepts the appointment, to act as the exclusive reseller of the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule. The Parties understand and acknowledge the difficulty on the part of Thorne in ensuring strict exclusivity. Accordingly, the exclusivity granted to Pattern pursuant to this Market Schedule shall be interpreted as an agreement by and obligation of Thorne to, for the entirety of the Term, (i) not sell, on its own behalf or through any affiliate, any Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, (ii) not grant to any Party the right to resell the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule other than (A) Pattern and (B) Borderless Distribution, LLC (directly or through sales agents) solely on Amazon (USA), and (iii) use commercially reasonable efforts to ensure and maintain Pattern’s rights of exclusivity.
   Further, Pattern is authorized to sell Products solely to End Users. An “End User” is any purchaser of the Product who is the ultimate consumer for whom the Product was designed and who does not intend to resell the Product to any third party. Pattern shall not knowingly sell or transfer to anyone a quantity of the Products greater than that generally purchased by an individual for personal use. Pattern shall not knowingly sell or transfer any of the Products to any person or entity for purposes of resale without the prior written consent of Thorne. This prohibition includes sales to any B2B accounts, wholesalers, freight forwarders/drop shippers for other resellers, or any other person or entity Pattern knows or has reason to know intends to resell the Products.
Pricing:    Thorne will sell the ordered Products to Pattern at Thorne’s then-WLP for such Products, [***].
Market-Specific Commercial Terms:
   Additional Services. Pattern will provide information and assistance to Thorne’s outside counsel, Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP, or other such law firm engaged by Thorne to pursue legal action against unauthorized sellers of the Products on the Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule (“Thorne’s    


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

   Outside Counsel”); provided, however, that (a) Thorne shall be solely and exclusively responsible for determining if a seller identified by Pattern is an unauthorized seller and, if so, instructing, directing, and approving all strategies and actions proposed by Thorne’s Outside Counsel, and (b) Pattern shall be solely responsible for any and all costs, fees, and expenses incurred by Thorne’s Outside Counsel incurred in pursuing legal action against unauthorized sellers of Products on the Retail Platforms.
   Product Quality Controls. Pattern agrees to abide by all instructions provided by Thorne regarding the storage, handling, shipping, disposal, or other aspect of the Products, including (A) instructions provided on the Product labels; (B) the Product Quality Controls and Fulfillment Guidelines attached hereto as Exhibit A to this Market Schedule, as may be amended by Thorne at any time; and (C) the Quality Control Checklist for Thorne Products Sold on Online Marketplaces, attached hereto as Exhibit B to this Market Schedule, as may be amended by Thorne at any time. Pattern agrees to provide all records related to Pattern’s compliance with its obligations under this Section upon Thorne’s request and to retain any such records for a period of at least five years following the date of creation or submission of any such record, to the extent legally permitted. Pattern acknowledges and agrees that, unless the Parties agree separately in writing, its compliance with this Section shall be at its sole cost and expense.
   Proposition 65. Thorne shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that Products are compliant with California’s Prop 65 (Cal. Health & Safety Code §§ 25249.5 25249.14, et seq,) which prohibits the knowing and intentional exposure of any individual to a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer or reproductive toxicity without first giving clear and reasonable warning to such individual. Thorne may comply with Prop 65 (“Prop 65 Compliance”) by either: (1) ensuring that the Products do not require a Prop 65 warning or; (2) providing a warning that complies with all requirements of Prop 65 and related regulations. Thorne expressly represents and warrants Prop 65 Compliance with respect to each Product. If Thorne elects to achieve Prop 65 Compliance through the provision of a warning (subsection (2), above) that is provided through Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule, Thorne shall in writing provide to Pattern all specifications concerning the warning, including the text, font size, color and content of the warning for display on Retail Platforms named in this Market Schedule and any other communication, if any, to be sent to the end customers of Products residing in the State of California. Pattern’s duties with respect to complying with Prop 65 are expressly limited to adhering with Thorne’s written directives and instructions concerning warnings and allowing customers to return any Products that Thorne reasonably believes are not Prop 65 Complaint for a full refund (including all shipping and handling fees). Thorne shall defend and indemnify Pattern with respect to any claim asserting a violation of Prop 65 by the Products.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT 1

To the

Market Schedule for Sales on amazon.com and walmart.com in the USA

Attached to the Authorized Reseller Agreement

Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research, Inc.

PRODUCT QUALITY CONTROLS AND FULFILLMENT GUIDELINES

For purposes of these Product Quality Controls and Fulfillment Guidelines, the “Authorized Storefront(s)” shall be those Retail Platforms identified in the Market Schedule to Authorized Reseller Agreement Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research Inc. applicable to the USA.

1. Product Care, Customer Service, and Quality Controls.

(a) Pattern shall store Products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme heat and dampness, and in accordance with any additional storage guidelines issued by Thorne from time to time.

(b) Pattern shall sell Products in their original packaging. Relabeling, repackaging (including the separation of bundled Products or the bundling of Products), and other alterations to Products or their packaging are not permitted. Pattern shall not tamper with, deface, or otherwise alter any serial number, UPC code, batch or lot code, or other identifying information on Products or their packaging. Pattern shall not remove, translate, or modify the contents of any label or literature on or accompanying the Products, except where required by local laws and regulations, or as expressly authorized by Thorne. Pattern shall not advertise, market, display or demonstrate non-Thorne products together with the Products in a manner that would create the impression that the non-Thorne products are made by, endorsed by, or associated with Thorne.

(c) Pattern shall inspect its inventory regularly for expired Products or soon-to-be expired Products and shall remove those Products from its inventory. Pattern shall not sell any Products that are expired or close to expiration. Pattern shall destroy or dispose of expired or soon-to-be-expired Products in accordance with instructions provided by Thorne.

(d) Pattern shall be familiar with the special features of all Products marketed for sale and must obtain sufficient Product knowledge to advise customers on the selection and safe use of the Products, as well as any applicable warranty, guarantee, or return policy.

(e) With respect to Pattern’s sales of Products through the Authorized Storefronts, Pattern acknowledges and agrees that Pattern is responsible for all fulfillment to its customers, any applicable taxes associated with such customers’ purchases of Products, and any returns of Products.

(f) Each Authorized Storefront must have a mechanism for receiving customer feedback, and Pattern agrees to use reasonable efforts to address all customer feedback received in a timely manner. Pattern agrees to provide copies of any information related to customer feedback, including Pattern’s responses, to Thorne for review upon request, and to retain all records relating to customer feedback for at least five years from the date of the last communication (whether from a customer or from Pattern) pertaining to a specific customer’s feedback. Further, Pattern agrees to cooperate with Thorne in the investigation of any negative online review associated with Pattern’s sale of Products and to use reasonable efforts to resolve any such reviews.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(g) To ensure a satisfactory customer experience, Pattern agrees to use its best efforts to respond to any customer communications within twenty-four (24) hours and contact Thorne directly should Pattern be unable to answer any customer inquiries. Pattern further agrees that it shall notify Thorne of any quality issues identified by Pattern’s customers regardless of whether the Pattern is able to answer specific customer inquiries without Thorne’s assistance.

(h) Pattern agrees to cooperate with Thorne with respect to any Product tracking system implemented by Thorne.

(i) Pattern shall promptly report to Thorne any customer complaint or adverse claim regarding the Products of which it becomes aware. Pattern shall assist Thorne in investigating any such complaints or adverse claims.

(j) Pattern agrees to abide by and complete the Quality Control Checklist for Thorne Products Sold on Amazon for all Products it receives and ships to third-party locations.

(k) Pattern shall cooperate with Thorne in the investigation and resolution of any quality or customer service issues related to Pattern’s sale of the Products.

2. Operation of the Authorized Storefronts.

(a) Pattern shall adhere to the following requirements with respect to the Authorized Storefront on the Amazon.com (US) platform (“Amazon Storefront”):

(i) Pattern shall not sell through the Amazon Storefront anonymously. The full legal name or registered fictitious name, mailing address, and telephone contact of Pattern’s business must be clearly indicated on the Amazon Storefront. The Amazon Storefront must not give the appearance that it is operated by Thorne or any third party.

(ii) Pattern shall list Products only on Amazon Standard Identification Numbers (“ASIN”) created by or authorized by Thorne.

(iii) No later than the third business day of every month, Pattern shall provide Thorne with a report to evaluate Pattern’s continued authorization to sell the Products through the Amazon Storefront (the “Amazon Performance Report”). This Amazon Performance Report must include screenshots of Pattern’s Amazon Seller Central portal for the Amazon Storefront that provides the following information: (i) Pattern’s Order Defect Rate, including Negative Feedback, A-to-Z Guarantee claims, and Chargeback claims rates; (ii) Seller Feedback Scores (including counts of Positive, Neutral, and Negative reviews); (iii) Product Policy Compliance, including Suspected Intellectual Property Violations, Received Intellectual Property Complaints, Product Authenticity Customer Complaints, Product Condition Customer Complaints, Product Safety Customer Complaints, Listing Policy Violations, Restricted Product Policy Violations, and Customer Product Reviews Policy Violations; and (iv) Voice of the Customer (if available), including Customer Experience (CX) Health of Pattern’s offers. The Amazon Performance Report


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

must include this information for every time period for which the information is reported on Amazon’s Seller Central portal. If Amazon’s Seller Central portal no longer reports any of the above types of information, Pattern shall no longer be required to include it in its Amazon Performance Report, but Pattern and Thorne shall discuss whether a substitute metric should be required. Thorne reserves the right to request additional information from Pattern, including additional information found within Pattern’s Amazon Seller Central portal, for purposes of verifying Pattern’s compliance with this Agreement or evaluating Pattern’s continued authorization to sell Products through the Amazon Storefront. Pattern agrees to provide such additional information and/or substitute metric(s) upon request.

(iv) No later than the third business day of every month, Pattern shall provide a Returns Report for each Product ASIN that has a return rate of 3% or greater. Pattern shall promptly work to determine the cause of the return rate and report its findings in writing to Thorne, and Pattern agrees to take additional actions as reasonably requested by Thorne to lower the return rate to below 3%.

(v) Pattern shall use Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (“FBA”) service to fulfill orders for the Products sold through the Amazon Storefront and shall provide the Products to Amazon’s FBA warehouses in a manner that ensures that Products qualify for Amazon’s Prime service and include free two (2) day shipping for consumers. However, to ensure that Pattern’s inventory of Products is not comingled with any Products belonging to a third-party, Pattern must apply unique Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit (“FNSKU”) labels to each Product fulfilled using the FBA service. Under no circumstances shall Pattern fulfill orders in any way that results in the shipped Product coming from stock other than Pattern’s.

(vi) To ensure customers receive products that are not expired or soon-to-be expired, Pattern shall not send any Products to Amazon’s FBA warehouses with an expiration date that is expired or an expiration date that is within 90 days of the date of shipment to Amazon.

(vii) Pattern shall request that Amazon return any unfillable or unsaleable product to Thorne or to Pattern for disposal in accordance with Thorne’s instructions. Pattern shall not permit Amazon to dispose of or otherwise liquidate unfillable or unsaleable product except by returning such product to Pattern or Thorne.

(viii) Pattern agrees not to sell any Product that has been opened or repackaged, and, to the fullest extent possible, shall opt out of any program whereby the FBA service fulfills orders with Products that have been opened or repackaged.

(ix) Pattern shall maintain a seller feedback score of at least 95% positive for the Amazon Storefront.

(x) Pattern shall notify Thorne in writing within twenty-four hours of any Performance Notifications, including any selling restrictions placed on the Amazon Storefront and any Product quality issues associated with sales of the Product through the Amazon Storefront.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(b) Pattern shall adhere to the following requirements with respect to the Authorized Storefront on the Walmart.com (US) platform (“Walmart Storefront”):

(i) Pattern shall not sell through the Walmart Storefront anonymously. The full legal name or registered fictitious name, mailing address, email address, and telephone contact of Pattern’s business must be clearly indicated on the Walmart Storefront. The Amazon Storefront must not give the

(ii) Pattern shall use Walmart Fulfillment Services (“WFS”) to fulfill orders for the Products sold through the Walmart Storefront. For WFS sales, Pattern shall provide the Products to Walmart fulfillment centers in a manner that ensures that Products qualify for Walmart “2-day delivery” and “fulfilled by Walmart” display tags and includes two-day or faster shipping for consumers. Pattern shall ensure Pattern’s inventory of Products is not comingled with any Products belonging to a third-party, and shall opt of any program whereby WFS fulfills orders in any way that results in shipped Product coming from stock other than Pattern’s. Under no circumstances shall Pattern fulfill orders in any way that results in the shipped Product coming from stock other than Pattern’s.

(iii) To ensure the quality of Products fulfilled using WFS, Pattern agrees to conduct monthly test purchases of the Products sold through the Walmart Storefront. Pattern shall inspect the Products obtained through these test purchases for damage to packaging, damage to the Products themselves, and evidence of any other quality-related issues. Pattern shall promptly inform Thorne of any damage or other quality issues discovered as a result of these test purchases.

(iv) To ensure customers receive products that are not expired or soon-to-be expired, Pattern shall not send any Products to Walmart fulfillment centers with an expiration date that is expired or an expiration date that is within 90 days of the date of shipment to Walmart.

(v) Pattern agrees not to sell any Product that has been opened or repackaged, and, to the fullest extent permitted by WFS, shall opt out of any program whereby WFS fulfills orders with Products that have been opened or repackaged.

(vi) Pattern shall request that Walmart return any unfillable or unsaleable product to Thorne or to Pattern for disposal in accordance with Thorne’s instructions. Pattern shall not permit Walmart to dispose of or otherwise liquidate unfillable or unsaleable product except by returning such product to Pattern or Thorne.

(vii) No later than the third business day of every month, Pattern shall provide Thorne with a report to evaluate Pattern’s continued authorization to sell the Products through the Walmart Storefront (the “Walmart Performance Report”). This Walmart Performance Report must include screenshots of Pattern’s Seller Scorecard or other metrics in the Walmart Marketplace Seller Center as necessary to provide the following information: (i) Pattern’s Order Defect Rate, including overall Order Defect Rate, Cancellation Defects, Return Defects, Delivery Defects, and Customer Complaints; and (ii) Pattern’s Average Customer Rating. The Walmart Performance Report must include this information for every time period for which the information is reported on Pattern’s Walmart Marketplace Seller Center account. If Pattern’s Walmart Marketplace Seller Center account no longer reports any of the above types of information, Pattern shall no longer be required to include it in its Walmart Performance Report, but Pattern and Thorne shall discuss whether a substitute metric should be required. Thorne reserves the right to request additional information from Pattern, including additional information found within Pattern’s Walmart Marketplace Seller Center account, for purposes of verifying Pattern’s compliance with this Agreement and/or evaluating Pattern’s continued authorization to sell Products through the Walmart Storefront. Pattern agrees to provide such additional information or substitute metric(s) upon request.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

(viii) Pattern shall maintain a seller feedback rating of at least 85% positive for its Walmart Storefront.

(ix) Pattern shall notify Thorne in writing within twenty-four hours of any notice from Walmart to Pattern that Pattern has not complied with Walmart’s Seller Performance Standards, including any selling restrictions placed on the Walmart Storefront and any Product quality issues associated with sales of the Product through the Walmart Storefront.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

EXHIBIT 2

To the

Market Schedule for Sales on amazon.com and walmart.com in the USA

Attached to the Authorized Reseller Agreement

Between Pattern Inc. and Thorne Research, Inc.

QUALITY CONTROL CHECKLIST FOR THORNE PRODUCTS SOLD ON ONLINE

MARKETPLACES

To promote and protect the quality of Thorne Research, Inc. products (collectively, “Thorne products”) sold on online marketplaces for, protect consumers from the confusion caused by the widespread problem of counterfeit, damaged, and poor-quality products sold online marketplaces, and protect the goodwill associated with Thorne products, Pattern employees will carry out the following steps for all shipments of Thorne products that Pattern receives, processes, and ships to and ships to third-party locations:

 

1.

Receiving Shipment Inspection and Check:

 

  a.

Check receiving shipment documentation to confirm correct label, shipment papers, and dock seals.

 

  b.

Check receiving shipment documentation to confirm correct part numbers and SKUs.

 

  c.

Check receiving shipment documentation to confirm it matches product and case labels.

 

  d.

Check quantity of products to confirm the number of pallets and cases matches the receiving shipment documentation.

 

  e.

Match receiving invoices to inventory received for reconciliation.

 

  f.

Inspect pallets for damage.

 

  g.

Inspect cases for damage.

 

  h.

Check expiration dates on pallets and cases.

 

2.

Sorting Product Inspection and Check:

 

  a.

Inspect pallets for damage.

 

  b.

Inspect cases for damage.

 

  c.

Check expiration date on cases.

 

  d.

Sort products.

 

  e.

Check quantity of products to confirm the correct number of units in the cases.

 

  f.

Inspect individual units for damage.

 

  g.

Inspect individual units for broken seals, tampering, or other defects.

 

  h.

Check expiration date on individual units.

 

  i.

Inspect products to make sure there is no mixed inventory.

 

3.

Product Labeling Inspection and Check:

 

  a.

Perform weight integrity check to confirm individual units weigh the same.

 

  b.

Perform physical integrity check to inspect individual units for disfigurement, torn labels, label marks, scuffs, scratches, or other defects.


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

  c.

Check expiration date on individual units to confirm that they are not expired or have expiration dates that are within 90 days of the anticipated date of shipment to fulfillment center.

 

  d.

For products being shipped to Amazon or using FBA, place FNSKU label on each individual unit in a manner that does not cover up any health or safety information for the product.

 

  e.

Select box and marketplace-approved packing materials that will cause the least amount of movement during shipment.

4. Shipment Inspection and Check:

 

  a.

Inspect expiration dates to confirm that the units are not expired or have expiration dates that are within 90 days of the anticipated date of shipment to fulfillment center.

 

  b.

Perform final quality control check on individual units to confirm no defects.

 

  c.

Perform label inspection to confirm labels have been properly placed on units and cases and that no health or safety information is covered up.

 

  d.

Add marketplace-approved packing materials to box to ensure minimal movement during shipment.

 

  e.

Perform shipping quality check to confirm products are secured and boxes can be sealed.

 

  f.

Check product shipment against order to confirm correct products and quantities are being shipped.

 

  g.

Prepare boxes for shipment by closing boxes and triple taping them to ensure products are secure.

 

  h.

Label boxes for shipment and ensure that all appropriate labels are placed on boxes.

 

  i.

Arrange boxes on pallet for shipment and confirm boxes are secure and contained within the footprint of the pallet.

 

  j.

Shrink wrap pallets in a manner that tightly secures and contains the contents of the load.

 

  k.

When transferring pallets to shipping carrier, load pallets in a manner that ensures a tight configuration for limited shifting during transit.

No less than once per month, a supervisor at Pattern’s warehouse in Hebron, Kentucky will review the steps that employees are conducting to process and inspect shipments of Thorne’s products to confirm that they comply with procedures described herein. If the supervisor discovers any noncompliance, the supervisor will promptly take remedial action. The supervisor shall complete the Certification of Compliance with Quality Control Checklist for Thorne Products Sold on Online Marketplaces chart following each review.

By completing the Certification of Compliance with Quality Control Procedures for Processing and Inspecting Thorne Products chart, the supervisor certifies on behalf of Pattern, that (1) the supervisor reviewed the procedures; (2) that remedial action was taken promptly to address any noncompliance discovered during the review; and (3) all requirements in the Quality Control Checklist for Thorne Products Sold on Online Marketplaces are being followed.

Effective August 1, 2020


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it is not

material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

Certification of Compliance with Quality Control Checklist for Thorne Products Sold on

Online Marketplaces

Name and Title

  

Signature

  

Date of

Review

  

Date of

Certification

Exhibit 10.25

Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

This FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT (“this Agreement”) is entered into between THORNE RESEARCH, INC. (“Supplier”) and EMERSON ECOLOGICS, LLC (“Distributor”).

WHEREAS, Supplier and Distributor are parties to that certain Distribution Agreement, dated October 20, 2017, as amended by Amendment Number 1 to Distribution Agreement, dated November 28, 2018, and Hemp Products Addendum, dated May 21, 2019 (the “Original Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, Supplier and Distributor now wish to amend and restate the Original Agreement in its entirety;

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing recitals, and the covenants and agreements set forth herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the adequacy and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

Agreement

Date: August 31, 2020

Term: January 01, 2018        To: December 31, 2024

 

1.

Supplier Information

 

Supplier Legal

Name:

 

  

Thorne Research, Inc.

 

Address:

 

  

620 Omni Industrial Blvd.

 

  

    

 

City:

 

  

Summerville

 

State:

 

  

South Carolina

 

  

Zip Code: 29486

 

Country:

 

  

USA

 

Contact Name:

 

  

Kim Pearson

 

  

Contact Title: General Counsel

 

Email:

 

  

kpearson@thorne.com

 

Phone:

 

  

843-494-5247

 

  

Fax: 800-747-1950

 

 

2.

Distributor Relationship Summary

 

A.

Subject to Section 7 below, Supplier hereby appoints Distributor as its exclusive distribution and patient dispensary partner for the Products (as defined below) in the United States of America (the “Territory”). Distributor will use commercially reasonable efforts to sell the Products in the Territory and Supplier will sell the Products to Distributor in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 1 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

B.

For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Products” means all products sold or marketed by Supplier that are wholly-owned by Supplier and any other products as mutually agreed on by the Parties; provided, however, that any products sold or marketed by Supplier that are excluded from the definition of Products will not be solely branded Thorne or will not otherwise be competitive with the Products. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Products will not include (i) any private-labeled or contract-manufactured products for third parties that Supplier has no rights to market or sell; (ii) diagnostic test equipment and strips; (iii) consumer beverages; (iv) Effusio-branded print products; and (v) devices.

 

C.

Supplier agrees to appoint, train, and dedicate one customer service representative and two alternate customer service representatives to render the necessary assistance to Distributor with respect to customer service matters involving the Products. Distributor agrees to dedicate a member of its marketing team to support the sale of the Products by Distributor pursuant to this Agreement. Supplier will make clinical research, technical support, marketing collateral, and other technical and commercial resources available to Distributor to facilitate the promotion and sale of the Products.

 

3.

Pricing/Payment/Returns

 

A.

Supplier will sell the Products to Distributor at a price equal to Supplier’s most current wholesale list pricing for the Products in effect from time to time during the term of this Agreement, less a discount equal to [***] (the “Distributor Discount Percentage”) of such wholesale list price (the “Distributor Discount”). Except as expressly agreed, such pricing is inclusive of all transportation, shipping, and related fees, including, but not limited to, fees, charges, and surcharges for refrigeration.

 

B.

No later than July 1, 2021, Distributor will pay to Supplier a non-refundable cash payment in the amount of [***] in consideration of the exclusivity rights and the other terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.

 

C.

Distributor and Supplier will work together to jointly and actively promote a list of key Products (the “Key Products”), that may change from time to time, and Distributor will purchase a mutually agreed minimum volume of such Key Products from Supplier. Supplier will provide Distributor with advance notice of all new Product launches and line extensions, and the Parties will collaborate to determine reasonable initial stocking orders.

 

D.

In the event that either Distributor or its customers reasonably determine(s) in good faith that Supplier’s Products are defective or non-conforming when received, then, upon request by Distributor, (i) within thirty (30) days after receipt of such Products by Distributor in the case of determinations made by Distributor, or (ii) within ninety (90) days after receipt of such Products by Distributor’s customers in the case of determinations made by Distributor’s customers, Supplier will promptly provide Distributor with a

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 2 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

  “Return Material Authorization” with respect to such Products. In such a case, Supplier will accept the return of any defective or non-conforming goods without restocking, handling, and any other fees, and Supplier will reimburse Distributor for the full acquisition cost for such Products and Distributor’s reasonable costs associated with the return of such Products.

 

E.

Supplier will be entitled to discontinue Products, provided that such Products are discontinued for all of Supplier’s customers. In the event Products become “discontinued,” Supplier will accept the return by Distributor of all remaining inventory of such Products in its possession, following the formal discontinuation date, that is, the date following which Supplier no longer sells the discontinued product, without restocking, handling, and any other fees, and Supplier will reimburse Distributor for the Distributor’s full acquisition cost for such Products and Distributor’s reasonable costs associated with the return of such Products.

 

F.

Supplier will provide notice of not less than thirty (30) days prior to any change in the wholesale and patient/retail list prices of the Products. Supplier will provide Distributor with the new Distributor price (based on applying the Distributor Discount Percentage to the new wholesale price), wholesale list price, and patient/retail list price (electronic or written) for each Product stock keeping unit (SKU) at least 30 days prior to effective date. Regarding any price increase contemplated by this Section 3.F., that takes effect after a purchase order is received, but prior to the date the Product relating to such purchase order is shipped, the price for such Product will be the price in effect as of the date the purchase order was received by Supplier. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the Distributor Discount Percentage will not be changed.

 

G.

Distributor’s payment terms will be net 30 days. Distributor will make payment, at its option, via wire transfer, check, electronic payment or ACH.

 

4.

Shipping/Order Processing

 

A.

Terms: FOB destination, freight, handling and all other fees prepaid by Supplier. No additional fees or charges to Distributor apply.

 

B.

Distributor will place weekly orders for delivery of Supplier’s Products to each Distributor distribution center. Distributor may adjust order frequency based on inventory levels and demand patterns; provided, however, that Supplier is notified by Distributor in advance of any such adjustment. Supplier will ship orders within two (2) business days of receipt of a purchase order from Distributor (or will follow a predetermined weekly shipment schedule as mutually agreed by the parties). Supplier will maintain a minimum Monthly Fill Rate (as hereinafter defined) of ninety-five percent (95%). “Monthly Fill Rate” means, with respect to purchase orders dated during a calendar month, the aggregate lines completely filled and received by Distributor within seven (7) calendar days (or other predetermined lead time as mutually agreed by the Parties) of Distributor sending Supplier the applicable purchase order, divided by the aggregate lines ordered on purchase orders dated in the

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 3 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

  calendar month. The foregoing calculations will exclude Products for which Supplier is out of stock as a result of events or conditions beyond Supplier’s reasonable control, including without limitation, significant raw material shortages, delays in governmental approvals, and natural disasters; provided however, that Supplier will provide Distributor with notice of any such event or condition reasonably promptly upon Supplier becoming aware of such event or condition. The foregoing minimum Monthly Fill Rate requirement will not apply to orders for Products that exceed the average of the previous orders for such Products by Distributor under this Agreement by more than fifty percent (50%).

 

C.

Supplier will maintain backorders in its system and ship backorders as soon as the backordered Products become available. Supplier will pay all shipping, handling, and other fees associated with backordered Products.

 

D.

Distributor will provide ongoing forecasts to ensure sufficient and timely availability of the Products. Any forecast provided by Distributor will represent an estimate of Distributor’s purchases of the Products, but in no event will Distributor be obligated at any time during the term of this Agreement to purchase the forecasted amount of Products.

 

E.

Products shipped by Supplier to Distributor will have a minimum of eighteen (18) months of remaining shelf life after the date of receipt of Products by Distributor and will comply with all laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, those applicable to packaging and labeling. If the natural shelf life for a Product does not meet the foregoing minimum shelf life requirement (e.g., a probiotic), then Supplier will notify Distributor prior to shipment and Distributor may determine whether or not to purchase the Product. To the extent the foregoing requirements are not met, then upon request by Distributor, Supplier will issue a “call tag” and “return order number” for return shipment without assessing the Distributor restocking, handling, or other fees. In these instances, Supplier will reimburse Distributor for the acquisition cost to Distributor of such Products and Distributor’s reasonable costs associated with the return of such Products. Specific Product exceptions will be granted for those Products listed on Attachment A, attached hereto and made a part of this Agreement, that are perishable or have shelf lives of less than 18 months. The minimum shelf life at receipt for these exceptions is indicated in Attachment A.

 

5.

Minimum Purchase Targets

 

A.

The Minimum Purchase Target for the applicable Time Period will be:

 

   

Time Period

  

Minimum Purchase Target

 

January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2021

  

[***]

 

January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022

  

[***]

 

January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023

  

[***]

  January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024    [***]

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 4 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

B.

With the exception of purchases or orders of the Products made by Distributor to enable Distributor to achieve any Minimum Purchase Target, Distributor intends to use reasonable efforts to distribute its purchase of Products according to end user demand. If Distributor does not purchase Products from Supplier with an aggregate value equal to or in excess of the Minimum Purchase Target for an applicable Time Period as specified above, then Distributor will have the option to purchase Products from Supplier with an aggregate invoice value equal to the shortfall in actual purchases as compared to the Minimum Purchase Target (the “Purchase Shortfall”). For purposes of this Section 5, the aggregate value of purchases to determine whether the Minimum Purchase Target for an applicable Time Period has been achieved will be calculated from the invoice value paid or payable by Distributor, after applying any credits or discounts provided by Supplier, other than an Agreed Credit (as that term is defined in Section 6, below). If Distributor does not submit one or more purchase orders with an aggregate invoice value equal to or greater than the Purchase Shortfall within fifteen (15) days of the end of an applicable Time Period, then for a period of thirty (30) days after such fifteen (15) day period (the “Exercise Window”), Supplier will have the right, but not the obligation (the “Exclusivity Termination Right”), to terminate the Exclusivity and Distributor cooperative marketing commitment provisions specified in Section 7, below, by providing Distributor with written notice (the “Exclusivity Termination Notice”) prior to the expiration of the Exercise Window. In the event Supplier does not exercise its Exclusivity Termination Right during the Exercise Window, this Agreement, including, but not limited to, the Exclusivity and Distributor cooperative marketing commitment provisions specified in Section 7, below, will continue in full force and effect unchanged for the following calendar year, at which point the Exclusivity Termination Right may again be exercised should that calendar year’s Minimum Purchase Target not be met or satisfied as noted above. In the event that the Exclusivity Termination Right is exercised by Supplier during the Exercise Window, then the Exclusivity and Distributor cooperative marketing commitment provisions specified in Section 7, below, will terminate ninety (90) days after the date upon which Distributor receives the Exclusivity Termination Notice; provided, however, that after the termination of the Exclusivity and Distributor cooperative marketing commitment provisions specified in Section 7, below, Distributor will be permitted to sell the Products on a non-exclusive basis in accordance with the remaining terms of this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Supplier does exercise its Exclusivity Termination Right, then Supplier reserves the right to remove or renegotiate at its discretion with Distributor those contractual provisions contained herein as Sections 6 (Discounting) and 7(f) (Wellevate commissions).

 

C.

Within ten (10) business days after the end of each calendar month during the Term, the Parties will discuss in a scheduled conference call Distributor’s progress toward the achievement of the respective Minimum Purchase Target.

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 5 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

D.

In the event of material (i) Product discontinuations, (ii) customer restrictions, or (iii) direct customer migrations from Distributor by Supplier, the Minimum Purchase Target for the then current and subsequent Time Periods will be reduced accordingly to account for such discontinuations, restrictions, and migrations. For the purposes of this section, “material” will mean if the sum of Distributor’s sales at its cost of products subject to item (i) above and customers subject to items (ii) and (iii) above in aggregate exceeds one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) during the subject or immediately preceding Time Period.

 

6.

Discounting

 

A.

Distributor and Supplier will abide by Supplier’s minimum advertised price established pursuant to the policy attached hereto and made a part hereof as Attachment C (the “MAP” policy) for Products sold at retail pricing, including any sales through telephone orders, their respectively owned e-commerce websites or, in the case of Supplier, its marketplace storefronts (e.g., Amazon). Supplier will ensure that any Products sold by Supplier to e-commerce website resellers, including through branded e-commerce sites and through marketplace storefronts (e.g., Amazon), will also abide by such MAP policy. The foregoing restrictions will not apply to the Parties’ health-care practitioner customers who sell Products at a discount through in-office dispensaries or through a Wellevate® patient dispensary platform, or to sales through health-care practitioner Wellevate accounts for which the seller of record is Distributor. Distributor will distribute and make available the MAP policy to its customers and reasonably assist Supplier in its enforcement of the MAP policy.

 

B.

Supplier will notify Distributor in advance of any pricing or Product promotions or discounts including, but not limited to, volume discounts (collectively, the “Discounts”) to be offered by Supplier to the Supplier’s health-care practitioner customers, and Supplier will make any such Discounts available to Distributor, to offer to its customers, at Supplier’s expense as follows:

 

  i.

Supplier will provide Distributor advance written notice of a Discount at least (a) ten (10) business days prior to the effective date of such Discount, or (b) if ten (10) business days is insufficient for Distributor to reasonably evaluate and implement such Discount, then such number of days prior to the effective date of such Discount that does provide Distributor a reasonable opportunity to evaluate and implement such Discount. Such advance written notice will include a description of the Discount, a list of the Products to which the Discount applies, and any supporting marketing collateral.

 

  ii.

On a monthly basis, within fourteen (14) days of the previous month’s end, Distributor will provide Supplier with a written detail of the units of Product to which the Discount applied during such month and the proposed credit (the “Credit Estimate”) owed by Supplier to Distributor.

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 6 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

  iii.

Promptly following Supplier’s receipt of the Credit Estimate, Supplier will calculate and confirm the aggregate value of the actual credit to Distributor and, to the extent Supplier’s actual credit is less than the Credit Estimate, the Parties will work in good faith to resolve a disputed amount within fourteen (14) days of Distributor providing the Credit Estimate to Supplier. The final credit amount agreed to by the Parties will be referred to as the “Agreed Credit.”

 

  iv.

Supplier will issue Distributor an account credit with a value equivalent to the Agreed Credit. Distributor will be entitled to apply the Agreed Credit against future invoices for Products purchased as determined by Distributor. In determining whether a Minimum Purchase Target is achieved, any purchases of the Products paid with all or a portion of the Agreed Credit will be treated as actual purchases by Distributor.

 

  v.

Except as provided below, an Agreed Credit may not be redeemed by Distributor for cash; provided, however, the value of an Agreed Credit arising from Discounts taking effect during the final ninety (90) days of the Term and any Agreed Credit that remains unused at the expiration of this Agreement will be paid by Supplier to Distributor in cash within thirty (30) days following the expiration or early termination of this Agreement.

 

C.

With the exception of those Supplier customer accounts being offered discount pricing as of the Agreement Date (the “Grandfathered Accounts”), which discount pricing will not be in any way enhanced from current levels following the Agreement Date, or the Discounts, no further off-wholesale list discount pricing (including free Product offers or any special off-wholesale list discount pricing), including, but not limited to, any spot discounts by sales and customer service personnel, will be provided to practitioner customers by Supplier.

 

D.

Attached hereto and made a part hereof as Attachment D is a list of all Grandfathered Accounts, together with complete details of Discounts offered to them by Supplier. Supplier represents and warrants to Distributor that the Grandfathered Accounts generated less than [***] of aggregate sales volume at wholesale list price to Supplier in the twelve (12) months ended August 31, 2017.

 

E.

The above provision will not apply to discounts provided to internet resellers that, when applied, result in final pricing to such internet resellers in excess of the then-current Wholesale List Price.

 

7.

Exclusivity

 

A.

Except as specified below, Supplier hereby appoints Distributor and/or its subsidiaries as its exclusive distributor, and patient dispensary for the Products in the Territory, and, other than sales through Wellevate health-care practitioner accounts, Distributor will not directly market or sell the Products for retail sale to consumers. Notwithstanding the foregoing, except for sales by Distributor through its Wellevate® patient dispensary platform or as

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

  otherwise agreed to by Supplier during the term of this Agreement, Distributor will not sell Products to any party known by Distributor’s Chief Executive Officer or Chief Financial Officer to be a mass market e-commerce reseller or through any e-commerce marketplace (e.g., Amazon); provided, however, that such restriction will not apply to Distributor’s sales to any Practitioner (as defined below) that makes the Products available through such Practitioner’s own website to its patients. The Parties will take reasonable measures to cooperate to identify mass market e-commerce resellers.

 

B.

Except for the transactions with Distributor and/or its subsidiaries contemplated by this Agreement, Supplier will not enter into a distribution agreement with, sell Products directly or indirectly to, or otherwise make Products available to, any distributor or patient dispensary platform that conducts business with medical doctors, doctors of osteopathic medicine, naturopaths, acupuncturists, chiropractors, nurse practitioners, veterinarians, health coaches, nutritionists, pharmacists, or any other health-care or health and wellness professional (collectively, including their respective patients and clients, the “Practitioner(s)”) in the Territory, including, but not limited to, Natural Partners or NP Script, Fullscript, Nutralogics, WholeScripts, McKesson, and Pure RxO (collectively, the “Restricted Parties”).

 

C.

Supplier will use its best efforts to market and promote the Distributor to the Practitioner community as Supplier’s exclusive partner as herein defined.

 

D.

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 7, Supplier will be entitled to sell Products directly, including transactions through Supplier’s Patient Express Program and Supplier’s affiliated WellnessFx platform, to Practitioners, end consumers, mass market e-commerce site operators, and Amazon resellers, provided that in each such case sales do not involve the use of a distributor intermediary or in any way involve a Restricted Party.

 

E.

Distributor shall provide or engage in cooperative marketing (at no cost to Supplier) valued (based on Distributor’s pricing for such services) at no less than [***].

 

F.

Supplier shall compensate its sales representatives on Product sales through the Wellevate platform at the same rates as for Product sales through Supplier’s direct business. Distributor shall reimburse Supplier for [***] of such compensation costs for sales through the Wellevate platform.

 

8.

Miscellaneous Provisions

 

A.

Distributor will provide to Supplier, on a monthly basis not later than the 30th day of the following month, Sales Details (as defined below) with respect to buyers of the Products for each month during the term of this Agreement. Supplier will provide to Distributor, on a monthly basis not later than the 30th day of the following month, Sales Details with respect to buyers that purchased Products from both Distributor and Supplier for each month during the term of this Agreement. The Parties further agree to cooperate to mutually determine any additional reporting required to support the partnership contemplated herein.

 

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  The Parties acknowledge and agree that all information received pursuant to this Section 8.A., will be deemed to be Confidential Information for purposes of this Agreement and will not be used for any purpose other than the performance of a party’s obligations hereunder. For purposes of this Agreement, “Sales Details” means customer names, addresses, and the SKU, quantity, and dollar value of the Products ordered from the party required to provide the Sales Details. The Parties agree that neither party will use customer information from Sales Details to capture or divert either direct or indirect sales from one another beyond those which such customer(s) choose to make directly or indirectly.

 

B.

Distributor agrees to and will protect, defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Supplier from any and all claims, actions, costs, expenses, and damages, including reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses arising out of: (i) any breach by Distributor of its obligations under this Agreement; and (ii) any breach of the representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement. Supplier agrees to and will protect, defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Distributor (and with respect to Subparagraph (iii) below Distributor customers) from any and all claims, actions, costs, expenses, and damages, including reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses arising out of: (i) any gross negligence or willful misconduct of Supplier; (ii) any breach by Supplier of its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) any actual or alleged patent, trademark, or copyright infringement in the design, composition, use, sale, advertising, or packaging of the Products; (iv) any breach of the representations or warranties set forth in this Agreement; (v) the sale or use of the Products where such liability results from the act or omission of Supplier (whether for breach of warranty, strict liability in tort, negligence, or otherwise); and (vi) any claims, demands, or judgments by any person, state or federal agency, department, court administrative law judge, arbitrator, mediator, or other person against Distributor concerning or involving alleged or actual violations of state or federal law, to the extent such claims, demands, or judgments concern Distributor’s republication of Supplier’s advertising or labeling content or distribution of Supplier’s Products or materials, including, but not limited to, the laws and regulations of the State of California, the federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, and the federal Trade Commission Act. Distributor warrants that it will not make any claims or representations about Supplier’s Product that are not found on the Product label or Supplier’s authorized marketing materials. This Section 8.B., will survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement.

 

C.

Any marketing materials prepared by Distributor regarding Products are subject to the prior approval of Supplier before launching to market. The parties shall conduct their respective business in a reasonable and ethical manner at all times, whether engaged in sale of the Products or other products, and will not engage in any deceptive, misleading or unethical practices or advertising at any time.

 

D.

This Agreement and the Attachments hereto will not be modified except by written agreement of the Parties. This Agreement will terminate on the expiration of the Term. On or before the date that is sixty (60) days prior to the end of the Term, the Parties will enter discussions for the purposes of determining their business relationship following the expiration of the Term.

 

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is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

E.

“Confidential Information” of any party (each, a “disclosing party”) means: (0 information of, concerning, or related to the disclosing party and its affiliates in any form or media (whether communicated orally, in writing, by drawing, electronically, or by any other means), including without limitation, information regarding the disclosing party’s business operations and methods, strategy, marketing and sales practices, business plans, financial condition, research and development activities, current or proposed products, services and technology, designs, methods, processes, practices, trade secrets, patents, patent rights, inventions, copyrights, trademarks, software (including without limitation, source code, object code and firmware), applications, costs, pricing, customers lists, supplier lists, and information and data of or concerning customers and/or suppliers of the disclosing party; (ii) information regarding or contained in this Agreement (including any pricing, discount, rebate, and all other terms contained herein), and all information exchanged with or provided by the disclosing party to the other party (the “receiving party”) in connection with the negotiation or performance of this Agreement; and (iii) the substance of any negotiations or any proposals, including term sheets, exchanged between the parties regarding a business relationship between Distributor and Supplier. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Confidential Information will not include any information that: (a) becomes publicly available by any means other than a breach of the covenants contained in this Section 8.E.; (b) the receiving party has received or receives from any third party not under any obligation to maintain the confidentiality of such information; or (c) has been or is independently developed by the receiving party without the use of any Confidential Information. Each party acknowledges and agrees that Confidential Information is and will remain the property of the disclosing party and that Confidential Information will (1) be kept confidential by the receiving party; (2) not be disclosed by the receiving party to any party other than those officers, directors, employees, financing sources, and professional advisors who need to know such Confidential Information and have agreed to maintain the confidentiality of such Confidential Information; and (3) be used by the receiving party solely for the purpose of effectuating the transactions between Distributor and Supplier contemplated by this Agreement. The Parties agree that if the receiving party is served with any subpoena or other compulsory judicial or administrative order requiring the production of the disclosing party’s Confidential Information, then the receiving party will promptly notify the disclosing party so that the disclosing party may take such action as the disclosing party deems necessary to protect the confidentiality of such Confidential Information. This Section 8.E., will survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement for a period of two (2) years following the expiration of the Term. The Parties acknowledge that a breach of any of the obligations set forth in this Section 8.E., may cause immediate and irreparable harm to the non-breaching party for which money damages alone may not be an adequate remedy. The Parties agree that the non-breaching party will be entitled to seek injunctive or other equitable relief upon any breach or threatened breach by such breaching party of its obligations under this Section 8.E. Such equitable relief will be in addition to and not in lieu of any other remedies that the non-breaching party may have in law or equity for such breach or threatened breach. Each party further agrees to notify the other party promptly in the event of any actual, threatened, or suspected breach of Section 8.E., by such party and to take reasonable steps to prevent and/or mitigate such actual,

 

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  threatened, or suspected breach. The Parties acknowledge and agree that the rights and ownership of Supplier’s formulas, brand names, and trademarks will remain exclusively the Supplier’s, and cannot be transferred or used in any other manner unless otherwise specifically approved by Supplier. The grants and authorizations set forth in this Agreement do not transfer to Distributor any ownership of Supplier’s copyrights, trademarks, service marks, or trade secrets. Distributor acknowledges the Supplier’s intellectual property rights in the Supplier’s formulas, brand names, and trademarks. Supplier will take responsibility for maintaining and safeguarding its intellectual property rights; however, Distributor will inform Supplier of any trademark, service mark, copyright, or trade secret violation or infringement that comes to Distributor’s knowledge.

 

F.

Supplier grants Distributor a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use Supplier’s trademarks to advertise and sell the Distributor’s products. The license granted pursuant to this Section 8.F. will be effective during the term of this Agreement and will survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement until all of the Product inventory owned by Distributor has been sold. Nothing in this Agreement will be construed as granting Distributor any right, title, or interest in or to any intellectual property of Supplier other than the license set forth in this Section 8.F.

 

G.

Each party represents and warrants to the other party as follows:

 

  i.

Such party has the requisite power to enter into, execute, and deliver this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder.

 

  ii.

The execution and delivery by such party of this Agreement and the performance by such party of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of such party.

 

  iii.

The execution and delivery of this Agreement, and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby by such party, do not and will not require any consent or other action by any person, or conflict with, or result in any violation or breach of, or default under, any agreement or other obligation to which such party is a party or by which its assets are bound.

The representations and warranties set forth in this Section 8.G., will survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement.

 

H.

This Agreement may be terminated by either party as follows: (i) immediately upon written notice by one party to the other party in the event of: (a) the insolvency of the non-terminating party; (b) the appointment of a receiver by or for the non-terminating party for all or substantially all of its assets; (c) the admission by the non-terminating party in writing of its inability to pay its debts as they become due; (d) the execution by the non-terminating party of an assignment for the benefit of its creditors, other than security interests executed in connection with borrowings or financings; or (e) the filing by or against the non-terminating party of a petition in bankruptcy or similar judicial or quasi- judicial

 

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is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

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  proceeding that is not dismissed within 60 days; and (ii) in the event of a material breach of this Agreement by the non-terminating party, including, but not limited to, any material breach of Section 3.A. (promotion of Key Products), Section 6 (minimum advertised price and discounts), Section 7 (sales to mass market e-commerce Resellers), or Section 8.A. (use of Sales Details), which breach is not cured within five (5) days, in the case of a payment breach, or sixty (60) days, in the case of all other breaches, following written notice of such breach to the non-terminating party.

 

I.

This Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware without giving effect to the conflict of laws provisions thereof. Actions or proceedings arising out of or relating to this Agreement will be brought in, and the Parties irrevocably and unconditionally agree to submit with respect thereto to the exclusive jurisdiction of, any court of the State of Delaware or the federal courts of the United States sitting in the District of Delaware and any appellate court therefrom. The Parties irrevocably and unconditionally waive, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any objection that a party may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue in any such court of any suit or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement. The Parties irrevocably and unconditionally waive, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the defense of an inconvenient forum to the maintenance of such action or proceeding in any such court.

 

J.

This Agreement and the Attachments, including, but not limited to, the Continuing Guaranty attached as Attachment B, the Hemp Products Addendum attached as Attachment E, and the Authorized Distributor Policy attached as Attachment F, constitute the complete agreement of the Parties regarding the subject matter hereof and supersede and control over prior representations or agreements relative to such subject matter, including that certain Mutual Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement dated December 13, 2013, by and between the Parties and that certain Distribution Agreement by and between the Parties dated February 20, 2014, each of which the Parties acknowledge are no longer in force. In the event of an inconsistency between the terms in the body of this Agreements, the Attachments hereto, or any other documents incorporated herein by reference, the terms in body of this Agreement shall control.

 

K.

If any provision contained or referred to in this Agreement is determined to be legally invalid or unenforceable, such provision will be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without affecting the remaining provisions of this Agreement, which will continue to be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

 

L.

Neither party will assign or otherwise transfer its rights and obligations under this Agreement except with the prior written consent of the other party, which consent will not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned, or delayed.

 

M.

In the event of a breach of this Agreement or the Attachments hereto by either party, the non-breaching party will be entitled to pursue any and all statutory and common law remedies existing at law and equity, whether arising out of contract, tort or otherwise (including, notwithstanding Section 8.E. above, that where either party does not have an

 

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is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

  adequate remedy in money or other damages at law it may be entitled to seek injunctive relief as appropriate), against the breaching party and will be entitled to recover as damages all actual, direct, indirect, consequential, special, compensatory, exemplary and punitive damages, including, but not limited to, lost profits, lost business opportunity, damage to reputation, damage to customer relations and diminution in equity value to the non-breaching party’s business.

 

N.

In any action or proceeding brought to enforce any provision of this Agreement, or where any provision hereof is validly asserted as a defense, the prevailing party will be entitled to recover from the non-prevailing party all of the costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party in connection with such action or proceeding, including, but not limited to, court costs, filing fees, reasonable attorneys’ fees, expert witness fees, and costs associated with expert appraisals and accountings, in addition to any other available remedy at law or in equity.

 

O.

Neither party will make any public announcement regarding this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby without the prior written consent of the other party. Neither party will disparage, malign, publicly criticize, or negatively comment upon, in any fashion whatsoever, the other party, its board of directors, it executives or employees, or the conduct of the other party’s business to any third party. This Section 8.0., will survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement.

 

9.

Authorized Distributor Policy

 

A.

To the extent the Authorized Distributor Policy (the “Policy”) attached hereto as Attachment F, contains terms and obligations that conflict with the terms and obligations of this Agreement, the parties understand and agree that the terms of this Agreement control in the event of a conflict.

 

B.

Distributor’s reseller customers for the Products as set forth in this Agreement will receive Supplier’s Authorized Resale Policy, as may be modified by Supplier from time to time (“Authorized Resellers”). Supplier reserves the right to revoke the status of any Authorized Resellers at any time and direct Distributor to cease sales of Products to such customers, provided that Supplier does not sell Products to such customers either directly or indirectly.

 

C.

For the avoidance of doubt, and without limitation of Section 9A, the following provisions are directly superseded by the terms of the Agreement as noted below:

 

  i.

Preamble: Any and all references to termination or revocation of Distributor’s status as “Authorized Distributor” is superseded by Section 8.H. of this Agreement.

 

  ii.

Section 3: This section is superseded by Paragraph A of the Continuing Guaranty.

 

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is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

  iii.

Section 5: This Section is superseded by Sections 8.F. and 8.H. of this Agreement.

 

Supplier:   Thorne Research, Inc.   Accepted by:   Emerson Ecologics, LLC

 

Thorne Signature:  

/s/ Thomas P. McKenna

  Emerson Signature:  

/s/ Kevin P. Purcell

Printed Name:   Thomas P. McKenna   Printed Name:   Kevin P. Purcell
Title:   Chief Operating Officer   Title:   CFO
Date:   9/30/20   Date:   9/30/2020

 

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ATTACHMENT A

SHELF LIFE EXCEPTIONS

Intentionally Omitted

 

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ATTACHMENT B

CONTINUING GUARANTY

 

A.

Supplier guarantees that all Products (including their packaging, labeling and shipping) comprising each shipment or other delivery made by Supplier (hereinafter referred to as “Products”) to or on the order of Distributor Ecologies, LLC or to any of its branches, divisions, subsidiaries, affiliates, or any of their customers (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Distributor”) are, as of the date of such shipment or delivery, in compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any regulations, rules, declarations, interpretations and orders issued thereunder, and conform to representations and warranties made by Supplier in its advertising, Product labeling and literature. Upon the request of Distributor, Supplier will promptly modify any non-compliant Product labeling.

 

B.

Supplier will notify Distributor of any Product recall arising from any cause or issue, including, but not limited to, Product quality, Product packaging, or FDA or FTC compliance issues, within 24 hours of such Product recall. The reason for the recall and the expected remedy will be part of the communication. Supplier will reimburse Distributor for the full acquisition cost of the recalled Products and all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred in connection with any Product corrective action or recall relating to the Products which is requested by Supplier or required by any governmental entity or regulatory authority.

 

C.

Supplier agrees to procure and maintain, on an occurrence form basis, product liability insurance, with respect to the Products and contractual liability coverage relating to this Guaranty, with insurer(s) having Best’s ratings(s) of “A” or better, naming Distributor as an additional insured (Broad Form Vendors Endorsement), with minimum limits in each case of $5,000,000. Supplier will promptly furnish to Distributor a certificate of insurance and renewal certificates of insurance evidencing the foregoing coverages and limits. The insurance will not be cancelled or reduced.

 

D.

Supplier warrants and agrees that it has provided Distributor with written notice of all Products containing California Safe Drinking Water & Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 (“Proposition 65”) listed substances above safe harbor limits and specific safe harbor clear and reasonable warning language, that all Proposition 65-affected Products are labeled with safe harbor clear and reasonable warnings or otherwise identified as not for sale to California consumers, and that Supplier will provide Distributor written notice prior to the sale of new Products or changes to Products requiring Proposition 65 warnings. Supplier warrants that it is responsible for compliance with applicable Proposition 65 regulations, and, for the avoidance of doubt, Distributor expressly rejects any responsibility for the transmission of warnings pursuant to California Code of Regulations title 27, §25600.2(b)

 

F.

The representations and obligations set forth herein will be continuing and will be binding upon the Supplier and his or its heirs, executors, administrators, parent companies, successors and/or assigns, whichever the case may be, and will inure to the benefit of Distributor, its affiliates and their officers, directors, agents and employees and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns.

 

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G.

The agreements and obligations of Supplier set forth in this Guaranty are in consideration of purchases made by Distributor from Supplier and said obligations are in addition to (and supersede to the extent of any conflict) any obligations of Supplier to Distributor or Distributor to Supplier. This Guaranty will be effective upon the first sale to Distributor of any Product by Supplier, and the obligations of Supplier under this Guaranty will survive and be enforceable in accordance with its terms.

 

H.

Distributor reserves the right to terminate any order in whole or in part upon any default on the part of Supplier not corrected within 10 days after written notice thereof given to Supplier or at Distributor’s discretion upon written notice to Supplier.

 

I.

Supplier agrees to provide Distributor with as much written notice as is commercially reasonable of changes in: (i) Product specifications, (ii) Product formulation, (iii) compliance information, (iv) manufacturing location, (v) Product packaging, (vi) Product components or materials, and (vii) the discontinuance of the manufacture or sale of a Product.

 

J.

In the event of a Serious Adverse Event, as it is defined by 21 USC 379aa-1(a)(2), experienced by a customer of Distributor or a patient of any such customer arising from the use of a Product supplied or manufactured by Supplier, Distributor will promptly provide Supplier with a Serious Adverse Event report. Supplier will promptly notify the FDA of such serious adverse event via a MedWatch 3500A form. Distributor will be entitled to quarantine and return current stock of the Product at issue, and will not resume distribution until Supplier addresses and resolves such Serious Adverse Event to the reasonable satisfaction of Distributor. Supplier will reimburse Distributor for the cost of such Products and for associated shipping charges.

 

Supplier:   Thorne Research Inc.
Supplier Signature:   /s/ Thomas McKenna
Printed Name:   Thomas McKenna
Title:   Chief Operating Officer
Date:   9/30/20

 

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ATTACHMENT C

MAP POLICY

Pursuant to Section 6.A of the Agreement, Distributor will distribute and make available the MAP policy below to its health-care practitioner and other authorized reseller customers (for purposes of the MAP policy, “authorized resellers”) and reasonably assist Supplier in its enforcement of the MAP policy against noncompliant authorized sellers.

THORNE RESEARCH, INC.

UNITED STATES MINIMUM ADVERTISED PRICE POLICY

Thorne Research, Inc. (“Thorne”) has determined that certain advertising practices undermine Thorne’s trade reputation, brand, and image within the target consumer population and discourage Thorne resellers from investing in Thorne’s product lines and providing the best possible service and support to consumers, including nutritional consultation and other consumer services. Accordingly, to protect the integrity of the Thorne brand, Thorne has adopted this unilateral Minimum Advertised Price Policy (the “Policy”), which applies to all authorized resellers of Thorne products in the United States of America.

Thorne is solely responsible for establishing the minimum advertised price (“MAP”) for each Thorne product and communicating the MAP to all authorized resellers of Thorne products. MAP is the price that is designated for each product in Thorne’s current Retail Price List. While resellers remain free to advertise and sell Thorne products at any price they deem appropriate, it is a violation of this Policy for a reseller to advertise any Thorne product at a price lower than the MAP. Such advertisements include, but are not limited to:

 

  i.

Offering coupons, discounts, rebates, or other inducements at a price lower than the MAP, including through a use of a storewide sale, promotional code, or other similar provision that can be applied to Thorne products.

 

  ii.

Bundling Thorne Products with other products or services in a manner that results in below-MAP pricing for the bundled Thorne product.

Direct or indirect attempts to circumvent this Policy also violate this Policy; however, it is not a violation to advertise that a customer may “call for price” or “email for price” as long as no price is listed and no automated call or “bounce-back” email is used in response. Nor is it a violation for health-care practitioners to advertise products at a discount through office dispensaries directly to patients or through health-care practitioner Wellevate® dispensary accounts.

For purposes of this Policy, the terms “advertise” and “advertisement” include all promotional or pricing information displayed via any type of media including, but not limited to, website pages and banners, social media, emails, blogs, newspapers, catalogs, magazines, flyers, brochures, television, radio ads, billboards, signage, and any other marketing or promotional materials, whether provided online or through broadcast or other media. Thorne health-care practitioner customers should be aware that this Policy does not apply to the advertising of Thorne Products when the advertising takes place inside the health-care practitioner’s office to the health-care practitioner’s patient base.

 

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, pricing information displayed at the final online checkout stage of a transaction is not considered “advertising” under this Policy. The “final online checkout stage” is the stage when the Covered Product is put into a shopping cart that contains the customer’s name, shipping address, email address, and payment information. Pricing information in the “shopping cart” or “checkout” stages must be obscured technically so it is not retrievable by shopping and pricing engines and not displayed on search page results within the reseller’s own website. From time to time, Thorne may announce MAP holidays or promotions that are applicable to all resellers, during which periods a reseller that advertises a Thorne product in accordance with the terms of the authorized promotion will not be deemed to have violated the Policy. Thorne will notify all resellers of any such authorized promotions, generally not fewer than thirty (30) days in advance.

Further, the advertisement of free or reduced-price shipping is not a violation of this Policy as long as such offer applies to all or almost all other products offered by a reseller in the same product category.

This Policy does not constitute an agreement between Thorne and any other entity. Thorne neither solicits nor will it accept any assurance of compliance with this Policy from any reseller or other party. Each reseller must independently choose whether to comply with the terms of this Policy. This Policy is not negotiable and will not be altered for any individual reseller. This Policy applies only to advertised prices and does not affect the prices that a reseller may charge for Thorne products. Resellers are free to sell Thorne products at any price they choose.

NON-COMPLIANCE

Thorne will take the following actions against any reseller that fails to comply with this Policy with respect to the advertisement of any Thorne product:

 

  i.

For a reseller’s first violation of the Policy, Thorne will notify the reseller in writing of such failure and will immediately place the reseller’s account on shipping hold for thirty (30) days. Thorne will revoke its acceptance of any pending orders, cancel any pending shipments to the reseller, and not accept any new orders from reseller during this 30-day period. If a reseller’s first violation of the Policy continues for seven (7) days after receiving notice, then it will be considered a second violation of the Policy.

 

  ii.

For a reseller’s second violation of the Policy, Thorne will revoke the reseller’s “authorized” status and inform Thorne’s distributors of the same. If the reseller purchases directly from Thorne, then Thorne will terminate its business relationship with the reseller and revoke its acceptance of any pending orders and cancel any pending shipments to the reseller.

 

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Although Thorne is not directing any reseller to require that its customers comply with this Policy, a violation of this Policy by any such third party will constitute a violation by the reseller.

This Policy will be enforced by Thorne in its sole discretion and without notice. Resellers have no right to enforce the Policy.

POLICY ADMINISTRATION

Thorne may update, revise, suspend, terminate, reinstitute, or modify this Policy at any in its sole discretion. Thorne will make any such modifications available to authorized resellers. If Thorne changes the MAP on any product, it will provide at least thirty (30) days’ notice to resellers before such change takes effect.

No Thorne employee or agent is authorized to modify, interpret, or grant exceptions to this Policy; solicit or obtain the agreement of any person to this Policy; or otherwise discuss any aspect of this Policy with any reseller, including that reseller’s or any other reseller’s compliance with the terms of the Policy. Any questions about this Policy should be submitted in writing and directed to Thorne’s MAP Liaison at web-compliance@thorne.com. Thorne will accept no other form of communication from resellers regarding the Policy.

This Policy is effective as of August 15, 2020 and supersedes all prior Thorne policies and/or representations regarding minimum advertised prices or resale prices for Thorne products applicable to any reseller. To the extent that any provision, term, or agreement governing the relationship between Thorne and any reseller may be construed in a manner that is inconsistent with the terms of this Policy, the terms of this Policy control.

 

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Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

ATTACHMENT D

GRANDFATHERED ACCOUNTS

Health Professional Accounts with Discounts 10 Percent or Greater

 

Row Labels    Country    Column Labels
Discount%
[***]    [***]    [***]

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 21 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

ATTACHMENT E

HEMP PRODUCTS ADDENDUM

The Hemp Products Addendum, dated May 21, 2019, is attached hereto and made a part of this Agreement by reference.

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 22 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

ATTACHMENT F

AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR POLICY

THORNE RESEARCH, INC. AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR POLICY

Effective Date: August 15, 2020

This Thorne Research, Inc. Authorized Distributor Policy (“Distributor Policy”) is issued by Thorne Research, Inc. (“Thorne”) and applies to Authorized Distributors of Thorne products (the “Product(s)”). This Distributor Policy supplements any then-current wholesaler or distribution agreement between you (“Distributor”) and Thorne. By purchasing Products from Thorne for distribution to Authorized Resellers (as hereinafter defined), Distributor agrees to adhere to the following terms and conditions. Until such status is otherwise revoked by Thorne in Thorne’s sole and absolute discretion, Distributor shall be considered an “Authorized Distributor” hereunder.

In addition to all other available remedies, if Distributor violates this Distributor Policy, Thorne reserves the right to terminate Distributor’s status as an Authorized Distributor through written or electronic notice to Distributor of such termination.

1. Manner of Sale. Distributor shall sell the Products only as set forth herein. Otherwise, the Products may not be eligible for certain services and benefits, including, wherever permitted by law, coverage under Thorne’s Product warranties, as stated in Section 3 below.

(a) Authorized Customers. Distributor is authorized to sell Products for purposes of resale only to Authorized Resellers. Distributor shall not sell the Products to End Users without the prior written consent of Thorne. An “Authorized Reseller” is a Health Care Professional (as defined below) or a business entity that: (i) purchases Products from Thorne or an Authorized Distributor and resells the Products as part of a healthcare practice or health-related commercial enterprise; (ii) has credentials which have been verified by Thome or Distributor; (iii) has received and agrees to adhere to the Thome Authorized Resale Policy; and (iv) has not had its Authorized Reseller status revoked by Thorne. A “Health Care Professional” is an individual who holds a degree or other qualification from an accredited school or program and/or a license or certificate in good standing in one of the fields/occupations designated as approved by Thorne, which list may be amended by Thorne from time to time in its sole and absolute discretion. An “End User” is any purchaser of the Product who is the ultimate consumer for whom the Product was designed and who does not intend to resell the Product to any third party. Distributor shall cease or suspend sales to any customer promptly upon request of Thorne. Such customers will be communicated to Distributor via Thorne’s “Do Not Sell” List, which may be published by Thorne and communicated to Distributor from time to time. This Section 1(a) shall not apply where prohibited by law, e.g., the European Union (the “EU”).

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 23 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

(b) Distribution of Thorne Policies and Other Information. If any customer or prospective customer of Distributor is not yet an Authorized Reseller, Distributor shall immediately provide the Thome Authorized Resale Policy to such customer/prospective customer. If such customer/prospective customer accepts the terms in the Authorized Resale Policy, Distributor may thereafter sell Products to such customer, which shall thereafter be an Authorized Reseller unless and until Thorne revokes such status. Authorized Resellers are determined by Thorne in its sole discretion. Distributor shall distribute policies, updates to policies, product information (including amendments to warranties), educational materials, and other information to its Authorized Reseller customers, as requested by Thome from time to time.

(c) Geographic Location of Sales. Distributor shall not sell, ship, invoice, or promote the Products outside Distributor’s authorized territory or to anyone Distributor knows or has reason to know intends to ship the Products outside its authorized territory without Thorne’s prior written consent.

(d) No Sales to Third Party Marketplace Websites. Notwithstanding Section 1(a), Distributor shall not sell Products to any entity that operates a third party marketplace website, including, but not limited to, Amazon.com.

(e) Online Sales. Distributor is not permitted to market for sale or sell the Products on or through any Publicly Accessible Website without the prior written consent of Thorne. A “Publicly Accessible Website” is a website, online marketplace, mobile application, or other online forum that advertises Products or offers Products for sale and displays Product pricing information in a location that can be viewed by a prospective customer without creating an account and logging in. All third party marketplace websites, including, without limitation, Amazon, eBay, Target+, Rakuten, Walmart Marketplace, or Sears Marketplace, are Publicly Accessible Websites. Sales on these websites are prohibited without Thorne’s prior written consent. A website operated by Distributor to facilitate orders from Authorized Resellers that requires the Authorized Reseller to obtain an account and log in to view Product listings and pricing information is not considered a Publicly Accessible Website. This Section 1(e) shall not apply where prohibited by law, e.g., the EU.

The terms of this Distributor Policy supersede any prior agreement between Thorne and Distributor regarding the sale of the Products on Publicly Accessible Websites. Any authorization previously granted to Distributor by Thorne to sell the Products on a Publicly Accessible Website is hereby revoked.

(f) Sales Practices and Inventory. Distributor shall use its best efforts to advertise, promote, market and sell the Products to its Authorized Reseller customers and, as applicable, meet or exceed any agreed-upon minimum sales commitments. Distributor shall conduct its business in a reasonable and ethical manner at all times, whether engaged in sale of Thorne Products or other products, and will not engage in any deceptive, misleading or unethical practices or advertising at any time. Distributor shall not make any warranties or representations concerning the Products except as expressly authorized by Thome. Distributor shall comply with any and all applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies (a) applicable to Distributor’s business or (b) related to the advertising, sale and marketing of the Products. Distributor and Distributor’s agents shall represent the Products in a professional manner and refrain from any conduct that is or could be detrimental to the reputation of Thorne or the Products. Further, Distributor shall carry an inventory of the Products adequate to meet the needs of, and to furnish prompt and efficient delivery of Products to, its customers.

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 24 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

2. Product Care, Customer Service, and Other Quality Controls.

(a) Product Packaging and Display. Distributor shall sell Products in their original packaging. Relabeling, repackaging (including the separation of bundled products or the bundling of products), and other alterations to Products or their packaging are not permitted, unless expressly authorized by Thorne. Tampering with, defacing, or otherwise altering any serial number, UPC code, batch or lot code, or other identifying information on Products or their packaging is prohibited. Distributor may not remove, translate, or modify the contents of any label or literature on or accompanying the Products, except where required by applicable local laws and regulations, or as expressly authorized by Thorne. Distributor shall not advertise, market, display, or demonstrate non-Thorne products together with the Products in a manner that would create the impression that the non-Thorne products are made by, endorsed by, or associated with Thorne.

(b) Returned Product. Distributor shall not resell any Product that has been returned opened or repackaged.

(c) Customer Service. Distributor and Distributor’s sales and customer service personnel shall familiarize themselves with the special features of all Products marketed for sale and must obtain sufficient Product knowledge to advise Authorized Resellers on the selection and safe use of the Products, as well as any applicable warranty, guarantee, or return policy. Distributor must make itself available to promptly respond to customer questions and concerns both before and after sale of the Products. Distributor agrees to cooperate fully with Thorne in the investigation and resolution of any quality or customer service issues related to Distributor’s sale of the Products, including disclosing information regarding Product sources, shipment, and handling.

(d) Product Storage and Handling. Distributor shall comply with all instructions provided by Thorne regarding the storage, shipping, disposal, or other aspect of the Products, including instructions provided on Product labels or set forth herein. Distributor shall exercise due care in storing and handling the Products. Distributor shall store the Products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and dampness, and in accordance with any additional storage guidelines specified by Thorne from time to time.

(e) Product Inspection. Promptly upon receipt of the Products, Distributor shall inspect the Products for damage, defect, broken seals, or other nonconformance (collectively, “Defects”). If any Defects are identified, Distributor must not offer the Product for sale and must report such Defects to Thorne within thirty (30) days from the date of purchase. Distributor shall inspect its inventory regularly for expired or soon-to-be expired Products and shall remove those Products from its inventory. Distributor shall not sell any Products that are expired or within ninety (90) days of expiration. Distributor shall destroy or dispose of expired or soon-to-be expired Products in accordance with instructions provided by Thorne.

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 25 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

(f) Product Tracking. Distributor shall cooperate with Thorne with respect to any Product tracking systems that may be implemented from time to time.

(g) Recall and Consumer Safety. To ensure the safety and well-being of the End Users of the Products, Distributor shall cooperate with Thorne with respect to any Product recall or other consumer safety information dissemination efforts. Distributor shall report to Thorne any customer complaint or adverse events claim regarding the Products of which it becomes aware. Distributor shall assist Thorne in investigating any such complaints or adverse claims.

(h) Prop-65. Distributor agrees to assist Thorne in complying with Thorne’s Prop-65 notice obligations related to sales of the Products being shipped to consumers residing in the State of California.

3. Warranty. EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH IN THE WARRANTY SECTION OF THE DOCUMENTS ACCOMPANYING THE PRODUCTS OR IN PRODUCT LITERATURE FURNISHED BY THORNE CONTAINING PRODUCT WARRANTIES, AS IN EFFECT FROM TIME TO TIME (THE “STATEMENT OF WARRANTY”), ALL THORNE PRODUCTS ARE SOLD ON AN “AS IS” BASIS AND THORNE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY NATURE OR KIND REGARDING THE PRODUCTS. THORNE DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES ARISING BY OPERATION OF LAW, COURSE OF DEALING, CUSTOM OF TRADE OR OTHERWISE. THORNE’S SOLE OBLIGATION AND LIABILITY WITH RESPECT TO ITS WARRANTY AS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT OF WARRANTY SHALL BE, AT ITS OPTION, TO REPLACE THE RELEVANT PRODUCT AT ITS COST.

4. Intellectual Property. Distributor acknowledges and agrees that Thorne owns all proprietary rights in and to the Thorne brand, name, logos, trademarks, service marks, trade dress, copyrights, and other intellectual property related to the Products (the “Thorne IP”). Distributor is granted a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable license to use the Thorne IP solely for purposes of marketing and selling the Products as set forth herein. This license will cease upon termination of Distributor’s status as an Authorized Distributor. All goodwill arising from Distributor’s use of the Thorne IP shall inure solely to the benefit of Thorne. Distributor’s use of the Thorne IP shall be in accordance with any guidelines that may be provided by Thorne from time to time, and must be commercially reasonable as to the size, placement, and other manners of use. Thorne reserves the right to review and approve, in its sole discretion, Distributor’s use or intended use of the Thome IP at any time, without limitation. Distributor shall not create, register, or use any domain name or any mobile application that contains any Thorne product name or any trademark owned by Thorne, nor a misspelling or confusingly similar variation of any Thorne product name or any trademark owned by Thorne.

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 26 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

 

5. Termination. Upon termination of a Distributor’s status as an Authorized Distributor, Distributor shall immediately cease (i) selling the Products; (ii) acting in any manner that may reasonably give the impression that Distributor is an Authorized Distributor of Thorne Products or has any affiliation whatsoever with Thorne; and (iii) using all Thorne IP.

6. Availability of Injunctive Relief. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, if there is a breach or threatened breach to Sections 1 (Manner of Sale), 2 (Product Care, Customer Service, and Other Quality Controls), 4 (Intellectual Property), or 5 (Termination) of this Distributor Policy, it is agreed and understood that Thorne will have no adequate remedy in money or other damages at law. Accordingly, Thorne shall be entitled to injunctive relief and other equitable remedies, provided, however, no specification in this Distributor Policy of any particular remedy shall be construed as a waiver or prohibition of any other remedies in the event of a breach or threatened breach of this Distributor Policy. No failure, refusal, neglect, delay, waiver, forbearance, or omission by Thorne to exercise any right(s) herein or to insist upon full compliance by Distributor with Distributor’s obligations herein shall constitute a waiver of any provision herein or otherwise limit Thorne’s right to fully enforce any or all provisions and parts thereof.

7. Audit. Thorne reserves the right to audit and/or monitor Distributor’s activities for compliance with this Distributor Policy, and Distributor agrees to cooperate with any such investigation, including, but not limited to, permitting inspection of Distributor’s facilities and records related to the sale of the Products.

8. Miscellaneous. Thorne reserves the right to update, amend, or modify this Distributor Policy upon written or electronic notice to Distributor. Unless otherwise provided, such amendments will take effect immediately and Distributor’s continued use, advertising, offering for sale, or sale of the Products, use of the Thorne IP, or use of any other information or materials provided by Thorne to Distributor under this Distributor Policy following notice of the amendments will be deemed Distributor’s acceptance of the amendments. If any provision of this Distributor Policy is held contrary to law, the remaining provisions shall remain valid. It is Thorne’s intention to comply with the laws and regulations in all jurisdictions and countries in which it conducts business. Furthermore, if any term or condition within this Distributor Policy is contrary to antitrust or competition laws of a specific jurisdiction or country, such term or condition shall not apply to Distributors within that jurisdiction or country. To the extent allowed by law, this Distributor Policy and any dispute arising under it shall be governed by, construed, and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of South Carolina, without regard to its choice of law rules. In the event of a dispute over the terms or performance under this Distributor Policy, Distributor expressly submits to personal jurisdiction and venue in the federal or state courts in Charleston County, South Carolina.

 

Confidential and Proprietary Information    Page 27 of 29


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

This Amendment No. 1 to First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement (“this Amendment”) is entered into as of June 23, 2021, by and between Emerson Ecologics, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Distributor”), and Thorne Research, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“Supplier”), and together with Distributor, the “Parties,” and, each, a “Party.”

WHEREAS, the Parties are party to that certain First Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement dated August 31, 2020 (“the Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, the Parties now desire to adjust the tams and conditions of the Agreement relating to the exclusivity payment, FOB shipping, and the minimum purchase targets.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

 

1.

Amendments to Section 3 of the Agreement. Paragraph 3.B, of the Agreement is deleted in its entirety. Paragraph 3.G. of the Agreement is replaced in its entirety by the following text: “Distributor’s payment terms will be net [***] days. Distributor will make payment, at its option, via wire transfer, check, electronic payment, or ACH.”

 

2.

Amendment to Section 4 of the Agreement. Paragraph 4.A. of the Agreement is replaced in its entirety by the following text: “Terms: FOB shipper (or origin), freight, handling, and all other charges, costs, and fees paid by Supplier. No additional charges, costs, and fees to the Distributor apply.”

 

3.

Amendment to Section 5 of the Agreement. Paragraph 5.A. of the Agreement is replaced in its entirety by the following, text:

A. The Minimum Purchase Targets for the applicable Time Period will be:

 

   

Time Period

  

Minimum Purchase Target

  January 1 2021, through December 31, 2021    [***]
  January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022    [***]
  January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023    [***]
  January 1, 2024, through December 3I, 2024    [***]

 

      


Certain identified information marked with [***] has been excluded from this exhibit because it

is not material and is of the type that the registrant treats as private and confidential.

 

4.

No Other Changes. Except as modified by this Agreement, all other terms and conditions of the Agreement are unchanged and will remain in full force and effect.

 

5.

Counterparts. This Amendment may be executed in counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, but both of which will constitute one and the same agreement. Delivery of an executed counterpart of this Amendment, either electronically or by facsimile, will be effective as delivery of an original executed counterpart of this Amendment.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused their respective representatives to execute and deliver this Amendment as of the date first written above.

 

FOR THORNE RESEARCH, INC.
/s/ Thomas P. Mckenna
By: Thomas P . Mckenna
Title: Chief Operating Officer

 

FOR EMERSON ECOLOGICS, LLC
/s/ Kevin Purcell
By: Kevin Purcell
Title: Chief Operating Officer

 

      

Exhibit 21.1

Subsidiaries of the Registrant

 

Subsidiary Name

  

Jurisdiction

Thorne Research, Inc.    Delaware
Health Elements, LLC    Delaware
WellnessFX, Inc.    Delaware
Drawbridge Health, Inc.    Delaware
Tecton Group, LLC    Delaware
NR Therapeutics, LLC    Delaware

Exhibit 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.    

New York, New York

We hereby consent to the use in the Prospectus constituting a part of this Registration Statement of our report dated April 19, 2021, except for the disclosure regarding disaggregated revenues by sales channel within Note 2, as to which the date is June 4, 2021, relating to the consolidated financial statements of Thorne HealthTech, Inc., which is contained in that Prospectus.

We also consent to the reference to us under the caption “Experts” in the Prospectus.

/s/ BDO USA, LLP

Raleigh, North Carolina

July 16, 2021

Exhibit 99.1

Consent of Director Nominee

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Pursuant to Rule 438 of Regulation C promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), in connection with the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (the “Registration Statement”) of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Company”), the undersigned hereby consents to being named and described as a director nominee in the Registration Statement and any amendment or supplement to any prospectus included in such Registration Statement, any amendment to such Registration Statement or any subsequent Registration Statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act and to the filing or attachment of this consent with such Registration Statement and any amendment or supplement thereto.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this consent as of July 16, 2021.

 

/s/ Sarah M. Kauss
Name: Sarah M. Kauss

Exhibit 99.2

Consent of Director Nominee

Thorne HealthTech, Inc.

Pursuant to Rule 438 of Regulation C promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), in connection with the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (the “Registration Statement”) of Thorne HealthTech, Inc. (the “Company”), the undersigned hereby consents to being named and described as a director nominee in the Registration Statement and any amendment or supplement to any prospectus included in such Registration Statement, any amendment to such Registration Statement or any subsequent Registration Statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act and to the filing or attachment of this consent with such Registration Statement and any amendment or supplement thereto.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this consent as of July 16, 2021.

 

/s/ Saloni S. Varma
Name: Saloni S. Varma